Vol.1 No.2

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Vol.1 No.2

August 2010

FREE

comprehensive guide to Phuket and beyond

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

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

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

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

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

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

Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly unique destination.

Enjoy your stay !

Star Phuket Media & Design Limited Partnership Phuket Office: 65/573, Moo 2, T. Vichit A. Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel. 076 513 064 Fax: 076 513 016 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 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 will provide an unequaled advertising opportunity to you as an already successful company looking to further your marketing strategy.

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 Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to info@theguidephuket.com.

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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!

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Contents Transport on the Island

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The Guide Update

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Island Activities

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Life’s a Beach

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In Bed with... Patong Resort

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Day Tripper

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Shoppers Delight

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Give a Little Love

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Phuket Map

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Xtreme Phuket

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Island’s Golf

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Hotel Highlights

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Health and Beauty

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In the Kitchen with... 76 Bar Drink & Dine

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Cooking Thai

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Restaurant Highlights

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The Nightcrawler

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Airport Bus Timetable

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Learn to Speak Thai

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Bangkok Airways Timetable

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Important Telephone Numbers

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I

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

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.

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.

Transport on the Island 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.

The 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

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

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

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

Motorcycle taxis 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 –

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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.

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’ licenses 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 Time Table Destination

Town to Beach

Fee (Baht)

Beach to Town

Fee (Baht)

Bangtao Beach

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

30

Chalong Bay

8.00am–5.30pm

20

6.00am–5.30pm

30

Rawai Beach

6.50am–5.30pm

25

6.00am–4.30pm

40

Naiharn Beach

7.00am–6.05pm

30

6.45am–6.05pm

45

Sarasin Bridge

6.00am–6.00pm

30

6.00am–3.00pm

40

Bang Rong Pier

8.30am–4.00pm

30

7.00am–4.00pm

30

Por Bay Pier

8.30am–4.00pm

30

7.00am–4.00pm

30

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Hard Rock Cafe Phuket Asanee Chotikul, the number one rock legend of Thailand, visited town on 12 July 2010 to hand over a piece of memorabilia (a Gibson guitar that he used for his first album & many concerts) at the HRC Phuket, Mr. Usr Mosimann & Mr. Mohammed Shabbir (New General Manager – HRC Phuket) gave him a warm welcome.

Butterfly Release Year 4

The PTA (Phuket Tourist Association) Annual Meeting took place to elect the directors for 2010-2012.

Claude de Crissey & guests celebrate French National Day on 14 July 2010 at CafĂŠ de France, Royal Phawadee Village.

Phuket Butterfly release 1,000 butterfiles and 100 host plants at Khao Pra Taew National Park.

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Welcome GTZ Regional Seminar at Novotel Phuket Beach Resort Panwa GTZ German Technical Cooperation arranged a regional seminar at the Novotel Phuket Beach Resort Panwa from 5-9 July 2010. The topic was “Promoting tourism products and value chains for sustainable economic development in Asia”.

As Novotel is a chain hotel and part of EarthCheck (the global environmental program) it had a good opportunity to be part of their workshop during the seminar.

Opening of “Edu Planet” at Central Festival Phuket Khun Wilaiporn Pitimanaaree, General Manager Central Festival Phuket (1st right) congratulated Khun Anchaleekorn Chuwong, Branch Manager of ecc (2nd left) about the opening of the “Edu Planet” at Central Festival Phuket.

Bangkok Airways holds 1st Samui Island Marathon Princess Cup 2010 Bangkok, 8th June 2010 ­- Bangkok Airways, in collaboration with Tourism Authority of Thailand, Samui Municipal and Tourism Association of Koh Samui launch “Samui Island Marathon 2010” on 19th September 2010, to compete for HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Cup and the total prize worth over 3 million baht - the highest record in Thai marathon’s history.

