Vol.1 No.3

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Vol.1 No.3 September 2010

Maps Diving Tours Things to do Places to go Shopping Accommodation Restaurants and Much, Much More...

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ainy season is fast approaching; Phuket can feel the brunt of this wet weather system formed by the increasing temperature of the land mass surrounding the Indian Ocean, which incorporates the Andaman Sea. The western shores of Thailand, and in particular Phuket, will see heavy rainfall and turbulent seas which can create scenes of wild beauty. During this time you might not be able sun yourself on the beach but there are plenty of other activities that can keep you busy during your visit.

Don’t let the rain dampen your spirits, go out and enjoy the island, have fun!

Transport on the Island

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The Guide Update

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Hot Activities

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Life’s a Beach

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Sino-Portuguese Houses

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Shopper’s Delight

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Give a Little Love

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Phuket Island Map

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Phuket Roadshow

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Hotel Highlights

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In bed with... Merlin Beach Resort

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Island’s Golf

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Health and Beauty

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Restaurant Highlights

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The Nightcrawler

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Airport Bus Timetable

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Do’s & Dont’s

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In the Kitchen with... Sushi BOX

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Cooking Thai

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Diving

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Surf’s Up!

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Bangkok Airways Timetable

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Important Telephone Numbers

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Learn to Speak Thai

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Star Phuket Media & Design Limited Partnership 65/573, Moo 2, T. Vichit A. Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand. Tel. +66 (0) 7651 3064, Fax: +66 (0) 7651 3016, Mobile: 089 474 4704, 088 766 0776 E-mail: info@theguidephuket.com, www. theguidephuket.com Managing Director: Punnapron Eamso Guinault, info@theguidephuket.com • Marketing Consultant: Thidarat Jessadanongluk, marketing@theguidephuket.com • Sale Executive: Malisa Wangnurak, sales1@theguidephuket.com • Editor: Tom Greene, editor@theguidephuket.com • Designer: Alek E., media@theguidephuket.com 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 (Suvanabhumi International Airport and Phutket International Airport), Phuket Airport Bus, major resorts in Phuket region, restaurants, spas, travel agent, car rental and cabinet of Phuket Info Center. Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to info@theguidephuket.com.

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t is a big island, and getting around can be troublesome if you don’t have your own bike or car.

There is a lot to see on and off Phuket Island, but little public transport to help you get about. Below we list the possibilities with public transport.

So unless you rent your own vehicle you will have trouble getting to most parts of the island, and will miss many places and attractions worth visiting

To and from the airport Airport transfers are relatively simple, the airport is at the far north of the island, some 30 kilometres from Phuket Town and even further from most of the popular beaches like Patong and Karon. Most visitors arrive on package itineraries that include airport transfers, and have only to look for a tour guide or driver holding up a sign with their name, or the hotel name, but if you do need transport to get to your hotel or chosen beach, it is best to use one of the two official transport companies with booths right inside the arrival lounge. You can’t miss them, and they miss no-one with their offers. Prices are fixed, and it costs approximately 600-800 Baht in an Airport Limousine or 150 Baht per person by Minibus to get to the major beaches at the south or west of the island. Metered taxis are also available and private taxis wait outside offering cheaper prices, but we suggest you avoid them as problems can arise since they are unregistered.

good way to get about the island, if you prefer not to drive yourself (a rental car is cheaper then this).

Motorcycle taxis

Transport on the Island

The Airport Bus is another option if you are not in a rush and cheap at 85 Baht per person. Ask at the airport for their current departure schedules, which depend on the number of flights arriving.

Car rental companies, including Budget and National, have offices right in the airport.

Forms of local transport Song taews – from beaches to Town There are few buses on Phuket, and the main form of transport from beach to town is the ‘song taew’; a truck converted to carry passengers in the back on two long benches. They are usually colourful, with a sign on front showing where they are going. They now add English in small letters. 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 around the streets, slowly, picking up passengers. It is slow, but cheap, with the fare from Phuket town to Patong now set at 25 Baht per person.

‘Tuk-Tuks’ – to get about the island If you want your own private taxi, look for a tuk tuk, a tiny mini-truck converted in the manner of the bigger song taew above to carry about four (or more!) passengers. The tuk-tuk gets this 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 30 minute ride between Patong and Phuket town can be as much as 450 Baht, one way! Be prepared to bargain and keep it friendly, but don’t expect much movement on their prices for the drivers are out to squeeze every Baht they can from tourists. At night the price of tuk-tuks shoots up.

One can also rent one of these tuk-tuks for the day. Expect to pay around 2,000 Baht or more. This is a

These will be a new experience for many people.

Individual owners of small motor bikes rent their services, carrying passengers anyplace at pre-arranged prices. All fares must be negotiated before the ride.

These taxi riders are easily identified by their special coloured jackets identifying 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 your own car Since Phuket is a large island – some 50 kilometres long and about 15 wide – renting your own vehicle is far and away the best means of getting around and seeing everything, or much of it.

Renting is easy; private rental cars are easily found in every beach area, and major rental companies operate in most resorts. Or you phone the company of your choice, as most will deliver and pick up vehicles. If renting from the side of the road, beware: few of these vehicles have insurance, and this can prove disastrous in the event of an accident.

Renting one’s own vehicle is also the only effective way to get off Phuket Island and see the beautiful, neighbouring provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi by land. The roads are good and the scenery spectacular, making this a great way to go.

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Renting your own motorcycle Motorcycles, big and small, can be rented all over the island and are a popular choice for many tourists. Foreign visitors see so many Thais – often including children - zipping about on these convenient little machines that they decide to try it themselves. In the tropical climate this breezy form of transport seems ideal. And yes, it can be. But beware; ; learning to ride one is pretty simple, but learning to ride one well-enough to stay out of trouble on Phuket’s oftendangerous roads is another thing. 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 accidents involving motorcycles. The most dangerous points are the steep mountain roads that one must cross to leave the major west coast beach resorts.

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. The police occasionally enforce both laws, so beware.

The real danger here 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.

The fact that most owners will rent motorcycles to people without valid drivers’ li-

censes only adds fuel to the fire in the case of accidents.

Be extremely cautious!

Regional buses The long distance bus station is in Phuket town, 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 5:00PM in the evening, arriving in Bangkok about 6:00AM 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. One can get to Koh Lanta by changing boats in Koh Phi Phi. Most people get to the other islands by renting their own boat.

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.

Local Bus TimeTable Town to Beach

Fee (Baht)

Beach to Town

Fee (Baht)

Bangtao Beach

Destination

7.00am–5.00pm

25

6.00am–4.00pm

35

Surin Beach

7.00am–5.00pm

25

6.00am–4.00pm

35

Kamala Beach

7.00am–5.00pm

30

6.00am–4.00pm

40

Kata Beach

7.30am–6.00pm

25

5.30am–4.30pm

40

Karon Beach

7.30am–6.00pm

25

5.30am–4.30pm

40

Kathu District

7.30am–5.00pm

15

6.20am–3.30pm

25

Patong Beach

8.00am–6.00pm

20

7.30am–5.30pm

30

Makham Bay

8.00am–5.00pm

20

7.00am–3.30pm

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Chalong Bay

8.00am–5.30pm

20

6.00am–5.30pm

30

Rawai Beach

6.50am–5.30pm

25

6.00am–4.30pm

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Naiharn Beach

7.00am–6.05pm

30

6.45am–6.05pm

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Sarasin Bridge

6.00am–6.00pm

30

6.00am–3.00pm

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Bang Rong Pier

8.30am–4.00pm

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7.00am–4.00pm

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Por Bay Pier

8.30am–4.00pm

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7.00am–4.00pm

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Phuket Tourist Association held their annual meeting

Wearing traditonal Chinese dress and surrounded by Chinese decoration, the attendees celebrated Chinese heritage at Ban Hong Yoke, Thepkrasattri Rd, Phuket Town.

On Saturday 24th July 2010 the Phuket Tourist Association held their annual meeting at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia to elect the board of directors for the 2010-2012 term.

This followed the Phuket Tourist Association organisation of the “Phuket Creative Tourism Forum I” on Friday 23rd July 2010. This event gathered together the heads of Phuket business and key political figures such as Khun Aphiruk Kosayothin - consultant to the Prime Minister, Khun Wansadej Thavornsuk - Domestic Marketing Minister TTT, Dr.Suwit Maysinthree - Director of Research at Chulalongkorn University, Dr.Thorn Thamrongnawasawas, Khun Ploy Jariyawet, Khun Duangrit Bunnag - Managing Director of Duangrit Bunnag Architect Limited, Khun Tawich Thanachanun - Assistant Director of Kasikorn Bank and Khun Prasert Earmrungroj - one of Thailand’s leading creative thinkers in marketing and advertising.

After the seminar all existing board members were re-elected to continue working together to develop Phuket’s Tourism and trade industries.

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Grand Opening of Hafele Design Center Phuket August 6th, 2010

Opening of Sushi BOX at Central Festival Phuket Khun Wilaiporn Pitimanaaree, General Manager Central Festival Phuket (left) congratulated Mr. Nicolas Piffault, coowner (right) on the opening of the Sushi BOX at Central Festival Phuket.

Mr.Volker Hellstern, Managing Director of Hafele (Thailand) Limited (left) and Phuket Governor (right)

Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket Presenting loyalty and devotion to HM Queen Sirikit Denis Thouvard, General Manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, recently presented a loyalty and devotion activity to HM Queen Sirikit along with his team members. The beach cleaning activity has been established to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen of Thailand’s 78th Birthday, on August 12th 2010 at Karon Beach. This beach cleaning activity is also part of Centara, Sustainability Vision.

1st Year Anniversary Celebration of RADISSON PLAZA RESORT, PANWA BEACH, PHUKET on 21st August 2010

Skal Phuket Club’s dinner meeting of August held at Serenity Resort & Residences Phuket.

Skal is the only international organization which brings together all sectors of the travel and tourism industry. Skal represents the industry’s managers and executives. Skal members meet at local, national and international levels in an environment of friendship to discuss subjects of common interest.

To join Skal please contact: Mr. Jorge, 089 725 6994, jorge@ internshipsthailand.com.

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Elephant trekking

4D theater Step into the future with Phuket’s latest attraction; an 8 seat 4D motion ride. Pick from a choice of movies. Slip on your glasses and be prepared to be whisked away on a journey to space or beyond.

The moving chairs which have an acceleration rate of 100 movements per second 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 kind of roller coaster set on another planet taking you through landscapes unknown while plummeting off the highest cliffs into new cosmic lands.

