Phuket, Thailand
Important Information
Visa exemption / Short tourist stays
For most Australian citizens travelling as tourists:
You can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days under the visa-exemption scheme.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
You must complete the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 3 days of arrival (for air, land or sea entry) — this replaces the old paper TM6 card.
On arrival you may be asked for:
proof of onward or return travel. proof of sufficient funds. If you qualify for the exemption, you will be stamped on arrival and can stay the allowed duration.
Important things to watch
Make sure you use the official website for the TDAC — there are reports of scam sites charging fees for what is free.
Overstaying your allowed stay can lead to fines, deportation and bans on future entry.
Even though you are visa-exempt for tourism, this doesn’t cover work, paid employment, long-term study or residency — you need the correct visa for those activities.
Summary — what you should do before you go
Check your passport has 6+ months validity.
Complete the TDAC (within 3 days before you arrive).
Have proof of onward travel (return ticket) and sufficient funds.
If you plan to stay more than 60 days, or engage in non-tourist activity (work, study), apply for the correct visa ahead of time.
Keep up to date with any rule changes (immigration, visa policy) up until your departure.
Health & Safety
Vaccinations: Routine vaccines (MMR, Tetanus, Polio) are recommended. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are often advised for travellers. (smartraveller.gov.au)
Mosquito-borne diseases: Dengue, Zika, and malaria exist in some areas. Use mosquito repellent and consider prophylaxis if visiting rural regions.
Food & water safety: Tap water is generally unsafe. Eat freshly cooked food; avoid raw seafood from street vendors.
Travel insurance: Strongly recommended. Covers medical emergencies, theft, or trip cancellations.
Transport & Roads
Scooter/motorbike: Popular but dangerous. Always wear a helmet, have an international driving permit, and insurance. Many tourist accidents are motorbike-related.
Public transport: Buses, trains, BTS (Bangkok Skytrain), and taxis are widely available. Always use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps (Grab).
Traffic rules: Traffic moves on the left. Roads can be chaotic; exercise caution.
Money & Payments
Currency: Thai Baht (THB). Cash is king in markets, smaller towns, and temples.
ATMs & cards: Widely available in cities; Visa and Mastercard accepted in most hotels and larger stores.
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated, especially in tourism services (5–10%).
Weather & Clothing
Climate: Tropical; hot, humid, rainy seasons (May–October), cooler season (Nov–Feb).
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing; modest clothing for temple visits.
Travel & Safety Tips
Scams: Beware of tuk-tuk or taxi scams, gem scams, and fake tours. Agree on fares in advance.
Natural hazards: During rainy season, flooding is possible. Monitor local news.
Emergency numbers:
Police: 191
Tourist Police: 1155
Ambulance/Medical: 1669
Drugs & Cannabis
Drug offences carry very severe penalties — up to life imprisonment or even the death penalty in some cases.
Cannabis is only legal under very restricted medicinal circumstances, and using it in public remains illegal.
Vapes (e-cigarettes, e-cigars, vapourisers) and refills are illegal. Importing, selling or possessing these may lead to large fines or prison.
Alcohol Laws
Legal drinking age is 20 years old in Thailand.
There are restrictions on times when alcohol can be sold or consumed. For example, in some areas retail sales are banned between 11 am–2 pm and 5 pm–12 midnight for shops. Bars and licensed venues may have different rules.
Dress & Respecting Local Customs
Dress respectfully especially when visiting religious or royal sites. For example, shoulders should be covered and legs reasonable length when entering temples.
Insulting the monarchy is a serious offence in Thailand with heavy penalties.
Carrying Identification & Other Rules
Always carry your passport or a copy of it — some travellers have been detained for being unable to present ID.
You must follow traffic laws. If you drive or ride a motorbike: you need the correct license (international or Thai as required), helmets for motorbikes, and avoid drink driving. Accidents are common and can have serious legal/financial consequences.
Overstaying a visa/exemption is a legal offence. It can lead to fines, detention, deportation or bans on re-entry.
Respecting Religion, Social Protocol & Royalty
Religious sites must be treated with respect. For example, acts that insult religious objects or places may carry prison terms and/or fines.
