Resorts, hotels, restaurants and attractions are hanging-on during Covid and hoping for the best but the Phuket you remember may be very different when you return. If you have visited Thailand before, you’ll be familiar with the sun soaked sands of Phuket island. The dreamy resorts here are a major draw-card for holidaymakers from around the world and heading to the beach here is an absolute must. Patong Bach has always been the most crowded – often packed to the brim with sunbathers from around the world. For sun lovers it closely competed with Kata and Karon Beaches. Further along the west coast, Kamala has been especially famous for its beach parties. But the Covid pandemic has had a major impact on this paradise island. Some restaurants and venues catering for expats and local residents have maintained a measure of business activity. The old sector of Phuket Town, while almost deserted at night, does have a steady flow of domestic visitors during the day, especially on weekends. But activities, attractions and beach areas that have traditionally relied on international tourism have been hit hard. Off shore, long-tail boats sit idle, fishermen await a return to better days, while the odd sailboat cruises an empty sea. But for nature lovers, paradise remains and if you are in Thailand and have the chance to visit Phuket, Covid restrictions permitting, then the water here has never been clearer and the sounds of silence may be exactly what you need
