Phuket, Thailand - Spectacular Scenery with Great Value Accommodation

After finishing my business in Bangkok - Thailand, I had some free times, so I decided to travel to Phuket between 15-18 June, 2007. I flew to Phuket - flight time is 1.20 hours - by airline named One-Two-Go, rented the car - Toyota Yaris - from AVIS, and reserve the hotel room - Karon Princess Hotel, Superior Room - via Silkzpider.

This is not a good time to go to Phuket since rainy season already began in May and lasts till October. However, it is just the begining of the season, it was not so rainy as I expected. The weather was around 30 Degrees Celsius with light rain.

First Day - My flight arrived at Phuket around 8.30am - round trip ticket costed me around 1,700THB. I went directly to AVIS counter to get my rented car. It was nice - brand new Toyota Yaris in red color (see right). The rental cost was 950THB/day. The car was clean and new with full gas in the tank. I chose to rent a car since I don't like the motorcycle. I had fallen down before, and it was really hurt. That was my only reason to rent only car and I had heard that the taxi fee in Phuket area was very expensive. Most people recommended renting a car because the rental cost is much cheaper than the taxi fee.

My first stop after getting out from the airport was the place named "Pra Tong Temple" (see below). This temple enclosed a golden statue of Buddha that sprang up from beneath the earth. The temple is amazing. It was clean, cultural rich, and full with friendly munks. People in Phuket believe that this holy statue brought good luck to them.

Then, I rode along the beach road to check out Laem Sing, Kamala Beach, Na-Kha-Le Bay, and Patong Beach. The road was in a good condition, no rain, not much traffic, and full of the mountain side view. I was stunned by the view. Then, I stopped at Patong Beach - the most beautiful beach in Phuket and had lunch at Jungceylon Shopping Destination - the largest international shopping and leisure destination in the Andaman region. This shopping mall is located on the corner of Bangla and Patong 2 roads - the liveliest spot in Patong area. The place was not so crowded since it was in a day time and at the begining of rainy season; however, the local food was good.

After my stomach was filled, it was time to check in the hotel - Karon Princess Hotel (see below). This hotel is located on the Karon Beach which is next to Patong Beach. The drive from Patong to Karon was smooth, still full of mountain view. This hotel is situated on the beachfront in the heart of Karon Bay with a few meters from the beach of Andaman Sea. This time, I did not expect to spend much time in the hotel, so this 3-star hotel was perfect as recommended by Silkzpider. Besides, I got an extra discount because of the Samui's low season. The superior room was clean equipped with air-condition, cable TV, private balcony, refrigerator, bath tub, shower, bathroom amenities, hair dryer, etc. Perfect place to crash down.


Immediately zipping a cold drink from the hotel, I was on the road again. My plan was driving around the island and stopped by one of the best View Point (see below left) to see bird-eye-view of 3 bays - Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon.

Then, Chalong Temple is another famous temple in Phuket. It's a must to visit. This temple has the statues of Luang Por Cham, Luang Por Chuang, Luang Por Gluam, and other monks. They are the objects of respect and recipients of offerings by Phuket people. Don't forget to buy the firework...your wish will come through.

Then, Promthep Cape (see left) was the next stop. This is one of the Phuket's most inspiring vistas - emerald green currents swirl in the deep water and breakers hurl themselves in vain against the rocky point. It is the most beautiful place to catch Phuket's famous sunset view. Don't forget to buy chicken grill near parking area - a little oilly but taste good. It was great....eating while waiting for the sunset. Now, remind me of that chicken grill, I definitely buy some more, if I have a chance to get there next time.

Now, it was time to go back to the hotel and enjoy my shower before having dinner at Patong area near Jungceylon Shopping Destination. Try any local food stalls and enjoy the drink at Bang La Road.

Second Day - I went on the full day diving trip to Phi Phi Island, Khai Island, Monkey Beach, and Maya Bay (see left)- the ultimate Andaman experience. I really enjoyed the trip. I got this trip from Patong tour counter near Bang La Road. This trip included hotel transfers, speed boat transfer, mask, snorkel, life jacket, lunch, fresh fruit, and a tour guide. It was not my day at the begining, but it was one of my perfect day at the end. Our trip didn't look good at first since we got so many medium waves during the way due to the rainy season. However, the spectacular scenery of the islands and bay were so beautiful both on the land, sea, and underwater. I would never forget it. The tour guy and his team were very helpful and friendly.

Third Day - Also a full day trip to Phang Nga Bay - Talu Cave, Hong Island, Panak Island, James Bond Island, and Panyi Island (Fishing Village). This trip was on the other side of island and also included hotel transfers, boat transfer, canoe gear, lunch, fresh fruit, and tour guide. This trip was kind of relax and easy-going-trip observing the undisturbance nature. The canoe tour leader was so funny and very friendly (see right). He certainly knows how to take care and make you smile : )

My dinner plan for the night was having a nice dinner buffet (started at 6.00pm - 9.00pm) and seeing a show at Phuket Fantasea - the award-winning, Las Vegas-style production spectacle colorfully blending the beauty of Thai culture with magical illusion, 4-D effects, aerial ballet, aerobatics, pyrotechnics, special effects, exciting stunts and an elephant circus featuring over 30 elephants in the unique theatrical experience. This is one of the world's greatest buffet feasting of Royal Thai dishes and international delicacies. I was really enjoy the eating. The show was also great. I was amazed what Thai people can do in this world class show. Here is your souvenir from Phuket Fantasea. Enjoy!

Forth Day - Today is my last day in Phuket, so let's see the town. I had breakfast which I didn't actually know the name of the food. I called noddle soup with fish ball and Pork Satay with special sauce. It was great. I love it. Then, I went up to the hill to the other best View Point area. Zipping my ice coffee and looking over Phuket town gave me the unforgetable memory (see below). What's a nice trip.