The guide phuket july 2014 by The Guide Phuket

CONTENTS

July 2014

THE GUIDE LIFESTYLE 10 16 50 54 55 56

Getting to know Alessandro Frau Life’s a Beach The Guide Social Phuket Pulse JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa Wedding Shopper’s Delight

Cover photo : Grand Mercure Phuket Patong

THE GUIDE ACTIVITY 12 18 22 42

Hot Activity Activities on the island Phuket Bird Paradise Flying Hanuman

Star Phuket Media & Design Limited Partnership

THE GUIDE HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION 22 24 46

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

Phuket Beach Clubs Hotel Highlights Grand Mercure Phuket Patong 44

THE GUIDE DINING 28 30 33 36 38

Let’s do brunch Brunch at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket Restaurant Highlights The Blue Elephant Cooking School and Restaurant Koffee Culture

THE GUIDE BEAUTY 40 44

Spa Highlight The Senses Spa

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

TIMETABLE 59 61

Bangkok Airways Timetable Thai Airways Timetable

SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE Kansirinphat Poolsiri marketing@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)89 288 1144

THE GUIDE ANDAMAN 62 64

Northern Andaman Region Hotel Highlights Southern Andaman

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.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Titaree Taweekit ann@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)86 816 0516

GETTING TO KNOW

Alessandro Frau

of Acqua Restaurant

Alessandro Frau is the passionate and highly successful owner and chef of Acqua Italian Restaurant overlooking Kalim Bay. We caught up with him one stunning early evening in June How did you start to become a chef? I grew up in Sardinia and like many Italian households my family was passionate about food and cooking. However I initially trained in Tourism Management and later learned to be a chef by working in some excellent kitchens. I wanted to travel and lean English and so I went to London and to support myself, got a job Àrstly as a commis-waiter and then later in the kitchen at the world famous La Terrazza Restaurant in the Le Meridien Grosvenor House on Hyde Park Lane. I learned everything I could by working day and night, often without sleep. This was 1999 to 2001 and I was young and absolutely passionate about cooking, so nothing else seemed to matter! The attention to detail and hands-on learning served me well throughout my career and I deÀnitely believe learning ‘on-the-job’ rather than in a classroom was the best way to become a good chef. How did your experience in cooking evolve? I went back to Italy to work in a Sardinian resort and in their low season I started working all over the world….Mexico, Paris, Finland, Sweden and on cruise ships, so that I could learn all the different cuisines and methods of working. How did you arrive in Phuket? My girlfriend and I came for a month’s holiday and loved it. I sent my resume to some of the top Phuket resorts and the Sheraton hired me after an interview and a rigorous ‘cooking test’! I started with them as Executive Sous Chef in December 2004, right before the tsunami happened. I totally re-launched Puccini their main Italian restaurant to deliver an authentic Italian dining experience and they liked what I did. They moved me through all of their eleven outlets and a year later I was promoted to Executive Chef. How did you come to launch Acqua? I was with Sheraton for four years, but I had an absolute passion to be creative and innovative both in my cuisine and the total décor, design and every aspect of the dining experience. I realized that to control all this and to follow my passion, I needed to be in control of my own destiny. I found a lovely location overlooking Kalim Bay between Patong and Kamala/Surin which I thought was ideal. I worked with architects, designers and decorators to produce the clean, modern, black and white thematic of Acqua. I designed the glassware, cutlery, menus, cellar….everything that came to fulÀll my vision for Acqua and in 2009, we opened.

www.theguidephuket.com

What does the future hold for you? I am consulting on the opening of a new Italian restaurant in Singapore and we are looking for a suitable location to extend the Acqua brand in Bangkok. Last year I won Thailand’s Iron Chef TV Show and they have invited me back again this year. Also Acuqa has been appointed as Ambassador for the famous Tuscan Frescabaldi Luce Wines and we’ll be staging events featuring the wines in the next months. So, I’m keeping pretty busy!! Acqua Restaurant 324/15 Prabaramee Rd., Kalim Bay, Patong, Phuket Tel: +66 (0)76 618127 Email: reservations@acquarestaurantphuket.com www.acquarestaurantphuket.com

Activities

Hot Activities NOW 3 CLASSES DAILY 09.00 - 10.30 am 05.15 - 06.45 pm 07.15 - 08.45 pm

Tiger Kingdom

Kata Yoga

Phuket FantaSea

Natural and clean Park Tigers at Tiger Kingdom are hand raised by their trainers since 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 human and often see us as one of the family. You can touch & play with real tigers and they are not as 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

XD Theater

Luxurious Day

Tarzan Adventure

Step into the future with Phuket’s latest attraction; a 10 seat 6D motion ride. Choose a movie, slip on your glasses and be prepared to be whisked away on a journey to space or beyond. The moving chairs enhance the thrills of the 3D visuals making you feel you really are in a land undiscovered. We rode on the Cosmic Coaster which is a roller coaster set on another planet taking you through landscapes, plummeting off cliffs into cosmic lands. This virtual world is open to all ages and the shows run every 10 minutes, so step inside and let your imagination run wild.

Charter “Isabella Rose”

Enjoy the thrills of Tarzan Adventure in a coastal enclave of soaring trees overlooking the sapphire seas on the beauteous coast of Cape Panwa. Tarzan Adventure offers an awesome combination of challenging obstacle courses, thrilling zip line rides and aerial adventures with 42 fun-inducing stations to conquer in a safe and controlled environment. The stations consist of ropes, nets, planks, cables and even a skateboard with high standards and the latest equipment throughout. The staff is friendly and well-trained and guides you through your adventure with a smile.

www.xd-attractions.com www.theguidephuket.com

Snorkeling in crystal clear waters, swimming at a secluded beach and discovering local island restaurants are all experiences we shared Àrst when we get home and these day trips are often the most memorable experience of a holiday. This magniÀcent 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.tarzan-adventure.com

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.Áyinghanuman.com

www.theguidephuket.com

Hot Activities Thanyapura

Splash Jungle

Blue Elephant

Sports & Leisure Club (TSLC)

Phuketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wettest Wildest Water Park providing gallons of excitement for the whole family. The Water Park offers fun for the whole family 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 world-class sport facilities & leisure activities for everyone. Recently opened in Nov 2011, TSLC is a destination in itself. Get rejuvenated at Thanyapura Spa; Experience Divineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Activities

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

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Activities

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. · 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 Àve deep on Patong.

Surin Beach

· 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 Àne 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.

Laem Singh

Beach

· 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 Àne white sand and emerald sea. The beach can have rather strong winds which make it ideal for windsurÀng. A lot of popular resorts surround this 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

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. Nai Yang Beach

Mai Khao Be

ach

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· 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 typiÀes 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 Áanking either side.

· Karon Beach

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

· Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn is one of the more isolated beaches, nestled at the southern tip of the island in a bay deÀned 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. Kamala Beach

Nai Harn Beac

· 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 Àsh inhabit the rocks and corals along the headland to the south.

ach

Bang Tao Be

· 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.