The race will be starting off on the morning of Saturday 19th September 2010 and will start and finish from Nathon pier. Passing route 4169, Lippa Yai Crossroad to Lippa Noi intersection to Ban Sakes intersection and turn around at Ban Hua Thanon following the route 4169 back to Nathon Pier.

The admission fees for Full Marathon, Half Marathon, and Quarter Marathon from now until 31st August 2010 are 500, 400 and 300 baht respectively. Applications submitted during 1st -17th September 2010, the fee will be 700, 500 and 300 baht respectively. Apply on 18th September 2010; the admission fee will be 800, 600 and 300 Baht respectively.

Indigo Pearl beams heartwarming charity in the PSV children’s souls.

Arnaud Girodon, General Manager of the Indigo Pearl raised a cumulative total of THB 616,000 for the Phuket Sunshine Village, through the silent auction of exclusive tin mining statuettes designed by world renowned architect, Bill Bensley.

President of the Phuket Sunshine Village Dr. Supaluck Kanjanamethakul opened the ceremony with a heartfelt speech and welcomed the dedicated sponsors with a certificate of appreciations, for the tremendous amount of support and charity they have given to the Phuket Sunshine Village.

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Island Activities I

t’s a big island, offering all manner of things to do.

It’s surprising that so many holiday makers, who are trying to get away from it all, soon get bored with that dreamy combination of a perfect beach, a comfortable hotel room and great food. After a few days, most people want more.

They want to go places, to see how the local people live and to experience new things. Happily, with Phuket being a large island, about 50 kilometres long, there are all sorts of interesting things to do here. Below we offer some suggestions.

Crowded beach, quiet beach - find the one that suits you Spend most of your holiday in Patong and you might think the beaches of Phuket are crowded.

While Patong buzzes with people and activity, there are many other beaches to which one can escape

in complete solitude. You just have to drive. As one moves away from Patong the beaches become progressively quieter. By the time you get to the top of the island you’re guaranteed kilometres of sand to yourself, even in peak season, so remember crowded beach, quiet beach; the choice is there.

Visiting Wats – Buddhist Monasteries All Buddhist Monasteries are open to the public during the day, and visitors are usually welcome.

Since these are active holy places of worship, and the residence of monks, visitors should show respect in keeping well dressed and remaining quiet, Mum and Dad; keep the kids on a leash and always be culturally sensitive.

Elephant trekking The wild elephant population of Phuket was wiped out last century,

but has been replaced in recent years by an influx of animals for the tourist trade.

Today there remains just a few hundred elephants on Phuket Island, all domesticated, most working in tourism.

Indeed, riding an elephant is an experience not to be missed. The lumbering monsters are incredibly agile. Taking an elephant ride helps to keep the beasts employed, fed and out of the cities, where many can be taken by destitute owners in search of money and food.

Phuket Town Phuket Town is small but incredibly interesting, a potpourri of different cultural influences, of markets and shopping centres, restaurants and other entertainment facilities. Anyone spending a few days on Phuket Island should take time to visit, be it for sight-seeing, cultural or historical interest, or shopping.

Phuket’s only zoo is small, but pleasant, displaying some of Thailand’s almost vanished wildlife. Their tigers are fed well enough that one can sit with them and have a photo taken. We recommend going early or late, to avoid the tour buses that arrive mid morning and mid afternoon. It is in a small road off the east side of Chao Fah Road, about half way between the town and Chalong’s 5-way intersection. The turnoff is well signposted and easy to find.

Fantasea This is Phuket’s Mega-show; it’s a cultural spectacle on the grandest of scales, complete with armies of warriors, vast troupes of dancing girls and elephants that literally rise up into the sky. The show takes place in the evening with a dinner buffet. Located at Kamala Beach, mini buses run back and forth picking up customers from their hotels.

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.

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

Jungle Trekking With most of the rainforest on Phuket long since eaten up by rubber plantations, it is not so easy to find ideal trekking grounds.

Again, it’s best to sign on with a company providing this service. Often they take their trekkers right off Phuket into neighbouring

Phang Nga province, where some beautiful areas of forest remain.