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

Butterfly Garden Phuket Butterfly Garden is the largest and most desirable butterfly garden in Thailand. In operation from 1990, it has become a magnificent place for families and loved ones to enjoy. Imagine the natural beauty that surrounds you as you walk in a tropical garden surrounded by an abundance of flowers and butterflies. Phuket Butterfly Garden is simply heaven on earth. 8000 butterflies per month inhabit the lush green tropical garden, enabling it to be a place of fun, tranquility and pleasure.

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

Phuket Zoo Visit Phuket Zoo during your stay here and enjoy a wonderfully different type of zoo. Lush tropical gardens invite you to stroll around in the shade of giant trees and across bridges onto islands containing all kinds of exotic animals. New species of fish, birds and other animals are acquired each year helping to keep the zoo exciting.

Our well trained staff will do their best to entertain you at the many shows and photo opportunities. Cold drinks, ice creams and refreshments are sold at several different locations around the extensive grounds so you can sit and rest during your visit. www.phuketzoo.com

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, fed and out of the cities, where many can be taken by destitute owners in search of money and food. www.phuket-guide. net/phuket_activities/elephant.htm

Orchid Farm Although not the national flower of Thailand, orchids are commonly seen in hotels, spas and restaurants t h r o u g h o u t Thailand. With more than 1500 varieties available Phuket Orchid Farm hosts the largest and most comprehensive display of orchids in the region.

Cut flowers packed and ready for international air travel.

2 sizes available, small or large. Delivery is available to your hotel one day before your departure.

Orchid garden tours are available for just 200 Baht/ person, which includes a complementary Orchid bouquet. http://phuketdir.com/phuketorchid/

Bungee Jump Consider yourself adventurous?

Got real guts? If you haven’t tried bungee jumping yet, you should take the ride to the top with a big rubber band around your ankles 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. www.phuketbungy.com

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Cooking with Pum

Horse Riding

The food in Thailand is nothing short of amazing. The fresh seafood, the healthy salads,the fragrant curries, the wide variety of flavours and very reasonable prices means you could spend your entire holiday just eating! But how can you take that experience home with you?

Cooking classes in Thailand have risen in popularity over recent years and now it is possibly to take a full range of different classes in Phuket. Learn to cook yourself at Pum Cooking School in Patong, fun classes and easy to cook recipes means you will still be enjoying one of Thailand’s greatest treasures long after your holiday is over. www.pumthaifoodchain.com

Here at our stable we offer you the greatest experience.

Let your work worries and the pressure of modern society gradually fade away and nature take over.

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

Diving with Sea Bees Diving is a must-do activity in Phuket, crystal clear waters, an abundance of fish and coral, the surrounding dive sites are some of the world’s best but in order to enjoy them to the full you need to choose the right dive company.

Sea Bees is a large operation with numerous offices around Thailand, their experience and wealth of knowledge are second to none. With friendly staff, highest quality equipment and large comfortable boats you are sure to have the best experience possible. www.sea-bees.com

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Life’s a Beach The beach on which you choose a hotel can make or break your holiday in Phuket.

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he beach on which you choose a hotel can make or break your holiday in Phuket.

Why not take a look at some of the other beaches of Phuket; there are so many, each with a unique atmosphere; ranging from bustling Patong, to isolated havens where you won’t find another person.

Whether you are here for a quick weekend or your annual two week holiday there is a spot somewhere on Phuket to call your own, look through our beach-by-beach rundown of the island’s many tropical stretches of sand and sea.

Karon Beach One of the longest beaches with a growing number of hotels.

Karon is another of the beautiful, west-coast beaches that have made Phuket famous.

This beach is the first stop south of Patong, and is separated from Patong by a large headland.

A road connecting Karon to Patong takes just 10 minutes to drive. South of Karon is Kata.

Only a small headland separates these two, and they are often spoken of as one unit; KataKaron.

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 allows for excellent snorkeling and just outside the bay lies a small rounded island

that seems to wave its coconut haircut to those on the beach.

Layan Beach Little-known and definitely quiet; this is a small and relatively unknown beach, nestled in a shallow bay at the north 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 the picturesque expanse of water right in front of the Layan Beach Resort is too shallow for swimming. A walk of just a few hundred metres takes hotel guests to Bang Tao beach for this.

Nai Harn Beach Far down south, quiet & beautiful; Nai Harn is an outof-the-way beach with fabulous views.

Nai Harn is one of the more isolated beaches, right at the bottom of the island and nestled in a bay defined by headlands and islands. There is just one large yet beautiful hotel here; Le Meridien Phuket Yacht Club, along with one new midmarket, bungalow resort. Other than this there are no buildings to be seen at Nai Harn, and the beach is backed by the green of casuarina trees and coconut palms.

Kamala Beach Kamala, a 3-kilometre long beach situated in the middle of Phuket’s west coast, is quite different to all others on this

large resort island. Until recently the main thing Kamala was famous for was a herd of over 100 buffaloes which would wander down the beach to the edge of the water every evening, taking in the sunset and cooling their hoofs in the salty water.

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.

Nai Yang Beach Located at the top end of the island there are few crowds here, only two major hotels and just a short distance from the airport.

Nai Yang is another of those quiet Phuket beach areas that boasts its entirely own, and very distinct atmosphere. This is far from the maddening crowds of Patong – and if you are one of those who find action-packed places like Patong maddening, this might be the right place for you.

Patong Beach The most famous beach on the island is the centre 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 centre of Phuket’s tourism business.

Here the hotels, restaurants, entertainment and bar areas, street bazaars and shops are crammed in a colourful and lively mix that typifies a Thai tourist beach town.

Rawai & Chalong Rawai and Chalong both face the southeast, and thus miss the brunt of the monsoon season wave action. What this means is simple, they don’t have

good swimming beaches. And this, in turn, means that there are almost no major beach resorts in this area. The single exception is the Evason Phuket Island Resort, which has perched itself on top of a hill midway between Rawai and Chalong with great views out over nearby islands.

Cape Panwa Perhaps the quietest corner of the island, just three upmarket resorts are found on this long, southeastern peninsula, all ideal for those who really want a quiet corner to themselves.

Getting away to a quiet spot is the ideal for many, but remember to balance this against the long drive required to find any entertainment or outside restaurants.

Mai Khao Mai Khao Beach is proof that those who REALLY want to get away from it all can do so on Phuket - yet few really do.

All of Phuket’s most famous beaches are found in the middle and south end of the island.

So what of the northern end beyond the airport? The answer is nothing, simply nothing – yet!

Mai Khao beach is very, very long, and very straight, so it misses the cozy feeling enjoyed by much of the other beaches on the island, but the sand and water here are much the same, and there is nobody here even during high season when the beach umbrellas are five deep on Patong.

Ao Sane Beach Ao Sane beach is a small bay and is located to the right side of Nai Harn beach. To get to this beach you need to go through Le Méridien Phuket Yacht Club.

Ao Sane is a very small, rocky beach but it is peaceful.

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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 and just 10 minutes from the Khao Khad viewpoint.

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.

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.

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; many fish inhabit the rocks and corals along the beachless shoreline stretching south.

Laem Ka Beach The entrance of Laem Ka Beach is a small private road, there doesn’t seem to be a beach here at all. It is one of those quiet and beautiful little beaches with a lot rocks. The sea has very calm, clear water. This is a favourite beach for the Phuket locals to relax at with their familes. Because the entrance to the beach is private property, it is not always possible to get to the beach.

Laem Singh Beach Laem Singh Beach is small and very popular; it is located between Surin and Kamala Beaches. 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

Nai Thon Beach Nai Thon Beach is the part of the Sirinath National Park.

This quiet bay nestled at the foot of high hills has a fine strip of sand. There is a scattering of hotels and restaurants lining the road that backs the beach. Nai Thon is a quiet area far away from the crowds.

Paradise Beach Paradise Beach is a little beach, 5 minutes from Tri Trang Beach just south of Patong. To

get there follow a small cement road up to the hill trough the jungle. It is a nice small beach with white soft sand. Large rocks flank either side of the beach.

Yanui Beach Yanui Beach is a small bay, 10 minutes north from Leam Phrom Thep. It is not a popular water activity beach but nice to relax to get away from crowd.

The beach is not so long. The sand is beautifully soft but not very white. It is a favorite bathing and sunbathing location.

Surin Beach Surin Beach is located between Kamala and Bang Tao Beaches. It is one of most beautiful beaches with fine white sand and emerald sea.

The beach can have rather strong winds which make is ideal for windsurfing. A lot of popular resorts surround the beach.

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Day Tripper

Sino-Portuguese Houses

A walk down Thalang Road, bathed in the early evening sun, is a journey into the past.

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very few metres you walk beneath arches looming over the side walk, and you can imagine you’ve been transported to l8th century Lisbon or Verona. The street has a distinctly European feel to it, but closer inspection will reveal a very different cultural influence. You’ll see Chinese writing above some of the doors - sometimes vivid, as though freshly painted, but more often the writing is faded with age and difficult to decipher.

It’s hard to provide a blanket characterization of this style of architecture but, in general terms, it’s fair to say that while the columns, roofs and walls are distinctly European in design; with flamboyant Corinthian, Ionic and Doric embellishments, the doors and windows display finer Chinese characteristics with their carved teak louvres and inlaid doors.

The merchants’ houses in the centre of Phuket traditionally have Chinese writing above or just inside the entrance, giving the family name and occasionally the names of the family gods. Almost all the houses have a small altar in a place of prominence, many displaying memorials to deceased family members. Both mansions and town-houses share other similarities, the centre of the house is usually open to the elements, allowing the breeze to circulate within.

In some cases this has been transformed into a covered skylight

that still manages to bring Almost all the houses have a small sunlight and a sense of altar in a place of prominence space into an otherwise fairly dark abode, but with have been demolished or cemented in the darkness and gloom comes the cool. and now serve either as private garages Inside most Sino-Portuguese houses the for cars and motorcycles or extensions air is usually five to ten degrees cooler for a variety of shops. Perhaps, too, the than the blanket of tropical heat on the people have changed. There’s a greater outside. demand for individual privacy and less With a bit of imagination you can willingness to socialize and live in a see how the front archways of these communal atmosphere. But, despite the two-storey dwellings must have covered changes, Thalang Road offers a glimpse once the side-walks on both sides of the at the early Chinese middle class. road. Some of them still remain, but most

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Antiques

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 colours – and quality - 2 ply is thin and light, 3 or more becomes heavier and more expensive.

