People The ever-increasing official population of Phuket is now over 320,000 (Jun 2007). However, this only includes those registered as permanently resident in Phuket. In addition, there is a large transient population. Many Thais come from other provinces to take advantage of the work opportunities in Phuket on a temporary or semi-permanent basis. The high season population is thought to be over 700,000. The main population centre is Phuket Town with 70,000 people. The other main population centers are Patong, Karon, Kata, Nai Harn, Rawai, Chalong, Kamala, Surin, Thalang and Kathu.

Thai people really want you to enjoy their countryThe main population groups are Thai Buddhists (71%), Muslims mostly of Malay descent (24%) and Sea Gypsies (4%). Around 30% of the population is of Chinese descent from migrants who originally came to work in the tin mines. They are fully integrated into Phuket society. They speak Thai, have inter-married with Thais and are Buddhist although many of them also practice Daoism. They originally came as cheap labour but their diligent work ethic has made many of these families affluent members of Phuket society.

The Sea Gypsies are the oldest inhabitants of the island. Originally nomadic fisherman, they have their own language and religion. There are three Sea Gypsy villages in Phuket. One at Rawai, one at Koh Sirey and one at Sapham Coast.

Thais are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality and the people of Phuket are no exception. The warm welcome is genuine and they really do want you to enjoy their country. Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles and for good reason. They smile easily and if you do the same, it will get you a long way with them. The Thai word sanook (fun) is an integral part of Thai culture and whatever they are doing they like it to be 'sanook'.

It has to be said that some Thai people in the tourism industry have become rather cynical. While plainly everybody in the tourism industry is looking to make money from tourists, most will do so with good service and fair prices. However, there are some who have come to view tourists as easy money and who will overcharge for their services or goods, or be aggressive with their sales pitch. Tuk-tuk drivers, tailor shops and beachfront stallholders are the worst offenders.


Social Customs
Thailand is known as the "Land of Smiles", and for its tolerance and hospitality. The simple rule is that if you smile people will like you. A smile is an easy way to say ‘thank you" and can also be used to ‘excuse yourself’ for small inconveniences. A smile is the proper response to acknowledge the wai or greetings of small children, and with hotel and restaurant staff. Most of us were raised with the "Golden Rule" and that will work for you as well in Thailand as it does at home. Nevertheless, we will provide you with a short list of things that you should know to help you overcome any ‘culture shock’ you may encounter.

If you are invited into a Thai home, you are expected to remove your footwear before entering the door. It is considered disrespectful for anyone to put his feet on the table while sitting. When seated make sure your feet are not pointed at anyone as this is offensive to Thais.

Thais regard the head as the highest (purest) part of the body, so refrain from touching or patting the head in a friendly gesture because it is considered impolite.

It is not proper to lose one’s temper or show exasperation during a misunderstanding. "Jai yen", or a "cool heart" the Thais believe will solve the problem.