Vol.3 No1

Vol.3 No.1 - January 2012 www.theguidephuket.com

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Full Moon Brew Work

Maps

Diving

Tours

Things to do

Places to go

Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort & Spa

Shopping

Accommodation

RarinJinda Wellness Spa

Restaurants and Much, Much More...

at high altitude.

MD / BitSiren

Swiss Fondue always tastes better

The Highest Open Air Restaurant in Patong • Mediterranean Specialties 47 Rat-U-Thid Rd., Sky Inn Condotel, Patong Beach, Phuket, www.the9thfloor.com, www.facebook.com/the9thFloor Table reservation recommended, please call 076 344 311 or 081 079 2699

THE BEST INVESTMENT IN PHUKET, FAIRWAY VIEWS

Ready to move in Swimming Pool Gym Rooftop Garden 2 Glass Passenger Lifts 100% Phuket Country Club View Starting from 4.4 M.Baht : 99 Sq.m.

Tel. 084-543 543 5, 076-319 194 9.00-19.00 everyday E-mail: kathu-golfcondo@hotmail.com www.kathu-golf-condo-phuket.com

Phuket Country Club

Kathu Golf Condo

Central Festival Phuket

Kathu Golf Condo close to Phuket Country Club, Vichitsongkram Rd., Kathu, Phuket www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

www.theguidephuket.com

Phuket’s Coolest Bar and Restaurant Cool food – Cool drinks - Cool sounds - Cool vibes

14 Moo 5 Rawai, Muang, Phuket 83130 Thailand Tel. +66 (0)76 371 900 Fax. +66 (0)76 613831 E-mail: east88@serenityphuket.com www.serenityphuket.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Contents

24

LifeStyle

The Guide Social Getting to Know... Prasert Tanhansa Life’s a Beach Shopper’s Delight

44

8 11 12 52

Watersports & Activities Activities On the Island Hot Activities Activities Off the Island Day Tripper Private Luxury Charters Aboard

14 16 22 24

Hotels & Accommodation Phuket Pulse Hotel Highlights In Bed with...

Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort & Spa

36

10 26 28

Food & Restaurants

28

In the Kitchen with... DaVinci Restaurant Highlights Let’s do Brunch!

Wine Dinner

32 34 38 40

Health & Beauty Spa Highlights Way Beyond Wellness Herbal Magic

43 44 46

Property Property Buyer Guide

50

Timetable 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:

Consulting Editor:

Graphic Designer:

Advertising:

Punnaporn Eamso Guinault info@theguidephuket.com Mobile: 089 474 4704 Barry Daniel editor@theguidephuket.com Design 457 Studio media@theguidephuket.com info@theguidephuket.com Tel. 076 513 064 Mobile: 089 474 4704

Bangkok Airways Timetable

55

Thai Airways Timetable

57

Important Telephone Numbers Transport on the Island

55 56

Map Kata - Karon

29

Patong

53

Phuket Island

54

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, major resorts in Phuket region, restaurants, spas, travel agents and car rental. Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to info@theguidephuket.com.

Art Dinner at Mare Restaurant, Centara Grand Networking Party at White Box Beach Front Beach Resort on November 30, 2011 Restaurant, Kalim Beach on November 20, 2011

Boathouse Resort on the beach & Mont Clair Wine North Phuket Resorts hosted its Culinary Arts hosted party of 25th Anniversary Phuket King’s Festival on December 2nd-4th 2011, celebrating the island’s culinary talents Cup Regatta on December 5, 2011

Tata Young benefit concert for Thailand’s flood Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort & Spa’s cocktail victims relief at Hard Rock Cafe Phuket on party on December 15, 2011 November 26, 2011

www.theguidephuket.com

Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket and AIA VIP boat trip with Capricorn Boat by Asia Marine to Thailand co-host a spectacular King’s Cup Regatta see beautiful Kings Cup Regatta Racing at Kata party at Karon Beach on December 9, 2011 on December 9, 2011

Da Maurizio Italian Restaurant overlooking the waters of Kalim Bay hosted a glittering Mumm’s Blue Party by Andaman Cruises at Ao Po Grand Champagne dinner on Friday December 9, 2011 Marina on December 17, 2011

Italthai Company and Sileni Estates hosted a wine dinner to present their new wine releases at Amari Coral Beach Phuket on December 17, 2011

Patong Promenade’s parade joined Phuket Canival 2011 under the concept “Fun Fest @ Patong Promenade” Andaman Travel Trade 2011 held at Rajabhat Phuket University on 25-26 November 2011

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10 / Lifestyle

Boathouse Resort Appoints Sukanya (Annie) Chuaywang as PR Manager

Marie-Laure Fleury, General Manager of Boathouse Phuket is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Sukanya (Annie) Chuaywang as Public Relations Manager. Annie joins the Boathouse team from the luxury Trisara Phuket property where she worked for the past seven years, with her most recent position being Personal Assistant to the Managing Director, Resort Manager and Property Sales Manager.

Acqua receives Hospitality Awards

Acqua Restaurant has been acknowledged for its high standards of culinary services and facilities by winning the eight awards at Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards (HAPA). Acqua Restaurant was honored to be listed amongst the top five “Platinum” for HAPA Restaurant of The Year and HAPA Chef of The Year as well as a top five listing for HAPA culinary personality nominations.

The Village Coconut Island receives award

The Village Coconut Island a mixed-use island resort has been awarded Best Shared Ownership Development in the inaugural South East Asia Property Awards. Following the opening one year ago the resort offers a ‘best in class’ mix of position, facilities, service and investment opportunities.

Anantara Villas wins six HAPA awards

Anantara Phuket Villas won six leading HAPA awards held in Singapore in November, in the following categories.

• The award of Excellence HAPA Thailand Best Resort.

• Platinum Winner HAPA Signature boutique hotel/resort.

• Platinum Winner HAPA best housekeeping.

• Platinum Winner HAPA best front office.

• Platinum Winner HAPA Spa of the year.

• Platinum Winner HAPA Resort of the year.

Centara Grand Executive Chef

Promotes

Centara Grand Beach Resort have announced the promotion of Sandro Aguilera to Executive Chef. A native of Spain, Sandro started his career with the Centara family at the Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Center at CentralWorld as a Chef de Cuisine at 55 & Red Sky Restaurants before moving to Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket as the Executive Sous Chef.

Bangkok Airways welcomes new Airbus

Mr. Prote Setsuwan, Vice President – Marketing, Mr. Ping Na Thalang, Vice President – Information Systems and Capt. Saravoot Thonglek, Assistant Vice President Flight Operations welcomed the latest Airbus 319 named “Bangkok” at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

This aircraft has 138 Economy Class seats and will serve both international and domestic routes such as Samui, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bengarulu (India), and Dhaka (Bangladesh).

Presently, Bangkok Airways’ fleet consists of 18 aircraft; Eight ATR 72s, Three Airbus 320s, and Seven Airbus 319s.

Phuket’s First World Music Festival

The Province of Phuket and Lavelle Entertainment presented the first “Phuket World Musiq Festival” in honor of His Majesty King’s Birthday Celebration from December 2nd-5th 2011 on the outer stage at Saphan Hin Public Park.

Successful Nai Yang Beach Clean Up

On Tuesday 29th November, over 300 student members, guests, resort members and local community joined hand in hand to support the “Green Nai Yang cleanup event.” Over 7 miles of beach was covered and an astonishing amount of junk was collected from Nai Yang Beach and National Park. www.theguidephuket.com

Lifestyle / 11 Getting to Know

Prasert Tanhansa

Y

District Sales Manager of Thai Airways International

outhful, good looking and energetic are the immediately striking characteristics of Khun Prasert Tanhansa as he bounds around his desk in the office of Thai Intentional in Phuket Town to meet us. In addition, he turns out to be a man of many fascinating parts.

What background do you bring to your position of Phuket Manager of Thai?

After graduating from Ramkhamhaeng University and brief spells with the Oriental Hotel and Thai Farmers Bank, I joined Thai International at the age of thirty. I initially worked in Traffic at Don Muang Airport, but then moved to Head Office where I worked in the Amadeus CRS department and then on the Royal Orchid Plus frequent flyer program.

Subsequently I joined Passenger Sales which I considered my true calling. I was involved in managing the introduction of our Krabi service, which quickly became daily and then I was appointed as District Manager for Lower Southern Thailand based in Hat Yai. In 2004 I was appointed the GM in Mumbai and after three years I moved on to Nepal, from where I also oversaw our Bhutanese sales agent, which was fascinating.

I arrived in Phuket around a year ago at an exciting, although challenging time for the island’s tourism.

What are your development priorities for Thai in Phuket?

We are dedicated to building more non-stop direct connections to our primary markets such as our Seoul route and also developing our Copenhagen, Perth and Hong Kong routes. Obviously the geography of our most lucrative future routes is changing. Europe and the West are mired in debt and currency crises while emerging market such as Russia, China, the Middle East and India are

roaring ahead. We anticipate more connections with these newer high in-bound catchment markets and I foresee growth in our direct connections and frequencies with Shanghai, Beijing, Mumbai, Moscow and the like.

What do you foresee for the development of Phuket itself?

