Phuket, Thailand Hotels and City Guide

Phuket - Airports

Phuket International Airport

Phuket International Airport is strategically located 32 kilometres (20 miles) from downtown Phuket. It is the second busiest airport in Thailand in terms of passenger and cargo volume. The airport also plays a fundamental role in promoting travel and tourism to Phuket by being the main gateway to Thailand’s largest island.

Phuket International Airport features one spacious airport terminal that serves many national and international airlines such as Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, China Airlines, Hong Kong Dragon Airlines, Korean Airlines, Lauda Air, LTU International Airways, Malaysia Airlines, and Silk Air.

Phuket International Airport Terminal

Housed in a spacious three-storied complex, the Phuket International Airport Terminal comprises a domestic and international arrival passenger lounge on the 1st floor. The 2nd floor caters to the domestic and international departure passengers, whilst the 3rd floor is dedicated to airline offices and a restaurant.

More than ten duty free shops are featured in this plush terminal, offering travellers a wide selection of jewellery, liquor, cigars, and perfumes to name a few.

The Thai Airways International Restaurant, located on the 3rd floor, serves delicious Thai and European cuisines. Snack bars are situated throughout the terminal complex, increasing traveller convenience.

Other facilities available at the Phuket Airport terminal include a certified tour service counter sited in the Departure Hall, a post and telegraph office, limousine and car rental desks, a transit area, five currency exchange centres, six baggage conveyors, a smoking lounge, an Islamic prayer room, medical assistance, lost and found property services, a hotel reservations counter, complimentary luggage trolleys, passenger meeting points, and special facilities designed for physically challenged travellers including specially allocated parking lots, convenient lifts, adapted bathrooms and lower-level telephones.

According to Thai law, a “Passenger Service Charge” is applicable to all passengers above the age of two passing through the Phuket International Airport.

Phuket International Airport Car Park

Phuket International Airport offers a secure car parking building that can comfortably accommodate a large number of cars, coaches and buses.

Transportation

Travellers can arrange for taxi hires, private car rentals and even book a seat on a minibus at the airport information counter.

Many star-rated Phuket hotels provide limousine or shuttle services to guests who have made prior hotel reservations.

Airport limousines and minibuses are also available to all the major hotels and resorts in Phuket. The minibus takes a bit longer since it drops other passengers off along the way. Alternatively, a taxi stand is conveniently located outside the terminal building.

Taxis have proved to be the most preferred mode of transport in Phuket, however, it is recommended to first agree on a price before travelling. Private, air-conditioned car rentals are another fast and reliable way to see this great city.

It is important to be aware that certain minibus drivers stop at tour companies along the way and encourage passengers to book rooms, for which they receive a commission. Often they claim that all the Phuket hotels are full and you must book with them to get a room for the night. This is a scam. You should firmly state that you have already booked a room, even if you haven't. This way they won't try and hassle you.

Hotels in Phuket, Thailand