Beyond the Beaches, Discover What Still Makes Phuket Truly Local
Phuket is known today for its beach clubs, resorts, and nightlife, but beyond the modern lifestyle, there is another side that many forget — what we call “The Real Phuket.” This side of the island hasn’t disappeared. It’s just a little quieter and often hidden. You’ll still find long-established local restaurants serving the same dishes for decades, with loyal customers who know exactly what to order. Around Phuket Town, elegant Sino-Portuguese mansions and heritage museums reveal how much history this island carries, especially from the tin mining era.
The oldest and most revered Thai temples, including Wat Chalong and Wat Phra Thong, are still active and peaceful. Many Chinese shrines are still central to the community, especially during the annual Vegetarian Festival. Real Phuket is not a tourist show — it’s the part that locals live with every day. You don’t need to go far to find it, but it helps to slow down, explore the streets of old Phuket Town, or follow the smell of garlic from a hidden family-run kitchen. It’s still here, and for those who take the time, it’s one of the most rewarding sides of the island.