Spas; massage and herbal steam rooms Health resorts, spas and herbal saunas are proliferating, and some fine examples offering a wide range of treatments are now found on Phuket. Thailand has its own traditional herbal saunas, and there are several local ones around the island, notably at Chalong and Rawai. While many large resorts now feel they are incomplete without a spa, there are also several independent establishments. Best known is the Hideaway at Patong (Tel: 340 519) and Bang Tao (Tel: 271 549) and The Spa,

Royal Phuket City Hotel in town (Tel: 354 027). The top resort spas are those at the Banyan Tree, Laguna complex (Tel: 324 374) and Nakalai at Thavorn Beach Village, north of Patong (Tel: 290 334-42) and the Boathouse, Kata (Tel: 330 015).

View Points Phuket’s most famous view point, Laem Phrom Thep at the very bottom of the island, is on the ‘must see’ list for every Thai visitor to the island. Thus it attracts a fleet of tour buses and cars each evening as people come to witness the sun fall into the Andaman Sea. Indeed, it’s often a spectacular sight, but there are many quieter places.

The view point on the hill behind Kata Noi attracts fewer people and when the heavens turn red, the view from any of the beaches can also be spectacular.

Shopping Shopping in general has boomed in Phuket over recent years with addition of two large shopping malls; Central Festival in Phuket Town, and Jung Ceylon in Patong Beach.

Along with these shopping malls there are also a whole host of street markets, night markets, boutique stores and artisan shops dotted around the island selling all manner of clothes, gifts and home wares

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

W

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

Karon Beach One of the longest beaches - and a scattering 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 connects them, and one can drive from Karon to Patong in 15 minutes. South of Karon is Kata. Only a small headland separates these two, and they are often spoken of as one unit; Kata-Karon.

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 mid-market, bungalow resort. Other than this there are no buildings to be seen at Nai Harn, and the beach is backed by the green of casaurina trees and coconut palms.

Kamala Beach Kamala, a 3-kilometres 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

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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 he quietest corner of the island, just three up-market 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 up 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 beach rocky beach but it is peaceful.

Ao Yon Beach Ao Yon is another peaceful beach ideally suited for watching the sunset. It is located near Cape Panwa, 10 Km 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 beach less shoreline stretching south.

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Paradise Beach

Laem Singh Beach

Laem Ka Beach Laem Ka Beach,The entrance of Laem Ka Beach is a small road. It seems that doesn’t have a small beach at here. In the beginning, it is a most popular traveling beach on Phuket Island. It is one of those quiet and beautiful little beaches with a lot of small and big rock. The sea is very calm clear water. This is a favorite beach for original Phuket citizen to relax at with their family but unflavored for foreign tourist.

It is a limited time to entry-exit the beach because the entry of the beach is a private area.

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.

Phuket International Horse Club

Tel. 076 324 199 Mobile: 081 968 3187

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.

H

ere at our stable we offer you the greatest experience.

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

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

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In Bed With...

Patong Resort An Idyllic Family Resort at the heart of Patong

with excellent facilities including airconditioning, refrigerator, mini bar, television, telephone, bathtub with shower, and hot and cold water.

A World of Leisure Activities

P

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

atong Resort 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. Although the resort is just a few minutes walk from the beach, great shopping opportunities and Patong’s famous nightlife, guests may not even wish to leave the grounds of this fabulous property. The resort’s extensive gardens and numerous high quality facilities and attractions provide fun and excitement for all ages.

Spacious rooms in the high building offer spectacular views over Patong Bay and the surrounding town. As one of the most well established hotels in Patong.

The resort provides high levels of service from a dedicated team of well trained and attentive staff.

