Joanna James
As the sun goes down and the skies take a profusion of yellowish oranges, the streets of Phuket get lively with hordes of animated souls, seeking pleasure in mouth-watering eats, quaint nightlife and much more at the city's many night markets. Come, let yourself lose in the atmospheric scene.
The idyllic Thai island of Phuket is home to a slew of night markets, but none of them holds a candle to the vibrant vibes of the Chillva Market. The trendy night market in Ratsada, Phuket attracts a remarkable younger crowd thanks to its creative utilisation of shipping containers, which makes for a hip and modish setting. While the host of food stalls bursting with local tidbits takes centre stage, there's fashion, authentic souvenirs, and many more to be relished at the happening Chillva Market.
A popular low-key shopping and entertainment venue among locals and tourists alike, Phuket Weekend Night Market is, by far, the biggest night market on the touristy island. The gigantic market is immediately reminiscent of Bangkok's Chatuchak Market, giving it the moniker "Phuket Chatuchak" (besides its most famous moniker "Naka Market"), as there's almost nothing you can't find here. The affordable prices also mean that you can bring out your inner adventurer to try new things, a fried bug or insect for instance.
Nothing says a vibrant Sunday night in Phuket like wandering the atmospheric Phuket Walking Street, a bustling night market that is also a popular cultural and tourist attraction. As the darkness descends in the last few hours of the weekend, hordes of vendors line the picturesque Thalang Road in the centre of old Phuket, selling all sorts of things from mouth-watering street foods to clothing and authentic souvenirs. After treating yourself to one blissful and memorable night, retreat to one of the finest Phuket resorts, including the likes of Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and call it a day.
The small but happening night market of independent traders in Phuket, hence the name, Phuket "Indy" Market presents a laid-back, rather quieter atmosphere than most marketplaces in the bustling city but is just as fun. The market mostly sees young Thais who flock in droves to indulge in the latest fashion trends and delectable local foods galore.
Ditch the slew of night markets in Phuket town and head to Malin Plaza in Patong for a change of scenery. Malin Plaza comes to life in the lively streets of Patong every night, inviting zestful souls to meander through its host of tabletop stalls and shipping-container shops. Grab a bite to eat, pick up some authentic souvenirs to take back home and lose yourself in the idyllic ambience.
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