History
Years ago seafarers used Phuket as a stopover port on the route between India and China. In the 16th century the Dutch established a trading post on the island and the area became a center of trade and commerce among Europeans, French, Dutch and Portuguese. At this time the Thais governed the island's northern and central regions, and the southern and western parts were given over to the tin trade, a concession in the hands of foreigners. In the 18th century the Burmese planned an invasion, but word arrived ahead of the Burmese and forces in Phuket were assembled led by two heroines, Kunying Jan (wife of Phuket's recently deceased governor) and her sister Mook. After a siege lasting one month the Burmese were forced to depart on 13 March, 1785.
During the Nineteenth Century Chinese immigrants arrived in such numbers to work for the tin mines that the ethnic character of the island's interior became predominantly Chinese, while the coastal settlements remained populated chiefly by Muslim fishermen. Rubber became a thriving industry in the 20th century and, with the opening of an international airport in 1976, Phuket developed into a major tourist destination and the wealthiest province in Thailand.
Geography
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and is about the same size to Singapore. It lies in the Southwest corner of the kingdom on a continental shelf that extends for 20 km into the clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea. The widest part, measured from east west is 21.3 km., the longest from north south is 48.7 km.
Climate
Phuket has a tropical monsoon climate. There are just two seasons, the rainy season from May through October and the hot season from November through April. Although it rains, there are many sunny days throughout the rainy season when showers normally last for no more than 2 or 3 hours. Year round average temperatures range between 21 Degrees Celsius and 36 Degrees Celsius.
Accommodation
From exotic resorts catering to the rich and famous to budget accommodation, Phuket has it all.
People
Phuket's official population, as of April 2002, was 264,800. Residents include Thais who migrated from the mainland, Chinese who arrived to work the tin minutes, Muslims, and sea gypsies. Arabs, Indian and Europeans are among those who have also left their influences. Today there is also a thriving community of expats.
Food
Famous for its succulent seafood, Phuket is also gaining a reputation for its quality international cuisine, from Italian to Middle Eastern to Indian and Japanese. Quality wine can be found at most restaurants. The choice of where to eat is a difficult one as the variety is endless, if the island's street vendors and noodle stalls don't tempt you, its exotic cliff top restaurant surely will.
