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Little-known places in Phuket. Our advice - relax on the little-known beaches of Phuket

And every Sunday from 16:00 it turns into a pedestrian street, and a street fair unfolds along its entire length. Here you can buy everything in the world, including very rare things. Let me emphasize that this place does not operate for tourists, so the prices are designed for locals. In general, this entire street embodies a unique and unique Thai flavor. Want to experience Thailand a little deeper than fruit at the market and a visit to a snake farm? Come here.

I honestly admit, despite the fact that during the fair there is an atmosphere of celebration and general fun, I love the street more on weekday evenings. It is so quiet here, almost deserted, calm and good that just walking surrounded by all this beauty is priceless. This is a completely different Phuket, unlike itself.

4. Big Buddha Phuket

Of course, everyone has heard about the Big Buddha statue in Phuket; this is perhaps its main attraction. But please, do not come here just for show, if you are not at all interested in the spiritual life of Thailand, there is no need. First of all, this is an important Buddhist shrine, a huge, 45-meter statue, built with donations from parishioners. This is a Buddhist temple, monks serve here. If all this does not cause any response in your soul, just don’t waste your time.

The Big Buddha can be seen from almost anywhere on the island, because it sits high and looks far away from the highest mountain in Phuket.

At the foot of the Buddha there is a functioning temple. Here you can tie a string around the monk’s hand and make a wish. The procedure looks like this: you approach the monk on your knees, he sprinkles water on you and ties a rope. It cannot be removed until it breaks, it is believed that then your wish will come true. After this, as a symbolic fee, you need to put 20 baht into the decanter next to the monk. You may or may not believe me, but when you sit next to a monk and he looks into your eyes, it is simply indescribable. Incredible energy emanates from him, he has a clearly clear and bright gaze. You experience very strong emotions and real cleansing. And if he also says a few words to you, this is truly something special, your personal miracle.

In general, this place is incredibly beautiful, with excellent energy, and offers gorgeous views of the entire island. And it's just very good.

5. Photo Hotel

The best place to admire the legendary Phuket sunsets. Foto Hotel is located near Kata Beach, and there is a chic platform and restaurant on its roof. Anyone can come here, order, for example, a cocktail, and then lie on soft pillows, swim in the pool and watch the sun set directly into the endless sea. And as you already guessed from the name of the place, this is where you get simply divine photographs :) And what else could they be like with such and such views?

As dusk sets in, the lights around the pool turn on, changing colors, and it lights up the entire area in bright red, purple, blue and green hues. It looks ultra-fashionable and unusual.

Only this is a secret place! We don't tell anyone about him. And you, please, no, no! 🙂

6. BBQ buffet – traditional Thai “cook-your-own” cafe

One of my favorite Thai food. When I came here for the first time, the reaction was something like this: “What?! Should I cook for myself?!” 🙂 Agree, it’s a rarity for a cafe, and even a barbecue. It turned out that it is not only exciting and fun, but also very tasty!

There are a lot of similar cafes in Thailand; they place a kind of “brazier” on coals on your table, and you fry meat, fish or cook soup yourself. The ambience at BBQ Buffet is something like this:

Thais just love these types of cafes, the "cook it yourself" cafes are very, very popular here and are packed to capacity. The cost of the buffet is 199 baht, it’s a buffet, you can come up for ingredients an unlimited number of times. What's in stock? Chicken, pork, crab meat, bacon, shrimp, squid, fish, fish balls and snacks, as well as strange Thai things in all their variety.

But the most delicious thing is the sauces! BBQ wouldn't be as great without them. I’m ready to just slurp these sauces with a spoon :) The sauce is spicy, so be careful.

And this is what the cooking process looks like: the meat is fried on top, and the soup is boiled around the edges in boiling water.

Mmmmm, finger lickin' good!

7. Monkey Hill

The name fully justifies itself - it really is a mountain, and monkeys really live on it. A lot of monkeys. The place is located in Phuket Town, very few people know about it, and there are almost no tourists here. At the foot of the mountain they sell bananas and apples, which can be used to feed the animals. Climbing the mountain, as soon as you see one monkey and treat it with something tasty, you are immediately surrounded by dozens of its relatives.

An amazing sight, as if you find yourself in a wild, primitive world. It is very interesting to observe the habits of these animals, how they communicate, how they behave when the leader of the pack appears in the arena. Just like little macaques run away squeaking, if the elders just bark at them slightly. This is a real society, a monkey society :)

When you arrive, first of all remember - these are wild animals, yes, they are good-natured and come out to you to beg for some food, but you need to behave as respectfully and calmly as possible.

