phuket | The Adventure Travel Site

How to have the perfect vacation – Phuket edition

You’re tired of being trapped inside the house for too long? If you’re plotting ways to get out, the best way is to escape to the tropical paradise of Phuket. However, if you’re a first-timer planning and figuring out the best way to spend your time there can be a bit daunting. This blog gives you a concise outline of how to make the best of your time in Phuket.

The first two days

You are likely tired and jet-lagged from the long-haul flight so it’s best to rest the first day and conserve your energy for some major adventures and fun soon. If you haven’t booked your Phuket resorts online, head towards a reputed and well-known resort in the area such as the likes of Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites and Villas to avoid getting scammed. Have a relaxing dip in the pool and get some much-needed sleep and refuel for the adventures coming your way!

Image via Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites and Villas

Third and fourth day

Now that you’re relaxed and in Vacay mode, head out to explore the Old Town and other attractions in Phuket. The Big Buddha on top of Nakkerd Hills, Wat Chalong, Wang Talang, and Old Town should be on your list of places to visit. After a long day of exploring and clicking pictures that put Annie Leibovitz to shame, you can relax at Khao Rang Hill or Patong Beach.

Fifth and Sixth day

Coral and Racha Islands are the offshore islands near Phuket. No journey here is complete without an excursion out there. You can either book a tour package or find a local guide and spend these two days exploring these scenic islands on the gorgeous Andaman Sea. At Coral Island make sure to try out all the water sports and have a hearty lunch by the beach. At Racha Island, you can go snorkelling to say hi to the shoals of colourful fish that make these islands their home.

Seventh and final Day

End your Phuket tour with a bang! Wake up nice and early and hike up to Karon viewpoint to catch a breath-taking sunset. After this and a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you can go ATV riding through mangroves and Phuket dirt tracks. While you’re still high from the adrenaline pay a visit to Hanuman World and take the thrilling zip lines there. Now that you’ve tried the best Phuket has to offer, make sure you make one last stop at an authentic Phuket massage to relax your nerves and refuel you for a normal life.

Phuket Experiences and Expeditions to Cherish

A vacation in Phuket is not just a walk by the beach. The city offers a bundle of exciting activities to tourists that are not only limited to the tropics of the island. Phuket is historically, naturally and artistically rich in its offerings to society, and a trip to this astonishing city should not miss these experiences.

Полина Славянская, Музей Thai Hua, CC BY 3.0

A History Like No Other

A walk down memory lane to Phuket’s incredible history will be an astounding experience. While Thailand had the fortune of being exempted from European colonisation, the country was a hub to begin new lives for many Portuguese, Dutch, British and French immigrants. This resulted in Thai culture, cuisine and architecture being infused into European forms, creating the perfect fusion of Western and Southeast Asian practices.

Visits to The Museum

Located less than an hour away from Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, the Thai Hua Museum is a Sino-Portuguese building that houses stories from the past of Phuket. The exhibitions and documentary screenings at the museum will give you an insight into the Phuket-China connection spanning back to the days of the 13th century. Most tourists staying at Phuket resorts pick the Thai Hua Museum as their first stop out of many sites to explore and admire.

Dive Into A World of Art

The dynamics and vibrant colours of contemporary brushstrokes define modern art in Thailand. Phuket is a shelter for both local and global art for those who appreciate it. Make sure to make pit stops at galleries like Patong Inn Art, The Phuket Gallery, Kampon Art Gallery and most importantly at the Wua Art Gallery, which is owned by local artist, Mr Zen.

A Wildlife Expedition

A sanctuary to over 10% of the fauna of the world, Thailand hosts more than 285 mammal species in their natural habitats. Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, Khao Sok National Park, Sirinat National Park and Similan Islands National Park are undoubtedly some of the top places to visit to get a glimpse of the terrestrial and aquatic animal lives of the country.

Canoeing In Phuket – Row Your Boat

Do you have a spirit of adventure and are you very keen on water sports? Make sure you hop on board a canoe on your next Thai adventure. Read on to uncover the top canoeing spots in Phuket for an incredibly fun vacation.

How To?

While the logistical aspect of organising water sports can seem daunting, certain Phuket resorts take away the hassle of organising the excursions. Hotels such as Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas can take care of the logistics so all that’s left to do is to make a splash and have a whale of a time!

Phi Phi Island

Number one of the long lists of the best places to canoe in Phuket is Phi Phi Island. A breath-taking and an exotic island like no other, row your canoe on the placid waters to marvel at the limestone formations and caves. You’ll want to take along a waterproof camera to document your adventure!

