Vol.1 No.12

Vol.1 No.12 - June 2011 www.theguidephuket.com

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Villas and the Coconut Grove Pool ..

Movenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket

Maps

Diving

Tours

Things to do

Places to go

Shopping

Accommodation

Restaurants and Much, Much More...

Phuket’s Coolest Bar and Restaurant

Cool Cocktails-Cool Cuisine-Cool Sounds-Cool Cruises

14 Moo 5 Rawai, Muang, Phuket 83130 Thailand Tel. +66 (0)76 371 900 Fax. +66 (0)76 613831 E-mail: rsvn@serenityphuket.com www.serenityphuket.com

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Khak Tel. Tel 076 485 105 Bangkok: 112 Rajprarob Road, Pratunam, Bangkok. Tel. 02 252 2775 E-mail: fashiongallery@hotmail.com

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Lifestyle / 5

BOAT LAGOON Open Daily: 9h30 - 18h30 (Close Monday) No. 23/122 Moo 2, Thepkasatri Rd., T.Kohkaew, A.Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel. +66 (0) 76 273 487 E-mail: gallery@asiansourcingallery.com www.thedreamgallery.asia

BLUE ELEPHANT Open Daily: 11h30 - 14h30 18h30 - 22h30 96, Krabi Road, Phuket Town (Previously Pra Phitak Chyn Pracha Mansion) Tel. +66 (0) 76 354 355-7 E-mail: phuket@blueelephant.com www.blueelephant.com

Offering 15% Discount for Privilege Card Holders. www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

24

Contents

LifeStyle

18

32

The Guide Social Getting to Know... Jon Ashenden The Night Crawler Life’s a Beach Shopper’s Delight Shoping Review: Mister Singh’s Fashion Gallery

8 13 14 16 44 47

Watersports & Activities Hot Activities Water Sport Day Tripper

10 36 38

Hotels & Accommodation

38

In Bed with...

The 9th Floor Apartments Hotel Highlights The Guide Update

18 22 42

Food & Restaurants Let’s do Brunch!

In the Kitchen with...

IndoChine Phuket Restaurant Highlights

20 24 26

Health & Beauty

30

47

Star Phuket Media & Design Limited Partnership 65/573, Moo 2, T. Vichit A. Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel. +66 (0) 76 513 064, Fax: +66 (0) 76 513 016 E-mail: info@theguidephuket.com, www. theguidephuket.com Managing Director:

Marketing Consultant:

Consulting Editor:

Graphic Designer:

Punnaporn Eamso Guinault info@theguidephuket.com Mobile: 089 474 4704 Thidarat Jessadanongluk marketing@theguidephuket.com Mobile: 081 477 7739 Barry Daniel editor@theguidephuket.com Design 457 Studio media@theguidephuket.com

Five Powerful Reasons Why You Should See a Chiropractor Regularly!

Spa Review: 5 Star Massage Spa Highlights

30 32 35

Property Review Cherng’Lay Condominiums 2

40

Transport on the Island

48

Timetable

Maps

Thai Airways Timetable

49

Patong

19

Bangkok Airways Timetable

50

Kata, Karon

41

Phuket Island

46

The Guide Phuket is an exciting publication aimed at providing tourists and local ex-pats easy access to key information on Phuket. The Guide Phuket will cater to the needs of all, including the most up to date details on places of interest, where to travel, where to stay, where to dine, the best places for entertainment, dining and relaxation, in addition to business services, information and contacts.

The Guide Phuket is published monthly and distributed to Bangkok Airways Lounge (Suvanabhumi International Airport and Phutket International Airport), Thai Airways Lounge, Phuket Airport Bus, major resorts in Phuket region, restaurants, spas, travel agents, car rental and cabinet of Phuket Info Center. Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to info@theguidephuket.com.

PHUKET The Pearl of the Andaman

P

huket; sun, sand, and sea, but Phuket has so much more to offer. Located approximately 862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, which is often described as the Pearl of the Andaman, or the Pearl of the South. Its natural resources; a rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil open bays and tropical inland forests contribute towards making it southern Thailand’s busiest, and most popular island and province.

Phuket borders with Phang-nga province to the north; connected by the Sarasin Bridge . The remaining coastline is encircled by the Andaman Sea; an area that is home to some of the best scuba diving sites in the region.

Phuket’s topography is exceptional with 70 percent of the island covered with mountains which stretch from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains located in the central and eastern parts of the island. The island does not have any major rivers but does have a network of streams, brooks and creeks.

There are only two seasons in the year; the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The main low season of Phuket is September and October as they are the wettest months.

The best period for a visit, is from November through till February, when it is possible to see clear blue skies, feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average temperatures range between 23°C and 33°C. Phuket has a lot more to offer than just its pristine beaches and world class diving. Both history and culture are to be found; Sino-Portuguese architecture from the age of tin mining casts its spell delighting travelers to the old city, while Phuket-style hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition, accommodation ranging from world-class resorts to tropical-style bungalows warmly cater to the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there is a lot more to sample than just Phuket’s famous lobster.

Altogether, these characteristics make Phuket a truly unique destination.

Enjoy your stay !

OPEN DAILY

LUNCH : 11.30 to 14.30 hours

DINNER : 18.30 to 22.30 hours

Phuket (Governor Mansion) 96, Krabi Road, Phuket Town (Previously Pra Phitak Chyn Pracha Mansion) คฤหาสน์พระพิทักษ์ชินประชา Tel. +66 (0) 76 354 355-7 Fax. +66 (0) 76 354 393 E-mail: phuket@blueelephant.com Bangkok Tel. +66 (0) 2 673 9353-8 Fax. +66 (0) 2 673 9355 E-mail: cooking.school@blueelephant.com www.blueelephant.com

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8 / Lifestyle

The Guide Social

Antinori Wine Dinner at Mare Italian Restaurant

From left: Sandro Aguilera (Executive Sous Chef of the hotel), Thanasap Kraison (Sales Manager of Italasia) Chef Fabrizio, Denis Thouvard, (centre) General Manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort, Mr. Pandolfini, Christophe Gestin (Director of Food & Beverage of the hotel) and Wunnida De Cesare.

SKAL Phuket Community The Club’s Dinner at the Cove restaurant of the Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket.

Phuket Tasar Champion Crowned at Bel Air Panwa Tasar Series

Winner of the Bel Air Panwa Tasar Series Andrew de Bruin (right) receiving his prize from Phuket Yacht Club Commodore Peter Dyer (centre) and Club Secretary Donna Stephens (left).

Open Now! Cafe de Siam at the Palace Courtyard of Phuket Fantasea

From left: Fred R. Munger (IT & Communication of the Club), Denis Thouvard, Blandine Cressard, Claude Sauter (Vice President of the Club) and Urs Aebi (Secretary of the Club).

The Charity Piano Concert

Mr. Narong Pattamasaevi, owner of Trisara and founder of Niyom Pattamasaevi Foundation, delivers Baht 300,000 donation to Mr. Seiji Kojima, Japanese Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand. The donation is comprised of the proceeds from the Charity Piano Concert at Trisara. www.theguidephuket.com

Anti-Clockwise, from front/left; Mr. Achira Asswadecharit, Mr. Narong Pattamasaevi, Ms. Phapimol Yoovidhya, Ms. Thitichaya Leelayana, Dr. Nopanand Chanorathaikul(teacher), Mr. Dolpiti Kongviwatanakul, Mr. Chawin Chalisarapong, and Mr. Puripat Paesaroch.

Lifestyle / 9 UFE Phuket monthly dinner at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket

(center) Denis Thouvard, General Manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket and Christian Chevrier, Président of UFE Phuket (right).

From left: Clémentine Durparq, Anna Wasin (Owner of Atsumi Retreat Healing), Sue Ma (Managing Director of Indochine Phuket), Pond Guinautl (Managing Director The Guide Phuket).

Snooker Press Conference “Sangsom Phuket Cup 2011”

The 2nd Thailand ranking circuit snooker championship Phuket at the Royal Paradise Hotel & Spa, Patong on 6-11 June 2011.

ABSOLUT KEE SUNSET PARTY at The KEE Resort & Spa, Patong

PARTY for JAPAN

The Rawai Nai Harn Business Association is proud to announce that it was able to raise THB 100,000 for the Japanese Tsunami Relief Fund at it’s “Party for Japan” event at the DaVinci Restaurant in Nai Harn.

East 88 Beach Lounge Gipsy Party.

From left: Mr. Tanapong Somnam, Executive Director, Mrs. Supa Somnam, Deputy to Managing Director, Mr. Surasak Somnam, Managing Director, Ms. Samornpun Somnam, Executive Director.

Sales Team of SALA Resorts and Spas joins the consumer show.

Photo from left: Nayika Prapawadee, Thidarath Jessadanongluck (Marketing Consultant The Guide Phuket), Mina Krapheenok (Marketing & Event Manager Serenity Resort), Pascal Frei (F & B Manager), Petcharat Petkongtong and Narumol Ongvimolkarn

Ultimate Dream Destinations which had been held at Siam Paragon during 12–22 May 11. www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

10 / Watersports & Activities

Hot Activities

ROLLERBALL

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Kata Yoga

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Tawan Cruises

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Rollerball or Zorb, as called in other parts of the world, is a specially designed plastic sphere which can safely descend a hill with two passengers, floating on the water inside, headfirst, feet first, backwards or upright. The experience is hard to define but the result is always the same, lots of fun, laughter and big smiles all round, GUARANTEED! Suitable for all ages, rain or shine. We have an amazing sun set view site at Kalim Bay, Patong, with two runs, straight and twist and can boast to be one of the longest in the world at 190 meters. Come and join us, play, drink and watch the sun go down into the beautiful Andaman sea. Open 10am.

ot yoga, the most popular yoga for men and women. It is the best 90 minutes workout, toning your muscles and getting you in shape fast! Beginners are welcome and it’s challenging for advanced practitioners, your instructor will guide you through the postures to provide you with the best workout ever. Sweat, detox and lose fat. No more stress, aches and pains. Kata Hot Yoga class is like a gas station, you gain energy instead of losing it. After the class you will feel amazing with a big smile full of vitality, wanting to come back for more. Get a healthy mind and a healthy body. Kata Yoga studio at the beach in Kata.

Tel. 089 872 6532

www.katahotyoga.com

www.tawancruises.com

Tawan Sea Adventures

Horse Riding

Blue Elephant Cooking School

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awan Sea Adventures is Phuket’s newest fun activity on the water.

Cruise amongst the famous sights of Phang Nga bay from your RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) and enjoy the bursts of speed when the boat will thrill you and ensure you go home with a big smile !

Safe yet great fun, these new boats are the activity you must not miss during your stay in Phuket. Contact our sales department for more information: sales@tawanseadventures.com or call 0818943234 (English/French) or 0898712176 (Thai/English).

www.tawanseadventures.com www.theguidephuket.com

H

awan Cruises is Phuket’s leading yacht charter company providing guests with a memorable day (or multiple days) out amongst the scenic islands and waters around Phuket on a luxurious motor yacht. Offering yachts in the 32 to 70 foot range and accommodating up to 25 guests on our largest yacht, we give a first class service with great food, wines and our attentive crew. Contact our sales department for more information: sales@tawancruises. com or call 0818943234 (English/ French) or 0898712176 (Thai/English).

ere at our stable we offer you the greatest experience. Let your work worries and the pressure of modern society gradually fade away and nature take over.

Whether a beginner or an experienced rider we have the right horse and the right program for you. Our knowledgeable staff will match you with horses that suit your riding skills. We offer more than 20 Australian, Appaloosa, Thai horses and ponies for riding. Our horses and ponies are professionally trained and friendly; whether you are a novice or an experienced rider you will have great fun with us.

lue Elephant Cooking School has recently opened its Phuket branch where you can participate in one of our world famous cooking classes. Learn how to cook Royal Thai Cuisine with experienced chefs who will take you step-bystep through each recipe. Enjoy a tour around the local market where we will show you what are the popular ingredients of Thai food. When the cooking is all over you can sit and enjoy all of you hard work.

Morning and afternoon classes are available starting from 2,800 THB++ per person.

Tel. 076 324 199

www.blueelephant.com

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Watersports & Activities / 11

The Haunted Mine

A journey down the mine, but there’s only gold for fools. This is a ride into the fire-filled depths of the earth and beyond...ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK…!

Cosmic Coaster

This futuristic voyage will transport you to another planet! Speed through landscapes that you’ve never seen before, as you’re thrown from the highest cliffs, plummeting to the depths of an unknown, alien world...

Jett and Jin

Snow Ride

Cosmic Race

Journey thru the Center of the Earth

Join Jett and his cat Jin as they snap into their self-made jet-packs and take off to make it in time for school. Feel the adrenaline pumping as you blast off with them.

