Thailand Guides - Phuket

Thailand's largest and most famous island, Phuket sits on the Andaman Sea 862 kilometres south of Bangkok. The island, which has greeted millions of tourists from all over the world, is famous for numerous coves of white sand beaches and hospitable islanders.

Overview

Phuket was a mining city in the 19^th century before it burst into fame as a paradise island in the mid 70s. The island is mostly mountainous with 70% covered by forests. Many of the sandy beaches are located on the west coast. Inland, the city's interior is influenced by Sino-Portuguese style architecture which is the result from the settlement of European traders in the 19th century.

Attractions

The bustling Patong beach is about 15 kilometers from downtown Phuket. The three-kilometre long white sandy beach is crowded with numerous restaurants, pubs, bars and luxury hotels. This is the place where you find fun activities from dusk till dawn. Accommodation here is of various styles and prices from guesthouses to hip boutiques resorts.

Further south of Patong is the cozy beach of Kata. Divided into two parts (Kata Yai and Kata Noi), Kata has a relaxing atmosphere with moderate development. Low rise resorts, restaurants and bars settle along a beachfront road. Kata is popular among families with young children. It is a good compromise between Patong and some quiet beaches on Phuket.

Next to Kata beach is the long stretch of powdery sandy beach of Karon. The beach is fairly quiet and separated by a road. There are little sport activities on this beach, making it an ideal place for sunbathing. Some large 4 star resorts are located here.

Bordered by hills on both sides, Nai Han Beach is considered the land of peace. The beach boosts white, clean sand. Standing in the middle of the beach looking out into the sea, ones will see two bays curving inwards to almost meet one other. Protected by the hills, the beach is haven of many expensive yachts which are docked here.

Phuket is a gateway to several islands in the Andaman Sea. The world-renowned Phi Phi islands can be reached in 2 hours by ferries. Many travel agents in Phuket offer a one day tour programs to Phi Phi which include round trip transfers between the pier and the hotel, lunch, boat ride, lunch and snorkeling equipment.