Hello Phuket: My Wellness Escape to Thailand's Largest Island
Who’s ready for a beach-bound escape? I was!
Let me spill the tea about my incredible Phuket adventure. Back in April 2022, just as the world was opening post-pandemic, I scored some unbelievable deals in Thailand's most famous island paradise. One quick Air Asia flight from Bangkok's Don Muang (ดอนเมือง, DMK) to Phuket (ภูเก็ต, HKT), and I was living my best beach life!
It’s an opportunity for me to heal my body, mind and soul — plus ponder my next move in life.
Kata Beach (หาดกะตะ): Where Jungle Meets Sea (And My Stress Melted Away!)
First stop? The Novotel Kata Beach Avista Resort & Spa Oh. My. Goodness. My anxiety immediately pitched down as I sat on my third-floor balcony with lush jungle greenery practically giving me a high-five! Just an 8-minute walk to the beach (yes, I timed it!), this place was pure tropical bliss.
Here's the scoop on Kata - it's actually two beaches in one! You've got:
Kata Yai (หาดกะตะใหญ่ - Big Kata): Perfect for swimming and surfing
Kata Noi (หาดกะตะน้อย - Little Kata): Your peaceful snorkeling paradise
Both areas are known for their picturesque views, particularly at sunset, and there are several viewpoints nearby, such as the Kata Viewpoint, which offers stunning panoramas of the Andaman Sea.
Phuket Old Town (เมืองเก่าภูเก็ต): Where History Meets Modern Charm
Next up was Phuket Town, and let me tell you - I scored BIG TIME here! Found this awesome deal at the Ibis Styles Phuket City Hotel for just $28 a night WITH breakfast! (I know, right?!)
Must-See Spots in Phuket Old Town
This place is like stepping into a totally different world with its:
Sino-Portuguese buildings (perfect for your Insta feed!) Phuket Town is famous for its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, with colorful colonial-style buildings that date back to the island's tin mining era. Many of these buildings house shops, cafés, art galleries, and boutique hotels.
Thalang Road (ถนนถลาง) - trust me, you'll want to spend HOURS here. The main street in the old town, known for its charming shophouses, street art, and vibrant Sunday night market. This market is a great place to sample local snacks, buy handmade crafts, and enjoy live performances.
Beautiful temples like Jui Tui Shrine (ศาลเจ้าจุ้ยตุ่ย) There are several Chinese shrines and Buddhist temples, such as the Jui Tui Shrine, reflecting the town’s multicultural heritage.
Surin Beach (หาดสุรินทร์): Discovering A Chill Phuket Ocean Side Community
Ok, now that my fun visit in Phuket Town had finished, I needed more beach time. So, why not try my luck at the Novotel Surin Beach Resort - now called the Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Surin Beach. This family-friend hotel was so affordable in 2022 costing me $45/night including breakfast. Yes, please! Just one block from the beach? Double yes!
I decided to rest here for a week so I may continue to rest, exercise on the beach and take in the vibe of this relaxed community.
Why Surin Beach Should Be On Your Bucket List
Everyone calls this area "Millionaire's Row," but guess what? You don't need millions to enjoy:
The soft white sand (seriously, it's like walking on powder!)
The most incredible sunsets you'll ever see
Amazing snorkeling spots (bring your GoPro!)
Best Time to Visit Phuket
High Season (November-April): Perfect weather, calm seas
Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Better deals, fewer crowds
Low Season (July-August): Some rain but still plenty of sunny days, but somewhat unpredictable
Travel Tips and Local Secrets
Look, I got lucky with my timing - that sweet spot when Thailand had just reopened. But here's the thing - even without those bargains, Phuket is still worth it for newbies. Each stop on my journey helped me heal in its own way: Kata's peaceful vibes, Phuket Town's energy, and Surin's chill-luxury feels (without the luxury price tag!).
Want More Thailand Travel Tips?
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