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We Escaped to Phuket and Found Tropical Dream
February 2025We Escaped to Phuket and Found Tropical Dream
I had 8 days off work, so my friend and I decided to head to Phuket from the 23rd of February to the 2nd of March. Phuket, a popular island in Thailand's Andaman Sea, is known for its busy tourist areas, lively beaches, and bustling nightlife. It’s a destination where modern amenities meet local culture, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure for those looking to explore its many sides. It wasn’t just a trip; it was an experience. During this season, Phuket shows its everyday side: the weather is warm and humid, with occasional overcast spells, the sea is pleasant, and the island buzzes with the steady flow of both tourists and locals living their daily routines.
With 8 days off work and direct flights from Perth to Phuket, it felt like everything was falling into place. We couldn’t resist, so we booked our flights, and before we knew it, we were on the plane to Phuket. The journey was smooth and brought us straight into a tropical adventure.
The moment we stepped out of the airport in Phuket, the humidity hit me like a wall, completely different from the dry heat I’m used to in Perth. The air felt thick and heavy, and the sky was a little cloudy. We grabbed the Smart Bus from the airport to Phuket for just 100 baht, which was a great deal. As we drove through the city, I noticed that Phuket seemed like a cleaner version of Lahore in many ways. The urban area wasn’t exactly what I imagined, and there was a noticeable odour in the air that reminded me how far we were from home.
When we finally arrived in Patong, where we had our hotel booked, the real challenge began. The short walk from the bus stop to the hotel was enough to leave us drenched in sweat. Welcome to the tropics, I thought.
Near Kata Noi Beach, Phuket
Phuket in late February offered a unique blend of experiences. The tropical heat was ever present, but it became part of the rhythm of island life. The beauty of being here wasn’t just about the weather, it was about how the island felt alive, adapting with each passing day. There was something special in knowing we were experiencing Phuket for what it really is, not just the perfect image in travel brochures.
Patong Beach, Phuket
During our time in Phuket, we chose to stay at Patong Heaven, a budget-friendly hotel that provided everything we needed for a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Its convenient location in the heart of Patong made it easy to explore the vibrant surroundings. For additional accommodation options in Phuket consider reading about Wings Villas Phuket by Two Passports Packed. And as for getting around in Phuket, rather than relying on taxis or other more expensive options, we opted to take local buses or simply walk. This allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the bustling atmosphere of the area, taking in the sights, sounds, and energy of Phuket at a relaxed pace. The hotel’s proximity to the beach, markets, and restaurants made it an ideal base for our adventure.
We checked in and, without wasting any time, headed out for dinner. The Patong area is bustling with food choices, offering everything from Asian to Middle Eastern cuisine, and everything in between. After a satisfying meal, we strolled down to the beach to relax. The sound of the waves and the warm sand beneath our feet helped ease some of the jet lag. Finally, we made our way back to the hotel for some much-needed sleep.
The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, we headed back to Patong Beach. We spent the morning relaxing, swimming in the warm waters, and sipping on refreshing tropical juices from the many vendors scattered across the ever-busy beach. The water may not have been crystal clear, but it was still inviting. At one point, we even dozed off under one of the umbrellas, letting the sounds of the ocean lull us to sleep.
While the beach itself was relatively well-maintained, with workers regularly picking up trash and the sand staying mostly free of litter, the scene changed drastically the moment we moved just 20 meters inland to where the shops and food stalls were. Behind the line of beach umbrellas, we found a bustling, overly commercialized area filled with vendors aggressively trying to sell everything from souvenirs to massages. The charm of the beach quickly faded as we were bombarded with noise and advertisements. Brightly coloured signs, flashing lights, and the overwhelming scent of street food wafting from every direction made it feel like we had stepped into a marketplace rather than a relaxing beachfront. The contrast between the relatively peaceful beach and the chaotic, crowded commercial zone was striking. While we appreciated the convenience of nearby shops, it felt like the area was trying too hard to cater to tourists, losing a bit of its natural beauty in the process
In the afternoon, we visited Chaithararam Temple, also known as Wat Chalong, one of the most important and revered temples in Phuket. This stunning temple, built in the early 19th century, is dedicated to two highly respected monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, who played key roles in calming a local rebellion and were known for their healing abilities. The temple is an architectural marvel and a symbol of spiritual significance, drawing both locals and tourists for prayer and reflection.
