Phuket

November to April is the dry season on the west coast (Patong, Kata, Karon), which is ideal for beaches and diving. May to October is the rainy season: shorter but heavy rain showers, lower prices, and some dive operators close. The Similan Islands are closed from May to October. December to February offers the best weather and the busiest occupancy.

Phuket is larger, better connected (international flights, more restaurants), and offers more variety in activities. Krabi is quieter, has more impressive limestone cliffs, and access to Railay Beach. Go to Phuket for infrastructure and comfort; go to Krabi for nature and peace. Combine them if you have more than eight days.

A rented scooter is the most flexible option (you need a driving licence, including an international one). Grab (the Thai taxi app) is reliable and cheaper than tuk-tuks. Songthaews (red public buses) run fixed routes for 30-50 THB. Rent a car if you are travelling with a family; the roads are good. Avoid tuk-tuks for long trips.

No: snorkelling is possible for everyone and is included in most day excursions. For diving, a PADI Open Water or equivalent certificate is required for the best locations. PADI courses are available on Phuket for three to four days. Beginners can do a Discovery Dive: an introductory lesson without a certificate, guided by an instructor.

Patong is the busiest and loudest neighbourhood in Phuket: good for an evening on the beach promenade and nightlife, but less ideal as a base. It is better to stay in Kata or Rawai and visit Patong for an evening if you seek that type of atmosphere. For peace: Nai Harn and Kata Noi are a twenty-minute drive from Patong but feel like a different world.