Increasingly visitors view Phuket as a separate and discreet destination on its own, somewhat divorced from the rest of Thailand. Hence, political and flooding woes have if anything benefitted Phuket for in-bound travel.

Phuket offers good value compared with most in-bound markets which will become increasingly important as austerity measures start to take their toll in many Western markets. Phuket has a great geographic location and the natural welcoming friendliness and southern style of the local population. I think all these things will help support Phuket’s future visitor growth. In addition the airport upgrade

will double the handling capacity within the next three years and the island’s road network will expand, enabling us to more efficiently handle transit into and out of Phuket.

What impression would you like visitors to take with them when they leave Phuket?

Visitors are our treasured guests and so they should be welcomed and treated with courtesy and smiles, so that they become our best ambassadors for other visitors and also return themselves for future visits. This, I think, is the duty of everyone who has the opportunity to work in Phuket’s exciting tourism sector.

What do you do to relax?

I am something of a fitness nut so I play many sports particularly soccer, volleyball and basketball. I also play guitar, sometimes on stage with a band and I also enjoy acting and have even done a little modeling!

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12 / Lifestyle

Life’s a Beach

W

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.

Laem Singh Beach

Mai Khao Beach

North of the airport is a beach to really get away from it all. Mai Khao beach is very, very long, and very straight, so it misses the cozy feeling enjoyed by many of the other beaches on the island, but the sand and water here are just as stunning plus it’s almost empty! The place feels deserted even during high season when the beach umbrellas are five deep on Patong.

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.

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

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.

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

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. www.theguidephuket.com

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.

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

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.

Lifestyle / 13

Paradise Beach

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.

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

Ao Sane 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.

Nai Harn 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.

A Spa with men in 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.

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.

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

14 / Watersports & Activities

A ct i v i t i e s

ON

th e Island

Visiting Wats – Buddhist Monasteries

All Buddhist Monasteries are open to the public during the day, and visitors are usually welcome. Since these are active holy places of worship, and the residence of monks, visitors should show respect in keeping well dressed and remaining quiet, Mum and Dad; keep the kids on a leash and always be culturally sensitive.

Elephant Trekking

The wild elephant population of Phuket was wiped out last century, but has been replaced in recent years by an influx of animals for the tourist trade. Today there remains just a few hundred elephants on Phuket Island, all domesticated, most working in tourism.

Indeed, riding an elephant is an experience not to be missed. The lumbering monsters are incredibly agile. Taking an elephant ride helps to keep the beasts employed, t’s a big island, offering all manner of fed and out of the cities, where many can things to do. be taken by destitute owners in search of It’s surprising that so many holiday money and food. makers, who are trying to get away from it all, soon get bored with that dreamy combination of a perfect beach, Phuket Town a comfortable hotel room and great food. Phuket Town is small but incredibly After a few days, most people want more. interesting, a potpourri of different They want to go places, to see how the cultural influences, of markets and local people live and to experience new shopping centres, restaurants and other things. Happily, with Phuket being a large entertainment facilities. Anyone spending island, about 50 kilometres long, there are a few days on Phuket Island should take all sorts of interesting things to do here. time to visit, be it for sight-seeing, cultural or historical interest, or shopping.

Below we offer some suggestions.

I

Crowded Beach, Quiet Beach - Find the one that suits you

Cultural Village

Cultural shows featuring skilled Thai dancers from the different regions of the country, martial arts demonstrations, elephant rides and Thai dinners are all brought together at Phuket’s original cultural garden; there is also an attached orchid farm for all the budding botanists out there.

Jungle Trekking

With most of the rainforest on Phuket long since eaten up by rubber plantations, it is not so easy to find ideal trekking grounds. Again, it’s best to sign on with a company providing this service. Often they take their trekkers right off Phuket into neighbouring Phang Nga province, where some beautiful areas of forest remain.

Spas; massage and herbal steam rooms

Health resorts, spas and herbal saunas are proliferating, and some fine examples offering a wide range of treatments are now found on Phuket. Thailand has its own traditional herbal saunas, and there are several local ones around the island.

Zoo While many large resorts now feel they are Phuket’s only zoo is small, but pleasant, incomplete without a spa, there are also displaying some of Thailand’s almost several independent establishments. vanished wildlife. Their tigers are fed well enough that one can sit with them and View Points have a photo taken. We recommend going Phuket’s most famous view point, Laem early or late, to avoid the tour buses that Phrom Thep at the very bottom of the arrive mid morning and mid afternoon. It is island, is on the ‘must see’ list for every in a small road off the east side of Chao Fah Thai visitor to the island. Thus it attracts Road, about half way between the town a fleet of tour buses and cars each evening and Chalong’s 5-way intersection. The as people come to witness the sun fall turnoff is well signposted and easy to find. into the Andaman Sea. Indeed, it’s often

Spend most of your holiday in Patong and you might think the beaches of Phuket are crowded. While Patong buzzes with people and activity, there are many other beaches to which one can escape in complete solitude. You just have to drive. As one moves away from Patong the beaches become progressively quieter. By the time you get to the top of the island you’re guaranteed kilometres of sand to Bungy Jump yourself, even in peak season, so remember Consider yourself adventurous? Got real crowded beach, quiet beach; the choice is guts? If you haven’t tried bungee jumping there. yet, you should take the ride to the top with a big rubber band around your ankles www.theguidephuket.com

and fight the internal struggle that every jumper meets when standing 54 metres above the ground. Logic might tell us it is quite safe, but another part of our body screams “No! Don’t jump!” But with their friends at the bottom, waiting expectantly, most people manage to throw themselves off and experience a rush like no other.

a spectacular sight, but there are many quieter places. The view point on the hill behind Kata Noi attracts fewer people and when the heavens turn red, the view from any of the beaches can also be spectacular.

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16 / Watersports & Activities

Blue Elephant Cooking School

B

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.

Hot Activities Kata Yoga

Phuket Fantasea

H

T

his is Phuket’s Mega show; it’s a cultural spectacle on the grandest of scales, complete with armies of warriors, vast troupes of dancing girls and elephants that literally rise up into the sky.

The show takes place in the evening with a delightful dinner buffet. The park is the perfect family destination, rain or shine, offering a wonderful walking street with loads of traditional Thai handicrafts and colorful souvenir shops, exciting outdoor shows, fun arcade games and a tempting variety of delicious local foods.

Located at Kamala Beach, mini buses run back and forth picking up customers from their hotels.

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.

NOW 4 CLASSES DAILY 8.00-9.30 10.00-11.30 17.15-18.45 19.15-20.45

www.blueelephant.com

www.katahotyoga.com

www.phuket-fantasea.com

100% SAFETY

FOR YOUR ENTIRE PLEASURE

Viset Rd.

ENSURED BY HIGH-SKILLED AND PROFESSIONALLY CERTIFIED INSTALLATIONS OPERATORS TRAINED

BY FRENCH SPECIALISTS CHALONG PIER

as

t

Patak Rd.

Chao Fah Road - West

-E hR d.

Fa ao Ch

CHALONG TEMPLE

TO TOWN

TO RAWAI BEACH

HOME PRO VILLAGE

PHUNAKA GOLF THAINAAN RESTAURANT

TO TOWN

HIGHEST tree climbing in ASIA. Only Park in ASIA offering the cable and net technologies.

CENTRAL FESTIVAL

TO KATA BEACH KARON BEACH

LUANG PU SU PA TEMPLE

TO KATU

Tel. / Fax : 076 383 689 Mobile : +66 081 536 8909 info@xtremadventuresphuket.com www.xtremadventuresphuket.com www.theguidephuket.com

Lifestyle / 17

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.

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18 / Watersports & Activities

Tawan Sea Adventures

T

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

Cruises 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

Hot Activities XD Theater

S

T

Xtrem Aventure Phuket

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.

he latest harnesses and safety equipment, receive expert training and briefing, and then take on the 69 different treetop challenges of the Xtrem Aventure Park. All the installations are assessed by an independent professional company and checks are regularly performed by a botanical expert to preserve the health of the trees.

With sites suitable for every age from four years and up, Xtremaventures Phuket is located near Big Buddha and Luang Pu Suppha Temple on Chaofa Road, just five minutes drive from Chalong Circle. Tel./ Fax : +66 (0)76 383 689 Mobile : +66 (0)81 536 8909

www.xdtheater.thai-best.com

www. xtremadventuresphuket.com

4X Kata Hot Yoga Open every day 4 Classes a Day

8.00am, 10.00am 5.15pm, 7.15pm For everybody, men women all ages Beginners Welcome!

Best and most popular yoga in Phuket! www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

20 / Lifestyle

A Phuket New Year

A

strange part of New Year in Phuket is waking on the morning of January 1st bleary of eye and aching of sinew and saying to yourself…. “Right that’s enough of the dissolute lifestyle into which I have plummeted in this decadent playground. From now on it will be soda water, daily exercise and good deeds for me and no compromises.”

Yes, well…..hope and its close cousin self delusion, spring eternal in the human breast and while statistics show that over ninety percent of New Year’s resolutions are broken within the first week, there are in Phuket many people who mean it when they make their New Year resolutions and actually stick to them.

Here’s a selection.

to our own Earth (infected as it is with over-population and resultant global warming), to animals suffering and the evils of Asian medicines and human inhumanity which harm elephants, tigers, rhinos, sharks, even our local Tokay.

