|
Phuket is Thailand's largest inhabited island and sits on the south west coast of Thailand in the Malacca Straights, about a 90 minute flight south of Bangkok. Phuket's wealth came primarily from tin and rubber but tourism is now the main industry. The island has enjoyed a rich and colorful history but the island's scenery both above and below the water is it's main attraction. The coast surrounding Phuket is teeming with marine life. This makes it a popular diving destination with dive companies like Andaman Ocean Safaris offering a wide range of diving trips and liveaboards.
Due to its location, Phuket is a major Asian gateway for ocean cruises. Phuket is a leader in the new concept of Spa Cruises which combine traditional Thai ways of relaxing the body and mind with all amenities of an up-market cruise.
|
|
|
Phuket is blessed with sincerely hospitable people, amazing coves, bays and impressive limestone islands. The island coasts are bordered by palms and white sand beaches with sparkling azure blue seas. Phuket has a wide range of luxurious accommodation, deliciously fresh seafood, lush forested mountains, beautiful waterfalls and parks. The architecture is a delightful mixture of turn-of-the-century Indo/Portuguese and Chinese-influenced buildings which create an enchanting environment that is perfect for total relaxation..
|
|
|
The island is a major international resort destination that has everything needed for a truly memorable visit. First-class hotels offer complimentary transport to their own beach clubs with spectacular views and they offer air-conditioned accommodation, as do many cabin and bungalow complexes on Phuket's most popular beaches. Phuket offers a wide range of resort and accommodation options meaning there is always somewhere to fit the smallest, or largest, of budgets. Other 'native-style' complexes are built of bamboo, rattan and Nipa palm thatch. Comfortable and relatively inexpensive accommodation can be found on most of Phuket's many coastal hills and beaches.
|
|
|
The best thing about Phuket, and Thailand in general, is getting out of your hotel or accommodation and exploring the local culture and restaurants. Thailand is about having a go. You should never be afraid to chat to the local people and ask to try things. The local restaurants visually may not look amazing but don't let this put you off. The taste sensations won't be surpassed anywhere in the world, but remember one useful little phrase 'Falang pet' meaning foreigner hot and your food will come without any explosive chillis. Try to visit wats and templates as you'll be welcomed in and encouraged to have a good look around. The Thais enjoy seeing you visiting and learning something about the way they practice Buddhism.
|
|
Phuket's glory is its dramatic coastline. The beaches range from gentle crescents of white sand with calm waters to rocky headlands pounded by raging surf. Coves, secluded and hidden from view, lie among densely forested headlands surrounded by white beaches. It's easy for visitors to feel a long way from civilization. Phuket's western coastline boasts the finest beaches while the eastern coastline overlooks some 30 lesser islands occupying largely tranquil seas. Islands vary greatly in size, some are large enough to sustain fishing communities, coconut plantations, deer and wild boar. Others are little larger than massive rocks. Others resemble fortresses, and are riddled with caves containing the birds' nests prized by gourmets.
|
|
|
Phuket's nightlife is mostly sedate compared with other places such as Hat Yai, Pattaya or Bangkok. The nightlife is concentrated largely in the middle of Phuket Town and Patong in restaurants, bars, massage parlours, nightclubs and discotheques.
As a handy hint - pack light to give yourself the chance to fill the extra space with Thai arts and crafts, clothes and other nick-nacks.
|
|
|