If you’re visiting Phuket for the first time, there’s an amazing variety of things to enjoy in this beautiful seaside destination. Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, with visitors thronging to the area for its vibrant nightlife, cheap shopping, and an array of places of stunning natural beauty to explore. From exploring the famous Buddhist temples to taking the famous Phang Nga Bay Tours with Simba Sea Trips, there’s plenty to keep you busy on your trip.
A few tips for those visiting Phuket for the first time are:
Preferably, avoid Patong Beach: While this may come as a shock to some as Patong is the main touristy section of Phuket, it’s best to avoid it if possible. That is, of course, if you’re willing to bypass the nightlife in the area. Phuket is crowded and does have its fair share of unsavory characters that are best avoided. If you do intend to visit, make sure you have your wits about you at all times, or you could end up getting scammed by the dodgy characters in the area. Some of the better beach options include Mai Khao Beach, Surin, and Hat Karon.
Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park: If you’re someone with a passion for nature and wildlife, a visit to the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park and Conservation Center must be on your bucket list of places to visit. The park is doing commendable work in raising awareness about the conservation of nature. The park houses several species on the endangered list and takes care of large trees in a verdant forest. While you’re there, don’t miss the Nam Tok Sai Waterfall, which is incredibly beautiful. They even have a unique floating restaurant if you want to take a bite in the mangroves.
Enjoy Muay Thai fighting: If you want to see something traditionally Thai, you need to watch a Muay Thai fight. An ancient form of Thai martial art, it incorporates a variety of techniques to strike an opponent including elbows, shins, knees, and fists, earning it the nickname ‘the art of eight limbs.’ Muay Thai fighters are extremely tough and resilient, as it takes tremendous physical and mental discipline to qualify as a professional fighter. Two popular locations to see a Muay Thai fight in live action are Patong Beach or the SaphanHin Stadium.
Enjoy the scenic vistas: One of the most attractive features of Phuket is the many scenic elevated viewpoints it offers to visitors. Get some very stunning views of the area with two of the top vantage points being Kata and Promthep. Capture some fantastic photographs of the sun setting in the area for your Facebook or Instagram account.
Take a tour of the Thalang National Museum: Culture enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy a tour of the Thalang National Museum. It’s where you can learn about the rich culture and history of Phuket over the centuries. The museum has a fascinating collection of relics and artifacts from the war with the Burmese and Old Phuket. It’s an excellent way to spend an afternoon enjoying a very informative and exciting trip to the museum!
