As you wander through the streets of Phuket's Old Town, you’ll come across rows of pastel-hued shophouses and ornate Sino-Portuguese facades that still hint at the island’s trading past. Some are family homes, others have been converted into cafés, guesthouses, or small museums. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a few hours just walking, peering at tiled walls, old shop signs, and shrines tucked into corners. There’s everyday life mixed with the tourist scene: morning markets with fruit and noodles, long-standing noodle shops, and new coffee spots side by side. On Sundays, Thalang Road turns into the Lard Yai market from late afternoon, with food stalls, music, and crafts filling the street.

Surrounded by the World Heritage wilderness, this area features a number of excellent bush walks and lookouts. It offers spectacular views over the Jamison Valley and the magnificent waterfall for which it's named. The town also has a good collection of Victorian and other historic buildings.

In Toulon’s Old Town, there’s a statue of men playing cards—La Partie de Cartes. It’s a nod to Provence’s folklore and Marcel Pagnol’s classic plays, Marius and Fanny, which later became films. If you know them, you’ll recognise the scene—card games, banter, and all. Even if you don’t, it’s a fun spot for a photo.

Toulon’s Old Town isn’t the prettiest in Provence, but it’s got character. The narrow streets are a mix of old and rebuilt, with faded shutters, street art, and locals going about their day. The Cours Lafayette market is worth a stop—lots of noise, fresh produce, and the smell of herbs and spices in the air. Grab a chichi frégi (a local sugar-dusted doughnut) and wander past small squares and fountains until you reach the harbour. You’ll also spot the statue of locals playing cards—straight out of a Marcel Pagnol story. It’s a good place to just walk, look around, and get a feel for the real Toulon.