Patong Resort comprising of 111 Deluxe rooms, 11 Executive, 10 Superior Deluxe and 2 Grand Suites all situated in an elegant high-rise building. The distinctive main lobby is designed and decorated in the unique Sino-Portuguese architectural style and reflects Phuket’s rich cultural heritage. In addition to the rooms in the resort’s original wing there are 92 deluxe rooms in the low-rise building. The building is surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Rooms provide a spacious 44 to 46 square meters of luxurious accommodation. 99 Standard rooms also located amongst the verdant gardens. All 325 rooms are equipped

Patong Resort offers a wide variety of activities for a fun-filled family holiday. For the sporty types, there are two fantastic swimming pools and tennis courts. Guests can also wind down in the resort’s herbal steam room.

The resort also features a mini plaza complete with a tailor shop, a hairdresser and a gift shop. The hotel tour desk can also organize excursions around Phuket and neighboring islands.

The Patong Resort is equipped to host a range of functions. With an expansive conference hall and meeting rooms, the resort’s capable staff can organize memorable, fully catered events, large or small.

Divine Dining Guests of the resort have a world of cuisine to choose from. They can experience Noppakaow’s poolside restaurant and discover its fine Thai and Italian cuisine. Yuri’s offers an irresistible section of Japanese favorites sushi, sashimi and rice bowl toppings of your choice. A special set Bento menu is also available.

Meat eaters will love the Rooftop steak House. The charcoal grill kitchen serves tasty and juicy imported steaks, complemented by wines from an extensive wine list.

Patong Resort’s enviable location, well appointed rooms, excellent facilities and extensive grounds make it the perfect choice for any visit to the tropical paradise of Phuket.

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Day Tripper H

ere we offer ideas on how to bring a little extra diversity and interest to your holiday in Phuket, by getting off the island for a day or two.

We strongly recommend every visitor to Phuket take at least one day – or more if possible - to travel off Phuket Island to experience some of the incredible beauty of the surrounding region. You can go by boat to the surrounding islands, or drive a car to the interesting and scenic provinces close by.

Go Extreme at Song Praek Rafting, Phang Nga 900-1, 076 232 900-3 and 081 229 1150).

Also try Phang Nga Rafting (Tel. 076 525 010 or 076 244 940). Tourists can select from a range of programmes; choosing only a rafting trip or buy a package of elephant riding, rafting, and sightseeing to the waterfalls in Ton Pariwat Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to get there

T

he Song Praek rafting trip is held along ‘Khlong Ra’; streams flowing down from the high mountains in Phang Nga province. The rafting routes are about 5 kilometers long. The water level is around 4-5 ft in the green season and at 1-2 ft in summer. At the starting point there is a dam built to regulate the water level for smoother rafting. It takes about 45 minutes to raft in the rainy reason.

Song Praek rafting companies are Phuket Sealand (the winner of the Thailand Tourism Awards; Tel. 076 222

From Phuket, proceed on Highway No.4 to Phang Nga town and Thap Put. After 5 km you will reach the intersection and meet the guardhouse of Nop Pring sub-district on the left. Turn left, drive through Kapong and cross the bridge over the Phang Nga river. Then, take a right turn following the sign of Song Praek to Baan Song Praek. You will finally notice the sign of Phuket Sealand and reach the rafting spot.

Travel Program Late in the morning, arrive at Ton Pariwat, ride elephants, and take the nature trail to Ton Pariwat Waterfall. Have lunch and walk to the rafting spot. Train and prepare yourself for rafting. The activity will take approximately an hour.

Change clothes and head back to Phuket or stay overnight in Phang Nga town.

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Let’s Go Aloha

T

here are many islands around Phuket but if you don’t have enough time to visit them all, a one day trip may suit your needs. Or if one day is not enough, you can take an overnight trip.

Travel agencies can provide you with tour packages to the islands.

The most popular programme is Koh Racha Yai. This island is located 15 kilometres away from Phuket. You can reach there by renting a boat from Rawai Beach or Chalong Bay. It’s beach is very beautiful and serene. There is a viewpoint at the west end of the beach where you can simply appreciate the atmosphere and take a photo. Also at Siam Bay and Khon Kae’s Bay snorkel area, there are spectacular sights of various corals.