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Activities

Activit es

n 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 inÁux 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 Ànd. • 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. www.theguidephuket.com

• 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 Àght 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 Ànd 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 Áeet 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.

Activities

A Paradise

for Birds and Bird Lovers

Phuket is blessed with a wonderful bird park and gardens known as Phuket Bird Paradise located on the right-hand side about a kilometer along the Big Buddha Road from the turning off the main Chao Fah West Road. Phuket Bird Paradise occupies a verdant plot of hilly land Àlled with an abundance of exotic Áora, through which the winding paths take you past a broad array of many of our feathered friends. There are an abundance of brightly colored parrots, parakeets and lorikeets with their dramatically lambent red, green and yellow plumage, as well as a personal favorite having lived in Australia, sulfur-crested cockatoos. A Àrst stop for all of Bird Paradise’s visitors is to have their picture taken while covered in a throng of

birds, which the handlers place all over you…. even perched nonchalantly upon your head. The bird handlers are very efÀcient and seem to be able to command their avian charges to do their bidding no matter what, but the secret is the supply of sunÁower seeds that the handlers keep feeding the birds to reinforce their good behavior! Nowhere is this more evident than at the “must-see” Bird Show which Bird Paradise runs in their auditorium. This features absolutely amazing feats of bird training and tricks which will both entertain you and leave you scratching your head as to how the birds actually do such feats of apparent magic. You are invited up onto the stage to interact with the birds which children and adults alike thoroughly enjoy. I was fortunate enough to spend some time with the park’s famous bird trainer a friendly lady who has worked with avians for many years around Thailand. She told me that it takes about eight months of daily training to teach a new bird the new tricks in the show and that the brightly colored South American parrots are her star pupils. Bird Paradise is a terriÀc venue for families and for children of course, who can spend much happy time browsing around the many cages looking at the birds, and then stopping at the café to refresh with cool drinks before carrying on with their adventure.

www.theguidephuket.com

Phuket itself is often referred to as a “Paradise Island” and the huge number of annual visitors and many residents who call it home would readily agree with this description. Certainly the island is blessed with tropical climes and lush, abundant trees and vegetation that makes it a paradise not only for humans, but for our feathered friends who are a hugely important part of the island’s attractive environment. I left Phuket Bird Paradise with a spring in my step having been thoroughly entertained and charmed by the birds, the lovely environment and the friendliness of the staff. It’s a wonderful excursion for all, especially families and kiddies who will have an unforgettable time. Phuket Bird Paradise 82/4 Moo 10 Soi Yod Sanae (The Big Buddha), Chaofa Rd., Chalong, Muang Phuket 83000 Tel: 076 384 681-3 Email: phuketbirdparadise@gmail.com www.phuketbirdparadise.com

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Catch Beach Club

The Guide to Beach Clubs

Beach clubs have become synonymous with Phuket over the years, and the beach club era is still booming with new additions every year. From party venues to relaxed lounge areas, each Beach Club has something to offer whatever your preference; sitting by the beach has never been so fashionable. What to expect?

Each beach club prides its self on their differences to their competitors, in turn making it a dif±cult task to put them under the same category. However there are always similar foundations for each beach club; signature cocktail menus, international DJs and stunning aesthetics that follow each beach clubs individual concept.

ach Club

OBC Ocean Be

East 88 Beach Lo unge

Catch Beach Club Phuket’s most fashionable beach club and the hottest spot on Surin Beach is still showing new-comers to the beach club era the way forward. Having recently hosted their 8th Anniversary White Party for almost 2,000 people, they continue to develop their product with tasty brunch packages and continued investment in their full on party atmosphere with the best DJ’s and a well stocked bar. www.catchbeachclub.com East 88 Beach Lounge Follow the lady in the pool. Strategically located within the grounds of the Serenity Resort & Residences in the south of Chalong, East 88 Beach Lounge is best for families and groups, with a vast pool that’s open all night, and with a nightly performance from their incredibly talented resident DJ. During the day you’ll Ànd a host of activities, a selection of Mediterranean dishes, and on a Sunday the burger buffet and salad bar is affordable and not to be missed. www.serenityphuket.com OBC Ocean Beach Club Overlooking the azure Andaman Sea at Karon Beach, OBC Ocean Beach Club within the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa offers a different beach club approach aimed at the higher society by offering a delightful menu featuring prime cuts of meat and daily, fresh from the ocean seafood. An impressive cocktail menu and charismatic bar teams provide the foundations for a classy evening in Phuket. www.phuketarcadia.hilton.com

Xana Beach Club with Attica

Xana Beach Club with Attica With its stunning location, 35 meter pool, state of the art sound system, and cocktail and food menus to die for, XANA, Phuket’s most stylish beach club, is the ultimate venue to enjoy the island at its best – day or night. The brainchild of the renowned Singapore club Attica, XANA Beach Club was launched in Laguna Beach Resort, Bang Tao, in 2012. It is an entertainment led venue that offers a lot more than just beautiful surroundings, delicious food and perfectly mixed drinks. As a leading event company put it, ‘XANA is Phuket’s Àrst REAL beach club’. With a picture-perfect backdrop by the sea, XANA features beach loungers, poolside day beds and VIP cabanas to accommodate up to 10 people. It also lends itself perfectly for events of all kinds from private gatherings to launches and weddings, with the added bonus of onsite accommodation at Angsana Laguna Phuket Hotel. www.xanabeachclub.com Pearl of Surin Beach Club The deÀnitive choice in luxury, exclusivity, & beauty! This incredible beach club sits Àrmly at the top of Asia’s hottest destinations. “Pearl of Surin” is an oasis of serenity located on the beautiful West Coast of Phuket with amazing views and beautiful sunsets. On the surface, “Pearl of Surin” is stunningly designed with beauty and elegance, but take a closer look at their services and facilities and you will experience the very best in French Cuisine and other Àne dining, exquisite deco, furnishings and impressive hospitality.

Pearl of Surin Be

ach Club

Bimi Beach Club

During the daytime you can relax and drift away on Àne rattan woven sun loungers or on one of the signature square white leather beds that gives you a wonderful sensation of afÁuence and luxury. For the adventurous, you can chill out in the azure blue Andaman sea on their waterbeds while having a drink at theirÁoating Ocean Bar. There is a raised VIP zone, massage zone, all offering the best in services and brands. www.pearlofsurinbeachclub.com Bimi Beach Club Found on the white-hot sands along Phuket’s spectacular west coast, Bimi Beach Club is set to continue to enhance Surin Beach to become Phuket’s most exciting venue. Bimi gives party-goers a stylish yet stripped-down spot to mingle, dance and set free their island spirit along the dazzling shores of Surin. Bimi Beach Club is open from 10am till 7pm and Bimi Grill & Restaurant is open until 10pm. Bimi throbs with the sexy sounds of Thai and International DJs spinning daily mixes on a highly diffused quality sound system. Always exceptional yet never pretentious, their setting, service and style celebrate the Thai passion for fun and the open, welcoming beauty of its people. www.bimibeachclub.com

