Phuket Thailand Travel Guide
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol is still allowed in Thailand. However, you can not buy alcohol at all times of day. Shops like supermarkets and 7-Elevens are not allowed to sell alcohol between 2.00-5.00 P.M. and after midnight. However, you can drink alcohol all day though in restaurants and bars.
Bus Services
The long distance bus station is in Phuket town, directly across from the Royal Phuket City Hotel. From here both air-con tour buses and cheap, ‘orange crush’ buses leave for destinations north, south and east. There are regular services to Bangkok, Krabi, Surat Thani, Nakorn Srithammarat, Trang, Haad Yai and other minor provincial capitals.
Car Rental
One of the best ways to see Phuket is to hire a car and drive around. There are many scenic roads, particularly on the West Coast.
Climate
Phuket has a tropical monsoon climate. It's warm all year 'round, but the two periods of April-May and September-October are the hottest. The September-October period is also the wettest. The best time to visit Phuket is from November through March, when it isn't so humid, and the cool breezes keep things comfortable.
Currency, Credit Cards & ATM
Thailand’s currency is Baht. Bills come in denominations of 1000, 500, 100, 50 and 20. Coins are 10, 5, 1 and tiny satangs. Satangs are quarter fractions of 1 and are not widely used.
Most international currencies and Travellers Cheques can be exchanged at banks or local moneychangers. Major credit cards are accepted in major establishments as well as at moneychangers. You can get a cash advance on your credit card at most banks and transfer funds into the country, the latter usually taking a few working days. Western Union outlets are relatively common and easy to access.
Culture
The traditional Thai greeting gesture is called a wai (hands placed together in a prayer position at the chest, chin or forehead). There are various levels of wais, the best is to just imitate the wai that is being given to you, or place your hands at your chest. Most Thais are not accustomed to shaking hands, but more are adopting this western approach when meeting foreigners.
Generally speaking, Thais have a modest and polite culture. Though you may see some foreign women sun-bathing without their tops on, it is offensive to the Thais and looked down upon.
When visiting a Buddhist temple, dress modestly. Shoulders and thighs should be covered. It is a good idea to carry a sarong with you in case your day of sightseeing finds you at a temple.
Driving Information
Driving around Phuket island is easy, you must ensure that you follow these guidelines;
- In Thailand driving is on the left side of the road, as in the UK, Singapore and numerous other countries.
- Seat belt wearing and drink driving laws apply, and are occasionally enforced.
- A valid International License or Thai Driving License is essential.
- Full Comprehensive Insurance is a must.
Getting Here
By Air - The main airport is Phuket International Airport, which is also one of Thailand's busiest airports. There are direct international flights from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Macao and Seoul. During peak periods, there are also direct charters from Europe and Australia. If you are from other parts of Thailand, such as Bangkok, Chiangmai, Pattaya and Ko Samui, there are also low-cost domestic carriers that can bring you to Phuket.
By Bus - If you are on mainland Thailand in places such as Bangkok, Hat Yai or Krabi, you can reach Phuket by bus. Be sure to buy tickets from trustworthy bus companies as there are some bus companies with reputations for overcharging, theft and overall bad service.
Newspapers and Magazines
In Phuket, there are three local English-language newspapers. The Phuket Gazette is the longest established and most widely read. Siang Tai is the best-selling Thai language local newspaper, which now has an English language version. The Phuket Post is a new addition to the english-language local newspaper scene.
Medical Services
Phuket has two very good international hospitals, located in the centre of the island in Kathu. One is Phuket International Hospital, situated between Big C shopping centre and Index mall on the bypass road. The other one is Bangkok Phuket Hospital, located behind Tesco-Lotus on Yaowrat Road. Patong Hospital in Patong is a decent option if you are staying in Patong and require basic care or can’t make it to the international hospitals.
Restaurants
Thai restaurants in Phuket are everywhere. There is less of the street food than you might find in Bangkok, but there are countless small restaurants where you can eat like a king for a couple of bucks. With its close proximity to the sea, there are a large number of seafood restaurants in Phuket. The Thais have a knack for concocting some of the most amazing seafood dishes around. Some of the best restaurants in Phuket can be found at the high-end resorts. While they are expensive, if you want incredible Western or Japanese dishes, you often have to pay for the privilege. Some of the luxury resorts in Mai Khao play host to some fine restaurants.
Shopping
Over the last few years, a number of large shopping malls like Tesco, Big C, Index furniture have opened on Phuket housing well known international retailers, unique local boutiques as well as international restaurant outlets such as Outback steakhouse and Burger King.
If you are going to visit Phuket for a holiday then please make sure to visit the brand new Phuket Jungceylon mall in Patong or the Central Carnival Mall along the Phuket by-pass road.
Tipping
Most restaurants add a 10 percent service charge to the bill but an additional 5 to 10 per cent may be given, where deserved. When a service charge is not automatic,10 per cent is acceptable. Small tips may also be given to taxi drivers, bellboys, or roommaids.
