Experience Phuket authentically: Sustainable travel experiences & honest insights
My first long-haul flight – with my mother to Thailand
In 2019, I fulfilled a long-held dream: I traveled to Phuket twice. The first trip was special – it took me and my mother on her very first long-distance trip. While my father took care of the house and animals, we embarked on our little adventure.
Instead of overpriced holidays in Europe, we opted for Thailand – a new country, a new culture, and surprisingly even cheaper than some destinations in the Mediterranean.
Arrival with Thai Airways & first impressions
The flight with Thai Airways was pleasant, even if long-haul flights in economy class are rarely luxurious. Bangkok airport was quite chaotic – unfriendly staff and double security checks made the transfer difficult. But in the end, we landed safely in Phuket.
Unfortunately, our driver wasn't there, so we spontaneously organized an alternative ride to the hotel – about 90 minutes through tropical landscapes. Our destination: the "Bandara Beach Hotel" quietly situated in the southeast of the island, far from the hustle and bustle.
Accommodation & Location: Quiet bay instead of mass tourism
Our hotel was situated above a small, idyllic bay with only a few guests. Free sun loungers, a small guarded beach bar, and hardly any other tourists – a real hidden gem. Exactly the peaceful atmosphere we had hoped for.
Just a short walk away, we discovered a charming restaurant with panoramic views across the bay to the Big Buddha. The food was excellent, the prices fair, and the staff friendly. Places like these add depth to a trip – far removed from the usual tourist traps.
Thai massages: Relaxing or risky?
I treated myself to two massages – one right on the beach, the other in a studio near the hotel. Unfortunately, both experiences were rather disappointing. One resulted in bruises, the other in a dislocated vertebra. Anyone with back problems should be especially careful here.
Phuket Sights & Excursions: A Reality Check
Phi Phi Islands – between dream beaches and tourist crowds
Of course, we also wanted to visit the famous Phi Phi Islands. However, the booked day trip turned out to be a mass event with around 70 people on board. Maya Bay was closed, lunch was overcrowded, and the once pristine coral reefs were badly damaged. We were very disappointed.
My tip: If possible, spend a few nights directly on Phi Phi Island and support small providers with ecological standards.
James Bond Island
A day full of failures
The tour to the legendary James Bond Island was anything but relaxing: an overcrowded bus, a somewhat unmotivated guide, and an overpriced lunch in a stilt village – touristy, uncomfortable, and unfortunately disappointing.
The only bright spot: Our captain noticed our dissatisfaction and treated us to a short, spontaneous boat trip away from the crowds. A nice gesture, but overall I wouldn't recommend the tour.
Big Buddha and Wat Chalong
Culture up close
We hired a taxi for about $30 USD to visit these two sights. Both temple complexes are very touristy, but worth seeing. The view from the Big Buddha overlooking the bay is particularly spectacular.
Important: Choose clothing respectfully – shoulders and knees should be covered.
Animal welfare in Phuket: Hope for animals
Green Elephant Sanctuary: Elephants up close & ethically
Before my trip, I discovered the Green Elephant Sanctuary, a rescue center for abused elephants founded by Europeans. There, visitors can feed, wash, and observe the animals in a safe environment. No elephant rides, no shows – just respectful interaction.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 1.5 hours, including lunch and transfer. The entrance fee supports animal welfare – a cause very close to my heart and a highlight of the trip.
Soi Dog Foundation: Help for Stray Dogs
During my second visit, I discovered injured stray animals along the harbor. A puppy was being tortured by children – I intervened and contacted the Soi Dog Foundation. This organization cares for stray dogs and cats in Phuket.
The puppy was picked up the same day, received medical care, and was later rehomed. Since then, I have supported Soi Dog through a sponsorship. This organization does fantastic work, especially since the pandemic.
More highlights & insider tips
Kho Rok & Kho Haa: Snorkeling paradise
Traveling alone, I booked a snorkeling tour to Koh Rok and Koh Haa. The team was friendly, the boat comfortable, and finally someone made sure I used reef-friendly sunscreen!
I even did the tour twice – not only because of the impressive underwater world, but also because of the friendly atmosphere with the crew. The photos from the professional photographer are a wonderful memento.
Night Market in Panwa: Small, delicious & authentic
Just 3 km from the hotel is a small night market with handmade clothes, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere. These days, I'd easily rent a scooter there myself. Back then, I preferred to be driven. A wonderful place to end the evening.
From woman to woman
If you're looking for peace and quiet and a clean beach, the south of Phuket is perfect. The food is good and affordable. Excursions generally cost between $75 and $150 USD, not exactly a bargain, but most are absolutely worthwhile. As mentioned above, the trip to James Bond Island was not good at all. Another excursion with Hype Catamaran was also a complete disappointment. It's advertised as a sailing trip for a maximum of 15 people, but it's basically a party boat; there's no sailing or peace and quiet to be found. If that's what you're after, then it's worth it, but I had a different idea. I felt completely safe everywhere I went. The locals are friendly, helpful, but unobtrusive, which isn't always the case in every holiday destination. We only drove through Pattong (in the morning), and even there, the police were everywhere. There's a lot of sex tourism, and naturally, you'll find more crime there. Smoking in public (especially on the beach) is strictly prohibited everywhere in Phuket, even with your own ashtray. It can get very expensive. The use of non-reef-friendly sunscreen is also prohibited everywhere. For me, the price-performance ratio was good in most cases, and a special thank you to the tireless efforts of Soi Dog Foundation.
Would you rather stick to Europe? Then take a look at Mallorca.