Phuket Island is one of the southern provinces of Thailand. The neighboring provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi do not border Phuket due to its island location. In general, Thailand Phuket is an established expression among Russian tourists, which indicates the popularity of this resort among our compatriots.
Phuket Island is the largest among the islands of Thailand, almost the same size as Singapore. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge. It is located near the western coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. The region has an area of about 543 km2 and consists of 1 large and 39 small islands. Phuket initially became rich thanks to its reserves of tin and rubber. The island is one of the most important points on the trade route between India and China and was often mentioned in foreign ship logs. The region receives most of its income from tourism.
The name Phuket means "hill" in Malay, as the island resembles a hill from a distance. The region was originally called "Thalang", a word derived from the Old Malay "Telong", meaning "cape". The northern region of the province, where the old capital was located, still bears this name.
Tin mining has been the island's main source of income since the 16th century. Chinese businessmen and workers were involved in the mines. With the fall in tin prices, all the mines were abandoned. Today, Phuket's economy rests on two pillars: rubber plantations (Thailand is the world's largest rubber producer) and tourism, with diving alone attracting thousands of tourists every year. Sex tourism and prostitution, although illegal, also occur in Phuket.
Since the 1980s The sandy beaches on the west coast of the island have turned into tourist centers, with Patong, Karon and Kata becoming the most popular. After the tsunami in 2004, all destroyed structures were reconstructed. Prices in Phuket have increased significantly over the past decade, making the city one of the most expensive places in Thailand.
Most of the population are Buddhists, but there is a large proportion of Muslims here (30%), mostly descendants of sailors. There are almost more residents of Chinese origin, many of them are descendants of miners who immigrated to Phuket in the 19th century. Peranakans, also known as "Phuket Babas", are part of the Chinese community, mainly those with Peranakan connections from Penang and Malacca.
Prices in Phuket
If we talk about finances, then prices in Phuket will seem quite low to Russian citizens, although they are slightly higher than in Pattaya. Lunch or dinner in an average cafe on the street will cost about 400 rubles, in international cafe chains - about 2 times more expensive, but a restaurant is a restaurant. Traveling a few blocks in a tuk-tuk costs about 15 rubles, a motorbike - to any point in a small city - about 70 rubles, an air-conditioned taxi - 250-350 rubles.
Time in Phuket
The time in Phuket differs from the world clock by 7 hours and in international notation it looks like UTC +7, that is, it differs by 4 hours from Moscow in winter, and by 3 hours in summer.
Geography
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea south of Thailand. The island is mostly rocky with a mountain range on the west of the island from north to south. The Phuket Mountains form the southern end of the Phuket mountain range, which lies 440 km from the isthmus. The highest point is Mai Thao Sip Song at 529 meters above sea level. The total area of Phuket is about 570 km 2 (including the territories of neighboring islands). The length of the main island from north to south is 50 kilometers, and the width is about 20 kilometers.
Forests, rubber and oil fields occupy about 60% of the island. The western coast has several sandy beaches, while the eastern coast is dirty. Near the extreme southern point is Laem Promther (Cape of Brahma), where people often come to enjoy the sunset. At the rocky northern end of the island, Khao Phra Thaeo Nature Reserve covers an area of over 20 km2. The three highest peaks are Khao Prathiu (384 m), Khao Bang Pae (388 m) and Khao Phara (422 m). Sirinat National Park on the northwestern coast was established in 1981 and covers an area of 90 km2 (of which 68 km2 is in the sea), including Nai Yang Beach, where turtles lay their eggs. .
One of the most popular tourist areas in Phuket is Patong Beach, located in the center of the western shore, probably due to its easy access to a wide and long beach. Much of Phuket's nightlife and cheap shopping is located in Patong, making the area developing very quickly. Patong means "forest full of banana leaves" in Thai. Other popular beaches are located south of Patong. Including Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, and in the south - Nai Harn Beach and Rawai. To the north of Patong are Kamala Beach, Surin Beach and Bang Tao Beach. These areas are generally much less developed than Patong and are visited by tourists, families and other groups who prefer a less hectic location than Patong.
Flight time:
(charter flights to Phuket)
from Moscow - 9 hours 15 minutes.
from St. Petersburg - 10 hours 30 minutes.
from Kazan - 8 hours 30 minutes.
from Yekaterinburg - 9 hours 15 minutes.
from Novosibirsk - 7 hours 35 minutes.
Current time in Phuket Town:
(UTC +7)
There are also many islands in the southeast, including Bon Island, just a short boat ride away. There are many coral islands to the south of Phuket, the Similan Islands are located in the northwest, the Phi Phi Islands are in the southeast. Residents of the island engage in trade and also provide entertainment for tourists.
Search for tours to Phuket
How to get there
Charter flights fly to Phuket from many Russian cities. The most logical way to get to the island on your own is from the capital of Thailand - Bangkok. Read about how to get to Bangkok (where, by the way, the main attractions of Thailand are located). Read below about how to make a flight from the Thai capital to Phuket.
Phuket is considered one of the pearls of tourist Thailand, so there are quite a lot of opportunities to get from Bangkok to Phuket in comfort at an affordable price.
Airplane
You can fly to the island from Bangkok in less than an hour. Charters from Moscow fly approximately 9 hours. Phuket Airport has International status and connects the island with almost all major cities in Southeast Asia, as well as with some cities of the Arab Peninsula, Europe and Russia. Some tourists arriving on the island prefer to travel through Bangkok, so daily air traffic here is excellent.
For example, AirAsia offers several daily flights from Bangkok to Phuket, with ticket prices ranging from $53 to $70. When ordering, please note that AirAsia does not accept tickets for return, but can exchange the ticket for another flight, provided that an additional payment for the difference in cost is made. In addition, the company does not make any difference in price for “child” and “adult” tickets, and also, as befits a low-cost airline, asks you to pay extra for luggage. Exact prices and flight schedules can be found on the phone number of the most popular airline in Thailand - 02 5159999.
Another major airline, Bangkok Airways, also offers its services. The planes of this airline make several flights daily. The cost of a ticket for Bangkok-Phuket flights ranges from 5,500 to 7,600 rubles. This airline also makes it difficult to return an unused ticket, but you can easily and quickly change your departure date. More information about flight schedules, rules and air ticket prices can be found at. Tickets can also be ordered by calling the airline at 66 2265 5555.
Traveling directly with Thai Airways will cost a little more, depending on the day and class of flight chosen. The cost of one “adult” ticket for a direct flight from Bangkok to Phuket with this airline varies from 7,600 to 9,700 rubles. will tell you the departure time of direct flights on this route, the exact price of the flight, and the availability of tickets. The airline's Bangkok office phone number is 02 628 2000.
A small local airline, Phuket Air, also operates daily flights to and from the island from the capital. You can use the services of this airline on a charter basis. Detailed information regarding flight schedules, ticket prices and availability can be found at or by calling 02 6798999.