Public behaviour is expected to align with local customs — e.g., showing respect to the monarchy, being modest in behaviour in some contexts.
Cultural Etiquette
Respect the monarchy: Never insult or joke about the King or royal family — severe legal consequences.
Temple behavior: Cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes before entering. Avoid touching Buddha statues.
Greeting: Use the “wai” (hands together) as a polite gesture, especially to elders.
Head & feet: Avoid touching someone’s head and never point your feet at people or religious objects.
Things Especially Important for Australians Travelling
Even though you’re a tourist, Australian authorities stress that you’re still subject to the full range of Thai laws — ignorance is not usually accepted as a defence.
If you’re riding a scooter / motorbike: many accidents involve foreign travellers. Without proper licence or insurance, you may face very serious personal liability.
Hotels, resorts and tour operators may assume you have insurance — if something goes wrong, you may need to pay upfront. The legal process may be unfamiliar.
Legal & Miscellaneous
Photography: Avoid taking photos in restricted areas (military, some temples).
Drugs & alcohol: Very strict laws — penalties can include prison or death for drugs. Alcohol laws vary by region.
Visa overstays: Hefty fines and possible deportation.
Province's (Administrative Divisions)
Phuket Province is divided into three districts: Mueang Phuket (the main urban and administrative center, including Phuket Town), Kathu (central area with Patong and Karon beaches), and Thalang (northern district with historical sites and quieter beaches).
Kathu District
Overview: Central district of Phuket, famous for its beaches and vibrant tourist areas.
Key Beaches & Locations: Patong Beach (nightlife hub), Karon Beach, Kata Beach.
Activities & Attractions:
Water sports: surfing, jet skiing, parasailing
Nightlife: Bangla Road in Patong
Golf: Red Mountain Golf Club
Temples: Wat Patong
Food & Dining: Beachfront seafood restaurants, street food markets, international cuisine.
Vibe: Lively, party-friendly, and highly touristic.
Visa:
Many nationalities eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA) — valid 30 days, extendable once.
e-VOA can be applied for online before arrival (recommended).
Passport Validity: Minimum 6 months on entry.
Departure Tax: Usually included in your airline ticket.
Mueang Phuket District
Overview: The administrative and urban heart of Phuket Province.
Key Locations: Phuket Town, Old Town historic district, Chalong Pier.
Activities & Attractions:
Cultural exploration: Sino-Portuguese architecture, museums, art galleries
Temples: Wat Chalong, Jui Tui Shrine
Markets: Weekend Night Market, Chillva Market
Scenic spots: Khao Rang Hill viewpoint
Food & Dining: Local Thai cuisine, cafés, street food, traditional desserts.
Vibe: Cultural, historical, and relaxed urban charm.
Thalang District
Overview: Northern district with historical significance and natural beauty.
Key Locations: Mai Khao Beach, Nai Yang Beach, Sirinat National Park.
Activities & Attractions:
Nature & wildlife: Bang Pae Waterfall, Gibbon Rehabilitation Center
Historical sites: Thalang National Museum, Wat Phra Thong
Island trips: Nearby islands and coastal excursions
Food & Dining: Local Thai dishes, traditional southern Thai seafood, riverside restaurants.
Vibe: Quieter, family-friendly, nature-focused, and historically rich.
Island Tours
Phi Phi Islands
Top Things to Do
Hike to the Viewpoint on Koh Phi Phi Don – A moderate climb (20-40 minutes) up steps leads to spectacular panoramic views over Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay.
Visit Maya Bay (on Koh Phi Phi Leh) – Famous from the film The Beach. While access is regulated to protect the environment, it’s still a major highlight on many tours.
Snorkelling & diving – The reefs around the islands are rich: colourful coral, reef sharks, turtles. Good spots: Shark Point, Anemone Reef, Loh Samah Bay.
Boat trips & island hopping – Use longtail or speedboat tours to visit neighbouring islands, hidden bays (e.g., Loh Samah Bay), caves (Viking Cave), and more remote beaches.
