The guide phuket june 2016

CONTENTS June 2016 16

24

26

29

30

40

THE GUIDE LIFESTYLE

THE GUIDE DINING

22

Life’s a Beach

24

Getting to know Phitchayaporn Thitikullawat

32 34

26

Karon Beach Square

47

Phuket Pulse

52

Phuket Map

THE GUIDE BEAUTY

54

Shopper’s Delight

40 Healthcare 44 Spa Highlights

36

Let’s do brunch Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort Restaurant Highlights

THE GUIDE ACTIVITY 12

Activities on the island

18

Hot Activities

THE GUIDE HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION 28

Hotel Highlights

30

Best Western Patong Beach

Cover photo : Amatara Resort & Wellness

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

TIMETABLE 58 65

Thai Airways Timetable Bangkok Airways Timetable

THE GUIDE ANDAMAN 60 62 64

Southern Andaman Region Hotel Highlights Southern Andaman Hotel Highlights Northern Andaman

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Titaree Taweekit graphic.theguidephuket@gmail.com

10

Lifestyle

‘p

huket’

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.

www.theguidephuket.com

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 centraland 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.

Alternative

Phuket 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, quiet 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.

www.theguidephuket.com

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 Phuket’s most famous view point, Laem Phrom Thep at the very bottom of the island, is on the ‘must see’ list for every Thai visitor to the island. Thus it attracts a fleet of tour 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

Lifestyle

CHIC markets in Phuket June is certainly not the best time to organize a scuba or even snorkeling trip as it is relatively safe to say that bad weather will occur. However, Phuket has plenty of other activities that do not involve a boat, and for this issue we present you with Phuket’s chic markets, where you can find a plethora of cool items and discover the stylish avenues throughout the week.

Lad Ku (Ku Night Market)

One of the newest night markets in town is waiting for all shopping lovers to explore every Monday and Tuesday.

There are more than 200 vendors at the market offering a variety of products, especially street food that will attract you with its rich aroma. The avenue is built up weekly in front of the Big C shopping center in Kuku, just nearby Phuket Ra jabhat University intersection on Rassada Rodd.

Chillva Market

The newest and one of the most popular markets among local people because if its smart design, making use of colorful shipping containers as shops. It’s known as a hipster market where cool people have to check out. There are plenty of interesting items; clothes, accessories, food and drinks, art works, live street bands and even bars serving iced cold refreshments and snacks. The market is open in Samkong about 500 meters away from Tesco Lotus every Thursdays, Friday and Saturday.

Lad Ploi Khong (Phuket Indy Market)

Located next to Limelight Avenue shopping mall, Lad Ploi Khong is open every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. You will find a large number of local Phuket teens shopping for trendy items such as clothes, bags, shoes, accessories and more while grabbing some yummy bites along the market.

Lad Yai

“Lad” is a southern way of saying “Talad”, which means market, while Yai means big. Lad Yai is located in Phuket downtown on the famous Thalang Road and is open every Sunday. Imagine yourself on a fine night in a charming street surrounded by the antique Sino-Portuguese buildings, all decorated with fancy lights, while the middle of the street is filled with vendors serving delicious local food, street-wear clothing, accessories and more. The area is also home to some very cool bars where you can stop for a drink or two.

Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung

www.theguidephuket.com

Lifestyle

15

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16

Lifestyle

Your Day in a

Legendary Mansion

For an important day, choosing the right place to celebrate is a key to making it extraordinary and memorable. Blue Elephant Phuket, located in the grand Sino-Portuguese style - Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion, a historic 105 year old landmark, is an option that is sure to make your special day legendary.

With its exquisite architecture and decor which follows the principles of Feng Shui, Blue Elephant is a refreshing and relaxing venue which also boasts a huge 11 Rai outside area with pleasant greenery providing shade and can hold a capacity of 1,470 people in total.

Blue elephant is capable of handling all your needs, from the most exclusive private party to a massive celebration.

www.theguidephuket.com

Lifestyle

17

The in-house professional event organizing team, who have operating for six years, guarantee a remarkable outcome for their tailor-made events such as weddings, gala dinners and charity concerts. Also, the team offers a very flexible design for events at the customer’s requests under the trustworthy brand of Blue Elephant.

