Some trips call for slowing down and healing; others require easy navigation with elderly parents. Phuket offers both – a perfect blend of relaxation and accessibility.
Located in Southern Thailand, Phuket is the Land of Smiles’ biggest island. This island is pretty big, so there are actually lots of spots to discover – not only its beaches but also mountains and cool activities.
We took this opportunity to slow down and savour quality time together in Phuket. I skipped my usual jam-packed itinerary for a more mindful and well-rested end-of-year trip in 2025.
Getting There
Scoot has a morning direct flight from Singapore to Phuket. To save time and money, we pre-booked airport transfer through Klook, which is more cost-effective than a taxi or hotel shuttle.
Transport companies will display customer names on signs at the pick-up area, simply locate yours among the crowd. I booked VecayPhuket, who was easily contactable through WhatsApp as well.
Note that bookings are per vehicle, not per person. If you book for two but arrive with three, there is no additional charge.
Note: If you are a non-Thai national, do remember to submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online within three days before arrival.
Getting Around
Most activities would offer transport pick-up and drop-off. Other times, you can hail a tuk-tuk or book through Grab or Bolt apps. If you stay in the main area, most attractions are nearby and walkable. The roads are lively, you might even spot dogs riding along in cars!
Traffic congestion is constant in Phuket, so always budget extra travel time.
Another common form of transport is the motorbike. There are also lots of shops that put up motorbikes for rent.
Accommodation
Traveling during Christmas week made finding affordable quality accommodation our biggest challenge. We eventually decided on The Royal Paradise Hotel & Spa Patong Phuket. Patong, Phuket’s most popular tourist hub, comes alive at night with vibrant energy. Other towns have their own characteristics, so your accommodation depends on what you are looking for.
We chose to stay in Patong for easy accessibility. The breakfast spread is halal with a good variety of Thai and Western breakfast (from 6.30am to 10.30am), the room is spacious and comes with a balcony facing the swimming pool. The hotel is one of the area’s tallest landmarks, visible from a distance as you approach town. The hotel has daily activities that you can participate in, like poolside parties and Thai boxing class and themed-buffet nights. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to their rooftop bar.
Everything you need is just steps from the hotel lobby – from halal Indian food, to laundromats, to a 7-Eleven, massage parlors, unique bars, and a marketplace!
Within walking distance to so many other places including the Patong Beach too. Easily get a tuk-tuk ride if needed.
Book through Klook here.
Address: 135 23 ถนน ราษฎร์อุทิศ, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Things to Do & Eat
Day 1
Medusa Restaurant (Paradise) (Halal)
Medusa Restaurant was located along a row of restaurants by the main road. We saw that they had a Halal sign at the entrance and decided to check it out. Their menu has both western and Thai cuisines.
The Thai dishes are adapted for Western palates with milder spice levels, and drinks were tasty. The TV played football, adding to the casual atmosphere.
Address: 158 Rat Uthit Song Roi Pi Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Patong Phuket Shooting Range
The first thing you notice is the loud gun shots.
You have to walk through an indoor market selling souvenir and clothes to find the shooting range at the end.
The staff will prepare the paper target, bullets and guns before leading you to the range. They will load the guns for you and teach you how to shoot. It is point and shoot, so all you have to focus on is hitting your target!
Definitely a fun experience to try. Pose as much as you want for photos!
We purchased in advanced via Klook, which was cheaper than buying it on the spot. There are a few other shooting ranges in the area as well, but I think overall this was the best value in terms of the guns we wanted to try and the number of bullets.
Address: 188 Rat Uthit Song Roi Pi Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Jungceylon
We then walked over to Jungceylon, a spacious shopping mall with both local and international brands, right in the heart of Patong Beach. Seeing Thai celebrities featured as brand ambassadors throughout the mall was particularly fun for me. There is actually quite an array of specialty shops and casual dining options and of course, Boots, and 7-Eleven!
Expect trendy clothing, stylish accessories to unique souvenirs and spa products. Was pleasantly surprised to see a VPADA shop, which has been on my wishlist. It is a Thai brand known for comfortable handmade sandals, hence each pair is unique. It is also crafted for sustainability. The usual shops were also there like Beautrium, EVEANDBOY, Gentlewoman and Naraya. Too bad the Butterbear collections were not available there.
