CONTENTS April 2015 12
21
28
32
46
53
THE GUIDE LIFESTYLE
THE GUIDE DINING
22
Life’s a Beach
60
Phuket Pulse
64
Shopper’s Delight
30 32 36 38
Let’s do brunch Twinpalms Davinci Italian Restaurant Restaurant Highlights
THE GUIDE ACTIVITY
THE GUIDE BEAUTY
10
Songkran Festival
48
Healthcare
14
Activities on the island
50
Spa Highlights
16
Hot Activity
TIMETABLE THE GUIDE HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION
68
Thai Airways Timetable
26
Hotel Highlights
28
The Guide to Nightlife
THE GUIDE ANDAMAN
42
Manathai Hotels & Resorts
70
Northern Andaman Region
46
Verve Villas
72
Hotel Highlights Northern Andaman
Cover photo : Songkran Festival
Star Phuket Media & Design Limited Partnership
10/378 Moo 3, T. Vichit, A. Muang Phuket 83000 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)76 521 011 Fax: +66 (0)76 521 010 Email: info@theguidephuket.com www.theguidephuket.com The Guide Phuket is published monthly and distributed to Bangkok Airways Lounge (Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Phuket International Airport), Thai Airways Lounge, major resorts in Phuket region, restaurants, spas, travel agents and car rental. Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to Email: info@theguidephuket.com MANAGING DIRECTOR & EDITOR Punnaporn Eamso Guinault info@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)89 474 4704 CONSULTING EDITOR Barry Daniel editor@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)84 305 3974 ADVERTISING info@theguidephuket.com Tel: +66 (0)76 521 011 Mobile: +66 (0)89 474 4704 Kansirinphat Poolsiri marketing@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)89 288 1144 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Titaree Taweekit ann@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)86 816 0516
10
Activities
The Original Thai New Year
Phuket celebrates the original Thai New Year with much of the same elan as the rest of the country. Traditionally, there was only one ‘New Year’ in Thailand. Songkran, the start of the Buddhist year, is still celebrated between the 13th - 15th April, at the height of the hot season. Translated literally as “the passing of”, Songkran marks the beginning of the solar calendar, when the sun passes from the sign of Taurus into Aries. In the rural community - and until recently Thailand was almost entirely an agricultural society - this has been a perfect time to take a break from the business of earning a living. The rice harvest is in, and replanting has to await the coming of the rains. For centuries, this has presented an opportunity for young men and women to meet socially, turning the lull in the seasonal cycle of labour to matters of courtship. It is a time of joy, and Thais have long marked the occasion by making merit - by offering food to monk monks and by releasing caged birds, turtles, and fis fish. The latter custom had its origins where villagers would collect fis fish stranded in the pools left as the ponds and canals dried up in the searing heat, saving them till Songkran for release into the rriver. Not only was this a means of maki making merit, it served as an effective conservationist programme. Yo You still see vendors offering the these creatures for release in many parts of Bangkok as well as in rural areas, p pyramids of tiny wooden cages filled with twitter twittering birds, metal tanks swimming with turt turtles, eels, and fish. www.theguidephuket.com
Water is a key element in the festival. Buddha images, both public and private, are washed with lustral water, while the whole house is given an especially thorough cleaning. The idea seems to be to start the New Year fresh and clean both in body and spirit. Most noticeable to the casual visitor are the water fights. Thais and foreigners alike spend the days dousing each other (and any unlucky bystanders) with water - a fine and refreshing experience, given the prevailing weather. The custom of throwing water is probably in part only an exuberant spillover of the tradition of pouring lustral water over the hands of monks and respected elders. More basically, however, the return of water to the parched soil is an expression of hope and anticipation, an invitation to the cooling, life-giving rainy season to come. This practice migrated long ago to Thailand from India by way of Burma. It thus came first to Chiang Mai, where it is still practiced with special enthusiasm. In those early days, there was little communication, no easy links between Chiang Mai and Bangkok, and the water-throwing took a long time to reach the capital. When it did, though, it was embraced with such abandon that the police officially had to ban it as a traffic hazard. The prohibition has never really taken hold and today if you ride a Bangkok bus during Songkran you must still be prepared for a drenching. Along the streets you find gleeful knots of people heaving buckets of water at any passing vehicle. If you’re driving, keep your windows closed. If you’re on foot you may get ambushed by a careening tuk-tuk jammed full of young revellers armed with pails of water. It’s all in the spirit of good fellowship and people are pleased to receive as good as they give out. Have fun! Story by... CP
12
Lifestyle
Tiger Kingdom Puts the Cats in Kathu Tiger! Tiger! Burning bright In the forests of the night, What immortal hand or eye Dare frame thy fearful symmetry? In 1794 when poet William Blake wrote those lines he had little idea that the awe-inspiring subjects of his poem would find their way to a new Tiger Kingdom close to the Go-Kart track in Phuket’s Kathu region, just below Patong Hill. Entering the extensive, well-treed grounds of the Tiger Kingdom you are firstly struck by the quietude and feeling of normality. Only after a while do you become aware that close at hand are many of these frankly ma jestic beasts lolling around, immersing themselves in the cooling pools, or indeed being petted and cuddled by abundant visiting locals and tourists….all of whom, adults and kiddies alike, wear huge smiles of stunned admiration on their faces. There are currently 27 tigers enjoying life at Tiger Kingdom with another 33 scheduled to arrive from the sister Tiger Park near Chiang Mai in the near future. And enjoy life they certainly seem to do being well fed and cared for by their handlers who have been with them since birth. Phonphawit Ton-On is the enthusiastic and knowledgeable Chief of the park and says, “The tigers are used to being around humans from day one and are fed chicken morning and evening. As long as we treat them with respect they are just about as friendly and accommodating as your domestic tabby-cat at home.” The Kingdom offers close up encounters with varying sizes of felines form skittish little cubs, who are extremely kitten-like, right up to the three year old big boys weighing in at over 200 kilos, with their huge retractable claws and impressive dentition to match. Depending upon the package you buy, you can interact with, and indeed lie
down and cuddle, many different sizes of tiger, all the while having your photos shot for you by a professional who will hand you a CD at the end of your adventure. Overlooking the park’s tiger enclosures, with their high electrified fences, is a terrific balcony restaurant which is ideal for families to dine on. Graze on either the a la carte menu, or all-you-can-eat buffet boosting a huge section of Thai, Asian, Chinese and European dishes upon while watching the tiger’s activities. At just 400 baht per adult and 200 baht per child, the buffet is extremely good value and the location and views have to make it one of the most stunning in which to dine in all Phuket. The tigers are happy, healthy and of course safe from poachers and other dangers that are sadly threats to p them in today’s world. A breeding program is in place t continually continual helping to increase the tiger population and they all enjoy regular exercise and health check-ups th and vaccinations etc. an In fact if William Blake were alive today and had tthe pleasure of visiting Tiger Kingdom he might have written: h Tiger! Tiger! Burning bright Ti At Tiger Kingdom in Kathu, What immortal hand or eye Wha Makes for tigers as lucky as you? Kingdom, Tiger Kin Moo 7 Tambol Kathu, Amphur Kathu, Phuket 83120 118/88, Mo Tel: (+66) 76 323311-2 www.tigerkingdom.com www.tige
www.theguidephuket.com
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Lifestyle Activities
s e i t i v i t c A
on the Island It’s a big island, offering all manner of things to do. It’s surprising that so many holiday makers, who are trying to get away from it all, soon get bored with that dreamy combination of a perfect beach, a comfortable hotel room and great food. After a few days, most people want more. They want to go places, to see how the local people live and to experience new things. Happily with Phuket being a large island, about 50 kilometers long, there are all sorts of interesting things to do here. Below we offer some suggestion. • Crowned Beach, Quiet Beach Find the one that suits you spend most of your holiday in Patong and you might think the beaches of Phuket are crowned. While Patong buzzes with people and activity, there are many other beaches to which one can escape in complete solitude. You just have to drive. As one moves away from patong the beaches become progressively quieter. By the time you get to the top of the island you’re guaranteed kilometers of sand to yourself, even in peak season, so remember crowned beach, quiet beach; the choice is there. • Visiting Wats – Buddhist Monasteries All Buddhist Monasteries are open to the public during the day, and visitors are usually welcome. Since these are active holy places of worship, and the residence of monks, visitors should show respecting keeping well dressed and remaining quiet, Mum and Dad; keep the kids on a leash and always be culturally sensitive. • Elephant Trekking The wild elephant population of Phuket was wiped out last century, but has been replaced in recent years by and influx of animals for the tourist trade. Today there remains just a few hundred elephants on Phuket Island, all domesticated, most working in tourism. Indeed, riding an elephant is an experience not to be missed. The lumbering monsters are incredibly agile. Taking an elephant ride helps to keep the beasts employed, fed and out of the cities, where many can be taken by destitute owners in search of money and food. • Phuket Town Phuket Town is small but incredibly interesting, a potpourri of different cultural influences of markets and shopping centers, restaurants and other entertainment facilities. Anyone spending a few days on Phuket Island should take time to visit, be it for sight-seeing, cultural or historical interest or shopping. • Zoo Phuket’s only zoo is small, but pleasant, displaying some of Thailand’s almost vanished wildlife. Their tigers are fed well enough that one can sit with them and have a photo taken. We recommend going early or late, to avoid the tour buses that arrive mid morning and mid afternoon. It is in a small road off the east side of Chao Fah East Road, about half way between the town and Chalong’s 5-way intersection. The turnoff is well signposted and easy to find. www.theguidephuket.com
• Cultural Village Cultural shows featuring skilled Thai dancers from the different regions of the country, martial arts demonstrations, elephant rides and Thai dinners are all brought together at Phuket’s original cultural garden; there is also attached orchid farm for all the budding botanists out there. • Bungy Jump Consider yourself adventurous? Got real guts? If you haven’t tried bungee jump yet, you should take the ride to the top with a big rubber band around your ankles and fight the internal struggle that every jumper meets when standing 54 meters above the ground. Logic might tell us it is quite safe, but another part of our body screams “No! Don’t jump!” But with their friends at the bottom, waiting expectantly, most people manage to throw themselves off and experience a rush like no other. • Jungle Trekking With most of rainforest on Phuket long since eaten up by rubber plantations, it is not easy to find ideal trekking grounds. Again, it’s best to sign on with company providing this service. Often they take their trekkers right off Phuket into neighbouring Phang Nga province, where some beautiful areas of forest remain. • Spas Massage and herbal steam rooms Health resorts, spas and herbal saunas are proliferating, and some fine example offering a wide range of treatments are now found on Phuket. Thailand has its own traditional herbal saunas, and there are several local ones around the island. While many large and resorts now feel they are incomplete without a spa, there are also several independent establishments. • View Points Phuklet’s most famous view point, Laem Phrom Thep at the very bottom of the island, is on the ‘must see’ list for every Thai visitor to the island. Thus it attracts a fleet of tour busses and car each evening as people come to witness the sun fall into the Andaman Sea. Indeed, it’s often a spectacular sight, but there are many quieter places. The view point on the hill behind Kata Noi attracts fewer people and when the heavens turn red, the view from any of the beaches can also be spectacular.
