Taking a trip to Phuket, Thailand will leave you in awe of all of the natural beauty and excitement it has to offer. From exploring the gorgeous beaches to snorkeling in the crystal clear waters and relaxing by the waterfront soaking up the sun, you will never have a dull moment on the island. The highlights for me other than sitting on the beach, were exploring the local markets and trying out all the traditional Thai dishes like pad Thai and green curry. The nightlife was also another unforgettable experience with many parties, bars and clubs buzzing all night long. The ancient temples and religious grounds were all so impressive and I was able to learn all about the unique culture of Thailand. Overall, the experience was a great mix of culture, history, food and fun.
Quick links:
Some attractions and things to do when visiting Phuket, Thailand: (FYI Phuket is pronounced poo-ket)
Visit the 45-meter tall statue of Buddha. Not only is this an impressive, massive marble statue, but it has amazing panoramic views of Phuket.
Explore the largest and most famous temple in Phuket, known for its beautiful architecture and history. Spend some time here to learn all about the Buddhism and the history of this historical landmark also known as Wat Chaitararam.
Take a boat tour through the stunning bay and visit James Bond Island and Koh Panyee, a floating fishing village. Phi Phi Islands
Visit the beautiful islands known for their crystal clear waters, snorkeling, and beautiful beaches. Dont be afraid to say Pee Pee Islands, thats how Phi Phi Islands is pronounced. Phuket Old Town
Explore the historic district known for its unique architecture and charming streets. Also worth checking out its late night food stalls and nightlife.
Experience the bustling nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Highly recommended for the parties as this is known has the heart of the Phuket nightlife.
Relax on the beautiful white sand beach and enjoy the crystal clear waters. Phuket FantaSea
Experience the unique cultural show featuring Thai dance, music, and animals.
Some local types of foods and drinks to try while in Phuket:
Local foods of Phuket:
Tom Yum Goong
A spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, chili peppers, and other herbs and spices.
Pad Thai
A popular stir-fried noodle dish made with shrimp, tofu, vegetables, and peanuts. Pad Thai is always a safe bet for the folks with tamer palates.
Green Curry
A Thai curry made with green chilies, coconut milk, and a variety of vegetables and meats. Green curry was my favorite dish, ordered extra spicy to satisfy my spice craving.
Massaman Curry
A mild and creamy curry made with peanuts, potatoes, and meat.
Local drinks of Phuket:
Thai Iced Tea
A sweet and creamy iced tea made with condensed milk and Thai tea leaves. It's a delicious, cold and refreshing beverage for those hot Thai days.
Thai beer recommendations
Chang Noi - A beer brand that is less known but still popular among locals.
Chang Beer - A popular full-flavor Thai lager beer that is commonly found in most restaurants and bars. The label is green and gold with 2 white elephants facing one another. This is my go to choice of beer across most of Thailand.
Singha Beer - A popular full-bodied Thai pale lager that is easy to find in most restaurants and bars. The beer was endorsed by King Rama VIII which allowed the golden royal Garuda symbol on the label.
Leo Beer - A popular full-flavor Thai lager beer (product of Singa) that is commonly found in most restaurants and bars. The label is red and white, featuring a leopard at the top. This beverage has similar flavors to Chang Beer in my opinion.
Some local Phuket restaurant recommendations:
- My favorite green curry in Phuket was at Thai Brasserie
- Link to additional restaurant options
Additional summary:
Phuket, a picturesque island located in southern Thailand, is known for its rich history, unique architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture. The island's history dates back to the 1st century AD, and it was an important trading hub for centuries, attracting traders from all over the world. Phuket's architecture is a mix of traditional Thai styles and colonial influences, with landmarks like the Old Phuket Town and the Wat Chalong Temple that showcase the island's unique heritage. Thai cuisine is world-renowned, and Phuket is a food lover's paradise with popular dishes like tom yum goong, pad thai, and green curry that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Phuket's culture is celebrated in its many festivals and events, such as the Phuket Vegetarian Festival and the Songkran Water Festival, that showcase the island's unique traditions and customs. Phuket is also known for its natural beauty, with stunning beaches, clear waters, and picturesque islands that are a delight to explore. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, immerse yourself in Thai culture, or indulge in delicious Thai cuisine, Phuket offers an abundance of experiences that are sure to enchant and delight visitors.