HOTEL ʇPATONG Amari Coral Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 106-14 Andaman Beach Suites Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 879-83

Andaman Embrace Resort & Spa

Highlights

Merlin Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 294 300 Novotel Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 342 777 Patong Bay Garden Resort +66 (0) 76 292 914-5 Patong Merlin Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 037-41 Patong Paragon Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 290 555 Royal Pawadee Village Hotel +66 (0) 76 344 622 Safari Beach Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 171-4

+66 (0) 76 370 000 www.andamanembrace.com

B-Lay Tong +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 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

Sawaddi Patong Resort

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

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

SLEEP WITH ME HOTEL design hotel @ patong +66 (0) 76 360 333 www.sleepwithmehotels.com

Grand Mercure Phuket Patong +66 (0) 76 302 100 www.mercure.com

ʇKARON BEACH Hilton Phuket Arcadia +66 (0) 76 396 038-44 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

The 9th Floor Residence

ʇKATA 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 The Beach Boutique House +66 (0) 76 333 113 Impiana Private Villas +66 (0) 76 330 770

+66 (0) 76 344 987 www.roomsatthe9th.com

Patong Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 551-4 www.patongresorthotel.com

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Salathai Resort +66 (0) 76 296 631 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

Two Chefs Bungalows

+66 (0) 76 284 155 www.twochefs-phuket.com

HOTEL ʇBANG 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

Highlights

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

Sala Phuket Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 338 888 www.salaphuket.com

Friendship Bungalow +66 (0) 76 288 996 The Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club +66 (0) 76 381 360-6

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 362 999 www.dusit.com

Twinpalms Phuket

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

ʇSURIN 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 ʇKAMALA 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 ʇRAWAI BEACH & NAI HARN All Season Naiharn Phuket Hotel + 66 (0) 76 289 333

ʇNAIYANG & 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 The Imperial Adamas Beach Resort +(66) 76 316 000 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 ʇMAIKHAO 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

Thanyapura Retreat

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

ʇCAPE 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 Crowne Plaza Phuket Panwa Beach +66 (0) 76 302 940 ʇPHUKET 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 ʇNAKA ISLAND The Naka Island A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa Phuket +66 (0) 76 371 400 ʇRACHA ISLAND The Racha Resort +66 (0) 76 355 455

Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket +66 (0)76 372 000 www.centarahotelsresorts.com

ʇSIRAY ISLAND The Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa Phuket +66 (0) 76 335 600 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Neon Night Run & Party Thanyapura Phuket organized a successful inaugural Neon Night Run & Party on May 31 attracting more than 300 participants. The event was created to welcome the community to enjoy a fun active healthy lifestyle in an outdoor carnival style party. Competing for the Thanyapura School Cup were over 20 children from Yaowawit School Phang Nga, a government approved welfare boarding school for children from underprivileged families. Yaowawit School Kapong was founded by the “Children’s World Academy” Foundation in Germany and Thailand to help the victims of the Tsunami tragedy of 2004. PIA won the School Cup with Muang Thalang School in 2nd place and Yaowawit School in 3rd place.

Lifestyle

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Food & Restaurant

LET’S DO BRUNCH! The Vijitt Resort Phuket

Vijitt Resort Phuket

SUNDAY LUNCH

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. • Baht 1,099 net per person with free Áow soft drinks • Baht 1,399 net per person with a bottle of wine per couple • Baht 3,099 net per person with a bottle of champagne per couple HALF PRICE for children from 4 to 12 years old. FREE for children under 4 years old. Complimentary use of our 40m InÀnity Edge Swimming Pool Kids Club for 4 to 12 years old. Tel: 076 363 600 www.vijittresort.com

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Hilton Sunday Brunch Every Sunday From 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs.

Enjoy our lavish international buffet with friends and family each Sunday at Sails! Our jazz band sets the mood for a relaxing afternoon with delicious food, live cooking stations, refreshing Hilton SUNDAY BRUNCH drinks and good company. Balloon artists entertain the little ones with face painting and kids’ activities. Sunday Brunch at Sails – a Hilton Experience • 1,400++ THB per adult (includes bottle of house wine per couple) • 1,100++ THB per adult (without wine) • 700++ THB per child* (Ages 5-12) *All prices are in Thai baht and are subject to 10% service charge and 7% VAT. Tel: 076 396 433 www.phuketarcadia.hilton.com

Food & Restaurant

Twinpalms brunch

SUNDAY BRUNCH

Every Sunday from 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs.

Twinpalms

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. • 3,490++ THB per person including a bottle of champagne per couple • 1,490++ THB per person including a bottle of wine per couple • 1,190++ THB brunch only Tel : 076 316 577 www.twinpalms-phuket.com

Thanyapura SUNDAY BRUNCH

Sunday Brunch at Thanyapura Every Sunday From 11.30-14.30 hrs.

High quality imported Oysters, Lobsters, Grilled Seafood, Wagyu Beef and a sumptuous choice of homemade desserts with free Áow beverages including wines and cocktails. Get Free Day Pass to Thanyapura facilities valued at 600THB and free access to kid’s club. Buffet with free Áow non-alcohol drinks • Adult THB 1,800* per person • Child THB 900* per person Buffet with free Áow wines and selected cocktails • THB 2,150* per person *Price is subject to 10% service charge and 7% applicable government tax. TSLC members discount beneÀts is not applicable. For reservations, please contact DiVine Restaurant Tel: +66 (0)76 336 000 www.thanyapura.com

Centara Grand Sunday Family Lunch

SUNDAY FAMILY LUNCH

Centara Grand

Come and enjoy this spectacular lunch every Àrst and third Sundayof the month. Savor a fabulous meal accompanied by our music band from 12.00 PM to 03.00 PM. Finished with lunch? Your whole family is invited to enjoy our swimming poor, kid’s pool, lazy river, jumping cliff and water slides! • 1,900 THB net per person • Half price for children between 12 and 6 years old • Free for children under age 6 *Limited seats, bookings essential. Tel. 076 201 234 E-mail. marermcpbr@chr.co.th www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Food & Restaurant

A Truly Grand Sunday Lunch The wonderfully-situated Centara Grand adjacent to the luscious sands and sparkling Andaman Sea on Karon Beach re-started its famous Family Sunday Lunch on April 6 th and it will now continue throughout the “Green Season” until Sunday November 2nd. The Family Lunch is as spectacular in its cuisine, libations and ambience as the name “Grand” suggests. Grand by name and Grand by nature is most deÀnitely the style of this new lunch. A truly memorable Sunday lunch demands a terriÀc location and there in no doubt that the Centara Grand commands one of Phuket’s most perfect lunching spots for a relaxed and ebullient Sunday with family, friends, or both! The airy, expansive open-sided sala of Mare Restaurant, in which the lunch is cited, overlooks the beautiful beach and sea, with festoons of verdant vegetation and tropical Áowers gracing the gardens around it. The sun dances, cool winds caress and the happy throng of diners breathes a deep sigh of satisfaction as they settle into the enjoyable task at hand. Mare’s huge open space encourages walking around, checking out the abundant and tempting food stations, while chatting with friends and the many other guests who have discovered this lovely Sunday lunching venue. The food includes irresistible cold water imported sea foods such as French oysters, giant Alaskan king crabs, mussels, king prawns and clams, all of which were a mega-hit on the Sunday of our visit.

