Georgealbert ·
Phuket has seen a major influx of Russian residents and visitors, with many arrivals reportedly seeking to avoid military service, protect savings or escape Russia's political and economic pressures. At least 60,000 Russians are estimated to have moved to the island, which has 432,000 registered residents. More than 619,000 Russian visitors arrived in the first seven months of this year - almost twice the number from any other country. The island now has Russian schools, a consulate, a Russian
