On a recent trip to Phuket, Thailand, I visited a number of cool places and destinations. Here are six I highly recommend:
#1: Old Phuket Town
The historical area of Phuket.
The architecture here is amazing. During the day and into the night, you can find great spots for food, coffee/tea or cannibas. There are also a number of shops and massage parlors. (I recommend Kim's Massage & Spa.)
Old Phuket Town really comes alive on Sunday evenings for the Sunday night street market. The market takes place down the middle of Thalang Road which is shut down for blocks. There's street food, vendors and free entertainment at literally every step.
#2: Rock Swing Beach
Instagrammable spot with multiple photo opportunities.
Rock Swing Beach is perfect for generic photo content with beautiful, scenic views of the Andaman Sea. When you arrive, a jeep or SUV will take you to the seaside location. If you are afraid of heights, this may be challenging for you as the photo op spots are located on the steep hillside. Some Phuket tour companies, like Forever Vacation, include Rock Swing Beach as one of the destinations. I definitely recommend this option for solo travelers as the guide will be more than happy to serve as a stand-in photographer.
#3: Big Buddha
One of the more popular destinations in Phuket.
Big Buddha stands 150 feet tall and is completely made of marble. The drive up to the statue gives you access to beautiful, scenic views of Phuket. This destination is also typically included in tour packages like those hosted by Forever Vacation.
#4: Ma Doo Bua Cafe
Super cute cafe with the largest species of lily pads.
Ma Doo Bua Cafe is a quaint pond-side cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Here you can sit dockside to capture photos with the jaw dropping giant lily pads. You can also opt to pay for super cool drone photos. My drone photos were included in my Forever Vacation tour package.
#5: Wats & Temples
Instagrammable spot with multiple photo opportunities.
When in Thailand, you must visit a wat or two or more. The architecture is absolutely stunning but even more important is the role temples play in everyday life in Thailand.
#6: Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
The first and only ethical elephant sanctuary in Phuket.
The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a rescue for older elephants and those with eye and leg disabilities. This is not where you bath and ride on the back of the elephant. Sadly, those places have practices that are not healthy or ethical. At The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, the residents are allowed to roam freely and live happy, healthy lives. Visitors will have a tour guide that will explain the importance of the sanctuary and the day in the life of the elephants. You will have the opportunity to feed and touch the elephants.
Well, there you are - six things to do while in Phuket. Baai Baai (take care)!