Here's a nice summary of the practicalities of Phuket:
http://www.globalsecurity.org/milita...ity/phuket.htm
Note the 3000 liberty limit (c.f. Pattaya's 10,000) and if you are hiding from a typhoon, forget it
Also from Navy Newsstand;
"Patong Beach is the home to numerous hotels and European tourists who come year-round to experience the natural beauty and culture of Thailand. "
Cheers,
K.