Wat Phra Thong, or 'Temple of the Gold Buddha', near Thalang
Pearl of the South in the Land of Smiles.
Dubbed 'Pearl of the South' by the tourist industry, Phuket is Thailand's largest, most populous and most visited island. A whirl of colour and cosmopolitanism, Thailand's only island province revolves around and thrives on tourism, but still retains a spark of the real Thailand.
There are a hundred and one ways to pass the day in Phuket. There are also more tourists here than on any other Thai island - it certainly knows how to cater to tourists' every whim. Most flock to the beaches on the southwestern side, which are loaded with amenities and entertainment options.
Transsexual show girls at club in Soi Katoey ('Ladymen St'), Patong Beach
Small part of Karon Beach, one of Phuket's longest and best beaches
Parked cars and signs choking main street in Patong
View over pool and sea, at Novotel Phuket Resort, Kalim Beach, Patong
Fish, men and purple plastic baskets at Seafood Market in Phuket Town
Young men about to pierce themselves with skewers, at Vegetarian Festival
Scooter noodles on the go in Phuket Town
