Phuket Island & City Tour

Kata and Karon Beaches

But first we're taken down the west coast of the island, sweeping through Patong Beach, Karon Beach and Kata Beach.

It's funny how Patong looks radically different by day – you'd never guess that only hours ago thousands of people were partying here.

Patong Beach certainly looks inviting but Karon, seen from the hill as we descend towards it, is positively gorgeous, as is Kata with its palm-lined strand and crashing surf. 

Kata Viewpoint

In fact when the van stops at the 'sam haad' (three beaches) viewpoint, the first thing we see is a vista of Kata and Karon beaches with Kata Noi Beach almost directly under us.

It's breezy up here but we still need the suntan lotion and hats as, even at 9:15 in the morning, the sun is incredibly strong. 

Promthep Cape

One of the most photographed sights in Phuket is Phromthep Cape, a high ridge of land above a sharp peninsula jutting out into the Andaman Sea. It's deliciously windy up here plus there's a lot to see.

A huge collection of wooden and stone elephants of every shape and colour surrounds a shrine to the god Brahma and to the side is a lighthouse with views out over the south of the island and some islands just off the coast.

From here we can see just how green Phuket is – contrast that with the bright turquoise of the sea and you'll know why so many people love coming here. 

Wat Chalong

After an ice-cold coconut drink (from the nut itself) we're heading north to Wat Chalong. This Buddhist temple is the biggest on the island and the repository of a lot of fascinating history.

People say that this is the spiritual heart of Phuket and it's easy to see why, as the temple grounds are quite busy with people lighting joss sticks

at shrines and generally taking in the atmosphere. The colour combinations on the temple walls and inside are startling. 

Cashew Nut Factory

Next, we're taken to a cashew nut factory where we get to sample some cashew juice. I never realised there was such a thing and that it'd be so delicious! It's all new to me and the nuts themselves are so good I buy a couple of bags.

In fact there are lots of products for sale here, including jars of Phuket's famous piquant shrimp paste, anchovy curry, roasted garlic anchovy with cashew nuts – all of these products are unique to Phuket and ideal souvenirs to take back for family and friends.

Wang Thalang

Wang Thalang Pearl and Gem Gallery is next, where we learn that at the end of Phuket's tin mining boom, pearl cultivation was introduced and there are many sizes and types to choose from here.

We all settle down to watch a 20-minute m,ovie that explains the history of Phuket, how pearls are cultivated, with a lot of background information.

Apparently, along Phuket's sheltered east coast and nearby islands pearls are cultivated. Later we have a good look at the gems on offer.

Phuket Old Town

It's getting near midday and we stop for a fresh juice before heading back into Phuket Town. For the last stop of our tour we're shown the charms of Phuket’s old town. Over the centuries, Phuket has been subject to many foreign influences, resulting in its distinctive architecture. ‘Sino-Portuguese’ is the term used to describe the houses in the old town.

The archways separating the houses and shops on these streets allow visitors to walk along them sheltered from the elements. Many of these roads, such as Phang Nga, Thalang, Dibuk are parallel and feature interesting artifacts shops, restaurants, textile outlets and art galleries. This part of the tour is a fascinating glimpse into Phuket’s past. (See Photos of Old Phuket Town)

Well, I never knew you could pack so much into five hours. We've learned a lot, mission accomplished, and it's time to go back to our hotel. A fascinating morning, all in all.