Thailand’s largest island (though connected by a causeway to the mainland), Phuket rose to prominence in the 19th century as a tin-mining region, though these days it’s tourism that brings in the bucks, as visitors arrive from all over the world at Phuket’s international airport.

Phuket Town

Though many visitors to Phuket never even see the provincial capital, located in the southeast of the island, they miss out on an atmospheric town with a strong Sino-Portuguese influence, particularly in the architecture of the Old Town, where there are some excellent restaurants and handicraft shops.

Best beaches

Phuket’s most popular beaches are all on the west coast, with Patong attracting the lion’s share of tourists, more for its raunchy nightlife than its soft sands. To the south of Patong, Karon and Kata are favoured by families and those looking for a more restful holiday.