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Activities
Hot Activities NOW 4 CLASSES DAILY 08.00 - 09.30 am 10.00 - 11.30 am 05.15 - 06.45 pm 07.15 - 08.45 pm
Tiger Kingdom
Kata Yoga
Phuket FantaSea
Natural and clean Park Tigers at Tiger Kingdom are hand raised by their trainers from young bonding with them throughout the development process. The trainers employ a combination of repetition, trust and encouragement to train their big cats, and over time the big cats get used to humans and often see us as one of the family. You can touch & play with real tigers and they are not aggressive as you 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. 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
Phuket Bird Paradise
Luxurious Day
Simon Star Show
Phuket Bird Paradise is the ultimate family entertainment featuring an abundance of our delightful feathered friends spread about a lovely verdant parkland. From parakeets, lorikeets and parrots, to eagles and cockatoos all the most famous and colorful birds are represented and you can interact closely with them and have your picture taken covered in friendly birds!
Charter “Isabella Rose”
A Place Truly Brings You Beyond The Stars” Simon Star Show is proudly presented by Phuket Simon Cabaret, a new branch of luxurious and intimate theatre seats over 600 audiences, located right in the heart of Phuket town. Our new fabulous stage design is enhanced by state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. You will be astoundingly enticed by glitterier and extravagant costumes and spelled by irresistible by our new generation and ambitious performers. Our new dimension and theme of performance. Which are mould together into a spectacular and extravaganza performance and give you a night to remember.
The hourly Bird Show is an amazing spectacle and it’s very exciting to enjoy the many tricks that the birds perform and to even join them on stage! www.phuketbirdparadise.com www.theguidephuket.com
Snorkeling in crystal clear waters, swimming at a secluded beach and discovering local island restaurants are all experiences we shared first 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 provided a huge outdoor areas for relaxing and sunbathing, as well as a substantial covered and indoor entertaining area. Contact: Asia Marine Tel: +66 (0)76 239 111 Mobile: +66 (0)89 508 1333 www.asia-marine.net
www.phuketbuttery.com
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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, costume 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 Katu 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.yinghanuman.com
www.theguidephuket.com
Hot Activities Thanyapura
Splash Jungle
Blue Elephant
Sports & Leisure Club (TSLC)
Phuket’s Wettest Wildest Water Park providing gallons of excitement for the whole family. The Water Park offers fun for the whole famil y whether you are after a relaxing day in the water or an adrenaline rush, Splash Jungle has it all. The Park has trilling rides such as the Boomerango & Superbowl as well as six-level Wave Pool and an aqua pool for the children. Also featured is a 335 meters lazy river.
Cooking School
Discover paradise at TSLC 230,000 sqm megaplex with extensive worldclass sport facilities & leisure activities for everyone. Recently 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 screen. 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
Operation Hour 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Tel. 076 372 111 www.splashjunglewaterpark.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.blueelephant.com
A Da y Tr i p per ’s Paradise Any holidaymakers in Phuket looking for that “Island getaway” experience but who don’t want to stray too far from their accommodation, should definitely consider a Banana Beach, Coral Island (Koh Hey) package tour. Offering a van pick up from any hotel to the departure point of Chalong Pier, the serene landscape of Banana Beach, with its sandy white beaches and glassy turquoise water, is an effortless 15 minute speedboat ride away. Customers need only then to step off the boat, stroll down the floating jetty to an awaiting deck chair nestled in the sand, recline in the shade of the surrounding trees and let the friendly staff take care of the rest. As far as activities go on Banana Beach, you’re spoiled for choice. A package tour includes: a life jacket, mask and snorkel - if you feel like exploring the impressive coral reefs; you don’t have to venture too far out before you’re immersed in an underwater wonderland. If an aerial view of Banana Beach is more your style, try parasailing and enjoy the ocean from above as you trail high in the sky gracefully behind a speedboat. Come back down to earth with a banana boat ride; hold on as you and three of your friends bump and splash your way through the blue ocean on an inflatable water sled towed by a speed boat, or paddle across the water and gaze at the wonders beneath the sea through the floor of a “clear kayak” www.theguidephuket.com
Lifestyle
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Hilton old artwork After all the action and excitement, kill your hunger pains with a meal and relax with a cool beverage at the restaurant. Located in a lovely shady spot, the restaurant offers all those Thai culinary staples enjoyed by visitors and local people alike such as Tom Yum Goong, Papaya Salad, Gai Tod (fried chicken) and fresh fish. The food is reasonably priced and the drinks menu extensive enough to satisfy the most scrupulous of guests. The beach has excellent facilities. The restrooms have modern styled showers-inside and out, and are clean and spacious. All the structures on Banana Beach are constructed in a charming bamboo hut design lending an organic elegance to the beach’s natural beauty. A package tour includes: van pick up from any accommodation, return speed boat ride, deck chair, snorkeling equipment and more. The boat leaves Chalong Pier at 8:45-9:00 am, and you make the return journey at 2:00pm arriving back at Chalong pier around 2:30pm, where you will be transferred back to your accommodation. Reservations can be made via: Phone: +66 (0)81 416 7555 Email: relax@bananabeachkohhey.com
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Life’s a Beach With a vast array of different beaches on Phuket’s coastline why stick to just the one nearest your hotel? Take a look here at the choices available. · Bang Tao Beach
Bang Tao Beach has in recent years seen a lot of development with many 5-star luxury resorts in the area but the beach remains very pleasant. At certain times of the year swimming can be dangerous due to the strong currents. At the northern end of the beach the coral creates good opportunities for snorkeling.
· Surin Beach
Surin Beach is located between Bang Tao and Kamala beach. It is one of most beautiful beaches on the island with fine white sand and emerald sea. The beach can have rather strong winds which make it ideal for windsurfing. A lot of popular resorts surround this beach.
Surin Beach
· Laem Singh Beach
Laem Singh Beach is small and very popular; it is located between Surin and Kamala. To reach the beach you need to walk down a short, rocky trail that is clearly signposted. If you are lucky and it’s not too crowded then Leam Sing Beach is absolutely stunning.
· Kamala Beach h
Patong Beac
Nai Yang Be
ach
· Mai Khao Beach
North of the airport is a beach to really get away from it all. Mai Khao beach is very, very long, and very straight, so it misses the cozy feeling enjoyed by many of the other beaches on the island, but the sand and water here are just as stunning plus it’s almost empty! The place feels deserted even during high season when the beach umbrellas are five deep on Patong.
