Phuket has a way of seducing you before you’ve even set foot on its powdery beaches. Maybe it’s the technicolor sunsets, or the electric energy of Patong after dark, or the easy calm that comes over you when you realize there’s absolutely no rush to be anywhere. Whatever your reason for coming, this Thai island promises a little of everything: relaxation, adventure, and a dash of indulgence.
Where to Stay
Luxury travelers gravitate toward Kata Noi, where secluded villas cling to the cliffs and infinity pools melt into the Andaman Sea. If you’re more of a “see and be seen” type, Patong Beach offers no shortage of sleek hotels with rooftop bars and DJ-fueled pool scenes. Budget-friendly guesthouses abound in Old Phuket Town, an area whose restored Sino-Portuguese architecture and Sunday street markets are worth lingering over.
(Pro tip: Sites like Orbitz make it ridiculously easy to compare deals and lock in the right vibe—whether you’re after barefoot luxury or a wallet-friendly boutique hotel.)
What to Eat
Phuket is a playground for food lovers. Start your day with a bowl of fragrant khao tom (rice soup) from a local street cart. Midday, sample mee hokkien noodles—chewy yellow strands stir-fried with pork and seafood—at a shophouse café. And don’t leave without trying kanom jeen, a Southern Thai specialty of cold rice noodles bathed in spicy curry sauce.
Hidden Corners Worth Exploring
If you want to see a side of Phuket beyond the glossy brochures, venture a little off the beaten path:
- Ao Sane Beach: Tucked behind Nai Harn, this rocky cove is a favorite of snorkelers and locals escaping the crowds. Bring water shoes and your sense of adventure.
- Koh Yao Noi: A short ferry ride away, this tranquil island feels decades behind Phuket—think sleepy villages, rubber plantations, and gentle beaches where time seems to slow.
- The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary: An ethical refuge where you can watch rescued elephants roam, bathe, and simply be elephants again. It’s humbling and unforgettable.
Wellness & Rejuvenation
After a few days of exploring, you might crave some restorative downtime. Phuket is dotted with spas and wellness retreats that blend traditional Thai therapies with modern comfort:
- Banyan Tree Spa: Famous for its signature treatments and serene open-air pavilions.
- Let’s Relax Spa: Accessible luxury—great value for long massages after a day in the sun.
- Yoga in Kata: Early-morning classes overlooking the ocean are the perfect reset before breakfast.
Even many hotels you can book through Orbitz include spa credits or wellness packages—worth checking if you want to combine relaxation with accommodation.