Travel around Phuket with Bobby
Day 1Touching Down in Paradise and Exploring Patong Beach
The moment I stepped off the plane in Phuket, the tropical air embraced me, and I knew I was about to embark on an unforgettable adventure. I checked into The Kee Resort & Spa, located right in the heart of Patong Beach. The resort’s pool bar, rooftop terrace, and proximity to both the beach and nightlife made it the ideal base for my trip. After settling into my spacious room, which had a stunning view of the ocean from the balcony, I grabbed my beach gear and headed straight to Patong Beach.
Patong Beach was just as lively as I had imagined, filled with sunbathers, water sports enthusiasts, and beach vendors selling everything from coconuts to souvenirs. I rented a sunbed and soaked up the tropical rays while sipping on fresh coconut water. The water was crystal clear, and I spent most of the afternoon swimming and people-watching. As I walked along the beach, the energy of Patong started to pick up, with beachgoers transitioning into the evening mood.
For lunch, I decided to treat myself to something special at Baan Rim Pa, a famous cliffside restaurant overlooking the Andaman Sea. The view was breathtaking, and the food matched it. I ordered the tom yum goong (spicy prawn soup) and a green curry with seafood. Both dishes were packed with flavors—spicy, sour, and perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the fresh seafood. As I ate, I watched the waves crash against the cliffs below, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
As the sun began to set, I returned to the resort to freshen up for the night. The streets of Bangla Road were just a short walk away, and I was eager to see what all the fuss was about. The nightlife here is something else—the street comes alive with neon lights, pumping music, and bars as far as the eye can see. I stopped at a few spots for a drink, but the highlight was Illuzion Nightclub. With world-class DJs, an incredible light show, and a crowd ready to dance, the vibe was electric, and I ended up staying far longer than I had planned.
Patong Beach is a lively, exciting way to start your trip to Phuket. While it’s not the quietest or most serene place, the energy and nightlife are unbeatable if you’re in the mood for fun. Just be prepared for the crowds and a bit of chaos at night!
Day 2Island Hopping and Phi Phi Magic
Waking up bright and early, I was excited for a day of island hopping, with Phi Phi Islands being the highlight of the day. I had booked a speedboat tour, which picked me up from the resort and took me straight to the marina. As we zipped across the Andaman Sea, the fresh ocean breeze and the sight of emerald-green water against the limestone cliffs were simply magical. Our first stop was Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. The beauty of this place is unreal—the towering cliffs encase a turquoise lagoon, and the white sandy beach was like something out of a dream. Even though it was a bit crowded, the sheer beauty made it worth it.
After a swim and some photos, we continued to Viking Cave and Pileh Lagoon, where I had the chance to snorkel. The underwater world was vibrant and full of life—colorful fish swam right by me, and the coral reefs were teeming with activity. Snorkeling in the clear blue water, surrounded by such stunning scenery, was definitely one of the highlights of the trip.
For lunch, we docked at Phi Phi Don, the largest of the Phi Phi Islands. I enjoyed a buffet meal of Thai dishes—pad thai, green curry, and fresh tropical fruits. After lunch, I took some time to explore the island, walking along the beach and enjoying the laid-back island vibe.
On our way back, we made a quick stop at Koh Khai, a small island with a pristine beach perfect for relaxing. As we headed back to Phuket, the sun was beginning to set, casting golden hues across the sea, making for a picture-perfect ending to the day.
The buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don was decent, with a variety of Thai dishes to choose from. However, given the touristy nature of the area, the food felt a bit generic and lacked the bold flavors I had come to expect in Phuket. Still, the fresh fruits were refreshing after a long day of island hopping.
Food
Coming back to The Kee Resort after a long day of island hopping was a relief, especially with the resort's pool area to unwind in. While the location was perfect for accessing Patong’s attractions, the resort's amenities, like the spa, felt overpriced compared to other places in Phuket. The cleanliness and service were solid, though the noise remained a downside.
Accomodation
The island hopping tour to Phi Phi Islands was absolutely stunning, with highlights like Maya Bay and snorkeling around Pileh Lagoon. The only downside was how crowded some of the iconic spots were, especially Maya Bay. Still, the breathtaking scenery and snorkeling experience made up for it.
Activity
If you’re visiting Phuket, a trip to the Phi Phi Islands is a must. The natural beauty of the islands is unmatched, but keep in mind that some spots, like Maya Bay, can be a bit crowded. Book a tour early in the morning to beat the crowds and fully enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Day 3Cultural Immersion and Big Buddha Serenity
After two days of beaches and adventure, I wanted to dive into Phuket’s cultural side. I started my day with a visit to the iconic Big Buddha, which sits on top of Nakkerd Hill and offers panoramic views of the island. The drive up was scenic, winding through lush greenery, and as I got closer, the sheer size of the Buddha statue became more impressive. At 45 meters tall, it towers over the island, and the peaceful atmosphere around it made for a reflective and calming experience. I spent some time walking around the site, admiring the views and learning about the significance of the statue in Thai culture.
Next, I headed to Wat Chalong, one of Phuket’s most important temples. The intricate details of the temple architecture were stunning, with colorful tiles, gold accents, and statues of Buddha everywhere. I spent some time exploring the different buildings and observing the local worshippers. It was a humbling experience to see how central religion is to everyday life in Phuket.
For lunch, I made my way to Phuket Old Town, where I dined at a local restaurant called Raya Restaurant. This place is known for its traditional Thai dishes with a local Phuket twist. I ordered the massaman curry and a dish called moo hong (braised pork belly), both of which were rich in flavor and cooked to perfection. The Old Town itself was charming, with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, quaint streets, and bustling markets. I spent the rest of the afternoon wandering through the streets, shopping for souvenirs and admiring the historical buildings.
