Why Visit Phuket: A Tropical Paradise with Rich Culture

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, offers pristine white sands, vibrant turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs that create a stunning backdrop for any beach lover. Located in the Andaman Sea and just an hour’s flight from Bangkok, this paradise combines tropical beauty with affordability. It is an ideal destination for travellers seeking everything from luxury accommodations to affordable spa treatments and boat tours.

Beyond its natural charm, Phuket is a haven for food lovers, offering a chance to savour the island's bold flavours, with dishes infused with lemongrass, lime leaves, and chillies. The island’s rich culture, shaped by its deep Buddhist roots, adds an element of spiritual exploration to your stay. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Phuket blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights into an unforgettable travel experience.

Phuket’s Culture and Customs: What to Know Before You Visit

While Thai is the primary language spoken in Phuket and throughout Thailand, many people working in tourism, including guides and hotel staff, speak English well. However, carrying a Thai phrasebook for ease is always helpful, especially in less touristy areas. Learning a few key phrases can also go a long way in showing respect. For navigating the island, especially when using taxis or tuk-tuks to reach more remote locations, it’s a good idea to have the address of your destination written in Thai to avoid any confusion.

The local currency is the Thai baht. The rate may vary, so it is a good idea to check the currency before your trip. Although currency exchange services are available at the airport, you’ll usually find better rates at moneychangers in Phuket’s towns.

Buddhism is deeply rooted in Thai culture, and Phuket is home to several religious landmarks, such as the iconic Big Buddha and Wat Chalong temple. When visiting temples, it’s essential to focus on a modest dress code. Ensure your clothing covers your shoulders and opt for shorts or skirts that reach at least to your knees to show proper respect for local customs.

What to Eat in Phuket

Phuket’s food scene mirrors the rich flavours found across Thailand. Classic dishes like tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup), som tam (papaya salad), and green curry are staples in restaurants around the island. For a more refined dining experience, visitors can head to Thong Dee The Kathu Brasserie, where guests frequently praise the welcoming staff and consistently excellent food. On the other hand, if you’re after something more budget-friendly without sacrificing flavour, O-Oh Farm Ta-Eiad in Phuket Town is a great option.

For those eager to dive deeper into Thai cuisine, cooking classes offer a hands-on way to learn. Many are conducted in English, and two highly recommended options are Kata Thai Cooking Class by Sally at Kata Beach and Phuket Thai Cookery School in Phuket Town. These classes teach visitors how to prepare traditional Thai dishes like prawn soup and green curry. Prices for these culinary experiences typically range from $60 to $90 per person.

Staying Safe in Phuket

One of the main safety risks in Phuket comes from the strong rip currents and undertows at its beaches, particularly during monsoon season, which lasts from June to October. Always heed lifeguard instructions and beach flags for your safety. A red flag indicates "no swimming," yellow suggests caution and a combination of red and yellow flags means you should swim only within the designated safe area between the flags.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises pregnant women, as well as those planning to conceive, to avoid travelling to Thailand due to the risk of the Zika virus. All visitors are encouraged to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved, protective clothing, such as lightweight fitness gear.

Certain areas of Phuket, particularly Patong, are notorious for illicit activities like sex trafficking, prostitution, and drug use, especially after dark. Patong is known for its vibrant nightlife, so it’s important to stay vigilant and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in the evenings.

Navigating Phuket: Transportation Tips

The most popular way to get around Phuket is by tuk-tuk, a small red or yellow truck that's a quintessential part of the local experience. Tuk-tuks are easy to find and offer a fun way to travel short distances. However, for trips outside town or longer journeys, they can become pricey. In those cases, you might find a metered taxi, songthaew (a shared truck), or rental car to be more economical.

Most visitors arrive via Phuket International Airport (HKT), located on the northern tip of the island. Accommodations are primarily found in the southern areas, such as Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town. The airport bus is an option that heads to Phuket Town, though taxis are typically the most direct and convenient way to reach your destination. There are also van and minibus services, but it's important to confirm their reliability before booking. If your hotel doesn't provide a shuttle, ask the concierge to recommend a trusted service.