The Guide Phuket March 2016

Contents March 2016 14

24

26

31

34

44

THE GUIDE LIFESTYLE

THE GUIDE DINING

22 Life’s a Beach

32 34

36 38

24 Getting to know

Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk 26 Panwa House 51

Phuket Pulse

Let’s do brunch Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa Wining & Dining Restaurant Highlights

56 Phuket Map 58 Shopper’s Delight

THE GUIDE BEAUTY 44 Healthcare 48 Spa Highlights

THE GUIDE ACTIVITY 12

Activities on the island

14

Let’s get adventurous

30 Thanyapura Phuket

THE GUIDE HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION 28 Hotel Highlights 42 Verve Villas

TIMETABLE 62 Thai Airways Timetable 68 Bangkok Airways Timetable

THE GUIDE ANDAMAN 64 66

70 72

Southern Andaman Region Hotel Highlights Southern Andaman Northern Andaman Region Hotel Highlights Northern Andaman

Cover photo : Flying Hanuman

Star Phuket Media & Design Limited Partnership

10/378 Moo 3, T. Vichit, A. Muang Phuket 83000 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)76 521 011 Fax: +66 (0)76 521 010 Email: info@theguidephuket.com www.theguidephuket.com The Guide Phuket is published monthly and distributed to Bangkok Airways Lounge (Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Phuket International Airport), Thai Airways Lounge, major resorts in Phuket region, restaurants, spas, travel agents and car rental.

Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to Email: info@theguidephuket.com MANAGING DIRECTOR & EDITOR Punnaporn Eamso Guinault info@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)89 474 4704 ADVERTISING info@theguidephuket.com Tel: +66 (0)76 521 011 Mobile: +66 (0)89 474 4704 Kansirinphat Poolsiri marketing@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)89 288 1144 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Titaree Taweekit ann@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)86 816 0516

10

Lifestyle

Phuket..

The Pearl of the Andaman

What comes into the mind of travelers when they start to think about sea, sun and sand?

Phuket is increasingly one of the answers to this…. and for good reason as the island offers warm tropical ocean, beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and a multitude of opportunities for exciting and fun activities.

Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is located 862 kilometers south of Bangkok. Often called the ‘Pearl of the Andaman’, or ‘Pearl of the South’, its natural resources; rocky peninsulas, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it southern Thailand’s wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, the province covers an area of approximately 543 square kilometers (excluding small islets). It is estimated that Phuket Province covers an area of approximately 590 square kilometers if its 39 other small islands are included. The island’s total length, from north to south, is estimated at 48.7 kilometers and it is approximately 21.3 kilometers wide.

Phuket borders with Phang-Nga province to the north; connected by the Sarasin Bridge. The remainder of the island is encircled by the Andaman Sea; an area which is home to many of the best diving sites in the country.

Staying on the island is easy, as there are only two seasons in the year - the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season of Phuket is between September and October as these are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breezes and marvel at the crystal clear waters while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches.

Average temperatures ranges between 23°C and 33°C. Phuket’s topology is exceptional with 70 percent of its area 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 ma jor rivers, but has nine smaller brooks and creeks.

Phuket has a lot more to offer than just its natural beauty.

Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell delighting travelers to Phuket Town, while Phuket-style hospitality never fails to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition,accommodation ranging from world-class resorts to tropical-style bungalows caters to the different needs of travelers.For seafood lovers, there is so much choice including Phuket’s famous lobster.

Altogether, these characteristics make Phuket a truly unique destination.

www.theguidephuket.com

12

Activities

t e k u h P e v i Alternat It’s a fairly big island offering all manner of things to do.

However, it’s quite surprising that there are still a number of holiday makers who come to get away from everyday life but soon get bored with dreamy beaches, comfortable hotel rooms and fantastic food. They want to experience more. They want to see how the locals live and experience something different.

Luckily, with Phuket being the island it is, there are a number of other options for those seeking something other than the norm. Here are The Guide Phuket’s options for an alternative Phuket holiday experience.

• Crowded beach, quite beach Find the one that you really want to spend your holiday time on. If you spend your time on Patong Beach, it’s highly likely that you will think all Phuket’s beaches are the same, crowded.

However, while it’s true to say that Patong Beach is often bustling with people, there are others to where you can escape and find complete solitude.

Drive away from Patong and you’ll soon come to realise that there are smaller, quieter beaches. And by the time you reach the far north or south of the island you’re guaranteed to find beaches that you’ll have virtually to yourself, even during the high-season. So remember, crowded beach or quiet beach, the option is completely yours.

• 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 respecting 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 and 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 centers, 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.

• Zoo 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 East Road, about half way between the town and Chalong’s 5-way intersection.

The turnoff is well signposted and easy to find. www.theguidephuket.com

• 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 attached orchid farm for all the budding botanists out there.

• Bungy Jump Consider yourself adventurous? Got real guts? If you haven’t tried bungee jump 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 meters 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.

• Jungle Trekking With most of rainforest on Phuket long since eaten up by rubber plantations, it is not easy to find ideal trekking grounds. Again, it’s best to sign on with 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 example 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. While many large and resorts now feel they are incomplete without a spa, there are also several independent establishments.

• View Points Phuklet’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 busses and car 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.

14

Activities

Let’s Get Adventurous!

It’s that time of the year when Phuket and the surrounding islands shine gorgeously with their crystal clear sea and white sandy beaches. Here we recommend some activities to be done on and off shore during this beautiful season.

Diving and Snorkeling at Similan Islands Bring out your favorite bikini and take a trip to the beautiful Similan Islands which consists of many wonderful small islands such as Huyong, Payang, Payan, Miang, Payoo, Bon, Similan and Ba-Ngu islands.

This natural reserve is pure from the ground to the sea with lovely sea creatures such as sea urchins, clownfish to giant stingrays, dolphins, whales and giant moray found around the exquisite coral reefs

Trekking Through the Jungle There are still plenty of jungles with century old trees, rare animals and pure water sources to be found around Phuket. Khao Phra Taew National Park is one of the closest and is located in Paklok sub-district in Thalang.

Khao Phra Taew offers a wide range of natural wonders including rare animals and waterfalls such as Tonsai and Bangpae.

A guide can take you on the four kilometer trek should you desire. Meanwhile, Khao Kai Nui in the neighboring Thai Muang district of Phang Nga offers stunning views of thick mist covering the surrounding mountains.

Get your legs exercised, rest your lungs, get some oxygen and enjoy the beauty of nature.

www.theguidephuket.com

Khao Kai Nui

Activities

15

Get Splashed at a Water Park It’s melting hot this time of year and one of the most recommended activities to do, which includes spending the day under the clear blue sky is a trip to a water park.

Get soaked by jumping in the pools with some funny gadgets and enjoy all exciting playthings the water park provides for you. The largest water park in Phuket is Splash Jungle in Mai Khao, while a new one will open later on this year in Kathu under the name of Phuket Aquapark.

Photos from.. Splash Jungle

Swing from Tree to Tree Zip-lining from one century-old tree to the next over some of the longest zip-lines in Phuket over an area covering 80,000 sqm is a great experience. Luckil y, just a few minutes away from Kathu waterfall is Flying Hanuman, who, by creating this fun and memorable experience, took great care of the surrounding nature. The same will be said about their new project, “Hanuman World”.

Located in a thick forest in Wichit, Hanuman World will also featurezip-ling, but also a range of alternative activities. Flying Hanuman is a unique experience that should be tried by any visitor or resident of Phuket.

Photos from.. Flying Hanuman

Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

FLY

like Hanuman Fill your adrenaline to the max by jumping from tree tops and freely flying while taking in a bird’s-eye view of a natural jungle and breathing in fresh air at Flying Hanuman. It is not just a must-try adventure activity; Flying Hanuman offers you a chance to get real close to nature as its location is in the jungle of Kathu where huge decades old trees are well preserved across an 80,000sqm area.

Arriving at the lobby, the shady jungle surrounding it already makes you feel you’re in a completely different world.

After receiving a wristband, you will be grouped with other adventure lovers and provided an introduction as to what’s to come, as well as be informed of the Dos and Don’ts by an experienced guide who will accommodate, entertain, take care and play with your fear along the trip, but fully guarantee for your safety.

Getting ready at the foothill, the guides will kit you up with all necessary safety equipment, and then the adventure really starts with a trek up a high the hill.

En route you will be surrounded by lofty trees and meandering slopes.

It’s time for the adventure to start, and you’re going to take in 28 zip-line stations covering different lengths, heights and styles. Even the first station, although really for newbies, is enough to make you scream out loud. www.theguidephuket.com

Activities

17

After the adventure, delicious Thai cuisine awaits at the restaurant located next to the lobby.

The comfort food and fresh fruit is a great energizer and the perfect end to the trip.

Aside from Flying Hanuman, there’s an upcoming project “Hanuman World” which will be a completely different experience.

Located in another thick forest in Kathu, Hanuman World provides more new activities to try amongst decades to century old rain trees. This adventure will give you a real Tarzan, or Jane, like experience as you swing from tree to tree.

Recently awarded at the 10th Thailand Tourism Award (Kinnaree) 2015 in recognition of their excellent recreation venue, and awarded Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence based on the five stars rating by guests on Tripadvisor, Flying Hanuman is a unique adventure we advise any visitor or resident of Phuket to experience, especially those who seek an extra adrenaline kick.

The first few stations are just zip-lines, but once you starting reaching the higher point stairs are also an obstacle and the drop below begins to increase. But there’s no changing your mind by this stage.

The 10th Thailand Tourism Award (Kinnaree) 2015

At the speeds you fly through the air, and at the heights you’re traveling, which are way above the ground beneath you, your stomach will bounce. The latter stations you visit, the higher and more thrilling the adventure becomes.

By the middle of the trip, you will also be released from amazingly high trees – the tallest being around 50 meters high –, similar to bungee jumping and being just as exhilarating. Don’t be afraid to scream out loud, it does help!

One of the thrilling of zip-lines is 400 meters long, and if you’re lucky, the guide will choose you to be the Superman amongst your group. This means you will be in front of the guide, stretching your arms and legs like a starfish while he is behind you holding your legs.

This gives a different view and thrill as you’re forced to face what’s bellow – treetops – and fly like a bird for the same distance of a football field. Your two hours will be filled with a perfect mix of joy and fear, but at the end, you’re adrenaline will be at its peak.

Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence

Flying Hanuman 89/16, Moo 6, Soi Namtok, Kathu, Phuket 83120, Thailand Tel: +66 (0)76 323 264-5 www.flyinghanuman.com Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

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Activities

Hot Activities NOW 4 CLASSES DAILY 08.00 - 09.30 am 10.00 -11.30 am 05.15 - 06.45 pm 07.15 - 08.45 pm

Tiger Kingdom

Kata Yoga

Phuket FantaSea

Natural and clean Park Tigers at Tiger Kingdom are hand raised by their trainers from young bonding with them throughout the development process.

The trainers employ a combination of repetition, trust and encouragement to train their big cats, and over time the big cats get used to humans and often see us as one of the family. You can touch & play with real tigers and they are not aggressive as you would think.

Tiger Park & Restaurant Open daily 9am – 6pm Buffet Lunch 11am – 3pm

Hot yoga, the most popular yoga for men and women. It is the best 90 minutes workout, toning your muscles and getting you in shape fast! Beginners are welcome and it’s challenging for advanced practitioners. Your instructor will guide you through the postures to provide you with the best workout ever. Sweat, detox and lose fat. No more stress, aches and pains. A Kata Hot Yoga class is like a gas station, you gain energy instead of losing it.

