Phuket

PHUKET

This trip to Phuket was all about relaxation, meaning I spent the majority of my time either on the beach or getting a massage. Phuket has always been on my bucket list and much like Bangkok and Tokyo, I never imagined I would be going this early in my life. Phi Phi island and Maya bay were absolutely breathtaking, but the nightlife in Patong Beach was the most memorable part of the trip. Phuket Island is mainly geared towards tourist, meaning there’s no shopping and places to eat. You will find the real beauty by taking a boat to the Phi Phi Islands.

How to get there: I flew HK Express from Hong Kong to Phuket. It was an easy 3 ½ hour flight. From the airport, we took a taxi to our hotel in Patong which cost 800 BHAT.

How to get around: Phuket is similar to Bangkok meaning the easiest way to get around is either by taxi or tuk tuk. My hotel was only a quick 2 minute walk from the beach and a 10 minute walk from Bangla Road, so I walked mostly everywhere.

Where to stay: Along with relaxation, this trip was also about budgeting. I was able to book a room at the Aspery hotel, minutes from the beach for $27/night. The Aspery hotel is a 3-star hotel with an infinity pool, restaurant, and a spa. I recommend staying in Patong if you want to spend the majority on your budget exploring.

Where to eat: As you all know by now, eating on the road is not my specialty. This trip I made it a point to find at least one place to recommend. The No. 6 restaurant located just a block from Bangla Road and the food is delicious. It’s the only restaurant in Patong where you will find a line outside, but I promise it’s worth the wait.

What to see & do:

Patong Beach: I would compare Patong Beach to Santa Monica Beach in California. The beach is located in a bay where you can do water activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and wake boarding. This beach isn’t quite as beautiful as the surrounding islands, but for a 2 minute walk from the hotel, it was perfect for a quick swim and tanning. You will find tons of restaurants and shops in this area as well.

Bangla Road: This road is comparable to Bourbon Street in New Orleans, but on steroids. During the day, you can walk up and down, grab some food and try bargaining with some shopkeepers. A night, the road is filled with half naked women and lady boys soliciting flyers for “Ping Pong Shows”. It is not a place for children or the faint hearted, but it’s absolutely a must do and see if you are in town.

Phi Phi Islands: Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Lee are the most popular of the six Phi Phi Islands. Most boat tours will take you to these island and will stop for snorkeling, food, or swimming. The water is turquoise and the lime stone cliffs are absolutely breathtaking. There is no way to truly illustrate the beauty these islands possess. You will find both Monkey Beach, James Bong Beach, and Maya Bay all on Phi Phi islands

Tips:

• Thailand’s currency is called the BAHT. 1.00 USD = 35.00 THB on average
• Take a cruise ship to Phi Phi Island, then take a private boat with your group to explore the islands
• The airport is a 40 minute car ride to Patong
• If you take pictures with the ladies on Bangla Road, they will charge you 100 baht