Phuket News
Discover the latest news and updates from Thailand’s most famous and beautiful island, The Thaiger’s hometown, having previously operated as the Phuket Gazette.
Our team brings you breaking news, in-depth analysis, and exclusive stories from Phuket, covering everything from local politics and business to lifestyle and tourism. Learn about the island’s stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and thriving expat community, as well as keeping updated on events, and attractions.
The Thaiger is your ultimate guide to staying connected with Phuket’s ever-evolving landscape. To keep up with the most reliable news source on the island, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.
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5 hidden healthcare costs in Thailand and how to avoid them
Thailand's healthcare system is affordable and supported by the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme, offering essential services to most citizens. However, hidden healthcare costs can surprise patients and lead to unexpected expenses. These include specialist fees, insurance gaps, emergency services,...
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Phuket Bolt driver defends actions after entering passenger’s room
A Thai Bolt driver in Phuket turned himself into officers at Patong Police Station yesterday to defend himself. He insisted that the female passenger allowed him to enter her room and that he had no ill intentions towards her. The 25 year old Thai woman, Nan, filed a complaint at Patong Police Station after the Bolt driver, later identified as…
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Phuket’s inadequate infrastructure development raises concerns
Inadequate infrastructure development in Phuket is struggling to match the island’s rapid urbanisation and severe flooding, tarnishing its reputation. The government’s failure to allocate sufficient budget and upgrade public facilities as promised is a significant concern. The President of the Phuket Tourist Association, Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, highlighted that 60% of tourists are first-time visitors who might not return if infrastructure issues…
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British man arrested in Phuket Airport amid embezzlement claims
A 37 year old British man was apprehended at Phuket Airport upon his arrival in Thailand, due to a long-standing arrest warrant. The Brit, whose identity remains undisclosed, has been on the Thai police’s radar since 2017, and his actions are now facing intense scrutiny. Thai immigration officers arrested the suspect at 1.10pm yesterday, July 2, after his passport check…
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Phuket flight turbulence: Rainstorm forces diversions amid deluge
Fourteen flights bound for Phuket were forced to divert to alternative airports as a deluge of rain battered the popular resort island, causing widespread flooding. Phuket Airport Director Monchai Tanod confirmed that although the airport itself remained dry, visibility plummeted to dangerously low levels between 7am and 9am, today, July 2. “Pilots simply couldn’t see the runway.” Flights had to…
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Thai woman demands justice after finding Phuket Bolt driver in bed
A Thai woman filed a complaint with the police after a Bolt driver in Phuket entered her condominium room in the Patong sub-district and slept with her in her bed. The 25 year old woman, Nan, shared her story with the Phuket Times to warn other women and urge the app-based driver not to repeat his actions. According to Nan,…
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Phuket’s Walking Street market leads new street food initiative
Phuket’s Chartered Walking Street market has been selected by the Department of Health as the premier venue for the Street Food Good Health from Local to Global initiative. This programme aims to bolster tourist confidence and attract visitors throughout the year. Deputy Director-General of the Department of Health, Dr Atthaphon Kaewsamrit, and Dr Kusak Kukiattikoon, Chief of the Phuket Provincial…
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Phuket governor washes up Kamala after torrential rain (video)
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat spearheaded a substantial cleanup operation in Kamala following heavy rains that caused widespread flooding across Phuket. The downpours yesterday, June 30, led to traffic disruptions, flight delays, and inundated neighbourhoods. Joining the Governor in Kamala were Phuket Vice Governor Sattha Thongkham, Phuket Provincial Chief Administrative Office Suwit Suriyawong, Phuket Provincial Police Commander, Police Major General Sinlert…
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Phuket flight fiasco: Downpour delays leave one still in the clouds
Phuket International Airport confirmed that only one of the 17 flights delayed by yesterday’s downpours has yet to complete its journey. To mitigate any dangers posed by landing in intense weather conditions, inbound flights were diverted to Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi International Airports, as well as airports in Krabi, Langkawi, Penang, and Surat Thani as pilots had no vision of…
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Heavy rainfall disrupts flights and floods Phuket (video)
Heavy rainfall in Phuket disrupted flights and caused widespread flooding across the tourist island province. Starting at 7am, today, June 30, persistent rain forced the diversion of around 10 inbound flights to other airports, including Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, Krabi, Langkawi, Penang, and Surat Thani. The heavy downpour reduced visibility, making it impossible for pilots to see the runway, according to…
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Phuket bans heavy trucks on key roads during peak hours
