PHUKET, THAILAND PEARL

The bustling, administrative centre of Phuket is often overlooked in favour of the beaches, but there's a lot to see and do (and spend your money on!) in Phuket City.

Having been recently upgraded to city status, Phuket City features an exciting mix of old and new, simple and sophisticated, peaceful and pulsating.

Few islands can boast of such an abundance of sandy beaches and clear waters as Phuket. The winding coastal roads along the west coast of this 540-square-km island offer stunning views and easy access to some of the world's finest beaches.

Whether one wants to sample the frenetic pace of Patong or find solitude on a remote stretch of sand in the north, Phuket's beaches have it all for the sun seeker. The monsoon rains of May-October can bring unpredictable swimming conditions, so heed the posted flag warnings.

While it may be tempting to stay on the beach every day, there are heaps of sports and other activities that will spice up your stay in Phuket. Be adventurous, learn something new, stay fit, and most of all, take time to explore some of the truly fascinating sites in the waters surrounding Phuket and on its interior.

For many the sun, the beach and partying goes hand in hand. Phuket's reputation as a partying hotspot is well deserved with an international crowd of revelers . Go Go Bars, ladyboys cabaret shows, discos and clubs, live bands and jazz features highly as our guide will tell...

Running out of time to see and do it all? See this quick and handy guide to our favourites. Spectacular capes and sexy cabaret shows. Heavenly hongs in the bay. Snakes and sunsets. Thrilling theatre. Temple treats. Waterfall wonders. Quiet parks and quaint streets...

Whether they're held to honour a religious belief or just for fun, the festivals of Phuket are exciting, sometimes bizarre spectacles - certainly never bland. The island's most disctinctive event is the annual Vegetarian Festival , featuring processions of god-mediums performing shocking acts of self-mortification as a test of faith. Held over 9 days in the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar (late September-early October).

Other lively and colourful events unique to Phuket include the Phuket King's Cup Regatta, the Gay Festival 2005 and Phuket Bike Week, while others, such as Loy Kratong and Songkran , Chinese New Year, are part of a nationwide celebration. The island gets busy during festival times so be sure to book a hotel in advance. Check this section regularly for updates and additions.