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

Ceramics The two major centres for ceramic production are the well-known Chiang Mai, and Ratburi west of Bangkok. They produce an amazing range of wares from

very traditional Thai and even Chinese tableware and decorative items to modern home decor items, the biggest of which you’ll need a truck to move. Some of these more modern items are creative and interesting. There is a fair range spread around the island, but you’ll have to drive and hunt to find it all.

The Guide Phuket recommends: Siam Ceramic Handmade (see detail below).

Woodcarving Most of this comes from the craft centres 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.

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

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

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pressure off the genuinely old things, and, 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 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 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 Gallary, Patong Beach, www.fashiongallery.com. James Fashion House, Karon Beach, www.jamesfashionhouse.com.

Jewellery – (beware of the scams) Bangkok is the undisputed gemstone capital of the world. A large portion of the world’s diamonds, rubies and sapphires and other precious stones are imported raw into Thailand, cut and set

by Thailand’s skilled workforce, and exported - often back to the countries they came from. Most of South Africa’s diamonds, Australia’s opals, Burma’s rubies and Sri Lanka’s varied gems pass through Bangkok for processing. Thailand is definitely the best place to purchase precious stones and jewellery, and with transport costs so low all of these bargains can be found also in Phuket but be warned: purchase only from a well-established shop, and hopefully you will know at least a little about the gemstones you desire before entering the shop.

Remember that if you are taken to a jewellery store in Phuket by a guide, a taxi driver or other local they are likely receiving a hefty commission. This can often be as high as 30% of your purchase, a fee that simply goes on top of your bill. It’s much better to drive your self to one of the jewellery stores. If you are stopping over in Bangkok generally there is a greater choice of shops and the commission racket is not so pervasive.

G ive

A

a

little

ndara Resort & Villas brings Passion for Fashion this Autumn, the first ever runway show to benefit the children’s education charity Phuket Has Been Good To Us. On the afternoon of Sunday 12th September, local and international fashionistas will join media to support the cause and watch the hottest collections of the season walk down the runway. The event will showcase the latest relaxed casual wear from several prestigious designers, plus the debut showing of Nude is Rude, a young, high-energy clothing line by Marisa Zeman based in Hong Kong. Post show, guests will move to the Silk Restaurant & Bar to enjoy the infinite view, dine on tapas and sip cocktails. The event will be capped off with a raffle for unbelievable prizes.

Passion for Fashion will be a new highlight of the Phuket social calendar, bringing the worlds of fashion and luxury together for a wonderful cause.

Full ticket, auction and raffle proceeds will benefit Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation which works to improve the economic opportunities and life chances of young people, by funding and implementing high quality, practical English language education in government schools on Phuket Island. If you are unable to attend the event but would like to make a donation to the organization please visit www.phukethasbeengoodtous.org.

L ove

PROGRAMME: 11am Meet the Press 12pm Guests Arrive and Check-in 1pm Runway Show @ Andara Main

Lobby 2pm Tapas and cocktails upstairs @ Silk

Restaurant & Bar 3pm Raffle for fabulous prizes, like

2-nights stay at Andara, trip to

Chiang Mai, Spa treatments,

tickets to Silk’s Italian Wine Dinner

in October, and Private Pilates

training.

Ticket price is 1,000 THB, including tapas lunch, 2 drinks and entrance to the runway show.

On-sale sites are located at Andara Resort & Villas, Plaza Surin, PHBGTU Headquarters and can be ordered by phone or email at: Tel. +66 (0) 76 338 777 Email: events@andaraphuket.com

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WELCOME FROM THE PHUKET PROVINCIAL ADMINISTRATION ORGANISATION

T

ourists often ask me why Phuket is so popular; why it is often voted one of the top places in the world for tourists to visit?

The answer is easy. Firstly, we welcome tourists as if they are members of our own family – with a smile and with kindness. We have absolutely stunning golden sand beaches which are washed by the beautiful warm waters of the Andaman Sea. These beaches with their stunning sunsets are a great place to visit and are especially popular with visitors wanting to escape the cold of European winters! They are also within easy reach of some of the best hotels, resorts and spas in the world. Many of these hotels and resorts will be represented at the road show in Australia.

It brings us great pleasure, once again, to be able to support the Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) in running this roadshow. We have always worked hand-in-hand with the PTA to aid in promoting our wonderful island both for business and for tourism.

Phuket is a great place to escape to for a holiday. You can take a day trip to the stunning limestone karsts which rear vertically from the sea in Phang Nga Bay, visit the famous James Bond Island, take a bike tour across Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi and experience life in the quiet lane, or visit the beautiful islands of Phi Phi Don and the film-famous Phi Phi Leh. Phuket is good value for money. Our accommodation rates are highly competitive, our professional service is delivered with a traditional Thai smile, our food is the best in the world and our massage steeped in Thai culture. We are a very open and welcoming society. Come and join us.

Mr.Paiboon Upattising President of The Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization

God bless you Paiboon Upattising President of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation

WELCOME FROM THE PHUKET TOURIST ASSOCIATION

I

would like to introduce our team traveling to the road show in Australia. We will be in Australia because we have something highly prized and valuable to promote – our beautiful Phuket and Andaman Region. The members of our team represent many of the best hotels and resorts in the region.

All are members of the Phuket Tourist Association. All are highly professional and very proud of the “story” they have to tell, what they have to offer, and who they represent.

Australia and it’s people are particularly important for us in Phuket, after all is was the Australians who showed their support and generosity after the 2004 Asian Tsunami, the Australians were the first people to come back to Phuket and have been strongly present ever since. Thank you to you all.

I would also like to thank the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO) and acknowledge the crucial role they have played in our presence at this roadshow. This is an excellent “investment” by our political leadership in the major industry on the island, which is tourism.

And lastly, I would like to introduce our team traveling to Australia. The hotels and resorts they represent are featured on the following pages of The Guide. This magazine, which is available to tourists in Phuket, contains features which will give readers an idea of some of the huge range of activities available in our region.

Come to see and enjoy for yourselves. Kind regards, Somboon Chirayus President of the Phuket Tourist Association

Mr.Somboon Chirayus President Phuket Tourist Association

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AYARA HILLTOPS BOUTIQUE RESORT & SPA

BANTHAI BEACH RESORT AND SPA

Ayara Hilltops is a 48 suite boutique resort & spa, set amidst exotic sloping gardens in the village of Surin Beach, Phuket. Facilities and service are inspired by the singular goal of helping each guest create their own journey of respite from the rigours of civilization. The four acre site, strategically located on Surin Hill, offers panoramic views of sandy beaches and the Andaman Sea beyond. Whether you venture only as far as the boundaries of the resort or go further afield, the days are yours to create and ours to fulfill.

Welcome to the private world of Ayara Hilltops!

A 4 star resort with 290 rooms centrally located in Patong Beach, the first famous beach in Phuket, Thailand. It is nestled among beautifully sculptured gardens filled with a soothing gentle breeze from the sea, easy access to the beach with nearby restaurants, shopping and nightlife areas. Please visit our website: www.banthaiphuket.com or contact Director of Sales & Marketing : mobile +66 89 6660360

Participant: Mr. Jean-Pierre Dousse - General Manager AYARA HILLTOPS BOUTIQUE RESORT & SPA 125 Moo 3, Surin Beach, Srisoonthorn Rd., Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand. Tel. +66 (0) 7627 1271 Fax: +66 (0) 7627 1270 E-mail: mail@ayarahilltops.com. www.ayarahilltops.com

BANTHAI BEACH RESORT AND SPA 94 Thaveewong Road, Patong Beach, Phuket 83150, Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 7634 0850-4 Fax: +66 (0) 7634 0330 E-mail: info@banthaiphuket.com Bangkok Office: Tel: +66 (0) 2278 2185-7 Fax: +66 (0) 2278 2189 E-mail: bbr@banthaiphuket.com www.banthaiphuket.com

Baumanburi Hotel

DEWA PHUKET

A 3-Star hotel in the heart of Patong ,offering accommodation, food, conference room and chill out swimming pool. Close to the exciting nightlife.

Epitomizing true Thai hospitality, Dewa Phuket is a boutique resort offering a choice of 34 intimate private pool villas and 62 junior suites

Stay with us: The BAUMANBURI Hotel.

Participants: 1) Mr. Anant Osman - General Manager 2) Ms. Salisa Klaharn - Executive Sales Manager Baumanburi Hotel Tel. +66 (0) 7634 5951-5 Fax: +66 (0) 7634 5195 Mobile: +66 (0) 8635 50966 E-mail: sales@baumanburi.com www.baumanburi.com

and family suites. Ideally located meters from the aquamarine waters of the Andaman Sea on Phuket’s tranquil Naiyang Beach, adjacent to Sirinath National Park. This integrated resort with full facilities including gym, pools, Jacuzzi, spa, water-sports & recreational center, kids room, restaurants, bar, bakery, shops and 24 hours roomservice is the ideal choice for both couples and families on holiday.

Participants: Ms. Laddawan Somniyam - Director of Sales & Marketing DEWA PHUKET 65 Moo 1, T. Sakoo, A. Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. +66 (0) 7637 2300 Fax: +66 (0) 7637 2399 E-mail: reservations@dewaphuket.com. www.dewaphuket.com

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HORIZON KARON BEACH RESORT & SPA

KATA PALM RESORT & SPA

Set a short distance back from the beach, Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa is surrounded by lush vegetation, raised slightly on the hillside.

Its elevated position ensures great views and its tranquil setting is peaceful and private. The resort is of contemporary Asian design, and comprises of two wings separated by a central raised entrance and lobby area. Each wing is surrounded by nature and has its own pool complex. Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa covers 16,000sqm. of land.

Kata Palm Resort & Spa, a four star resort, is your perfect choice for your great and memorable holiday—provides high quality rooms, facilities, services, great and easy access to the beach with a short walking distance, or get free shuttle service to the beach where we provide free sunbed & umbrella, close to the shopping center, restaurant and bars. Our resort features 184 guest rooms, 2 large free-form swimming pools with swim-up bars, 3 restaurants and facilities.

Participants: 1) Mr. Javed Shaikh - Chief Executive Officer 2) TBA HORIZON KARON BEACH RESORT & SPA 3 Soi Karon Soi 2, Karon District, Muang Phuket, Phuket 83100 Thailand. Tel. +66 (0) 7628 4555 Fax: +66 (0) 7628 4381 E-mail : admin@horizonbeach.com. www.horizonbeach.com

Participants: Ms. Sumonrat Na Takuathung Group General Manager Sales and Marketing KATA PALM RESORT & SPA 60 Kata Road, Tambon Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100.

