Ask anyone you know with a significant other what their dream destination would be for a romantic getaway and they’d most probably say Indonesia’s Bali, Cebu in the Philippines, Koh Samui in Thailand or even the Maldives. While all these places are awesome, did you know that Phuket is equally as great? Bet you didn’t know that leh! Well, here’s where we actually let you in on this underrated spot for lovers and why it should be your next holiday destination with bae!
1. Phuket has over 20 amazing beaches
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While Phuket is more known for their parties, little did many know that their beautiful white sandy beaches are equally to die for. So, if you like to sunbathe and chill with your significant other, swim and splash around in the ocean, or take romantic walks by the beach, then say no more fam, because this is the perfect spot for you.
Don’t know which beach to go to? Try one (or all) of these:
a) Freedom Beach
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Only a few minutes away from the crowded Patong beach by longtail boat, this spot is peaceful and quiet in comparison, with their soft white sand and crystal blue oceans to set you back into zen mode. It goes without saying that it’s the perfect spot to laze around and relax.
b) Patong Beach
If you and your loved one enjoy being in a crowd instead, then Patong is your best bet. From shopping, dining, to a wild nightlife, you can be assured that there’s always something happening.
c) Karon Beach
Craving something a little bit more atas? Well, this fairly quiet beach makes it a special spot to be with your other half. With hotels like Beyond Resort Karon and Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket that just scream “perfect” for any romantic getaway, these hotels with direct access to the beach will be one of the most memorable dates you can ever create.
2. Amazing hotels that give you an unforgettable view
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If you want to treat you and your bae to a whole day of relaxation, splurge a little and spend some quality time lounging at the gorgeous pool while taking in the breathtaking view. Some you can go for is the Sri Panwa, or the Renaissance Phuket Resort. Plus, it’s superbly insta-worthy and will be sure to make all your friends envious!
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3. Besides baking in the sun, go explore the world under water together!
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Phuket is a diving hotspot, being conveniently located near some of the best sites in the Andaman Sea like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. Well, prepare to feast your eyes on some stunning sights, from manta rays and sea turtles at Racha Noi and Racha Yai to whale sharks at Hin Daeng and Hin Muang!
If you don’t have a diving license yet, even better – apply for a course for certification together right there on the island itself! Check out:
a) King Cruiser Wreck
Explore a wreck in crystal clear waters for an adventure you’ll never forget! Protip: maximise this trip by adding stops at the Anemone Reef and Shark Point.
b) Richeliue Rock
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Along with the aforementioned Hin Daeng and Hin Muang dive spots, Richeliue is another famous place for whale shark spotting that’s just a day trip away from Phuket! Other than whale sharks, expect to see barracudas, giant trevallies and dogtooth tunas, so make sure to pack a waterproof camera.
4. Indulge in amazing street food and some retail therapy in Naka Market
Source: Phuketify
Source: phuketyourstory
When it comes to Malaysians, nothing beats a date that involves food! Especially cheap street food!
In the Phuket Weekend Market aka Naka Market, you’d be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stores that you can check out for hours. As its name suggests, it’s open on Saturdays and Sundays from 4pm to 10pm. Explore the stores selling clothes, secondhand items, accessories, and of course, the food which only ranges from 20 to 40 baht.
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5. The nightlife is for lovers, too
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Some people hear Phuket and are immediately distracted by the seedier side of things, but look closer and you’ll find plenty of nightlife options that you and your significant other can take part in together. Whether live entertainment, spectacular views, or cultural extravaganzas are your couple thing, you can rest assured that Phuket has something for you.
Need some options? Check these out:
A) HQ Beach Lounge
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Situated at the extreme Northern end of Kamala Beach, HQ is one of the few beach clubs with direct beach access. Grab a cocktail and maybe some snacks at the bar and look for an open sun mat as you and your partner watch the sun go down while laid-back house tunes play in the background.
B) Simon Cabaret
An institution in Phuket, Simon Cabaret doesn’t provide titillation but instead a world-class show and dance performance that caters to a large audience of international tourists, both old and young. The craft of cabaret is very much on display here, with swift outfit and set changes as well as great choreography
being the calling card of this Phuket must-see.
C) Bangla Road
Have you really been to Phuket if you haven’t roamed the streets of Bangla Road? Yes, Phuket is Thailand’s Sin City and if this is something you need to check off your bucket list, then so be it. Plus, bar-hopping and experiencing what all the clubs and cabaret shows have to offer along this lively stretch with your favouritest person in the world spells out F-U-N to us!
D) Fantasea
Not so keen on Bangla Road? No problem. Here’s a quieter alternative to Phuket’s nightlife that’s equally as enjoyable. Fantasea may be called a cultural ‘theme park’ but there aren’t really any rides here – instead, the only ride it’ll take you on is a cultural ride where you’ll be entertained by its spectacle of unique shows and performances. If you need some munchies while watching the shows, why not opt for the dinner buffet package?
6. Take a cooking class together
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Yes, we’ve established that Malaysian couples love food-related activities, and what could be better than you yourselves making the food together with ingredients you can pluck right from the Thai gardens? Plus, if you love spicy food and Thai cuisine, this is the best place to learn the authentic recipes from the locals! Whether it’s a class on how to make green curry, tom yum, pad thai, or pad krapow (fried basil & pork) – imagine all the yummy Thai food you can start cooking in your OWN kitchen. Awesome right? It’s like the gift that keeps giving!
Some options you can go for is: Phuket Thai Cooking Class by VJ, Kata Thai Cooking Class with Sally, and Phuket Thai Cooking Academy.
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Contrary to belief, Phuket has tons of activities here that couples can actually do together. Whether it’s simply just lounging by the beach and diving to explore the marine life, to immersing yourself in its cultural shows and learning new things together like making your first authentic tom yum, Phuket has plenty to offer and this is definitely on any couple’s vacay list!
Itching to plan your next holiday there already? Good news: you can get there via AirAsia at awesome rates that won’t burn a hole in your pocket!
Here are the deets:
Kuala Lumpur-Phuket @ RM89
Penang- Phuket @ RM89
Travel now till 30 September 2019! Note: Fare shown is for one-way and BIG Members only. So if you want these special prices then log in to enjoy the BIG Member fare lah!
So, next time bae wants you to bring them somewhere unforgettable, you can thank us liao~ For more info on flights to Phuket, you can read more here. This article is brought to you by Tourism Authority of Thailand, so you know it’s legit lah!