An enchanting 17-day journey through the island of Phuket, Thailand, brought this couple closer together than ever before.
My partner and I had always dreamed of escaping to a tropical paradise, and we found ourselves drawn to the magical island of Phuket, Thailand. This sun-kissed haven, nestled in the Andaman Sea, promised a delightful blend of relaxation, thrilling activities, and rich cultural experiences. Our 17-day adventure would take us through the wonders of Thailand’s largest island, creating unforgettable memories and a renewed connection with each other.
Phuket Here We Come!
Upon our arrival in Phuket, the excitement began to unfold as we settled into our accommodations and prepared for the days ahead. Our first stop was Patong Beach, a bustling hotspot known for its vibrant nightlife, myriad restaurants, and stunning shoreline. We soaked up the sun, swam in the crystal-clear waters, and immersed ourselves in the lively atmosphere that makes Patong Beach a favourite among tourists.
As avid golfers, we were thrilled to play several rounds at Phuket Country Club, Loch Palm, Blue Canyon, and Red Mountain golf courses. Each course provided a unique challenge, set against the backdrop of lush, tropical landscapes and breathtaking panoramic views. We found it to be the perfect way to unwind while also indulging in our favourite pastime.
Take A Tour or Two
One of the highlights of our trip was the James Bond Tour, an exhilarating excursion that took us to iconic locations featured in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun. Our day began with a leisurely cruise past the scenic Panak Island and a stroll through the mysterious Mangrove Cave.
We then ventured on to Hong Island for a thrilling canoeing experience, followed by a visit to the famed Khao Ping Kan and Koh Tapu, known collectively as James Bond Island. Lunch was served at the enchanting Koh Panyee, a floating village inhabited by Sea Gypsies, where we had the opportunity to explore and learn about the local way of life. The day concluded with sightseeing around the picturesque Phang Nga Bay and a refreshing dip at Naka Island.
We took advantage of our downtime by walking along Patong Beach and exploring the bustling Bangla Road, known for its shops, bars, and lively entertainment.
Our adventure continued with a captivating city tour that included visits to the serene Big Buddha, the spiritual Chalong Temple, and the charming Phuket Old Town. We even had a memorable photo opportunity with a gentle elephant, experienced the sweet flavors at a local honey farm, and savored the tasty treats at the Cashew Factory.
Adding a touch of tranquility to our journey, we participated in a serene yoga session at the idyllic Kata Noi Beach. The soothing sound of the waves and the gentle sea breeze provided the perfect ambiance for relaxation and rejuvenation. Our day was further enhanced with a thrilling ride on a local Tuk Tuk, a quintessential Thai experience that we will never forget
Phi Phi Island
No visit to Phuket would be complete without a Phi Phi Island tour. We embarked on a day of snorkeling, sightseeing, and exploring some of the most stunning locations in the area. We snorkeled at Green Island and paddle boated at Pileh Lagoon, marveled at the breathtaking beauty of Maya Bay, where the iconic movie The Beach (2000) was filmed, and passed by the captivating Loh Samah Bay and Viking Cave. The day was topped off with a delightful lunch at Phi Phi Don and a playful visit to Monkey Beach.
Night Show and Markets
As our trip drew to a close, we attended the mesmerizing FantaSea Dinner Show, an unforgettable cultural spectacle that showcased Thailand’s rich heritage through dazzling performances, music, and cuisine. On our final days, we visited the picturesque Rock Beach Swing and indulged in a delicious meal at Nak-Kerd Café. During our visit, we took the opportunity to capture some stunning yoga photos against the breathtaking backdrop of the Andaman Sea.
Our final days in Phuket were filled with a mix of relaxation and adventure. I enjoyed shopping in the local markets, discovering unique souvenirs and gifts to bring back home, while my partner played another round of golf. We spent our evenings strolling along Patong Beach, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and reflecting on our incredible journey.
As we boarded our flight home, we felt a deep sense of gratitude for the unforgettable experiences and memories we had created during our 17-day 
adventure in Phuket. From the sun-kissed beaches and thrilling activities to the rich cultural encounters, our trip had been everything we had hoped for and more. This enchanting island not only provided us with a much-needed escape but also nurtured our souls and strengthened our connection with one another. We returned home with a renewed appreciation for life and a deep longing to return to the magical paradise of Phuket.
Photos by ChrisVLinton
