Things to Do in Phuket - Tours - Attractions - Days Out
As you may imagine, being a tourist destination, there are plenty of things to see and do in Phuket. Some of the attractions are very touristy such as Phuket Fantasea or a LadyBoy Cabaret while other places (the kinds we prefer) are a little off the beaten track. Sure, we go to some touristy places too, but I just want to say that Phuket is a big island and it's great to get out and explore. This is what we have been doing over the last few years, really getting to know Phuket, not just the obvious tourist hangouts - more of the "real" Phuket. I guess this whole blog is about "things to do", so please take some time to explore all of Jamie's Phuket!
Tour Booking
If you want to book a tour, hire a boat, play golf, go fishing, snorkeling or pretty much anything... some friends of mine recently opened a company called Easy Day Thailand who can help you. The emphasis is on personal service - you can contact them here:
• Easy Day Thailand - More Information
• Contact Easy Day Thailand (tell them Jamie sent you!)
Things to do in Phuket - Places to see - Attractions
There are many more so called attractions than can be mentioned here. I prefer the natural beauty of Phuket - small beaches, views, quiet back streets, laid back seafood restaurants and so on rather than organised tourist fun, but the more I think about it, the more I realise how much Phuket has to offer... After many years here, we're still doing new things! There's a lot of stuff to do in Phuket!
• Racha Yai (Raya) Island Tour
• Phang Nga Bay (Doing it Our Way!)
• Khao Sok National Park
• Phuket Fantasea
• Koh Tachai Island
• Things to do with Kids in Phuket
• Things to do when it Rains
• Phuket Museums - Introduction
• Phuket Waterfalls - Introduction
• Splash Jungle Water Park
• Koh Panyee (in Phang Nga Bay)
• James Bond Island
• Mini Golf at Bang Tao Beach
• Yoga Classes in Phuket
• Phuket Aquarium
• Day Trip to Koh Yao Noi with Mopeds
• Phuket Butterfly Garden
• Gibbon Rehabilitation Project
• Kayaking in the Mangroves
• Elephant Trekking
• Speedboat charter / island hopping
• Phang Nga Bay Boat Trip (2007)
• Thalang National Museum
• Phuket Thai Hua Museum
• Phuket Seashell Museum
• Phuket Tin Mining Museum
• Phuket Philatelic Museum
• Phuket Zoo
•
• Dino Park Mini Golf
• Phuket Weekend Market
• Phuket Indy Market
• Karon Temple Market
• Phuket Wake Park
• Explore Old Phuket Town
• Day Trip to Phi Phi
Scuba Diving in Phuket
Well, diving is why I came here in 1999, and I am manager of a dive shop called Sunrise Divers, we're based in Karon Beach. There are a few diving related posts on this blog about the dive sites and diving options available. If you want to learn how to dive, take a liveaboard dive trip, a day trip or anything diving related, you can contact me at Sunrise Divers.
• Sunrise Divers - see you there!
• Scuba Diving in Phuket
• Liveaboard Diving in Phuket
• The Similan Islands
Waterfalls in Phuket
Don't be expecting too much from the waterfalls in Phuket. I've read some guide books and online guides suggesting fantastic jungle cascades.. well, not as such. Nevertheless, there are several small waterfalls and they do serve to get you some fresh air, a bit of jungle time and some exercise.
• Bang Pae Waterfall
• Tonsai Waterfall
• Kathu Waterfall
• Ton Prai Waterfall
Go to watch the Football!
Phuket FC got promoted last season to Division 1 of the Thai national league, home games are normally on the weekend during the season, great fun if you are a football fan, better than watching the boring English Premier League on TV! More information :
• Watching Phuket FC (2012)
• Watching the Footie - Phuket FC (2010)
There is so much to see and do in Phuket. It's not just beaches and organised tours. This is a big island. Get out and explore! I suggest at least one of the following:
• Get up some Hills and Viewpoints such as:
• The Big Buddha
• Kata / Karon Viewpoint
• Rang Hill
• Cape Phromthep
• Visit one of the many Temples in Phuket - among the most popular are:
• Chalong Temple
• Wat Phra Tong
• Karon Temple
• Get a boat trip to a nearby Island - try these:
• Koh Kaew Yai
• Koh Yao Noi
• Koh Rang Yai
• Go and Explore Phuket Town - I always find something of interest there...
• Phuket Heritage Trails - Phuket Town tours.
• Walking in Old Town (2011)
• Phuket Photo Walk 2010
• Phuket Town Photo Walk 2009
Take a hike ...
Phuket is not a hikers paradise. There's very little in the way of trails. I have done a couple of longer hikes recently using back roads and rubber plantation trails. You can also hike at the waterfalls a bit, or you can go to several places where many locals gather to exercise in the late afternoon. Or a nice walk in old Phuket Town - see links above.
• Hike up to the Big Buddha
• Hiking to the highest point in Phuket
• Walk at Promthep Cape
• Bang Wad Reservoir
Some easier places to stretch your legs...
• Chalong Jetty
• Suan Luang Park in Phuket Town
• Sapan Hin Park in Phuket Town
Festivals in Phuket
If you happen to be here at the right time of year... Songkran is April 13th, Loy Kratong sometime in November (it's a lunar festival, so dates change), and the amazing Phuket vegetarian festival is sometime around early October. Unmissable.
• Phuket Festivals - Introduction
• Phuket Vegetarian Festival Information
• Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2012
• Songkran - 2009 Photos in Patong
• Loy Krathong
Much more to come as time goes by... I need way more blogging time! I try to add to this blog at least weekly. Bookmark Jamie's Phuket now if you're planning a trip to Phuket sometime in the future!
Phuket Hotels - Where to Book?
Besides planning what to do in Phuket, you'll surely need a place to stay. There is some hotel information on this blog, including many hotel reviews - see Recommended Phuket Hotels. There's also a Top 10 Phuket Hotels list (updated in 2013) based on web reviews. For hotel booking or just to check rates, reviews and availability, check Agoda.com for the best rates and easy to use online booking.
A few more things.... Here's a few weblinks to attractions that are not on the Phuket blog. Some are rather touristy and I am not sure if I will ever visit, some I just have not got round to yet, some will certainly be blogged sometime!
Simon Cabaret Show
Phuket Bungy Jump - used to live near here and we know the owners well. I am too scared to jump!
John Gray Sea Canoe - look out, I plan to go on one of these trips sometime!
Flying Hanuman
Ask Easy Day Thailand about booking any of the above or other trips (say Jamie sent you!)
Tour Booking
If you want to book a tour, hire a boat, play golf, go fishing, snorkeling or pretty much anything... some friends of mine recently opened a company called Easy Day Thailand who can help you. The emphasis is on personal service - you can contact them here:
• Easy Day Thailand - More Information
• Contact Easy Day Thailand (tell them Jamie sent you!)
Things to do in Phuket - Places to see - Attractions
There are many more so called attractions than can be mentioned here. I prefer the natural beauty of Phuket - small beaches, views, quiet back streets, laid back seafood restaurants and so on rather than organised tourist fun, but the more I think about it, the more I realise how much Phuket has to offer... After many years here, we're still doing new things! There's a lot of stuff to do in Phuket!
• Racha Yai (Raya) Island Tour
• Phang Nga Bay (Doing it Our Way!)
