CONTENTS MARCH 2018
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Zebulun Media Co.,Ltd. 10/459 Moo 3, T. Vichit, A. Muang Phuket 83000 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)76 521 011 Fax: +66 (0)76 521 010 Email: info@theguidephuket.com www.theguidephuket.com The Guide Phuket is published monthly and distributed to Bangkok Airways Lounge (Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Phuket International Airport), Thai Airways Lounge, major resorts in Phuket region, restaurants, spas, travel agents and car rental. Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to Email: info@theguidephuket.com
THE GUIDE LIFESTYLE 20 22 26 43 44 46
Life’s a Beach Get On Top Rooftop Bar of Patong, Swissotel Getting to know Surf Hotel Patong Phuket Pulse The Guide Social Shopper’s Delight
: THE GUIDE PHUKET TEAM : MANAGING DIRECTOR Punnaporn Eamso Guinault info@theguidephuket.com pond@theguigephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)89 474 4704
THE GUIDE ACTIVITY 10 16
Activities on the island Hot Activities
THE GUIDE BEAUTY
GENERAL MANAGER Mr.Saksri Bungkaew saksri@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)95 097 0793
40 Spa Highlight
THE GUIDE DINING 28 30 32
The Fat Chef the art of eating Grand Seafood Barbecue at Bubbles Restaurant Buffet Hunter
THE GUIDE ANDAMAN 52 54
Southern Andaman Region Hotel Highlights Southern Andaman
PHOTOGRAPHER Laddawan Mongkolsatitporn social.theguidephuket@gmail.com
SOCIAL MEDIA Chanita Suphawikrankun dear.theguidephuket@gmail.com
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Lifestyle
What comes into the mind of travelers when they start to think about sea, sun and sand? Phuket is an increasingly popular answers to this…. and for good reason as the island offers a warm tropical ocean, beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and a multitude of exciting and fun activities. Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is located 862 kilometers south of Bangkok. Often called the ‘Pearl of the Andaman’, or ‘Pearl of the South’, its natural resources; rocky peninsulas, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it southern Thailand’s wealthiest, busiest, most visited and popular province. Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, the province covers an area of approximately 543 square kilometers (excluding small islets). It is estimated that Phuket Province covers an area of approximately 590 square kilometers if its 39 other small islands are included. The island’s total length, from north to south, is estimated at 48.7 kilometers and it is approximately 21.3 kilometers wide. Phuket borders with Phang-Nga province to the north; connected by the Sarasin Bridge. The remainder of the island is encircled by the Andaman Sea; an area which is home to many of the best diving sites in the country.
www.theguidephuket.com
Staying on the island is easy, as there are only two seasons in the year - the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season of Phuket is between September and October as these are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breezes and marvel at the crystal clear waters while lying on powdery, palmfringed beaches. Average temperatures ranges between 23°C and 33°C. Phuket’s topology is exceptional with 70 percent of its area covered with mountains which stretch from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains located in the centraland eastern parts of the island. The island does not have any ma jor rivers, but has nine smaller brooks and creeks. Phuket has a lot more to offer than just its natural beauty. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell delighting travelers to Phuket Town, while Phuket-style hospitality never fails to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition, accommodation ranging from world-class resorts to tropical-style bungalows caters to the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there is so much choice including Phuket’s famous lobster. Altogether, these characteristics make Phuket a truly unique destination.
It’s a fairly big island offering all manner of things to do. However, it’s quite surprising that there are still a number of holiday makers who come to get away from everyday life but soon get bored with dreamy beaches, comfortable hotel rooms and fantastic food. They want to experience more. They want to see how the locals live and experience something different. Luckily, with Phuket being the island it is, there are a number of other options for those seeking something other than the norm. Here are The Guide Phuket’s options for an alternative Phuket holiday experience. • Crowded beach, quiet beach Find the one that you really want to spend your holiday time on. If you spend your time on Patong Beach, it’s highly likely that you will think all Phuket’s beaches are the same, crowded. However, while it’s true to say that Patong Beach is often bustling with people, there are others to where you can escape and find complete solitude. Drive away from Patong and you’ll soon come to realise that there are smaller, quieter beaches. And by the time you reach the far north or south of the island you’re guaranteed to find beaches that you’ll have virtually to yourself, even during the high-season. So remember, crowded beach or quiet beach, the option is completely yours. • Visiting Wats – Buddhist Monasteries All Buddhist monasteries are open to the public during the day, and visitors are usually welcome. Since these are active holy places of worship, and the residence of monks, visitors should show respecting keeping well dressed and remaining quiet, Mum and Dad; keep the kids on a leash and always be culturally sensitive. • Elephant Trekking The wild elephant population of Phuket was wiped out last century, but has been replaced in recent years by and influx of animals for the tourist trade. Today there remains just a few hundred elephants on Phuket Island, all domesticated, most working in tourism. Indeed, riding an elephant is an experience not to be missed. The lumbering monsters are incredibly agile. www.theguidephuket.com
Taking an elephant ride helps to keep the beasts employed, fed and out of the cities, where many can be taken by destitute owners in search of money and food. • Phuket Town Phuket Town is small but incredibly interesting, a potpourri of different cultural influences of markets and shopping centers, restaurants and other entertainment facilities. Anyone spending a few days on Phuket Island should take time to visit, be it for sight-seeing, cultural or historical interest or shopping. • Cultural Village Cultural shows featuring skilled Thai dancers from the different regions of the country, martial arts demonstrations, elephant rides and Thai dinners are all brought together at Phuket’s original cultural garden; there is also attached an orchid farm for all the budding botanists out there. • Jungle Trekking With most of the rainforest on Phuket long since eaten up by rubber plantations, it is not easy to find ideal trekking grounds. Again, it’s best to sign on with a company providing this service. Often they take their trekkers right off Phuket into neighbouring Phang Nga province, where some beautiful areas of forest remain. • Spas Massage and herbal steam rooms health resorts, spas and herbal saunas are proliferating, and some fine examples offering a wide range of treatments are now found on Phuket. Thailand has its own traditional herbal saunas, and there are several local ones around the island. While many large resorts now feel they are incomplete without a spa, there are also several independent establishments. • View Points Phuket’s most famous view point, Laem Phrom Thep at the very bottom of the island, is on the ‘must see’ list for every Thai visitor to the island. Thus it attracts a fleet of tour busses and cars each evening as people come to witness the sun fall into the Andaman Sea. Indeed, it’s often a spectacular sight, but there are many quieter places. The view point on the hill behind Kata Noi attracts fewer people when the heavens turn red, the view from any of the beaches can also be spectacular.
