5 things to do in Phuket

MANILA, Philippines - Phuket has gained its popularity over the years as one of the most affordable and friendliest vacation spots in Southeast Asia. Located south of Thailand and with tourism as its main source of income, Phuket welcomes millions of tourists annually.

One never runs out of things to do in Phuket. Aside from its world-famous beaches in Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay, it is also considered a haven for culture and art-lovers, shoppers, and adventure-seekers.

Apart from beach bumming, here’s a quick rundown of the top five things to do in Phuket:

• Visit old Phuket town. Take a trip down memory lane and get a glimpse of Phuket’s rich Sino-Portuguese history. Join organized street tours for first-hand insights on Phuket’s glorious past, traditions and culture. Be sure to include in your itinerary a guided road trip of Phang Nga, Thalang, Soi Rommanee, Dibuk, Crabee and Ranong. Don’t forget to drop by the Amulet Market where charms are blessed by Buddhist monks that are said to bring good luck.

• Try scuba-diving. Some of the world’s best dive sites can be found in Phuket. The rich and diverse marine life is a diver’s dream come true. Plan day trips to local dive sites in various points in Phuket such as Racha Noi, Phi Phi Islands, Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and Similan Islands. Expert dive guides are well-versed in English and a number of other Asian and European languages.

• Experience world-class spa and massage. A trip to Phuket is never complete without a relaxing, signature Thai massage. With the island’s natural serene beauty as backdrop, enjoy a totally rejuvenating spa experience in award-winning therapeutic centers, resorts and hotels. Needless to say, Phuket is a spa connoisseur’s heaven on earth.

• Catch a Muay Thai fight. For adrenaline-pumping action, try watching a live fight of Muay Thai, the national sport of Thailand. Stadiums are located across Phuket and demonstrations are held especially for tourists. Training camps accept beginners who want to experience actual kick-boxing in the ring.

• Enjoy Phuket’s pulsating nightlife. Phuket is also the place to be for night owls and party people. Festivities abound in Patong Beach, the most popular beach town in Phuket. Hundreds of restaurants, bars, discos and shops light up the town from sundown to sunset.

Tigerair Philippines now flies to Phuket twice a week, every Tuesday and Saturday, with return flights every Wednesday and Sunday. Base fare costs as low as P999 per way.

“Tigerair continues to push boundaries in low-cost travel with its high performance standards and innovative services that connect Filipinos to the rest of the world. Ultimately, we want our passengers to have that unforgettable, hassle-free travel experience with their families and friends,” says Olive Ramos, president and CEO of Tigerair Philippines.

Tigerair flies domestic via NAIA Terminal 4 with Manila-Cebu, Manila-Bacolod, Manila-Iloilo, Manila-Kalibo, Manila-Puerto Princesa, and Manila-Tacloban flights. 

Aside from Manila-Phuket, its other international flights include Clark-Hong Kong, Clark-Bangkok, Clark-Singapore, Clark-Kalibo, and Kalibo-Singapore.

For more information on Tiger Airways Philippines, visit www.tigerair.com or call the hotline +632 798-4488.