• Khao Sok National Park
• Phuket Fantasea
• Koh Tachai Island
• Things to do with Kids in Phuket
• Things to do when it Rains
• Phuket Museums - Introduction
• Phuket Waterfalls - Introduction
• Splash Jungle Water Park
• Koh Panyee (in Phang Nga Bay)
• James Bond Island
• Mini Golf at Bang Tao Beach
• Yoga Classes in Phuket
• Phuket Aquarium
• Day Trip to Koh Yao Noi with Mopeds
• Phuket Butterfly Garden
• Gibbon Rehabilitation Project
• Kayaking in the Mangroves
• Elephant Trekking
• Speedboat charter / island hopping
• Phang Nga Bay Boat Trip (2007)
• Thalang National Museum
• Phuket Thai Hua Museum
• Phuket Seashell Museum
• Phuket Tin Mining Museum
• Phuket Philatelic Museum
• Phuket Zoo
•• Dino Park Mini Golf
• Phuket Weekend Market
• Phuket Indy Market
• Karon Temple Market
• Phuket Wake Park
• Explore Old Phuket Town
• Day Trip to Phi Phi
Scuba Diving in Phuket
Well, diving is why I came here in 1999, and I am manager of a dive shop called Sunrise Divers, we're based in Karon Beach. There are a few diving related posts on this blog about the dive sites and diving options available. If you want to learn how to dive, take a liveaboard dive trip, a day trip or anything diving related, you can contact me at Sunrise Divers.
• Sunrise Divers - see you there!
• Scuba Diving in Phuket
• Liveaboard Diving in Phuket
• The Similan Islands
Waterfalls in Phuket
Don't be expecting too much from the waterfalls in Phuket. I've read some guide books and online guides suggesting fantastic jungle cascades.. well, not as such. Nevertheless, there are several small waterfalls and they do serve to get you some fresh air, a bit of jungle time and some exercise.
• Bang Pae Waterfall
• Tonsai Waterfall
• Kathu Waterfall
• Ton Prai Waterfall
Go to watch the Football!
Phuket FC got promoted last season to Division 1 of the Thai national league, home games are normally on the weekend during the season, great fun if you are a football fan, better than watching the boring English Premier League on TV! More information :
• Watching Phuket FC (2012)
• Watching the Footie - Phuket FC (2010)
There is so much to see and do in Phuket. It's not just beaches and organised tours. This is a big island. Get out and explore! I suggest at least one of the following:
• Get up some Hills and Viewpoints such as:
• The Big Buddha
• Kata / Karon Viewpoint
• Rang Hill
• Cape Phromthep
• Visit one of the many Temples in Phuket - among the most popular are:
• Chalong Temple
• Wat Phra Tong
• Karon Temple
• Get a boat trip to a nearby Island - try these:
• Koh Kaew Yai
• Koh Yao Noi
• Koh Rang Yai
• Go and Explore Phuket Town - I always find something of interest there...
• Phuket Heritage Trails - Phuket Town tours.
• Walking in Old Town (2011)
• Phuket Photo Walk 2010
• Phuket Town Photo Walk 2009
Take a hike ...
Phuket is not a hikers paradise. There's very little in the way of trails. I have done a couple of longer hikes recently using back roads and rubber plantation trails. You can also hike at the waterfalls a bit, or you can go to several places where many locals gather to exercise in the late afternoon. Or a nice walk in old Phuket Town - see links above.
• Hike up to the Big Buddha
• Hiking to the highest point in Phuket
• Walk at Promthep Cape
• Bang Wad Reservoir
Some easier places to stretch your legs...
• Chalong Jetty
• Suan Luang Park in Phuket Town
• Sapan Hin Park in Phuket Town
Festivals in Phuket
If you happen to be here at the right time of year... Songkran is April 13th, Loy Kratong sometime in November (it's a lunar festival, so dates change), and the amazing Phuket vegetarian festival is sometime around early October. Unmissable.
• Phuket Festivals - Introduction
• Phuket Vegetarian Festival Information
• Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2012
• Songkran - 2009 Photos in Patong
• Loy Krathong
Much more to come as time goes by... I need way more blogging time! I try to add to this blog at least weekly. Bookmark Jamie's Phuket now if you're planning a trip to Phuket sometime in the future!
Phuket Hotels - Where to Book?
Besides planning what to do in Phuket, you'll surely need a place to stay. There is some hotel information on this blog, including many hotel reviews - see Recommended Phuket Hotels. There's also a Top 10 Phuket Hotels list (updated in 2013) based on web reviews. For hotel booking or just to check rates, reviews and availability, check Agoda.com for the best rates and easy to use online booking.
A few more things.... Here's a few weblinks to attractions that are not on the Phuket blog. Some are rather touristy and I am not sure if I will ever visit, some I just have not got round to yet, some will certainly be blogged sometime!
Simon Cabaret Show
Phuket Bungy Jump - used to live near here and we know the owners well. I am too scared to jump!
John Gray Sea Canoe - look out, I plan to go on one of these trips sometime!
Flying Hanuman
Ask Easy Day Thailand about booking any of the above or other trips (say Jamie sent you!)
Things to Do in Phuket - Tours - Attractions - Days Out | Jamie's Phuket Blog
Comments on Things to Do in Phuket - Tours - Attractions - Days Out
Please do add your comment or ask a question
Hi Jamie,
I have to choose between phang nga white water rafting+ elephant trekking or Khaolak rafting + safari for a day. Which one is better?
They sound almost exactly the same... but I would not miss Phang Nga Bay.
I am definitely going to visit phang nga bay by cruise but just wanted ur opinion abt the rafting. hich is the best place, khao lak or phang nga river
I do not know. I have not been rafting here... have been on the Zambezi, in Chile and in Wales... My best answer is that the two options you have are the same.
Further questions by email!
Hi Jamie! Chanced upon your website whilst looking for information on Phuket.
I will be living in Patong Beach Hotel during my trip to Phuket, and I will like to take some pictures reflecting Phuket's characteristic urban/city architecture, people and culture.
Will Old Phuket Town be a good choice? Is it "urban/city" enough? Also, how far is it from where I am staying?
Also, any other suggestions?
THANKS!
Old Phuket Town is certainly the place to go.
Old Phuket Town
Thanks Jamie! A few more quick questions.
How far is Old Phuket Town from Patong Beach Hotel? Will it take half a day's journey?
Also, any other places around Old P.T.(doesn't have to be around as well) that you recommend?
ANDm anything that I shouldn't miss while staying in Phuket?
Lastly,I want to see some temples at Wat Chakong. Is this area very far as well?
Sorry, need help here, as I am going to plan an itineary :)
Phuket Town about 20 minutes drive from Patong beach. Chalong Temple about 25 minutes. Get a map when you arrive! Plenty more temples too, see:
Phuket Temples
Hi Jamie,
Will be visiting Phuket in September and will be staying in Kata Beach. Is it difficult to get to Phang Nga Bay from our hotel in Kata beach? Do u know what will be the best mode of transportation to take and average cost?
Thanks.
Hi Jamie,
Fristly let me congratulate you on an excellent blog. I will be visiting Phuket in Mid Nov on nmy honeymoon. I have booked a hotel in Phang Nga bay and after that in Patong beach. Just wanted a piece of advice from you, that soon after arriving at the airport how can i reach the phang nga bay from the airport and the average cost i have to pay. Please guide me about the land and sea tranfers. Thanks!!
Hi Jamie,
I'll be visiting Phuket in November, and was wondering if you can recommend any beachfront places that are reasonable? Also, should I book in advance or would it be ok to just show up?
Thanks!
Phuket Hotel Recommendations
Book ahead if you are sure of your dates. See:
Phuket Hotels at Agoda.com
Hi Jamie,
Im staying in phuket for 10 days in december. Where do i go for a good time? I want some funnnn nightlife, dancing, drinking etc etc etc :)
also, where do i get the best designer rip offs in phuket, its always been more expensive than bangkok i found.. but i know theres a few golden spots. any suggestions?
Louise
Well, Louise, this blog is not really about nightlife, dancing, drinking and rip offs, but if you want to come all the way to Thailand for that, then Patong Beach is the place for you. I suggest Club Lime for dancing. Have never been myself, since I dance like a hippo.
hey jamie...
me and sum of my gurl friends are planing to visit phuket end of this month & we are in our early 20s. wer r mostly intersted in swimming and sun bathing, beach activities and the night life and shopping!
was wondering is the weather good at this time?
am in interested in patong beach and i cant really find a suitable hotel for abt 40 to 50 US DOLLARS!
i need a very clean hotel! do you know any?