Phuket’s animal horrors include dolphin and porpoise prisons; gibbons and tiger cubs kept for photo opportunities with tourists; our shocking Phuket Zoo; and the dog meat trade. Phang Nga Bay is a living organism suffering the cancer of overcommercialization.

It is our duty to understand that humans are nothing but overgrown monkeys within the web of Universal life. We primates are the most marvelous machine we know, capable of reaching the stars. If we still have compassion, we suffer the pain of the animals which share this planet.

They all have souls, intelligence, emotions and families the same as our human brethren”.

Bhuritt Maswongssa

Vice President Marketing, Phuket Tourist Association

John Gray

Kayaking Legend and Environmental Warrior

“My resolution is to increase my commitment to protect all living things. All life is interconnected, from the Universe www.theguidephuket.com

“I have responsibility for promoting Phuket as a tourism destination worldwide driving maximum arrivals and resulting revenue, so I have a great belief in seeing green and sustainable tourist development for Phuket.

Clearly higher numbers of tourist arrivals mean more environmental, cultural

and social impacts and this does not bode well for future sustainability unless these impacts are effectively managed. The problem we have at present is that most in our industry have a very short term attitude and are only concerned about profitability right now, rather than longer term sustainability.

My resolution would be to put in place strong government and private sector bodies which have the mandate to control and regulate the way in which tourist developments occurs. They need to be well-funded and have the ‘teeth’ to actually make policy really work. But at present I can see little will power to do this. Governments continually change in Thailand and new ministers and governors come and go and they are all focused on making a profit out of tourism right now. It is not a particularly encouraging situation”.

Lifestyle / 21

Bill Barnett

Lifestyle Guru

Bill Barnett is the Managing Director of resort, property and hospitality consultants C9 Hotelworks and a veteran Asianbased hotelier with experience embracing the Four Seasons, Regent, Ritz Carlton, Grand Hyatt and Hilton groups.

Known for his trenchant wit, Bill had this to say about his wishes for 2012.

“While I hope that Thailand continues to be a life less ordinary, after so much recent excitement perhaps for 2012 a little more ‘ordinary’ might be a nice change for a while.

As for my own wishes, I would like to see no import tax on wine and more time to spend in my favorite place in the world – Phuket”.

Let’s give the final word to John Gray who says, “On New Year’s Eve, join me in rejoicing – step outside, spread your arms to the stars and give thanks to the universe for our glorious little planet…..and let’s promise to take better care of it next year” www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

22 / Watersports & Activities

Activities

OFF

misnamed village. The people here are all in fact Muslim fishermen.

Island Getaways

Getting to some of the many little resorts on remote islands in this region is not so easy. But for those who succeed, that is half the fun. The other reward is finding remote places with few other people. There are bungalow resorts on Phi Phi, Koh Mai Phang Nga Bay Thon (up-market) Koh Racha, Koh Yao A visit to Phang Nga Bay on the east Noi, Koh Naka Yai and along the Krabi side of Phuket is the one big ‘musts’ for Coast. visitor to this region. Photos of this bay, with its mystical rock formations towering vertically out of green waters, are almost Phi Phi Island This pair of as well-known as Phuket itself. There are islands 40 kilomany tour options, with the many tourists meters southeast taking one of the inexpensive bus-andof Phuket is justiboat trips. By far the best way to see the fiably famous for beauty of this bay and avoid mass tourism the spectacular is to take one of the boat trips that depart rock walls rising from Phuket Island itself. from crystal seas and the stunning scenic beauty of its beaches and coves. UnfortuJames Bond Island nately, mass tourism has now found these This strange islands, with hundreds of trippers being but over-rated deposited here every day. But even this rock was featured cannot destroy the overwhelming beauty in the James Bond of the place, and Phi Phi is still worth a visfilm The Man with it. There are many small bungalow resorts the Golden Gun here and it is undoubtedly best to stay and has never had a quiet day since. The overnight. The evenings and early mornmass of tourists who take the standard ings are the most beautiful times and are bus-and-boat tours to Phang Nga Bay are free of the mid-day masses. all deposited on this island where they are besieged by trinket vendors. The day boat tours generally just pass by this islet, giv- Krabi F a c i n g ing tourists only the quick glimpse that it Phuket from the deserves, so that they can spend their time east side of Phang amongst the more spectacular parts of the Nga Bay this rebay. gion of soaring rock walls and Sea Gypsy Village stunningly beautiful beaches is now fa(Koh Pannyi) mous as a destination in its own right.

This village Those who have time are strongly recombalancing on mended to make a visit here, either by drivstakes out in the ing a rented car, or by taking a ferry from bay is also a part Phuket Town pier. The car trip takes one of the standard through attractive rural countryside with bus-and-boat tour rice fields, rubber and palm oil plantations of Phang Nga. At lunch up to 3,000 tour- nestled amongst towering rock cliffs and ists are all deposited here to eat and shop. mountains. The famous portion of Krabi Indeed, the village is fascinating, but again is a peninsula that is entirely isolated by it’s best if you can take a boat tour that sheer cliffs and can only be reached by avoids the midday crowds. And just for the boat. record, there are no ‘Sea Gypsies’ in this

t h e Island

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Game Fishing

Phuket is not that famous for game fishing - more due to the lack of modern, fast boats than the number of fish. In fact the seas surrounding the island team with a variety of good game fish, principally sailfish, Wahoo, barracuda, tuna, marlin and bottom fish are also common. During the winter months sailfish congregate around the islands south of Phuket in such incredible numbers, and jump so regularly, that fisherman can enjoy an all-day dance and splash show around their boat as these speedsters of the ocean round up schools of bait fish.

Scuba Diving

Serious SCUBA divers everywhere know Phuket as one of the world’s top spots for undersea adventure. The most famous sites are out in the Andaman Sea near the Similan Islands. Here one will see incredible numbers of reef and pelagic fish and have a good chance of encountering shark, turtles, rays and whale sharks. Manta rays are common, the coral is exceptionally varied and colorful and the water is incredibly clear, warm and calm. To enjoy this underwater fantasyland one needs join a live-aboard trip, readily available through many operators on Phuket.

Sailing

The Andaman Sea is fast catching up to such traditional sailing grounds as the Caribbean and Mediterranean with a reputation for excellent cruising and sailing. The winds are good during many months of the year, the anchorages are located in spectacular scenery, the waters are warm and clear and the locals are especially friendly.

Asia Marine operates a full fleet of bareboat charters here and privately owned yachts are available through the major charter company.

Longtail Rentals

and

Speedboat

For those who want to enjoy Phang Nga Bay, or some of the many small islands in private style, renting one’s own ‘longtail’ or speedboat for the day is the way to go.

Watersports & Activities / 23 Traditional longail boats are available from most beaches.

They are always available at Chalong Bay or Rawai Beach where a range of these fun craft is limited. A speedboat can take you on a private tour of Phang Nga Bay with time to spare for swimming, snorkeling and a picnic lunch on a quiet island. Speedboats vary in price and quality, from a WATER TAXI, to cheap craft from local operators off the beach in Chalong and Rawai.

Boat Cruising

For those who want the ultimate experience in Phang Nga Bay there is only one way take an overnight cruise and enjoy the most beautiful times of day, sunset and early morning, in this sea and mountain wonderland. There are a number of charter boats available with captain, crew, great cooking and fresh seafood from local fishing craft. Again, a major charter agent like Asia Marine can find the right craft.

Self-drive Tours

If you want to see Phuket you simply have to rent either a car or motorcycle and drive. The island is large and public transport does not reach many beautiful beaches and places of interest. The first thing to do is drive the west coast road that takes you to all of the major beaches of Phuket.

These range from crowded Patong to remotely quiet Nai Thon Beach and a couple of other small, hard-to-find ones without names.

To see more of the region drive right off Phuket into Phang Nga province or on to Krabi. All routes in these provinces pass through magnificent scenery, and accommodation can be found in all directions. Pick up some maps and go. You can ask questions along the way. It’s easier than one might think.

Koh Samui

The second of Thailand’s tropical resort islands is not far away, yet the atmosphere of

Samui, which basks in an entirely different ocean, is low-key and laid-back compared to Phuket. One can drive across the Thai peninsula in four hours, then catch the hourly car ferry to Samui. But the easiest way is via the regular daily flight with Bangkok Airways just a half an hour’s flight. This is also a rewarding way to stop off on the way back to Bangkok. Check BKK AIR schedules, which vary with the seasons.

Sea Canoeing

With reason, this is now one of the most popular day tours out of Phuket. There is no better way to appreciate the inner world of strange geographic formations, plant and animal life of Phang Nga Bay than to be paddled quietly through its caves and lagoons in sea canoes. This is a more satisfying tour of Phang Nga than the junkets to James Bond Island.

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24 / Watersports & Activities

Day Tripper

Private Luxury Charters Aboard

“Capricorn” “

Capricorn” - Private Luxury Charter aboard the newest traditional wooden sailing yacht chartering in Phuket waters and the Andaman Sea and beyond in adventurous luxury.

