Phuket Thailand, about the size of Singapore, has become a popular tourist destination for visitors who enjoy diving, beaches, nightlife entertainment, and other recreational activities. Phuket Island is mountainous and is Thailand's largest island. Tourism is now the island's primary industry; the second being rubber trees.
Phuket has been known to Europeans since the 17th century. It was a popular stopover along the India and China trade route because of its protected bay harbor. Tin was known and used by local residents many centuries ago. Sailors on trade ships may be responsible for beginning to mine tin. Prices for tin have diminished greatly over the years so this metal is no longer a major revenue source.
Phuket is home to numerous beaches, primarily on the western coast. Tourists can simply stay on a beach, enjoying the sun and atmosphere, or embark on an underwater adventure such as diving or snorkeling. Kayaking and white water rafting are other possibilities. One of the most popular beaches with tourists is Patong Beach, which is also close to shopping and nightlife attractions. Entertainment from boxing to cabaret can be found. Some of Patong's evening entertainment options are not suitable for children or the easily offended. Family-friendly diversions are abundant around the island, though. These include the FantaSea cultural theme park at Kamala Beach, where organizers work to blend Thai cultural themes with special effects, live animals, magic, and other entertainment features. The Chalong area features elephant rides for children as young as 4. Children this young may also enjoy the Phuket Aquarium and butterfly farm. Older children, ages 12 and up, are the target audience for island offerings such as go kart riding at Patong and Kathu as well as white water rafting at Khao Sak and ATV rides in the Chalong area.
Guided tours of Phuket and nearby attractions are readily available. One such tour location is James Bond Island, where "The Man With the Golden Gun" was filmed in the 1970s. Other tours focus on shopping; showing visitors a broad and quick look at the area islands via speedboat; a brief safari featuring elephants, monkeys, and water buffalo; and a leisurely cruise of Phang Nga Bay in a picturesque Chinese junk.
The island has a rich religious heritage, including at least 29 Buddhist temples, called wats, as well as many more Buddhist shrines and Hindu and Sikh temples. The appropriately termed "Big Buddha" sits on the Nakkerd Hills and is visible from a great distance. Perhaps the most famous Buddhist temple on Phuket is Wat Chalong. While most Buddhist temples and shrines are places for quiet meditation, Wat Chalong has a loud thanksgiving tradition. People who have had their prayers answered come back to the temple and set off fire crackers in a beehive-shaped structure to show gratitude.
No matter whether visitors come alone or in families; in search of water adventures; encounters with exotic animals; or quiet leisure, they can find it at Phuket.
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