· Nai Yang Beach
Just south of the airport is Nai Yang, a charming beach with a unique atmosphere all of its own. With just a scattering of hotels and bars to entertain the few that stay there, Nai Yang is as relaxed as they get. Ever dreamed of eating seafood right on the beach? This is your spot.
· Nai Thon Beach
A little further south from Nai Yang is Nai Thon, possessing a similar feel to its big brother, Nai Thon has long been a favorite with the regular visitors to the island. This quiet bay nestled at the foot of high hills has a fine strip of sand and a handful of pleasant eateries are situated just off the beach.
· Layan Beach
This is a small and relatively unknown beach, nestled in a shallow bay at the northern end of Bang Tao. You get there by following the small road that winds right through the back holes of the Banyan Tree Golf Club. Layan Beach is more of a bay than a beach, and although very picturesque the water is quite shallow; great for families but if you fancy a real swim it’s not the place to go.
www.theguidephuket.com
Kamala is a 3-kilometer long beach situated in the middle of Phuket’s west coast which has undergone recent developments to its main street, but the beach remains largely unchanged. Behind the beach lies a growing village with two distinct communities; Buddhists by the beach and Muslims further back at the foot of the encompassing mountain range.
· Patong Beach
The most famous beach on the island is the center of entertainment, restaurants, shopping and hotels. Patong is indeed a famous beach with beautiful soft sands and warm clear water. But right behind the beach is the hustle and bustle at the center of Phuket’s tourism business. Here the hotels, restaurants, entertainment and bar areas, street bazaars and shops are crammed in a colorful and lively mix that typifies a Thai tourist beach town.
· Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is a little beach just 5 minutes south of Patong. To get there follow a small cement road up to the hill through the jungle. It is a nice small beach with white, soft sand and large rocks flanking either side.
· Karon Beach
Kata Noi Beach
Nai Harn Be
ach
Karon is another of the beautiful, west-coast beaches that have made Phuket famous. This beach is the first main stop south of Patong, and is separated from Patong by a large headland. A quick 10 minute drive connects the two.
· Kata Beach
Kata is certainly one of the most beautiful of Phuket’s beaches; a half-moon crescent of white sand lining a bay cut deep between two green headlands. Crystal clear waters and soft coral offers excellent snorkeling and just outside the bay lies a small rounded island that seems to wave its coconut haircut to those on the beach.
h
ac Bang Tao Be
· Kata Noi Beach
Just south of Kata Beach is Kata Noi, a smaller beach with only a few hotels and little other development. The beach is superb for snorkeling as many fish inhabit the rocks and corals along the headland to the south.
· Ao Sane Beach
Ao Sane beach is a small bay and is located to the north of Nai Harn beach. To get to this beach you need to go through The Royal Phuket Yacht Club. Ao Sane is a very small, rocky beach but it is peaceful.
· Nai Harn Beach
Nai Harn is one of the more isolated beaches, nestled at the southern tip of the island in a bay defined by headlands and islets. The beach is backed by the green of Casuarina trees and coconut palms, acting as shade for the restaurants that now line the beach.
· Ao Yon Beach
Ao Yon is another peaceful beach ideally suited for watching the sunset. It is located near Cape Panwa, 10km from Phuket Town. Although quiet with beautiful emerald sea this beach is not really suitable for bathing or relaxing as the bay is usually full of boats and yachts.
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Hotel & Accommodation
Hotel High-Flier Launches Unicorn Hospitality, Calls For ‘People Power’ Revolution To Shake Up Industry In Asia Unicorn Hospitality, a consultancy that is the bra brainchild rainchild off hotel Gouriou, was h t l managementt heavyweight h i ht Yann Y G i launched in Bangkok offering a ‘better, smarter and more people-centric’ approach to hospitality. Mr.Gouriou said Unicorn Hospitality would focus primarily on consulting to hotels, resorts, restaurants, spas, bars and the travel industry, specializing in new hotel and restaurant start-ups, launches and opening periods – the make-or-break time for most establishments. “There’s only one chance to make a first impression, more so than even in the age of TripAdvisor and social media,” Mr Gouriou said. “So any new hotel or restaurant launching has to get everything right, which above all means getting the right people in the right positions at the right time.” Mr.Gouriou is the former Group General Manager of AHMS The Collection, responsible for running four of Thailand’s top boutique resorts, Aleenta Phuket Phang-Nga, Aleenta Hua Hin-Pranburi, AKARYN Samui and akyra Chura Samui, as well as pipeline projects in Chiang Mai and Cambodia. Previously, he has worked in almost every department of top hotels and resorts in Asia, Europe, the South Pacific, the Middle East and the Caribbean, including stints as Resident Manager of Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa in Bermuda, and as Food & Beverage Manager of the Bangkok-based Lebua Hotel’s Dome complex. He has built an impressive bank of knowledge in all operational and financial aspects of running small, medium and large-volume hotels. Now, he is primed to channel that knowledge, experience and expertise into helping create future hospitality brands in Asia. Mr.Gouriou said he had no qualms about taking a ‘disruptive’ approach to the industry, which took itself too seriously and was often mired in tired mindsets and outdated methods, missing the big picture. “Take a step back, stop and think about it. In hospitality, your people should come first. Everything else follows. That is Unicorn Hospitality’s slogan and guiding philosophy. It should be axiomatic in hospitality, but so often it is not the case. “The unicorn is mythical, but Unicorn Hospitality is real, and we are here to give the old school a poke in the eye. We are all about offering intelligent, innovative yet field-tested ways to do business in Thailand and beyond.”
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Unicorn Hospitality is offering a full range of operational, technical and development services for hotels, as well as assistance with recruitment, head-hunting, and creative ideas to get brand cut-through and improved profitability. Created as an alternative to the traditional management consultants, Unicorn Hospitality has one unerring purpose and vision: to get businesses and brands working by getting their people working. “We are launching with lean, flexible fee structures that put our expertise within the reach of young entrepreneurs and industry newcomers. Our dynamic, lifestyle-centred approach syncs with the entrepreneurial spirit and how we live and work today.” Unicorn Hospitality is based in Bangkok, and will cater primarily to hospitality brands in Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Pattaya and Hua Hin. Mr Gouriou said he would consider working with brands further afield if the chemistry was right and the project was one to which he could add value.
For more detail please see www.unicornh.com or call +66 (0)85 489 1301.
