Phuket Travel Guide

Phuket has a rich and diverse history that dates as far back as the 1st century when Phuket Town was founded by Indian Merchants. The name Phuket is said to be a derivative of the Malay word ‘bukit’, which means ‘hill’, and is a reference to the island’s appearance from a distance.

Other sources claim it was formed from the Thai words for ‘mountain’ and ‘jewel’, being ‘phu’ and ‘ket’ respectively. Prior to this, Phuket was called ‘Jung Ceylon’, a reference that is evident on historic European navigational charts and an alteration of the Malay Tanjung Salang words for ‘Cape Salang’. Later, it was called ‘Thalang’, a name that still remains in one of the island’s districts before finally settling on the name it is known as today.

With its 576 square kilometers it is just a bit smaller than Singapore, but it is the country’s largest island.

Phuket’s tin mining industry continued to grow and was a booming business by the 19th century, which saw a large influx of Chinese migrants arrive to work for the European mine owners. The Chinese began mixing with Thais by initially sharing their knowledge and traditions, and eventually through inter-marriage whereby a new culture was created that is known as ‘Baba’.

Tin mining has ceased to exist on the Andaman isle where natural resources that continue to thrive are rubber plantations and palm oil production. Phuket’s main source of income though comes from tourism.

The island first sparked the interest of keen sun seekers in the 1970’s and produced the beginning of another boom. Resorts began popping up in Patong and Phuket Town at first, eventually spreading into other parts of the isle. Today, Phuket continues to grow by expanding its opportunities in business and tourism, while still maintaining its soulful charm and charisma.

This attractive district offers a wide range of activities as well as interesting historical landmarks that attract millions of visitors every year. Kathu covers three big sub-districts including the world-famous Patong. The district is located on the west of the island and covers 67 square kilometres with wide smooth roads and shortcuts making it convenient to access the other areas of the island.

While Kathu (city) itself is to be considered a residential area with affordable housing and condominiums scattered throughout, the coastal city of Patong is mostly tourist-oriented, with a vast selection of hotels and resorts, international restaurants, nightclubs, and everything you would expect from a seaside town. Kamala,once a quiet Muslim fishing village, still maintains a sense of tranquillity and is ideal for those who prefer a relaxing beach environment.