Various governments have changed their travel warnings to restrict travel during this time. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. #fearlessfamtrav, [] However, we did get out and about; the whole family enjoyed Mini Golf and the Upside Down House! As a parent one of my greatest concerns is ensuring no one is going to try to physically harm our family while on vacation. Curriculums range from the independence-based Montessori program at Montessori House Phuket International School, to the traditional academics at British International School Phuket, and the Waldorf and Christian influences found at Lighthouse International. Family travel isnt always easy, but it is fun & memorable. 97 reviews. 4 years ago Save You really won't find much in Karon in terms of bars stores and restaurants compared to patong. Thanks! We visited during the wet season so they werent quite as fabulous as they look in the promotional pictures. Whatever your needs are, theres a great choice of schools on Phuket. are quite rare. Kata - the coolest neighborhood in Phuket. Visit your local travel health professional to discuss what vaccines and precautions might be right for your family before you go. ! A line of beaches bordered by forested jungly hills, Khao Lak has a reputation as being more laid back than its neighbor Phuket. 8 Safety Tips for Travelers Coronavirus (COVID-19) and travel: The situation around the world is changing dramatically. So the best is to pay as drinks arrive! 189/1-2 Supicha Sino Kohkaew 8, Moo 2, Koh Kaew Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000. Our initial plan was to use Khao Lak as a convenient spring board to visit the stunning Khao Sok National park, but in the end we didnt do this. This way, you can vacation in peace with your family. There is an abundance of kid-friendly resorts (many with kids clubs) easy access to a range of activities, including island tours, and much much more. You may want to consider renting a car if your family plans on moving around alot. Chalong There are a few dominant landmarks that preside over Chalong, Big Buddha, Wat Chalong and Chalong Pier. Back then, few parents would have considered packing up the family for a trip to Phuket. Depending on how you venture there it takes about an hour or more to reach Koh Panyee from Phuket. Activities in Phuket in September if weathers real bad! Flying Hanuman sounded like it would be lots of fun for our little adventurers. To minimize exposure, its a good idea to avoid peak hours and opt for private transportation or the Songthaew instead of tuk-tuks. Dont worry if your photography skills are not the best, they have talented photographers wandering around Baan Teelanka. Kid-friendly attractions: Phuket is home to a variety of kid-friendly attractions, including water parks, amusement parks, zoos, and interactive museums. Cultural differences: Like the rest of Thailand, Phuket has a very different culture than many Western countries, and this can be overwhelming for young children. It's known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant nightlife. Of course, as with any destination, it's always important to practice common sense and awareness while traveling. Until they reach maturity they are cute and cuddly but when they reach about 5 years they become aggressive and then are abandoned. From souvenirs to clothing, electronics to authentic Thai street food this market has it all. In conclusion, Phuket is a fantastic destination for young families, as long as you plan carefully and take necessary precautions. COVID & Safety Updates as of June 24, 2021. Travelling Solo in Phuket for the First Time 8 Tips and Suggestions. From the Caribbean Sea to the Indian Ocean, these are some of the best beach honeymoon destinations. My mother and I enjoyed visiting a few temples on Phuket, as well as making the trip up to the Big Buddha which has views across the Island and being huge, the Big Buddha also held the childrens interest. Some believe that just because Thailand is not as developed economically as North America, it is unsafe. Of course, the experience might differ for each traveller, but overall, if you follow the common-sense safety rules, you should never have to worry. One thing is sure to avoid any argument: always ask for the price before starting a ride. Its a matter of identifying and researching the aspects of life that matter most to you and weighing that against what any given place has to offer. We always travel with insurance, it has saved us numerous times. Accessible street food: The night markets and walking markets . 11,939 posts. 7 years ago. Answer (1 of 9): I moved a year and a half ago to Phoenix, AZ with my husky. All rights reserved. This is one of the things we are most looking forward to. Crimes directed at tourists are quite rare and are mostly limited to pick-pocketing and occasional drunken brawls. It offers trendy clothing, several local restaurants, bars, and food stalls. Yes, there are stories about angry drivers occasionally getting aggressive, but considering how many tuk-tuks roam the island, its rare. Phuket really does have the best of both worlds, its got all the modern conveniences you would want for day to day living with the joy of being on a beautiful tropical island. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Heres more about why a James Bond Island Day Trip is a must-do thing to do in Phuket! * Some hotels require you to cancelmore than 24 hoursbefore check-in. 1 Is Phuket safe for children? If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Included in your entry ticket these photographers help you to get the best photos and to see how to turn your world upside down. The entire theme park is lit up with many dazzling lights and displays. 5. Violent crimes typically revolve around family disputes, crimes of passion, or drug deals gone wrong. Heres a solid Phuket family itinerary by a traveling family; actually better still, our 14-day itinerary includes Khao Lak and Phuket Hi! Or better yet bring your own Water Filter Bottles to ensure your family has safe drinking water wherever they go. Bringing baby friendly mosquito repellent and mosquito nets for the whole family to sleep under, as well as avoiding travelling during the rainy season can reduce your risks. While it cant be promised that Phuket is a tropical utopia, for all the reasons discussed it has a lot going for it, checking many of the boxes for a familys needs, and making it on the short list of potential locations for expats to set up a new home for their families. Website Designed & Developed By E-Media Asia Phuket. 10. Is street food safe to eat in Phuket? Thailand is of course famous for its beaches. One caution, road safety isnt wonderful in Thailand, and accidents are common. My first stop in Asia on my trip around the world wasThailandsbustling capital city Bangkok. Additionally, various sizes of vehicle are available, so that even large families with a lot of luggage can be accommodated. We recommend bringing the following essential items with you: Non-essentials, which you can find at your hotel or shops in Phuket: This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Luckily, times have changed, and rip-offs are getting rare. It is one of the not-to-miss places to visit in Phuket for kids that love water parks. Fortunately, Phuket is home to several internationally accredited hospitals and medical clinics, the majority of which have professional staff trained abroad and state-of-the-art facilities. Its a large city known for its modest, small-town atmosphere. Families Naturally, we can't claim that Phuket is 100% safe because nowhere in the world is. Stay safe: As with any destination, its important to stay safe and aware of your surroundings while traveling in Phuket. Of course you will no doubt work up an appetite and the floating market offers many different options. As such be sure that your family members are dressed appropriately as to be respectful of their culture and religion. It is about a 50 minute speed boat ride from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands, or 2 hours by ferry. For more info check here. COVID & Safety Updates as of June 24, 202, Thailand With Kids: Keeping your family safe. Coverage must be for a period of at least 3 months from date of departure, and cover your entire stay. A trip to this awesome themed water park will compliment any Phuket holiday. If you are looking for the best things to do in Phuket with Kids, you have come to the right place. Pollution: While Phukets beaches are generally clean, the island suffers from air pollution, especially during the dry season. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. This makes it easy for families to get around and see all the sights that Phuket has to offer. Text and Photos are Copyright Phuket 101 and Willy Thuan 2011 - 2023 - Copy or use of images or texts without written authorization is strictly prohibited (Credit to or mention of the blog does not constitute authorization). has it chaged at all? Its a big life decision to uproot your family and move abroad, and even more so if kids are part of the equation. We hope that this article will be used as a helpful guide for planning your next great adventure! But the ocean gets rough with waves and strong currents when the monsoon arrives. See the rock formations, or visit a sea cave by canoe. Phuket, Thailands largest island and a popular beach destination, is a place thats bursting with natural beauty, adventure, and culture. British International School Phuket | Credit: bisphuket.ac.th. Some must-see spots for families include Phuket Fantasea, Splash Jungle Water Park, Phuket Aquarium, and Phuket Trickeye Museum. FAQ IMPORTANT - Is it safe to swim in Phuket? While this covers a day trip to Phi Phi Island,this awesome post about responsible tourism in Thailand is a must read! There is a lot of booze consumption at night in Phuket! There are many safe, family-friendly areas of the country to visit, like Chang Mai and Koh Samui. World Nomads have specially designed travel insurance for families! There are many different shows, entertainment events, as well as shopping and dining opportunities at Phuket FantaSea. However, its always a good idea to pack your favourite beach essentials if you have specific preferences. Most expats agree that Phuket is as safe or safer than the place they moved here from. There are several gated communities in this district or tambon as well as plenty of other housing options. These loud explosions come from a brick tower; apparently, when your wishes come true you show your gratitude by setting off firecrackers. What Conveniences & Activities Are There In Phuket? 