A favorite destination of backpackers and divers, boomers and honeymooners alike, Phuket has mass appeal while being fairly niche in its offerings. This famous Thai island is known for its beaches, water activities, beautiful resorts, and adventurous daytrips to smaller, less developed islands in Phuket Province. There's nightlife in the Patong resort area, eco-adventures at Sirinat National Park, and great scuba diving in the waters off the nearby Similan Islands. And of course, everywhere you go, there's mouthwatering, spicy, curried, and coconut-y Thai food. Definitely venture outside of your hotel to dine, as a variety of pleasant, pretty local places offer great food and service for a fraction of what the hotels charge. This place is called "the land of smiles" for a reason.