I Moved to Koh Samui, Thailand to Escape Burnout; I’m Happier Here

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Anna Miroshina, 40, owner of the real estate agency Siam.Villas in Koh Samui, Thailand. It has been edited for length and clarity.

Twelve years ago, I moved to Koh Samui, an island in the south of Thailand that has recently been in the spotlight because of the latest season of “The White Lotus.”

I was young and had started a career in IT career in Russia, but I didn’t feel like I had a plan. I was grappling with issues in my personal life and fell into depression.

My friend had opened a bar in Samui and asked if I’d like to help him for a year. I wanted to take a break from life at home, so I packed up my bags and left St. Petersburg.

While working at the bar, I had a lot of free time and started exploring real estate on the side. I went on to become a freelance agent, as the income was much better than what I was making at the bar.

I also changed my mind about going back to Russia, I wanted to stay in Thailand.

Enjoying life in Thailand

Two years ago, I started my own real estate agency. In Thailand, you don’t need a license to be an agent.

In Samui, I have the right work-life balance.

Whenever I’m tired, I go to the beach or stay on a neighboring island to recharge for a couple of days. When I was living in St. Petersburg, life often felt complicated and stressful. There was no outlet for relaxation.

There isn’t too much traffic on the island. In my car or motorcycle, it’s only a seven-minute trip home from my office.

Unlike the cold months in Russia, it’s summer all year round in Samui. People are friendlier and life is just more relaxed. Everything feels slower and easier — I live near the sea and get to dive and swim as often as I’d like.

There’s this Thai saying — “sabai sabai” — which means it’s important to take it easy and enjoy life.

As a woman, I feel safe living in Samui. Crimes, especially serious ones, are rare. I find the culture matriarchal, so women are well-respected. I feel like I’m on the same level here with everyone.

Living and working in Russia was different, it felt like men ran the show, and women were often told to stay at home and take care of the household. It’s part of why I run a business in Samui — people empower me.

I’ve been taking Thai language lessons for the past year and plan to apply for citizenship in the next two years.

The cost of island life

My typical day starts bright and early. I wake up at 5:30 a.m. to catch the sunrise. I spend my morning exercising and lounging at the beach. Work takes up most of my day — advertising properties, consulting with prospective buyers, and scouting new locations. I often watch the sunset at around 6:30 p.m. before winding down an hour later and preparing for bed.

Living in Samui can be more expensive than in other parts of Thailand, especially if you’re looking for comfort or luxury.

While it’s possible to find a small apartment for as little as $300 a month, many expats choose to stay in mid-range, slightly larger apartments with amenities like a common pool for about $1,300 a month.

Those looking for a more luxurious life have the option of living in beachfront villas. Rentals for four- to five-bedroom houses with direct sea access usually start from $20,000 a month.

No “White Lotus” real estate effect

Parts of “The White Lotus” were filmed just across from my office at the Anantara Bophut Resort. The show was filmed in Samui last year during high season, and there were traffic jams on the island. A couple of my friends worked on the set as extras.

So far, “The White Lotus” hasn’t had much impact on local real estate. I didn’t see an increase in buyers or people moving here.

People have been interested in Samui for years, even before the show.

Three years ago, I realized I should stop renting and buy a house. I felt ready to commit.

Samui is my home.