Phuket is one of the biggest cities that attracts people to Thailand. While there are many islands right off of Bangkok, Phuket is known for having absolutely gorgeous waters, exciting jungle activities, and some of the world’s top beachside resorts. Of course, this means that things can get pretty crowded amongst the more than 5 million tourists that come to this city each year.
But, you still want to visit it. You want to see what everyone’s talking about. When I came to Thailand, Phuket was one of the top places I wanted to see, since I had never seen water like that before in my life. It was great, but I realized that when I got there, there was more to do than just sit by the beach and be a tourist all day (even though that can be fun, too). So, here are my recommendations if you want to avoid the crowds, without missing out on the fun.
1. Get Your PADI Certificate
While Phuket is popular for island hopping, snorkeling, and sun-soaking, it’s also a great place to become a PADI Certified scuba diver. Of course, you’ll have to go a little out from the shores of Phuket, but there are two reasons why getting your certificate here is a good idea. 1) The waters are beautiful. What better place to learn? 2) It’s cheap. And, when you’re done getting certified, you can put your new skills to the test pretty much all over!
2. Take a Motorbike to Mor Moo Dong
Even though Phuket has some pretty fancy, upscale restaurants, it also has delicious local foods that shouldn’t be missed. We made sure that we got to eat at a restaurant located in a fishing village in the southern part of Phuket. The restaurant is called “Mor Moo Dong” and it’s in Chalong Bay. We took a motorbike there and tried some strange, but flavorful foods. They have everything from salted, grilled seabass, to blue rice, and even frog!
3. Go Ziplining
One way to avoid the crowds at the beaches of Phuket is to get away from it and head to the treetops. Phuket, like other parts of Thailand, sits in the jungle, parts of it just waiting to be explored. Though ziplining is a rather popular attraction for tourists, it’s fun and different. You can also try bungee jumping, ATVing, or other activities.
4. Hang Out with the Locals
Believe it or not, Phuket isn’t only home to the tourist beach-goers. If you look in the right places, you can meet the people who live here. It might be a bit shocking to see how they live compared to the magnificent hotels, but it’s the reality. Try to do a homestay or put yourself out there and be willing to meet some of the Thais that call Phuket their home.
5. Explore the Grocery Stores
You may be wondering why this piece of advice would be on the list. Well, personally, there’s nothing I love more than exploring grocery stores in foreign countries. Especially countries where I absolutely love the food and they have amazing tropical fruits and tasty ingredients to choose from. One of my favorite things to get is snake fruit or fresh desserts made with coconut milk from any local grocery story in Phuket.
Phuket is great for the beaches, but it’s definitely not the only thing you’ll have to do when you go there. Check out these other awesome activities to see another side of the city while also avoiding the crowds.
Hana LaRock is originally from New York, though has called other places around the world her home for the last two years. She currently lives in Mexico and freelance travel writer. When she’s not working, she enjoys writing, reading, spending time with her dog, and of course, traveling. You can find her at www.hanalarockwriting.com.
