Beach area opinion in Phuket
by bulldogtwo
Personally we like Kata Beach and or Kata Noi (little Kata). Both beaches and areas are pretty quiet and "quaint" for the most part. They still have a lot of restaurants and shops for touristy shopping but not as many. We really liked Kata beaches. If you are not stuck on Phuket you may want to consider Ban Khao Lak area, very nice and quiet with great beaches. Only about 1 hour north, still on the Andaman coast and very relaxing.
good luck and have fun!
Evian Mineral Water Spray
by Tina-Perth
I take a can of Evian spray with me every time I fly. It is not only useful for cooling off when out in the heat, but sometimes I find the air on the planes to be so dry that my throat and nostrils begin to burn and my skin and hair dries out. I just spray the Evian into the air and onto my face for instant relief.
The small, light and inexpensive can fits into any bag easily. A travel must-have.
Chalong Bay During Sunset
by shane_02
Chalong Bay is a set off point for island hopping tourists. There are ferries and boats going to Phi Phi Islan and James Bond Island on a timely basis. Coral Island and other the nearby islands in phuket are also available by long tailed boats or speed boats.
Banks, Atm's & Maps
by Cathy&Gary about Banks, Atm's & Maps
On the link below is a list of Banks and where they are in Patong Beach.
You will have no problem finding an ATM, they are everywhere, (including the airport).
Maximum withdrawel is 20,000Baht from most machines.
I have also included a link to some good maps of Phuket.
Click Here for Banks
Phuket Map's
Sawngthaew
by robertgaz
The sawngthaew is like a small pick-up truck with two rows of bench seats down the sides and you alight at the rear of this small bus.
Fares seem to be fairly flexible around Patong so you should state your destination and agree on the price before setting off.