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The sushi drew an enthusiastic Th hi and d sashimi hi i station t ti d th i ti crowd d as the offerings of tuna, salmon, yellow Àn, seaweed, ginger and the like with soy and wasabi were fresh and extremely tasty. Then there are plain and pre-mixed salads to cleanse the palette prior to taking on the full array of meats……wagyu prime rib steak, lamb, pork, Àsh and fowl, or the many cooked dishes in their silver salvers that are set out along the fringes of Mare’s huge, state-of-the-art modern kitchen with its retinue of attentive chefs attending to your every request. (Don’t miss out on the foie gras station!) We found the New Zealand lamb which was cooked exactly as we requested to be a highlight, but quite frankly there is so much great cuisine on offer that we were only able to sample a few of the temptations that abounded! A word of caution, as the offerings at this lunch are so abundant and spectacular, you MUST pace yourself and leave some space for the desserts, ice creams and fresh fruit and particularly the HUGE array of cheeses…..without doubt one of the best selections we have ever seen in Phuket. A wandering singer and guitarists walk among the happy throng playing requests….which included a couple of birthdays with lovely cakes brought to the surprised recipients during our afternoon. Doubtless this Family Lunch is becoming a birthday favorite for kiddies and adults alike and the easy informality of the afternoon will be an attractive enticement to families for sure. The price is THB 1,900 net per person but they have special offers each month for example in June kids under 12 eat for free (ask for monthly promotions via the phone number provided). After the lunch guests can enjoy the pool facilities and use sunbeds for free. Booking is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket 683 Patak Road, Karon Beach, Muang, Phuket 83100, Thailand Phone: +66 (0)76 201 234 Email: cpbr@chr.co.th www.chr.co.th

Food & Restaurant

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9TH FLOOR ITALIAN WINE DINNER

That haven of good taste and sophistication 9th Floor Restaurant and Bar in Patong threw a highly enjoyable Italian Wine Dinner in late May. Despite curfews and coups, the assembled throng enjoyed a feast of tasteful Italian fare complemented by sensation Italian wines….all served by the 9th Floor’s famous ‘angels’.

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Food & Restaurant

Restaurant KOLJKK WV +LJ

• Da Vinci Restaurant Italian With one area dedicated to Àne Italian dining in a cozy ambiance and another for pizza’s cooked in a traditional wood Àred 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

• Acqua Restaurant Italian Acqua’s superbly creative owner/ chef Alessandro Frau selects the Ànest 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

• Blue Elephant Royal Thai Cuisine Taking a grand location in the governor mansion in old Phuket Town this beautiful restaurant serves traditional royal Thai cuisine and holds daily cooking classes as well. Tel: 076 354 355, 076 354 357 www.blueelephant.com Location: Phuket Town

• Kan Eang @ pier Seafood & Thai Cuisine The amazing waterfront location with a stunning view of Chalong bay... day or night. Outstanding for locals and visitors for an idyllic setting outdoor and indoor eating areas. Served a unique style of seafood barbeque. Tel. 076 381 212, 083 173 1187 www.kaneang-pier.com Location: Chalong Bay

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Food & Restaurant

Restaurant KOLJKK WV +LJ

• 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 Áoor of the sky Inn Condotel, is a hidden treasure dedicated to the enjoyment of Àne, 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.the9thÁoor.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 and Saturday Brunch. Open Daily 08.00-24.00. Kata: 076 284 155, Kata Centre : 076 330 065, Karon: 076 286 479 www.twochefs-phuket.com Location: Kata, Karon

• The 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. Free use of pool facilities for customers. Tel: 076 371 900 www.serenityphuket.com Location: Rawai www.theguidephuket.com

Food & Restaurant

• 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 Àrst 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

• Joe’s Downstairs International Joe’s Downstairs is on the middle level of the same delightful headland as Baan Rim Pa, looking west over Kalim Bay. The clean, white, modern decor of this trendy eatery provides a favorite spot for sunset drinks among Phuket’s cognoscenti. American-born Chef Aaron Hooper oversees the kitchen’s offering of superb Western and seafood cuisine, emphasising delicate taste pairings and the freshest, healthy ingredients. The restaurant regularly wins accolades from the Thailand Tatler Best Restaurant Guide and The Wine Spectator Award for excellence. Tel: 076 618 245 www.baanrimpa.com Location: Kalim Bay

• Da Maurizio Italian At the sea level of Kalim Bay on a beautiful headland just north of Patong is Da Maurizio, Phuket’s Ànest contemporary and classical Italian restaurant. Da Maurizio offers an extremely fresh and organic selection of classic and modern Italian dishes featuring such treats as local lobster, fresh Àsh, the Ànest imported meats and of course the full range of home-made pastas. The restaurant regularly wins accolades from the Thailand Tatler Best Restaurant Guide and The Wine Spectator Award for excellence. Tel: 076 344 079 www.baanrimpa.com Location: Kalim Bay www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

A Blue Elephant Never Forgets! Phuket’s very own strangely colored Pachyderm is the ideal place to celebrate an important occasion, or just to take someone special to show them how much you care. Baz Daniel recently paid a visit to the Blue Elephant in Phuket Town to celebrate his daughter’s graduation. The Blue Elephant is the highly memorable name of a collection of famous restaurants that serve sensational Royal Thai Cuisine the world over. Over the last thirty years, from London to Paris to Moscow to Bangkok, Nooror Somany Steppe and her Belgian husband Karl Steppe have pioneered Thai culture and cuisine through their global chain of Blue Elephant restaurants and gained a global reputation for elegance and excellence in the process. Our own member of this august elephantine club, the Phuket Blue Elephant, is certainly easy to locate, standing in stately majesty on Krabi Road at the site of the famous Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion. This grand Sino-Portuguese residence was built in 1903 by Tan Ma Sieng, a Chinese Tin Baron and is a splendid building displaying a combination of European and Chinese styles. At one time it was the Governor of Phuket’s residential mansion and it has featured in many Àlms and TV programs. Kim Steppe is the charming manager of Phuket’s Blue Elephant and the son of Nooror Somany Steppe and he explained, “We spent two years renovating the mansion, including replacing the roof. In doing so, I believe we brought a whole new source of life to the property that was much needed.” As I walked around the mansion and its sumptuous gardens with my recently graduated daughter I was struck by the amazing feeling of history and grandeur from a forgotten age and I realized this was the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion, or just to show someone special how much you care.

