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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Poker-faced fraudster nabbed in million-baht investment scam
In a dramatic turn of events, a key figure in a jaw-dropping multi-million baht investment scam has been collared by the law in Phuket. Nattapol, the slippery suspect, was rounded up by officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) working in tandem with the Highway Police, after slipping through the net on four separate arrest warrants for his alleged role…
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German woman bitten by suspected shark at Phang Nga beach
A German woman underwent surgery at a hospital in Phuket yesterday after being bitten by an unidentified fish, suspected to be a shark while swimming in the sea off Khao Lak Beach in the southern province of Phang Nga. The 57 year old woman, Elke Maier, was swimming with her four family members near Khaolak Laguna Resort on November 29 when…
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Phuket parade: Carnival rolls out beach carpet for tourists (video)
Phuket is gearing up to roll out the red carpet for tourists worldwide with the eagerly anticipated Phuket Carnival at Patong 2024. This annual spectacle, a hallmark of the island’s high tourist season, promises to be bigger and better than ever with its theme, Phuket Memories of a Lifetime. Taking place from December 8 to 10 at the bustling Bang…
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Phuket governor proposes monorail to fix island’s traffic
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat has proposed constructing a monorail system as a strategic solution to combat the increasingly challenging traffic conditions across the island. During an official press conference held yesterday, November 29, at Provincial Hall, which focused on promoting tourism and associated policies, Gov. Sophon discussed the potential monorail project with several private sector organisations. The proposal comes as…
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Australian ambassador visits Phuket to discuss tourist safety
Australian Ambassador to Thailand Angela McDonald visited Phuket on Thursday, November 28, to engage in discussions with Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri. The meeting focused on strengthening economic, political, and safety ties between Australia and Phuket, underscoring the importance of maintaining robust bilateral relations. During the meeting, held at the Phuket Provincial Governor’s Reception Room, McDonald, along with key officials, explored…
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Phuket sands turn to gold as Sansiri digs deep for economic jewel
The sandy shores of Phuket are set for a glamorous makeover as real estate mogul Sansiri Plc zeroes in on the island’s potential to become Thailand’s crown jewel for economic growth. With its eyes firmly fixed on this tropical paradise, Sansiri is revving up its plans, leveraging Phuket’s strategic importance to drive a real estate renaissance. Thanks to Thailand’s revised…
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Saphan Hin: Woman’s body washes ashore, sparking investigation
Early morning fitness enthusiasts at Phuket’s Saphan Hin Public Park were met with a grim sight today as the body of a woman was discovered washed ashore at the tip of Saphan Hin Cape. Police were called to the scene at 6.30am, today, November 29, where they found a small crowd gathered around the deceased. The woman, believed to be…
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Illegal jet ski blitz: Phuket clamps down on rogue operators
Police in Phuket have made waves by seizing six unlicenced jet skis during a dramatic raid at Cape Yamu, Pa Khlok, Thalang. The operation, yesterday, November 28, led by Phuket Marine Police and Marine Department officers, was launched under orders from Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat and Phuket Marine Chief Natchapong Pranit. The raid, conducted at Yamu Pier, aligns with a provincial policy…
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Phuket’s tourism extravaganza: Andaman festival set to dazzle
Phuket is gearing up for a tourism extravaganza like no other. Governor Sophon Suwannarat has thrown open the doors to the Andaman Tourism Networking 2024, a dazzling showcase of six Andaman provinces under the banner, Happening Andaman. Mark your calendars for December 6 to 8 at Saphan Hin, because this three-day event promises to be unforgettable. Speaking at a press conference…
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Phuket cracks down on human trafficking in fisheries
Phuket officials are doubling down on the fight against human trafficking in the island’s bustling marine fisheries sector. At a meeting held yesterday, November 27, leaders stressed the urgency of safeguarding workers from exploitation and aligning with global anti-trafficking standards. The high-level talks, chaired by Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri, gathered agency heavyweights at the Provincial Welfare and Labour Protection Office.…
