Phuket is one of those daydream destinations to transport yourself to on your daily commute; perfect white, sandy beaches which stretch on until you reach sharp limestone cliffs, and you’ve lush tropical jungle on one side and the famously bright turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea on the other side. Relax, dive, snorkel, explore the jungle, island hop, drink well, eat well and be well looked after. That’s Phuket Island for you. Our Guru’s recommendations for the best places to stay in Phuket are a fairly luxurious collection, with a plethora of upscale beach hotels, but there are still a couple of really good value options — so the dream is open to everyone!
Some of our Phuket collections:
Just back from the coast, Phuket Town is significantly cheaper than staying in one of the beach resorts. This city is a real historic melting pot, with people and influence from China, Portugal, India and the Arabian Peninsula helping to build this place up - when it was just an island of tin mines and rubber plantations - before the tourist dollar arrived. As well as uncovering Phuket’s cultural side, and having your pick of the textiles shops and markets, if you’re exploring Phuket Town you might also be interested in visiting some of the city’s many shrines, strolling past some of the beautifully grand old Sino-Portuguese buildings and popping round a couple of museums.
What not to Miss
- Phuket is the kind of place where you can pack in a lot of adventure, or do very little. Go sailing or jet-skiing, try parasailing, or diving, snorkelling or free diving, kite-surfing, canoeing or deep sea fishing.
- The island’s spectacular coastline is well worth seeing, and you can do it under your own steam or someone else’s. Phuket isn’t the only island in these parts and it’s definitely worth visiting some of the others.
- If you fancy a bit of sightseeing beyond the beautiful beaches and the hilly interior with its dramatic roads, then there’s a fair bit to choose from, including an aquarium, a crocodile farm, a butterfly garden and Wat Prathong with its half buried golden Buddha.
The best places to stay in Phuket are always busy destinations, so don't leave your booking till the last minute....you might well be disappointed!