I've been traveling to Thailand since '97 and only this year made it to Phuket!
I can understand one being turned off by Bangkok but I've been a fan since that first hot, humid day I stepped off the flight from S'pore. The food is great and I enjoy searching out busy local places to eat but have to admit sometimes have that previously mentioned "problem" a few hours later

and backoff.
I can't imagine leaving early however, if I didn't like a place, and that has happened, I'll just move on along. Life is too short not to get the most out of every moment.
Now, back to Phuket, had a blast and the seafood was the best I've ever had. The little night food joint around the corner from Bangla (near K Hotel), ahh

was fab!
Now, back to booking tickets...