Tel. +66 (0) 7628 4334-8 Fax: +66 (0) 7628 4342 E-mail: sales@katapalmresort.com. www.katapalmresort.com

kata poolside Resort

Nipa Resort

Kata Poolside Resort (formerly a living place resort) is the ideal location for any body wishing to visit Phuket, Thailand.

Kata Poolside Resort is an ideal residence for your ultimate relaxation.

You can free your mind in the pristine natural surroundings amongst our friendly and courteous staff.

Come and spend your most valuable holiday time with Kata Poolside resort for the most memorable experience of a lifetime.

Nipa Resort comprises a group of small low-rise buildings, fully equipped as a boutique resort. All of our rooms are built with individual balconies to allow a private atmosphere amidst the nature. In this intimate surrounding, a guest’s every need is catered for by cheerful, attentive staff in the famous Thai hospitality manners. Include 90 luxuriously decorated rooms, complete amenities in every room, sparkling swimming pool, kiddy pool, bars, and Thai- International Restaurant.

Participants: Mr. Thammasat Sukkaew - General Manager

Participants: Mr. Thammarit Chotirat - General Manager

kata poolside Resort 36, 38, Kata Road, Kata Beach, Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. +66 (0) 7633 3177-9 Fax: +66 (0) 7633 0678 E-mail: info@katapoolside.com. www.katapoolside.com

Nipa Resort 33 Sainamyen Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. +66 (0) 7629 6697-9 Fax: +66 (0) 7629 6696 E-mail: info@niparesort.com. www.niparesort.com

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NOVOTEL PHUKET RESORT

Patong Merlin Hotel

NOVOTEL Phuket Resort is set amidst the hillside overlooking the pristine water of Kalim Bay and Patong Beach. It is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Within easy reach of the exciting shopping and nightlife of nearby Patong. Novotel Phuket Resort is a 4 star resort featuring traditional Thai architecture within eight acres of lush tropical garden. The distance from the resort to Phuket International airport is approximately 45km.

The Merlin Phuket Hotels & Resorts has 4 properties. Patong Merlin Hotel; a deluxe resort in the heart of Phuket’s exotic Patong Beach.

Merlin Beach Resort; a luxurious resort, situated on its own secluded Tri-Trang Beach, which is 3 km. from Patong Beach. Khaolak Merlin Resort; a deluxe resort, setting amongst peaceful tropical and tranquil beaches. Phuket Merlin Hotel; 180 rooms in the heart of Phuket Town.

Participants: Ms. Kobkaew NARKROD - Director of Sales NOVOTEL PHUKET RESORT 282, Phrabaramee Road, Patong Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. +66 (0) 7634 2777 Fax: +66 (0) 7634 1110 E-mail: dos@novotelphuket.com. www.novotel.com/1965. www.novotel.com/asia

Participants: Ms. Piyawan Chirayus - Director of Sales Patong Merlin Hotel 44 Thaveewong Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Phuket Sales Office: Tel. +66 (0) 7621 2866-70 Fax: +66 (0) 7623 4930 E-mail: sales@merlinphuket.com. www.merlinphuket.com

PATONG PARAGON RESORT & SPA

Patong Resort Hotel

Patong Paragon Resort & Spa proudly offers the comfort of a 4 Star plus hotel with relaxing, intimate atmosphere. Our extravagantly appointed 7 suites and specially designed 114 rooms feature enchanted contemporary Thai architecture in seven low-rise buildings. Whether a suite or room you choose, you are highly assured of the highest levels of comfort and service. Every suite and room has a large, private balcony of 1,200 Sq.m. in size, which provides splendid view of Patong or our exquisite free-form swimming pool.

The hotel is a superb resort that occupies one of the best locations in Phuket. Set close to Patong Beach, the resort is ideally situated for an enjoyable island holiday with the whole family. The resort is just a few minutes walk from the beach, great shopping opportunities and Patong’s famous nightlife.

Participants: Ms. Nachcha Lekviriyakul - Deputy Managing Director PATONG PARAGON RESORT & SPA 280 Prabaramee Rd., North Patong , Kathu District, Phuket 83150 Tel: +66 (0) 7629 0555 Fax: +66 (0) 7629 0530 E-mail: reservation@patongparagon.com. www.patongparagon.com

Participants: Mr.Bhuritt Maswongssa - Deputy Genaral Manager Patong Resort Hotel 208, Raj-Uthit 200 Pee Road, Patong Beach, Phuket 83150 Tel. +66 (0) 7634 0551-4 ext. 1108/1109/1110 Fax: +66 (0) 7634 0189 E-mail: sales@patongresorthotel.com www.patongresorthotel.com

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Peach Group Resorts

Peach Group Resorts: • Andaman Cannacia Resort & Spa • Peach Blossom Resort • Peach Hill Resort

Pearl Hotel, Phuket

The most convenient city hotel in the heart of Phuket town with 212 tastefully decorated rooms and suites, 30 minutes from the airport and most beaches, conference and banqueting facilities up to 650 persons.

Participants: 1) Ms. Chollada Thanapaemin – Senior Sales Manager 2) Ms. Maneerat Prachumpan - Front Office Manager

Participants: 1) Ms.Panida Utarapart - Front Office Manager 2) Ms.Supattaraporn Buated - Sales Manager

Peach Group Resorts 2 Leamsai Rd., Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. +66 (0) 7633 3292, 371647 or +66 (0) 7637 1600 # 825 Fax: +66 (0) 7633 0895 E-mail: sales@peachgroup.co.th www.peachgroup.co.th

Pearl Hotel, Phuket 42, Montri Road, Phuket 83000 Tel. +66 (0) 7621 1044 Fax: +66 (0) 7621 2911 E-mail: pearlhkt@loxinfo.co.th www.pearlhotel.co.th

print kamala resort

Print Kamala Resort is located in the centre of Kamala just 80 meters walk from the beach. The front of the hotel is a leisure area used by local people and the beach is an easy two minute walk away.

Participants: Mr. Voradech Maneesri - Hotel Manager print kamala resort 74/8 Moo3. Nar-had Rd., Kamala Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. +66 (0) 7638 5396-8 Fax. +66 (0) 7638 5399 rsvn@printkamalaresort.net www.printkamalaresort.net

Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket

Surrounded by tranquil lagoons and facing the Andaman Sea, Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket offers a beautiful selection of rooms and villas, dining and entertainment venues and an abundance of leisure facilities, including a 323m pool, kids club and tennis courts. A short 20 minute drive from Phuket’s International Airport, the resort is also part of Laguna Phuket, Asia’s finest destination resort.

Participant: Ms Chatchaya Glairprayong - Director of Leisure Sales Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket 10 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. +66 (0) 7632 4101 E-mail: sheraton.phuket@luxurycollection.com www.luxurycollection.com/phuket

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The Beach Boutique House Hotel

THE BLUE MARINE RESORT & SPA

We are a compact boutique hotel in the Kata area, our hotel is located behind the Club Med and just 10 minutes walk to the sandy Kata Beach, which is one of the famous beaches in Phuket. It is surrounded by white sands, crystal indigo-blue water, and beautiful corals. It is also an accessible center to other significant tourist attractions such as Promthep Cape, Rawai Beach Chalong Temple, and Patong beach. It consists of 2 buildings of 38 and 28 rooms, respectively, in total 66 rooms.

Recently expanded & renovated, panoramic seaview resort at Patong Beach, Thai Contemporary decoration, spacious & well arranged 260 rooms & 6 villas, outstanding resort facilities, well-trained & helpful staff.

Participants: Ms. Hathaithip Koykitchareon - Hotel Manager The Beach Boutique House Hotel 98/12 Kata Road, Karon Beach, Phuket 83100, Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 7633 3111 Fax: +66 (0) 7633 3499 E-mail: hm@thebeachphuket.com. www.thebeachphuket.com

Participants: Ms. Saowapas Niyomadul - Sales Manager THE BLUE MARINE RESORT & SPA 290/1, Prabaramee Road., Patong Beach, Kathu District, Phuket 83150 Tel. +66 (0) 7637 0400 , +66 (0) 7661 8051 Fax. 66 (0) 7637 0499 E-Mail: saowapas@thebluemarine.com, reserve@thebluemarine.com www.thebluemarine.com

Boat Lagoon Resort, Phuket

THE CHAVA RESORT

A new concept “Resort in Marina Lifestyle”. Centrally located between Phuket Town and Phuket Airport. The Boat Lagoon is Phuket’s foremost marina. Separated into 2 wings with a 50 meter freeform swimming pool and resort style overlooking the Marina.

Luxury suites overlooking Phuket’s premier recreational marina; internationally acclaimed restaurants; top class leisure facilities and outstanding hospitality.

The perfect destination for pleasure or business, The Chava combines modern comforts and 5-star facilities in a relaxed tropical setting just a stroll away from the white sands and crystal waters of Phuket’s exclusive Surin Beach.

Whether you’re a family, couple or on business, The Chava Resort’s luxury apartments will relax your mind, spoil your senses and fulfill your every need.

Participants: 1) Mr. Boon Yongsakul - Deputy Managing Director 2) Ms. Panisa Tantipitayakul - General Manager

Participants: Ms. Angela Dillon - Sale Director

Boat Lagoon Resort, Phuket 22/1, Moo 2, Thepkasattri Rd., T. Kohkaew, Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel. +66 (0) 7623 8533-40 Fax. +66 (0) 7623 8541-2 E-mail: hotel@phuketboatlagoon.com. www.boatlagoonresort.com

THE CHAVA RESORT 113 Moo. 3, T. Cherngtalay, A. Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. +66 (0) 7637 2600-5 Fax. +66 (0) 7637 2606 E-mail: info@thechavaresort.com www.thechavaresort.com

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The Nap Patong

Style and Fashion blend seamlessy at The Nap The ultimate HIP HOTEL is just a short stroll to the bustling capital of Phuket’s nightlife, while tucked away in the heart of Patong Beach.

Delivening a balance of calm, style and uncompromising quality.

Delivering a balance of calm, style and uncompromising quality. Nap is a chic haven for those in search of a holiday to remember.

The Nap Patong 52/55 Haad Patong Road, Patong Beach Kathu, Phuket 83130, Thailand E-mail: info@thenappatong.com www.thenappatong.com

The Royal Palm Beach Front Patong Beach, Phuket

Located just a few steps from famous Patong Beach and the activities which surround the area. The location of the hotel lets guests enjoy the fantastic night life and amazing shopping experience.

