Joanna James
As one of Thailand's top beach holiday destinations, Phuket is also a party hub like no other. Those who are looking to enjoy a great night out can work their way through this list and experience some of the best nightlife hotspots the island has to offer.
Those who would rather bag a few bargains rather than hit the dance floor will find that the night markets are the place to be after sundown. Vibrant and chaotic, the night markets in Phuket are not only fantastic places to wine and dine on local delicacies but also to stock up on souvenirs and gifts. Offering shopaholics a wide range of products from fashion accessories, handicrafts and clothing to home decor items, the dozens of kiosks that occupy these night markets also offer the best discounts in town.
A night out in Phuket would not be complete without catching a performance of Siam Niramit. Tipped to be the most compelling cultural showpiece in Phuket, this audiovisual spectacle which incorporates acrobatics, song, dance, drama and music is an unforgettably entertaining performance art piece. Divided into three acts, Siam Niramit immerses viewers in local myth and legend in a theatrical performance complete with smoke effects, thunder, lightning and the works.
The evening is the perfect time to venture over to the Fanta Sea Theme Park as this expansive enclave truly comes alive after dark. As a recreational hotspot suitable for both the young and the young at heart, the park encompasses representations of the island's historic and cultural highlights to educate and enchant visitors. Fantastic restaurants and boutiques are also part of the landscape so families can enjoy a hearty meal and shop for trinkets after enjoying the theme park's rides and activities.
Live music fans based at SAii Laguna Phuket or any other luxury hotel in Phuket can head to Patong Beach to catch Phuket's best local acts. Live music shows take centre stage in Patong's event venues each night and travellers can dance the night away to the beat of hip-hop, rock, electronic and folk music tunes till the sun comes up.
The Bangla Boxing Stadium is another popular gathering point during nighttime for boxing fans based in Phuket. Travellers can also learn how to box and take part in basic training sessions at the stadium which comes alive during various nights of the week. Muay Thai is an ancient martial art form that's often compared to kickboxing and holidaymakers can catch local boxers battling it out at this iconic sports arena.
The large number of drinking holes in Phuket means that bar hopping is a popular activity among local and visiting revellers. Some of the top bars to include on your bar hopping excursion include the Wassa Homemade Bar and the Quip Rooftop Bar while the Catch Beach Club is a recently opened bar with a formidable reputation for its cocktail mixes.
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.
