As little as ten years ago, only a handful of people besides the locals even knew the name; these days this little island in the south of Thailand is drawing visitors from all over the world. Phuket has been called the ‘Pearl of the Andaman’, and why not? Surrounded as it is by the Andaman Sea, one of the warmest spots in all the earth’s oceans, with its miles and miles of smooth white sand beaches, palm-fringed lagoons and lush forests and jungles, this eco-paradise is rapidly becoming the high point of many a traveller’s dream Phuket tour.
With the upsurge in tourism, a multitude of opportunities has been opened up to visitors with all sorts of interests. Whatever your leanings, there is probably a tour to match your particular desires and expectations, and “the skies are not cloudy all day” Even in the monsoon season (April and May), mornings and afternoons are usually sunny and warm making day trip Phuket tours very practical.
You can take a 4-wheel drive Phuket tours through the jungle, or go a little slower on elephant-back. Take a day tour to visit the Big Buddha on his hill and paddle through the mangrove swamps in the lowlands, with countless other stops in between including rubber plantations and hillside fish farms.
Considering Phuket’s location and the proximity of so many small (some uninhabited) islands, it’s not surprising that a great many Phuket tours are conducted by boat. The clear aquamarine and turquoise waters are some of the best and most colourful in the world for swimming with the aquatic wildlife. Awesome marine caves that can only be entered by boat are a must-see, but go with an experienced Phuket guide who knows the area and the tides.
Drop anchor at tiny islands about the size of a football pitch where the sand is pristine white and fish in every colour of the rainbow swirl around you in bathtub-temperature water. Set sail on a romantic sunset Phuket tours cruise where all the most enticing aspects of tropical living are brought together including a marvelous dinner on deck while you watch the sea turn from aqua to midnight blue.
There are so many Phuket tours options that the choice may be difficult, but there are many friendly and competent people and agencies to steer you towards the adventure of a lifetime.
The range of visitor accommodations in and around Phuket goes all the way from a tiny clapboard shacks to the most refined and luxurious resorts in the world. However, for those travellers who prefer something homier and less pricey than the glittering hotels and resorts but still in the category of ‘comfortable and convenient’, a Phuket guesthouse may be just the answer.
On the island, a great many of the Phuket guesthouses accommodations are located in and around downtown Phuket. Depending on size, location and the presence of air conditioning, prices range from really cheap to fairly cheap, compared to prices for the same amenities at hot spots like Patong Beach.
Phuket guesthouses are generally close to the local bus station and only a few minutes from the beach, no matter where you go. With some you can take advantage of the facilities at a nearby resort or hotel, but in almost every case you will find clean rooms and adequate facilities, often including laundry and Internet services. There is also a Youth Hostel with very good quality rooms and friendly service.
There are a number of very attractive Phuket guesthouses along the coast, particularly in Patong Beach and Karon Beach. You will find a wide range of options here also, from single-occupancy huts on a secluded cove to multi-bedroom bungalows with a/c and fabulous views. They can be rented by the day, week or month, but it should be noted that prices will fluctuate by as much as 50% from the ‘off’ season to the peak tourist season from November through April.
Most of the Phuket guesthouses have at least a small restaurant on the premises, but you’re never far from a variety of great places to eat. Renting a bicycle or scooter, or simply walking, are all good options for getting around. The taxi services are reported to be undependable and expensive unless you are a seasoned traveller and good at bargaining.
Nestling in and surrounded by acres of lush and beautifully landscaped gardens and parkland, looking out over the clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea, Evason Phuket is everything you’ve ever imagined that a tropical Phuket resort should be. With its location on a hill the views are spectacular from almost any spot in the resort.
The amenities offered at this lavish resort are almost overwhelming, with three large ‘company-size’ pools and another twenty-eight that come complete with their own private suite. You will hardly miss having your own pool if you choose another of the gorgeously appointed rooms, as they are all completely luxurious. Each has its own balcony and most have a view of the sea. They also boast open-style bathrooms that add an extra dimension of space and light.
Adding to the overall atmosphere of tranquillity and seclusion, the staff at Evason Phuket is dedicated to providing the finest service to be found anywhere. Guests are pampered with 24-hour room service, but you’ll want to visit all of the on-site restaurants to sample the delicious food and take in the stunning views. Of course there is a choice of exquisite Thai dishes, but you can also dine on the best of Mediterranean cuisine or your favourite Western fare, and the very freshest fruit and seafood are always on the menu.