In addition to direct flights, you can get from Bangkok to Phuket with one or two transfers using transport from different airlines described above. In this case, the flight takes much longer and will cost more, but one of the positive points When choosing a combined flight, you have the opportunity to choose a more convenient time for travel. It is also convenient to book tickets for any available Bangkok-Phuket flight through the website. Here you can see prices in rubles, and booking occurs without a site commission. There are several other very convenient Russian-language services on the Internet for ordering and paying for tickets online, such as, and others.
Bus
Traveling by bus from Bangkok to Phuket is no less convenient than flying, and to some extent, getting there can be cheaper. Regular buses run between these two cities four types comfort and number of seats.
From Bangkok to Phuket, buses depart from. Ticket prices vary - several dozen companies offer transport to Phuket, and each company has its own ticket price. The time of day you choose to travel from Bangkok to Phuket by bus also affects the cost of the trip.
The most inexpensive class of regular bus is third. This transport usually has more than 50 seats, no air conditioning and no toilet. There are 3 stops along the way with a free toilet, inexpensive cafes and shops. It should be borne in mind that the road from Bangkok to Phuket on such buses takes more than 13 hours, which, together with the hot and humid tropical climate, makes a trip without basic amenities difficult to endure. However, the cost of such a trip is quite low - only 250-270 baht. Departure times are 06:00, 08:25, 09:30, 10:55, 12:35, 14:15, 15:20, 16:20, 17:30, 18:15, 19:00.
Second class buses are faster and can be reached with great comfort, the buses have air conditioning, a toilet, comfortable soft chairs. Tickets are not much more expensive, and the departure time is quite convenient. Buses depart every hour, but it is most convenient to leave at night. Bus departure times should be checked at the ticket office in Bangkok. The number of seats is from 40 to 47. The price per ticket varies between 630 baht. Travel time is about 12.5 hours.
Traveling by first class bus will be significantly faster. Single and double decker buses are equipped modern systems air conditioning and equipped with TVs. The language of the films is aimed at the majority audience, but if the language is not familiar to you, you can ask to turn on subtitles. It is very comfortable to sleep on the bus and a pleasure to travel. The number of seats on these buses is 34. The fare is about 785 baht. Travel time - 11 hours 50 minutes.
There are also flights of VIP class buses - spacious and comfortable luxury buses with 24 seats. These buses are equipped with comfortable reclining seats, air conditioning systems; on the bus you can have fun watching a movie or sleep, you can get up and walk around. Ticket price: 920 baht. The price, among other things, includes a delicious dinner along the way. Departure times: 07:30, 16:00, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00.
More information about bus schedules and current ticket prices can be found in Bangkok transport companies:
- , T.: 02-435-5605
- , T.: 0-7622-2170
- Phuket Central Tour T.: 0-7621-3615
Bus schedule from Phuket
Automobile
There are a lot of companies where you can hire any vehicle, both with and without a driver, both international and local, Thai. Offices are located in all major cities. Prices and proposed rental conditions vary depending on the class level of the car or motorcycle, as well as on the technical condition of the vehicle. Traveling from Bangkok to Phuket by car is perhaps the most interesting thing. And, if you are traveling with small children or elderly people, traveling in a rented car is the most comfortable option. The distance from the capital to the island is significant - 897 km, approximately 9 hours. The road is very picturesque, but to travel independently in Thailand you need to be a very experienced driver, since the traffic on the streets of the capital and resort towns is very intense.
It is better to find out information about this directly from companies in Bangkok or on their websites, here are some of them:
- : Sukhumvit 23, 4
- : Wireless Road, 2
- : Royal City Avenue, 19
These are companies that, when concluding a rental agreement, require an international driving license of the required class of transport.
The rental price varies - in international agencies it ranges from 1,200 baht per day. In this case, insurance must be taken out. In local Thai companies, rent is cheaper (about 800 baht), and the requirements for documents are not so strict. Comprehensive information about the availability of cars and the cost of car rental in local companies can be found on the website.
The path to Phuket will run along highway No. 4, first there will be the provinces of Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumpon, Surat Thani and Phang Nga, and closer to the end of the path there are very interesting bridges Tep Krasattri or Sarasin, any of which will eventually lead you to Phuket .
Railway and water transport
The most surprising thing is that it is practically impossible to visit Phuket by sea - the island’s port accepts only dry cargo ships or large private yachts - entry into the port of boats or other water transport is prohibited. It is impossible to get directly to the island from the capital of Thailand by train, only with further transfers to a bus. You can take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then by bus or taxi to Phuket.
Climate and weather in Phuket
Phuket's climate is tropical, warm and humid, formed under the influence of the monsoons. The average annual precipitation on the island is 2540 mm per year.
Phuket has two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.
The rainy season lasts from May to October. At this time, the likelihood of tropical cyclones, accompanied by gusty winds and heavy rain, increases, but they are often short-lived. During the summer months, Phuket receives the maximum amount of precipitation and there are not many sunny days. The average temperature of the rainy season is +20 °C - +33 °C. During this season, prices for hotels and services drop noticeably. During this period, windsurfing enthusiasts prefer to relax in Phuket.
The warm dry season lasts from November to March. The average air temperature varies from +24 °C to +36 °C, tropical showers are very rare, and there are many sunny days. During this period, beach lovers go to Phuket.
Weather in Phuket in summer, autumn, winter and spring, climate by month, current weather forecast for 10 and 14 days - on the website.
Weather forecast
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Friday |
Saturday |
Sunday |
Monday |
Tuesday |
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Weather in Phuket by month
| Temperature daytime, °C |
Temperature at night, °C |
Temperature water, °C |
Quantity precipitation, mm |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | 22 | 28 | 30 | |
| 32 | 23 | 28 | 30 | |
| 32 | 23 | 28 | 30 | |
| 32 | 25 | 28 | 160 | |
| 31 | 25 | 28 | 340 | |
| 30 | 25 | 28 | 210 | |
| 30 | 25 | 29 | 260 | |
| 30 | 25 | 29 | 260 | |
| 29 | 24 | 28 | 410 | |
| 30 | 24 | 28 | 300 | |
| 30 | 23 | 28 | 200 | |
| 30 | 23 | 28 | 50 |
Reviews of tourists about Phuket by month
| January 28 February 27 March 33 | April 17 May 7 June 5 | July 8 August 10 September 9 | October 16 November 23 December 31 |
Photos of Phuket
Transport
Taxi
If you plan to visit several places during the day, then it is more profitable to take a taxi for the whole day. This service will cost approximately 800 baht for 8 hours of taxi rental. Unlicensed taxis will stop at various shopping centers along the route. For each stop, taxi drivers receive either a commission or gasoline vouchers. Therefore, urgently request that you be taken to the named location. Taxi fares start at 50 baht and increase depending on distance and time. You can order a taxi from the hotel, but you will have to pay extra for the call service. Unlicensed taxis can be found on the island, especially in busy tourist areas such as Patong. If you used the services of an unlicensed taxi, the cost must be agreed upon in advance.
