Phuket: An over-commercialized “heaven” for tourists?

Like some other conservative travelers who enjoy a relaxing beach sunset while sipping a bottle of coke, some of us may enjoy the serenity or tranquility which we may find on islands and beaches. Upon Google search on where to go in Southeast Asia for these beaches, Phuket comes out in the list.

    

For first-time travelers in Phuket, most of them will either straight away head to the famous Patong beach or Kata beach once landed from the airport. Dreaming of a serene view overlooking the sea, you may find yourself in shock. Crowded beaches with Russians and Chinese will be the first thing you will see.

After strolling down the beach sometime, you may want to find a place to just sit down or hang out. Once you sit down, you will “bombarded” by mat sellers or just some random umbrella vendors. Some of them will be rather rough when you try to bargain. The dream of enjoying a serene sunset by the beach? Busted.!

Nightlife around the main beaches in Phuket may also be a mess. Loud booming EDM , drunkards, and hookers. The worst case scenario for travelers who enjoys calm, serene environment.

What we recommend is spend minimum time to explore these over-commercialized spots in Phuket such as Patong or Kata beach. Spend some time staying in condotels of Phuket town enjoying the real local livelihood of Phuket islanders or go to some underrated beaches such as Yan Nui beach which is situated not far from the Promethep Cape.

Some detailed planning will help you from dropping in just another tourist trap in Phuket.

Interesting transports found in Southeast Asia

When travelling to South East Asia, there are certainly tons of alternative methods of transport across. From animal carts to crowded mini-lorries, these transportation are easily accessible to those who visit particular regions in South East Asia. Here are some of the interesting transportation methods.

 Cidomo 

Cidomo is a small horse-drawn carriage used in some parts of Indonesia. In the 1960s-70s, it was the main transport used in Bali, Indonesia. The carriage usually can seat up to 4 persons, with 2 person sitting in the front and 2 in the back. Till now, it is widely found especially in Bali and Gili Islands of Indonesia. Riding the Cidomo exploring suburban towns of Indonesia is definitely an interesting experience.

SongThaew

The songthaew , literally translated to English from Thai as Two Rows. This is a passenger vehicle commonly found in most areas in Thailand and Laos. It is actually a pick-up or a larger truck and used as a share taxi or bus. Nowadays, drivers of songthaew especially in Thailand can communicate with simple English resulting to a lot of western visitors actually use songthaew as a mode of transport in places such as Krabi or Phuket.

Tuk-Tuk 

Tuk-tuks or 'sam lor' (three-wheeled) is found in Thailand. Originating from an old-fashioned rickshaw during the second World War, a tuk-tuk is essentially a rickshaw with a small engine fitted in. Tuk-tuks have become one of Bangkok's most recognisable transportation features, and are still popular among tourists and visitors. The typical capacity for a tuk-tuk in Thailand is two average-size people or maybe three.

Trishaws 

The trishaws found in Malaysia are the cousins of Tuk-Tuk from Thailand. The only difference between them is the trishaws found in Malaysia are pedal-powered. Trishaws are a great way to travel through the historical alleys in parts of Malaysia such as Melaka and Penang. Malaysian Trishaws will usually ferry you through narrow lanes, offering closer view of historical sites at a most leisurely pace.

Xe Bo

Xe Bo is known as the bull cart in Vietnam. Visitors travelling to the outskirts in Vietnam such as Ninh Binh and Tam Coc will always encounter these bull carts. Although not the fastest way to travel through the roads, it may be an unforgettable experience to ride on one of these bull carts. As known, no matter it is one bull or 2 bulls pulling these carts, it will always be the same speed.