Having the pleasure of being sent off into the cauldron of Patong, Phuket’s entertainment and hedonism citadel, to review a restaurant mischievously named “Naughty Nuri’s” I immediately wondered who is this “Nuri” and just how naughty is he/ she going to be? The short answer is: “rib ticklingly naughty” as this wackilynamed eatery originally from Bali and now expanding across Asia including Phuket, is famous for its amazingly tasty Balinese-style pork ribs. Naughty Nuri’s is the brainchild of American Brian Aldinger and his Indonesian wife Isnuri Suryatmi, also known as the eponymous “Nuri.” This creative husband and wife team opened a small, roadside food stall in Ubud, Bali in 1995 in order to serve ribs and other popular Indonesian dishes. Naughty Nuri’s soon became one of the most popular restaurants in Bali and so began a rapid wave of expansion throughout Asia, including in the heart of Phuket where they recently opened. This small family Balinese restaurant, or warung, built its outstanding reputation upon its fabulously succulent signature pork ribs, which combine the tastiest, tender meat with a medley of smoky Indonesian spices. Nuri’s naughtily boast that their ribs are “probably the best in the world” and their droves of happy customers seem to agree. The new Nuri’s in The Forest Phuket restaurant opened last December bringing their Balinese Asian-fusion BBQ cuisine to the heart of Phuket. Since then they have already generated rave reviews and abundant five-star ratings on TripAdvisor, particu-
larly about Naughty Nuri’s ribs…. their ‘must-order’ dish. Eddy Wong, the Group Executive Chef of Naughty Nuri’s International, says, “Our ribs are awesome! I’ve been a chef for many years, but never tasted ribs as good as these. We choose the meat very carefully, then marinate the ribs with a lot of fruit like papaya and pineapple, which naturally tenderizes them. Unfortunately, I can’t tell you too much about the sauces as that is a part of the secret of our success!” While ribs are their claim to fame, they also offer a host of Indonesian style dishes that will keep you coming back for more, such as Babi Guling (suckling pig) a la Naughty Nuri’s, BBQ Satay Lilit, Gilimanuk Balinese Inspired Braised Lamb Shank and their “Notorious” Beef Short Ribs. It’s not just the food that draws diners to Naughty Nuri’s, the fun and casual atmosphere and huge alfresco dining area also ensures an enjoyable dining experience. The floor staff are well-trained and energetic and are quick to entertain with their signature “oink oink” greeting. Staff also join in for lively dance performances accompanied by the live “Naughty Band” who soon get their customers up and dancing. Naughty Nuri’s Phuket, located at 122 Rat-U-Thit Songroi Pi Road Patong seats over 500 people – perfect for large groups. Now you can’t get much naughtier than that! Naughty Nuri's In The Forest, Phuket 122 Rat-U-Thit Song Roi Pi Rd., T. Patong, A. Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076-340308 info@naughtynuristhailand.com
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Activities
Hot Activities NOW 3 CLASSES DAILY 09.00 - 10.30 am 05.15 - 06.45 pm 07.15 - 08.45 pm
Tiger Kingdom
Kata Yoga
Phuket FantaSea
Natural and clean Park Tigers at Tiger Kingdom are hand raised by their trainers from young bonding with them throughout the development process. The trainers employ a combination of repetition, trust and encouragement to train their big cats, and over time the big cats get used to humans and often see us as one of the family. You can touch & play with real tigers and they are not aggressive as you would think. Tiger Park & Restaurant Open daily 9am – 6pm Buffet Lunch 11am – 3pm
Hot yoga, the most popular yoga for both men and women. It is the best 90 minute 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. At 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
www.theguidephuket.com
Hot Activities Hanuman World
Luxurious Day
Splash Jungle
Discover fun in the world of Hanuman, the newest adventure activity in Wichit. Hanuman World offers a good adrenaline rush with a 500 meter and 40 meter high zip line, long plus a zip line coaster that lets you fly at high speed. Meanwhile, Hanuman World also offers a Sky Walk activity for those who prefer to chill. The beautiful bridge high in the tree tops allows you to gaze at the surrounding green nature. The restaurant, Wanon, serves delicious local and Thai cuisine for lunch and dinner with an amazing view of Phuket city and seas.
Charter “Isabella Rose”
Phuket’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. Operation Hour 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Tel. 076 372 111
www.flyinghanuman.com
Snorkeling in crystal clear waters, swimming at a secluded beach and discovering local island restaurants are all experiences we share when we get home, and these day trips are often the most memorable experience of a holiday. This magnificent 68ft Princess Fly Bridge Motor Yacht offers huge outdoor areas for relaxing and sunbathing, as well as a substantial covered and indoor entertaining area. Tel: +66 (0)76 239 111 Mobile: +66 (0)89 508 1333 www.asia-marine.net
www.splashjunglewaterpark.com
EXPLORE PHUKET WITH BEST WESTERN
Enjoy Phuket’s Sun and Sea in Style With 224 stylish rooms, an exquisite restaurant and an infinity pool overlooking the Andaman Sea, this modern seafront hotel takes midscale style to a whole new level! 190 Pangmueng Sai Gor Road., Patong, Kathu, Phuket Thailand 83150 | Tel: +66 76 360 200 Fax: +66 76 360 201 | www.bestwesternpatongbeach.com | BestWesternAsia FIND YOUR BEST WESTERN LOCATIONS IN ASIA | Bangladesh | Cambodia | Indonesia | Japan | Laos | Malaysia | Myanmar | Pakistan | Philippines | Sri Lanka | Thailand | Vietnam
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Activities
Hot Activities
Horse Riding
Phuket Simon Cabaret
Flying Hanuman
Here at our stable we offer you the greatest experience. Let your work worries and the pressure of modern society gradually fade away and nature take over. Whether a beginner or an experienced rider we have the right horse and the right program for you. Our knowledgeable staff will match you with horses that suit your riding skills. We offer more than 20 Australian, Appaloosa, Thai horses and ponies for riding, our horses and ponies are professionally trained and friendly; whether you are a novice or an experienced rider you will have great fun with us. Tel. 076 324 199
Since opening in 1991, Phuket Simon Cabaret has established itself as a market leading professional entertainment venue. For sheer entertainment, our set designs are outstanding, costumes extravagant and the performers glamorous ! In the exclusive, luxurious and intimate theater with hi-tech sound and lighting equipment. Our show is truly international featuring modern and traditional acts from around the globe in English and alternative languages. You will arrive relaxed but will leave confuse as our performers are more of a man than you will ever be and even more of a woman too!
No other activity in Phuket will give you such a burst of adrenaline and excitement as the Flying Hanuman series of aerial rides through the treetops of a forest on a Kathu hillside. This is an eco-friendly and completely safe adventure for kids as young as four and thrill-seekers as old as eighty. Zip lines, sky bridges and Flying Fox rides send you zipping through the upper canopy of trees at up to 60 kilometers an hour. You can make the experience “extreme” or relaxing….. just tell your guide how you want to play it. Flying Hanuman is all about adrenalin and fun!
www.phukethorseclub.com
www.phuket-simoncabaret.com
www.flyinghanuman.com
www.theguidephuket.com
Hot Activities Thanyapura
Paradise Beach
Blue Elephant
Sports & Leisure Club (TSLC)
Paradise Beach offers the biggest daily beach party on the island, with international DJ concerts for Full moon, Half-moon and Black moon, as well as many events.
