Phuket is one of the world's most famed tropical destinations, situated in the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea, on the Thailand's south-west coast, about 850 kilometers south of Bangkok, the capital city. The largest island as well as the only island in the country with provincial status, Phuket is sometimes acknowledged with the titles, 'the Pearl of the South,' and 'the Pearl of the Andaman.'

Earlier known as Talang, Phuket has a long interesting history that dates back to more than 500 years ago. Once an important trade route between India and China, Phuket also flourished as a prominent center of tin manufacturing, which attracted many Europeans including the British and the Dutch to come here and settle down. The Battle of Talang would be perhaps the most important event in the history of Phuket, during which the Burmese invaders were defeated under the leadership of two women.

With its awe-inspiring landscape comprising beautiful white sandy beaches, sparkling blue sea, magnificent coves and bays, lush green forested areas, amazing cliffs, and Indo-Portuguese mansions and buildings, Phuket has now become a prominent tourist spot, drawing holidaymakers from across the world.

The province of Phuket consists of three administrative regions such as: Mueang Phuket, situated in the island's southern region; Kathu District - the mecca of tourist activities in the destination; and Thalang, which is in the northern region of Phuket.

The major attraction of the destination is undoubtedly its stunning coastline, with a mix of gorgeous white sandy beaches, fantastic limestone cliffs, and rocky outcrops. Patong Beach, Kamala Beach, and Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Surin Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Laem Sing Beach, Chalong Bay, Panwa Beach, Nai Ham Beach, Nai Yang Beach, Mai Khao Beach, and Rawai Beach are just few among many of the beaches in the area.

All of these provide visitors to engage in an array of water sport water sport activities such as fishing, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, rafting, sailing, and scuba diving. A range of tour operators and dive shops operate here to provide you excellent choices to enjoy a variety of water sport activities such as. Many of them even provide services of an expert guide in order to assist you in enjoying water sport activities.

No matter you are honeymooners, newly weds, family touring with kids and friends, or 90-year old tourists, Phuket provides a variety of attractions to tourists of all levels and ages. For instance, nothing would be better than a visit to museums in the region for those interested in the historical past of the region, such as the Thalang National Museum, which has on display artifacts and exhibits dating back to the historical period.

Another great option for those interested in the historical past of the region would be take a tour to ancient shrines in the region like Wat Chalong - a Buddhist shrine devoted three highly revered monks: Luang Por Chaem, Luang Por Chuang, and Luang Por Gluam; Wat Phranangsang, which is dedicated two heroines who defeated the Burmese invaders in the Battle of Thalang; and Wat Phra Thong, with a huge buried image of the Lord Buddha.

A number of options are also available for nature lovers and animal lovers. For example, if you want to explore something unique in the place, then don't miss attractions such as the Phuket Sea Shell Museum, with an interesting as well as rare collection of shells collected from across the world.

Likewise, a visit to the Phuket Aquarium within the Phuket Marine Biological Center would be a great experience for those interested in marine species. There are also a number of options available for nature lover and wild life lovers in the form of Phuket Butterfly Farm, with a great variety of butterflies and other insects, Phuket Snake Farm and Monkey Farm, where one can spectacle activities performed by monkeys.

Additionally, vacationers touring to Phuket can engage in a number of activities. For golf freaks, some superb options are available are Blue Canyon Country Club, Phuket Country Club, Banyan Tree Golf Club, and Loch Palm Golf Club. Some of the best options for travelers seeking fun and recreation are Phuket water-ski cableways, Simon Cabaret Shows, and Phuket Fantasea with great shows.

When comes to sightseeing, Phuket provides gamuts of options such as Old Phuket Town, which stands as a testimony of the glorious past of the island. Among the highlights of Old Phuket Town are Heroine's Monument and a range of Sino-Portuguese mansions. Further, a not to miss attraction for sightseers is the Khao Rang Hill, from whose atop one can enjoy the breathtaking views of the island.

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