Beach & relaxation time – Spend time lounging on beaches like Long Beach, Bamboo Island, or in quieter corners away from the major crowds.
Nightlife & fun in Tonsai Village – After dark the scene on Phi Phi Don comes alive with bars, fire shows, beach parties.
Cultural & nature experiences – You’ll find caves with historic paintings (Viking Cave), monkeys on Monkey Beach, and scenic coastal cliffs.
Best Tour Guide / Tour Operator Options
- 5 Star Marine – is a top-rated private boat charter company in Phuket, ideal for luxury, flexible, crowd-free island hopping. 5starmarinephuket.com
Simba Sea Trips – Offers a “Phi Phi Islands Sunrise Tour” from Phuket with speedboat, small groups (~10 people), visiting Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, etc.
Phi Phi Tours – A wider tour-agency offering full-day and private tours from Phuket or Krabi, speedboat, longtail options, multiple packages.
Easy Day Thailand – Offers premium and private tours, sunrise departure to beat crowds, smaller group sizes and quality service.
Tip for picking a good tour:
Choose early-morning departures (to beat the crowds). Many Reddit users recommend this.
Ensure national park fees are included or clearly stated.
Confirm what transfer (hotel pickup, pier) is included, what type of boat (speedboat vs longtail) and what stops you’ll have.
Check for safety credentials, small group sizes if you prefer less crowded.
Read reviews and compare pricing: many mention that local in-person booking can be cheaper than big portal rates
James Bond Island
Things to Do
Visit the iconic limestone rock formation of Ko Ta Pu (the “needle-rock”) which is the landmark of James Bond Island.
Explore sea caves and hidden lagoons by canoe or long-tail boat around Panak Island and Hong Island.
Visit the floating village of Koh Panyee (a Muslim fishing community on stilts) and enjoy lunch there.
Swim or relax on smaller beaches included in the tour itinerary.
Take photographs from viewpoints in Phang Nga Bay (some tours include stops like Samet Nangshe if you pick an early option).
Best Tour Options from Phuket
Here are some good tour operators and what they include. Always check for inclusions like transfers, national-park fees, guide, kayak/boat, food.
A standard full-day tour: Pickup from your hotel in Phuket → speedboat to Phang Nga Bay → Panak Island canoeing → James Bond Island stop → floating village lunch → return.
Shared speedboat tour: From Phuket, ~8 hours, national park fee included.
Premium speed catamaran tour: Smaller group (max ~30), includes breakfast, lunch buffet, paddling & snorkeling.
Long-tail boat & canoe day tour: More leisurely, maybe better if you prefer gentler pace.
Tips for Selecting & Doing the Tour
Departure pier & transport: Tours depart from marinas like Royal Phuket Marina, Ao Po Grand Marina or Ao Makham. Make sure transfer from your hotel is included. jamesbondisland.com
Boat type matters: Speedboats are faster but can be bumpy — if you have mobility concerns or motion sensitivity, consider the big-boat or long-tail/slow tour. > “Avoid speedboats if you have back problems… the bigger boat is much more relaxing.”
Crowds & timing: James Bond Island is very popular and can be crowded. An early-morning departure or private tour will give a more relaxed experience.
What’s included: Check if national park entrance fees, lunch, kayak/boat gear, hotel-pickup/drop-off are included. Some tours include snorkeling or swimming stops.
Weather & season: The Andaman Sea can be rough in the monsoon (May–Oct). Check conditions, and consider the calmer side of the island if weather is unstable.
Expect time on the boat: Because it’s a full-day tour (often 8-10 hours) and involves significant boat travel from Phuket, make sure that’s okay for your pace.
Recommended Things To Do
Families
Beaches & Water Fun
Kata Beach – calm waves, surf schools for beginners.
Karon Beach – wide, clean sands for family picnics.
Nai Harn Beach – peaceful and less crowded.
Splash Jungle Water Park (Mai Khao) – water slides, lazy river, wave pool.
- Andamanda Phuket – Water Park
Animal & Nature Experiences
Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary Phuket – ethical elephant care, educational tours.
Dolphin Bay Phuket – watch dolphin shows and learn about marine life.
