The largest and the only island province of Thailand, Phuket is a favourite with tourists and contains a number of great Phuket hotels to stay in. A densely populated island characterised by cosmopolitanism, colour, charm and an irrepressible sense of gaiety, Phuket offers tourists a glimpse into the heart of Thailand. The Thai people are friendly and welcoming, adding to the feeling of comfort and warmth that envelops you the minute you step into Phuket.
Prepare to revel in brilliant tropical sunsets, warm blue seas and awe-inspiring landscapes.
With its sandy white beaches, warm hospitality and reasonably priced places to stay, it is little wonder that Phuket has emerged as one of Asia's favourite seaside destinations. Phuket's infrastructure and amenities are second to none. Five-star Phuket hotels, great restaurants and top-notch medical care ensure that your stay is comfortable and easy.
At Phuket, there are umpteen things to see and do, and entertainment to suit all tastes. Having welcomed hundreds of tourists over the years, Phuket excels at gratifying every visitor's whim! You can even take a Phuket tour to explore the island, or nearby islands and the mainland.
Launching you into the realm of exciting adventures, Phuket offers you a world-class diving experience, giving you a peek into the depths of the Andaman Sea. One of Phuket's main attractions is the spectacular expanse of sparkling blue waters and the many activities that are associated with the sea. If you have a streak of adventure, you'll be delighted with the scuba diving, sea kayaking and snorkelling. You could also hire a speedboat or take a tour in Phuket and visit one of the surrounding islands. Also, don't miss the championship golf courses and thrilling eco-adventures in the heart of the forest. The less adventurous can just stretch out on the silky soft sand, enjoy a tranquil cruise or Phuket tour to the alluring Phang Nga Bay, or pamper themselves at a wonderful spa!
The setting sun doesn't mean an end to the day's enjoyments. In fact, among the beach resorts of Thailand, Phuket has a highly pulsating nightlife, second only to Pattaya. Patong Beach is probably the most animated of the lot and you'll love partying into the wee hours of the night! There are many exciting go-go bars, clubs and discos to choose from too. The beaches on the southwest have a range of entertaining options and modern facilities and Phuket hotels, and are especially popular with tourists.
If you are travelling with kids, you'll be relieved to find that Phuket has innumerable attractions for children of all ages. The elephant trek and a picnic on the beach make for unforgettable experiences. You could also go snorkelling and explore the mysteries of the world beneath the sea.
At Kamala Beach you'll witness the much-hyped Phuket FantaSea Show. While it is certainly not on par with Disneyland, this so-called "cultural theme park" does give you a few thrilling encounters.
By way of historical sites, Phuket does not offer as much as Bangkok or Chiang Mai. However, it does have a few places worth visiting. For instance, the Buddhist Wat Chalong Temple situated in the south makes for an interesting visit. Also, since Phuket was once one of the major ports of the Indian Ocean, it witnessed a large influx of foreigners. The effect of this exposure lingers today in the Sino-Portuguese building styles seen here. Another cultural event you'll enjoy is the Vegetarian Festival held every year in late September or early October.
Lying off the western coast of south Thailand, Phuket is situated in the Andaman Sea and is about 890 km from Bangkok. Measuring about 550 sq. km, it is Thailand's largest island and is probably as big as Singapore. The smaller islands surrounding Phuket add another 70 sq. km to the total area. At its northern most tip is the channel of Chong Pak Phra, which separates Phuket from the mainland.
Hilly Phuket has a few peaks with a height of over 500m. The highest peak is the Mai Tao Sipsong, measuring almost 529m. Lush jungles cover most of these peaks, while the lowlands abound with fields of paddy and plantations of coconut, pineapple and rubber. The Khao Phra Thaeo Park is the only important rainforest still existing on the island.
The west coast of Phuket has a number of beautiful beaches that are separated by headlands and rocky coves. Although it was severely affected by the tsunami of December 2004, there is little evidence of the tragedy today. Though the east coast has fewer beaches, it is renowned for its beautiful limestone shoals and islands. Whether you want to stay on the East or West coast or at busy Patong Beach, our Phuket map can help you choose your hotel in Phuket based on its location.
Phuket is surrounded by a number of lovely coral gardens teeming with spectacular marine life. Sadly, however, this has dwindled in the last few years due to increasing environmental damage.
On the whole, Phuket makes for an engaging visit. After all, who can resist sun-kissed beaches, hospitable locals, and quality Phuket hotels, especially when they are coupled with uniquely modern comforts and tinged with the inimitable Thai touch? Little wonder then that Phuket continues to lure tourists in droves!
[more info]