Food & Restaurant
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HOTEL ►PATONG Amari Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 106-14 Andaman Beach Suites Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 879-83
Highlights
Safari Beach Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 171-4 Salathai Resort +66 (0) 76 296 631 SLEEP WITH ME HOTEL design hotel @ patong +66 (0) 76 363 333 The Nap Patong +66 (0) 76 296 631-4 The Royal Paradise Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 666 Thara Patong Beach Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 340 520
Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 201 234 www.centarahotelsresorts.com/cpbr
Andaman Embrace Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 370 000 www.andamanembrace.com
B-Lay Tong Phuket +66 (0) 76 344 999 Banthai Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 850 Centra Ashlee Hotel Patong +66 (0) 76 349 800-7 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 Tel.+66 (0) 76 337000 Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 680-5 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 608-9 Horizon Beach Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 292 526-30 Merlin Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 294 300 Novotel Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 342 777
Sawaddi Patong Resort
+66 (0) 76 343 444 www.patongsawaddi.com
U Zenmaya Phuket
+66 (0) 76 336 888 www.uzenmayaphuket.com
Hitlon Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa +66 (0)76 396 433-41 www.phuketarcadia.hilton.com
►KATA BEACH Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 370 999 Club Med 66 (0) 76 330 455-60 Ibis Phuket Kata Hotel +66 (0) 2 659 2888 Kata Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 530-4 Kata Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 334-8 Katathani Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 124 Sugar Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 404 Impiana Private Villas +66 (0) 76 330 770
The 9th Floor Residence +66 (0) 76 344 987 www.roomsatthe9th.com
Grand Mercure Phuket Patong +66 (0) 76 231 999 www.mercure.com
Patong Bay Garden Resort +66 (0) 76 292 914-5 Patong Merlin Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 037-41 Patong Paragon Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 290 555 Patong Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 551-4 Royal Pawadee Village Hotel +66 (0) 76 344 622 www.theguidephuket.com
►KARON BEACH Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 555 Karon Sea Sands Resort +66 (0) 76 286 464 Karona Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 286 406-10 Mövenpick Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 396 139-48 Marina Phuket +66 (0) 76 330 497 Phuket Orchid Resort +66 (0) 76 396 519-23 Ramada Phuket Southsea +66 (0) 76 370 888 The Front Village +66 (0) 76 398 200-5
Kata Sea Breeze +66 (0) 76 284 300 www.kataseabreeze.com
Two Chefs Inn
+66 (0) 76 333 370 www.twochefs.com
HOTEL ►BANG TAO BEACH Amora Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 021-2 Bangtao Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 270 680-5 Banyan Tree Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 374 Angsana Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 101 Mövenpick Residence +66 (0) 76 396 139 Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort & Villas +66 (0) 76 336 900 Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort Tel.+66 (0) 76 360600
Highlights
►RAWAI BEACH & NAI HARN All Season Naiharn Phuket Hotel + 66 (0) 76 289 333 Friendship Beach Resort & Atmanjai Wellness Spa +66 (0) 76 288 996
Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket +66 (0)76 372 000 www.centarahotelsresorts.com
Serenity Resort & Residences Phuket +66 (0) 76 371 900 www.serenityphuket.com
Thanyapura Retreat
+66 (0) 76 336 000 www.thanyapura.com
Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 362 999 www.dusit.com
The Vijitt Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 363 600 www.vijittresort.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 The Surin Phuket +66 (0) 76 621 580 ►KAMALA BEACH Aquamarine Resort & Villa +66 (0) 76 310 600 Cape Sienna +66 76 337 300 Kamala Beach Estate +66 (0) 76 324 111-4 Kamala Beach Hotel & Resort +66 (0) 76 279 580-5 Andara Phuket +66 (0) 76 338 777
►NAIYANG & NAITHORN Dewa Phuket +66 (0) 76 372 300 Indigo Pearl +66 (0) 76 327 006-9 Naithon Buri Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 318 700 Naiyang Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 328 300 Trisara +66 (0) 76 310 100 L’esprit de Naiyang Resort +66 (0) 76 510 032-5 Airport Resort & Spa Naiyang Beach +66 (0) 76 327 771-4 Kasalong Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 205 208-10 ►MAIKHAO Anantara Phuket +66 (0) 76 336 100 Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 363 999 JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 338 000 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Maikhao Beach +66 (0) 76 603 699
►CAPE PANWA Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 123-5 The Kantary Bay Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 514 Radisson Resort Phuket Panwa Beach +66 (0) 76 602 500 Sri Panwa, Phuket +66 (0) 76 371 000 Phuket Panwa Beachfront Resort Tel: +66 (0) 7630 2944 ►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 ►NAKA ISLAND The Naka Island A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa Phuket +66 (0) 76 371 400 ►RACHA ISLAND The Racha Resort +66 (0) 76 355 455 ►SIRAY ISLAND The Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa Phuket +66 (0) 76 335 600 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket
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Lifestyle
The Guide to The Guide’s Hot Pick in Patong The Nightlife in Patong is unique and not to be missed. Various styles of nightlife in Patongnever fail to attract curious visitors every evening. Like a magnet, all are attracted to Soi Bangla, the heart of the bar scene. The ever enchanting bar girls, neon lights and exaggeratedsound systems compete for the attention of all who fail to resist the pleasures of Bangla.
KOH BAMBOO BAR Forget about those dancing pole girls show but grab your favorite bottle of beer and sit chill in front of the most in style reggae live band in Koh Bamboo bar then create your own dancing floor with new friends. This bar is located in the early corner of Bangla road with friendly atmosphere, very entertained live band who steals your move with their songs and rhythms and a buy 1 get 1 local beer all night long. If you fancy famous classy songs in the reggae style, Koh Bamboo Bar is the best place to rock the night!
LOVE NIGHTLIFE, LOVE ROOFTOP POOL AND LOVE SKYBAR A Revolutionary open-air entertainment and nightlife destination combines the best of day + nightlife in one of the most electric settings in Patong, Phuket, Thailand. With inspiration drawn straight from the sands of Ibiza, Love Rooftop Pool and Love SkyBar brings sophistication, highenergy entertainment, fine cuisine, innovative technology and world-renowned DJs to high-energy entertainment, fine cuisine, innovative technology and world-renowned DJs to Phuket’s Tropical Island.
MONSOON BAR Called it a night! This bar is absolutely decent and famous bar at Bangla road. Amazing live band which always will never left your mood stuck as they have 3-5 powerful vocalist a whole night, ensure that they will get the crowd most enjoyed and entertained nonstop up until the dawn is breaking. You will enjoy their reasonable priced drinks and friendly staffs attentively give you a much closed service and being your dancing mate to maintain the liveliness atmosphere. This is the great vibe place for real night crawlers!
Love Nightlife, Love Rooftop and Love SkyBar www.theguidephuket.com
Koh Bamboo Bar
Ploenchit Pub and Restaurant
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The Guide’s Hot Pick in Phuket town Phuket town boasts a good selection of bars and more relaxed watering holes. With its own character, it offers more authenticity and space when compared to the crowds of Patong and a great night out can be had by all with a little help and a small push in the right direction from the Guide. TIMBER HUT Timber Hut offers arguably one of the best atmospheres in Phuket. Exceptional live music and popular bands play in the center of the venue, surrounded by a welcoming crowd all moving to the music. With two floors, each with its own bar and seating areas, you can stand on the balcony and watch the band ignite the crowd, or be captured by the energy on the ground floor leaving you with no choice but to dance and have a good time. Timber Hut is ideal for groups or if you fancy flying solo you’re sure to meet a whole host of interesting people. PLOENCHIT PUB AND RESTAURANT Ploenchit is a well-known Thai vintage style pub located on Debuk road. The decoration presents classy vintage theatre theme which strongly impress and attract at first glance. Young, energetic and modern live band showcases every night with both top-chart Thai and so-called international songs. They always have a famous singer guest from Bangkok joined on the stage which will make the night exclusively and extraordinary. ROCKIN’ ANGELS Not just another live music bar, Rocking Angels brings together musicians of Phuket and from other nations who all wish to Jam and participate. The owner leads by example and has a huge passion for playing all night long and entices other guitarists and vocalists from around the island to come and play with him. The bar is relaxed and laid back, guests are enticed by the friendly atmosphere and you could not pass this bar without having to see what’s going on.
Rockin’ Angels
Sanaeha Pub www.facebook.com/theguidephuket
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Food & Restaurant
LET’S DO BRUNCH! The Vijitt Resort Phuket Every Sunday From 12.00 – 3.00 Hrs. Enjoy our expansive mouthwatering Seafood Buffet, Sushi, Live cooking stations, BBQ, Western and Thai hot dishes, and our all you can eat Home Made Desserts. • THB 1,199 net per person with free flow soft drinks • THB 1,499 net per person with a bottle of wine per couple • THB 3,199 net per person with a bottle of champagne per couple
Brunch by Regent Every Sunday From noon to 16.00 Hrs. Every Sunday, the Regent Club 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.
Complimentary use of our 40m Infinity Edge Swimming Pool Kids Club for 4 to 12 years old.
• 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: 076 363 600 www.vijittresort.com
Tel: 076 318 888 www.regenthotels.com/phuket
HALF PRICE for children from 4 to 12 years old. FREE for children under 4 years old.
www.theguidephuket.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
Sunday Brunch at Thanyapura Every Sunday From 11.30-14.30 hrs. DiVine’s brunch serves a variety of delicious featuring seafood, meat BBQ and carvings. Children enjoy their own kid’s buffet with free cooking classes. Outdoor activities offer “Walk on Water” and lots of fun games by the pool! • THB 1,600++ food only • THB 850++ per child (4-11 yrs) • THB 890++ wine buffet *Price is subject to 10% service charge and 7% applicable government tax. TSLC members discount benefits is not applicable. For reservations, please contact DiVine Restaurant Tel: +66 (0)76 336 000 www.thanyapura.com
Hilton Sunday Brunch 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 Every Sunday 12:00 – 15:00 Prices from • THB 1,100++ per adult (includes free flow soft drinks) • 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
B r un ch u pon a time...
