Phuket is one of Thailand’s largest islands off the west coast, in the Andaman Sea and 900 km south of Bangkok, Thailand’s capital. The island has about 40kms of beaches and a 100 meter-long bridge connects the island of Phuket to the mainland.
History of Phuket
Over 500 years ago the tin production started in Phuket and made Phuket a wealthy island. The tin production was attractive to Portuguese and British colonial powers. It was also attractive to many Chinese and Malay workers who settled on the island as laborers in the tin mines. Phuket became an attractive mix of cultures and you can still see the Chinese and Portuguese influences in the old town. Phuket also has a solid Muslim community; 35% of the island’s population is Malaysian Muslims.
The Marine Life of Phuket
Phuket is a paradise for water lovers with the amazing beaches, beautiful hills and jungles. The many islands around Phuket and the reefs provide an attractive marine life. There are plenty of water activities, like jet-skiing, scuba diving, windsurfing, water-skiing and parasailing. You can also visit the Phuket Aquarium, the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park and the esteemed Blue Canyon Country Club.
The Andaman Region
Phuket is your ideal starting point to discover the many beautiful islands in the Andaman region. Explore Phang Nga Bay by boat to see the strangely curved rocks in the middle of the sea and the mysterious caves. Visit the famous Phi Phi Island, the Similan Islands AND Racha Islands. The Similans host one of the best dive sites worldwide.
The Inlands of Phuket
But there’s more to Phuket then only the beaches and water life. Take some time to explore the interior of the island to see a bit of Phuket’s remaining rain forest, the rice fields and the rubber plantations. Check out Phuket City with many shops, shopping malls and even a few flea markets and some little handicraft shops. Wander through the streets with Portuguese shop houses which remind you of the island’s inheritance.Phuket City Tour
The Beaches of Phuket
If you want some nightlife, visit Patong on the other side of the island. It has the popular Kata beach, but also the more quiet and relaxed Karon and Surin beaches. At the southern tip of the island you’ll find a great family beach, Nai harn beach. It has a sheltered bay, a large beach and a long shallow sea which is ideal for children. There are plenty of shady spots and restaurants and bars which make this beach a convenient place. Phuket’s best beaches are at the west side of the island, although they can be windy with rough waves.
Getting around by car or bike
Driving around Phuket can be crazy because of the chaotic traffic, the lack of rules and the many drunk drivers. But if you stay in and around the highways, it shouldn’t be so bad. Just watch how the locals drive. The main highway is Rt. 402 which crosses Phuket to connect the important beaches like Patang and Surin and of course the famous and very romantic Sunset Point.