You probably already know that traveling to Phuket is something else. Contrary to what you might think, it's far from when you travel to Bangkok, Pattaya, Koh Samui, and the like. This isn't to say that Phuket is any better or worse than those destinations, but that it truly is a different experience to travel here. If you're not careful, you risk having an unpleasant time which can lead to bad memories. You wouldn't want that to happen, right? So if you want to enjoy Phuket in all its glory, follow these top travel tips.
Learn Thai Before or While You're Here
Phuket is undoubtedly a top tourist destination in the world and because of this, more and more people are
relocating here. As the years go by, the island's international community keeps on growing, however, that doesn't mean that English is becoming more and more dominant here. Thai remains the widely-spoken language in Phuket and you'll have an easier time going here if you know how to speak and understand it. Before you get here, go for some Thai language lessons. Or if you simply didn't have time, Phuket has its own
language schools that can help you out.
Bring Water-Resistant Bags When You Go To The Beach
Among the many items you need to pack for Phuket, a water-resistant bag is one of the most important. You'll likely spend most of your time here near water, in water, or even floating on water. You'll need a water-resistant bag to keep your items, especially your gadgets, nice and dry. Even if you're simply going to
the beach to sunbathe and play on the sand, you never know how your stuff can, in one way or another, get in contact with water. As the saying goes, '
it's better to be safe than sorry!'
Pile On The Sunscreen
Don't underestimate the sun in Phuket. This island—and Thailand, in general, is located right at the heart of Southeast Asia and it's pretty close to the equator. It can get really hot and bright here and if you're not careful, it might affect your health in more ways than one. And one of them is, of course, a bad case of sunburnt. Now, with the risk of spending your days with ultra-sensitive and highly painful skin or, possibly, in the
hospital, you're better off slathering one or two coats of sunscreen before you go out.
Always Buy Bottled Water
Speaking of your health, to really ensure that you stay healthy all throughout your stay in Phuket, only drink from bottled water. You can buy some from the vendors on the street or really big liters in convenience stores. Though this may seem unnecessary and might even take up a chunk of your budget, know that it's safer to drink mineral bottled water than tap water in Phuket. A good alternative is to bring a tumbler and ask any establishment to fill it up with cold water (that is if they'll allow it). The cooler your water, the more refreshing it'd be!
Be Careful with Tuk-Tuks
Among the more traditional modes of
public transportation in Phuket here are the famous tuk-tuks. You'll likely want to ride one at least once while you're on the island. But do note, however, that you need to be careful when hailing one. It's pretty common for tuk-tuk drives to scam passengers, especially foreign tourists, into paying high prices for a ride. And try as you might to haggle or go for a different tuk-tuk, you'll find that they've already established a sort of system that leaves you at the short end of the stick. So if you still want to ride a tuk-tuk, make sure to do so when you have money to spare.
Dress Appropriately at Night
Since Phuket is made up of different beaches and coastlines, wearing light and even slightly revealing clothing is pretty common here. For example, donning just your bikini top and a pair of shorts won't attract too much attention during the day. But come nightfall, however, you'll need to dress appropriately. Depending on which
district in Phuket you are in, make sure you're wearing the proper street clothes if you want to go out at night. It's no secret that Phuket's nightlife scene is notorious for its sketchy activities and if you dress provocatively, you risk getting into all sorts of trouble.
Behave Properly in Temples
On the subject of dressing up properly, you'll also need to cover yourself up when you visit the temples in Phuket. There are some with strict dress codes and they'll go as far as to not allow entry if you're showing off too much skin. There are some, however, that provide cover-ups but to be on the safe side, avoid wearing tank tops, short shorts, and the like. Moreover, you have to remain as silent as you can when you're inside. Even if you're simply snapping pictures, turn your shutter off so that it won't disturb others who actually went to the temples to pray.
Although Phuket is truly a paradise on Earth, it's one where you have to be careful yourself. You never know what may happen to you here so to ensure that you won't get into any sort of trouble, follow these top travel tips!
One last travel tip: get a
luxury home in Phuket for your stay here. This will make all the difference!
