Joanna James
A drop of tropical paradise off the coast of mainland Thailand, surrounded by the turquoise blue waters of the Andaman Sea, the stunning island of Phuket is blessed with everything it could wish for to leave its visitors enthralled. Come, experience the Thai island for a fun-filled tropical getaway.
If it weren't for the string of picture-postcard beaches that wrap the Thai island, Phuket wouldn't be on the map for most of the visitors the island sees today. So, any Phuket itinerary without at least a single beach hardly makes for a blissful Phuket getaway. Patong beach in the main resort of Patong is the longest and arguably the best stretch of beach in Phuket. Unwind in the shade of one of the many umbrellas that dot the beach, sip tropical cocktails, and soak up the idyllic seaside aura.
Perched atop the Nakkerd hills between Kata and Chalong is the majestic Phuket Big Buddha, or The Great Buddha of Phuket — one of the most spectacular landmarks and a sacred place of worship on the island. Reaching the monument involves a 6-kilometre up-hill windy course, which you can traverse in a taxi or tuk-tuk, which then brings you to a steep flight of stairs, at the end of which sits the 45-metre-high, striking white jade marble Big Buddha in all its majesty.
Since Phuket's upsurge in tourism, the Thai island gradually turned itself from the serene island it was to a bustling hub of tourism. Those craving to savour a dose of authentic Phuket free from urban developments, Rawai Village on the southeast coast of Phuket still allows you to enjoy a glimpse into the Thai island before its prosperity as a hotspot tourist destination. Venture off the beaten track to secluded Rawai Village and let yourself lose in total serenity.
Just south of Kata Noi Beach is a spot of exciting adventure and jaw-dropping views, the scenic Karon Viewpoint. At the top of the forest-clad mountain, you are afforded views of three stunning beaches in Phuket — Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon Beach — giving the incredible vantage point an aptly named moniker, Three Beaches Hill. It's not only the gorgeous views that are afforded at the summit that makes this one of the best things to do in Phuket, but also the trek to the viewpoint that cuts through dense forests, which makes for some exciting adventure.
For a change in scenery, make your way to Phuket's charming Old Town on the southeast corner of the island. Soak up the atmospheric scene as you stroll the lively, century-old Sino-Portuguese townhouse-lined streets and retreat to a fine hotel or resort, resembling the popular phuket luxury villas, including the likes of Layan Residences by Anantara.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
