Beautiful island named one of the best to visit with 5m tourists a year | World | News

A beautiful island in Asia has been named one of the best places to visit despite hoards of tourists travelling there every year.

Condé Nast Traveler’s coveted Readers’ Choice 2024 Awards have been unveiled and includes the best islands in the world.

Nominations for these awards arrive following votes from more than half a million readers of the popular magazine via reviews and comments. 

The prestigious award recognizes excellence in the travel industry with Phuket in Thailand earning a deserved spot on the list.

Thailand needs little introduction, having remained a popular tourist hotspot thanks to its stunning natural beauty, sandy beaches and turquoise waters with Phuket being the real gem of the country.

Phuket, which has previously been crowned the world’s most overcrowded destination, lies off the west coast of mainland Thailand in the Andaman Sea.

And while five million visit the island every year, it clearly has done nothing to dim it’s star power.

Known as a magical place to vacation, Phuket offers stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and even a vibrant nightlife.

Being the biggest island in Thailand, you will be sure of finding a host of activities and pleasures to fit your destination itinerary.

It’s home to lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, a rich culture and mouth-watering foods to be savoured.

The island covers an area roughly 31 miles by 12 miles, filled with fine white sands, nodding palm trees, crystal clear seas and lively towns all to be enjoyed.

Thailand’s largest island is so diverse you may never want to leave with activities keeping you entertained all day and all night.

The island’s rainforest of Khao Phra Thaeo National Park is an absolute must featuring a waterfall trail that will leave you breathless.

Phuket’s old town is a feast for the eyes with Sino-Portuguese architecture throughout including lively markets and the colorful street mural.

Phuket Thaihua Museum offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history with the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary and the temples of Wat Chalong all deserving of your presence.

When it comes to beaches, west Phuket is known for some of the island’s most famous ones with Kata being the most well known with Karon beach just next door.

Banana and Naiyang Beach provide a more lively experience with  Freedom Beach offering a quieter vibe.

Nightlife in Phuket also deserves a mention with Bangla Road being the most famous area for this.

Thai curry stalls and Chinese noodle spots are scattered throughout the island with Thailand’s national dish of tom kha gai taking you to food heaven featuring a coconut milk-based soup with flavors of lemongrass, ginger, and chili.

Phuket only has one airport, the Phuket International Airport with November to February being the best time to visit.