Outflank those cars as you fly by on the highway. Experience the thrills of this explosive adventure and above all: don’t be late for school!

Become a racing car driver and take part in an incredible race where you will feel an influx of adrenaline when flying at maximum speed through the streets of this futuristic city.

Race through snowcovered mountains, over shaky narrow bridges and through dangerous bat caves. This is one wild, icy ride that will give you both thrills and chills.

This exciting new film follows adventurers as you are plunged into a strange new world beneath the Earth’s surface where you embark on an amazing voyage and find incredible beauty amidst grave danger.

www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

12 / Watersports & Activities

XD Theater

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tep into the future with Phuket’s latest attraction; an 8 seat 4D motion ride. Choose a movie, slip on your glasses and be prepared to be whisked away on a journey to space or beyond.

The moving chairs enhance the thrills of the 3D visuals making you feel you really are in a land undiscovered.

We rode on the Cosmic Coaster which is a roller coaster set on another planet taking you through landscapes, plummeting off cliffs into cosmic lands.

This virtual world is open to all ages and the shows run every 10 minutes, so step inside and let your imagination run wild.

www.xdtheater.thai-best.com

www.theguidephuket.com

Hot Activities Phuket Simon Cabaret

Butterfly Garden

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huket Butterfly Garden is the largest and most desirable butterfly garden in Thailand. In operation from 1990, it has become a magnificent place for families and loved ones to enjoy. Imagine the natural beauty that surrounds you as you walk in a tropical garden surrounded by an abundance of flowers and butterflies.

Phuket Butterfly Garden is simply heaven on earth. 8000 butterflies per month inhabit the lush green tropical garden, enabling it to be a place of fun, tranquility and pleasure.

Discover their secrets, search for hidden eggs, watch as they sip nectar and witness the emergence of new butterflies.

ince opening in 1991, Phuket Simon Cabaret has established itself as a market leader of professional entertainment venue. For sheer entertainment, our set designs are outstanding, costumes extravagant and the performers glamorous ! In the exclusive, luxurious and intimate theatre with hi-tech sound and lighting equipment. Our show is truly international featuring modern and traditional acts from around the globe in English and alternative languages. You will arrive relaxed but will leave confused as our performers are more of a man than you will ever be and even more of a woman too !

www.phuketbutterfly.com

www.phuket-simoncabaret.com

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Lifestyle / 13 Getting to know…..

Jon Ashenden The Sala Phuket Resort and Spa General Manager “

Ebullient” is a word that springs to mind when you talk to the energetic GM of the Sala Phuket Resort and Spa on Mai Khao Beach. After his first 16 months in the role here’s Jon’s perspective on the tourism scene from the northwest corner of the island.

What sort of background do you bring to your role at Sala Phuket?

I have 22 years of hospitality industry experience, 14 of them offshore out of Australia where I was brought up. I started my career with a Hotel Management degree working for InterContinental Group in properties all over Australia and the South Pacific. Initially I worked on the F&B side of the industry then moved into hotel and resort openings and re-branding for such employers as the Sofitel in Central Vietnam, the Le Meridian Group in Vanuatu, Bill Heinecke’s Minor Group in the Maldives and corporate division in Bangkok and most recently the opening of the Anantara Phuket Villas on Mai Khao Beach.

How has the Sala Resort been performing since its opening?

We opened in December 2007 and in our first three years of trading we’ve survived a very tough period for Thailand’s tourism industry. We have a total inventory of 79 pool villas and suites, 63 with their own private pools and yet we managed to get through the various health and political crises that have plagued the industry and last year achieved the best trading results we’ve had since opening.

What have been your key priorities since taking over as GM?

Introducing structure and defining management principles within Sala to ensure individual business units are operating both profitably and efficiently. We have focused on training, development and growing our own senior and mid-

We focus on the exceptional beaches with breathtaking sunsets and natural wonders including Sirinath National Park and the gateway to Phang Nga, or the Similan Islands and Khao Sok areas.

management employees through clearly defined succession planning and career advancement for the staff. We now have Key Personnel Initiatives in place for various staff levels and we are tackling language competency with our full-time Training Manager & English teacher.

We’ve also implemented a resort preventative maintenance plan last year on all of our 79 villas and suites and public areas to ensure brand identity and standards are maintained.

What initiatives are you putting in place to sell Phuket’s northwest corner?

Our beautiful destination has wonderful resources and is completely unspoiled, so we decided to form a coalition of

northern hotels and resorts in the region under the North Phuket Resorts (NPR) alliance since October 2009 to promote the destination within Phuket. We meet fortnightly and I am the Secretary of the alliance which incorporates brands such as JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa, SALA Phuket Resort and Spa, Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa, and the Anantara Phuket Villas with the new Holiday Inn Mai Khao also opening soon.

We focus on the exceptional beaches with breathtaking sunsets and natural wonders including Sirinath National Park and the gateway to Phang Nga, or the Similan Islands and Khao Sok areas. In addition we have Blue Canyon Golf Course, the Yacht Haven and the long planned Convention Center and so this part of the island is a very exciting and unspoiled alternative to the southern regions of Phuket.

We’ve made culinary arts and wine a central focus of the Alliance’s promotional events such as last December’s North Phuket’s Culinary Arts Food Festival with the longest dining table in north Phuket, Jim Thompson silk fashion show with International DJ Charles Schilling and the Biggest Sunday Brunch.

In July we are staging a Grapes and Grazing Week with four world-famous wine experts including Peter Rawling from Spy Valley, Howard Duncan from Peter Lehmann’s Winery, Erika Ribaldi from Marchesi di’Frescobaldi and owner Peter Lynn from Majella coming in and providing wines to complement sensational cuisine provided by the group’s creative Executive Chefs. At just 2200 baht net per person, it will be great value! ‘Go North’ SALA Phuket Resort and Spa 333 Moo 3, Mai Khao Beach, Thalang District, Phuket, Thailand 83110 Tel. +66 (0) 76 338 888 Fax. +66 (0) 76 338 889 Email: info@salaphuket.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

14 / Lifestyle

The NighT crawler

PATONG

Live music @ Margarita

Margarita; With live music every night this open air bar creates a great atmosphere located at the top of Bangla Road. For enthusiasts of live music performed with an Irish flavour, Patong offers a few lively Irish pub options.

Scruffy Murphy’s on Soi Bangla is the place for chilled Guinness, good pub food and nightly live music. If you are on Beach Road head over to Molly Malone’s which has a similar offering with outside seating.

The new night life venue which just opened in November is the trendy Factory Bar on Soi Bangla. With a chic industrial theme, a huge bar, great cocktails and cool sounds ranging from R&B to House to Techno, this is THE

latest place to see and be seen.

PHUKET TOWN

Rockin’ Angels Bar is a must for both lovers of live music and for performers who would like to jam along. The Singaporean owner is a guitarist and singer and an allround nice guy. From the Rassada Road traffic circle head up Yaowarat Road and the bar is on the left-hand side.

Ka Jok See is a Phuket Town institution and one of the most successful restaurants on the island. It’s a great place for a candlelit romantic dinner or a boisterous night out, as later in the evening the owner Khun Lek starts playing hot music which turns Ka Jok See into a huge party, with even dancing on the tables!

SURIN BEACH

Situated along the north end of Surin Beach, Catch Beach Club is a fashionable eatery with cool music, a chic outdoor cocktail bar and a wonderful seafood buffet. Catch often features international mu-

Gourmet Sunday - an indulgent Sunday with all the trimmings: imported meats, fresh seafood, cheeses, sushi and sashimi, outdoor BBQ, pan-fried goose liver, Swiss specialities, Mövenpick ice cream, Mövenpick coffee and so much more.

Bring the family. The Play Zone will keep the kids entertained while the adults unwind and you can spend the afternoon together at the pool.

Every Sunday, 12.00 noon to 3.00 pm at Pacifica restaurant. THB 1,800++ per person (inclusive selected wines and cocktails), THB 1,500++ (food only) per person. 50% off for kids (4-11 years old).For reservations, please call or e-mail at +66 76 396 139 or reservations.phuket@moevenpick.com Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax.

Gourmet Sunday

www.theguidephuket.com

more.

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket 509 Patak Road, Karon Beach Phuket 83100, Thailand Phone +66 76 396 139, Fax +66 76 396 122 resort.phuket@moevenpick.com

Lifestyle / 15 sicians performing their own compositions, plus visiting DJ’s and regularly throws some of the island’s most amazing parties full of beautiful people.

Stereo Beach Club and Lounge is at the southern end of Surin and has recently joined forces with the famous IndoChine group to launch one of the hippest late night spots on Phuket. It usually gets busier later in the evening but is also a great place to go for an early evening drink and to catch the sunset. The décor is outstanding featuring a beach bar with white rattan chairs and tables and they offer a full bar, a wine cellar and a tapas menu.

KARON & KATA

Coming up from Karon Beach and the traffic circle, take the first soi on the left and you’ll fund a veritable warren of fun bars.

The Terrace Bar is an upstairs bar on the corner and is a great people-watching spot. On the opposite side there is a handful of bars with well priced drinks, chaotic music, friendly hostesses and good humor.

For a quieter pint try Angus O’Toole’s Irish pub on the left at the end of the soi, serving international beers and all-day pub food.

There’s no ear-splitting music, but they show all the sports on the huge screens, have the day’s newspapers and offer a genuine cozy pub atmosphere.

The Ska Bar at the southern end of Kata Beach is built on huge granite boulders and has an outstanding view along the sand and out to sea. Here you can enjoy the cool reggae flavor, with friendly dreadlocked staff and terrific inexpensive cocktails.

HOT Party

Midsommar Buffe!

Midesommar Fest

Friday 24, June. Starting at 6pm-late At Two Chefs, Kata Center Adult: 495 THB Children 3-12 year: 250 THB Tel. 076 330 065

White Box Tapas and Wine Every Friday Order Tapas as much as you like.

Starting at 6pm - 11pm 1,200 THB Net Call: 076 376 271

ne k O t Ge Drin www.facebook.com/theguidephuket EE FR

16 / Lifestyle

Life’s a Beach

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ith a vast array of different beaches on Phuket’s coastline why stick to just the one nearest your hotel? Take a look here at the choices available.

Nai Yang Beach

Just south of the airport is Nai Yang, a charming beach with a unique atmosphere all of its own. With just a scattering of hotels and bars to entertain the few that stay there, Nai Yang is as relaxed as they get. Ever dreamed of eating seafood right on the beach? This is your spot.

Nai Thon Beach

A little further south from Nai Yang is Nai Thon, possessing a similar feel to its big brother, Nai Thon has long been a favorite with the regular visitors to the island. This quiet bay nestled at the foot of high hills has a fine strip of sand and a handful of pleasant eateries are situated just off the beach.

Layan Beach

This is a small and relatively unknown beach, nestled in a shallow bay at the northern end of Bang Tao. You get there by following the small road that winds right through the back holes of the Banyan Tree Golf Club. Layan Beach is more of a bay than a beach, and although very picturesque the water is quite shallow; great for families but if you fancy a real swim it’s not the place to go.

Bang Tao Beach

Mai Khao Beach

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ai Khao Beach is situated on the far northwest coast of Phuket and offers 11km of straight sandy tranquility punctuated by the opportunity of spotting occasional passing aircraft as they come in to land at Phuket’s nearby airport.

Mai Khao is still largely undeveloped as it is part of the Sirinat National Park and only recently has a number of up-market resorts opened including the JW Marriott Resort, Sala Phuket, Renaissance Phuket Resort and Anantara Phuket Villas, with the new Holiday Inn Mai Khao also opening soon. These resorts focus on superb culinary arts in their promotional efforts, meaning that there are now ample opportunities for great wining and dining along this extensive beach.

The main focus here is on peace and quiet, plus enjoying the sensational sunsets. The sand is a little course and the sea can be dangerous for swimming during the southwest monsoon season from May to October, so caution is advisable.

The beach’s quietude is just fine with the Giant Ridley Sea Turtles who weigh up to 850 kg and enjoy having the beach to themselves so they can clamber ashore on starry nights from November to February to lay their eggs.

In addition the Blue Canyon Golf Course and the Yacht Haven are close by making this an exciting and unspoiled alternative to the southern beaches of the island. www.theguidephuket.com

Bang Tao Beach has in recent years seen a lot of development with many 5-star luxury resorts in the area but the beach remains very pleasant. At certain times of the year swimming can be dangerous due to the strong tides. At the northern end of the beach the coral creates good opportunities for snorkeling.

Surin Beach

Surin Beach is located between Bang Tao and Kamala beach. It is one of most beautiful beaches on the island with fine white sand and emerald sea. The beach can have rather strong winds which make it ideal for windsurfing. A lot of popular resorts surround this beach.

