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.
Kamala Beach, Phuket
Kamala Beach
Kamala Beach is a short ride north of Patong, aside the glistening waters of the Andaman Sea. With a narrower and quieter bay, and less visitors than Patong Beach, Kamala retains a relaxed and laid back feel. The village continues to exist as a fishing spot for locals, remaining a part of “authentic” Thailand. Forested hills and valleys surround the area, making Kamala one of the most beautifully tranquil places to live and stay on Phuket. Traffic is sparse, with a single narrow street crossing the village, and a main road outside of the area to provide easy access.
Kamala Beach has become a preferred location for retirees and other longer-term visitors due to its lower profile in terms of nightlife and entertainment. Accommodation ranges from small hotels to holiday villas and apartment rentals, ideal for independent and comfortable stays.
Kamala is home to the famous Phuket FantaSea entertainment complex, which attracts visitors from all over the island but is no disturbance at all to those staying in the village. The complex has been likened to Disneyland, which is an exaggeration, but it is certainly Phuket’s most popular and well hyped tourist attraction. Tour companies run daily transport to and from the complex.
Beach life in Kamala
Kamala Beach is a beautiful long stretch of beach which is remarkably unoccupied, even in high season. There are a limited number of beach front resorts, mostly located in Kamala village. The northern side of the beach is very quiet with no construction, leaving plenty of space for everyone who wishes to enjoy a relaxing day without disturbance, a quiet walk or a picnic on the grass.
Particularly in the monsoon season, there are strong currents on many of the beaches and drownings are a depressingly common occurrence. Heed the warning flags on popular beaches and play it safe if off the beaten track. It is important to note that, while many tourists who flock to the beaches of Phuket are European, nudity is viewed as highly offensive to Thais. It is very rude to go topless to beaches. Thais are generally non-confrontational, but it is always best to be respectful while treading on another's home country.
Kamala Beach villas
The southern headland of the Kamala is known as the “Millionaire Road” owing to a number of high profile villa developments overlooking Kamala Bay and its clear waters. The villas have set the standards for high end construction on the island, and vie for occupiers with striking architecture and varying facilities. These are ideal if you want an out of the way stay in the finest of luxury.
