This comprehensive guide provides essential information for the Rastogi family's trip to Phuket from June 5th evening to June 8th evening, staying at the Courtyard Phuket, Patong Beach Resort. It aims to facilitate a smooth and enjoyable experience, balancing cultural exploration, family activities, and relaxation, while considering dietary preferences.
👪 Travelers
Abhinav Rastogi: Adult male, vegetarian, Marriott Platinum member, traveling from Singapore.
Pallavi Sud: Adult female, non-vegetarian, celebrating her birthday on June 5th, traveling from Singapore.
Vivaan Rastogi: 8-year-old male, non-vegetarian, traveling from Singapore.
Puneet Kumar: 65-year-old male, strict vegetarian (no eggs), prefers Indian food, traveling from India.
Ritu Rastogi: 63-year-old female, strict vegetarian (no eggs), enjoys new places and beach strolls, traveling from India.
📋 Pre-Trip Essentials Checklist
Visa
Indian passport holders receive a 60-day visa exemption upon arrival in Thailand. Ensure passports are valid for at least six months beyond your stay and have a confirmed return ticket and accommodation proof.
Packing Essentials
- Universal travel adapter
- Necessary personal medications
- High SPF sunscreen & insect repellent
- Basic first-aid kit
- Copies of important documents (passports, visas, bookings)
- Portable power bank
Weather & Attire
Expect warm, humid conditions (24-31°C) with potential for brief, heavy rain showers, especially afternoons/evenings. Pack light, quick-drying clothing, a compact umbrella/rain jacket, and comfortable, water-resistant footwear.
Local Customs & Safety
- Greet with a "Wai" (palms together, slight bow).
- Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees).
- Remove shoes before entering homes or temples.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
- For beach activities, always observe safety flags and supervise children.
Getting Around
Download the Grab app for convenient local transportation.
🏝️ Phuket Overview
Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is a renowned Andaman Sea destination. It's famous for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant culture. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from lively tourist hubs to serene, secluded spots.
Patong
The island's main tourist hub and most famous/energetic area, known for its lively beach, energetic nightlife (Bangla Road), extensive shopping (Jungceylon Shopping Center), and a wide variety of restaurants and entertainment.
Phuket Town
The island's capital and historical heart, offering a glimpse into its history with Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful street art, local markets, and a more relaxed, traditional, authentic Thai atmosphere.
✈️ Flights & Airport Transfers
Arrival - Thursday, June 5th
- Puneet & Ritu: Arrive on Air India flight AI376 from Delhi (DEL, Terminal 3) at 19:30 HKT (Phuket International Airport, Terminal D). Booking Reference: J4B5Q2.
- Abhinav, Pallavi & Vivaan: Arrive on Scoot flight TR 652 from Singapore (SIN, Terminal 1) at 19:35 HKT (Phuket International Airport, International Terminal). Booking Reference: YDK42A.
Airport Transfer: A pre-booked private van will meet both parties at HKT for a combined transfer to Courtyard Phuket, Patong Beach Resort.
Departure - Sunday, June 8th
- Puneet & Ritu: Depart on Air India flight AI377 to Delhi (DEL, Terminal 3) from HKT (International Terminal D) at 20:25 HRS.
- Abhinav, Pallavi & Vivaan: Depart on Scoot flight TR 653 to Singapore (SIN, Terminal 1) from HKT (International Terminal) at 20:35 HRS.
Airport Transfer: A pre-booked private van will transfer the entire group from the hotel to HKT. Please allow ample time for check-in.
🏨 Accommodation: Courtyard Phuket, Patong Beach Resort
The Courtyard Phuket, Patong Beach Resort is a family-friendly hotel offering a vibrant atmosphere and convenient access to Patong's attractions. Key features include four outdoor pools with waterslides, a children's pool, and several on-site dining venues. The hotel is equipped with elevators and accessible common areas.
Located in the heart of Patong, the resort is just a minute's walk from Patong Beach. This prime location offers easy access to local markets, a wide variety of restaurants (including numerous Indian options), and entertainment venues like Bangla Road (10-minute walk) and Jungceylon Shopping Center (13-minute walk).
Booking Details
Room 1 (Abhinav & Pallavi): Confirmation: 72717715; Type: Guest room, 1 King.
Room 2 (Puneet, Ritu & Vivaan): Confirmation: 72780621; Type: Premier, Guest room, 2 Twin. (Includes daily breakfast).
Note: Abhinav, remember to inquire about potential Marriott Platinum benefits upon check-in. Reconfirm specific room accessibility features if needed.
