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Let’s get started!
On an early morning flight from Bangkok to Phuket, we were greeted with the numerous islands that call Phuket their home. As we landed, I instantly recognized the popular site where people come to take videos of the plane by the beach. It was almost surreal how close it was to the ground, but we made it safely to this resort town. It was the perfect start to our Phuket itinerary, which was packed with sightseeing, beaches, and delicious food.
We decided to book a hotel in Phuket town instead of the beach town to get a better feel for the city life and the local people. Although the ride was only 30 minutes, it lasted almost an hour due to there only being one road in either direction, causing copious amounts of traffic. Once we arrived at our hotel right in the middle of the city, there was no time to relax. As I must remind you, we JUST got to Thailand less than 12 hours ago from Europe. The time difference wasn’t hitting yet, but it soon will if we don’t get any food in our stomachs.
Finding transportation in Phuket!
First things first, we needed transportation, so we set off to find a rental scooter place. Thankfully, there was one right next to our hotel, which allowed us to rent for the day, and right next to the rental place was a 7/11. Now, 7/11 isn’t anything too special, right? Just your regular convenience store. Although yes, this place was very special to me because I found onigiris that satisfied every craving I’ve ever had! especially because I was so hungry, it was the perfect thing to have before we found some filling food.
Once we had everything set, it was time for our Phuket itinerary to start the first adventure: find some food. And of course sightseeing… As we drove around, we got to see a little bit of Phuket’s town center. There were plenty of shops to buy authentic gifts, and then we spotted a little stand that was selling noodles. The cutest older woman tried to explain to us what she had, and within 5 minutes, our first Thai noodles were right in front of us waiting to be devoured. That first bite… I don’t know if it was because we were so hungry, but it felt like that scene from Ratatouille, I saw colors dancing around. For less than 2 euros, we were filled up and ready to see the Big Buddha.
Things to see in Phuket
The Big Buddha
The first stop on the Phuket itinerary was the Big Buddha! Thankfully, because of the scooter, weaving in and out of traffic and getting to this magnificent site within 30 minutes was possible. On the drive up to the mountain, we were surrounded by beautiful trees and views of the ocean. A little way up, we finally made it to the Big Buddha.
Being in the presence of the Big Buddha was indescribable. I’ve seen monuments up close, but this was something special. As you stand underneath him, you feel his eyes on you at all times. When visiting this sacred sight, it’s important to respect the culture and rules that come along with it. You must cover your shoulders and wear shorts or skirts that over your knees. If you don’t have anything, they will provide some coverings for you for a small fee. As you enter the site, you are greeted with the smell of incense and the chiming of gongs all around. There are plenty of people taking photos of the breathtaking views from all around, too. Before you walk up the stairs, you will be greeted by two marble dragons that scale up the entire way till you reach the Big Buddha.
At the top, you will have the most spectacular views of the other islands of Phuket. Unfortunately for us, it was a cloudy day, so we couldn’t see too far out, but it was still very beautiful. There is a line of golden monks facing the Buddha, and you can enter underneath him. Once inside, there is an area where you can learn the steps of meditating and another area where you can pray and pay your respects. But remember to take your shoes off!
Island Hopping
When in Phuket, the best part JP Andaman Tours
Beaches to visit in Phuket
Next stop on our Phuket itinerary, it was time to take a rest and cool off, at the Kata Noi beach. This beach was the perfect location to relax and take a nap. Which was exactly what we did… for two hours! But of course not before trying out its crystal clear waters.
Once we awakened from our nap, we were hungry, so we searched and found a cute restaurant on the beach where we could stay and watch the sunset. At this restaurant, we had our second meal in Thailand. We ordered the famous Thai green curry and a garlic and pepper chicken dish with rice. All of it was so mouth-watering and made us so excited to try more foods the rest of the trip. As we finished the last bites of our food, we enjoyed the beautiful sunset to officially end our first day in Thailand.
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