Built in 2009 this Turkish Gulet is lavishly finished. The soft furnishings, artwork and accessories throughout have been decorated with an Asian flair to suit the theme of this beautifully appointed yacht. Thai silks and art provide tasteful splashes of color to the interior décor.

Beautifully handcrafted in Mahogany and immaculately maintained “Capricorn” offers you a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating Phuket archipelagos and beyond, to Malaysia, Burma and the Andaman Islands – in total privacy, far from the touristic beaches.

Fully crewed by an experienced French captain and Thai gourmet chef,

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cabin staff and with abundant leisure facilities, “Capricorn” is an extremely spacious and well-appointed charter yacht providing accommodation for up to 12 guests in 5 en suite cabins: • 2 master and VIP Cabins have king size double beds and a sofa suitable for teenagers or children plus LCD screens • 2 guest cabins each have twin beds • 1 guest cabin has 2 bunk beds and 1 twin single bed All the cabins have individual air-con controls, 220V power sockets, wardrobe and drawers. Each cabin has its own ensuite bathroom complete with shower, electric toilet and 220V power socket.

Guests can also enjoy relaxing in the air-conditioned saloon with its plush seating and large picture windows and folding large LCD screen TV. On the aft deck under the cool shade

of an awning meals are served al fresco around the dining table that seat 12 guests.

There is a massive cushioned seating area right in the stern if you wish to relax out of the sun, and 12 sun beds and various seating areas on deck if you want to improve your tan.

The seating area in the bows is a delightful place for evening drinks while you watch your dinner being barbequed by the captain (turned chef’s helper for the evening).

With almost 2000 ft2/ 190m2 of deck space on the vessel you can always find privacy away from your fellow guests when you need a little peace and at all times the warm seas are just a few steps, or a dive away.

“Capricorn” is equipped for snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, BBQ’s, donut-rings and banana floats to tow.

Watersports & Activities / 25

Registry: Thailand Style: Turkish Gulet Sailing: ketch.

Size: Length 30 meters, Beam 7 meters, Draft 2,7 meters Cruising speed: 9 knots Engine: 2 Perkins Passengers: maximum of 12 guests for extended cruising.

Special events and day cruising: 45 guests State rooms en-suite: • 2 double bed Master and VIP cabin en suite • 2 Twin bed Guest cabin en suite • 1 Triple bed Guest cabin en suite State rooms en-suite: Separate skipper cabins and crew quarters with independent heads.

Air Conditioning: All guest cabins and indoor lounge areas.

Deck Space: • Very large deck lounge with table for 12 persons.

• Massive cushioned seating area in the stern.

• 12 Sun deck cushions.

• Lounge area on bowsprit.

Entertainment: DVD, Stereo sound, Library.

Cuisine: International with Asian Flair.

Water sports: Sea kayaks, wakeboard, bodyboard, fishing equipment,

snorkeling.

Tenders: 5.5m rigid inflatable with 30 HP Mercury outboard engine.

Crew: 3 Thai crew + European Captain.

Communications: Mobile phone in Thailand (e-mail capable), VHF. Navigation: Radar navigation with GPS, Colour Sounders, GPS, Compass,

C-map ChartNav. Back-up GPS plotter: Simrad.

Safety equipment: life rafts, life jackets, flares, positioning systems.

Insured by QBE Insurance Position: Phuket

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26 / Hotels & Accommodation

Hotel Highlights KATA BEACH

PATONG

Amari Coral Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 106-14 Andaman Beach Suites Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 879-83 B-Lay Tong +66 (0) 76 344 999 Banthai Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 850 Centra Ashlee Hotel Patong +66 (0) 7634 9800-7 Deevana Patong Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 341 414-5 Duangjitt Resort & Spa + 66 (0) 76 342 090-4, 340 310-1 Le MĂŠridien Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 680-5 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 608-9 Horizon Beach Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 292 526-30

Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 370 999

Patong Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 551-4 www.patongresorthotel.com BluEco Hotel +66 (0) 76 333 315 www.thebluecophuket.com

The 9th Floor Residence +66 (0) 76 344 987 www.roomsatthe9th.com The Royal Paradise Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 666 www.royalparadise.com The Nap Patong +66 (0) 76 296 631-4 Thara Patong Beach Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76-340 520 Impiana Resort Patong, Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 138 www.impiana.com

Merlin Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 294 300 www.merlinphuket.com Mercure Patong +66 (0) 76 302100 Novotel Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 342 777 Patong Bay Garden Resort +66 (0) 76 292 914-5 Patong Merlin Hotel +66 76-340 037-41 Patong Paragon Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76-290-555 Royal Pawadee Village Hotel +66 (0) 76 344-622 Safari Beach Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 171-4 Salathai Resort +66 (0) 76 296 631 Sawaddi Patong Resort +66 (0) 76 343 444

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KARON BEACH

Hilton Phuket Arcadia +66 76 396038-44 Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 555 Karon Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 006-8 Karon Sea Sands Resort +66 (0) 76 286 464 Karona Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 286 406-10 MĂśvenpick Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 396 139-48 www.moevenpick-phuket.com Marina Phuket +66 (0) 76 330 497 Phuket Orchid Resort +66 (0) 76 396 519-23 Ramada Phuket Southsea +66 (0) 76 370 888 The Front Village +66 (0) 76 398 200-5

Capannina Inn +66 (0) 76 284 450 www.phuket-capannina-inn.com Club Med +66 (0) 76 330 455-60 Ibis Phuket Kata Hotel +66 (0) 2 659 2888 Kata Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 530-4 Kata Plam Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 334-8 Katathani Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 124 Sugar Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 404 The Beach Boutique House +66 (0) 76 333 113

Two Chefs Bungalows +66 (0) 76 284 155 www.twochefs-phuket.com

BANG TAO BEACH

Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 201 234 www.centarahotelsresorts.com/cpbr

Amora Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 021-2 Bangtao Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 270680-5 Banyan Tree Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 374

Hotels & Accommodation / 27 Dusit Laguna Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 324 324 MĂśvenpick Residence +66 (0) 76 396 139 Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort & Villas +66 (0) 76 336 900 Laguna Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 352

Maikhao

SURIN BEACH

Amanpuri +66 (0) 76 324 333 Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort&Spa +66 (0) 76 271 271 Courtyard Phuket at Surin Beach +66 (0) 76 303 300 The Surin Phuket +66 (0) 76 621 580

The Evason Phuket +66 (0) 76 381 010-7 www.sixsenses.com/Evason-Phuket/ The Vijitt Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 363 600 The Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club +66 (0) 76 381 360-6

NAIYANG & Naithorn

Twinpalms Phuket +66 (0) 76 316 500 www. twinpalms-phuket .com

KAMALA BEACH

Aquamarine Resort & Villa +66 (0) 76 310 600 Cape Sienna +66 76 337 300 Kamala Beach Estate +66 (0) 76 324 111-4 Kamala Beach Hotel & Resort +66 (0) 76 279 580-5

RAWAI BEACH & Nai Harn

All Season Naiharn Phuket Hotel + 66 (0) 76 289 333 Friendship Bungalow +66 (0) 76 288 996 Goden Tulip Mangosteen Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 289 399

Dewa Phuket +66 (0) 76 372 300 Indigo Pearl +66 (0) 76 327 006-9 Naithon Buri Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 318 700 Naiyang Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 328 300 Trisara +66 (0) 76 310 100

The Imperial Adamas Beach Resort +(66) 76 316 000 L’esprit de Naiyang Resort +66 (0) 76 510 032-5 Airport Resort & Spa Naiyang Beach +66 (0) 76 327 771-4 Kasalong Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 205 208-10

Sala Phuket Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 338 888 www.salaphuket.com Anantara Phuket +66 (0) 76 336 100 Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 363 999 JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 205 379-80 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Maikhao Beach +66 (0) 76 603 699

CAPE PANWA

Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 123-5 The Kantary Bay Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 514 Radisson Resort Phuket Panwa Beach +66 (0) 76 602 500 Sri Panwa, Phuket +66 (0) 76 37 1 000

PHUKET CITY

i Pavilion Phuket Hotel +66 (0) 76 210 445-7 Katina Hotel +66 (0) 76 223 111-9 Phuket Merlin Hotel +66 (0) 76 212 866-70 Rome Place +66 (0) 76 223 560 Royal Phuket City +66 (0) 76 233 333 Sino House Phuket Hotel +66 (0) 76 232 494-5 The Metropole +66 (0) 76 215 050

Do you plan to buy a property here in Phuket? To live in? To invest?

I will help you to find the property which suits you the best.

Serenity Resort & Residences +66 (0) 76 371 900 www.serenityphuket.com

Corinne Missler, French Property Consultant in Phuket

Tel. 088 10 66 210 E-mail: corinne@irispropertiesphuket.com www.irispropertiesphuket.com

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28 / Hotels & Accommodation In Bed With...

Ayara Hilltops Boutique

Resort & Spa

A

yara Hilltops is a 48 suite boutique resort and spa set amidst exotic sloping gardens in the beautiful Surin Beach area of Phuket. The facilities and service are inspired by the singular goal of helping every guest create their own journey of respite from the stresses of modern civilization. The four acre site strategically located on Surin Hill offers panoramic vistas of sandy beaches and the dazzling Andaman Sea beyond.