Phuket Aquarium (Cape Panwa) – tropical fish, coral displays, touch tanks.
Butterfly Garden & Insect World (Phuket Town) – colorful butterflies and learning exhibits.
Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (Bang Pae Waterfall) – see rescued gibbons and rainforest trails.
Theme Parks & Interactive Attractions
Phuket FantaSea (Kamala) – cultural show with acrobatics, lights, and a buffet dinner.
Carnival Magic (Kamala) – vibrant nighttime parade, family-friendly performances.
Dino Park Mini Golf (Kata) – dinosaur-themed mini-golf and restaurant.
Rawai Park Kids Club – indoor/outdoor play zones and water playground.
Adventure & Outdoor Fun
Flying Hanuman Zipline (Kathu) – zip through jungle canopies safely.
ATV or buggy tours – family adventures through forests and beaches (minimum age varies).
Island Hopping Tours – Phi Phi Islands, Coral Island, or James Bond Island.
Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay – explore limestone caves and lagoons.
Cultural & Educational Activities
Old Phuket Town Walking Tour – colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, street art, and cafés.
Thai Cooking Classes for Families – fun way to learn Thai dishes together.
Wat Chalong Temple – Phuket’s most important temple (dress modestly).
Thai Hua Museum – interactive displays about Phuket’s history.
Family Dining & Markets
Chillva Market (Phuket Town) – trendy stalls, snacks, crafts, live music.
Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market) – street food, souvenirs, fun atmosphere.
Kata Night Market – family-friendly evening stroll with local treats.
Beachfront dining – many restaurants have kids’ menus and sea views.
Relaxation & Easy Family Days
Boat trip to Coral Island (Koh Hae) – calm water, snorkeling for beginners.
Promthep Cape Viewpoint – stunning sunset spot.
Hanuman World Sky Walk – tree-top walkway with beautiful views.
Phuket Trickeye Museum – 3D art gallery for interactive photos.
Inclusive & Accessible
Accessible Beach & Ocean Experiences
Patong Beach – has wheelchair-accessible ramps, wide pathways, and volunteers who help guests reach the shore.
Kata Beach – calm waters and some wheelchair-friendly areas near hotels and restaurants.
Adaptive Water Activities:
Adaptive scuba diving & snorkeling with operators like Local Dive Thailand and Scuba Cat Diving (trained instructors, beach wheelchairs, adaptive gear).
Accessible beach days supported by local disability foundations and lifeguard programs.
Cultural & City Attractions (Accessible)
Big Buddha Phuket: ramp access partway up and wide viewing areas; great for scenic photos.
Wat Chalong Temple: some steps but alternate accessible entrances are available; staff are helpful.
Old Phuket Town: many cafés, shops, and museums are on flat streets; ideal for easy exploration (though some sidewalks can be uneven).
Phuket Trickeye Museum: fully air-conditioned, wheelchair-accessible, and fun for all ages.
Thai Hua Museum: has ramps and wide walkways.
Nature & Animal Encounters
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary (Thalang):
Designed with wide, flat walking paths and shaded viewing decks.
Electric buggies are available for guests with mobility challenges.
Staff are trained in accessibility assistance.
Phuket Aquarium (Cape Panwa):
Ramps and elevators throughout, suitable for wheelchairs.
Dolphin Bay Phuket:
Accessible seating and viewing areas.
Leisure & Entertainment
Phuket FantaSea (Kamala):
Wheelchair-accessible seating, ramps, and restrooms.
Staff assistance available on request.
Central Phuket Mall:
Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, wide aisles, and adapted restrooms.
Houses cinema, aquarium, and food courts.
Blue Tree Lagoon Phuket:
Smooth paths and several accessible areas for relaxation, dining, and mild water activities (staff assistance available).
Dining & Relaxed Experiences
Many international hotels and restaurants have accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating.
Beachfront dining: Several venues at Patong, Kata, and Karon have ramps from promenade areas.
Cooking classes: Some culinary schools (like Phuket Thai Cookery School) can adapt workstations for seated participants with prior notice.