8. Fish Market Rawai

I am often asked: “Where in Phuket can I eat fresh and tasty seafood?” There is a great place for this in the south of the island - the fish market at the Rawai pier. You can get here on your own or by taxi. First of all, there is a beautiful pier where you can stroll along and admire the traditional Thai boats and fishermen.

Secondly, this is, of course, the market itself. In addition to seafood, you can buy pearl jewelry, souvenirs, various Thai crafts and cute trinkets.

And most importantly - the freshest seafood for every taste! Various types of fish, squid, shrimp, lobster, crabs and shells - all caught the night before. The choice is really huge.

Why is this market so famous? Directly opposite the seafood stalls there is a line of cafes where the products you buy will be prepared right there! They will fry in spices, bake or steam – as you wish, all this for an affordable price, about 100 baht per kilogram.

9. Saphan Hin Park

An ideal place for walks, a family picnic or outdoor sports. Thais simply adore this park; they come here in huge groups, spread out tents on the grass and spend cozy evenings here. Next to the park there is a small market where you can buy any ready-made food. In the evenings there’s simply nowhere for an apple to fall, but today, during the daytime, the park is practically empty :)

The park is located in Phuket Town, and is the only park in all of Thailand built in memory of a foreigner - Thomas Miles, an Australian captain who first brought a mechanical dredge to Phuket for tin mining in 1909.

People gather here in the evening, when the heat subsides. Like many of the best places in Phuket, Sapan Hin Park is located right by the sea :)

10. Wat Koh Siray

This is my favorite Buddhist temple. It is located quite far, in the east, behind Phuket Town, on the small island of Sirey. The place is very authentic and completely non-touristy. The temple stands on the top of a mountain, the air is completely different here and there are almost no people. There will be a maximum of 1-2 Thais in the temple with you.

Just look how beautiful it is.

But this temple is active; the monks who serve here live at the foot of the mountain. A guard usually sits in the hall and asks to donate 20 baht in exchange for flowers and candles that can be placed at the foot of the Buddha statue.

The temple has a huge statue of the Reclining Buddha, in this position he awaits the achievement of nirvana. Very beautiful.

But the most beautiful thing here is the terrace. Perhaps the most peaceful place in the world. Especially when the monks chant mantras.

11. My rocking chair is Rawai Gym.

When talking about my favorite places, I can’t ignore my gym, because I spend time here three times a week and, of course, I love it very much! About a year ago I started working out at the gym, and after about half a year I started to like myself in the mirror, but the main thing is that I get great pleasure from the process.

It's low season in Thailand now, so you see rare shots - the hall is almost empty.

Sports everyone!

12. Cafe “Tony’s restaurant”

My favorite cafe. I just eat here all the time, and I also like to sit with my laptop, read LiveJournal or write on a blog.

Tony's Cafe is located on Fighter Street, that is, on a street where the number of clubs and Muay Thai fighters per square meter is simply off the charts. Why do I love this place? Firstly, they have a special “fighter” menu, that is, healthy dishes: meat, fish, vegetables, cooked without oil, fat and traditional Thai sauces. It’s very relevant to me because I work out and get in shape. Tony's food is always delicious and cheap! Lunch costs me 120 baht. I like to sit at a large table, especially when there are a lot of people.

Secondly, there is always a friendly and sporty atmosphere here, all this charges you in the right way, once you see enough of the fighters, you immediately want to urgently run to the gym and train. Great motivation!

Thirdly, this is the staff. Tony is a Thai guy over 50, and his whole huge family works in his cafe, it’s very touching, sincere and family-like.

Notice the family portrait on the wall. And over there, in the right corner, hangs a photo of little Teddy, we babysit this baby for everyone in the cafe))

You can also order any services from Tony - rent a room, rent a motorbike, buy a trip for a visa, etc.)) Very convenient for guys who come here to train Muay Thai or MMA (mixed martial arts).

13. Mobile Thai market in Rawai (Moving market Rawai)

Thailand has a cult following for street food and street markets. It all looks a little brutal, but there is absolutely no need to be afraid. If the Thais themselves buy and eat something, then you can safely buy it too. In general, I buy all my products only at the market, firstly, it’s cheaper, and secondly, everything here is always super-fresh, made today, unlike large supermarkets.

Why is the market mobile? Yes, because during the week he travels around our area, so in order to remember where the market is today, you must first remember what day it is :)

The market usually starts operating around 3-4 pm and closes around 8 pm. What can you buy here? Yes, that's all! Prepared food, vegetables, fruits, the freshest meat, fish, seafood, some trinkets and even clothes.

