Patong is the original Phuket vacation spot, and has been a popular choice for holidaymakers visiting South East Asia for over three decades. Modern day Patong is popular for a variety of reasons, the amazing Patong Beach, the relatively inexpensive restaurants, the host of attractions and activities close by and the hedonistic nightlife.

Phuket Beach is Thailand's top tourist beach, a 3.5km long bay of wide golden sand, with the azure waters of the Andaman Ocean providing year round access to a full spectrum of water sports.

The town of Patong lays behind the beach, and offers everything a holidaymaker could need. A built up, urban area which consists of hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars, shops and nightclubs. However, this level of development does not mean that it is not Thai in flavor. You will also find stalls selling street food on every corner, and local markets tucked away down narrow streets.

Over the three decades Patong has changed its image entirely. In the 1980s, Patong was a mellow, backpacker destination, providing basic accommodation and little in the way of luxury. Fast forward 30 years and Patong is now a truly world class travel destination. Five star hotels, boutique resorts and fine dining are the order of the day, although it is still possible to visit Patong on a cheaper budget.

No mention of Patong would be complete without discussing the nightlife which it has developed a reputation for. Some of the best nightclubs in Thailand can be found in Patong, as well as the infamous red light district of Bangla Road. Whatever your taste in nightlife, from sipping a cool drink in a relaxed terrace bar, to trawling go-go bars in search of a companion for the night, Patong provides it all.

For first time visitors to Phuket, then Patong makes the perfect base form which to explore the rest of the island. Patong is one of the easiest places in Thailand for visitors who do not speak Thai to visit, most local staff will speak at least a smattering of English, as well as many other western languages.