Travel Guides: All Countries / Asia / Thailand / Phuket
 |  | Travel Reviews : Phuket |
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| | | | Review by Andrew Day from Ashford, Kent, UK
We stayed on a private island off the east coast of phuket, wonderfull, you could not ask for more, we felt like robinson crusoe. this side of the island is no where near as developed as the west coast and would suit people looking for a more relaxed holiday without to much hussle bustle. Top destination & Lovely people
Review by Sean Conway from San Diego
My girlfriend and I were privileged to stay at two month trip around Southeast Asia. I knew that sometime during our trip, I was going to propose to her, but I wanted to find the perfect place. I knew immediately it would be the ideal place to ask her to marry me. My expectations were far exceeded! There are restaurants with three courses followed by endless exotic fruit for dessert. We initially had plans to do some day trips (which the owner will gladly arrange) we spent all of our days on the island. It was the ideal place to propose to my now fiancé and we had such a great time that we are contemplating having our honeymoon there.
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| | Destination Guide : Phuket |
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| | | The Pearl of the South |  | Why go on holiday to Phuket?
Dubbed the Pearl of the South, Thailand's largest island is usually a magnet for hedonism-seeking sun worshippers. With the azure waters of the Andaman Sea lapping against the shores of white sand beaches, you need look no further for a place to flop and unwind.
Excellent water sports, especially diving, plus soft adventure options are also available. Or else you could simply enjoy the creature comforts of sophisticated international resort hotels. Whether you'd like a fortnight in the sun or want to tag on a beach holiday to a cultural tour elsewhere in Thailand, fancy a well-earned rest or some action, Phuket is the place to go.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary dramatically, depending on where you stay. A basic, six-night package is around £500 in low season (May-September). A five-night stay in a four-star hotel can be around £1,000 in high season (November-January and March-May). Flight-only deals start from £350.
When should I go?
The climate is tropical and humid, with year-round temperatures hovering around 30C/86F. But the best time to visit is between November and February when there's significantly less rainfall.
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| | | What's to see | | Where do I start?
When you can bear to tear yourself away from the lovely beaches, head into the town for a glimpse of Sino-Portuguese architecture. Places like Thanon Thalang and Thanon Dibuk are worth exploring. But perhaps the best example in town is the Standard Chartered Bank – Thailand's oldest foreign bank – on Thanon Phang-Na, which is pretty impressive.
Anything else to see?
A few old temples can be seen on Thanon Ranong. Make sure you visit the Shrine of the Serene Light, which is tucked away at the end of an alley next to the Bangkok Bank of Commerce. There's a small garden here with some interesting pieces of temple art, which are said to be around 200 years old. It's open between 8.30am and noon and 1.30pm-5.30pm daily. You could also walk up Phuket Hill or Khao Rang for nice views of the city, jungle and ocean.
What about activities and sports?
You'll be spoilt for choice. Firstly, divers can rejoice in the fact that Phuket is one of the world's top 10 dive destinations. Most dive companies are located around Hat Patong and offer trips to nearby islands or further afield to the renowned Surin and Similan Islands. Snorkellers are also allowed to join dive trips for a 30-50% discount. In addition, you can charter a yacht and go fishing for the day, explore semi-submerged caves in a kayak, enjoy elephant rides or hikes into the interior or learn to whip up a Thai meal on a cookery course.
What's to do at night?
There's plenty of bars and restaurants for night-time revellers and most hotels will offer entertainment too. Fans of Thai boxing should check out the Friday night matches at the stadium in the southern part of town.
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| | | Food and shopping | | Will children like it?
Kids will love the beaches, swimming and activities organised by the hotels.
What's the food like?
Thai cuisine is spicy, with heaps of garlic, chillies, lime juice, lemon grass and coriander. Other distinctive flavours include peanuts, ginger and coconut milk. Green and red curries and noodle soups are delicious and fruit and vegetables are abundant.
What should I buy?
Many tourists search for silk fabrics which are then tailor-made into clothes, sometimes within 24 hours. Woven shoulder bags, fake designer clothing and gemstones such as rubies and sapphire are also great value. Be sure to know what you are doing when it comes to purchasing jewellery though – and only buy from reputable dealers.
More information
Tourism Authority of Thailand , 3rd Floor, Brook House, 98-99 Jermyn Street, London. SW1Y 6EE. Tel: 09063 640666.
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| | Fact File : Phuket |
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| | | Phuket | | Did you know?
Phuket's culture is unique, combining Chinese and Portuguese influences with that of the chao naam or sea gypsies, an indigenous, ocean-going people.
Language
Thai.
Visas
None required for a visit of less than 30 days.
Getting there
There are regular package deals available direct to Phuket.
Flying time from London
14 hours.
Getting around
Thai buses run frequent trips to the various beaches. There are also tuk-tuks and samlors (motorised and cycle rickshaws) and taxis.
Currency
Baht.
Costs
Prices are around £2 for a local beer; £1.60 for a roll of film; £4 for a moderate restaurant meal; and £1.50 for a short taxi ride.
Weather
Phuket is hot and humid year around with temperatures hovering around 30C/86F, but there's less rainfall between November and March.
Time difference
Seven hours ahead of GMT.
International dialling code from the UK
00 66.
Voltage
220V. Local electrical shops will stock suitable adapters.
Opening hours
Shops usually open between 10am and 7pm and banks tend to open weekdays only.
Health – before you go
No jabs are compulsory but hepatitis A, polio and typhoid are recommended. Check in advance with your GP.
Health – when you are there
Drink bottled water and don't eat unpeeled fruit bought in the street. Avoid coral cuts when swimming or snorkelling over reefs as they can become infected. If you get a scratch, wash with boiling water, apply antiseptic and protect until healed. Be aware there has been considerable damage to the underlying health care in Phuket following last December's tidal wave (tsunami). Those in affected areas are advised to purchase bottled water, as local water sources may be contaminated.
Warnings
Although Thailand is not a dangerous country to visit, be cautious when travelling on public transport and be careful about your valuables. Also make sure your hotel room is firmly locked at night.
Emergency
Tourist police – 1699.
Customs
Skimpy dress, speaking loudly or losing your temper are all definite no-nos as Thai social behaviour is more genteel and refined than in the west. Never insult the monarchy or Thai religion.
Pets
Not allowed back into the UK without going into quarantine.
Tipping
It's not normal practice but it's polite to leave any small change from a large bill.
Tourist Office
Tourism Authority of Thailand, 3rd Floor, Brook House, 98-99 Jermyn Street, London. SW1Y 6EE. Tel: 09063 640666.
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| | Available rental properties in Phuket |
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 |  | Family and kids (15) | | | Beautiful Scenery (8) | | | Beach (5) | | | Activity holiday (4) | | | Good value (3) |
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