With the Australian Dollar at a 6 year low there has never been a better time to head to Thailand. Thankfully 1 Australian Dollar will see you converting to an estimated 25 Thai Baht. For an affordable, adventure filled, cultural getaway look no further then Phuket!
DAY 1 - CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
For your first day in Phuket, if you can drag yourself away from your hotel swim up bar, I would recommend joining a half day town tour. It is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, brush up on some history and spot the town’s iconic attractions such as the ‘Big Buddha’. Book yourself an afternoon cooking class to learn some of the secrets to cooking world famous Thai cuisine! For dinner check out Phuket Simon Cabaret to experience the world famous ladyboys show. Can you spot the difference?
DAY 2 - FUN IN THE SUN
A trip to Phuket wouldn’t be complete without a tour of Phi Phi Islands. Who could resist white sandy beaches, picture perfect views and a chance to soak up the rays where the 2000 famous movie ‘The Beach’ was filmed? Make sure you pack your underwater camera for snorkelling in the islands pristine waters. Colourful coral and fish are stunning here! These tours generally arrive back in Phuket fairly late so I would suggest spending your evening treating yourself to local cuisine and strolling the night markets putting your bartering skills to the test. For something special pick up a sky lantern and head down to Karon Beach under the light of the moon. Whether you are ready to let go of something that is holding you back or wanting to make a wish for the future, releasing a lantern is a beautiful symbolic way to finish your evening.
DAY 3 - ADVENTURE
On my trip to Phuket I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to trek through Phuket’s jungle on the back of an elephant. To get the most for your money several stalls vendors offer combo packages such as quad biking and monkey shows. All of which are throughly enjoyable! If you have some time to kill in the afternoon head down to the Phuket Shooting Range for target practise. If guns aren’t your thing pop next door to Phuket Go Karts for a few laps. For dinner families or couples can’t resist Phuket FantaSea Theme Park. A great cultural night out which includes a buffet dinner, Elephant show, cultural attractions and more. Book your tickets in advance as they often sell out fast!
Please note my recommended itinerary only allows for 3 days in Phuket. If you are lucky enough to have more time available I would recommend enjoying cocktails on the beach in Karon, wandering through the street markets for unique souvenirs, kayaking around the islands or treating yourself to a traditional Thai massage.
MY TOP TIPS FOR PHUKET
1. When bartering always start at at least half of the asking price. Remember street vendors won’t settle on a price with you if they aren't making a profit!
2. Get out of your hotel for dinner! Some of the best Thai cuisines I’ve tasted have been in side streets amongst the night markets.
3. Book your activities locally. When booking in Australia flight agencies tend to charge upwards of 3 times the amount you can bater a tour for when in Thailand. Just be sure to book through an actual shop that can’t disappear overnight!
DAY 1 - CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
For your first day in Phuket, if you can drag yourself away from your hotel swim up bar, I would recommend joining a half day town tour. It is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, brush up on some history and spot the town’s iconic attractions such as the ‘Big Buddha’. Book yourself an afternoon cooking class to learn some of the secrets to cooking world famous Thai cuisine! For dinner check out Phuket Simon Cabaret to experience the world famous ladyboys show. Can you spot the difference?
DAY 2 - FUN IN THE SUN
A trip to Phuket wouldn’t be complete without a tour of Phi Phi Islands. Who could resist white sandy beaches, picture perfect views and a chance to soak up the rays where the 2000 famous movie ‘The Beach’ was filmed? Make sure you pack your underwater camera for snorkelling in the islands pristine waters. Colourful coral and fish are stunning here! These tours generally arrive back in Phuket fairly late so I would suggest spending your evening treating yourself to local cuisine and strolling the night markets putting your bartering skills to the test. For something special pick up a sky lantern and head down to Karon Beach under the light of the moon. Whether you are ready to let go of something that is holding you back or wanting to make a wish for the future, releasing a lantern is a beautiful symbolic way to finish your evening.
DAY 3 - ADVENTURE
On my trip to Phuket I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to trek through Phuket’s jungle on the back of an elephant. To get the most for your money several stalls vendors offer combo packages such as quad biking and monkey shows. All of which are throughly enjoyable! If you have some time to kill in the afternoon head down to the Phuket Shooting Range for target practise. If guns aren’t your thing pop next door to Phuket Go Karts for a few laps. For dinner families or couples can’t resist Phuket FantaSea Theme Park. A great cultural night out which includes a buffet dinner, Elephant show, cultural attractions and more. Book your tickets in advance as they often sell out fast!
Please note my recommended itinerary only allows for 3 days in Phuket. If you are lucky enough to have more time available I would recommend enjoying cocktails on the beach in Karon, wandering through the street markets for unique souvenirs, kayaking around the islands or treating yourself to a traditional Thai massage.
MY TOP TIPS FOR PHUKET
1. When bartering always start at at least half of the asking price. Remember street vendors won’t settle on a price with you if they aren't making a profit!
2. Get out of your hotel for dinner! Some of the best Thai cuisines I’ve tasted have been in side streets amongst the night markets.
3. Book your activities locally. When booking in Australia flight agencies tend to charge upwards of 3 times the amount you can bater a tour for when in Thailand. Just be sure to book through an actual shop that can’t disappear overnight!