I have my own lifehack about the market: if I suddenly find myself in a bad mood, I come here. While you are between the rows, you smile so much that not a trace of sadness remains. I don’t know who says anything about the insincere smiles of the Thais, everyone smiles at me absolutely sincerely and disinterestedly, not the sellers, but in general everyone I meet, amazing people. I love them)

14. Rungaroon Massage – Thai massage salon

When talking about Thailand, one cannot ignore Thai massage. This is part of Thai culture, its centuries-old heritage. Thai massage is completely different from traditional massage; firstly, it is done in special clothes - a shirt and pants made of natural fabrics. It is designed for the whole body, the technique is based on pressing, pulling and twisting. It's amazing what every artist does differently. The Thai woman silently moves along you or the edges of the bed, pressing on different parts of your body with her elbows, knees, feet or palms. With your eyes closed, the first time you won’t even be able to figure out which part of your body is being kneaded, or where exactly the masseuse is located.

Thai massage is one of the greatest pleasures in life! Coming out for the first time after the session, I asked myself: “How did I even survive all these years without him?!”

The technique of Thai massage is more than 1000 years old; the system is based on the teaching of invisible energy lines passing through the human body. The 10 most important of them are worked out during the massage by pressing on different points. After the session, you will feel a surge of energy, and your body will feel rejuvenated and invigorated!

Recommending a salon is extremely difficult; some people like a stronger massage, bordering on pain, while for others it will cause discomfort (in this case, you need to ask for a light version). Therefore, I always recommend visiting several salons around your hotel and choosing the one you like. Thai women everywhere give massages thoroughly and efficiently. As for me, my favorite salon is also in the south, near Nai Harn beach and is called Rungaroon Massage. The average price on the island is 250 baht per 1 hour.

Good day everyone, and I’ll tell you about the secret places of Phuket, which the average typical tourist does not know about - it is not marked on any map and there are no roads leading to it. It is so secluded and beautiful that it did not leave us indifferent. We found out about it quite by accident, wandering through the jungle and finding a path in the thickets that led us to this small island of solitude overlooking the sea. Nearby within a radius of several kilometers - there is not a single soul there, and it is located within walking distance from Patong Beach in Phuket.

So, let's call it Secret Beach, it is located between the beaches (Patong Beach) and (Freedom Beach - Freedom Beach). I will tell you how to get to this place from Patong Beach, I will show you the road along which we walked, and then we took off our motorbike and arrived there.

Secret places of Phuket - beach (Secret Beach) how to get there

On the road running along Patong Beach, you will need to turn right at the fork (moving towards Karon Beach). Further after the bridge the road goes up.

We reach/arrive at a fork where signs will show that the road goes to the right to Paradise Beach, and to the left to the Avista Hotel.

Go left to Freedom Beach and you will reach right, the road to Secret Beach.

We turn right towards Paradise Beach and move along the asphalt road until another road fork.

This is a fork where the sign shows you where Paradise Beach is - we don’t need to go there, we turn left from the road and move up until the road ends and we run into a concrete fence.

Turn right at the concrete fence and you will see a road leading deep into the jungle - this will be the same path leading to our Secret Beach. If you keep in mind, in the depths of the jungle lives a hermit - a monk.

On the way to the beach we found this dried fly

Don’t think that you can cover the entire path on a motorbike - at the end the road will end and you will have to descend on foot. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as the path goes steeply downhill and you can have a great slide down the hill. We pass under this huge stone lying right on the road.

What is this secret place in Phuket?

Well, here we are - this is our secret place that we want to share with you. We haven’t tried swimming here, there are rocks all around - and we don’t know how to get ashore later. But it’s great to sit and sunbathe all alone here.

I think this place is still good for picnics - we saw traces of a fire, and of course rubbish stuffed between the stones - I don’t understand how you can shit in nature! Friends, I think it’s not difficult for any of us to collect the garbage after ourselves in a bag and take it with us. Let's treat nature with love, because it gives us so many positive emotions, the view from this beach alone is worth it!

What's interesting on the secret beach for lovers

It was on this beach that I first saw large crabs, not those sand-colored babies that scurry along the beaches, but really well-fed beauties, like those that are sold at local seafood markets. They lazily bask on the rocks, but when they see a person, they immediately run away. This is what the descent to the water looks like, so we didn’t dare swim here.

But if you are looking for a secret Phuket beach without waves, then this is the perfect place. The transparency of the water is perfect, once a boat arrived nearby from which people jumped and swam for a long time wearing masks. Speaking of the animal world. Here you can observe unusual fish with legs. They cling to stones with the help of fins and funny jump into the water. We managed to photograph these bug-eyed creatures, look how strange these creatures are. You definitely won’t see anything like this in Patong.

