Phuket: travel tips
Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The pearl of Andaman is the largest island in Thailand. Its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural and artistic heritage and lively nightlife have made this location one of the most important in the world tourist market. Here are some tips if you plan a trip to this incredible island.
Pratical advices
The easiest way to reach Phuket island is by plane. Although connected by the Sarasin Bridge to the rest of Thailand, most tourists reach the island via one of the numerous flights operated by multiple companies. Phuket has a very important international airport which also ensures travel from European destinations with scheduled or charter flights. Once you land the best way to get around is to take a taxi or rent a car or scooter. But be careful! As with the rest of Thailand, there is a lot of traffic in Phuket and if you are not used to it (even driving on the right!) it can be very dangerous to move around the island alone. The airport is located in the north of the island, about an hour from most of the resorts which are rather spread out on the southern side of Phuket.
Another important question I asked myself before organizing my trip was: where to stay? The offer of hotels and resorts for all budgets is enormous. The island is very large but the main beaches are on the western coast and in particular on the south western one. If you love social life, choose Patong, if you love relaxation the northern area of the island could be for you (but you will be very far from everything) while if you love the right balance between relaxation, lush beaches and 5-star hotels the area of Kata, Kata Noi or Karon will be right for you.
When is the best time to go to Phuket? Undoubtedly the dry period, i.e. the months from December to March. Definitely avoid the months of May, June, September and October, which are the rainiest.
Another important tip! If you have a phone that accepts e-SIMs (i.e. virtual SIMs), buy one! A good internet connection will allow you to organize and make the most of your holiday also to call taxis via the Grab app.
The best beaches
We know that those who go to Phuket are looking for sun and beautiful beaches. The island is large and offers different landscapes and satisfies all types of travellers. For fun lovers and those who want every type of service, Patong beach will be right for you. The problem will be crowding. For those who want a little more relaxation such as families with children, Karon beach just south of Patong is ideal. The fine sand and shallow waters are also suitable for children as on Kata beach and the delightful nearby beach of Kata Noi. Other unique beaches are those of Nai Harn, in the south of the island, Kamala Beach or Surin Beach, suitable for surfers.
A real delight just a short walk from Patong but reachable only by boat or via a steep path is Freedom Beach.
What to do/see
Phuket is an island with a thousand facets. In addition to its splendid beaches, you can enjoy a unique cultural reality and dream landscapes. From Phuket, a trip to the Phi Phi Islands is a must, as well as an excursion to Phang-Nga Bay where you can kayak among the caves of Hong Island or immortalize yourself on the iconic James Bond Island. My advice if you want to make the most of your trip to this wonderful place is to rely on Seanery, a company that organizes exclusive organized tours. The day trip aboard the Seanery luxury yacht to discover James Bond Island will give you unforgettable moments.
A visit to the Big Buddha is a must, on Nakkerd hill about 45 minutes from Phuket city, this gigantic 45 m statue is a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists and tourists from all over the world. From here you can admire a priceless view of the entire island as well as coming across numerous monkeys wandering around among the curious tourists. The Wat Chalong temple is also a must-see. It is one of the most important temples on the island and is located in the southern part of Phuket.
For shopping lovers, Phuket city will be for you. The most important city on the island preserves delightful Sino-Portuguese style buildings with colorful facades and countless numbers of shops, restaurants and street food stalls that will fascinate you.