Motorcycle taxis
Motorcycle taxis are available almost everywhere. Fares start from 10 baht, but be prepared to haggle. Official motorcyclists wear red or green vests with a white number on the back. This type transport is not safe, but if you are in a hurry and need to travel a short distance - the most convenient option movement.
Knock Knock
Tuk-tuk buses can be found all over Phuket, although they tend to be concentrated around Patong. Tuk tuks are basically small red vans that have open doors behind and on the sides. Can carry up to five passengers at a time. They are four-wheeled, not three-wheeled like in Bangkok. The fare must be agreed upon in advance. Don't forget to bargain. Approximate cost is about 200 baht per 10 km. For example, a trip from Kata to the southern part of Karon should not cost more than 200 baht. If you want to use a tuk-tuk to get around the island all day, it is best to rent it for the whole day. The cost of an hour's rental will be 200 baht. It is much cheaper if you take a tuk-tuk from special parking lots each time.
Public bus in Phuket
There are a number of modern air-conditioned buses operating this route in Phuket Town, but they do not operate in other parts of the island. The cost of travel on such a bus will be approximately 10 baht. There are special bus stops, but you can press the bell button and get off anywhere along the bus route.
Two main routes:
Bus No. 1: The route runs from Big C Department Store and Archeewa College, via Bangkok Road and Phuket Road.
Bus No. 2: The route runs between Rajabhat Lamchan University and the medical center, via a super cheap department store, Phuket Provincial Jail, the bus station and the Central Market.
Songthaews (passenger buses)
This is one of the cheapest modes of transport in Phuket. Blue buses run from the city to the beaches. Route directions are usually displayed in English on outside bus. Since there are no actual stops, you need to catch the bus by raising your hand up. If you need to get off, you need to press the bell button located next to the exit on the bus.
The main stops where the Songthaews are located: next to the tourist police, at the end of Bengal Road, in the southern part of Patong, opposite the Patong Merlin Hotel. The main directions of the Songthaevs: Patong, Bangkok, Kamala, Kata, Karon, Makham Bay, Nai Harn, Nai Yang, Rawai, Surin and Thalang. Buses run every 30 minutes. The fare is 15 baht. Songthaevs start working at 6.00 and go until 18.00, seven days a week.
Bus from the airport
The airport bus runs daily from the international airport to the city center. The bus runs every 1.5 hours. approximate cost from 6 to 52 baht, depending on the place of departure.
Behind the wheel
You can rent a car at the airport, but it will be much more expensive than from any local company in Phuket.
Most cheap option for car rental are small Suzuki jeeps. Car rental prices are approximately 800 baht per day. An international driver's license is not required. You may be stopped and fined if you are not wearing a seat belt. Police have set up checkpoints on main roads throughout the island, so be careful and attentive on the road.
Motorcycles
When riding a motorcycle, the driver must wear a helmet. Riding without a helmet can result in a fine from the police. Motorcycle rental centers can be found in the busiest areas of the beach. Prices start from 150 baht per day for a Honda or Suzuki motorcycle. When traveling on a motorcycle, you must have insurance valid throughout Thailand. Motorcycles are the most unreliable form of transport in the city, so insurance will protect you from unpleasant events on vacation.
It is necessary to stay in the left lane while driving and watch out for overtaking cars. If you get into an accident on a motorcycle, you automatically become guilty of the accident.
Car rental in Phuket
The price of renting a car depends on the rental period: for a day, a week, a month. The longer the car rental period, the lower the rental cost. Citizens over 20 years of age can rent a car if they have an international driving license.
Approximate prices for daily car rental:
- Toyota Soluna car - 1200 baht ($33)
- Honda Jazz car - 1300 baht ($36)
- Toyota Fortuner car - 2200 baht ($60)
- Jeep Sporty car - 700 baht ($19)
- Toyota Vigo car - 1600 baht ($44)
- Suzuki Vitara car - 1600 baht ($44)
- Chevrolet Zafira car - 2000 baht ($55)
- Honda New CR-V car - 2200 baht ($60)
The rental price includes: car rental with air conditioning, insurance throughout Thailand. The car is issued with a full tank of gasoline, the cost of gasoline is deducted after returning the car.
Districts
Cities of Phuket
The main city of Phuket is Phuket-town. It is both the capital of the island and the administrative center of the province. This largest city is home to the bulk of Phuket's residents (a total of more than 70,000 people). Tourists may be interested in the historical center of the city with characteristic Sino-Portuguese buildings, replete with Chinese temples.
Second the most important city Phuket is Patong, arose around the popular Patong Beach of the same name. Patong is considered the main resort of the island and is famous for its vibrant nightlife. There are many shops and restaurants here.
The third most important settlement on the island is Chalong, located 6 km from Phuket town, next to the Chalong beach of the same name, and 40 kilometers from Phuket airport. Chalong is a major transport hub and a significant port with the largest yacht marina on the island, located in the quiet bay of Ao Chalong. From the Chalong pier, boats and speedboats depart to neighboring islands. The beaches of Chalong, located on the east coast, are not the best place for swimming on the island: the water is not very clear, and at low tide you have to walk a long way to the sea. However, Chalong is famous for its abundance of attractions: it is home to the Big Buddha, temples, a snake farm, a Botanical Garden, etc.
Districts of Phuket
The island is administratively divided into 3 districts (amphoe), 17 districts (tambon) and 103 villages (muban), but the districts also reflect the geographical division of Phuket:
Muang District(Mueang Phuket) - the southern part of Phuket, here is the city of Phuket Town and many large beaches (Kata, Kata Noi, Pavna, Karon, etc.). This district also includes the city of Chalong with the large Ao Chalong Bay, on the coast of which there are many shops, restaurants, including fisheries, excursion agencies, etc. The beaches of Ao Sen Bay are considered the best place for swimming in Muang District. Local attractions include the Oceanarium located at Cape Panwa, tropical garden butterflies 3 km from the center of Phuket city, Shell Museum with a huge collection of shells from all over the world. Phrom Thep Cape is famous for the best sunset views on the island. Muang District also includes about a dozen islands: Racha, Rang Yai, Mai Thon, etc.
Kathu District(Kathu) is the central part of Phuket, in which all the popular noisy resorts of the island are located: Patong, Kata, Karon. The famous entertainment complex FantaSea, many cabarets, restaurants and shops are also located here. In the area, however, you can also find a place for a secluded holiday - on Kamala Beach, favored by retirees and couples, as well as in the area of the island between the west coast and Phuket Town, where there are very few hotels.
Thalang District(Thalang) - the northern part of Phuket, the largest district of the island in area, in which parks and reserves are located. Thalang is home to Phuket International Airport, as well as many beaches (Bang Tao, Nai Thon, Nai Yang, Mai Khao) and attractions.
