Have you been planning a vacation, and finally determined that you would like to see Phuket, Thailand? Are you now trying to decide what sights to see and beaches to visit? Well, look no further. Soon, you will have a whole itinerary planned!

Once your plane touches down, you will be engulfed in the beauty and wonder that is Phuket. Perhaps, you have chosen this area for the many available beaches and bays that can provide a great sense of relaxation and recuperation from the busy hustle and bustle of everyday life. And, maybe you want to enjoy the theme parks and other fun attractions for all ages. For this trip, we will begin in Phuket’s FantaSea.

Phuket Simon Cabaret

This has been a successful attraction for many years. Located outside Patong Beach, the large venue can accommodate hundreds. The show is divided into two portions. This consists of two large shows, and a performance in front of the closing curtain while the stage is set for the final performance. While many men are in the overall experience, the main attraction is the “ladyboys”. They are often dressed in elaborately designed costumes, and with the level of skill exhibited in their makeup, one could almost be fooled into thinking they are, in fact, beautiful women. The show is open to all ages, however, children 1 year and younger are prohibited. From start to finish, the show runs approximately 1 hour, however both before and after, you have the opportunity to be photographed with the performers, for an additional tip. Whether you participate in photos, or not, be prepared to provide a tip of approximately 100 baht.

Phuket’s Fantasea

The FantaSea show was created to showcase the rich and exotic heritage of the people. The show is open beginning in the early evening, and stays open late into the evening. While at FantaSea, you will experience groundbreaking technology and cutting edge special effects. The show features things such as aerobatics, illusions, pyrotechnics, along with multiple stunt and aerial performances. Located on a 140-acre complex, there is something for all ages. In addition to the show, there is the Carnival Village. The village offers carnival-style games, handmade crafts, and plenty of shopping. If you find yourself wanting to try the cuisine, look no further than the 4,000-seat buffet-style restaurant. Here you can enjoy numerous Thai cuisines, in addition to a multitude of other international cuisines. Next, we will travel to the Patong Night Market.

Patong Night Market

While open every night, the best times to visit are on Saturday and Sunday nights. During the evenings you will experience the true local market. While various items are offered, such as clothing, shoes, jewelry, handbags and wallets; you can also enjoy authentic street foods. In addition, many vendors sell first class produce and the freshest seafood you could ask for. By visiting the night markets, you envelop yourself into the hustle and bustle of everyday life of Thai people. During the day, there are numerous beaches to visit, with the most popular being Patong Beach.

Patong Beach

This beach has been described as the “heart of Phuket” due to its bustling day and night life. Even though most people vacation to get away from the noise and crowds of everyday life, this is part of the appeal at Patong Beach. The first advice offered is this: If you visit, utilize public transportation, or park in the underground plaza at Jungceylon. If you prefer a less crowed, and slightly quieter beach experience, it is recommended you travel to the Northern end of the beach. Rest assured, you will also find multiple vendors, including both clothing and food. In addition, during the high season, the water here is a beautiful blue color and quite refreshing. If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle of the southern area, you can enjoy activities such as parasailing and jet ski rentals. Under the bridge, on the south end, you will also find an old fashioned fishing village that lends a picturesque view into the past.

Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay lies between Phuket and the mainland of Malaysia. If you enjoy hiking and exploration, this is the perfect trip for you! There are limestone cliffs, with numerous cave systems, collapsed caves, and many archaeological sights to explore. In 2002, Phang Nga Bay was declared a “protected” area, due to its large marine life, coral reefs and other ecological aspects, such as its bird population. In addition, many of the archaeological sights offer paintings that date back to thousands of years ago.

Elephant Show

Here, you will see wonderfully trained elephants giving their all! After originally being used to log the jungles, these gentle giants now live a more enjoyable life as a performer. During their performance, you will see everything from balancing acts to football games, disco dancing, and races. At the close of the show, you can take photos, and even feed them banana treats. This is a wonderful attraction for people of all ages, but is especially entertaining for children.

Elephant Riding

During your time in Phuket, one thing you can’t miss is the Elephant Riding! Here you will enjoy a nice, relaxed and gentle ride through the jungle on a domesticated elephant. In addition to your ride, you can watch the elephant show, and take them to bathe in local streams. In addition, you can see the monkey show, a rice farming demonstration, and join in buffalo picture opportunities.

Monkey Show

Easily a favorite with children, the monkey show allows a new life for monkeys previously used for picking coconuts. This is a skill they will demonstrate, along with several others. From riding tricycles, to basic addition and subtraction, they do it all!

White Water Rafting

This activity is offered with many options. For example, there are multiple distances to choose from, beginning with a 5k, and working your way up to, a 9k ride. In addition, the courses have variable levels of difficulty, meaning even the most basic of beginner can have a great time. Not only do you get to participate in the rafting, but you can also participate in additional “add-ons” to the trip, including Elephant trekking via ATV.

Thai Massage

After a long day of hiking and sightseeing, you may find that you are ready for a little bit of down-time for relaxation. If so, you are in luck. There are many salons readily available to perform a Thai Massage. Usually, these massages are more of a workout that relieves tension, rather than a traditional massage. While it may be painful, it is known to be extremely relaxing. In addition to traditional Thai Massages, you may also find other services that you prefer. These include an oil massage, which incorporates other techniques such as aromatherapy. Reflexology is also available. This is a foot massage, which may be very needed after a long day of sight-seeing.

I hope this Thailand Travel Guide proves to be, not only informative, but also helpful in planning your trip to Phuket. While there, if you have additional questions or require more information, there are a number of Thailand tour guides who will supply you with additional information. Take your time, and enjoy all the sights, sounds and flavors Thailand has to offer!

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