There were also booths at the open space selling items based on the event theme. It was Eco Wonderland when I was there, so sustainable artworks and items were present. There were people busking near the water fountain with a literal ship as decor.
Big C Extra is in the adjacent building, also known as the Botanica Zone. The Botanica is the “Star Vista” equivalent with restaurants, boutiques, the SF cinema and more.
Address: 175,177,181,193,195,197, 201 ถนน ราษฎร์อุทิศ, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Bangla Night Market (Halal options available)
Dinner and dessert options are plenty here at the Bangla Night Market. Treat it as an open-air food court at the street food section, with freshly prepared meats, seafood, Thai dishes and desserts, fried food, and other culinary delights.
You can also try exotic food like scorpion and crocodile meat! Just be warned that the shop vendors are trying to their best to earn a living, and that may lead to touting and aggressive marketing when you walk by.
There is also sheltered section of the night market that sells clothes and souvenirs. It is definitely a vibrant and bustling night market.
Address: DTambon Patong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Tip: There’s lots of street food vendors, so you can also find halal food, or halal-friendly food along the streets.
Patong Beach Bangla Walking Street
Not a kid-friendly street. This is the heart of Phuket nightlife, filled with bars, discos, cannabis shops, and lots of other shows and entertainment. There were also some small pockets of souvenir shops, but you can find those anywhere in Phuket.
But right at the end of the street, you arrive at the beach!
Address: V7VW+J48, Bangla Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
7-Eleven (Halal food available)
There are many 7E in Phuket, so you don’t have to worry. The best place for breakfast, lunch, supper. Also best place to find Butterbear collabs, Thai faces, and skincare and makeup sachets. Tried out a few online recommendations, which were not too bad at all!
The EZYGO Cheese Toasted Sandwich – GOATED. The Hawaiian Pizza sandwich was not bad too.
There was also the Butterbear x Hello Kitty 7-eleven collab items, which were all so precious!
Address: 141 Rat Uthit Song Roi Pi Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Day 2
ATV Adventure-Phuket Archery & BB. Gun
This thrilling experience lets you safely navigate muddy trails before ascending to panoramic views of the city and sea! Ride an ATV (by yourself or in pairs) through the jungle-like trails, feeling like you’re in an off-roading experience with slushy muddy water and bumpy courses, followed by some uphill roads, and up a mountain! It may look easy, but it is definitely a whole-body workout. We followed the captain’s path, and there is another staff at the end to make sure no one gets left behind. The activity is suitable for all ages even though there were some steep paths.
We drove past an elephant park, a high elements place with many drivers waiting for their clients, and some cute cats and dogs! You can bring a phone to capture your memories, but just make sure you are still able to ride safely at the same time.
They will arrange for a pick-up service from your hotel, then provide a locker for your belongings, as well as a set of clothes and sandals so your clothes will be clean. There are also other activities available there like go-kart, tiger park, shooting, archery etc. I believe they will wait for you to finish those extra activities before sending you back to your hotel. As the only ATV participants that session then, it felt like a private tour!
Address: Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand
Malin Plaza (Halal food available)
This was further out from the city centre, so we took a Tuk-Tuk (via Grab) to Malin Plaza. It is a night market with one half filled with drinks, food, fruits, desserts and seafood bbq. Spotted some halal burger/western food stalls, seafood and Thai dishes. There were so many types of drinks, wished I can try everything.
The other half towards the back of the plaza is a night market that sells t-shirts and other clothes, beachwear, traditional handicrafts and beauty or body products, and souvenirs. The place is not crowded at all and sells similar items compared to other popular spots. Certain shops are cheaper here if you bargain well.
Address: 162, 51-52 Prachanukhro Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Patong Boxing Stadium Sainamyen
The boxing stadium operate year-round without breaks – even on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s. We booked on Klook since there were discount vouchers and it was hassle-free at the check-in counter. We walked for about 15 minutes to the stadium through broken traffic lights and random alleyways to reach the place.
