Getting there and around

By Air

Although Phuket is an island, getting here is very straightforward. The majority of tourists arrive through Phuket International Airport (HKT). However, you can also get to Phuket by road, rail (in a roundabout way), and of course by sea if you have your own boat.

Getting to Phuket by air couldn't be easier. Phuket is served by an international airport with a number of scheduled and charter flights from Europe and around Asia.

However, the majority of visitors still fly to Bangkok first, where there are over a dozen domestic flights to Phuket daily. With the growth in budget airlines such as Nok Air, Air Asia, Bangkok Airways and Orient Thai (One2Go), ticket prices are now very low. There is also the national carrier Thai Airways, which is slightly more expensive but offers a higher level of service.

Flights from Bangkok take about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Book your tickets early, especially during the high season from November to April.

Phuket International Airport is situated at the northern end of the island about 45 mins drive from Phuket City. Tel: +66 (0)76-327-230 (information counter is extension 1111 or 1122).

By Road

Phuket is about 867km (539 miles) from Bangkok, with a travelling time of approximately 10 hours. There are many car rental companies in Bangkok, both international firms such as Avis and Budget, as well as local companies.

Driving in Thailand is quite pleasant outside of town and cities. Motorways are in good condition and mostly well sign-posted in Thai and English. Driving standards are poor but better than many other developing nations.

Take Highway 4 from Bangkok, passing through Nakhorn Pathom, Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, Prachuapkhirikan, Chumphon, Ranong and Phang Nga. The highway between Ranong and Phang Nga is quite scenic with forest-covered mountains on one side and the Andaman sea on the other

On the Island

Well paved roads service the island, giving ready access to all beaches, retail centres and the administrative center Phuket Town. The best and safest form of transport is a self-drive air-conditioned vehicle (car or 4 wheel drive jeep); motorbikes can also be hired (be cautious of traffic hazards and wear a crash helmet). You then have the freedom to explore the island and its treasures at your own pace. A private car and driver can also be arranged by your concierge service.