When planning a holiday to Phuket Thailand there are plenty of accommodation options from typical beach resort Phuket hotels to more expensive luxury hotels allowing for something that will fit every travellers’ budget. However, regardless of where you plan to stay if you are planning your holiday during the peak season (November- May), it would be wise to book your hotel a few months in advance because rooms quickly become filled and the prices will start to raise exponentially the closer you get to the high season.
Room prices in Phuket tend to start at 500 baht for hotels that are away from the beach and 1,000 baht for Phuket hotels that are located directly on the beach. Most resort rooms start at around 120 pounds per night and go up from there quickly so if you want a beach resort holiday be sure to book in advance.
Online is usually the best place to search for great deals on Phuket hotels and you will discover that the best hotel prices are usually secured if you book direct with the hotels instead of trying to compile a package. It is not advisable to book accommodation when you arrive on the island because the owners will charge you much more since they know you have a limited array of options.
Fully furnished homes are also available for letting in Phuket for around 7000 to 10000 Baht per month with an agreement that you will stay for at least a month. Luxury villas are also spread throughout the island and come in many budget ranges depending on the season you are travelling during, the size of the villa, and the location. As you may expect, beach villas cost more than those that are situated closer inland so if you are willing to “commute” moving inwards is the best option.
The Land of Smiles, Thailand is a Mecca for gays. With almost ninety percent of its population following Buddhism, there is not much judgement and certainly no protest against homosexuals. It is advised that westerners conduct some small research into the country’s traditions before going on tours because it may be a bit hard for them to take in all of a sudden. So it is best to prepare. That is, two people of same sex walking down the road holding hands might be taken as a simple friendship but two people of opposite sexes sexually mingling in the public is totally unacceptable.
Nudity in public is especially reacted upon by the officials as well as the civilians though what happens behind a closed door is a private matter. Never touch another’s head, as the head is considered to be sacred. Even pointing your feet at someone is considered as an act of dark magic or ill omen. The mood of the trip will be as the traveler chooses. It can be relaxing or active depending upon your own desires. Though the most popular attraction has been the ever active night life. The pubs, boy bars and go-go clubs that have been popping up all over the place are amazing.
All these make Phuket one of the hottest gay destinations. But there are places like Koh Samui where you can get the laid back traditional Thailand feel along with a little bit of night life though much more to a lesser degree than that of the cities. Catching a drag performance, visiting a Buddhist temple, and are other gay activities available. You can go on gay tours as well. The best time for a trip to Thailand is between November and February as the rest of the year is unpleasantly hot. While planning your gay vacations, keep in mind that the country offers three separate gay pride festivals. So what is not to like about this place? The food is great, great hangouts and night life and most of all, they don’t judge you or interfere with your “private matters”.
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.
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.
A vacation in Phuket is gorgeous no matter where you go; there are dirt cheap digs here and there that are great for backpackers and tourists on a budget, who would rather spend their time on adventures in the jungle than being pampered indoors. But there’s nothing wrong with being pampered; in fact, it’s fantastic! We’ve selected some of the most extravagant luxury hotels in Phuket, with the highest ratings and customer acclaim, on the entire island. These three hotels aren’t just beautiful and expensive, tey’re full of great activities, shopping, dining, and more. So before you choose your luxury hotel in Phuket, read on to discover which one is best for you.
The Sheraton almost seems to have its own island; there’s a lagoon on each side of the enormous hotel, featuring over four hundred rooms. There are over half a dozen on-poperty restaurants for guests, including stylish bars and lounges, for pool-side cocktails, exquisite meals while cruising the lagoon, and many more dining options, with extensive menus providing a wide range of international cuisine. For recreation, there’s a fully equipped 24 hour gym, tennis courts, golf fields on the property, with the hotel’s signature golf club, and many more things to do. Plus! There are baby elephants wandering around the hotel property as well, perfect for families with children. The Sheraton is on the top of the list because honestly, who can top baby elephants?