Hi Jamie,
Me and a couple of friends will be heading over to phuket in dec and we will be staying over at Kata beach. We plan to head over to Phang Nga and phi phi for some of their tours, any recommendations? Also, should we book online beforehand or is it best to go over there and check them out instead? Are there any interesting things to do around kata beach too? Thanks.
Hello Jamie, been trying to find a search button on the website but with no luck, so don't know if you have this on your site. If you want a nice quiet day out do go take a look at Ao Po (Po Bay). Turn off at Heroines monument and nice peaceful (yes peaceful!!) drive through little muslim villages, nice forest land. There's a whopping great mosque being built near Ao Po - it looks like it'll be a fabulous looking building when finished. Turn off by the mosque for the pier, some eateries and nice views. You won't find any girlie bars at this end of the island (but you can still get a beer!). Further round from the mosque turnoff, take directions to the Chandara resort. Next to it is a new marina being built. Some terrific views of Phanga Nga bay from the marina itself. Just pretend you're looking for a berth for your superyacht!
Sure the whole Northeast of Phuket has some great scenery. Ao Po was nicer some years ago, but it's starting to get new houses/villas/appartments now.. still quiet.. have not really considered an "Ao Po" blog page. We like to drive around the Bang Rong/Bang Pae area. A couple of restaurants we like around there - Bang Pae Seafood and the floating restaurant at Bang Rong. That whole area is "another Phuket" I agree.
Hi Jamie,
I have read your site with great interest. However, I still have some queries which could not be answered. Can you help? Appreciated.
(1)We plan to book a day trip around Phuket(Phang Nga,Khao Sok National Park, etc) and another day trip around Krabi(Krabi National Park,Hong Island,etc). Which will be a cheaper alternative? To book on-line from tour agent in advanced or book it when I am in Phuket? We will be arriving in Phuket on 12th Jan morning and our trip is on 13th and 14th Jan.
(2) How about renting a car to drive up to these interesting places (Phang Nga,Khao Sok,Ao Nang,etc)? Will it be more cost effective than to book a tour trip?
(3) We will travel to Phi Phi Don on 15th Jan and back to Phuket on 18th Jan. Should we book the ferry ticket in advanced (on-line) or to book it when we arrived in Phuket on 12th Jan? We would prefer a cheaper alternative.
Thanks!
Hi Darren,
Wish I had time to answer!
Quickly - book everything here at a travel agent or your hotel. Day trips to Phang Nga and Krabi not expensive, Driving a car is nice, but you cannot drive a car on the water. Book ferry ticket when you get here also. And I would worry more about quality than cheaper, cost effective, cheaper. :)
Hi Jamie,
That case, I shall leave the rest of outstanding "items to do" when we arrived in Phuket. I've just compared the on-line pricing and buying it directly through the hotel/tour agent in Phuket. It costs more for on-line booking. Thanks for the invaluable advice.
Cheers.......Darren
Hi Jamie,
We are a family of 6 who are coming in APril. WE are in our twenties together with our parents and spouse.
What are the things to do since we have only 4 days in Phuket. Have not make any reservation on where to stay and we are on a budget.
Any advise? My parents love shopping and eating while my husband and I love the beach..
Well, really... if the main aims are shopping, eating and beach then you can't go wrong! Hope you might look at this blog a bit for some ideas of things to do OFF the beach. Eating - my only hint is, don't eat at overpriced seafront restaurants with bands playing hits of the 70's. Unless you like that kind of thing. Shopping - Patong or Phuket Town, try Central festival Mall or Jungcelyon mall or the weekend market..
hey Jamie,
juz a quick check with u, weekend market is it something similiar to the chatuchak market over at bangkok ?? meaning only available from friday to sunday? do u know the opening hours & location?? as for the metered taxi in Phuket, max is 3 persons in a taxi??
Thanks
Hi Jamie..
Came across your blog and find it very interesting.. I'm going to phuket in March & will be staying in patong beach.. need recommendations on Muslim restaurants..
Hi Jamie,
I've been viewing your Informaic blog for all the info before i travel to Phuket, just to check with you, basically what is the current price for the tour such as (phi phi and Phang Nga) bcoz most of the site tat i've seems not updated.
Tks
Not sure on tour prices, I don't take tours :) - I think phuket-travel.com will have updated prices, but these tours are so very easy to book when you are here from any tour desk or from your hotel.
Hi Jamie,
I'm travelling to Phuket in late March with my Husband, in-laws and my 11 year old and 1 year old daughters.
We've been to Phuket numerous times without the kids but realise our old antics are now not suitable for a family. I've read a few of your blogs but having a 1 y.o. doesn't allow too much time so I was hoping you could suggest some must do's with the kids ie Phuket Zoo
Also, my youngest is lactose intolerant - this is probably a very naive question but are you aware if lactose free milk is available in the supermarkets?
Appreciate your help,
Cheers Holly
Not sure about lactose free milk - what about soya milk - lots of that available.
As for the 1 year old - we took our kids all over when they were 1, on trips to Phi Phi, Phang Nga Bay, no problem, do it!
:)
Hi Jamie,
My husband and I are planning to visit Phuket this summer we know it is low season but this is the only time we can. I want to ask you when the weather is less rainy in June or by last week of July?
Re: Weather in June and July.
If I had to make a decision I would go for July. You can check weather reports from the last few years on my weather blog:
Phuket Weather Blog
Hi Jamie,
We are visiting phuket in march/april of 2009. we are on somewhat of a budget, what does transport cost, dinner etc.
Very nice and informative site!!!!
Kind regards
Hi Jamie, firstly love your site, I have spent a good few hours pouring over the information here. I have a question regarding the beaches in August. Do you recommend one that perhaps is safer to swim over an other?
Weather in August can be very nice - you may get swimmable beaches. The red flags will fly pretty much all summer as a warning, but some days are obviously better than others. If it looks rough, don't swim except in your hotel pool.
Kata would be better than Karon and I think Nai Yang looks pretty calm most of the time.
A very useful link -
Some Tips on How Not to Drown on your Thai Holiday
hi
I will be visiting Phuket this september, and need massage and nightlife at a budgeted price, any advise
So tempted to leave a reply like "have a w*nk and buy some beers at 7-11"... but when all's said and done, I will delete the comment. Sorry, this is not a nightlife blog :(
Hi,
Your blog has been very informative.
I along with three others are coming to Phuket via superatar virgo cruise on 22 sept.
Want to hire a cab,local shopping, have Thai massage,local vegetarian food.
As the time is short. Please suggest,if possible,the places for these purposes
Raj
Hi Jamie,
A nice website ...and i got many ideas through it thanks for the same will recommend it to my friends .......i will be in phuket along with my wife in late oct 09 and will spend 4 nights ..here ...and then we will move on to Phi-phi...in phuket we will either be at royal paradise hotel or thara patong beach resort ....any idea on which is better in terms of service /cleanliness and overall experience .....as i did not find any mention of these 2 in your site ....hence was wondering...( as both are in the middle of the town--our preference )....also is there a similar blog /site which will throw some light on Phi-phi Island ....thanks in advance for your help !
Regards,
Rah
Hello Rah/Raj,
No there is little mention of Patong Beach on my blog, as it is the most developed and unpretty piece of Phuket. So, which hotel is best? I cannot say. I do have a large section on this blog devoted to hotel recommendations - see here:
Recommended Hotels in Phuket
If you want in-your-face tourism, either of those hotels will do fine, but don't expect to see much of Thailand in Patong.
