Phuket : A Slice of Paradise in Thailand’s Tourism Mecca

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Phuket : A Slice of Paradise in Thailand’s Tourism Mecca

The largest island in Thailand, Phuket is well-known for its out-of-this-world white-sand beaches and crystal clear water. Most of the island is also covered in mountains marking its unique appearance as some of the most fascinating scenery on earth. Full of picture-perfect beaches, jungle adventures, cultural activities and world-renowned Thai service, it's obvious why this Thai paradise has swiftly become so popular world-wide.

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Phuket : A Slice of Paradise in Thailand’s Tourism Mecca

1. Phuket Big Buddha

Located on top of the Nakkerd Hills, this mammoth of a Buddha statue sits majestically on one of the finest viewpoints in Phuket. Since it rises 45 meters high, this statue can be seen from half of the island and offers a stunning view from the top. Perfect during sunset or sunrise, While it was only constructed beginning 2007, the Phuket Big Buddha has been regarded as one of the most important projects in Phuket in the last 100 years and a perfect symbol of the area's flourishing tourism scene.

2. Patong Beach

The center of nightlife and shopping in Phuket, Patong is usually top of the list for those wanting to party into the earlier hours of the morning. Patong is regarded as having one of the biggest nightlife scenes in South-east Asia, with its streets filled with bars and nightclubs. Most tourists spend the day relaxing on Patong Beach, which stretches the entire length of the town's coast, before heading into the town to drink and party the night away. The two main nightlife areas are found around Paradise Complex and Bangla Road.

3. Phuket Trickeye Museum

There's so much more to do in Phuket than just lounge on beaches and crawl from bar to bar. The Phuket Trickeye Museum is a perfect way to spend a couple of hours checking out the interactive museum and it's fascinating creative art installations. Bring your camera, the museum has a multitude of ingenious photo opportunities that'll shock your friends and family.

4. Green Elephant Sanctuary

Elephants are often seen as a national animal and symbol for Thailand and no visit to the country is complete without seeing these magnificent beasts up close. Green Elephant Sanctuary meets high standards in animal welfare in regards to rescuing, retiring and rehabilitation for the animals, many of which are victims of being forced to work in the logging and trekking industries in the country. The sanctuary has already helped saved a high number of elephants in Phuket and around the country already.

5. Windmill Viewpoint

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One of the islands most famous lookout points, Windmill Viewpoint offers exceptional views over the southern coastline of the island. A stone's throw from the viewpoint, Ya Nui Beach is worth checking out after taking in the fabulous scenery. If you want to avoid the crowds try to arrive here in the morning while many tourists are still nursing a hangover.

6. Kata Noi Beach

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One of the top beaches in an island full of picture-perfect coastline, Kata Noi Beach can be found in a little bay along the west coast of Phuket. It is noted for its particularly soft white sand and stunning views. This area is also known for being the home to some of the most luxurious restaurants and resorts that can be found on the island. On the hillside road beside the beach you'll also find numerous sunset bars which offer breathtaking views over the beach and ocean,

7. Nai Harn Beach

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Another of Phuket's stunning beach locations, Nai Harn Beach is a perfect space to relax and breathe in the sea air. Swim in its crystal clear waters or play with the white powdery sand that the beach is covered in, this beach is one of the prettiest beaches in all of South-east Asia.

8. Promthep Cape

Promthep Cape is a hot-spot for any budding photographers or scenery enthusiasts and is located a short distance away from Windmill Viewpoint. The views from this cape are breathtaking and offer some of the most picturesque scenery on the whole island. Tour buses and private cars regularly drive to the southernmost hill of the island in the evening to watch the sunset.

9. Sunday Walking Street Market

Known as Lard Yai by the locals, the Sunday Walking Street Market is packed full of visitors who come from all corners of the island to shop and eat there. One of several night markets on the island, vendors set up stalls every Sunday from 4pm selling all kinds of souvenirs, trinkets and an abundance of mouth-watering foods. Southern Thailand has some of the most delicious dishes in the country and this market is perfecting for stuffing your face with as much as you can possibly eat. The market is located in the old town of Phuket, notable for its picturesque Sino-Portuguese style colonial buildings that line the street.

10. Dolphin Bay

A perfect option for those traveling with kids, or just aquatic animal enthusiasts, Dolphin Bay is an aquatic theme park allowing visitors to get up close and personal swimming with dolphins and watching the regular marine-life performances from the resident dolphins and sea lions.

◎ Closing

Although Phuket has always been world-known for its pristine white beaches and crystal waters, the island is a hive of activity full of mouth-watering Thai cuisine and a wealth of cultural experiences. Coupled with the mountainous scenery covered with jungles and wildlife hot-spots this South-east Asian paradise is a never-ending multitude of entertainment.

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