A Trip From Pattaya To Phuket

[mogo51]

Last Monday, my two other Aussie mates and myself set off on a trip to Phuket from Pattaya, about 1200km each way - we made it back to tell the story.

Without lingering too long, Thai drivers leave a lot to be desired!  Their impatience is only exceeded only by their lack of driving skills.

I had not been to Phuket for 30 years, so eager to see what has happened it that time - Amazing, from a small fishing village with a few small hotels and one International Resort, it has blossomed into an amazing place.  Too busy and congested but some wonderful resorts and hotels.

We were fortunate to have a Cruise Ship in the harbour.  There for a friend of one of my mate's 70th Birthday at a hotel right on the beach at North Patong.  It was a fantastic night.

What struck me was the difference in the cost of all aspects of living there and in Hua Hin (where the King is currently resting in Thailand).  I was told 20% more expensive than Pattaya, this is way short.  As an economic expat,I could just not afford to live at either place, although I would like to.

So back to Pattaya we go on a Kamakazi mission!

So the deal is, unless you have plenty of scratch, Phuket/Hua Hin is not for you (or me).  Buth worth a look.

My liver is now in intensive care trying to recover!

[Huggybearman]

Glad you enjoyed your trip, Ron. I agree about the manic Thai drivers. You're far braver than me. We preferred to hire a car and drove ourselves from Pattaya.

I found Phuket a bit too manic for me and crazy prices! But Hai Narn bay, on the south end of the island was, to my mind, the closest I came to an idyllic spot on Phuket. If you get down that way again, I can highly recommend it.

Ken