Phi Phi - I know of no blogger for Phi Phi. Small place. Go and stay a couple of days. Much better than a day trip.
Dear Jamie,
Thank you in advance for the information you are puting on your blog.
It really helps me to plan my holiday in Phuket in the second half of November 2009.
I love the way you write your infomation, and made a few notes about things I want to do.
Besides the things that I am going to visit during the day, I also go visit the nightlife. I do not ask for information, because there are a lot of sites with information. That is why I appriciate your effort to tell other things about Phuket.
Again thank you for your work, and hope that you visit my site about photografie.
When I am back I will let you know what I did.
With much regards,
Roelof Heikens
The Netherlands
www.foto-artiest.nl
My husband and I are travelling to Phuket for 2 weeks in January from Africa - first time leaving the kids behind so are looking for a nice relaxing beach holiday. Have been through the various websites and to be honest there is just so much and lots of contradictions.
Where would you advise to stay?
Hi Shelly,
It's hard to suggest which beach or which hotel would suit you exactly... I'd avoid Patong if you want peace and quiet. Try looking at some of the hotel recommendations on this blog:
• Phuket Hotels
Hi Jamie,
i will be visiting Phuket this coming December and will be staying at JW Marriott with my boyfriend! The tours they provide are atrociously expensive and i was wondering if you can provide any cheaper alternatives and suggestions for a great time! We are 22yrs of age and are up for anything fun and interesting! I would love to visit the Phi Phi islands!
I am the one planning the iterinary but i have no idea where to start or how to get around for that matter! i'm totally overwhelmed by the number of things we could do at Phuket! is it safe to rent a car? can we do that straight at the airport?
Please help! =DDD
Hi Shirleen,
Well this whole website is about things to do... yes if you are staying at the JW Marriott, you would expect tours to be expensive - it's a 5 star resort. It is safe to rent a car assuming you can drive on the left and have an international driving licence. A car gives you a lot of freedom to explore. Tours can be booked at any travel agent anywhere.
Hi Jamie,
Thanks for everything you've put here! I'm visiting Phuket in Dec, after 13 years and your blog's been a big help.
Just want to echo Roelof Heikens' appreciation for all your effort. Great blog!
Cheers,
Jessie
Singapore
Advise on my Phuket TRIP nex Tues 15 dec to Thurs 17 DEc 2009...guys
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i will be taking TIger Airway with my gf nex week 15 dec and i would like to know
1) cheapest and fastest transport to go to
Woraburi Phuket Resort & Spa
198, 200 Patak Road, Karon Beach Muang. (This hotel we staying izzit good?)
For first timer can drive? advise?
I think i touching down around noon and settle down will be late afternoon already.. was thinking of doing all water sports at Phi Phi Island, so the 1st day we will not go..
2) we want to shop, massage, relax during 1st day.. WHich is the best place for guys and girls to shop? many said take cab to Patong (aka Phuket town).
3) Is phi phi island worth to go? or we can do the water sports at KARON, or PATONG??? we want clear sea...
Hi Benjamin,
Karon is much nicer than Patong.... Please note that Patong is not aka Phuket Town.. Patong is Patong, while Phuket Town is the main town in Phuket, not by the beach, much less to do with tourists. Watersports you can find at Karon. Shops - yes, take a cab to Patong.. although Phuket Town also good.
Taxi from airport to Karon - meter cab 500 - 550 Baht, limo around 650 - 700 Baht.
Is Phi Phi worth a trip? Yes.
Happy Travels!
Jamie
hi jamie
we are arriving in phuket 27th dec for a fortnight staying at karon cafe any views on this establishment.realise its budget came last year stayed at jw marriot and spa but spent most days taxiing to karon although top place did not spend much time in rooms.would like to have some recommendation for new years eve we like a drink(mixed company 3 guys 3 girls)and have heard the firework on karon beach good just do not want to be aimlessly walking around looking for somewhere.any organised parties etc thanks steve
Well, Karon Cafe has been there a while, the owner has a new place called Pacific Club also in Karon, food is very good, location very central, a few minutes to walk to the beach. I'm really not sure about organised parties, probably something good at the Pacific Club - fireworks a plenty at Karon - we actually did New Year overlooking Karon on the hill heading up to Big Buddha - you can see a little video here.
hi jamie
thanks for the reply just noticed you work for a dive shop,my brother is padi trained but not dived for about 6 years would it be possible for him to make a dive while we are there as his wife may pay for his christmas present if you can send details of what would be available and cost i would appreciate it
thanks steve
For information on scuba diving in Phuket, please do contact me at Sunrise Divers - email info@sunrise-divers.com.
Hi. Your pages are fab! So much info I don't have time to read it all. We are hoping to visit Phuket, probably Karon, in August. We will want to do at least 3 days diving. Would you be able to suggest a good dive company? Also i am worried about weather and sea conditions in August. Would it be better on the West or East side of Phuket for a smooth sea? Or should we be thinking about a different time of year? Hope you get chance to answer this but if you dont, keep up the good work.
August - plenty of diving, seas can be bouncy but also can be calm. It IS low season, but we get lots of nice days in August - check my Phuket Weather Blog.
Diving - Sunrise Divers at Karon Beach - I am manager there - we'll be open every day. Best to play it by ear, no need to book dive trips in advance in August, they will not be fully booked. Just come to see us here!
Hi Jamie,
First of all, Excellent work with respect to Phuket website for all details...
We are a band of 3 guy's coming to Phuket for 3days ( 2 nights ).
Can you please suggest us which Hotel to Stay in ( nearest to all) & any some interesting adventures in Beach & want to njoy Nightlife.!
Temple might be one we can see depending on Tym.
I think in 2 nights, 3 days , we cant visit Krabi islands right !
Can you please give response to my queries..
Thanks
Siv.
Hi Siva your blog says you are a 63 year old Astrology researcher and you want a bit of nightlife, eh! So stay in Patong, book a couple of tours, 2 nights is too short to see much of Phuket, no time for Krabi, you are right. Just enjoy a holiday and try to come for longer next time. This blog is all about things to do in Phuket but I won't try to suggest particular things for you, it is totally up to you dependning on what interests you. Have a good stay!
Hi Jamie,
My family will be visiting Phuket in Febuary. We are planning on snorkelling whilst on the Phi Phi island tour. Is the Box jellyfish a realistic threat when snorkelling?
Thanks.
Hi bagga.
No.
Hi Jamie, great blog! We will be heading to Bang Tao for a friends wedding in May this year. My friends want to do some diving, probably a day trip. Two of them are certified, one is not. Do you have any reccomendations for dive courses and dive trips?
Also can you tell me how much a taxi from Bang Tao to Phuket would cost and how long it would take? I heard it was about 24km from Phuket.
Laura
Hi Laura,
You can contact me at Sunrise Divers - email info@sunrise-divers.com - for diving information. May is low season, but hopefully we'll get some good weather. Trips to Racha Yai island are suitable for certified divers and for people wanting to try diving for the first time. Yes, Bang Tao around 25km from Chalong Bay, where the trips depart from, pick up can be arranged from there @ 300 Baht per person (return trip) if booking a trip with Sunrise Divers.
FRANKIE HERE FROM SINGAPORE
Hi there jamie, I'm going to travel to phuket on the 13 april with 6 other friends till 16 april. (we are aged 19 to 20)
We are staying at blue marine resort, is it good?
No ping pong shows for us, we would like to do stuff that are fun. any recommendations???
I was thinking about renting motorbikes or car, how much does it costs? Where could i get cheap rentals?
The Blue Marine Resort is out of Patong, though some reviews say it's still noisy.
What to do in Phuket? Keep reading the blog!
Jamie, We are at Sawasdee for 10 days from April 25. Is there a nice tour to see elephants that we could do?
