Image by lifeforstock on Freepik
Thailand is home to dozens of stunning islands, which only adds to the allure. You can find laid-back vibes on Koh Lanta to young party energy on Koh Phangan and world-class diving off Koh Tao. Each one has its own distinct characteristics, but among them all, Phuket isn’t just the largest island of them all, but the most popular. It’s mostly a matter of taste as some people may prefer a desert-island feel, while others seek out glitzy beach clubs. Let’s explore what makes Phuket stand out amongst the rest.
Image by tawatchai07 on Freepik
One major feature of Phuket that has made it one of the biggest cities in the country is its proximity to the mainland. While technically an island, it is only 600 meters away from the mainland and connected by bridge. Even so, with its calm leeward ports, Phuket was a reprovisioning point during the age of exploration. Into the modern era, Phuket operates one of ten international airports in the country and the only one on an island except for Koh Samui’s relatively small airport.
Another important aspect of Phuket that makes it particularly attractive for expats is the variety and balance of urbanization. There are millions of visitors each year, but one can find a quiet corner even during the busiest months and the rainy season provides respite and some breathing room from the onslaught of tourists. Nowadays, Phuket has many of the advantages of a larger city like Bangkok while still mostly maintaining a smaller-town feel. Phuket has the most developed infrastructure of any Thai island. Alongside the international airport with direct flights from major cities worldwide, there’s a well-connected road network, international hospitals, international schools, and many of the trappings of modern life.
Compared to other islands and tourist areas, Phuket has attractions and activities that run year-round, rain or shine. Other smaller islands mostly turn into ghost towns during the monsoon season with many businesses closing altogether. Meanwhile, the majority of activities and businesses continue to operate making it more attractive to visitors as well as full-time residents.
Phuket’s large expat population has contributed to the island's cosmopolitan character. It’s influenced everything from cuisine to business culture. You’ll find restaurants serving everything from Japanese omakase to Mexican fare, alongside beloved Thai street food stalls. Boutique cafes, coworking spaces, and international schools reflect the island’s diversity, which is unmatched.
Unlike other resort-focused islands, Phuket has a rich cultural identity. The island’s fascinating history as a tin mining and trading capital has left a legacy in the form of beautiful colonial buildings and a unique blend of Thai, Chinese, and Malay influences. Phuket has several museums which pay homage to the island’s anthropological and written history. Not only is it one of the oldest populated regions in Thailand, but its history is full of mystery and intrigue from the days of pirates roaming the waters, rhinos and tigers prowling the jungles, or its claim to being the world’s top producer of tin. Phuket also has unique events like the Vegetarian Festival and even the Old Town Sunday Walking Street Market which provide a glimpse into the island’s diverse heritage.
