Andaman Coast, Thailand
AIS, TrueMove H, and dtac are major mobile providers in Thailand, all with good coverage and 4G/5G speeds across Phuket. Tourist SIM cards are readily available.
Wi-Fi is widely available and generally free in hotels, guesthouses, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls in Phuket Town. Check with your accommodation upon arrival.
Thailand Post offices are available in Phuket Town. You can use them for sending postcards or parcels home. They offer reliable service.
Thai is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist-oriented businesses like hotels, major restaurants, and tour operators in Phuket Town. It is less common in local markets or smaller, family-run eateries.
Adding "krap" (for males) or "ka" (for females) at the end of phrases makes them polite and shows respect.
Understand the typical operating hours for businesses and services in Phuket Town.
Most shops open around 10 AM and close around 9 PM. Small, local shops might open earlier or close later.
7-Eleven and FamilyMart stores are ubiquitous and operate 24 hours a day, providing easy access to snacks, drinks, and basic necessities.
Restaurant hours vary greatly (11 AM to 10 PM common). Street food stalls operate late afternoon into evening. Fresh markets open very early.
Banks generally open from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM on weekdays. Some branches within large shopping malls may have extended hours or operate on weekends.
Thailand observes numerous public holidays. These include Thai New Year (Songkran in April), Loy Krathong (November), Constitution Day, King's Birthday, and Queen's Birthday.
Navigating social interactions with grace and respect in Thailand.
The "Wai" is the traditional Thai greeting. Perform it by pressing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture, usually with a slight bow. The higher the hands (up to nose level), the more respect shown.
Dress modestly and respectfully in public areas, especially in Phuket Town and away from the beaches. Swimwear is for beaches and pools only.
Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice (this resembles an offering at a funeral). Avoid putting your feet on tables or pointing your feet at anyone. It is acceptable to eat with your hands for certain dishes, especially sticky rice.
It is acceptable to take photos of public places and attractions. However, always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially monks or elderly people. A polite gesture and a smile usually suffice.
Adhering to local customs and etiquette shows respect and makes for smoother, more enjoyable interactions.
Accessibility infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is limited in Phuket Town.
Sidewalks can be uneven, narrow, or obstructed by street vendors, parked motorbikes, or other obstacles. Many older buildings in Old Town lack ramps or elevators; steps are common.
Some major attractions like the Big Buddha have ramps or easier access to certain areas. Wat Chalong has some accessible areas, but older temple structures may have steps. Museums in renovated buildings may offer better access.
Specific services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. It is advisable for travelers with these needs to travel with a companion or use specific tour operators that cater to accessibility requirements.
Information on accessible travel in Phuket can be sparse. Consult travel forums and accessibility-focused travel blogs for first-hand accounts and recommendations.
Thorough planning is for a smooth accessible travel experience in Phuket.
Detailed investigation of specific venues and transport routes for accessibility features.
Reach out to hotels and tour providers to confirm their capabilities for your specific needs.
Consider traveling with a companion for support, especially for complex navigation or interpretation.
While efforts continue, Phuket's infrastructure still presents challenges for travelers with mobility restrictions. Planning is your ally.