Accessible Transportation Options
Accessible taxis and vans: Available through services like Wheelchair Taxi Phuket and Phuket Access Travel — equipped with lifts and trained drivers.
Airport assistance: Phuket International Airport provides wheelchair service and priority assistance upon request.
Hotel shuttles: Many resorts offer accessible transport or golf carts for internal transfers.
Wellness & Relaxation
Accessible spas and massages: Several resorts (like Hilton, JW Marriott, and Novotel Phuket) offer spa treatments for guests with mobility challenges, including seated or adapted massages.
Yoga and wellness classes: Some studios provide chair yoga or gentle stretching sessions for seniors or guests with disabilities.
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For the Adults
Beach & Island Escapes
Patong Beach – lively atmosphere, beach bars, and water sports.
Kata & Karon Beaches – great for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Freedom Beach – more secluded, quiet, and scenic.
Nai Harn & Surin Beaches – calm and upscale, ideal for couples.
Island-Hopping Tours:
Phi Phi Islands – snorkeling, beaches, and Maya Bay.
James Bond Island – limestone cliffs and sea caves.
Coral Island – quick half-day getaway with water activities.
Similan Islands – world-class diving (seasonal).
Adventure & Outdoor Activities
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: clear waters, coral reefs, and marine life.
Ziplining at Flying Hanuman (Kathu) – jungle canopy fun.
ATV & Buggy Tours: explore forest trails or countryside.
Surfing at Kata Beach – especially great May–Oct.
Stand-up Paddleboarding or Jet Skiing along the coast.
Hiking: Karon Viewpoint, Windmill Viewpoint, or Big Buddha trail.
Culture & Sightseeing
Big Buddha – iconic 45-meter statue with panoramic views.
Wat Chalong Temple – the most important Buddhist temple.
Old Phuket Town:
Sino-Portuguese architecture
Local cafés, street art, boutique shops
Sunday Walking Street Market (Thalang Road)
Thai Hua Museum – Phuket’s Chinese-Thai heritage.
Phuket Peranakan Museum – cultural exhibits and costumes.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Bangla Road (Patong):
Nightclubs (Illuzion, Sugar Club, White Room)
Go-go bars, rooftop lounges, and live music.
Beach Clubs:
Café del Mar (Kamala)
Kudo Beach Club (Patong)
Catch Beach Club (Bang Tao)
Rooftop Bars:
Baba Nest (Sri Panwa) – luxury sunset cocktails.
The Surface (La Flora Resort Patong).
Heaven Rooftop (Kata).
Cultural Shows:
Phuket FantaSea and Carnival Magic (family-friendly).
Simon Cabaret Show – famous ladyboy cabaret.
Phuket Vegetarian Festival (Oct): colorful, spiritual, and unique.
Songkran (Thai New Year, April): water festival and street celebrations.
Loy Krathong (Nov): floating lanterns on water.
Food & Culinary Experiences
Cooking Classes: Learn authentic Thai dishes (Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Green Curry).
Seafood Dining: Rawai and Laem Hin piers offer fresh daily catches.
Street Food Markets:
Chillva Market
Naka Weekend Market
Kata Night Market
Fine Dining:
Blue Elephant Phuket (royal Thai cuisine)
Suan Bua (romantic seaside setting)
One Chun Café & Restaurant (authentic local dishes).
Relaxation & Wellness
Luxury Spas: Banyan Tree, Amatara, and Oasis Spa.
Traditional Thai Massage: found all over Phuket; try local shops or resort spas.
Yoga & Wellness Retreats:
Atsumi Retreat Healing Center (Rawai).
Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort.
Yoga Republic (Bang Tao).
Beachfront massages at Kata, Karon, or Kamala.
Romantic & Scenic Activities
Sunset Viewpoints:
Promthep Cape
Karon Viewpoint
Windmill Viewpoint
Sunset Dinner Cruise: luxury catamaran with food and drinks.
Private Beach Picnics or resort candlelit dinners.
Spa days for couples with sea-view massages.
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Pro Tip
Base yourself near Kata or Karon if you want a balance of relaxation and nightlife,
or in Patong if you prefer vibrant nightlife and easy access to tours.