The Surin Beach area boasts the highest concentration of luxurious residences in Phuket and correspondingly the area is full of superb resort, dining, shopping, galleries, sports and nightlife facilities to suit every discerning taste.

Patong Beach is only 15 minutes drive to the south, while the 1,000 acre Laguna Resort complex with its attendant shopping center, golfing and leisure offerings lies close by to the north. The international airport is just 30 minutes drive away.

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Ayara offers a huge choice of luxury accommodation to match every budget from hilltop pool villas to super deluxe courtyard or sea view suites and deluxe courtyard and sea view suites right through to junior and standard suites. Each is a private sanctuary that offers generous living space with large terraces that blend the interior and exterior environments.

The warm inviting style of contemporary Thai design is blended with soothing water and garden features.

Services and Amenities

Every Ayara suite provides a full range of modern comforts and facilities including king or Twin Beds, an outdoor patio with furniture, indoor and outdoor bathing, whirlpool, twice daily housekeeping service, in-suite dining options, laundry, dry cleaning and pressing, CD/DVD entertainment unit, TV with satellite and cable service, Internet access, fridge and three IDD telephones.

Also available are an outdoor swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, sauna and steam rooms, library, baby sitting service, business center, concierge, airport transfers and reserved guest parking.

Spa Sereniti

Spa Sereniti offers a wide range of treatments ranging from traditional Thai through to propriety Qi therapies developed by Shiseido. Highly trained therapists offer a tailored experience focused on beauty, wellness and the restoration of tranquility. Treatment is provided in one of five spacious sanctuaries or in your own private suite.

Spice Poolside Restaurant

A global journey awaits the palette as you savor the imaginative dishes of Asia or the classic recipes of Europe in indoor comfort, or al fresco on the upper terrace or poolside.

Full bar service and light snacks are also available all day at the Poolside Bar as you relax on a chaise long. In the evenings enjoy your “Happy Hour” poolside or indoor at The Lounge Bar where a large selection of cocktails, spirits, wines and beers are available.

With advanced booking a beautiful set table dining experience can be created in your suite or on the private terrace.

Meetings and Functions

The settings and facilities are ideally suited for hosting lavish, intimate or formal meetings and events with an elegant executive boardroom that comfortably accommodate 18 seated, while other function rooms can be flexibly configured to best meet your needs. With our personalized banquet, meeting and event service details are taken care of, problems deflected and efficiencies guaranteed.

Weddings, birthday parties and anniversaries are a specialty and we will arrange everything and make the event “special” through menu and entertainment planning, theme ideas and more.

Getting Around

There is 24 hour “on demand” Hilltop buggy service all around the resort itself. Then we have a buggy service to Surin Beach during daylight hours where the resort provides sun loungers, towels and parasols free of charge in a special reserved area.

A daily shuttle bus service to Patong is available and other trips can be arranged on demand.

Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0)76 271 271 www.ayarahilltops.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

30 / Food & Restaurants

RE KA TA Opens on Kata Beach

T

he famous Boathouse Resort on Kata Beach has been an icon of Phuket elegance for over two decades and as a part of their recent six million dollar refurbishment and relaunch they have now soft-opened the super-stylish Re KĂ Ta Beach Club right next door.

The new Beach Club is all clean white lines, seductive loungers, an enticing crescent-shaped infinity edged pool surrounded by vaulting palms trees and a cool cocktail bar that will bring our your James Bond instincts and have you ordering an exotic martini - shaken not stirred - almost immediately. Designed

by Fredo Taffin the guru of architectural chic who created the legendary KU DE TA Beach Club in Seminyak in Bali there can be little doubt that this stellar addition to the Phuket theatre of cool will become the island’s most popular sybaritic playground.

The Beach Club invites you in from either Kata Beach itself or though its beguiling roadside portals to eat, drink, swim, relax, shop and chill out to great sounds from morning through until midnight.

The menu features reasonably-prices light beachside dining with a broad tapas selection, salads, sandwiches, pastas, fresh fish

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Food & Restaurants / 31 and seafood all served in delightfully relaxing surroundings by attractive and attentive staff.

The bar offers a fine array of champagnes, cocktails, spirits, beers and wines by both the bottle and glass. Then there’s the excellent choice of coffees and teas, freshly-squeezed juices, soft drinks and mineral waters.

RE KÁ TA beach club’s fabulous new facilities make it a perfect one stop shop for a relaxing day out, or a hip and happening night out – or quite possibly both – where you can enjoy the “James Bond Martini Lifestyle” all day and night.

The Beach Club will stage its extravagant grand opening in early 2012 and the complete array of facilities will include: • A shimmering beachfront crescent moon infinity edge pool – with stunning views and sensational sunsets over the Andaman Sea and Poo Island in Kata Bay – perfect for all-day cocktails of coffees, teas and beverages, to be enjoyed while you shop • A large private sun lounging area facing the sea for your favorite fashion and gifts • The beachfront cocktail bar • The latest sounds from the Meyer state-of-the–art sound • The relaxing and hip gourmet restaurant featuring Chef system including regular visits from internationally reBrian Burger’s light living cuisine nowned guest DJs. • The holistic Spa and beauty salon with a wide choice of priRE KÁ TA is going to become THE place to see and be seen vate treatment suites in Phuket and we look forward to bringing you more news of the • Spacious changing rooms with shower, lounge and locker Beach Club’s activities and events over the coming months. facilities • Outdoor automatic, walk through, four-head rain showers RE KA TA Beach Club, ….very cool in all senses of the phrase!

Koktanode Road, Kata Beach, Phuket 83100 • The RE KÁ TA Boutique and Café featuring a wide selection Tel: +66 76 330 421 Fax: +66 76 330 422 Email info@rekataphuket.com

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32 / Food & Restaurants

In the Kitchen with...

A Touch of Italy

in the Heart of Nai Harn

D

aVinci Ristorante & Pizzeria located in the BZenter in Nai Harn has established a reputation as a very fine Italian eatery since opening just three years ago. The restaurant is set in a convivial inside/outside courtyard and offers friendly al fresco dining which is conducive to long meals with happy gatherings of family and friends.

DaVinci is the brain child of Mark Norris and David Roberts who then brought on board their very personable restaurant manager Jana plus their talented Chef Khun John who cooks Italian food so well that you feel that he must have spent several previous incarnations as a large Italian mama in a bustling family kitchen in Naples. Together they have developed the large courtyard in which DaVinci is situated into the nearest thing that Phuket has to a genuine Italian Piazza.

The village Piazza holds an almost mythical place as the hub of Italian social life offering a convivial alchemy of fine food, wine and conversation in a time-honored ritual of sharing and enjoyment.

DaVinci’s interpretation of this wonderful Italian institution encompasses a series of meeting places, from the cocktail lounge

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Food & Restaurants / 33 and wine bar, to the original fine restaurant, to a private freshly baked in the oven, so that a simple starter like the function room, to a kiddies’ play area. house bruschetta oozing with extra virgin olive oil and a The enticing open-sided V Lounge Cocktail fresh tomato, garlic and olive topping becomes an aband Wine Bar is a space with a chilled vibe where solute must. cool music fosters relaxing conversation and soAdding to the style and fun of the DaVinci ciability and is a great place to start the evening. experience you are pampered by a coterie of deDaVinci offers over 100 different wines with lightfully mini-skirted waitresses who bustle atseveral selections served by the glass or carafe. In tentively around the courtyard taking care of addition there’s a wide selection of cocktails, your every whim. beers and spirits, all at reasonable prices.

In the life of an Italian Piazza itself, DaVinci is famous for fine Italian fare with the “little ones” hold a special pride all the ingredients sourced fresh daily from of place and so children are embraced the local markets; hydroponically-grown veginto the energetic life of the Da Vinci Pietables and all meals beautifully prepared and azza with their own children’s play center inserved. cluding a Wii video game for the slightly older ones so Try the black squid ink spaghetti with prawns that parents might enjoy a relaxing dinner and bottle of wine and zucchini flamed in vodka, or sensational main safe in the knowledge that the children are enjoying their own courses such as Australian beef, seafood and fresh fish, or the DaVinci experience! innovative slow-braised beef cheek with red wine served with mashed potatoes.

The prawns, squid and clams cooked in a jar in their own DaVinci Restaurant and Piazza broth are a terrific signature starter, as is the Bresaola – air dried BZenter 28/46, Moo 1, Nai Harn, Phuket salted beef and Italian buffalo Mozzarella cheese. They also have (Opposite the 7-Eleven on the road to Nai Harn Beach) a wonderful rocket salad with dried tomatoes, nuts and Gorgonzola dressing.

For reservations call 076 289574 Mobile: 0805251400 The wood-fired oven produces a marvelous selection of thin E-mail: mark@davinciphuket.com crusted pizzas and it’s worth asking Jana for her recommendawww.davinciphuket.com tions on any particular evening. All the restaurant’s breads are

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34 / 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

SALA Restaurant International & Thai

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

“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

Location: Maikhao

White Box Fusion

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

Sushi BOX Japanese

“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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Sushi Box offers the largest selection of sushi in Phuket with over one hundred different kinds of sushi and salads.

