Patong, what's the attraction?
Replies: 51 - Last Post: Apr 20, 2012 9:05 AM Last Post By: squidstrips
jump to
Patong, what's the attraction?
So I'm here and terribly bored in Patong. When I first got here two days ago, I thought it would be great. Yesterday Songkran was very fun. Now that it's over, I'm bored out of my mind. Thankfully, my room has cable TV. I went down to the beach. Other than being dirtier, devoid of any animal life and having waves far too small to surf on, it bears a striking resemblence to the beach at "home" including the glaring white Scandavian tourists. So that only held my attention for about 10 mins.I don't get why so many people come to Patong. Am I missing it? I cant wait to get back to Phuket Town tomorrow. I think of it as the gem of Phuket.
2
I've never been to Phuket town (other than passing through it), how is it less boring than Patong ?3
PT is more charming. Many people get there, walk around for 5 mins and declare that this is nothing to see. If you take the time to wander about, there is actually a artsy vibe thing happening. A few streets in old town, particularly at night, are quite pretty. Actually, it doesn't seem very Thai. Parts of PT remind me of the young happening artsy parts of Beijing or Shanghai.4
Agree that Phuket town has a bit of culture to it and is not boring at all if you give it a chance. As already mentioned there are loads of small art galleries / shops, the streets have character and some interesting restaurants and bars.Squidstrips if you haven't already been there, look out for the blues bar. I just wish we hadn't stumbled upon late in the evening and only had time for one beer as the band was winding down.
8
If you don't like being surrounded by tourists, going to tourists beaches will not be enjoyable for you. You might want to try some of the lesser traveled southern provinces. Nakhon Si Thammarat has some nice areas. If you want a mix of tourism and more relaxed local life, check out Trang or parts of Sathun.9
Patong is exactly what I expected. Well, not expected since I've been here before. More like remembered. That's not my question. My question is why do other people come here? Most people I meet say they hate it. If they hate it, why do they come here?10
OK I'm game.Most people go at least once because they've never been before.
Most people if they say they hate it, don't bother going back.
I've been once and have no desire to go again.
Why did you go back ? especially since you knew what it was like ?
Perhaps that is the answer to your question.
11
Songkran. I'm in Phuket and it looked like it was the best bet for the best Songkran action. Now that it's over. It's back to Phuket Town.12
Water is water is water. Songkran is everywhere and to be honest far better in not so touristy areas. Phuket town would probably have been a better choice.Never mind, live and learn, better luck next time
13
Although I wouldn't rush back, and certainly wouldn't book a 2 week holiday there, I was at Patong for international new years (ie 31st dec) and thought it a pleasant 'anti-cultural' experience. At least the place is not pretending to be something its not and if you are going to be debauched you may as well do it properly. I guess its all about perspective ... while its not for me (having completed the silly sort of partying phase some time ago) I know for sure that if I was 21 again, and single, easily impressed and hormone driven, I would absolutely love it.ADVERTISEMENT
Hotels & Hostels
-
Philadelphia Center City Residence Inn by Marriott
Philadelphia(3 star Hotel)
From US$271.00 per night
Book now
-
Houston Marriott Airport at George Bush Intercontinental
Houston(3 star Hotel)
From US$269.00 per night
Book now
-
Book now