Heavy-duty trucks with 10 wheels or more are now restricted from travelling on certain Phuket roads during peak traffic hours, effective today. This measure, enforced under Section 139 of the Land Traffic Act 1979, aims to mitigate the island’s worsening traffic congestion. Phuket Provincial Police Commander Sinlert Sukhum issued the order on June 7, citing the imbalance between the growing…
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Police hunt woman who stole gold amulet and 600 baht in Patong
A woman is being sought by police in Patong for stealing a gold amulet and 600 baht from a smoothie shop early today. Patong police responded to the incident on Sawasdirak Road at 10.50am today after the shop owner, known as Aum, reported the theft. She had closed her shop at 2.30am and found the items missing when she returned…
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Phuket Pride 2024 parade route confirmed for Old Town celebration
Phuket Town Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas confirmed the route for the Discover Phuket Pride 2024 parade, set to take place on the streets of Phuket Old Town tomorrow, June 29. Thousands are expected to join the celebration, led by a star-studded lineup of Thai celebrities, including actress Grace Patsita, singer Mum Laconics, actors Tae Nanthasai, Biw Nattapon, Big Nathaschai, and actress…
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Water meter mayhem: Thieves leave Phuket homeowner all wet
Thieves last night stole a water meter from a house in Ratsada, Phuket, causing significant flooding, leaving the homeowner distraught and the property damaged. Phuket City Police received a call at 11.26pm, yesterday, June 26, about the incident near Paknam Seafood on Ratsadanusorn Road in Moo 3, Ratsada. Upon arrival, officers found the property owner dealing with extensive water damage…
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Phuket’s digital dive: Seminar equips leaders for tech tide
Phuket officials recently conducted a training seminar aimed at educating local community leaders on the use and risks associated with digital media and technology. The event, held at a hotel in Ratsada yesterday, was presided over by Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong. Chief of the Phuket branch of the National Statistics Office (NSO), Hasana Lekheem highlighted the seminar’s objective of…
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Phuket board urges better waste separation management
Phuket grapples with the challenge of managing its daily solid waste, with waste separation emerging as a critical focus. Members of the Phuket Provincial Governance Board yesterday conducted an inspection of the Phuket Provincial Waste Disposal Centre and Incinerator at Saphan Hin. Peeraphit Aongcharoen, Vice Chairman of the Board, led the delegation to monitor and assess the progress of budget…
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AOT shakes up commercial space at Bangkok and Phuket airports
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to reclaim prime commercial and office spaces at Suvarnabhumi and Phuket International Airports in a move to improve passenger satisfaction, despite facing a potential loss of over 90 million baht. AOT revealed plans to reclaim areas currently operated by King Power Duty-Free and office spaces used by key government agencies, including the Immigration Bureau, the…
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Thai Post launches Euro 2024 contest with 10 million baht in prizes
Thai Post kicked off its Euro 2024 lucky prize contest with a vibrant road show through Phuket Town yesterday, marking the beginning of a nationwide campaign to promote the contest. Assistant Postmaster of Phuket Piyavit Siksamat highlighted Thai Post’s collaboration with Thairath to engage the public in the UEFA Euro 2024 Championship taking place in Germany. This campaign, themed Cheer…
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Warning issued for venomous jellyfish at Phuket’s Racha Yai Island
A warning has been issued about the presence of the highly venomous Portuguese Man o’ War jellyfish in the waters of Lah Bay and Tue Bay at Racha Yai Island, Phuket. Tourists and those engaging in marine activities in the area are advised to exercise extreme caution to avoid contact with these dangerous creatures. The Department of Marine and Coastal…
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Phuket fraud case crumbles: Dutchman cleared of shopping scam
Phuket Provincial Court dismissed the case against a 40 year old Dutchman accused of operating a fraudulent shopping mall website scam. He was arrested at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok in February of 2021. Several Thai and foreign residents, primarily from Phuket province and Koh Samui island in Surat Thani province, filed a complaint against the Dutchman, accusing him of tricking…
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2 drunk Russian women attack Thai woman after Phuket car crash
Two alleged drunk Russian women crashed their car into a Thai woman’s vehicle on a road in Phuket and physically assaulted the victim to stop them from fleeing the scene. A Thai woman filed a complaint at Choeng Thale Police Station at around 8pm, yesterday, June 23, after the accident. The woman explained that her car was hit in the…
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Russian woman loses shoulder bag to snatcher in Phuket
A Russian woman last night lost her shoulder bag to an opportunist thief while sitting on a motorcycle outside her condominium in Phuket. Alisa Makarenko, the victim, reported the theft at Mueang Phuket Police Station at 9.30pm, yesterday, June 23. She informed the police that she had left Supalai Vista condominium on her motorcycle around 8.40pm. According to her account,…
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Body of missing Belgian man found after ignoring red flag in Phuket