The stadium has two seating areas – regular seats which are benches by the wall, and VIP seats which are comfortable and right by the boxing ring to see the action up close. There was a mix of Muay Thai, Kick Boxing and MMA matches, and all of them were so fun to watch. Muay Thai had an opening dance ritual for each match which was accompanied by a band of traditional instruments, so that was pretty cool. Was lucky to see a KO match too, but poor thing for those who were injured badly during the matches that they had to raise the white flag. The most shocking thing was realizing how young the athletes were whenever they screened their stats during introductions – even their coaches and team were young. The final few matches were adults, and you could really see the power difference between the young and old, which made it even more exciting.
Absolutely loved observing the hustle – from the matches to the coaches/relatives to the livestream to the food to bets to assigning random ring girls from the crowd to really keeping up the energy until 12am. There are also a training gym and a shop selling boxing gear on-site.
We took the Tuk-Tuk that is available on-site, and thankfully it was not overpriced, and you can play your songs through the Bluetooth speakers! (Traffic in Phuket was still pretty vibrant and busy even at 12am.)
Address: 2, 59 Sainamyen Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Day 3
A friend drove us around on Day 3. One memorable fun fact from that day: the Patong Police Station without fail will always be flooded annually during monsoon season. And somehow, they had not done anything to prevent it successfully.
Marina Kitchen (Halal)
This restaurant is located nearer to the airport than the city center and is run by a Thai Muslim couple. The wife also has a spa business nearby. The restaurant is spacious, and the food is served tasty and fresh. Specializing in halal Thai cuisine, the menu features traditional flavors while keeping spice levels mild, making it perfect for those who prefer less heat. Try their signature dish – the beef soup and deep fried sea bass. Surprisingly, the fried vegetables were also a standout, simple yet addictive. The place is popular among families and workers.
Address: Mueang Phuket, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Premium Outlet Phuket
Located on the outskirts of Phuket Town, Premium Outlet is one of the largest shopping centers in Phuket. It is designed in a French village style while housing local brands and some international brands. Spotted some cute pieces with We Bare Bears and other animated characters.
Address: 888, 888/1, Ko Kaeo, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Old Phuket Town
Old Phuket Town is a vibrant area known for its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese townhouses, boutiques and crafts, and colorful markets. Definitely a tourist spot that showcases vintage Thailand.
It gives off Peranakan vibes but makes sense since it is their Chinatown. There are lots of museums and small art studios to discover too.
There are also lots of dessert stalls that I had to decide very carefully – had to get the water chestnut aka red ruby with ice cream (yummy!).
Do watch out for traffic and the vehicles parked along the roads. Interestingly, this was one of the few roads that I’ve seen with traffic lights.
Address: Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Phuket Thai Hua Museum
This museum was used as a filming location for a Thai series, which showcased the beauty of this 1934 building. The Phuket Thai Hua Museum offered an intriguing glimpse into the rich history of Chinese immigrants in Phuket and included a coffee shop for visitors. Paid entry, so we only soaked in the beauty of the lawn and building from the gates.
Address: 28 Krabi, Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Kopitiam by Wilai
Kopitiam by Wilai is a charming cafe, that was also used as a filming location. On normal days, the restaurant offers traditional kopi and a variety of snacks. The vintage-style interior pays homage to the Peranakan community with authentic charm. The seats also allow you to people-watch as it faces out to the road.
Address: 18 Thalang Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Soi Romanee
Soi Romanee is a vibrant and colorful narrow alley in Phuket, previously known for its red-light district but now transformed into a trendy area filled with souvenir shops, cafes, bars, and street art. Also, another filming site!
Address: 16 Soi Rommani, Tumbon Talad Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Promthep Clock Tower
When exploring Old Town, you will definitely spot the Prompthep clock tower at the roundabout. It is usually decorated in an extravagant way during festive seasons, so it is a popular photo spot. There is also visual appeal for its Sino-Portuguese architecture.
There is an exhibition in the clock tower that showcases Phuket’s history and its economy, and it is free entry. Did you know pre-tourism, the island was more known for tin mining? That is a pretty cool mid-career switch for the island.
