Just one generation ago, Phuket was largely undiscovered by the outside world. Adventurous tourists would head down from Bangkok and discover pristine beaches and picture-perfect panoramic views. Word spread quickly, and entrepreneurs started gobbling up real estate and building huge hotels. There are 20,000 hotel rooms in Phuket now, with more being built seemingly every day. The demand is there. During the peak season, which runs from November through April, every hotel is packed. You should avoid visiting during monsoon season. On average, eleven inches of rain fall per month between May and October.

The island seems larger than it is, mainly because the terrain varies between the smooth coasts and rugged, hilly inland. Although it covers less than four hundred square miles, petite Phuket packs a powerful punch! There is plenty to enjoy and discover on Phuket, Thailand's playground.