Phuket

Phuket, is a rain forested, mountainous island in the Andaman Sea, with some of Thailand’s most popular beaches, mostly situated along the clear waters of the western shore. The island is home to many high-end seaside resorts, spas and restaurants.

Dubbed the ‘Pearl of the South’ by the tourist industry, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and lies in the Andaman Sea off the country’s south-western coast.

The island is connected to the Thai mainland by a bridge, but has retained a distinct culture fused from Chinese and Portuguese influences combining with the culture of the chao naam, the indigenous sea-faring people.

About 35% of the island’s population is Thai Muslims. The island’s terrain varies from rocky beaches and long, broad sweeps of sand to limestone cliffs and forested hills. It has good beaches, tropical vegetation and a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere, but its ambience and ecology are under pressure from extensive and irresponsible development.

The main resorts include Patong, Karon and Kata, but better beaches are scattered all around the island. Roads radiate from Phuket Town, in the south-east of the island, making it a good base for exploring. Don’t ignore the island’s interior which has rice paddies, plantations of rubber and cashew nut, cacao, pineapple and coconut, as well as Phuket’s last slice of rainforest.

Western: region is what Phuket is known for the world over. There is a wide variety of beaches, some calm, some totally ruined by millions of visitors each year. Patong is one of the party capitals of Asia.

South Eastern: with slightly off-beat beaches that are worth the trip. Chalong Bay is the largest town that acts as a harbour for outgoing boats to Phi Phi island and others south islands.

Interior: besides Phuket Town, the interior of Phuket is pretty much not visited by foreign visitors. This fertile hilly expanse consists of mangrove forests, fishing villages, rubber and pineapple plantations, small Muslim communities and shrimp farms. The Phra Taew National Park is a nice escape from the tourist crowds.