Phuket - a tropical paradise jammed with endless pleasures and treasures - has long been Thailand's top tourist destination. And Thailand is the number-one tourist destination in Southeast Asia. The island of Phuket, which is approximately the size of Singapore, has everything from ancient relics to zoos. There is something to please any adventure seeker. There are crowded beaches, or secluded coves. Festivals and regattas cram the calendar.† Also covered in detail are the numerous other islands nearby, plus an extensive section on Thai cuisine, helpful language and vocabulary tips, where to get medical and legal help if you need it, and much more. The finest hotels, with impeccable service, cost a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere, and shoppers will never tire of the vast selections, from silk scarves and designer gowns to exotic jewelry. Try elephant trekking, sea canoeing or Thai massage. Taste the exquisite cuisine, explore mystic temples and sail to unspoiled islands. The regional chapters take you on an introductory tour, with stops at museums, historic sites and local attractions. Places to stay and eat; transportation to, from and around your destination; practical concerns; tourism contacts - it's all here! Detailed maps. Then come the adventures - both cultural and physical - from canoeing and hiking to taking dance or cooking classes. This unique approach allows you to really immerse yourself in the local culture.
