What to Buy
Whilst there is not nearly the selection of Thai handicrafts or electronic goods available on Phuket as one will find in Bangkok nonetheless most first time visitors to Thailand will be impressed by the variety and beauty of products produced in Thailand. That said, here are some ideas to get you started.

Thai silk is without doubt the most famous of Thailand's handicrafts and available in many forms. Dresses and household furnishing are particularly beautiful - (check out the Jim Thompson store in the Central Festival Shopping Centre for ideas). Woven cotton, embroidery and batik are also attractive and popular handicrafts. Easy to pack, such items make nice souvenirs and home decor gifts.

Need a new suit or dress? There's nothing like a custom tailored suit or dress. Tailors in Phuket are affordable, quick (usually 3 days) and will keep your measurements on file so you can order again from home. Furthermore, Thai fashion designers have an unique ability to combine western and asian styles and materials for some truly eye catching creations that are often only available in small, one-off boutiques.

Thailand is the hub of the coloured gemstone trade in Asia. Rubies and sapphires are indigenous to Thailand but all gems precious, semiprecious and other coloured stones can be found. As well Thai craftsmen who turn their attention towards gold and silver produce some very unique and beautiful jewelry. But beware, any price that seems to good to be true probably is just that.

Asian ceramics are famous the world over for their unique beauty and ceramics from all around Asia can easily be found in Phuket. Of special interest is Thailand's indigenous five colour Benjarong porcelain.

Reproduction antiques and furniture. You'll be spoiled for choice with the different Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Khmer style furniture that makes making a decision difficult - all are beautiful. As well, modern furniture designs from bamboo and rattan are also worth a look. The better antique and art shops are found in Phuket Town.

Nielloware, unique to Thailand, is the art of etching gold and silver objects trays, jewelry boxes, drink coasters and the like with delicate designs and filling the etching with another base metal. Very attractive and depending on the item easy to pack - but items are heavy.

Lacquerware is similar to Nielloware except the medium is usually bamboo. The bamboo is fashioned into whatever product, coated with hi gloss lacquer and then hand painted with intricate Thai designs. Arguably more attractive than Nielloware because of the different colours available, lacquerware products are beautiful souvenirs.

Portrait Paintings. There are any number of art shops that specialise in reproduction and portrait painting. Just bring a favourite photograph or two of yourself or a friend or family member and in a couple of days you'll have a beautiful portrait painting.