In line with their long term experience, the Blue Elephant team can arrange all the necessary equipment and facilities including professional light and sound system, grand stage, fabulous decoration and stunning shows.

The unforgettable element when choosing Blue Elephant is their true Royal culinary cuisine. Your event will be catered from the world famous kitchen following their extravaganza recipes concocted by their worldrenowned star chef, Khun Noroor Somany Stepp, and can be set as required, buffet style or dining set.

All your guests will be impressed by the variety of unique dishes from starters, main courses to desserts that contain all premium and fresh ingredients cooked and seasoned to perfection while getting pampered by a great hospitality service.

Blue Elephant BE Governor Mansion, Phuket Cooking School & Restaurant 96 Krabi Road., Tambon Talad Neua, Muang District, Phuket 83000 Tel: + 66 76 354 355-7 www.blueelephant.com Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

18

Activities

Hot Activities NOW 3 CLASSES DAILY 09.00 - 10.30 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

Hanuman World

Luxurious Day

White Water Rafting

Discover the fun in the world of Hanuman, the newest adventurous activity in Wichit.

Hanuman World offers a good adrenaline rush with a 500 meter and 40 meter high long zip line and zip line coaster that let you fly with high speed.

Meanwhile, Hanuman World also offers a Sky Walk activity for those who prefer to chill. The beautiful bridge at the tree tops allows you to gaze at the green nature.

The restaurant, Wanon, also serves delicious local and Thai cuisine for lunch and dinner with an amazing view of Phuket city and seas.

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

www.flyinghanuman.com www.theguidephuket.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.

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.asia-marine.net

www.sutingroup.com

Activities

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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

22

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.

Lifestyle

· Karon Beach

23

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

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

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GETTING TO KNOW...

Phitchayaporn Thitikullawat (Gee)

Director of Sales & Marketing at Serenity Resort & Residences, operated by Triple C Hotels & Resorts Management Company, Gee also oversees the Sales and Marketing for Friendship Beach Resort, Atmanjai Wellness Spa and KA Villa, all under the Triple C Hotels & Resorts umbrella.

Please tell us about your background and the path that led you to this career?

I studied Tourism at Nakhon Ratchasima Ra jabhat University, where I gained basic knowledge of the hospitality industry.

I moved to Phuket in 2002 working for various real estate projects. In 2008, I joined Serenity whilst it was being built.

I am proud to have seen this property grow and become established. We are recognized by locals and expats, have many returning guests, and is a place for younger customers looking for fun, as Serenity is recognized as a premier event venue for weddings.

What are the outstanding points of Serenity Resort & Residences?

Serenity Resort & Residences offers a feeling of living in a luxury home condo. The shady garden and stunning view of Chalong Bay and its tropical islands are our main selling points. Our accommodations offer large, airy living areas with luxury interiors consisting of comfortable bedroom and fitted kitchen allowing long stay guests the possibility of cooking ‘at home’ if they wish.

We provide several room types to meet the different requirements of our guests, which includes: Serenity Suites, Serenity Seaview Suites, 2 Bedroom Grand Seaview Suites, 2 Bedroom Penthouse Seaview Suites, H2O Suites, and our 2 Bedrooms Pool Residences. Our resort is designed to meet the expectations of various market segments, from honeymooners, to families, to senior citizen couples, and offer facilities to satisfy all age groups.

Our returning guest’s feedback is usually about impressions, feelings and that they enjoy being pampered by our team.

Our jobs would be insurmountably difficult if it were not for the valiant efforts from our entire team, I believe this is the magic side of our resort.

What is your business strategy in managing Serenity Resort & Residences?

The market has changed and worsened in the past few years, it is imperative we keep our finger on the pulse and adapt to market demands. This forces us to remain on our toes and periodically review our strategies.

