I got a one week staying Phuket's Marriott: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Rev...ao_Phuket.html
(I snagged a $60 per night the one bedroom mistake rate) in September and was wondering the following those that have been there and can advise:
1. I wanted to rent a scooter but after reading all of the bad reports looks like that will be a bad idea since the traffic is very bad, so I am looking to rent a car. Would any advise that plan? The Marriott has free parking so that may be an option. A preferred rental company?
2. I wanted to venture out of the island and perhaps do a tour ot 2, tripadvisor looks like a lot of them are self promoted so wondering what good tours and/or places are to see on the island.
3. Are taxis really that expensive? I read someplace that they are as much as the NYC cabs. In that case I would even more rent a car.
4. Would it be recommended for me to go to Patong to eat/see things? How about the rest of the island?
5. Seems the JW is next door but looking at the prices($30 pp for brekkie) I was thinking about eating someplace else. Are there are good places within a car ride from the resort.

Thanks a lot for all of your tips folks. : )