You may never want to leave the premises, but do take a complimentary 15-minute boat ride to Bon Island, which is actually part of the Evason Phuket resort. This little gem has its own restaurant and bar, plus all the activity you may want: windsurfing, Hobie Cat sailing, out-of-this-world snorkelling, and showers and sun-beds if you should tire.
You can’t stay overnight though. That privilege is for residents of the Honeymoon Suite only; everyone else has to leave at 5:00 p.m.
Another noteworthy aspect of the Evason Phuket is its status as the only resort in Thailand to be Green Globe Certified. The management is serious about sustainability and the environment, with solar panels and a self-sufficient water supply being only a suggestion of their commitment. Add to this the delights of the Six Senses Spa, which offers the ultimate in both ancient and modern treatments to sooth and rejuvenate mind and body, and you have an experience to remember and cherish until you can go back again.
If you are planning to get away from it all, to relax and enjoy the finer things in life, the island of Phuket in southern Thailand may be the perfect destination. Phuket is actually comprised of 33 islands, including Phuket Island, which is the largest, and linked to the Thai mainland, by a vehicle bridge. The shores are washed by the usually gentle waves of the warm Andaman Sea making Phuket vacations a getaway to a true tropical paradise.
Swimming, snorkelling, boating and many other water sports beckon year-round, but this is also a monsoon climate; during the months of September and October it is very hot and very wet. April and May are usually the hottest months, and the ‘high’ season for tourists is from November through March, with moderate (usually between 25 and 35C) temperatures and very little rain, but in reality, any season offers varied Phuket vacations delights.
The most popular (and populous) areas of Phuket are in the south, where you will find entertainment and nightlife aplenty at spots such as Patong Beach. There are a number of top-rated hotels and spas in Patong and neighbouring areas that offer every possible luxury and amenity for all Phuket vacations. Numerous resorts are sprinkled along the southern coast, all with idyllic white sand beaches and fabulous opportunities for snorkelling, diving and just about any other activity that is enhanced by clear tropical seas.
The northern part of Phuket Island is much less developed, and provides Phuket vacations in an idyllic setting for beach-goers who prefer a more tranquil atmosphere. The countryside too is lush and enticing, with wooded hills and limestone mountains, untouched lagoons and rich vegetation.
The administrative centre of Phuket is Phuket Town, where many of the diverse Phuket tours, trips and other entertainments are located, and transportation links are available to everywhere on the island and other islands nearby. Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating sail or a perfect massage, a fabulous dinner or a great game of golf, you can find a shining example in this lovely little corner of the world on all Phuket vacations.
Europeans may be far behind Asian cultures in appreciation of the therapeutic value of Phuket spa treatments, but times are certainly changing. More and more in the past few years, Phuket Spas resorts are becoming a major tourist destination, and this island in south Thailand is now a centrepiece of this new/ancient industry.
The first of the Phuket spas to open was the Banyan Tree Spa, in 1995. That was so well-received that a lot of savvy business people followed suit, and today the island boasts more than 80 spas officially certified by the Phuket Public Health Office, as well as over 70 independent massage establishments.
Prior to 2004, massage parlours and spas were completely unregulated; now they must get approval from PPHO to open, and have yearly inspections in order to stay in business.
Standards of qualifications for therapists, safety and professional behaviour (no sex-related activity) are all strictly enforced at Phuket spas. Though there are some that operate outside the PPHO’s oversight, there is a dazzling array of choices for the discriminating visitor.
Some of the finest and most highly acclaimed resort spas in the world are located on this little island in the Andaman Sea. Phuket spas therapy techniques and applications vary from one to the next, so no matter what your preference; you’ll find a resort that caters to your specific needs and desires.
Possibly one of the greatest attractions of the Phuket spas is that they are not “westernized” to the exclusion of the locals. As a result the emphasis is on creating a spa experience that encompasses every culture and makes the best use of both old and new modes of therapy. There is also a current trend towards even more emphasis on total wellness and improved lifestyle, with sessions lasting for days instead of hours.
There is now a Phuket Spa Association (PSA), which works with the PPHO with a view towards recruiting new, reputable members and educating the general public (including Western tourists) about the benefits and pleasures of the spa experience.
If you’re planning to visit a place you’ve never been before, a little insider information can be extremely useful. Amongst thousands Phuket reviews as a tourist destination, there are several definite trends that may help you decide where to go and what to do.
Almost without exception, Phuket reviews of the islands beaches are lyrical in their praise. These reviews inevitably mention the silky white sand and unmatched clarity and allure of the water. All agree that the coral formations and marine life around Phuket and the more than 30 smaller islands offshore are in competition for the title of “best waters and diving anywhere in the world”.