With 67 rooms including 25 Superior rooms, 38 Deluxe room, and 4 Suite rooms with panorama sea view.

Participants: Mr. Krisada Tansakul - General Manager The Royal Palm Beach Front Hotel, Phuket 66/2 Thaweewong Rd, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket, Thailand 83150 Tel. +66 (0) 7629 2510-1, +66 (0) 7634 5872-4 Fax: + 66 (0) 7629 2512, +66 (0) 7629 2896 E-mail: info@theroyalpalm.com. www.theroyalpalm.com

The Royal Paradise Hotel & Spa

THE ROYAL PHUKET YACHT CLUB

Located in central Patong, the island’s popular beachfront and night life district. The four-star property, just a short walk from the beach and the shopping centre, is perfectly located to enjoy a relaxing and rewarding holiday in Phuket.

The Royal Phuket Yacht Club, elegant and luxurious, is a 5-Star resort discovered at Nai Harn Bay. Located in the south-western part of Phuket, the resort overlooks a tranquil and peaceful beach, surrounded by tropical forest and jungle.

In a classical Thai style, the resort has charm and style, enhanced by nautical themes. There are 110 ‘ocean facing’ rooms and suites all gazing over the azure blue bay, which has the most romantic sunsets.

Participants: Ms. Wantana Chaimanee - Sales Manager The Royal Paradise Hotel & Spa 135/23, 123/15-16, Rat-U-thit 200 Pee Rd., Patong Beach Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. +66 (0) 7634 0666 Fax: +66 (0) 7634 0565 www.royalparadise.com

Participants: Ms. Anchayaporn Thongsom - Assistant Director of Sales THE ROYAL PHUKET YACHT CLUB 23/3 Moo.1, Vises Road, T. Rawai, A. Muang, Phuket 83130 Tel. +66 (0) 7638 0200-19, Fax: +66 (0) 7638 0280 E-mail: mandy@theroyalphuketyachtclub.com www.theroyalphuketyachtclub.com

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The Village Coconut Island

The Village Coconut Island is located off the unspoiled east coast of Phuket enjoying a stunning aspect overlooking Phang Nga Bay. The Luxury private pool villas and Jacuzzi suites are set in 33 acres of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens with a number of the villas set directly on The Village’s very own private beach.

Participants: Mr. Scott Galloway - Sale & Marketing The Village Coconut Island 51/7 MOO 6, T.Koh Kaew, A muang, Phuket 83200 Tel. +66 (0) 7635 2144 Fax: +66 (0) 7635 2145 E-mail: res@thevillage-coconutisland.com www. thevillage-coconutisland.com

Twinpalms Phuket Resort

Twinpalms Phuket Resort, Phuket‘s Most Exciting & Stylish Contemporary Resort. Exquisite food orchestrated by talented chefs and presented at our fashionable beach club – Lushly landscaped tropical water gardens - Romantic Phuket wedding packages – 100% pure and natural products with a world class spa … these are just some of the reasons to stay at the privately owned, passionately run Twinpalms Phuket Resort.

Participants: 1) Ms. Somjai Tungkoo - Twinpalms Group Executive Manager 2) Ms. Ajaree Sangin - Sales & PR Executive Twinpalms Phuket Resort 106/46 Moo 3, Surin Beach Road, Cherng Talay, Phuket 83110 Tel. +66 (0) 7631 6599 Fax: +66 (0) 7631 6595 E-mail: book@twinpalms-phuket.com. www.twinpalms-phuket.com

Tarn Tara Spa

Phuket Fantasea

Tarn Tara Spa, with more than 12 years of experience, can guarantee you to meet a magical touch and reward your mind and body to the paradise of real total relaxation.

Phuket FantaSea, the world’s first Thai cultural theme park and Phuket’s most popular nighttime attraction, offers a multitude of unique activities and entertainment: Shopping village with carnivals, games and handicrafts; 4,000-seat buffet restaurant; Breath-taking Las Vegasstyle theatrical show. Open daily 17:30-23:30 p.m. except Thursday.

Discount 20% all spa packages (please show this code GP001 for discount) Today – 31st December 2011

Participants: Ms. Natiya Vongyai, Deputy Director of Sales & Marketing Tarn Tara Spa 58/11 Moo 6, Jao-Fa 42 Rd., Chalong, Muang, Phuket 83130 Tel. +66 (0) 7652 1746-7 Fax: +66 (0) 7636 7317 Mobile: +66 (0) 897 249 563, +66 (0) 816 777 914 E-mail: info@tarntaraspa.com, sales3@tarntaraspa.com www.tarntaraspa.com

Phuket Fantasea 99 Moo 3, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. +66 (0) 7638 5000 Fax: +66 (0) 7638 5333 E-mail: info@phuket-fantasea.com www.phuket-fantasea.com

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i-PHUKET.COM & TOURPHUKET.COM

TOUR PHUKET.COM provides a full range of Travel Services in the beautiful regions of Phuket, Khaolak, Krabi, Lanta Island, Samui and Phangan Island. Our services include Tours, Holiday Packages, Resort & Hotel bookings, Activities & Beach Excursions, Boat Trips and Car Rental at the most competitive prices.

Participants: 1) Mr. Chaiyuth Sophannarat - M anaging Director 2) Mr. Tossapoon Pajantaboot - Director of Sale I Phuket Co.,Ltd. (TAT 34/00384) 171/8 Moo 5. Srisoonthorn ,Thalang ,Phuket 83110 Tel: +66 (0) 7652 7327 Fax: +66(0) 7652 7328 Mobile: +66 (0) 8833 44488 , +66 (0) 8711 99888 E-mail: info@i-phuket.com, info@tourphuket.com www.i-phuket.com, www.tourphuket.com

Sunshine Tours Phuket

Destination your plan. Service we take care.

We’re Specialized in Phuket , Krabi, Phang Nga, Koh Samui packages • Bus & Transportation Arrangement • Incentive & Convention • Hotel Reservation • Excursion Tour (James Bond Island, Phi Phi Island, Similan Island etc.)

• Golf Packages • Phuket Fantasea & Simon Cabaret Participant: Mr.Wichai Ruengjaruwatana – General Manager Sunshine Tours Phuket 60, Tilok-Uthit 2 Road, Muang Phuket 83000 Tel. +66 (0) 7621 2889, +66 (0) 7621 6870 Fax: +66 (0) 7621 4150 E-mail: info@sunshinephuket.com. www.sunshinephuket.com

100/429 Chalermprakiat Ror 9 Rd., Phuket 83000, Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 7661 0365-6 Fax. +66 (0) 7661 0367 Email: ptainfo@phuket.ksc.co.th

Mr.Somboon Chirayus President Phuket Tourist Association

Mr.Bhuritt Maswongssa Vice President / Marketing Phuket Tourist Association

Mr. Mongkol Boonporn Marketing Committee Phuket Tourist Association

Mr.wichai Ruengjaruwatana Executive Committee Phuket Tourist Association

THE MERLIN PHUKET HOTELS AND RESORTS Email: info@merlinphuket.com

PATONG RESORT Email: bhuritt@patongresorthotel.com

THE NAP PATONG Email: mongkol@thenappatong.com

Sunshine Tours Phuket Email: info@sunshinephuket.com

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Hotel Highlight

Mercure Patong

Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort & Spa

The Nap Patong

The Kee Resort & Spa

Location: Patong

Location: Kata

Location: Patong

Location: Patong

239/14 Raj-U-Thid 200 Pee Road, Patong, Phuket 83150

7/1 Ketkwan Road, T. Karon, A. Muang, Phuket 83100

5/55 Hadd Patong Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150

152/1 Thaveewong Rd., Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150

Tel. + 66 (0) 7637 0999 Fax: + 66 (0) 7637 0900 www.phuketnalina.com

Tel. +66 (0) 7629 6631-4 Fax: +66 (0) 7629 6635 www.thenappatong.com

Tel. 66 (0) 7634 3555 Fax: 66 (0) 7634 3555 www.thekeeresort.com

SALA Phuket Resort and Spa

Patong Merlin Resort

Ibis Phuket Kata Hotel

Prince Edouard

Location: Maikhao

Location: Patong

Location: Kata

Location: Patong

333 Moo 3, Maikhao Beach, Thalang, Phuket 83110

44, Thaveewong Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket

88/8 Kata Road, Karon Muang, Phuket 83100

Tel. +66 (0) 7633 8888 Fax: +66 (0) 7633 8889 www.salaphuket.com

Tel. +66 (0) 7634 0037-41 Fax: +66 (0) 7634 0394 www.patongmerlin.com

32, 33, 36, Soi Prabaramee 3, Prabaramee Rd., Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150

Banthai Beach Resort And Spa

The South Sea Resorts

Sugar Palm Grand Hillside

Twinpalms Phuket

Location: Nai Harn

Location: Karon

Located: Kata Beach

Located: Surin Beach

94 Thaveewong Road, Patong Beach, Phuket 83150

204 Karon Rd., Muang Phuket 83000

1, Khoktanod Soi 3 Kata Beach, Muang Phuket 83100

106/46 Moo 3, Surin Beach Road, Cherng Talay, Phuket 83110

Tel. +66 (0) 7634 0850-4 Fax: +66 (0) 7634 0330 www.banthaiphuket.com

Tel. +66 (0) 7637 0888 Fax. +66 (0) 7637 0899 www.southsearesorts.com

Tel. +66 (0) 7630 2100 Fax: +66 (0) 7630 2111 www.mercurephuket.com

Tel.+66 (0) 2659 2888 Fax: +66 (0) 2659 2889 www.ibishotel.com

Tel. +66 7633 0388 Fax. +66 7633 0909 www.sugarpalmgrand.com

Tel. +66 (0) 7629 6888 Fax: +66 (0) 7629 7021 www.prince-edouard.com

Tel. +66 (0) 76 316500 Fax: +66 (0) 76 316599 www.twinpalms-phuket.com

30

In Bed With...

MERLIN BEACH RESORT “A Heavenly Hideaway for Beachfront Weddings”

The enchanting resort is ideal for couples wishing to get married in a truly memorable location. The resort’s world class facilities include three swimming pools with Jacuzzi, a health spa, fully equipped gym, tennis court, games room and kids club, variety of restaurants, bars and function rooms from 20-650 people.

