A few years ago, people planning to stay on Lanta Island for an extended period of time had to find a bungalow resort where they could get a good deal on a long-stay contract. Renting private houses was almost impossible, and acquiring a land plot to build a "Home away from Home" was time-consuming and difficult to a realize in a foreign country. Today, this picture has changed, with houses and apartments built in several places, from Saladan on the northern tip all the way down to the very south of Lanta Island. The increase in the building activity is, of course, a direct response to the growing demand from people who want to make this island their home, or at least want to stay here for long periods every year.

So what is it that makes Lanta Island different from other popular areas in Thailand? Of course, the climate on the Thai west coast is very attractive to "cold-struck" Europeans and Americans. When the weather is at its coldest in Europe and America, the west coast of Thailand is at its most attractive. While in many places, the prime locations are already sold, there is still a huge variety of stunning plots available on Lanta Island. If you are looking for a piece of beach-front property or a hill-side plot with the view to the South Andaman Sea and its distant islands, there are fantastic opportunities at very competitive prices. To make it easier for foreigners, most of them come with ready-built houses.

Anyone who is interested in buying a house in Thailand has surely been introduced to the somewhat complicated rules and regulations surrounding property acquisition by foreigners. If you, as a foreigner, are interested in buying your own house or apartment make sure that all the legal aspects, as well as your own rights of such an investment, are covered. Do everything the right way and you will get yourself a piece of paradise on the edge of the South Andaman Sea.