James Bond Island

If you’re a fan of Agent 007, you’ll recognise this island in a heartbeat from the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”. The island became so popular after the movie, it was eventually re-named the “James Bond Island”. Come and explore the shallows surrounding this gorgeous isle before diving into its waters.

Phang Nga Bay

If you’ve never explored the waters of a bay by canoe, this is the place to do it! With a myriad of interesting limestone karsts, sea rocks and multiple islands to navigate around, make sure you canoe your way around Phang Nga Bay for a water-logged adventure of a lifetime.

Snorkelling and diving in Phuket – How to get about it

Phuket is an island of stunning beauty when it comes to land, everyone knows that! But what about under the water? if you really want to know you’ll just have to see for yourself. Here’s a bit about snorkelling and diving in Phuket.

fitri agung from Pekanbaru, Riau, Indonesia, Indonesia, Phuket 2012 (8481635621), CC BY 2.0

Best time to dive

The best time to dive in Phuket would be during the period when the weather is warm. It is at this time that visibility is at its best. This season would be between November and April. Nonetheless, the dive sites are less crowded and Phuket resorts bring down their prices.

Marine life

Each dive site may differ in marine life slightly, but the Andaman Sea definitely offers an under-sea spectacle with creatures like manta rays, reef sharks, whale sharks and a variety of turtle species.

Diving schools

Phuket island has plenty of diving schools to choose from. If you are staying at a resort like Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, it’s best to ask for recommendations from your hotel. Scuba Cat, Sunrise Divers and Merlin Divers are some of the recognised schools here.

Phuket diving spots

Within the waters of Phuket are some wonderful, yet underrated diving spots! Phuket Shark Point, Anemone Reef and Karon Bay are a few sites you ought to check out.

A Phuket Guide for Solo Female Travellers – Staying Safe and Having Fun

With Phuket in Thailand offering fully vaccinated tourists quarantine-free entry, it’s a great place for solo female travellers and here are some insights that will help.

Image via **Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas**

Accommodation

Have the basics covered before you land in Phuket; resorts that are SHA+ certified and follow strict health protocols like Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas offer safe accommodation right by the beach. Such properties also feature dining options, spas and excursions which will add to the convenience and trustworthiness factor.

Diverse Adventures

Solo female travel is a chance to step out of your comfort zone and enjoy new experiences. These can include zip-lining amidst verdant jungle terrains at Flying Hanuman, traversing off-road trails on a bicycle or ATV or diving in the Andaman Sea; you can also embark on boat excursions to Phang Nga Bay and the Similan Islands.

Fun Things to Do

There’s never a dull moment in Phuket no matter what your interests may be from learning Thai culinary secrets at a cooking class to Muay Thai martial arts training! Animal lovers can visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary while culture enthusiasts can attend the Siam Niramit Phuket show. For a night of partying, Bangla Road in Patong is the place to go.

Spa Pampering

Taking a trip alone to Phuket is a great time to enjoy rejuvenating spa rituals and find your inner bliss. Resort spas are ideal for this and provide plenty of holistic healing with a variety of options; these can include bespoke massages (try a Thai warrior massage!), chakra crystal balancing, Ayurveda therapies, beach yoga and more.

Why Muay Thai Training Should Be at the Top of Your Travel Bucket List – Why Every Traveller Should Train in Muay Thai Fighting During a Getaway in Thailand

Learning how to fight like a Muay Thai boxer is the type of skill one can pick up during a Thai getaway. As a traditional sport, it is also one of the most unique skills one can perfect on holiday.

Perfect for Martial Arts Fans

Active travellers and those with a passion for martial arts and other fighting techniques will find no better use for their time in Thailand than learning the basics of Muay Thai. Those who holiday in Bangkok often catch Muay Thai matches daily at venues across the city and become intrigued about this unique fighting method invented by locals.

It Keeps You Fit

While it may not be the main reason why most tourists choose to sign up for Muay Thai classes during a holiday in Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas or any one of the other Phuket resorts, the fighting technique is ideal for fitness fanatics. Using both your upper and lower body strength, Muay Thai boxing is a great way to work up a sweat and burn those extra calories.

It’s a Lethal Weapon

Female travellers and others who are in search of self-defence lessons will also find Muay Thai fits their requirements as learning how to fend off an attacker using Muay Thai techniques is one of the happy by-products of picking up the sport.

It’s Fun

In addition to being good for one’s health and self-defence, Muay Thai is also highly enjoyable, especially when compared to yoga or aerobics classes.

The First-Timers Travel Guide to Phuket – It’s so much more than the beaches

Beaches are the first things that travellers remember when referring to Phuket. But it’s a holiday destination with so much more!

Timing

The best advice is to avoid the rainy season. So, it’d be best to schedule your tour from the end of November to April. The seas will also be so calm during this period.