L

ocated on its own secluded Tri-Trang Beach, three kilometers from Patong Beach. Guests can retreat into their own peaceful and romantic paradise and enjoy luxurious accommodation and facilities.

The deluxe resort occupies 12 acres of beautiful bay land overlooking the swimming pools and the Andaman Sea. The luxury accommodation features a total of 414 rooms; rooms; 119 Superior rooms, 209 Deluxe rooms, 42 Premium Beachfront Deluxe rooms, 37 Pool access rooms and Honeymoon Suites housed in low-rise buildings. All rooms feature a private balcony, air-conditioning, satellite TV. mini-bar, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer, in-room safe and 24 hour room service.

Merlin Paradise – Beachfront Weddings Merlin Beach Resort provides the opportunity for a romantic wedding on the beachfront lawn. Couples can choose from a Thai traditional ceremony or informal classic Western style wedding.

Attractive packages are available to meet your personal requirements. A comprehensive choice of services and wedding packages are available including photographer, marriage registration, full catering, a florist and hair stylist.

Reception at Beach Lawn Wedding receptions include a choice of extensive set and buffet menus that can be tailored to suit your needs. The resort offer elegance and style at affordable prices and a team of professional staff to ensure everything goes smoothly so the happy couple can relax and enjoy the day.

Dinning at Merlin Beach Resort Dining at the resort included the sophisticated restaurant, Chang Thai.

Here, guests can try authentic Thai cuisine in a pleasant setting ideal for an intimate dinner. Other options include La Gondola, a fine dining Italian serving superb cuisine while Bhukit Coffee Shop served a buffet breakfast and a variety of international and Asian dishes. At Sea Restaurant also offers Mediterranean cuisine that can be enjoyed with a panorama sea view.

Merlin Beach Resort is 46 kilometers from Phuket International Airport, 16 kilometers from Phuket Town and just five minutes from renowned Patong Beach.

Guests can enjoy the convenience of a free shuttle bus service to Patong Beach and Phuket Town.

Merlin Beach Resort 99, Muen-Ngoen Road, Tri-Trang Beach, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand.

Tel. (66 76) 294300, (66 76) 294333 Fax: (66 76) 294310 E-mail: sales@merlinphuket.com Website: www.merlinphuket.com

31

Land mass: 1,400 rai, 18 holes Par: 72 Length: 6,781 yards

Hole 3 Par 3: A short par 3 with bushes, ferns and plants from Tee-to-Green.

167 yards

Course Tee-Boxes Red – Ladies & Juniors (5,203 yards) White – Beginners & Seniors (5,925 yards) Blue – Men (6,341 yards) Black – Professionals & Low Handicappers (6,781 yards) Opened Since: 1st May (2007 – 18 Holes) Course Description Transformed from a tin mine into a brilliantly designed golf course, Red Mountain works its way through Phuket’s mountains leaving the surrounding natural habitat untouched creating some of the best views and golf on the island. Due to the surrounding mountains, forests, lakes and cliffs you feel a sense of privacy on every hole you play and just 10 minutes from Patong Beach or 15 minutes from Phuket Town our location in Kathu makes any golfer’s day that much more pleasurable.

Grass Types Fairway Grass: Seashore Paspalum Green Grass: Bermuda Novotek Kiosks: 5

GOLF

EVENT

Hole 16 Par 4: A reachable Par 4 for long hitters that offers a sea view experience at the Tee-Box towards Chalong Bay. 301yards Hole 17 Par 3: The signature hole at Red Mountain is not easily forgotten, the Teeto-Green drop of 50 meters lets the ball fly much longer towards the green flanked with 2 greenside bunkers and the surrounding forest.

169 yards Course Designer PGA Professional - Jonathan Mark Morrow

Hole Highlights Hole 1 Par 4: An opening hole that allows golfers to visually see all hazards clearly with the signature mountain face behind the green.

398 yards

September 2010 11 Loch Palm Golf Club

Senior Golfers Tournament 13 Red Mountaingolf Club

Izusu Thailand Master 2010

Rates Green fee 18 Holes 5,000 baht Caddy fee 18 Holes 250 baht Cart fee 18 Holes 700 baht Awards Red Mountain Golf Club was awarded the the 3rd ‘Best New Course in Asia 2007’ as voted by the readers of Asian Golf Monthly.

October 2010 9 Loch Palm Golf Cub

Golf farewell party for provincial

waterworks manager (Phuket) 15 Red Mountaingolf Club

Phuket monthly amateur open by

Mr. Neil and Mr. Mark Cameron

32

I Herbal

Magic

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.

33

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.

34 RESTAURANT

Sushi BOX

La Casa’s

Japanese Cuisine

Italian Cuisine

Sushi Box is a new restaurant located in the newly renovated Central Food Hall at Central Festival, Phuket 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.

Location: Central Food Hall at Central Festival, Phuket

One of the best Italian restaurants on Patong Beach; part of Patong Bay Garden Resort centrally located on Patong Beach, Lacasa Pizzeria e Ristorante, serving simple yet stylish, tastefully original Italian homemade delights and a wide range of reasonably priced wines, with dependable service and live music by an Italian entertainer, Mr. Lino and his Piano. More information please go to www.phuket-lacasa.com Location: Patong Beach

Oasis

LE CELTIQUE

Tapas Bar

Fusion Cuisine

Oasis sits alongside Mom Tri’s Boathouse and offers delicious lunches with exceptional panoramic views of Kata Beach in a shaded and ventilated area.Their specialty salad with salmon steak and selection of tapas are to die for.

I recommend the scallops with spinach and mushroom salad.

Service is perfect. www.momtriphuket.com

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

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

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

Location: Kata Beach

White Box

Oishi

Fusion Cuisine

Japanese Cuisine

This is an up-market beachfront restaurant and bar fit for James Bond and friends. You can’t miss it standing pristine in white at the northern end of Patong Beach; minimalist in style, themed in white and blue to create an atmosphere that reflects Mediterranean culinary inspiration. Phone 076 346 271 to ensure a table.

All you can eat at Oishi Japanese Buffet Restaurant.

Where, for one price, YOU can choose as many dishes as you wish from a choice of more than 100 Japanese, Chinese, European and Seafood items, including a variety of soft drinks, coffees and teas. With a start price of Baht 399++ per person* (available for 1hr 45mins.)

Location: Town

Location: Patong Beach

SALA Restaurant

PUM Restaurant & Cooking School

International cuisine & Thai food

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

Tel. +66 (0) 7633 8888 www.salaphuket.com Location: Maikhao

Thai Cuisine

Offering a range of very simple, very tasty Thai food this modern restaurant also runs cooking classes for all of those budding chefs out there.

Restaurant and school are both open daily from 11am till 10pm.

Patong - 076 346 269, Phi Phi - 081 521 8904 www.pumthaifoodchain.com Location: Patong, Phi Phi

35

Buffet Bites Enjoy Sunday Brunch at Oriental Spoon Come and enjoy our unique flavours every Sunday from noon to 3pm. Freshest selection of Seafood, Oysters, Smoked Salmon, Roasts, Cheeses, Chocolate Fountain with Fresh Berries and our famous Crème Brûlée. THB 1,490 per person including a bottle of Wine per couple, THB 3,490 per person including a bottle of Champagne per couple, (Brunch Only: THB 1,190 per person). Prices subject to tax and service. Call 076 316 577 and ask for Sunday Brunch reservations. www.twinpalms-phuket.com

Catch Beach Club - Phuket’s Most Fashionable Beach Club Tuesday & Friday Beach BBQ Come and join our delicious beach BBQ on Tuesday or Friday evening from sunset to midnight. Freshest selection of Seafood, Oysters, Smoked Salmon, BBQ Seafood, whole Lamb on a spit, BBQ Ribs, Steaks and Corn on the cob, Giant Kebab, Cheeses and much more. Sweets include the Chocolate Fountain with selections of Fresh Berries, Italian home made Ice Cream and our famous Crème Brûlée.

Tel. +66 (0) 76 316567 E-mail: book@catchbeachclub.com www.catchbeachclub.com

36

The NighT crawler Kata Dino Park Around the corner, a collection of small souvenir shops and cafés line the narrow street leading to Karon Beach road.

It’s also the location for one of Kata’s famous attractions - Dinopark. A Minigolf with a difference, the course features a man-made exploding minivolcano which erupts on cue every hour.

Nightlife Viewpoints Looking out over Kata Noi on Kata Hill are two extremely popular adjacent venues, Small Viewpoint, and After Beach.

These restaurant-bars are all about reggae music and have developed from quirky beginnings to successful sunset-viewing party locations. To get there, head up the steep hill in south Kata (you’ll need transport) and carry on for a kilometer.

Patong Seduction Discotheque Located at the northern end of Soi Bangla, to find it you just have to look for the red carpet that leads to the door! Big name DJ’s from Bangkok and around the world play here on occasion. Located on Bangla Road.

Tiger Disco and Bars Phuket Town A superb sound system Kor Tor Mor blended with hi-tech lighting and laser systems makes Tiger Disco uniquely exciting. Located on Bangla Road. Phone: 076 345 112

Hard Rock Café Hard Rock Café, the worldwide phenomenon, has arrived in Phuket at the Marriot Courtyard hotel on the Rajuthit 200 Pee Road. As is commonplace at the Hard Rock good food combined with good drinks makes for good times, just don’t forget to buy the t-shirt!

Located at the Marriot Courtyard Hotel on the Rajuthit 200 Pee Road.

Kor Tor Mor is a popular pub/club that caters to trendy Thais. The house band plays Thai pop and rock nightly plus DJ’s fire up the dance floor between the acts and later on. It’s the perfect place to go if you want to get away from the mad Patong scene and mingle with locals.

Location: Near the Seahorse Circle, Chana-Charoen Road.

Timber Hut Timber Hut, a mainstay on the Thai pub scene, attracts its fair share of westerners, and is also located on Yaowarat Road, not far from the old town area. There’s an upstairs seating area if the tiny dance floor

37

is too claustrophobic for you.

Location: Near the Merlin Hotel junction on Yaowarat Road.

Surin Stereo Lab The Stereo Lab Beach Club and Lounge is a relatively recent addition to Surin Beach’s nightlife. It usually gets busier later in the evening but many go there early for a drink and to catch the sunset. The venue offers a full bar, a wine cellar and a tapas menu. Like Catch Club, they stage regular parties so call to check for the schedule. Open: Daily from 11:00 to 02:00 Location: At the southern end of Surin Beach. Tel: 089 218 0162.

