Aylin's Magical Phuket Journey

Aylin Şenbay, a.k.a "Vitrinkız" has just had a lifetime experience visiting Phuket and Bangkok with her family. We asked her to give us tips on this journey and share her experience.

Check-out Aylin's Instagram account for her marvelous travel and lifestyle tips; we hope she will keep on sharing her travel journeys with us. (Her Bangkok diary is almost ready to be shared with us!) Click here to visit her account "vitrinkız"

Here are her traveler's notes on Phuket Island:

"Phuket and Bangkok are fantastic destinations, especially during this time of year. The weather is usually pleasant, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy in both places.

Where in Phuket?

Phuket offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Here are some must-visit places:

1. *Patong Beach*: Known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and water sports.

2. *Phi Phi Islands*: Take a boat tour to explore the stunning beaches and clear waters.

3. *Big Buddha*: Visit this iconic landmark for panoramic views of the island.

4. *Old Phuket Town*: Explore the charming streets lined with colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, art galleries, and cafes.

5. *Phang Nga Bay*: Take a boat tour to see the famous limestone karsts and James Bond Island.

6. *Wat Chalong*: A beautiful Buddhist temple with intricate architecture and serene surroundings.

7. *Bangla Road*: Experience the lively atmosphere of this famous street filled with bars, restaurants, and entertainment.

Where to stay?

1. *Patong Beach*: Ideal for those seeking vibrant nightlife, shopping, and a bustling atmosphere. You'll find a wide range of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses here.

2. *Kata Beach*: Known for its beautiful sandy beach and more relaxed vibe compared to Patong. There are plenty of mid-range and luxury resorts along the beachfront.

3. *Karon Beach*: Similar to Kata Beach, Karon offers a more laid-back atmosphere with a long stretch of golden sand. There are many family-friendly resorts and hotels in this area.

4. *Bang Tao Beach*: If you prefer a quieter and more upscale experience, Bang Tao Beach is a great choice. You'll find luxury resorts and villas along the beachfront, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

5. *Phuket Town*: For a taste of local culture and heritage, consider staying in Phuket Town. 

Amanpouri Phuket was our choice of resort, and we loved everything about it from private beaches to excellent spa treatments. 

Where to Eat? 

Black Ginger, Catch, and Baan Rim Pa, Savoey, Suay Tu Kab Khao Restaurant are all highly regarded restaurants known for their excellent cuisine and unique dining experiences.

Where to Shop?

1. *Jungceylon Shopping Mall*: Located in the heart of Patong Beach, Jungceylon is one of Phuket's largest shopping complexes. 

2. *Central Festival Phuket*: Situated in Phuket Town, Central Festival is another popular shopping mall offering a mix of local and international brands, as well as a cinema, restaurants, and entertainment options.

3. *Phuket Weekend Market (Talad Tairod)*: Open every Saturday and Sunday evening in Phuket Town, this bustling market is a paradise for bargain hunters. 

4. *Banzaan Fresh Market*: Adjacent to Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Banzaan Fresh Market is a must-visit for food lovers. 

5. *Old Phuket Town*: Stroll through the charming streets of Old Phuket Town to discover boutique shops, art galleries, antique stores, and traditional crafts shops selling unique souvenirs and gifts.

6. Boat avenue mall: is a modern shopping and dining complex located in the Cherngtalay area of Phuket, near the Laguna Phuket resort complex.

Not to Miss

For an elephant tour, consider ethical elephant sanctuaries such as Elephant Jungle Sanctuary or Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. These places prioritize the well-being of the elephants and offer opportunities to interact with them in a responsible and respectful manner.

For ziplining, Flying Hanuman and Jungle Xtrem Adventures Park are popular choices. They offer exhilarating zipline experiences through the jungle canopy, with various courses suitable for different levels of thrill-seekers.

Remember to try local specialties like tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup), som tam (papaya salad), and massaman curry while exploring the culinary delights of Phuket!