Islands near Phuket
There are many smaller islands around Phuket that offer excursions. You can also live on some of these islands and make them your main vacation destination. Some islands, like Phi Phi or James Bond Island, are teeming with tourists, while others are tranquil and secluded.
What to see in Phuket
The island is not famous for its beaches alone, although they, that is, the beaches of Phuket, are very good and are rightly considered one of the best in Thailand. However, a beach holiday can be combined with a cultural holiday - there is a lot to see on the island and something to add to your cultural baggage. The most interesting attractions of Phuket are listed below; by following the links you will find all the necessary information about a particular object ( description, contact details, opening hours, travel methods and entrance fees, as well as the location of the facility on the map).
- Phuket Aquarium
- Tiger Kingdom Park
- Zoo in Phuket
- Phuket Fantasy Park
- Dino park
- Bang Pae Falls and Gibbon Rehabilitation Center
- Orchid garden
Observation decks in Phuket
There are many viewing platforms on the island of Phuket, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Promthep Cape Viewpoint (Sun Set Viewpoint)
- Panwa Viewpoint(Khao Kad)
- Sua Talay Hangout Observation Deck
Where to go in Phuket
Attractions
Museums and galleries
Where to eat and drink
Entertainment
Parks and Recreation
Transport
Shops and markets
Wellness holiday
Private guides in Phuket
Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Phuket in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.
Things to do
Beaches of Phuket
Of course, first of all, swim, because the sea is exactly what tourists from all over the world come to Phuket for. Below we list the most popular beaches in Phuket, following the links you will find detailed description, location on the map, recommendations, photos and much more.
Events and Festivals in Phuket
- International Maritime Salon
- Turtle Release Festival
SPA in Phuket
Among the most common procedures offered in Phuket spas are the following: classic Thai massage; foot massage to relieve fatigue and strengthen blood vessels; aromatherapy massage using special oils; cosmetic procedures facial care (cleansing, moisturizing, massage, etc.); body scrub massage to cleanse the skin, remove toxins and improve blood circulation; herbal sauna to cleanse skin pores; hydrotherapeutic relaxing bath; energetic milk aroma bath.
Below is a list of some of the spas in Phuket:
Surfing in Phuket
The most favorable time for surfing on the island is from July to October, as there are no strong winds during the winter months. The best beaches for surfing on the island are the beaches of the west coast: Kata, Kamala, Nai Harn, Kalim, Nai Yang, Surin and Pakarang.
On Kata Beach, the wind is most often southwest and northeast, waves reach 2 meters. On Kalim beach there is a southeast and northeast wind, waves up to 3 meters high, wave length 50-100 meters. On Kamala Beach, the wind is constantly changing, the wave height reaches 3 meters. On Surin Beach there is a light wind with waves of no more than 2 meters, but there is a danger in the form of a large group of rocks in the center of the beach.
Beginners can be advised to contact a local surfing instructor, who will charge only 1000 TNV for a day of work (the board is included in the price). Training at a specialized surfing school will cost 800 TNV per hour. At rental points, renting a board costs 150 TNV per hour, 400 TNV for half a day, 7000 TNV for a month.
Those interested can watch surfing competitions held on different beaches of Phuket: the Quiksilver Surfing Contest championship is held on Kata and Patong beaches (annually in early September) with a prize fund of 100,000 TNV; on Kamala Beach there are competitions organized by the local surf club Kamala Go Surfing Club; on Kalim beach - Kalim Surf Contest (end of June).
Diving in Phuket
The coastal waters of Phuket Island are famous among divers from all over the world for the beauty of the underwater world and the diversity of marine fauna. Phuket has a large number of dive centers offering a variety of services: courses for beginners and experienced divers, rental of diving equipment, boat excursions to the main dive sites.
The following dive points are famous:
Fishing in Phuket
Fishing is one of the most popular tourist activities in Phuket. Passionate fishermen will never miss the chance to add large sea fish or lake fish, rare for their native latitudes, to their list of trophies. When going fishing on the island of Phuket (sea or lake), fishing enthusiasts can see arapaima, Siamese carp, Mekogon catfish, gourami, silver shark, Pacific tarpon, giant freshwater stingray, black marlin, sailfish, etc. etc. Sea night bottom fishing may seem very interesting, during which you can catch barracuda, grouper or snapper, as well as night squid fishing.
The fishing industry on the island is quite well developed; the main occupation of many local residents is fishing. Local fishing guides form groups of up to eight people and demonstrate their skills and knowledge of the area. The cost of renting a boat for sea fishing for a day varies from 17,000 to 20,000 TNV. Lake fishing is somewhat cheaper. Tackle and bait are included in the cost of services. Boats depart for sea fishing mainly from Chalong Harbour. Lake fishing takes place at Lake Cheo Lan in Khao Sok National Park.
The best time for fishing in Phuket is considered to be from March to November, when the bite is most active and there is an opportunity to catch large fish.
Excursions in Phuket
Excursion “Flight of the Gibbon”
Bungee jumping excursion
There are two bungee jumping attractions in Phuket. The first, “Jungle Bungee Jumping”, opened in 1992, is located in Kathu, near Patong Beach, on the territory of old tin mines, flooded with water. The attraction has a height of 50 m and offers standard, tandem, catapult and diving jumps. The second bungee jumping attraction in Phuket is “World Bungee Jumping”. It has a height of 60 meters and is located in Patong, in a city park. The cost of the jump is 1650 TNV (includes a souvenir T-shirt and a certificate).
An important economic and cultural center of the region. It is not surprising that the entertainment industry in general and the tourism industry in particular are fully developed here. In addition to many attractions and very diverse entertainment, the city of Phuket also stands out for its huge selection of budget hotels and restaurants with quite affordable prices.
Previously, the capital of Phuket was called Phuket Town, but now the official name of Phuket City has been assigned to the city. The center has many beautiful old buildings in the Portuguese colonial style. In addition to architectural monuments, temples and museums, Phuket City is famous for its magnificent parks - Khao Rang, Rama IX Park, Park named after. Queens of Sikirit, "Sapan Hin". For tourists, in the capital of Phuket there is an entire street that at the beginning of the 20th century was a red light district - Soi Rommani. Now it’s all guesthouses, cozy cafes and souvenir shops, but the red paper lanterns remain hanging above the entrance to every house.
How to get to Phuket town
The most convenient way for travelers from Russia to get to Phuket is by air - there are regular direct flights from Moscow. The price for a round-trip ticket is from 350 USD. There are no direct flights from St. Petersburg - you can fly with a transfer via Bangkok; flights from Russia are accepted by Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The price for a connecting flight to Phuket (most often with transfers in Dubai or Abu Dhabi) varies around 600 USD. There is another option: fly to Suvarnabhumi, take a bus to Don Mueang domestic airport, and from there take local flights to Phuket (flight cost is around 200 THB). Prices on the page are as of September 2018.
Phuket city hotels
Phuket City has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. A double room in a good four-room apartment here will cost around 900-1800 THB, a three-star hotel will cost 600-1500 THB, only a hostel is cheaper - from 300 THB.
