Buzz
Phuket is an ideal travel destination for those who love adventure and exploration. It offers countless unique experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Moreover, Phuket is not only famous for its stunning beaches but also for its rich and colorful cultural features.
Sino-style architectural landmarks
Phuket is home to many buildings that reflect a blend of European and Chinese cultures. For independent travelers visiting Phuket, there are opportunities to explore Sino-style architectural sites such as the Standard Chartered bank building and the vibrant shops on Thalang Street.
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You can also visit shops with golden pillars at Soi Ramanee. The Phra Phitak Chyn Pracha villa and the Chan Pracha heritage house were built with similar architectural styles. For a deeper understanding of this architectural style, a visit to the Phuket Thaihua Museum is highly recommended.
The mysterious temples
In addition to the Sino-style buildings, Phuket is home to many ancient temples built in the traditional Chinese architectural style. One of the most notable places is the Taoist temple, which was established in the 1890s.
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If you visit Phuket at the end of September, you'll have the chance to experience the lively festive atmosphere and participate in the local vegetarian festival to honor the 9 Taoist gods. The Jui Tui and Bang Niew temples will serve as the main venues for this celebration.
Exquisite cuisine
Due to its cultural blend, Phuket's cuisine has its own distinctive flavors. From seafood to various curries, the dishes here reflect a fusion of tradition and creativity. While visiting, be sure to try Mee Sua – a dish made with noodles served with grouper, squid, shrimp, and eggs, available at Kopitiam restaurant.
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If you enjoy the flavors of curry or roti dishes, Abdul’s Roti is the place to visit. This restaurant also features a Sino-style architecture. Additionally, Raya offers a great spot for tourists to indulge in both high-end meals and famous Thai specialties.
For dessert lovers, Cookie House is the perfect destination, offering a variety of different cakes. If you prefer dishes with diverse flavors, Suay restaurant is a great choice to try the renowned green papaya salad, a dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
A Unique Coffee Culture
Phuket is truly an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll, where you can not only explore famous landmarks but also enjoy the delightful taste of aromatic coffee. Bo(ok)hemian Café, designed with unfinished walls and bicycles mounted on the wall, perfectly embodies the innovative café design style found here.
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China Inn is another well-known café, famous for its distinct Sino architecture. Additionally, on Yaowarat Road, you will find Gallery Café – a popular stop where you can enjoy a breakfast that blends both Thai and European styles.
Beautiful Accommodations
This is also one of the factors that contribute to the unique appeal of Thailand tourism. With affordable prices, budget hotels in Phuket make for an excellent option for those looking to save on accommodation.
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You can visit Ai Phuket guesthouse, which is beautifully designed in a European style, or stay at On On Hotel with its captivating wall paintings. The RomManee, a guesthouse that radiates an artistic vibe, is also a memorable stop that will leave a lasting impression.
The Fascinating Markets
There are many surprises awaiting you when exploring the markets in Phuket. The weekend market is typically set up in a similar style to the famous Chatuchak market and is one of the must-visit spots for your Phuket travel experience.
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Here, tourists can simply mention the item they need, and it will be promptly brought to them, from clothing, shoes, bags, to food being sold. The Ranong market truly showcases the lifestyle of the island's locals. Additionally, Indy Market, which operates from Wednesday to Friday, is another enticing shopping destination you should check out.