For me, business strategy is about excellence! I have to continuously monitor our situation and analyze our business sources and origins. Many factors influence Phuket’s tourism industry starting with economics and geopolitical situation, buying power, origin of guests...etc. We carefully choose the market and partners we work with and build promotions based on time frames, seasonality, launching platforms and distribution channels that work for us and are successful.

What future developments for Serenity Resort & Residences and for Phuket as a whole, are key to your success?

Like any company, we are looking to expand Triple C Hotels & Resorts portfolio but we remain conscious that Phuket is a challenging destination. In the future, we shall be adding a few more properties under our umbrella whilst developing further our flagship, Serenity Resort & Residences. We strongly believe that Triple C Hotels & Resorts will grow successfully along with all the properties we are currently managing.

Serenity Resort & Residences 14 Moo 5, Viset Road, Rawai, Phuket, Rawai Beach, 83130 Tel: +66 (0)76 371900 www.serenityphuket.com Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung

www.theguidephuket.com

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Food & Restaurant

T he

G r il l i s o n F i re a t

With a fabulous backdrop of a golden sunset sky meeting the edge of the ocean at Karon Beach, be pampered in the relaxing atmosphere of MINT, the outdoor dining avenue of Karon Beach Square at Mรถvenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket.

Grab a glass from the list of refreshing cocktails, beers or wines and enjoy a chilled evening with your buddies amongst some easy listening tunes. Live cooking stations are set around the MINT dining area and are ready to grill an extravagant range of offerings including oysters, prawns and fresh snapper, while meat lovers can also choose from BBQ chicken, marinated chicken breast, pork tenderloin or tender piece of quality Australian beef striploin, or all together! The experienced chefs are stationed there to cook them to your preference. www.theguidephuket.com

MINT

Lifestyle

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Neighboring the grills are a variety of salads such as potato, Greek, pasta and tomato and mozzarella, as well as another live cooking station serving dishes such as spaghetti, penne and fusilli with a selection of sauces including traditional Bolognese and tomato. At a further station you will also find some golden calamari and spring rolls served hot from the pan.

Meanwhile, the taste of Thai is also unforgettable.

There are some choices of classic Thai cuisine such as stir fried rice, chicken Penang and stir fried vegetables.

Complete your meal with a touch of sweetness.

MINT has a fancy list of remarkable and tasty cakes to offer alongside the signature Mรถvenpick ice cream and fruits.

This great dining experience is priced at 850 Baht NET per person without beverage or 1,200 Baht NET with two hours free-flow on selected beverages while children aged 7-12 get 50% discount. Join the dinner at MINT every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 6pm to 10pm, you will be impressed!

Karon Beach Square 509 Patak Road, Karon Beach, Phuket 83100 Tel: +66 (0)76 396 139 www.karonbeachsquare.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 Deevana Patong Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 341 414-5 Duangjitt Resort & Spa + 66 (0) 76 342 090-4, 340 310-1 dusitD2 phuket resort +66 (0) 76 337 000 Impiana Resort Patong +66 (0) 76 340 138 La Flora Patong +66 (0) 76 344 241 Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 680-5

Highlights

Sawaddi Patong Resort

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

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa Tel: (66-76) 340-850 -4 www.banthaiphuket.com

Andaman Embrace Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 370 000 www.andamanembrace.com

Best Western, Patong Beach

+66 (0) 76 360 200 www.bestwesternpatongbeach.com

Centra Ashlee Hotel Patong

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

Grand Mercure Phuket Patong

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

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 Millennium Resort +66 (0) 76 601 999 Novotel Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 342 777 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 Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 370 500 Royal Pawadee Village Hotel +66 (0) 76 344 622 Salathai Resort +66 (0) 76 296 631 SLEEP WITH ME HOTEL design hotel @ patong +66 (0) 76 363 333 The 9th Floor Residence +66 (0) 76 344 987 THE KEE Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 335 888 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 ►KARON BEACH Hilton Phuket Acadia Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 396 433 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

Mövenpick Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 396 139-48 Phuket Orchid Resort +66 (0) 76 396 519-23 Ramada Phuket Southsea +66 (0) 76 370 888 Thavorn Palm Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 396 090 The Front Village +66 (0) 76 398 200-5

