|
Located approximately
862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand’s largest
island, which is often dubbed as the pearl of the Andaman,
or the pearl of the south. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular,
limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays
and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South’s
wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island
and province.
Nestled in the tropical zone off the
west coast of the southern part of Thailand in the Andaman
Sea and the Indian Ocean, the province covers an area of approximately
543 square kilometers (excluding small islets). It is estimated
that Phuket Province covers an area of approximately 590 square
kilometers if its 39 other small islands are included. The
islands total length, from north to south, is estimated at
48.7 kilometers and approximately 21.3 kilometers wide.
Phuket borders on Phang-nga Province
to the north. The other 3 sides are encircled by the Andaman
Sea the place where many of the best diving sites are located.
The island is connected to Phang-nga Province by Sarasin Bridge
and Thep Krasattri Bridge.
Staying on the island is easy, as there
are only two seasons in a year - the rainy season (May to
October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season
of phuket is between September and October as they are the
wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November
to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky,
feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear
water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average
temperatures ranges between 23 C and 33 C.
Phuket’s topology is exceptional with
70 percent of its area covered with mountains which stretch
from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains
located in the central and eastern parts of the island. The
island does not have any major rivers except for a total of
9 brooks and creeks.
Phuket is divided into 3 administrative
counties namely Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Thalang and Amphoe Kathu.
Phuket has a lot more to offer its visitors
other than its natural heritage sea, sand, sky, beach, forest,
and world renowned diving sites. Sino-Portuguese architecture
casts its spell delighting travelers to the city, while Phuket-style
hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all
walks of life. In addition, accommodations ranging from world-class
resorts to tropical-style bungalows have warmly catered to
the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there
is a lot more to sample than just Phuket’s famous lobster.
Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly
unique destination.
History of Phuket
Most geologists believe that the area
known as Phuket today was once a cape that extended into the
Andaman Sea. Geographical formations gradually changed the
capes location, finally detaching it from the mainland.
A famous Greek philosopher, Claudius
Ptolemy, was the first person who mentioned the cape in his
book written in the year 157. The cape was locally referred
to as Jung Ceylon, which was located between latitudes 6 N
and 8 N (the present site of Phuket Island). Natives called
the place Cha Lang, which evolved to Tha Lang the name of
the main town to the north of the island.
As a perfect stopover sheltering traders
from monsoons, Jung Ceylon welcomed merchants from India,
Persia, Arabia, Burma, China and also Siam. During the 16th
century, the island was also a popular trading port for tin
with Portuguese, Dutch, English and French traders flocking
to the island. This contributed to making the development
of mining so unprecedented. Chinese businessmen and miners
later migrated to Phuket and soon enjoyed thriving business
wealth.
Apart from serving as a meeting point
for traders from Europe, Central Asia and China, Phuket also
attracted ambitious immigrants, especially those from Portugal
and China, to work in the tin mines. With its colorful history,
visitors admire the Sino-Portuguese style architecture in
the city especially those buildings located along the Thalang
and Yaowarat Roads.
Thalang town was surrounded by Burmese
troops who invaded the coastal area in 1785. It was under
the leadership of Chan, the widow of the governor, and her
sister, Muk, who united local residents and successfully fought
and drove the invaders out of Phuket. It took over 30 days
for the defending troops of Phuket, under the command of Chan
and Muk, to claim their victory. As a result of such heroic
deeds, noble titles were granted to Chan and Muk as Thao Thep
Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon respectively. To honor them,
a monument was established at Tha Ruea Intersection, 12 kilometers
to the north of Phuket City in 1966. They are still highly
respected by Phuket residents even today.
However, 24 years later, the Burmese
succeeded in seizing Thalang causing many local residents
to flee to Phang-nga and Krabi. In 1825, some of them returned
to re-establish a town and established a rice farming community.
On the other hand, the area to the south of the island (Phuket
City today) was developed and became a tin trading center.
When Phuket was elevated to a town in
1850, it attracted more immigrants from Thalang and nearby
communities. In 1894, Phuket was promoted to be a Monthon
administrative unit under the supervision of the central administrative
body (located in Bangkok).
In 1902, Phraya Ratsada Korsimbi, a Sino-Thai
businessman who contributed to developing the modern city
of Phuket was appointed Governor of Phuket. He also helped
to improve the welfare of local residents and set up the market
system in the countryside. In 1916, Phuket became a province.
The tin mining industry has gradually
failed to generate economic growth in Phuket, especially after
1985 when the price of tin fell by half. However, with its
natural resources, Phuket later emerged as a tourist destination
with great potential. This polished pearl of the Andaman is
truly a destination that provides visitors with memorable
experiences.
The islands long history has shaped the
distinctive Phuket of the present with its diverse ethnic
groups, culture, architectural influence, and fine cuisine.
With approximately 35 percent of the population being comprised
of Thai-Muslims, it is possible to see an equal number of
Wats (Thai temples) located next to Mosques.
