Thailand's largest island, Phuket (roughly pronounced poo-get) is a popular holiday travel destination with beaches, night life and a rich melting pot of culture and religions. Most flights into Phuket originate from Bangkok via several airlines: Thai Airways (also offering flights from the UK to Bangkok), Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Firefly and Air Asia.
Once you arrive at Phuket's International Airport you will find that the shuttle bus will be the easiest and cost effective way to get where you would like to go. Local buses also run to all major beaches. Other traveling options include taking advantage of the minibus service or taxi.
Phuket high season is in general from November to May, though the island is hot and humid throughout the year. Summer monsoon season brings sunny, clear mornings and afternoons and rainy evenings. Locals consider May through October the "cool season."
The island boast something for everyone from parents with children, beach bums and barflies, catering to all tastes, and budgets. Phuket's 12 beaches are beautiful with white beaches and clear waters. The winding coastal roads offer stunning views and easy access to these fine beaches.
Patong is known as the ideal beach to party and play with hundreds of restaurants, bars and discos centered around Soi Bangla (Bangla Road). Karon Beach is a long stretch of beach offering a quieter environment than Patong without sacrificing a full range of dining and entertainment, including art and sports
If you are looking for a great vacation spot for a family look no farther than Kata Beach, this beach boast not a wild but active night life. The beach has made it possible for many establishments that make the area thrive. There are many other beaches in the Phuket area, however Kata Beach stands out above the rest.
Several smaller islands surrounding Phuket offer unique attractions of their own and are easily accessible by boat. Snorkeling, and diving sites are available as are small quiet beaches and accommodations ranging from the rustic to the exclusive. If you want to get away from the beach, Phuket offers a variety of options. Here are Phuket's own top, must see attractions..
Thai traditional myths are mixed with humor, fantasy into an increasingly amusing plotline. Simon Cabaret is probably the biggest "transvestite" cabaret in the area and features musical floor show performed by the world famous "ladyboys" of Simon Cabaret.Phuket FantaSea Show features aerial trapeze artists, elephants on stage and pyrotechnics in a Las Vegas style-show.
Enjoy sunrise and sunset views from many of the viewpoints east and west of Phuket. Promthep is a popular but spectacular example offering fabulous views over the ocean all the way to the island of Phi Phi on a clear day. Phuket town, the sleepy and provincial capital, offers funky shops to surprise and delight you. The blend of colonial and Chinese architecture highlight the Old Town's quantness.
Let's just say it's nothing like home. Wat Chalong is one of Phuket's most important temples and hosts thousands visitors each year. As Phuket's spiritual center, Wat Chalong has an interesting history.Patong is known for its wild nightlife.An open mind with you as you stroll after dark down Patong's Bangla Road,and bring your sense of humor.
Tom Martens is the content coordinator for bestukflights.co.uk the UK's premier flight and travel comparison portal which includes a detailed section on Travel to Thailand and Fights to Phuket