Laem Singh Beach

Laem Singh Beach is small and very popular; it is located between Surin and Kamala. To reach the beach you need to walk down a short, rocky trail that is clearly signposted. If you are lucky and it’s not too crowded then Leam Sing Beach is absolutely stunning.

Kamala Beach

Kamala is a 3-kilometer long beach situated in the middle of Phuket’s west coast which has undergone recent developments to its main street, but the beach remains largely unchanged. Behind the beach lies a growing village with two distinct communities; Buddhists by the beach and Muslims further back at the foot of the encompassing mountain range.

Patong Beach

The most famous beach on the island is the center of entertainment, restaurants, shopping and hotels.

Lifestyle / 17 Patong is indeed a famous beach with beautiful soft sands and warm clear water. But right behind the beach is the hustle and bustle at the center of Phuket’s tourism business. Here the hotels, restaurants, entertainment and bar areas, street bazaars and shops are crammed in a colorful and lively mix that typifies a Thai tourist beach town.

snorkeling as many fish inhabit the rocks and corals along the headland to the south.

Paradise Beach is a little beach just 5 minutes south of Patong.

To get there follow a small cement road up to the hill through the jungle. It is a nice small beach with white, soft sand and large rocks flanking either side.

Nai Harn Beach

Ao Sane Beach

Paradise Beach

Ao Sane beach is a small bay and is located to the north of Nai Harn beach. To get to this beach you need to go through The Royal Phuket Yacht Club. Ao Sane is a very small, rocky beach but it is peaceful.

Karon Beach

Nai Harn is one of the more isolated beaches, nestled at the southern tip of the island in a bay defined by headlands and islets.

The beach is backed by the green of Casuarina trees and coconut palms, acting as shade to the restaurants that now line the beach.

Karon is another of the beautiful, west-coast beaches that have made Phuket famous. This beach is the first main stop south of Patong, and is separated from Patong by a large headland. A quick 10 minute drive connects the two.

Kata Beach

Kata is certainly one of the most beautiful of Phuket’s beaches; a half-moon crescent of white sand lining a bay cut deep between two green headlands. Crystal clear waters and soft coral offers excellent snorkeling and just outside the bay lies a small rounded island that seems to wave its coconut haircut to those on the beach.

Kata Noi Beach

Just south of Kata Beach is Kata Noi, a smaller beach with only a few hotels and little other development. The beach is superb for

Yanui Beach

Yanui Beach is a small bay, 10 minutes north from Leam Phrom Thep. It offers kayaking and snorkeling with equipment hire, both off the beach itself and around the small island about 500 meters distant. The beach is not so long and the sand is beautifully soft and rarely crowded. It is also a favorite bathing and sunbathing location.

Ao Yon Beach

Ao Yon is another peaceful beach ideally suited for watching the sunset. It is located near Cape Panwa, 10km from Phuket Town. Although quiet with beautiful emerald sea this beach is not really suitable for bathing or relaxing as the bay is usually full of boats and yachts.

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18 / Hotels & Accommodation

The 9 Floor In Bed with...

th Apartments

T

he 9th Floor Apartments are an elegant residential sanctuary offering the height of sophistication right in the heart of Phuket’s famed Patong area. Situated on the ninth floor of the strangely named Sky Inn Condotel just off Rat-U-Thid Road parallel to Beach Road and a short walk from the beach and Soi Bangla and all the nightlife action, these luxury apartments are a real home-from-home for sophisticated travelers and tourists.

There are five exclusive serviced apartments in all, each elegantly decorated in its own unique style. Spread over two floors, they’re equipped with all modern amenities like two flat screen TV’s, DVD-player, Stereo, WiFi, and with Air Condition on each of the floors.

There are two and one bedroom penthouse, as well studio apartments from which to choose and all of them boast alluring modern décor and art decorations.

The apartments are on the same floor and managed by the owners of the highly fashionable 9th Floor restaurant with its fab-

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TO PHUKET TOWN

Hotels & Accommodation / 19

ulous menu, wine cellar, cool music, welcoming bar and stunning views over Patong and where beautiful waitresses serve heavenly food to a sophisticated international crowd.

Entering the 100 square meter penthouse apartments you step into the living room with its kitchenette and bathroom.

They are very stylishly decorated yet cozy and the living room on your right invites you to linger around the comfortable sofa, watch a movie on the big flat-screen wall TV in front of the sitting area, or be delighted by food prepared in your own kitchenette. Stretched over two floors and connected by a wooden staircase you then reach the bedroom with its king-size bed as the centerpiece. In the main bedroom, light streams in from the big window with its easy-to-close curtains. The staircase reaches the upper floor with its bedroom, bathroom and clothing storage space. In the center of the room is the king-sized bed and in front of it another big flat-screen TV. In the far corner of the bedroom is the bathroom and shower, on the opposite side the clothing storage space.

Each room is fully air-conditioned, with flat-screen TV’s, entry key card, safe, coffee and tea- making facilities and a cleaning service.

The 50 square meter studio apartments have an upstairs and downstairs, the lower floor comprises the living room with a bathroom attached. Connected by a wooden staircase you ascend to the bedroom with the king-size bed as its centerpiece.

The staircase reaches the upper floor with its bedroom, bathroom and clothing store space and in the center of the room is the big king-sized bed and in front of it another big flat-screen TV. In the far corner of the bedroom is the bathroom and shower.

All the apartments are beautifully decorated with cool paintings and vases and stylish furniture, so that at the 9th Floor Apartments you really can luxuriate in a sophisticated home away from home offering comfort and style right in the heart of Patong and at highly affordable prices.

Serviced Apartments at the 9th Floor.

The 9th Floor Residence Co., Ltd 47/249, Rat-U-Thid Rd., Patong, 83150 Phuket Tel: +66 (0) 76 344 987 www.roomsatthe9th.com Contact@roomsatthe9th.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

20 / Food & Restaurants

Let’s do Brunch!

Pacifica Restaurant

Golden Tulip Mangosteen Resort & Spa

Two Chefs Saturday Brunch

The leading resort on Karon Beach is currently offering their ‘Gourmet Brunch and More’ promotion featuring a huge selection of tantalising dishes including sushi and sashimi, fresh seafood, oysters, pan-fried goose liver, imported meats cooked to your taste, imported cheeses and Swiss specialities including Mövenpick ice cream.

The best value and one of the most child-friendly brunches in Phuket is every other week at the Golden Tulip Resort set high on a hill overlooking Chalong Bay in Phuket’s south. Families can relax and enjoy themselves while the children play in the extensive pools, fountains, canals and gardens.

Salads, pasta, meats, seafood, cheeses and desserts are provided in abundance and at just 499 THB net a head, this is an exceptionally good value experience.

The Two Chefs Saturday Brunch is not an ordinary brunch, it is a brunch with carefully chosen home made specialities with the scandinavian flavours that you miss from home.

We serve our own smoked salmon, smoked prawns a large variety of meat and a lot more for only 395 THB and if you add an extra 300 THB you get to drink as much Carlsberg Draught beer or wine as you like.

To make your visit even more comfortable we have the lovely voices of Megan & Mj to accompany your perfect afternoon filled with good food and drinks.

www.goldentulipmangosteen.com Tel : +66 (0) 76 289 399

www.twochefs-phuket.com Tel : +66 (0) 76 330 065

Movenpick Resort and Spa

• Every Sunday from 12:00 to 15:00 • 1,800 THB++ per person

(inclusive of selected wines and cocktails) • 1,500 THB++ per person (food only) • 50% off for kids (4-11 years old).

www.movenpick-phuket.com Tel : +66 (0) 76 396 139

Thai and French cuisine quality Open every night from 19.00pm. to midnight.

Quiet and charming restaurant, 24 seats, with garden terrace.

Patong Resort’s enviable location, well appointed rooms, excellent facilities and extensive grounds make it the perfect choice for any visitor to the tropical paradise of Phuket. Just 45 minutes from Phuket International Airport.

Divine Dining; Meat eater will love the Roof Top Steak House on the 8th floor of the Main Building. The charcoal grill kitchen serves tasty and juicy imported steaks, complemented by wine from an extensive wine list.

Easy access to Patong Beach, night bazaar and entertainment areas.

Steak: meat imported excellent sauces, mashed, au gratin, ratatouille, etc.

French cheeses and cold cuts.

Succulent Thai dishes.

Warm welcome and very good value for money.

Bangkok Office : Tel . +66 2 235 9040, +66 234 2406 Fax. +66 2 234 9007 E-mail : bangkok@patongresorthotel.com

www.patongresorthotel.com

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Reservations Tel: 086 2671 555 076 345 6020 Guest Houses for rent

www.baanbuakao.com

Baan Bukao Patong Beach Road

108/3 Taweewong Road Soi Patong Tower

Holiday Inn Soi

Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7634 055 – 4 Fax. +66 7634 0189 E-mail: info@patongresorthotel.com

Soi Bangla

Patong Tower

Food & Restaurants / 21 Sunday Brunch Review

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Sails Restaurant

O

ne of Phuket’s most welcoming and best value Sunday brunches can be enjoyed every week at the beautiful Sails restaurant in the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa on languorous Karon Beach, just south of Patong.

All members of the family will enjoy the ultimate in superb food and wines, either in the air-conditioned sala, or beside the huge swimming pool amidst the abundant tropical palms and vegetation where poolside jazz and a lazy fun-filled Sunday afternoon seems to bring happiness to friends, lovers and every member of the family.

From 11am until 4pm you can savor the huge selection of antipasti with cold cuts and vegetables, smoked salmon platter, cheese platter, a variety of salads, fresh seafood, Thai hot appetizers, soups, pasta, sushi counter, Chinese

dim sum, Peking duck, roast beef, lamb chops, duck curry, seared salmon, roasted chicken, potato gnocchi and even a chocolate fountain, which of course the little ones love!

Somehow the hours seem to pass in happy bliss as the pool-side trio plays cool jazz sounds and the kids are entertained by clowns with balloons and games, meaning that the adults can just kick back and relax.

Bliss! That’s how Sundays should be in Phuket!

Hilton Sunday Brunch - 950 baht per person including a bottle of wine per couple; 475 baht per child up to 12 years old.

Price excludes tax and service charge.

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa 333, Patak Road, Karon Beach Muang Phuket, Thailand 83100 Tel: +66-76-396433 Fax: +66-76-396136

CPBR F&B ad. Luna Bar 170 x 108 mm..ai 1 20-May-11 6:23:39 PM

SUNSET HAPPY HOURS AND GRAND MARNIER PROMOTION AT LUNA BAR

Our late night lounge bar, the Luna Bar, is host to a spectacular view of the Andaman Sea, and is also the place to enjoy live smooth jazz music. Ninjazz, our resident jazz trio, performs from 8 p.m. till 11 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Also, don’t let pass the Sunset happy hours between 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. when we offer you a ‘Buy 1 get the same one free’ promotion. th

nd

From the 15 to 22 of June 2011, Luna Bar will host a Grand Marnier event where you can enjoy exclusive cocktails featuring Grand Marnier liqueur at favorable prices presented by Grand Marnier brand ambassador from Paris, Julien Defrance.

For information and reservations, please contact 076 201 234.

