Hey Guy's, my husband and I with our 3 kids are3 in Phuket in july and would like to know of some markets and shopping centers near there.Has anyone stayed at the Patong Beach Hotel, and if so how did they find there stay there.Any sugestions about the shopping would be most welcome.And one last thought it said in some of the books I have read about departure tax I thought that it was included when we bought our ticket,travel agent said it has just want to make sure so we don't get caught out. Thanks.

Hi lots of shopping options for Phuket. Weekend markets in Phuket Town start about 4-5pm. A lot of things here are a lot cheaper than in Patong so best to price stuff at markets in Phuket, then head to Phuket Town markets. If they don't have what you want then buy it later in Patong.

You have the Otop market near the Patong Merlin but lots are people are commenting on the rude treatment they have received from the Burmese traders. (not Thais who numbers are dwindling here).

Also have a couple of Ocean PLaza department stores and the big Jungcelon store. Also lots of stalls along Beach Road.

Departure tax is included in ticket price now.

Cheers

Karin

Sorry forgot to add ....have a look at Cathy and Gary's web page. You should get all the info you need here

www.cathyandgarystravelpages.com

cheers

Karin

Thanks Karin, for the tips.

Stayed at Patong Beach Hotel many times and its absolutely lovely. Next to the beach (across the road) and right in the heart of everything. Have a gr8 stay I know u will love the hotel for sure!

Have you left yet? Patong has so much to offer. Shopping everywhere. Get off the beach for the best deals.

Agree get off the beach for best deals. Avoid those sharks with the street stalls. And check out the superstores like Tesco Lotus. I bought a pair of cargo pants in Tesco yeterday. Size 40 waist, marked down to 200Bt. Virtually everything you'll want to buy you'll find in Tesco at the cheapest prices. Don't be part of the tourist ripoff, pay the same prices as Thais at the superstores.

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The Truly Wise Man Never Plays Leapfrog With A Unicorn

Thats where we are staying for 10 Nights...... even thou we are in our late 40's - 50's we thought if we want to go for a walk, shopping etc it would be more central................. Just not sure about the food thou I am paranoid of getting and upset stomache over there