Introduction to Krabi
The spectacular province of Krabi is located in southern Thailand, next to the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Ocean and in an area of ​​extraordinary natural beauty. Benefiting from a glorious tropical climate, it is a true paradise for those lucky enough to live there.
Krabi Population
The people of Krabi are as diverse as the spectacular scenery and include Buddhists, Thais, and Chinese and Moken, also known as Sea Gypsies. Muslims also make up a large proportion of the population, particularly in rural areas where they are the majority. It is amazing how these colorful communities can practice their individual beliefs and yet still live side by side in apparent harmony – a refreshing example of tolerance and mutual respect, from which the rest of the world could learn!
Traditionally, the people of Krabi were farmers of the region’s rubber, palm, oil and oranges, or fishermen who made their living off the abundant Andaman seafood. Today, many are leaving the farms and fishing villages to take advantage of the huge growth in tourism in Krabi and conventional life is gradually changing.
The people of Krabi are famous for being down to earth, open, friendly and helpful. They are renowned for their incredible hospitality and warmly welcome both tourists and foreigners who settle permanently.
Krabi Expat Community
There is also a thriving expat community of over 2,000 foreign nationals drawn by the laid-back lifestyle, breathtakingly beautiful surroundings, low crime rate, and comparatively low cost of living. This mixed group includes foreigners from Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Scandinavia, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.
Expats tend to group themselves by nationality or occupation and their community is remarkably laid-back, just like Krabi itself! Formal clubs, groups or societies are few and far between, although there are some useful expat forums that provide up-to-date information on expat life in Krabi.
Because there is not a large amount of work for foreigners, many expats establish their own business in Krabi and a large number choose to retire or live privately. Popular business ventures include restaurants, hotel and villa accommodation, language schools, and real estate agencies. Most jobs are provided by some of the many international hotels, restaurants and bars and some find employment as dive instructors or teachers.
There are several people who take risks and work illegally. This is not recommended, as the punishment for being caught working or running a business without a valid work permit in Thailand is usually a huge fine or sometimes deportation.
Expat services in Krabi
The facilities in Krabi are excellent, which is another reason why so many foreigners choose this particular part of Thailand. Krabi even has an airport with an international terminal, allowing for regular flights home and frequent visits from friends and family.
Although there are no international hospitals in Krabi, there is a local hospital that is perfectly suitable for minor treatments and most of the prescription drugs are available from the many pharmacies. There is also a private hospital with an excellent reputation, along with several private clinics in Krabi Town. For more extensive treatment, the closest international hospital in Phuket is just a couple of hours away by car. There are various dental practices in Krabi, however most expats tend to travel to Phuket or Bangkok for important dental work.
Most expats choose to send their children to the local Thai school in Krabi town as it offers bilingual curricula. There is also an international school that caters for kindergarten and primary school pupils and teaches a British curriculum.
There is a good selection of banks in Krabi, however opening a bank account can sometimes be difficult for foreigners. Expats must be in possession of a non-immigrant visa, such as a work permit or a retirement visa. This often needs to be supported by other documents such as a copy of the property rental agreement or a copy of the lease agreement if they have chosen to purchase property in Krabi. Alternatively, expats can withdraw money from their home account at one of the many ATMs or use the international money transfer facilities available at most banks.
Expats inevitably miss the comforts of home from time to time, like a favorite beer or meal. In Krabi they can satisfy their craving for something familiar in one of the many authentic foreign bars and restaurants, run by expats themselves. And if you are looking for entertainment or retail therapy, there are excellent shopping and leisure facilities, including a multiplex cinema and the Tesco Lotus Mall, on the outskirts of Krabi town.
Learning the Thai language
Unsurprisingly, one of the biggest obstacles an expat faces when moving to Krabi is the language barrier. Although English is widely spoken in tourist areas, most expats try to master basic vocabulary so they can at least order food and drink. There are many Thai language courses in Krabi, which are recommended for those planning to stay long term. Being able to speak a little basic Thai helps an expat blend in and allows them to do business and make friends with the locals. It is also a great way to learn and immerse yourself in the extraordinarily rich Thai culture.
Moving abroad can be challenging, but the rewards generally far outweigh any minor inconvenience. If you dream of exchanging a busy and stressful life in gloomy weather, for a laid-back, outdoor lifestyle in a beautiful and vibrant corner of the world, then both the Krabi expat community and the locals are waiting to give you the chance! welcome with open arms!