The Journal

Notes on the island & its market

Neighbourhood guides, market intelligence and plain-English buyer education from the Ocean Worldwide team — written for the international Phuket property buyer.

Infinity pool at sunset looking over the sea near Bang Tao
News·June 3, 2026

Phuket airport rolls out automated passport lanes for foreign buyers

Phuket International introduces automated passport lanes for repeat visitors and Long-Term Residence holders — a small change that meaningfully shortens the trip for international owners.

Front elevation of a beachfront villa and pool on Phuket's east coast
Buyer education·May 5, 2026

A buyer's due-diligence framework for Phuket

Navigate Phuket's property market with confidence — the checks every international buyer should make before they commit.

Hillside estate of villas lit at twilight above Kamala
Market·May 4, 2026

Phuket's luxury market and a wave of record launches

A significant boom in the luxury sector, marked by record-breaking branded residences along the west coast.

Thai-style gazebo beside an infinity pool overlooking the sea at Surin
Buyer education·May 3, 2026

Inside the crackdown on nominee schemes

What renewed scrutiny on foreign ownership structures means for buyers right now — and how to stay on the right side of it.

Aerial view of beachfront residences along Bang Tao beach
Neighbourhood·April 28, 2026

Bang Tao, end to end: an area guide

Phuket's busiest beach is also one of its most liveable corners — international schools, Laguna, Boat Avenue, and a stretch of villas the rest of the island envies.

New tropical villa with pool at dusk in Pasak
Market·April 21, 2026

Phuket property investment in 2026: what's actually working

Rental yields, capital appreciation, and the asset classes we'd choose if we were investing fresh in Phuket today.

Bright terrace pool of a modern Surin Beach condominium with sea view
Buyer education·April 14, 2026

Foreign ownership in Thailand, explained without the jargon

The two honest paths — freehold condominiums and registered leasehold villas — set out plainly.

Open-plan dining room at dusk with a panoramic sea view, Layan
Buyer education·April 7, 2026

A guide to the buying process for international buyers

From first enquiry to handover — the actual steps of buying property in Phuket from abroad, with the timing and the surprises laid out plainly.

Luxury villa in Phuket with ocean view.
Buyer education·March 2, 2026

Thai Residency Through Phuket Property: What Works, What Doesn’t

Thinking about buying property in Phuket but worried about the legal stuff? You’re not alone. Foreigners often find the process a bit tricky because of Thailand’s unique property laws. But don’t worry, with some research and the right help, you can own a piece of this paradise without any legal…

Hands exchanging Thai Baht for property purchase.
Buyer education·January 18, 2026

Safely Transferring Money to Thailand for Your Property Purchase

Buying property in Thailand is exciting, but getting your money there safely needs some thought. You can’t just send cash; there are rules, especially for foreigners. This guide helps you understand the process for transferring money to Thailand for property, so your purchase goes smoothly and your…

Luxury villa with infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
Neighbourhood·December 14, 2025

Phuket’s ‘Millionaire’s Mile’: Inside the Most Exclusive Properties

Phuket’s ‘Millionaire’s Mile’ is a stretch of coastline that really grabs your attention. It’s where some of the most impressive homes on the island are found, offering serious luxury and amazing views. If you’re curious about what makes these properties so special, who buys them, and how they’re…

Phuket north and south comparison image
Neighbourhood·November 27, 2025

Phuket North vs South: Which Region Offers More Value?

Deciding where to plant your roots or book your next holiday in Phuket can feel like a big choice. It’s not just about picking a beach; it’s about choosing a whole vibe. Phuket is split into two main areas, the North and the South, and they really do offer different experiences. Whether you’re…

Luxury villas with infinity pools on Phuket's coast.
Neighbourhood·October 28, 2025

Phuket’s Most Expensive Areas: Where Millionaires Buy

Phuket is a place many people dream of visiting, and for some, it’s a place they can afford to call home. When we talk about the most expensive areas in Phuket, we’re really looking at where the super-rich decide to park their money and build their holiday pads. It’s not just about a nice view,

Luxurious villas with pools in a Phuket gated community.
Neighbourhood·October 26, 2025

Inside Phuket’s Most Exclusive Gated Communities

Phuket is a real gem, isn’t it? For those looking for a bit more peace and quiet, or perhaps just a more secure spot to call home, the island has some pretty amazing gated communities. These places aren’t just about walls and gates, though. They offer a lifestyle that many expats are really drawn…

Split view of Phuket's west and east coasts.
Neighbourhood·October 16, 2025

West vs East Phuket: Which Coast Fits Your Dream Home?

Phuket isn’t just Thailand’s largest island, it’s a lifestyle playground where every beach tells a different story. Think luxury villas hidden in Surin’s hills, surf breaks rolling into Kata, fresh seafood feasts in Rawai and Patong’s neon-fuelled nights. It’s where international schools sit…

Phuket beach and Chiang Mai temple contrast scene
Neighbourhood·October 4, 2025

Phuket vs Chiang Mai: Which Is the Retiree’s Paradise?

