Unfortunately Phuket is a shadow of what it once was. It's now over run by foreigners living there who have no respect for Thai people or culture and have driven the price of accommodation through the roof. The Thai food is western style and expensive. The taxi mafia has always been there so I used local van drivers who I became friendly with over the years. My last trip was exactly that my last time in Phuket. There are a lot of friendly beachside places to visit with good beaches, music, food and women if that's what you're looking for. Places like Khao Lak and Chumphon.