After the class you will feel amazing with a big smile full of vitality, wanting to come back for more. Get a healthy mind and a healthy body. Kata Yoga studio at the beach in Kata.

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

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

www.tigerkingdom.com

www.katahotyoga.com

www.phuket-fantasea.com

Similan Diving & Snorkeling Day Trips

Luxurious Day

White Water Rafting

Charter “Isabella Rose”

Sutin Group, a leading tour operator in adventure tourism in Southern Thailand, invites you to visit wonderful natural attractions and enjoy many exciting outdoor activities such as trekking, rafting, elephant riding, canoeing with plenty of interesting tour packages to choose from.

You will experience the thrill of white water rafting in Thailand. Most tourists also enjoy elephant trekking through rainforests and mini trekking to the waterfall. Some packages include a visit to the monkey cave or an ATV ride along the jungle paths.

Tel: +66 (0)76 323603-4, +66 (0)81 892 2812 , 084 837 4877

The Phang Nga-based Similan Seven Sea Club is the best diving company in the area of Khao Lak offering daily dives and snorkeling excursions to the Andaman Sea. Join them for Khao Lak Diving, where you will experience the highest level of service in a relaxing and fun manner amongst the renowned diving spots of the Andaman Sea and Similan Islands Marine National Park with their white sandy beach, crystal clear waters and list of marine life that will leave you needing extra pages in your logbook.

Tel. +66 (0)76 485237, +66 (0)82 426 9797 Email: info@similansevenseaclub.com

Snorkeling in crystal clear waters, swimming at a secluded beach and discovering local island restaurants are all experiences we share when we get home, and these day trips are often the most memorable experience of a holiday.

www.similansevenseaclub.com

www.asia-marine.net

www.theguidephuket.com

This magnificent 68ft Princess Fly Bridge Motor Yacht offers huge outdoor areas for relaxing and sunbathing, as well as a substantial covered and indoor entertaining area.

Tel: +66 (0)76 239 111 Mobile: +66 (0)89 508 1333

www.sutingroup.com

Activities

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www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

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Activities

Hot Activities

Horse Riding

Phuket Simon Cabaret

Flying Hanuman

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.

Tel. 076 324 199

Since opening in 1991, Phuket Simon Cabaret has established itself as a market leading professional entertainment venue. For sheer entertainment, our set designs are outstanding, costumes extravagant and the performers glamorous ! In the exclusive, luxurious and intimate theater with hi-tech sound and lighting equipment. Our show is truly international featuring modern and traditional acts from around the globe in English and alternative languages.

You will arrive relaxed but will leave confuse as our performers are more of a man than you will ever be and even more of a woman too!

No other activity in Phuket will give you such a burst of adrenaline and excitement as the Flying Hanuman series of aerial rides through the treetops of a forest on a Kathu hillside.

This is an eco-friendly and completely safe adventure for kids as young as four and thrill-seekers as old as eighty.

Zip lines, sky bridges and Flying Fox rides send you zipping through the upper canopy of trees at up to 60 kilometers an hour. You can make the experience “extreme” or relaxing….. just tell your guide how you want to play it.

Flying Hanuman is all about adrenalin and fun!

www.phukethorseclub.com

www.phuket-simoncabaret.com

www.flyinghanuman.com

www.theguidephuket.com

Hot Activities Thanyapura

Paradise Beach

Blue Elephant

Sports & Leisure Club (TSLC)

Paradise Beach offers the biggest daily beach party on the island, with international DJ concerts for Full moon, Half-moon and Black moon, as well as many events.

Cooking School

Discover paradise at TSLC, a 230,000 sqm megaplex with extensive worldclass sport facilities & leisure activities for everyone. Opened in Nov 2011, TSLC is a destination in itself. Get rejuvenated at Thanyapura Spa; experience Divine’s signature dishes and drinks created from fresh local organic ingredients; entertain yourself at Booster Bar with live sports on big screens. Tree Club service available for kids below 10 yrs old. Open 8am-8pm daily.

For more info, contact Tel: 076 336-000 Email: tslc@thanyapura.com www.thanyapura.com

Tel. +66 (0)76 609 609 Email: info@paradisebeachphuket.com

Blue Elephant Cooking School has recently opened its Phuket branch where you can participate in one of our world famous cooking classes.

Learn how to cook Royal Thai Cuisine with experienced chefs who will take you step-by-step through each recipe. Enjoy a tour around the local market where we will show you what are the popular ingredients of Thai food. When the cooking is all over you can sit and enjoy all of you hard work.

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

www.paradisebeachphuket.com

www.blueelephant.com

Relax as you experience our 70 creative shops along Fisherman Walking Streets. Dine in one of our 5 stylish restaurants or jump into beach activities.

The crystal clear sea water is awaiting for you at Paradise Beach Phuket.

Opens from 09.30 am - late

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Lifestyle

Life’s a Beach With a vast array of different beaches on Phuket’s coastline why stick to just the one nearest your hotel? Take a look here at the choices available. · 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 currents. At the northern end of the beach the coral creates good opportunities for snorkeling.

· Surin Beach

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

Surin Beach

· Laem Singh Beach

Laem Singh Beach is small and very popular; it is located between Surin and Kamala. To reach the beach you need to walk down a short, rocky trail that is clearly signposted.

If you are lucky and it’s not too crowded then Leam Sing Beach is absolutely stunning.

· Kamala Beach h

Patong Beac

Nai Yang Be

ach

· Mai Khao Beach

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

· Nai Yang Beach

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

· Nai Thon Beach

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

· Layan Beach

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

www.theguidephuket.com

Kamala is a 3-kilometer long beach situated in the middle of Phuket’s west coast which has undergone recent developments to its main street, but the beach remains largely unchanged.

Behind the beach lies a growing village with two distinct communities; Buddhists by the beach and Muslims further back at the foot of the encompassing mountain range.

· Patong Beach

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

Patong is indeed a famous beach with beautiful soft sands and warm clear water. But right behind the beach is the hustle and bustle at the center of Phuket’s tourism business.

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

· Paradise Beach

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

To get there follow a small cement road up to the hill through the jungle.

It is a nice small beach with white, soft sand and large rocks flanking either side.

· Karon Beach

Nai Harn Be

ach

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

· Kata Beach

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

h

ac Bang Tao Be

· Kata Noi Beach

Just south of Kata Beach is Kata Noi, a smaller beach with only a few hotels and little other development. The beach is superb for snorkeling as many fish inhabit the rocks and corals along the headland to the south.

· Ao Sane Beach

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

· Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn is one of the more isolated beaches, nestled at the southern tip of the island in a bay defined by headlands and islets. The beach is backed by the green of Casuarina trees and coconut palms, acting as shade for the restaurants that now line the beach.

· Ao Yon Beach

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

Getting to know...

Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk With over 25 years experience in the industry and a strong background in sales and operations in international hotel chains, Khun Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk recentl y become General Manager of Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket. In the following article you’ll find out more about her, the hotel and her plans for its future.

What is your background and experience?

I studied Hotel Management at London City College. After graduating I worked in a hotel, I have not changed my career since.

I started in operations at the now Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, then moved to Shangri-La Hotel firstly in operations then sales. Then I moved to Phuket in a destination sales and marketing role for Laguna.

After other opportunities in various properties, I became Director of Sales for Thailand at JW Marriott taking care of all hotels under them. I first became a GM at Regent Cha-Am Beach Resort, and then GM of Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket in October.

Why chose Phuket? Because it’s my favorite destination with beautiful natural resources to present travelers!

The outstanding points of Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket?

The beach connected to the hotel and the Thai design of the property. From the first step into the lobby, people can see the interior is Thai style. The wood is antique with a design reflecting a real touch of Thai architecture. This is along with our musician who shows the charm of Thai beats with a cymbal. In addition, all lobby staff wear Thai style outfits. Our “Dusit Thai Way of Life” service makes our guests come back, and we have more than 40 per cent returning guests who agree the reason they come back is the service.

The hotel’s business management strategy?

Taking care of human resources, the staff are a valuable asset and we have to look after and develop them. The staff are our software which runs the hotel, if they’re happy, the service will run smoothly.

Short term and long term plans?

I separate plans into two categories, first sales and marketing. The market has changed. The European market is dropping, the Russian has almost disappeared. We have to focus on the Asia Pacific market that has purchasing power. We must adjust the short term sales and marketing plan. However, I believe the European market will come back.

From the operation perspective, we plan to renovate the hotel gradually. However, all renovations will be finished in 3 years.

What are the projects or upcoming event?

We partake in EarthCheck and won an award recently for being an environmentally friendly hotel. We also focus on fire and life safety measures to ensure the security of our guests and staff. In addition, we recently received a MICE venue standard certificate from Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau.

For the events, we will have a wedding fair the second week of March with wedding studios presenting what they offer.

A number of guests arrange their wedding here.

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket 390 Srisoontorn Road, Cherngtalay, Talang, Phuket 83110 Tel: +66 (0)76 362 999 www.dusit.com/dusitthani/lagunaphuket

The hardware is the structures and these must be checked routinely. Maintenance has to be done properly to make the hotel shine.

Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung www.theguidephuket.com

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Food & Restaurant

A Ta st e of Thai at

Panwa House This fabulous restaurant is in a Sino-Portuguese mansion located on a quiet and exclusive beach in Cape Panwa, and is the ideal setting to enjoy a true Thai dining experience. Every piece of decor in the unique and exquisite Panwa House is a genuine antique, and every detail has been thought out with a passion for Phuket’s history in mind. The venue provides a warm atmosphere for family dining in a building full of history.

When it comes to the food, Thai staples passed down for centuries are the main feature. And of course they’re as authentic as you will find anywhere in Thailand.

www.theguidephuket.com

Food & Restaurant

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The star dishes of Panwa House include the unforgettable Tom Yum Goong that gives a perfect balance of spicy, salty and sour flavours; Deep Fried Sea Crab Skiff that is crusty on the outside while the fresh crab meat itself is tender and sweet; Tom Yum Pla Krapong Haeng (stir fried sea bass in Tom Yum curry), an impressive combination of fresh fish and a thick, creamy Tom Yum curry give the perfect blend of the tastes and flavours for which Thai cuisine is known. And not to mention Choo Chee Goong, fresh giant prawns in red curry.

The signature drink at Panwa House is the Coral Dance, an exotic combination of vodka, blue curacao, apricot brandy, pineapple juice, guava juice, lemon juice and syrup, a nice sweet and sour cocktail.

For couples looking for a special dinner, Panwa House also provides an exclusive dining experience directly on the beach with beautiful features including flowers, lanterns, a live guitarist, Champagne and a live cooking station and more. This is the perfect way to treat your special someone for a most memorable evening on a special day.

Open 6 pm to 11 pm, the restaurant offers you a stunning view of the beach with its white sands and crystal clear blue sea along with a beautiful sunset at the edge of the sky, so it is recommended to book your reservation for the early evening.