Shelley
Hi Shelley - I guess you want some elephant trekking? There are no tours just to see elephants unless you count the zoo :) There are no wild elephants here. There's an elephant trekking story on this blog:
• Elephant Trekking in Phuket
I can recommend Kok Chang Safari.
Hi Jamie,
Loved your site..very informative and interesting..I wanted to ask u if Phuket is a good place to celebrate Honeymoon? Hows the weather in last week of July? Can you suggest nice plan for 5-6 days?
Thanks n love,
Priyanka
Hi Priyanka,
Phuket - Honeymoon. Bingo! Just keep away from Bangla Road in Patong Beach, OK? Find a nice secluded resort.
Weather - well, we're entering low season now. July will have some sun, some rain, days can be beautiful or grey or sometimes not very nice at all. On the really not nice days, you can just stick to the honeymoon activities ;)
For a 5 - 6 day plan, I forwarded your email to Easy Day Thailand - your Phuket personal travel agent, sure they can suggest a list of activities for you. They are good guys.
Hi Jamie
Im wanting to go to Phuket in late August for a relaxing week but am not sure how to arrange what I want.
I'd like to say in a bungalow or hotel (around 4 star) and spend a fair bit of time sitting around relaxing and reading, but I also want to break this up with some meditation and yoga sessions and maybe some thai cooking classes.
Can you recommend the best place to get this combo of activities? I dont want to go to a "spa" as these are usually too expensive (and herbal). Im a bit too practical to enjoy a spa retreat.
Any advice appreciated.
Rob
Hi Rob,
Well, for hotels in low season you can get some great deals, like around 1000 Baht per night for very nice places by the beach with pools and lots of space to relax. You may find that LateStays is a good place to book.
Yoga - a friend of mine is an Ashtanga Yoga instructor - you can contact Rebecca for private lessons at rebeccaantrobus@yahoo.com.
Cooking - there are some cooking schools in Phuket, easy to Google them, but again, I have some friends who can help - contact Ingo and Diego at Easy Day Thailand - Ingo's wife Kung and Diego's wife Ann can help!
Hope that helps! Enjoy Phuket,
Jamie
Hi Jamie,
I'll be going to Phuket for 4nights by the end of this month. I would like to know if you have any suggestion for a budget hotel in Patong beach that can accomodate 1 person only and safe. I noticed most of the hotel provide a room at least for 2person and I want to save my budget. I also would like to know if you know any tour to Phanga bay for reasonable price for 1 person. I checked on the web site, most of them a totally ripped off price.
You can reply me on my email if you prefer, norbaria@gmail.com
Thanks!!
Hi Berry,
Well, yes, hotel rooms normally do accommodate more than 1 person, but you can still book a room for 1 person, I don't think hotels have like extra small rooms with 1 small bed or something.. Patong, you really want to stay there? Kata or Karon much nicer - have a look at LateStays.com for low rates, nice hotels for 1000 Baht or less in low season.
Phang Nga Bay - well, what is your idea of a rip off price?! I suggest you contact my friends at Easy Day Thailand for tour advice.
Have a good trip!
Hi Jamie,
Thanks for a informative site.
We are visiting Phuket in Aug Sep and staying in Hilton Karon Beach.
Please write something on water sports like water bikes,banana boat etc in Kata Beach or Karon Beach.
Thanks
Srikanth
Hi Srikanth,
Hope you enjoy your stay. You can find people doing banana rides, renting Jet Skis and doing paragliding at Karon or Kata Beach if the weather is good enough. It's not something I plan to write about in detail on this blog, as the blog looks more at the things that interest me, and banana rides are not my cup of tea! In low season (August/September) the waves can be too big for that kind of activity, though. For other interesting things to do, you can ask Easy Day Thailand - they can set you up with trips, ATV rides, elephant trekking, cooking classes, anything you want!
Hi how about visit the Soi dog foundation shelter in the north. They have 300 dogs and always looking for folk who have time to walk a few or play with them, or if the heat gets too much sit in the shade and pat, or cuddle a pupp. IOf you like you can even take one home!
Doggone
Hi Jamie
We are heading back for the 3rd year in a row to Phuket and have again visited your site for inspiration on what to do. could you please tell me more about the 'Bamboo Rafting' you did as we would love to do this somewhere. Also where is the best Elephant trekking experience. So much to do. Thanks Joanne and Pat
Hi Joanne and Pat,
I think you already sent an enquiry to Easy Day Thailand about tours - they can help!
The Bamboo Rafting pictures which I link to on the blog.. this was not in the Phuket area, it was in Phato, which is about 300km from Phuket. I think there are similar things available in Khao Sok though, and there is certainly white water rafting and elephant trekking.
Have fun!
Jamie
Hi Jamie
love your site!
My partner and I are planning to get married in Phuket,do you know of any cheap places. I know most of the hotels do packages as such but some are quite pricey. Maybe you have heard of some good ones through the grapevine. Thanks
Take care
Linda
Hi Linda,
Thanks for your message. I personally don't know of any cheap wedding packages, but I have a friend who is a photographer and she often does weddings - Gina may have an answer for you and certainly can do some very nice photos for you - have a look at : Gina Smith Photography :)
Hi Jamie
I really enjoyed reading your blog. Thanks for all your sharings.
I was actually deciding betw BKK and Phuket but after reading yr blog entries, I wish I am in Phuket right now!
My family (includg 2 chd) plans to visit Phuket in mid Nov, is it rainy season?
Wd appreciate if you cd advise where wd be a gd and central place for us to stay (we love Thai food, markets and beaches).
Thanks!!
Bee
Hi Bee,
Phuket is great if you really get out and explore. Local markets everywhere, Thai food everywhere - best place for that is Phuket Town, but that's not by the beach. Patong is tourist central, hard to find anything authentic there or at any of the main beaches really. Before tourism, very few people in Phuket lived in those areas you see. I'd suggest looking for hotel around Kata or Karon beaches.
Heyo Jamie.
awesome blog DEFINATELY WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR. Me and my boyfriend coming into Patong on the 18th Oct from Durban South Africa, we are both very adventurous and would love to know the best places to shop as well as if ther are any festvals between 18 - 30 Oct and any suggestions, beaches etc... i appreciate your help. Regards Cyndi
Hi Cyndi,
Thank you for your comment - suggestions of things to do - see this page! Festivals, not that I know of right now, you just miss the vegetarian festival which ends on the 17th. Beaches - not Patong! Anywhere else is nicer! See beaches section on this blog. Tours and such - see top of this page for link to Easy Day Thailand, travel company who are good at doing things off the beaten track. Best shopping - well, Phuket Town in the old town, or the Weekend market or the big malls like Jung Ceylong in Patong or Central Festival near Phuket Town, depends what you are shopping for ...
hi Jamie
We are renting a car for 4 days for a trip around Khao Lak, Krabbi etc. Is there any sense to hiring a 4WD, i.e. do I need to to see the sights?
Also any rental companies to stay away from? Looking at DavidCarRent, ThaiRentaCar,Braun Rentacar and Andaman Rentacar. My email is hongkiwi@gmail.com, if you prefer to answer there.
Thanks
Hi Ramon,
Hiring a car very good idea. No need for 4WD, I drive all over Phuket and Phang Nga in a Honda City :)
I have not heard any horror stories on car hire companies, so just pick one that you like :)
There are also Hertz and Budget in Phuket and I have rented from Sutin Car Rent before.
Have a great trip!
Jamie
hi jamie,im going to visit thailand in december with 9 nights in hand.so we spend 3 nights in bangkok and we are wondering whether to spend 3 nights in phuket and 3 nights in krabi or 4 in phuket and 2 in krabi or vice versa.what would u suggest?
Hi Jamie,
This has been sooo helpful!!!
We're planning on coming in November.
Just wondering what the policy is on photograpy around most places eg. temples etc.
Hi Ravtej
Less time in Bangkok, more in Phuket!
