Phuket - Thailand

Phuket - Thailand

Most people know Phuket and other coastal Thai islands from the coverage of the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami that made headlines around the world. The small communities of the islands have jumped back on their feet and started rebuilding their tourism industry better than ever. This is just one of many beautiful places Thailand has to offer but definatly a "must do" on the list for any serious traveller.

This island is located about an hours flight south of Bangkok and Phuket has a range of beautiful coastal shorelines to stay on. Many of them rebuilt from the 2004 disaster more stunning than before and although the air of recovery still lingers this is a holiday destination not lacking in stamina or natural beauty.

One of the most popular tourist spots is Patong Beach and surrounding areas located on the East side of the island and although it looks small don't be fooled. Patong is only a short scooter ride from the centre of town.

Where to Stay:

Le Meridian
This beautiful resort has been rebuild from one of the worst disaster areas in Phuket. The hotel is situated in part of a secluded bay called Relax Bay, and what a fitting name it is. The restaurants here are spectacular and although a little more on the expensive side, the architecture of the place is worth the extra money.

Visit http://www.phuket.com/meridien/index.htm For more information and room rates.

Gracelands Resort
It doesn't get better than this. This Graclands resort is a U shaped structure with most of the inward facing rooms providing balconies overlooking their stunning crystal clear pool. If you ask me there is something about walking out of your room and being a certain amount of steps from the pool in one direction and the beach in the other.

Grab a deck chair or explore the local area, Gracelands Resort will keep you right in the heart of Patong and is well situated for some good restaurants, great shopping and picturesque views for those romantic walks along the beach.

And if you are lost for something to do? swim up to the pool bar and have a drink.

Visit http://www.thailand-hotel.net/phuket-graceland-resort-and-spa-thailand/ for a room pricing guide.


What to do?
Never a dull moment in Phuket. From night markets to Day tours, Snorkeling to water adventures, there is a lot to do in this town. And if the hussle and bussle of the local nightlife doesn't take your fancy, book a table in one of the restaurants in the local resorts and treat yourself to some spectacular food.

Markets in Patong:
Markets can be fabulous for your wallet and detrimental to your suitcase! This bargaining banter fest excites your senses as your barter for that last 5 cents of the price tag. If you are staying in any of the main tourist spots there will be markets everywhere once the sun goes down. Just be mindful of how much you want to spend as it is easy to get carried away with the minimal pricing and end up with an extra room full of impulse buy knick knacks.

Scoot around the island:
There are a hundred and one outlets to hire everything from cars, bike bikes to little scooters all over the island. The little scooters may be tough up the hills but there is something fitting about them. Putt your way around the coast and get acquainted with the non touristy beauty the island has to offer. In fact if you turn north from Patong beach and head up the coast line, up the hill and at the bottom of the other side there is a very cool little roadside bar that makes some fabulous drinks on a hot day.
http://www.boontarika.com/bikerent.htm

Sun, Sand, and Islands Oh My!
There are many companies around the place offering tons of water adventures, snorkeling and diving trips as well as Island tours for fairly decent pricing. Do some research and find something that's good for you as this can be one of the best way to see some of the most beautiful places.
http://www.phi-phi.com/