2023 Hotels.com is an Expedia Group company. 15 Reasons to Visit Phuket Why is Phuket so popular? Ive often wondered this myself! Get answers to your questions about Phuket. A lot of questions come to mind, particularly if you are the one who is responsible for the entire familys future prosperity. The waves coming in are very powerful and the west coast beaches are known to have strong rip tides. There are many small clinics and pharmacies all over Phuket, particularly in the touristy areas like Patong, Kata and Karon. Phuket has a bit of a reputation as being a party island, and this may be true for a few very specific places, however, for day to day living Phuket is a safe and welcoming place to live, especially for those with children as Thai people hold strong family values, there's also a large expat contingent on the island who are equally friendly. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. A word about safety. During summer she is really just an inside dog, so you have to find extra time to play with them and get the energy out. This area can attract rowdy tourists tourists looking for a good time. However, there are no direct threats likely to harm children or families. In the large majority of the cases, when the bill arrives and is surprisingly high, it is often because of customers careless ordering than the establishment purposely inflating your bill. Thai people are very friendly, and the police are very vigilant with regards to tourists, which helps to ensure that the vast majority of travelers' visits are very safe. Either you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Patong Beach is a relatively safe place where to spend your vacation. I absolutely love Phuket, but we have never been there with kids. Here are the Best Things in Khao Lak and our Khao Lak Itinerary that combined flying in and out of Phuket, and a week in Khao Lak. However, linking to the blog is welcomed. Even in the United States, and Canada, there are areas that wouldnt be considered safe for children and not advisable to visit as adults. When you are looking to travel to Phuket with kids, know that Phuket is an island that encompasses quite a few different areas. Yes, Phuket is safe, probably safer than most other countries. Take breaks and pace yourselves: Its important to take breaks and pace yourselves while traveling with young children. Safari World. When you take your pictures everything looks like youre upside down. Bangla Road, Phuket: "Is it safe to take kids down Bangla road" | Check out 10 answers, plus see 20,882 reviews, articles, and 7,927 photos of Bangla Road, ranked No.1 on Tripadvisor among 578 attractions in Phuket. The island has a low crime rate, and the locals are pretty vigilant and well-meaning which helps deter criminals. Even if you visit an area thought to be safe, its important to remember that there still are risks to be aware of. Dengue fever is a concern during the rainy months, and there is no vaccine, so prevention lies in avoiding mosquito bites, which can be difficult. This is also referred to as the Phuket Trickeye museum. Koh Samui is a wonderful island in Thailand that is known for being safe and is popular for family holidays. These areas are experiencing civil unrest and are not safe destinations for a vacation at this time. Using ice in your drink is safe as ice uses filtered water. Family Travel Phuket with Kids: Tips for Stress-Free Family Travel Sharing is caring! The Big Buddha is one of Phukets most visible landmarks, and if nothing else offers gorgeous views across the island of Phuket. There are many different companies offering a guided tour to the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket. We think a visit to the Upside Down House is a great thing to do in Phuket for kids. . Is phuket still safe for family vacation? are there any curfews? Vantaa, Finland. However use your judgement. This is a great Phuket rainy season activity for all the family. If you were staying in the north like we were (either in Bang Tao or Mai Khao) you will pass by Wat Phra Thong or Wat Phra Nang Sang temples not far from the main road whenever you head to the south of Phuket. This would be a Bangkok trip 5 days and 4 nights. Wed take our kids for a walk down here before it got dark; there is no reason to expose them unnecessarily to adult concepts. It is located to the north of Phuket adjacent to the airport, so over an hours drive from some southern family-friendly Phuket beaches, like Karon or Kata Beach. While travel insurance is not mandatory to visit Thailand, we highly recommend it. Thanks for sharing. However, just like every other country, there are places to avoid, particularly in the southern provinces. We didnt go as wed recently been to a couple of bird parks in Australia. To be honest when we first booked, I thought of Phuket as party party and I dont think family travel