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Food & Restaurant

The Blue Elephant’s kitchen and chefs are dedicated to teaching and cooking of Royal Thai cuisine, which evolved over hundreds of years as that prepared and served in Thailand’s royal palaces. This cuisine represents the pinnacle of ingredients, taste sensations and elegance of preparation and presentation and is another factor that makes the Blue Elephant the ideal place to celebrate special occasions from weddings and anniversaries, to stylish corporate functions and and this it has become a frequent host to some of Phuket’s most opulent parries and gatherings. My daughter and I enjoyed a round of Blue Elephant cocktails in the cool neon glow of the stylish cocktail bar, prior to taking a walk around the grand mansion and its sumptuous tree-Àlled grounds in order to prime our appetites for the feast to follow. And a wonderful meal it was too, a Àtting way to celebrate her achieving an excellent Honors degree and an evening that I think she will never forget….just like the name Blue Elephant itself which is quintessentially memorable like everything else about this wonderful restaurant in a mansion. The Blue Elephant Cooking School and Restaurant The Governor’s Mansion, 96, Krabi Road Tambon Talad Neua Muang District Tel: +(66) 76 354 355 Email: phuket@BlueElephant.com www.blueelephant.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Phuket’s Koffee Culture Keeps On Growing!

You know that feeling?

It’s 11am and it’s getting hot outside. You need a really good cup of coơee, possibly a naughty Apricot Danish, the latest newspapers and maybe a place to log onto the ‘Net’, all in a nice relaxing environment with friendly staơ.

Where do you turn in Phuket?

Well, the short answer is: “an increasing number of places” as Koơee Culture has taken oơ big time around the island and there are more and more great locations for super coơee and food with all the creature comfort of the Ƥnest coơee shop that you might Ƥnd back home. Here are some great locations to get you started on the Great Phuket Koơee Hunt.

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Hotel & Accommodation

Double Tree Resort by Hilton Phuket, Surin Beach & Hilton Phuket Resort & Spa Takes Part in Hilton Worldwide’s Largest Global Career Event on 3rd June 2014 Careers@Hilton Live Invites Job Seekers around the World to Discover the Vast Career Opportunities Available in the Dynamic Hospitality Industry Hilton Worldwide’s largest ever global career event showcasing to young people, the many opportunities available in the hospitality industry. Throughout the month of May, Hilton Worldwide hotels and corporate ofÀces around the globe are hosting hundreds of events to inform those looking for employment, including young people, about the vast array of exciting opportunities available to all in the hospitality industry. to help young people achieve stability and bring hope to their communities, preparing them for a brighter future. Careers@Hilton Live: Youth in Hospitality events are a unique opportunity for Hilton Worldwide Team Members to inspire those looking for employment about careers in the hospitality industry, and to support them by providing guidance on the skills that are vital to succeed in the workplace and beyond. Participants have been joining Hilton Worldwide Team Members for events ranging from résumé clinics, to career speed-networking, as well as presentations from Team Members on their career paths. Careers@Hilton Live: Youth in Hospitality Month is a part of Hilton Worldwide’s Open Doors commitment, which aims to positively impact at least one million young people by 2019 and better prepare them to reach their full potential. For more information about Careers@Hilton Live: Youth in Hospitality Month, please visit www.hiltonworldwide.com/youth. For information on job opportunities with Hilton Worldwide, visit www.hiltonworldwide.com/careers.

SPA

Highlights

Sala Spa

Rarinjinda

RarinJinda Wellness Spa is one of Thailand’s leading wellness spa with expert therapist and latest spa technologies. RarinJinda Wellness Spa offers clients wellness, good health and luxurious pampering in a spa sanctuary. RarinJinda is an urban spa fully equipped with all the latest spa technology ad facilities of the highest international standards, yet deeply rooted in the Thai massage and healing traditions. RarinJinda is an oasis of health and wellness in Thailand’s tourist capital, located adjacent to the back of Jungceylon Shopping Center. Tel: 076 366 724, 076 366 800-2 www.rarinjinda.com

Let’s Relax 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

The V 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 Àneness pleasure of pampering yourself. Tel: 076 346 080 www.letsrelaxspa.com

The Oasis Spa Phuket 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 deÀnitely 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

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

SPA

Highlights

Sala Spa

Rarinjinda

The V Spa

’s n a m u n a H g n i y l F

u h t a K f o n e M y e Monk

After two years of successfully Áying guests through the green treetops around Kathu Waterfall, Flying Hanuman has learned a great deal about guaranteeing customers enjoy the best possible experience. Hanuman is of course the rather naughty Monkey God from the epic Hindu story which is enacted in mythical song and dance as the Ramakien in Thailand. The Hanuman character who liked to Áy though the mythical historical forests has been cleverly incorporated into the branding of Phuket’s most famous air-borne adventure park named “Flying Hanuman” situated on a deeply forested hillside above Soi 6 off of the famous Soi Namtok Kathu….the “waterfall road” in Kathu. Soon after you arrive in the quiet, green forest hillside you’ll be greeted by your very own Hanuman monkey man guide who explains the dare-devil aerial rides; shows you a safety video; and takes you through all the zip lines and modes of attachment and safety mechanisms that allow you to impersonate an aerial Simian. Safety is a very important part of the experience, so training and safety procedures are extremely thorough. This means kids as young as four or ageing thrill-seekers of eighty can take part in the adventure. The proof of Flying Hanuman’s safety record is that since opening there have been no accidents whatsoever. A great deal of what makes Flying Hanuman different and so much fun is the wonderful troop of more than thirty Monkey Men guides who are not only extremely well trained, but dedicated to ensuring you have the most fun experience that the 28 treetops rides can offer. As Khun Dollar, the guide I met says; “If I can make my customers happy and full of laughter, it makes me happy too and then I know that I’m doing a good job.” As the experience at Flying Hanuman is the most extreme of its kind in Phuket, you are accompanied by two guides for each ten people. By working with your own Monkey Men guides you can make the experience as “extreme” or relaxing as you wish….just tell him how you want to play it.

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Activities

There’s also plenty of picture opportunities and you can even have your own video shot as you enjoy the thrills with special Spiderman or Superman poses thrown in. The emphasis is also very much on an eco-friendly adventure in which the participants get to experience the upper layers of the rain forest and mature old growth trees in a totally natural way which has no impact on the environment. The guides are well versed in pointing out and showing you everything there is to see including the birds and other wildlife, plus the wild fruits which you can taste. The site itself is huge covering 80,000 square meters of forest and the entire adventure will take you about three hours to enjoy. Pre-booking is advised so that you are locked into a speciÀc time slot for your adventure and can arrive accordingly. Make no mistake, Flying Hanuman’s Monkey Men will ensure that you enjoy an adrenalin-fuelled aerial experience. Flying Hanuman, 89/16, Moo 6, Soi Namtok, Kathu, Phuket Tel: +66 (0) 7632 3264 Email; play@Áyinghanuman.com www.Áyinghanuman.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

The Senses Spa by Serenity Resort & Residences

Serenity Resort & Residences Phuket just south of Chalong Circle, is a real jewel. Nestled on the beach it is a truly relaxing paradise of lush gardens, uninterrupted sea views and friendly and hospitable staff. Add to this great food from their ocean front restaurant and the cool drinks and even cooler sounds of their 88 East Beach Lounge and this is a spot in Phuket that it is very hard to leave. And to make your visit even more memorable you can also enjoy the ultimate indulgence of their Senses Spa. On the ground Ă oor, just a few steps from the beautiful walkway down to the pristine pool and beach you can enter a world of pure indulgence.