Panwa House | Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket 27, 27/2, Mu 8, Sakdidej Rd., Cape Panwa, Phuket 83000 Tel: +66 (0)76 391 123-5 www.capepanwa.com

Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung

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Hotel ►PATONG Amari Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 106-14 Andaman Beach Suites Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 879-83 B-Lay Tong Phuket +66 (0) 76 344 999 Banthai Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 850

Centra Ashlee Hotel Patong

Highlights

Patong Merlin Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 037-41 Patong Paragon Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 290 555 Patong Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 551-4 Royal Pawadee Village Hotel +66 (0) 76 344 622 Safari Beach Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 171-4 Salathai Resort +66 (0) 76 296 631 SLEEP WITH ME HOTEL design hotel @ patong +66 (0) 76 363 333 The Nap Patong +66 (0) 76 296 631-4 The Royal Paradise Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 666 Thara Patong Beach Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 340 520

+66 (0) 76 349 800-7 www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centra/chp

Sawaddi Patong Resort dusitD2 phuket resort

+66 (0) 76 343 444 www.patongsawaddi.com

+66 (0) 76 337 000 www.dusit.com/d2pr

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

Mövenpick Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 396 139-48 Marina Phuket +66 (0) 76 330 497 Phuket Orchid Resort +66 (0) 76 396 519-23 Ramada Phuket Southsea +66 (0) 76 370 888 The Front Village +66 (0) 76 398 200-5 ►KATA BEACH Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 370 999 Club Med 66 (0) 76 330 455-60 Ibis Phuket Kata Hotel +66 (0) 2 659 2888 Kata Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 530-4 Kata Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 334-8 Katathani Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 124 Sugar Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 404 Impiana Private Villas +66 (0) 76 330 770

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Phuket Patong

Tel: (66-76) 340-850 -4 www.banthaiphuket.com

+66 (0) 76 231 999 www.grandmercurephuketpatong.com

Deevana Patong Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 341 414-5 Duangjitt Resort & Spa + 66 (0) 76 342 090-4, 340 310-1 Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 680-5 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 608-9 Horizon Beach Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 292 526-30 Merlin Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 294 300 Novotel Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 342 777 Patong Bay Garden Resort +66 (0) 76 292 914-5 www.theguidephuket.com

Eastin Yama Hotel Phuket

+66 (0) 76 303 456 www.eastinyamaphuket.com

The 9th Floor Residence +66 (0) 76 344 987 www.roomsatthe9th.com

►KARON BEACH Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 555 Karon Sea Sands Resort +66 (0) 76 286 464 Karona Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 286 406-10

►BANG TAO BEACH Amora Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 021-2 Bangtao Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 270 680-5 Banyan Tree Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 374 Angsana Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 101

Hotel Mövenpick Residence +66 (0) 76 396 139 Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort & Villas +66 (0) 76 336 900 Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort Tel.+66 (0) 76 360600

Highlights

►RAWAI BEACH & NAI HARN All Season Naiharn Phuket Hotel + 66 (0) 76 289 333 Friendship Beach Resort & Atmanjai Wellness Spa +66 (0) 76 288 996

Thanyapura Retreat

+66 (0) 76 336 000 www.thanyapura.com

DoubleTree Resort by Hilton, Phuket

+66 (0) 76 303 300 www.phuketsurinbeachresort.doubletree.com

Twinpalms Phuket

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

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

The Vijitt Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 363 600 www.vijittresort.com

►SURIN BEACH Amanpuri +66 (0) 76 324 333 Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort&Spa +66 (0) 76 271 271 The Surin Phuket +66 (0) 76 621 580

►NAIYANG & NAITHORN Dewa Phuket +66 (0) 76 372 300 Indigo Pearl +66 (0) 76 327 006-9 Naithon Buri Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 318 700 Naiyang Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 328 300 Trisara +66 (0) 76 310 100 L’esprit de Naiyang Resort +66 (0) 76 510 032-5 Airport Resort & Spa Naiyang Beach +66 (0) 76 327 771-4 Kasalong Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 205 208-10

►KAMALA BEACH Aquamarine Resort & Villa +66 (0) 76 310 600 Cape Sienna +66 76 337 300 Kamala Beach Estate +66 (0) 76 324 111-4 Kamala Beach Hotel & Resort +66 (0) 76 279 580-5 Andara Phuket +66 (0) 76 338 777

►MAIKHAO Anantara Phuket +66 (0) 76 336 100 Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 363 999 JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 338 000 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Maikhao Beach +66 (0) 76 603 699

Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 231 234 phuket.regency.hyatt.com

►CAPE PANWA The Kantary Bay Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 514 Radisson Resort Phuket Panwa Beach +66 (0) 76 602 500 Sri Panwa, Phuket +66 (0) 76 371 000 Phuket Panwa Beachfront Resort Tel: +66 (0) 7630 2944

Amatara Resort & Wellness

+66 (0) 76 318 888, +66 (0)76 200 800 www.amataraphuket.com

Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 123-5 www.capecollection.com

►PHUKET CITY i Pavilion Phuket Hotel +66 (0) 76 210 445-7 Phuket Merlin Hotel +66 (0) 76 212 866-70 Royal Phuket City +66 (0) 76 233 333 Sino House Phuket Hotel +66 (0) 76 232 494-5 The Metropole +66 (0) 76 215 050 The Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa Phuket +66 (0) 76 335 600 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

A Fi tn e s s Ou t in g D a y at Thanyapura Phuket

“Are you looking for

the best place to get fit in Phuket?�

Then Thanyapura is the best answer, as it features a range of training programs, the best sport facilities and coaching expertise in Asia, as well as a wellness center that rejuvenates the senses inside out.

The facilities at Thanyapura are impressive from first sight with a huge purpose built fitness center, athletics track and stadium, outdoor and indoor tennis courts, two Olympic standard size swimming pools, as well as a health clinic and expert coaches, nutritionists, trainers, mind trainers, doctors, physiotherapists, chiropractors and more.

www.theguidephuket.com

The Guide Phuket recently endured Abs & Stretching and X Fit classes within the world class fitness room. But before that we prepped ourselves in the secure locker room, a cozy place to rest before and after a rough training with shower rooms, toilets and basic utilities.

Inside the gym is all the latest fitness technology from the likes of Technogym Kinesis, Power Plate Training and numerous choices of Technogym Wellness Systems.

The gym is world class, hygienic and the environment is one of those much sought by those who see fitness as a priority in life.

After thirty minutes of warming up, the Abs & Stretching class began with Lalitvadee Srisuksai leading the way.

The class started with a nonstop abdominal workout that squeezed out the sweat and tested all the abdominal muscles. Then it was time to stretch the entire body into various complicated positions, not a piece of cake, but hanging in the same position for quite long certainly works the entire body. For me it was excruciating and the seconds passed way too slowly.

Although the painful but fun abs class was over, the real torture had not even started. Next it was out to the stadium with Coach Adam Smith who greeted us by giving us a 200 meter run, this followed by a tough set of two burpee jumps, eight squats and 16 sit-ups, not one round, but seven, and all with a 10 minute time limit. Next, yes there was more, seven sets of four squats, four frog jumps, a 200 meter run and eight push-ups, again within 10 minutes.

That was one of the longest 30 minutes I have ever had to endure, I could feel my heart rate climbing as the sweat escaped from my pores and the body pains begun. However, despite the aches and pains, I did feel I had made a big accomplishment.

After such a hard work out, the Booster Deli & Bar is the perfect place to cool down and rest in a comfortable corner with a smoothie or booster drink. The cafe offers a tasty list of snacks and there are always live international sports on the big screens.

Thanyapura Phuket 120/1 Moo 7 Thepkasattri Rd., Thepkasattri, Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel: +66 (0)76 336 000 www.thanyapura.com Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

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Food & Restaurant

LET’S DO BRUNCH! Double Tree Resort

by Hilton’s Thai Sunday Brunch Every Sunday If enjoying a wide range of Thai dishes for brunch is a must for your Sunday then the Thai brunch at Double Tree Resort by Hilton is a “Don’t Miss”.

With live stations, Thai spicy salad and grills, ready-to-eat specialties, and western staples including pizza, pasta and DIY salad you really are spoilt for choice.

You even get the added bonus of enjoying the pools and water slides and happy hour at the Boardwalk Pool Bar. What a way to spend a Sunday!

• THB 399++ per person • Children 5-12 years old received 50% discount and toddlers below 5 years old eat for free.

Tel: 076 303 300

www.theguidephuket.com

www.doubletree.com

A Classy Sunday Brunch at Amatara Resort & Wellness Every Sunday From noon to 16.00 Hrs. Every Sunday, The Grill becomes a celebration of delicacies from around the world. Choose from sumptuous Sunday Roasts cooked from free range & farm raised meats, oysters, fresh lobsters & seafood, organic salads, artisanal cheese, Belgian waffles and desserts. Accompany the celebration with tempting beverages offers, fine wines and live music.

• THB 2100++ per person (includes free flow of soft drinks) • THB 2600++ per person (includes a bottle of white, red, rosè wine or Chandon per couple) • Children aged 4-12 years old eat half price (plus free access to the Kid’s Club) Advance reservation is required. Prices are subject to 17.7% service charge and VAT. Tel: 076 318 888 www.amataraphuket.com

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LET’S DO BRUNCH! Sunday brunch @The Pool Bar Every Sunday from 12.00 - 15.00 Hrs. Discover the best Weekend Experience with sumptuous brunch at the Pool House featuring a lavish spread of international delicacies, Fresh Seafood, Soft Drinks, Singha Draft Beer, wines and classic Mojito and the access to the largest infinity pool with camp Hyatt access for kids .

• THB 1,200 Buffet & soft drinks • THB 1,600 Buffet & soft drinks, Draught beers • THB 2,000 Buffet & soft drinks, Draught beers, wines, Mojitos Tel: 076 231 234 www.phuket.regency.hyatt.com

Hilton Sunday Brunch Every Sunday From 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs. Enjoy our lavish international buffet with friends and family each Sunday at Sails! Our live band sets the mood for a relaxing afternoon with delicious food, live cooking stations, refreshing drinks, and good company.

Sunday Brunch at Sails – a Hilton Experience Prices from • THB 1,400++ per adult (includes free flow of selected beverages) • THB 700++ per child/ages 5-12 (includes free flow soft drinks) *All prices are in Thai baht and are subject to 10% service charge and 7% VAT. Tel: 076 396 433 www.phuketarcadia.hilton.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

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Food & Restaurant

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa Sunday Brunch

On a lazy Sunday morning when the sun is shining, what could be better than staying next to a cooling pool, listening to soft live music and having a nice brunch which offers a great variety of dishes to please the palate? This is a Sunday at Hilton Phuket Acadia Resort & Spa, located next to the gorgeous Karon Beach.

From the parking lot, the hotel’s open air bus takes clients back and forth to the lobby, a journey which allows you to take in the stunning view of the resort vast tropical garden.

After being welcomed by the excellent and professional F&B staff, you can choose your preferred dining area, inside, or on the terrace besides an exotic pool surrounded by eye-catching fauna. Free access to the pool is included with the package.

The fantastic range of fine cuisine at the Hilton Arcadia includes domestic and imported seafood such as the must-try salmon and tuna sashimi, fresh oysters, mussels, scallops, shrimps, crabs, mantis shrimps, and this along with splendid sushi sets and a meat selection including well-marinated beef ribs, roasted lamb cooked to perfection and grilled chicken.

To add an Italian touch, delicious lasagna is also prepared, and there’s a great assortment of different cheeses and cold cuts, bread and pastry, and of course a variety of salads.

To clear your palate, you can end your meal with various kinds of dessert such as Thai sweets, soft macaroons, pretty cakes, mango puddings, delicious tiramisu and a chocolate fondue.

In addition to the buffet, the table service offers a crusty pizza starter followed by main dish, the goulash in encroute and ends with a sweet taste of the beautiful two-meter long log cake well presented on a big board supported by two servers and cut by the chef as your request.

For 1,400++ Baht, diners are treated to an exciting culinary journey combined with free flow of great wine while at 700++ Baht, children dine to tailored kids’ dishes and are entertained with fun activities such as a balloon art.