Of the budget hotels, the winner of Traveler's Choice 2016 has found favor with tourists - the three-star The Tint At Phuket Town - it is located near the pier and is especially suitable for those who are planning to travel to the islands.
One of the oldest and, paradoxically, cheap hotels, as well as one of the famous places in the city - the On-On Hotel - the film “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed here. Price per room - from 300 THB.
Shopping
Thailand is famous for its exotic goods: in any province you can buy interesting souvenirs and unusual food products, and Phuket is no exception. In its northern part there is the largest market of the island - “Super Chip”. It’s worth coming here for spices and herbs, oils and balms. Also presented here wide choose silk clothes. In addition, large shopping centers are concentrated in Phuket City: Tesco, Makro, Index Living Mall and Big C. The Sentral Festival shopping center features stores of famous European brands: Calvin Klein, Dior, Chanel, Armani, Lacoste, but the prices are pleasantly different from European.
Thai cosmetics and all kinds of care products deserve special attention - body and hair oils, creams, balms, toothpaste. They don’t cost much here; it’s better to buy them at the Chatuchak market in the southern part of Phuket City. They also bring pillows and mattresses made of foam latex from here - they are compactly packaged in vacuum bags. At the huge night market Phuket Night Bazaar you can find fruits, national clothes and souvenirs at very reasonable prices.
Cuisine and restaurants of Phuket city
Phuket City has many establishments offering Thai, European and even Russian cuisine. Those who do not want to experiment with exotic cuisine will find borscht and pancakes here. There is pizza and fast food familiar to Europeans.
The world-famous spicy tom yum soup with shrimp and coconut milk is considered the hallmark of Thai cuisine - it is definitely worth trying in Phuket.
“Tom kha” is also a soup coconut milk with chicken (dietary and not at all spicy). The most common products of Thai cuisine (found in many dishes in different combinations): rice, shrimp, noodles, and meat - chicken and pork. Many dishes are very spicy - check with the waiters before ordering. In city restaurants, dinner for two with drinks will cost 1000 THB.
An interesting establishment in Phuket City is All You Can Eat. Its rules state that if a guest does not finish a dish, he must pay twice the price stated on the menu. The city is also famous for its coffee shops offering delicious and unusual fruit desserts. Some of the best coffee is served at the Circle Cafe, which also offers free Wi-Fi.
Street food is varied: portions are small, almost all dishes are above average in spiciness. For 50-100 THB you can buy a full lunch at makashnitsa (street stalls).
Entertainment and attractions
The two main symbols of the capital of Phuket are the Promthep clock tower (the clock is faulty, but this fact does not detract from the beauty) and the Golden Dragon statue in the park. Queens of Sikirit. There are many beautiful Chinese temples in the city, since the main population of the city is Chinese. The oldest of them, the Taoist Pud Jor, dates back to the 19th century.
The most popular tourist street in the island's capital is Soi Rommani. Every building on it is a monument of history and architecture; the most cozy cafes and souvenir shops are located here; in the evening, multi-colored paper lanterns flash above the houses, creating a unique atmosphere for romantic walks.
A place shrouded in legends is the mansion of the Chinpracha family, built in the 19th century. It is located on Krabi Road and is famous for the fact that many Hollywood films were filmed here (for example, Oliver Stone's Heaven and Earth and The Adventures of Indiana Jones). Now there is a School of Culinary Arts, offering master classes in Thai cuisine for tourists.
A place that couples in love and just romantics need to visit is Cape Promthep. This magnificent natural observation deck is located 30 km from Phuket City, and the most convenient way to get here is by taxi. Local residents believe that this cape is sacred, and the gods protect it from the tsunami.
The main event of the year is the Vegetarian Festival, which is held on the 9th moon month(most often this is the end of September - beginning of October). A large-scale Asian carnival with ritual costumed processions, performances by street dancers and musicians and an evening fire show usually lasts 9 days.
5 things to do in Phuket City and surrounding areas
- Take a tour of the oldest On-On Hotel and check out room 37, where the movie “The Beach” was filmed.
- Take part in the Vegetarian Festival and watch legendary artists pierce their cheeks with swords.
- Visit the “Upside Down House” and wander through the labyrinth garden next to it.
- Sign up for a cooking class at the School of Culinary Arts to learn the secrets of local cuisine and learn how to cook Thai dishes.
- Enjoy a breathtaking sunset at Cape Promthep.
Phuket city for children
There are several places in Phuket City that are interesting to visit with children. Both adults and children will be curious to visit the zoo (
The historical and administrative center of the island of Phuket is the ancient city of Phuket Town. This city has many attractions that go back centuries. European traders and Chinese immigrants arrived here to mine tin in the early 19th century. Today, Phuket Town continues to thrive as the island's cultural center, home to magnificent architectural treasures, Chinese shrines, colorful open-air markets and restaurants serving the island's delicious local cuisine.
Distinctive architectural style Phuket originated from the British colonial style, once popular in Malaysia and Singapore. Many of the island's old mansions and trading houses are built in this style.
(Phuket Vegetarian Festival)
This annual festival starts from the end of September and lasts for about ten days. At the festival you will see shocking rituals with spears and swords performed by local residents.
On the campus of Rajabhat University there is a museum of the island's culture, where you will see Thai dolls, artifacts from the days of tin mining, historical photographs, as well as books on the culture and history of Phuket.
Working hours: Mon-Fri from 8:30 to 16:30
Entry fee: free
Chatuchak Weekend Market
The market is located in the open air on the south side of Phuket town. Available on the market big choice clothes, decorative elements, keychains, souvenirs and delicious food.
Working hours: Sat-Sun from 9:00 to 18:00
There are bright and colorful Chinese temples throughout the city. These shrines play an important role, especially during Chinese New Year and the Vegetarian Festival.
Monkey Hill
The mountain where curious monkeys gather is impressive with its views. Here you can chat with monkeys, but be careful - little thieves try to steal tourist property.
Koh Sirey Island
Sirey Island is connected to Phuket by a small bridge. Along the island's shores there are unspoilt landscapes, and hilly forest paths lead along rubber plantations. The main attraction is the island's temple, located on a hill. The main hall houses a statue of a reclining Buddha, and the hill overlooks the sea. There are also many restaurants on the island that serve delicious fresh seafood at low prices.
Suan Luang Park
The beautiful Suan Luang or Rama IX Park comes alive in the early mornings when locals come here to train and perform Tai Chi (health exercises). There is a walking path through the park, next to which there are ponds with blooming lotus.
Rang Hill Viewpoint
Rang Hill is a great place for hiking and picnics. From the top of the hill there is a wonderful view of Phuket city, and in the shade of the trees you can relax and read a book.
This research center is engaged in the conservation and reproduction of about 40 species of butterflies, many are released into wildlife. Every month, visitors to the unique rescue center can witness the magical transformation of more than 6,000 larvae into beautiful butterflies.
