Phuket Holiday
The 'Pearl of the South' - Thailand's most visited and populous island.
Traditions and culture in Phuket
Phuket has emerged in recent years from its rich history as a centre for rubber and tin production to become a hugely popular holiday destination with western tourists and backpackers.
Phuket boasts a number of cultural attractions in the shape of festivals, with perhaps the most prominent being the Thao Thepkrasattri and Thao Sisunthon Fair which is held every March to celebrate the two heroines who helped spurn Burmese invaders.
Other well celebrated festivals include the Vegetarian Festival, where locals commit to a nine-day vegetarian diet to 'purify' themselves for the year ahead, and the Phuket Travel Fair, which boasts colourful parades and events.
Things to do in Phuket
The reason for Phuket's popularity as a holiday destination becomes evident when one considers the sheer range of activities and attractions which a day can be structured around.
Having all but recovered from the devastating effects of the 2004 tsunami, the region still boasts wondrous coves and bays, gorgeous white beaches lined with palm trees and sparkling seas.
Anyone looking for adventure from their holiday will not be disappointed as there are plenty of opportunities to participate in windsurfing, snorkelling, sailing and diving.
The fact that the island caters for the year-round influx of tourists means there is a wide range of accommodation, with a cheap hotel the popular option among globe-trotting backpackers in particular.
The vibrant nightlife centres around Patong, which boasts a plethora of bars, clubs, restaurants and venues with live music, while Patong Beach is also very lively and popular among visitors.
Weather in Phuket
The idyllic tropical weather which characterises Phuket underlines why so many sun-seeking tourists book flights to the island.
The dry season runs from December to April, at which point the wet season takes over and rain is far more commonplace, although the heat is rarely compromised.
In fact, temperatures remain remarkably constant at an average of about 30C, although some days can feel uncomfortably humid.
Destination checklist for Phuket
Phuket has a population of 321,802.
The island is seven hours ahead of GMT/UTC time.
The official currency is the Thai baht.
Thai is the official language spoken.
The island's international dialling code is +66.