And only sometimes our peace was disturbed by boats passing by, taking tourists to the beach (Freedom Beach). The tourists sitting in the boats looked in surprise at our couple, who somehow climbed onto these stones.

What do you think, friends, what grows on the dwarf palm trees that form entire thickets along the sea coast here? This is the most exotic fruit that can only be found in Asian countries, and it is called pandan. At first we confused it with a popular fruit here - durian; indeed, they are very similar in appearance. Our pandan in the photo is still unripe, when it ripens it will turn yellow, red or even purple, it all depends on the variety.

In Thai cuisine, pandan and its leaves are used to flavor and color desserts. Because of the spicy aroma, rice and fish are wrapped in leaves; such envelopes can be found in local markets and makashnitsa. Pandan fruits and seeds are eaten fresh or boiled, and drinks made from this fruit are rich in nutrients and vitamins. By the way, we learned about this fruit by watching an episode of Heads and Tails, where the presenter ordered himself a traditional Singaporean dessert - kaya. This is a sweet jam made from pandan.

In order to visit interesting places in Phuket according to my list yourself, open the Google map, log into your account and mark on it the places from this list that interest you. All you have to do is drive through them using the navigator on your mobile phone. I have written how to use coordinates in numbers using Google maps

To have Internet on your mobile phone, you need to buy a local SIM card with 3G Internet at any 7-11 store. As a rule, additional settings on the phone are not required. You can see my detailed post about mobile Internet in Thailand

Central Festival in Phuket

The main place for shopping in Phuket (things, cosmetics, iPhone, equipment, etc.) is the Central Festival shopping center. Located approximately in the geographical center of the island, coordinates: 7.891759, 98.368039

The cost of equipment in Thailand is approximately the same as in Russia, although upon departure you can return VAT at the airport. Laptop keyboards are in Thai and English; there is often no functionality in Russian (can be downloaded separately). The choice of equipment in Phuket is smaller than in Russian stores.

Premium Outlet Phuket

A street with branded stores and shops. It is located approximately in the center of the island, on the eastern side. Coordinates on the map: 7.945491, 98.385103

Night market in Phuket

Open on Saturday and Sunday from 4 to 11 o'clock in the evening. Here you can buy a lot of different inexpensive rubbish, crowd among other people and eat delicious food. Located in Phuket Town, map coordinates: 7.880776, 98.366422

Interesting and cool beaches of Phuket

Tri Trang Beach

A cozy beautiful beach not far from tourist Patong. Located here: 7.886006, 98.274514

Nai Harn beach

This is one of the coolest beaches in the South of Phuket. There are a lot of people here, but there is never a crowd or you can always find a cozy, quiet place. Coordinates on the map: 7.774588, 98.306645

Nai Yang Beach

There are gorgeous shallows (for photo sessions) and in the far left corner of the beach there is an abandoned hotel. Coordinates: 8.085202, 98.292409

Bang Tao Beach

Located in the north of Phuket. A large beautiful and almost deserted beach. Well, it’s deserted - it’s just very big and people, even if there are people, don’t interfere with each other. Sometimes there are low tides. Coordinates: 8.003298, 98.292725

Deserted Freedom Beach

Beach coordinates: 7.875361, 98.275804. A very beautiful, steep and (for now) deserted beach. You can get to Fridum Beach by boat: rent a boat on Patong Beach, in its southern part, opposite the Sea View Patong Hotel here: 7.885856, 98.288280. A round trip boat costs about 2000 baht, depending on the number of people (up to 8).

Or on the ground. In order to get to Freedom, you first need to go along the beach street to the southernmost corner of Patong, then towards Tri Trang beach, turning left after the bridge towards the Avista Hide Away hotel, literally after 150-200 meters we find ourselves at the gate, we park the vehicle for a fee parking (100 baht per person, and recently they require an entrance fee to the beach - 200 baht / person). A steep staircase leads down from the parking lot to Fridum Beach.

Beach with airplanes Mai Khao in the North

Located near the airport. For me, this is primarily a beach for photo shoots. Planes fly very low over this beach, making for great photos. Coordinates: 8.120972, 98.301452

Viewpoints in Phuket

Phromthep Cape Lookout (south of the island)

Located on the southern cape of Phuket. One of the most popular viewing platforms on the island and it is truly beautiful here. You can go down the rocks below and admire the views in a wilder and more deserted place. Coordinates: 7.759251, 98.303845

Rang Hill Viewpoint (near Central Festival)

There are restaurants with beautiful views and a Fitness Park. The place is located near the Central Festival. Coordinates on the map: 7.892804, 98.380015

Observation deck - Khao Kad Tower in the southeast of Phuket

More popular among the local population, our tourists don’t come here often. Located in the southeast of the island, coordinates: 7.834874, 98.384353

Windmill Viewpoint at the windmill near Naiharn Beach

The lookout itself is located between Naiharn and Yanui, coordinates: 7.769725, 98.306663 There are a couple of secret cozy places that everyone can find for themselves).