Thinking about where to spend your retirement years? The debate between Phuket vs Chiang Mai for retirement pops up a lot, and it’s not hard to see why. Phuket brings the sea breeze, sandy beaches, and a lively vibe, while Chiang Mai sits up north, surrounded by mountains, temples, and a slightly…

Phuket beach meets Bali rice terraces.
Neighbourhood·September 15, 2025

Phuket vs Bali: Which is the Better Expat Paradise?

Deciding where to settle down as an expat can be a big choice, especially when you’re looking at two popular spots like Phuket and Bali. Both islands offer that tropical vibe many people dream of, but they’re quite different under the surface. We’re going to break down what it’s like to live in…

Luxury villa with infinity pool and yacht in Phuket.
Neighbourhood·September 11, 2025

Inside Phuket’s High-End Expat Community: How the Elite Live

Phuket, long a magnet for sun-seekers, has firmly established itself as a prime spot for the affluent expat community. It’s more than just stunning beaches and turquoise waters; it’s a place where high-end living meets island charm. From exclusive enclaves to world-class amenities, the Phuket…

Couple relaxing on a Phuket beach at sunset.
Neighbourhood·September 8, 2025

Retiring in Phuket vs Elsewhere: What Makes Phuket Special?

When you’re thinking about where to spend your retirement years, lots of places probably spring to mind. But have you considered Thailand? Specifically, Phuket? It’s a tropical island that many people are looking at for their golden years. It offers a different vibe to many other retirement spots,…

Colourful Phuket street with palm trees and local life.
Neighbourhood·September 6, 2025

Inside Phuket’s Expat Lifestyle: Beyond the Tourist Trail

So, you’re thinking about moving to Phuket? It’s more than just a holiday spot, you know. Loads of people have made it their permanent home, finding their own little slice of island life. Forget the tourist traps; this is about figuring out where you’ll actually live, what it’s like day-to-day, and…

Thai baht banknotes and a stamp.
Buyer education·August 20, 2025

Thailand’s Stamp Duty Explained: Don’t Ignore This Fee

Buying property in Thailand is exciting, but the tax side of things can get a bit confusing, especially for folks from abroad. It’s not as complicated as some places, but you do need to know what you’re getting into. This guide cuts through the noise to explain the real facts about stamp duty…

Phuket villa with a tropical garden and clear blue pool.
Buyer education·August 16, 2025

Phuket Rental Income: Tax Tips for Foreign Owners

So, you’ve bought a place in Phuket and are thinking about renting it out. Smart move, it’s a popular spot! But before you start collecting those payments, it’s a good idea to get your head around the Thai property rental income tax. It can seem a bit confusing, especially for us foreigners, but…

Thai temple alongside currency and property.
Buyer education·August 13, 2025

Foreign Buyer Taxes in Thailand: Fact vs Fiction

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Buying property in Thailand is exciting, but the tax side of things can get a bit confusing, especially for folks from abroad. It’s not as…

Thai villa with a person looking worriedly at it.
Buyer education·August 7, 2025

Thai Nominee Ownership: Why It’s Risky for Property Buyers

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Buying property in Thailand can seem appealing, but the way foreigners often go about it, using what’s known as a Thai property nominee structure,…

Thai house with legal documents and a magnifying glass.
Buyer education·August 4, 2025

Thai Property Legal Checklist: Don’t Buy Without This

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Buying property in Thailand can be a fantastic opportunity, but it’s not quite as simple as picking up a house back home. There are specific legal…

Couple reviewing documents at a table with a house in the background.
Buyer education·August 1, 2025

Thai Spouse, Your House? Navigating Joint Property Ownership

So, you’re married to a Thai national and thinking about buying property in Thailand. It’s a common situation, and many foreigners want to get a piece of the action. But it’s not as straightforward as just putting your name on the dotted line. Thai spouse property ownership has its own set of…

Thai villa with a foreign hand holding keys.
Buyer education·July 31, 2025

Know Your Rights: Foreigners and Thai Property Ownership

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Thinking about buying property in Thailand? It’s a fantastic place, but the rules for foreigners owning land can be a bit confusing. Unlike in many…

Thai house and key with legal documents.
Buyer education·July 30, 2025

Thai Property Contracts: Step-by-Step from Deposit to Deed

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Thinking about buying property in Thailand? It can seem a bit daunting, especially with all the paperwork involved. But don’t worry, it’s actually a…

Thai condo buildings with foreign flags.
Buyer education·July 24, 2025

Foreign Quota in Thai Condos: Navigating the 49% Rule

Thinking about buying a condo in Thailand? It’s a great idea, lots of people love it here. But there’s a bit of a rule you need to know about – the Thailand condominium foreign quota. It basically means foreigners can only own a certain percentage of units in any given condo building. It sounds a

Cracked miniature house, sinking into water
Market·June 25, 2025

Bubble Trouble? Phuket Real Estate Risks Examined

Everyone’s talking about a potential Phuket real estate bubble these days. It’s a popular phrase, but a lot of people asking about it don’t really know what a ‘bubble’ means in this context. We’ve seen bubbles before, like the US housing crisis in 2007, or the dot-com crash in 2000. Basically, a…

Beachfront property in Thailand for foreign rental owners.
Buyer education·May 23, 2025

What Are the Rental Regulations for Foreign Property Owners in Thailand?

