How to Plan a Vacation in Phuket for First-timers – Experiencing a Marvellous Thai Island

 Phuket, a Thai island will always be an engrossing place to visit. Perhaps best known for its beaches, seafood and limestone karsts, it also has many more attractions that will draw the interest of the discerning traveller. It happens to be Thailand’s largest island and is also the island that draws the most tourists. Presently, tourism may be considered this destination’s most important industry. Provided below is some useful information regarding planning a vacation in Phuket.

Bennypc, Phuket Aerial, CC BY-SA 4.0

 Choose the time to visit

It will be quite possible to visit Phuket at any time of the year, and your choice of when to visit the island would depend on your personal preferences and priorities. It experiences warm tropical weather throughout the year, but the level of rainfall will vary. If you desire the finest weather you may opt to visit the island from November to February, which will also be the high season for tourism. Meanwhile, though March through mid-May would be the warmest months, you could experience the Songkran Festival where everyone is splashed with water as part of the customs of the Thai traditional New Year. On the other hand, the low season with the lowest prices would be from mid-May through October, when the monsoon will be in progress.

 Select the area in which to stay

There will be several attractive localities in Phuket where you could stay. One of these places would be Kata which happens to be known for its beach, restaurants, nightlife and activities. On the other hand, nearby Karon is better known for its more sophisticated downtown area. For party lovers, the best place to stay would be Patong with its exciting nightlife. However, for those who crave seaside seclusion and to relax in idyllic coastal surroundings, Mai Khao would fit the bill. An SHA Extra+ certified Phuket resort to consider from which you could experience the attractions of this locality would be Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas.

 Understand how to get about

There will be several ways to get about Phuket, even though there is no formal system of public transport here. A popular choice would be travelling by tuk-tuk, although fares can be comparatively rather high. You could also travel by taxi, although again fares can be higher than elsewhere in Thailand; another option would be using the Grab app. A more economical choice for moving between places on Phuket’s western coast would be using the Smart Bus service. Your other options would be travelling by songthaew, motorcycle taxi, private car charter or rental car.

 Enjoy the things to do

Naturally, just relaxing on the beach and taking it easy would be an important aspect of the experience on this island. Amongst the well-known tourist attractions in Phuket would be the Big Buddha, from where you could also enjoy stunning views. Culture lovers would appreciate the opportunity to explore Phuket’s Old Town, where you will encounter interesting temples, fascinating architecture and authentic local food. You could also admire the lovely views from the Karon Viewpoint. If you appreciate captivating religious attractions, make sure to visit the magnificent Wat Chalong Temple and don’t forget to visit a night market and party at Bangla Road too!

 Know where to eat

Visitors to Phuket will find that it is easy to eat well on this island. As you might expect, there are plenty of local favourites like seafood, som tam and pad Thai here, in addition to international highlights like sushi and pizza. You will find that the Old Town, Karon and Kata would be great places to go to for authentic Phuket food. For delectably prepared seafood, you may try Kata’s Kwong Shop Seafood. You may also take the opportunity to try other outstanding Phuket restaurants like Raya Restaurant and One Chun Café & Restaurant. Look to stay at a resort that not only has onsite restaurants but also offers cooking classes to get hands-on guidance to make Thai dishes too.