Cooking School
Discover paradise at TSLC, a 230,000 sqm megaplex with extensive worldclass sport facilities & leisure activities for everyone. Opened in Nov 2011, TSLC is a destination in itself. Get rejuvenated at Thanyapura Spa; experience Divine’s signature dishes and drinks created from fresh local organic ingredients; entertain yourself at Booster Bar with live sports on big screens. Tree Club service available for kids below 10 yrs old. Open 8am-8pm daily. For more info, contact Tel: 076 336-000 Email: tslc@thanyapura.com www.thanyapura.com
Tel. +66 (0)76 609 609 Email: info@paradisebeachphuket.com
Blue Elephant Cooking School has recently opened its Phuket branch where you can participate in one of our world famous cooking classes. Learn how to cook Royal Thai Cuisine with experienced chefs who will take you step-by-step through each recipe. Enjoy a tour around the local market where we will show you what are the popular ingredients of Thai food. When the cooking is all over you can sit and enjoy all of you hard work. Morning and afternoon classes are available starting from 2,800 THB++ per person.
www.paradisebeachphuket.com
www.blueelephant.com
Relax as you experience our 70 creative shops along Fisherman Walking Streets. Dine in one of our 5 stylish restaurants or jump into beach activities. The crystal clear sea water is awaiting for you at Paradise Beach Phuket. Opens from 09.30 am - late
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
· Patong Beach The most famous beach on the island is the center of entertainment, restaurants, shopping and hotels. Patong is indeed a famous beach with beautiful soft sands and warm clear water. But right behind the beach is the hustle and bustle at the center of Phuket’s tourism business. Here the hotels, restaurants, entertainment and bar areas, street bazaars and shops are crammed in a colorful and lively mix that typifies a Thai tourist beach town.
North of the airport is a beach to really get away from it all. Mai Khao beach is very, very long, and very straight, so it misses the cozy feeling enjoyed by many of the other beaches on the island, but the sand and water here are just as stunning plus it’s almost empty! The place feels deserted even during high season when the beach umbrellas are five deep on Patong.
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 largerocks flanking either side.
· Nai Yang Beach
· Karon Beach
Just south of the airport is Nai Yang, a charming beach with a unique atmosphere all of its own. With just a scattering of hotels and bars to entertain the few that stay there, Nai Yang is as relaxed as they get. Ever dreamed of eating seafood right on the beach? This is your spot.
· Nai Thon Beach A little further south from Nai Yang is Nai Thon, possessing a similar feel to its big brother, Nai Thon has long been a favorite with the regular visitors to the island. This quiet bay nestled at the foot of high hills has a fine strip of sand and a handful of pleasant eateries are situated just off the beach.
· Bang Tao Beach Bang Tao Beach has in recent years seen a lot of development with many 5-star luxury resorts in the area but the beach remains very pleasant. At certain times of the year swimming can be dangerous due to the strong currents. At the northern end of the beach the coral creates good opportunities for snorkeling.
· Surin Beach Surin Beach is located between Bang Tao and Kamala beach. It is one of most beautiful beaches on the island with fine white sand and emerald sea. The beach can have rather strong winds which make it ideal for windsurfing. A lot of popular resorts surround this beach.
· Paradise Beach
Karon is another of the beautiful, west-coast beaches that have made Phuket famous. This beach is the first main stop south of Patong, and is separated from Patong by a large headland. A quick 10 minute drive connects the two.
· Kata Beach Kata is certainly one of the most beautiful of Phuket’s beaches; a half-moon crescent of white sand lining a bay cut deep between two green headlands. Crystal clear waters and soft coral offers excellent snorkeling and just outside the bay lies a small rounded island that seems to wave its coconut haircut to those on the beach.
· Kata Noi Beach Just south of Kata Beach is Kata Noi, a smaller beach with only a few hotels and little other development. The beach is superb for snorkeling as many fish inhabit the rocks and corals along the headland to the south.
· Ao Sane Beach Ao Sane beach is a small bay and is located to the north of Nai Harn beach. To get to this beach you need to go through The Royal Phuket Yacht Club. Ao Sane is a very small, rocky beach but it is peaceful.
· Laem Singh Beach
· Nai Harn 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.
Nai Harn is one of the more isolated beaches, nestled at the southern tip of the island in a bay defined by headlands and islets. The beach is backed by the green of Casuarina trees and coconut palms, acting as shade for the restaurants that now line the beach.
· 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. www.theguidephuket.com
· 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.
Phuket’s main nightlife center of Patong, with its stunning beach and abundant restaurants, bars, cafes, discos and seamier attractions is one of the world’s great cauldrons of hedonism and fun. But like any indulgence, too much of a good thing can eventually get on top of you, leaving you seeking a quieter corner in which to hunker down and enjoy a bit of relaxation, rather than in-your-face partying! So, when Patong is starting to get on top of you, head over to the recently-opened Swissotel Resort on Ruamchai Road at the southern end of Patong Beach and take the elevator from reception up to their wonderful rooftop eerie - their relaxing ON TOP Rooftop Bar. This 1,100 square meter venue spreads out over two adjoining rooftops and encompasses an enticing outdoor swimming pool area. The stunning oasis features flame-lit torches, 30-foot palm trees, sun loungers, cascading pools, day beds, and even private VIP cabanas. ON TOP Rooftop Bar is equally well suited for private events, group functions, and weddings or just casual dining amidst its stunning beach-like setting. As you saunter out onto this lovely rooftop restaurant, with dramatic vistas over Patong and the Andaman Sea, you will feel yourself instinctively start to relax, and with the aroma of good cuisine emanating from their kitchen you realize that you are in for something special. The Swissotel lies only a stone’s throw back form Patong Beach itself, and so the views from ON TOP Rooftop Bar are marvellous, facing out across the Andaman Sea to the west, ideal for watching the dramatic sunsets, or alternatively over the verdantly tree-covered hillsides of Phuket Island’s central spine to the east.
Dynamic young New Zealand Chef Ryan Arboleda presides over the kitchen here and is overseeing a quiet revolution in the fresh, healthy cuisine on offer, featuring all the beachside Thai and European favorites such as burgers, pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, seafood and salads, each cooked to perfection, bringing out their healthiest side through produce selection and preparation. Chef Ryan has extensive international experience, not to mention much previous local Phuket and Andaman experience at well-known resorts and beach clubs. and indeed, this broad experience shows through in the fine food on offer at ON TOP Rooftop Bar. The circular bar is a cool place to sit and enjoy the fabulous vistas, or chill out and cuddle up in a cosy corner with your beloved while sipping a cool drink, grapes by the glass, hand-made mocktails, or healthy juice or smoothie. So, whenever Patong is becoming a bit too hectic and is starting to get on top of you, head up to ON TOP Rooftop Bar, literally on top of the Swissotel and enjoy their fine food, cool drinks and deeply relaxing welcome.
ON TOP Rooftop Bar 48 Ruam Jai Road, Patong Beach Patong, Phuket 83150 Thailand Tel: +66 76 337 000 www.swissotel.com
LOXLEY
GETTING TO KNOW...
Please tell us about yourself I have worked in hospitality for 25 years, mainly in Bangkok for the Shangri-La where I worked for about 10 years, but also for Le Meridien Group for four years and other sized hotels. I moved to Phuket in 2004 and worked at Dusit Thani Laguna for about four years then the Crown Plaza in Karon (now the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket). I also worked with the Dusit Thani in Dubai as part of the pre-opening team. I mainly work on the operation of the hotel. When and how did you become involved with Surf Hotel? I started at Surf Hotel Patong in May last year after the owner invited me to lead the pre-opening team. That was when the hotel was still under construction. Surf Hotel Patong has been officially opened since December 1 last year and we’ve been pretty busy since then. What’s the potential of Surf Hotel Patong and what is its outstanding point? First, we are located a few meters from the beach, which is a big plus. We have a target group who expect the mix of leisure, activity and entertainment. We also have Surf House Patong right in front of the hotel for our guests to enjoy. They can choose to go swim at the beach, experience some beach activities and come back to surf, or choose to stay all day long at the Blue Bar which is our roof top pool bar with an expanding view of the ocean and arouswww.theguidephuket.com
Lifestyle
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ing music. Surf Hotel guests will be offered discounts for surfing at Surf House while the Surf House customers will also get a discount to stay at the hotel. What is the character of the hotel and your management strategy? We are designed as a cosmopolitan surfing destination for active, curious, urban and socially responsible travellers. Our facilities follow the customer target. We provide a gym, a pool bar from 10 am – 9 pm, and The Shore allday dining restaurant downstairs offers a flexible menu for the guests. Something out of the box. As our slogan is ‘active hotel’, the staff are energetic and everyone can reach each other like a family. Do you have promotions or upcoming plans? At the Blue Bar on the roof top, we offer happy hour from 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm. Every Friday, we arrange a ‘Pool Bar Party’ with energetic beats while at the restaurant, The Port, we offer themed dinners such as Pasta night, Steak night and Fish & Chips Mania.