📅 Daily Itinerary
| Time (Approx.) | Activity | Considerations & Dining Options |
|---|---|---|
| June 5th: Arrival Day – Birthday Celebration & Settle In | ||
| 19:30 - 22:00 | Arrival at HKT, private van transfer to hotel. | Flights AI376 & TR652 arrive ~19:30. Hotel by 22:00. |
| 22:00 - 23:00 | Hotel check-in. | Confirm rooms 72717715 & 72780621. |
| 23:00 onwards | Quick Dinner (Pallavi's Birthday!). | Hotel: The Phuket Eatery (Indian) or The Pool Deck. Specify no eggs for Puneet & Ritu. |
| June 6th: Cultural Wonders & Hotel Fun 🏯🐠 | ||
| 08:00 - 09:00 | Breakfast. | Local Cafe. Indian/Veg: Shree Ganesha. Other: The Coffee Club. |
| 09:30 - 12:30 | Visit Big Buddha & Wat Chalong. | Private van. Modest attire for temples. |
| 12:30 - 14:00 | Lunch in Patong. | Indian: Amritsr. Vegan: Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurant. |
| 14:00 - 17:00 | Hotel/Resort time (pools, waterslides). Optional street markets. | Market: Banzaan Fresh Market (if not raining). |
| 17:00 - 18:30 | Stroll on Patong Beach. | Sunset views. |
| 19:00 - 20:30 | Dinner in Patong. | Indian: Indian Delight. Vegan: SOUL Vegan Cafe. |
| June 7th: Nature's Beauty & Relaxation 🚤🐒 | ||
| 08:00 - 09:00 | Breakfast. | As Day 1, or try hotel breakfast. |
| 09:30 - 14:00 | Phang Nga Bay boat tour (e.g., James Bond Island). | Gentle tour. Confirm veg lunch. |
| 14:00 - 17:00 | Return to hotel, relax, pool time. | Spa options for Abhinav/Pallavi (Let's Relax Spa, Oriental De Phuket). |
| 17:00 - 18:30 | Sunset at Kata or Karon Beach. | Private van transfer. |
| 19:00 - 20:30 | Dinner in Phuket Town. | Indian: Baluchi. Other: Three Monkeys (Jungle Dining). Pre-book transport. |
| June 8th: Departure Day – Leisure & Farewell 🛍️✈️ | ||
| 08:00 - 12:00 | Breakfast, free time at hotel (pool/spa). | Relax before travel. |
| 12:00 - 13:30 | Optional shopping: Central Phuket Floresta. | Modern, accessible mall. |
| 13:30 - 15:00 | Late Farewell Lunch. | Indian: Kwality. Other: No.9 2nd Restaurant. |
| 16:00 | Depart from hotel to HKT for flights. | Allow ample time for check-in. |
🍽️ Culinary Journey: Top Restaurant Recommendations
Curated list of top-rated Phuket restaurants with excellent vegetarian/Indian options (4.4+ ⭐, 300+ reviews, ~SG$20+ pp).
- Shree Ganesha (Patong): Pure vegetarian Indian & Jain.
- Amritsr Restaurant (Patong): Authentic Indian.
- Indian Delight Restaurant (Patong): Fine dining North Indian.
- Kwality Indian Restaurant (Patong): Budget-friendly Indian.
- Baluchi Restaurant Patong (Patong): Award-winning Indian, good for strict veg.
- Badsha Indian Food (Patong): Value Indian & Asian.
- Tandoor Restaurant (Patong): Authentic tandoori.
- Sanjha Chulha (Patong): Extensive Indian menu.
- Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurant (Patong): Inexpensive Thai vegan.
- SOUL Vegan Cafe (Karon Rd): Healthy plant-based.
- The Coffee Club (Patong): All-day cafe, Western breakfast.
- No.9 2nd Restaurant (Patong): Thai, Japanese, Western.
- Three Monkeys Restaurant (Phuket Town): Unique jungle dining, Thai.
🚗 Navigating Phuket: Transportation Guide
A private van charter with a driver is highly recommended for flexibility and comfort. Book for 4, 8, or 12-hour durations via Marriott activities or GetYourGuide. Advance booking is advisable, especially during peak seasons.
💡 Final Tips for a Seamless Experience
- Hydration & Sun Protection: Carry water, use high SPF sunscreen, hats, sunglasses.
- Flexibility: Be prepared for monsoon showers; have indoor backup plans.
- Communication: Basic Thai phrases enhance interactions.
- Health & Safety: Observe beach flags, road conditions; secure valuables.
- Marriott Platinum: Inquire about benefits (upgrades, late checkout).
- Dietary Needs: Always specify "strict vegetarian, no eggs" for Puneet & Ritu.
- Local Culture: Engage respectfully with locals and customs.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep hotel, driver, & Tourist Police (1155) numbers handy.