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa 333 Patak Road, Karon Beach, Muang, Phuket 83100 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 7639 6433 www.phuketarcadia.hilton.com Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung

www.theguidephuket.com

Food & Restaurant

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LET’S DO BRUNCH! The Vijitt Resort Phuket Every Sunday From 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs. Enjoy Vijitt Resort Phuket’s expansive mouth-watering buffet among swaying coconut palms and with breathtaking views of Friendship Beach. Choose from sumptuous choices of salad bar, fresh oysters and seafood on ice, Sushi and Sashimi, live cooking stations, seafood and lamb BBQ, Western and Thai hot dishes, foie gras, and all you can eat homemade desserts.

• • THB 1,199++ per person with free flow soft drinks • • THB 1,499++ per person with a bottle of wine per couple • • THB 3,199++ per person with a bottle of champagne per couple Half price for children aged 4- 12 years old and free for children under 4 years old, plus free entry to their Kids Club.

Complimentary use of 40 metre - long infinity edged swimming pool for everyone.

Advance reservation required : Email: info@vijittresort.com Tel: 076 363 600 www.vijittresort.com

Twinpalms brunch Every Sunday from 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs. The place to see and be seen is the Sunday brunch at The Oriental Spoon. A highly fashionable international crowd browse the abundant food offerings from fresh seafood and cold water NZ oysters, to sushi and sashimi.

•• THB 1,390++ per person for brunch only •• THB 1,690++ per person including ½ 1/2 bottle of wine •• THB 7,380++ per couple including a bottle of Moet & Chandon Chandon Champagne Tel : 076 316 577 www.twinpalms-phuket.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Wining & Dining

François Lurton Wi n e D i n n er a t A m a ta ra Amatara Resort & Wellness arranged an exclusive wine dinner with an impressive list of cuisine and great wine tasting from François Lurton with wines from in Argentina, Chile, and France under the name Black Forest.

Started the fine dining with the aperitif, Les Fumees Blanches, Sauvignon Blanc 2012 at The Library. This was followed by a Soft Cured Ocean Trout topped with fennels, dill, lemon yogurt and caviar is served with the perfect combination with a Chile Sauvignon Blanc Kawin 2014 enhancing the light taste of smoked trout with the dry and freshness of the citric aromas with a nice acidity.

The next dish was a Muscovy Duck Rillettes, the delicious creamy mashed aromatic duck meat served with Argentina Tierra de Luna Torrontes-Pinot Grigio 2015 blending the taste of red light meat with the good balance of acid bringing the lightness and flavorsome palate.

The Smoked Ahi Tuna Vichyssoise soup topped with caviar, bottarga and Crème fraîche tastes even better with the additional rich black fruits aromas and spices combining good structure, balanced tannins and the sort of refinement in the glass of Argentina Bodega Piedra Negra Malbec Reserva 2012.

Followed the soup by the tasty melt-in-mouth Wagyu Beef Pithivier, the crusty pie stuffed with tender Wagyu beef in leek & parmesan fondue, champ potato and black truffle on the side served with Chile Carménère Auraucano Reserva 2013, with ripe tannins www.theguidephuket.com

and fresh acidity combine to give good balance and length. The Cold Press Olive Oil & Lemon Sorbet topped with wild rocket, black pepper and popping crystalline was served for a short break from meat dish giving a refreshing scent in the mouth before starting another main.

The last meat dish was New Zealand Free Range Cervena served with boudin noir, a tasty and unique sausage, beetroot jam, almond butter and Valrhona mascarpone coming alongside Argentina Chacayes 2007 that gives an impeccable balance to the meal, with mature tannins, equilibrated, highlighting the red fruits with black flowers notes and with a persistent ending with coffee notes.

Ended the meal with a flavorful sweet treat that is a Marshmallow Egg, the deep fried marshmallow in egg shape stuffed with ice cream topped with coconut caviar. A surprising and delicious bite of ice cream covered in marshmallow ball with salted caramel powder was such a perfect conclusion of the night.

Food & Restaurant

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Food & Restaurant

Restaurant Highlights • 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, 083 173 1187 www.kaneang-pier.com Location: Chalong Bay

• Le Celtique

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

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

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• Blue Elephant

Royal Thai Cuisine Taking a grand location in the governor mansion in old Phuket Town this beautiful restaurant serves traditional royal Thai cuisine and holds daily cooking classes as well.

Tel: 076 354 355, 076 354 357 E-mail: phuket@blueelephant.com Location: Phuket Town

• La Boucherie French

LA BOUCHERIE is a famous and successful French restaurant chain which was originally established in France and now has over 30 themed branches located in Saudi Arabia, Luxembourg, Moldavia, Russia and Thailand.

Tel: 094 807 6831 www.laboucherie-asia.com Location: Chalong

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• Panwa House Thai Cuisine

Offering stunning view of the peaceful beach at Cape Panwa Hotel, Panwa House offers a list of delicious Thai cuisine in a truly antique Sino Portuguese décor. For an even more romantic experience, private dinner right on the beach can be set as request with a lovely decoration, tasty food from live cooking station and the absolutely charming surroundings for the special night.

Email: enquiries@capecollection.com Tel: 076 391 123-5 www.capecollection.com Location: Cape Panwa

• Rossovivo Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria

Italian For authentic Italian cuisine served in beautiful indoor and outdoor terrace surroundings at very reasonable prices visit Rossovivo at Fisherman Way Business Gardens on the Rawai Road.

Italian owner Mario Rossi has over 25 years of experience with fine Italian cuisine both in Italy and Phuket.

See weekly Chef’s specials, plus special lunch menu changing every day - Monday to Friday.

Tel: 076 384 686 Location: Rawai

• Zeascape Restaurant

International & Thai Food A haven of relaxed dining in the U Zenmaya Resort offering the simple yet superlative quality of the best-known Thai dishes embodying all aspects of cutting-edge cuisine and preserving centuries old traditions. Features a large spread of southern Thai dishes combined with charcoal barbequed fresh seafood, while you enjoy an incomparable sunset view over Patong Bay. Tel: 076 336 888 www.uzenmayaphuket.com Lacation: Kalim Beach

• Tiger Kingdom Thai & International Dine overlooking the exciting tiger enclosures on our wonderful balcony restaurant. This is an ideal spot for families to enjoy the a la carte menu, or the all-you-can-eat buffet encompassing a huge section of Thai, Asian, Chinese and European dishes upon which to graze while watching the tigers. Both the a la carte and buffet are extremely good value and the location and views make it one of the most stunning places to dine in all of Phuket.

Tel: 076 323 311 www.tigerkingdom.com Location: Kathu www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

38 40

Food & Restaurant

Rest aurant Restaurant ts gh  hli ig  H

• THE The 9th FLOOR Floor Mediterranean

The 9th Floor is the most elegant restaurant and bar on the Patong skyline and is located on the top floor of the sky Inn Condotel. It is a hidden treasure dedicated to the enjoyment of fine, fresh Mediterranean, Alpine and Thai food, a comprehensive list of some of the best wines available, beautiful well-trained waitresses and a warm, elegant ambience reminiscent of a sophisticated members’ club.

Heavenly food served by angels.

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

• D Thai Restaurant Thai

“D” means “Good”, so the meaning of this restaurant’s name is “Good Restaurant” and it aims to provide good food, good services and good experiences for all good customers.

Here you will experience the good taste of authentic Thai cuisine and good premium local fresh seafood at a good location in Surin Beach which we know as a millionaire’s row. A good day starts from good food. Go and try!

Tel: 076 386 500 www.d-and-dang.com Location: Surin Beach

• Mix Bistro Thai & Western

The Restaurant prides itself in serving authentic Thai food with a southern twist. Chill out on the deck with some classic cocktails, western nibbles or shawarma sandwich wraps which are available also for take away should you need a tasty treat for in between meals. The deli section offers oven fresh pastries, freshly prepared sandwiches, hams, salami, cheese and delicious coffee throughout the day.

Tel: 076 349 800-7 www.centarahotelsresorts.com Location: Patong

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• Seasoning Restaurant

Thai & International Start the day with breakfast buffet serving both Asian and international breakfast dishes.

Thereon, all day dining menus offer a great choice of our delicious homemade Thai favorites from our experienced Chefs.

‘Z’ our chilled out bar brings together the signature cocktails, wines & coffees into the casual lounge and garden area.

Tel: 076 284 300 www.kataseabreeze.com Location: Kata Beach

• Senzees Restaurant

Thai & Western Savor relaxed and scenic breakfast, lunch and dinner dining bedside the Eastin Yama Hotel’s limpid swimming pool and overlooking Kata Bay and the Andaman Sea at Senzees restaurant.

Enjoy a delicious selection of fresh, healthy Thai and Western dishes cooked to perfection and served either indoors or poolside. A tempting selection of cocktails, wines, beers and soft drinks makes for a perfect meal in perfect surroundings.

Tel: 076 303 456 www.eastinyamaphuket.com Location: Kata

• The Crab House

Seafood and Thai Enjoy the freshest and tastiest crabs, other seafood and Thai favorite dishes at Crab House on Thanon Phangmeuang, the road behind Jungceylon in the heart of Patong. Equipped with protective bibs, hammers and pliers do battle with tasty, crunchy fresh crabs in many glorious dishes all built around the fabulous flavors of local crab and seafood dishes. Savor great cocktails, wines and beers and a lively atmosphere where every night is happy a crab-themed party.

Tel: 076 687 065 Facebook: The Crab House - Patong. Phuket Location: Patong

• Leonardo Da Vinci

Italian Leonard Da Vinci is a beautiful indoor and outdoor restaurant situated on the headland road between Kata and Kata Noi Beaches. Enjoy fabulous authentic Italian cuisine lovingly prepared by our Italian Chef and featuring the freshest and tastiest local and imported ingredients from both Phuket and around the Mediterranean.

Our welcoming bar and fine wine cellar will grace your dining with superb accompanying cocktails and wines, and our staff are not only friendly and well informed, but always delighted to see you.

Tel: 076 604 296 www.leonardodavinci.asia Location: Kata www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Verve Villas “Get some Verve in your life” Fine-living rarely soars to the heights you will experience in your new custom-designed villa. These spacious luxury villas will entice you with their modern architectural design and layout, and quality inclusions throughout. Built on generous land plots and aimed to take advantage of Phuket’s delightful climate, Verve Villas will allow you a sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle that will be the envy of your friends. Grand in design, an air of exclusivity flows through this collection of eight individually-designed residences.

Concept We want Verve Villas to be a unique development aimed at those with a modern taste. We have deliberately stayed away from the standard Thai-style design so common on the island and opted for a truly modern, architecturally inspired look that makes the most of Thai and Phuket lifestyle.

We have also chosen not to overcrowd the development with 8 unique units, situated on massive allotments ranging from 750 to 900 sqm. Each villa can also be tailored to suit a buyers needs by adding an additional bedroom, study or rumpus room making it a truly unique development.

Finish Quality,style and luxury are our motto at Verve and this is reflected in the choice of materials we have used throughout.

