Contrary to popular tourist belief, there's more to Phuket than meet's the shopaholic's eye. Aviva Dharmaraj shares glimpses of the island off the south west coast of Thailand that was once famously devastated by the 2004 tsunami


Maya bay beach: Turquoise waters and vast expanses of beach
are among the features that make Maya Beach, part of Phi Phi
Island legendary. Did we forget that the Leonardo DiCaprio-starrer
The Beach was shot here? Not to worry. Any tourist guide worth
their salt will remind you of that at least twice. We will have to
admit that it's still worth the hype!

Bangla Road: Considered the heart of Phuket, this road pulsates
with life at night. International fast food chains, nightclubs,
massage parlours, beer bars and live entertainment are among
the promises it holds. For those who love to shop, there's the
night market.


Patong Beach: There's a reason Phuket is known for its beaches
and Patong Beach, which they claim is the most popular is possibly
one of them. The sun, the sand, the surf and tall swaying coconut
trees are what make this a popular tourist destination. For those
lookingu00a0 to get away from prying eyes, Phuket has several options.


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