Shopping and markets - Phuket
Phuket has a well-established shopping scene that impresses the most die-hard shoppers. From sophisticated brand outlets, huge department stores and artisan centres to bustling food markets, street stalls and night markets, Phuket is a shopper’s dream.
1. Phuket Weekend Market
Located just outside of Phuket Town,Phuket Weekend Market is a spectacular to behold. There is over 30,000sqm of market space, selling everything from live animals to contemporary art. The food zone features Thai food, snacks and sweets from all over the country.
2. Jungceylon Shopping Complex (Patong)
Opposite Bangla Road is the Jungceylon Shopping Complex. There are over 200 shops in this air-conditioned space, selling everything from imported and local clothes, sunglasses, electronics and cosmetics to handcrafted souvenirs. There is a restaurant and fast food section, day spa’s and massage parlours, a Robinsons department store and Big C supermarket. Should you need to fill a rainy day there is also a 5 room Cinema showing films in English and Thai, a bowling alley and gaming arcade.
3. Chillva Market
Chillva Market is a trendy space made from colourful up-cycled shipping containers., located on Yaowarat Road. The day time the shops sell souvenirs, trinkets, clothing and hand made goods. A popular flea market is held Thursday-Sunday nights, when the large space fills with stalls selling everything from food to antiques.
4. Phuket Walking Street
Set within beautiful historic buildings, Phuket Walking Street is hosted on Thalang Road, right in the middle of Old Town. Held each Sunday from 4pm, Thalang Road is closed to traffic and is packed with stalls selling souvenirs, trinkets, handicrafts and gifts. Try local street food, browse the shops and let the kids run off some steam in the playground.
5. Central Festival (Phuket Town)
Located on the outskirts of Town, Central Festival is a fully air-conditioned shopping mall. You’ll find over 120 shops selling big named international brands, souvenirs, food, household items and more. There’s a cinema, dozens of restaurants and good family entertainment.
Things to do:
Diving
Phuket is a long established location for dive enthusiast and those who want to learn. There are a number of reputable diving schools and tour operators that cater to all levels and experience. Most diving takes place on the islands in Phuket province, a day trip from the main Island of Phuket. There are countless incredible places to choose from. We have listed 5 of our favourites.
Bangla Road (Patong)
Patong is the undisputed nightlife capital of the island. At night Bangla Road becomes a neon-lit party paradise. Beer bars, go-go bars, nightclubs, massage parlours, cabaret shows and literally hundreds of restaurants serving every cuisine imaginable line the street and side streets. For many tourists, this is their first and only stop when it comes to night-time entertainment.
Shows and cabaret
Thailand is famous for its ladyboys and the performances in Phuket are some of the best in Thailand. A great night out, the shows are glamorous and glitzy, the ladyboys fierce and the music an explosion of pop hits. Simon Cabaret and Aphrodite are the most popular family friendly venues. Soi Paradise and Soi Katoey hold some of the raunchier adult themed shows.
Surfing
The West Coast surfing season runs from around April to November and is starting to make a name for itself. Waves are maximum 3 metre which makes it a good place to learn. Surfing here isn’t limited to beginners though. A number of well-known surfers have been spotted in the area as it continues to grow in popularity. Take a look at our quick guide to surfing in Phuket.