From sensual stonework, rich-tone Asiatic hardwoods, www.theguidephuket.com

Hotel & Accommodation

43

granite bench tops and expansive glass surrounds Verve will impress from the moment you work through the front gates. Out kitchen and bathroom fittings are a feature as is the sloping roof design with hardwood ceiling and windows that bring in an abundance of natural light. We have chosen the best quality materials on offer reflecting to ensure your villa is as good in 10 years as the day you moe in ensuring you won’t be disappointed with your investment Location Verve Villas is located in Layan, one of the premier real estate areas of Phuket. It is just minutes from a stunning beach, a beautiful golf course and some great local and foreign restaurants. It also is close to one of Asia’s best sporting and Fine Dining is close at hand with Laguna Village, Layan, Bang Tao and Surin only a short drive from Verve. In fact one of the most popular restaurants on the island Siam Supper Club is only 5 minutes away and is situated among many other great restaurants.

Price Range: from 24.9 – 27.9 million Baht Services At Verve we want you to make it easy for you and your guests to enjoy your stay and not have to worry about some of lifes chores that get in the way. We offer a full range of ser-vices aimed at making your stay relaxing and stress free and that give you piece of mind over your investment.

Body Corporate Management All common garden area will be manage by professional management team. The services they can provide include:

• • • • • • • • • •

Garbage removal & pest control Gardening and irrigation of all common areas Power supply for all common areas and street lighting.

Secure gated access Booking and Reservations Guest Screening Housekeeping Payment Processing Linen Service Weekly pool cleaning & maintenance

Security At Verve we provide services to ensure your villa is protected.

To give you peace of mind when you are visiting or away from Phuket. We have incorporated a state of the art security system which features an automatic security gate , security cameras for each villa as well common areas in the residential community. Security guard?

Rental Management We also cater for buyers who want to make the most from their investment by tapping into the lucrative Phuket holiday letting market. Villas of the quality of Verve can fetch upwards of 600USD a night and with the right management owners can sure returns while they aren’t enjoying the villa themselves having peace of mind their investment is being managed by a professional team.

For more information PROSPEROUS DEVELOPER Co.,Ltd 215/18 Moo 4, T. Thepkrasatri, Thalang, Phuket 83110 Email: sale@vervevillasphuket.com Tel: 095 417 7667 (Eng) tony@vervevillasphuket.com Tel: 088 179 6421 (Eng) wuth@vervevillasphuket.com Tel: 081 708 2342 (Eng, Thai) www.vervevillasphuket.com www.facebook.com/vervevillas.phuket

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Health & Beauty

Brain

is the central commander of the whole body system, but not many people are concerned about how to maintain or extend its sharp functionality by healing and practicing routinely. Bangkok Hospital Phuket’s Brain Health Institute has comprehensive brain health screening as well as effective interventions along with high technology to offer you a healthy and well-managed brain that will last much longer.

As the lifestyle of people in the modern world has changed, medication has developed and people can averagely live longer than in the past; the number of people who has brain problems such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or Parkinson’s disease, can be found more as the brain degenerates earlier than the body.

The Brain Health Institute at Bangkok Hospital Phuket is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia and boasts profound brain health screening and enhancement. At length, there is a five-day program that can help boost brainpower while increasing brain cells, which will give a stunning result from the inside out with three parts of the Brain Health program to follow.

Firstly, the pre-assessment that includes Lab Tests such as a blood test, urine test, Alzheimer Genetic Risk Test.

It was found that people carrying Alzheimer genetics possibly had about 2.5 times more risk to get Alzheimer’s disease than usual. Also included is a Sleep Lab that records many factors such as brain waves, risk of sleep apnea, snoring, which can affect the flowing of oxygen to the brain. Another highlight test is the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study (MRI) that can measure brain volume, or the size of hippocampus –the bigger, the better. Recent studies have also found that certain protein in the brain –beta-amyloid– is also present in the retina, and that it correlates to chances of having Alzheimer’s. This can serve as a trigger-point exam in light of early brain health care and enhancement.

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Health & Beauty

After the detailed process above, the results will let the client know if the next step is recommended or not. And here comes the second part -a comprehensive intervention program, complete with full sensory stimulation and neuroplasticity exercise. An obvious change is expected after the brain gets boosted.

During those five days at the institute, the atmosphere around is set to stimulate the brain to work. Food and nutrition control is created for a long-term healthy lifestyle as the food made at the venue is done according to the specific needs of each individual in such a way to minimize allergy and fulfill vital nutritional requirements all under the baton of five-star experienced chefs.

A cooking class is also set to teach how to create delicious and nutritious home-made cuisine.

Proper exercise is also an important factor to enhance the brain health. The institute provides a gym room for walking, running, cycling with an expert personal trainer as well as yoga and meditation classes by an expert coach that absolutely helps keep the right way to inhale and exhale.

A functional brain exercise is also a training program here. The cognitive training class is moderated by an expert psychologist who creates tests and questionnaires that reflect the function of the brain such as the quiz that requires memory, fast response and logic.

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Another star technology of the institute is the Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber, a transparent sleeping capsule that supplies pure oxygen to relax the brain and develop brain cells in the long term.

Besides the full-course treatment program, this so-called sanctuary provides a sleek and smart accommodation to delight all the clients.

The rooms are beautifully decorated in white and blue, the most eye and brain friendly color while the hidden light on the ceiling can be changed to many different shades at will. The comfortable room offers all decent amenities like a resort for a nice stay with a queen to king size bed covered with delicate and healthy bedding while the scent of mild lavender is released from an aroma pot ensuring the sleep will go smoothly.

After the full-course treatment comes the third part as post-assessment, i.e. another analyzing step must be done to see the difference as the institute will provide a wristband for a distance follow-up from home. The client can be checked for any unhealthy sign remotely, and as soon as the alert shows, an agent from the institute will give a phone call to step up the discipline.

The price for brain health check-up at the Brain Health Institute, Bangkok Hospital Phuket starts from 34,000 THB. For further information, please call 1719 or contact info@phukethospital.com.

Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

46

Food & Restaurant

Benjawan Wisootsat, fin wine/ event

‘It’s Naturally Heaven’ lunch at Seafood of Trisara

Wonderful Wine and Dine Journey with ‘Fin’ Indulge in luxury venues with great food and wine with the Fin Deluxe Travel & Lifestyle Experience, a program created and organized by Fin - Fabulous Is Needed Co., Ltd. The purpose of this experience is to share the fabulous world of traveling, art, relaxation, food and wine and all things related to a fabulous lifestyle.

‘Exclusively yours’ wine dinner with Bert Salomon at Kata Rocks

This unique 3 days 2 nights program features various luxury lifestyle experiences that can be tailored-made to match your desire, including 44 dishes pairing with 27 boutique wines from the Fin Naturally wine collection making ensuring the journey is an unforgettable one.

Starting with “Land in Heaven at Trisara”, for the luncheon, at Seafood of Trisara, a delectable 5-course seafood menu cooked by Chef Jimmy Ophorst and paired with a great list of the Fin Naturally wine collection from The Netherlands, France and Austria.

Heading to the south of Phuket, Kata Rocks is a modern and stylish resort with many international awards and accolades which Fin chose for the “Exclusively Yours” wine dinner at their Penthouse, the best location to view Phuket’s sunset kissing the edge of the sea.

The dinner was made complete with Austrian-national Bert Salomon’s, famous wines from Austria, Australia and New Zealand that have been perfectly paired with delicate Mediterranean cuisine created by Executive Chef Laia Pons who personally cooked each dish for the guests amongst a delightful evening atmosphere.

Fabulous party with Art Jewelry and Austrian Wines at Andara Resort & Villas www.theguidephuket.com

Moving on to Kamala, Mr Daniel Meury, General Manager of Andara Resort & Villas welcomed guests and escorted them to their villas which were also the venue for their lunch, with a stunning view of Kamala Beach. “Art of living and living with arts” was a private luncheon that allowed guests to chat with artists and influential figures in the lifestyle industry such as Costan Eghiazarian, Co- Founder and Creative Director of AENEA; Lidwine Clary und Aldringen, a stylish Salzburg-based jeweler; Christian Develter, Belgian-born painter based in Thailand; Bert Salomon, artistic winemaker from Austria and Daniel Meury, General Manager of Andara Resort & Villas, a five-star resort created by the Paradise Group together with Benjawan Wisootsat from Fin - Fabulous Is Needed, a lifestyle company and boutique wines distributor in Thailand.

Food & Restaurant

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Fin Food & Wine Pairing Menu

‘Tastefully yours’ lunch at Black Ginger, Indigo Pearl Hotel Phuket

The evening was a fabulous party with fine jewelry, art, and an interesting list of Austrian wine tasting featuring seven wines from superstars, Herbert Zillinger, Gernot Heinrich and Salomon Undhof. Guests were important media and VIPs from Phuket who gathered to view the masterpieces and atelier jewelry from AENEA, the first in Asia, available at Andara.

The next stop was the luxurious Indigo Pearl where Mr Wichit Na-Ranong, the resort’s owner personally welcomed guests and shared the history and story behind the resort’s success with them over a tasteful lunch under the theme “Tastefully Yours”. The farewell lunch would never have been completed without the real taste of Phuket in a luxurious setting cooked

by Chef Piak and paired with fin wines. To make the pairings even more interesting; the starters were paired with Verdejos from 2013 El Transistor, Rueda Blanco DO, Telmo Rodriguez, Spain; and 2015 VERDELHO, GranMonte Vineyards, Khao Yai, Thailand Pairing for the main course were even more remarkable, with a reputable Riesling from Germany, 2013 Vom Schiefer, Ansgar Clüsserath, Mosel, Germany, and 2014 Tavel Rosé AOC, Château d’Aquéria, Southern Rhone, France (Robert Parker: 90 points, Wine Enthusiast: 91 points). The differences in wine styles enabled diners to explore and enjoy the different kinds of pairings that can be made with local dishes; such as Moo Hong and Pak Leang Goong Seab.

Guests had another surprise, a beer brewed by a Prince Carl-Eugen, 1598 Fürst Wallerstein Edition Privée Beer which is usually for personal consumption and reception at the palace only. The evening ended on a sweet note with a dessert wine from 2013 Spätlese Cuvée, Kracher, Neusiedlersee, Burgenland, Austria putting a smile on the guests’ faces before leaving phuket.

You too can build your own exclusive dream vacation with fin. fin - fabulous is needed co., ltd. www.fin-wine.com, www.fin-event.com, www.facebook.com/FabulousIsNeeded info@fin-event.com | tel: ++ 66(0)2 653 0154 Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Spa Cenvaree

Treat yourself to a spa membership at Spa Cenvaree and take advantage of unlimited use of spa facilities before or after your spa treatments, sauna for general detoxification, weight loss and stress relief and a range of incredible perks. Receive a special member’s welcome gift to the value of THB 1,950, and discounts on spa treatments, food and beverages, spa retail items including Jurlique products, and a complementary spa voucher value at THB 1,000 on your birthday.

Tel: 076 201 234 www.centarahotelsresorts.com www.theguidephuket.com

Vara Spa

At Vara Spa, from the moment you step through the door, you become the center of their attention. Every element has been carefully designed for your comfort. Indulge in sensuous soothing and pampering which will completely revitalize and recharge both your mind and your body. Vara Spa where Thai local wisdom matched with Western contemporary ideas creates immaculate beuty and skincare.

Tel: 076 343 444 www.varaspa.com

Health & Beauty

49

Kanokpat Beauty Art

Kanokpat Beauty Art Brows Design Institution by Artist Pan offers 3D, 6D, 9D and more patterns of eyebrows tattoos, semi-permanent makeup by eyebrows liners, eyeliners, pink lips liners, baby hair liners; with natural, young-looking style, as well as Fengshui-oriented makeup and tattoo.