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Phuket police arrest ‘Red Hat Robber’ chef in phone shop heist
Police in Phuket have apprehended a suspect, known as the “Red Hat Robber,” involved in a robbery at a mobile phone shop. The suspect, a 29 year old chef named Ranjatharit Ngamtharanakit, allegedly committed the crime to repay his car loan. The incident took place at a mobile phone shop in Ban Ao Makham, near the oil depot in Wichit…
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Thai transwomen fight over foreign client on Phuket’s Bangla Road
Another physical fight broke out between Thai transwomen on Soi Bangla in Phuket last night, reportedly over a dispute to win the heart, and wallet, of a foreign client. Local news outlet Phuket Times reported on the incident, which occurred on the yesterday, November 26. “Ladyboys! Violent altercation! Bangla Road, Patong. Fighting over a foreign client. Ignoring repeated warnings. Locals…
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Fire breaks out at Patong hotel sauna, no injuries reported
A fire erupted in the sauna room of the Patong Yorkshire Hotel & Spa, situated on Soi Taipan in Patong yesterday morning. Quick action by emergency services ensured that the blaze was contained without causing injuries or widespread damage. The Patong Police received notification about the fire at 11.39am yesterday, November 26. Responding promptly, police officers and firefighters from the…
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Truck’s sudden U-turn causes chaos on Thepkrasattri Road, Phuket
A sudden manoeuvre by a six-wheeled truck resulted in a chaotic scene on Thepkrasattri Road in Thalang yesterday morning. The truck’s unexpected U-turn forced a trailer truck driver to swerve sharply, leading the larger vehicle to crash into a roadside business area and damage several parked vehicles. Officers from Thalang Police Station arrived at the accident site near the U-turn…
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Phuket motorists warned of road closure for power pole relocation
Motorists in Phuket have been advised to steer clear of Soi Cherng Talay 16 today, November 27, due to a planned closure for essential infrastructure work. The Cherng Talay Police issued a warning to avoid the area as power poles are scheduled to be relocated, impacting traffic flow throughout the day. The Thalang branch of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA…
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Two arrested after brandishing shotgun in Patong traffic bust-up
A terrifying road rage incident shook Patong yesterday when two men allegedly brandished a shotgun at a fellow driver after a heated traffic dispute. The shocking confrontation unfolded around 11.50am, yesterday, November 25, on Phra Metta Road, leaving locals and tourists alarmed. The victim, 23 year old Paphangkon Chithong, reported to police that the clash began when he was abruptly…
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Step up to stop abuse: Phuket rallies against domestic violence
In a powerful stand against abuse, thousands of people filled Saphan Hin Public Park at dawn on Sunday, November 24, participating in a walk-run campaign to raise awareness and call for an end to violence against women, children, and family members. The impactful event, organised by the Phuket Juvenile and Family Court, marked the International Day for the Elimination of…
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Phuket aims for carbon neutrality in Old Town by 2030
Phuket has embarked on an ambitious journey towards sustainable tourism with the introduction of the Phuket Old Town Carbon Neutrality 2030 initiative. This project aims to establish the historic old town as Thailand’s first carbon-neutral area by the year 2030. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, representing Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, officiated the launch of this initiative at the 72nd…
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Shore thing: Foreign couple shamed by locals for public sex on Phuket beach
Another foreign couple faced criticism from locals in Phuket after they were caught engaging in sexual activity on Kata Beach yesterday. A picture of the foreign couple, whose nationalities remain unidentified, was shared by the Phuket Times. The page posted the image for its followers today, November 25, with a caption that read… “It’s windy and chilly. Foreign tourists were…
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Patong’s traffic issues persist due to private road ownership
Patong’s traffic woes continue to frustrate local government agencies as Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri highlights the challenges faced due to private ownership of Soi Saensabai. The notorious Phuket street is known for traffic congestion and safety hazards and has seen several pedestrian injuries, including those involving foreign tourists. The inability of Patong Municipality to impose any regulations or initiate improvements on…
