As my first trip overseas you could accuse me of looking at Phuket with rose coloured lenses, but the truth is that this Thai island paradise really is a magical place, just perfect for loved-up couples and honeymooners.
If you are looking for the quintessential island getaway, rest assured, in Phuket the beaches are heavenly. From those that feel almost secret with only a handful of people to be seen, to action-packed Patong, there is a sunny stretch of sand to suit every couple.
The local Thai people with their gorgeous smiles are welcoming, the shopping fantastic, and there are endless opportunities for romance.
Honeymooners will relish a romantic getaway in Phuket as there is a fabulous (and growing!) bar and restaurant scene, luxurious accommodation options, nightly markets (hello grilled squid and banana pancakes from street vendors) and of course, ample opportunity to relax on some of Thailand’s most famous beaches… many of which offer spectacular sunsets.
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Eat & Drink
Phuket is in constant holiday mode, tailored for tourism. Walk around her streets and stop off at one of the many bars which offer tantalising cocktails all day long, served in pineapples and coconuts. That’s how you know you’re in paradise. Half the fun of eating out in Phuket is wandering and finding local little places which have an authentic twist, but after a long day, you may want to dine at one of the tried and true locations such as Twinpalms Phuket’s restaurant Palm Seafood. Here, seafood lovers can indulge in Thailand’s freshest catch. For those staying at Twinpalms Phuket, there is the added bonus of a free shuttle service to and from the restaurant. Alternatively, the steaks are high at Avista Hideaway Resort & Spa‘s new elegant rooftop restuarant, Sizzle. Here couples will enjoy uninterupted sea views while dining on the highest quality cuts of meat prepared on woodchip barbecues.
Arguably the coolest clubs in Phuket, be sure to check out BIMI Beach Club and Catch Beach Club. BIMI is the perfect spot to mingle and dance to sweet tunes spun by Thai and international DJs. For a fun and relaxed vibe day and night, Catch Beach Club is open to all who love fashion, fun and fabulous seaside dining.
History & Culture
The Simon Cabaret in Patong Beach is the biggest cabaret show to be found locally, featuring world famous, incredibly talented ‘ladyboys.’ You will laugh and you may cry, the variety of acts during the show is superb, ranging from traditional Thai performances to outrageous comedy acts. At the end of the performance, try your luck with getting photos with some of the stars of the show in their risqué attire – a nice memento of your Phuket holiday.
For a more G-rated, cultural experience, Phuket FantaSea features trapeze artists, elephants and other animals in a stunning show featuring traditional Thai music and dance. Everything about FantaSea is extravagant, including the pre-show buffet: one of the biggest in Asia. It is set in a village where you can buy anything from jewellery to elephant rides, so be sure to go early and have a wander.
For those who want to discover an authentic slice of Thai culture, visit Old Phuket Town, a historical district where you will discover shrines, temples, ornate shops and houses and quaint cafés.
Indulge
In Phuket, namely Patong Beach, you will find massage parlours on practically every corner, making for a relaxing romantic getaway. Rejuvenate body and soul with a couples’ massage after some time at the beach (don’t forget sunscreen or you’ll need a few aloe vera treatments like me) or check out the fish foot spas that are set up in the streets. After your inevitable first five minutes of squirming, tough it out because your feet will feel smoother than ever. For the five-star spa experience, visit Spa Cenvaree at Centara Karon Resort Phuket and try something new like the Seaweed Mud Body Wrap.
Day Trips
A day trip to the iconic Phi Phi Islands is not to be missed on a Phuket holiday or honeymoon. The spectacular scenery of towering limestone mountains, caves and cliffs draw tourists in from all over the world. Snorkel or take a boat tour around the islands and spot the dwellings of some of the local sea gypsies.
Affordable Luxury
After the big expense of a wedding, you will love the value Phuket offers, with some incredibly luxurious resorts offering fantastic value. From private villas to six star resorts, and lovers’ hideaways – you will find the perfect luxury honeymoon accommodation, whatever your idea of perfect is! One such resort is Mövenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach where you will discover sun-decks, rainforest showers and most rooms have private plunge pools. For those who want to go all out (come on, it’s your honeymoon!), Avista Hideaway Resort and Spa’s opulent surrounds are for you. The rooms are design masterpieces and the resort is perched upon a lush peak overlooking the ocean. For ultimate privacy, hop on over to Racha Yai Island off Phuket and enjoy a stay at The Racha where you’ll find civilised living at its finest in one of their chic eco-villas, spread over twenty acres of tropical landscape meeting the beach. Their hydroponic farm at the resort sets them apart, which grows the majority of the fresh vegetables used in the resort’s restaurants. Yum.
For honeymooners, Phuket has it all: idyllic beaches, a fabulous dining and bar scene, incredible entertainment and natural beauty as well as affordable and luxurious accommodation – what’s not to love?
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