Holiday Inn Resort
52 Thaweewong Road, Patong Beach,
Phuket 83150, Thailand
The Holiday Inn Resort on Patong Beach is a very close second only to the Sheraton Grande when it comes to fine quality, in all things; the Holiday Inn Resort has two separate wings, just for the sake of guest comfort. For example, for couples, newlyweds, and others trying to add a little romance to their lives, the Resort has set aside a totally different wing, separate from the main wing, which is family friendly. There are romantic spa packages for couples, or if you’re there with kids and looking for something more fun, various tours and activities packages available. If you’re trying to get away from your kids a while, there’s also a Kids’ Club, for parents who need a break. Is there anything the Holiday Inn Resort doesn’t have? Well, just the baby elephants.
Believe it or not, this hotel has the baby elephant — her name is Anna — and it’s the last on the list. Still a fabulous hotel, the Laguna Beach Resort is mostly family oriented, which is why it’s sitting on the bottom end of our list. While it’s great that hotels make accommodations for kids and families, it’s preferable that there should also be a more peaceful environment, specifically for adults. The Laguna Beach is integrated for families; so if you’re on a family fun adventure, this is the perfect spot! If you’re looking for a quiet romantic holiday, then you might want to look elsewhere.
There are many resorts and hotels scattered around Phuket island, but not that many cater exclusively to those patrons who want a getaway from the noise and excitement. While some resorts and hotels are dedicated to bringing in the beach life, the swinging entertainment of Phuket’s night life, and even family fun, we’ve selected a few of the best spa resorts below. So if you’re look for a more quiet and peaceful vacation getaway, these spa and boutique resorts are for you.
Twinpalms has repeatedly caught the eye of many people reviewing the best boutiques and spas in the Phuket area, because of its size, price and the quality of their rooms and features. With only 76 rooms and suites, one may find it easy to think this resort is tiny, however, it sprawls, because the rooms are spacious, and outfitted to match the atmosphere of health, wellness, and total sensory immersion in beautiful sights and sounds. There are numerous spa packages, some last up to four hours, and a detailed wellness schedule that includes activities for the whole day, as well as their prices. There are also on-site bars and restaurants; the pool bar, and the Oriental Spoon. Twinpalms even boasts its own private Catch Beach Club, which offers complimentary fresh fruit, cold towels and magazines, as well as private bathrooms and beach-side dining. Is there any question as to why Twinpalms is number one on our list?
2. Mom Tri’s Villa Royale, 12 Kata Noi Road, Kata Noi Beach, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Mom Tri’s Villa Royale is set back into the tropical trees, mere yards away from lapping waves against beautiful polished smooth rocks; on either side are two gorgeous beaches with golden sand, perfect for visitors who love both sun and shade. The spa is intuitively designed, with an atmosphere that promotes a more natural luxury; the private steam and bathing areas are designed around a central pool. Massage, facials, body wraps and aromatherapy flowery baths will refresh and re-energize the body of even the most footsore of tourists.
Phuket Pavilions is both secluded and naturally open; the architecture is designed so that natural energy can move easily from room to room, along with its guests. The honored guests of Phuket Pavilions can enjoy the tropical wildlife, while swimming in room-side pools, or even while lounging in bed after an hour at the spa. The packages are available for purchase at the hotel’s Frangipani Boutique; unlike other villas or hotels, Pavilions doesn’t have a spa center. Instead each suite has an area dedicated for spa treatment, and the bathrooms in each room can also be converted to spa treatment areas.
When you’re vacationing in Phuket, it might be a little frustrating having to look for cheap, or casual food, if you’re not in the mood to eat at expensive resort restaurants. On the other hand, if you’re only back-packing through Phuket, staying for business, or there for a more relaxed vacation, focusing on eco-tourism, you might find searching for great dining easier than others. Although the fantastic beaches and Phuket restaurants in the tourist section of town are popular, they are not where you might go to eat for an authentic taste of Phuket. For that, you’ll have to make your way to Phuket City, and eat among the locals. Try the restaurants and venues below, but don’t forget to look around for yourself, –you might just find something we missed!
If you’re from the US, and longing for a little bit of fast food, don’t worry! Phuket has that too! There are quite a few fast food venues in Phuket, such as McDonald’s, KFC, and even The Pizza Company. You can find these and a number of other restaurants, some upscale, some not, in Central Festival Mall. Several sources advise travelers to sample the food at the market near the bus station, or another local restaurant, called ‘Tammachat’, or the Natural. According to reviews and customer ratings, Tammachat has some of the best, and best value, authentic Thai food.
