I will move to Phuket with the intention of staying there about - say - 6 months per year. I have travelled there several times in the past (short trips) but I haven't stayed long enough to get a real idea of what everyday life really is over there. So, I have some questions which I think will be best answered by those of you who permanently reside there and/or have been there for some time.

1. Are there any micro-climates in Phuket?

Phuket is a rather large island: about 45 km in its length. Are there places on the island which are well known for experiencing climatic differences such as more rain, or more sunshine, or higher average temperatures, etc. ?

2. Are there well known geographic communities in Phuket?

By communities, I mean groups of people who tend to live in the same area because of common roots, common interests, or common social ground. It could be anything from golf enthusiasts (presumably living near a golf course...) to Greek retirees living in the South-East (just fancying...), etc.

Could those who are based there kindly share your experience?

nightlife devotee's - patong

relax in peaceful environs - the southern and northern ends of the island

All generalisations are dangerous including this one but in general the north is where the richer expats live (laguna et al.) and the south is where the ordinary expats myself included live. There is more wind near the coast but I find that the weather is pretty same same all over. Oh... and Muslim dominated areas and Buddhist areas can be differentiated by the number of soi dogs around

Thanks for your input, folks.