The Big Buddha, Phuket

For me, the Big Buddha is one of the most memorable experiences in Phuket. I arrived there by taxi in the late afternoon to catch the sunset. It was magical: the sky turned shades of pink and gold, the sea sparkled, and the Buddha statue seemed to glow from within. The atmosphere at the site during this time was simply incredible – people quietly sitting, taking photos, and some meditating. You can feel the respect for the place. I appreciated that everything was free, with the option to leave a donation if you wish. There’s a small temple where monks bless visitors. Even if you’re not a Buddhist, it evokes deep respect. I left with a sense of lightness and gratitude. On the way back, we stopped at a viewpoint lower down – the views there were beautiful too. This is definitely a place worth visiting for anyone looking to experience more than just beaches and shopping.