Six kilometers away from Koh Racha Yai is Koh Racha Noi. Its geography comprises reefs and hills. This is a really good place for people who love diving and fishing.

Coming a little bit closer; Koh Hae or Coral Island, the island is quite a good spot for snorkeling due to the large number of fish around the area. There’s a restaurant and accommodation service at the front beach and it is a beautifully peaceful environment. This island is

located only 10 kilometres away from Phuket. It can be visited all year round.

To the eastern side of Phuket, you get to experience the local people’s life on Koh Maphrao (Coconut Island). Most local people in this island are in the fishery business. Hence, tourists will never be disappointed by the seafood here. Fresh fish, prawns and mussels are brought to you directly from the local people’s fish pot. Most importantly, it’s cheap! Other options for you to enjoy the island are agricultural activities; such as visiting a fisherman’s village and tasting fresh coconuts.

Phuket is often called “The Pearl of the Andaman” but not everyone knows that pearls are actually cultivated here.

Next to Koh Maphrao is Koh Rang Yai, well know for cultured pearls. The “Phuket Pearl Farm” is open for tourists and there are pearls available at the gift shop. Koh Rang Yai is also famous for its long white sandy beach which makes it an ideal place for a relaxing holiday. Outdoor activities such as swimming, beach volleyball, biking, etc. are also available.

The three small nearby islands Koh Khai Nok, Koh Khai Nai and Koh Khai Nui (located in Phang Nga province) are

famous for their white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. Swimming and snorkeling are the most popular activities here. These islands are easily accessible from Phuket.

Located just a little further from Koh Khai in Phang Nga province is another island called Koh Yao Yai. This island is famous for its local culture. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe the local fishery and to visit fisherman’s villages and rubber plantations. There are a few home stays and some resorts for those who would prefer to spend the night on the island.

Moreover, Phuket has a new destination for scuba diving called “The Coral Squadron for the Sea” Situated 20 metres under the sea just off Bang Tao Beach, the site consists of ten demobilized aircraft , four C-47 Dakota transporters given by the United States Air Force after World War II and six S-58T helicopters. The Coral Squadron is now service for every diver!

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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 Sceramic 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 pressure off the genuinely old

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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 Sing’s Fashion Gallary, Patong Beach, Tel. 076 345 037-9.

G ive

a

little

L ove

Contribute today for a better tomorrow

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.

How You Can Help Make a donation. Better yet, make regular donations. You can deposit funds straight into the PCF bank account at Siam Commercial Bank, Cherng Talay Branch; Ac Name: Phuket Community Foundation; Account No 706-234673-7.

Give your time or your expertise. If you have special skills you think could be put to good use in making a better Phuket, let us know. Even if you don’t, we can still find plenty for you to do.

Give us ideas. We are always open to ideas about what we should be doing, how we could do it better, or how we can raise funds.

Send your ideas to us by email or regular mail to: Phuket Community Foundation 61, Satun Road, Taladnua, Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel. 08 4442 8004 Fax: 076 224 317 E-mail: info@phuketcharity.org Website: www.phuketcharity.org

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Closer to

Paradise

E

verybody knows of world famous Patong Beach, and most are familiar with Kata and Karon beach, to some these beaches represent a kind of paradise, for me they are far from it, purgatory may be a better comparison; a sea of torn parasols, a path laid down by cigarette butts and plastic bags, the endless harassment from the vendors trying to sell you much of the same tat you either already bought or didn’t want to buy in the first place, its enough t make you want to pack your bags and go home, but wait, before you do that, have you considered venturing a little further afield? Have you thought about moving around the island a little and seeing what secrets Phuket’s coastline has to offer?

Many people stick to the beaches in the main tourist hub because it is convenient; that’s where their hotel is, and to go any further would either mean risking their life piloting their own war

machine to battle the traffic around the island or paying exorbitant prices for an obnoxious tuk-tuk driver to take them there. Sadly you will need to choose one of the above but I guarantee you will reap the benefits if you head out to Nai Harn beach.

