runningrugby

Hi,
We are seeking recommendations for personal tour guides to show us around Phuket in April 2010.

Thx

LeighTravelClub

Hi runningrugby,

really don't think you need a guide for Phuket.....unless there is a particular reason.
A very good place for you to start some research about the island can be found on the link below.

http://jamie-monk.blogspot.com/

Hope this helps.

Gpanda

You absolutely do NOT need a guide to show you around Phuket. The sights on Phuket are relatively few and far between and you can see them on your own. However, you should look at booking a trip to Phang Nga Bay. They will pick you up at your hotel and drop you off. John Grey and/or seacanoe.net both do these tours. Another daytrip is to take the ferry to Phi Phi. Again, a guide is not necessary or even desirable.

kmkrnn

It is easy to rent a car and drive yourself aroud that area also. Other than going out to the islands there is not a lot of "sights" to see.

Kathie

Phuket is a beach resort area, I can't imagine what you think you need a guide for. IF you want to visit some of the islands, you'll just need to take a ferry. WHile you can rent a car, there isn't much need. Take taxis as needed.

LeighTravelClub

Daytrip to Phi Phi is an absolute NO, NO. You will be disappointed!

If you want to visit this group of islands.....then at least a couple of days is required.

Phang Nga Bay, is a worthwhile daytrip, as is anything offered by John Grey. Link below

http://phuketdir.com/johngrayseacanoe/

rhkkmk

no need for a guide...can't imagine what they would show you...??

maybe a driver, but that is not necessary either...

magical

Perhaps, runningrugby is wondering what the differences are between the numerous beaches.

Definintely do a boat trip to Phang Nga...and Phi Phi.

I'd say avoid patong beach. Surin beach maybe too densely populated...kamala beach is nice if you like quiet.

Maybe others can add more beach opinions....hope this helps.

Kathie

Running, are you on a cruise and looking for an alternative to an expensive cruise excursion?

runningrugby

No, just going to Phuket and doing the islands and was looking at the options rather than just doing the normal tourist things.

Gpanda

The culture of Phuket has long been overrun by the avalanche of tourism. The hotels, restuarants and in fact beaches are designed completely with the western tourist in mind. This is not necessarily a bad thing, it just is. A lot of money is brought into the local economy. There are a few sights and a few temples that one can visit, but if you're going to another part of Thailand, you're much better off doing that there and just relaxing in the sun in Phuket. As noted above, a trip to Phang Nga Bay is the best day trip.

Suksan

I totally agree with what people are saying here. You do not need a guide, just a place where you can read about what to do in Phuket, then go and do it.

Rent a Car (for safety) avoid TukTuk's at ALL costs, and you will have a great time.

I am in the process of writing many guides and things to do in Phuket.

Have a read http://guides.suksanvillas.com

runningrugby

Thanks Gpanda ,, much appreciated. T