In addition, most reviews rave about the delights of the many and varied excursions by boat, whether on a two-masted local fishing boat, a speedboat, a kayak or any of the other possibilities. Quite simply, the waters around Phuket are utterly enticing, and it would be hard to go wrong with any activity in or on the sea in this tropical pretty-close-to-Paradise.
The Phuket reviews of visitor accommodations generally point out the range of options from basic shacks to some of the most luxurious and beautifully appointed hotels and resorts in the world. Most agree that prices are lower than comparable establishments in other countries, and that outstanding service and friendly, helpful staff is found just about anywhere you stay.
If you read a few Phuket reviews about the nightlife around Phuket town, you will probably conclude that some areas, particularly Patong Beach and its environs, are the place to go and party hearty ‘til the wee hours. There is no doubt that the famous/infamous Simon Cabaret is an unforgettable experience, but opinions vary between great praise and near-horror. For a quieter evening you should check out other spots further up the coast.
Reviews of the dining opportunities in Phuket indicate that good food is the norm, and the choices are unlimited. Anything from traditional Thai dishes to “the best Italian food in Asia” may be offered, and you can count on expert preparation and fresh ingredients, including just-caught seafood and just-picked fruit.
Should you desire a round of golf, most Phuket reviews agree that there are few more beautiful or challenging courses in all of Asia than those to be found here. To round out and top off your Phuket experience, be sure to visit one of the world-class spas that abound on the island. The Asian traditions of physical and spiritual rejuvenation are personified here for the ultimate gratification of body and soul.
Like any other place in the world, Phuket has its charms and its drawbacks. In this case, however, the charms outnumber the drawbacks by a fairly overwhelming majority. In fact, the only drawback worth mentioning is that because of all its charms, a whole lot of people are now aware of its existence and quite a few of them are making plans to go there. With that said, this Phuket guide offers just a handful of tips and suggestions if you’re one of those eager to visit.
To begin with, you can expect world-class resorts and spas right along with rustic, bare-bones accommodations; you can see the most glamorous and extravagant transvestite show in Asia after a 30 minute (or less) drive from some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches anywhere on earth. You can join the rowdy and enthusiastic nightlife at Patong Beach, or you could have a four or five-day liveaboard scuba and snorkelling adventure among the islands off the coast of Phuket complete with a local Phuket guide
One thing many Europeans need to remember is that the climate in Phuket is warm to hot all year round. During the rainy season, mostly from early March to early May, it is also very humid, and the normally pellucid waters around the island may be cloudy, with tricky currents and undertows. The water is never too cold for swimming, but do not fail to observe any red flags and don’t go in the water if warning signals are in place, or your Phuket guide advises against swimming.
If you’re interested in food (who isn’t?) this is a great place to try something new, or just savour the difference in seafood caught a couple of hours ago, or pineapple fresh off the plantation. There is an abundance of restaurants in Phuket that rival any gourmet dining you’ll ever encounter, but don’t miss out on the delights of local traditional Thai favourites, and you must try the native rose apples and mangosteen fruit that you’ll probably never find at home.
Mostly due to its growing popularity as a tourist destination, you will find English speaking Phuket guide helpers almost everywhere you go in Phuket, but a few simple words and phrases in Thai will go a long way towards making your visit a pleasure for all concerned. However, if you get into trouble, the voice of experience advises foreigners to contact the tourist police, many of whom are westerners, not Thai.
Situated on the white sand shores of Bang Tao Bay on the Andaman Sea, the Banyan Tree Spa has been called the ultimate ‘romantic hideaway’. Though Thailand and especially the island of Phuket are becoming world-renowned for luxury spas, this one is undoubtedly at the top of the list, voted by Conde Nast Traveler as the “World’s Best Spa Resort” and by CNBC Asia as “Best Resort Hotel in Asia”.
The Banyan Tree Spa is situated in a quiet and breathtakingly scenic area, but it is only 20 minutes by car from the Phuket International Airport and 25 minutes from Phuket Town. As part of the first integrated resort in Asia, Laguna Phuket, the Banyan Tree Spa is next to five ultra-luxurious hotels and a wonderful variety of recreational activities and dining adventures. It is also adjacent to a 600-acre parkland and about three kilometres of alluring white sand beaches.