Situated at the southern tip of the island this little bay holds a lot of charm, yes the parasols are still there, and yes the vendors are still traipsing around trying to flog their fare but its all much more low key, and the better for it. The

backdrop to the beach is a shady canopy of casuarina trees which offer gentle respite from the searing mid day sun, a series of understated restaurants sell to those who drift in and offer refreshments for those intent on the pursuit of the perfect tan. If you plan to spend a day here you will not be disappointed. The beach is small enough to give it charm, but large enough to find your own spot, the sea is wonderful for bathing and playing in making it very safe for families with young children. The view is picturesque during the day and if you stay until early evening you will be rewarded with a stunning sunset making it a great beach for romantic couples who want to enjoy each other’s company.

The balance of convenience, the available facilities and the shear natural beauty make this one beach which is just that little step closer to paradise.

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X treme Phuket

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GOLF EVENT

SCG tournament (SIAM CEMENT GROUP) will be start in 7/08/10 at RED MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB.

“HOLE IN ONE”

Congratulation with Mr.Rachata Peerapairoj, Achieved a Hole in One on Hole Number 8, Par 3, 112 Yards. At Loch Palm Golf Club. In July, 10Th 2010

Golf Laguna Phuket Golf Club

Phuket Country Club

Phuket’s only resort-based 18-hole, par 71 golf course.

Designed by Max Wexler and David Abell, measuring 6,654 yards from the back tees and 5,464 yards from the forward tees. Award winning Laguna Phuket Golf Club features a wealth of tropical scenic lagoons and undulating fairways set against a stunning backdrop of mountains and nearby sea. Tel: 076 270 991 – 2

27-hole Golf Course comprises of OLD COURSE; a challenging 18-hole resort layout golf course, and COUNTRY CLUB COURSE; a 9-hole championship layout golf course and between both courses sits a 52-bay DRIVING RANGE. Tel : 076 319 200 -204

Phunaka Golf Course & Golf Academy A highlight of any visit to the idyllic island of Phuket is a

round at the Phunaka Golf Course & Golf Academy.

This exceptional floodlit 9-hole golf course, complete with driving range and golf academy present challenges and rewards for player of all levels; the location is simply stunning.

Tel: 076 521 911 - 5

Blue Canyon Country Club

Red Mountain Golf Course

Mission Hills Phuket Golf Resort & Spa

This brand new 18-hole course is Loch Palm’s sister course.

Tel: 076 322 000 – 1

A mere 7 minutes drive (5 kilometres) from Phuket International Airport, Blue Canyon is located along the main Highway 402 that links the Phuket Island to mainland Thailand.

Tel: 076 328 088

Tel: 076 310 888

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HOTELS 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

Dewa Phuket

Location: Maikhao

Location: Patong

Location: Kata

Location: Maikhao

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

65 Moo 1, Tambon Sakoo Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83110

Banthai Beach Resort And Spa

The South Sea Resorts

Courtyard Phuket at Kamala Beach

Courtyard Phuket at Surin Beach

Location: Nai Harn

Location: Karon

Location: Kamala

Location: Cherngtalay

94 Thaveewong Road, Patong Beach, Phuket 83150

204 Karon Rd., Muang, Phuket 83000

100/10 Moo 3, Kamala Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150

106/27 Moo 3, Cherngtalay, Talang 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 3000 Fax. +66 (0) 7630 3003 www.marriott.com

Tel.+66 (0) 7630 3300 Fax.+66 (0) 7630 3303 www.marriott.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 (0) 7637 2300 Fax: +66 (0) 7637 2399 www.dewaphuket.com

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Healthy Juice Mixes Liver cleanse: pineapple, carrot, beetroot and lime.

Skin tonic: carrot, capsicum and spinach Stress reduction: apple, pineapple, mint and lime or tomato, carrot, coriander, broccoli and celery. Immunity improver: apple, carrot, lemon, ginger and garlic.

J

uice bars can be found in most cities in Southeast Asia and the whole world is now aware of the benefits of different blends of fruit and vegetables. In Bangkok, you can grab a fresh, mixed juice from a stall at many Skytrain stations, while in other cities like Tokyo you can stop for a fruit burst while you’re shopping in a mall.

As we all know, fruit and vegetables are high in various minerals, vitamins, and proteins, so by sipping one down every day you can stock up on most of your required intake in a single glass.

What’s more, when you mix different types of vegetables and fruit you can address specific health issues or build up immunities by cleansing the liver and even cleaning the blood.

Different fruit and vegetable families offer distinctive health benefits. Bananas are high in potassium, for example, while papaya contains useful digestive enzymes to help break down other foods in the body. More exotic ingredients have also made their way onto the menus at spas and wellness centre restaurant on Samui. Spirulina is a blue-green algae that’s rich in proteins, minerals and anti-oxidants. It also contains zinc, copper, iron and essen-

tial fatty acids. This has made it a very popular ingredient amongst health practitioners.

Official research has yet to be completed on the healing properties of Spirulina, but many claim it protects the immune system and can also reduce the effects of allergies. The bright green colour and thick texture puts some people off, but the taste resemble banana and it certainly won’t do you any harm. Beyond juices, flavourings and culinary additions like black pepper, lemon juice, coriander and ginger not only add to the taste of your food, they also provide an extra health boost.

Blends such as celery and parsley combined, for example, are known to be good for arthritis, while if you mix in papaya, this can help asthma sufferers.

Lettuce and celery help people sleep, while blackberry or grape with parsley helps protect the body against anemia. If you have low blood pressure, try green peppers with and garlic. Across SE Asia, it is easy to source fresh fruit and vegetables and most of them are much cheaper than in the west. This means restaurants can serve delicious combinations for the same price as less healthy manufactured drinks. The good choice of succulent tropical fruit adds extra flavour.

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Cooking Thai

Pad Siew

P

ad Siew is a simple Thai dish of stir fried wide rice noodles with soy sauce and vegetables, which can be prepared with a choice of meat or seafood. This delicious combination is a favourite with many foreigners as it’s not at all spicy, but bursts with the flavours of Asia.

The basic ingredients in Pad Siew are strips of rice noodle (either fresh or soaked in water for an hour), Chinese broccoli then shrimp, chicken, beef or pork cut into small pieces. The sauce blends eggs, oyster sauce, sweet soy sauce and fish sauce.

Like Thailand’s most famous dish, Pad Thai, this wide noodle dish is generally served with condiments such as dried chilli powder, sugar and spicy fish sauce, allowing you to choose whether you would like to eat it as it comes or spice things up a bit.

You can order Pad Siew in many local street-side eateries and you will also find it on the menu at more upmarket restaurants and hotels.

32 RESTAURANT

Kan Eang @ pier Seafood & Thai Cuisine

The amazing waterfront location with a stunning view of Chalong bay... day or night.

Outstanding for locals and visitors for an idyllic setting outdoor and indoor eating areas. Served a unique style of seafood barbeque.

Tel. 076 381 212, 08 3173 1187

Vset French & Fusion Cuisine

Vset is brand new restaurant.

The menu combnes a unique list of tantalising dishes with fantastic desserts. located next to the KanEng@pier, Chalong Bay, Phuket Tel. +66 (0) 8 7622 9703 E-mail: slaes@visetrestaurant.com Location: Chalong Bay

Location: Chalong Bay

76 Bar Drink & Dine (The Nap) Fusion & Thai Food

The place to eat, drink and be seen. Even the most experienced food lovers will delight at the stations offering diverse cuisine. The 76 BAR can take you from lunch to the early hours, relaxing indoors or on the rooftop bar, with a sophisticated selection of cocktails and fine wines.

