Phuket is the largest Thai island, and it can be compared to Singapore in terms of size. The famous Thai holiday destination has already convinced millions of tourists, and no doubt you will too.
Phuket is located on the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea, where temperatures range between 21 and 34 degrees Celsius. Due to its favorable climate, the island is extremely popular among tourists. The blue sea, sandy beaches, spicy Thai cuisine and excellent conditions for diving attract millions of travelers from all over the world. With a range of exciting activities and attractions, you will definitely not be bored in Phuket.
When to Phuket?
The best time to visit Phuket is between February and November, during the dry season when the temperatures are pleasantly warm and suitable for lounging on the beach. During the monsoon season between May and October, the island is much more humid, and the chance of precipitation is greater. Therefore, the prices are more wallet-friendly.
Photo: Unsplash/Denys NevozhaiWhat should I see in Phuket?
It's no secret that the central attraction of the island are the beaches. To begin with, catch some sun rays on the Patong Beach. Phuket's longest beach was once the most beautiful, until development and tourism turned it into a bustling hub of activity rather than an isolated escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nevertheless, Patong is great for watching passers-by and the local culture.
You may not be able to find a quiet corner to read in Patong, but this is a paradise for those who like to be in the center of the action. Shopping, water sports and a host of other activities ensure that you will never be bored. Unlike Patong, Kata Beach is much calmer. The beautiful sandy bay is surrounded by bushy palm trees, and a small island lies along the coast.
If you want some solitude, head south to neighboring Kata Noi Beach. You'll also find some peace at Karon Beach, a 3.5-kilometer stretch of creaky golden sand and turquoise sea that attracts many couples and families. In calm weather it is a wonderful place for swimming, but in windy conditions the coastal strip should be avoided due to high waves.
Photo: Unsplash/Akashi RaiOf course, there are more than just beaches on the island. Phuket Town lies on the southeast coast of the island in a picturesque bay. This island city is famous for its lively scene, which has been helped by the rapid development of tourism since the "opening" of Patong Beach in 1980. The architecture of the buildings reflects the influence of Chinese immigrants and Portuguese aesthetics, and presents an interesting contrast to the more traditional Thai style. A walk through the streets of the old town with its well-preserved shops, Sino-Portuguese mansions, temples and shrines is therefore like a fairy-tale trip to a tropical fairy tale.
It is also an extremely interesting architectural creation Big Buddha of Phuket, which rests serenely above the island on top of the Nakkerd Hills between the towns of Kata and Chalong. The statue, encased in white jade marble, was built in 2004 and offers magnificent views of the surrounding area from the top. You can climb the windy six-kilometer road to the top by taxi or tuk-tuk, and the way to the monument is via steep stairs. Also Wat Chalong it has a very special value for the locals. The largest, most popular and probably the most beautiful of all 29 temples in Phuket, it is dedicated to two revered monks, Luang Pho Chae and Luang Pho Chuang.
Photo: Unsplash/Ryan TangA large pagoda protects a fragment of the Buddha's bone and has murals depicting images from the Buddha's life story. If you want a more active vacation, then don your fins and mask and explore life under the sea. The waters around Phuket boast excellent conditions for snorkeling and diving. Visibility is good, and the water temperature varies from 26 to 30 C. In addition to colorful corals and tropical fish, you can observe seahorses, sea turtles, manta rays and even whale sharks.
How to explore Phuket?
Many tourists use Tuk Tuks for fun and authenticity, while others prefer more conventional taxis. You can also choose to rent a car, but beware, the road can be quite chaotic, so maybe a motorbike is a more sensible choice.
Photo: Unsplash/Militiadis FragkidisHow much is a plane ticket to Phuket?
You can get flight tickets from Milan to Phuket with the airline company Etihad starting from 500 euros, including luggage. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Covid-19 restrictions in Thailand
Thailand was closed to tourists during the pandemic, and from October 2022 all restrictions on entering the country were lifted. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/The DK PhotographyAccommodation in Thailand
Photo Hotel Phuket
Located just a 4-minute walk from Siray Bay Beach, foto Hotel Phuket offers guests access to a fitness center, free private parking and a bar. The offer also includes a restaurant, 24-hour reception and room service. A continental breakfast is available every morning at the property.
The Royal P Phuket – SHA Plus
The Royal P Phuket pampers guests with a large outdoor pool and fitness center. It is located just a few minutes' walk from the city's central attractions. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a desk, a flat-screen TV, and a balcony with city views.