That evening, I opted for something different and quieter—dinner at Mom Tri’s Kitchen in Kata Beach. This elegant, fine-dining restaurant offered sweeping views of the sea and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the energy of Patong. The grilled seafood platter I had was fresh and cooked to perfection, making it the perfect way to unwind after a day of cultural exploration.
Lunch at Raya Restaurant in Phuket Old Town was a standout meal. The massaman curry was rich, and the moo hong (braised pork) was packed with flavor. Prices were reasonable, but the service could have been a bit faster considering the restaurant's popularity.
Food
After a day of exploring temples and Old Town, The Kee Resort continued to provide a convenient location for returning to Patong. However, the lack of quiet made it less ideal for those seeking peace after a day of cultural exploration. The pool remained a great feature, but the rooms still felt noisy at night.
Accomodation
Visiting the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong provided a peaceful and reflective experience. The view from the Big Buddha was stunning, though the area was somewhat crowded with tourists. Phuket Old Town was a delightful escape from the beach crowds, with its colorful architecture and unique shops.
Activity
Phuket’s cultural side is just as captivating as its beaches. The Big Buddha and Wat Chalong offer a peaceful retreat from the busier parts of the island, while Phuket Old Town is a charming glimpse into the island’s history. I highly recommend spending a day immersing yourself in the culture here—it’s a nice balance to the beach life.
Day 4Relaxation at Phang Nga Bay and Final Sunset
For my last day in Phuket, I wanted something relaxing but still filled with beauty. I booked a tour to Phang Nga Bay, famous for its towering limestone karsts and emerald-green water. This area is less crowded than the Phi Phi Islands, offering a more peaceful and serene experience. We boarded a traditional longtail boat and slowly cruised through the bay, weaving between the towering rocks. Our first stop was James Bond Island, which was made famous by the movie The Man with the Golden Gun. It’s a small island but incredibly picturesque, with its iconic limestone formation jutting out of the water.
The highlight of the tour, though, was kayaking through the hidden lagoons and caves of the bay. Our guide took us through narrow passageways that opened up into stunning lagoons surrounded by cliffs and greenery. It felt like a secret paradise, and the tranquility was unmatched. After a few hours of exploring the bay, we had a light lunch on a floating village, where I enjoyed some fresh seafood while taking in the view.
Back on Phuket, I returned to Kata Beach for my final sunset. The beach was quieter than Patong, and I found a nice spot at a beachside bar to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The colors of the sky reflected off the water, creating a stunning backdrop for my last evening on the island. It was the perfect, peaceful ending to my trip.
Lunch on the floating village during the Phang Nga Bay tour was simple but satisfying, with fresh seafood that paired perfectly with the scenic surroundings. However, the variety of options was limited, and it felt a bit rushed due to the tour schedule. The setting made up for the average food experience.
Food
By the fourth night, The Kee Resort’s central location and amenities were still convenient, but the constant noise had become more of an issue. While I appreciated the proximity to Patong’s attractions, the hotel lacked the serenity I wanted after a relaxing day at Phang Nga Bay. The pool area remained enjoyable, but I felt it could be more relaxing with better soundproofing in the rooms.
Accomodation
The trip to Phang Nga Bay was an absolute highlight. Kayaking through hidden lagoons and caves provided a serene, off-the-beaten-path experience. James Bond Island was picturesque but crowded, though the peaceful moments on the water more than made up for it.
Activity
Phang Nga Bay is a must if you’re looking for natural beauty without the crowds. The kayaking through hidden lagoons was a unique and serene experience, and it’s a great way to wrap up a Phuket adventure.
Summary of My Trip
Phuket really exceeded my expectations, but of course, not everything was perfect. The natural beauty and tropical vibe were absolutely stunning—places like the Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay felt almost otherworldly. However, some of the more popular spots, like Maya Bay, were crowded, which took away from the experience a bit. The nightlife in Patong was incredibly lively and fun, but the constant noise and crowds can be overwhelming if you’re looking for a more peaceful stay.
The Kee Resort had an excellent central location, but the noise from Patong’s busy streets made it hard to relax at times. The food was a highlight, especially the authentic dishes I tried in Phuket Old Town, where the local flavors really shined. Visiting cultural sites like the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong offered a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle. If you’re seeking a more serene experience, it’s definitely worth exploring areas outside of Patong.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Phuket is a stunning destination filled with tropical beauty and vibrant energy, but being such a popular spot also comes with its challenges. Crowds, noise, and high prices can occasionally detract from the experience, yet the island's natural wonders and rich culture make it a must-visit.
Lunch at Baan Rim Pa was delicious, with a spectacular view overlooking the sea. The tom yum goong and seafood curry were flavorful, though the prices were a bit higher due to its popularity and location. Service was friendly but slow, especially with the restaurant being busy during peak hours.
Food
The Kee Resort & Spa was a great choice for staying close to both the beach and nightlife. The rooms were spacious and modern, but the noise from nearby Bangla Road at night made it hard to get a good night’s sleep. The rooftop pool and bar were highlights, offering great views, though it also tended to get crowded.
Accomodation
Patong Beach was lively and full of energy, but it was also very crowded, especially in the afternoon. The water was clean and perfect for swimming, but finding a quiet spot to relax was difficult. Bangla Road was a fun experience for nightlife, but the street can feel overwhelming with its loud music and crowds.
Activity