⚡ Kickstart 2025 with Phuket’s Hottest Updates & Events!

Hi, Phuket fam!

Welcome to Phuket in 2025! 🎁 Your first weekly newsletter of the year is packed with fresh starts, new adventures, and the island’s top events. 

Let’s explore what we have lined-up this week:

✨ Nai Harn Lake’s Revamp

🚂 Buying Train Tickets in Thailand 

🌴 Where to Invest in Phuket Property During Tourist Season

📅 Can’t-Miss Events This Week

Nai Harn Lake’s Getting a Facelift – Yeah!

Ever walked around Nai Harn Lake and thought, “This is great, but it could be amazing”?
Maybe you’ve been there, dodging puddles after rain or wishing there was better lighting when the sun goes down.

Well, good news: the lake’s getting a makeover, and it’s ready by February.

What’s Changing?

They’re not just slapping on a fresh coat of paint. Here’s what’s coming:

• Better paths for walking, running, and chilling. No more uneven surfaces.

• New lighting – no more spooky vibes at night.

• Landscaping upgrades to make it look and feel next-level.

• Fixing drainage issues – so it’s less of a swamp when it rains.

Basically, they’re turning it into a proper space you’d want to hang out in – morning, evening, or anytime.

Why This Is Great

If you’re a local, this is your spot.
You’ll get a cleaner, safer, and more inviting lake for your jogs, strolls, or family picnics.

If you’re visiting, it’s going to be another reason to hit Nai Harn – because let’s face it, a nice lake makes everything better.

And for everyone?
These upgrades mean more tourism, more people spending money in the area, and a better overall vibe for the whole neighbourhood.

Mark Your Calendar

February’s just around the corner, and Nai Harn Lake’s about to step up.
If you’re in Phuket, keep this spot on your radar.
It’s about to become the place to be.

Buying Train Tickets in Thailand – Don’t Get Lost in the Process

Ever tried booking a train ticket in Thailand and thought, “Why is this so confusing?”
Maybe you’re worried about showing up at the wrong station, getting stuck in a long queue, or accidentally booking the wrong seat.

Don’t worry.
I’ve been there.
Here’s the simple, no-nonsense guide to get it done right.

Step 1: Know Your Train Type

Not all trains in Thailand are created equal.
Here’s the deal:

• Ordinary trains: Cheap but slow. Great for short trips if you’re not in a rush.

• Rapid trains: Faster and more comfortable. Middle ground for most journeys.

• Express & Special Express: Best for long hauls. Aircon, sleeper cars – all the good stuff.

Pick what works for your trip, your budget, and your patience level.

Step 2: Booking Your Ticket

You’ve got options, and they’re pretty straightforward:

1. Online

   • Use the official State Railway of Thailand site.

   • It’s in English, but don’t expect it to win any design awards.

   • Pro tip: Book at least 2-3 days ahead, especially for sleepers or weekend travel.

2. At the Station

   • Head to the ticket counter.

   • You’ll need to know your train type, destination, and departure time.

   • Don’t wing it. Write it down if your Thai isn’t great.

3. Travel Agencies

   • They’ll book it for you, but it’s going to cost more.

   • Good option if you want convenience over saving a few baht.

Step 3: Choosing the Right Seat

This is where people mess up.
Here’s what you need to know:

• Third class: Standard seats, fans, and the occasional chicken.

• Second class: Softer seats, fans, and sometimes aircon.

• First class: Private cabins and full-on luxury (well, for a train).

If you’re doing an overnight trip, just go with a sleeper.
Trust me, your back will thank you.

Step 4: Get There Early

Thai trains?
They’re not exactly Swiss punctuality.

Sometimes they’re late, but don’t risk missing it.
Show up at least 30 minutes early, especially if it’s a busy station like Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

Why Trains Are Still Worth It

Even with a few quirks, Thailand’s trains are an experience.
You’ll see stunning landscapes, meet locals, and actually enjoy the journey instead of staring at your phone on a flight.

So don’t let confusion hold you back.

👉 Click here for the full guide to booking train tickets in Thailand.

Plan ahead, travel smart, and make your trip unforgettable.

Where to Invest in Phuket Property During Tourist Season

Thinking about investing in Phuket property but worried about choosing the wrong spot?
Or maybe you’re wondering, “Where’s the real money to be made during tourist season?”