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22 / Hotels & Accommodation

Hotel Highlights PATONG

Absolute Sea Pearl Beach Resort +66 76 341 901-10 Amari Coral Beach Resort +66 76 340 106-14 Andaman Beach Suites Hotel +66 76 340 879-83 Banthai Beach Resort +66 76 340 850 Deevana Patong Resort & Spa +66 76 341 414-5 Duangjitt Resort & Spa + 66 76 342 090-4, 340 310-1 Le MĂŠridien Phuket Beach Resort +66 76 340 680-5 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket +66 76 340 608-9 Horizon Beach Resort Hotel +66 76 292 526-30 Ibis Phuket Patong +66 2 659 2888

Thara Patong Beach Resort & Spa +66 76-340 520

KARON BEACH

Patong Resort Hotel +66 76 340 551-4 www.patongresorthotel.com

Hilton Phuket Arcadia +66 76 396038-44 Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa +66 76 284 555 Karon Beach Resort +66 76 330 006-8 Karon Sea Sands Resort +66 76 286 464

Royal Pawadee Village Hotel +66 76 344-622 Safari Beach Hotel +66 76 341 171-4 Salathai Resort +66 76 296 631 Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket +66 76 201 234 www.centarahotelsresorts.com/cpbr Karona Resort & Spa +66 76 286 406-10

Impiana Resort Patong, Phuket +66 76 340 138 www.impiana.com

The Royal Paradise Hotel +66 76 340 666 www.royalparadise.com

MĂśvenpick Resort & Spa +66 76 396 139-48 www.moevenpick-phuket.com Merlin Beach Resort +66 76 294 300 www.merlinphuket.com Mercure Patong +66 76 302100 Novotel Phuket Resort +66 76 342 777 Patong Bay Garden Resort +66 76 292 914-5 Patong Merlin Hotel +66 76-340 037-41 Patong Paragon Resort & Spa +66 76-290-555 www.theguidephuket.com

The 9th Floor Residence +66 76 344 987 www.roomsatthe9th.com

Marina Phuket +66 76 330 497 Phuket Orchid Resort +66 76 396 519-23 South Sea Karon Resort +66 76 396 611-7 The Front Village +66 76 398 200-5

KATA BEACH

The Nap Patong +66 76 296 631-4 www.thenappatong.com

Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort and Spa +66 76 370 999 Andaman Cannacia Hotel & Resort +66 76 284 211-4

Hotels & Accommodation / 23

Tinidee Hotel@Phuket +66 76 321 925

The Evason Phuket +66 76 381 010-7 The Vijitt Resort Phuket +66 76 363 600 The Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club +66 76 381 360-6

BANG TAO BEACH

NAIYANG & Naithorn

The Beach Boutique House +66 76 333 113

KATHU

BluEco Hotel +66 76 333 315 www.thebluecophuket.com

Capannina Inn +66 76 284 450 www.phuket-capannina-inn.com Club Mediterane +66 76 330 455-60 Ibis Phuket Kata Hotel +66 2 659 2888 Kata Beach Resort +66 76 330 530-4 Kata Plam Resort & Spa +66 76 284 334-8

Amora Beach Resort Phuket +66 76 324 021-2 Bangtao Beach Resort +66 76 270680-5 Dusit Laguna Resort Hotel +66 76 324 324 Laguna Beach Resort Phuket +66 76 324 352 Laguna Beach Resort +6676 324 352 Sheraton Grande Laguna +66 76 324 101-7

Mom Tri’s Boathouse +66 76 330 015-7 Metadee Phuket Resort +66 76-337 888 Katathani Phuket Beach Resort +66 76 330 124 Orchidacea +66 76 284 083 Sugar Palm Resort & Spa +66 76 284 404

Maikhao

SURIN BEACH

The Surin Phuket +66 76 324 017-20 Twinpalms +66 76 316 500

KAMALA BEACH

Aquamarine Resort & Villa +66 76 310 600 Cape Sienna +66 76 337 300 Kamala Beach Estate +66 76 324 111-4 Kamala Beach Hotel & Resort +66 76 279 580-5

RAWAI BEACH & Nai Harn

Two Chefs Bungalows +66 76 284 155 www.twochefs-phuket.com

Dewa Phuket +66 76 372 300 Naithon Buri Beach Resort +66 76 318 700 Indigo Pearl +66 76 327 006-9 Naiyang Beach Resort +66 76 328 300

All Season Naiharn Phuket Hotel + 66 76 289 333 Friendship Bungalow +66 76 288 996 Goden Tulip Mangosteen Resort & Spa +66 76 289 399

Sala Phuket Resort and Spa +66 76 338 888 www.salaphuket.com Anantara Phuket Villas +66 76 336 100 Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa +66 76 363 999 JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa +66 76 205 379-80

CAPE PANWA

Cape Panwa Hotel +66 76 391 123-5 Radisson Resort Phuket Panwa Beach +66 76 602 500 Sri Panwa, Phuket +66 76 37 1 000

PHUKET CITY

Serenity Resort & Residences +66 76 371 900 www.SerenityPhuket.com

Phuket Merlin Hotel +66 76 212 866-70 Rome Place

+66 76 223 560 Royal Phuket City +66 76 233 333 The Metropole +66 76 215 050 Thavorn Grand Plaza Hotel +66 76 222 240-50 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

24 / Food & Restaurants

In the Kitchen with...

IndoChine Phuket Kalim Beach

I

ndoChine Phuket located at the north end of Kalim Beach is new to Phuket, but its famous nutraceutical cuisine, a fusion of healthy Vietnamese, Cambodian and Laotian dishes, is well established around Asia. Its daringly designed, fourstorey, round, glass-walled restaurant and bar building has rapidly become an iconic venue for both casual and fine dining, corporate and private functions and something IndoChine specializes in - parties.

IndoChine is the brainchild of Michael Ma, a dynamic Singapore based entrepreneur who has built his concept of a holistic experience around healthy, heart-friendly, locally obtained fresh ingredients with an underlying environmental message; dishes like shark fin soup, blue and yellow fin www.theguidephuket.com

tuna and black caviar from the sturgeon fish are not on IndoChine’s menu because all are endangered species. What is on the menu is an impressive array of dishes featuring many Thai natural herbs and spices based around nutraceutical cuisine.

The Phuket IndoChine consists of six unique outlets, five of them at the one stylish venue on Kalim Beach and the other at Surin Beach just 10 minutes drive away.

IndoChine Waterfront Restaurant is the flagship on the third floor, with signature red chandeliers and capacity for up to 70 people inside and on an outside balcony with magnificent views across Patong Bay. Bar Opiume is ideal for corporate and private functions; the ground floor Deli Café offers a wide range of Asian and Western dishes from 6am to 11pm, including breakfast; Saint Tropez Beach Club is a rooftop bar with great views set around a swimming pool; the Bistro Savanh sits high up the mountain slope beside a 25m pool with uninterrupted views across the bay and finally Surin Beach Club:Stereolab is a funky night time party venue, which doubles as an elegant restaurant during the day.

Binding all of these venues together is IndoChine’s distinctive cuisine. It is best described as a combination of nutritional foods with pharmaceutical benefits including the prevention and treatment of disease. Foods such as garlic, cod fish and a variety of herbs and spices are frequently used by the 14 chefs employed to deliver the many available dishes.

Overseeing all restaurants, including a further seven chefs at IndoChine’s Surin Beach Club:Stereolab at North Surin Beach, is Chaiyot Sabaibang, known as “Johnny,” new to Phuket after 10 years as head chef at IndoChine’s Club Street bar and restaurant in Singapore and, prior to that, running his own restaurant in Chiang Mai. Mr. Chaiyot aims to change the menu every six months, but always remaining true to IndoChine’s unique formula.

Many of the dishes draw on the Vietnamese, Cambodian and Laotian cultures around which the IndoChine cuisine is

Food & Restaurants / 25 based. Michael Ma’s parents are Laotian, but were forced to flee the country to Thailand, then Australia, to escape war. ‘Thit Bo Luc Lac’ for example, is a Vietnamese dish of prime beef sautéed in herbs, spices and melted butter, served with sliced onions and tomato accompanied by a subtle sour-sweet dip. The dish was often served when the Vietnamese emperor held court with his subjects. Another popular dish ‘Ping Kai Savannakhet’ - grilled lemongrass chicken of Savannakhet, is skewers of lemongrass with chicken marinated with exotic herbs and spices, served with a sweet chilli sauce. It has its origins in Laotian history where women treated their suitors to Ping Kai as part of the courting ritual.

The Deli Café on the ground floor has all day dining and offers signature dishes such as the IndoChine Platter - a combination of Vietnamese spring and prawn rolls, minced prawns on sugarcane, Laotian sun dried beef or pork and fresh rice paper wrap of chicken and crispy rice.

Western food offerings includes popular Fish & Chips and, reflecting the Ma family’s Australian connections, a fa-

mous Aussie “Lady Pie” of chunky steak, mushrooms, kidney and chicken combinations, freshly made here on Phuket.

IndoChine has an extensive wine offering, which is kept at a steady temperature of 18C at Waterfront and the Café Bistro. Wines from Germany, Australia, Argentina, Chile, Italy, France, Spain, New Zealand, California, Portugal and South Africa are all available and can be purchased at retail prices across the bar. Cocktail specialities include Mai Tai, Pina Colada and Mojito and there is a wide range of spirits and beers, including Corona from Mexico, Lao Beer from Laos, and San Miguel from the Philippines.

IndoChine Phuket 328/81 Prabaramee Road Kalim Beach, Patong.

For reservations call 076 388 800 www.indochinephuket.com

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26 / Food & Restaurants

Restaurant LE CELTIQUE French Cuisine

French specialities; snails, white asparagus, scallops, saffron sauce and an excellent pork hock or a rack of lamb with goat cheese.

Bertrand is the king of sauces, and Lek always welcomes you warmly.

80/90 Moo 7, Soi Samakea 4, Saiyuan Road, T. Rawai, Phuket.

Tel. 076 613 098 E-mail: celtiquethai@hotmail.com Location: Saiyuan Road, Rawai

Brush Restaurant European

Brush Restaurant and Lounge offers European food with an Asian twist, hip DJs, sumptuous cocktails and wonderful people. Brush Restaurant is the newest stylish venue in Phuket. Tel. 076 340 348 www.facebook.com/brushphuket www.brushphuket.com Location: Kalim Beach

Food Adventure Royal Thai Cuisine

The first restaurant in Phuket to offer ‘Hunter Food’; a selection of weird and wonderful dishes from around the world, try the ‘Crocodile Cakes’ or ‘Ostrich Bobotie’ amongst others for a truly original experience.

Tel. 076 366 723 E-mail: foodadventure.resto@gmail.com

Location: Patong

The East 88 Beach Club International & Thai

The East 88 Beach Club boasts a contemporary fusion menu of Mediterranean, Asian and traditional Thai dishes. Our chefs have created an array of signature dishes that will tantalize your palette and with their unique blends of different regional cuisines and flavors.

Tel. 076 371 900 E-mail: rsvn@serenityphuket.com www. serenityphuket.com Location: Rawai www.theguidephuket.com

Food & Restaurants / 27

HighlightS IndoChine Waterfront Restaurant Indochine & European Cuisine

In the same concept as the iconic Singapore Waterfront restaurant, famous Indochine and European dishes are served. Open 17.00 to 23.00 hours with Sunday Brunch starting at noon. www.indochinephuket.com Location: Kalim Beach

SALA Restaurant International cuisine & Thai food

SALA Phuket Restaurant offers an exceptional blend of mouthwatering international cuisine and scrumptious traditional Thai delicacies. Serve fresh seafood, exceptional international cuisine and Thai favourites.

Tel. 076 338 888 www.salaphuket.com Location: Maikhao

Giogiorne Restaurant Italian & Thai Food

Newly opened Giogiorne Italian & Thai Restaurant in Kata Beach serves a range of delicious Italian and Thai delights.

Located on Kata Road just before the Kata Palm resort. The restaurant is open from 10.30am – 23.00 daily.

Tel. 076 330 679, 081 797 0679 E-mail giogiorne@hotmail.com Location: Kata

White Box Fusion Cuisine

The cuisine here is refined. Stand out dishes include the tuna carpaccio and tuna tartare, ribeye and tenderloin beef. My personal favourite is the wagyu tartare, just a little bit spicy to help compliment the flavor of the meat. For fish lovers there is the excellent snowfish, and for Asian food there is a variety of dishes including Massaman curry. A great choice of wine, friendly welcome and beautiful surroundings. www.whiteboxrestaurant.com Location: Patong Beach www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

28 / Food & Restaurants

Restaurant HighlightS The 9th Floor Bar and Restaurant Mediterranean

The 9th Floor Bar & Restaurant, Patong’s highest ‘open-air’ restaurant on the top floor of the Sky Inn Condotel, is a hidden treasure dedicated to the enjoyment of fine, fresh Mediterranean, Alpine and Thai food, a comprehensive list of some of the best wines available, beautiful well-trained waitresses and a warm, elegant ambience reminiscent of a sophisticated members’ club.

Tel. 076 344 311 www.the9thfloor.com Location: Patong

CapaNnina Italian Cuisine

“All the flavours of typical Italian cuisine with the atmosphere of Italian festive days” Open daily from 11am till late Phone / Fax: +66 (0) 76 284318 www.capannina-phuket.com 30/9 Kata Road T.Karon A.Muang Phuket 83100 THAILAND

“We are just a few steps away from Kata Beach, one of the most attractive beaches in Phuket” Phone / Fax: +66 (0) 76 284450 www.phuket-capannina-inn.com 98/84-85 Kata Rd., T.Karon, A. Muang Phuket 83100 THAILAND

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This place offers the best pizza in Phuket, by far, with good choice and quality ingredients.

Mario, the boss, is “al forno” making pizza himself. The pasta dishes are also perfect, We recommend the 4-cheese penne, seafood spaghetti ‘scoglio’ red sauce or tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms. There is also a great variety of fresh and cooked salads for the lighter option.

Tel. 076 284 318 www.capannina-phuket.com Location: Kata

Two Chefs International

We are proud to introduce our delicious food - imported juicy steaks, fresh seafood, pasta, modern Thai food and much more. Enjoy your food in one of our nice restaurants with a good glass of wine from our extensive international wine list. We also serve breakfast, lunch, texmex menu, and Saturday Brunch. Open Daily 0800 - 2400. Kata : 076-28 41 55 Kata Centre : 076 33 00 65 Karon : 076-28 64 79 www.twochefs-phuket.com Location : Kata, Karon

Full Moon Brew Work International

Small batch, handcrafted beer served with freshly made food.

