Travel tips for Phuket 🏝✈️ [Part 1]

Here are some travel tips if you’re planning to visit Phuket! 🇹🇭

✈️ Flight details ✈️

To begin, it's advisable to secure your tickets well in advance, given Phuket's status as a highly sought-after tourist destination. There are a total of four daily return flights operated by Singapore Airlines (Boeing 738) and two by Scoot (A320/A321). The flight duration between Singapore and Phuket is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with Phuket following a GMT+7 timezone, one hour earlier than our reference time.

🏨 Hotel details 🏨

In light of your budget, you'll find a diverse array of choices spanning from 3-star to 5-star hotels. It's crucial to contemplate whether your priority lies in seeking comfort or staying in close proximity to popular destinations. Many tourists typically opt for accommodations in the vicinity of Patong Beach, a renowned choice due to its proximity to bars, entertainment options, and dining establishments. Additionally, for water sports enthusiasts, there is a wide array of activities available, including parasailing, jet skiing, and waterboarding.

🚗 Transportation 🚗

Unlike in Bangkok, Phuket has less developed transportation infrastructure. In Phuket, you won't be able to find any BTS or MRT, so your options for getting around are primarily ride-sharing services like Grab or Bolt (cheaper but longer waiting time). Alternatively, you can consider renting a car and driving yourself, which is relatively affordable (starting at just S$27 per day). For example, a one-way trip from Phuket International Airport to the Patong Beach area could cost approximately S$24 or more. Renting a car can be a cost-effective option, allowing you the flexibility to explore multiple destinations at your own pace. It's worth noting that Singapore driving license is recognized in Thailand, so you don't need to apply for an international driving permit before making your trip.

📝 Things to take note 📝

1. Pack light. 🧳There's no need to pack as if you're headed to Europe or the United States when visiting Phuket. The climate in Phuket is hot and humid, similar to Singapore, so simply wear what you would wear back at home, and you'll be comfortable! Plus, there's no need to stress if you forget to bring something; you can easily find all your essentials and grab a quick meal at their numerous 7-Eleven stores, which is located almost everywhere (just check your google maps).

2. Currency changing. 💵 When it comes to currency exchange, it's advisable to avoid changing your money at the airport exchange counters unless you’re rich of course. Personally, I conducted a rate comparison across different avenues to find the best rates. Here's the exchange rate for Thai Baht per S$1 at various locations:

- Singapore Changi Airport money changer: 24.31

- Phuket Airport money changer: 24.80

- Patong Beach money changer: 25.40

- Phuket UOB ATM: 25.53

Surprisingly, I discovered that withdrawing cash in Thailand can be the most cost-effective option for currency exchange. However, please note that this option is exclusive to UOB cardholders who withdraw money at UOB ATMs in Phuket, as they do not incur service charges. I cannot confirm whether this applies to cards from other banks.

3. Roaming/network. 📱For those who prefer not to use roaming data in Phuket, there's a more budget-friendly option to enjoy unlimited high-speed 5G network access throughout your entire stay. As soon as you retrieve your luggage from the conveyor belt, be on the lookout for a telco store called 'dtac' in your vicinity. This is where you can purchase either a physical SIM card or an e-SIM card for your unlimited 5G network connectivity. Personally, I recommend opting for the e-SIM card as it eliminates the hassle of switching SIM cards. I can assure you that the network speed between a traditional SIM and an e-SIM is identical, so you won't encounter any lag when using an e-SIM. Having traveled to numerous countries, I can confidently state that Thailand offers one of the best e-SIM options due to its reliable and speedy network.

🎈Questions/Updates🎈

Finally, I wish you an amazing trip to Phuket if you're considering a visit in the near future. Start your planning well in advance to secure great deals on flights and accommodations, which can significantly cut down your expenses in Phuket. Believe me, you won't be disappointed once you experience Phuket for yourself!

I'll be sharing more about my Phuket journey in my upcoming post 📄 I didn't anticipate this travel tips post becoming so lengthy 🤣, so feel free to drop any questions or inquiries about traveling to Phuket in the comments below! 😜

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