Originally Posted by
Kacee
Yes, there's a full range of experiences on Phuket. I would never stay in Patong. Mai Khao, Bang Tao, and Surin, are very nice and pretty low key. Other areas as well.
The big advantage to Phuket is the international airport and the large number of flights. Krabi is nice but there are not many flights and it can be difficult to coordinate with an international arrival or departure at BKK, resulting in the loss of a full day to travel.
I've found a number of "Sweet Spots" for dining on Phuket which can also be combined with nice resorts that I've stayed in and recomenend.
1) Black Ginger in Nai Yang (Slate)
2) Takieng in Mao Khao (Renaissance)
3) Savoey in Patong (Le Meridien - with short drive by taxi, tuk tuk or shuttle)
4) Boathouse in Kata (Boathouse)
All the above have a choice of resorts within walking distance and reasonable price/drive time from the airport. Makes for a very nice trip/experience. Done this many time over the last 20 years and my trip last year did not disappoint.
Honorable mention would be the Le Meridien Phuket which has decent food options and a very short ride into Patong where alternative dining establishments are found (#4 above).
Footnote to #3 Savoey: They used to have live lobster that you select the choose cooking method. Last year they didn't have lobster, but the tiger prawn was more than excellent substitute...and don't neglect the crazy good rambutan margaritas and ability to order single servings of Phad Thai and stuff :-)
Cheers,
-Cyborg