there was Twinpalms Twinpalms is located close to the sands of the gorgeous Surin Beach and adjacent to “Millionaire’s Mile” and reigns supreme as one of Phuket’s most fashionable resorts. In many ways it is the epicenter and social barometer of all things trendy in Phuket. It’s as if, on the Phuket social scene, Twinpalms leads and then the rest of the island falls into line and tries to keep up. It was certainly this way with the bringing of a revolution to Phuket’s tranquil Sundays in the form of something called “doing brunch”. When it was first introduced to Phuket in the early “naughties”, this latest social and gustatory phenomenon was as much about dressing up in one’s finest and going out to “see and be seen” with the island’s glitterati, as it was with the grazing on the bounteous buffet of wonderful foods. Twinpalms brunches soon became legendary as “THE” place for Phuket’s high rollers to partake in Sunday’s longest, most languorous indulgence in fine food and wine. If that weren’t enough, the lovely beach and the resort’s Catch Beach Club are just a short canter away and so Sunday afternoons easily segue onto the sands and continue into the sunset hours. As you wander into the relaxed open space that is the Oriental Spoon Restaurant you’ll see the limpid pools of water, hear the sophisticated background sounds, see the lovely smiling staff and realize this is going to be a long, lovely Sunday in Heaven. Just grab a complimentary Bloody Mary to dispel Saturday night’s cobwebs and you’re away. The abundant spread of crab, clams, lobster and imported oysters on ice are amazing and a good place to start. The sushi and sashimi are so fresh and tasty that they also have to be savored. Then there are the brimming salads, both pre-mixed and with the basic materials for the DIY enthusiast with all sorts of sauces and… Oh Joy!….. artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes to die for. The famous Swiss Raclette cheese is a specialty that you won’t want to miss. Try it with fresh cut ham and melon for a superb starter. www.theguidephuket.com
A successful Twinpalms brunching experience takes careful planning and judicious timing. There is so much on offer and much of the “I-can-resist-anything-except-temptation” ingredients are in the final furlongs, so you MUST pace yourself. Think about the chocolate fountain with fresh berries and fruits and the famous crème brûlée, or traditional Thai mangoes and sticky rice and a panoply of ice-creams and you’ll soon realize why the hardened Twinpalms bruncher plans the afternoon with strict precision. And it’s not over yet, on offer is one of Phuket’s finest selections of cheeses with breads, biscuits and grapes and heaven-sent complementary Taylor’s Port just to confirm that you’ve discovered Nirvana. Most Sundays there won’t be a single table free so advanced booking is certainly recommended. The Twinpalms brunch costs 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. Just call +66 (0) 76 316 500 or email book@twinpalms-phuket.com for reservations.
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Food & Restaurant
Yes,
Angels DO Exist
Visitors and Phuket locals alike are often stunned to discover the existence of real live angels inhabiting a most unlikely corner of Patong on the 9th floor of the unassuming Sky Condotel building just off Rat-U-Thid Road. Indeed the entrance to this little piece of paradise is also unimpressive as you ascend in a clunky old elevator through the tired interior of the building. But when the elevator doors finally slide open at the 9th floor and the superb international restaurant of the same name, it is like discovering your very own little slice of heaven………complete with attendant angels. The 9th Floor is unquestionably one of Phuket’s most elegant restaurants and takes great pride in providing its huge following of local and international customers with the best in cuisine, wine and service. It’s a sort of heavenly temple celebrating the finest things in life and when those magical elevator doors open you’ll feel you’ve discovered a parallel universe of elegance, wonderful views over Patong, fabulous food and wine and of course beautiful ‘angels’ clad in alluring attire, greeting you with an inviting “Wai”. So, what is it like to dine in a little slice of your very own heaven? Well, as you drift into the 9th Floor’s welcoming space you’ll be impressed by the huge glass windows allowing wonderful vistas of Patong twinkling below you, with the Andaman Sea beyond. Sea breezes waft gently as you seat yourself at the welcoming bar which serves terrific cocktails, a great selection of international wines by bottle and glass, and local and international beers. Perhaps you’ll decide on a glass of chilled bubbly to start, and with your first sip you’ll notice the sound of the cool jazz playing and the wine glasses sparkling in the candle-glow signalling the wondrous unfolding of your own heavenly evening. One of the black-clad angels then appears as if by magic and hands you a menu. The doyen of the 9th Floor kitchen is famed internationally-trained Chef Wara Pakdeevirote who has been producing wonderful faire since the 9th Floor opened. Her menu features a wide selection of award-winning Mediterranean, meat and seafood dishes, as well as Alpine specialties and a superb selection of Thai dishes. The angels in your piece of heaven are not just pretty faces however, as many have completed extensive sommeliers training and are only too pleased to guide you through the comprehensive wine list of over 300 labels with excellent geographic and varietal overage of all the very best in wine making. www.theguidephuket.com
The 9th Floor has featured in the Thailand Tatler’s Best Restaurants every year since 2009 and has established itself as a gem of good taste in the heart of Phuket. Truly whenever you want to enjoy heavenly food served by angels there’s nowhere else like the 9th Floor! The 9th Floor Restaurant and Bar, 47 Rat-U-Thid Rd. Sky Inn Condotel, Patong 83150 Phuket Tel: +66 (0) 76 344 311 Mobile: + 66 (0) 8 107 92699 Email: contact@the9thfloor.com www. the9thfloor.com
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Food & Restaurant
Ita lian Genius in Southern Phuket
DaVinci Ristorante & Pizzeria is located in BZenter in Nai Harn. Since opening six years ago, DaVinci has established a reputation as a very fine Italian eatery. It is set in a convivial inside/outside courtyard where friendly al fresco dining conducive of long meals, good conversation, great wines and cocktails results in happy gatherings for a large number of families and friends. DaVinci is owned and operated by the charming Jana Sasikova and her Italian husband and Executive Chef Claudio Pivotto, and together they have developed this large Nai Harn courtyard in which DaVinci is situated into the nearest thing that Phuket has to a genuine Italian Piazza.
www.theguidephuket.com
The Piazza holds a mythic as the hub of Italian social life which offers a convivial alchemy of fine food, wine and conversation in a time-honored ritual of sharing and enjoyment. DaVinci’s interpretation of this wonderful Italian institution encompasses a series of meeting places, from their cocktail lounge and wine bar, to the fine Nai Harn restaurant, to a private function room, to a kiddies’ play area. The enticing open-sided V Lounge Cocktail and Wine Bar is a space with a chilled vibe and often features cool music fostering relaxing conversation and sociability and is a great place to start the evening. DaVinci offers a wide selection of wines, focusing of course on Italy, and many are served by the glass or carafe. In addition, there is a wide selection of cocktails, beers and spirits, all at reasonable prices.
Food & Restaurant
e…Ita
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nce…
Fine Italian fare is the order of the day, with all ingredients sourced dail y from local markets, plus hydroponically-grown vegetables, home-made pastas, sensational risottos, fresh imported and local seafood, the finest imported meats and tempting cheeses and desserts to round off the evening. All meals are beautifully prepared and served, and the staff are as attractive as they are knowledgeable and friendly. The wood-fired oven produces a marvelous selection of thin-crust pizzas, and all the breads are freshly baked in the oven, so a simple starter like the house bruschetta oozing with extra virgin olive oil and fresh tomato, garlic and olive topping become an absolute must. In the life of an Italian Piazza itself, the “little ones” hold a special pride of place and children are embraced into the energetic life of the DaVinci Piazza in Nai Harn with a children’s play center, so that parents can enjoy a relaxing dinner and bottle of wine safe in the knowledge that their children are enjoying their very own DaVinci experience! DaVinci Ristorante & Pizzeria Tel: +66 (0)76 289574 Mobile: +66 (0)80 525 1400 www.davinciphuket.com www.facebook.com/davinciphuket
DaVinci Restaurant Nai Harn … Great food & people you know… Authentic Italian fine dining in a lounge style ambience.