Everything is freshly rolled to order with a take away section prepared daily. www.facebook.com/PhuketSushibox Locations: Central Festival Phuket, 1st floor Ocean Plaza Bang-la 2nd Floor Jangceylon Port Area

Food & Restaurants / 35

Restaurant HighlightS The East 88 Beach Lounge International & Thai

East 88 Beach Lounge is Phuket’s coolest restaurant and bar located right by the sea within Serenity Resort & Residences. Lounge or dine in style and enjoy the view over Chalong Bay while being pampered by our team, food, drinks and cool vibes. “Special events, theme evenings and happenings” Happy hour from 17.00 – 19.00h. Free use of pool facilities for customers. Tel. 076 371 900 Location: Rawai

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CapaNnina Italian

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 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

36 / Food & Restaurants

Full Moon Brewwork Keeps on Innovating

T

he Full Moon Brewwork is a delightful pub, restaurant and highly convivial bar situated behind the big Chinese junk in the Junceylon Shopping Centre in Patong. Sukij Thipatima is the friendly and extremely knowledgeable owner and manager and will welcome you whenever you drop in for a pint, some great food and a chat. After studying brewing in Berlin and then working in small scale craft breweries, he decided to go it alone and pioneer Phuket’s first craft brewery and in particular introduce unique beers made with specific Thai ingredients such as Thai Gaba rice and coriander.

Says Sukij, “I thought a holiday place like Phuket which has a lot of international visitors would be receptive to my idea of uniquely Thai beers and I liked the idea of living on the island, so I am opening the microbrewery and restaurant here.”

The Full Moon, currently has three types of beer plus specials that they occasionally produce such as the hilarious ‘green beer’ that they brewed last March for Saint Patrick’s using fresh pandanus leaves.

On regular offer are a pale, refreshing Thai-style Phuket Lager made with Thai Gaba rice from the King’s Royal project which delivers a sweet and malty aroma.

They also have a Dark Ale which uses black sticky rice combined with caramel and chocolate malts making it a richly flavored

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dark colored brew. There’s also Oriental Wheat, which combines wheat, oatmeal, Thai tangerine peel and coriander to create a fresh buttery textured white beer. All the beers are hand crafted and use only natural ingredients with no artificial additives.

The pub also offers a full range of Craft Cocktails which use only fresh fruit plus wild honey, palm sugar and the best selection of spirit ingredients in the whole of Phuket. The special cocktail is Thailand’s official signature drink, “Siam Sunrays” which features fresh Thai herbs blended with Ketel One handcrafted vodka.

The response to all these innovations was so good that Sukij has now introduced Bohemian Lager a Czech-inspired pale golden style lager made with a mix of Czech, German and Australian hops which bring out passion fruit noses with a smooth, clean and crisp taste A Wild Honey Pale Ale and Oatmeal Stout will soon be introduced and a number of “Guest Beers’” are also planned.

Like any good pub, the food selection is also sensational with a full menu available and items like the steak and ribs in wild honey and dark beer BBQ sauce being best sellers. The Aussie tenderloin, American burger with onion marmalade and traditional fish and chips are also hot favorites.

New on the Full Moon menu are great food and beer pairings, where beer and food complement each other, such as: Pkuket Lager with Grilled Norwegian

Salmon Steak. Here the unique characteristics of the light sweet and malty aroma of the special lager fit very well with the grilled Norwegian salmon steak with pepper puree cream sauce and served with homemade mash potato.

Dark Ale with Full Moon’s Signature Ribs. In this pairing the intense and well rounded flavors of the chocolate and caramelized malt complement the intense flavor of the Full Moon Brewwork’s signature dish - the BBQ Ribs. They are juicy and tender and topped with Dark Ale and Tennessee Bourbon and wild honey BBQ sauce.

Oriental Wheat with Phuket Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice. Here the light citrus flavor with spices from the Thai tangerine peels and coriander make this rice dish a hero featuring locally grown pineapple and shrimps from the Andaman Sea. With all this fabulous innovation of both food and beer happening at the Brew Works there is only one thing to do. Get on over there and say… “CHEERS!” Full Moon Brewwork Microbrewery and Restaurant is located behind the Big Chinese Junk at Junceylon Shopping Center.

Tel: +66 (0) 76 366 753 Facebook.com/Fullmoonbrewwork

Food & Restaurants / 37

Restaurant Highlights Giogiorne Restaurant Italian & Thai Food

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

LE CELTIQUE French & Thai

French specialities; snails, white asparagus, scallops, saffron sauce and an excellent pork hock or a rack of lamb with goat cheese, also large choice of Bretain Crepes, salty or sweetie Bertrand is the king of sauces, and Lek always welcomes you warmly. Closed on Tuesday.

Tel. 076 613 098, 089 588 9517, 084 842 6233 E-mail: celtiquethai@hotmail.com Location: Saiyuan Road, Rawai

Sala Bua International

Where East Meets West; this stylish restaurant serves creative food right at the waters edge.

Tel: 076 430 138 ext. 8301 www.impiana.com

Location: Patong Beach

IndoChine Waterfront Restaurant Indochine & European

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 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

38 / Food & Restaurants

BBAP’s Christmas Brunch Rocks! cading waterfalls saw families with ebullient little ones dining al fresco, while the resident trio played cool jazz interspersed with Christmas favorites.

After face painting, balloon animal making and extended grazing from the bounteous buffet, who else but SANTA put in a welcome appearance? He too was BAP is of course the British Busi- well briefed and seemed to have a present ness Association of Phuket, rather exactly suitable for the gender of every than the opening lyric from a Little Richard hit of the late 1950’s. On Sunday December 4th BBAP presciently held their Christmas brunch for members and their happy families nice and early to beat the seasonal rush.

The choice of SAILS restaurant at the Hilton Arcadia was a stroke of genius on behalf of Social Secretary Peter Smith and the BBAP committee. The lovely indoor/ outdoor setting beside the sparkling blue waters of the resort’s huge pool and cas-

B

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little guest who sat on his knee.

In a welter of discarded paper wrapping, Christmas party hats and lots of clean cool vinous and beery libations for the adults, the brunch party ran long into the afternoon, occasioning one wit to suggest that BBAP should throw tradition to the winds and have Christmas brunch every Sunday.

Little Richard would have loved it!

Food & Restaurants / 39

Let’s do Brunch!

Sunday Brunch

Sunday Lunch

Saturday Brunch

Every Sunday from 12.00-15.00

Every Sunday From 12.00-15.00

Every Saturday from 12.00-15.00

The place to see and be seen is the Sunday brunch at The Oriental Spoon. A highly fashionable international crowd browse the abundant food offerings from fresh seafood and cold water NZ oysters, to sushi and sashimi.

• 3,490++ THB per person including a bottle of champagne per couple • 1,490++ THB per person including a bottle of wine per couple • 1,190++ THB brunch only

Enjoy our expansive mouthwatering Seafood Buffet, Sushi, Live cooking stations, BBQ, Western and Thai hot dishes, and our all you can eat Home Made Desserts.

• 999 THB net per person with free flow soft drinks.

• 1,299 THB net per person with a bottle of wine per couple.

• 2,999 THB net per person with a bottle of champange per couple.

The Two Chefs Saturday Brunch is not an ordinary brunch, it is a brunch with carefully chosen home made specialities ith the scandinavian flavours that you miss from home. With their own smoked salmon, moked 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.

Tel : 076 316 577 www.twinpalms-phuket.com

Tel : 076 363 600 www.vijittresort.com

Tel. 076 330 065 www.twochefs-phuket.com

Twinpalms

Vijitt Resort

Two Chefs

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40 / Food & Restaurants

Wine Dinner

Another Evason Wine Dinner to Dine For!

T

hat hotbed of all things stylish the Evason Phuket & Bon Island in Rawai have built a reputation for hosting wine dinners that create the perfect alchemy of fabulous cuisine, fascinating wines and enlivening socializing. Their most recent extravaganza on the evening of Monday November 28th was no exception and paired an interesting selection of

French Alsatian varietals with beautifully prepared authentic Thai street food!

Yes, that’s right.

Kevin Fawkes, the new Executive Chef and his team took everyday Andaman regional street food, based on the finest local ingredients and prepared it to perfection. These fine dishes were then served paired with the highly rated varietals such as a Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir from the Barth Rene Winery in northeastern France….et voila… the result was a sensational matching of two cultures from extremely different geographies and climatic zones that somehow complemented each other as though

Fantastic View - Great Cocktails & Meals Elegant Romantic Breeze

it were ordained.

The evening was themed “Enchanté Phuket, Alsatian Terroir meets the Streets of Phuket” and constituted a highly creative way of pushing the boundaries of food and wine forward in an exploratory and as it turned out, pioneering fashion.

The evening started with mixed cocktail starters such as Phuket spring rolls, local stir-fried oysters in batter and taro, and local fish and fresh ground coconut salad which were happily consumed by the gathering throng on the terrace of Evason

Opening hours

17.00 - 24.00

For private candle light dinner or any special private event Please contact the Front Desk: T+66 (0)7634 9800 E chp@chr.co.th

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Food & Restaurants / 41

Phuket & Bon Island’s signature Thai restaurant “Into Thai” overlooking dreaming Andaman Sea. These were paired with the 2005 Barth Rene Muscat, which was light, fruity and refreshing rather than sweetly cloying as are many Muscats.

