Phuket International Airport — Attraction in Mai Khao

"Kasikorn Thai Bank – Honest Service & a Great Start at Phuket Airport"During my recent trip to Thailand, my journey began at Phuket International Airport, and I must say, both the airport and the services I experienced there were exceptional. The airport itself was clean, well-organized, and welcoming. The arrival process was smooth, and within minutes, I found myself at the currency exchange counters. That’s where I had my first positive encounter—with Kasikorn Thai Bank’s money exchange service. Many travelers often worry about being overcharged or misled when exchanging foreign currency abroad, but my experience proved the opposite. The Kasikorn Thai Bank staff at Phuket Airport were extremely professional, friendly, and transparent about everything. They greeted me with a warm smile and immediately showed me the current exchange rate, which was INR 1 = THB 0.38, exactly matching the real market rate that day. The rate was also displayed clearly on the electronic board, ensuring there was no confusion or misunderstanding. Before starting the transaction, the teller carefully explained how the exchange process works, why rates can change throughout the day, and even mentioned that airport rates might differ slightly from city rates due to operational costs—but there were no hidden fees or extra deductions. This honest and upfront communication immediately put me at ease. The transaction itself was handled with precision. My money was counted twice in front of me, the details were entered into the system, and a printed receipt was provided with full clarity on the amount exchanged, the rate applied, and the date and time of the service. I was even encouraged to check and confirm the receipt before leaving the counter. What impressed me most was how genuinely helpful the staff were. They didn’t just process my money—they also gave me practical tips on using Thai Baht, avoiding counterfeit notes, and finding reliable payment options during my stay. Their service went beyond a simple exchange; it felt like a warm welcome to Thailand. Phuket Airport itself made this experience even better. The facilities were spotless, signage was clear, and the overall atmosphere was calm and organized despite the busy travel season. It was easy to find the Kasikorn Thai Bank counter, and I didn’t have to wait in a long queue. Everything felt efficient and traveler-friendly. I’ve exchanged money in many countries before, and in some places, you’re left wondering if you got a fair deal. But here, Kasikorn Thai Bank at Phuket Airport proved they are trustworthy. Their honesty and professionalism reflect the best of Thai hospitality, making me feel valued as a visitor., I left the counter completely satisfied, confident that I had received fair value for my money, and grateful for the smooth experience. If you’re arriving in Thailand through Phuket, I highly recommend using Kasikorn Thai Bank’s exchange service at the airport. You’ll not only get a fair rate but also start your trip with a positive impression of Thailand’s...

Phuket International Airport (HKT) is Thailand’s second busiest airport and the main gateway to Phuket, one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Here’s a detailed review of its facilities, services, and overall experience:

Location & Accessibility • Located about 32 km from Patong Beach and 40 km from Old Phuket Town. • Taxis, private transfers, and minibuses are the most common transport options. • Public transport is limited, with an airport bus available to Phuket Town but no direct service to major beaches.

Terminals • Terminal 1 (International Terminal) – Handles international flights with modern facilities. • Terminal 2 (Domestic Terminal) – Dedicated to domestic flights with a decent range of services. • Terminal X (Charter & Low-Cost Carriers) – Sometimes used for seasonal or charter flights.

Facilities & Services

✅ Check-in & Security: • Generally smooth, but queues can be long during peak tourist seasons. • Security and immigration can be slow, especially for international departures.

✅ Lounges: • Several lounges, including Coral Executive Lounge (accessible via Priority Pass or paid entry). • Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways have dedicated lounges for business class passengers.

✅ Food & Dining: • Decent selection of restaurants and cafes, including Burger King, Starbucks, Thai food stalls, and small local eateries. • Prices are higher than in Phuket city.

✅ Shopping & Duty-Free: • Duty-free shops offer standard alcohol, perfumes, and luxury goods. • Local souvenir shops sell Thai snacks, handicrafts, and beachwear.

✅ WiFi & Connectivity: • Free WiFi available but can be slow at times. • SIM card kiosks (AIS, TrueMove, DTAC) for tourists offering affordable data plans.

Transportation & Taxi Services • Taxis: Airport taxis are available but can be overpriced (fixed rates). Always confirm the fare before boarding. • Ride-hailing apps: Grab is available, but pickup areas are limited. • Minibuses & Shared Vans: Cheaper but take longer due to multiple stops. • Car Rentals: Major rental companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz operate at the airport.

Common Complaints

❌ Taxi Scams – Some drivers overcharge or refuse to use meters. ❌ Crowded Immigration – Long lines during peak season, sometimes taking over an hour. ❌ Limited Seating Areas – Departure lounges can be crowded with insufficient seating. ❌ High Food Prices – Dining options are expensive compared to local markets.

Overall Rating

⭐ 3.8/5 – A decent airport with good facilities, but long wait times, expensive transport, and occasional overcrowding bring down the experience.

Would you like a review focusing on a specific aspect, such as VIP services or...

Arriving at the domestic terminal of Phuket Airport was an absolute pleasure. From the moment I disembarked, I was immediately impressed by the cleanliness, convenience, and overall organization of the terminal, which significantly enhanced my travel experience.

Firstly, the terminal’s cleanliness stood out. The floors were spotless, the restrooms immaculate, and there was a noticeable absence of litter. It’s clear that the airport management places a high priority on hygiene and cleanliness, which is reassuring, especially in a busy airport setting. The facilities were well-maintained, and I observed cleaning staff regularly attending to various areas, ensuring that the high standards were consistently upheld.

In terms of convenience, the terminal layout is incredibly user-friendly. Clear signage is placed strategically throughout the terminal, making it easy to navigate from one point to another without confusion. Whether you are looking for baggage claim, transportation options, or dining areas, everything is clearly marked and easily accessible. This thoughtful design significantly reduces the stress that often accompanies air travel, allowing passengers to move through the terminal with ease.

Organization is another strong suit of Phuket Airport’s domestic terminal. The baggage claim process was efficient and quick, with luggage arriving promptly on the carousel. The lines at immigration and security were well-managed, minimizing wait times and ensuring a smooth flow of passengers. Staff were present to guide and assist, which helped maintain order and efficiency. The check-in counters were also well-staffed and operated smoothly, further contributing to the overall seamless experience.

Perhaps the most commendable aspect of my experience was the helpfulness of the employees. From the friendly security personnel to the courteous staff at the information desk, everyone I encountered was eager to assist. Their professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile did not go unnoticed. Whether it was providing directions, answering questions, or assisting with baggage, the employees were consistently attentive and helpful, making a significant positive impact on my overall impression of the airport.

In summary, the domestic terminal at Phuket Airport offers an exemplary arrival experience. The exceptional cleanliness, convenient layout, efficient organization, and helpful employees all contribute to a stress-free and pleasant journey. I highly recommend this terminal to fellow travelers and look forward to passing through it again...