Phuket is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations. Abundant with nature’s gifts such as pure white sands, aquamarine waters and limestone cliffs, Phuket is often called “the pearl of the Andaman”. But along with its tropical appeal, travellers and explorers also flock to this southern province in search of its delectable cuisine and rich culture.
Be it natural or manmade, this little island has plenty of wonders in store for all kinds of travellers. If you’re ever planning a visit, this guide is your ultimate key to discovering Phuket!
Book FlightsWEATHER IN PHUKET
Varying between warm, cool and rainy, Phuket’s weather remains largely tropical. It never really gets too cold.
PLACES TO EXPLORE
Phang Nga Bay
Adorned with beautiful vertical limestone cliffs that seem to emerge from the emerald-green waters of the beach, this place is a thing a beauty! It is also abundant with coral reefs and other very exquisite aquatic plants. The best way to explore this place is to go sea kayaking.
Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi Island is the most famous of the lot. Apart from starring in the movie ‘The Beach’, it’s beauty is highly regarded amongst everybody who’s ever visited this place. The laid back attitude of the place is also a major hit among the travellers.
Big Buddha
It is one of the most revered landmarks on the island. Standing tall at a height of 45 meters, this statue offers the best 360-degree view of the island, including the Phuket Town, Chalong Bay, Karon and more.
Phuket FantaSea Show
Phuket FantaSea is the biggest cultural show on the island. Blending tradition with fantasy, this show is set in a theme park and hosts one of the biggest buffets in Asia. You can also go shopping, play games and find some really amazing Thai food.
CUISINE: DELICIOUS AND CHEAP!
Isn’t food the best way to experience a place’s culture? Find it out for yourself!
Pad Thai
A favourite among tourists, Pad Thai is a noodle stir fry which comes with a sweet-savoury sauce and crushed peanuts.
Pancake (Roti)
Made with banana, chocolate, condensed milk and Nutella, this pancake is an absolute piece of heaven for sugar lovers.
Kai Yang (Grilled Chicken)
Kai Yang can be found on food carts around the island. More often consumed as a take away rather than a seated meal, this grilled chicken is best eaten with sticky rice (Khao Niaow).
Kanom Jeeb (Thai steamed dumpling)
Dumplings for breakfast? That’s how Thai people do it! A popular breakfast option here, these small and colourful steamed dumplings are usually made with pork and served with soy sauce.
SHOPPING: THE 5 BEST MARKETS
Banzaan Market, Patong Beach
A modern-looking Thai fresh market on Sai Kor Road
Kata Plaza, Kata Beach
Two distinct shopping malls with a bazaar-like feel to them
Karon Market, Karon Beach
Comes alive twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays
Kamala Friday Market, Kamala
Best for clothing, accessories, electronic gadgets and toys
Chillva Market, Phuket Town
Picture credits: @chillvamarket(FB)
A cool, trendy night market with a somewhat bohemian vibe
WHERE TO STAY
Luxury Choices:
Andaman Seaside Resort
Distance from the airport: 25 mins from Phuket International Airport
Nearest Attraction: Bang Tao Beach
La Flora Resort Patong
Distance from the airport: 35 mins from Phuket International Airport
Nearest Attractions: Patong Beach, Bangla Road, Tiger Kingdom Phuket zoo
Chanalai Romantica Resort
Distance from the airport: 46.3 km from Phuket International Airport
Nearest Attractions: Kata Noi Beach, Karon night market
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
Distance from the airport: 16 km from Phuket International Airport
Nearest Attraction: Wat Tha Chat Chai temple
Mid-range choices:
Shunli Hostel
Picture credits: https://www.agoda.com/shunli-hostel_3/hotel/phuket
Distance from the airport: 32.7kms from Phuket International Airport
Nearest Attraction: Old Phuket Town, Phuket Trickeye Museum
SK Residence, Patong
Picture credits: @our.sk.residence(FB)
Distance from the airport: 40.2kms from Phuket International Airport
Nearest Attraction: Banzaan Fresh Market, Bangla Road, Patong Beach
Baan Sutra Guesthouse
Picture Credits: www.baansutra.com/en-us/photos
Distance from the airport: 32.5kms from Phuket International Airport
Nearest Attraction: Phuket Sunday Night Market, Khao Rang Hill View Point
Getting Around
Songthaew
A common sight all over Thailand, Songthaews are small pickup trucks that have been converted into passenger-friendly transportation vehicles.
Buses
You can either choose to travel via the local buses or take the Phuket Smart Buses. They are cheap and reliable and can be used to reach all major destinations on the island.
Tuk tuk
Much like the tuk tuks you would find in India, tuk tuks in Thailand are a popular travel option opted by visitors and locals alike.
Other than these, you will always find taxis, motorbike taxis, car and scooter rentals and ferry services available to get around.
NIGHTLIFE VS. BEACHLIFE: WHAT DO YOU CHOOSE?
Whatever you choose, remember to make the best of your vacation this season! Happy travels!
