QUINTESSENTIALLY ESTATES

“The Pearl of The Andaman Sea”, Phuket's powder sand beaches, tranquil seas and bohemian parties have proved massively attractive to visitors, who make annual pilgrimages to this chi chi island. Swanky new developments, boutiques, restaurants and bars have only heightened the feeling of luxe glamour, with the nearby islands of Phi Phi, Lanta and Racha providing ample entertainment for those who are in the know.

GO THERE FOR

Patong Beach - On the central western coast, this is one of the most popular areas in Phuket. Go there to enjoy the expansive beach, not to mention the fast-developing shopping spots and night life. Beaches with a more relaxed atmosphere include Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, Nai Harn Beach and Bang Tao Beach.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving - The stunning grandeur of Phi Phi Lay and Phi Phi Don have led to them being ranked amongst the most beautiful islands in the world. Crystal-clear waters, coral reefs and white sandy stretches make it a perfect place for snorkeling, diving or sunbathing; indeed, the Similan Islands are world renowned among scuba divers in the know. The underwater visibility can reach over 30 meters and manta ray and dolphins are a common sight, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for the occasional whale shark…

Cruising Around Phuket Island - Spend a wonderful day sailing to beautiful beaches accessible only by boat, where you can swim, snorkel, and picnic as you like.

Golf - Phuket is considered a prime golfing destination in Thailand with international standard golf courses that boast splendid ocean views. 

DON'T MISS

Phuket Vegetarian Festival – Held during the ninth Chinese lunar month, normally September or October.  During the festival, participants consume nothing but vegetarian food and wear strictly white clothing. The festival represents a sort of spiritual cleansing and blesses those who take part with good fortune.

Laguna Phuket Triathlon – This annual event sees the world's top athletes and hundreds of amateurs compete for prize money and placement on the world triathlon circuit. Participants swim, cycle, and run through the beautiful surroundings of Laguna Phuket.Phuket King's Cup Regatta – First held on the King of Thailand’s 60th birthday (December 5th 1987), the King is a noted boating enthusiast and in honour of His Majesty, yachts come from around the world to participate in the competition. The annual site of the regatta is Nai Harn Beach.

Tourist Season Opening Festival – Also called Patong Carnival, this is held annually on 1st November. The festival includes merchandise and food in the midst of parades, sporting events, and a beauty competition.

WHEN TO GO

Phuket is always warm, humid and breezy.  Essentially, the island has only two seasons a year: the rainy season (May - October) and the hot season (November - April). The best period to visit is from November – February.

Average temperatures ranges between 23C and 33C from June – August. There are undercurrents in some areas of the ocean making swimming or snorkelling somewhat unsafe in these areas. Look out for the red flag on the beach, which means it’s not safe to swim.

BASICS

Quintessentially Thailand
Siripinyo Building, 11/F, 475 Sri Ayutthaya Rd., Phayathai, Rajthevi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
Telephone: +66 2 201 3434 
Email: qthailand@quintessentially.com

Telephone - Country Code: +66
Telephone - City Code: +76
Police: 191
Bangkok Phuket Hospital: + 66(0)76 254 425
Tourist Police Hotline: 1155
Tourism Authority of Thailand: 1672
Tourism Authority of Thailand (Phuket branch): + 66(0)76 212 213, + 66(0)76 211 036
Phuket International Airport: + 66(0)76 327 230-7 
Phuket Immigration: + 66(0)76 221 905
Electricity: 220V/50Hz; 2-blade plug
Language: Thai 
Currency: Baht (THB)
Exchange Rates: GBP 1 = 1 GBP is approximately equal to 50 THB
Time: ICT (UTC +7) 

Tipping
Tipping is recommended although not mandatory. Reward good service if you think it’s appropriate.

HOW TO GET THERE

By Air
Flying is the easiest way to get to Phuket. Domestic airlines operate several flights daily between Bangkok and the island, and some go to Phuket via Koh Samui with a 40-minute layover. It takes around 1.5 hours to get between the capital and Phuket.

Bangkok Airways - has daily flights from Phuket to Pattaya and Samui.
Thai Airways - provides numerous flights daily including flights to other provinces nearby.
One-to-Go by Orient Thai - offers daily flights.
Air Asia – offers several daily flights. 
Nok Air – offers several daily flights.

GETTING AROUND

Taxis
The fare between Phuket City and the airport costs around THB 400 and fare to the beach ranges from THB 500 to THB 600.

