Phuket, which is approximately the size of Singapore, is Thailand’s largest island. The island is connected to mainland Thailand by a bridge. It is situated off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea.

In recent times, though, Phuket's top earner has been tourism, which has transformed the island into Thailand's wealthiest province. The west coast of Phuket was hit severely by the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004, but almost no evidence of the damage now remains. Phuket enjoys great popularity as a travel destination. Most beaches are on the west coast, with Phuket Town to the south-east and the airport in the north.

Phuket is a melting pot of Buddhists, Thai-Chinese, Muslims and even sea gypsies. The majority of the population in the rural areas is Muslim. Outside of the provincial town, the rural folk speak with a thick Southern dialect which is difficult for even other Thais to understand. The provincial town’s economy having boomed over the past decade has lead to a lot of the youngsters leading similar lives to those in Bangkok. Altogether, the lifestyle of the urban Thai-Chinese resembles that of Bangkokians.

From luxurious to budget choices, accommodation options available in Phuket are fantastic. Many of the accommodation choices in Phuket are a blend of superb Thai and western styles. All of the luxurious accommodations are attached with high-end facilities such as air conditioning, marble bathroom coupled with Jacuzzi and showers, satellite TV with movie channel, internet access, IDD telephone, in room safety deposit boxes, and more. Further, majority of top class hotels in the area provide superb value packages for honeymooners, newly weds, and people vacationing with family and friends. There are also a couple of boutique hotels that are especially for budget conscious travelers. However, hotels and resorts are most suitable when you wish to stay here for a week or two.