Phuket travel information
Phuket is one of Asia’s premier beach resorts. Of the thousands of tourists that visit Thailand each year, a vast majority will spend some time in Phuket, and with good reason. Unspoilt palm-lined beaches, warm clear waters, lively nightlife and world-class resorts are just some of the attractions. Despite the recent tsunami that devastated the area, Phuket has been quickly rebuilt and is back in full swing, attracting tourists from all corners of the globe.
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Phuket can get crowded, especially during the high season (November to March). Try exploring the northern coast and there’s a good chance you’ll find a beach all to yourself. Alternatively, visit during the monsoon season (especially from June – August) and avoid the crowds and price increases. Rain comes in short bursts with plenty of sunshine in between.
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Phuket is famous for its very fresh seafood, with seafood restaurants in every area of the island. Ask at your hotel for some local recommendations while keeping in mind that the smaller, plainer looking restaurants often serve the best tasting food.
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It is considered disrespectful for anyone to put their feet on the table while sitting. When seated, make sure your feet are not pointed at anyone as this is offensive to Thais. Also, avoid touching the head as it is regarded by Thais as the purest part of the body.
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Illegal drugs of any kind are not tolerated in Thailand and the penalties for possession or trafficking can be severe.
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If you ask a local for some help (and most people in Phuket can speak basic English, given the number of tourists passing through) you’re bound to get a reply. But keep a look out for visual clues that the person isn’t really that sure themselves. Many Thais will give an answer regardless of whether it is correct or not rather than admit they don’t know, in order to ‘save face’.
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Thailand is known as the ‘land of smiles’. Locals will smile and if you simply smile back, then you will have gained acceptance and added much to your holiday experience. A smile is a simple way to say thank you or to excuse yourself for small inconveniences. If you can learn a couple of Thai phrases, then the locals will be especially delighted.
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Phuket is heaven for lovers of tropical fruit, with many varieties grown locally on the island. The local market is always bursting with different fruits and at a cheap price. Vendors will always be willing to help you out, and going to the market is a great way to meet locals.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides - Phuket
An exhaustive guide devoted to Phuket from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
Phuket Travel Guide
Packed with all there is to know about Phuket.
http://www.phuket.com/
Tourism Authority of Thailand
The government’s official tourism site with all the latest news and events, travel information, and great photos.
http://www.tourismthailand.org/
More topics on this site…
Phuket maps and geography
Thailand travel information
Thailand travel tips
Thailand health and safety
Thailand maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: 30 days issued upon arrival to most nationals
Season: November – April
Money: Baht – ATMs widely available, transactions mostly cash
Language: Thai – English understood in tourist areas
Emergency #: 191; traffic accidents: 1193