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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Sponsored Top 10 reasons for expats to get a comprehensive health insurance in Thailand
Moving to Thailand offers plenty of excitement and adventure, but the local healthcare system can be complex to navigate as an expat. From unique health risks to high costs at private hospitals, having a comprehensive health insurance plan is essential....
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Unexpected algae bloom hits Patong beach due to premature seaweed growth
Yesterday, employees from the Public Health and Environment Division of Patong Municipality were hard at work on Patong Beach, clearing off algae that washed ashore. This unexpected event came as a result of an algae bloom and has yet to be formally addressed by Patong Municipality. The purpose of this timely response was primarily to retain the aesthetic appeal of Patong…
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Where to celebrate Christmas in Phuket 2023
The jingle bells start to ring and the fairy lights begin to twinkle, Christmas is almost here! If you’re spending Christmas in Phuket, you’ll be happy to know that the island is teeming with restaurants ready to serve a yuletide feast for you and your kin. From expansive buffets to elegant set menus, here are the best Christmas brunches and dinners in…
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South Korean firm GCOO brings e-bikes and e-scooters to Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s famous tourist destination, is now home to e-bikes and e-scooters, courtesy of South Korean firm GCOO. The company recently launched its clean-energy personal transport services, deploying these eco-friendly vehicles at major points across the island, including Phuket Town and Patong. The launch, dubbed Phuket Smart Mobility, was celebrated with an event held at the Chartered Bank Intersection in…
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Endangered leatherback turtle nest discovered on Phuket beach
Phuket woke up to a delightful surprise on December 18 when a nest of a leatherback turtle was discovered at Tha Sai Beach in the Na Toei area of Thai Mueang District, Phang Nga, situated north of Phuket. The find, reported by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), marks another significant milestone in the conservation efforts for this…
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Phuket to host luxury boat show: Multi-billion baht yachts and jets
In a dazzling display set to elevate Phuket‘s status on the global luxury stage, the Thailand International Boat Show A Luxury Lifestyle Event is gearing up to showcase a spectacular line-up of yachts, private jets, and more. This high-profile event is poised to inject a staggering 500 million baht into Phuket’s economy, drawing in a crowd of High Net Worth…
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Man disrupts tranquillity on Soi Ta-iad, Phuket with knife
Late in the afternoon yesterday, an unusual spectacle unfolded on Soi Ta-iad in Chalong, Phuket. A visibly agitated, physically imposing man was seen storming down the street, brandishing a nine-inch knife. The sight served as a jarring interruption to the tranquillity typically enjoyed by the fitness enthusiasts and athletes training in Muay Thai and MMA on this street. The local…
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British man found dead at Phuket hospital after suspected fall
A tragic incident unfolded in the early morning hours yesterday (December 18), when a 69 year old British man was discovered lifeless at Thalang Hospital in Phuket. The circumstances surrounding his death suggest he plunged from the fourth floor of the building, landing near the hospital staff dormitory. Thalang Hospital staff promptly reported the incident to Pol Lt Col Patthipat…
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Phuket’s phenomenal rise: From tropical paradise to global hub
In the wake of a robust global economic resurgence, Phuket has emerged as a magnet for inbound migration, shaping a vibrant and eclectic international community in the heart of Asia, reveals C9 Hotelworks’ latest expansive investment dossier on Phuket’s economic landscape. Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks Bill Barnett stated… “With a tourism and property market in full throttle, we’re witnessing…
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Finnish tourist in Phuket cons parents with fake arrest scam for 7,000 euros
Phuket’s tourist police unraveled a fraudulent scheme involving a 27 year old Finnish man, who conned his parents out of 7,000 euros. The tourist falsely claimed that he had been arrested and demanded the hefty amount for his release. The revelation unfolded when the parents lodged a complaint on Friday after losing contact with their son, fearing he was a…
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Foreign buyers flock to Thailand’s tropical condos: Chinese and Russians lead