Although the Rasada Road area, east of the Song Thaew station, isn’t exactly the cheapest Thai food in the Phuket area, it’s not as expensive as the tourist and resort areas near the beach, where one has to pay a fortune for a cup of coffee. The restaurants you’ll find on and around Rasada Road offer various selection of international dishes, and the restaurants and cafes are all within easy walking distance of one another; you can have an drinks here, dinner there, and dessert somewhere else, if you like. Reviewers reccommend ‘Salvatore’s’ which has pizza baked in their own wood fire oven, and ‘Anna’s’ which is a popular chain of restaurants found in Bangkok, that has finally established a franchise in Phuket.
For real budget dining though, you’ll have to talk to the locals to find the best. Or, you could always choose to be a culinary adventurer in Samkong. Many reviewers claim that some of the most delicious food can be found, for little more than pocket change, on the strip of Yaowarat Road that goes from the edge of old Phuket to the Bypass Road. You’ll notice many little vendors, street-side food stalls, serving up delicious Thai meals for little more than loose change. Take a break, and follow the smell of sultry spices, tangy sauces, and savory Thai food that will give you something to write home about!
During the high season on Phuket Island, many Phuket hotels and resorts have various different offers that they provide for their guests. Because of the currency conversion, most Phuket resorts or hotels already have very low prices, compared to the cost of luxury hotels in the western regions, such as the UK or US, which is where the bulk of Phuket’s tourists come from. One of the sites that offers superior news of the discounts that hotels in Phuket, is LateStays.com. There are many other special offers however, and we’ve listed the three most popular below.
Thavorn Grand Plaza – 40/5 Chana-Charoen Rd Muang, Phuket
Currently this hotel, located in the heart of Phuket Town, is offering rooms for as low as 750 THB; that’s only $23 USD! The hotel iself features such luxury amenities as:
Airport Transfers, Bar/Pub/Lounge, Bicycle Rentals, Cable/Satellite Television, Car Rental, On-site Coffeeshop, Foreign Currency Exchange, Golf, High Speed Internet Access, Limousine Service, Spa and Massage Parlour, On-site Restaurant, Room Service, Sea View Rooms, Advanced Security Features, Shopping, Swimming Pool, Tour Desk.
Bursari Resort – 32/1 Ruamjai Road, Patong
Burasari is currently offering rooms with luxury amenities at rates as low as $60 USD per night, for their “Classic” style rooms. All stays a complimentary breakfast, as well as exclusive access to all the hotel’s features, such as:
On site fine dining at Floyd’s Brasserie, cocktails at Misty’s Bar, Tara Terrace or the pool bar, and of course, room service, as well as, two swimming pools, massage and spa parlor, Paradise Beach, full wireless internet coverage, professional tour desk, limousine and car rental with chauffeur option, DVD player rental, board games, currency exchange services, 24-hour doctor on call for emergencies, and advanced security features.
This Phuket hotel is currently offering many great deals on its rooms; the rates are as low as $103 per night. for its Deluxe Palm Room accommodation option, and the other rooms are also of great value and quality during the summer months. They also offer such luxury amenities as:
The Water Garden, and various pools areas, fully furnished gym with certified trainers, a library that includes literature, international magazines, a substantial DVD collection and complimentary high-speed internet access, wine room with nightly offerings of fine chocolate and cheese. There is also the Palm Spa, which offers many packages, and services, fine dining at the hotel’s exclusive Oriental Spoon restaurant, the pool bar, and the Catch Beach club.
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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
The Land of Smiles, Thailand is a Mecca for gays. With almost ninety percent of its population following Buddhism, there is not much judgement and certainly no protest against homosexuals. It is advised that westerners conduct some small research into the country’s traditions before going on tours because it may be a bit hard for them to take in all of a sudden. So it is best to prepare. That is, two people of same sex walking down the road holding hands might be taken as a simple friendship but two people of opposite sexes sexually mingling in the public is totally unacceptable.