We service you with international standard colouring products of Biotouch, imported form USA. Facilities and equipments are hygienic and 100% safety guaranty. Our anesthetic is imported from USA and Korea. We also do eyebrows wax, body wax, and bikini wax by Wax@XXX. Tel: 080 544 6665 www.kanokpatbeautyart.com

Amatara A Destination Spa

Indulge yourself with dedicated choice of treatments at Amatara A Destination Spa by Amatara Resort & Wellness ranging from signature spa treatments, facial massage using premium organic products and fitness activities.

In addition to those offerings, from March 2016 onward, Amatara Resort & Wellness is proud and pleased to announce the launch of Thai Hammam Experience that is a unique and relaxing journey through the blending of Turkish bathing practices and Thai therapeutic technique and gentleness for your total pampering.

Tel: 076 318 888 www.amataraphuket.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

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Health & Beauty

The V Spa

The V Spa aims at bringing back guest to nature. Built in the shape of a village style, the pretty small straw roofed Salas blend totally with the natural beauty of the jungle.

Each has been designed with nature at heart.

When in Thailand, don’t forget to have a Traditional Thai Natural Touch Treatment. At The Vijitt Resort Phuket, you can have one at the private spa executive room or at the open air Salas. Traditional Thai Natural Touch Treatment is soothing and relaxing it’s definitely worth it.

Tel: 076 363 600 ext.703 www.vijittresort.com

Dang Massage

A door to true relaxation awaits Dang Massage provides you with a wide range of services including traditional Thai massage, body scrub, facial massage, sports massage, Balinese massage, Swedish massage, head massage, foot massage and the must try Thai herbal compress massage as well as manicure and pedicure and gel polish for a relaxed and beautiful body from head to toe.

All of the therapists are experienced, well trained and will definitely ease your stress away. Feel the extraordinary Thai touch at a reasonable price.

Tel: 076 325 436 www.d-and-dang.com www.theguidephuket.com

t e k Phu Pulse

et Movenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuk

ager of Movenpick On 19 January 2016, General Man et, Nick Porter Phuk h Resort & Spa Karon Beac (Gold Level) from rd Awa l” Hote en “Gre a ived rece onmental Quality Deputy Director Department of Envir Environmenta l of ent artm Dep Promotion by the Quality Promotion.

Thanyapura Phuket

The Swedish Formula One driver, Marcus Ericsson, for two weeks, from the end of Janu ary to the beginning of February, enjo yed the world class sports facilities at Thanyapura and attended classes coached by expert specialists. He wrote on his pers onal Insta gram on February 7, 2016, about the experienc e at Thanyapura and said it was 2 very tough weeks but he loved every second of it. “Stronger and fitter than I’ve ever been!” it read.

Phuket Tourism Association

Phuket Tourism Association together with Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket Office brought local business operators to a Vietnam Roadshow from January 18 - 22, 2016 to boost the tourism image in Phuket.

Thailand Yacht Show 2016

stry of Tourism and On February 11, 2016, the Mini rt, the Tou rism spo Tran of istry Sports, the Min artment and Dep ine Mar the , Authority of Thailand organizers officially the Thailand Yacht Show 2016 y of Thailand Yacht co-hosted the opening ceremon chaired by Deputy ina Mar nd Gra Po Show 2016 at Ao , General Tanasak ster Mini ign Prime Minister and Fore of national and local Patimapragorn with a group of Tourism and Sports, authorities such as Minister ; Minister of Transport, gkul vran tana Wat Khun Kobkarn yapaisith and Phuket pitta Pol Lt Gen Arkhom Term pongtada.

Governor, Chamroen Thipaya

Cape & Kantary Hotels

Cape & Kantary Hotels Executive Director, Tirapongse Pan gsri von gse and Kan tary Hills Hotel, Chiang Mai General Manager, Magrin Promyothi recently donated 300,000 baht to SOS Children’s Villa ges Thailand to support the org anization’s day to day operations. SOS Children ’s Villa ges Thailand President of the Board of Dire ctors Pol. Ma j. Gen. Norawat Charoen-Ra japark grac iously received the donation at Kantary Hills Hote l, Chiang Mai.

The G u ide

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One of the must-try main courses here is Saffron Rice with Paneer Butter Masala. This Indian style rice is marinated with herbs giving a mellow yellow color and aromatic scent, and this is served with a red-color curry containing thick blending cream and spices with Paneer, an Indian-style cheese cut in cubes, giving a unique taste that will please your taste buds.

Another star dish and bestseller of the venue is Lamb Tikka Tawa Masala with Garlic Naan. The hot baked flatbread with garlic and butter topped with the well marinated tender lamb will melt in your mouth with a fragrance of herbs and the touch of thick curry.

Following the fancy course, you can calm the heat with some chilling signature cocktails, Sawaddi Tropez Smash with refreshing watermelon and passion fruit juice with vodka, and Sawaddi Patong Blue Beach with the combination of blue curacao, sprite, gin, vodka and tequila.

Sawaddi Patong Resort & Spa 21 Sainamyen Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel: +66 7634 3444 Email: book@patongsawaddi.com www. patongsawaddi.com Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung

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Phuket Map

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Lifestyle

hopper’s S

Delight

Mai Khao Beach Turtle Village The exclusive shopping destination for the best dining and shopping on Mai Khao Beach. Cuisine choices match wonderfully with the gift, souvenir,antique and clothing selections.

Outlets include Bill Bentley Pub, the only English pub on Mai Khao Beach, The Coffee Club, Swensens, Supermarket Turtle Mart, Jim Thompson, Narai Phand, Tanya Living, Thai Souvenir, Triumph, Surfers Paradise, Esprit Outlet, A.Prime, Custom Tailor, Tara-Leather products, Private Collection, J&P Gems, Mt. Sapola, Ferera, Their Nibs, The Handmade, Thai Express, Noodle Bar. Bangtao & Surin Beach Canal Village Located in the heart of Laguna Phuket Destination Resort, Canal Village Laguna Shopping is a beautifully landscape courtyard surrounded by more than 30 shops, offers the finest selection of quality goods and services available in Phuket.

Whether you desire local and regional handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, daily necessities, tours and excursion options, and delicious dining, chances are you will find it at Canal Village.

Indulge yourself and your loved ones for a day at the superb retail outlets the serene shopping retreat has to offer.

Address: 390/30 Moo 1 Srisoonthorn Rd., Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel: 076 362 330 Email: shopping@lagunaphuket.com Website: www.lagunaphuket.com Surin Plaza Located between Cherng Talay and Surin Beach, Surin Plaza is a one-off, high-class, three-storey shopping emporium.

Here, you can buy unique jewelery, designer clothes, objects d’art and antiques – all in a very attractive setting. Shopping here is a fascinating experience and retailers generally open and close late, typically from 10:00 – 20:00.

Tesco Lotus Park This shopping square offers easy shopping and leisure options to Cherng Talay and Surin Beach residents and has facilities for expats and hotel guests as well as locals.

A large Tesco Lotus supermarket with parking space is at its nucleus while diagonally opposite stands a McDonald’s branch with both indoor and outdoor seating. Sells everything from food and drinks to household goods and is open from 06:00 – 22:00.

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

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

Banana Walk The area’s newest shopping centre is located just 100 metres south of Soi Bangla on the beach road, right next to Banana Disco. The mall is multilevel (three floors) and its overall design leans toward minimal and modernistic, At night the lighting, ranging from blue to red, gives Banana Walk the feeling of entering a spaceship dock in a science fiction movie. Shopping, dining and cosmetics are the three main thrusts of this complex in which you can find almost anything to eat, drink, or buy. You can even improve your well-being at a spa or make yourself even more beautiful at an aesthetic centre or at the onsite hairdresser.

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Lifestyle

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

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

Banana Walk The area’s newest shopping centre is located just 100 metres south of Soi Bangla on the beach road, right next to Banana Disco. The mall is multilevel (three floors) and its overall design leans toward minimal and modernistic, At night the lighting, ranging from blue to red, gives Banana Walk the feeling of entering a spaceship dock in a science fiction movie. Shopping, dining and cosmetics are the three main thrusts of this complex in which you can find almost anything to eat, drink, or buy. You can even improve your well-being at a spa or make yourself even more beautiful at an aesthetic centre or at the onsite hairdresser.

Kata & Karon Beach Kata Plaza Nowadays there are in fact two distinct shopping malls with a bazaar-like feel to them, both are located close to the Kata Palace Hotel and Club Med along Kata Road which runs parallel to Kata Beach Road. The newer of the two is flanked by tailor shops, a pharmacy, and a cozy fan-cooled café along with a minimart and the inevitable optician’s shop. The two-lane plaza really is a one-stop destination for all your holiday souvenirs.

ket

Central Festival Phu Jungce ylon

Karon Bazaar A large, covered market-like shopping centre set in the central area of Karon Beach Road, right between Woraburi Phuket and Moenvenpick Resorts.

The bazaar features just about everything you’ll ever need. Karon Bazaar is a smaller beachside version of the famous Phuket Weekend Market in Phuket Town. Aimed at tourists, the place is a great opportunity for an evening stroll.

Phuket Town Tops Supermarket Tops Supermarket at Central Festival Phuket and Central East, Robinson Phuket, Robinson Junceylon and Limelight Avenue offers the finest selection of local and international produce, all at the best price. As part of Thailand’s leading Central Food Retail supermarket chain with 147 nationwide branches, Tops is able to offer the finest produce of every kind including quality natural meat free from hormones; the freshest fruit and vegetables; freshly caught seafood, plus a fabulous selection of wines, beers and spirits and the latest health and beauty products.

Central Festival Central Festival Phuket is an air-conditioned, fully equipped one-stop shopping mall lying just outside of Phuket Town. The Central Store plays host to over 120 outlets selling products ranging from up-market clothing, fashion accessories, silk goods, bedding, household goods, toys and children’s accessories, travel bags, food, and drinks. There are also watch and jewelery counters here.

It’s literally possible to spend a full day here - shopping, catching the latest movies, and dining out at the range of international restaurants that offer everything from French and Japanese cuisines to local Thai dishes.

www.theguidephuket.com

Lifestyle

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Limelight Avenue

Limelight Avenue Limelight Avenue Phuket is located in the heart of Phuket, on Dibuk Rd. This exciting new avenue features a wide range of food options including famous-brands from Bangkok as well as popular local eateries such as Lemongrass, Pint Factory, WOW Way of Wine, and so many more.

In addition, there are plenty of retail shops, a supermarket, health and beauty shop, coffee and bakery shop, ice cream shop, education and activity shop and food court.

The venue is open from 10am - 10pm (except Tops Daily which opens from 6am until midnight and Tom n Tom Coffee which is open 24 hours) to fit in with the lifestyle of local people and tourists who want to experience real Phuketian life under the slogan, Urban Lifestyle Mall. This mall is the complete answer for the whole family’s activities.

Premium Outlet Phuket Brand-name clothing and sports accessories at bargain prices, it’s located on the Bypass Road. Apart from Thai brands, other items on sale include Lacoste, Guy Laroche, Hush Puppies, Warner Bros, Pierre Cardin, Van Heusen, Levi’s, Lee, Nautica, Adidas and Nike and feature discounts of up to 70%.

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

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

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

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Transport

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

To and from the airport Airport transfers are relatively simple. The airport is at the far north of the island, some 30 kilometers from Phuket Town and even further from most of the popular beaches like Patong and Karon. It is best to use one of the two official transport companies with booths right inside the arrival lounge, you can’t miss them. Private Airport Limousines or minibuses are available to get to the ma jor beaches at the south or west of the island. Metered taxis are also available.