Observation deck at Big Buddha (near Karon)

The observation deck and popular Phuket landmark Big Buddha Temple are located inland from Karon Beach. Coordinates: 7.827614, 98.312771

Monkey Mountain and Khao Toe Sae Viewpoint near Phuket Town

It is better to visit during daylight hours. It is not necessary to drive to the top of the mountain; you can leave your vehicle in the parking lot and take a walk. If you start feeding the monkey you meet, there will be a lot of them. The mountain is located in the east of the island, next to Phuket Town, coordinates: 7.898761, 98.395780

Buddha Temple on Koh Sirey in the eastern part of Phuket

It is located in the east of the island, or rather even on a separate island of Phuket, Koh Sirey. An authentic place, not overrun by tourists with beautiful views and quiet Buddhist temples. Coordinates on the map: 7.880197, 98.425910

Photo Hotel

Viewpoint with very beautiful sunsets, there is a swimming pool overlooking the sea. Coordinates: 7.811185, 98.301176

The stunning observation deck of the Samet Nangshe resort, 70 km from Patong

Located outside of Phuket, about 70 km from Patong. The views there are gorgeous. Coordinates: 8.236067, 98.445868

Other interesting places in Phuket

Fish Market Rawai. You can buy seafood at the market, but that's not all. There is a beautiful long white pier where you can take photos. Located in the south of the island here: 7.775648, 98.329167

Oceanarium (Aquarium Phuket). Located in the South-East of the island, coordinates on the map: 7.803632, 98.407803

Bang Pae Waterfall. The waterfall is not flat, as is often the case in Thailand, so it is considered high, although it is only 15 meters high. It is not so much the waterfall that is beautiful as the surrounding area. Admission is paid (200 baht for adults, 100 baht for children). The place is located here: 8.042425, 98.393265 If you look at this point in Google maps, then nearby a place with the strange name “Gibbon Rehabilitation” will catch your eye. Gibbons (black monkeys) really live here and need help.

Deserted island of Bon. You can get to Bon Island by boat from Rawai Beach by renting a boat at any of the Rawai offices. The cost of a round trip boat (the boatman will wait for you for a couple of hours) is about 1000 baht. If you want to stay longer, the boatman will sail away and return for you at the right time - the price for such a trip is about 1,500 baht.

The island is great, beautiful and quiet - you can walk, sunbathe and enjoy. On the opposite side of the island is the abandoned Evason Phuket Resort and Spa. Island coordinates: 7.756085, 98.331652

Cozy places in Phuket

Coffee house Chicroom cafe in old Phuket town. Coordinates on the map: 7.882655, 98.390794

BBQ buffet– a Thai buffet where you have to cook your own food. Coordinates: 7.785125, 98.317743

Old town in Phuket Town. Here you can just walk, take photos and find your own cozy establishments and places.

Abandoned places in Phuket

So far I haven’t had time to explore the abandoned Phuket, but I’m sure it’s there. I will add places as they become available.

Abandoned hotel on Kata Beach. Coordinates: 7°48’44″N 98°18’14″E

“A white elephant is born only in the jungle,” the Thais say, meaning that good things are hard to find. Yes, there are few undiscovered places in Phuket, but we did a little research and present 8 unusual locations on the island. Shhh, don't tell anyone about them!

We are willing to bet that there are no beaches, forests or natural parks left in Phuket where no human has set foot. But there are places where groups of tourists are not taken - cozy, atmospheric corners “for their own people”. As you read, remember that each of them was ripped from the heart by an experienced traveler!

Bon island with abandoned hotel

For whom: for Robinsons and romantics

How to get there: From Rawai Beach it takes 25 minutes by motorboat to Bon Island

Half an hour by motor boat or 50 minutes by boat from Phuket from Rawai Beach - and you will find yourself on the most deserted island by the standards of the region. Another bonus awaits you on the far side from Phuket - this is an abandoned hotel. Those who have been there assure that you can relax in the building as if you were at your own dacha. Of course, you won’t find water or electricity, but there is a roof, floor and bamboo walls. And nearby are coconut palms and rocks. There is also a beach on the island, which is a real challenge to find. Our blogger Sergei Solovyov writes in his article (18+): “This is my favorite beach, I found it on a Google map. It is closed on all sides, has huge boulders in the middle, and in order to swim there from the sea, you need to manage to navigate between the stones along the corridor. You really feel like Robinson there.” You can get to the beach by renting a boat for ten dollars for $30. It’s nice to realize that not far away there are crowds of tourists, cafes, markets, and you’re robinsonizing yourself!

