Phuket - the Pearl of the Andaman

Phuket is the second smallest province but at the same time the largest island in Thailand. Located on the Andaman coast in the south west of the country it has some of Southeast Asia’s finest beaches and offers something for every visitor. From first-class golf courses, high-end spas, historical sites, fun attractions for all ages and of course the famous nightlife, you will have so much choice to fill your days(and nights) when staying in Phuket. The east coast of the island is generally the preferred destination for holiday makers as this is where you’ll find all the great beaches but the west and south coasts offer plenty of things to see and do. Phuket Town is one of the oldest cities in Thailand once being an important port of call for Chinese and European traders. The old buildings indicate the former prosperity with a Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Major attractions in Phuket

Phuket is undeniably the most famous island in Thailand and the most visited. With Phuket airport taking many direct flights from Europe, Asia and Australia it is easy to get there. The island apart from the amazing beaches like Surin, Bang Tao, Kamala, Patong, Karon and Kata, offers so much for travelers. Great shopping with modern malls and traditional markets, some of Asia’s finest restaurants, fun-filled land and sea activities, animal sanctuaries, national parks and sightseeing, you are spoiled for choice. Something not to miss when in Phuket is the famous Phuket Fantasea Show which is filled with a range of entertainment and activities and the amazing Las Vegas style theater show. Phuket is also the gateway to visit many of the surrounding islands like Phi Phi, Similan and of course Phang Nga Bay.

Rent a luxurious holiday villa in Phuket

Phuket has a strong reputation as one of Asia’s premier destinations for a luxurious holiday experience. In recent years, the luxurious Phuket villas offer guests not only privacy but also gives them the best facilities and services to make their time unforgettable in Phuket. Whilst many of the villas in Phuket are high-end and attract the wealthier travelers there are also many villa options for the average holidaymaker seeking a different experience than a stay in a hotel. Nearly all Phuket villas will have a private pool and can provide guest services like chef and concierge assistance.

Bang Tao Beach, Phuket

Bang Tao Beach is an unusual mix of traditional Thai village with modern and massive high end resorts. The large open bay is one of Phuket's longest and celebrated beaches. While, like most of Phuket, the area was once used for tin mining, Bang Tao Beach has now been firmly taken over by the tourism leaning of the island, and is dominated by luxurious resorts and villas gracing the 6km stretch of beach front. However, a few minutes away, the town of Cherng Talay continues to function in old Thai trades, fishing, farming and rubber tapping. Thailand is the world's leading exporter of rubber, so it's worth taking a look at this vital area of occupation.

The luxury Laguna complex occupies the largest part of Bang Tao Beach, a five star hotel development with an international golf course. Further accommodation is available outside Laguna at the bay's southern end and includes resorts and villas. The northern end of the beach is still fairly undeveloped and so unpopular and not crowded with tourists. You'll find a few bars and seafood restaurants along the beach, mostly frequented by residents.

There are also plenty of up market places to eat near the Laguna with The Supper Club and Toto being the most popular, while Back Cat offers excellent value for money in a chilled out atmosphere. There's a distinct community feel for expats with venues such as BB's Pub which has live music and live sports.

Bang Tao Beach villas for rent

The villas of Bang Tao beach are usually high end and often fully serviced. These villas compete with the nearby Laguna resort and its multitudinous facilities and amenities, so require a certain level of quality to suit the area. In contrast to Laguna, the villas represent a personal and private space, sought after by those looking for an independent and luxurious holiday, away from the regimentation of life in a resort hotel, but with all the comforts.

Phuket is connected to the main land by two well used suspension bridges, and is reached by bus from across Thailand. Major pick up points are Hat Yai, Suratthani and Bangkok. The nearest train station into the island is Suratthani. Phuket International Airport is served by a number of competing airlines, mostly dominated by Bangkok Airways. Once there, you can hop in a shuttle bus or metered taxi to Bang Tao Beach. Rental cars and motorbikes are an option once you're settled, but the roads are hazardous. There's also a bus service around the island, and ferries to nearby tourist attractions such as Koh Pi Pi and "James Bond island."