Michel Fonné, the owner and wine maker of Barth Rene introduced each of his lovely wines and Chef Kevin followed on with his thoughts on each of the courses he had prepared.

Phuket style squid soup with lemon grass and shallots and then a classic Rawai seafood platter and Massaman Gai curry followed, paired enticingly with the 2006 Pinot Blanc, the 2005 Riesling and the 2006 Pinot Gris respectively. This latter

wine…slightly rose in hue, was the highlight in this writer’s opinion, although many votes also went to the 2005 “Cuvée a L’Ancienne” Pinot Noir which then followed paired with Phuket style braised pork belly with five spices and braised beef in local brown sauce.

Chef Kevin explained that the latter was the result of a 16 hour slow molecular cooking process and Michel Fonné explained that the Pinot Noir grapes had originally been introduced into the Alsace region by his grandfather and so we had a perfect example of the SLOW LIFE philosophy of living for which the Evason is justly famous.

The evening closed with, what else but mango and sticky rice, poached taro, pumpkin and sweet potato in coconut milk and coconut layer in Pandan leaves paired with the 2006 Gewürztraminer and Evason Phuket & indeed so imbued with the SLOW LIFE Bon Island Resort ethos had the happy crowd become that 100, Vised Road, Moo 2, Tambol Rawai, they lingered long on that lovely terrace Muang District, Phuket 83130 just taking it all in and enjoying their moment of gustatory contentment!

Tel: +66 (0) 76 381 010 reservations-phuket@evasonresorts.com

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42 / Health & Beauty

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Health & Beauty / 43

SpaHighlight Let’s Relax Spa

Relaxing the mind and revitalizing the body seems to be what everybody needs nowadays, after a hectic schedule, a busy lifestyle and a stressful city living.

But when and how can you afford to take time off to free yourself from so much stress and take time to relax your body and revitalize your senses with your busy lifestyle?

At Let’s Relax, you can let loose, reward yourself, indulge , relax and enjoy the fineness pleasure of pampering yourself.

Provolution Center Phuket

Provolution Center Phuket is the Phuket wellness center of Michael & Orranut Stephens offering reiki energy therapy, intuitive card reading, meditation classes, reiki certification, and free personal development books and downloads.

Tel. 081 446 7714 www.provolutioncenter.com

Tel. 076 346 080 www.letsrelaxspa.com

The Oasis Spa Phuket

The ultimate spa experience where treatments are created combining ancient secrets and advanced discoveries in beauty and wellness. Luxurious Spas designed with a Thai atmosphere to allow clients to enjoy superior service without unnecessary formality.

Open 3 Branches in Phuket Laguna, Bang Tao Phuket Kamala Phuket Kata Phuket Tel. 076 337 777 www.phuketoasis.com

RarinJinda

RarinJinda Wellness Spa is one of Thailand’s leading wellness spa with expertised therapists and latest spa technologies.RarinJinda Wellness spa offers clients wellness, good health and luxurious pampering in a spa sanctuary.

RarinJinda is an urban spa fully equipped with all of the latest spa technology and facilities at high international standards, yet deeply rooted in the Thai massage and healing traditions. RarinJinda is an oasis of health and wellness in Thailand’s tourist capitals, located adjacent to the back of Jungceylon Shopping Center Tel. 076 366 724, 076 366 800-2 www.rarinjinda.com

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44 / Health & Beauty

Way Beyond Wellness After years of study and their own ‘in house’ laboratories, RarinJinda have formulated and perfected their unique range of authentic oils that are exclusive to their spas.

Blending ancient remedies with contemporary spa theories and using only the purest natural ingredients, your body will be bathed in perfection during all of their spas treatments.

A very wide range of treatments are offered at RarinJinda, from Colonic cleansing to Cellutech (anti-cellulite massage), to a whole menu of wellness options and a special treatment for beach lovers with their soothing ‘after sun Paradise’ package.

Spend just one hour for a single treatment at the spa or indulge in a full 5-hour treatment that will leave even the most stressed have just discovered a small piece of Heaven in Phuket – and I executive weak at the knees and begging for more! cannot wait to return there.

My own introduction to this unique spa was into the world In the heart of Patong is the beautiful and serene RarinJinda of Ayurvedic medicine and I was simply blown away by the reWellness Spa and it should be on the ‘must visit’ list for residents sults of the RarinJinda trteatment! Having braved the Phuket and visitors alike. Superb décor and traffic and the world financial unstunning and unique flower decoracertainties I was more than ready for tions greet you at this very impres- RarinJinda arrived in Phuket just one year ago some TLC and this experience sursive location and Spa Manager Khun passed all my expectations.

Oui, with her efficient staff, extends but brought with it over 14 years of development Ayurveda is an ancient Indian a warm welcome to all. therapy that aims to harmonise the experience from its innovative owners.

RarinJinda translates as ‘river of body, mind, senses and soul through jewels’ and all of the luxurious pria holistic system of diet, herbal remvate treatment suites are named for edies and massage. Now embraced precious gems. Four floors of total indulgence with private Ja- by our thoroughly modern and stressful world, it has become the cuzzis gracing some of the suites and clean lines and traditional treatment of choice for jet set celebrities and harassed workers Thai touches further enhancing the warm and relaxing ambience. around the world.

RarinJinda arrived in Phuket just one year ago but brought Shirodhara massage originated in India over 5,000 years ago with it over 14 years of development experience from its innova- and is based on the ancient principles of Ayurvedic medicine. It tive owners. First launching the popular “Let’s Relax” Spa brand involves the warm and consistent flow of aromatic oils on the (which now has 6 branches throughout Thailand), the owners forehead, specifically on the ‘third eye’. This is the chakra point, added the luxurious ‘RarinJinda” concept more than six years ago said to be the seat of human consciousness that is just above and in Chiang Mai and have since added two more of these wonder- between the eyebrows. ful wellness spas, in Bangkok as well as Phuket.

I

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Health & Beauty / 45

Refreshing herbal tea and cold towels greeted my arrival at RarinJinda before I was escorted by lift to my private 4th floor suite. Attentive staff, soothing lighting and soft calming music created a warm oasis in which the wafting scents of perfumed oils completed this sensual setting.

Relaxing on the gloriously padded massage table and cocooned in warmed towels the treatment began. The soothing and fragrant warm oils flowed gently over my scalp and through my hair, creating a sensation of pure bliss. Gentle massage with the warm oils over my head and scalp and then over the rest of my body left me almost comatose! Two hours of heaven before I emerged refreshed and ready to face the world again!

It is said that all your mental demons – fear, anxiety, anger or irritability – dissolve into an ocean of calm as your mind is lulled into a state of serenity and expanded consciousness. As the oil strokes the third eye, it is said to have a balancing effect on the deepest recesses of the brain, stimulating the endocrine system, the pituitary and pineal glands (for hormonal upsets) and pleasure neurotransmitters (for depression or emotional insecurity).

The procedure is also said to synchronize alpha brain waves, enhancing blood circulation to the brain, improving mental clarity and generally releasing deeply trapped toxins.

RarinJinda is already the recipient of many awards for its superlative services and innovative techniques and it is easy to see why. The perfect place for a rejuvenating break from life’s stresses and definitely very addictive!

RarinJinda Wellness Spa Tel. 076 336 800 www.rarinjinda.com

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46 / Health & Beauty

Herbal

Magic

I

t would be difficult to go home from a holiday in Thailand without being exposed to a variety of Thai herbs, whether they are in your food, your spa treatment or traditional medicine.

Herbs have had a slightly questionable reputation in the past, as they are associated with smoking the ‘special’ kind or rubbing foul-smelling concoctions onto sensitive parts of your body. But now more knowledge is coming to light about the use of herbs, their healthy properties and the traditions behind their use.

What is the history of herbs?

In Thai villages herbs are used as frequently and commonly as shampoo and soap. The traditions behind many of their uses are fascinating. Thai herbs were first cultivated in the temple, and some people believe that Thai herbal remedies and techniques were first used to soothe the aches and pains of experienced monks after hours sitting in a meditative pose. A healing session would often begin with an offering, consisting of flowers, candles and small amounts of money, and then the illness would be discussed and diagnosed, and a remedy prescribed. In more recent times, special herbal poultices have once again become the subject of research, and more than two hundred Thai herbs have now been identified as having their own particular healing properties. So next time you dig into a delicious Thai meal, or have that sweet-smelling spa treatment, stop and ask which herbs are being used and why. The reasons behind their use are often not only interesting in their own right but an insight into a fascinating part of Thai culture.

How are Thai herbs commonly used?

Herbs such as lemongrass, ginger and tamarind are often used in Thai cooking. They add flavour and spice and no Thai dish would be complete without them. Kaffir lime for example is added to Thai salads, or torn and added to soups and curries.

Most herbs are used in a number of different dishes and are combined with each other in various ways. Your Tom Yam Goong wouldn’t be complete without the fresh galangal and lemongrass which gives this soup its distinctive taste.

Coconut oil and papaya are often incorporated into skin treatments. All around the island, spa resorts offer their own mixes of Thai herbs in massage oils, which help relieve stiff joints and provide soothing and cooling properties for sun burnt skin.

