The island of Phuket

Charming and Enchanting

Direct Flights arrive from all over the world but it is just as easy to travel from Bangkok which is only one hour away by plane. If you are not in any hurry, then a leisurely drive down to the southern coast is also an excellent option. Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and it is linked to the mainland by a causeway.

You will find everything you need on this most magical island and then some. Exquisite beaches, plenty of fabulous luxury hotels and resorts, excellent cuisine, lots of entertainment and attractions as well as a vibrant nightlife. What more could you possibly ask for... On second thoughts, don't answer that.

Bright Red Mini Vans

Getting around Phuket

Tuk Tuk's

Best to ask the hotel receptionist as to the correct prices but whatever you do don't ask the bell-boy downstairs as he will more than likely be on a commission structure with some of the drivers. I've seen this happen time and time again.

It's a good idea to negotiate a price beforehand but if you feel that the price is way off the mark, walk away and try another. There are plenty of them around. Of course the first driver will almost certainly try to entice you to take a ride in his Tuk Tuk. Some of them tend to be a little pushy at times.

You must remember that most of the locals think that this is your first time visit to Thailand. It may well be. What do you know about the prices here anyway, they would be asking themselves. It's often not an easy feeling when you know or find out that you have been ripped off but it's bound to happen sooner than later. Think of it as an extension to your kind nature and that the extra tip is going to a worthy cause. Either that or you may have to take a cold shower.

Patong Beach Road

Getting around Phuket

Taxis

Please note that many hotels and resorts do not always acknowledge that there are metered taxis on the island. You will however find unlicensed taxis readily available outside most resorts and the main tourist areas. You may need to brush up on your negotiating skills as the rates can change from one driver to the next.

I remember a time when trying to reach an agreement with a tour operator for a taxi service from Patong Beach to Kata Beach. I was given a price and only when I happened to mention that there would be a second person travelling with me, did the price suddenly leap up by another 200 baht. Well now I'd heard it all.

I might just like to mention here that one spends a fair amount of valuable time negotiationing whilst trying to relax on holiday but if you have the endurance to go the whole nine yards, it can certainly be somewhat amusing most times. Remember that you are in a country that thrives on the bargaining principle.

All I can say at this point is that patience is the keyword but no matter what the outcome, never, never leave the negotiating table angry. It will almost certainly spoil your day. I prefer to conclude my business with the same sense of humour as the Thai's and leave with a big smile on my face. I have seen a few tourists loosing it when they feel that they have been taken for a ride. Pun intended.

Some of the many Beaches on the Island

Getting around Phuket

Motorcycles

It may not be your lack of ability, only the notorious way in which locals seem to behave on of these roads. I have seen many a motorcycle accident here. Having said this, I must point out that almost all of the accidents I've observed, involved locals but you cannot be too careful anywhere in Thailand. One important issue is that helmets are mandatory in Thailand but then this should speak for itself.

One of the many surrounding Islands

Getting around Phuket

Rental Cars

Driving yourself around the island is not nearly as daunting as it appears in some of the other cities in Thailand but you should however be cautious anyway when driving in unfamiliar surroundings. The locals here seem to have adapted a rather relaxed attitude to this particular phraseology.

Berlitz Pocket Guide to Phuket

There are great sections about the history of the island as well as where to go, what to do, where to find good restaurants, where the best beaches are, where to find hotels and resorts to suit your budget, many handy travel tips and lots of other insightful features, allowing you to make the most of your leisure time.

This guide is a true pleasure to read before, during and after your visit. Small in size but big on content, makes this the perfect pocket fit. Should you wish to review or purchase this guide whilst on this page, please click on the link below.

Your weather forecast for Phuket Thailand

For a more detailed weather report as well as acquiring temperatures in Centigrade you can view by clicking on Phuket, Thailand in the upper left hand corner of the weather chart above.

Return from Phuket to the South Thailand page