Accommodations and Dining Tips
1. High and Low Season
Although Phuket can be visited year-round, prices rise during Christmas and New Year. The high tourist season, when prices are higher and rooms should always be reserved in advance, is between November and May. During the low season, which is between June and October, you should inquire about reduced rates at hotels. Many post their rates clearly on their websites.
2. Location
Consider what kind of holiday you want to have on Phuket. If you want activity-filled beaches, bustling crowds, and vibrant nightlife, you should choose one of the southern beaches – such as Patong or Kata – but if you want quiet, natural surroundings, head to a place such as Mai Khao. Phuket’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths.
3. Airport Pick-up
Some of Phuket’s popular southern beaches are a 45-minute drive from the airport. Many hotels offer free transportation from the airport, if you arrange for it in advance. Not only does this save you from the hassle of dealing with taxi touts, but it also gives you the assurance that you are in the right hands.
4. Hotel Reservation Websites
The Thailand based website, www.agoda.com, has grown to become one of Asia’s leading online hotel reservation services. The website offers discounts on hotel rooms, particularly those in the Asia-Pacific region. Another website with a good choice of hotels is www.thailandhotels.net.
5. Confirming Reservations
It is a good idea to email or call the hotel to confirm your reservation before you arrive. Also, if the hotel or travel company has provided you with a confirmation number, you should keep this information handy. Upscale hotels are usually as reliable as hotels in the west, but smaller guesthouses can sometimes be less organized.
6. Street Food
Thailand’s street food enjoys a reputation as being one of the most delicious in the world. The food is spicy, sour, tangy, and sweet, and is often prepared in just a few minutes, and to top it all, it is incredibly cheap and very hygienic.
7. Sharing Dishes
Thai food is best eaten when shared by two or more people, with each person getting his or her own plate of rice. This allows diners to sample many different flavors and textures. Thai salads and soups are usually eaten along with main dishes, a bite of one followed by a bite of another.
8. Vegetarians
Contrary to the food served in Thai restaurants in the West, many of which highlight vegetarian options, the food in Thailand generally includes some sort of meat – most often pork, chicken, or beef. The Thai word for vegan is ahaan-jay, and for a vegetarian who eats eggs it is mahngsawirat. Food can usually also be specially prepared according to your needs.
9. Eating Utensils
Most Thai food is eaten with a spoon and fork, with the fork being used to guide food on to the spoon. Chopsticks and soupspoons are used for noodle soups. Thai restaurants can also provide knives if needed.
10. Tipping
Many restaurants add a service charge of 10 percent, while some add a 7 percent VAT as well. In general, the custom of tipping in Thailand is to leave whatever coins you receive as change, which usually amounts to anywhere from a few baht up to about B20. You do not need to leave large tips.
