Every Moment of a Tropical Escape, Phuket
The largest island in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, Phuket is loved not only for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife but also for its rich food culture and local traditions. Begin your day by the sea and end it with art and flavor on this island where time flows effortlessly between rest and inspiration.
PROMTHEP CAPE & KATA BEACH
Sea, Sunsets and Slow Living
At the island’s southwestern tip, Promthep Cape is famous for its dramatic sunsets that bathe the Andaman Sea in gold. From the hilltop lookout, the view stretches endlessly across the horizon, while a trail below leads you closer to the waves and the shimmering light. There’s also a short hiking route perfect for capturing that golden-hour photo.
A short drive away, Kata Beach is a laid-back 1.5km sweep of soft sand and swaying palms. Popular for snorkeling in the dry season and surfing in the wet season, it’s an ideal spot to indulge in that quintessential “Phuket pace.” Swim in the sunlit sea, linger over a meal at a beachfront restaurant and stroll the shoreline at your leisure.
PHUKET ART VILLAGE
Unique Local Artwork
Established in 2010, Phuket Art Village is a creative community and home to a handful of artists residing in the Rawai neighborhood. Featuring a number of unique art galleries, Phuket Art Village also hosts a number of interactive art workshops including linocut and printmaking. Scattered throughout the creative space are interesting art installations, sculptures and sustainable pieces made from driftwood. For art lovers or those looking to catch a glimpse into daily life as an artist, Phuket Art Village is a must visit destination in the south of the island.
✓ instagram @phuketartvillage
PUNTE PHUKET FOOD COURT
Eat like a local
In the heart of town, Punte Phuket is a food court where you can enjoy a full spread of local flavors. Hokkien mee (stir-fried noodles), grilled chicken, spicy som tam (papaya salad) and fresh tropical fruit are all here. The setting is pleasantly traditional and comfortable, with table service to match. It’s a place to enjoy a flavor-packed Phuket meal at a price that’s easy on the wallet.
⚑ 101/2, 103 Mueang Phuket District
BAAN AR-JOR
Where History Meets Hospitality
A breathtaking Chinese-Colonial mansion not far from Mai Khao Beach, Baan Ar-Jor is an original home built during Phuket’s Tin Mining boom that once functioned as the family’s resort house. While it’s a throwback to 1936, Baan Ar-Jor now functions as a homestay and living museum, and is home to Toh Daeng Restaurant, a favorite of the Michelin Guide in Thailand. The restaurant serves up authentic family recipes prepared with ingredients from the local community. Some of the donations and proceeds from Baan Ar-Jor are used towards local school renovations and cancer charities on the island. For those interested in history, Baan Ar-Jor is truly a window into Phuket’s past.
✓ instagram @baanarjor
LARD YAI MARKET & WHITE ORANGE RED
Nights in the Old Town
Every Sunday evening, Thalang Road in the Old Town turns into a lively night market. Lard Yai brims with Thai street food, local sweets and handmade crafts, all against a backdrop of live performances. After exploring, head to the tucked-away wine bar, White Orange Red. Located in a heritage home, it’s the ultimate place to gather with friends or visit solo to sip delicious wines from around the world and devour tasty bites made from fresh, local ingredients. Specializing in natural, low-intervention and orange wines, the bar is cozy and comfortable with a vintage vibe.
⚑ 53 Thalang Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District /
✓ instagram @white.orange.red
- Written by. Amy Bensema
Amy Bensema is a Phuket-based travel writer and content creator. She has contributed Asia travel columns to outlets including the Phuket Hotels Association, spotlighting lesser-known places and local culture across Phuket and Thailand from a traveler’s perspective.
- Korean Air operates direct flights between Incheon and Phuket 7 times a week.