destination. Otherwise, you might spend your Phuket vacation doing a lot of driving (and in our experience, kids dont like lots of car rides). Second, family hotels offer a wide range of activities and amenities for kids of all ages. Food sold in street carts and local restaurants is generally safe. If youre unsure of anything theres more information here or if you just need to chat to someone about it, dont hesitate to drop us a. way to apply for a Visa in Phuket, Krabi, Samui & Phang Nga for Foreigners. The beaches we experienced werent beautiful white sand (more like a dark sand colour) but often they were deserted and we loved the slightly deserted feel. Best-Family-Resorts-in-Phuket | Credit: Thavornplambeach.com. However, even on a grey day there is no reason to not enjoy the quintessential Asian Experience, eating right on the beach while the kids play in the sand and on the swings. There are loads of forums and groups to help you settle in and answer any questions you may have about your new location. FAQ Where do you get best exchange rates at Phuket Airport? On the day we visited there were a lot of firecrackers going off, and these frightened my 5-year-old. If youre a family of animal lovers, you will enjoy visiting the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in the city. We all have read stories of scooter accidents or being bitten by a monkey in Thailand, having travel insurance is buying peace of mind. [], [] Best Things To Do In Phuket With Kids [], [] The Splash Beach Resort in Mai Khao is an excellent Phuket airport hotel. Violent crime in regards to random acts of theft, etc. This is an excellent way for young kids to experience local markets in Thailand. Requirements and measures change can change regularly and rapidly. Thailand For Families: Koh Samui. Visa - 02 299 1990-29. Thank you for such a great post! From street food stalls and local restaurants, to international chain restaurants and seafood markets, theres something to suit every taste and budget. Conveniently central on the island, with Patong 6km to the west and Phuket town 9km to the east, Kathu has a good selection of International schools. World Nomads have specially designed travel insurance for families! But there are rules. We frequently witness young tourists doing things in Phuket they would never do at home, in their own country. With its abundance of kid-friendly attractions, delicious and affordable food, and affordable accommodation, Phuket has something for everyone. If you agree and seem to have a good time and start to get drunk, they might ask for more drinks. Crimes directed at tourists are quite rare and are mostly limited to pick-pocketing and occasional drunken brawls. Phuket is generally considered a safe destination for families. Youll need to pay close attention while driving, especially in larger cities. We were going on a big boat because we would be able to push the pram around the decks if the baby got tired. In some cases, you may even have said no to a girl, and she still ordered on your tab. Few countries are as accepting and non-judgmental to the LGBTQ community as Thailand. Family for a trip to Phuket | Cr: streetsignals. We believe adventures can be global and local and are one part of our sustainable lifestyle, and raising children who are global eco-citizens. What a beautiful place to visit! We stayed at the Centara Sea View Resort. #fearlessfamtrav, This is a great article, I am simply dying to take my kids to Thailand now! In many cases, buying such products locally will work out cheaper than carrying them from your home country. My kids liked Phuket old towns streets, which also provide beautiful photo opportunities. You can eventually bargain a bit, but if you dont like the proposed price, walk away to the next Tuk Tuk. Like It> Pin It> Best Things to do in Phuket with Kids. As well as the conveniences and activities available here on the island. Were about to head to Thailand for the first time and although were not visiting Phuket this time, I think itll be on the cards for a future visit. Website Designed & Developed By E-Media Asia Phuket. Crimes directed at tourists are quite rare and are mostly limited to pick-pocketing and occasional drunken brawls. However, they also differ in certain aspects, such as family friendliness, typical length of stay, etc. While parents will scrutinize schools by their own standards, generally Thai government schools offer a curriculum mostly in the Thai language and if they boast an English program, the standard is pretty low. There are modern international schools as mentioned previously, a good road system, an international airport, modern medical facilities as well as great leisure activities like waterparks, ziplines and ATV safaris. All this being said the truth of the matter is that choosing a place to settle with a family is not only a difficult decision, but one must temper their expectations. Tuk Tuk waiting in front of a hotel may be a bit more expensive than hailing one. You and your children can visit Koh Panyi, a floating village of fishermen, and learn about how they live. Most of Thailand's provinces are safe; in fact, the country is a favorite for many people