What else could you ask for? A relaxed atmosphere and good prices? Ok you got it! Open daily for lunch and dinner this is Patong’s only micro-brewery.

Tel. 076 366 753 www.facebook.com/fullmoonbrewwork Location: Patong

Food & Restaurants / 29

EXPERIENCE PHUKET’S FINEST BEER Good news for beer enthusiast, Phuket’s one & only micro-brewery restaurant has just opened in Patong. What makes Full Moon Brew Work so special? Well, the small-batch handcrafted beer, which are uniquely created to deliver distinctive Thai beer styles.

‘Phuket Lager’, pale and refreshing, contains Thai ‘Gaba’ rice to provide a delicately sweet and malty aroma. ‘Dark Ale’ uses three different malts with Thai black sticky rice from the Northeast of Thailand to provide richer flavoured and darker coloured brew. ‘Oriental Wheat’ brings together wheat, oatmeal with Thai tangerine peel and coriander infusion to create a fresh buttery textured white beer. Each beer is handcrafted on site from 100% all natural ingredients by our Thai brew master.

We also serve freshly made ‘Crafted Cocktails’ , don’t miss our ‘Ketel One Siam Sunrays’, this Thailand signature cocktail is based on the key Thai herbs using freshly-picked lemon grass, Kaffir lime leaves, Thai lime and Ketel One vodka.

Full Moon Brew Work is open daily for lunch & dinner and provides a wonderful retreat from the sun. Live music 7pm onwards on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

PHUKET’S ONE & ONLY SMALL BATCH HANDCRAFT BEER

SMALL BATCH HANDCRAFT BEER PHUKET

Micro-brewery & Restaurant

WE BREW OUR BEER Behind the ship at Jungceylon Shopping Center Open for lunch & dinner, everyday 11am ‘till mid-night Tel. 076 366 753 facebook.com/fullmoonbrewwork

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30 / Health & Beauty

Five Powerful Reasons Why You Should See a Chiropractor Regularly!

M

By Dr. Anthony Kell

ost of us who have had chiropractic care before are very familiar with its natural, non-drug pain relieving benefits. But chiropractic care along with many other stimulatory modalities and therapies can offer so much more than just pain relief.

In recent years, scientific evidence has revealed that

American Health Co, Ltd.

sensory-based treatment techniques such as spinal manipulation, massage, acupuncture, aromatherapy, bio-feedback, sound therapy and yoga, etc., are all modalities that excite receptors of the nervous system. Meaning, these modalities influence our brain’s function which in turn influences our autonomic nervous system, cognitive senses and hormonal function.

(The autonomic nervous is part of our nervous system that works unconsciously regulating our heart rate, blood flow, breathing, and many other bodily functions) Many practitioners have known this for long time. I have personally documented and experienced not only dramatic decreases in pain levels with chiropractic care but also significant improvements in patient posture, strength, immune strength, mood, energy, stress, digestion, hormonal function, breathing, & eye sight.

Sensory based therapies work by helping to increase and modulate neurotransmitter levels such as serotonin and dopamine. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals from a neuron, a nerve cell, to a target cell across a synapse or gap.

Serotonin is associated with functions such as anger regulation, body temperature, mood, sleep, vomiting, and appetite.

Low levels are associated with increased:

Phuket’s Premier Sports Chiropractic &

Physiotherapy Service Provider

If you are looking comfortable, effective pain relief, you’ve come to the right place!

We successfully treat: Achilles Tendinitis, Ankle Sprains, Back Pain, Bursitis, Carpal Tunnel, Foot Injuries, Frozen Shoulder, Headaches, Hip Pain, IT Band Syndrome, Knee/Leg Injuries, Neck Pain, Numbness/Tingling, Plantar Fasciitis, Repetitive Strain, Rotator Cuff, Sciatica, Shin Splints, Shoulder Pain, Tennis Elbow, TMJ, Whiplash, Digestive Disorders, Respiratory Ailments…

We specialize in the most advanced and proven techniques, including: • Chiropractic • Sport Physiotherapy • Myofascial Deep Tissue Massage • Acupressure • Therapeutic Exercise & Postural Retraining • Nutrition Please call now to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Dr. Anthony Kell, D.C., Los Angeles College of Chiropractic Graduate, USA Licensed & the only Professionally Qualified Chiropractor in Phuket.

27/14 Chao Fa Road, Vichit, Phuket 83000 www.phuket-chiropractic.com Tel: 076-612707 Mobile: 080-530-3376

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Health & Beauty / 31

• Aggressiveness • Depression • Migraine • Fibromyalgia • Anxiety • Bipolar disorders • Obsessive compulsive disorder Dopamine is associated with the “pleasure system” of the brain and promotes feelings of enjoyment and reinforcement to motivate performance. Low levels have been associated with: • Depression • Parkinson’s Disease • Anhedonia (inability to experience pleasure) • Social Anxiety • Heavy Menstrual Cycles • Learning Disorders • Chemical Addictions The other two neurotransmitters that act on the brain are GABA & Acetylcholine. GABA is short for Gammaamino acid and is the chief inhibitory neu-

rotransmitter of the nervous system. Its responses are associated with relaxation, anti-anxiety, and anti-convulsive. Low levels are linked to anxiety, Insomnia, depression. Acetylcholine promotes actions for memory, cognition, and arousal.

Low levels are associated with memory lapses, calculation difficulties, decreased arousal, and impaired judgment.

Patients who benefit the most from neurotransmitter stimulating therapies are those who have well nourished brains. They eat diets rich in unsaturated fats, an important component of nerve tissue and contained in many foods such as avocado, fish and nuts. Patient whose diets are loaded with saturated fat and simple sugars don’t do so well.

The health of our brain is often overlooked with emphasis placed more on outward appearance. It can’t be overstated how important the brain is and all its connections traveling via spinal column and onward to every single living cell in our body, literally millions and millions of connections. So, a normally aligned spinal column that is pain free, strong and mobile is crucial to help remove or lessen

nerve pinching or chaffing that occurs due to poor alignment and joint dysfunction.

Therefore in summary it’s important to receive physical stimulation on an ongoing basis to relieve the buildup of physical and mental stress, and to make sure the brain is nourished well to get the best out every treatment. Your first step to better health is to re-evaluate your diet to insure proper unsaturated fat content.

Second consult your healthcare practitioner on an ideal wellness or maintenance program to insure enough stimulation to keep your brain and nervous system functioning at its very best.

We offer a full range of clinical and cosmetic treatments in an informal, tranquil, soothing environment.

Our principal surgeon is qualified internationally and has many years of experience both in Thailand and abroad.

Our combination of expertise, personal attention and dedication are your guarantee of satisfaction.

Contact us now for a free consultation.

Check out our competitive rates.

Open Daily: 09.00am - 08.00pm

Plaza Dracaena Unit A1:3, Chao Fa West Road Opposite Home Pro Village Shopping Mall, Moo. 8, Tambon Chalong, Amphur Muang, Phuket, 83100 Tel & Fax : +66 76 604 411-2 Email: info@dental-clinic-phuket.com

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32 / Health & Beauty

5 Star all the Way! Spa Review

The Art of Relaxation

P

huket can be exhausting! With its vast array of dining and drinking options and all those water and beach activities and sightseeing and shopping excursions, even seasoned travelers will need to recharge their batteries from time to time. No wonder then that almost every visitor to the Land of Smiles will happily embrace the ancient Thai tradition of the indulgent and relaxing massage.

One way of guaranteeing you feel and look a whole lot better is a visit to the amazing ‘5 Star Massage and Beauty Salon’ on the main Rat-U-Tit Road in Patong. Housed in a large detached building opposite the Holiday Inn Hotel it is easy to find and, with almost 400 sq meters of space and more than 20 attentive therapists to serve you, even larger groups enjoy swift and welcoming attention.

A whole range of services are on offer at this stylish establishment, with hairdressing, manicure and pedicure services as well as a full range of expert massages and all these at highly competitive prices that belie the quality of the treatments on offer.

After days under the tropical sun you must try out the soothing ‘After Beach’ Aloe Vera treatment to soothe exposed skin or you can luxuriate in a sensuous Aromatherapy massage, where natural essential oils help relieve tension, drain lymph fluid, improve circulation, remove aches and pains and revitalize the spirit for even more fun in the sun.

And if a full body Thai traditional massage is not on your agenda you can stop by for a revitalizing foot reflexology session, where centuries old techniques put a spring

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Health & Beauty / 33 in everyone’s step. And what could be more rejuvenating than a leisurely face massage where the therapist’s expert fingers can smooth any troubled brow?

Hosting this impressive facility is the energetic and ever-youthful Isabelle Louche and her charming Thai partner Khun Wan, and they both work tirelessly to maintain the salon’s high standards of service. With almost 6 years experience already in operating massage and spa facilities in Patong they have sourced the very best oils and unguents for their treatments and they ensure that their highly trained and motivated staff are always ready to give their very best service. The well being of the guests is always their first priority.

Isabelle is a natural sportswoman who hails from the beautiful area of Aix en Provence in France. For 16 years she owned and managed the highly successful golf pro shop at one of the oldest and most famous golf courses in the region so she has long experience of satisfying discerning clients.

As a confessed ‘massage addict’ herself, Isabelle sets high standards for the salon’s services and her ‘hands on’ management approach ensures that her stan-

dards are never compromised. French, English and Thai are the main languages spoken at the salon but smatterings of other languages are also often heard and client communication is always handled efficiently by the experienced staff.

The hairdressing salon and the luxurious reflexology treatment area are located on the spacious ground floor of the salon with sumptuous massage areas and even VIP rooms for singles and couples located on the upper floor.

‘5-Star Massage and Beauty Salon’ is open every day from 10am till 11pm, so every holiday schedule is covered. Already

The Art of Relaxation

a well-established and highly popular retreat for both local residents and visitors, everyone is assured a warm welcome and superb service in a great atmosphere with friendly staff and competitive prices.

Open every day from 10am until midnight

Your well being is our priority ty Thai Traditional Massage – 400 Thb b Foot Reflexology – 400 Thb Oil Massage – 500 Thb Aroma Therapy Massage – 700 Thb b Manicure – 250 Thb Pedicure – 250 Thb

5 Star Massage and B Beauty ty S Salon l Address: 225 Rat-U-Thit 200 Pee Road (opposite Holiday Inn Resort) Mobile: 089 535 4637 (Isabelle) E-mail: info@5-star-massage.com www. 5-star-massage.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

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Spa Highlight

Health & Beauty / 35

Swasana Spa

A place of true indulgence, our spa treatments are based on ancient South East Asian massage techniques so whether you are a seasoned spa visitor or newcomer to spa delights our staff will guide you through the treatments at a leisurely pace.

The combination of pure natural ingredients, the touch of professional therapists and the relaxing paradise-like setting will ensure a pampering time of rejuvenation.

Tel. +66 (0) 7634 0138 www.impiana.com

Hiranyikara Spa Indulge your body, mind and spirit. Located in peaceful surroundings, Hiranyikara is the perfect, soothing haven to hide away from the city’s turbulence, where you can indulge yourself in the various relaxing spa and health treatments to soothe your pains, calm your mind and uplift your spirits.

It is an ideal place to recharge your batteries after a long hard day. With our range of spa services we can pamper you with our highly experienced male therapists.

Tel. +66 (0) 7620 3280 www.hiranyikara.com

5 Star Massage

5 Star Massage in Patong is a unique, elegant, modern and comfortable salon where the very well-trained staff offer a complete range of massage and beauty treatment services at reasonable prices. 5 Star Massage is French owned and managed. All the massage girls are certified from massage schools in Thailand and only offer authentic massage services that will make you leave refreshed, revitalized and rejuvenated. Open Daily 10.00-23.00 and offering great value for money.

Tel: 089 535 4637 www.5-star-massage.com

A Spa with men in mind We are the 1st luxury spa for men located among peaceful nature about 200 meters away from Kathu community area, only 10 minute from Phuket town and 15 minute from Patong Beach Hiranyikara is the perfect soothing haven to hide away from the city’s turbulence, where you can indulge yourself in the various relaxing spa and health treatment to soothe your pains, calm your mind and up lift your spirits.

SenSes Health & Beauty Clinique

Welcome to SenSes where international health and beauty has been taken very seriously since July 2004. Luxurious treatment rooms, professional staff, a vast range of high quality, natural products and treatments for all forms of pain and stress relief will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated and ready for a most interesting beauty experience.

