Phuket

Thailand

Phuket is Thailand's largest island, famous for stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife in Patong, and world-class island hopping to Phi Phi, James Bond Island, and beyond. From luxury resorts to budget backpacker haunts, incredible Thai cuisine to wellness retreats, Phuket offers something for everyone. The Andaman Sea provides spectacular diving, while the Old Town showcases Sino-Portuguese heritage.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$40/day
Mid-range$100/day
Luxury$350/day

Known For

phuketthailandpatongphi_phijames_bond_islandphang_nga_baykata_beachkaron_beachbig_buddhaold_townisland_hoppingthai_foodbeachessnorkelingdivingnightlifemuay_thaicooking_classtempleswellnessspamassagelongtail_boatsoutheast_asiatropicalhoneymoonpartyfamily_beachwater_sportssunsetandaman_sea

🇹🇭 Country Information: Thailand

CapitalBangkok
CurrencyThai baht (฿)
Language Thai , English (some in tourist areas)
Phone Code+66
Electricity220V (Type A, B, C, F)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is not customary in local eateries, but appreciated in tourist
  • oriented restaurants (5
  • 10% or rounding up)
  • For taxis, round up the fare
  • For hotel staff, 20
  • 50 THB is appropriate
  • For tour guides, 100
  • 200 THB per day is appreciated
  • For massage therapists, 50
  • 100 THB is common

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available
  • Credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas but less so in rural areas
  • It's advisable to carry some cash, especially outside major cities
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees)
  • Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes
  • Do not touch people's heads, as it's considered sacred
  • Pointing with your feet is considered rude
  • The 'wai' (pressing palms together and bowing slightly) is a common greeting and show of respect
  • Losing your temper in public is frowned upon
  • Avoid public displays of affection

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Thailand is generally tolerant towards LGBTQ+ individuals, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not uncommon. While there are no specific laws protecting LGBTQ+ rights, discrimination is not prevalent, and same-sex marriage is in the process of being legalized.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 20
  • Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties for possession, consumption, and trafficking, including for small amounts of marijuana, which is legal for medical use but highly regulated
  • Vaping and e
  • cigarettes are illegal

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to disrespect the monarchy
  • It is illegal to litter
  • Always carry identification documents
  • Never touch someone's head
  • Remove your shoes before entering temples or private homes

Common Phrases

NoMai (mâi) ไม่
YesChai (châi) ใช่
HelloSawasdee (sah-wah-dee) สวัสดี
Thank youKob kun (kohp koon) ขอบคุณ
Excuse me/SorryKhor thod (kaw toht) ขอโทษ

Climate

Tropical monsoon climate with two seasons. High season (November-April) is dry with lower humidity. Monsoon season (May-October) brings heavy afternoon rains but often sunny mornings. Temperatures consistently 80-95°F (27-35°C) year-round with high humidity.

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Pad Thai must_try

Thailand's iconic stir-fried rice noodles with tamarind, fish sauce, peanuts, and your choice of protein. Every restaurant has their version - street

Tom Yum Goong must_try

Spicy and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime, and chili. The perfect balance of Thai flavors in one bowl. Available clear or crea

Massaman Curry must_try

Rich, mild curry with Persian influences - potatoes, peanuts, and tender meat in creamy coconut sauce with warm spices. One of the world's best dishes

Moo Hong (Phuket Braised Pork) local_favorite

Phuket's signature dish - pork belly braised for hours in Chinese five-spice, pepper, and soy sauce until meltingly tender. Reflects Chinese heritage.

Fresh Seafood must_try

Grilled fish, prawns, squid, and crab prepared simply with Thai seasonings. Rawai fishing village and beachfront restaurants serve the freshest catche

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Similan Islands Diving tour_or_activity
Book 2-8 weeks in advance

Limited liveaboard spaces. Only open October-May. Best operators book weeks ahead.

Peak Season Hotels Accommodation
Book 1-6 months in advance for peak season

December-January is peak season with high demand and prices.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Phi Phi Island Tour tour_or_activity
Book 2-7 days in advance

Many operators, but best boats fill up in peak season.

Ethical Elephant Sanctuary tour_or_activity
Book 3-14 days in advance

Ethical sanctuaries have limited capacity. Popular choice.

Fun Facts

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