Foreign buyers such as the Chinese and Russian are dominating the condominium scene, turning Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket into international real estate playgrounds. A staggering 10,703 units, raking in a jaw-dropping 52.3 billion baht, exchanged hands in the nine months leading up to September, marking a whopping 38% surge from the previous year, according to the Real Estate Information Center,…
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Uzbek consul general discusses trade and tourism potential with Phuket governor
Fakhriddin Sultanov, the Consul General of the Republic of Uzbekistan, made a courtesy visit to the Governor of Phuket, Sophon Suwannarat, yesterday, December 14. The visit marked a momentous occasion for Sultanov as it was his 36th trip to the popular Thai island. The delegation was warmly greeted, and the meeting was aimed at discussing potential cooperation between Phuket and…
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Phuket switches to ‘seven days of family happiness’ to boost road safety
Phuket is taking a fresh approach to road safety during the forthcoming festive season. The island is rebranding its annual Seven Days of Danger campaign as Seven Days of Family Happiness in a bid to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities on its roads. The revised campaign was announced during a press conference yesterday, December 14, presided over by Sattha Thongkham,…
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IndiGo unleashes Phuket frenzy: Boosts flights, beats malfunction woes
In a bold move to amplify global ties, IndiGo, India‘s high-flying airline, unleashed a flight bonanza, with additional routes from Mumbai to Phuket and the revival of operations from Bengaluru to the Thai hotspot. But that’s not all—this strategic move comes amidst a soaring demand for year-end getaways. IndiGo is set to soar to new heights with extra flights connecting Mumbai…
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Thai tourism booms as over a quarter vow to return: Visa insights
A Visa study has uncovered that Thailand is set to witness a tourism surge with a whopping 28% of travellers who explored the country this year, expressing their firm intention to make a return within the next 12 months. The 2023 Global Travel Intentions Study by Visa, the largest and longest-running consumer insights study of its kind, has provided a…
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Phuket nightlife extends with 4am closing and increased safety measures
Phuket’s nightlife venues in Patong will soon be buzzing till 4am, thanks to new government regulations. To ensure the safety of party-goers, Kathu district’s Chief, Theeraphong Chuaychu, announced the creation of a war room to keep tabs on these late-night establishments. This extension of closing hours is set to come into force on December 16 and will impact selected areas…
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Thai Airways tests sustainable aviation fuel on Phuket-Bangkok flight
Thai Airways International and PTT Oil and Retail Business PLC piloted a flight employing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Phuket to Bangkok yesterday, December 13. The initiative, which signals a significant stride towards an environmentally friendly aviation industry, was revealed during a media briefing at Phuket International Airport. Disathat Panyarachun, the head of PTT Oil and Retail Business PLC, explained…
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Young motorcyclist emerges as hero in Phuket traffic jam
During the evening rush hour chaos at the Koh Kaew intersection in Phuket last night, December 12, an unassuming young motorcyclist helped clear the way for an ambulance carrying a patient through heavy traffic. The motorcyclist rode a Honda Click. The incident was captured on video by Wisarut Saman, a rescue worker with Kusoldharm. He took to TikTok to share…
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Taiwanese tourist’s stolen motorbike recovered in Phuket within three days
An unsuspecting blue Honda Scoopy motorbike was whisked away from its temporary parking spot on Wiset Road, Rawai, in Phuket leaving its rider, Taiwanese tourist Chen Hong Xi, and owner, Narongchai Wangboonkong, in a state of distress. The theft of the rented motorbike was promptly reported to the Chalong Police on December 2 by Narongchai. The officers of Chalong Police…
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Anchalee Tephabutra resigns from Thailand’s Democrat Party after 31 years
Anchalee Tephabutra, a prominent political figure and a devoted member of the Democrat Party for over 31 years, announced her resignation, causing ripples in the political landscape of Thailand. Having been a confidante to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva during his tenure, her departure from the party marks a significant event. Anchalee has been a cornerstone for the Democrats in Phuket…
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Tourists evicted from Phuket resort due to property dispute
A sunny vacation turned sour for several tourists who were holidaying at a resort in Kamala, Phuket when they unexpectedly found themselves embroiled in a property dispute that led to them having to seek alternative accommodation. The hotel operator was evicted from the property, leaving approximately 20 rooms of guests stranded and forced to fend for themselves. The eviction process…