Tel: +66 76 271 373 – 4 www.senses.co.th

Further information pls. visit www.hiranyikara.com or send me an e-mail at info@hiranyikara.com TEL.+66 (0) 76 203280-1 , MB + 66(0) 81 370 0202 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

36 / Watersports & Activities

WATER ACTIVITIES DIVING LIVEABOARDS

Enthusiasts come from around the world for these liveaboards. Some run for up to 10 days and visit neighboring countries, usually Myanmar (Burma). Most divers book these trips well in advance, but those with time and flexibility can book a number of trips while in Phuket.

The Similan Islands, 90 kilometers northwest of Phuket, is the most common liveaboard destination. In good conditions the water visibility here can be astounding, and it’s generally in the range of 20-30 meters which is still excellent.

The Andaman Sea is generally quite calm, making diving easy and pleasurable.

DIVING IN PHUKET

Phuket and the surrounding Andaman Sea have gained an international reputation as one of the world’s top diving destinations. The Similan Islands in particular, are frequently ranked among the world’s top ten dive sites.

Several advantages make this region one of the best for both learners and experienced divers. Learners can access worldclass instruction at economical prices, and experience the abundance of aquatic life that inhabits these warm and comfortable waters. If you’re scared of sharks, don’t be, as any of the graceful specimens found here are harmless and relatively rare. Whale sharks, the biggest fish in the ocean at over 10 meters long, are at the other end of the spectrum, and are more common here than in any other part of the world. Experienced divers the world over flock to the Similan Islands knowing they have a better chance of swimming with whale sharks than anywhere else.

While large fish are not so common in Phuket’s waters, the variety of corals, both soft and hard, is striking. Perhaps most importantly for all divers, warm water and year-round clarity makes this a great place to be down with the fishes. www.theguidephuket.com

LEARNING TO DIVE

There are any number of places to learn to dive on Phuket….just look for any 5 star PADI facility. A dive course usually takes 3 or 4 days, starting in the classroom, then moving to the swimming pool and finally the open sea. The result is a diving certificate recognized around the world, as well as a lot of fun and new experiences.

DIVING DAY TRIPS

For those who already have their diving certificate, a good range of day trips is available. A variety of diving destinations include the two Racha Islands south of Phuket, several pinnacles in the direction of Phi Ph Islands and one large wreck of a car ferry that sank in a 30 meter location in the lower Bay.

FISHING

With so much water out there, there has to be fish, right? And of course there are fish out there – big fish, fighting fish, including sailfish. One of Phuket’s claims to fishing fame is that there are few places in the world where one can catch sailfish so regularly.

Boats invariably head to the Racha Islands south of Phuket where deep, clear waters attract the sailfish and their prey. At certain times of year thousands of sailfish congregate in very small areas, constantly leaping out of the water to

Watersports & Activities / 37 land on their sides with the biggest splash – rounding up schools of smaller bait fish.

Even when one can’t catch them, the very sight of so many huge, leaping fish is a fabulous spectacle. Though they can be caught all year round, the monsoon season is particularly good.

A wide variety of other fish are also plentiful including small tuna, Spanish mackerel, wahoo, dolphin-fish and barracuda.

Some dedicated anglers make the hours-long pilgrimage out to the continental shelf drop off, where the water suddenly plunge to hundreds meters and where huge marlin rule the depths.

TAWAN CRUISES

Tawan Cruises is Phuket’s leading yacht charter company providing guests with a memorable day (or multiple days) out amongst the scenic islands and waters around Phuket on a luxurious motor yacht. Offering yachts in the 32 to 70 foot range and accommodating up to 25 guests on their largest yacht, they give a first class service with great food, wines

and an attentive crew. Contact Tawan Cruise’s sales department for more information: sales@tawancruises.com or call 0818943234 (English/French) or 0898712176 (Thai/English).

SAILING

Of all the ways to see and enjoy the beauty of the Andaman, sailing is surely the ultimate. There is nothing better than spending days cruising island to island, and waking up each morning in the shadow of a different anchorage. Sailing, unhurried and serene, allows one to really unwind and absorb the incredible surroundings. When cruising Phang Nga Bay and the outlying islands of Phuket and Krabi you might share the occasional well known anchorage with a few other yachts, but otherwise meet only fishermen selling their catch.

TAWAN SEA ADVENTURES

Tawan Sea Adventures is Phuket’s newest fun activity on the water. Cruise amongst the famous sights of Phang Nga bay from your RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat)

and enjoy the bursts of speed when the boat will thrill you and ensure you go home with a big smile! Safe yet great fun, these new boats are the activity you must not miss during your stay in Phuket. Contact our sales department for more information: sales@tawanseadventures.com or call 081 894 3234 (English/French) or 089 871 2176 (Thai/English).

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38 / Watersports & Activities

Coral Seekers, Exclusive Adventures in Paradise

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Coral Seeker’s provide speedboat and snorkeling trips around Phuket’s best islands and reefs.

ames and Karen Harris gained high level experience and had successful careers in the British Army and international business before coming to Phuket and taking a Coral Seekers trip.

However they enjoyed it so much that they decided to buy the company and have built it into the finest boat charter company in the region. Founded in 1996, what makes Coral seekers different is that it offers private, individually tailored, highquality tours to the magical islands off the coast of Phuket.

Coral Seekers pick you and your party up individually, then transport you to their private Beach Club on Ao Yon Beach (close to the Phuket Yacht Club), where you can relax before you get ready for your trip. There’s no waiting around in a large group of other tourists looking lost!

Then “swoosh”, you’re off to your magical destination on the beautiful islands and beaches around Phuket. Once there, you can swim, snorkel, kick back, sunbathe and read. You can even do some waterskiing if you desire.

When lunchtime rolls around, you get the white tablecloth treatment with delistyle cold cuts cheese and fresh French

bread well as fruits, salad, dessert and refreshments…it’s a really great feast that adds to the overall enjoyment of a great day out.

The company offers both full and halfday excursions to quiet, pristine snorkeling areas as well as beautiful, secluded beaches and islands such as Koh Phi Phi; Phang Nga Bay; Koh Nok off Phuket’s east coast; Ratcha Yai Island; Coral Island off Phuket’s south and even as far afield as the Krabi area and the Similan Island group.

Coral Seekers guarantees you a day that runs at your own pace and provides all the equipment you will need. Its trips are perfect for couples, families or small groups as each one can be customized to suit your own needs.

Coral Seekers has raised the standards of boat tours in Phuket since its inception.

Trained and experienced guides and boat captains are on hand throughout to ensure every detail is taken care of, so you can relax and enjoy your exclusive adventure in paradise without a care in the world.

Coral Seekers has 5 speedboats; one double-engine 400HP (Nam Fah) which can comfortably carry up to 16, and four single-engine 200HPs (Nam Thip, Nam Pheung, Nam Fon and Nam Wan), which comfortable for up to 8.

The company also specializes in teambuilding excursions for corporate groups and beach weddings, and it does twilight tours as well if you want to catch one of Phuket’s beautiful sunsets on the way back to Ao Yon.

Wedding Ceremonies

Coral Seekers performs beach wedding ceremonies on quiet beaches in Phuket or using its speedboats it can take the couple and their guests to one of the neighboring islands. Coral Seekers is flexible in its approach and the couple can be as involved as they like, or they can leave all the details up to the company.

The ceremonies are simple, romantic and intimate - sometimes only the couples are present, sometimes a handful of guests and occasionally a whole lot more. Extras include a blessing by monks, a water ceremony, exquisite wedding cakes, help with legal registrations and much more.

All weddings include: land transfers, flowers (bouquet & decorations), a non-denominational celebrant, a photographer (digital photos presented on CD), sparkling wine (1 bottle), and a souvenir certificate.

www.theguidephuket.com

Watersports & Activities / 39

visit, there are better ways to get to Pannyi than by mass tourism.

Boat cruises to Phang Nga

The boat tours to Phang Nga Bay – the kind that leave from Phuket Island - usually cruise past the James Bond commotion without stopping, continuing their quiet journey through the bay of mountains.

This is by far the molst preferable way to visit this geographically spectacular region.

Phang Nga Bay Day Trips (or James Sea Kayaking Many visitors consider Bond Island) No visit to Phuket would be really complete if one never got to see and wonder at the geographic grandeur of Phang Nga Bay. Every visitor, surely, must have seen photos of Phuket’s neighbouring bay of gigantic rock mountains rising vertically from calm, olive-green waters even before getting here. The sight of Phang Nga is dramatic, and being surrounded by these towering rocky monoliths is surely one of the highlights of a visit to Phuket. We strongly recommend a visit here.

Koh Pannyi – also in Phang Nga Bay (or Sea Gypsy village)

Following the visit to crowded James Bond the cheaper tours shepherd their clients to Koh Pannyi island, the stilted water village seen in so many postcards. Often given the tourist name of Sea Gypsy village, it is in fact a community of Muslim fishermen, not sea gypsies. This village is indeed fascinating. It’s a pity about the tourist crowds; all tours companies arrive here at the same time for lunch, bringing up to 2-3,000 people every day. Although worth a

a canoeing trip into the ‘hongs’, the hidden caves of Phang Nga, the highlight of their visit to Phuket. This mystical world of collapsed caves connected to the sea by dark tunnels has been eroded from the limestone mountains over time by the rise and fall of the sea. Numerous companies have sprung up, and it is worth looking around to avoid the cheap quickies. Sign up with one of the well-established companies, or with original company that discovered the hongs and began it all, Sea Canoe. This can be an unforgettable trip well worth the time and money.

n io % ot 35 om nt Pr cou s Di

here are scores of alternative tours on offer in Phuket: boat trips; pristine tropical islands; sunset cruises; eco-tours; jungle trekking, elephant rides etc. We consider only a small number of these to be quality experiences. Price is not the only factor, though generally you do get what you pay for: buy the cheapest tour and you can expect to spend the day with a crowd of other tourists seeking the cheapest way.

11 20 ed p. dd Se ne 30 M re – OO a ril R pon Ap ED ou 18 IT nd c M I om L n a Fr io at rv se Re

T

Day Tripper

The BluEco Hotel is a harmonic and modern complex located in the heart of Kata Beach.

We are the unique and outstanding holiday center which offering its guests the convenience and comfort with its green concept, and peaceful environment.

The BluEco Hotel 100/75, Kata New Road, T. Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 333 315 Fax: 076 333 545 www.thebluecophuket.com

Renting your own speedboat

Interestingly, most of the beautiful images of tranquil little islands and fabulously clear waters are taken on the outlying islands, not on Phuket itself.

The only way to get to these islands is by renting a boat, and since there are few regular services your only option is to privately hire a speedboat for the day, although this is expensive it will provide you with memories to last a lifetime. www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

40 / Property

Property Review

Cherng’Lay Condominiums 2 T

he Cherng’Lay condominiums phase 2 is being constructed on land of 1.5 Rai (ca. 2500 sqm) located close to the center of Cherngtalay.

The project site is situated 3km from Bang Tao Bay, 2km from Laguna Golf course, 20 mins from the airport and Phuket Town.

This 23 unit condominium development offers a choice from studios up to 4 bedroom penthouses with private pool and panoramic sea views, easy access, parking spaces, 24 hour security services, a common pool and tropical gardens.

High quality materials in combination with years of international craftsmanship and experience ensure a high class product.

Real estate management and maintenance services available.

www.theguidephuket.com

Property / 41 Property Name

Cherng’Lay Condominiums 2

Property Company name

Phuket Asialand Co., Ltd

Property Type

Condominium

Transaction

Sale

Location

Cherngthalay

Price

3.5 Million THB / Unit

Typical Unit Size / Fully-furnished

53sqm. - 454sqm.

Total no. of Bedroom

Studio – 1 Bedroom, 2 Bedrooms & 4 Bedroom Penthouse

Ownership

Leasehold & Freehold

No. Of Units

23 Units

No. of Storey

6 Storey

Distance from Beach

2km from Bang Tao Beach

Distance from Airport

20 minutes

Distance from Phuket Town

20 minutes

Swimming Pool

Penthouse with private pool

Facilities

24hrs. Security Service, Tour Desk, Swimming pool, Fitness Access, Parking Area, Internet Access, Exotic Landscaping, Management, Property/Rental, Elevators, Laundry and Housekeeping Service.

Phuket Asialand Co., Ltd 1/4 Soi 4, Srisoothorn Road, Cherngtalay Thalang, Phuket 83110.

Tel: +66 (0)76 271 770 Fax: +66 (0)76 271 771 Jessy: +66 (0) 817 476 571 Michel: +66 (0 )848 485 273 Email: info@phuketasialand.com info@condominium-phuket.com www.phuketasialand.com www.condominium-phuket.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

42 / Hotels & Accommodation

..

Movenpick Hotels & Resorts opens second property in Thailand.

