View antique buildings
A hundred years ago, Phuket City had a prosperous economy based on tin mining, and even back then was an international centre with a large expatriate community of Chinese and Europeans. They built beautiful homes in the style called Sino-Portuguese − terraced townhouses with narrow frontages and accommodations which stretched back from the road. The interiors often include walled gardens and fountains and are beautifully furnished with antiques and Chinese inspired decorations. Rommanee Road is a fine example which has been fully restored. Visit Talang Road, Yaowarat Road and Dibuk Road where these old structures are home to a thriving latter-day community of shops and restaurants. The Provincial Hall, the Phuket Courthouse and the town branch of the Siam City Bank are further examples of architecture from the past.

Explore the Island
There are many companies that offer island tours, and these are a convenient and inexpensive way of seeing more of your holiday destination. However, if you have the time why not rent a motorcycle or car, and do a little exploring on your own? Your hotel or tour guide will be able to give you a road map, but you can’t really get lost. This is an island so if you keep going you’ll eventually get back where you started! Follow the winding coast roads and discover isolated beaches which you can have all to yourself. Head inland and visit small farming communities where people still live in much the same way as they have for hundreds of years.

Please remember that you must wear a crash helmet on a motorcycle. For those of you who are visiting from Europe or the United States, please also note that we drive on the left here. Motorcycle rentals start at 150 baht per day and small jeeps are available from 900 baht per day. If you rent for a week or longer you’ll be able to negotiate a better rate.

Phuket Butterfly Garden
This is a place of endless educational possibilities. Here you can learn more about the miraculous miniature world of insects and butterflies. Relax in the garden where there are literally thousands of butterflies filling the air or busy seeking pollen among the tropical blooms.

Located in Soi Paneung in the Sam Kong area, the garden is a five minute drive from Tesco Lotus. Take the road towards Phuket City and it’s on the left-hand side. There’s a large sign indicating the turning. Entrance for children under ten years is 150 baht, adults and kids over ten years pay 300 baht. Open daily from 9am until 5pm (last admission). For more information ring +66 (0)76 210861 or visit www.phuketbutterfly.com.

Join the crowd at the weekend market
The most popular week-end market in Phuket Town is officially called Chao Fa Variety but is universally referred to by its Thai name Talad Tai Rot. From Central Festival Phuket intersection head south on Chao Fa West for about one kilometre and then turn left. The market is opposite Wat Naka (Naka Temple). There’ll find a bewildering choice – everything from clothes to electronics. If you’re after handicraft items like tooled leather goods, Buddha images or second-hand books you’ll also not be disappointed. Our overseas visitors may not be planning to buy a pet but it’s fun to window shop the amazing range of endearing and unusual animals offered for sale. And if you’re hungry there’s is a huge selection of Thai snacks on offer – all freshly prepared on the spot. Rice dishes, noodles, fruit and nuts are all available. The market opens at 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays − when it is cooler. It’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid the crowds and traffic. Parking can be a problem.