By Way of Asia

Phuket, Thailand: We’ve been having a wonderful time in Phuket meeting great people, eating yummy food, and exploring the (surprisingly large) island. On our last day in Phuket, we adventured up Nakkerd Hill to visit the Big Buddah, which sits on one of the highest points on the island (1,312 feet) and - at 150 feet tall - is the largest Buddah in the world.

Phuket, Thailand: The Thai people we’ve met so far have been incredibly friendly - from the street vendors who explain what they’re making in case you’re squeamish about the ingredients, to the four-year-old boys who only know two words in English - “hello” and “thank you” - and so repeat them endlessly. Here are a few of our favorites so far, plus a few other elements of the Thai lifestyle here in Phuket.

Phuket, Thailand: Given that delicious food seems to be everywhere here, we couldn’t let another post go by without sharing some of the yummy cuisine we’ve been eating (and seeing). Bon appetit!

Thai’d and gone to heaven in Phuket

Phuket, Thailand (Ash): I am in love with Thailand - and since Phuket is our first stop, for now I am in love with Phuket. Although the island has many qualities to adore, one of perhaps the most noticeable for a newcomer (aside from the ladyboys walking the streets) is how far a dollar can take you. For those of you at home, I thought it might be fun to share a sample budget so you can see what I mean…keep in mind that we are probably closer to “flashpackers” than true backpackers, so you could probably do it for half the cost if you really wanted to. Also keep in mind I’ve included a massage in the daily budget, since, well, I plan on getting one every day

• Breakfast and coffee at our hotel: 150 baht
• Tuk-tuk (taxi) to semi-remote Nai Harn beach: 150 baht
• Thai noodle soup from street vendor (don’t worry mom! Thai street vendors are known for extremely sanitary, not to mention delicious, habits): 40 baht
• 1 hour thai-massage (sans happy ending): 200 baht
• 2 beers on the beach: 120 baht
• Heaping plate of shrimp pad thai: 50 baht
• Hotel (we sprung for a trendy spot): 400 baht

This brings us to a grand total of 1,110 baht. With a current exchange rate of 32.4 baht to the dollar, you do the math. (in case you don’t have a calculator handy, that’s $34.25)

Almost English: Seen on the street in Phuket, Thailand (yes, that says “Guality”)