Sawadeeka/krap!
Nestling in the balmy Andaman Sea waters on Thailand's Indian Ocean lies the country's largest island and popular tourist destination, Phuket.The picturesque paradise, located in Southern Thailand, makes a fascinating holiday escape from the daily grind.
Sun, Sea and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'
Soak in the cool seagreen waters surrounding the many beautiful beaches. Enjoy fun outdoor activities like snorkeling, yachting, diving, jet-skiing, parasailing and hiking. Be captivated by the natural beauty of lush mangrove forest, limestone cliffs, waterfalls and caves. Drop by Khao Phing Kan, the island famously known as James Bond Island, where Roger Moore's 007 hunted down the villain with the golden gun in 1974.
Experience the Local Culture
With a melting pot of diverse cultures from Buddhists, Muslims, Thai-Chinese and even sea gypsies and 'Phuket Babas', you can be sure to see many of its influences in the daily lives of the locals there. Explore fishing villages, weekend markets, temples and entertainment parks. Shop for cultured pearls, pewterware, ornaments and dried seafood to bring home as souvenirs.
A Very Happening Nightlife
There's a huge bar and disco scene in Phuket, where it's a party every night. Catch the flamboyant cabaret shows performed by katoeys, or the more family-friendly 'Fantasea', an entertainment park featuring animal shows, Thai dances, shadow puppets, magic and acrobatics. There's the nightlife and then, there's the other more colorful nightlife, which draws the curious and those looking for something "different".
Get Your Taste Buds Tingling
It's food galore in Phuket - from international cuisine to tasty cheap local delights. Your inner foodie will be spoilt for choice! Savor fresh seafood and must-try noodle dishes like Phad Thai, Kuay Jap and KuayTeow. Stop by the many mobile stalls all over Phuket and snack on fresh fruits, local cashew nuts and street foods like Pa Thong Ko, small deep-fried pieces of dough, and the Sri Lankan-styled dessert called A Pong.
Do the Wai while in Thailand
Greet everyone in the traditional Thai way. Pressed both hands together and raise it up in front of your face in a prayer-like gesture. The higher you raise your hands, the more respect you are showing.