Restaurant opens every day 5:30 pm – 11:30 pm Tel: 086 947 5197 www.davinciphuket.com
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Food & Restaurant
Restaurant • Kan Eang @ pier Seafood & Thai Cuisine
• Blue Elephant
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
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
• Da Vinci Restaurant
• La Boucherie
Italian With one area dedicated to fine Italian dining in a cozy ambiance and another for pizza’s cooked in a traditional wood fired oven, this restaurnat offers the best of both worlds and has a children’s play area so that parents can relax and enjoy the food. Tel: 076 289 574 www.davinciphuket.com Location: Naiharn and Kata
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French
LA BOUCHERIE is a famous and successful French restaurant chain which was originally established in France and now has over 30 themed branches located in Saudi Arabia, Luxembourg, Moldavia, Russia and Thailand. Tel: 094 807 6831 www.laboucherie-asia.com Location: Chalong
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• Capannina
Italian This restaurant offers the best pizza in Phuket, by far, with good choice and quality ingredients. Mario, the boss, is “al forno” making pizza himself. The pasta dishes are also perfect. We recommend the 4-cheese penne, seafood spaghetti ‘scoglio’ red sauce or tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms. There is also a great variety of fresh and cooked salads for the lighter option. Tel: 076 284 318 www.capannina-phuket.com Location: Kata
• 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 and Chef Guido Orben have 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
• Acqua Restaurant Italian
Acqua’s superbly creative owner/ chef Alessandro Frau selects the finest and freshest ingredients from around the globe to create the most exciting, healthy and delicious ltalian cuisine. Acqua overlooks Kalim Bay just north of Patong on Phuket’s west coast and is open every day from 16:00 until 23:00. Tel: 076 618 127 Lacation: Kalim Bay
• Tiger Kingdom Thai & International Dine overlooking the exciting tiger enclosures on our wonderful balcony restaurant. This is an ideal spot for families to enjoy the a la carte menu, or the all-you-can-eat buffet encompassing a huge section of Thai, Asian, Chinese and European dishes upon which to graze while watching the tigers. Both the a la carte and buffet are extremely good value and the location and views make it one of the most stunning places to dine in all of Phuket. Tel: 076 323 311 www.tigerkingdom.com Location: Kathu www.facebook.com/theguidephuket
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Food & Restaurant
Restaurant
• The 9Th Floor Bar and Restaurant 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, 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
• Two Chefs International
We are proud to introduce our delicious food – imported juicy steaks fresh seafood, pasta, modern Thai food and much more. Enjoy your food in one of our nice restaurants with a good glass of wine from our extensive international wine list. We also serve breakfast, lunch, texmex menu. Kata: 076 333 370, Kata Center : 076 330 065, Karon: 076 286 479 www.twochefs.com Location: Kata, Kata Center, Karon
• East 88 Beach Lounge International & Thai
East 88 Beach Lounge is Phuket’s coolest restaurant and bar “located right by the sea within Serenity Resort & Residences. Lounge or dine in style and enjoy the view over Chalong Bay while being pampered by our team, food, drinks and cool vibes. “Special events, theme evenings and happenings”. Happy hour from 17.00 – 19.00 Hrs. Email: events@serenityphuket.com Tel: 076 371 900 www.serenityphuket.com Location: Rawai www.theguidephuket.com
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• 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
• Baan Rim Pa
Thai Baan Rim Pa Restaurant translates as “the house on a cliff” and commands a sensational location on a beautiful headland overlooking Kalim Bay to the north, and the lights of Patong to its immediate south. One of Phuket’s first and most fashionable restaurants, Baan Rim Pa is internationally famous for its superb Royal Thai Cuisine; ambience; culinary standards; wine cellar and perfect service. The restaurant regularly wins accolades from the Thailand Tatler Best Restaurant Guide and The Wine Spectator Award for excellence. Tel: 076 340 789 www.baanrimpa.com Location: Kalim Bay
• 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
• Jasmine B
Western and Thai Cuisine Dine in the heart of Chalong in our lovely air-conditioned stylish restaurant, or in our delightful garden setting on sumptuous western seafood and meat dishes, or from a wide selection of elegantly-prepared Asian, fusion and Thai classical meals and sensational desserts all. Relax at our garden bar and sample our full range of luscious cocktails, wines and beers. Tel: 076 384 237 www.jasmineb-restaurant.com Location: Chalong opposite Home Pro Shopping Center
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Thai Hospitality Group Manathai Hotels & Resorts launches Khao Lak Property Independent Thai hospitality group Manathai Hotels & Resorts’ ability to tap a deeper, authentic Thai experience is embodied in Manathai Khao Lak - the latest addition to a stunning beachfront collection of inimitable boutique resorts. The opening follows the launch of the Manathai Hotels & Resorts group in November 2014 at World Travel Market and the opening of a worldwide-centralized sales office in Bangkok, with Manathai Khao Lak joining Manathai Hua Hin and Manathai Surin Phuket in the unique collection, with Manathai Koh Samui set to open in the second quarter of this year. Like the other Manathai-managed properties, Manathai Khao Lak introduces guests to a visually captivating and culturally vibrant destination, as well as a stylish and charming resort inspired by the surrounds and flavours.
Moreover, the property is offering special opening rates starting from THB4,895++ which includes daily breakfast for two people in a Deluxe Balcony room until 30 April 2015. “Manathai Hotels & Resorts (www.manathai.com) understands that individual travellers, families and couples want to engage with a destination on their own terms,” Manathai Hotels & Resorts Chief Operations Officer, Christoph Berger said. “They crave individuality, choice and authenticity - and that’s what we deliver.” Located on a pristine coastline overlooking the Andaman Sea and a 90-minutes drive from Phuket International Airport, Manathai Khao Lak is a window to nature at its finest: cave kayaking in Phang Nga Bay, diving at the world renown Similan Islands and trekking in Khao Sok National Park, featuring the world’s oldest evergreen forest. It has 158 beautifully appointed and spacious rooms, starting at 48sqm in size.
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Independent Thai hospitality group Manathai Hotels & Resorts’ ability to tap a deeper, authentic Thai experience is embodied in Manathai Khao Lak - the latest addition to a stunning beachfront collection of inimitable boutique resorts. The opening follows the launch of the Manathai Hotels & Resorts group in November 2014 at World Travel Market and the opening of a worldwide-centralized sales office in Bangkok, with Manathai Khao Lak joining Manathai Hua Hin and Manathai Surin Phuket in the unique collection, with Manathai Koh Samui set to open in the second quarter of this year. Like the other Manathai-managed properties, Manathai Khao Lak introduces guests to a visually captivating and culturally vibrant destination, as well as a stylish and charming resort inspired by the surrounds and flavours. Moreover, the property is offering special opening rates starting from THB4,895++ which includes daily breakfast for two people in a Deluxe Balcony room until 30 April 2015. “ManathaiHotels & Resorts(www.manathai.com)understands that individual travellers, families and couples want to engage with a destination on their own terms,” Manathai Hotels & Resorts Chief Operations Officer, Christoph Berger said. “They crave individuality, choice and
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THE EMERALD NIRVANA Patong-Kalim Oceanfront Residence, Condo & Villa, 5 Star Resort & Beach Club All of our condominium have been warmly accepted in design and location, we therefore are delighted to establish the Emerald Nirvana to customize the art of living for those who love to live naturally by the sea. Splendid swimming pool, fitness centre and many other facilities. All units are sea view at a definitely affordable price. Having your own private Kalim beach within 100 m from the condominium, the Emerald Nirvana is on the Kamala-Patong road, Kalim beach, yet the Patong is within your reach (2 Km).
The Jade Villa @ Emerald Nirvana
Unique Private Pool Villa with Panoramic Oceanfront View. Unique and exclusive sea view pool villas nestled on a hilly slope with breathtaking views over the Andaman sea and perfectly in tune with the nature that surrounds it. Each villa is spacious and ingeniously designed to provide an individual and stylish character where you can enjoy spectacular sunsets without leaving your own private infinity pool. The villas are on the ground of a luxury development of apartments, villas and 5 star hotel with an array of amenities as well as an exclusive Beach club. They are located a few km away from Patong, allowing easy and quick access to the heart of entertainment with shopping venues, restaurants and its eccentric nightlife. Our degree of involvement from the development right through the day-today operation by our team of experienced villa management professionals and rental providers, means that no competitors knows their product as well as us. With our existing “Rental guarantee & Vacation home program�, you are assured a return on your investment of at least 10% per year taking into consideration your individual financial requirements. THE EMERALD NIRVANA 4233 Kalim Beach Rd., Kathu, Patong, Phuket Thailand 83150 Tel: +66 (0)85 543 5435, +66 (0)82 333 3416 www.emerald-nirvana-phuket.com
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Verve Villas “Get some Verve in your life” Fine-living rarely soars to the heights you will experience in your new custom-designed villa. These spacious luxury villas will entice you with their modern architectural design and layout, and quality inclusions throughout. Built on generous land plots and aimed to take advantage of Phuket’s delightful climate, Verve Villas will allow you a sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle that will be the envy of your friends. Grand in design, an air of exclusivity flows through this collection of eight individually-designed residences. Concept They want Verve Villas to be a unique development aimed at those with a modern taste. They have deliberately stayed away from the standard Thai-style design so common on the island and opted for a truly modern, architecturally inspired look that makes the most of Thai and Phuket lifestyle. They have also chosen not to overcrowd the development with 8 unique units, situated on massive allotments ranging from 750 to 900 sqm. Each villa can also be tailored to suit a buyers needs by adding an additional bedroom, study or rumpus room making it a truly unique development. Finish Quality,style and luxury are their motto at Verve and this is reflected in the choice of materials they have used throughout. From sensual stonework, rich-tone Asiatic hardwoods, www.theguidephuket.com
Hotel & Accommodation
47
granite bench tops and expansive glass surrounds Verve will impress from the moment you walk through the front gates. Their kitchen and bathroom fittings are a feature, as is the sloping roof design, with hardwood ceiling and windows that bring in an abundance of natural light. They have chosen the best quality materials on offer reflecting to ensure your villa is as good in 10 years as the day you move in, ensuring you won’t be disappointed with your investment Location Verve Villas is located in Layan, one of the premier real estate areas of Phuket. It is just minutes from a stunning beach, a beautiful golf course and some great local and foreign restaurants. It is also close to one of Asia’s best sporting, and fine dining is close at hand with Laguna Village, Layan, Bang Tao and Surin only a short drive from Verve. In fact, one of the most popular restaurants on the island Siam Supper Club is only 5 minutes away and is situated among many other great restaurants. Price Range: from 24.9 – 27.9 million Baht Services At Verve they want you to make it easy for you and your guests to enjoy your stay and not have to worry about some of lifes chores that get in the way. They offer a full range of services aimed at making your stay relaxing and stress free and that give you piece of mind over your investment. Body Corporate Management All common garden area will be managed by a professional management team. The services they can provide include: • • • • • • • • • •
Garbage removal & pest control Gardening and irrigation of all common areas Power supply for all common areas and street lighting Secure gated access Bookings and reservations Guest screening Housekeeping Payment processing Linen service Weekly pool cleaning & maintenance
Security At Verve they provide services to ensure your villa is protected. To give you peace of mind when you are visiting or away from Phuket they have incorporated a state of the art security system which features an automatic security gate , security cameras for each villa ,as well common areas in the residential community, and security guards Rental Management They also cater for buyers who want to make the most from their investment by tapping into the lucrative Phuket holiday letting market. Villas of the quality of Verve can fetch upwards of 600USD a night, and with the right management owners can sure of returns while they aren’t enjoying the villa themselves, having peace of mind their investment is being managed by a professional team. For more information PROSPEROUS DEVELOPER Co.,Ltd 123/18 Moo 9, Thepkrasatri Rd., Thalang, Phuket 83110 Email: sale@vervevillasphuket.com Tel: 095 417 7667 (Eng) tony@vervevillasphuket.com Tel: 088 179 6421 (Eng) wuth@vervevillasphuket.com Tel: 081 708 2342 (Eng, Thai) www.vervevillasphuket.com www.facebook.com/vervevillas.phuket
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Health & Beauty
BrightView Surgery Retaining Youthful Vision Throughout a Lifetime While aging is on its course, hair may turn grey or even white, and skin may be less than fair with wrinkles, impurities and so on. These external traits may be spruced up to conceal the passage of time. One sign of aging that is hard to tackle is deteriorating vision, as evidenced by an instance of him or her gazing at a book or mobile phone at an unusually long distance (between the eyes and object). This is because older age has begun to take its toll on our vision, i.e. the natural lenses inside our eyes will become less and less flexible, making it hard to change the focal distance to clearly capture an object and render it on the retina. Human lenses can be compared to a camera’s lens. It is just like the loss of eye’s “Rezoom” function, and youthful sharp vision is gradually gone.
