Lying approximately 870 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand's largest island, which is often called the pearl of the south. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South's wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of the southern part of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, Phuket is surrounded by many smaller islands that add a further 70 sq km to its total land area. Phuket is separated from the mainland by the Chong Pak Phra channel at its northernmost point, where a causeway connects the island to the mainland.

There are only two seasons in a year - the summer season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season of phuket is between September and October as they are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average temperatures ranges between 23 C and 33 C.

The most beautiful beaches are found on the West coast, separated by rocky coves and headlands. The east coast comprises limestone shoals with only a few sandy beaches while spectacular limestone islands adorn the horizon. Coral gardens full of exotic marine life dot the emerald waters surrounding the island.

Phuket has a lot more to offer its visitors other than its natural heritage sea, sand, sky, beach, forest, and world renowned diving sites. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell delighting travelers to the city, while Phuket-style hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all walks of life. Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly unique destination.

 

Dining and Entertainment

There are a vast range of places to eat and drink from small local Thai eateries to international standard pubs and restaurants. The local produce is excellent and having your own kitchen affords you the opportunity of shopping in the local markets where you will find an abundance of fresh seafood, fruit and vegetables. In addition there are also the supermarkets Tesco Lotus, Carrefour, Tops and Makro for your everyday needs or if you are missing something from home. If it is bustling nightlife you are looking for the main areas are Patong and Karon, where you can dance the night away to your favourite tunes. If you want something a little quieter then look no further than Surin Beach or Kamala, which has a collection of small bars and restaurants on the waterfront.

Spas

Massage is an ancient form of healing in Thailand and can be found on the beaches or in luxury spas around the island, where you can also find a wealth of rejuvenating body and facial treatments. Alternatively why not let us book your treatments in the privacy of your own villa.

Sports and Sightseeing

Phuket is the place to go sailing and boasts three international marinas, The Royal Phuket Marina, Phuket Boat Lagoon and the Yacht Haven. Every year there are several races with the Phuket Kings Cup Regatta in December being the longest and best established.

There are six championship golf courses on Phuket, Blue Canyon Country Club, Laguna Phuket Golf Club, Phuket Country Club, Mission Phuket Resort and Spa, Muang Beach Golf and Marina and Loch Palm Golf Club.

There are tennis courts, squash courts and badminton courts where equipment is available for hire and for those looking for adrenaline charges there is a bungee jump and a go-kart racing track.

Also very popular are sailing and scuba diving and there are many boats with skippers available for charter and international standard diving courses at every level.

Also a fun day out for the whole family can be had at the newly opened water park on Phuket, Splash Jungle located at Mai Khao Beach. There is something for everyone, adrenaline rush rides for the older ones, little ones can splash, play and slide in their own kids pool and Mum and Dad can enjoy a drink at the swim up bar.

 

 

Health

 

There are six well equipped international hospitals on the island all with accident and emergency departments. Health tourism is becoming ever more popular and international standard cosmetic surgery and dental treatment is available with the benefit of local costs.

Shopping

Phuket has a wide selection of shops including two international shopping malls Central and Jungceylon, the first is located just outside Phuket Town and the latter in Patong.

 

Currency and ATMS

The local currency is Thai Baht and this can be found in the following dominations, 1, 2, 5, 10 Baht coins and 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Baht notes. There are approximately 50 Baht to 1 British pound, 40 Baht to 1 Euro and 33 Baht to 1 USD (please note that this is a guide only). There are many banks all with ATM machines which take credit cards and debit cards and they will cash travelers' cheques.

Getting Around

Cars and motorbikes are widely available for rent though we recommend motorbike hire only to those who are very experienced. Songtaeows, a type of private bus on a set route is an in-expensive method of travel. Also taxis and tuk tuks are available for hire though you need to agree a fare first.

Phuket has a wide selection of shops including two international shopping malls Central and Jungceylon, the first is located just outside Phuket Town and the latter in Patong.