Health & Beauty

When May had worked her magic on me with the coconut oil she then moved on to an Indian Head massage that was an absolute joy. More oil was worked through my hair and my scalp was massaged in a very expert way to relieve tension and I felt totally rejuvenated by the experience. It was also very good treatment for my sun-damaged hair! All the massage oils and treatments are specially made for Senses Spa by the renowned Lemon Grass House and all are formulated with pure organic ingredients that leave your skin wonderfully perfumed.

The lovely manager of this beautiful facility, Khun Kookkai, greets all the guests with a warm smile and explains their large menu of treatments and their special Spa Promotions. This month one of their massage recommendations is a hot coconut oil massage and that looked very inviting to me. Coconut is one of those magic oils that seem to help just about everything that ails us and it soothes and relieves muscle tension and strengthens and tones the muscles. I was then introduced to the delightful therapist, Khun May and I was happy to surrender to her expert hands for an hour of absolute bliss. The spas facility is luxurious, just the right temperature and with soothing music playing very softly in the dimly lit treatment rooms. Senses spa has three treatment rooms, each with two massage tables, so that you can get your chosen treatment with a friend or partner or in splendid isolation!

The Senses Spa has a whole range of therapies on offer which include manicures and pedicures as well as facials and body wraps and a whole wealth of special massage treatments. Including de-toxiĂ&#x20AC;cation and jetlag recovery as well great treatment packages that last several hours. So, for an hour or two of pure indulgence that will make you feel so good, book yourself in to the Senses Spa at the Serenity Resort. It is open every day from 11 am, until 9 pm and you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be disappointed! Serenity Resort & Residences 14 Moo 5, Viset Road, Rawai, Phuket 83130, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 76 371 900 www.serenityphuket.com

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Hotel & Accommodation

Grand Mercure Phuket Patong 5 Star Luxury in the Heart of Patong Located in the heart of Phuket’s main tourist area, the newly opened luxurious, 5 star Grand Mercure Phuket Patong is ideally positioned between, and within comfortable walking distance of the sights and sounds of the districts world known Bangla nightlife entertainment area, world class shopping mall Jungceylon, and the pristine, three and a half kilometer long Paong beach. The resort represents the new generation of retreats, combing rich natural beauty and genuine cultural heritage, both in its design and architecture, with sincere Thai hospitality and a standard of service which reaches way beyond the level expected by even the most frequent and fussy of travelers. This hidden and serene hideaway offers comfort and convenience whether you’re on business or holiday in Phuket, and the resort is equally suitable for young travellers, families or simply friends looking at spending some quality time together, in the heart and soul of Patong. The property features a wide range of facilities to make your stay a pleasant experience. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at the Grand Mercure Phuket Patong. Outstanding Accommodation Each of the elegantly furnished 314 guestrooms rooms at Grand Mercure Phuket Patong, 252 Superior, 38 Deluxe Pool access, 10 Suites as well as 10 One-bed and 4 Two-bed pool villas, is and equipped with all the handy amenities one www.theguidephuket.com

would expect of a resort of this standard including large LCD TV, sofa, mini bar, safety box, choice of bathtub or walk in rain shower, coffee and tea making facilities, complimentary WI-FI and a stunning pool view. Those choosing to stay in one of the resort’s Deluxe Pool access rooms, Suites or Pool Villas can do so in the knowledge that they can also enjoy additional beneÀts including facilities such as private sundeck, light dimmers and Media Hub port “to stay connected”, as well as express check-in and Grand Mercure Club privileges such as entry to the resort’s Club House and afternoon refreshments during their entire stay. Comprehensive Facilities The private peaceful atmosphere of the Grand Mercure Phuket Patong’s outstanding accommodation also extends to its recreational facilities which include 3 lagoon pools, with additional kid’s pool, Àtness center with the very latest state-of-the-art Life Fitness gym equipment, sauna and personal trainer, organic spa with 5 private treatments rooms and a range of world class treatments, and the expansive Andaman tropical style garden. Those travelling as a family you can do so carefree as Grand Mercure Phuket Patong provides the perfect family escape for kids of all ages. Their babysitter service and kids corner can keep the children entertained, while the parents relax and have fun during their stay.

Hotel & Accommodation

Worldwide Dining Although the resort only features one restaurant, guest can still get to enjoy appetizing and cosmopolitan cuisine, 24 hours a day and their team of chefs and waiters are there to provide you with the one of the best culinary experiences in Phuket. This experience starts in the morning with a wide breakfast spread selection at Bubbles Restaurant, here guests will experience freshly made bakeries, Belgium wafÁes and other European specialties alongside freshly brewed coffee and healthy juices. During the day, and well into the night, Bubbles Restaurant will surely surprise you with an a la carte menu which features a selection of dishes ranging from Mediterranean starters to Oriental kebabs, from Asian specialties to more traditional Thai recipes such as our signatures “Pad-thai” or “Spicy Tom Yam Khung”. Phuket’s own cuisine is also very well represented with dishes like “Baami Hokien” and crab meat in yellow coconut curry “Gaeng Poo”. A Phuket favourite! For those who’ve been making the most of a long day at the beach, a stopover at “Craft” is a must! Boasting the largest selection of beers on the island, “Craft” is the perfect place to chill - out and socialise in style! A welcoming atmosphere and excellent facilities and service are what you can expect during your stay at Grand Mercure Phuket Patong! Grand Mercure Phuket Patong 1 Soi Ratuthit 200 Pi 2, Patong, Kathu Phuket 83150 Tel: +66 (76) 231 999 Email: h8109-re@accor.com www.grandmercurephuketpatong.com

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Food & Restaurant

Masters Football Asia announce The Emerald Epl Masters Tour Phuket featuring Thailand Legends vs Epl All Stars Masters Football Asia in partnership with Emerald Phuket Development is delighted to announce the staging of an exhibition football match which will excite football lovers and sports enthusiasts of Phuket only a week before the start of the new EPL season. The match will feature two stars studded teams of legendary football players (over the age of 35) in the Emerald EPL Masters Tour Phuket 2014 and will see Thailand Legends versus EPL All Stars Masters play on Sunday 10th August. The EPL All Star team will be visiting the beautiful resort of Phuket for a few days prior to the match and the players will be involved in a number of community projects which include coaching for kids, meet and greet the fans and touring the island. Such a fantastic experience has been made possible by the main sponsor Emerald Phuket Development who will further enhance their standing in the community with a generous donation of gate receipts to local charities. It is hoped that the match will be an annual event, a curtain raiser to the EPL season. We welcome Khun Mai from Emerald Phuket Development and look forward to working with him and his team . Supporting sponsors who make this all possible include The Westin Hotel Siray Bay Resort and Spa, Qatar Airlines Thailand, Nikki Beach Phuket, Class Act Media and Mafro. Further sponsors are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. The game is supported by the Football Association of Thailand and is additionally endorsed by the Phuket Provincial Sports & Tourism Authority who will be hoping to Àll the stadium for what is expected to be a carnival atmosphere and an exciting match. Details of the tickets are as follows: There is a limited number of VIP seats priced at 1000 baht; grandstand seats are 300 baht and regular tickets are priced at 200 baht. Tickets will be available from the stadium ticket ofÀce as well as other usual ticket outlets across Phuket. Tickets will be on sale from Friday 13th June. Here is a list of conÀrmed POS in Phuket for ticket sales: • Stadium: Ticket booth in front of stadium only on match day. • Tiny Coffee outlets & Tiny Mart at Shell petrol stations (approx. 10 outlets around Phuket, mostly Phuket Town vicinity) • Honda, Ford, Mazda car dealerships To be conÀrmed: • Emerald Property booths at Central Festival & Jungceylon shopping centres