Address: At the intersection of Phang Nga with Thepkasatri Road
Saphan Hin Park
My friend shared a local gem (finally get to use this cliché phrase!), located in southern Phuket. Once a bustling port during the tin mining era, it has been transformed into a popular relaxation spot for locals to picnic or take leisurely walks by the sea. Similar to Singapore’s East Coast Park where you can hang out after school/work and gather with your friends and families. With a view of the serene sea, locals come here to walk, jog, cycle, net-fish, fly kites, picnic, and more. There are plenty of open areas, some sport facilities and artsy installations.
Spot a line of street food vendors if you did not prepare any food and drinks to relax by the sea! And even be entertained by karaoke kids in public as their family man the booths.
Address: 55/108 ถนนเจ้าฟ้า, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Chalong
Chalong is a bay area known for its urban-commercial vibe and the Big Buddha statue perched on a hilltop. The vibrant Wat Chalong temple complex offers stunning panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, while Ao Chalong pier serves as a hub for sailing and diving excursions. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Botanic Garden’s orchids and butterflies or visit Phuket Bird Park to see parrots and ostriches.
We briefly visited Chalong to discover how locals live their daily lives. I liked how they have spaces to hang out at after school, and the chill atmosphere.
Robinson Lifestyle Chalong
Locals often hang out and get their groceries at a local shopping mall called Robinson Lifestyle Chalong. There was plenty of parking spaces and variety of dining options that cater to diverse tastes, from local delicacies to international cuisine. There were lots of snack shops that everyone knows and loves.
Address: 10, 53 Soi Chalong, Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Day 4
Kerchor Elephant Family Park Phuket
Ever been kissed or hugged by an elephant?
This elephant family park was so much fun for all! Really enjoyed it, especially since it provides an ethical and enjoyable experience close-up with rescued elephants. The elephants had their own personalities and were so cute. It was also a hassle-free trip with round trip transfers included in the package on Klook.
Your day starts when you put on the traditional top and learn the basics on elephant care and simple commands from the cheeky and good-natured local staff. We were introduced to the elephants in their care who were as young as one to 41 years old! We then prepared treats for the elephants by hand, and then off we went to greet and feed the cuties. Their handlers were all really chill and professional, and showed some cool tricks. It was so fun to see each elephant’s temperament, and the younger ones are always hungry and you can tell they have their preferences. Next up was an official photo opportunity with the stars, and then followed by a fun shower time! Everyone enjoyed the shower time, be it the humans or the big mammals!
Snacks and tea were also available if you need to replenish your energy. Lockers are available, and there’s a small mom and pop shop should you need to buy last minute items including some clothes. You must bring a change of clothes, otherwise you have to hope for the best till you get back to your accommodation.
Address: Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand
A Leaf (Halal)
Not sure what is the shop name exactly – was craving roti and managed to find one halal one near to 7E. Some items were not ready during lunch like mango sticky rice, burgers and finger food, but fruit cups and roti were available.
The roti was just the right amount of sweet and savory!
Address: 125 13 Rat Uthit Song Roi Pi Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Swimming Time!
I wanted to go to Patong beach for some water activities, but the morning with elephants drained me, so it was a nap + swim time at the hotel instead!
GlowBloom (Halal)
The food here was absolutely delicious and presented so beautifully that the appreciation just blooms without warning! They have an extensive menu with multiple menus for Thai, Western, and Japanese cuisine. It offers a vibrant culinary journey of authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist. The mango sticky rice and pink milk were so good.
There is an air-conditioned indoor area as well as a lively outdoor seating area with music. The decor also added to the cosy and elegant vibe. Their breakfast options also looked mouth-watering. Should have discovered this place earlier!
Address: 87 Sainamyen Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Day 5
Check out and head to Bangkok!
We headed out after breakfast to catch our flight to Bangkok via Klook and VecayPhuket. The drive to the airport was surprisingly fast. International flights were packed, but the domestic flight was absolutely chill. This was my second time in Bangkok, and it was definitely as fun as the first one!
Always a fun time catching island sights. See you again, Thailand!