If you’ve watched Season 3 of The White Lotus (TWL), you’ll know that Thailand is a much-loved tropical oasis. And as cosy as the couch may be, there’s only so much of the cold weather we can take! That’s why a coastal escape to serene Phuket sounds like the perfect cure for the winter blues.
Forget about getting caught in a traffic jam during a storm, you’ll be sipping piña coladas on a quiet beach at sunset in no time. The region is rich in exquisite culture, gorgeous sunscapes and mouth-watering cuisine.
But never fear! If you’re looking to swap the busy crowds for some peace and quiet, then we’ve got you covered.
Forget about travelling during peak season
If you’re not interested in getting lost in the crowds, then avoid the high-traffic season at all costs. Sure, the weather is gorgeous, but it’s not worth the headache. You’ll have a hard time getting a good spot on the beach or escaping the loud music blaring nearby.
It’s also cheaper! Going during the off-season, between May and October, will save you tons of cash on flights and accommodation. It’s the monsoon season, so tourists tend to avoid travelling during this period – meaning a budget-friendly holiday for you!
Sure, it’s humid and you’ll face the occasional rainy day or week, but the temperatures average around 25C to 33C, so you’ll still have plenty of warm weather to enjoy by the water. If anything, getting caught in the rain can be quite romantic here as the island transforms into a lush green paradise.
Showers can be short and sweet, if you’re lucky, and shouldn’t affect your entire day of plans.
Head to the north of Phuket
Despite the tropical beauty throughout the island, tourists often only visit the south. There, you’ll find the iconic Phuket Town and Patong beach, along with a bustling nightlife.
Because of this, the equally beautiful yet calmer northern region gets overlooked. The perk in staying north is it’s right where the international airport is, so you’d be off the plane and in your hotel suite in no time!
Walk along the 7km stretch of Bang Tao Beach on the north-west coast, where you can indulge in uninterrupted views of the sunset. Despite the variety of luxury resorts lining the beach, you’ll rarely spot crowds!
Surfing is a brilliant activity during the off-season here, with few tourists around. or perhaps you’d like to lounge about similarly to our adored TWL characters.
Feeling peckish? Choose from the dozens of restaurants nearby and feast on freshly caught seafood generously marinated in Thai aromatics.
If you’re looking for a cool photo to share with friends and family, head to Mai Khao Beach right beside the airport. There, you can pose just as an aeroplane flies overhead to land! It’s worth it to capture that awesome snap.
Enjoy the perks of a resort stay
If you’re heading over during the off-season, take advantage of the lower costs! With plenty of luxurious resorts and villas offering budget-friendly prices during the rainy season, you’ll score some luxe for less wherever you go on the island.
If you’re really keen on reliving TWL (the good parts, at least!), then book a stay at one of the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas – an actual filming location from season 3!
If not, we suggest a stay at the family friendly Le Méridien Phuket overlooking the stunning Karon Noi Beach. They have the largest swimming pool in Phuket.
The best part about staying in one of Phuket’s finest isn’t even the bargain deals, it’s the private beach access (if you choose the right place). Nothing screams paradise quite like a secluded beach!