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Food & Restaurant

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Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket Offers White Glove Service. General Manager, Mr Denis Thouvard (6th newly certified staff from Front Office, Pool from right) congratulates 7 Villa and Food & Beverage divisions after completing the five-day programmeconducted by Mr. Paul VincWhite Glove Service Training left), Managing Director of White Gloveent Benedict Brown(2nd from Consultancy recently.

et Newcastle UFC Footballer Weds at Dusit Thani Laguna Phuk Mayes wed on June 12th Mr.Stevens and fiancee Ms.Elizabeth Aliceds in an intimate ceremony. frien 2014 , surrounded by closed family and n at seaside restaurant, The nuptials were followed by receptiot Thani Laguna Phuket. Dusi at Pub & t auran Casuarina Beach Rest

h. On 31st May 2014. Beac Yang Nai on et Phuk Luna a Mass ches laun ially Porch Land Group offic

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Central Festival Phuket launched its latest fashion and tyle season ‘The Colors of Africa Fest’ on 14th June , bringing a whole new sub-Sahalifes ran experience to visitors at Phuket’s most popular inter national mall.

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La Boucherie Chalong Grand Opening on 5th June 2014.

event held at Blue Elephant et Baba Wedding by Thai Peranakan Association the Phuk Press conference the 6th nd Restaurant Phuket on 2 June 2014.

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t e k Phu Pulse of Food and Beverage Welcome new Director thra Golf & Spa Resort d ee to Sofitel Krabi Phok ase lf & Spa Resort is ple SLEEEP WITH ME HOTE L design hotel @ pa tong-Thailand Ultimate Chef Chal lenge 2014 Mr.Sittic

hai Tanakorncha roen (center), Ge of SLEEP WITH ME neral Manager HOTEL design ho tel @ patong ce the success with lebrates the kitchen team and six medals who won a tro at the Thailand phy Ultimate Chef Ch 20 14 , re ce nt ly allenge he ld du rin g th e TH AI FE X 20 14 team joined six . Th e catering and cooking catego and showed th ries eir professiona l skills to judges do m es tic an d from int er na tio na l co ok ing ins tit ut es success guaran . Th is tees that SLEEP WITH ME HOTEL the best food se delivers rvices for custo mers.

nched at Thai cooking classes lau et nds Resort & Villas Phuk uced Centara Grand West Sa od intr s ha ket & Villas Phu

ds Resort urant. Centara Grand West San resort’s SuanBua Resta the at s sse cla Thai cooking sses teach cla the ttawutLueng-ngam, co ok ing of Conductedby chefA use the gh ou i cu ltu re thr Tuesday ery the tra dit ion s of Tha ev ld he d spices. Classes are e price is urs techniques, herbs an co The . hrs 30 18: 00 hrs to and Thursday from 16: Baht 1,790++ person. class, please call. or registration for the For more information 076 372 000 ext. 222

to thra Go r cto Dire w ne SoÀtel Krabi Phokee the l of Mr. Luis Garcia as announce the arriva e. of Food and Beverag Honours in Hotel Luis received his BA A Spanish national, Robert Gordon the m fro nt me ge and Hospitality Mana his graduation ing low Fol d. tlan n, Sco around the University in Aberdee tels ho tar 5-s rk at 4 and Manager ge Luis went on to wo era Bev & us he was Food world. Prior to joining tel Philadelphia. at the prestigious SoÀ the world and out the cuisines of ab te na Luis is passio Here at SoÀtel . ails t wine and cockt knowledgeable abou king forward to loo is he t, sor Re Spa lf & Krabi Phokeethra Go e experience et food and beverag rable dining. enhancing our gourm mo me y trul oy guests enj and ensuring our valued

SLEEP WITH ME HOTEL de tog eth er wit h Va ch irasign hotel @ patong organized a blood dona Ho sp ita l re ce ntl y tion.

The ca mp aig n is pa rt of the ho tel ’s soc ial responsibility activities . Many people turned up to donate blood seeing it as a great opportu nity to give something back to their community. Phu ket hospitals often run on low levels of the much needed blood which helps to save so many lives. A total f 11,600 cc of blood was donated . The blood will be handed over to the Vachira Ho spital for use in the Phuket province. SLEEP WIT H ME HOTEL would like to sinc erely thank all donors.

Lifestyle

Dream Weddings in a Dream Paradise Dream weddings don’t just happen, they’re planned. And dream weddings don’t just happen anywhere in Phuket, they take place at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa. The journey begins with an extravagant welcome as you step into our island paradise, a sanctuary of lush tropical gardens, boundless beach and sparkling sea, of halcyon days and passionate nights, sunsets that warm the soul and sea views that melt the heart. Our luxury Phuket resort boasts a stunning location on beautiful Mai Khao Beach. Fifteen minutes from the airport, nestled within 27 acres of exquisite tropical gardens are 265 delightful guestrooms and suites, extensive event and recreational facilities, world-class restaurants serving Thai, Italian, Japanese and international cuisine, and a genuine warmth of service that is unparalleled. The Western Wedding Package at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa superbly blends the traditional Western elements of a wedding with a picture-perfect tropical setting… be it at the golden sands of Mai Khao Beach or the resort’s exotic landscaped gardens, while the Traditional Thai Wedding Ceremony exudes exotic charm in every aspect and beautifully reÁects time-honored culture and tradition. Our resort is also superbly suited for an Indian Wedding, with a wide range of restaurants, meeting rooms and other venues to cater for various gatherings and traditional ceremonies with our in-house experienced Indian chef to ensure that the catering meets all your needs. Various idyllic venues in the resort are perfect to fulÀll your dreams. North Lawn, the most gorgeous tropical garden that serves as a private outdoor wedding venue with partial ocean views will transport you to a more peaceful and romantic era from the moment

you step through the gate of the secluded garden. Our Beachfront offers you a perfect moment to exchange your “I do’s” with a panoramic backdrop of the sparkling, sun-drenched Andaman Ocean. The Ginja Wedding Pavilion’s magnificent classic architecture and air conditioning indoor venue is perfectly suited for both Thai and Western Weddings as the place will transform your dream into a surreal reality in the setting of traditional Thai Sala with high ceilings made from the best teakwood that also offers sweeping views of the Andaman Sea. Our team of Marriott Wedding Planners is dedicated to personalizing each wedding to every exact detail and ensuring that cherished customs and time-honoured traditions are upheld. Once your Phuket wedding is booked, you will be introduced to your personal Marriott Wedding Planner who will work with you through the entire planning and organizational stage right up to the big day itself. From customizing the menus to ordering the floral arrangements, to booking the photographer, your personal Wedding Planner’s professionalism and total dedication will leave you free to focus on what you need to. Be it an intimate commitment ceremony or an opulent celebration on a grand scale, a wedding in our tropical island paradise at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa will be everything you’ve dreamed of. JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa 231 Moo 3 Mai Khao,Talang, Phuket, 83110 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)76 338000 Email: Naruemon.s@marriotthotels.com www.jwmarriottphuketresort.com