to work and live in. Thats how it works, as it pays for the time she spends keeping you company. Phuket is generally a safe place to visit, but there are some things to be aware of. Theres a great selection of shopping options from the Central Flourista mall to walking street markets, international supermarkets to local fresh produce markets. You could easily spend a full day at the Splash Jungle Water Park. Located on Yarowat Road, Chillva Market offers a unique experience for the family. Consider the age and interests of your kids, and choose activities that will keep them engaged and entertained. Whether your children need to visit this Wat (temple) or could visit one of the other Buddist temples that are close to your hotel, it is worth adding one or two to your itinerary. The island has a low crime rate, and the locals are pretty vigilant and well-meaning which helps deter criminals. But hey, you cant please everyone. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In addition to being up on your regular vaccinations, additional ones may be recommended. Many hotels offer kid-friendly amenities such as swimming pools, play areas, and babysitting services, making it easy to relax and enjoy your vacation. Its important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette, and to explain them to your kids in a way thats age-appropriate. Whether or not you are looking for more information about the visa process for your child, you might find this blog useful , is fairly simple but can be a bit daunting if youve not been through the process before. The same thing applies to Thailand. Children aged between 18 months and 5 years usually already have most recommended vaccines administered by your paediatrician. However, location wise combining Khao Lak and Khao Sok makes a lot of sense and would give your trip the best of both worlds a great beach getaway combined with stunning karst scenery in the mountains. We think a visit to the floating village of Koh Panyee is a great option to experience a very unique village in Thailand. FAQ What is Low/Monsoon Season Like In Phuket, FAQ CURRENT EXCHANGE RATES & CURRENCY Options. Related family travel tips and warm weather destination articles, Featured Image: DepositPhotos / pat138241. Those that are going to be rehabilitated back to the forest are not allowed human contact. A person was manning the oven to light the firecrackers for you. Thailand's top family-friendly experiences, according to leading Thailand travel expert, David Luekens. 189/1-2 Supicha Sino Kohkaew 8, Moo 2, Koh Kaew Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000. Thailand has not been on my radar, but now Im thinking maybe it should be! Naturally, we cant claim that Phuket is 100%safe because nowhere in the world is. This is just not the case. Violent crime in regards to random acts of theft, etc. Also, in Go Go bars, a ladys drink is more expensive than a regular glass. Keep in mind that the middle of the day in Phuket is hot very hot and there were no trees on this course. Take the following steps to keep yourself and your family safe. Mid range communal feeling small hotel for single traveller, Tickets for Andamanda Phuket & Blue Tree Phuket, Anyone else bumped into an Indian fortune teller near Bangla. The area has attained an upscale status because, in addition to the safe area, its kept clean, and tourists can stay in many comfortable accommodations. All in all, Phuket is a very family friendly place to live and work. See one of the oldest, most diverse rainforests in the world, Khao Sok National Park. are there any curfews? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and receive updates via email. Among other reasons like delicious food, fantastic weather, gorgeous beaches and sites, as well as locals who really do seem to love kids. See full disclosure and disclaimer policyhere. Which Part of Phuket Is Best For Families, Long-Term Rentals in Phuket: Best Website For Houses For Rent, Getting Your Family Visa Sorted In Thailand, Everything About Living in Phuket with Your Family, Work Permits & Working Visa In Thailand, Retiring In Thailand & Things You Should Know, Where & How to Renew Your Visa - Thai Visa Renewal. Is Phuket a safe location for a woman (50's) on her own. We didnt get any hassle (whereas it seems people are more aggressive in Phuket) but we still enjoyed the restaurants and would pay a songthaew driver to take us around to points of interest. Swimming safety is a serious topic. Pickpockets, beach thieves and bag snatchers are very rare in Phuket. You may even get ice cubes served in your beer, a common practice here. Discover why Phuket is an ideal destination for expat families with quality education and healthcare options, a safe environment, vibrant cultural experiences, and a plethora of outdoor activities. What Are The Health & Wellness Facilities Like In Phuket? Additionally, the multicultural environment of these schools fosters variety and global knowledge, enhancing the educational process. One of the primary concerns for expat families is having access to quality and affordable education for their children. We are a multicultural family from Peru, Nicaragua & Australia.