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Tourists evicted from makeshift camp on Patong Beach, Phuket
An unexpected event unfolded on the sandy shores of Patong Beach when a group of international tourists found themselves in a bit of a pickle with the local authorities. Having set up a makeshift camp, complete with a tent on the beach, they were informed by the Phuket Tourist Police that such arrangements were simply not allowed. The incident came…
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Phuket: Danish tourists minivan crash with pickup truck in Thalang
Four Danish tourists were left battered and bruised after a collision between their minivan taxi and a pickup truck in Thalang, Phuket. The crash unfolded yesterday morning, December 11 on the Mueang Mai – Paklok Road in Thep Krasattri. Thalang Police received report of a crash at 9.30am, and rushed to the accident scene where a minivan lay battered on…
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Thai King and Queen gear up for 35th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
The Thai King and Queen participated in today’s international sailing competition training in Phuket, joining the THA72 team in the IRC Zero category. The event took place today, December 7, at 7.42am at Kata Beach. His Majesty the King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and his wife Queen Suthida were preparing for the 35th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, a prestigious international…
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Phuket: 16 year old boy found dead in Thalang pond
A 16 year old boy who vanished while enjoying a swim was found dead in Baan Maruan Pond. Warut Butleb, a bright third-year high school student at Rajaprajanugroh School 36 in Kamala, yesterday, December 5, disappeared while swimming with his friend Ngae, a 10 year old from Myanmar. A seven-hour search for the teenage boy ended in a devastating discovery. The…
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Phuket’s uphill battle conquered: Patong Hill road reopens, paving the way for smooth travels
Vehicles are once again smoothly navigating the stretch of road over Patong Hill in Phuket, following the successful completion of repair works. The vital link, which was previously marred by subsidence beneath the road surface, is now fully operational with both lanes leading to Patong open for traffic. The confirmation of this development was announced yesterday, November 30 by the…
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Phuket president seeks solutions for traffic, proposes electric buses
Phuket’s traffic woes might soon see a respite, with Rewat Areerob, the President of Phuket’s Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), urging Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to implement measures to ease the city’s road congestion. Additionally, Rewat is advocating for the introduction of electric buses in Phuket Town, under the PPAO’s jurisdiction. Rewat yesterday played host to travel experts and policy planning…
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Phuket readies marine safety measures for Thai prime minister’s visit
As a visit from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to assess Phuket‘s sea safety measures approaches, the island’s officials confirmed 100 lifeguards will be deployed across all main beaches. One of the highlights of the 61 year old prime minister’s visit will be a demonstration of the Phuket Marine Disaster Response Plan. A full rehearsal of this plan was carried out…
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Kathu residents eligible for upcoming mayoral election in Phuket
The Phuket branch of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT Phuket) officially announced that residents of the Kathu subdistrict will be eligible to participate in an upcoming mayoral election in January. The announcement was made public through a notice yesterday, November 29, although the official date of the election was not disclosed on Kathu Municipality’s official website or Facebook page.…
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Patong’s peril: Road collapse has drivers on edge in Phuket
A patch of road shoulder collapsed on the route over Patong Hill leading into Phuket’s bustling tourist hub, Patong, a situation that has authorities urging drivers to exercise caution. The subsidence occurred yesterday, and repair works are still ongoing on the compromised section of the route. Emergency repairs were undertaken on the cracked road surface yesterday. The Phuket Highways Office,…
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Fatal road accident in Phuket: Pickup truck crashes, driver dies on spot
A fatal road accident occurred in Phuket, where a pickup truck lost control and crashed into the central road divider. The driver was thrown from the vehicle and died on the spot, while his companion, Witya, also 48 years old, was injured. At approximately 1.50am today, Police Lieutenant Thanpisit Mueangchan, an investigative officer at Thalang Police Station, was alerted to…
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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