The beaches and tourist operators are recovering from the devastating 2004 tsunami which devastated the coast of its western side and tragically took many lives, it is still awash in the memory of its past through memorials and an improved security system in case this area ever again becomes a target.
Phuket Travel Tips
The most popular months to visit
The ideal time to visit Phuket is from November to April when conditions are optimal for beach-based activities for example, boating and swimming. Between May and October is monsoon time, and even though accommodations prices are less expensive during this time, however, the conditions in the ocean can make it a risk to swim.
What can you do to save money in Phuket?
Make reservations for your hotel ahead of time. It's more expensive when you book your hotel at the time of arrival, specifically during the high season between December and January.
Find the most favorable exchange rate. Skip the airport whenever you wish to change the U.S. dollars for Thai Baht. There are off-brand kiosks on the main roads of beaches usually have the most competitive rates.
Find out about hotel amenities There are hotels that offer complimentary shuttle service that takes guests to and from the airport in addition to between famous beaches. So, check for the benefits of your hotel prior to paying for different modes of transportation.
Customs and Culture
Thai is the main spoken language of Thailand as well as its main island Phuket however, you'll notice the majority of tourist guides are fluent in English. However, it's a good idea to keep the Thai phrasebook to ensure you're secure. A few phrases that you may want to remember include "hello," sa wat dee "how are you?" baai dee reu as well as "thank you,"" the kop"kun maak.. If you're interacting with different taxi or tuktuk drivers You might wish to provide them with your address in Thai particularly in the case of travel to areas which are not on the main route.
The currency of Thailand is baht. The value of one U.S. dollar is equal to approximately 33 Thai Baht. However, the rates of exchange fluctuate make sure you be aware of it prior to when you travel. The ability to exchange cash at the airport, but the money exchangers in various towns on Phuket have the highest exchange rates.
Buddhism is the most popular religious system in Thailand The island is home to many popular attractions, like Big Buddha and Wat Chalong that reflect the predominant religious beliefs. While visiting these sites it is important to follow the dress code which includes wearing skirts and shorts that reach to the knee, and wearing garments that cover shoulders as well as the midriff.
What to Eat
The cuisine of Phuket is a continuation of the delicious cuisines available in mainland. Tom Yum Goong (a soup made with shrimp) and som tam (a Papaya Salad) as well as green curry are the mainstays of the menus available in Phuket. To enjoy a more luxurious Thai dining experience, guests are advised to reserve tables in ThongDee the Kathu Brasserie and it has received top marks from recent travellers because of its welcoming and friendly service and consistent delicious meals. To enjoy a less expensive but tasty experience, visitors must visit the O-Oh Farm in Ta-Eiad located in Phuket Town.
For a better knowledge of the regional cuisine Travelers may wish to sign up for a cooking course that will be taught in English. For instance, the Kata Thai Cooking Class taught by Sally which is situated at Kata Beach, and Phuket Town's Phuket Thai Cookery School are both approved by travelers. These classes are where instructors instruct travelers in the art of making traditional Thai food items, like green curry and prawn soup and many more dishes. Cooking classes are priced at around $60-$90 per student.
Security
One of the main dangers you'll encounter when you go on your Phuket holiday is the risky undertows and rip tides on the beach, particularly in monsoon time that runs from June through October. Be sure to pay close attention to warnings from lifeguards and any flags for the beach. For example, a red flag indicates "no swimming,"" the yellow flag signifies "be cautious," and a pair of half-red, half-yellow and red flags indicates you to swim between these two flags.
Due to the risk from the Zika virus and the risk of infection, the Centers for Disease Control & Protection suggests that women who are pregnant and couples, or anyone who are planning to get pregnant
Avoid traveling avoid traveling to Thailand. Travelers can guard themselves against bites of mosquitoes with insect repellent and skin-protective clothes including fashionable fitness clothes made of high-tech.
There are areas in Phuket which are regarded as areas of sex traficking, prostitution and drug use. In particular, Patong, which is famous for its raucous party scene, is known as a hot spot of this kind of activities. Be conscious of the surroundings particularly in evenings in places like Patong.
Moving Around in Phuket
One of the best ways to travel to Phuket is via tuk-tuks however, you may require a different method of transport for example, renting a car or taxi in case you wish to leave the area that you're staying in for your trip. In addition to being (a tiny red or yellow truck) one of the most beautiful option of transportation but it's also the easiest options to travel with as they're all over the place. However, they're costly if you're traveling beyond town. In these instances, an unmetered taxi, songthaew, or renting a car could be the better choice.
For a flight to Phuket, Most tourists fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT) which is situated on the northernmost point of the island. The majority of hotels are situated in the southern part of Phuket in the vicinity of Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town. It is important to know if the hotel has a shuttle service to the airport If not then they should take the airport bus that transports passengers towards Phuket Town. Taxis are probably the most effective and convenient option to travel between the hotel and the airport. While there are vans and minibus drivers that can provide transportation from airports to areas in the south, it can be difficult to discern the trustworthy ones. If your hotel doesn't provide a shuttle service, inquire if the hotel's concierge could suggest reputable vans or minibus operators.