Minivans
Minivans charge approximately THB 80 per person for transport into town and THB 120 per person for transport to Patong, Kata and Karon Beaches.

Limousine
Phuket Limousine, located approximately 1km west of the city, operates hourly shuttles to the airport from 6.30am – 7.30pm.

WHAT TO SEE

Kata Beach
Kata is the smallest of Phuket's three main tourist beaches, and different in appearance and style from Karon or Patong. The waters are perfect for swimming, and at the north end lies an amazing and vibrant coral reef. There is regular bus service to and from Phuket town during the daytime.

Kata Noi Beach
Kata Noi Beach on the south of Kata is a smaller but still superb beach. Many fish inhabit the water by the rock and coral along the shoreline stretching south. Take the narrow beach road up over the hill from Kata to get there.

Karon Beach
Karon Beach is the second largest beach in Phuket. The sand is very white and squeaks audibly when walked on!

Nai Harn Beach
Nai Harn is a popular swimming beach and yacht anchorage during the dry season. Although the beach is decent, big waves strike during the wet season, making swimming dangerous – be careful.

Chalong Bay
This bay, which has the island’s largest and most visited pier, is located 11km south of town. From the pier, you can charter boats to some nearby islands south of Phuket. Although the bay has a stunning setting and relaxing ambience, swimming is not recommended.

Phrom Thep Cape
The Cape was formerly called Leam Joa, meaning The Gods’ Cape, by local villagers. Phromthep is a headland stretching into the sea and forming the south-end of Phuket. The cape has tall cliffs on the south, making it the most beautiful place to catch Phuket's famous sunset. A road leads northwest to Nai Harn Beach.

Antique Buildings
The 19th century construction of fine Sino-Portuguese mansions and shops gives the area a strong Mediterranean character. While shopping opportunities initially seem limited from the street, the area actually stretches back a long way. Visit Dibuk Road to admire old wooden doors with Chinese fretwork carving.

Khao Rang
A great view of Phuket Town can be seen from the top of Khao Rang Hill to the city’s northwest. There are also several restaurants with spectacular views of the city, a health park for exercise enthusiasts and a comfortable knoll of grass for picnickers.

The Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC)
The PMBC was established under a bilateral agreement between the governments of Thailand and Denmark after the 5th Thai-Danish Expedition in 1966. It is located at the southern end of Phuket Island on the promontory called Laem Panwa. It is about 10 km from the heart of Phuket town. 

Phuket Seashell Museum
Perhaps the world's most valuable collection of seashells has been put on display at Phuket Seashell Museum. Each shell is the best of its type and often the only of its type. The Museum also holds the world's largest golden pearl (140 karats). 

Orchid Farm and Thai Village
Approximately 3 km from the city is an extraordinary place for culture lovers. The Thai Villagers perform stunning classical dance along with sword-fighting, Thai boxing, southern customs and elephant shows. The Orchid Farm is on the front part of the premises. 

Phuket Butterfly Farm and Aquarium
The Phuket Butterfly Garden is considered one of the world’s best. It is located in Phuket town at a district called Samkong. The new Insectariums present an abundance of insect species. There is also “The Butterfly Shop” where souvenirs and Thai artefacts can be purchased. 

Phuket Submarine
It is the first and only submarine tour in Thailand, taking participants to dive in the waters off the Southeast coast of Phuket. This is your chance to experience a real yellow submarine! The boat leaves from Chalong Pier.

WHERE TO STAY

Amanpuri
Pansea Beach, Phuket 83000
A place of peace located in a coconut grove and overlooking the turquoise waters of the Andaman sea. Designed to reflect Thailand’s typical architectural style in harmony with the idyllic setting, the resort is an elegant retreat set apart from the outside world. Amanpuri has become the flagship property in the Aman family, an award-winner which has stood the test of time. 

Aleenta
Natai Beach, Phang Nga, Pranburi, Prachuab Khirikhan, Phuket, 82140
A tranquil and private boutique resort set in a prime location on Phuket-Phangnga, with stunning design and personalised service. 

Banyan Tree Phuket
33, 33/27 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Road Cherngtalay, Amphur Talang Phuket 83110
This is tropical paradise of extraordinary natural beauty and has earned many accolades from leading magazines around the world. Exuding seclusion, luxury and romance, this exotic hideaway boasts only the finest facilities and ambience. It is located at Bang Tao Bay.