Tel: +66 (0) 7629 6631 4 Location: Kata, Patong

Norbu Steakhouse Steak & Thai Cuisine

Beside the Rawai Temple it offers a theatrical setting. A real must for beef lovers offering great steaks with pepper or béarnaise sauce served with fries or potatoes, they also offer excellent smoked salmon and exquisite Thai food.

Free pickup service in Rawai Tel. 081 367 5416 or 081 367 5416 Location: Rawai

SALA Restaurant 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 Email: fb@salaphuket.com Location: Maikhao

Oasis 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.

Location: Kata Beach

Lobster & Prawns Seafood & Thai Cuisine

Their slogan is “No view but taste” and it is true. A warm welcome and excellent service combined with reasonable prices (for two person) from 500-800 THB for set menus including lobster. At lunch I enjoyed red snapper and the quality imported meat cater for those who are not too keen on the fruits of the sea.

Location: Kata

PUM Restaurant & Cooking School 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 Location: Patong

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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.

The

NighT

Tiger Disco and Bars A superb sound system blended with hi-tech lighting and laser systems makes Tiger Disco uniquely exciting.

Located on Bangla Road. Phone: 076 345 112

Hard Rock Café

Kata

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.

Dino Park

Phuket Town

crawler

Around the corner, a collection of small souvenir shops and cafes line the narrow street leading to Karon Beachroad. 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 mini- volcano 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

Kor Tor Mor 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 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

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Other Nightlife Activities

Mercure PATONG PHUKET

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.

Uniquely Phuket

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

Update Your Event

BREEZE PHUKET...OPENING PARTY at Patong Beach

All the elements of a perfect island holiday in the heart of Patong...

A fantastic location - just 5 minutes walking from world-famous Patong beach, shopping bazaars and Phuket’s bustling nightlife.

249 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, celestial spa treatments, offbeat dining experience, astronomical-themed leisure activities and hi-tech meeting facilities. A must-stay for individuals, couples, families and business travelers on vacation in Phuket.

Mercure PATONG PHUKET 239/14 Raj-U-Thid 200 Pee oad, Patong, Phuket 83150 Thailand Tel.: +66 (0) 7630 2100 E-mail: reservation@mercurephuket.com Or contact our International Sales offices in Hong Kong (852) 2868-1171 or Singapore (65) 6737 9388 www.mercure-asia.com

www.mercurepatongphuket.com

Mercure, the hospitality know-how that makes every stay unique.

700 hotels in 51countries.

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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

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09.15

09.20

09.25

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09.35

09.45

10.15

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10.55

11.00

11.05

11.15

11.45

11.50

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12.10

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12.35

12.45

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

12.45

12.50

13.00

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13.20

13.25

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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

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15.25

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15.35

15.40

15.45

15.50

16.00

16.00

16.05

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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

37 Learn To Speak Thai

Thai conversation – Eating out Sawasdee krup!

Hello Churn nang krup!

Please take a seat Krob khun ka Thank you Ao nam arai krup?

What would you like to drink?

Kor nam plow ka I would like water please Dai krup!

Ok Kin arai dee krup?

What would you like to eat?

Kor Gaeng Kheo Wan Gai ka I would like Green curry with chicken.

Ao pet mai krup?

Would you like it spicey?

Pet nid-noi ka A little bit spicy Ao khao duay mai?

Would you like rice also?

Ao khao plow I would like Steamed rice.

Tan khao hai aroi na krup!

Please enjoy your meal.

Krob khun ka!

Thank you Aroi mai krup?

How was the food?

Aroi ka. Aroi mahk mahk ka.

Tasty, very very tasty.

Lap kong wan mai krup?

Would you like some dessert?

Mai ao ka,chan im lairo ka.

No thank you, I am full already.

Gep tang Bill please.

Kor Gaeng Kheo Wan Gai ka

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.

Ao khao duay mai?

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

38

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

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