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

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach +66 (0) 76 396 139 www.movenpick.com

►KATA BEACH Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 370 999 Sawasdee Village +66 (0) 76 330 979 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 Mom Tri’s Villa Royale Phuket +66 (0) 76 333 568 Sugar Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 404 Impiana Private Villas +66 (0) 76 330 770

Eastin Yama Hotel Phuket

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

HOTEL ►BANG TAO BEACH Angsana Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 101 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 Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 362 999 Laguna Holiday Club Resort +66 (0) 76 271 888 Mövenpick Resort Bangtao Beach +66 (0) 76 310 400 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

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

The Vijitt Resort Phuket 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

►SURIN BEACH Amanpuri +66 (0) 76 324 333 Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort&Spa +66 (0) 76 271 271 Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 303 300 The Surin Phuket +66 (0) 76 621 580 ►KAMALA BEACH Andara Phuket +66 (0) 76 338 777 Aquamarine Resort & Villa +66 (0) 76 310 600 Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 310 777 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 Paresa Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 302 000

+66 (0) 76 363 600 www.vijittresort.com

►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

Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 363 999 Sala Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 338 888 ►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 The Panwa Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 393 300

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 Marriott Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 316 500 www.marriott.com

►MAIKHAO Anantara Phuket +66 (0) 76 336 100 Blue Canyon Country Club +66 (0) 76 328 088 JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 338 000 Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 371 371 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Maikhao Beach +66 (0) 76 603 699

►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

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Food & Restaurant

A Bite of

TEXAS

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Meat lovers will definitely find their crush at Mana Smokehouse of Best Western Patong Beach where the authentic American style smoke meat will rock your taste buds like you were eating in Texas.

The hardworking on a study about the real American smokes results in a simple but impressively delicious bites at Mana Smokehouse. The imported Hickory wood used as charcoal for the smoking process gives a unique aroma that is absorbed in every inches of your chaw whilst each meat needs to pass averagely 6-8 hours of smoking and grilling making them incredibly tender.

The Beef Brisket of Mana Smokehouse is one of those must-try dishes. The tender beef smoked for 8-10 hours with the great scent of Hickory wood is perfectly marinated and cooked to the pinkish shade in the middle served with thin fries and a selection of their home made sauce including, Classic American BBQ, Bourbon Honey and the chef’s recipe, “Kick in the Face” that knocks you out with its hot and spicy touch.

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The ribs are also worth a big bites. With the soft meat on the beef or pork ribs coming from a long hours smoke session to reach the perfect tenderness and covered in rich and thick BBQ Classic sauce freshly made by the in-house chef, the ribs are incomparable!

Another remarkable one is the Pork Belly that sits in the aromatic smokes for 8-10 hours. This dish is the accurate explanation of melt-in-mouth as the perfect blend of the red meat and fat in every cuts. The recommended marinade for Pork Belly is usually Bourbon Honey which decently balance the taste with its mild sour touch.

Meanwhile, Pulled Pork is also a very traditional and outstanding recommended menu you should never miss. The tender pork slowly cooked for hours and hours allows you to pull these soft and yum crumble and delicate meat from the bone.

Being real American eater also allow you to choose more mouthwatering menus including hotdogs and burgers which offer wide range of choice from the most classic ones to creative fusion ones.

Every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, there is also a talented live band that lull you along the meal.

This palatable meat lovers’ menu at Mana Smokehouse offers both dine-in and take-away at reasonable prices.

The star dishes’ price range from 220 – 350 Baht for a great size serving and the avenue opens from midday to 10pm.

Mana Smokehouse at Best Western Patong Beach 190 Pangmuengsai Gor Road., Patong, Kathu, Phuket, 83150 Thailand Tel. : 076 360 200 : 076 360 200 www.bestwesternpatongbeach.com Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung

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Food & Restaurant

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

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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 bottle of wine • THB 7,380++ per couple including a bottle of Moet & Chandon Champagne Tel : 076 316 577 www.twinpalms-phuket.com

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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

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

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LET’S DO BRUNCH! Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort’s Thai Sunday Brunch

A Classy Sunday Brunch at Amatara Resort & Wellness

Every Sunday

Every Sunday From noon to 16.00 Hrs.