Burasari
18/110 Ruamjai Road, Tambon Patong, Amphur Kathu Phuket 83150
Named after the rare Burasari flower that grows on its property, Burasari is a rare find in the heart of lively Patong Beach. Small and intimate, this boutique hotel’s stylish rooms range from the elegant classic northern Thai Lanna style, decorated with antiques and dark woods, to the simple and contemporary Thai-style rooms. Additionally, there are the unique one-of-a-kind “mood” rooms that range from romantic to artistic.

Evason Phuket
100 Vised Road, Moo 2 Phuket 83130
This beautifully landscaped tropical parkland showcases an uncompromised responsibility to the environment whilst offering guests a vast array of personal services and facilities.

Indigo Pearl Phuket
Nai Yang Beach and National Park Phuket 83110
This award-winning resort honours Phuket’s tin mining history with its décor, creating a chic, postmodern environment. 

Mom Tri's Villa Royale Phuket
12 Kata Noi RoadKata Beach, Phuket 83100
This villa is composed of The Boathouse and Villa Royale, two of the most exquisite locations on the south-west coast of Phuket Island. It offers 27 guestrooms, studios, and suites in addition to conference and banquet facilities to accommodate meetings and events.

Shanti at Jivana Villas
40/3 Moo 6 Khok Kloy, Takua Tung, Phang Nga Province, Phuket
Spacious and private beach front private villas available for rent, with a long stretch of secluded, white sand and lush green lawns showcasing the natural beauty of this island. 

The Racha Phuket
42 12 13 Moo 5 Rawai, Muang Phuket 83130
Located on the tiny jewel-like island of Racha Yai, The Racha resort is set on Batok Beach - one of Thailand’s most spectacular bays with powder-like white sand beaches and crystal clear blue water. It faces west, catching the embers of the setting sun and is home to a number of zen-like villas and the ultimate in luxury facilities - not to mention, access to the stunning Anumba Spa.

Trisara
60/1 Moo 6, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110
This glamorous and intimate resort is nestled in tropical gardens on the northwest coast. On-site features include a restaurant and bar, a spa, a gym, a salon, tennis courts and a library. There are 39 pool villas and suites in total.

Villa Chan Grajang
Villa 15, 124/126 Moo 3, Cherng Talay, Phuket
Villa Chan Grajang is a high end luxury house ideal for families, couples, corporate or family events. Made from a main and guest villa joined together, the house stands high above the bay facing the North West with stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean. It is a beautiful place for relaxation and recreation. 

Villa Rak Tawan
Villa 16, 124/127 Moo 3, Cherng Talay, Phuket
The Villa Rak Tawan is a stunning three-level building situated on the sunny west coast of Surin Beach. Nestled on the top of a hill, it has incredible views of the Andaman Sea and is only minutes away from Phuket’s upscale attractions and amenities, while still being a quiet retreat. The luxury design of the villa provides maximum privacy and warm comfort for the entire family. 

Sripanwa
88 Moo. 8, Sakdidej Road, Tambon Vichit, Cape Panwa, Phuket 83000
Sripanwa is a luxury hotel pool villa resort perched on the top of Cape Panwa. Its amazing location offers a breathtaking view of the aquamarine blue seas the numerous islands on the horizon. The accommodations are scattered throughout 32 acres of lush and tropical forest, enhancing the maximum privacy for the guests. All pool villas also provide panoramic ocean views.  

SALA Phuket Resort and Spa
333 Moo 3 Mai Khao Beach, Thalang District, Mai Khao, Phuket 83110
Sala Phuket is an impressive new Sino-Portuguese deluxe pool villa resort, offering private swimming pools in 63 out of 79 rooms, villas, and suites. Located on pristine Mai Khao beach, the famous Blue Canyon Golf Course is not far from SALA Phuket and the attractive Phang Nga Bay is located just 25 minutes away.

WHERE TO EAT

Baba
Cuisine: Thai
88 Moo. 8, Sakdidej Road, Tambon Vichit, Cape Panwa, Phuket 83000
The restaurant serves home-cooked Thai comfort food and Western favourites, which are bound to make you feel right at home. The Baba Lounge comes with a beautiful view of numerous islands as well as the famous Phuket sunset, where visitors can sit on comfortable sofas which are bound to inspire a sense of relaxation. The Baba Poolclub is a cooking school that overlooks a 40m pool complete with individual ‘floating' sun chairs. And finally, as the sun goes down over the island of Phuket, party the night away at Baba 88.

