Best Things To Do In Phuket

My adventure in Phuket was very memorable and I will remember it for a long time. During my 2 weeks staying on this beautiful island to continue my road-trip in Thailand coming from Kho Phi Phi, I was amazed by the natural beauty, local traditions and many exciting activities. This trip gave me the opportunity to explore postcard-worthy panoramas, while deepening my knowledge of Thailand history and culture.Here is a glimpse of my trip to Phuket, along with some lessons I learned from this getaway.

Phuket Province

As soon as I arrived, I was impressed by the beauty of Phuket’s beaches. Whether it’s the lively and vibrant Patong beach, or more peaceful places like Freedom Beach, every grain of sand is lined with palm trees and turquoise sea. The variety of landscapes is amazing: green hills, lush forests and rock formations contrast with the millionaire stretches of sand, providing an idyllic setting for anyone wanting to relax and be out of the way.

Phuket is nicknamed as the Pearl of the South. Not only for its enchanting landscapes, but also for the richness of its history. I discovered that Phuket was once a hub of maritime trade, attracting Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese and many other merchants. These trade exchanges have left an indelible mark on the architecture of Phuket’s old town, where you can admire Sino-colonial houses, witnesses of this multicultural heritage.

Exploring Phuket Town

Phuket Town was one of the highlights of my trip. Far from the tourist beaches, this city is full of charm with its colorful streets and historic buildings. I ventured into the small streets where craft workshops, quaint cafes and local markets mingle. The atmosphere is more authentic, away from the bustle of Patong.

I remember particularly my visit to Wat Chalong, one of the most revered Buddhist temples on the island. It was a real immersion in Thai spirituality. I was captivated by the architecture of the temple, with its gilded roofs and delicately crafted sculptures. This place radiates a peaceful atmosphere that encourages contemplation, in stark contrast to the tumult of more touristic areas.

The majesty of the Big Buddha

On my third day, I headed to the Big Buddha, one of Phuket’s most famous icons. Located on top of a hill, this monumental statue of 44 meters high overlooks the island with an impressive grandeur. The ascent, although a little difficult under the scorching sun, was rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the beaches of Kata, Karon and Chalong Bay.

Beyond its visual aspect, this place also allowed me to deepen my understanding of Buddhist philosophy. It was a moment of tranquility in a stay otherwise marked by exploration and adventure. I even had the privilege of talking with some monks from the nearby temple, who explained to me the importance of meditation in Thai culture.

Adventures in the wild: Phang Nga Bay

One of the memorable moments of my stay was the excursion to Phang Nga Bay. Located north of Phuket, this bay is a true natural treasure. The grandiose karst formations that emerge from the emerald waters offer an almost magical setting. In kayak, I slipped between these majestic rocks, some of which had shapes reminiscent of mythological beings. The feeling of floating peacefully on the water while being surrounded by these impressive rocky peaks is an experience that I warmly recommend to anyone visiting Phuket.

The highlight of the day was a visit to Koh Tapu, also known as James Bond Island because of its appearance in the film Man with the Golden Gun. The panorama is truly action movie-like, with steep cliffs proudly rising up in the middle of the ocean. I also made a stop on the island of Koh Panyee, a floating fishing village where residents live in houses on stilts. The floating market of this island, although frequented by tourists, retains a certain traditional charm.

Exploring local wildlife: the elephant sanctuary

Another memorable memory of my time in Phuket was my visit to the elephant shelter. Nestled in the north of the island, this shelter houses elephants who have been abused or have suffered terrible conditions in the tourism sector. It was a real honour to approach these majestic animals in an environment where their well-being is the priority.

I had the opportunity to feed the elephants, watch them take a bath and even walk alongside them. Respect for animals is a value that I learned to cherish more during this trip. I have become aware of the importance of selecting ethical activities that do not harm local wildlife, especially in destinations as busy as Phuket.

Relaxation at Patong Beach and nightlife

This beach, meanwhile, revealed a completely different face of Phuket. Known for its nightlife, the beach is also a place where relaxation and aquatic adventures are combined during the day. I was lucky enough to practice jet-ski and parasailing, two activities that made the adrenaline go up while offering me a breathtaking view of the coastline.

However, it is mostly at night that Patong comes alive. Bangla Road, with its vibrant bars, discos and street shows, is a true open-air party. The lights, sounds and unexpected encounters create an electric atmosphere. Although some aspects of this street may seem excessive, it is undeniably part of the Phuket experience for those who love lively evenings.

Memories of Phuket

My stay in Phuket left me an indelible mark. Beyond the idyllic scenery, I was fascinated by the wealth of experiences that the island offers. From the tranquility of Buddhist temples to the wild nights of , Phuket is a multifaceted destination.

This trip also taught me to value nature and respect local culture. I discovered the importance of choosing activities that do not harm the environment or local communities, such as my visit to the elephant shelter. I also understood that travelling is about immersing yourself in an alternative way of life while remaining respectful of local traditions and customs.

In conclusion, Phuket is much more than just a vacation spot. It is a space where nature, history and modernity are intertwined in a harmonious way, offering each visitor an incomparable experience. This 2 week stay allowed me to revitalize myself, explore new perspectives and forge unforgettable memories.