Herbs are also used in most local medicines. Even though herbal remedies take longer to act, they generally treat the cause as well as the symptoms of an injury or disease, and therefore provide longer term relief from pain and discomfort, rather than simply hiding symptoms temporarily. The most popular way to administer herbal ingredients is by boiling them in water to make a tea, mixing them with alcohol as a tonic, grinding them into a powder, making them into tablets, or just squeezing the plants to extract the juice. The application of herbal compresses has also been used as a therapeutic tool by Thai healers for many years. A bolus is made by tightly wrapping a mixture of beneficial herbs in bundles of muslin, which are then steam-heated and applied to various pressure points along the body’s main energy lines. www.theguidephuket.com

Health & Beauty / 47 What do they do exactly?

Lemongrass (Takrai) This is an aromatic herb used in curry pastes, stir-fries, and soups. The therapeutic properties of lemongrass are varied, and it is used as a diuretic, for antiflatulence, and even anti-flu, as well as being a powerful antimicrobial agent. The plant is well known for its pleasant aroma, for its antiseptic properties, and as a cure for headaches and skin complaints.

Ginger (Khing) Ginger is used in different forms as a food, flavouring, and spice. Its therapeutic uses are as a digestive aid, an antinauseant, and an antiflatulence agent. Traditionally, Thai mothers rubbed a paste of ginger onto a baby’s stomach to relieve stomach upsets and gas. In aromatherapy the oil is used to boost circulation and relax stiff muscles.

Tamarind (Makham) Tamarind is the fruit of a tall tree native to Asia that is also widely grown in India. The bark is used as an astringent, the flowers reduce blood pressure, and the fruit can have a laxative effect. In addition, the leaves are used in herbal steams as the acidity helps the skin absorb other herbal ingredients. Wet tamarind was also once used as a beauty treatment, and is a natural exfoliate.

Galangal (Kha) A relative of ginger, but pink in colour, galangal has a distinct peppery flavour.

It can be eaten either raw or cooked, and has therapeutic uses as a stomach settler, anti-rheumatic, and antimicrobial agent.

Kaffir Lime (Makrut) The leaves, peel, and juice of the Kaffir Lime are all commonly used for flavouring Thai cuisine, imparting a unique flavour. The zest is a popular ingredient in herbal compresses, while the oil is used as aromatherapy, and the fresh fruit is sometimes applied as a hair tonic.

Turmeric (Kamin) These small, bright orange roots are used in yellow curries and can also be used as a food dye. Turmeric is a major ingredient in many Thai herbal remedies, and its therapeutic properties provide a cure for digestive disorders. In addition to this, it is sometimes used in traditional cosmetics, and when crushed, the oil can be applied as a natural moisturizer. www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

48 / Lifestyle

SpaHighlight

Vara Spa

At Vara Spa, from the moment you step through the doors, you become the center of our attention. Every element has been carefully designed for your comfort. Indulge in sensuously soothing, pampering, and you will be completely revitalized and recharged both mind and body.

Vara Spa where Thai local wisdom matched with Western contemporary ideas creating innovative beauty and skincare.

Tel. 076 34 3 444 www.patongsawaddi.com

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

SenSes Health & Beauty Clinique

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. 076 20 3 280 www.hiranyikara.com

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5 Star Massage

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: 076 271 373 – 4 www.senses.co.th

Lifestyle / 49

The Art of Relaxation

Open every day from 10am until midnight

ty SSalon l 5 Star Massage and Beauty 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

50 / Property

PropertyBuyerGuide Phanason Resort Laem-Hin

Kathu Golf Condo

Type: Caribbean House Area: Laem-Hin Price: 5.9 Million THB

Type: Condominium Area: Kathu Price: 4.4 Million THB

Contact: T. 076 373 290-1

Contact: T. 084 543-5, 076 319 194 E. kathu-golfcondo@ hotmail.com

www.phanason.com

www.kathu-golf-condo-phuket.com

Cherng’Lay Condominiums 2

The Beach Condotel

Type: Condominium Area: Cherngthalay Price: 3.5 Million THB

Type: Condominium Area: Kata Beach Price: 3,022,500 THB

Contact: T. 076 271 770 E. info@phuketasialand. com

Contact: T. 076 330 888 087 019 3555

www.phuketasialand.com

www.theguidephuket.com

www.thebeachcondotel.com

Property / 51

PropertyBuyerGuide PHUKET@TOWN 2 Type: Modern Nature Town Home Area: Phunphon Rd., Phuket Town Price: 2.49 Million THB Contact: Hotline 084 753 1222

The Light Suanluang Type: Condominium Area: Chao Fa Road Price: 1.7 Million THB Contact: T. 076 22 33 44 076 22 44 55 E. info@thelightcondo. com

www.sittarom.co.th/phuket

www.thelightcondo.com

Phanason City Condominium

Palm Breeze Resort

Type: Condominium Area: Phuket Town Price: 960,000 THB Contact: T. 076 612 648-9

www.phanason.com

One Stop Service for BABY

EQUIPMENT RENTALS Tel. 086 911 5515 or 085 571 1970 E-mail: littlelamb.pkt@gmail.com

Creative Graphic Design photographer Common uses of graphic design include identity (logos and branding), photographer, publications (magazines, newspapers, catalog menu and books), advertisements and product packaging.

Call 081 711 6632 Email: design457@gmail.com

Type: Apartment Area: Rawai / Nai harn Price: 3-3.9 Million THB Membership Price: 3-500,000 THB Contact: T. 084 843 3677 E. rickard@palmholidayclub.com

www.palmholidayclub.com

Alarms Phuket Services Advanced System Security

Protect your family, secure your property before it is too late !

Look and control yours cameras from anywhere in the world with your mobile phone.

Mobile: 085 798 9469

contact@alarms-phuket-services.com www.alarms-phuket-services.com

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52 / Lifestyle

Shopper’s

Delight ative and interesting. There is a fair range spread around the island, but you’ll have to drive and hunt to find it all.

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.

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.

ning 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.

Custom Tailoring

This is definitely bargain country in Phuket. Tailors

Instant Antiques

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 crewww.theguidephuket.com

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, cun-

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.

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

can import their wares easily to Phuket and their overhead costs are low. Skills range from excellent to barely adequate, so look carefully and you can go home with both quality and

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

Lifestyle / 53

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.

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.

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Transportation / 55

Call Center

1771 Phuket to Samui

Samui to Phuket

Phuket to Pattaya

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG252

0945

1040

Daily

PG251

0815

0915

Daily

PG252

0945

1225

Daily

PG260

1235

1330

.23.56.

PG259

1100

1200

Daily

PG282

1510

1650

Daily

PG262

1235

1330

1..4..7

PG255

1500

1600

Daily

1810

1910

1..4..7

1810

1910

.23.56.

PG256

1645

1740

Daily

PG261

PG258

1940

2035

Daily

PG257

Phuket to Bangkok

Bangkok to Phuket

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG270

0700

0825

Daily

PG271

0805

0930

Daily

PG272

1020

1145

Daily

PG924

1145

1310

Daily

PG907

1400

1525

Daily

PG273

1345

1510

Daily

PG274

1610

1735

Daily

PG277

1730

1855

Daily

PG278

1945

2110

Daily

PG279

2015

2140

Daily

PG280

2225

2350

Daily

PG220

2200

2325

Daily

Pattaya to Phuket Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG281

1300

1440

Daily

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

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

Austria

076 372 600

Ireland

076 281 273

Austria

076 248 334-6

Italy

086 689 6819

Visa

02 299 1990-29

Czech Republic 076 076 249 400 ext 1501, 3330 USA

076 342 270

AMEX

02 273 0022-44

Denmark

076 378 365

Korea

076 234 452

Master Card

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 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

56 / 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 / 57

Timetable

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

EFFECTIVE : Now - 24 March 2012

TG638

1445

1915

Daily

PHUKET - HONG KONG

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

HONG KONG - PHUKET

PHUKET - BANGKOK

BANGKOK - PHUKET Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG609

0905

1140

Daily

TG201

0745

0910

Daily

TG226

0725

0850

Daily

TG203

0830

0955

Daily

TG202

1010

1140

Daily

TG205

1000

1120

Daily

TG204

1055

1225

Daily

TG211

1215

1335

12.4.6.

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG206

1210

1335

Daily

TG485

0035

0750

...456.

TG215

1430

1550

Daily

TG208

1330

1455

Daily

TG217

1650

1810

Daily

TG230

1425

1550

1..4.6.

TG221

1820

1940

Daily

TG228

1605

1730

...456.

TG223

1920

2040

Daily

TG214

1625

1750

Daily

TG227

2145

2305

..345..

TG216

1645

1810

Daily

TG225

2240

2359

Daily

TG218

1915

2040

Daily

TG222

2040

2205

Daily

TG224

2140

2305

1.3.5.7

CHIANG MAI - PHUKET

Copenhagen - PHUKET

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG129

1340

1535

Daily

TG953

2045

1320

..3.5.7

PHUKET - Perth

Perth - PHUKET Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG486

0910

1425

...456.

PHUKET - Seoul (Incheon) Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG654

2225

0625

.2.4.6.

Seoul (Incheon) - PHUKET Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

TG655

0815

1305

..3.5.7

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

www.theguidephuket.com

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