Over the next few days, we made it our mission to explore more of Phuket's beautiful beaches. We spent considerable time relaxing at Patong Beach but also ventured out to explore the nearby spots. Kata Beach, with its laid-back vibe, was perfect for an afternoon of swimming and sunbathing. Karon Beach, just a short drive away, offered a more peaceful atmosphere, while Rawai Beach, though not ideal for swimming, had a stunning view and was a great spot to enjoy the local seafood. Kata Noi Beach, a smaller and quieter version of its neighbour, became one of our favourite hideaways for some much-needed relaxation.
One night, we decided to check out the famous Muay Thai fights. Watching the fighters in action was an adrenaline rush, it instantly reminded me of all the kickboxing movies I used to watch as a kid, many of which were filmed in Thailand. The intensity, the energy of the crowd, and the sheer skill of the fighters made it an unforgettable experience.
Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi Islands
During our trip one day, we decided to visit the famous Phi Phi Islands via speedboat. Let me tell you, speedboats are not for the faint-hearted! The ride was thrilling, testing our bravery as the boat flew over the waves. We boarded the speedboat at Rassada Pier and made our way to Tonsai Pier, located on Koh Phi Phi Don—the largest and most developed of the Phi Phi Islands.
When we arrived, I was struck by how vibrant and busy Phi Phi Islands were, especially around Tonsai Pier. The island buzzed with activity, and it felt like a small city, not the remote paradise I had imagined. Hotels, shops, and restaurants filled every corner, and while it was convenient, I couldn't help but feel they should have preserved more of its natural, island charm instead of turning it into a bustling tourist hub. The views were out of this world, nevertheless.
Phi Phi Islands
After taking in the sights around the pier, we decided to hike up to the famous Phi Phi viewpoints. The hike was tough, especially with the steep and challenging stairs right at the start. But as you ascend, you get closer to one of the best views in all of Thailand. There are three main viewpoints: Viewpoint 1, 2, and 3, each offering progressively better views. Viewpoint 1 gives you a nice overview of the island, but as you continue the climb, Viewpoint 2 offers an iconic sight of the twin bays that make Phi Phi Don famous. By the time you reach Viewpoint 3, you're rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire island and the surrounding turquoise waters, it’s absolutely breath-taking.
Phi Phi Islands
For those who want to explore beyond Phi Phi Don, you can take a half-hour longtail boat ride to Maya Bay, where the famous movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed. The crystal-clear waters and towering limestone cliffs make it one of the most picturesque spots, though it too can get quite busy with tourists.
The eight days I spent in Phuket flew by. It was a wonderfully relaxing trip filled with beach days, exploration, and moments of awe, but like all vacations, it ended all too quickly.
However, there’s another side to Phuket that exists beyond the beaches and resorts, a side that’s far less glamorous. The city, with its chaotic streets, has an undercurrent that can feel miserable and sad. Walking through places like Bangla Road, with its nightlife, and witnessing the solicitation of services revealed an entirely different face of Phuket, one that I personally found disheartening. It’s not the kind of experience I seek while traveling, and I have no interest in it.
While you're exploring Phuket, don’t miss out on one of its most vibrant cultural shows: Phuket Fantasea. It’s an experience packed with lights, performances, and local flair. For a closer look at what it’s like, check out A Playful Time at Phuket Fantasea by Two Passports Packed.
I’ve always been an outdoorsy person, drawn to the natural beauty of places, and that’s where I found my joy in Phuket, on the beaches, in the ocean, and in the hills. The rawness of nature is what truly captivates me, and that’s the side of Phuket I’ll always remember.
Phuket gave me a mix of adventure and calm. I loved wandering through quiet beaches and hidden spots, far from the crowds. The island feels like it has its own pace, sometimes busy, sometimes peaceful. I found the local food amazing and the people welcoming. Exploring different parts of the island made my trip special. It's not just the big tourist spots that make Phuket great, but the little moments you stumble upon. This is what made my experience unique and unforgettable.
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