If enjoying a wide range of Thai dishes for brunch is a must for your Sunday then the Thai brunch at Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort 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.novotel.com

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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Food & Restaurant

Restaurant   • Kan Eang @ pier Seafood & Thai Cuisine The amazing waterfront location with a stunning view of Chalong bay... day or night. Outstanding for locals and visitors for an idyllic setting outdoor and indoor eating areas. Served a unique style of seafood barbeque.

Tel. 076 381 212, 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

• 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

• 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.theguidephuket.com

• 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

• 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

• 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 experiencedChefs.

‘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

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• 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

• 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

• 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 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

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Food & Restaurant

Restaurant   

• THE 9th 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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A Culinary Journey @ TAi Indulge your taste buds with Thai, Asian and fusion cuisine at TAi restaurant with a chilling backdrop of a clear blue pool, just a step away from Karon Beach.

At TAi, the all day dining restaurant of Novotel Phuket Karon Beach Resort and Spa, you will discover a chic and calm atmosphere and an exquisite outdoor area next to the pool together with an air-condition seating area that offers a wide range of delicious yet extraordinary cuisine.

Their tasty appetizers come from many corners of Asia such as Vietnamese Bap Cai, Sashimi, Gyoza, Kani Salad, Edamame, Wakame and the popular Takoyaki which have a slightly crispy shell stuffed with fresh yummy squid along with the unique Takoyaki brown sauce and creamy mayo.

The Stir Fried Soft Shell Crab with Black Pepper is remarkable.

The fresh crabs are deep fried to perfection giving a crusty edge meeting with the soft and sweet meat inside and is a great combination with the black pepper and other spices, while the Choo Chee Salmon is also one of the most recommended dishes which brings the touch of Thai mild hot and spicy yellow curry to match with the king fish, Salmon.

In addition, the Pla Gung is faultless, with the spicy and sour herbal salad seasoning around the Tiger Prawns, and of course the hot steamed Thai jasmine rice provides a great balance of taste. Why not wash it down with a glass of wine from the extensive wine list TAi has to offer.

Finish the meal with the forever famous ripe mango with sticky rice. The seasonal sweet golden yellow mango sided with soft and sticky rice and topped with creamy sweet and mellow coconut milk with sesame is such a perfect end.

TAi restaurant – Novotel Phuket Karon Beach Resort & Spa 568 Patak Road, Karon, 83100 Phuket | Tel : +66 (0) 76 358 666 | www.novotelphuketkaron.com Open daily from 12:00 to 23:00, for lunch and dinner Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

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Health & Beauty

Alzheimer’s disease a m a j or h e a l th th r e a t i n th e m o d er n wor l d Nowadays, people live longer and are threatened by degeneration in various forms. One of them is dementia leading to deteriorating brain function and trouble in daily life. Various causes lead to dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease is considered as its ma jor cause –it accounts for more than half of all dementia incidents and is the 6th highest mortality in USA. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 5.2 million Americans suffered from Alzheimer’s disease in 2014. Five million of them were older than 65 years whereas the rest are younger than 65 years, i.e. 1 out of 9 of those aged over 65 would have Alzheimer’s, or 11%.

It remains uncertain as to the causes of Alzheimer’s. However, recent studies found that the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaque in the brain was a hallmark sign of Alzheimer’s.

Common symptoms include: • Forget most recent happenings, e.g. just have a meal or leave an object somewhere, and forget about it shortly after • Difficulty learning new things • Speech problems • A poorer sense of direction/date and time • Difficulty doing routine activities, e.g. cannot make a decision the way he/she usually does • Behavioral/emotional change Dementia treatment is based on arising causes. In case of curable causes (vitamin or thyroid deficiency), treatment will be directed to remedy those mechanisms. But in case of Alzheimer’s disease as a leading cause, all-out treatment is still unavailable, and only palliative care is possible.

