Phuket is a dream destination for many people. It doesn’t just have clean turquoise waters and powdery white sand. It also has stunning scenery, including jungles. However, with this comes crowds. Most people spend their time standing in queues or lying on overcrowded beaches. The good news is that there are still ways to savor Phuket’s enchanting allure.
Tourist Traps: What to Watch Out For
It is true that this island has its unique character. However, some areas have become saturated with tourists. Here are some of the most crowded places:
- Patong Beach: This beach is not just popular for shopping. It is also famous for bars. So, it is usually packed with people.
- Phi Phi Islands tours: Famous Island tours packed with boats and people.
- Big Buddha: This is a beautiful place to watch the view. However, it often attracts many tourists during the day.
- Wat Chalong Temple: It is one of Phuket’s most significant places of worship. But be prepared for the crowded area.
- Old Town Phuket: it is a popular spot for selfies, but crowded on weekends.
Tips to Avoid These Tourist Traps
You don’t like missing the main Phuket places to visit entirely, do you? If so, here are some tips that can help you have a more restful holiday season:
- Visit Early in the Morning or at Dusk
Most tourists visit Phuket attractions between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. To avoid the crowd, don’t just visit those destinations early in the morning. Also, do so at dusk when a few visitors are around.
- Travel in the Shoulder Season
The high season runs from November to March. If possible, consider coming over for sightseeing in April, May, and September. It is still warm out, and few people come through the exhibits. For example, prices for hotels and tours are not as steep as you would expect.
- Choose a Lesser-Known Beach
As an aqua-savvy traveler, don’t just check out Nai Harn. Also, visit Ao Sane and Banana beaches. Why? These beaches are equally scenic and have clear waters. Plus, they are not overcrowded with tourists.
- Book Private or Consider Small-Group Tours
Don’t take the big boat to Phi Phi. Instead, take a private or even a per shared tour. This way, you will not just repeat the same places. You will also experience less congestion and have more time to explore.
- Explore Attractions on Weekdays
Fewer people visit temples and towns on working days. Therefore, you should visit your main points of interest during weekdays. Examples of such points include Wat Chalong and Phuket Old Town.
- Go Off the Beaten Path
Of course, Phuket has a lot to offer. For the more adventurous, you shouldn’t just take a hiking trip to the Black Rock viewpoint. Enrol in a tour with a traditional village cooking lesson, too.
In conclusion, many tourists frequent some of the main Phuket attractions. This is because they are stunning, culturally vibrant, and alive. But you don’t have to fight crowds to enjoy them. With a little preparation, you can still enjoy your vacation in those spots.
