Phuket’s Central Market is almost like the pantry of the island given how you get everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meat, dried seafood, condiments, snacks, tea and coffee. Situated inside a large yellow building which has four elaborate floors, this address is adjacent to a local bus stop and is perpetually crowded for the same reason. You will also find handmade hats, baskets and multipurpose tools along with cheap clothes and shoes. Tourists are always welcome and the presence of directions in both English and Thai is proof of that fact. A cluster of bright colours, pungent smells, shrill voices and infectious energy, this marketplace is the soul of Phuket and an illustration of everyday life in an otherwise ‘exotic’ beach resort.

Central Market stands tall on Ranong Road, a shining gem of Phuket’s touristy Old Town. Interestingly, the present building is a reconstruction as the old one came crumbling down back in 2009 owing to rat infestations. It has, very evidently, risen from its ashes like a phoenix.