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Phuket
Thailand’s Most Visited Island
Located in the Andaman Sea, off the south west coast of Thailand, Phuket is the largest island in the country.
 Once a major centre for trade because of its strategic location on the trade route between India and China, the island’s main source of revenue now comes from tourism. With
lovely beaches,
scenic spots as well as the natural beauty of some of the smaller neighbouring islands and several options for entertainment, there are so many things to do that everything cannot be covered in a few days, let alone a single visit.
Phuket is also easily accessible, as there are two bridges that connect the island to the mainland. Besides this, there are regular flights from other cities in Thailand and major Southeast Asian destinations. In addition, charter flights from countries in Europe, Asia and America land at the Phuket international airport, which is located in the northern part of the
island on the map.
Although there is no direct rail connection to the island from the mainland, trains stop at Surat Thani. From there, the island is a short ride away by taxi or bus, if you are wondering
how to get to Phuket
by train.
 Patong beach is one of the most visited spots on the island. Besides having a large expanse of beach with lovely sands, Patong is also the centre of tourist activity in Phuket. The entire beach stretch is lined with shops selling fake designer labels, DVDs, watches and accessories. There is also a row of tour shops along this stretch, where you can haggle to bring down the prices, whether it is for
sightseeing tours,
cruises to nearby islands, outdoor adventure or water based activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling and sea kayaking.
Patong is also famous for its nightlife.
Like other tourist destinations in Thailand, it has its fair share of go-go bars, beer bars and night clubs, where beautiful Thai girls can keep you company through the night. Although Patong is the centre of most tourist activity in Phuket, you will find that every beach town on the island has its own options for entertainment. The main town, which has the same name as the island, has several
good options for shopping,
including malls and street markets. Besides this, Kata, Karon and other beach towns on the island have stores, supermarkets and malls so that you can stay away from the crowds if you choose to do so.
For most tourists, it is the number of options that the island has to offer to keep them entertained that draws them to Phuket. With a blend of natural beauty, adventure, eco-tourism, culture and the opportunity to shop, the island has many interesting things to see and do.
 Taking a tour is the best way to see the main attractions. A sightseeing tour of the island that lets you experience of its natural beauty, history and culture. These tours usually take you past the main beach areas and to viewpoints such as the three beach viewpoint from where you can see Patong, Kata and Karon beach, and the Promthep Cape at the southern tip of the island. In addition, they include a visit to the old town, a Buddhist temple and plantations.
Among the most popular places to visit is Phuket FantaSea, a theme park set in a 140 acre property, which has a carnival like atmosphere with shows featuring Thai dances and arts, shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs, and a large buffet. It makes for a great day out with family and friends while on the island. Another popular attraction, especially if you are travelling with children and want to get away from the crowded Patong area is Dino Park near Kata beach. This mini golf park is a hit with kids because of its dinosaur theme, and the varying level of difficulty along the course also makes it fun and challenging for adults.
If you are wondering what the best time is for visiting Phuket, the island can be visited throughout the year. The hotel rates and activities may be affected by the season, but overall there are enough things to do to keep you occupied, rain or shine.
The weather
is similar to other parts of the country. It is hot throughout the year, while some seasons are cooler or drier than others. Although the island also has a rainy season, it does not rain for long spells even during the monsoon season. So if you are prepared to brave the weather, you can
get some great deals on hotels
during certain seasons. Another good time to visit the island is during the celebrations coinciding with one of the
Festivals in Thailand.
Songkran in April, which is a water festival celebrated on the occasion of the Thai New Year, is a great time for fun and festivities. The roads along Patong turn into the venue of one big water fight where tourists and locals alike get soaked with buckets and spray guns.
Another thing that draws tourists to Phuket is the wide range of accommodation it offers.
 While the area around Patong has the most number of options for
budget hotels,
the island has several secluded beaches where you will find world class resorts, some of them so luxurious that you will never feel like venturing beyond its gates. While this is all right for a vacation spent relaxing on the beach with a few adventure sports and Thai massages thrown in, you will miss on some of the main sights and
things to do in Phuket
unless you step out and explore the island.
When you arrive at the airport, it may take you a while to realise that you are indeed on an island, because Phuket is so big. Area-wise, it is as large as Singapore. However, when you see the beachfront, the lush greenery that is typical to a tropical island, and when you get to explore the beautiful caves and islands in the surrounding area, you will realise that it offers a perfect mix of activity and relaxation. While the island has a reputation for hedonism, mainly concentrated around the Patong area, it also has many
family friendly attractions.
It’s no wonder that it is Thailand’s most visited island destination.
Return To Thailand Tourism Guide
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