Photo: indostan.guru

Coordinates: 7.761979, 98.334599

Beach with a view of landing planes

For whom: for trainspotters, aviation enthusiasts and easily accessible extreme sports

How to get there:Public transport from the airport is poor. You need to get to the village by taxi in about 20 minutes. By car you can get there along Highway 402.

On Mai Khao Beach, planes fly so close that it becomes uneasy. Of course, there is no danger, although if you spend all your days like this, the risk increases... as if you lived near an airport, were a pilot or a flight attendant. But you are not going to relax here for years! How do you feel at Mai Khao? The roar of airplane engines, but not deafening, is still the same warmth and smell of the sea. When you get used to it, you will enter the state of sabaya! You can swim in the Andaman Sea and watch the liners right from the water.

Photo: Shutterstock

Coordinates: 8.147001, 98.297848

Colonial style street

For whom: for everyone who gets tired of lying on the beach and explorers

How to get there: The Lard Yai fair is located near Thalang Street in the center of Phuket Town.

Every Sunday from 16:00 Lard Yai Street in Old Phuket Town turns into a pedestrian street. The Portuguese-style houses on both sides of the road are painted in different colors, and a fair unfolds between them. They sell unusual homemade dishes, crafts, and designer clothes. Music is playing, artists are performing - all the entertainment typical of old cities with their own unique charm awaits you. Or maybe you'll like Lard Yai more on weekdays: without music, merchants and lights? Hurry, tourists are coming here more and more often!

Photo: Shutterstock

Coordinates: 7.884756, 98.389241

Photohotel

For whom: for those who value the place in a restaurant not so much as the food, for lifelong gourmets, as well as Instagram romantics

Address: 218/9 Kata-Saiyaun road, Kata Beach, Karon, Muang Phuket, Phuket, Thailand.

At Foto Hotel (namely “Foto”) you can take that perfect photo from Thailand. Or you can admire the sunset from above while swimming in the pool. This is really a hotel, and there is a platform on its roof. But an outsider can freely come here. We recommend ordering a cocktail and staying until dusk. At this time, special lighting turns on, and the place begins to look like an elite nightclub. The hotel is located next to Kata Beach. The place, of course, is not the most secret, but the location of the site so far scares away the tourist crowds: they do not want to ask permission at the reception.

Photo: bookcdn.com

Coordinates: 7.811226, 98.301195

Cook-your-own establishment

For whom: for workaholics, lovers of pubs and establishments where food is entertainment

Address: Moo 1, Soi Saiyuan, Nai Harn, Rawai, Muang Phuket, Phuket, 83130, Thailand.

The best Phuket “cook your own” - Family Buffet BBQ. If you have never been to establishments of this format, know that you prepare the food yourself and on a separate table. In front of you is a roasting pan, and around you is a buffet of ingredients. You can cook yourself fish, shrimp, chicken - whatever your heart desires.

Pay about 150 baht - and don’t deny yourself anything!

Photo: Shutterstock

Coordinates: 7.785465, 98.317710

Underground in Phuket style

For whom: for Botox apologists, Hawaiian party lovers and those who want to have fun

Address: 26 Takua Pa road, Muang Phuket, Phuket, Thailand.

Ka Jok See is a very exotic cafe. On weekends, after dinner it's show time. If you want to see classic ladyboy performances, this is the place for you. A man wearing 8-inch heels and a sequined dress takes the stage to perform “I Will Survive.” Guests are given carnival accessories, such as glasses shaped like guitars, whips and cowboy hats, and everyone has as much fun as their imagination allows. The cafe is located in old Phuket Town.

Photo: zagranitsa.com

Coordinates: 7.883127, 98.388538

Fish market

For whom: for lovers of the sea, seafood and fishing paraphernalia

Address: 22/9 4233 Rawai, Muang Phuket, Phuket, Thailand.

This is a fish market where you can buy all kinds of seafood, and then bring them to the restaurant opposite, where everything will be prepared for you. You can order special spices, fillings, combinations - if, of course, you understand. And if not, they will cook it for you at their own discretion and according to their own recipes. The price of pleasure is 100 baht per kilogram of food. Everything you find at Fish Market Rawai is caught the night before. There is also a pier where you can walk along, looking into fishermen’s boats and starting conversations with the owners - though mostly with gestures, because the locals speak neither Russian nor English.