The Guide Update

Louis Bronner the famed GM of Mom Tri’s Boathouse Passes Away Into The Sea rated 10 out of 10 in Thailand

T

he Swiss hotel company assumes management of the Residences Laguna Beach Phuket which is perfectly complementing its resort and spa on Karon Beach.

With immediate effect, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is undertaking management of the Palm Beach Club hotel and rebranding it Mövenpick Residences Laguna Beach Phuket.

The resort will ideally complement the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket, the first property the hotel company opened in Thailand in 2006.

Both Phuket properties harmoniously blend Thailand’s gentle way of life with the Swiss tradition of hospitality and attention to detail to create two striking holiday getaways for discerning travelers.

Mövenpick Residences Laguna Beach Phuket is located on Bang Tao Beach, one of Phuket Island’s most pristine beaches and famous among golfers. The Phuket International Airport and several worldclass golf courses, including Blue Canyon Country Club and the Laguna Phuket Golf Club are within a 20-minute drive.

The new portfolio addition features 39 residences including luxurious penthouses and two and three-bedroom suites, all blending the best of Thai and contemporary design. Modern interiors evoke an easy living design complete with large balconies and some come with a private pool or Jacuzzi. All are designed to provide a perfect tropical haven for families, friends and long-term guests, creating a delightful ambience for a memorable holiday.

www.theguidephuket.com

Evason Phuket’s premier restaurant joins elite dining destinations with maximum points from Thailand Tatler.

The only restaurant in Phuket to get full marks for food.

Evason Phuket & Bon Island’s fine dining restaurant, Into The Sea, has gained glowing approval from one of the great arbiters of taste, Thailand Tatler. In a recent review the magazine, which claims to represent “The Spirit of High Society”, gave Into The Sea a perfect 10 for food, making it only one of eight restaurants in Thailand to have received such an accolade and the only restaurant in Phuket. Overall, Into The Sea was awarded 37 out of 40 in total, a remarkable seal of approval.

Impiana appoints Ms. Femke Beekers as a Villa Manager

Impiana Hotels, Resorts and Spas is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Femke Beekers as Villa Manager for its 6-star Impiana Private Villas, Kata Noi, Phuket.

New Executive General Manager

ACCOR Asia Pacific and Deevana Patong Resort & Spa Co., Ltd. has promoted Mr. Veeranat Limprasutr, to the Position of Executive General Manager of Mercure Patong Phuket and Mercure Krabi Deevana (Opening in October 2011) with immediate effect.

P

huket lost a popular island personality and doyen of the hotel and tourist industry when Louis Bronner passed away in Bangkok on May 16th from complications following heart surgery.

Mr. Bronner was at the forefront of the island’s hospitality industry, having spent over 20 years in Phuket. He first gained his popular reputation on Phuket as the General Manager of the Phuket Yacht Club in Nai Harn, now known as the Puravarna Royal Phuket Yacht Club, which opened in 1987.

Most recently he was the General Manager of the iconic Mom Tri’s Boathouse boutique resort, spa and restaurant on Kata Beach, where he was the consummate host to a glittering array of regular guests. Louis presided over this award winning beach venue with flair and grace welcoming such high profile visitors as Henry Kissinger, Peter Ustinov, Rudolf Nureyev and Prince Henrik of Denmark all of whom became his firm friends.

It is an ironic twist of fate that the new owners of the Boathouse are initiating a program of renovations commencing on June 1st with the re-opening of this refurbished jewel planned for October 1st. Sadly Louis will not see this unveiling and he will be sorely missed by all.

Rest in peace, Louis!

Property / 43 177/34 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Rd., Srisoonthorn Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand Contact: Phuket +66 (0)898 739 474 or +66 (0)76 620 055 Email: property@phuket.net realestate.phuket.net Kata

THB 99m

Kata

THB 26.5m

Surin

THB 25.5m

Rawai

THB 10.9m

Exquisite Villa

Amazing Views

Balinese Villa

Affordable Luxury

A very special home set on a hillside with stunning ocean views. This beautiful property features 5 bedrooms plus 2 study rooms, a therapy room, sauna, purpose-built wine cellar as well as an elevator.

Spacious ocean view 2-bedroom foreign freehold condo in one of Phuket’s most sought-after condo developments, boasting one of the best views on the island. The unit is fully-furnished and offers excellent rental potential.

Beautifully designed 3 bedroom villa located within walking distance to Bangtao Beach. The villa is set on a large 940 sqm plot with spacious pool deck and ample room for outdoor entertaining.

Brand new single-storey pool villa near Rawai Beach with private pool and landscaped garden built to very high standards not normally found in this price range. Furniture package included!

Koh Kaew

Patong

Kamala

Kamala

THB 52m

THB 21m

THB 5.5m

THB 8.9m

Stunning Marina Villa

Sea View Villa

Freehold Condo

Freehold Condos

Stunning property boasting 5 bedrooms and an expansive living area with a large secluded swimming pool and terrace all located in a lush tropical garden.

Patong: Elegant 3 bedroom residences situated on the hill just south of Patong with outstanding sea views overlooking the bay and are within just 5 minutes drive to the centre of Patong.

Beautifully furnished spacious 1 bedroom condo with a total 77 sqm of living space. Located in a popular resort development with strong rental returns

Modern 2-bedroom condominiums designed by Australian architect with spacious free-flowing interiors in an ideal location just 200 meters from Kamala Beach.

SALES & RENTALS AGENCY

Office located at entrance to Laguna Phuket Contact: Phuket +66(0)81 892 4741 or +66(0)81 979 3369 Email: info@phuketrealty.net www.phuketrealty.net

Make an Offer

21 million THB

13 million THB

72 million THB

DELUXE T/HOUSE - LAGUNA Located within the immensely popular Laguna Phuket, 3/4 beds, private pool, overlooking lagoon and greenery.

Deluxe model, best on market at best price.

VILLA - BANGTAO Divine 3 bed villa with private pool, walking distance to the white powdery shores of Bangtao Beach, next to Laguna Phuket and all it’s amenities.

Priced to sell.

PENTHOUSE - BANGTAO

VILLA - SURIN

Top floor penthouse with private pool, metres to the beach. Two oversized bedrooms with private bathrooms and large open living area. Finance available.

The ultimate in sea-view luxury and Thai tropical living, this 4 bedroom villa has all the modern comforts and incredible Surin, sunset views. With a proven high rental return, making it an excellent investment property as well.

35,000 THB/MTH

6 Million THB

Rentals & Sales

7 million THB

VILLA - NEAR LAGUNA Perfectly located, one bedroom private pool and jacuzzi villa with garden, oversized terrace for outdoor entertaining, kitchenette, four poster bed with walk-in-robe, ensuite bathroom. Just next to Laguna and only mins from the hub of Bangtao.

VILLA - NEAR LAGUNA A fantastic investment property ideal for long term rentals or private use. One bedroom villa with living room, kitchen, undercover parking, oversized bedroom with four poster bed, walk-in-robe, office, large bathroom with tub and outdoor shower. All topped off with a private 9m lap pool and water feature.

VILLA - SAI TAAN

LAND 1 RAI SEA-VIEW - AO POR

We have a lovely collection of rental and resale properties at the very popular Sai Taan residence, just outside the gates of Laguna Phuket. 3-4 beds, with large pool, gardens & fully furnished.

Call us for further details on pricing and availability.

A perfect piece of land to build your dream Phuket property, with the picturesque backdrop of the islands’ off Phuket and the green tropical nature surrounds. The land is filled, retained and has full infrastructure, ready to build.

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44 / Lifestyle

Shopper’s Delight Thai Silk

Long one of Thailand’s most famous products, silk weaving is still one of the major crafts in many rural areas.

The variety of materials available in Phuket is wide and varies both in design, from the traditional to modern to plain colors, and quality; 2-ply is thin and light, 3-ply or more becomes heavier and more expensive.

Tailors, jewelry and souvenir shops in all areas carry silk. Many shops will tailor modern dresses or shorts from silk at a fraction of the price you would pay back home.

Ceramics

The two major centers for ceramic production are the well-known Chiang Mai, and Ratburi west of Bangkok. They produce an amazing range of wares from very traditional Thai and even Chinese tableware and decorative items to modern home decor items, the biggest of which you’ll need a truck to move. Some of these more modern items are creative and interesting. There is a fair range spread around the island, but you’ll have to drive and hunt to find it all.

Woodcarving

Most of this comes from the craft centers of Chiang Mai and again Thai

skills show through in a great variety of items that can be both novel and creative or entirely traditional. Buddha images are one of the standards, but you can find figurines of all kinds and many other offbeat items for home decoration. Thailand makes some great teak furniture, though only a little is available in Phuket.

Antiques

Beware if you’re looking for genuine antiques as this is one real danger zone in Thailand. Read the passage below on Instant Antiques carefully; and remember that most genuinely old pieces of traditional Thai art, including Buddha images, require permits to be taken from the country.

Instant Antiques

This sounds like a contradiction, but this is now a thriving new industry in Thailand that arose in response to the overwhelming demand for beautiful old things and the short supply. Originally, cunning entrepreneurs crafted and carefully ‘aged’ wood, bronze and stone artworks to sell off as genuine antiques. But they produced such beautiful things that demand grew, and the industry came out into the open. Today whole villages of skilled workers produce beautiful objects of art that appear ancient, but which are sold cheaply as ‘reproductions’. This makes ‘antiques’ available to everyone and takes the pressure off the genuinely old things.

Best of all, virtually no-one can tell the difference between the real thing and the reproduction that you place in your home.

littlelamb.pkt@gmail.com

Please Call 088 766 3453 085 571 1970

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Custom Tailoring

This is definitely bargain country in Phuket. Tailors can import their wares easily to Phuket and their overhead costs are low. Skills range from excel-

lent to barely adequate, so look carefully and you can go home with both quality and real savings. It is important to start with a tailor early in your visit because at least two visits will be required, and those who are a little more finicky should plan on three visits to get things just right. Allow two or three days between each visit.

The Guide Phuket recommends: Mister Singh’s Fashion Gallery, Patong Beach, www.fashiongallery.com.

James Fashion House, Karon Beach, www.jamesfashionhouse.com.

Central Festival Phuket Phuket Town

With over 120,000 square meters bursting with prime shopping opportunities and world-class products it is easy to see why this consummate one-stop shopping and entertainment complex is so popular amongst Phuket residents and visitors. With a large selection of shops, restaurants, coffee shops, plus a supermarket and cinemas you can enjoy the largest, most complete shopping and entertainment complex in southern Thailand.

Jungceylon - Patong Beach

Located centrally in Patong Beach is the newest addition to the growing trend of shopping malls in Phuket.

‘Jungceylon‘ was the old name for Phuket when it was still a prosperous port town and trading in the region was at its peak. This shopping mall retains a lot of the old history of Phuket in its architecture and style and is a joy to visit for this alone.

The choice of goods is world-class, comprising well over 300 shops with ample car parking space, restaurants, bars, cinema and bowling alley along with everything else you could possibly need for a busy day shopping.

Lifestyle / 45 Weekend Market - Phuket Town

The Jatujak (or JJ) weekend market in Bangkok is world famous but few people realize that there is an equally good alternative here in Phuket, albeit on a smaller scale.

Situated opposite the Naka Temple (which is also worth a visit) outside of Phuket Town, just 5 minutes from Central Festival on the Chao Fa West Road lies Phuket’s equivalent to Bangkok’s JJ Market. Here you will find all manner of things for sale from seemingly useless second-hand household junk and cute little trinkets to garden ornaments, clothing and ideal presents for all your friends and family. There is also an abundance of food and drink stalls to keep the energy levels up whilst you wander around.

The market starts in the afternoon and goes on until the evening time when it can get really very lively.

PHUKET THAILAND

THE RESIDENCE PHUKET

LOW SEASON - FINAL PHASE SPECIAL OFFERS

The Dream Gallery, Chinese Antique Studio Chinese antiques are becoming more and more fashionable but it can be difficult to find original and interesting pieces.

The Dream Chinese Antique Studio was the result of, you guessed it, a dream in which the owner was summoned to come to Phuket by Buddha. Sounds a bit far fetched but it is a true story and the owner, already being a long time collector and enthusiast of ancient Chinese ornaments, opened her gallery with a small collection at first which has now grown into such a diverse and interesting range of artifacts, trinkets and other paraphernalia, that there really is something for everyone.

As you wander through the gallery you will be amazed at how beautiful some of the pieces are, almost deserving of being placed in a museum for posterity. Antique handmade cabinets, statues, traditional Chinese earthenware, metalwork and wall-hangings are all available.

New items are added regularly, hand selected and imported directly from China.

The Dream Gallery Chinese Antiques Studio is open from 9.30am – 6.30pm, closed on Mondays. Tel. +66 (0) 76 273 487 www.thedreamgallery.asia

Offering 15% Discount for Privilege Card holders.

