“Too touristy, you are just so touristy right now, you have to see the untouched parts of Thailand”, these are the words which I heard when I decided to visit Phuket.
They were wrong, yes Phuket has a reputation especially when your are single male and going to see this place. Don`t get fooled by it, Phuket and its surroundings has so much to offer.
Why Phuket?
Phuket was next stop on my trip thought Asia, at this point I have seen Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur and island Langkawi and from there by boat I done trip to Thai island Koh Lipe http://kohlipethailand.com/
Why Phuket then? I don`t really know maybe to the see the amazing islands surrounding it or just to see Phuket on my own eyes and make my own opinion about it.
What I did?
Boat trips
You can book the trips from local tourist offices, the pricing seems to be flexible so haggle if you want to get better price.
Speed boat trip from Phuket Marina to James Bond island and the beach from the “Beach” movie.
Yes, these trips are usually crowded, I have been there at the high season in January and it was packed. From what I know “the beach from the beach movie” is closed now due to environmental burden from extensive tourism.
Similan Islands, boat trip https://www.phuket101.net/similan-islands/
These islands are more to the North of Phuket, I just loved them. I was lucky and meet bunch of cool guys on this trip from all around the world. Do snorkeling when you are there, it`s worth. Beautiful coral reefs to see, don`t forget your action camera and maybe some toast bread.
It can get crowdy, I felt like I am part of D-day sometimes
The floating village trip and kayaking
Now its starts to be mono thematic, can you see barracuda on the picture below?
Phuket Town exploring and Buddha statue visit
Phuket town has it`s own vibe and its worth of exploring, on Fridays and Saturdays you can visit its night market with plenty of food options. They even have valet parking for your scooter there.
The Buddha statue with overlook view is nice place to see, you have several temples on the road there which are worth of seeing. Make your own opinion about it.
Golden Monkey tip
I rented my scooter via my accommodation and their trusted supplier, the scooter was in good shape.
Check tires and how they are worn out also check brakes and wear helmet. Believe me I know what I am talking about here.
On my stay I have seen some stupid accidents so be SMART and SAFE!
Really, take care, double check your mirrors, wear helmet and don`t do the monkey stuff on your bike.
What Golden monkey found out?
Respect locals, their temples traditions and religion.
Monkeys run things here and will steal your stuff if you are not careful enough.
How much do you like your sunglasses girl?
What have I missed out?
Khoh Pi Pi and overnight stay there
Thai box boot camp
Let`s Sum it up!
Yes Phuket is full of tourist just like you, so that means they are approachable and they are there to have a good time.
The islands and nature are just stunning, some of the places I have seen there will stay forever in my mind.
Golden Monkey 