Surf Hotel Patong 162/8-11 Patong Beach: Taweewong Road, Kathu, Phuket 83150 T: 66(0)+76 685 088 www.surfhotelpatong.com
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Food & Restaurant
Phuket is pushing itself to be one of Thailand’s’ gastronomy destinations, and many Phuket restaurants have woken up this fact and responded with new and exciting initiatives. If you are one of those looking for something a little extraordinary, then let The Guide Phuket introduce you to “The Fat Chef”, a restaurant where Eurasian cuisine is their art. As the name suggests, “Eurasian” cuisine combines cooking techniques and ingredients from Europe and Asia, and the menu at The Fat Chef explains how European cooking techniques go well with Asian cooking cultures and also reflect the charming destination of Phuket. The Guide Phuket team were recently invited to sample the delights on offer at The Fat Chef and chose appitizers of Aromatic Crab Cake in Fruit Salad Garden with Saffron and Citrus Dressing and Seafood Salad with Homemade Sundried Tomatoes. Both appetizers were amazing for both taste and presentation. The ingredients were fresh and the chef should be congratulated on coming up with idea of serving the outstanding Seafood Salad in a shell. We then moved on to the soup, and this is what Eurasian cuisine is all about, Wonton Soup. This fresh prawn wonton, served in an amazing Asian herbal consume broth will take you to another level. This is
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one of the best soups ever experienced. The team then chose Seafood Fettuccini with Special XO Sauce, the famous Phuket dish “Moo-Hong” and Steamed Fish with Black Bean Sauce/ Japanese Soy as mains. Again the dishes were well presented, but their tastes were thrilling and full of Eurasian flavours. The MooHong has its own unique twist with the Kurobuta pork being steamed and braised with The Fat Chefs special recipe of sweet soya, white wine and secret Asian spices. Of course our visit to The Fat Chef had a perfect ending, dessert. We went for the Fruit Bread Pudding and what a way to finish an amazing evening, it could never fail. The Fat Chef opens daily for dinner from 6 pm – 10.30 pm. There will be additional special menus rotated daily for guest to enhance their experiences of Eurasian cuisine. Advanced reservation is recommended and bring-in beverages are also welcomed. The Fat Chef 25/7 Moo 2 Thepkasattri Rd., T. Kohkaew, A Muang Phuket Thailand 83000 Tel: 076609298 E-mail: thefatchef@thepetegroup.com Facebook/ Instagram: thefatchefthailand
Chef POP
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Food & Restaurant
If there is one type of food you should not miss when visiting Phuket, it has to be seafood; and why would you limit yourself to a few shellfish when you can actually devour an entire buffet! When it comes to attending a Grand Seafood Barbecue buffet, Bubble Restaurant at the Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas should be high on the list. Every Friday from 6:00 pm onward, the restaurant transforms itself and gets ready to offer its diners an array of some of the freshest seafood on the island. The seafoodon-ice station features beautiful river prawns, rock lobsters, fresh French oysters and a wide selections of sashimi. Next we suggest you move on to the grill, where freshly caught snappers and blue crabs await on ice ready to be chosen. And rest assured, as your selections will be well taken care of and prepared under the eyes of the welltrained kitchen brigade. The salad bar is also worth spending time strolling around, tantalizing soups and homemade breads; you can’t stop eating after the first bite. Meat eaters will also be in heaven, as the restaurant offers all you can eat juicy Australian beef and New Zealand lamb as well as a selection of traditional Thai dishes available on the buffet line.
www.theguidephuket.com
Food & Restaurant
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Lastly, make sure you’ve spared some space for delectable desserts, all those famous sweets from the “Chou Choy Deli Shop” come in a lovely tiny bite-size allowing you to taste a little of each one. Priced at THB 1,399 per person, inclusive of taxes and service charges, the Grand Seafood Barbecue at Bubble Restaurant really is a bargain you should not miss. It becomes even more interesting as they offer 25% discount when you download the Accor Hotels application. Bubbles Restaurant is located by the pool of the Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Road. Visit GrandMercurePhuketPatong.com for more information or give them a call at +66 76 231 999.
Review on
Bubbles Restaurant.
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Food & Restaurant
" Bored and wondering what to do on weekends in Phuket, especially
on rainy days? Let's eat! There are a variety of restaurants and hotels on this paradise island providing Sunday brunches and buffets, ranging from low and medium prices to high-end. Go out and explore now
"
Twinpalms brunch
The Vijitt Resort Phuket
Every Sunday from 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs.
Every Sunday from 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs.
The place to see and be seen is the Sunday brunch at The Oriental Spoon. A highly fashionable international crowd browse the abundant food offerings from fresh seafood and cold water NZ oysters, to sushi and sashimi.
Enjoy Vijitt Resort Phuket’s expansive mouthwatering Seafood Buffet; Sushi, live cooking stations, BBQ, Western and Thai hot dishes, and our all you can eat home made desserts. • Baht 1,299 net per person with free flow soft drinks. • Baht 1,899 net per person with a bottle of grapes per couple. • Baht 3,199 net per person with a bottle of fizz per couple. HALF PRICE for children from 4 to 12 years old FREE for children under 4 years old Complimentary use of our 40m Infinity Edge Swimming Pool Kids Club for 4 to 12 years old. Tel: 076 363 600 Email: fbm@vijittresort.com
• THB 1,690 ++ including half bottle of grapes (red/white/ sparkling) per person • THB 7,380 ++ per couple, including a bottle of French fizz. Tel : 076 316 577 Email: book@twinpalms-phuket.com www.twinpalms-phuket.com
www.vijittresort.com
Metzo’s Mediterranean Sunday Brunch Every Sunday from 11.30 – 15.30 Hrs.
Sunday Brunch
It’s a matter of taste. Feast until your heart’s content on their Mediterranean menu of mezzo, tapas and charcoal grill specialties served to your table while you enjoy time with family and friends. After brunch, why not relax and take in the view of the Andaman Sea with complimentary access to the resort swimming pool. Younger visitors will also enjoy access to their Koh Kids Club. • THB 990++ per person • THB 2,290++ per person including selected grapes, hobs and cocktails • Half price for children aged 4 to 12 For reservation, please contact Metzo’s at Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort
On select Sundays, in March 18th The Edge Beach Club at Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort holds its Pink Brunch Party featuring live DJ performance by DJ Lada. This fantastic event kicks off at noon and enjoy the Sea View Pool and beach activities until 7pm. Priced at only THB 550++ per adult, with children under 12 eligible for 50% discount, this delicious and valuable brunch is certainly not to be missed. Do not forget to wear pink to receive a complimentary drink upon arrival.
