Phuket, Thailand

Thailand is a big country so figuring out which part of the country to visit might be challenging, but we highly recommend Phuket. Phuket is full of nightlife, beaches, and unique cultural experiences. It's unlike any other city we have been to because it gives more beach town than city vibes, but in a third world country and has endless unique activities. Here's our guide to being a tourist in Phuket, Thailand.

Where to stay

We recommend staying in the Patong Beach area near Bangla Road. This will give you the closest proximity to all the fun, and involves less driving. Karon beach is also a popular spot to stay for a quieter beach and relaxation. Another option is Phuket Old Town, which is further from the beach but considered more of a local area.

Getting around

No matter where you stay in Phuket, renting a car is the best way to see everything. However, they do drive on the left side of the road and the steering wheel is on the right side of the car. Be mentally prepared to drive in Thailand - there are no rules when it comes to lanes, driving on the wrong side of the road, driving through stop signs, and motorcycles squeezing through small spaces. It's absolute chaos and the roads are not very built up, so only do it if you feel comfortable. You'll also want to obtain an international driver's license in advance.

If you decide a car isn't for you, you can take a taxi from the airport. It's about an hour drive. There's also a bus that runs all along Patong beach area, and lots of excursions offer hotel pickup, so it is possible to get around without a car, but we feel like you'll gain a more authentic experience from having a car.

James Bond Island

Things to do

James Bond Island Speedboat Tour

The islands surrounding Phuket were made famous in 1974 by James Bond in "The Man with the Golden Gun". An island tour is an essential excursion during your trip to Thailand, and while there are a few different options, our first choice is a James Bond Island tour. This will take you to the scene were James Bond was filmed, the floating island that was a stop on the Amazing Race, and a cave walk through. Lunch and transportation from your hotel are included. We did this tour recently and couldn't recommend it more.

Koh Panyee - Floating Village

Phi Phi Islands Tour

If you have time on your trip for a second island tour, the Phi Phi Islands are an amazing experience. On this tour, you'll make multiple stops including snorkeling and transportation from you hotel is included.

Elephant Sanctuary Excursion

Visiting an elephant sanctuary was one of the most memorable experiences from our trip. We were able to get up and personal, feed, and take lots of pictures with the elephants. This is an experience that is not to be missed in Thailand.

Elephant Sanctuary

Bangla Road

Bangla Road can be overwhelming at first, but it is something you should experience in Phuket, especially at night when everything is more vibrant. Parking is scarce, so if you're staying nearby, consider walking or taking a *tuk tuk. Start on the beach side and work your way down the street. You will be approached by people trying to sell you items, get you to come to their bar, or see a *ping pong show. If you're interested in any of these things, be sure to bargain down the price. They always start high, but you get things down to around half off of their asking price.

*A tuk tuk is a three wheeled motorized rickshaw that is frequently used as a form of transportation in Thailand. You can bargain the price upfront.

*A ping pong show is not your typical ping pong... google it. While it might sound off putting, it is actually a really interesting experience unique to Thailand and we recommend it. To get in, you'll have to find someone on the street advertising ping pong and bargain down the entrance fee to a price you feel comfortable with. The entrance fee usually includes a drink. Once inside, you will be asked frequently if you want more drinks and people will walk around for tips. Neither is required and if you politely decline, they should leave you alone. They are very strict about making you turn your phone off so you can't take pictures and there is a lot of security inside.

Store filled with knockoff purses

Another fun activity to do on or around the surrounding streets of Bangla Road is shop for knockoffs. Walking around Patong Beach, you'll see store after store filled with Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Rolex, and nearly any designer brand you can think of. We found the prices in Thailand to be the cheapest and best quality in comparison to knockoff shopping in other countries around the world. Most of the items are made in Vietnam which is not far from Thailand so it's relatively inexpensive for them to get the items. On the lowest end, you can bargain designer purses down to $30 USD and a Rolex watch for around $70 USD, but will of course have to pay in Thai Baht. Bargaining all depends on the vendor and how many items you buy. You can also get a custom made suit for as little as $100 USD, but it will take a couple of days for them to make it. Be careful of your country's laws regarding knockoffs when returning home. Usually it's okay if it was purchased with the intent for personal use, not to resell. However, you can have your items confiscated by customs and it's up the discretion of your country.

Kee Sky Lounge Sunset Dinner

For a wonderful sunset dinner in Patong, check out the Kee Sky Lounge. The food is reasonably priced and you can't beat the view. Make a reservation in advance by sending them a message on WhatsApp.