Photography - as much as you want, just do respect people and not shove lenses in their faces or get in peoples way if they are at a temple for prayers - this blog has a whole Phuket Temples section - there are lots of temples here!
hello Jamie.. stumbled to your site accidentally, would like to say its very helpful.. I'll be in Phuket from Nov. 6-11.. my first time in Thailand too.. contacted Easy day Thailand and book a tour (will go for more tours if the weather is good).. I will be staying in Anantara villas in Mai Khao, so quite far from everything.. Decided to rent a car to explore more the place by land in case it will rain a lot.. Please advise if it's better to book online in renting a car.. I've been going through your page but haven't seen you mentioning about rent a cars in Phuket..Thanks for your insights :)
Hi Peaches, Booking/reserving a car before you get there saves a lot of hassle, especially as you are staying at a rather remote hotel. Can also get one at the airport, where you find 4 different car rental desks in the arrivals hall, I think you can also ask Easy Day Thailand about car rental. Hard for me to recommend a particular rental agency, I don't rent cars myself, and they all charge about the same price.
Thanks Jamie.. I've sent an email to one of the car rentals also based in Mai Khao. Just one more thing, for us new comers will it be hard to find/drive our way to other areas (Patong, Kata, Karon)? The car rental I've found they are offering GPS for additional THB 200/day, do you think this is really useful and a good deal? Or an ordinary Phuket map will be sufficient? Thanks once again :)
Map will be enough, and anyway half the fun of exploring is to get off the main road, get lost, find something that nobody else ever found, and then find your way back home :)
I have never ever considered using a GPS anywhere in the world. Ok, might be useful in the Sahara desert following camel tracks which blow away in the wind, but Phuket has roads, signs, maps etc... Have fun! And remember to drive on the left and look out for crazy people on mopeds.
Dear Jamie,
You may find that my question may be strange.
Do you know any Burmese who are living in Phuket?
Sorry to bother you.
Sandra
Yes, I do find that a strange question. There are thousands of Burmese in Phuket working as labourers or living illegally, can't say I know any of them personally.
Hie Jamie,
Great blog you have here.
I was wondering if it is possible to travel budget to Phuket?
Like say, how can one maximise SGD$300 just on activities for about, 5 days?
Thanks!
Hi Ain,
Well, tours tend to be more than that budget - 300 Sing is only about 7500 Baht, or 1500 per day - easily enough for accommodation and food, you can rent a moped for 200 Baht per day to go explore, but organised tours for a day are more in the region 2 - 3000 Baht depends what you want to do. I wrote something about Low budget accommodation in Phuket already. Tours and activities, best people to contact are Easy Day Thailand - tell them Jamie sent you. They can advise on something to suit your budget :)
Hi Jamie - What is the best way to get from Karon Beach to the airport? It cost us 500 bahts from the airport via a metered taxi. However, we can't spot any metered taxi here. Someone quotted us 800 bahts. Is that reasonable?
Taxis ... not a subject I want to comment on. I am sure you can find someone to take you for less than 800. I think the taxis outside my dive shop quote 650. Meter taxis are not "allowed" to pick up guests from beaches. I will not use the M word. For 800 you can hire your own jeep for the whole day! (http://www.sutincarrentals.com/sutincarrentalsprices.html)
Hi Jamie,
Wow, this is fantastic. Thank you for creating this amazing site which is so resourceful. Jamie where do you recommend to get clothes and shoes made in patong that are reliable and make them on a time.
Regards
Steve Eagle
Hi Steve Eagle ..
I have never had clothes or shoes made... I am sure someone could give some advice on the TripAdvisor Phuket forum. I get my clothes from regular shops or markets....
Hi, Jamie!
This site is really a treasure! I hope I will not bother you with uestions of no interest:
I have to be in HongKong btw 11-16 April, coming from Europe.
Having to fly all this distance to Asia, I am thinking to add a week or so to have some diving and good time in a new place. As I have never been to Thailand I am looking to Phuket as a good destination (fair price airplane from HK and back) nice diving (4 days safari to Similian?) and some 2-3 days on land.
As you are involved in the diving business, can you reccomend something during 3-11 April?
Regards,
Ladislau
Lcsorba@gmail.com
Hi Ladislau,
I will send you an email via Sunrise Divers - email info@sunrise-divers.com. Can certainly help with a liveaboard and day trip diving,
Cheers
Jamie
Hi Jamie, I am coming to Phuket end of June with husband & 2 boys ages 5 & 8. I am wondering if it is safer boat trip on the seas to phang nga bay or phi phi during monsoon season? Also can you do jungle/wildlife tours without riding an elephant? I am concerned about our safety & of cruelty to the elephants? I love these wild creatures & don't want to risk exploiting them in anyway.
Hi Bec
We've done plenty of trips by boat at all times of year with our kids since they were very small. Not something I'd worry about too much. Jungle tours with no elephants - sure I think so... for tours try asking Easy Day Thailand.
Thanks Jamie, I have been in touch with Easy Day Thailand & will book a tour with them once we arrive. Can't wait......
Dear Jamie,
I hope to return to Phuket in June this year for a month or so, and would like to explore [hire car booked] as well. I was thinking of getting a GPS, given that I don't read Thai road signs and that many exciting places are often not sign-posted. I was thinking of getting something like a Garmin hand-held. Do you have any experience of GPS in Phuket please?
By the way, your blog is fantastic - I will stop by an say "hello" in person at the Sunrise office in Karon beach...
Thanks in advance,
Clive
Car Hire - great idea. GPS - no idea! I have never used or needed one in my life. Almost all signs in Phuket are also in English, the roads are decent and half the fun with having your own car is folowing back roads to see where they go! Just get a map and go!
hi jamie,
I ll be in phuket from 4th june to 10th june with my wife and 3 yr Son. I m planning to hire a car ? I hav a valid Driving Licence from my country . Do I require an international Driving licence?
Hi Prash,
I am not 100% sure if the law states that you definitely need an International licence, but I would get one, yes. Better.
Hi Jamie,
I plan to come to Phuket with my boyfriend for 4 days and will be staying at the Westin (which i understand is far from everything else), would like to venture out at some point to have a look at Patong, Karon, Kata etc and perhaps visit a spa... should I hire a driver or rent a car?
Yes, the Westin Siray Bay Resort is nicely out on a limb away from the main tourist beaches and in my opinion one of the main reasons to stay there is you don't have to visit the main tourist beaches! There is nothing to "see" at Patong except tourism and tourists, better go explore Phuket Town, take a trip to Phang Nga Bay or Koh Yao Noi, or snorkeling at Racha Yai ... no reason to hit the main beaches, honestly.. For tours, trips, excursions, car rentals, drivers for a day, check with my friends at Easy Day Thailand - they can fix you up with just about anything you need :)
great blog, you are definitely a Phuket pro & great at that. I am traveling to Phuket for 4 days with a friend begining sept and will stay in Evanson resort, Rawai. Love nature and relaxing but want to see the best of everything Phuket has to offer (shopping & maybe a night out for his b'day). Will be hiring a bike (and helmets) to go around safely. What places and things to do would you recommend. I am a little tight on budget so want to spend wisely abd make the best of the trip. Thanks
Hi TG,
Well.. the whole of this blog is really about things to do.. take your choice :) - Evason is great to relax, very quiet. Scooters around that part of Phuket is nice - Rawai beach, Phromthep Cape, Naiharn beach, the Karon viewpoint... Lots to see in a small area.
A day trip to Phang Nga Bay is not to be missed - see Phang Nga Bay - Doing it Our Way.
Hi Jamie, i will be in phuket next month for 8 days! Can u recommend me some nice places and things to do?
The things on my list is: visit scenery, cave, waterfall, elephant trekking, crocodile show, 1 day water sport/beach, island hopping, shopping, spa, massage, nightlife.
thanks!
