Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, population 400,000, is an island off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. It used to produce tin and rubber but now its economy is based almost entirely on tourism. Sunshine and white beaches are attracting tourists in increasing numbers.

We visited a cashew production site, a Buddhist temple and viewed the beach. The government just opened up real estate sales to foreigners and housing prices have escalated. Traffic was moderate but as the population continues to grow I suspect it will become a nightmare.

Next will be a few sea days.Read more