Tel: 076 360 600 Email: metzos@outrigger.co.th www.outrigger.com
Tel: 076 602 500 Email: info@pullmanphuketpanwa.com www.pullmanphuket.com
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At The Edge Beach Club, Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort
Food & Restaurant
Oriental Buffet Dinner at Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas Every Wednesday from 18.00 – 22.00 Hrs. Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas proudly presents its “Oriental Buffet Dinner” now with a great “4 Eat 3 Pay” promotion. Embark on a journey to the four corners of Asia and enjoy Thai, Chinese, Japanese and other Oriental recipes, and develop your taste buds with spicy crab curries, barbecued meats and local noodle dishes. “Oriental Buffet Dinner” is held at Bubbles Restaurant every Wednesday from 6pm-10pm at THB999 per person. Tel: +66 76 231 999 or Email h8109@accor.com www.grandmercurephuketpatong.com
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Xana’s Sunday Fun Brunch Xana Beach Club has recently relaunched its Sunday Fun Brunch by the beach. The renowned Sunday brunch features an extensive array of international cuisine, exotic seafood bar, freshly baked bread station with plenty of Asian and Western delicacies to choose from. Live stations in the garden also showcase different mouth-watering styles of cuisine from talented chefs. International DJs, beach volleyball, billiards, swimming pool and Kids Corner are set on site to ensure that the whole family can enjoy the day together. Tel: 076 358 500 email: info@xanabeachclub.com www.xanabeachclub.com
Boathouse Sunday Brunch Only Once A Month On Every Last Sunday Join Phuket’s most elegant Sunday brunch, overlooking the pristine sands of Phuket’s most beautiful beach, at the newly-renovated and re-launched Boathouse on Kata Beach. Dine on the outdoor beachside terrace, or in the beautiful air-conditioned area with itsmodernist interior. Graze from a superb selection of seafood, shellfish, salads, beautifully-cooked meats complemented by an amazing cheese and dessert selection. Select from Phuket’s most extensive, cellar, or enjoy free-flow french fizz. 3,990++ THB per person Tel: +66(0)76 330 015-7 E-mail: info@boathouse-phuket.com www.boathouse-phuket.com
Sunday Brunch + Foam Party! Every Saturday from 12.00 – 3.00 pm Let your Sunday be filled with fun and laughter at the Family Sunday Brunch at Novotel Phuket Surin. Enjoy a wide range of sushi, pasta, pizza, roasted chicken, savory Thai dishes, salad bar, bread corner and extensive dessert station. Priced at THB 599++ for adult and 50% off for children aged from 4-12 years old. Tel: +66(0)76 303 300 www.novotelphuketsurin.com E-mail: ha3x1-re3@accor.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket
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Food & Restaurant
Restaurant Highlights
• The Fat Chef Thailand
• THE CRAB HOUSE
Eurasian Food Celebrate the art of eating at The Fat Chef Phuket, a comfortable restaurant located in Koh Kaew, on the eastern part of the island. They offer a mix of East meets West, with creative dishes such as Phang Nga Crab Meat on Ciabatta Crisp and The Fat Chef’s Cured Salmon Carpaccio. Book your table today to guarantee your seat, available in the evenings from 5:30 pm onward." Location: Koh Kaew Tel.076 609 298 www.thefatchefthailand.com
Seafood and Thai Enjoy the freshest and tastiest crabs, other seafood and Thai favorite dishes at Crab House on Thanon Phangmeuang, the road behind Jungceylon in the heart of Patong. Equipped with protective bibs, hammers and pliers do battle with tasty, crunchy fresh crabs in many glorious dishes all built around the fabulous flavors of local crab and seafood. Savor great cocktails, wines and beers and a lively atmosphere where every night is happy a crabthemed party. Location: Patong Tel: 076 687 065 www.thecrabhouse.net
• Wanon Restaurant at Hanuman Thai and International food Dining at Wanon Restaurant is a thrilling and unique experience featuring mouthwatering authentic Phuket and southern Thailand dishes served amidst a fabulous environment of original rainforest trees and vegetation, spread across a lovely hillside in Phuket’s Kathu district. The restaurant is part of the famous Hanuman World Eco-Adventure Park and features a comprehensive menu of authentic southern Thailand dishes plus breakfasts, salads, stir-fried dishes, western foods, soups, vegetarian dishes, fish, seafood, burgers, pasta and a broad selection of desserts. Location: Chaofa West Tel: +66 76 390 189 www.hanumanworldphuket.com
• The Drunken Leprechaun Irish Pub Phuket Irish Pub & Restaurant This traditional Irish pub allows you to get into the true Irish sprit, together with craic and all, with a full and rich selection of sprits, and on tap ales and lagers along with a great choice of food accompanied with great live music and ma jor sporting events screened live. The Drunken Leprechaun Irish Pub Phuket is located on the 1st floor of Swissotel Resort Phuket Patong Beach With Happy Hour from 11am - 7pm. Location: Patong Tel: 076 337 000 www.thedrunkenleprechaun.com www.theguidephuket.com
• etHo' s Restaurant & Lounge Mediterranean Food Stunning etHo‘ s restaurant and lounge nestles on a beautiful hillside overlooking sensational vistas of Kalim Beach and the Andaman Sea. This gorgeous fine dining restaurant offers both sumptuous indoor, plus stunning al fresco dining on their amazing terrace. Using only the finest ingredients, etHo‘ s sets the benchmark for finest quality dining, beautiful waitress service and design bringing the epitome of modern Mediterranean cuisine to this delightful corner of Phuket. Location: Kalim Tel.+66 (0)93 530 6006 or +66 (0)76 608 654 www.ethos-restaurant.com
• Le Panier Gourmand Phuket French britro & traiteur Le Panier Gourmand is a dining experience in-house with a typical bistro ambiance & also offers a take away service . The menu features te finest French and global cuisine. Inquire about their special dish of the day or weekly menu, Marc will reply to you by email Open Monday to Saturday from 8.30 am – 6 pm Location: Rawai Tel.085-7875009 www.facebook.com/lepaniergourmandphuket
Food & Restaurant
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Food & Restaurant
Restaurant Highlights
• PANWA HOUSE Thai Cuisine Offering stunning view of the peaceful beach at Cape Panwa Hotel, Panwa House offers a list of delicious Thai cuisine in a truly antique Sino Portuguese décor. For an even more romantic experience, a private dinner right on the beach can be set on request with lovely decorations, tasty food from a live cooking station and absolutely charming surroundings for a very special night. Location: Cape Panwa Tel: 076 391 123-5 www.capecollection.com
• EAST 88 RESTURANT & BEACH LOUNGE International & Thai East 88 Restaurant & 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 and enjoying food, drinks and cool vibes. “Special events, theme evenings and 0ne of happenings often held”. Location: Rawai Tel: 076 371 900 www.East88phuket.com
• ROYDEE RESTAURANT @NOOK-DEE RESORT Thai & International Roy-Dee Restaurant (means “Very delicious" in Thai)focuses on authentic home-cooking using the best of grannies recipes and secret tricks, together with fresh organic ingredients and herbs. All this is presented in a very “boutique way with a fine-dining concept” Reservations are highly recommended. Location : Kata Tel.+66 76 688 888 www.nook-dee.com www.theguidephuket.com