In fact, Alzheimer’s disease manifests latently as early as 10 - 20 years before an actual onset; people will likely suffer from it starting from the age of 65, i.e. those aged 40 - 50 may carry the risk of Alzheimer’s. In the same way as general healthcare/screening, proper brain health care at an early stage can help prolong good brain functioning as well as boost brainpower. That is why Bangkok Hospital Phuket has established the Brain Health Institute –the first of its kind in Southeast Asia– to spearhead early brain health care and brainpower enhancement on a personalized holistic basis right from head to toe: • MRI to measure brain volume (hippocampus) • Sleep Disorder Test • Sensory stimulation and neuroplasticity exercise • Food and nutrition • Workout, yoga, meditation • Functional brain exercise • Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber

Risk factors • Age over 65 • Family history with Alzheimer’s • Underlying disease: diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol • Smoking • Lack of exercise for both the body and brain, e.g. repetitive routine not requiring fresh thinking/processing Tips to stay away from Alzheimer’s disease • Healthy diet: diverse and focus on protein from fish, avoid foods high in fats and sodium, eat foods rich in antioxidants, e.g. fruits, vegetables, nuts • Regular exercise • Functional brain exercise/cognitive training: try new ways of doing things, sharpen analytical/processing skills • Stop smoking • Regular check-up to watch out for hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol

Health article by Dr. Kanya Temkiatvises Neurologist –Sleep Medicine and Neurodegenerative Disorder Brain Health Institute

www.phuketbrainhealthins titute.com www.theguidephuket.com

“ It’s Heavenly Hammam” Relish your body and soul in the world’s earliest Thai Hammam that blends traditional Moroccan and Turkish style Hammam with wisdom of the authentic touch of Thai healing arts at Amatara Resort & Wellness who brought the heaven of relaxation to the earth.

With the stunning pastel blue ocean of Panwa Cape playing a role of panoramic backdrop at Amatara Spa, you will be warmly welcomed at its lobby by their professional staff who explain the information and prepare you to the long indulging journey.

A walking distance from the beautiful lobby, your personal therapist will lead you to their cozy changing room. The exquisite interior along the way can gently bring peace to your mind.

Getting in the luxury Thai Hammam room, you will be pleasantly greeted by the lavishly stunning decoration influenced from Moroccan and Turkish arts combining with elegance Asian modern style reflecting gentleness and a sense of wisdom referred to in the cascading mosaics, modern, clean geometry, and gold-colored Turkish fittings and accompaniments. www.theguidephuket.com

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First up, your body will get warmed up and stimulated in sauna room for about ten minutes where you can sweat out and clear your pores.

After a good ten minutes of sauna, it’s a quick rain shower that will lead you to the neighboring steam room with relaxing aroma of herbs where your epidermis, pores as well as your lungs can get cleaned.

Stepping in the Hammam magical area where its mandatory warmth and wet gives you a great spa result, you will be leaning down on the beautiful heated ceramic bed when the therapist starts massaging their unique and purely natural product “Black Soap” from Morocco that helps eliminate bad epidermis and softens skin before returning to the steam room which helps making the Black Soap works even more efficiently.

Getting back on the Hammam bed, your skin will be rubbed by their Kessa glove which deeply exfoliates bad cuticle and rejuvenates newborn skin. The relaxing ritual continues with join and pleasure among a soft sound of peaceful melodies.

To get your pores closed tight after the great cleanse is to wipe some ice along your body. At this point, you can already feel the difference, the obvious soft and smooth touch on skin.

The new baby skin is born. Now, it’s time for pampering and nourishing. There are two types of treatments including therapeutic natural thermal mud with Ghassoul and a 7 herb clay from Morocco or High mineral therapeutic Hungarian Moor Mud for different skin types. Taking a cup of mud into a mild hot steam room and get yourself covered by the great treatment the earth has to offer.

To complete the full course therapy, you will be brought into a salt cave that wonderfully uses Himalayan Sea Salt as its wall. Sit, chill and let all the stress go, breathe in the pure natural salt in the air that effectively helps cleans and enhance your lungs.

After all, The Thai Hammam Experience ends with Amatara’s Signature Massage for ultimate relaxation.

