www.jumbothai.co.th

Overview of Phuket

Phuket is Thailand's largest and most beautiful island. It has a rich heritage that is reflected in the lovely old Sino- Portuguese buildings that make up much of the old town. Famous for its fabulous beaches, vibrant nightlife and water sports, Phuket is a dream destination that continues to attract visitors from all over the world. The interior of Phuket is tree-covered and hilly with land rising to over 500 meters. In the lowland areas, there are many rubber and coconut plantations, once an important occupation for islanders but now increasing sidlined by tourism. Many coastal coconut plantations are now the site of luxury resorts.

Today, as one of Asia's most popular holiday destinations, Phuket continues to welcome visitors to its shores. Over three million tourists spend their annual holiday in Phuket and many have decided to buy a holiday home or retire to the island. The allure of Phuket is easy to understand; glorious whte sand beaches, world-class dive sites, fabulous restaurants and a vibrant nightlife.

Attractions

Phuket Fantasea is an attempt to bring big and brash Las Vegas-style entertainment to the island. Set in 140 acres grounds close to Kamala Bay, the cultural theme park houses a large theatre. Shows include a song and dance spectacular that brings Thai historical tales and mythology to life. Phuket Fantasea features a 4,000-seat restaurantoffering what is reputed to be one of the world's biggest buffets of Thai and international cuisine. The shows are certainly very grand but the price of tickets makes this a very expensive evening out for the family.

Phuket town is a fascinating place to explore on foot and provides insight into the region rich culture and history. Many of the original but once rundown Sino-Portuguese buildings have now been beautifully restored to the former glory and reflect the wealth of Phuket's tin mining past. The town's beautiful temples are also a colorful reminder of the strong influence exerted by the immigrant Chinese population.

After Dark

Simon Cabaret is a hugely popular attraction. It features a cast of lady-boys in an exotic transvestite cabaret with stunning sets and choreography.
The address is 8 Sirirach Road, Patong Beach, Phuket 83150

The most recent big, bold and brash offering on the Phuket club scene is Seduction Discotheque. Located at the heart of Patong, the huge club extends over two floors. Expect impressive lighting, the latest music and queues to get in! Two-for- one drinks before midnight.
The address is 39/1 Bangla Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83105

Time to Visit

Phuket has two major seasons; the rainy season from May until October, and the hot season from November through April. Visitors should not be deterred by the rainy seasons as there are many sunny days and showers last little more than a couple of hours. September is the wettest month. The peak season for tourists in Phuket is from November until February when the average temperature ranges between 22 and 34 degrees Celsius (71.6 and 93.2 degrees Fahrenheit respectively). During this time, hotels are extremely busy and rates are high.

Getting There

Phuket International Airport, located at the northern end of the island is served by daily flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.

Air-conditioned coaches leave for Phuket several times a day from Bangkok's southern bus terminal as well as other major towns and cities across Thailand. They arrive at the Phuket Bus Terminal on Phang Nga Road, Phuket Town.