The best time to visit Phuket is from November to February, during the cool NE monsoon season, when the weather is perfect with comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and calm sea. However, this is also the peak season for tourism, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Whether you need a visa to visit Phuket depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Many countries are eligible for a visa exemption or visa on arrival for stays up to 30 days. It's essential to check the latest visa requirements with the Thai consulate or embassy before planning your trip.
Phuket's must-visit attractions include the stunning beaches such as Patong, Kata, and Karon, the Big Buddha statue, Phang Nga Bay, Old Phuket Town, and the various temples like Wat Chalong. Additionally, island-hopping trips to nearby places such as Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island are highly recommended.
Yes, Phuket is family-friendly with numerous activities suited for families like beach days, visiting the elephant sanctuaries, enjoying the Phuket Trickeye Museum, taking boat tours, and exploring the aquariums. Many resorts in Phuket also cater specifically to families with children.
Phuket offers various transportation options including metered taxis, tuk-tuks, motorcycle taxis, public buses, and rental services for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. It's advisable to use metered taxis or agree on a price before a journey in a tuk-tuk to avoid overcharging.
In Phuket, be sure to try local delicacies such as Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles), Massaman Curry, Som Tum (spicy papaya salad), and fresh seafood dishes. Sweet treats like mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream are also popular.
The local currency in Phuket is the Thai Baht (THB). Currency exchange services are widely available in airports, banks, hotels, and authorized money exchangers. ATMs are also abundant and accept most international debit and credit cards.
Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Phuket. However, it is still a good idea to carry some cash, especially when shopping at local markets or using transportation services like tuk-tuks and taxis.
The primary language spoken in Phuket is Thai. However, due to the international nature of tourism in Phuket, English is widely spoken and understood in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Tourists should be respectful of Thai culture and traditions. This includes removing shoes before entering someone's home or a temple, not touching someone's head, refraining from pointing feet at people or sacred objects, and being mindful of modest dress codes, especially at religious sites.