Amatara Thai Hammam has a great deal for its Opening Package - 5,900 Baht++ (original price 8,300 Baht++). This opening special also includes: • Your Kessa glove as a gift to take home • 15% discount on F&B services (excluding wine) • Post treatment snack and refreshments • Complimentary access to the swimming pool • Complimentary use of the kids club (child minding service)

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

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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 Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation

Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek 2016

eration with rights Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket, in coop the proud title is ices, Serv ess Busin a owner Medi Raceweek 2016. et Phuk l Hote a sponsor of Cape Panw l Phuket Raceweek Hote a Panw Cape year, 13th its in Now will be hosted at is one of the region’s top regattas and s – Cape Panwa ertie prop Cape & Kantary Hotels’ Phuket th - 24th July.

20 from – l Hote Bay ary Kant Hotel and

Limelight Avenue Phuket

On April 13, 2016, Phuket authoritie s and businesses including Limelight Avenue Phuket, Advice Holdings Group Co., Ltd hosted “240 minutes Songkran No-L” (Alcohol-Free Songkran) aiming to prom ote awareness on road safety as well as encourag e people to save water and see the core value of the traditional festival.

The Mai Khao Marine Turtl e Foundatio n and its partners rece ntl y hosted the 7th annu al Mai Kha o Mari ne Turtl e Release Ceremony which took place during the Songkran Festival on April 13, 2015 from 2.30 pm – 4.30 pm. The Phuket Vice Gove rnor, Mr. Kha jornkiet Rakpanichmanee was a guest of hono ur and participated The Thai New Year celebration at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa.

k Resort Novotel Phuket Vintage Par

ort l Phuket Vintage Park Res On April 21, 2016, Novote ing trat ons dem ”, Hope Charity hosted “Planet 21 Soap for Phuket from es nde atte ny soap recycling with ma save The activity is aimed to press and hotel guests.

Hotels or Acc of t cep con the the environment under activity was donated to while the profit from the . tion Phuket Community Founda

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The G u ide

Social

nd of Limelight institute officially opened on the 2 floor On May 2, 2016, Absolute U, the newest yoga kornsakul Karun porn Benja Khun er, Found Absolute You Avenue mall. The event was chaired by ry� Sirisukha. “Cher n apsor Khem Khun er Memb & r together with Brand Ambassado

On May 2, 2016, Ghin Goong Gun restaurant debuted its grand opening. The event was chaired by Khun Worasak Hitopakorn, owner of the venue, and joined by a number of local media who tasted the delicious food of the restaurant.

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Social

On Ma y 6, 2016, Tiger Kingdom invited bu siness connection to Including, tour agen join dinner. t, tour guide, taxi, me dia and concerned bu sta y being together. sinessman Kotch akorn Ch aiyab utr , Mana ging Director Kingdom gave the spe of Tiger ed about business str ategy of this year at Resort & Spa, Paton Duangjitt g.

On May 7, 2016, Lim elight Avenue Phuket Anniversary’s lucky dra surprised gift with cus w throw tomer who spent B50 0 in shopping, eattin services from April unt g and il now. Honored, Phatee Kolsomboon CEO of Lim Avenue Phuket made elight lucky draw to custom er, today (May7).

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College become the first and only United World Phuket International Academy (PIA) is to grounds of the within ed locat , (PIA) emy Acad al (UWC) in Thailand. Phuket Internation d World set to become the first and only Unite Thanyapura, in the north of Phuket, is discussions with the and work hard of years two after College (UWC) in Thailand, London based organization.

Sales On May 18, 2016, Ms.Kessara Keereerat (Head of prapha Ms.Sira and ), Phuket it Niram Siam ting, Marke and med a Pradublai (Media Relations Manager), welco ing group of 9 journalists from Chiang Mai. After partak group of a delicious meal in our Sawasdee restaurant the ‘Village were given a guided tour of the fascinating the enjoy to down sat then and s’ of the Four Region spectacular Siam Niramit Show.