Bang Tao Siam Supper Club This gorgeous long bar and wellappointed restaurant serves ‘West Coast Cuisine’; meats, fish and pizzas. It is one of the most popular hang outs of local residents as well as regular guests to the island. Enjoy their jazz and lounge music and check out their long drinks list.

Booking

in advance is suggested.

Open: 18:00 – 10:30 (last orders) Bar closes at 01:00. Location: Tinlay Place. Tel: 076 270 936

Other Nightlife Activities Phuket Town, to some, is downright sleepy and provincial and admittedly, compared to Patong it is a little quiet but still there are several options for things to do after dusk.

Thai Boxing Unfortunately the Phuket Boxing Stadium at Sapan Hin Park in Phuket Town was closed down a few years back.

The closest venue to Phuket Town to view live matches by real professional boxers is just outside town at the Suwit Gym (Muay Thai camp). They have flights every Friday night. Tickets are not cheap.

Open: Every Friday night at 20:00 Location: Opposite the turning to Phuket Zoo into Soi Palai on Chaofa East Road.

The gym is located behind a small convenience shop.

There is a large poster with the gym’s name on it by the store.

Tel: +66 (0) 76 381 167

Grand 5 bedroom deluxe sea view villa in highly sought after location. reduced to sell USD 4.5 million 081-892-4741 or 081-979-3369, info@phuketrealty.net

38

Airport Bus TimeTable

From Phuket Airport to Town

Airport

Indigo Pearl

Talang Hall

Heroines Monument

Boat Lagoon

Erawadee Bypass

Central / Big C

Sarakul Sadium

Phantep Condo

Phuket Terminal

06.30*

06.35

06.45

06.55

07.00

07.05

07.10

07.10

07.20

07.30

08.45

08.50

09.00

09.10

09.15

09.20

09.25

09.30

09.35

09.45

10.15

10.20

10.30

10.40

10.45

10.50

10.55

11.00

11.05

11.15

11.45

11.50

12.00

12.10

12.15

12.20

12.25

12.30

12.35

12.45

*The 06:30 route is not available during weekends and Thai National Public Holidays

12.45

12.50

13.00

13.10

13.15

13.20

13.25

13.30

13.35

13.45

13.45

13.50

14.00

14.10

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14.20

14.25

14.30

14.35

14.45

15.00

15.05

15.15

15.25

15.30

15.35

15.40

15.45

15.50

16.00

16.00

16.05

16.15

16.25

16.30

16.35

16.40

16.45

16.50

17.00

17.00

17.05

17.15

17.25

17.30

17.35

17.40

17.45

17.50

18.00

18.15

18.20

18.30

18.40

18.45

18.50

18.55

19.00

19.05

19.15

19.30

19.35

19.45

19.55

20.00

20.05

20.10

20.15

20.20

20.30

20.45

20.50

21.00

21.10

21.15

21.20

21.25

21.30

21.35

21.45

From Town to Phuket Airport Phuket Terminal

Phantep Condo

Sarakul Sadium

Central / Big C

Erawadee Bypass

Boat Lagoon

Heroines Monument

Talang Hall

Indigo Pearl

Airport

05.30*

05.40

05.45

05.50

05.55

06.00

06.05

06.15

06.25

06.30

*The 05:30 route is not available during weekends and Thai National Public Holidays 07.00

07.10

07.15

07.20

07.25

07.30

07.35

07.45

07.55

08.00

08.00

08.10

08.15

08.20

08.25

08.30

08.35

08.45

08.55

09.00

09.00

09.10

09.15

09.20

09.25

09.30

09.35

09.45

09.55

10.00

10.30

10.40

10.45

10.50

10.55

11.00

11.05

11.15

11.25

11.30

12.00

12.10

12.15

12.20

12.25

12.30

12.35

12.45

12.55

13.00

13.00

13.10

13.15

13.20

13.25

13.30

13.35

13.45

13.55

14.00

14.30

14.40

14.45

14.50

14.55

15.00

15.05

15.15

15.25

15.30

15.30

15.40

15.45

15.50

15.55

16.00

16.05

16.15

16.25

16.30

16.30

16.40

16.45

16.50

16.55

17.00

17.05

17.15

17.25

17.30

17.30

17.40

17.45

17.50

17.55

18.00

18.05

18.15

18.25

18.30

18.30

18.40

18.45

18.50

18.55

19.00

19.05

19.15

19.25

19.30

Do’s & Don’ts

39

DO

Don’t

Go and visit some of the many wonderfully ornate temples around the island. Chalong is one of the most beautiful. Fans of religion, history, culture or architecture will all be impressed.

Disrespect in any way the people at the temple. Although you and others will be there for sight seeing many of the locals have come to worship, and they do not wish to be disturbed. Keep yourself low key and out of the way.

BEACH

Spend some time at the many beautifully scenic beaches dotted around Phuket’s coastline and neighbouring island. You really can find paradise; Nai Harn, Surin and Nai Yang beaches all come highly recommended. Make sure you wear lots of sun cream, the sun in Thailand can be deceptive especially at the beach or on boats and you can still find yourself badly burnt even after a cloudy day!!!

Bathe topless, leave rubbish or get drunk.

FOOD

Try as much of the wonderful food as possible. There really is something for everyone in Thailand and not all Thai food is spicy so why not try something different.

Delve in blind, you must use your common sense, if a stall or restaurant looks dirty or untidy then stay clear. It is true that the best food in Thailand is from the street side stalls, but you play a lottery if you’re not careful you could end up spending a few days of your hard earned holiday cooped up in your hotel room.

MASSAGE

Indulge in a massage. You will find numerous reputable spas around the island where you can take a traditional Thai massage or any number or therapeutic …

Visit a street side parlour and expect a professional spa treatment.

DIVING

Try diving. Thailand frequently ranks Top 10 in the world for dive sites, and there is something for everyone here from beginner to technical.

Try it during monsoon season if you are a beginner.

PHUKET TOWN

Spend a day walking through the old streets of historical Phuket town, soak up the culture, enjoy a relaxed coffee in an old town cafe and shop in the local markets.

Expect to get a fair deal on a taxi however buses run from all major beaches and they take you into the heart of Phuket town for a very reasonable price.

Go shopping for gifts for your friends and family, handicrafts, art and fashion is abundant throughout Phuket.

Forget to haggle. Its half the fun of shopping and after a bit of practice you really can grab yourself a bargain.

Carry ‘The Guide Phuket’ with you everywhere, it is packed full of useful information that you can refer to any time of the day or night.

Leave it in your hotel room!!!!

TEMPLES

SHOPPING

GUIDE

40

In the Kichen with...

SUSHI BOX

S

ushi Box is a new restaurant located in the newly renovated Central Food Hall at Central Festival, Phuket

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.

Novelty sushi such as the Philadelphia Maki (salmon, cream cheese, avocado and shrimp roe, 6pcs for 129THB), the Black Beauty (salmon, Japanese omelette, cucumber, avocado, organic lettuce and sesame seeds, 6pcs for 119THB) and the Mango Tango (tempura chicken, Japanese crab stick, cucumber, mango, mayonnaise and sesame seeds, 6pcs for 99THB) all offer a new twist on traditional favourites.

With a small seating area and friendly service, Sushi Box is an interesting alternative for a quick bite whilst shopping at Central Festival.

C ooking

with

B lue E lephant

Bamboo Fish

Ingredients (Makes 1 serving) 180 g sea bass fillets 1 bamboo case, cut in

halves 14 g lemongrass, chopped 10 g Galangal, chopped 2g dill, chopped 1 g hairly basil

(morinda leaves) 7g red curry 2g sugar 3g shallot, chopped ½ g spur red chilli,

chopped 5g fish sauce 4g coconut milk 2g garlic 10 g oyster sauce Preparation 1) In the mortar: Pound lemongrass, garlic, galangal into a paste. Add red curry paste, shallots and garlic and Spicy sauce 8 bird’s eye chilli 3 clove garlic 3 coriander roots 1tsp salt 1tsp sugar 1tbsp light soya sauce 1½ tbsp lemon juice Preparation Pound the bird’s eye chilli, garlic and coriander roots into fine paste. Add sugar, salt, light soya sauce and lime juice.

continue to pound into a paste.

2) In mixing bowl: Add paste and coconut milk, stirring until well mixed. Then add oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar.

3) Add the fish and then add dill, morinda leaves, in the sauce, mix well and put aside for 5 – 10 minutes.

4) Fill the fish in the bamboo case and then cover with aluminum foil.

5) Grill on the range or roasted in the oven (200ºC) for 25 – 30 minutes until fish is cooked.

6) Served with two sauces, spicy and sweet sauces, and accompanied by boiled vegetables, such as long beans, young corns, lady’s fingers (okra) and winged beans.

Sweet Sauce 4 deep fried large dry chilli 2 roasted tomatoes 2tbsp tamarind juice 1tbsp fish sauce 1tsp palm sugar Preparation Pound the deep fried large dry chilli, and roasted tomatoes together. Then add tamarind juice, palm sugar and fish sauce.

41

42

Get your Scuba Diving Ticket during your stay in Phuket

I

have always wanted to scuba dive, snorkelling is great but it just isn’t as interactive, as immersive as diving so I finally I took the plunge and enrolled, with a friend, to do my open water course.

We chose Sea Bees because along with being one of the most popular dive companies in Phuket and Southeast-Asia with a great reputation for high standards, they were also the friendliest.

Sea Bees is a big operation with between 80 and 100 staff, an office and support hotel in Phuket, another office and hotel at Khao Lak, a branch at the extremely posh JW Marriott Hotel at Mai Khao, a third Office in Pak Meng; a small town between Krabi and Trang, and six boats ranging from 19 metres to 26 metres long.

The course lasts for 4 days, we spent the first two days at the company’s Palm Garden Resort at the southern end of Phuket.

Both mornings were devoted to classroom stuff, learning the basics. We had opted to do the Scuba School International (SSI) course as opposed to PADI. I was told there was little difference other than cost.

The classroom stuff was all very necessary and not at all daunting. Our instructor was Born, she is one of the few Thai female diving instructors on Phuket, and she is bloody marvellous.

Born is pretty short, but tough. Really tough!

In their purpose built pool Born taught us how to swap our breathing apparatus, clear our masks, swim around with no masks, and how to remove our air tank, buoyancy compensator and weight belts, all underwater. I never realized it was so easy to change buoyancy in the water by simply breathing in (to go up) or breathing out (to go down). Once we both got the hang of that, we were 80% under control, or so we thought!

43

Sea Bees Diving Mobile: +66 (0) 89 292 8553 Tel. +66 (0) 7638 1765 1/3 Moo9, Viset Road, Chalong, Phuket 83130, Thailand E-mail: pr@sea-bees.com Website: www.sea-bees.com

Our first open water dive was on Born preparing us for our second dive the east side of Koh Racha, about 15 km on Staghorn Reef which turned out to be south of Chalong, the weather could have much more pleasurable and we finished been better, a light wind was making the off the day feeling quietly confident. darkened sea a little choppy whilst the On our second day we headed broken clouds passed overhead. Wow, out to Shark Point. We were lucky, the this was going to be our first real dive! weather was beautiful and the water was We checked each other’s equipment absolutely crystal clear, the visibility was as required, popped a little air in our BC’s, simply stunning. We saw schools of blue held on to buckle and mask and plunged stripped snappers, squid, blue and yellow in. “Hey, this wasn’t grouper, yellow Both sharks swam lazily too bad,”I thought, trumpet fish, clown as I bobbed around through the divers, taking fish playing hide and on the surface, seek in the stag horn, very little notice of us. waiting for the sea rabbit fish, turtles to wriggle up inside swimming by, and my wet suit, and descending below the surprise, surprise, two large zebra sharks. surface brought some calm to the whole Both sharks swam lazily through the situation. divers, taking very little notice of us. One Suddenly, though, keeping control of them swam so close at one point that of your buoyancy is not as easy as in the you could have reached out and touched pool, when you catch your first glimpse its tail. The professional cameraman with of a school of fish you breathe in with our team followed both sharks for some excitement, causing you to shoot back up time and said afterwards it was some of to the surface!!! Start again! Try to remain the best footage he had ever shot. calm this time!!! Born and my buddy are The second dive of the day was not right next to me so I know I am safe. so clear but we still managed to see lots This first dive on Lucy’s Reef lasted of fish, including a variety of morays, the 54 minutes, we got down to a depth of very rare frog fish, lots of lion fish, several 15 metres and after my initial buoyancy bearded scorpion fish, many trigger fish incident all went well. After the dive we and the rare peacock flounder! took lunch back on the boat. A quick We sat our written tests on the way snooze was followed by a debriefing by back to shore, and we passed, mainly

because of the excellent tuition from Born. She is an intuitive teacher, the return trip gave me a chance to find out how she got into diving.

Born fell in love with the sea in Rayong, near Pattaya, where she was studying to be an accountant. It changed her life and she got a job in a dive shop on Koh Samui, from there she moved to Phuket. She started a dive course for fun, loved it, and then got really serious. She became a SSI instructor in 2006, paying her way through the courses by working for the company.

Holger Schwab, the owner of Sea Bees Diving has been involved with diving all his life, initially with the army. He opened his first dive shop in the Canary Islands before working as an instructor in Egypt. He first came to Thailand as a backpacker in 1989.

When he took over Sea-Bees, 17 years ago, it was a small operation with no boats. After a great deal of dedication, especially to standards, he has three outlets, two dive resort and six boats.

He still dives, especially during staff or instructor training and reckons he has around 1,500 dives to his credit. Two of his staff have more than 5,000 dives each proving their experience and dedication to the world of scuba!

44

The RipCurl Grom Search is here!

Starting on Saturday August 21st at Nai Harn Beach and ending on the 18th of September at Surin Beach, there will be three individual oneday events. Each day begins with a morning registration at 7:00 Saturday the 4th and 18th September am, beach clean-up The Rip Curl Grom Search Day is ‘ON’ and ocean awareness program with Phuket at Kata Beach and Surin Beach. water safety specialist Steven A. Martin. There ey kids — smear on some Zink will be a free surf clinic (with boards cream, find those moldy board supplied by Nautilus Surf Shop) and a shorts, put on your sunnies, slide free lunch of healthy salads, sandwiches into a pair of thongs, grab your surf and fruit juice catered by DaVinci’s board, and slip out the door with a wave Restaurant. The surf contest will offer surf to Mom and Dad... “see ya later... we’re heats and finals for the boys and girls of off to Rip Curl Grom Search!” varying divisions resulting in a variety of It’s that time of year again when the awards, prizes, and a sunset BBQ beach wind picks up and the storm clouds roll party — What could be better! in. While the faint at heart scurry for cover and a dry place to wait it out, the surfers Learn about ocean safety and the head out into the wind and rain with a wry environment! smile and a look of high expectations.

Everyone is invited to learn about They know that when the wind picks up, ocean safety and to understand a little so do the waves on the west coast of more about our local surfing areas — Phuket!

Rip Curl Grom Search On!

H

specifically where the rips and sandbanks are. We can also gain insight regarding how to reduce water pollution and the marine garbage pilling up on our Andaman beaches. Kids especially, can gain a new perspective and respect on how to care for the ocean.

So take your kids surfing at the The RipCurl Grom Search!—You’ll be happy afterwards when they are exhausted and will sleep all night! And they’ll have their tummies filled with a healthy lunch and their mind’s stimulated by the natural environment, rather than computer games!

So scribble a note and stick it to the refrigerator door!

Saturday the 4th September—The RipCurl Grom Search Day is ‘ON’ at Kata Beach and Saturday the 18th September at Surin Beach.

And next time you’re moaning about riding in the Phuket rain again, put a smile on your dial, grab your surf board and towel and head to your favorite local surfing beach and ‘get wet’.

For more information, check these web sites: www.facebook.com/ripcurlthailand http://www.asia.ripcurl.com/?events

45

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

Call Center

Phuket to Samui

1771 Pattaya to Phuket Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG281

1300

1440

1.3.5.7

Phuket to Pattaya Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG252

0935

1230

Daily

PG282

1510

1645

1.3.5.7

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

Samui to Phuket

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG252

0935

1030

Daily

PG251

0805

0905

Daily

PG256

1635

1730

Daily

PG255

1505

1605

Daily

PG258

1940

2035

Daily

PG257

1805

1905

Daily

Phuket to Bangkok

Bangkok to Phuket Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep.

Arr.

Days

PG271

0805

0930

Daily

PG272

1020

1145

Daily

PG924

1150

1315

Daily

PG276

1400

1525

Daily

PG273

1355

1520

Daily

PG274

1610

1735

Daily

PG277

1730

1855

Daily

PG278

1945

2110

Daily

PG279*

2015

2140

Daily

PG280*

2230

2355

Daily

Important telephone numbers International calls dial: +66 - 76, Inside Thailand calls dial 076- for Phuket Muang District Police Station

212 021 or 212 115

Phuket Airport

327 230-37

Tourist Police

219 878 or 1155

Tourism Authorities (TAT)

211 036, 212213

Highway Police

411 350

Southwestern Meteorological Center

327 191

Chalong Police Station

381 247 or 381 974

Khao Pra Taew Wildlife Conservation

260 492

Cherng Talay Police Station

270 043 or 324 086

Songserm Travel Center

222 570-4

Kamala Police Station

342 719/21

Bangkok Phuket Hospital

254 421-30

Kathu Police Station

342 719/21

Mission Hospital

237 220-9

Phuket Provincial Police Headquarter

212 046 or 212 194

Pat Sompot Hospital

214 428

Thalang Police Station

311 123

Patong-Kathu Hospital

340 444

Marine Police Division 5

211 883 or 214 368

Phuket Adventist Hospital

212 386

Phuket Provincial Immigration Office

212 108 or 221 905

Phuket International Hospital

249 400

Phuket Customs Office, Region 5

211 377 or 221 105

Phuket Ruampat Hospital

212 950

Phuket Harbour Master Region 5

391 174

Phya Thai Phuket Hospital

252 603-42

Phuket Deep Sea Port

391 155

Siriroj Hospital

212 853

Phuket Post and Telegraph Office

211 020 or 216 951

Vachira Phuket Hospital

211 114

Lost Credit Cards

Telephone numbers of the consular representatives functioning in Phuket

Visa

02 299 1990-29

Austria

076 248 334-6 ext. 36

Sweden

076 327 006

American Express

02 273 0022-44

Italy

076 381 792

France

076 288 828

Master Card

02 299 1990-2

Finland

076 215 585, 211 322

USA

076 342 270

Diners Club

02 238 3000

Germany

076 354 119

JCB

001 800 000 900 09

46 Learn to speak Thai

PHUKET THAILAND

THE RESIDENCE PHUKET

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thai conversation – Shopping Sawasdee ka!

Hello Chan chuay arai dai mai ?

Can I help you?

Nee tao rai krup?

How much is this?

Sahm roi baht?

Its 300 THB? Mee see arai bang?

What colours do you have?

Mee see daeng, see fa, see kiew, see som leh see kao!

I have red, light blue, green, orange and white.

Chorp see nai ka?

Which do you prefer?

Pom chorp see kao I like the white Rot noi dai mai?

Can you discount?

Rot dai nid-noi, luer song-roi ha-sip baht.

Ok, a little bit; 250 THB? Dee, krob khun krup Good, thank you Tee nee kai kreung deum duay mai?

Do you sell drinks here as well?

Mee, yoo nai doe yen, mee nam, Coke, Fanta leh beer Yes, in the fridge. I have water, Coke, Fanta and beer Kor Fanta daeng.

I’ll have a red Fanta Yee-sip baht ka!

That 20 THB please.

Krob khun ka Thank you.

47

48

ExpEriEncE phukEt

at i t s b E s t

Phuket’s most Exciting and Stylish Contemporary Resort –

gardens – Staff that continues to be the epitome of kindness and

A culmination of a passion aimed to highlight the joy of life

thoughtful unpretentious service that is so unique to Twinpalms

– Deliciously comfortable it features sleek yet sensual minimal-

Phuket Resort – 100% pure and natural products – A world

ist interiors – Exquisite food orchestrated by talented, crea-

class spa – Original art collections – A well equipped library...

tive chefs and presented in vibrant restaurants – A fashionable

and these are just some of the reasons to stay at the privately

beach club, the ultimate in intimate seaside sophistication –

owned, passionately run Twinpalms Phuket Resort in Thailand.

Enormous swimming pools – Lushly landscaped tropical water

www.twinpalms-phuket.com

Twinpalms Phuket Phuket’s Most Exciting & Stylish Contemporary Resort 106/46 Moo 3, Surin Beach Road, Cherng Talay, Phuket 83110, Thailand t +66 (0) 76 316500, f +66 (0) 76 316599 e book@twinpalms-phuket.com w twinpalms-phuket.com