Photos of Phuket Town
The gastronomic heritage is slowly shaping the appearance of the old town of Phuket. I’ll tell you about the drawings and graffiti that appeared on the walls of buildings in 2016 and immediately attracted the attention of Thai and foreign tourists. Street art has become part of the FAT (Food Art Town) project and the "City of Gastronomy". All the graffiti is located in the old quarters; it’s easy to walk here for a couple of hours. The article presents only a part of the points; you will find a complete graffiti guide in my mobile guide. Download it for Android as well.
How to get to Phuket Town?
The old town is located in the middle of the island of Phuket. From most beaches you can get here by city bus or songthaew. This is the name given to open yellow and blue trucks with two benches for passengers. A trip on this type of transport will reveal to you all the local flavor. The fare is low, only 30-60 baht per person. Buses start running from 7 am and end at 5-6 pm. All public transport routes from your beach and the location of the final stop. If the buses do not stop near your hotel, you can always take a taxi to the city. .
Walk through the old town of Phuket
City buses arrive at the final station on Ranong Road. This is where our walking route through the old town of Phuket begins. Follow the direction of the one-way traffic until you reach the market turn. The place is quite colorful, they sell mainly vegetables and fruits, and at night, when fresh goods are delivered, real chaos ensues. On the outskirts of the market, closer to Krabi Street, you will see two drawings: a large figure of a three-eyed Mardi bunny, full height two-storey house And air balloons on the opposite wall. The famous character was created by Phuket artist Alex Face and depicts a girl in traditional Peranakan clothing: a colorful sarong and a lace kebaya. Mardi is carrying a basket of money. in Phuket Town or at a wedding of descendants of Chinese immigrants.
Turn onto Krabi Road and go towards Yaowarat Road. Along the way, you can look into, which tells about the history of Chinese settlers in Phuket. On both sides of the streets you will see old shophouses - buildings with a store or cafe on the ground floor and living quarters on top. At the intersection of Yaowarat and Dibuk Roads, another graffiti dedicated to . One of the most beloved Thai monarchs was depicted by a group of Phuket artists from 4Studio.
From Dibuk Street, visit the Buddhist temple of Wat Mongkol Nimit, then take Soi Rommani Lane to Thalang Road. Romani Lane was once a hot spot with opium dens and prostitutes. Now there are guesthouses and cafes here. At the intersection of the alley with Thalang Street, you will see three designs: Mardy Turtle, Dove and Pineapple. The three-eyed bunny Mardi, already familiar to us, this time talks about another page in the culture of the old town of Phuket. Desserts in the shape of colorful Ang-ku turtles are made on.
Nearby on the wall is a dove, painted in the style of clear geometry by Bangkok artist Rukkit. Its wings and tail are made up of the names of baby food brands that are familiar to all local Thais. Between the turtle and the dove you will see a Pineapple with a pencil. It would seem that everything points to the famous Japanese song "Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen". Only the drawing appeared before the song. Should we think that this graffiti inspired the Japanese comedian Piko Taro to write a hit? Or limit yourself to regular sweet Phuket pineapples?
Before entering the Sintavee Hotel, you will see street art from the artist Rukkit: a tiger head, stylized firecrackers, pieces of gold leaf and a Chinese character. Graffiti tells us about the event that is held in Phuket every year.
Opposite the Soi Pradik alley, two drawings are hidden at once. A huge bird, the subject of a Bangkok artist named Bon, surfs behind a sea turtle. This graffiti tells the story of the times when turtles used to come to Phuket to lay their eggs in the sand. Now, unfortunately, due to the development of tourism, this rarely happens.
Opposite the surfbird you will see a typical ceremony in a Chinese temple: burning aroma sticks and candles, lions appear from the smoke, pineapples and tangerines are prepared on the table, and a boy and a girl wish you a happy new year.
A few meters from the o-tau seller there is a leaf drawn. Nothing special, just a leaf. To return to the hotel by bus, take the Yaowarat Road to the fountain circle and then the Ranong Road stop.
But first I recommend checking out the Tfg the Food Gallery restaurant. There you can drink coffee, have a snack, and also see another graffiti - an aunt sitting on the veranda of her house. This drawing was made recently by an artist from Mae Hong Son named Pichit Paidan.
Helpful information
If you have an iPhone or other smartphone, . It works offline, which is very convenient when there is no wi-fi at hand. You can save my map with points as a KML file and open it in the application.
What to see and where to go in Phuket city?
Since you've gone for a walk in Old city Phuket is worth seeing a couple more attractions accessible on foot. While enjoying street art, don't pass by. You can take photos and have a lot of fun while becoming part of famous paintings. If you like furry pussies, check out . Here you will be offered to drink coffee, eat dessert, and for those who are really hungry, some simple Thai dishes have already been prepared. Combine a walk through the old town of Phuket with a visit to one of the fairs: on Sundays or on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
There are many more different graffiti in Phuket than I described. Drawings of Mardi the bunny decorated the walls of the B-Lay Tong and Foto Hotel. Street art can be found on Patong and Rawai beaches. In the future, artists will paint several more walls in Phuket Town, so the article will be updated. Have a nice walk!
Phuket is the largest island in the Kingdom of Thailand. Today he is at the top best places for holidays in Southeast Asia. With a developed infrastructure, rich history, interesting sights and picturesque landscapes, the island attracts many tourists from all over the world.
General information
Translated from Malay, “Phuket” means “hill,” and indeed, from afar, the island looks like a mountain that has risen straight from the depths of the sea. The region was originally named Thalang, which is a derivative of the Old Malay "Telong" - cape. The northern region of Phuket, where its capital used to be located, still bears this name. Today, the administrative center is the city of Phuket, located in the southeastern part of the island.
Atmosphere of Phuket
Climate
In Phuket, the hot season begins in March and lasts until May. At this time, the temperature varies between 24-33.5°C. Around April, the first signs of the approaching rainy season begin to appear. Temperatures drop slightly and there are occasional brief showers. With the beginning of summer, monsoons arrive on the island, bringing with them tropical thunderstorms. The rainy season lasts until October, and from November dry weather sets in again and the tourist season begins, which ends in February.
Geography
Phuket, sometimes spelled "Puket", is a province of Thailand with the same name. It is located in the southern part of the country, 862 km from the capital, and is located in the Andaman Sea. 48 km long and 21 km wide, the island has an area of 543 km². It is separated from the mainland by the narrow Pak Phra Strait, in the north, the width of which reaches 5 kilometers, and in the west - only 600 meters. The island is connected to Pha Nga province by a pair of bridges.
Population
The population of the island, according to estimates in 2010, was 525,018 people. Most of them are Buddhists, but there are many Muslims among the residents, about 30%.
Phuket is the most multinational region of the kingdom. An interesting fact is that the number of Thais here is less than half of the total number of residents. Phuket is the northernmost part of Asia and is home to a large Malay community (approximately 30% of the local population). Another nationality that has created a large settlement on the island is the Chinese.
