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Phuket Thailand’s biggest island was the first to welcome back international visitors as part of the country’s reopening strategy, and it’s got room for everyone, says Laura Gelder Why sell it If your clients are focused on getting to the beach (as trends predict they will be), Phuket is one of Thailand’s iconic beach destinations and fully vaccinated travellers can now stay quarantine free as part of the ‘Phuket Sandbox’ model. Clients can avoid busy Bangkok entirely as TUI flies direct, as does Emirates and Etihad but with a short stop in their respective hubs (Dubai and Abu Dhabi). Before departure, travellers must complete the online Certificate of Entry, download and complete the Thailand Plus track and trace app and have travel insurance covering Covid-19. On arrival they must present a negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure.
Who to sell to Phuket’s size means its appeal is wide ranging. Couples will find dreamy beaches, sunset viewpoints and romantic resorts while families have great value familyfocused resorts, cheap eats and activities galore, including shows and theme parks. Travellers who get bored easily can find distraction in watersports – like kayaking and diving – and boat trips. Inland, the mountainous island has elephant sanctuaries and offers jungle trekking on foot, quad-bikes and ziplining. There are
Most resorts offer relaxing spa packages
plenty of sightseeing spots including the Big Buddha, various temples and markets. Foodies will also be in their element.
What to sell Phuket’s most famous resort is the lively Patong with its cheap and cheerful bars and restaurants (some very lively) and activities aplenty. More upmarket and low-key nightlife beckons in resorts including Kamala Beach, which has a Café del Mar and The
Hyatt Regency Phuket. Swanky Surin Beach is home to luxury resorts and millionaire’s villas. Resorts like Kata, Karon and Kamala offer a good balance between fun and quiet for families and couples alike. For off-the-beaten-track vibes, head to jungle-hugged Freedom Beach for the day. Cosmopolitan capital Phuket Town, with its brightly-coloured Sino-Portuguese shop fronts, European mansions and vibrant markets is fun to explore.
When to sell Phuket has a dry and a wet season but temperatures hover around 30C all year. The high season is late November to late March. April and May are hot and sticky before regular rains make an appearance from July to early November. • Book it with... TUI Seven nights at the Avista Hideaway between Tri Trang Beach and Freedom Beach, on a B&B basis is priced from Swap the beach for a jungle trek
Hyatt Regency Phuket’s endless infinity pool
£987pp, flying from Gatwick. tui.co.uk
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