Travelling to Phuket for the first time? Here are the top 10 essentials you need to know to make the most out of your trip.
Once you are ready to start booking your trip, we have a much more detailed planning guide over here – this is just a bite-sized guide to get you started booking that dream beach trip to Phuket!
Table of Contents
1. Visas and Passports For Phuket
Make sure you have a valid passport and visa (if required) before you travel to Thailand. Some countries may be eligible for a visa exemption, which allows them to stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without a visa.
You can learn more about Visas For Phuket here.
2. Weather in Phuket
Phuket has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 34°C throughout the year. However, the rainy season in Phuket is from May to October, and it can be very humid during this time. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you travel and pack accordingly.
You can learn more about the best time to visit Phuket here.
3. Language in Phuket
The official language in Thailand is Thai, but many people in Phuket speak English, especially those who work in the tourism industry. Learning a few basic phrases in Thai can be helpful.
You can learn more about the Thai language here.
4. Currency in Phuket
The official currency in Thailand is the Thai baht (THB or . Make sure to exchange your currency before you travel or withdraw cash from an ATM when you arrive in Phuket. Be mindful that ATMs will charge you 200-220 THB per withdrawal, so it’s wise to take your daily limit in one go if you don’t mind carrying around cash.
You can learn more about the Thai currency here.
5. Transportation
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available in Phuket, but they can be an expensive way of getting around. You can also rent a scooter or a car to explore the island. However, be aware that traffic can be chaotic in Phuket, and road accidents are common.
You can learn more about how to get around in Phuket here.
6. Food in Phuket
Thai food is delicious and diverse, but it can be spicy for some people. Try some of the local dishes, but also be careful about where you eat to avoid getting food poisoning.
You can learn more about food in Phuket here.
7. Culture in Phuket
Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, and there are many temples and religious sites in Phuket. Make sure to dress appropriately and be respectful when visiting these places.
You can learn more about culture and religion in Thailand here.
8. Beaches in Phuket
Phuket is famous for its beautiful beaches, but some of them can be overcrowded and noisy. Do your research before you go and try to find quieter beaches if that’s what you prefer.
You can learn more about our favourite beaches in Thailand here.
9. Beyond the Beach Activities in Phuket
There are many activities to do in Phuket, including snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and animal encounters. However, be aware that some activities, such as elephant trekking, can be controversial and involve animal cruelty; you should research any day tour options involving elephants very carefully – don’t let the words ‘eco’ or ‘sanctuary’ fool you.
We talk you through how to identify the most ethical elephant sanctuaries in Phuket here.
10. Safety in Phuket
Phuket is generally a safe place to travel, but like any other tourist destination, there are some risks. Be careful when swimming in the ocean, especially during monsoon season, and be aware of scams and pickpocketing, incidents are rare, but do exist.
You can find all our safety tips for Phuket here.
This is just a snapshot of what you need to know planning your first trip to Phuket. We thoroughly recommend you dig deeper into each topic to be best prepared for what to expect in Phuket, Thailand.
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