Here’s the thing:
Location is everything.
And in Phuket, some areas absolutely crush it when the tourists roll in.

Let’s break it down.

Hotspot #1: Patong – The Tourist Magnet

Patong is where the action happens.

• Why it’s hot:
  Tourists flock here for the nightlife, beach, and constant buzz.
  This means high demand for short-term rentals – think Airbnbs and serviced apartments.

• What to look for:
  Properties within walking distance of Bangla Road or Patong Beach.
  Bonus points if there’s a pool or modern amenities.

• Pro tip:
  Studio and one-bedroom units move fast here. Perfect for short-term stays.

Hotspot #2: Kamala – The High-End Haven

Kamala is the opposite of Patong.

• Why it’s hot:
  It attracts a quieter crowd – think retirees, families, and high-end travellers.
  The area’s known for luxury villas and resorts.

• What to look for:
  Villas with sea views or condos in upscale developments.
  People here don’t mind paying a premium for peace and privacy.

• Pro tip:
  Look at properties close to Café del Mar or other beachfront hotspots.

Hotspot #3: Rawai & Nai Harn – The Chill Zones

If you’ve been to Rawai or Nai Harn, you know it’s all about that laid-back vibe.

• Why it’s hot:
  Popular with expats and long-term renters who want a quieter, beachy lifestyle.
  Great for properties catering to digital nomads or families.

• What to look for:
  Two- or three-bedroom houses with space for kids or pets.
  Access to the beach is a huge plus.

• Pro tip:
  Nai Harn and Rawai beach is a major draw, so being nearby is a selling point.

Hotspot #4: Bang Tao – The Rising Star

This area’s blowing up.

• Why it’s hot:
  It’s got everything – luxury beach clubs, Laguna Phuket, and a growing expat community.
  Perfect for mid- to high-end investments.

• What to look for:
  Condos in gated communities or luxury villas with shared amenities.

• Pro tip:
  Bang Tao properties rent out like hotcakes during tourist season.

Final Thoughts

Phuket’s tourist season is a goldmine for property investors – if you pick the right spot.

• Want steady short-term income? Go with Patong.

• After luxury? Kamala and Bang Tao are where it’s at.

• Prefer long-term renters? Rawai and Nai Harn are your bets.

The opportunities are there.
It’s about knowing what works and going all in. 

Don’t wait for the competition to snap up the best spots.

👉 Click here to explore the top properties in Phuket now.

Smart investments start with smart decisions. Let’s make it happen.

Upcoming Events This Week.

WEB3 & AI Phuket Forum

📍 Location: Flame Phuket Town
📆 Date: 8 January
🎟️ Price: Standard Ticket - Free (Promo code: GYF), VIP - 20% off (Promo code: GYF20)

Get ready for the first major forum of 2025!
🌟 Top Blockchain Speakers:

• Igor Pugachevskiy (Co-founder Blum)

• Jaydee Rebadulla (Ecosystem Enabler ETH63)

• Elias Ahonen (Author & Columnist, Cointelegraph)

• Ruben Babaev (Founder RubeTON)

• Seraya Takahashi (Web3 Foundation)

• Stefano Virgilli (Business Partner for Digital Initiatives)
  …and more!

Topics to Explore:

• The Future of Web 3.0 Mass Adoption

• AI in Web3: Unlocking Intelligent Decentralization

• RWA

• Web3 Investments

🌐 Register Now: Event Link

Martin Ikin at Armania Phuket

📍 Location: Armania Phuket
📆 Date: 10 January
🕙 Time: 10:00 pm - 11:30 pm
🎟️ Price: THB 500

From Tomorrowland to Phuket!
🌟 Renowned house DJ Martin Ikin brings his iconic sound to Armania Phuket.

📅 Mark your calendars for a night of unforgettable music!

Manora x Jo Mills

📍 Location: Nora Beach Club
📆 Date: 11 January
🕢 Time: 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
🎟️ Price: Free Entry

Join the legendary Jo Mills for an unforgettable night!
🎧 Known for her electrifying sets at Circoloco, Pacha, and Ministry of Sound, Jo Mills is set to light up the dance floor.

Enjoy:
🌴 Stunning beachfront views
🍸 Signature cocktails
🎶 Beats to keep you dancing all night

That's all for now! 

Want more Phuket insights? Follow us on social media for daily updates. Share your Phuket experiences with us! 

Cheers,
Codi & The Phuket Community Team