Hi zhizhong,
For all those activities, contact my friends at Easy Day Thailand for help - have a great time in Phuket!
Hi Jamie,
Don't know if you've been asked this before but could you recommend some places to go for a single female traveling alone? I've heard that it's easier to stay in Patong as I can walk almost everywhere and not have to worry about taking taxis. This will be my first time in Phuket. I saw the pictures of the monks and the temples and it was beautiful. This will be a relaxing, break from the hectic city, indulge in my amateur photography trip. Any advice would be great!! PS: I;m not sure how much to budget for the trip. Thanks, Di
Hi Di,
I would not stay in Patong - es you can walk everwhere in Patong, but not all over the island. Phuket is 540 square km, it's 15km from Patong to Phuket Town, 8km to Karon Beach, 40km to the airport.... if you like photography and Monks and temples - stay in Phuket Town .. OK there's no beach, but you do get a taste of real Thai life that you will NOT get in Patong and from the town you can get a local bus to Patong or Karon or Kata or anywhere on the island - local buses depart from outside the main market on Ranong Road.
Suggested otels in Phuket Town
Hi Jamie,
Thanks for the info. I might spend a night or two in Phuket Town. And maybe a night somewhere else closer to the beach. :) Will read your blog posts for more info. Thanks so much!!
Cheers,
Di
Hi Jamie,
My wife and I will be staying at Karon Beach, and I can't determine if I should hire a car or use taxis and public transportation? We will be in Phuket for 2 weeks.
Thanks,
DE
Hi DE,
Taxis from the airport are decent, meter taxi to Karon about 500 Baht - remember its about 45km. For getting around, once you're at Karon Beach, there is NO public transport except local bus running to Phuket Town and back. Hiring a car is a good idea. The roads are generally very good, trafic can be heavy now and then and you have to drive carefully, but driving here is not hard. Give it a try... easy enough to hire a car, just Google *car hire phuket* you'll get lots of options.
Hello Jaimie!
I am currently living in Japan and decided to take my first vacation this Christmas holiday. The travel agent I went to strongly advised Thailand, Phuket specifically. I am female and will be travelling alone so this seemed a bit duanting at first. However, thanks to your blog I feel that my vacation will be a lot more stress free and fun!
I desperately want to go Scuba Diving so I was excited to see that you give lessons. That would definitely be the highlight of my trip. Besides that I want to see plenty of natural Phuket. I will definitely think on booking a tour with Easydaythailand.
I have one question for you if you don't mind answering. I gave myself a budget of around 27000-39000 Bahts. Is this too little for an 11 day trip?
Thank you for your help and your wonderful blog. I hope to see you in Phuket!
Sincerely Nicole.
Hi Jamie,
My company having a company trip on November 27 20011, we will go by star cruise. Cruise will stop by at Phuket for a day from 7am to 5pm.
We have 9 adults and 2 childrens (6 & 8yrs old). We would like to try something different, like travel to the local place of phuket or others interesting places in phuket. We have no idea where the cruise stop at in Phuket, and how to travel the journey. Basically no idea at all.
I really need help.
Wai Theng
Hello Wai Theng - easy solution for you - send a message to Easy Day Thailand - they are very good at this sort of request! Enjoy Phuket :)
Hello,
Thanks for the great info. I will be in Phuket from Thurs Dec 1 to Mon. I have some day trips planned for the weekend. Should I reschedule so that I can visit the weekend market? Are there other markets to visit?
Hello - why would you need to reschedule? The Weekend Market is on Saturday and Sunday afternoons/evenings and that is when you are here, right???
jamie love this blog and i wonder if you can help me with some advice me and the wife will be in phuket about sept probably staying in kata have you any idea how much and how often minibus transfers are to aonang or krabi town thinking of 7 nights phuket and 7 nights aonang at the moment just trying to work out cost many thanks
Hi jazz, you can get a ferry to Krabi every day, its about 900 Baht per person I think... yes can get minibus transfers too.. think you you should ask at tour agent when you are here. Private taxi about 3000 Baht.. Kata Beach to Krabi will take about 3 hours by road :)
Hi, I will be staying in Phuket for one day only. What activities should I do? And any attractions I cannot miss? I think I will get off my cruise ship at some ports near beaches.
Hi Jamie, any recommendation for a 5D4N Phuket trip itineray? I will be travelling with my hubby, 4 years old boy and my parents (>65). Guess we are looking for something relax and easy.
1) Any family friendly hotel/apartment for staying?
2) Should we rent a car and drive?
Anonymous on a cruise ship - you'll have less than a day, suggest you contact Easy Day Thailand for a 1 day tour doing things that interest you.
Jane - If I was a tour agent I'd plan you a 4 night trip, but in reality, what you see and do is up to you, there is a LOT on this blog and a lot not on it too! Also, contact Easy Day for some tours like Phang Nga Bay and an island tour. Rent a car, yes, why not... good idea, Phuket is big and needs exploring to full appreciate it's variety. Hotels - so many to choose from, I always recommend Agoda for info and bookings.
Hi Jamie,
My boyfriend and I are visiting Phuket during the last week of August. We only have 3 full days in Phuket, and we cannot decided on whether to go on a Phi Phi Island tour or Phang Nga Bay tour. We would love to do both, but we are not sure if we can (1) afford it, and (2) have enough time to do other activities if we spend two full days on these tours.
If you had to pick just one of the two - which would you pick? and why?
Thank you!
Miri from Seoul
Hi Miri,
Well... however you look at it, 3 days is not enough! Trips to Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi are 2 of the best days you can do, so why not do both? Not really expensive - ask my friends at Easy Day Thailand for some price. But if I had only 1 day I would certainly do Phang Nga Bay, I love the scenery and Panyee island and if you play it right you can avoid the crowds - ask Easy Day! Next time, come for 2 weeks :)
Dear Jamie, what a great blog you have. Thank you! My husband and I are travelling we our two kinds (4 & 7 years) from Denmark to Phuket in two weeks’ time where we will be staying at Bangtao Beach. We are thinking of going away for a few days to a place with better snorkelling conditions than on Phuket this time a year. Where or how far away would we need to go to find that?
If you could recommend some good sights and local restaurants around the Bangtao area please let me know as well.
Thanks a lot!
Best, Trine
Jamie hey
We going to Bangkok 10 Dec'2012 for 2 days and 10 days to Phuket Karon Beach...we have been to Phuket 2 years ago....but never to Bangkok...
my Husban would like to see the rubber companies,....from start to end is it possible? were do we book?
greetings
Hi Trine,
All depends on the weather. The snorkeling directly off the beach in Phuket is not so great even in high season. Try Phi Phi, try staying at Racha Yai island, and hope for nice weather! Have a look at Phi Phi Hotels and on Racha Yai island, check Raya Bungalows (low budget) or The Racha Resort (high budget).
Hello... what do you mean by "would like to see the rubber companies,....from start to end is it possible?" He wants to see rubber processing? Trees, rubber collection, being made into rubber sheets? I think that's possible - you can ask my friends at Easy Day Thailand about tours ....
Hey Jamie,
My partner and i have booked 10 days at the J W Marriott in Khao Lak and tho we want mainly to kick back we do want to shop and snorkel Phi Phi. Can you tell me can you snorkel in the Similan islands? How easy is it to get to The shopping areas by moped? Do you have any opinions of this hotel? Its fully refundable and we are wondering whether we shouldnt in fact book further south as we want to see Fantasea and other normal touristy stuff
Thanks Shay
Hi Shay,
Khao Lak is more of a place to relax, there's no shopping nearby and doing a trip to Phi Phi from there means a long transfer and a very early wake up call. Khao Lak to the south of Phuket, about a 2 hour drive in good traffic in a nice car. I would not even try that on a moped. I assume you are coming in high season (November-April) if you want to snorkel Similan Islands, there are tours which all depart from Khao Lak. You might consider splitting your stay, 5 nights at the Marriott Khao Lak and 5 nights down in Phuket closer to the shops!
