Thailand forum

Phuket a tourist trap? Yes & no, it's Thailand's largest and most developed island therefore you are going to get the tourist trap element. Facilities are aimed mainly at package holiday makers, therefore it is generally more expensive then the rest of Thailand or other islands. Nevertheless Phuket has some stunning beaches which are good for swimming and kids. If you end up in Patong (tacky bars, lady boys etc.) you might hate Phuket, but there are some other nicer quietier resorts. It's not so much a place for backpackers or people who are looking for a cheap holiday (although it is still cheaper then holidaying in Europe). Phuket is also a great base to get to other islands or even other areas such a Khao Lak and a few national parks. It makes it a prime spot for the South of Thailand due to many budget airlines flying into Phuket airport.

So I think Phuket is still worth considering even if it's only for a nights nights before you make your way to other areas around the Andaman sea.

There are quiet, lovely areas on Phuket. Whether these are the sort of places you'd like to stay depends a lot on what you are looking for, in what kind of price range. It's a large island and only the western beaches are lined with high-rise tourist hotels boasting multiple swimming pools. If you are happy at a spa in the jungle, or a bungalow in an out-of-the-way area, you can certainly find that.

If you go to phuket as a base and you like the jungle definately set aside a trip to Khao Sok National Park.

Arts Riverview Lodge is the best , then head for an overnight trip on the Ratchaprapa Dam, you wont be disappointed.

:)

Go to the far northwest end of the island (Mai Khao and Nai Yang beaches) or to the far southwest end (Nai Harn or especially Ao Sane/Jungle beaches).