Phuket: 15 pictures that will make you want to visit right now

Phuket, the beautiful mountainous island in the Andaman Sea has everything that a tourist could possibly ask for: sandy beaches, clear waters, resorts and markets.

The accommodation is affordable, and while it’s not really a shopping haven, the restaurants will have foodies raving and begging for more. Shopping in Phuket  is cheap, though, so don’t rule that out.

It is also described as a “haven for services.” Whether it’s a massage you’re after, or a well-deserved treat at a spa, Phuket has it all.

What are you waiting for? Phuket, just pack your bags and go. (See what I did there?) If you’re a bit short on budget, don’t despair, Travalstart has your back.

Try out as many services while you are there and spoil yourself good and proper. It’s been a long year, you deserve it. A Garra rufa fish massage has to be at the top of your list, we’re told. Do it for your health!

If you need some help navigating around, then you’ve come to the right place.

Read: Zambia: 12 pictures that will make you want to visit right now

What to do in Phuket and when to go

Best time to visit Phuket

January is the perfect time for a visit as you’ll be greeted with sunny skies and gentle breezes. The ocean is calm and you can partake in a variety of activities like swimming, snorkeling or island hopping.

It will still be sunny and hot if you decide to go in February, so remember to take a hat, sunglasses and your bathing suit. While April has the drawback of being the hottest month of the year, you’ll get to celebrate the Songkran Festival in Patong.

Phuket will be wet and windy in June and July as the rain and monsoon season peaks. Sunshine returns to the Island again in October.

Read: Mauritius: 15 pictures that will make you want to visit right now

What to do in Phuket

Make the most of your time in Phuket visit the Phang Nga Bay just northeast of the city. It is a unique and unforgettable experience and the emerald-green waters is a sight to behold.

If you have a day or two for leisurely exploration, visit Koh Phi Phi island. It is most well known from the 2000 film The Beach, starring Leonardo di Caprio. The island can be reached by boat and is adorned with sheer towering cliffs and a beach-front jungle.

Read: Travel safety: Keep your data safe whilst abroad

To the south of Phuket, you can visit the 45 meter-tall Buddha that sits on top of Nakkerd Hills and looks down over Rawaii and Kata. There are many sights along the way and the trip is described as taking you “though the real Thailand.” Don’t forget your map!

You’d be forgiven if you just mold your entire trip around Phuket’s beaches and night markets. There are more than 30 beaches to choose from, some are secluded, others are filled with tourists. You’ll find the most of Phuket’s beaches along the island’s west coast.

The island has an impressive selection of night markets to choose from, where you’ll get anything from designer brands, to knock-off brands and souvenirs at super low prices. The evenings are also cooler, making it the perfect time for some shopping.

Visa requirements for South Africans

South Africans rejoice! No visa required and we are eligible for tourist visa exemption. Your passport must be valid for at least six moths after your intended stay. You will also need to prove that you enough funds for the duration of the stay.

You will be required to obtain a 60-day tourist visa for longer trips. Please note, this is subject to change, so always confirm with the Royal Thai Embassy in Pretoria before you plan your trip.

You can reach them via phone on 012 342 5470, via email info@thaiembassy.co.za. The embassy is situated on 248 Hill Street in Arcadia, Pretoria.

Holiday accommodation in Phuket

Accommodation rates drop significantly this time of the year. A week’s stay at the Base Height hotel will cost less than R4,500 for two adults. Take at look at what Booking.com has to offer, there are cheaper options as well.

If luxury is what you’re after, consider booking in at The Village Coconut Island Beach Resort. The resort is in high demand and breakfast is included.