Nature and landscape
The territory of Phuket is mostly mountainous; the highest point, according to different versions, reaches 750 meters. Most of the island, approximately 70%, is covered in tropical forest.
Economy
Tin and rubber are mined here, pineapples, rice, coconut trees are grown and palm oil is produced. However, the province receives its main income from tourism, thanks to which it is the richest in Thailand.
Time in Phuket
7 hours are added to UTC in Phuket (UTC +7). Moscow is 3 hours behind island time.
Language
The official language in Phuket, as well as throughout the kingdom, is Thai. But local residents easily communicate with tourists in English. In addition, due to the recent significant increase in the flow of tourists from Russia, the Russian language is also being actively mastered here. Very often, inscriptions on signs, in restaurant menus, in price lists and information brochures are duplicated in Russian.
Story
Thanks to large tin deposits and an advantageous location on the sea trade route, for which in the 17th century. colonial powers actively fought, the history of Phuket is replete with interesting facts. In order to weaken the influence of the Dutch and English, in 1681, the King of Siam, Narai, appointed the French missionary doctor Rene Charbonneau to the post of governor, and after him, in 1685, Sieur de Billy - former head waiter. The French had a monopoly on the tin mines of Phuket until 1688, when the outbreak of the Siamese revolution drove them out.
In 1785, the Burmese tried to occupy the island. However, the widow of the governor, Phu Ying Chan, successfully held the siege for a month, and the invaders had to leave with nothing. Mrs. Khunying Chan became a national heroine and received the honorary title "Thao Thep Kasattri" from King Rama 1.
In the 19th century, Chinese magnates had significant influence on the island. Building the city in a pseudo-Portuguese style, they gradually gave it the appearance that we see today. By the 20th century economic development Phuket reached such heights that it was second only to Bangkok.
In December 2004, a tsunami that rose in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Thailand caused significant damage to the west coast of Phuket. But today, there are practically no traces of the destruction left. Two years after the tragedy, the Thai government launched 22 water installations to monitor the movement of water mass in the ocean. They were installed 1000 kilometers from coastline, just between the kingdom and Sri Lanka. The behavior of the buoy system is monitored from space by US satellites, and in case of danger they warn in advance of its approach.
Orientation
Phuket has the shape of a drop with a diagonal of approximately 40 km. There are several other small islands nearby, some of which are inhabited. On the southeast coast is Phuket Town. From there, to the north, deep into the heart of the island, there is the main road - No. 402. Over the Sarasin Bridge, it connects Phuket with the mainland and there it joins Highway No. 4. There is a checkpoint on the bridge where private vehicles are checked; regular buses pass through it without stopping. .
Districts
Phuket has three districts (Amphoe):
- Mueang fuket;
- Kathu;
- Thalang.
The districts, in turn, are divided into 17 microdistricts called “tambon”, and those into 103 villages, or, as they are called on the island, “muban”.
Phuket province is divided into 9 municipalities (thesaban).
The city of Phuket has the status of “thesaban nakhon” - the administrative center. Tourist centers with the status of “thesaban mueang” are Patong and Kathu. In addition to them, there are 6 more municipal districts with the status of “thesaban tambon”:
- Karon;
- Thep Krasattri;
- Ratsada;
- Choeng Thale;
- Rawai;
- Wichit
The remaining entities that do not belong to the municipality are governed by 9 administrative organizations (TAO).
Island map
Phuket map is available in high resolution.
Features of the holiday
Phuket is considered one of the most prestigious resorts in Southeast Asia and is a favorite holiday destination for tourists from Russia. Here you can have a great time on the beach, go horseback riding, diving or play golf. A large number of cultural and religious monuments will provide an opportunity to get acquainted with the peculiarities of the Buddhist religion and the principles of life of the kingdom. But when planning a trip here, you need to be prepared that prices will be slightly higher than on the mainland.
Lovers Island
Thanks to the beautiful Bounty-style scenery, many come to Phuket for romantic experiences. Here you can often meet newlyweds who have arrived here to enjoy their honeymoon among the lush tropical nature of the island. Most hotels provide special rooms for two, designed to create a special atmosphere.
Vacation with children
Phuket is a great place for vacationers with children. It is relatively easy to get here - there are direct flights from Russia to Phuket. The island has a very comfortable and developed infrastructure and a wide hotel base. A huge variety of restaurants offer dishes for every taste. And a large number of excursions and entertainment will not let either the little pioneers or their parents get bored.
Features of life in Phuket: wintering or longstay
After Pattaya Phuket is the second Russian resort in Thailand, so this is an excellent place for those who want to spend the winter or live for some time in the kingdom. The island has a number of undeniable advantages so that those who want to live in eternal summer make their choice in its direction. The most important thing is good ecology. Here fresh air and the sea, which Pattaya, unfortunately, cannot boast of. At the same time, Phuket is free from typical island problems with infrastructure, as it is connected to the mainland by a bridge.
The only downside is the long distances between the center and the beaches, which sometimes causes some inconvenience.
Visas
In accordance with the Thai-Russian agreement, Russian tourists can enter the kingdom under a visa-free regime for up to 30 days. For a longer visit, you need to apply for a visa or put a new thirty-day stamp in your passport. This can be done on the border with Myanmar (Burma) in the city of Ranong. A three-month tourist visa and a business visa can be obtained from the embassy on the Malaysian island of Penang. Please note that recently some changes have been made to the procedure for obtaining business visas. It must be said that a trip to extend a visa from Phuket will be somewhat more tiring than from Chiang Mai or Pattaya.
In addition to the large influx of tourists from Russia, there is also an increase in the number of Russian entrepreneurs (including illegal ones) in Phuket, which cannot but cause discontent among the local population. Many of them believe that their jobs are being stolen from them. In view of this, the Phuket authorities began to show increased attention to all forms of foreign business on the island, and especially with the participation of Russians. Thorough checks are carried out, and if violations are detected, businessmen are detained and face fines from 2 to 100 thousand baht or imprisonment for up to 5 years.
Transport
The transport infrastructure on the island is very well developed. You can get around Phuket by tuk-tuks, motorcycle taxis, taxis, buses, songthaews or rented motorbikes or cars.
Taxis in Phuket are relatively expensive. Compared to the prices in Bangkok, here you will have to pay twice, and sometimes even three times as much. In this case, it is better to use the services of an official taxi, with a meter installed on board. However, such cars are in short supply here, which private owners are making up for with great enthusiasm. In addition to regular sedans, taxis also include mini tuk-tuks, red or yellow color. A group of six people can save a little money by using this type of transport. On average, a short trip can cost from 40 baht. From Phuket to Patong you can negotiate for 400 baht.
The main thing is to agree on the price in advance, otherwise it will be prohibitively high at the end of the journey.
In addition, you can use a motorcycle taxi. It will be somewhat cheaper, but you should always remember to be safe and wear a safety helmet.