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Wichit, Phuket set to face water supply outages
A significant water supply outage is set to impact a large area of Phuket on Thursday, November 28. The outage, scheduled from 9am to 11.30pm, is necessary to facilitate essential repairs to a 400mm HDPE water supply main in key areas. The Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) Phuket urges residents and businesses in the affected areas to take the following precautions.…
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Deputy minister’s bold plan to quench Phuket’s water woes
Phuket’s water crisis may soon be a thing of the past, thanks to a fresh action plan unveiled during Deputy Minister of Interior Sabida Thaiseth’s recent visit. Arriving in Phuket for a two-day official tour, Sabida dove into long-term strategies to secure the island’s water supply, a critical issue that has plagued the region for years. The briefing took place…
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Overloaded truck in Phuket sparks road safety concern (video)
A pickup truck in Phuket overloaded with what appeared to be water tanks caught the attention of many when a video showcasing its precarious state was posted online. The clip sparked a discussion about road safety and law enforcement on social media. A Facebook user shared a 33-second video on the เหตุด่วนเหตุร้าย ร่วมด้วยช่วยกัน ภูเก็ต V.2 (Emergency Incidents, Help Together Phuket…
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Daring climb: Belarusian tourist seriously injured in Phuket hotel fall
Early this morning, a 23 year old Belarusian tourist was rushed to Patong Hospital with two broken legs and other serious injuries after an attempt to climb up to her hotel room ended disastrously. Rescue workers and Patong Police arrived at the hotel on Nanai Road around 4am, today, November 22, to find the tourist conscious but clearly in agony,…
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Phuket and Indonesia strengthen ties to support local community
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat recently welcomed Suarganana Pringganu, the Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia, to discuss strengthening cooperation and support for the Indonesian community in Phuket. This meeting, held at Phuket Provincial Hall, underscored the importance of nurturing bilateral relations and addressing significant issues such as the welfare and repatriation of Indonesian citizens. During the discussions, Pringganu acknowledged…
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Russian driver crashes into Thai couple’s motorcycle, denies responsibility
A Thai couple is seeking justice after a Russian man allegedly crashed his SUV into their motorcycle on a Phuket road and failed to take responsibility for their injuries. The victims contacted the Phuket Times, urging it to publicise their story in their pursuit of justice. On Tuesday, November 19, the page shared photos of the accident along with details…
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Thai beauty influencer named first Phuket tourism ambassador
Thai social media influencer, Sasisom Phadungkingtrakul, also known as Mook, has made history as she takes on the role of the first-ever Phuket Tourism Ambassador of Thailand. The accolade, awarded by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) under the Amazing Thailand initiative, designates Sasisom as the island’s cultural and promotional representative until the end of 2025. The announcement was made…
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Flight chaos: Air India passengers twice-stranded in Phuket
Over 100 passengers on an Air India flight to New Delhi found themselves stranded in Phuket for over 80 hours, enduring a string of delays due to persistent technical issues with their aircraft. The saga began when the flight, initially scheduled for departure on the night of November 16, was postponed by six hours, with the airline citing technical faults…
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Phuket goes green: Old town steps up for carbon-free tourism
Phuket Old Town took centre stage on Monday, November 18, as the Department of Tourism unveiled its bold initiative to promote low-carbon tourism routes, marking a milestone in sustainable travel for the 2024 fiscal year. Local leaders and media gathered for the showcase event in the historic heart of Phuket, which spotlighted eco-friendly travel practices and the charm of the…
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Bet your bottom baht: Phuket cops cash in on secret gambling bust
Thalang Police swooped on an underground gambling ring in Srisoonthorn, Phuket, arresting 11 people during a targeted raid led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Suchart Luecha. The operation took place at a worker’s residence in Village 4, Srisoonthorn, yesterday, November 19, resulting in a high-profile haul and hefty charges for those involved. Among the arrested were nine women and two men,…
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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