A visit to Thailand is not complete without a trip to the Old Phuket Town, where history meets a quaint way of life in the present era. If you are of the sort to seek pampering and comfort book a luxury resort. Phuket has evolved over the years to accommodate many such resorts like the COMO Point Yamu, Phuket.
The riches of Phuket Old Town can be traced back to the tin boom in the 16th century which attracted Dutch and French colonials to the area. Remnants of those times still linger along with the traditional Buddhist shrines and temples. During the tin boom, thousands of Chinese labourers flocked to Phuket Old Town and they established a strong cultural influence that still flourishes in terms of architecture, cuisine and the way of life. Some of the Sino-Colonial mansions built during the tin boom provide an interesting contrast to the Sino-Portuguese style that had also sprung forth somewhere along the town’s rich history.
Even before the tin boom, Old Phuket Town’s natural resources had attracted explorers and adventurers from around the globe including the Middle East, Sri Lanka, China and Portugal. Most of the explorers flooded the area in search of ivory, pearls and gems.
Unlike many stories of bravery during an invasion, the story of Old Phuket Town celebrates two women. Lady Chan and Lady Moon are said to have led an army made up mostly of women to battle Burmese invaders who tried to take their home.
The best time to explore and discover the wonders of Old Phuket Town is early morning when the heat keeps away, waiting to pounce as the day unfolds. There are many cafes, restaurants and shops around and satisfying your hunger, thirst and the need to purchase a quaint souvenir will not go unsated.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+