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

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

‘Tuk-Tuks’ If you want your own private taxi, look for a tuk tuk, a tiny mini-truck used to carry about four (or more!) passengers.

The tuk-tuk gets its name from the noise its little engine

makes. There are fleets of these in all ma jor tourist areas and they will take you anywhere for a price. The going rate for the relatively short ride between Patong and Phuket Town can be as much as 450 THB, one way!

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

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

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

Renting a Motorcycle Motorcycles, big and small, can be rented all over the island and are a popular choice for many tourists. Zipping around with the breeze in your hair is tempting for anyone but do be careful, the hospitals here see a never-ending stream of foreigners arriving with skin missing from arms and legs, or sometimes worse. The accident rate on Phuket is one of the highest in Thailand with 90% of road accidents involving motorcycles!

Note that Thai law requires the driver to carry a valid license at all times and all riders to wear helmets. Also motorcycle lights must be turned on at all times, including during the daytime! The police occasionally enforce all these laws, so beware.

The real danger in Phuket is this: NONE of the motorcycles rented here have insurance.

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

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

Renting a car allows you get off the island and see the beautiful, neighboring provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi. The roads are good and the scenery spectacular, making for a great day out.

Regional Buses The long distance bus station is in Phuket Town and across 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.

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Transport

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SCHEDULE TO/FROM PHUKET Effective : 26 October 2015 - 28 March 2016

PHUKET TO BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI)

BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) TO PHUKET

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

TG 226

0720

0845

Daily

TG 201

0745

0910

Daily

TG 202

1005

1135

Daily

TG 203

0830

0955

Daily

TG 204

1055

1225

Daily

TG 2275

0910

1030

Daily

TG 2276

1115

1240

Daily

TG 205

1000

1120

Daily

TG 206

1215

1340

Daily

TG 207

1320

1445

Daily

TG 208

1355

1525

Daily

TG 215

1405

1525

Daily

TG 230

1425

1550

1567

TG 2277

1535

1655

Daily

TG 216

1625

1750

Daily

TG 217

1645

1805

Daily

TG 2278

1740

1905

Daily

TG 219

1725

1845

Daily

TG 218

1900

2025

Daily

TG 221

1815

1935

Daily

TG 220

1935

2100

Daily

TG 211

1915

2035

Daily

TG 222

2035

2200

Daily

TG 2283

2005

2125

Daily

TG 212

2125

2250

Daily

TG 225

2240

2359

Daily

TG 2284

2220

2345

Daily Days of Service: 1 = Mon 2 = Tue 3 = Wed 4 = Thu 5 = Fri 6 = Sat 7 = Sun

CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

TG 1171

0935

1130

Daily

Transport by Boat Regular ferry boat services from Phuket run only to the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Yao Noi and Krabi. There are unscheduled boats to Koh Bon, Racha Yai and Koh Yao Yai. You can get to Koh Lanta by changing boats at Koh Phi Phi. Song-taews 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 colorful with a sign on front showing where they are going. These vehicles leave from a set stop by the fresh produce market in Phuket Town, reaching every ma jor beach area on the island. They run approximately every hour but there are no fixed schedules, and they run when there are sufficient passengers. When leaving the beach areas to head back to town they usually cruise slowly around the streets picking up passengers. Song-taews are slow but cheap with the fare from Phuket Town to Patong now set at just 25 THB per person!

Phuket Reservation Call 0-7636-0444 Mon-Sun, 0800 - 1700 www.thaiairways.co.th / www.thaiairways.com / www.thaismileair.com

Local Bus Timetable Destination Bangtao Beach Surin Beach Kamala Beach Kata Beach Karon Beach Kathu District Patong Beach Makh am Ba y Ch along Ba y Rawai Beach Naiharn Beach Sarasin Bridge Bang Rong Pier Por Ba y Pier

Beach to Town

Fee (Baht)

25

6.00am - 4.00pm

35

7.00am - 5.00pm

25

6.00am - 4.00pm

35

7.00am - 5.00pm

30

6.00am - 4.00pm

40

7.30am - 6.00pm

25

5.30am - 4.30pm

40

7.30am - 6.00pm

25

5.30am - 4.30pm

40

7.30am - 5.00pm

15

6.20am - 3.30pm

25

8.00am - 6.00pm

20

7.30am - 5.30pm

30

8.00am - 5.00pm

20

7.00am - 3.30pm

30

8.00am - 5.30pm

20

6.00am - 5.30pm

30

6.50am - 5.30pm

25

6.00am - 4.30pm

40

7.00am - 6.05pm

30

6.45am - 6.05pm

45

6.00am - 6.00pm

30

6.00am - 3.00pm

40

8.30am - 4.00pm

30

7.00am - 4.00pm

30

8.30am - 4.00pm

30

7.00am - 4.00pm

30

Town to Beach

Fee (Baht)

7.00am - 5.00pm

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64

Andaman

g Gettion t know

The Southern Andaman Region of Krabi, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta

Three hours drive south from Phuket through stunning limestone cliffs and dense forest brings you to the southern playground of the Krabi region of the Andaman overlooking Phang Nga Bay with its many scattered islands, hidden bays and beaches.

Throw away your watch and bask in nature’s beauty or snorkel, dive, rock climb, fish, kayak, hike, sail, party, spa or wine and dine to your heart’s content – this region has it all.

Ao Nang Beach Just 18 km from Krabi Town is beautiful Ao Nang with its 83 scattered islands. Each island is only a short distance from the next and so during low tide you can wade to a neighboring island, many with sandy beaches and crystal clear water and ma jestic limestone cliffs rising straight from the clear waters of the sea. Ao Nang has several famous beaches including East Rai Le, West Rai Le and Phra Nang cave which stretches to the foot of a prominent limestone range.

Noppharat Thara Beach Just 20 km west of Krabi and three miles long, this beach is lined with ma jestic Casuarina trees and is in fact part of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Marine Park and is the location of the Park headquarters. As with Ao Nang, it’s possible to reach other islands in the bay on foot during low tides.

Railay Beach This beach is generally divided into two sections, east and west. West Railey provides visitors with peace and quiet as it is a broad sandy beach with fewer facilities than Ao Nang. East Railey which lies across the peninsula from West Railey is different from other beaches in the area as it could actually be classified as a mud flat, especially during low tide. The main attraction for visitors to Railey Beach is the adrenaline pumping activity of cliff climbing.

The limestone cliffs on the huge headland between East of Railey Beach and Phra Nang cave, as well as other nearby islands provide world-class rock climbing facilities against a stunning backdrop of the sea with approximately 700 routes of mid to high difficult rating. www.theguidephuket.com

Pra Nang Beach Connected to Railay by a small path, Phra Nang is on the outermost headland, backed by limestone cliffs soaring above the beach. At the bottom of the cliff lies the Princess Cave or Tham Phra Nang Nok where local fishermen leave offerings for good fortune.

Klong Muang Beach/Tubkaak Krabi’s latest beach destination, Muang Klong boasts both 5-star and boutique hotels like the Sheraton Krabi Resort, the Nakamanda and the Tubkaak Resort and offers powderwhite sand and safe swimming.

The Lanta Island Group About 53 islands are included in this group situated at the southern limit of Krabi Province. Koh Lanta Yai is the largest and is both a traveler’s and up-market vacationer’s paradise and is as yet relatively undeveloped. You can get to Lanta on the regular ferry from Jao Fah Pier in Krabi Town. The prime attractions are its long beaches, clear water, laid back atmosphere and scuda diver’s paradise where most of the nicest beaches and tourist attractions are located.

The Phi Phi Islands Known for phenomenal natural beauty, particularly the famous twin bays with their the curving beaches upon which lies the largest town. Phi Phi islands are some of the most beautiful in the world with superb scenery, silvery sand beaches and Emerald green seas with coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. Hardly two hours journey by boat from Ao Nang, the twin islands Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh provide excellent accommodation options and are known as ma jor “party islands.”

Poda Islands Situated south of Ao Nang, 8 Kilometers offshore, Koh Poda or Poda Group Islands are fringed by clear waters and offer white sandy beaches, as well as, pristine coral reefs.

These islands are not affected so much by the monsoon therefore are year-round attractions and an excellent place for fishing. Poda island with white sand beaches and clear turquoise seawater abounded with schools of colorful fish.

Sightseeing by Canoe or Kayak Many companies offer sea canoeing and kayaking adventures around Phang Nga Bay and into the many coves, caves and islets dotting the otherworldly shores around Krabi, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.

Fishing Abundant sea and even freshwater fishing is available all over this region, from squid boating, to line fishing in Phang Nga Bay, to big game adventures off the Continental Shelf drop-off. Don’t let that big one get away!

Bird Watching A trip to Krabi can be a very rewarding visit for any bird lovers. With easily accessible mangroves and low lying forests, there are many places to spot rare birds. Two excellent locations are Khao Kanat Nam, close to Krabi Town, and Khao No Chuchi Forest Preserve.

Highlight Attractions..

Emerald Pool Emerald Pool or Sra Morakot in Thai is located at Klong Thom District. This hot spring originates from a warm stream in the lowland forest. The intensity of the pool’s turquoise colored water varies according to the light and time of the day so a good time to visit is at dawn or early morning.

Tiger Cave Temple Tiger Cave Temple or Wat Tham Sua in Thai is located about 3 kilometers from Krabi town. The inside of this cave features tiger prints captured in stone and is in the middle of an abundant forest with gigantic ancient trees.

This place is remarkable archaeologically as many artifacts have been found on the premises including tools, pottery and the mold for the Buddha’s footprint.

Highlights & Activities...

Rock Climbing Apart from marine sports, Krabi is also an ideal place for rock climbing. Lines of sheer limestone cliffs along Tham Phranang and Rai Le Beaches have challenged thousands of climbers from all over the world every year. The levels of difficulty of the various routes vary, so Whether you’re a professional or just an aspiring adrenalin junkie, the craggy karsts of Krabi offer a huge array of bolted mounts.

Diving Both scuba and snorkeling are widely available in warm, coral and fish infested waters with full PADI accreditation courses and live-aboard adventures.

Partying Phi Phi is known worldwide as “Party Island central” and Koh Lanta is not far behind. Krabi Town is more sedate, but there are plenty of good bars and a live music scene to enjoy.

Shopping Outlet Village Krabi is located on Phetchakasem Road. It is on the way from the city to the local airport and features a tall lighthouse near the entrance and 6,000 sqm of retail space. Throughout the year, many Thai and foreign travelers visit this outlet which offers over 100 selected leading brands for all ages. Clothing discounted up to 70% is available here. It is open daily from 11:00 a.m. - 9.00 p.m.

Enjoying the Local Seafood Have a seafood feast and savor the fresh day’s catch in any number of a fun, laidback, or fine-dining restaurants all over this region.

Getting there By road from Phuket Take a minibus or frequent local bus from Phuket Town’s bus terminal with information regarding timetables, taxi or mini-van shuttle services readily available at hotels, travel agent or Phuket Airport.

Renting a car is also a good option and the roads are wide, modern and relatively quiet.

To Krabi and Phi Phi by boat It is possible to charter a speedboat or similar transportation to Krabi or Koh Phi Phi, or there are frequent daily ferries operating between Phuket and Phi Phi Island and then on to Krabi, or via the Koh Yao Islands, each taking about two hours.