• RESTAURANT HIGHLIGHT LA BOUCHERIE CHALONG French Bristro La Boucherie Chalong offers a variety of meat cutlets, all perfectly cooked with a French savoir-faire, and paired beautifully with a selection of wines from France, Italy, Chile and Australia. Located on Chao Fa East Road, a short distance from Chalong Circle, this vibrant venue allows diners to enjoy their meals al fresco or in their air-conditioned dining area. Location: Chalong Tel: 094 807 6831 www.LABOUCHERIE-CHALONG.COM
• TIGER KINGDOM Thai & International Dine overlooking the exciting tiger enclosures on their wonderful balcony restaurant. This is an ideal spot for families to enjoy the a la carte menu, or the all-you-can-eat buffet encompassing a huge section of Thai, Asian, Chinese and European dishes upon which to graze while watching the tigers. Both the a la carte and buffet are extremely good value and the location and views make it one of the most stunning places to dine in all of Phuket. Location: Kathu Tel: 076 323 311 www.tigerkingdom.com
• BLUE ELEPHANT Royal Thai Cuisine Taking a grand location in the governor mansion in old Phuket Town, this beautiful restaurant serves traditional royal Thai cuisine and holds daily cooking classes as well. Location: Phuket Town Tel: 076 354 355, 076 354 357 www.blueelephant.com
Food & Restaurant
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►PATONG Amari Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 106-14 www.amari.com Banthai Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 850 www.banthaiphuket.com Deevana Patong Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 341 414-5 www.deevanapatong.com Duangjitt Resort & Spa + 66 (0) 76 342 090-4, 340 310-1 www.duangjittresort-spa.com Swissotel Resort Phuket Patong Beach +66 (0) 76 337 000 www.swissotel.com Impiana Resort Patong +66 (0) 76 340 138 phukethotels.impiana.com.my La Flora Patong +66 (0) 76 344 241 www.laflorapatong.com Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 680-5 www.lemeridienphuketbeachresort.com Holiday Inn Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 608-9 phuket.holidayinnresorts.com Horizon Beach Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 292 526-30 www.horizonbeach.com Merlin Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 294 300 www.merlintritrang.com Millennium Resort +66 (0) 76 601 999 www.millenniumhotels.com
The Marina Phuket Hotel Tel.+66 76 345 888
www.themarinaphuket.com
Journey Hub Phuket Tel.+66 76 627 999
Best Western, Patong Beach
+66 (0) 76 360 200 www.bestwesternpatongbeach.com www.theguidephuket.com
Sawaddi Patong Resort
+66 (0) 76 343 444 www.patongsawaddi.com
Mövenpick Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 396 139-48 www.movenpick.com Phuket Orchid Resort +66 (0) 76 396 519-23 www.katagroup.com/phuket-orchid Ramada Phuket Southsea +66 (0) 76 370 888 www.ramadaphuketsouthsea.com Thavorn Palm Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 396 090 www.thavornpalmbeach.com The Front Village +66 (0) 76 398 200-5 www.frontvillage.com ►KATA BEACH Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 370 999 www.alpinaphuketresort.com The Yama Hotel Phuket +66 (0) 76 303 456 www.theyamaphuket.com
Grand Mercure Phuket Patong
+66 (0) 76 231 999 www.grandmercurephuketpatong.com Novotel Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 342 777 www.novotelphuket.com Patong Merlin Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 037-41 www.merlinpatong.com Patong Paragon Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 290 555 www.patongparagon.com Andaman Embrace Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 370 000 www.andamanembrace.com Patong Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 551-4 www.patongresorthotel.com Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 370 500 www.phuketgraceland.com Salathai Resort +66 (0) 76 296 631 www.phuketsalathai.com SLEEP WITH ME HOTEL design hotel@patong +66 (0) 76 363 333 www.sleepwithmehotels.com The 9th Floor Residence +66 (0) 76 344 987 www.the9thfloor.com THE KEE Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 335 888 www.thekeeresort.com The Nap Patong +66 (0) 76 296 631-4 www.thenappatong.com The Royal Paradise Hotel +66 (0) 76 340 666 www.royalparadise.com ►KARON BEACH Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 201 234 www.centarahotelsresorts.com/cpbr Hilton Phuket Acadia Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 396 433 www.phuketarcadia.hilton.com Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 555 www.horizonbeach.com Karon Sea Sands Resort +66 (0) 76 286 464 www.karonseasand.com
The Boathouse Phuket
Tel.+66 76 330 015-7 www.boathouse-phuket.com
The SIS Kata, Phuket +66 (0)76 609 555 www.thesiskata.com Sawasdee S d Vill Vil Village l +66 (0) 76 330 979 www.phuketsawasdee.com Club Med 66 (0) 76 330 455-60 www.clubmed.co.th Ibis Phuket Kata Hotel +66 (0) 2 659 2888 www.ibis.com Beyond Resort Kata +66 (0) 76 330 530-4 www.katagroup.com/kata-beach Kata Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 334-8 www.katapalmresort.com Katathani Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 124 www.katathani.com Mom Tri’s Villa Royale Phuket +66 (0) 76 333 568 www.villaroyalephuket.com Sugar Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 404 www.sugarpalmgrand.com Impiana Private Villas +66 (0) 76 330 770 phuketprivatevillas.impiana.com.my Nook-Dee Boutique Resort Tel.+66 76 688 888 www.nook-dee.com
►BANG TAO BEACH Angsana Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 101 www.lagunaphuket.com/angsana Amora Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 021-2 www.phuket.amorahotels.com Bangtao Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 270 680-5 www.bangtaobeach.com Banyan Tree Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 374 www.banyantree.com Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 362 999 www.dusit.com Laguna Holiday Club Resort +66 (0) 76 271 888 www.lagunaholidayclub.com Mövenpick Resort Bangtao Beach +66 (0) 76 310 400 www.movenpick.com Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort & Villas +66 (0) 76 336 900 www.outrigger.com Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort Tel.+66 (0) 76 360600 www.outriggerthailand.com ►SURIN BEACH Amanpuri +66 (0) 76 324 333 www.aman.com/resorts/amanpuri Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort&Spa +66 (0) 76 271 271 www.ayarahilltops.com
Twinpalms Phuket
+66 (0) 76 316 500 www.twinpalms-phuket.com Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 303 300 www.novotel.com/Phuket_Surin The Surin Phuket +66 (0) 76 621 580 www.thesurinphuket.com ►KAMALA BEACH Andara Phuket +66 (0) 76 338 777 www.andaraphuket.com Aquamarine Resort & Villa +66 (0) 76 310 600 www.aquamarineresort.com Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 310 777 www.ayarakamalaresort.com Cape Sienna +66 76 337 300 www.capesienna.com Kamala Beach Estate +66 (0) 76 324 111-4 Kamala Beach Hotel & Resort +66 (0) 76 279 580-5 www.kamalabeachestate.com Paresa Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 302 000 www.paresaresorts.com
Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach +66 (0) 76 303 700 www.novotel.com ►NAIYANG & NAITHORN Dewa Phuket +66 (0) 76 372 300 dewaphuketresort.com The Slate Phuket +66 (0) 76 327 006-9 www.theslatephuket.com Naithon Buri Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 318 700 www.naithonburi.com Naiyang Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 328 300 www.naiyangbeachresort.com Trisara +66 (0) 76 310 100 www.trisara.com L’esprit de Naiyang Resort +66 (0) 76 510 032-5 www.lespritresort.com ►MAIKHAO Anantara Phuket +66 (0) 76 336 100 phuket.anantara.co.th Blue Canyon Country Club +66 (0) 76 328 088 www.bluecanyonclub.com JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 338 000 www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-deals/hktjwjw-marriott-phuket-resort-and-spa Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 371 371 www.maikhaodream.com Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Maikhao Beach +66 (0) 76 603 699 phuketmaikhaobeach.holidayinnresorts.com Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 363 999 www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/hktbr-renaissance-phuket-resort-and-spa Sala Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 338 888 www.salaresorts.com ►RAWAI BEACH & NAI HARN
All Season Naiharn Phuket Hotel + 66 (0) 76 289 333 www.allseasons-naiharn-phuket.com The Naiharn +66 (0) 76 380 200 www.thenaiharn.com Friendship Beach Resort and Atmanjai Wellness Spa +66 (0) 76 288 996 www.friendshipbeach.com ►CAPE PANWA The Kantary Bay Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 514 www.kantarybay-phuket.com Sri Panwa, Phuket +66 (0) 76 371 000 www.sripanwa.co.th Phuket Panwa Beachfront Resort Tel: +66 (0) 7630 2944 www.phuketpanwabeachresort.com
Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 123-5 www.capecollection.com
The Panwa Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 393 300 www.thepanwabeachresort.com Amatara Resort & Wellness +66 (0) 76 318 888, +66 (0)76 200 800 www.amataraphuket.com ►PHUKET TOWN Ibis Style Phuket City +66 (0) 76 563 333 www.ibis.com/9929 Phuket Merlin Hotel +66 (0) 76 212 866-70 www.merlinphuket.com Royal Phuket City +66 (0) 76 233 333 www.royalphuketcity.com The Metropole +66 (0) 76 215 050 www.metropolephuket.com The Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa Phuket +66 (0) 76 335 600 www.westinsiraybay.com
The Vijitt Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 363 600 www.vijittresort.com
Hotel Novotel Phuket Phokeethra Serenity Resort & Residences Phuket
+66 76 397 777 www.novotel.com
+66 (0) 76 371 900 www.serenityphuket.com
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Highlights Kanokpat Beauty Art
Jungceylon Plastic Surgery Clinic
Siam Spa Extra Virgin
Artist Pan offers 3D, 6D, 9D and more patterns of eyebrow tattoos, semi-permanent makeup such as eyebrow liners, eyeliners, pink lips liners, baby hair liners; with natural, young-looking style, as well as Fengshui-oriented makeup and tattoos. We service you with international standard colouring products of Biotouch, imported form USA. Facilities and equipment are hygienic and 100% safety guaranteed. Our anesthetic is imported from USA and Korea. Tel: 080 544 6665 www.kanokpatbeautyart.com
While Phuket is known primarily for its stunning beaches, the island is home to a number of state-of-the-art plastic surgery centres; and at the top of the chain is Jungceylon Plastic Surgery Clinic. Conveniently located at the Royal Place, opposite of Tesco Lotus in Phuket Town, the clinic specialises in Hair Transplantation, Eyelid Surgery, Rhinoplasty, Facial Implants and Breast Augmentation. Contact their English-speaking staff today for more information www.jungceylonclinic.com.
Siam Herb Extra Virgin produces and supplies the most premium grade spa products along with fruit soaps with the true aroma of fresh fruits when they’re at their ripest. If you’re looking for spa products, or if you like the sound of the fruit soaps, visit one of either of the stores on bypass road near Thanachart Bank or Soi Tan in Patong. Phuket Call Center: 092 461 9605 Pattaya Call Center: 086 888 0600
The V Spa
Vara Spa
Deep Relax The V Spa aims at bringing back guest to nature. Built in the shape of a village style, the pretty small straw roofed Salas blend totally with the natural beauty of the jungle. Each has been designed with nature at heart. When in Thailand, don’t forget to have a Traditional Thai Natural Touch Treatment. At The Vijitt Resort Phuket, you can have one at the private spa executive room or at the open air Salas. Traditional Thai Natural Touch Treatment is soothing and relaxing it’s definitely worth it. Tel: 076 363 600 ext.703 www.vijittresort.com
With outlets in Changmai and at the entrance to the Laguna in Cherntalay, Phuket, Deep Relax Spa offers the ultimate pampering and rejuvenation though spa, massage and reflexology as well as facials, pedicure, manicure and waxing. From fullbody hot oil deep relaxing massage, to after-sun cooling Aloe Vera treatments, to Royal Siam full body massage, to anti-ageing facials Deep Relax Spa has it all. Tel.076 325 799 , 099 4059229 www.deeprelaxspa.com
At Vara Spa, from the moment you step through the door, you become the center of their attention. Every element has been carefully designed for your comfort. Indulge in sensuous soothing and pampering which will completely revitalize and recharge both your mind and your body. Vara Spa where Thai local wisdom matched with Western contemporary ideas creates immaculate beauty and skincare. Tel: 076 343 444 www.varaspa.com
Health & Beauty
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Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach named ‘Best International Wedding Venue’
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket receives Green Globe certification for sixth consecutive year Mövenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket recently became a certified Green Globe Gold member for the sixth consecutive year. Several activities have been put in place to reduce the resort’s carbon footprint and encourage hotel team members and guests to be more mindful of the environment, such as installing recycling stations throughout the hotel. “We are very proud of our achievements in sustainable operations at the resort and of our partnership with Green Globe,” said Nick Porter, General Manager.
Famed reggae artist Matteo visits Phuket FantaSea The famed Romanian dancehall reggae artist and producer from Romania, Matteo, whose popularity recently rose due to the success of his popular “Panama” dance hit, was recently taking a short vacation on the island of Phuket. During his trip, on 22 January, 2018, the artist visited Phuket FantaSea where he enjoyed shopping in Festival Village and ended the evening with the spell-binding “Fantasy of a Kingdom” performance in the 3,000-seat, state-of-the-art theater - “Palace of the Elephants”.
On 4 December, 2017, Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach was named “Best International Wedding Venue Hotel” at the International Hotel Awards 2017. The winning of the prestigious award was announced at a gala ceremony held at the famed Savoy Hotel in London. This caps a hugely successful year for the Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach, following the resort being named “Thailand’s Best Wedding Venue” and “Asia’s Best Wedding Venue” at the Asia Property Awards 2017.
Thanyapura welcomes Sujeet Kumar Gupta as Ayurveda Medical Consultant and Wellness Director On 15 December, 2017, Thanyapura Health and Sports Resort was excited to welcome Sujeet Kumar Gupta as their Ayurveda Medical Consultant and Wellness Director. He is an experienced and accomplished wellness expert, with experience as an Ayurveda Doctor, in Therapeutic Yoga, meditation, sound and energy healing, and his main focus is lifestyle and holistic healthcare management. He holds a postgraduate degree in Integrated Holistic Medicine and a Masters of Yoga, and has taken the International Diabetes Federation’s Certified Diabetes Educator Course.
The G u ide
Social Banyan Tree Phuket launches ‘Taihei’ Japanese Restaurant featuring Master Chef Shiraishi January 25, 2018, Banyan Tree Phuket resort were proud to announce the opening of its newest restaurant “Taihei”, offering gourmet Japanese cuisine and headed by Master Chef Shiraishi, a veteran chef whose skills have been nurtured over 50 years. Guests includied Mr. Ravi Chandran – Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, Food &Beverages gourmet card members and media.
