Nine hours in Phuket

Q: We have a lay-over of almost 9 hours in Phuket (arriving 09.35 from Singapore and departing for Koh Samui 18.20). We will clear customs as the onward flight is a domestic one. Can you recommend an activity or two for the 7-8 hours we are in Phuket? - Ferdi Tavares

A: First of all, make sure you pack a change of clothing, a hat, swimming costume, towel and suntan lotion separately from your other luggage. if your luggage is not booked straight through to Samui, then book it through at Phuket Airport so that you do not have to carry it around with you. I have three options to recommend. The first is to take a taxi to Patong Beach, the tourist capital of the city. Ask to be dropped off in the Aroonsom area (near the Andaman Suites Hotel) and find a cheap room for the day. This should cost you around R300, but it will be well worth it. Drop off your hand luggage, deposit your passports and valuables in the room safe and then set off to explore this fascinating resort. Go shopping at the markets, eat at one of the many Thai restaurants and spend some time on the beach. Return to your room at 3pm for a shower and change of clothing and then set off for the airport two hours before the departure time. The second option is to hire a taxi at the airport for a tour of the island. Get a map of Phuket and ensure that the driver takes you down the full length of the west coast (where all the best resorts are) and then returns to the airport via the highway that runs up the centre of the island. The cost should be around 2000 baht (around R600) for both of you. You can stop off at places that catch your eye and have a swim at one of the wonderful beaches. Resist any moves by the driver to take you shopping or to visit one of the "organised attractions" like elephant rides, the zoo or snake show. The final option is to get your travel company to organise a boat trip through Phang Nga Bay (often referred to as a James Bond island tour). You will get collected at the airport, taken to the port and spend a few hours cruising around this magnificent bay, famous for its limestone outcrops. You should even be able to spend some time kayaking through sea caves. This is likely to be the most pricey option at around 3000 baht per person (R900).