In recent times, the tropical Island destination of Phuket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. From refusing to let vacationers return to their homeland, arresting tourists on trivial charges and even a decrease in housing popularity but with all this in mind, Phuket still remains a wonderful tropical holiday destination.
Phuket's weather allows year round beach going activities with two distinct seasons. The first is known as the high season, based on the large number of tourists that flock to the Island during this time, and the other is called Summer Season with a self descriptive title.
During the high season, Phuket beaches enjoy a magical, tranquil environment. With the slight wind and weather approaching the Island from the North East, the famous West Coast beaches receive little or no waves, making crystal clear waters on bright white sands, almost too good to be true.
As the seasons change, the weather then comes from the opposite direction. This brings rougher conditions with sometimes-large waves suitable for experienced swimmers and even surfers. This time of year is still warm, in fact Phuket has a year round tropical climate and the temperature always hovers around the 30 degree Celsius mark.
The Summer Season is also known as the rainy season, however, this makes it sound like a time where it doesn't stop raining, but this couldn't be further from the truth. During this time, it does rain but some days reek glorious sunshine and high temperatures, just perfect for the beach. Visitors will get wet but just about everything that Phuket has is just as enjoyable at this time of year.
A well-established community backs every beach in Phuket. The main beaches of Patong, Karon, Kata and Surin, all have differing communities but all enjoy fine restaurants, great nightlife, wonderful shopping and an easy-going attitude.
Patong, in particular, is known for its nightlife along the busy Bangla Road area. Bars, clubs and restaurants line this street and at night it's blocked off from traffic and is a wonder to walk up and down and enjoy the sights.
One of the benefits of travelling to Thailand is its inexpensive shopping. Phuket is no different, however the up-market shopping malls are now cropping up all over the Island and prices are not what they used to be. Brand names such as Central Festival, Jungceylon, Tesco Lotus and a recently opened centre along the bypass road which claims to be a budget market, all offer international brand names in fashion, sports and just about anything that you would want to take home.
The waters and Islands surrounding Phuket are also easily accessible with a large variety of boating tours available. The jutting limestone Islands and caves, known as hongs in Thailand, are particularly beautiful with some caves accessible by either swimming or kayaking inside.
Right now, with the world in economic trouble, tourist numbers are down in Phuket. As a resident, this can be a nice time, however, the benefits to those that do chose to vacation now are unlimited. Bargains can be had all over the Island with vendors very willing to offer their goods or services at very reduced prices.
For those fortunate enough to be in a position to reside in topical paradise, the property market in Phuket is also in the same position. With a greatly reduced market, many property projects are now offering their properties at hugely reduced prices. Just about anything is available in terms of property and bargains from as little as 1.5 million baht (US$44,000) can be found, mind you, the other end of the spectrum is also here with luxury beachside properties in the million dollars range.
With all of this in mind and the bargains that are now available in Phuket there is no reason for anyone to stay away. Treat the locals with respect, enjoy the sunshine and hunt out a bargain, what better way is there to enjoy some time away from home.
For more information on Phuket and the lifestyle there go to http://www.phuketrader.com/
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