Hi Jamie. I've been reading your blog so thanks for all the advice. I'm currently staying for a week in Karon beach but would like to get out and visit the sites. Unfortunately like a fool I didn't apply for an international driving licence before I came. I have my passport and UK licence but am unsure about risking hiring a car without one. Can you give me any advice please. Thanks.
A lot of old memories there. I lived with my wife and kids in Kathu first, then into Phuket town a year later. We came back to Bangkok the big bad city in 2009. Still miss many things about living there, the kids loved weekends on the beach at Nai Thon and trips to the view points.
I will be down again in a month or so as i have some friends there still. I am looking out for a nice hotel and have been recommended to this place: http://www.patongsawaddi.com/ but to be honest i have no clue about it at all....perhaps you can help in this regard sir?
Thanks
David
Hi David... well, it's not changed so much in 3 years .. I would think you'd have some clue if you lived here for at least a year? Maybe its been tarted up, but that hotel you mention is a very old one, used to be called Vises hotel, I lived round the corner from it in 1999. I have a page of Recommended Phuket Hotels on this blog .. I'd not personally want to stay in Patong, but maybe the friends you are visiting live there? Have a good trip!
hi,
great blog!!
me n wife will b staying at anantara phuket villas @ Mai Khao over the weekend...
what is the best way to travel to phuket town(weekend market)?..by taxi?..whats the rates like?...to n fro...
thank you
raymond
Hi Raymond,
Mai Khao beach is around 50km from Phuket Town and I guess a taxi will charge 1000 Baht each way.
Cheers!
Jamie
Hi Jamie,
Pardon for asking these questions as I don't know where or how to starting search them.
I'm going Phuket this coming Friday, staying at Crystal Inn in Phuket Town I think. My mother's friend is the one doing the planning and booking.
Mainly there for the vegetarian festival. Just to check if there's any night market, shopping and foods near Crystal Inn (if by any chance you know the location of it)
If there is, any idea how do I get there? Are the public transport safe enough for 2 ladies in the night?
Thanks so much. I really appreciate it. My first time going somewhere far for holiday, thus the ignorance ><
Well, Crystal Inn is certainly central for the vegetarian festival, all the morning street processions on 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd will pass just a block away and on the night of the 23rd you are very close to the middle of the last night madness! The main market is full of stalls all week, take you only about 10 minutes or a bit more to walk there. On Fridays there is normally the Indy Market but I am not sure if that's on during the festival. Anyway, around that area, loads of small restaurants and shops.
Thanks so much for your reply, one last question that I missed out.
Are tourists allowed to get a prepaid card for phone? Also, do they have data plan available? How to go about it, do I just get it from any phone store or something?
So sorry for troubling you!
Re :phones .. I am not a tech/phone geek, but for sure you can buy sim cards here with credit, at any mobile phone shop.
Hi Jaime,
Thank you for your Phuket Blog. So much to see and do. This is our first time to Thailand. We are traveling to Phuket in December. We will spend five full days there. Could you recommend your favorite things not to miss while in Phuket. We are two adults and one 16 year old. We don't like touristy spots if we don't have to. We have one diver and two who like to snorkel. I'm also thinking about booking everything with your friends at easy day tours before we go or someone else you would recommend. Good idea? Since time is limited, we just want to enjoy and not have to figure out every day what to do. I know you are busy and I do appreciate your time on our behalf. Thank you and have a good day.
Hi there - yes, indeed you can book anything with Easy Day Thailand. I'd do an overnighter to Khao Sok, a trip to Racha Yai island, a trip in Phang Nga Bay, a tour of Phuket with viewpoints and a temple and a nice seafood lunch, and if you get a trip to Similan Islands, also great!
Hi Jamie,
Thank you so much for your recommendations. Our hotel is already booked and paid for. So, we won't be abel to do an overnight. My husband wants to get at least one-two dives in. Would Similan Islands be the best place? Have a great day.
Hi Jamie,
I just want to thank you for your blog and your recommendations on our recent trip after Christmas. We had a wonderful time in Phuket. Snorkeling and diving in Rach Yai Island, elephant trekking and canoeing in Khao Sok, sailing on the June Bahtra through Phang Nga bay and a lot more. The beauty of everything we saw, the diversity of that area, the lovely Thai people, food, etc. We love the place and want to go back. Most important, your buddies at Easy Day Thailand set all this up for us. Working with all of them was a pleasure. People who are going to Phuket, don't look further. Easy Day Thailand will take care of you. What a great team they are! I also wanted to tell you we stayed at the Aquamarine Resort and Villa in Kamala. We had a good experience with them. The hotel is away from the crowds, the setting is beautiful, 3 different pools, etc. I know there have been some people that haven't been happy there. Prior to going, I e-mailed them and told them I wanted a room on the top floor with a great sea view. That is what we got. If you have never been there, go check them out. The only thing we didn't like was the compulsory gala for New Years eve. Very expensive...but, we heard a lot of the hotels are like this. Loved the lanterns being released New Years eve...so magical. I could go on and on...Thanks Jamie...until next time.
Thanks for the comment Lisa, I am happy that you found some of the real Phuket. Certainly a good idea to contact Easy Day for tours. Happy New Year!
Hi Jamie, I'm planning to go to Phuket for 1st time in next September, and planning to visit some beaches/islands there. Is it better to arrange the tour through agencies in advance or just wait till I get there and book on site ? I heard September will be low season and we will found many interesting discount during this month :)
Is that possible to get a James bond/Phang Nga Bay day tour if Im staying at Phi Phi Island?
Thanks !
Edwin
Hi Edwin,
Well, no need to book now for September that's for sure. Yes, it's low season, so you might get a few discounts. Contact Easy Day Thailand for tours. Yes you can do a Phang Nga Bay tour from Phi Phi.
Hi Jamie
I am going to Phuket for the 5th time and I would like to do somethingh different. In the past I have enjoyed going to Paradise Beach, exploring the island's beaches and generally relaxing. I do not enjoy the commercialised tours etc.. I am going with my family ( 8 of us!!) in August. What would you recommend?
Well, check this page of things to do, see what interests you, and contact Easy Day Thailand for private tours that do their best to avoid the crowds. Ever been to James Bond Island with no other tourists there? ....
Maybe visit and volunteer at Soi Dog Phuket. They do a wonderful job and need help both physically and with donations.
hi jamie
i am visiting phuket for 4 day from 31 June to 4 th would be grateful if you can advise places to visit so can make most of it . phag nag and phi phi is a must i believe i am with my parents kids and other family members. should i book tours earlier or on arrival how to go about the city tours.
regards
Hi Chetan, Given your limited time I would book a few things in advance so you don't waste a day doing booking when you get here :) Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi, Phuket Town Tours, you can book it with Easy Day Thailand. Cheers!
Hi Jamie,
Superb work for anxious travellers..
Could you please advice the best way to go to Samui from Phuket?
Also what are your thoughts on different villas available for rent around the hill of Patong bay
Hey there, I think you asked a couple of questions .. firstly August - it's low season, so the weather is hit and miss. Samui to Phuket - you can book transfers with my travel agent friends at 'Easy Day Thailand'. I am not really an expert myself on villas in Patong, but I know that Easy Day Thailand can help with villa bookings too - and any tours you might want while you are in Phuket ...
• Easy Day Thailand
Hi Jamie,
I have never been to Phuket before and also never blogged before. I am bringing my family from South Africa to Phuket for my wife's birthday in September. I would love to get more info. Is there anyway else I can get in contact with you?
Regards
Jaco
Yes, you can ask questions here or at the Phuket Blog Facebook Page :) Happy Travels!