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Thailand's
largest island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in
Southeast Asia. This island is rich in natural resources. The area
has the perfect weather for agriculture and provides colorful
tropical vistas. The terrain is incredibly varied supporting a
variety of plants and animals, some indigenous to Phuket. In
addition to agricultural output, this island has a long history of
tin production. Phuket is large (540 sq. km) and it is also its
own province. This is the wealthiest area in the Kingdom. The
island is separated from the mainland by a narrow sea channel. A
bridge has connected the mainland and the island for a long time.
This simple access from the mainland has increased the popularity
and vehicular traffic on the island. The terrain varies
considerably. There are long beautiful sandy beaches, rocky coast
lines and places with large limestone cliffs facing the ocean. The
interior of the island contains hills and lush level areas booming
with tropical plant life of all varieties. There are more
different geographic variations on Phuket than on any other island
in Thailand.
The first European settlers arrived on Phuket in the 16th Century.
They were Dutch pearl traders searching the area for new and
different supplies of pearls. Additionally a huge source of tin
was discovered and the island shortly became well known for tin
production.
Phuket Town is the main city on the island. In the 19th century
the island's vast tin resources attracted a large number of
Chinese immigrants. The sea worthy Portuguese settled here to
transport the tin to distant ports. A combination of the Chinese
and Portuguese backgrounds has given this island a culture of its
own. There is still a strong Chinese influence in this wealthy
Town. The rubber, agricultural products and seafood, along with
tin have all contributed to the general wealth of Phuket.
Thai and Chinese people were the original inhabitants of Phuket.
They lived simply from the land and sea. The shores were visited
by wandering Indonesian fishermen settling for only short periods
of time. The arrival of the early European settlers brought
traditions of their own. This combination of natives, sea gypsies
and Europeans has evolved into its own special blend. Today Phuket
has maintained this distinct culture of its own.
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