Touring Phuket
The name Phuket is derived from the Malay word Bukit (meaning hill). True to the name flourishing green hills take over much of the island's center. There are still some rubber plantations and relics of the island's tin mining operations remaining. Most folks head south for the beaches; Phuket's are some of the best in Thailand.
The best way to see the island is by taking a drive around the scary cliff roads or a totally touristy elephant safari into the jungle. In dry season, Phuket is at its best: you'll get long sandy beaches, warm water, and excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. It also boasts some of the best seafood in Thailand.
If escape at no cost is what you need, Phuket has heaps of elegant resorts designed for tropical solitude. The Banyan Tree, offer private villas and pools. Evason Phuket even offers a honeymoon villa on its own island, Koh Bon. Expect exceptional facilities with levels of service ahead of those in Europe. It's not ideal for those on a tight budget with prices way above those even in Bangkok. If you need to keep costs down, consider Phang Nga Bay or go south to more reasonable Trang.