Just a mere 1.5hr from Singapore, Phuket is good for a quick beach getaway if you can put up with the masses at some of the more popular beaches. Visitors arrive at Phuket Airport in shorts, t-shirts and little sundresses. Of course, there are the more sophisticated travellers who arrive in style; with little safari-themed outfits. Most budget airlines fly to Phuket now and this return trip with Jet Star cost S$264.

Lodging and transport
If you did not arrange for hotel transfer from the airport, you can take a taxi from the taxi stand to the right of the airport exit. This organised taxi booth takes your hotel location and gives you the cab fare amount upfront to be paid to your driver. An hour cab ride to Karon Beach for eg. will set you back 500baht.

The Access Resorts & Villa, Karon Beach. has a maximum capacity per room of 3 persons and don't even try to fool them by rooming 4 (which we did and had to get a 2nd room. DON'T BE CHEAP). Per night here will set you back S$70+ but you get the pool right outside your balcony. It is a MUST to bring mosquito coil to Phuket (or buy them at the beach mart).

Karon Beach
Karon Beach is accessible from Access Resorts via the Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. This gorgeous 5* hotel is right along Karon Beach and has beautiful rooms (but costs an arm to stay here per night). However, to get from Karon Beach back to Access R&V, you'd have to cut through Mövenpick's beach front restaurant. Do not wander further along the beach thinking you can cut through any of the hotels. This is NOT possible as all hotels require access cards for entry or you'd be checked by their security.

Karon Beach is a long stretch of white sandy beach with deck chairs (100baht) and massage services being offered. Beach towels are not rented out so do bring the hotel pool towels.


Karon Beach and beach-fronting Movenpick hotel

Remnants of the green curry and pad thai room service


Thai style Maggi noodles with Tom Yum powder and fried cheese!