Eye’s loss of Rezoom function
Signs of deteriorating vision • Presbyopia or long-sightedness which is common among those aged above 40 • Need glasses or bifocals to assist with near vision, e.g. reading, writing, slicing food • Alternately go without glasses in case of far vision: driving, sightseeing, enjoying a performance on stage • Lens may become cloudy as a result of cataract A breakthrough in senior vision correction, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), also known as “BrightView Surgery”, has been introduced to reverse the weakening course of human vision. It uses the latest generation of Multifocal Artificial Lens implantation to replace worsening natural lenses. As a result, the rezoom function of a patient’s eye is regained, and crystal-clear vision is restored, thus unleashing the new freedom of vision throughout a lifetime.
After BrightView surgery
Advantages of Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) • Restore near and distance vision and enable patients to enjoy their daily activities 85-90% without the need of eyeglasses or bifocals • Most effective vision correction for people whose age is over 50 • Microsurgery which takes only 40-60 minutes per one eye • No need to stay overnight in hospital • Minimal downtime and most patients can see and read with their own eye on the next day. • Popular choice for medical tourists as everything can be fitted in a time frame of 2 weeks • Rule out chances of cataract in the future Remark: not recommended for those with underlying eye disease, or previous Lasik, cataract surgery
For more information, pl ease call the BrightView Center at 1719 ext. 2019, 2020, or e-mail us at info@phukethospital.com Eye’s natural lens
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Health & Beauty
SPA www.theguidephuket.com
Health & Beauty
51
De Flora Spa
You need to make your holiday a wonderful, relaxing and genuine experience at any time of the day. De Flora Spa is the place where you can enjoy a special variety of beauty spa services, sauna, Jacuzzi and more than twenty treatments and massage. Tel: 076 344 555 www.defloraspa.com
Vara Spa
At Vara Spa, from the moment you step through the door, you become the center of our 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
Sala Spa
Sala Spa: Exotic, mysterious, decadent total indulgence awaits! 5 indoor treatment rooms and 3 beachfront massage stations. Facilities also include sauna and steam rooms. For more details please refer to the spa menu In your room. Reservations are essential to avoid disappointment. Please press the spa button on your phone or Ext: 5000. Offer not to be used in conjunction with any other promotions. Tel: 076 338 888 www.salaresorts.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket
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Health & Beauty
The Oasis Spa Phuket
The ultimate spa experience where treatments are created combining ancient secrets and advanced discoveries in beauty and wellness. Luxurious spas designed with a Thai atmosphere to allow clients to enjoy superior service without unnecessary formality. 3 branches in Phuket Laguna, Bang Tao, Kamala, Kata Phuket. Tel: 076 337 777 www.phuketoasis.com
Venustas
Venustas, the premium Thai spa, was inspired and created by Ms.Sudjai Tomon with a thought of retrieving the energy of life and revitalizing the balance of body and mind. With the love in pure natural product and th awareness of the dangers of synthetic product , she was inspired to bring forth the myriad benefits of 100% natural active ingredients and pure essential oils to every customer by developing therapeutic spa products. Tel: 089 587 1523 www.venustas-thailand.com
The V Spa
The V Spa aims at bringing back guest to nature, built in the shape of a villages style the pretty small straw roofed Salas blend totally with the natural beauty of the jungle. Each has been designed with nature at heart and fashioned. When in Thailand, don’t forget to have a Traditional Thai Natural Touch Treatments. At The Vijitt Resort Phuket, you can have one right on the private spa executive room or at the open air Salas. Traditional Thai Natural Touch Treatments is soothing and relaxing it’s definitely worth it. Try also the resort’s Aromatherapy oil massage, Thai essential oils are used to penetrate your body and ensure long lasting health and beauty. It removes body aches, loosens knotted blood vessels, cures beriberi and helps your body systems recover from stress and anxiety. You will surely feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Tel: 076 363 600 ext.703 www.vijittresort.com www.theguidephuket.com
Health & Beauty
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5 Star Massage
5 star Massage in Patong is a Unique, elegant, modern and comfortable salon where the very well-trained staff offer a complete range of massage and beauty treatment services at reasonable prices. 5 Star Massage is French owner and managed. All The massage girls are certified form massage school in Thailand and only offer authentic massage services that will make you leave refreshed, revitalized and rejuvenated. Open daily 10.00 – 23.00 and offering great value for money. Tel: 089 535 4637 www.5-star-massage.com
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
Let’s Relax Spa
Relaxing the mind and revitalizing the body seems to be what everybody needs nowadays, after a hectic schedule, a busy lifestyle and a stressful city living. But when and how can you afford to take time off to free yourself from so much stress and take time to relax your body and revitalize your senses with your busy lifestyle? At Let’s Relax, you can let loose, reward yourself, indulge, relax and enjoy the fineness pleasure of pampering yourself. Tel: 076 346 080 www.letsrelaxspa.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket
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MGC-Asia Ultimate Luxury Vehicles has d at at Phuket. Now indigenous rich people and cocoonsarrived e chance chance to touch Rolls-Royce, Aston Matin, Azimut, have BMW W and MINI closely because MGC – Asia as authorized dealers de e a lers are ready to help consult everycustomer to theirr dreamed super sport and luxury, comfort cars or evenn luxurious yacht for their everyday life.
Robin Ruth old artwork www.theguidephuket.com
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t e k Phu Pulse s t Receives the Prestigiou Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuke HolidayCheck Award 2015 Ziegler (left)
HRH Princess Ubolratan a visits Bangkok Airwa ys’ booth at ITB 2015
HRH Princess Ubolr atana Ra jakanya Sir i Vadhana Ph annavadi visited Bangkok Airwa ys’ bo oth at the fairground of Intern ationale Tourismus Boerse 2015 (ITB) held in Berlin, Ge rmany. The princess wa s greeted by Bang ko k Air wa ys’ Pre siden t - Ca pt. Pu Prasarttong-Osoth (Fr ttip on g ont row 2nd from the right) and executives from Ban gkok Airways PCL. ITB Berlin is respected as the wo rd’s leading travel sho w and was held in Berlin until Ma rch 8, 2015. Bangkok Airways first entered the fair in 199 8.
