🇹🇭 Thailand
Phuket travel guide
Phuket is Thailand's largest island and one of Southeast Asia's most popular beach destinations. From the lively Patong Beach to the serene shores of northern bays, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, Phuket offers stunning Andaman Sea beauty for all budgets. Add island hopping, Thai cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, and you've got paradise.
Language
Thai (English common in tourist areas)
Currency
Thai Baht (THB)
Timezone
GMT+7
Best time
November to April (dry season)
Budget/day
THB 1500-5000/day ($42-140)
When to visit
Jan
24°C - 32°C
Feb
24°C - 33°C
Mar
25°C - 34°C
Apr
25°C - 34°C
May
25°C - 33°C
Jun
25°C - 32°C
Jul
25°C - 32°C
Aug
25°C - 32°C
Sep
24°C - 31°C
Oct
24°C - 31°C
Nov
24°C - 31°C
Dec
24°C - 31°C
Safety
safePhuket is safe. Rip tides claim lives annually — swim only where lifeguards present. Motorbike accidents common.
Women travellers
Generally safe but exercise caution in Patong late at night. Beach areas safe.
Culture & etiquette
- + Wai greeting when appropriate
- + Respect Buddha images and monks
- + Remove shoes at temples
- + Dress modestly at temples (cover shoulders, knees)
- - Don't touch people's heads
- - Don't point feet at Buddha images
- - Don't disrespect the Royal Family
- - Don't sunbathe topless (illegal technically)
Food to try
Tom Yum Goong
Spicy shrimp soup
Pad Thai
Stir-fried rice noodles
Fresh Seafood BBQ
Choose your seafood, have it grilled
Green Curry
Coconut curry with Thai basil
Mango Sticky Rice
Sweet dessert
Phuket-style Hokkien Noodles
Local specialty
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.