Best Time To Visit: November to May offer good sailing, with cool and dry conditions until February, and hotter weather through to May.

Key Cruising Areas: Perfectly situated for a Southeast Asia cruise, Phuket could be a starting point to explore the popular coast and islands of Thailand and Malaysia or continue further into Indonesia for endless sailing options.

Don’t Miss: Thailand is synonymous with night markets, and the Phuket markets are an amazing experience. Here you can find everything from fresh tropical fruits and delicious food, to electronics and clothes. The bustle and noise of the markets are an exciting way to delve into the culture of the country, taste some delicacies – try the fried crickets – or find a unique souvenir to treasure.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The delicious Thai cuisine combined with outstanding luxury resorts means that fine dining in Phuket is world-class. One of the best known is the Blue Elephant, where Chef Khun Noroor Somany Steppe takes you on a culinary tour through the ages of Thailand with his tasting menu. For something a little different, try a cooking class at the restaurant and take home some of his secrets.

Best Local Dish: Thai food revolves around noodles or rice, and incredible fragrant spices. Kaffir lime, lemongrass, basil, and coconut leaves are blended to create the exotic flavors of the dishes. For a taste of local food, visit the permanent food carts at Lock Tien. Some favorites of the region include Mee Hokkien noodles or Khao Man Gai.

Local Culture: The Thai culture is rich and enchanting. Buddhist monks walk the streets, beautiful temples and shrines sit in the towns and hidden in jungles, and the year is punctuated with colorful festivals. For a change from the beaches, visit the Tha Hua Phuket History museum to learn about the region’s past, or see the stunning temple at Wat Chaithararam – one of the most important temples in Thailand.

Best Beach:  Famous for its over thirty stunning beaches, you are spoilt for choice in Phuket. However, the iconic towering rock formations, coated with soft green vegetation that rises from the crystal-clear Andaman Sea make Railay Beach a particularly dazzling spot.

IYC recommends: Bounded by Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi, Phang Nga Bay is over 40 unspoiled islands. Sail into the bay and take the onboard kayaks to explore the extraordinary limestone formations, caves, tranquil mangroves, and rainforests. Paddle to Panak island to see impressive waterfalls, see “James Bond Island”, then return to your boat to watch the waters of the bay turn a burning red in the sunset.