RECOMMENDED ATTRACTIONS IN PHUKET
Hat Surin, Phuket
The Viewpoint, Phuket
Phuket Fantasea, Phuket
Laem Sing, Phuket
Ao Bang Thao, Phuket
Wat Phra Thong, Phuket
Phuket Aquarium, Phuket
Ko Racha, Phuket
Ko Kaeo, Phuket
Ao Chalong, Phuket
Laem Ka, Phuket
Dino Park, Phuket
Namtok Krathu, Phuket
Wat Phranang Sang, Phuket
The Two Heroines Monument, Phuket
The Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary, Phuket
Thalang National Museum, Phuket
Sirinat National Park, Phuket
Spectacular scenery, stunning tropical sunsets and warm blue
sea awaits you at Asia's most popular beach destination. This
fun island provides an unbeatable combination of perfect silky
soft white palm-lined beaches, superb hospitality and great
value accommodation!
Whether it's world class diving in the Andaman Sea, golf at
world-standard championship courses or exciting eco-adventures
in tropical forests, Phuket is a place to extend your horizons.
Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to the surrounding islands,
or enjoy a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay. Or
why not simply enjoy Phuket's vibrant nightlife in Patong
Beach? Total enjoyment! Not convinced yet? See our 10 Must
See and Do list.
Parents and children, beach bums and barflies, newlyweds and
90-year-olds: Phuket has everything you're looking for. It
caters to all tastes, every budget, and promises to deliver
a smile-filled holiday in the exotic surrounds of one of the
planet's most exciting island getaways.
Whether it is luxurious and secluded, vivacious and untamed,
or somewhere in the middle; your niche is here. You will find
it. And you will be back for more!
Phuket Dining + Restaurant Reviews
Phuket is an island of truly international cuisine, every
type of cuisine is represented. Common are Scandinavian, Mediterranean,
Seafood and Japanese restaurants to name a few. We search
out the best inexpensive restaurants to review for our guide.
Spas in Phuket
Your holiday is the perfect time to indulge yourself and what
better way than a visit to a spa? Phuket is packed with spas
waiting to lavish you with luxury. Our spas section will give
you the lowdown of the different spa flavours and treatments
available.
By air
This is perhaps the easiest way to get
to Phuket. Domestic airlines operate several flights daily
between Bangkok and Phuket. Some flights go to Phuket via
Samui Island with a 40-minute stopover. List of operators
are as follows:
Phuket Air offers daily flights to Phuket
and the journey takes only 1.20 hours. Call 02 6798999 or
visit www.phuketairlines.com for more details on flights.
Bangkok Airways has daily flights connecting
Phuket with Pattaya and Samui. For more information, contact
their Bangkok office at tel. 66 2265 5678. Reservations can
be made at tel. 66 2265 5555. Alternatively, browse its website
at www.bangkokair.com for more flight details.
Thai Airways International has numerous
daily flights servicing the Bangkok-Phuket route. In addition,
they have regular flights connecting Phuket with Hat Yai,
Surat Thani, and Narathiwat Provinces. For more information,
contact their Bangkok office at tel. 02 628 2000 or book your
seat online at www.thaiairways.com
One-to-Go by Orient Thai operates a daily
flight between Bangkok and Phuket. The flight time is 1.20
hours. Call 1126 or visit www.onetwo-go.com for more information.
Air Asia also offers several daily flights
connecting Bangkok and Phuket. The flight time is 1.20 hours.
Visit www.airasia.com or call 02 5159999 for reservations.
Nok Air has several daily flights between Bangkok and Phuket
with a flight time of 1.20 hours. Visit www.nokair.com or
call 1318 to make your reservation.
Destination Air porvides first class
seaplane transfers to and from Phuket Internation Airport
to resorts and hotels located in the Andaman sea. Popular
destinations are such as Ko Phi Phi, Krabi, Ko Lanta. Services
commence in July 2006. Contact Bangkok Office of Destination
Air at Tel: 0 2261 5323, Fax: 0 2261 5331 or visit www.destinationair.com
Getting to Phuket from abroad
There are several direct flights between
Phuket and international destinations, e.g. Kuala Lumpur,
Hong Kong, Penang, Singapore, and Sydney.
Dragon Air, Malaysia Airlines, Silk Airand Singapore Airlines
also operate international flights connecting Phuket with
other destinations. Please call airline offices for more details.
Transportation to and from the airport
Phuket International Airport is located
approximately 30 kilometers north of the city, tel. 076 327230.
Taxis between Phuket City and the airport costs approximately
400 baht but the fare to the beach ranges between 500 baht
and 600 baht (The rate may decline now). Minivans charge approximately
80 baht /person to town, but 120 baht/person to Patong, Kata
and Karon Beaches. Phuket Limousine (tel. 076 248596), located
approximately 1 kilometer west of the city, operates hourly
shuttles to the airport from 6.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.
By bus
Air-conditioned and non air-conditioned
buses leave Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal for Phuket several
times daily. Trips by air-conditioned bus, which normally
leaves in the evening, take about 13 hours.
Call 0 2434 7192, 0 2435 1199 or visit www.transport.co.th
for more information.