Phuket's public transport, represented by buses or small songthaews, can sometimes be not very convenient. This is explained by the fact that the starting point of all routes on the island is the bus station in Phuket Town bus station. Therefore, often, in order to get from one place on the island to another (sometimes even close to each other), you first have to go to the main station, and from there to the intended place. There are no stopping points along the route; all stops are made upon request. But it should be noted that this type of transport is relatively cheap: from 10 to 35 baht.
It is precisely because of the inconvenience of public transport and the high cost of taxis that many tourists prefer to rent motorbikes or cars.
Beaches
Beaches are an undoubted advantage of Phuket, which often covers all the disadvantages here. The eastern coast of the island is not suitable for swimming, but the western coast is at the complete disposal of vacationers.
Nai Harn Beach is recognized as one of the best in Phuket. The most populous is the main beach - Patong Beach. There are always a lot of people here, and there is a vibrant day and night life. Kata Noi Beach is relatively small, but very good for swimming. No one swims in Rawai Beach or Chalong Bay, but these areas are good for those looking for inexpensive housing for a long stay. In addition, you can dine here with excellent seafood dishes.
Food
There is no problem with food in Phuket, here huge selection places Catering himself different levels, for every taste and budget.
You can eat here on the street by paying 50-60 baht. In more comfortable cafes on the second line you will pay 100-140 baht for breakfast, 60-70 baht for rice with seafood or pad thai, 250 baht for grilled fish with a side dish and 80-100 baht for salads. But prices in a cafe on the first coastline will be 1.5 times higher: the cost of dinner in a respectable establishment can cost you 1000-3000 baht per person.
In addition to cafes and restaurants, everyone can be fed in local 7-eleven stores; they sell ready-made food, which, if desired, will be heated there.
You can also have a tasty and inexpensive lunch at the food courts of Tesco Lotus hypermarkets. In addition to national Thai dishes, you can find non-spicy food there for children or people with sensitive stomachs.
Phuket is also not without the presence of famous chain restaurants and cafes. You can find them on the main streets or in shopping centers islands.
Accommodation in Phuket
If on your trip to Phuket you plan to stay in a hotel, then you will have a lot of choice. As a rule, the price tag depends on the season and starts at around 400 baht/day per person.
If you want to stay in Phuket for a long time, then you will need permanent housing. There are apartments, or condos as they are called here, in Phuket, but not many, and most of them are concentrated in Phuket Town, and not on the beaches. Condo prices are such that they are sometimes comparable to the price of renting a house: about 8,000-10,000 baht/month for a modest room. While the house can already be rented for 10,000-15,000 baht. Renting a luxury villa with all amenities and sea views can cost 30,000-100,000 baht per month, depending on your wishes.
Attractions
Most of Phuket is covered with tropical forest. It is not surprising that the most interesting attractions of the island are nature reserves and national parks. One of them is the stunning Khao Sok National Park. Here you can go boating on the lake, admire the waterfalls or go on a night raft safari. Another beautiful natural creation in Phuket is Phang Nga Bay. Here, like stars in the sky, are scattered forty mini-islands that can be visited during a one-day yacht cruise.
Of the man-made attractions of Phuket, the most interesting is the 45-meter statue of the Big Buddha, installed on Mount Nakkerd. Here you can explore the surrounding area from the observation deck, visit the Museum of Buddhism or an active Buddhist temple.
Entertainment
The most popular daytime activities on the island are beach holidays with accompanying water activities, shopping and excursions to nearby islands. From Phuket you can go to the Phi Phi Islands or the Similan Islands, visit James Bond Island or Khao Lak National Park.
Many people are interested in whether there are transvestite shows and other exotic shows in Phuket. entertainment programs, unique to Thailand. Yes, there are some! The nightlife here is no less vibrant and eventful than in the famous Pattaya.
Prices
On average, prices in Phuket are higher than on the mainland, but lower than on other islands in the kingdom. What especially stands out is the cost of taxi drivers’ services, which by generally accepted standards is perhaps the highest in Thailand. It should be noted that prices in Phuket Town for food and accommodation are always somewhat lower than on the coast.
How to get there
Thanks to the fact that Phuket is connected to the mainland by a bridge and has its own international airport, getting here is relatively easy.
The airport is located in the north of the island and is the second largest transport center in Thailand after Bangkok. You can get here both by domestic flights from the capital and other cities in the region, and by international flights. And during the high tourist season, direct charters from Europe, Russia and Australia are organized here.
From the mainland you can get to the island by train from Bangkok to Singapore. Having boarded it, you need to proceed to Phun Phin station, which is not far from Surat Thani, and then, transferring to a bus, drive another 5 hours to Phuket. There are also bus routes from Bangkok to Phuket, both public and private. Their cost varies from 900 to 1100 baht.
In addition to public transport, you can also get to Phuket by private (rented) transport. The total route from the capital will take 862 km. When leaving Bangkok, take Highway 4 towards Nakhon Pathom. Then through Kra Buri to Thai Muang district. Entry to the island is via the Thao Thepkasattri bridge, next to which there is a large police checkpoint. Most cars pass through unhindered, but suspicious ones may be subject to search.
Cellular communications and Internet
Roaming on the island is very expensive. It is much more profitable to buy a local SIM card, and specifically a tourist one. There are three telecom operators in the kingdom: 1-2-Call, TrueMove and DACT Happy. 1-2-CaII is considered the best. If you do not speak English, it is better to buy DACT, since this card does not require activation.
You can connect to the Internet on the island using Wi-Fi, ADSL or 3G access points. In general, the connection quality is acceptable, but much worse than in Moscow. Usually people complain about frequent connection dropouts.
Safety
Phuket roads are mostly winding and have many turns. Considering the special driving style of local residents with their habit of ignoring traffic rules, accidents in Phuket are not that uncommon. Therefore, when creating health insurance items, we recommend taking this into account.
Like all major tourist centers, Phuket attracts lovers of easy money. Fraudsters, thieves and pickpockets may well ruin your holiday if you are not vigilant enough.
The tropical nature of Phuket also requires special treatment. Sometimes she can present surprises in the form of meeting dangerous representatives of flora and fauna, both on land and at sea. Interacting with jellyfish, sea urchins, snakes and some types of insects can be very unpleasant. Believe me, they are not at all looking for human society, but if they attack, it is only because they were disturbed. Therefore, you should always be careful and watch where your foot steps and what your hand grabs.
Among other things, I would like to separately draw the attention of tourists to one nuance regarding beach holidays.
Off the coast of Phuket, especially during the low tourist season, when the western monsoons arrive, underwater currents (Rip current) are formed. They can pose a serious danger to swimmers, and can be carried out to the open sea in the blink of an eye, even from very shallow depths.
Hotels on Phuket island, where to stay?
The map below contains accommodation options from all major booking services, so you can easily find a suitable hotel for yourself and immediately book it online.
