Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. With striking attractions ranging from beautiful beaches and resorts to rich culture and heritage, there’s something for everyone. There is an abundance of delicious cuisines, impressive cliffs, and magical blue waters. And of course, the nightlife is bustling. However, this was before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Yes, Phuket it’s worth visiting now if you don’t want to go through all the hassle of 14 days quarantine. But that’s not all, if you are after a quiet and peaceful beach experience, this is the place to be. However, if you are after a bustling nightlife experience with all shops and tourists sites open, you may be disappointed.
Late June 2021, this island was opened for tourist visits after being shut off for nearly a year. But even with ease on restrictions and allowing tourists re-entry, many are left to wonder is Phuket worth visiting now? Considering there’s “Phuket Sandbox Scheme” that all foreign visitors must adhere to.
Thus, if you are in this position, look no further. This guide has everything you need:
While that’s so, there’s a positive and negative side of the “Phuket Sandbox Scheme” if you look at it meticulously. And here is something you should know:
Why is Phuket worth visiting?
- Safety First
Like many other regions welcoming tourists, the entry rules to Phuket are meant to keep everyone safe. Considering COVID-19 infection is still looming, the rules are designed to make tourist re-entry safe. And if the ‘Sandbox Scheme’ is successful, it may also apply to other regions in the country. However, the focus remains on this Island where many potential tourists look forward to visiting.
And if you are organizing a trip to this Island, it’s worth looking at the rules and regulations you’ll adhere to. Here is the list:
- Vaccine certificate or proof that you received COVID-19 vaccination.
- Health insurance for COVID-19
- Pre-pay for the RT-PCR COVID test before you arrive in Phuket
- Book accommodation in any SHA+ hotels before you arrive on the Island
- COE (Certificate of Entry), alternatively, get a Thai Pass from Thailand Embassy
- Complete vaccination using a dose recognized by Thailand health authority or WHO (World Health Organization).
- Also, the full dose of vaccination is not less than 14 days by the time you arrive in Thailand. And also not more than a year since you took it.
- No Quarantine
Oftentimes foreign travels for vacation are organized during holidays that last between 2 to 4 weeks. As such, time is a luxury that many people can’t afford. Therefore, spending half or the entire vacation quarantined in a foreign country is not something anyone would look forward to.
But thanks to Thailand’s no quarantine regulation for visits to Phuket, you can just pack your bag and go. When you complete the 2-weeks of stay on the Island COVID-free, you may be allowed to visit the entire region.
- Wow inspiring attractions
Manmade and natural attractions are the key reasons why tourists are flocking to this island. Besides, there are also cultural and religious heritage attractions that leave a mark on every tourist that visits this Island. With that said, here is a brief list of stunning attractions that makes it worth visiting Phuket, Thailand:
- King Cruiser wreck diving spot
- Rich religious and cultural heritage (e.g. the Big Buddha
- High-end holiday resorts
- Beautiful beaches (e.g. Patong, Freedom Beach)
- Rich history
- Natural wonders e.g.
Is Phuket too touristy?
Truth be told, Phuket is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Thailand. With awe-inspiring attractions everywhere, it has a fair share of visitors’ crowd. However, this doesn’t mean those looking for quiet and laid-back lifestyles are left out. It’s possible to escape the big crowd during high seasons and enjoy authentic local culture.
On a trip to the northern end of the Island, you should find quiet beaches with fewer tourists. In this case, try out the peaceful surrounding of Sai Kaew beach. Alternatively, you can visit the region during low seasons when the tourists are fewer and attractions are crowd-free to explore.
What should I avoid in Phuket?
Phuket has a wide range of stunning attractions to explore. Whether they are natural formations or manmade creations, they are quite inspiring. But as you get lost in possible things to explore, many forget about concerns that are worth considering. Like other great tourist destinations, this island is not an absolute utopia. There are things to watch out for during a visit and here are some of them:
- Remove shoes when entering the temple
You’ll probably notice a bunch of shoes at the entrance you visit. Therefore, it’s common sense to remove shoes before entering the temple as a sign of respect. Also, it’s a way to avoid getting indoor dirt.
- Wear appropriate clothing when entering the temple
Temples are a place of worship and are highly respected in this region. Whether it’s a mosque or church you are visiting, you are advised to dress appropriately.
- Avoid buying Buddha as a souvenir
Buddha is a religious item, as such; they must not be treated as souvenirs or decorations. If not registered and you have one, it can be confiscated at the airport when leaving.
- Respect the monks
Monks are one of the most respected members of society in Thailand. Therefore, it’s best to avoid being touchy especially when wanting to take selfies with them. As a tradition, Thai people give way as a show of respect when they meet monks.
- Avoid walking shirtless on the streets
As a quick trivia, would you roam around on the streets back home shirtless? Probably not, right. Same in Phuket, you are advised to walk shirtless only on tourist beaches. When you go back inland, put something on to avoid revealing too much skin.
Final Take
Considering the negative side effects and also intriguing attractions, is Phuket worth visiting now? If the limiting factors don’t affect you significantly and the benefits outdo everything, it’s worth a try. Oblige to the entry requirement and depart to this beautiful Island in Thai.