or of Content Georg HolidayCheck’s Direct st Popular d HolidayCheck’s Mo ete cov presented the ntary Hotels Ka & pe Ca to ard 15 aw Hotels Worldwide 20 Navanukroh Director Poomiphat Travel Industry Group an Sales rm Ge & Kantary Hotels Panwa (center) and Cape pe Ca of our hon in er (right) tation Manager Ma ja Geldn sen pre The . ipient of the award Hotel, Phuket, the rec lin – the world’s Ber ITB at ony em cer took place during a . The award fair – in Berlin, Germany largest tourism trade tel on the Ho wa iews of Cape Pan is based on guest rev l. porta Holida yCheck travel
Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort celebrates International Women’s Day
flies h release of 2,000 butter BB Phuket launches wit end nd Opening week to mark extravagant Gra h-profile resort
st Asia’s new hig BB Phuket, South-ea destination, st incredibl e island mo ’s ion and the reg the rel ease h ening weekend wit marked its grand op t’s “Stay uke Ph BB of l bo the sym se was of 2,000 butterflies, ea rel rfly tte concept. The bu Unordinary” resort excitement, of full d cke pa ys o da a culmination of tw drinks, great ce art, live music, glamour, performan – the shape poolside fun at BB cuisine, revelry and nd new and bra s thi at e s to com of more good thing on. ati stin de st Coast resort luxurious Phuket Ea
The luxurious Sofitel Krabi Phok eethra Golf & Spa Resort recently invited its female asso ciates to take part in an activity to celebrate International Women’s Day, 2015. Established more than a cen tury ago, Internationa l Women’s Day has grown into a global celebration of fem ale emp owerme nt and stre ngth . Sofi tel Kra bi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is proud to be part of the world-wide event that highlight s women’s important role in society and their power to brin g about positive change. To mark the occasion, Sofitel Krab i Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort joined together with NAR S, the luxury cosmetic brand from United States, to organize an exclusive make-up workshop teaching women how to apply make-up like a professional, from basic to advanced levels. In the resort’s Phokeethra Gran d Ballroom, a group of 26 Sofitel ambassadors learned how to shape the faces with make-up and be more self-conf ident in life and in the workplace.
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Lifestyle
Shopper’s
Delight
MAI KHAO BEACH Turtle Village The Exclusive Shopping Destination on Mai Khao Beach for the best dining and shopping on Mai Khao Beach. Cuisine choices match wonderfully with the gift, souvenir, antique and clothing selections. Bill Bentley Pub, the only English pub on Mai Khao Beach, TheCoffee 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.
ture Ma gazine Photo by... Art and Cul
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 jewelry, 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 drink to household goods and is open from 06:00 – 22:00.
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Lifestyle
PATONG BEACH Jungceylon Located centrally in Patong Beach is the newest addition to the growing trend of shopping malls in Phuket. ‘Jungceylong’ was the old name for Phuket when it was still a prosperous port town and tradingin 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 space 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 minimaland modernistic, at night the lighting, ranging fromblue 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 even can 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. 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 beachsideversion of the famous Phuket Weekend Market in Phuket Town. Aimed at tourists, the place is a great opportunity for an evening stroll. www.theguidephuket.com
Lifestyle
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Central Festival Phu
ket
Phuket Central Festival
PHUKET TOWN 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 jewelry 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 cuisine to Japanese to local Thai outlets. 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 realize that there is an equally good alternative here in Phuket, albeit on a smaller scale. Situated opposite the Naka Temple (which is also worth a visit) outside of Phuket Town, just 5 minutes from Central Festival on the Chao Fa West Road lies Phuket’s equivalent to Bangkok’s JJ Market. Here you will find all manner of things for sale from seemingly useless second-hand household junk and cute little trinkets to garden ornaments, clothing and ideal presents for all your friends and family. There is also an abundance of food and drink stalls to keep the energy levels up whilst you wander around.
झ ว ᄯ ۠
The market starts in the afternoon and goes on until the evening time when it can get really very lively. www.facebook.com/theguidephuket
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Transport
Transport on the island How much of Phuket have you actually seen? Wouldn’t you like to explore some more? Well, here we list some of your options for getting around the island’s highways and byways. To and from the airport Airport transfers are relatively simple. The airport is at the far north of the island, some 30 kilometers from Phuket Town and even further from most of the popular beaches like Patong and Karon. It is best to use one of the two official transport companies with booths right inside the arrival lounge, you can’t miss them. Private Airport Limousines or minibuses are available to get to the ma jor beaches at the south or west of the island. Metered taxis are also available. The Airport Bus is a cheaper alternative as long as you are not in a rush. Ask at the airport for their current departure schedules and pricing. Car rental is available and companies, such as Budget and National have offices located in the airport. ‘Tuk-Tuks’ If you want your own private taxi, look for a tuk tuk, a tiny mini-truck converted in the manner of the bigger song-taews mentioned above to carry about four (or more!) passengers.
The tuk-tuk gets its name from the noise its little engine makes. There are fleets of these in all 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 motor cycle 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 motor cycle lights must be turned on at all times, including during the daytime! The police occasionally enforce all these laws, so beware. The real danger in Phuket is this: NONE of the motorcycles rented here have insurance. 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 is directly across from here both air-con tour buses and cheap, ‘orange crush’ buses leave for destinations north, south and east. There are regular services to Bangkok, Krabi, Surat Thani, Nakorn Srithammarat, Trang, Haad Yai and other minor provincial capitals.
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Transport
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SCHEDULE TO/FROM PHUKET PHUKET TO BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) Flight
Dep
Arr.
BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) TO PHUKET Days
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
TG 226
0720
0845
Daily
TG 201
0745
0910
Daily
TG 202
1005
1130
Daily
TG 203
0830
0955
Daily
TG 204
1050
1220
Daily
TG 205
0940
1100
Daily
TG 206
1150
1315
Daily
TG 207
1310
1430
1246
TG 208
1530
1655
Daily
TG 215
1410
1530
Daily
TG 230
1425
1550
1567
TG 217
1655
1815
Daily
TG 216
1630
1755
Daily
TG 221
1820
1940
Daily
TG 218
1915
2040
Daily
TG 221
1925
2045
Daily
TG 222
2035
2200
Daily
TG 223
2005
2125
246
TG 212
2125
2250
Daily
TG 225
2240
2359
Daily
PHUKET TO CHIANG MAI
CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
TG 1272
1135
1330
Daily
TG 1151
0845
1040
Daily
Days of Service: 1 = Mon 2 = Tue 3 = Wed 4 = Thu 5 = Fri 6 = Sat 7 = Sun
Phuket Reservation Call 0-7636-0444 Mon-Sun, 0800 - 1700 www.thaiairways.co.th / www.thaiairways.com / www.thaismileair.com
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 Destination Bangtao Beach Surin Beach Kamala Beach Kata Beach Karon Beach Kathu District Patong Beach Makh am Ba y Ch along Ba y Rawai Beach Naiharn Beach Sarasin Bridge Bang Rong Pier Por Ba y Pier
Beach to Town
Fee (Baht)
25
6.00am - 4.00pm
35
7.00am - 5.00pm
25
6.00am - 4.00pm
35
7.00am - 5.00pm
30
6.00am - 4.00pm
40
7.30am - 6.00pm
25
5.30am - 4.30pm
40
7.30am - 6.00pm
25
5.30am - 4.30pm
40
7.30am - 5.00pm
15
6.20am - 3.30pm
25
8.00am - 6.00pm
20
7.30am - 5.30pm
30
8.00am - 5.00pm
20
7.00am - 3.30pm
30
8.00am - 5.30pm
20
6.00am - 5.30pm
30
6.50am - 5.30pm
25
6.00am - 4.30pm
40
7.00am - 6.05pm
30
6.45am - 6.05pm
45
6.00am - 6.00pm
30
6.00am - 3.00pm
40
8.30am - 4.00pm
30
7.00am - 4.00pm
30
8.30am - 4.00pm
30
7.00am - 4.00pm
30
Town to Beach
Fee (Baht)
7.00am - 5.00pm
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Andaman
GETTING TO KNOW the Southern Andaman Region of Krabi, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta
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. 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. 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 www.theguidephuket.com
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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. 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!
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 •
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Pimalai Resort & Spa - Koh La nta Tel. +66 (0) 75 607 999 www.pimalai.com
The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 628 400 www.tubkaakresort.com Amari Vogue Krabi Tel. +66 (0) 75 607 777 www.amari.com/vogue Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 628 000 www.starwoodhotels.com Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Tel. +66 (0) 75 628 111 www.ritzcarlton.com Anyavee Tabkaek Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 607 200 www.anyaveetubkaekbeachresort.com Mercure Krabi Deevana Tel. +66 (0) 75 639 999 www.mercure.com Aonang Phu Petra Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 626 666 www.aonangphupetra.com Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 789 www.centarahotelsresorts.com Aonang Villa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 270-4 www.aonangvilla.com The L Resort Krabi Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 485 www.thelresort.com Aonang Ayodhaya Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 661 555 www.aonangayodhaya.com Krabi Resort Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 030-5 www.krabiresort.net Aonang Buri Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 637 499 www.aonangburi.com
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by Kata Grou Be yond Resorts 8 300 62 Tel. +66 (0) 75 om p.c ou gr ta www.ka
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
Sofitel Krabi Phok eethra Golf & Sp a Resort Tel. +66 (0) 75 627 800 www.sofitel.com w
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