The perfect weekend getaway to Phuket

Rediscover Phuket and find out why it’s still Thailand’s most popular beach town

DoubleTree By Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort
Photograph: DoubleTree By Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort
Time Out Asia in partnership with Hilton
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There’s a reason why Phuket remains a traveller’s favourite even after all these years. This island on the Southwestern tip of Thailand is no snoozefest. It’s home to sparkling beaches and incredible natural sights, bustling markets and streets, and plenty of cultural monuments. This means whether you’re a nature lover, culture buff, or a foodie, there’s bound to be something in Phuket worth revisiting for.

Getting here is easy. Phuket has an international airport located in the north, and once you land, it’s a one-hour car ride to the lively district of Patong – the perfect base for experiencing the best attractions around the island.

Make the most of your trip to Phuket with these stays and activities

Stay

There’s no better place to soak in the vibrant energy of Phuket than right in the heart of Patong. DoubleTree By Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort is conveniently located beside Patong Beach and is a stone’s throw away from the busy Bangla Walking Street and Jungceylon – the largest shopping mall in Phuket. While exciting attractions surround the resort, the resort itself offers a slice of peace and respite amidst the buzz.

A standout feature is the three large swimming pools on the property, all of which feature swim-up bars. Each room comes with a private balcony overlooking a pool. But for a special treat, opt for the King Premium Suite which gives you direct access to your own private pool and jacuzzi, on top of spacious and cosy lounging areas. The resort is also equipped with a fitness centre, a recreational room, and four F&B destinations. For an extra touch of convenience, Hilton Honors guests can also use the digital key system via the Hilton app to roam about the hotel keycard-free.

Do

We’ll spare you the same old litany of things to do in Phuket – island-hopping, Thai massages, nightlife adventures, and so on. Instead, here are unique experiences you can look forward to both within and beyond the hotel. 

First, dive right into the fun at the resort pools and swim-up bars. Timmy’s – the hotel’s signature Tiki bar – offers refreshments like cocktails and fruity gelato popsicles to beat the heat. Next, try gliding through the water in style with a rentable water scooter or playing a round of volleyball. During your stay, make sure to also sign up for complimentary lobby activities where you can have a go at crafting a Piña Colada, making som tam (papaya salad), or baking cookies.

For exhilarating water sports, Patong Beach just beside the hotel is your go-to spot, where activities like parasailing, jet skiing and banana boating are available right at your fingertips.

Those keen to explore more can venture further out to Karon or Kata Beach, or head up to Karon Viewpoint for a bird’s eye view of Patong Bay. Next, check out the largest Buddha statue in all of Phuket at the top of Nakkerd Hill – the 45-metre-tall colossus covered in Burmese white marble is truly a sight to behold. Also worth a visit is Wat Chalong, Phuket’s largest temple that is steeped in history and boasts awe-inspiring architecture and intricate details and paintings. Finally, make a stop at Phuket Old Town to see the charming 20th century Sino-Portugese buildings along Soi Romannee. These houses have now been converted into pretty cafés and quaint stores selling all sorts of trinkets and knick-knacks.

Eat and drink

Thailand is a foodie’s dream with a wide variety of cuisines readily available at reasonable prices, and Phuket is no exception. In terms of food options within the hotel, The Port Restaurant stands out. It offers a Thai sharing platter with seven dishes of your choice. You’ll get to savour the best of Thailand’s cuisine in one meal – think tom yam, green curry, basil pork rice, seafood vermicelli, mango sticky rice, and more. Alternatively, you can also feast on a surf and turf galore here, with dishes like giant Phuket lobsters or ribeye steaks. After dinner, raise a toast at Mojito Bar nearby with interesting mojito variations crafted with local Chalong Bay rum. Or, kick back with a refreshing pint from the adjacent Beer Bar.

For breakfast, a scrumptious international buffet awaits you at The Shore, with live stations serving Thai-style kway teow noodles, kai jeow (Thai omelettes) and more. There are also fruit stations, Western fare, and a fun DIY pancake and waffle corner to power you up for the day. 

From unbeatable food, to scenic views, heart-thumping activities, and cultural gems, Phuket is the gift that keeps on giving. So if you think you’ve seen all this island has to offer, think again.

Book your stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort now.

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