The Banyan Tree offers its guests a choice of seven different plans among the villas, all with at least one private pool and many with additional outdoor whirlpools and private spa facilities. You can dine in your own suite, catered exquisitely by room service, or choose one of the award-winning restaurants such as the Watercourt on one of the six palm-lined lagoons at the resort. The cuisine offered ranges from traditional Thai classics to prime rib, with an outstanding array of fresh fruit, seafood and every other delicacy imaginable.
Soothing, refreshing and invigorating combinations of massage, scrubs, wraps and facials are available in sessions from 45 minutes to a totally pampered seven hours. The treatments are designed to bring total relaxation and both physical and mental well being from head to toe. Techniques include some of those used for hundreds of years in the Royal Thai Palaces, as well as the best of more modern Western innovations. All of them provide an experience you will never forget and long to repeat.
At the Banyan Tree Spa you will play, eat and relax like never before. Whether you prefer a round of golf at the beautiful and challenging Laguna Phuket Golf Club, a dinner cruise on the limpid waters of Bang Tao Bay, or just lolling on the peaceful beaches, you will find this is truly hedonist heaven.
Situated on the white sand shores of Bang Tao Bay on the Andaman Sea, the Banyan Tree Spa has been called the ultimate ‘romantic hideaway’. Though Thailand and especially the island of Phuket are becoming world-renowned for luxury spas, this one is undoubtedly at the top of the list, voted by Conde Nast Traveler as the “World’s Best Spa Resort” and by CNBC Asia as “Best Resort Hotel in Asia”.
The Banyan Tree Spa is situated in a quiet and breathtakingly scenic area, but it is only 20 minutes by car from the Phuket International Airport and 25 minutes from Phuket Town. As part of the first integrated resort in Asia, Laguna Phuket, the Banyan Tree Spa is next to five ultra-luxurious Phuket hotels and a wonderful variety of recreational activities and dining adventures. It is also adjacent to a 600-acre parkland and about three kilometres of alluring white sand beaches.
The Banyan Tree offers its guests a choice of seven different plans among the villas, all with at least one private pool and many with additional outdoor whirlpools and private spa facilities. You can dine in your own suite, catered exquisitely by room service, or choose one of the award-winning restaurants such as the Watercourt on one of the six palm-lined lagoons at the resort. The cuisine offered ranges from traditional Thai classics to prime rib, with an outstanding array of fresh fruit, seafood and every other delicacy imaginable.
Soothing, refreshing and invigorating combinations of massage, scrubs, wraps and facials are available in sessions from 45 minutes to a totally pampered seven hours. The treatments are designed to bring total relaxation and both physical and mental well being from head to toe. Techniques include some of those used for hundreds of years in the Royal Thai Palaces, as well as the best of more modern Western innovations. All of them provide an experience you will never forget and long to repeat.
At the Banyan Tree Spa you will play, eat and relax like never before. Whether you prefer a round of golf at the beautiful and challenging Laguna Phuket Golf Club, a dinner cruise on the limpid waters of Bang Tao Bay, or just lolling on the peaceful beaches, you will find this is truly hedonist heaven.
Note: Sound Phuket has closed its door after only one year.
Ad: Jungceylon mall, Unit 2303, 3rd Floor,193 Rut-U-Thit 200 Pi Road, Kathu, Patong. Tel: 076-366-163. Web: www.soundphuket.com
Sound Phuket in Patong is an upscale nightclub run by the same people who brought the world Bed Supperclub in Bangkok. It’s the kind of place where people go to be seen, as well as to party all night. As such, you’re going to want to dress up for this one.
Sound looks incredible inside, like some kind of nightclub in a spaceship. It’s all very fashion-oriented, so expect the “it” crowd to be in attendance most nights. The music policy varies between hip hop, house, electro and all else in between.
There’s an OK selection of resident DJs at Sound Phuket, including Thai whiz Golfy, as well as a couple of less-impressive expats. Would it have hurt Sound’s image to have delved deeper into the local talent rather than scrape the barrel?
Golfy doesn’t live in Phuket, to our knowledge, and there are a large number of quality Thai DJs on the island.
In high season, the Bed All Stars come out to play, which means some of Bangkok’s finest, including Octo and Bangkok Invaders.
DJ gripes aside, Sound is a fine venue and previous guest DJs have included the likes of Benny Benassi. If you want a real party, though, you might be better off heading to Stereo Lab.
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Phuket Vogue is a resource dedicated to bringing you up-to-date information about restaurants and nightlife in Phuket. This website is constantly expanding to bring you the most vogue clubs and eateries on the island. Whether you want to party in Patong or dine out in Phuket City, we have the info for you. We love Phuket. Privacy policy