Getting around

Phuket has an international airport. So, once you get there, travelling to your hotel and then travelling around is not a big deal. Many travel modes including the Smart Bus, minivan, and taxi are available for you.

Accommodation

You may stay at any of the Phuket luxury villas the likes of Anantara Layan Phuket Resort during your vacation. All beaches and other attractions are located within easy reach.

Experiences

Head to Kata Beach, and do nothing. This will grant you all the relaxation you’ve been longing for a long time. Do not miss out on exploring the Big Buddha, Phuket Old Town, Wat Chalong Temple, and the night markets in the area.

Island Hopping

If you are planning to spend a longer vacation in Phuket, you may also go island hopping. James Bond Island, Koh Phi Phi, and Similan Islands are worth exploring.

An Expert Travel Guide to Phuket – What to look forward to

Phuket is an island that is part of Thailand and indeed is one of the most exciting destinations for those seeking an adventurous escape into bliss. Here are a few things to know about this absolutely beautiful island.

A beach paradise

If you love the beach, then you’ve certainly selected the right holiday spot for you. There’s plenty of sun, gorgeous beige sands and blue, blue waters lapping against the shores. Not to mention, there are plenty of beachside restaurants serving up great seafood and chilled beverages.

Visit the elephants

The gentle giants of the jungle are treated with great care in Thailand and this is evident at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. The elephants are cared for here and guests are even allowed to observe them up close and interact with these wonderful creatures.

Party, party, party

Are you a party animal? Well, Phuket’s got some good news for you! There are plenty of beachside clubs with popular DJs playing in the evenings. Dance to those beats by the ocean in the warm breeze with a cooler in hand.

Stay

Since Phuket is quite a popular destination among travellers, a Phuket resort isn’t difficult to come by! Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and other hotels on the island offer a memorable, luxurious experience for your stay.

Phang Nga Bay Island Cruise

The spectacular Phang Nga Bay has an exquisite element that makes its appeal increase as a tourist destination; the magnificent limestone karsts that are jutting out over the turquoise waters would surely make your jaw drop due to its unbelievable splendour.

Cruising the Bay

Phang Nga Bay is a perfect destination to go on a boating trip. It offers many safe places to anchor while you admire its scenic views.

James Bond Island

A landmark in the region, James Bond Island gained its popularity due to its starring role in The Man with the Golden Gun, a famous James Bond movie. When you cruise around the island, you will be mesmerised by the sheer number of majestic limestone karsts that are peppered around the region.

Koh Panyee Island

Another famous spot of the Phang Nga Bay, Koh Panyee Island is a great place to enjoy the breathtaking scenery on the bay, as you’d only have brief encounters with tourists. You can arrange a cruise around this picturesque bay during your stay at a pool villa in Phuket offered by popular chains such as Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas.

Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

Located just a 30-minute drive away from Phuket, Samet Nangshe Viewpoint offers the most bewitching views of the limestones of the Phang Nga Bay. This location has got extraordinary photographic potential that would absolutely delight your senses.

Explore Many Options at the Phuket Night Markets

While Phuket is renowned for its natural beauty – most notably its famous white sand beaches – there is still more to this Thai island! In fact, one of its most fascinating attractions can be found inland, amidst the bustle of the cities – Phuket’s night markets!

Chillva Market

If you’re looking for the hippest night market in town, the Chillva Market is the place to be. Located by Yaowarat Road, you’ll find everything from snacks to souvenirs and high fashion here. If you do work up a real appetite while here, don’t worry – you won’t have trouble finding a great Thai restaurant in Phuket. For example, Dee Plee Restaurant is less than thirty minutes away!

The Weekend Market

Held – as the name suggests – on the weekend, this is the largest night market you’ll find in Phuket! The stalls are a chaotic yet charming blend of food trucks, pawn shops, curios, and antique vendors and a whole lot more. This market can get quite crowded, but you’re likely to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs or a dish that packs some inimitable flavours if you’re persistent.

Christophe95, Phuket Weekend Market, CC BY-SA 4.0

Indy Night Market

The Indy market is all about supporting small independent traders and giving them a platform to showcase and sell their wares. Compared to some of the larger markets, the Indy Night Market is generally quiet and very rarely attracts large crowds. Still, despite its small size, this market has plenty of unique goods to offer and is well worth a visit.

Walking Street

This perhaps the most scenic night market you’ll find in Phuket – so much so, that it is considered to be a cultural landmark! The Walking Street is lit up in the night by various lights that emit vibrant colours, inducing an ambience that is somewhat magical and mystical. Aside from your usual stalls, you’ll find various street performers and artists here – from mimes to fire-breathers!