Thailand Phuket recommendations?

[vagon]

So we're going on a trip to Thailand and I got good deals on flights and accommodation, what are some good things to do while we're there?

So far I've heard buy beer at the supermarkets (Jungceylon) and not 7/11s
I'm limited by hotel cooking facilities, but I'm assuming the markets for food once I figure out what I can do.

Any other thoughts,/recommendations?

[use2betrix]

We are aiming to do the same in the next 6 months or so. We've been researching a lot on what to do.

Have you scuba dived before? I have read it's very cheap to get certified there and an amazing experience.

On a side note, what vaccinations do you plan to get? Looks to be a few irregular ones an average American should get. Unfortunately from what I've read, insurance doesn't cover it.

Food wise, everything I've read has said the street food is amazing and very very cheap. Basically a massive meal would probably be around $1.50, so most people just go that route.

Have you looked into hotels yet? I've seen some good reviews of very affordable hostels. If you feel you might want to spend a lot of time at the hotel, the resorts seem like any other tourist area.

[expatartist]

Unless you're craving western food, just eat local: street food, markets, restaurants, etc. Western food is overpriced for what you get; local food - once you know where to go - is divine, and much better than you'll get in the US.

[vagon]

Yeah I dived before and it is pretty fun, but its not something I love mostly because the pressure messes with my ears.

I had all my vacs not long ago after heading to Sri Lanka so I'm not too concerned there. I'd get Hep A & B, typhoid and tetanus and not stress too much about the rest unless you know you're going to be at risk to something specific (i.e. you're working with animals and need a rabies vac).

Re: the hotel I got a pretty good deal which is flights and hotel with 9 nightys for $1k AUS so I'm happy.

Good point re the street food, seems a lot easier than home cooked in a hotel too.

[Jeremy E.]

Billy and Akisha from Retireearlylifestyle.com visit thailand quite frequently, you might be able to find some ideas from their blog, or ebooks if you're willing to buy one.

[vagon]

Thanks Jeremy I had a look and in one of their interviews and it mentioned a cooking course which would be a great idea