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Phuket, often referred to as the pearl of the Andaman,is Thailand's largest island. Approximately 850 kilometers South of Bangkok, Phuket's natural resources and the tourists that its natural beauty and pristine beaches attract, has made it the South's richest province.
Nestled in the tropical zone of the Andaman Sea, Phuket enjoys two seasons per year - the rains from May to October and the heat from November to MApril. September and October see the maximum rains and is not a good season for the tourists. High season for Phuket is from November to February.
550sq km in area, roughly the same size as Singapore, Phuket is surrounded by 39 smaller islets that add another 70 km. It is connected to the mainland by a causeway across the Chong Pak Phra channel at its northernmost point. 70% of Phuket is covered by mountains, many of them lush with jungles,Several peaks are over 500 meters tall, Mai Tao Sipsong standing at 529 meters which makes it the tallest in all of Thailand.
Phuket is connected to the mainland by air and road. It has an international airport with Thai Airways, Phuket Air, Nok Air and Air Asia flying there.
There are scheduled bus services operating from Bangkok from the Southern Bus Terminal in Thonburi with standard air-conditioned and VIP (recommended) buses
that take about 14 hours. Mini-buses are also operated by private operators. Make sure you book these with reliable travel agents.
Whereas Phuket city is on the East side of the island, the most beautiful beaches are located to the West. The most popular among these beaches is Patong Beach. Accomodation includes world-class hotels and resorts and tropic-style bangalows.
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