Phuket is a vibrant locale in the crown of Thailand’s tourist destinations, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure. It’s also one of the places best seen with the freedom of driving. Luckily, car rental in Phuket is a snap with Drive Car Rental!
Some of the Challenges of Driving in Phuket
When it comes to road safety in Phuket, it’s a mixed bag. The roads themselves are generally in good condition, especially when it comes to the main routes and highways. However, driving in Phuket can be challenging for those not accustomed to Thai traffic conditions and driving styles.
Driving habits might seem unpredictable to tourists. Congestion is common, particularly in tourist hotspots, and motorbike riders often weave through traffic, which can be startling until you become accustomed to it.
For the cautious and attentive visitor, driving in Phuket is quite safe. It’s advisable to avoid rush hours, especially if you’re new to driving in Thailand. Be vigilant about motorbikes and scooters, and be aware that during monsoon season (May to October), weather can make roads slippery and reduce visibility.
Tourist Destinations in Phuket
With a rental car, the ways to fill your time in Phuket are endless. Here are a few suggestions:
Beaches and Island Hopping
Phuket is world-renowned for its stunning beaches. Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach are among the most popular, offering perfect places to relax or go diving. For a quieter experience, there are less crowded beaches, such as Nai Harn and Surin Beach.
Island hopping is another must-do activity in Phuket. The Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay are accessible by boat tours, which often include snorkelling and swimming stops so you can fully immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape.
Old Phuket Town
A visit to Old Phuket Town is like stepping back in time. The area is known for its colourful architecture, quaint cafes, and street art. The Sunday street market is a great place to sample local cuisine and shop for souvenirs among the beautiful buildings.
Big Buddha and Wat Chalong
The Big Buddha statue, perched atop Nakkerd Hill, is one of Phuket’s most iconic landmarks. Nearby is Wat Chalong, considered the most important Buddhist temple in Phuket. Both offer a glimpse into Thai spirituality and culture, along with beautiful panoramic views.
Adventure Activities
Depending on what kind of trip you enjoy, Phuket may offer exactly what you’re looking for. Zip-lining, white-water rafting, and ATV rides through the jungle can keep your heart pumping. Diving and snorkelling are also popular, with the nearby Similan Islands being one of the most famous diving locations in the world.
Nightlife
Bangla Road in Patong is the heart of Phuket’s nightlife, buzzing with bars, nightclubs, and entertainment. The Phuket FantaSea is a popular nighttime cultural theme park, and Simon Cabaret offers evenings of live music, dance, and comedy.
Cooking Classes
For those who want to bring home a unique skill learned while on vacation, Thai cooking classes can teach you to prepare classic Thai dishes using local ingredients.
Wellness and Spa Retreats
Thailand is famous for being a place to relax, and Phuket’s numerous wellness and spa retreats are perfect for booking traditional Thai massages.
Learning Experiences
Phuket offers many unique learning experiences for tourists and locals alike. The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project and the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary offer insights into wildlife conservation efforts in Thailand, and the Phuket Mining Museum and Thai Hua Museum in Old Phuket Town are great for illuminating the island’s history.
Seeing the Sights
Phuket seamlessly blends adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. While it might be a little overwhelming at first, the roads are perfectly safe for first-time visitors and for driving an electric car in Phuket.
By driving cautiously and planning ahead, you can safely navigate Phuket’s roads and immerse yourself in the endless experiences this enchanting island has to offer. When you’re putting your schedule together, you’ll see that Phuket always has something new and exciting to explore!