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On April 18, 2016, Patong Girl, the winner of Grimm e Preis of Grimme Institute from Germany premiered for local media and honoured guests and celebrities at Port Arena, Junceylon Mall in Patong with the main charac ters and producing team among the audience.

Simple

in Style There is a new wave of Phuket hotel debuting on the island with simple yet extraordinary thems, and one of the leaders is Hotel IKON Phuket located in the indulging Karon Beach. Aimed at being an icon of new trendy hotels where young travelers can find comfortable and laid-back accommodation with great hospitality at an affordable and reasonable rate, Hotel IKON Phuket offers its cozy minimalistic rooms with full necessary amenities for a nice stay.

The 98 rooms with four types including IKON Superior, IKON Ocean, IKON Ocean Premier and IKON Triple combine three views including ocean, mountain and city and will satisfy the various needs of different groups of customers.

All rooms will please you from first sight with their new and fresh atmosphere mixed together with simple but cozy tones. The view from your puffed up bed or the big balcony is perfect for all-day relaxation.

Many travelers also need to remain fit, and taking this into account, Hotel IKON Phuket has a superb fitness center for all guests offering a wide range of machines to make you stay strong and fabulous. Take a dip in the pool, Hotel IKON Phuket has a chilling clear blue pool right in the middle of the resort.

The bulging bean bags under the shade surrounding the pool are a great spot to sit and relax with refreshments from IKON Cafe which is ideal for all-day nibbles and beverages with its minimalistic and chic interior and comfortable couches that all cafe goers will definitely love.

Dining at Ombre’ Bar & Bistro at Hotel IKON Phuket is also an experience you should not miss. The outlet, located at the very front of the hotel opens from 5pm to midnight and offers international comfort food following the hotel concept; simple and easy but different and delicious.

Their star dish, Khao Soi, the signature cuisine originally from the North region of Thailand gives a spicy, mellow taste of creamy curry with yellow flat noodle combined with tender chicken legs and topped with crispy noodles. Several wines are available to ensure you have a delightful night.

Hotel IKON Phuket | 400/2 Patak Rd., Karon, Muang Phuket 83100 Tel: +66 (0)76 396901 | www.hotel-ikon.com Article by... Nattha Thepbamrung

Phuket Map

54

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.

56

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.

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Lifestyle

57

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

58

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

59

SCHEDULE TO/FROM PHUKET

PHUKET TO BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI)

BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) TO PHUKET

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

TG 226

0720

0845

Daily

TG 201

0740

0905

Daily

TG 202

1000

1130

Daily

TG 203

0830

0955

Daily

TG 204

1055

1225

Daily

TG 205

1050

1210

Daily

TG 206

1305

1430

Daily

TG 207

1225

1345

Daily

TG 208

1330

1455

Daily

TG 215

1405

1525

Daily

TG 216

1625

1750

Daily

TG 217

1645

1805

Daily

TG 218

1900

2025

Daily

TG 221

1815

1935

Daily

TG 222

2035

2200

Daily

TG 225

2240

2359

Daily

CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

TG 1171

0940

1135

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!

Local Bus Timetable

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

Patong Beach

8.00am - 5.00pm

20

7.00am - 3.30pm

30

Makh am Ba y

8.00am - 5.30pm

20

6.00am - 5.30pm

30

Ch along Ba y

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

Sarasin Bridge

8.30am - 4.00pm

30

7.00am - 4.00pm

30

Bang Rong Pier

8.30am - 4.00pm

30

7.00am - 4.00pm

30

Por Ba y Pier

Destination Bangtao Beach Surin Beach Kamala Beach Kata Beach Karon Beach Kathu District

Rawai Beach Naiharn Beach

Town to Beach

Fee (Baht)

7.00am - 5.00pm

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60

Andaman

g Gettion t know

The Southern Andaman Region of Krabi 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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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 Deevana Plaza Krabi Aonang Tel. +66 (0) 75 639 999 www.deevanaplazakrabi.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

www.theguidephuket.com

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

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

Transport

65

Call Center 24 Hrs

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

1510

1645

Daily

PG250

1125

1220

Daily

PG259

0925

1025

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

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

PG247

CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET

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 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket