Phuket is an island located off the west coast of Thailand. In fact, it is the country’s largest island, being approximately the size of Singapore. Phuket is connected to the mainland by two bridges, and its neighboring ocean provinces are Phang Nga and Krabi. The name Phuket is derived from the word “bukit”, which roughly translated means “hill”, as that is what the island appears to be if seen from a distance. It’s history dates back to the seventeenth century. The Dutch, English and French each competed with each other for trade with the island.
Phuket Island, then called Junkseilon, was considered a very rich source of tin, therefore, its resources were highly coveted. In December 26th of 2004 a tsunami hit the island and other nearby areas of Thailand’s western coast. Thousands were killed nationwide and many of the beaches and resorts suffered extensive damage. Since then, however, all of the damaged buildings and attractions have been rebuilt. The island is undergoing a period of leisure urbanization, and there are a number of new hotels and apartments being constructed on an ongoing basis. In 2005, just a short while after the devastation caused by the tsunami, Phuket Island was voted one of the world’s top five retirement destination by the prestigious Fortune Magazine.
Phuket is primarily mountainous. Remarkably, seventy percent of the island is composed of mountains. It’s highest point is Mai Thao Sip Song which is 1,736 feet about sea level. The remaining thirty percent of Phuket is comprised of plains. It has a sum of nine brooks and creeks but absolutely no rivers amongst its 210 square miles of land. Its west coast has many sand-filled beaches, while its east coast has muddy beaches. One of the most popular tourist spots on Phuket Island is Patong Beach, mostly owing to its easy access. Much of the provinces nightlife and inexpensive shopping can be found in the Patong area.
The islands rich history and stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed by visitors and residents alike by journeying to one of the provinces many attractions. The Two Heroines Statue is on display as a memorial to valiant women who fought off the Burmese invasion in 1785, and the Thalang National Museum has a permanent exhibition that depicts life in old Phuket. The View Point provides one with a view of three different beaches, and Karon beach boasts both white sand and a stunning coral reef at its southern point.
Phuket is not only an island brimming with a vast array of gorgeous beaches and pristine mountains though. It is also a land filled with resilient inhabitants who rebuilt their home after utter devastation, and have opened it up for the entire world to enjoy.