If you're interested in Thai markets, read about the 6 best bazaars in Phuket.

Photo: Shutterstock

Coordinates: 7.775651, 98.328882

Island Buddhist temple

For whom: for those who like to be alone

Address: 21/4 Moo 1, Rassada, Muang Phuket, Rassada, Phuket, 83000, Thailand.

The sanctuary is located far from civilization, on a hill. It's not exactly Phuket, but it's close - on Sireh Island. The place is completely non-tourist. Here you will only meet one or two praying Thais and monks. There will be a guard sitting in the hall who will ask you to donate 10-20 baht in exchange for flowers and candles. “The temple stands on the top of a mountain. It’s so calm and good up there that you completely forget about the existence of the rest of the world,” writes our blogger Katerina Knusheva. It also offers a view of the village of sea gypsies. The statue of the Reclining Buddha is also impressive - it seems as if he is comprehending Nirvana, which is what we advise you to do.

Photo: zagranitsa.com

Coordinates: 7.872361, 98.429130

The first and most important thing is, of course, the sea. I have been in love with it since early childhood - I first saw the sea when I was 7 years old, and since then I have only dreamed about it. She even dedicated poems to him. And it is not surprising, because in heaven there is only talk about the sea. About how infinitely beautiful it is.

Living by the sea was not just my dream, it was an eternal inner feeling that this is exactly how it should be. And now, even two years later, every time I experience something incredible from the fact that I can just get on a bike and come here at any time. To my favorite beach, Nai Harn. This is the southernmost beach of the island. There are no tourist streets with a lot of goods, restaurants and bars, just a couple of hotels, a fruit stand, a few cafes and... yes, that’s all! It is a quiet place, so even in high season it is not so crowded. Everything is good here: swimming, sunbathing, just walking and breathing the sea breeze, and you can also come here at night with friends and drink something warm while having heart-to-heart conversations. Yes, for example, Tess tea)))

Nai Harn Beach itself is incredibly beautiful:

But what makes it even cooler is the presence of a viewpoint on the mountain! The point is usually called simply "windmill". Here's why:

You can get there in a couple of minutes by bike or car. The views are simply fabulous. In addition, there is a special gazebo equipped here, you can sit and contemplate to your heart’s content, meditate or anything else.

Pay attention to the color of the water - it really is, beautiful, emerald, warm Andaman Sea, the best in the world

In fact, it is so nice and beautiful here that you simply don’t notice how time passes.

2. Mai Khao - the beach where planes land (Mai Khao Beach)

This is another beach, but people come here not for swimming and sunbathing (although, why not?), but to watch the planes that land or take off right above your head. The fact is that the beach line is located right next to the airport. Or is the airport right next to the beach line? And depending on the season and wind direction, planes take off or land so close to your head that you are simply amazed. I have never seen anything like this before. This is very cool! It’s completely safe; even air movement from airplanes doesn’t reach you. All you can hear is the hum of engines

3. Portuguese Lard-Yai Walking Street

I discovered this street quite recently, but it would be simply blasphemous not to include it in the list of favorite places. It's love at first sight. The street, built in the Portuguese style, is located in the old town area - in Phuket Town. On an ordinary weekday, it is simply a divine beauty of colonial-style houses with changing colors of lighting.

4. Big Buddha Phuket

The Big Buddha can be seen from almost anywhere on the island, because it sits high and looks far away from the highest mountain in Phuket.

In general, this place is incredibly beautiful, with excellent energy, and offers gorgeous views of the entire island. And it's just very good.

5. Photo Hotel

The best place to admire the legendary Phuket sunsets. Foto Hotel is located near Kata Beach, and there is a chic platform and restaurant on its roof. Anyone can come here, order, for example, a cocktail, and then lie on soft pillows, swim in the pool and watch the sun set directly into the endless sea. And as you already guessed from the name of the place, this is where you get simply divine photographs. What else could they be like with such and such views?

As dusk sets in, the lights around the pool turn on, changing colors, and it lights up the entire area in bright red, purple, blue and green hues. It looks ultra-fashionable and unusual.

Only this is a secret place! We don't tell anyone about him. And you, please, no, no!

6. BBQ buffet - traditional Thai “cook-your-own” cafe

One of my favorite Thai food. When I came here for the first time, the reaction was something like this: “What?! Should I cook for myself?!” Agree, it’s a rarity for a cafe, and even a barbecue. It turned out that it is not only exciting and fun, but also very tasty!