Silk Restaurant & Bar
Cuisine: Thai
The Plaza Surin, 5/50 Moo 3, Cherng Talay Sub. District, Thalang District, Phuket 83110
On the top floor of The Plaza Surin, Silk’s subtle décor and gourmet Thai dishes make it a destination dining experience in an elegant and comfortable setting. 

Siam Indigo Exotique Bar and Restaurant
Cuisine: Thai and Grill
8 Phang Nga Road, Phuket 83000
Siam Indigo Exotique is located in the heritage area of Phuket in an 80 year old building.  Go to escape to the perfect dinner of both grilled meat and seafood.

Ratri Jazztaurant
Cuisine: Thai
Kata Hill, Phuket
This upscale restaurant of contemporary Andaman design is constructed on the mountain cliff and overlooks Kata Beach. It is known for its sunset hour oyster bar and jazz lounge.

2 Gusti
Cuisine: Italian
Unit 140, 74-75 Central Festival, Moo 5, Chalermprakiat Ror 9, Vichit, Muang, Phuket 83000
This hip Italian restaurant features a wine cellar and cigar lounge. The menu offers authentic Italian appetizers and a variety of weekly specials. Both chefs have years of culinary experience in fine dining restaurants and five star hotels.

Baan Klung Jinda Restaurant
Cuisine: Thai
158 Yaowarat Road, Muang, Phuket 83000
In the stately, century-old Baan Klung Mansion in the heart of Phuket, the classic charm of yesteryear is preserved and revived with impeccable service. Formerly the residence of the Phuket Provincial Treasurer, today the building is home to the Baan Klung Jinda Restaurant, providing food lovers with novel Siamese spice in a luxurious setting.

Joe’s Downstairs
Cuisine: New World
223 Prabaramee Road, Patong Beach, Phuket 83150
This is a famous choice for sunset cocktails, dinner and late night drinks. Joe’s is located right on the water next to Baan Rim Pa and also features breathtaking views of Kalim Bay.

White Box Restaurant
Cuisine: Mediterranean and Thai
247/5 Prabaramee Road, Patong, Khatu, Phuket 83150
This is one of the most sought after dinning venues on Phuket Island. The menu fuses Mediterranean and Thai flavours and the lounge is perfect for after dinner drinks on the roof top.

La Gaetana
Cuisine: Italian 352 Phuket Road. Phuket Town
La Gaetana enjoys a large reputation in Phuket as a convivial, family-run Italian restaurant with a particular focus on details. The restaurant is manned by Giovanni Ferrara ('Gianni') and his Thai wife Chonchita, who put customers at ease with their friendly manner.

NIGHTLIFE

Phuket City Nightlife
The nightlife in the city’s provincial capital has a lot more local flavour than the nightlife by the beach. It lacks the hectic pace of Patong and it isn’t quite the nightlife centre of Phuket but it is worth visiting if you are bored of the tourist scene and want to party with some locals.

Patong Nightlife
This is the centre of the island's nightlife scene. It is centred on Bangla Road and is ideal for walking around to bar hop. The bars range from beer bars to go-go bars.

Kata Nightlife
Kata Beach has a small but well-rounded nightlife scene. There aren't any clubs or discos but there is a fair selection of laid back bars.

Silk Restaurant and Bar
15 Moo 6, Kamala Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Offering an open-air lounge and private dining room, this lively bar has a wide selection of wines, premium liqueurs and creative cocktails.

Baba 88
88 Moo. 8, Sakdidej Road, Tambon Vichit, Cape Panwa, Phuket 83000
Baba in Phuket is the ultimate place for food and entertainment. As the sun goes down over the island of Phuket, party the night away with famous international DJ’s at Baba 88 – Saturday nights are particularly funky.

WHAT TO DO

Scuba Diving
With colourful reefs and crystal waters, Phuket is one of the top ten diving destinations worldwide with great diving facilities and many liveaboard boats available for rental. Highlights include swimming with whale sharks or manta rays in the Similan Archipelago, where one-third of the world’s marine life species reside, and exploring the King Cruiser Wreck. The best time for diving is from the end of October to the end of May.

Snorkelling
Equipment can be rented from dive shops around the island. Easily accessible reefs are at Patong, Kata and the Kamala beaches. You can also take boat trip to world famous Phi Phi Island where there are several amazing snorkelling sites.

Sailing
All types of boats - from kayaks to yachts - are available for rent. Half-day, day, and overnight boat trips are on offer, as well as sunset cruises. Beginner and intermediate courses are offered by several sailing schools.

