Phuket: The Pearl of the Andaman Sea

• Helloสวัสดี
  [sawasdee]
• Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [laa kon]
• Yesใช่
  [chai]
• Noไม่
  [mai]
• Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดีต้อนรับ
  [proht/yin dee dton rap]
• Thank youขอบคุณ
  [kop khun]
• Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [kor toht]
• How are you?สบายดีไหม
  [sabai dee mai]
• Fine. And you?สบายดีค่ะ คุณล่ะ
  [sabai dee ka khun la]
• Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม
  [khun poot paa saa ang grit dai mai]
• I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai kao jai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseฉันอยากดูเมนู ของหน่อย
  [chan yak duu menu kong noi]
• I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai gin neuua]
• Cheers!ชนแก้ว
  [chon gaeo]
• I would like to pay, pleaseฉันต้องการจ่ายเงินค่ะ
  [chan tong gaan jaai ngern ka]

• Help!ช่วยด้วย
  [chuay duay]
• Go away!ไปไกลๆ
  [bpai glai glai]
• Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ
  [tor tamruat]
• Call a doctor!โทรหมอ
  [tor mor]
• I'm lostฉันหลงทาง
  [chan long tang]
• I'm illฉันไม่สบาย
  [chan mai sabai]

• I'd like to buy...ฉันต้องการซื้อ...
  [chan tong gaan seuu...]
• I'm just lookingฉันแค่ดูอย่างเดียว
  [chan kae duu yang diao]
• How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่
  [raa kaa tao rai]
• That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng geen bpai]
• Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม
  [lot raa kaa dai mai]

• What time is it?ตอนนี้กี่โมง
  [dton nee kee mong]
• It's one o'clockเป็นโมงเดียว
  [pen mong diao]
• Half past (10)สามทุ่ม
  [saam toom]
• Morningเช้า
  [chao]
• Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
• Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
• Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meua waan]
• Todayวันนี้
  [wan nee]
• Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [proong nee]
• 1หนึ่ง
  [neung]
• 2สอง
  [song]
• 3สาม
  [saam]
• 4สี่
  [see]
• 5ห้า
  [ha]
• 6หก
  [hok]
• 7เจ็ด
  [jet]
• 8แปด
  [baet]
• 9เก้า
  [gao]
• 10สิบ
  [sip]

• Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน
  [...yoo tee nai]
• What's the address?ที่อยู่อย่างไร
  [tee yoo yang rai]
• Can you show me (on the map)?คุณแสดงให้ฉันดูได้ไหม
  [khun sa daeng hai chan duu dai mai]
• When's the next (bus)?รถโดยสารต่อไปเมื่อไหร่
  [roht doy saa dton bpai meua rai]
• A ticket (to ....)ตั๋ว (ไป...)
  [dtua (bpai...)]

Phuket's history dates back to as early as the 1st century BCE, when it was inhabited by indigenous groups known as the Mani people. These early settlers were nomadic hunter-gatherers who lived in the dense jungles and coastal areas, leaving behind a legacy of cave paintings and simple tools.

During the 16th century, Phuket became an important trading post for tin mining, attracting Chinese and Malay traders. The island's rich tin deposits were highly sought after, leading to an influx of Chinese laborers who settled in the area. This period saw the establishment of Phuket's first formal settlements and the construction of traditional Sino-Portuguese architecture, which still stands today in the Old Town.

One of the most significant events in Phuket's history occurred in 1785 when the island was attacked by Burmese forces. Two local heroines, Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon, famously rallied the local population and successfully defended the island. Their bravery is commemorated annually in Phuket, and a monument in their honor stands proudly at the Tha Rua intersection.

Under the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) in the late 19th century, Phuket underwent significant modernization. The king recognized the island's economic importance and invested in infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals. This period also saw the expansion of rubber plantations, further boosting the island's economy.

During World War II, Phuket was occupied by Japanese forces from 1941 to 1945. The island's strategic location made it a key point for the Japanese military. Local residents endured hardships during this period, but the end of the war saw a revival of Phuket's economy and the return of peace and stability.

The late 20th century marked a new era for Phuket as it transformed into one of Thailand's premier tourist destinations. The island's natural beauty, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture attracted visitors from around the world. The development of international hotels, resorts, and an airport facilitated this boom, making tourism a cornerstone of Phuket's economy.

On December 26, 2004, Phuket was severely impacted by the Indian Ocean tsunami. The disaster caused significant loss of life and property, but the island demonstrated remarkable resilience. International aid, combined with local efforts, led to a swift recovery, and Phuket rebuilt itself stronger than before. Memorials and museums today serve as a testament to the lives lost and the island's recovery.

Phuket's rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various festivals and traditions. The annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival, which dates back to the 19th century, is one of the most famous events, featuring elaborate ceremonies and processions. The island also hosts the Loy Krathong festival, Songkran (Thai New Year), and the Chinese New Year, reflecting its diverse cultural influences.

Phuket is accessible by air, sea, and land. The Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the primary gateway, with numerous international and domestic flights. From Bangkok, you can take a direct flight which takes about 1.5 hours. There are also direct flights from major cities in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. For those traveling by sea, Phuket is a popular stop for cruise ships. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive from Bangkok, which takes approximately 12 hours by road.

Phuket offers various transportation options, including taxis, tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and public buses. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. For a more budget-friendly option, the local blue buses (songthaews) connect major beaches and Phuket Town. Renting a car or motorbike is also popular, providing flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. Be aware that traffic can be hectic, and driving requires caution.

The official currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments, markets, and street vendors. ATMs are plentiful across Phuket, and currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and exchange booths in tourist areas.

Phuket is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Areas like Patong Beach are known for nightlife and may have higher instances of petty crimes such as pickpocketing. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or excursions can occur, so always agree on prices in advance. Be cautious with your drinks to avoid spiking incidents.

In case of emergency, dial 191 for police assistance, 1155 for the tourist police, and 1669 for medical emergencies. Phuket has several hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff, including Bangkok Hospital Phuket and Phuket International Hospital. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering temples and dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a traditional Thai 'wai,' a slight bow with palms pressed together. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't point your feet at people or religious objects, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Phuket like a local, visit the local markets such as the Phuket Weekend Market or Chillva Market for fresh produce and unique souvenirs. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share insights about the island. Enjoy a traditional Thai massage, visit less touristy beaches like Nai Harn or Kata Noi, and explore the old streets of Phuket Town for an authentic cultural experience. Don't miss out on local festivals like Songkran (Thai New Year) and the Phuket Vegetarian Festival for a deeper cultural immersion.