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in…

Luxury villas in Phuket with lush tropical surroundings.
Market·May 21, 2025

Top Luxury Property Developers in Phuket You Should Know

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. If you’re thinking about investing in property in Phuket, you’ll want to know who the top players are in the market. The island is known for its…

Luxury villa in Phuket with private pool and ocean view.
Neighbourhood·May 18, 2025

Is Phuket the Best Place to Retire? A Guide to Luxury Villas for Retirement

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Thinking about retiring in a tropical paradise? Phuket, Thailand, might just be the perfect spot for you. With its stunning beaches, vibrant…

Luxury villas and golf courses in Phuket's tropical landscape.
Neighbourhood·May 16, 2025

Luxury Golf Villas in Phuket: The Best Golf Course Properties

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Phuket is not just a tropical paradise; it’s also home to some of the finest golf courses and luxury properties in the world. For golf enthusiasts,…

Luxurious family-friendly neighborhood in Phuket with tropical scenery.
Neighbourhood·May 12, 2025

Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Phuket for Luxury Living

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Phuket is not just a holiday destination; it’s a fantastic place to call home. If you’re looking to settle down in a family-friendly area while…

Modern Thai house, vibrant tropical garden, wooden details, open verandas.
Buyer education·February 26, 2025

Exploring the Essentials of Building Houses in Thailand: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats

Thinking about building a house in Thailand? It’s a big decision, especially if you’re an expat. From understanding the laws to picking the right spot, there’s a lot to figure out. This guide breaks it all down for you, step by step. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern villa or a traditional…

Leasehold vs freehold property in Thailand.
Buyer education·February 15, 2025

What are the differences between leasehold and freehold property in Thailand?

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Thinking about buying property in Thailand? You’re not alone. Thailand’s property market offers two main types of ownership: freehold and leasehold.…

Family-friendly neighbourhood in Phuket with greenery and homes.
Neighbourhood·February 12, 2025

Where to Live in Phuket? The Best Areas for Families and Schools

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Phuket might have a bit of a reputation as a party island, but don’t let that fool you. For families, it’s a gem. A lot of folks come here for a

Luxury villa with ocean view and infinity pool in Phuket.
Market·February 2, 2025

Top Areas in Phuket for High-Yield Luxury Property Investments

Phuket is a top spot for those looking to invest in luxury properties. It’s got everything from stunning beaches to a bustling tourist scene. If you’re thinking about putting your money into real estate here, you’re in good company. The island’s mix of natural beauty and modern conveniences makes…

Luxurious beachfront property in Phuket at sunset
Market·August 26, 2024

How to See Quick Returns on Your Investment in Phuket’s Real Estate Market

Phuket, a stunning island in Thailand, is not just a tourist paradise but also a hot spot for real estate investment. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and growing infrastructure, Phuket’s property market offers significant opportunities for investors. However, to see quick returns, it’s…

Property transfer in Thailand with handshake and contract
Buyer education·August 8, 2024

Legal requirements for transferring property ownership in Thailand

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Transferring property ownership in Thailand involves several legal steps and requires coordination with the Land Department. Whether you’re buying,…

High-rise condos in Thailand with property management services
Buyer education·August 7, 2024

Property management companies in Thailand for foreigners

Watch This Episode: Our Phuket Real Estate Podcast Our podcast covers all the topics for property investors looking at buying real estate in Thailand. Managing property in Thailand can be complex, especially for foreigners. This article explores the essentials of property management in Thailand,…

Graph of rental yields for Thai property types
Market·August 4, 2024

Rental yields in Thailand for different property types

Investing in rental properties in Thailand can be very rewarding. The country offers a mix of high rental yields, beautiful locations, and a growing real estate market. Whether you’re looking at condos, villas, or even undeveloped land, understanding the rental yields can help you make smart…

Group discussing property financing in Thailand
Buyer education·July 29, 2024

Financing options for foreign property buyers in Thailand

Buying property in Thailand as a foreigner can be exciting but also a bit tricky. There are many things to think about, like different rules, types of loans, and even working with Thai partners. This guide will help you understand all the ways you can finance your dream home in Thailand. Key…

High-rise condos in Thailand with international residents
Buyer education·July 26, 2024

Condominium Act in Thailand for foreigners

The Thailand Condominium Act sets the rules for foreign ownership of condominiums in Thailand. It can be complicated, especially for non-Thai nationals. This article aims to simplify the Act and explain how foreigners can buy, inherit, and own condos in Thailand. We’ll also discuss the role of…

Phuket property with mortgage guide overlay
Buyer education·July 14, 2024

How to get a mortgage for property in Phuket?

Making your dream of owning property in Phuket come true is possible, even as an expat. This guide will help you understand the best mortgage options, how to meet eligibility requirements, and the steps to apply. You’ll also learn about property prices, legal considerations, and tips for a…