When my wife and I took a trip to Thailand, there were only two things we planned: our flights and where we would sleep. Aside from that, we wanted to immerse ourselves in the culture and experience what Phuket had to offer. This was the best decision we could have made because it developed into one of the most memorable vacations of our lives.
Why We Chose a “loose Plan” Trip
From my experience, when we go on vacations, we often feel pressured to maximize our time by scheduling something for every moment. Because of this I end up returning feeling burnt out and like I need a vacation from my vacation. I find that by meticulously planning every detail of a vacation, we often end up restricting ourselves to possibilities and potentially missing out on unseen, amazing experiences. With this in mind, we decided to spend two weeks getting lost in Phuket.
Arrival in Phuket
When we landed at the airport in Phuket City, we realized we needed a few essentials. My time in the military taught me that, regardless of your location, specific abilities are essential. Two of the most important are the ability to purchase and the ability to communicate/navigate. I made sure to have at least some Thai Baht (cash) on hand when we landed, and we were able to purchase a SIM card at Phuket Airport for our phones, which we could use to communicate and get around during our two-week stay.
After getting our checked bags, we walked outside and got the first taxi we found to our Airbnb in Phuket. We checked in, dropped our bags, and headed straight out to explore the city and see what we could find. Having the SIM card in our phones and being on the Thai cell network allowed us to use Google Maps in case we got really lost or needed to find a specific store for something.
Exploring Phuket (Week One)
We had no problem finding local restaurants around where we were staying. The beach was just a few blocks away, and there always seemed to be hidden gems around every corner we turned. After wandering around downtown Phuket for about two days, we found out about the Get Your Guide app (another reason to get a SIM card) to explore the available day trips. We soon discovered that there were even more incredible experiences to have all around us.
Adventures and Day Trips
We visited an elephant sanctuary, took a speedboat ride to Phi Phi and Maya Bay islands, island hopped on a luxury catamaran, had a luxury sunset cruise to James Bond Island, and did a private ATV adventure to see the Big Buddha! We made sure to take a day off in-between these adventures so that we could enjoy more local experience like walking around Phuket Old Town, get Thai massages, and the nightlife of Bangla Road!
Moving to a Hillside Resort (Week Two)
After the first week at the Airbnb, we moved to a hillside resort just outside Phuket for the second week of our stay. Although we couldn’t just walk out and be right in downtown, we had no problem finding a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride to and from the resort. We slowed down our adventuring pace and took the time to enjoy relaxing during this second week.
Reflections
Before we knew it, our vacation time came to an end. We packed our suitcases, checked out of the resort, and made our way back to Phuket airport for our journey home. My wife and I still reminisce about our time in Thailand and often share our amazing experiences in this beautiful country with others, such as yourself.
Tips for Travelers: Making the Most of Your Phuket Adventure
Phuket is full of adventure, hidden gems, and culture waiting to be explored. Still, a little preparation can make your experience even better. Here are some practical tips from our trip:
1. Pack Light but Smart
Years in the military taught me that every ounce counts. Bring versatile clothing for hot, humid days and cooler evenings. Quick-dry fabrics are your best friend.
2. Get a SIM Card at the Airport
This was one of the best decisions we made. Having access to maps, translation apps, and ride services saved us from getting stranded and helped us find hidden spots locals love.
3. Plan the Essentials, Not the Entire Trip
Flights and a place to sleep? Yes. A ridged itinerary? Not so much. Leaving space for spontaneity led us to some of our best experiences. We didn’t even learn about the Get Your Guide app until we were already in Phuket.
4. Carry Cash
While credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas, small shops, street vendors, and tuk-tuks often prefer cash. The Thai Baht is easily exchangeable at the airport or local exchange counters. Check the current exchange rates HERE.
5. Book Excursions Through Trusted Platforms
We used the Get Your Guide app for activities such as the speedboat ride to the Phi Phi Islands and the elephant sanctuary visit. It ensured safety, reliability, and a smooth booking process.
6. Respect Local Culture
Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles, but showing respect goes a long way. Dressing modestly when visiting temples, removing your shoes before entering certain places, and learn a few basic Thai phrases are appreciated more than you know.
7. Slow Down and Savor It
Some of our best memories weren’t from planned activities but from wandering side streets, chatting with locals, and watching sunsets over the water. Don’t try to do everything; enjoy what you discover.
Conclusion
Looking back, what made our trip to Phuket unforgettable wasn’t making strict plans; it was embracing the unknown and unexpected moments. From wandering side streets in Old Town to sharing laughs with strangers on a boat ride, it was curiosity, not a strict itinerary, that guided us to the best experiences.
If you’ve been thinking about traveling “loosely”, please give it a try. Leave space for surprises, follow your instincts, and see where the day takes you…..you might discover more than you ever imagined.
Have you ever explored Phuket or taken a trip where spontaneously that made the journey even better? I’d love to hear your stories! Drop a comment below or share your favorite experiences!
