Vacation in Phuket, Thailand: Where to Stay and What to Expect from Your Phuket Vacation

When you think of going on a beach vacation in the middle of the winter, I bet Phuket, Thailand probably isn't the first destination that comes to mind. But contrary to any preconceived notions you might have about Thai culture or Asian travel in general, a vacation to Phuket, Thailand might be more appealing than you think. Here are some considerations to keep in mind if you're open to vacationing at one of Thailand's most renowned beach destination.

Phuket Beaches

Phuket is lined with plenty of beaches to choose from. To some extent, they all look the same, as they're all located in the same general region of Thailand. However, you're probably more interested in which beaches offer different activities than what the beach itself looks like.

For plenty of sun exposure, check out Emerald Beach, which is known for hours of sunlight and has plenty of natural tanning beds to choose from. But if you're more of an active type, try the Rawai beach, which is a haven for professional and casual fishers alike. You can also go snorkeling or take a day-long island excursion from this beach.

Phuket Hotels

Phuket hotels are often cheaper than beach hotels in Mexico, the Bahamas or Jamaica. Except for January, when prices sky-rocket to a minimum of $400 per night for beachfront resorts, you can book a room for under $200 during the bulk of the year, depending on your room standards.

If you're staying in Phuket, you definitely want a resort with beach access. Phuket.com recommends Le meridian, the Katathani , and the Andaman White beach resorts. Each of these have magnificent pools, palm trees, exquisitely architecture hotels and a great view to boot.

Phuket Attractions

Here's where you want to take caution. If you're traveling with the kids or tend to get a little squirmy while watching scantily clad performers, take it easy on the nighttime entertainment. Phuket is renowned for its transvestite cabaret performances, which seem to be the highlight of the nighttime entertainment.

However, there are other Phuket attractions you might look into instead. The Phuket FantaSea show is a prime production where circus meets Las Vegas showtime. According to phuket.com, it's safe even for the kids and adults will enjoy the humor of the storyline. And if you want to get a snapshot of a young tiger or elephant, you can pose with one if you pay a fee.

Phuket Food

Many people get scared off at the thought of Thai food. That's not an unreasonable concern, especially considering that no one wants their mouths burning or their stomachs angry for their entire vacation. If you want to skip the massive amounts of curry and spicy chili peppers, go for a safer noodle soup at one of Phuket's restaurants. You might even try a Pad Thai restaurant, where you get to choose from a make-your-own selection of nuts, sauces, sugar and spices to adorn your noodles with. And if you need to kill off some of that spice, experts recommend drinking wine or other flavored, non-carbonated beverages as opposed to beer or soda pop.

Even though parts of your Phuket vacation might seem hard to plan depending on your taste for culture and food, don't let that hold you back. Phuket is a popular attraction, so you can be rest assured that there's plenty to do for any visitor.

Sources:
Phuket.com