A Belgian man drowned after ignoring a red flag warning on Freedom Beach in Phuket. Thai netizens’ opinions were divided. Some expressed condolences to his family, while others condemned him for being reckless and causing trouble to rescuers. According to a Phuket Times report on June 22, two accidents were reported on Kata and Freedom beaches. In the first incident,…
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Tourists flee as tuk tuk leader threatens taxi driver in Patong
A heated confrontation erupted in front of Jungceylon in Patong yesterday when a local tuk tuk leader threatened a metered taxi driver, prompting the taxi’s foreign passengers to quickly exit for their safety. The incident unfolded as the metered taxi was dropping off a customer at the bustling mall. Two foreign tourists entered the taxi, unaware of the turmoil that…
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British man found dead in Phuket hotel room, drugs suspected
A 48 year old British man was discovered dead in his hotel room in Cherng Talay, Phuket, prompting an investigation by local police. Police were alerted to the scene in Soi Cherng Talay 14 at 4.30pm yesterday, June 22. The man was found lying on his back on the bed, clad in grey boxer shorts, with his hands tightly clenched.…
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Government may raise foreign condo ownership limit to 75%
The government considers increasing the foreign ownership limit in condominiums from 49% to 75% of a building’s usable space, as disclosed by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The Interior Ministry is evaluating the feasibility of extending the maximum leasehold period for foreigners from 50 years to 99 years. Phumtham stated that this proposal was first discussed at a Cabinet meeting…
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Saphan Hin gas gun shooting suspect wanted by Phuket police
Police in Phuket are actively searching for a suspect involved in a shooting incident at Saphan Hin. The assailant reportedly used a gas gun during the attack. Police received a report about the incident around 10.50pm yesterday. Staff at Phuket Provincial Hospital in Ratsada notified officers that a shooting victim had been admitted for treatment. The victim, Sakdawut Saengphon, was…
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Teen shatters taxi window in heated Kathu dispute, pays damages
A heated exchange between a youth and a taxi driver in the Kathu district of Phuket on Tuesday night escalated to a point where the taxi’s rear window was shattered. The incident led to the youth being called in by police to pay for the damages but facing no charges. The altercation took place near the Si Kor Intersection, close…
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Russian man steals bag with 15,000 baht cash & phone in Phuket
A Thai woman issued a warning to locals in Phuket after a Russian man stole her bag, containing 15,000 baht in cash and a mobile phone, at a bar in the Karon neighbourhood on Wednesday. The victim shared the story with Phuket Times yesterday, June 20, stating that she worked at a bar in the Karon area of Phuket and…
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Phuket lifeguards raise red flags as surf conditions turn deadly
Lifeguards today have raised red no swimming flags along Patong Beach, urging all residents and tourists to avoid entering the water. This follows a notice issued yesterday by Phuket Vice Governor Sattha Thongkham, acting on behalf of the governor of Phuket. The red flags indicate areas deemed too dangerous for swimming due to heavy surf conditions. Despite these warnings, some…
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American tourist and Thai girlfriend drown in Phuket
An American tourist and his Thai girlfriend drowned after allegedly ignoring a red flag weather warning at Mai Khao Beach in Phuket. The bodies of 45 year old James Edmond Newman from New York, and 48 year old Waranya Chanphai from Surin province, were discovered on Monday morning, June 17. Police Major Ronnapoom Permpoon of the Thachatchai Police Station stated…
Phuket is a province in the south of Thailand. Phuket's beaches face the Andaman Sea allowing the west coast beaches fantastic sunsets right throughout the year. If you're looking for news in Phuket, go to thethaiger.com/phuket Or follow our instant news in our Facebook pages.
The good news is that Phuket is famous for its foodie scene with an enormously diverse range of local and international foods - Phuket and southern favorites, street food along with international choices catering for the 12 million visitors to the island each year. Thaiger follows Phuket news and information 24 hours a day with regular updates.
Phuket is only 'just' an island with a 300 metre bridge linking it to Thailand's mainland. We're always reporting in the news that the channel beneath is frequently dredged to maintain Phuket's status as an island. On the other side of Sarasin Bridge is the Province of Phang Nga.
Getting to Phuket is easy as the island has land, air and sea connections. Phuket is also used as a take-off point for local island trips as Thailand's largest island is surrounded by over 30 pristine islands. Koh Phi Phi and the famous Maya Bay are always in the news and would be the best known of the island's just off Phuket's shores.
Phuket is an island and a province. It's the largest island in Thailand – 48 km north to south, 21 km east to west.
It's about 20% smaller, in area, than Singapore but much less densely populated. Whilst the island nation of Singapore boasts a population of nearly 6 million, Phuket has a permanent population of around 400-450,000 (but varies a lot with the influx of tourists and a workforce that is always changing). Most of Phuket remains jungle and tropical rainforest despite an acceleration of development over the past 20 years.
Unlike some of Thailand's other popular islands (that are in the Gulf of Thailand), the news is that Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea.
Phuket is 878 km north of the equator.
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