LAEM PHANWA

Laem Phanwa is a slender cape, jutting into the sea on the southeastern coast of Phuket. It's a very mellow corner of the island that is infused with local culture. Because it's not well werved by roads to Phuket's tourist beaches, most international visitors and residents ignore it. You shouldn't. Beauty and authenticity are everywhere. To get to the cape, take Hwy 4021 and then turn south down Hwy 4023 just outside Phuket City.

KO SIREH

This tiny island, 4km east of the capital and connected to the main island by a bridge, is khown for its "chao leh" village , ravenous monkeys and a massive hilltop-reclining Buddha. It receives few tourists, so it's a nice place to visit if you want a dose of the local vibe, On the eastern side of the island is a public beach called Hat Teum Suk, with a few chairs and thatched-roof shelters. The beach isn't gorgeous but the views are lovely.

BEACHES & TOWNS

Your Phuket destiny will be predetermined. That's not to say free will plays no role in your tropical fate-it absolutely does. But due to Phuket's size there is really no feasible way to explore all of the luscious coves. funky markets and sweet sights in one journey. Which is why your holiday will be shaped by the address you have chosen long before your flight touches down.
     The vast majority of visitors are attracted to the entrenched tourist magnets of Kata and Karon , and Patong. This is where you'll find a steady stream of sun-scordhed Scandinavians who come for a social beach scene with, in Patong's case, thrumming hightlife. These areas are also centrally located, so it's possible to get from here to Phuket City and Laem Phromthep in 30 minutes or less.
     Hat Surin, north of Patong, is quintessential barefoot elegance. The cove is gorgeous, compact and intimate, and its beachfront dining scene is unparalleled on the island. Prices are high in Surin, but that's the way upscale postcodes work.
     South of Surin, Kamala has a Jimmy Buffet vibe. It gets a midlife crisis spillover from Patong (one bay down), but the affordable lodging and beachfront walk attract young families, too. Further north, Ao Bang Thao is the island's current investment vortex. Villas, hotel and restaurants are replicating across marshland on the outskirts of traditional fishing villages.
     Phuket's poles are tantalising. The far north is home to Phuket's secluded white sand, and some exceptional resorts, within a short boat ride of terrific snorkelling and diving. Rawai, perched at the southernmost tip, has some of Phuket's best beaches, fantastic food and an engaging local community that dates back generations
     And don't even consider ignoring Phuket's Old Town. If the historic architecture and local Baba culture don't captivate you, the fabulous shopping, dining and nightlife will.

FESTIVAL IN DECEMBER

Phuket King's Cup Regatta : Over 20 years old, this annual international yacht race means you'll  probably stumble upon a boat patry or three at Phuket's Yacht Haven.

Phuket King's Cup Regatta

New Year's Eve : Patong buzzes and thumps as gift, food and craft fairs invade the streets, live music is in the air and fireworks explode as the clock strikes midnight.

bangkok thailand new years eve

FESTIVAL IN NOVEMBER

Loi Krathong

Krathong

Loi Krathong : One of the most fun and accessible national holidays, crowds gather along Phuket's beaches under the full moon to honour the guardian spirit of water. Light a candle and some incense, place them on a banana leaf boat and sent them out to sea.

FESTIVAL IN OCTOBER

Vegetarian Festival : As much a spectacle as it is a festival, this cleansing ritual in Phuket's Old Town is marked by oldmen and women parading in trance and others who have pierced their cheeks, lips and tongues with sharp objects. And if you still have an appetite, there are lots of vegie goodies for sale on the streets.This festival can occur in late September. thailand accommodation phuket,hotels in phuket thailand

Chulalongkorn (Rama V)

Chulalongkorn Day : On the day of his death, 23 October, King Chulalongkorn is honoured for abolishing slavery and instituting widespread government reforms.

FESTIVAL IN SEPTEMBER

Phuket Surfing Contest : At the beginning of September Hat Kata swarms with surfers as the monsoon-fuelled swells reach their peak and parties ensue. thailand accommodation phuket,hotels in phuket thailand

FESTIVAL IN AUGUST

Por tor festival : The'Hungry Ghosts' festival is an important event for ethnic Chinese in Phuket's Old Town. Special food, flowers and candles are presented to their ancestors' altars in order to feed the ghosts that have been released from hell for the month. You'll see plenty of vibranty cakes in the shape of turtles, which symbolise longevity. Worshippers believe their offerings will help ward off the reaper. Held 22 August to 3 September. thailand accommodation phuket,hotels in phuket thailand

FESTIVAL IN JULY

Khao phansa : Another lunar holiday, this one honours the beginning of Buddhist'lent' in mid-to late  july, when all monks are required to stay on temple grounds. thailand accommodation phuket,hotels in phuket thailand

FESTIVAL IN MAY

Visakha Puja : Observant Thais crowd the temples to hear sermons and pray on the May full moon, which doubles as the holiest day of the Buddhist calendar. It marks the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. There are candle-lit processions in the evening, and this is also an ideal day to stockpile good karma by helping others.  thailand accommodation phuket,hotels in phuket thailand