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66

Andaman

Krabi Hotel Highlights The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 628 400 www.tubkaakresort.com Amari Vogue Krabi Tel. +66 (0) 75 607 777 www.amari.com/vogue Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 628 000 www.starwoodhotels.com Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Tel. +66 (0) 75 628 111 www.ritzcarlton.com Anyavee Tabkaek Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 607 200 www.anyaveetubkaekbeachresort.com Mercure Krabi Deevana Tel. +66 (0) 75 639 999 www.mercure.com Aonang Phu Petra Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 626 666 www.aonangphupetra.com Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 789 www.centarahotelsresorts.com Aonang Villa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 270-4 www.aonangvilla.com The L Resort Krabi Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 485 www.thelresort.com Aonang Ayodhaya Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 661 555 www.aonangayodhaya.com Krabi Resort Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 030-5 www.krabiresort.net Aonang Buri Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 499 www.aonangburi.com

Pimalai Resort & Sp a - Koh Lanta Tel. +66 (0) 75 607 999 www.pimalai.com

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Peace Laguna Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 344-7 www.peacelagunaresort.com Krabi Sands Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 600 027 www.krabisands.com Railay Beach Rayavadee Tel. +66 (0) 75 620 740-3 www.rayavadee.com Bhu Nga Thani Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 819 451-4 www.bhungathani.com Railay Village Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 819 412-3 www.railayvillagekrabi.com Anyavee Railay Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 819 438 www.anyaveerailay.com Railay Bay Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 622 998-9 www.railaybayresort.com Koh Lanta Layana Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 607 100 www.layanaresort.com Rawi Warin Resort & spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 607 400-498 (98 lines) www.rawiwarin.com Twin Bay Resort Tel. +66 (0) 84 305 4288 www.twinbaylanta.com Nakara Long Beach Resort Tel. + 66 (0) 75 684 198 Crown Lanta Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 626 999 www.crownlanta.com

Be yond Resorts by Ka ta Group Tel. +66 (0) 75 628 300 www.kata group.com

Lanta Pura Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 668 299-301 www.lantapura.com Lanta Castaway Beach Resort Tel. + 66 (0) 75 684 851 www.lantacastaway.com Anda Lanta Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 665 018 www.andalanta.com Royal Lanta Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 684 361 www.royallanta.com Andaman Lanta Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 684 200-2 www.andamanlanta.com Lanta Marina Reaort Tel. +66 (0) 75 684 168 www.lantamarina.com Phi Phi Island Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi Island Tel. + 66 (0) 75 627 300 www.ichotelsgroup.com Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 75 628 900 www.outrigger.com Phi Phi Island Cabana Hotel Tel. +66 (0) 75 601 170-7 www.phiphi-cabana.com Zeavola Tel. +66 (0) 75 627 000 www.zeavola.com Phitharom PP Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 601 121 www.phiphiresortphitharom.com

Sofitel Krabi Phokeeth ra Golf & Spa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 627 80 0 www.sofitel.com

68

Transport

Call Center 24 Hrs Call Center 24 Hrs

1771

PHUKET TO SAMUI

SAMUI TO PHUKET

PHUKET TO UTAPAO

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

PG252

0935

1030

Daily

PG251

0805

0905

Daily

PG282

PG250

1125

1220

Daily

PG259

0925

1025

Daily

1510

1645

Daily

PG254

1300

1355

Daily

PG253

1125

1225

Daily

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

PG256

1600

1655

Daily

PG255

1430

1530

Daily

PG281

1300

1440

Daily

PG258

1910

2005

Daily

PG257

1730

1830

Daily

UTAPAO TO PHUKET

PHUKET TO Chiang mai PHUKET TO BANGKOK

BANGKOK TO PHUKET

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

PG247

1110

1315

Daily

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

PG270

0700

0825

Daily

PG271

0805

0930

Daily

PG272

1020

1145

Daily

PG283

0850

1015

Daily

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

PG276

1215

1340

Daily

PG275

1000

1125

Daily

PG248

1415

1620

Daily

PG274

1440

1605

Daily

PG924

1225

1350

Daily

PG909

1610

1735

Daily

PG273

1355

1520

Daily

PG286

1725

1850

Daily

PG277

1655

1820

Daily

PG278

1905

2030

Daily

PG279

1945

2110

Daily

PG280

2210

2335

Daily

PG220

2155

2320

Daily

Lost Credit Cards

Chiang mai TO PHUKET

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

Telephone numbers of the consular representatives functioning in Phuket

Visa

001-800-11-535-0660

Australia

076 510 111

Ireland

076 281 273

AMEX

02 273 5544

Austria

076 248 334-6

Italy

076 381 792

Master Card

001-800-11-887-0663

Czech Republic

076 249 400

USA

076 342 270

Diners Club

02 232 4100

Denmark

076 388 283

Korea

076 234 452

HSBC

1590

Finland

076 330 530-4

Norway

076 237 156

City Bank

1588, 02 232 2484

France

076 304 050

Sweden

076 380 000

JCB

02 256 9151-4

Germany

076 610 407

United Kingdom

076 318 188

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

212 129

Phuket Airport

327 230-37

Tourist Police

214 368 or 1155

Tourism Authorities (TAT)

212 213

Kamala Police Station

279 058

Phuket Tourist Association

610 365-6

Kathu Police Station

342 719/21

Bangkok Phuket Hospital

254 425

Thalang Police Station

311 123

Mission Hospital

237 220-6

Phuket Provincial Immigration Office

215 217

Patong Hospital

340 444 or 342 633-4

Phuket Deep Sea Port

391 171

Phuket International Hospital

249 400

Phuket Post and Telegraph Office

211 020 or 216 951

Vachira Phuket Hospital

361 324

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70

Andaman

g n i t t e G o t know

the Northern Andaman Region

of Khaolak, Phang Nga

Just an hour’s drive north of Phuket in mainland Phang Nga province, Khaolak is a beautiful area with long, sandy beaches fringed by the many surrounding national parks offering nature lovers a pristine landscape of beaches, jungle-covered mountains, forested valleys, mangroves and estuaries.

There’s an abundance of comfortable resorts and bungalows blending into the scenery along the coastline and being more low-key than, Phuket, it’s a place to take it easy, read a book and get back to nature. Go for long walks on the beach, take a nature tour and explore the interior, go sightseeing by elephant, trek through the jungle, or go rafting along the local rivers with one of the daily Eco-Tours.

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Khaolak is also a great jumping off point in the high season for a trip to the Surin and Similan Islands, renowned for world-class scuba diving, or for the gorgeous Khao Sok National Park further to the north.

Andaman

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Activities in the Khaolak, Phang Nga Nature Tours As Khaolak is surrounded by national parks, an eco-friendly nature tour is a must. A typical tour with pick you up about 09:00 and you’ll be driven to a fishery to have a look at the many exotic species there, and then taken to an elephant camp. Riding an elephant through the jungle is a life-enhancing experience and you’ll be amazed at the gentleness of these huge beasts. After lunch you are bussed up to a camp in the mountains where bamboo rafts then take you downriver.

Trekking in Khao Sok National Park to the north is sublime and there are riverside cottages for rent, plus river rafting and tubing.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Beginner courses and daytrips for experienced divers are freely available, most groups making up about six divers maximum. For those who can’t get enough of the vivid underwater life in this area there are also live-aboard trips.

Due west from Khaolak is the Similan Island group with the Surin archipelago to the northwest and by speed boat you can reach the Similans in about 90 minutes from Taplamu Harbor to the south of Khaolak.

Sea Kayaking There are several companies offering sea cave kayaking tours from Khaolak to nearby Phang Nga Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the departure point, the ‘mother ship’, which also transports the kayaks, takes you to limestone islands that have collapsed into themselves leaving the interior intact and untouched over many years. Sea caves lead into these lagoons and when the tide is right the result is akin to visiting a parallel world where time stands still.

Wining and Dining Khaolak has an abundance of great Thai and international restaurants, pubs and bars, some offering music and all are welcoming and friendly.

Home Stays and Environmentalism North of Khaolak there are many Muslim villages offering fascinating home stays linked to local culture, agriculture and the environment. All are well worth visiting and of course help the local economies.

Sea Fishing Abundant fishing opportunities are available offshore from local line angling to big game chasing farther afield.

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Phang Nga Hotel Highlights Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 371371 www.maikhaodream.com Ranyatavi Resort Phang Nga Tel. +66 (0) 76 580 800 www.ranyatavi.com The Hotspring Beach Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 580 000-28 www.thehotspringbeach.com Bor Saen Villa & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 418 888 www.borsaenvilla.com Kho Yao Bay Pavilions, Koh Yao Noi Tel: +66 (0) 76 597 441 www.koyaobay.com Koh Yao Island Resort, Koh Yao Noi Tel. +66 (0) 76 597474-6 www.kohyao.com Elixir Resort Koh Yao Tel. + (66) (0) 87 808 3838 www.elixirresort.com The Sarojin Te. +66 (0) 76 427 900-4 www.sarojin.com Casa de La Flora, Khao lak Tel. +66 (0)76 428 999 www.casadelaflora.com JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 888 www.marriott.com Le MĂŠridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 427 500 www.starwoodhotels.com Ramada Resort Khao Lak Tel. +66 (0) 76 427 777 www.ramadakhaolak.com Kantary Beach Hotel Villas and Suites, Khao Lak Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 700 www. kantarybeach-khaolak.com Khao Lak Orchid Beach Resort Tel : +66 (0) 76 486 141 www.khaolakorchid.com

La Flora Resort & Sp a, Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 00 0 www.lafloraresort.co m

Khaolak Merlin Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 300 www.merlinphuket.com The Shambhala Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 486 600 www.shambhalakhaolak.com Khaolak Bhandari Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 751-4 www.khaolakbhandari.com Mukdara Beach Villa & Spa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 429 999 www.mukdarabeach.com Khaolak Paradise Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 429 100 www.khaolakparadise.com Khaolak Oriental Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 443 480-3 www.khaolakoriental.com Khaolak Bay Front Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 641 www.khaolakbayfront.com Apsaras Beach Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 444 www.apsarasresort.com Monochrome Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 427 700 www.monochromeresort.com The Briza Beach Resort Khao Lak Phang Nga, Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 600 www.brizakhaolak.com Baan Krating Khao Lak Resort (Next to Khao Lak National Park) Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 188-9 www.baankrating.com Luckanawadee Boutique Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 85 477 3271 www.lackanawadee.com Khaolak Countryside Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 474-6 www.thekhaolakcountrysideresort.com www.khaolakcountrysideresort.com

Wanakarn Beach Re sort & Spa Tel: +66 (0)76 584 30 0 www.wanakarnresort.c om

The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 800 www.thesandskhaolak.com Beyond Resort Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 592 300 www.katagroup.com/beyond-khaolak Khaolak Sunset Resort Tel. + 66 (0) 76 485 075-77 www.khaolaksunset.com/ Baan Khaolak Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 123-4 www.baankhaolakbeachresort.com The Andamania Beach Resort Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 666 www.andamania.com Palm Galleria Resort, Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 427 000 Khaolak Wanaburee Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 385 333-5 www.wanaburee.com Mai Khaolak Beach Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 592 000 www.maikhaolak.com Khaolak Diamond Beach Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 600 www.khaolakdiamondresort.com Khaolak Emerald Beach Resort & spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 700 upto 28 www.khaolakemeraldresort.com Royal Bangsak Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 592 555 www.royalbangsakresort.com Sansimar Khaolak Beachfront Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 900 -5 www.khaolak-beachfront.com Andaman Princess Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 592 222-9 www.andamanprincessresort.com The Paradise Koh Yao Boutique Beach Resort & Spa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 450, www.theparadise.biz

Iniala Beach House Tel. +66 (0) 76 429 439 www.iniala.com