PHUKET FOR THE FIRST-TIME VISITOR

This is going to be your first time in Phuket, Thailand, one of the world’s most dazzling beach destinations. Think pristine white sand, swaying palm trees, shimmering waters, and lively coastal towns soaked in cultural flavours. Phuket offers an exciting array of experiences—from local attractions steeped in tradition, parties at a seemingly endless line of bars and clubs, and a host of nearby islands for a taste of tropical paradise. Regardless of your agenda, one thing’s for sure: your Phuket getaway will definitely be one to remember.

To fully prepare yourself for the best of what Phuket has to offer, answering the often asked questions of what to do and where to stay in Phuket is an important step to ensure a memorable vacation. Here are some of our suggestions to make your first time in Phuket absolutely unforgettable.

Enter a world of mystical grandeur, Wat Chalong

A SPIRITUAL AFFAIR

Thailand is known for its mythology, spirituality, and a myriad of temples, also known as Wats—an important place of tradition for its locals. Phuket holds its own, with some of the country’s most famous temples situated on the island itself. Temples like Wat Chalong, Big Buddha, and Wat Khao Rang are very much revered and often visited by locals and tourists alike. Their intricate architecture and unmistakable religious motifs are reasons why locals and tourists alike never fail to visit these pivot points of Thailand’s traditional beliefs. As a first-time visitor to Phuket, this will definitely be a memorable sight to behold.

Delight in new finds at the Lardyai Street Market

A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Unlike Bangkok, shopping isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Phuket. However, the island boasts a fine selection of unique shopping possibilities. Enter markets like Chillva market and Phuket Weekend Market (Talad Tairod) where shopping is as much a social event as a commercial one. Expect to find everything from secondhand items to boutique handmade crafts, as well as an impressive range of gastronomical delights—exotic snacks like deep-fried insects included. For a more refined shopping experience, one can visit malls such as Central Festival Phuket and the Jungceylon Shopping Mall in Patong to seek out modern retail favorites like cosmetics, electronics, and international dining outlets.

Live it up at Patong Beach, Phuket

PARTY THE NIGHT AWAY

Speaking of Patong, this is where Phuket truly comes alive at night. Revel in a jamboree of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues where the drinks never cease to flow and the music plays on loud. Bangla Road is a neon-lit 400-meter stretch of lively street performances, discotheques, and go-go bars.

The pivot point of adventure, Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas

AN ALL-ENCOMPASSING AFFAIR

The base at which your adventures begin is absolutely crucial to your Phuket Experience. If being right at the heart of the best Phuket has to offer is something you’re after, look no further than Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas. Within walking distance of Patong and the Andaman Sea, this property is an idyllic retreat in the thick of action that encapsulates the finest in Thai hospitality. Ideal for all from adventure seekers to families on vacation, one can relax in sumptuous rooms that are comprehensively equipped with excellent amenities, on-site restaurants boasting international fare and iconic local dishes, as well as a spa and fitness center for a holistic wellness experience.

Revel in beachfront bliss at Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach

A DIFFERENT KIND OF PARADISE  

Although most first-time visitors to Phuket would probably like to explore the hustle and bustle the island is famous for, there is a serene side to Thailand’s west coast for those who seek a peaceful island getaway. There is nothing quite like getting off a flight to a place you’ve never been before only to be greeted by endless skies and rolling waves. Meet a luxurious retreat—surrounded by the glistening seascape of the Andaman Sea—in Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach, a sensational beachside resort for those who seek a tranquil respite.

Find complete relaxation at Dhatri Spa, Pullman Phuket Aracadia Naithon Beach

A LUXURIOUS HAVEN OF EXPERIENCES

The last thing any first-time traveler seeking a peaceful getaway would want is to fuss over the hassle of shortlisting experiences. With a curated host of experiences within Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach itself, one can experience the cultural character of Thailand while luxuriating their stay away within the compound. Embark on a journey of flavour through the HERB garden with Thai cooking classes in the day. Savour the nightly events where the colour of Thailand’s street food markets are brought to you, or catch a unique movie experience at our float pool under the stars. One can also experience the finest Thai massages at Dhatri Spa—only the best spa in Phuket. For those who chase a peaceful escapade, Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach should definitely be considered for its idyllic combination of luxury meets culture.

A TRIP TO REMEMBER

With these suggestions in mind, you are now ready for your tropical island getaway. Bask in the finest experiences from dawn till dusk. Lather. Rinse. Repeat. And one thing’s for sure: your first time in Phuket will not be your last.

Fancy a Phuket getaway? From now till 15 September 2019, enjoy 33% discount for stays until 14 May 2020 when you book direct on our site using your Mastercard®.  

Participating Properties:

All Seasons Naiharn Phuket, Grand Mercure Phuket Patong, Avista Grande Phuket Karon, Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong, MGallery by Sofitel, Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach, Novotel Phuket Karon Beach Resort & Spa, Novotel Phuket Resort, Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort, Novotel Phuket Vintage Park, Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort