Introduction: Touching Down in Paradise
When the wanderlust hits, there’s nothing quite like a Phuket getaway to scratch that travel itch. With sun-kissed beaches, vibrant night markets and hidden cultural gems, Phuket is more than just a tourist hotspot; it’s a playground for expats and backpackers looking for adventure beyond Bangkok’s chaos.
Our trip started with a smooth Thai Airways flight straight into Phuket International Airport, followed by picking up a Hertz rental car for an easy drive down to our stay at Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort. A 45-minute cruise from the airport, Cape Panwa welcomed us with open arms, a serene contrast to Phuket’s bustling Patong Beach scene.
Pro tip? Renting a car or bike is a must. Unlike Bangkok, traffic here is surprisingly chill, making it a dream for road-tripping. Unless you fancy hiking across the island or dealing with taxis that smell a farang fare from a mile away, having your own ride is the best way to explore. If driving’s not your thing, Grab (Thailand’s Uber equivalent) is an option, but be sure to set up your account using your passport before your trip; you don’t want to be left stranded figuring this out last minute.
Best Things to Do in Phuket
1. Discover the Bamboo Shark Nursery at Pullman Phuket Panwa
Before hitting the beaches, we stumbled upon a cool conservation effort at Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort; a bamboo shark nursery working to rebuild marine ecosystems. The beach here is lined with sea glass, helping to sustain this unique project. While the thought of sharks might make some people hesitate, these guys are harmless bottom-dwellers and seeing this conservation effort in action was a rare and rewarding experience.
👉 Read more about it here: Bamboo Shark Nursery
2. Explore Old Town Phuket & Chinpracha House
Ditch the beach crowds for an afternoon and take a step back in time in Old Town Phuket. A stark contrast to the island’s party reputation, this place oozes charm with its Sino-Portuguese architecture, quirky cafés and street art-covered alleys.
One hidden gem? Chinpracha House, a living museum that lets you peek into the island’s colonial past. Unlike most museums where you just stare at exhibits, this is an actual house where the descendants of the original owners still live today! Wandering through its vintage-tiled floors, antique furniture and open-air courtyard was like stepping into a time capsule.
📍 Must-visit spots in Old Town Phuket:
- Sunday Walking Street Market – Street food paradise & perfect for souvenirs
- Thalang Road – The heart of Old Town’s colourful buildings & photo spots
- Chinpracha House – A living museum showcasing Phuket’s rich heritage
3. Night Market Feasting & a Local Dessert You Can’t Miss
No trip to Thailand is complete without a night market crawl and Phuket has plenty. Whether it’s Naka Market or the Chillva Market, there’s something electric about wandering through rows of sizzling street food stalls, live music and bargain finds.
🍧 Must-try treat: O-aew (โอ้เอ๋ว) – A local Phuket dessert you won’t find in Bangkok! This refreshing jelly-based shaved ice is the perfect way to beat the island heat. Just pop into any store in Old Town and you’re bound to find a stall serving up this hidden gem.
Where to Stay: Budget & Mid-Range Options
Phuket has its fair share of luxury resorts, but for expats and backpackers looking for a balance between comfort and affordability, these budget to mid-range stays are solid picks:
🏨 Budget: Lub d Phuket Patong – A trendy hostel with private pods & co-working space.
🏨 Mid-Range: Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort – Perfect mix of beachfront relaxation & accessibility.
Getting Around: Rent or Rely on Grab?
Best transport options for backpackers & expats:
✅ Car Rental: Hertz, Avis or local rental shops for stress-free island cruising.
✅ Motorbike Rental: Cheap & convenient, but always wear a helmet!
✅ Grab App: Reliable, but can be pricey compared to Bangkok fares.
Warning: Phuket taxis are notorious for overcharging. Always agree on a price before getting in or stick with Grab if you’re not comfortable haggling.
Best Time to Visit Phuket
The sweet spot for perfect weather is November – January. Cool breezes, clear skies and minimal rain make it the best time to hit the beaches, explore the islands and soak up the Thai sun without melting into a puddle of sweat.
💡 Avoid: April (brutal heat) & September–October (monsoon season).
Final Thoughts: Is Phuket Worth It for Expats & Backpackers?
Phuket often gets a mixed reputation; some call it a tourist trap, others swear by its hidden gems. But after this trip, one thing’s for sure: it’s what you make of it. Stay away from the over-commercialised areas, get yourself a rental ride and you’ll discover an island that still holds magic beyond the tourist clichés.
So, is a Phuket getaway in 2023 worth it? Absolutely. Just make sure you explore beyond Patong, dig into the local culture and don’t leave without trying O-aew! 😉
