Russians in Phuket: A Growing Yet Transitory Community

Amid the tropical landscape of Phuket, Thailand, a Russian community has taken root. This enclave was established by thousands who fled Russia following the 2022 Ukraine invasion. Despite their growing numbers, the sense of impermanence lingers.

Ekaterina Mittsel is one of the émigrés who has adapted her life to this new environment. She shared her daughter’s busy weekly routine. The schedule includes choir on Mondays, gymnastics on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Russian lessons on Wednesdays and Saturdays. These activities keep the connection to their homeland alive, preparing them for a potential return.

The Mittsels represent many of the 30,000 Russians on the island. They find Phuket calmer than Bali, less expensive than Dubai, and more welcoming than parts of Europe. We joke that we meet our friends here more often than we did in Moscow, said Mrs. Mittsel from their bungalow overlooking the coast.

Russian presence on the island is hard to miss. Russian saunas operate despite the heat. Grocery stores cater to Russian tastes, and Aeroflot connects daily. Even island restaurants serve traditional Russian dishes like cold borscht. Some Russian musicians have added Phuket to their international tour circuits.

Ekaterina’s home reflects their blended lives. Her daughter’s room is decorated with images from Russian fairy tales and American cartoons. They’ve been in Thailand for four years, ever since the Moscow upheaval began.