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Lifestyle

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Lifestyle

SHOPPING & DINING

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Transport

Call Center 24 Hrs Call Center 24 Hrs

1771

PHUKET TO SAMUI

SAMUI TO PHUKET

PHUKET TO UTAPAO

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PG252

0945

1040

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PG251

0815

0915

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PG252

0935

1230

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PG260

1235

1330

Daily

PG259

1100

1200

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PG282

1510

1645

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PG254

1420

1515

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PG253

1240

1340

Daily

PG256

1635

1730

Daily

PG255

1505

1605

Daily

PG258

1940

2035

Daily

PG257

1810

1910

Daily

PHUKET TO BANGKOK

UTAPAO TO PHUKET Flight

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PG281

1300

1440

Daily

BANGKOK TO PHUKET

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Flight

Dep

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Days

PG270

0700

0825

Daily

PG271

0805

0930

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PG272

1020

1145

Daily

PG283

0910

1035

Daily

PG284

1130

1255

Daily

PG275

1000

1125

Daily

PG276

1215

1340

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PG924

1230

1355

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PG274

1450

1615

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PG224

1435

1600

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PG909

1645

1810

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PG277

1730

1855

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PG278

1945

2110

Daily

PG279

1945

2110

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PG280

2155

2320

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PG220

2200

2325

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

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

IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBER LOST CREDIT CARDS Visa

TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE CONSULAR REPRESENTATIVES FUNCTIONING IN PHUKET

001-800-11-535-0660

Australia

076 372 600

Ireland

076 281 273

AMEX

02 273 5544

Master Card

001-800-11-887-0663

Austria

076 248 334-6

Italy

076 381 792

Czech Republic

076 249 400

USA

076 342 270

Diners Club

02 232 4100

Denmark

076 221 159-60

Korea

076 234 452

HSBC

1590

Finland

076 330 530-4

Norway

076 230 130

City Bank

1588, 02 232 2484

France

076 288 828

Sweden

076 380 000

JCB

02 256 9151-4

Germany

076 610 407

United Kingdom

076 318 188

INTERNATIONAL CALLS DIAL: +66 - 76, INSIDE THAILAND CALLS DIAL 076- FOR PHUKET Muang District Police Station

212 129

Phuket Airport

327 230-37

Tourist Police

214 368 or 1155

Tourism Authorities (TAT)

212 213

Kamala Police Station

279 058

Phuket Tourist Association

610 365-6

Kathu Police Station

342 719/21

Bangkok Phuket Hospital

254 425

Thalang Police Station

311 123

Mission Hospital

237 220-6

Phuket Provincial Immigration Office

215 217

Patong Hospital

340 444 or 342 633-4

Phuket Deep Sea Port

391 171

Phuket International Hospital

249 400

Phuket Post and Telegraph Office

211 020 or 216 951

Vachira Phuket Hospital

361 324

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Transport

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Transport

SCHEDULE TO/FROM PHUKET EFFECTIVE : 30 MARCH - 25 OCTOBER 2014 PHUKET TO BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI)

BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) TO PHUKET

Flight

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Days

Flight

Dep

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Days

TG 226

0725

0850

Daily

TG 201

0745

0910

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TG 202

1000

1130

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TG 203

0830

0955

Daily

TG 204

1055

1225

Daily

TG 205*

1000

1120

Daily

TG 206*

1210

1335

Daily

TG 207**

1220

1340

123457

TG 208

1340

1505

1356

TG 207***

1220

1340

TG 212**

1500

1625

134567

TG 215

1415

1535

Daily

TG 212***

1500

1625

TG 213

1530

1650

Daily

TG 216

1625

1750

Daily

TG 217

1650

1810

Daily

TG 214

1740

1905

Daily

TG 221

1815

1935

Daily

TG 218

1900

2025

Daily

TG 2215****

1855

2015

Daily

TG 222

2035

2200

Daily

TG 223

1955

2115

Daily

TG 225

2240

2359

Daily

TG 2226****

2055

2220

Daily

TG 224

2205

2335

137

PHUKET TO CHIANG MAI Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

TG 2212

1130

1325

Daily

* TG205/206 NOT OPERATE 16MAY-30JUN14 ** TG207/212 NOT OPERATE 16MAY-30SEP14 *** TG207/212 OPERATE 16MAY-30SEP14 **** TG2215/2216 OPERATE UNTIL 15MAY14 Days of Service: 1 = Mon 2 = Tue 3 = Wed 4 = Thu 5 = Fri 6 = Sat 7 = Sun

CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

TG 2111

0855

1050

Daily

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

DAVID CAR RENT Autos Car Van Truck Rentals Phuket Thailand We offer the best Car Rental Services for Phuket Car rentals all include Àrst class insurance and personal insurance. Why People Choose David Car Rent • The longest reputation in car rentals in Phuket. • Unlimited mileage. • Full comprehensive insurance (with excess of 10,000 Baht). • Rented with a full fuel tank which is refiled at the renter’s expense upon return. • Free pickup & delivery at Phuket International Airport. David Car Rent 34/1 Moo 6 Maikhao, Thalang Phuket 83140 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)76 327487, +66 (0)76 328398 Mobile: +66 (0)81 895 9477, +66 (0)81 979 1361 Email: info@davidcarrent.com

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Andaman

GETTING TO KNOW the Southern Andaman Region of Krabi, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta

as it could actually be classiÀed as a mud Áat, 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 difÀcult 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 Àshermen 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, Àsh, 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 majestic 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 majestic 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

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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 major “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 Àshing. Poda island with white sand beaches and clear turquoise seawater abounded with schools of colorful Àsh.

Andaman

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 difÀculty 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 Àsh 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 Àshing is available all over this region, from squid boating, to line Àshing 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 Àne-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 •

Pimalai Resort & Spa - Koh Lanta Tel. +66 (0) 75 60 7 999 www.pimalai.c om

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/Krabi_Vogue_Resort 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 Group Beyond Resorts 8 300 Tel. +66 (0) 75 62 com p. 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

SoÀtel Krabi Phok eethra Golf & Sp a Resort Te T l. +66 (0) 75 62 7 800 ww w w.soÀtel.com

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