Thais just love these types of cafes, the "cook it yourself" cafes are very, very popular here and are packed to capacity. The cost of the buffet is 199 baht, it is a buffet, you can come up for ingredients an unlimited number of times. What's in stock? Chicken, pork, crab meat, bacon, shrimp, squid, fish, fish balls and snacks, as well as strange Thai things in all their variety.

But the most delicious thing is the sauces! BBQ wouldn't be as great without them. I’m ready to just slurp these sauces with a spoon. The sauce is spicy, so be careful.

And this is what the cooking process looks like: the meat is fried on top, and the soup is boiled around the edges in boiling water.

Mmmmm, finger lickin' good!

7. Monkey Hill

When you arrive, first of all remember - these are wild animals, yes, they are good-natured and come out to you to beg for some food, but you need to behave as respectfully and calmly as possible.

8. Fish Market Rawai

And most importantly - the freshest seafood for every taste! Various types of fish, squid, shrimp, lobster, crabs and shells - all caught the night before. The choice is really huge.

Why is this market so famous? Directly opposite the seafood stalls there is a line of cafes where the products you buy will be prepared right there! They will fry in spices, bake or steam - as you wish, all this for an affordable price, about 100 baht per kilogram.

9. Saphan Hin Park

An ideal place for walks, a family picnic or outdoor sports. Thais simply adore this park; they come here in huge groups, spread out tents on the grass and spend cozy evenings here. Next to the park there is a small market where you can buy any ready-made food. In the evenings there is simply nowhere for an apple to fall, but today, during the daytime, the park is almost empty

People gather here in the evening, when the heat subsides. Like many of the best places in Phuket, Sapan Hin Park is located right by the sea

10. Wat Koh Siray

Just look how beautiful it is.

The temple has a huge statue of the Reclining Buddha, in this position he awaits the achievement of nirvana. Very beautiful.

But the best thing here is the terrace. Perhaps the most peaceful place in the world. Especially when the monks chant mantras.

11. My rocking chair is Rawai Gym.

It's low season in Thailand now, so you see rare shots - the hall is almost empty.

Sports everyone!

12. Cafe “Tony’s restaurant”

My favorite cafe. I just eat here all the time, and I also like to sit with my laptop, read LiveJournal or write on a blog.

Thirdly, this is the staff. Tony is a Thai guy over 50, and his whole huge family works in his cafe, it’s very touching, sincere and family-like.

Notice the family portrait on the wall. And over there, in the right corner, hangs a photo of little Teddy, we babysit this baby for everyone in the cafe))

You can also order any services from Tony - rent a room, rent a motorbike, buy a trip for a visa, etc.)) Very convenient for guys who come here to train Muay Thai or MMA (mixed martial arts).

13. Mobile Thai market in Rawai (Moving market Rawai)

Why is the market mobile? Yes, because during the week he travels around our area, so in order to remember where the market is today, you must first remember what day it is

It's time to eat!

14. Rungaroon Massage - Thai massage salon

When talking about Thailand, one cannot ignore Thai massage. This is part of Thai culture, its centuries-old heritage. Thai massage is completely different from traditional massage; firstly, it is done in special clothing - a shirt and pants made of natural fabrics. It is designed for the whole body, the technique is based on pressing, pulling and twisting. It's amazing what every artist does differently. The Thai woman silently moves along you or the edges of the bed, pressing on different parts of your body with her elbows, knees, feet or palms. With your eyes closed, the first time you won’t even be able to figure out which part of your body is being kneaded, or where exactly the masseuse is located.

Thai massage is one of the greatest pleasures in life! Coming out for the first time after the session, I asked myself: “How did I even survive all these years without him?!”

It is extremely difficult to recommend a salon; some people like a stronger massage, bordering on pain, while for others it will cause discomfort (in this case, you need to ask for a light version). Therefore, I always recommend visiting several salons around your hotel and choosing the one you like. Thai women everywhere give massages thoroughly and efficiently. As for me, my favorite salon is also in the south, near Nai Harn beach and is called Rungaroon Massage. The average price on the island is 250 baht per 1 hour.

After the session, you will traditionally be offered a cup of herbal tea.

It's impossible not to fall in love with Phuket. Everyone finds what they want here. If you come for the sun, sea and snow-white beaches, there is plenty of this goodness here, if you come for parties and bars, you will certainly find them, and if you come for spiritual life and peace, Buddhist temples and monks will gladly welcome you. Everyone has their own Phuket - hot, crazy, cheerful, soulful, relaxing, different. But every incarnation of it is beautiful and amazing.

Thank you for walking with me around your favorite island. And welcome to sunny Thailand.

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