As we move into low season and with the final phase under construction we are offering immediate buyers varied incentives on a select number of pool villas and pool town homes.

There is no better time than now to make your lifestyle investment and take advantage of certain special offers.

On specific units offers include: • FREE furniture package valued at THB 1,000,000 or • Guaranteed rental income of 5% for first 2 years, or • Generous cash discount The Residence by Richmond Group is a pool villa and pool town home resort located near Bangtao Beach on the famed west coast of Phuket.

This exclusive gated community features Spa, Gym, Café/Bar, Beach Shuttles, 24/7 Security.

Learn more about The Residence: www.richmondth.com TRY BEFORE BUY : THE RESIDENCE EXPERIENCE The Residence Experience programme, price at just $200, offers prospective buyers the opportunity to see, touch feel and experience the property, facilities and location before buying.

The offer includes: • 2 nights stay in a luxury pool villa • Spa treatments • Airport transfers • Welcome drink • Breakfast at The Café Please contact crm@richmondth.com for further informations.

For more information about this exclusive promotion or to make a reservation, please contact E-mail: sales@richmondth.com Phone: +66 (0) 76 326 177 Mobile:+66 (0) 8 7888 4577 Web: www.richmondth.com

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46 / Transportation

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Lifestyle / 47

Shopping Review

Mister Singh’s Fashion Gallery Why are there so many tailors? Let’s rephrase that question, why are there so many second-rate tailors around dumbing down the reputation of quality outlets?

H

igh quality establishments like Mister Singh’s Fashion Gallery in Patong Beach are exactly the reason why tailoring has become so famous in Thailand; offering high quality at very reasonable prices they should not be overlooked.

Mr Singh, as the owner is lovingly known, born and bred in Thailand, has been in business for over 30 years and his wealth of experience shows. He opened

his shop in Bangkok in the early 1970’s when tourism in Thailand was almost non-existent and served to build up a reputation as one of Bangkok’s première tailors. He has been established in Phuket since 1999 and although his customer base has changed to include tourists his quality remains unfaltering.

Take a visit to their branch on Rat- UThid Road in Patong and you will notice a big difference between Mister Singh’s and the numerous nameless tailors situated on Beach Road. Great service is obviously key to Mister Singh’s success, you won’t see any hard-push selling techniques here, just a pleasant relaxed atmosphere. You are given time to inspect the numerous suits on display and to leaf through catalogues at your leisure to get some idea for how your suit will look. In addition to this Mister Singh’s offers a dizzying array of materials available for you to choose from offering you a seemingly infinite number of possibilities.

Misters Singh’s is a little bit of a walk outside of the center of Patong but they do offer a free pick-up service which is also available when you return for your following fittings. Time is no object for them and they are very accommodating when it comes to any minor changes you require.

If you are looking for ladies or gents tailoring at the highest quality with reasonable prices and great service then look no further, Misters Singh is your man!!!

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48 / Transportation

Transport on the Island

H

ow much of Phuket have you actually seen? Wouldn’t you like to explore some more? Well, here we list some of your options for getting around the island’s highways and byways.

To and from the airport

Airport transfers are relatively simple.

The airport is at the far north of the island, some 30 kilometers from Phuket Town and even further from most of the popular beaches like Patong and Karon. It is best to use one of the two official transport companies with booths right inside the arrival lounge, you can’t miss them.

Private Airport Limousines or minibuses are available to get to the major beaches at the south or west of the island. Metered taxis are also available and are cheaper than the airport limousines, as are ‘private’ taxis but we suggest you avoid these since problems have been known to occur.

The Airport Bus is a cheaper alternative as long as you are not in a rush. Ask at the airport for their current departure schedules and pricing.

Car rental is available and companies, such as Budget and National have offices located in the airport.

Airlines in & out of Phuket

A multitude of airlines now run scheduled flights to and from Phuket and during high season chartered flights are also available. Budget airlines such as Air Asia, Nok Air and One-2-Go Air all run convenient and economical flights to other provinces throughout Thailand.

Song-taews

There are few buses on Phuket and the main form of transport from beach to town is the ‘song taew’; a truck www.theguidephuket.com

converted to carry passengers in the back on two long benches. They are usually colorful with a sign on front showing where they are going. These vehicles leave from a set stop by the fresh produce market in Phuket Town, reaching every major beach area on the island. They run approximately every hour but there are no fixed schedules, and they run when there are sufficient passengers. When leaving the beach areas to head back to town they usually cruise slowly around the streets picking up passengers. Song-taews are slow but cheap with the fare from Phuket town to Patong now set at just 25 THB per person!

‘Tuk-Tuks’

If you want your own private taxi, look for a tuk tuk, a tiny mini-truck converted in the manner of the bigger songtaews mentioned above to carry about four (or more!) passengers. The tuk-tuk gets its name from the noise its little engine makes. There are fleets of these in all major tourist areas and they will take you anywhere for a price. The going rate for the relatively short ride between Patong and Phuket town can be as much as 450 THB, one way! You can attempt to bargain but don’t expect much movement on their prices and be aware that at night the price of tuk-tuks shoots up.

You can also rent one of these tuktuks for the day. Expect to pay around 2,000 THB or more. This can be a good way to get about the island if you prefer not to drive yourself.

Motorcycle Taxis

These will be a new experience for many people and are a convenient, yet nerve wracking, way to get around. All fares must be negotiated before the ride.

These taxi motor cycle drivers are eas-

ily identified by their special colored jackets showing the location of their home base. Many have the word ‘taxi’ written in English on this jacket. Do not take a taxi from anyone who is not wearing one of these jackets.

Renting a Motorcycle

Motorcycles, big and small, can be rented all over the island and are a popular choice for many tourists.

Zipping around with the breeze in your hair is tempting for anyone but do be careful, the hospitals here see a never-ending stream of foreigners arriving with skin missing from arms and legs, or sometimes worse. The accident rate on Phuket is one of the highest in Thailand, with 90% of road accidents involving motorcycles!

Note that Thai law requires the driver to carry a valid license at all times and all riders to wear helmets – even though most Thais (including the police!) ignore the regulations. Also motor cycle lights must be turned on at all times, including during the daytime! The police occasionally enforce all these laws, so beware.

The real danger in Phuket is this: NONE of the motorcycles rented here have insurance. If you rent one and cause damage you will be held fully responsible, with some greedy owners charging significantly more than the real cost of the damage. Be extremely cautious!

Renting Your Own Car

Since Phuket is quite a large island, renting your own car can be one of the most pleasant ways to get around and it gives you freedom to go where and when you want.

Renting is easy; private rental cars are readily found in every beach area and major rental companies operate in most resorts. When renting private vehicles from the side of the road be aware that few of these vehicles have insurance and this can prove disastrous in the event of an accident.

Renting a car allows you get off the island and see the beautiful, neighboring provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi. The

Transportation / 49 PHUKET - HONG KONG

Timetable EFFECTIVE : 27 March 2011 - 29 October 2011 PHUKET - BANGKOK

BANGKOK - PHUKET

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

TG638*

1300

1740

1.345.7

Days

TG638**

1445

1925

Daily

HONG KONG - PHUKET

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG201

0735

0900

Daily

TG226

0725

0850

Daily

TG203

0830

0955

Daily

TG202

1005

1130

Daily

TG205

0955

1115

Daily

TG204

1055

1225

Daily

TG207*

1055

1215

Daily

TG206

1210

1335

Daily

TG211

1225

1345

Daily

TG208

1305

1430

Daily

TG215

1415

1535

Daily

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG212*

1440

1605

Daily

TG217

1600

1720

Daily

TG485

0030

0745

.2.4.6.

TG214

1525

1650

Daily

TG221

1820

1940

Daily

TG486

1530

1655

.2.456.

TG223

1920

2040

Daily

TG216

1625

1750

Daily

TG485**

2205

2325

1.345..

TG218

1825

1950

Daily

TG671

1900

2025

...4.6.

TG222

2040

2205

Daily

TG224

2130

2255

Daily

CHIANG MAI - PHUKET Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG129

1240

1435

Daily

*Until 18 May 2011

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG609*

0900

1120

1.345.7

TG609**

0900

1120

Daily

PHUKET - Perth

Perth - PHUKET Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Tokyo (Narita) - PHUKET Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

**From 19 May 2011

Phuket Reservation Call 0-7636-0444 Monday - Sunday, 0800 - 1700 www.thaiairways.com roads are good and the scenery spectacular, making for a great day out.

Regional Buses

The long distance bus station is in Phuket Town is directly across from the Royal City Hotel. From here both air-con tour buses and cheap, ‘orange crush’ buses leave for destinations north, south and east. There are regular services to Bangkok, Krabi, Surat Thani, Nakorn Srithammarat, Trang, Haad Yai and other minor provincial capitals.

Most of the tour buses to Bangkok leave around 5pm arriving in Bangkok about 6am the following morning. Tickets can be purchased either at the bus station or through travel agents.

Transport by Boat

Regular ferry boat services from Phuket run only to the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Yao Noi and Krabi. There are unscheduled boats to Koh Bon, Racha Yai and Koh Yao Yai. You can get to Koh Lanta by changing boats at Koh Phi Phi. Most people get to the other smaller

islands by renting their own speed boats or even by chartering yachts.

Whatever your chosen mode of trans-

port may be, enjoy exploring the island, there is plenty to see and do, more than you might have realized. Happy hunting! www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Phuket Town: 076 225 033-5 Phuket Airport: 076 205 401-2 Suvarnabhumi International Airport: 02 134 3888-89 (ticket) Check-in Domestic: 02 132 0342-54 Check-in International: 02 132 0331-39 Phuket to Samui

Samui to Phuket

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG252

0945

1040

Daily

PG251

0815

0915

Daily

PG254

1410

1505

Daily

PG259

1120

1220

Daily

PG256

1645

1740

Daily

PG253

1240

1340

Daily

PG258

1940

2035

Daily

PG255

1500

1600

Daily

PG260

1255

1350

Daily

PG261

18101

1910

Daily

Bangkok to Phuket

Phuket to Bangkok

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG271

0805

0930

Daily

PG270

0710

0835

Daily

PG924

1145

1310

Daily

PG272

1020

1145

Daily

PG273

1345

1510

Daily

PG276

1400

1525

Daily

PG277

1730

1855

Daily

PG274

1610

1735

Daily

PG279

2015

2140

Daily

PG278

1945

2110

Daily

PG220

2150

2315

Daily

PG280

2230

2355

Daily

Call Center

1771 Pattaya to Phuket Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG281

1300

1440

Daily

Phuket to Pattaya Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG252

0945

1225

Daily

PG282

1510

1650

Daily

* indicates the flight has Blue Ribbon Class (Business Class) available.

Important Telephone Numbers Telephone numbers of the consular representatives functioning in Phuket Lost Credit Cards

Visa

02 299 1990-29

AMEX Master Card

Austria

076 372 600

Ireland

076 281 273

Austria

076 248 334-6

Italy

086 689 6819

Czech Republic 076 076 249 400 ext 1501, 3330 USA

076 342 270

02 273 0022-44

Denmark

076 378 365

Korea

076 234 452

02 299 1990-2

Finland

076 330 530-4

Norway

076 237 156

Diners Club

02 238 3000

France

076 273 511

Sweden

076 380 000

JCB

001 800 000 900 09

Germany

076 610 407

United Kingdom

076 318 188

International calls dial: +66 - 76, Inside Thailand calls dial 076- for Phuket

Muang District Police Station

216 856

Phuket Airport

327 230-37

Tourist Police

219 878 or 1155

Tourism Authorities (TAT)

211 036, 212213

Kamala Police Station

279 058

Bangkok Phuket Hospital

254 421-30

Kathu Police Station

342 719/21

Mission Hospital

237 220-9

Thalang Police Station

311 123

Patong Hospital

340 444

Phuket Provincial Immigration Office

212 108 or 221 905

Phuket Tourist Association

610 365-6

Phuket Deep Sea Port

391 155

Phukiet International Hospital

212 853

Phuket Post and Telegraph Office

211 020 or 216 951

Vachira Phuket Hospital

211 114

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PHANASON PARK VILLE www.phanason.com

Near Two Heroines Monument

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076 272 012-3 The Significant identity of Old Phuket architecture (Chino-Portuguese)

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beyond the home...

Architechtural structure offers resident the design, equipped with modern lifestyle, outstanding functional spaces excellent environment, privacy and tranquility. Surronding areas are full of lush natural scenery. The project includes 2 style of houses.

Phanason Park Ville 3 address Moo 8, Thepkasattri (402) Rd., Sri Soonthorn sub-district, Thalang district, Phuket 83110 Tel : 076 272 013 www.phanason.com

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