Food & Shopping
Local Dishes to Try
Mee Hokkien Noodle – stir-fried yellow noodles with seafood and pork.
Moo Hong – slow-braised pork belly in black pepper and soy sauce.
Nam Prik Kung Siap – spicy chili dip with smoked shrimp.
Kanom Jeen Phuket – cold rice noodles served with curry sauces and pickles.
Oh Tao – oyster omelet with taro and bean sprouts.
Roti Pancakes – Thai-style roti with banana, egg, or chocolate.
Tom Yam Goong – spicy shrimp soup with lemongrass.
Where to Eat
Old Phuket Town
One Chun Café & Restaurant – authentic Southern Thai dishes.
Tu Kab Khao Restaurant – elegant dining in a colonial building.
Lock Tien Food Court – a must for local street-style eats.
Patong
Savoey Seafood – fresh seafood, beachfront dining.
No.9 Restaurant – great local favorites at good prices.
Kudo Beach Club – beachside cocktails and international food.
Rawai & Chalong
Kan Eang @ Pier – beautiful seafood dining by the water.
Mor Mu Dong – local secret spot serving traditional Southern Thai.
Luxury & Fine Dining
Blue Elephant Phuket – royal Thai cuisine in a heritage mansion.
Baba Nest (Sri Panwa) – world-class rooftop dining with 360° sea views.
Pru at Trisara – Phuket’s Michelin-starred farm-to-table restaurant.
Food Experiences
Thai Cooking Classes: Learn to cook Pad Thai, Tom Yum, and curries at Blue Elephant, Phuket Thai Cookery School, or Kata Thai Cooking Class.
Night Market Food Tours: Taste local street food with a guide at Chillva Market or Phuket Town Sunday Market.
Seafood BBQ on the Beach: Some island tours and resorts include fresh BBQ lunch by the sea.
Coffee & Dessert Cafés: Try The Feelsion Café (Old Town) or Torry’s Ice Cream (local Peranakan flavors).
Street Markets & Local Finds
Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market) – biggest on the island; souvenirs, street food, clothes.
Chillva Market (Phuket Town) – trendy night market for young travelers.
Sunday Walking Street Market (Thalang Road) – local snacks, handmade goods, live music.
Karon Temple Market (Tues/Fri) – small but fun for souvenirs and Thai food.
Malin Plaza (Patong) – easy-to-reach market with cheap eats and beachwear.
Popular Souvenirs:
Thai silk and batik fabrics
Dried fruits, cashew nuts, and coconut candy
Handmade soaps, herbal balms, and spa products
Seashell crafts and pearl jewelry
Shopping Malls & Boutiques
Central Phuket Floresta & Festival
Phuket’s biggest and most modern mall.
International brands, local designers, a gourmet food court, and an aquarium.
Fully air-conditioned and accessible.
Premium Outlet Phuket (Bypass Road)
Discounts on global brands like Nike, Levi’s, and Lacoste.
Jungceylon Mall (Patong)
Fashion, souvenirs, restaurants, and entertainment.
Great for rainy days or post-beach shopping.
Boat Avenue & Porto de Phuket (Bang Tao)
Chic outdoor shopping centers with cafés, boutiques, and artisan stores.
Specialty & Cultural Shops
Jim Thompson Thai Silk – authentic luxury textiles.
Phuket Pearl Factory – for genuine local pearls.
Ban Boran Textiles – handcrafted woven goods.
Peranakan Jewelry Shops (Old Town) – traditional designs with a Phuket twist.
Combine Shopping + Dining
Sunday Walking Street Market: Eat as you shop — grilled seafood, mango sticky rice, and bubble tea everywhere.
Boat Avenue Night Market: Food trucks, bars, and local artisan stands.
Central Phuket Food Hall: Air-conditioned dining and high-end cafés.
Tips for Travelers
Cash is king at markets; use small bills for bargaining.
Haggle politely at street markets (10–30% off is normal).
Bring reusable bags — some vendors charge for plastic.
Try local snacks as you shop — it’s part of the fun!
