Ever since travelling to Bali, Indonesia last month, I’ve really been trying to think of places to add to my travel bucket list! I’ve heard so many people talk about how lovely Thailand is, so I’ve narrowed it down to Phuket – which has a ton of beautiful beaches and things to see! If you are planning on visiting the largest island of Thailand (Phuket), you will find great deals on attractions, hotels, and flights, However, your itinerary will depend on your budget, time allocated, and your travel style. If money is tight, you will have to choose the attractions you want to see carefully, and plan your trip. I like to try and travel on a budget as much as possible, so here are a few attractions you can visit during your trip.
1. The Big Buddha
If you would like to take a photo next to the Big Buddha in Phuket, built between 2009 and 2015, you are in luck. This attraction offers free entry, and you can take some stunning photos of the site, and get a blessing. Climbing up to the Big Buddha is a challenge, but you will be rewarded with a 360 degree view over the island; perfect for a panoramic picture to use as your Facebook background, Instagram post, or even desktop background!
2. Sunday Walking Street Market (Lard Yai)
If you would like to soak in the atmosphere of Thailand, and grab some bargains, you might want to visit this market. Book a taxi and arrange being picked up by the same driver, so you can avoid disappointments at the end of your shopping trip. From food stalls offering finger dishes and local favorites to souvenirs and artifacts, you can find anything you wish to take home with you. The good news is that you can’t get lost in the market, as it is one long pedestrian street open at night to bring you the colorful lights of Phuket.
3. Monkey Hill
Photo by Tony Reid on Unsplash
While this is not a managed attraction of Phuket, Monkey Hill is worth a visit. If you are brave enough to feed the up to 75 animals gathering here, you can buy some peanuts from the street vendors. Get a taxi and ask them to wait for you. Private transfer is cheap in Phuket, so you will not break the bank. With no entrance fees, you can stay as long as you want, or until you had enough of the cheekiness of the monkeys.
4. Phuket Seashell Museum
For only 200 THB (~8 CDN), you can visit this stunning seashell museum with some of the best seashells from the pristine shores of Thailand. The displays are arranged in an artistic way, and you can even catch a glimpse of some of the most valuable and purest pearls found, such as the largest golden pearl of the world.
5. Green Elephant Sanctuary Park
Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash
If you stay in one of the Phuket hotels such as the Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach, you will be able to book a private transfer or tour of the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park. Get close to these amazing animals, and find out how this center is trying to give them a better life than they would have if they were living in captivity.
Whether you are looking to get close to nature or get the feel of the real Thailand, you can enjoy great activities in Phuket on a budget.
