Phuket is Thailand
’s largest island, approximately the size
of Singapore. Phuket nestles in balmy Andaman
Sea waters on Thailand’s Indian Ocean coastline
862 kilometres south of Bangkok.
Phuket formerly derives its wealth from
tin and rubber, and enjoyed a rich and colourful
history. The island was on one of the major
trading routes between India and China,
and was frequently mentioned in foreign
trader’s ship logs.
The Portuguese, French, Dutch and English
traded with Phuket. Other visitors were
less friendly. Phuket’s most famous monument
is the memorial statue of the heroines Thao
Thepkasattri and Thao Sisunthon, who rallied
islanders in 1785 to repel Burmese invaders.
Phuket is blessed with magnificent coves
and bays, powdery, palm-fringed white beaches,
sparkling island-dotted seas, sincerely
hospitable people, superb accommodations
and seafood, delightful turn-of-the-century
Sino-Portuguese architecture; numerous sporting
and leisure opportunities; a lush tropical
landscape – all of which combine to create
a delightful ambience for truly memorable
holidays.
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