Panoramic view of the Big Buddha and stairway leading up to it

The Big Buddha

The Big Buddha is a religious site and offers stunning views of Phuket from the top of the mountain. There is free parking at the top, or there is also an option to hike but it is considered challenging and takes a couple of hours. The earlier you visit the Big Buddha, the less crowded it will be.

The Big Buddha

There is a dress code. Women must have their knees and shoulders covered, while men can wear shorts and a t-shirt as long as it's not too tight. There will be someone examining your clothing, but will sometimes offer a free sarong or shawl to borrow if not dressed appropriately. Be prepared so you don't get turned away.

After you are done with your visit, you will exit down stairs into a gift shop. On this stairway are monkeys swinging from the trees above. Do not stop to take pictures of the monkeys and hold onto your belongings in this area. I stopped along with many other tourists to take a picture of the monkeys, and while I noticed signs saying that monkeys bite, I figured it was fine as long as I kept my distance. Wrong. I had my backpack with my passport inside slung on one shoulder while I was standing by a railing videotaping a monkey from a distance. The monkey very quickly ran across the railing and jumped on my backpack, swinging for about 10 seconds as I struggled let go of the backpack that my arm was stuck in, terrified the monkey might bite me. Finally, I got my arm free and dropped the backpack to the ground. The monkey grabbed the backpack and ran for the trees that were above a cliff. I chased after it and screamed for help, but all the tourists around me were in shock and just stood there. Luckily, there was a heavy water bottle inside the backpack and this monkey was small so it was struggling to lift it over the railing. One person stepped on the backpack and helped stop it from lifting until I was able to catch up. I then grabbed the backpack, screamed in the monkey's face, and ran away. This is a common occurrence at the Big Buddha, so be aware when visiting.

A moment before the monkey attacked

Hanuman World Zip-line

For a rush of adrenaline, visit Hanuman World, Thailand's biggest zip-line park. This amazing zip-line experience allows you to fly through the rainforest on 32 different platforms and skywalks with amazing views.

Phuket Old Town

For a day of shopping, head to Phuket Old Town. Parking is difficult here, so plan to spend some time looking for a free spot, or head to a paid parking lot. Don't park illegally, they will boot your car. A lot of the stuff found in Old Town is also in the shops in Patong, but this is if you're interested in doing something different, we wouldn't consider it a must do. There is a really cute flower cafe called Korrakang Cafe that is worth checking out. It's perfect for taking pictures and the menu features some local foods at reasonable prices.

Korrakang Cafe

Try Thai food

The streets of Phuket are filled with countless stands of street food. This is a great way to try some unique, local foods. A must try dessert is rolled ice cream. They make it right in front of you from scratch with ice, milk, and other ingredients of your choosing. You'll see plenty of rolled ice cream trucks on the street to choose from and they are all delicious!

Rolled ice cream in the making vs. finished product

Things to know

Currency

Thai baht is the currency in Thailand. Everything is extremely cheap in Thailand if you're coming from the USA. Cash is used frequently, so be sure to have plenty on you.

Language

Thai is the primary language in Thailand. It can be difficult getting by speaking English, so consider downloading a translator app on your phone to make it easier.

Plugs

Thailand uses plug type A. You can buy an international plug adapter here.

Safety

Thailand is a very safe country in terms of theft and solo female travelers - just exercise a normal amount of caution.

Monkeys attack

I described above how I had a negative encounter with a monkey at the Big Buddha, but they can be anywhere in Phuket that is less populated, so be aware. They are mostly interested in stealing your food, but sometimes steal other belongings just for fun. If you get scratched or bit by one, it's best to seek medical attention immediately in case of rabies or infection.

Thai tummy

Beware of Thai tummy. Southeast Asia is known to give travelers food poisoning because of the lack of cleanliness in cooking or undercooked foods. Bring prescription medicine with you in case this happens so you are prepared. If you forget and have to go to the pharmacy, the pharmacist will prescribe you medicine on the spot no appointment needed and it only costs a couple dollars for the prescription.

Bargaining

Bargaining is acceptable for almost everything. Don't be afraid to shop around for the best deals and the person willing to bargain most. Cash often makes bargaining easier.

We hope you have enjoyed our guide on how to be a tourist in Phuket, Thailand. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions!

This site contains affiliate links and we may receive commission after your purchase that comes at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and experiences that we have personally tried and love! Thank you for supporting our dreams and allowing us to continue sharing travel content with you.