Phuket

As an island paradise, Phuket is surrounded by many amazing beaches, hidden gems, and beautiful temples. It will surprise and delight visitors with its lush hills, friendly people, and mouth-watering cuisine. With hundreds of hotels to select from, easy transport options, and countless dining and shopping venues, Phuket caters to every conceivable need.

Phuket is Thailand's largest island, together with 32 smaller islands that make up the southern province of Phuket. Linked to the Thai mainland by the Sarasin Bridge, it is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Andaman Sea” and one of Southeast Asia’s top tourist destinations. Phuket City is the capital of the province and is situated in the southeast of the island. Out of a population of around 437,000 people, the vast majority of them live in and around Phuket City and Patong Beach.

Named after the Malay word bukit, meaning hill, Phuket was an important trading port in the region and noted in history as a major source of tin. Through the centuries, it came under more foreign influences than other parts of Thailand. In the early twentieth century, the expansion of rubber plantations resulted in the clearing of large areas of the island. Then in the 1970s, a burgeoning tourist industry started with the first beach bungalows at Patong beach. Today, almost 10 million visitors come to Phuket each year.

Getting to the island couldn’t be easier as there are many domestic and international flights arriving at Phuket International Airport daily. Visitors can transfer to their final destination by metered taxis or limousine taxis, minivans, airport buses, as well as private hotel transfer and rental cars. Getting around town is also simple and convenient. In addition to reasonably priced taxis, visitors have to option to use authentic local transports like the tuk-tuks, songthaews and motorbike taxis. 

If you are visiting Phuket for the first time, you will soon discover that this island is much more than just about sun, sea, and sand. Explore the colorful lanes and shophouses of old town Phuket, soak up the atmosphere, and indulge in authentic Thai flavors. Be awe-struck by elegant temples like Wat Chalong and Wat Phra Thong. Immerse yourself in the unique local culture and way of life in the Muslim fishing village of Koh Panyee. And last but not least, take the adventure to the go-kart speedway, soccer crazy golf, or Thai box stadium.