Phuket, a rainforested, mountainous island in the Andaman Sea, has some of Thailand’s most popular beaches, mostly situated along the clear waters of the western shore.
My second time in Thailand, backpacking by myself and this time trying out “Couchsurfing”.
Couchsurfing is a hospitality exchange and social networking website. The website provides a platform for members to “surf” on couches by staying as a guest at a host’s home, host travelers, or join an event.
Excited!!! as per usual. I just learned about couchsurfing a few weeks before I decided to go to Phuket. Looking at the experiences of those who tried it and the difference it does make to really enjoy travel and learn tonnes of new things from the “locals” that is not written on travel websites.
I decided not to “couch” on others places first, booked a budget hotel, then informed the hosts that if they are available to join me tour around Phuket.
And as part of the local experience, I tried their local bus from the airport going to Central Festival mall near the old town, where Nick and I planned to meet.
Nick was one of the first one to reply. Nick is a local Thai from Phuket who studied and worked in Australia. He and his family owns a hotel in Phuket old town. First stop “ Khao Rang Hill” viewpoint.
Nick is only free half of the day, so we are a little bit in a hurry going around the town. Right away, after him telling me about it, we decided to go to Phuket old Town , to experience a little bit of history thru the remaining old buildings and its architecture.
Time flies so fast when you’re having fun, it felt like only a few minutes but my stomach doesn’t agree, it is time for lunch. By Nicks suggestion, we decided to eat in a small local restaurant, and i’m quoting one of the blogs “if you want good local Thai food, then you have to eat where the locals eat.” @ KewJai Thai Restaurant, and it is ALL TRUE.
The price is very reasonable and the taste is very authentic. Wish I can order for more but my belly restrict it.
Then right after lunch, it is time to say goodbye and a lot of gratitude to what I consider a new found friend.
Time to go to my hotel, which is in Patong, a 45mins bus ride from Phuket Town.
After checking in, and relaxing just a bit, there is no time to waste.
Wat Suwang Khiriwong or Patong Temple
Me as a lover of Thai food, decided to research on restaurants that are uniquely Thai. And one of the best : Kaab Gluay Thai Restaurant
Day 1 doesn’t stop there. Took a local cab and went directly to Bangla Road : The heart of Phukets night life.
my Couchsurfing experience continues. One of the few gracious hosts, a Filipino (yay!!!) who works in Phuket “Jeff” and same as me, Filipino traveler who works in Singapore “Uni” and decided to meet up and enjoy the night life that Patong has to offer.
And in between the booze, the dancing and more booze, Jeff, Uni and I planned to meet up the next day and tour around Phuket.
After the partying, ME time to have a good brunch ( Sea Hag Restaurant ) and enjoy the sun, sand and waves of Patong Beach .
After resting a bit, time for another tour. Picture this: one small bike, three grown man, touring around Phuket. It is so far, one of the craziest things that i’ve tried, and the MOST fun and rewarding experience.
Wat Chalong or formally Wat Chaiyathararam is the largest of Phuket’s temples, and the most visited.
Phuket’s Big Buddha is one of the island’s most important and revered landmarks on the island. The huge image sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and, at 45 metres tall, it is easily seen from far away.
Promthep Cape (or Laem Promthep)
Ending the tour with this view sums it up. Definitely Superb experience, with the help of Couchsurfing, Nick, Jeff and Uni. I am looking forward in traveling again with you guys.
