Some people travel to Phuket for the beach and world famous night life scene, while the more adventurous holiday makers look to get amongst the natural beauty of the island and its surrounding areas. Tours just outside Phuket Island include Maya Bay, Phi Phi Island, Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay / James Bond Island and Diving in the Similin Islands.
There is a large variety of tours and activities within Phuket Island itself such as Elephant Trekking through exotic rain forests, ATV tours, world class golf or simply just renting a motorbike and exploring some of Phuket’s beaches such as Karon, Kata, Surin and Kamala. You could spend a whole day in Phuket Town alone where you will find smaller tourists numbers. This is where you can get a sense of the real Thailand that is away from the resort towns such as Patong that have been constructed specifically for international travellers. Every time you visit Phuket, you can be assured of finding something new to do.
The most popular of all Phuket Tours is a day trip to Phi Phi Island. Located in the crystal clear Andaman waters just 50 kilometres South / West of Phuket, Phi Phi Island is a major attraction where travellers can enjoy snorkeling and exploring its stunning beaches. Most tours to Phi Phi Island will stop by Maya Bay where visitors will be treated to high cliffs up to 100 meters on three sides. The underwater coral habitat of this region and the large variety of exotic fishes found here is the another feature. There are a few options to consider while planning your Phi Phi Island tour.
The most popular day trip is the ferry that includes lunch, snorkeling equipment and transfers to and from your hotel. This can cost as little as $30 and accommodates approximately 200 passengers. The one-way trip itself takes about an hour and a half to reach Phi Phi Island. Speed boat tours can reach the island in about 40 minutes and takes about 25 passengers. These tours can be exhilarating, bumpy and are much more personalized as you get much better access to some of the more exotic locations. The speed boat tours can cost around $80 for the day including hotel transfers. If you have time in your itinerary, it might be a good idea to spend at least one night on Phi Phi Island. It’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Patong Beach as there is no motorised vehicles or motorbikes allowed on the island and this is certainly noticeable. On the island you will find several nightclubs, bars, restaurants and spa centres. Although the island is popular all year round, due to the weather conditions, November through to April is the ideal time for touring this region but crowd numbers will be a lot higher. The island has now fully recovered from the tsunami in 2004.
If you are fond kayaking, Phang Nga Bay combined with James Bond tour is the perfect option. Many of these tours include camping overnight amongst the stars. If you are into diving and are looking for some great adventure during your Phuket holiday, Similin Islands offers world class diving and stay aboard tours. Elephant Trekking in Khao Sok National Park is also popular.
Source by Peter Peck