By car
From Bangkok, take Highway No.4 (Phetchakasem
Road) through Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon,
Surat Thani and Phang-nga Provinces, then cross the Thep Krasattri
Bridge or Sarasin Bridge to Phuket Island. The total distance
is 862 kilometers and the travel time is approximately 12
hours.
By rail
There is no direct train service to Phuket.
Travelers arriving by train must get off at Phun Phin Railway
Station in Surat Thani Province and continue by regular bus
to Phuket. For more information, call the State Railway of
Thailand, 1690, 0 2223 7010, or 0 2223 7020.
By Ferry
During the high season, travelers may
opt to get to Phuket from Ko Phi Phi and Ko Lanta (both are
in Krabi Province). Few ports in Phuket provide this service
with fares ranging between 300 bahts and 500 baht. The trip
may take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on weather conditions.
Getting around Phuket
Car Rental Service
Avis Car Rent Airport Tel: 0-7635-1243,
Kata Beach Resort Tel : 0-7638-1530-3
- Boomerang Travel & Tour 71/13 Patak Road, Chalong Bay
Tel: 0-7638-1690
- Dusit Laguna Hotel Bang Thao Beach Tel: 0-7632-4322-9
- Hertz Car Rent Thawon Palm Beach Hotel, Karon Beach Tel:
0- 7638-1034-7
- Holiday Inn Patong Beach Tel: 0-7634-0608
- K.M. Travel Phangnga Road Tel: 0-7621-0893
- Le Meridian Karon Noi Beach Tel: 0-7634-0480-5
- The Metropol Hotel Montri Road Tel: 0-7621-5050
- Pansea Surin Beach Tel: 0-7632-4017-20
- Patong Merlin Patong Beach Tel: 0-7634-0037-41
- Pearl Village Nai Yang Beach Tel: 0-7632-7006
- Phuket Arcadia Karon Beach Tel: 0-7638-1038-40
- Phuket Airport Tel: 0-7632-7258
- Phuket Cabana Patong Beach Tel: 0-7634-0138-4
- Phuket Car Center Takua Pa Road Tel: 0-7621-2671-3
- Phuket Island Tel: 0-7638-1010
- Phuket Yacht Charter 5/3 Chao Fa Road Tel: 0-7621-6556
- Phuket Horizon Car Rent 235/4 Yaowarat Road, Tambon Talat
Nua, Muang
District Tel: 0-7621-5200
- Pure Car Rent Opposite Thavorn Hotel, Ratsada Road, Tel:
0- 7621-1002
- Via Rent A Car 70/85 Rat U-Thit, Patong Beach Tel: 0-7634-0160
Motorcycle taxis
It costs approximately 20 baht / person
/ trip to travel around Phuket City. Alternatively, motorcycles
can be rented from rental agencies located on Rasada Road
or from several operators along beaches. The cost may vary
from 150 baht 300 baht / day, depending on the number of cylinders.
Songthaeo and Tuk-Tuk
Songthaeos are operated along Ranong Road to several destinations
on the beaches. The cost varies from approximately 20 baht
to 25 baht / person / trip. Normally the service is provided
from 7.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m.
Tuk-Tuks can be chartered to the beach
however, the rates which can be negotiated are higher at 200
baht to Patong Beach, 230 baht to Karon and Kata Beaches and
300 baht to Nai Han and Kamala Beaches. However, Tuk-Tuks
drive around the town at the rate of 20 baht.
Taxi Meter
Visitors can call 076 232157-8 to get a metered taxi that
will take them anywhere in Phuket. The metered fare will include
a 20 baht surcharge.
Getting to nearby provinces
By bus
There are regular bus services (VIP,
air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned) to neighboring provinces
such as Krabi, Phang-nga, Chumphon, Ko Samui (bus/boat), Nakhon
Si Thammarat, Ranong, Surat Thani, Satun, Hat Yai, Takua-Pa
and Trang. Departures are from the Phuket Bus Terminal off
Phang-nga Road. For more up-to-date schedules and fares, call
Phuket Air-conditioned Bus Station, tel. 0 7621 1977.
Taxis & Vans
There are shared taxi and van services
between Phuket and other nearby provinces. Fares of both are
generally around double the fare of an ordinary bus. The stations
of both taxis and minivans are also on Phang-nga Road.
By air
Some domestic airlines operate flights
from Phuket to Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Hat
Yai and Samui. For more details, check with your travel agent
or the TAT office.
Getting to nearby islands from Phuket
Boats to nearby islands can be found at the following ports:
Rawai Beach
An old local port, it is from here that
long-tail boats depart for nearby islands such as Ko He, Ko
Racha Yai, Ko Mai Thon, Ko Lon, etc. The chartered price depends
on the distance.
Ao Chalong
The largest port of Phuket that has all
kinds of boats, including cruisers of tour companies which
organize package tours to other islands.
Ao Makham
Located near Phanwa Cape, the port is
only for cruisers and container ships.
Boat Lagoon Port (Ao Sapam) The port is for traveling boats
of tour companies.
.
|
