Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Phuket

Hybrid34

Taxis and Tuk Tuks are usually a fixed price. Wherever you go they will try to get every penny out of you. After a little bit of haggling, you’ll get say 50 - 100BHT or so off the fixed price.

Marco

Do not be afraid to eat street food, is it abundant and cheap. You can get skewers with shrimps, mussels, crab and even crocodile meat for as low as 30 Thb per piece.

fiddledude

Walk the beach, check out Bangla road, get a massage, have a banana (or mango) shake, and keep in mind if you see something for sale at an unbelievable price, it's probably a copy.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

Kirsty S

Phuket is a large island – so much so that it doesn’t really feel much like an island at all! Its size means there is always plenty to see and do and as such it’s a popular destination for all types of holidaymakers, from families and couples to groups of friends.

Mika T

Phuket is a beautiful mountainous island with so much do and see. From mouth-watering food to animals and rainforests, and pristine beaches to upscale spas and resorts, Phuket has something for everyone.

TravellingMitch

Phuket has lots of lovely beaches, fabulous food, lots of temples, plus some churches and mosques.

What is the best way to get there?

Airport:

Phuket only has one airport, the Phuket International Airport. International and Domestic terminals are separate.

Here is some information on the best airport transfer options available.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Phuket from overseas, find out if you need a visa here.

Visa on arrival is also available, you can find out how other travelers did it here.

When is the best time to visit?

November to February: The weather in Thailand varies between hot, and really, really hot. The hottest season runs from March through to June, with April and May as the hottest months of the year.

The cool season normally runs from November through February and will still feel hot to most visitors. Temperatures during this time typically range from 73 Fahrenheit (23 Celsius) to 86 Fahrenheit (30 Celsius).

Walk

Most of the resort areas are small enough to walk around, with popular resorts and hotels located close to the beach, restaurants and shopping areas.

Tuk-tuk

If your hotel isn't on one of the main beaches, tuk-tuks are some of the best ways to get around. The small vehicles can weave through the tiny streets with ease and are worth the ride alone.

Drive

If you prefer exploring Phuket on your own, there are plenty of places to hire cars or motorcycles. However, if you’re looking to drive around Phuket, remember that they drive on the left.

Bus

Songtaew refers to blue open-air buses that run between Phuket Town and the main resorts, while air-conditioned mini buses service the Phuket Town area.

Check out more tips on getting around Phuket here.

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Thailand, there is absolutely no mandatory requirement to tip anyone, but small gratuities for great service are very much appreciated.

Get more tipping tips here.

Here’s a great overview of customs and etiquette in Thailand generally.