Wind Surfing
Boards may be rented by the hour. You can also rent for a half-day, full day, or a week at most major beaches.

Deep Sea Fishing
Many travel agents operate deep sea fishing tours with well-equipped fishing boats.

Sea Canoeing
Take an inflatable tube for a day or multi-day tour of the limestone caverns in Phang Nga Bay. Most tour packages include transportation and lunch. Don’t forget the suncream!

Jungle Bungy Jumping
61/3 Moo 6, Vichitsongkram Road, Patong Beach, 83120, Thailand?
The bungy jump sites in Khatu use an electric lift to take you to a height of 50 meters. Anyone from 40kg to 230kg is welcome to make the jump – if they dare! Couples can also jump together. 

Go Kart Track
This speedy sport around a figure eight track is great family fun. The circuit covers a distance of 600 meters and the 16 go-karts range from 100cc to 230cc. There are double seaters and smaller go-karts for children. 

Phuket Shooting Range
There are two shooting ranges specifically designed for those experienced in using hand guns and rifles. The range provides hand guns and rifles of varying calibre. The cost varies according to the gun models and quantity of bullets used. 

SPAS AND BEAUTY

Six Senses Spa
32 Moo 5, Tambol Paklok, Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83110
This spa offers holistic and contemporary treatments of the high-quality we’ve come to expect from the Six Senses group.

Banyan Tree Spa
33 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn RoadCherngtalay, Amphur Talang, Phuket 83110
Voted the 'World's Best Spa Resort' by readers of Condé Nast Traveler, the 'Top Spa & Retreat Experience' by Arts & Entertainment Television Networks, and also a 'Top 10 Hotel Spa' by Travel & Leisure magazine.

Amanpuri Spa
196, Pansea Beach, Phuket 83000
This spa is a favourite of top celebrities, with authentic Thai treatments and glorifying Aman-style pavilions.

Trisara Spa
60/1 Moo 6, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110
This spa offers luxury purifying treatments right by the beach.

The Oasis Spa
47 Moo1 Srisoonthorn Road, Phuket Laguna Bangtao Beach, 83110
The Oasis Spas offer a “Lanna style” spa experience and exudes a gracious and gentle atmosphere. As a sanctuary of peace and tranquillity, The Oasis Spa is covered in lush tropical greens, gentle cascading waterfalls, and reflective ponds, immediately transporting guests into another world. 

WHERE TO SHOP

Jungceylon
181 Rath-U-Thit 200 Pee Road, Patong Beach, 81000
This is one of the newest department stores on the scene and it has taken shopping and entertainment in Phuket to a whole new level. 

Patong Beach Road
All along the beach road south of Soi Bangla and down a few of the small alleys, are stalls and shops selling cheap designer goods, beach wear, watches, some electrical goods and souvenir items.

Phuket Square
This is another new market near the Royal Phuket City Hotel. It offers clothes, decorative items, furniture and household goods. Plus, it stays open 'til late.

Central Festival
Phuket Phuket Town, Mueang Phuket, Phuket 83000
This 120,000 sq metres shopping heaven has become the newest, largest, most complete shopping and entertainment complex in the south.

Canal Village Shopping Centre
390/1 Moo1 Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang 83110 Phuket
Canal Village offers more than 30 shops that can fulfill your shopping experience with a wide variety of products and services from crafted antiques to designer clothing.

WHAT TO SEE

Phuket FantaSea
This is a cultural theme-park inspired by Thailand’s rich exotic heritage. It offers entertainment that uses cutting edge technology and special effects to enhance ancient Thai traditions.

Golf

Blue Canyon Country
Mai Khao, Tha Lang, Phuket 83110
Hosted the Johnnie Walker Golf Classic where Tiger Woods staged his stunning victory in 1998.

Laguna Phuket Golf Club
Choeng Thale, Tha Lang, Phuket 83110
This 18-hole, par-71 resort course was designed by Max Wexler and David Abell. It features a wealth of scenic lagoons, coconut groves and undulating fairways set against the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding mountains and nearby sea.

Phuket Country Club
80/1 Moo 7, Vichitsongkram road, Kathu district, Phuket 83120
This is the oldest surviving course on the island and offers two courses to play. The first one is 18-holes and the second is 9-holes. Both golf courses are beautifully landscaped and are located on the site of a former tin mine.

Horseback Riding
It’s always a popular beach activity and Phuket offers several opportunities to saddle up and go for a romantic ride into the sunset.