Blue Elephant Phuket hosts Gastronomy Training Project On February 3, 2018, Blue Elephant Phuket hosted the Phuket Ra jabhat University’s Faculty of Science and Technology as they held a Phuket Gastronomy Training Project. The event saw a Phuket food philosopher pass on valuable experience and skills to the students.
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The Guide
Social
‘Sunset Experience’ at Centara Karon Resort Phuket January 30, 2018, Centara Karon Resort Phuket invited business partners and travel agents to discover its brand new Thai culinary delight “Sunset Experience”, served in front of a gorgeous sunset over the Andaman Sea.
Nook-Dee Boutique Resort Kata Beach officially launches ‘360 Sky Bar’ On February 3, 2018, Nook-Dee Boutique Resort Kata Beach officially launched its ‘360 Sky Bar’ with an event chaired by Andacura Management Managing Director Klaus R. Rauter and the owner of NookDee Khun Golf. Guests were entertained by a cool DJ and bartender show while getting served refreshing drinks and tasty canapes.
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Lifestyle
SHOPPER’S ht g i l De
MAI KHAO BEACH Turtle Village The exclusive shopping destination for the best dining and shopping on Mai Khao Beach. Cuisine choices match wonderfully with the gift, souvenir, antique and clothing selections. Outlets include Bill Bentley Pub, the only English pub on Mai Khao Beach; The Coffee Club; Swensens; Supermarket Turtle Mart; Jim Thompson; Narai Phand; Tanya Living; Thai Souvenir; Triumph; Surfers Paradise; Esprit Outlet; A.Prime; Custom Tailor; Tara-Leather products; Private Collection; J&P Gems; Mt. Sapola; Ferera; Their Nibs; The Handmade; Thai Express and Noodle Bar. BANGTAO & SURIN BEACH Canal Village Located in the heart of Laguna Phuket Destination Resort, CanalVillageLagunaShoppingisabeautifullylandscapecourtyard surrounded by more than 30 shops and offers the finest selection of quality goods and services available in Phuket. Whether you desire local or regional handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, daily necessities, tours and excursion options, and delicious dining, chances are you will find it at Canal Village. Indulge yourself and your loved ones for a day at the superb retail outlets the serene shopping retreat has to offer. Address: 390/30 Moo 1 Srisoonthorn Rd., Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel: 076 362 330 Email: shopping@lagunaphuket.com Website: www.lagunaphuket.com Surin Plaza Located between Cherng Talay and Surin Beach, Surin Plaza is a one-off, high-class, three-storey shopping emporium. Here, you can buy unique jewelery, designer clothes, objects d’art and antiques – all in a very attractive setting. Shopping here is a fascinating experience and retailers generally open and close late, typically from 10:00 – 20:00. Tesco Lotus Park This shopping square offers easy shopping and leisure options to Cherng Talay and Surin Beach residents and has facilities for expats and hotel guests as well as locals. A large Tesco Lotus supermarket with parking space is at its nucleus while diagonally opposite stands a McDonald’s branch with both indoor and outdoor seating. Sells everything from food and drinks to household goods and is open from 06:00 – 22:00. PATONG BEACH Jungceylon ‘Jungceylon’ was the old name for Phuket when it was still a prosperous port town and trading in the region was at its peak. This shopping mall retains a lot of the old history of Phuket in its architecture and style and is a joy to visit for this alone. www.theguidephuket.com
Turtl e Villang by Art&Culture
Magazine
The choice of goods is world-class, comprising well over 300 shops with ample car parking space, restaurants, bars, cinema and bowling alley along with everything else you could possibly need for a busy day shopping. Banana Walk The area’s newest shopping center is located just 100 meters south of Soi Bangla on the beach road, right next to Banana Disco. The mall is multilevel (three floors) and its overall design leans toward minimal and modernistic, At night the lighting, ranging from blue to red, gives Banana Walk the feeling of entering a spaceship dock in a science fiction movie. Shopping, dining and cosmetics are the three main thrusts of this complex in which you can find almost anything to eat, drink, or buy. You can even improve your well-being at a spa or make yourself even more beautiful at an aesthetic center or at the onsite hairdresser.
48
Lifestyle
KATA & KARON BEACH Kata Plaza Nowadays there are in fact two distinct shopping malls with a bazaar-like feel to them, both are located close to the Kata Palace Hotel and Club Med along Kata Road which runs parallel to Kata Beach Road. The newer of the two is flanked by tailor shops, a pharmacy, and a cozy fan-cooled café along with a minimart and the inevitable optician’s shop. The two-lane plaza really is a one-stop destination for all your holiday souvenirs. Karon Bazaar A large, covered market-like shopping centre set in the central area of Karon Beach Road, right between Woraburi Phuket and Moenvenpick Resorts. The bazaar features just about everything you’ll ever need. Karon Bazaar is a smaller beachside version of the famous Phuket Weekend Market in Phuket Town. Aimed at tourists, the place is a great opportunity for an evening stroll.
ket Central Festival Phu
PHUKET TOWN Central Festival Central Festival Phuket is an air-conditioned, fully equipped one-stop shopping mall lying just outside of Phuket Town. The Central store plays host to over 120 outlets selling products ranging from up-market clothing, fashion accessories, silk goods, bedding, household goods, toys and children’s accessories, travel bags, food, and drinks. There are also watch and jewellery counters here. It’s literally possible to spend a full day here - shopping, catching the latest movies, and dining out at the range of international restaurants that offer everything from French and Japanese cuisines to local Thai dishes.
One More Wave
Limelight Avenue Limelight Avenue Phuket is located in the heart of Phuket Town, on Dibuk Rd. This exciting new avenue features a wide range of food options including famous-brands from Bangkok as well as popular local eateries such as Lemongrass, Pint Factory and so many more. In addition, there are plenty of retail shops, a supermarket, health and beauty shop, coffee and bakery shop, ice cream shop, education and activity shop and food court. The venue is open from 10am - 10pm (except Tops Daily which opens from 6am until midnight and Tom n Tom Coffee which is open 24 hours) to fit in with the lifestyle of local people and tourists who want to experience real Phuketian life under the slogan, Urban Lifestyle Mall. This mall is the complete answer for the whole family’s activities. Premium Outlet Phuket Brand-name clothing and sports accessories at bargain prices, it’s located on the bypass road. Apart from Thai brands, other international names are on sale including Lacoste, Guy Laroche, Hush Puppies, Warner Bros, Pierre Cardin, Van Heusen, Levi’s, Lee, Nautica, Adidas and Nike and feature discounts of up to 70%. Phuket Weekend Market Situated opposite the Naka Temple, which is also worth a visit outside of Phuket Town, and just 5 minutes from Central Festival on the Chao Fa West Road lies Phuket’s equivalent to Bangkok’s JJ Market. Here you will find all manner of things for sale from seemingly useless second-hand house hold junk and cute little trinkets to garden ornaments, clothing and ideal presents for all your friends and family. There is also
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Lifestyle
49
Limelight Avenue
an abundance of food and drink stalls to keep the energy levels up whilst you wander around. The market starts in the afternoon and goes on until the evening time when it can get really very lively. One More Wave A brand founded by young successful people who love extreme sports, waves, surfing and traveling. OneMoreWave Clothing is sewn in Russia from European 100% natural cotton. OneMoreWave - a convenient, high-quality clothing for a casual life, as well as for water sports both on the ocean and on the terms of city surfing. Phuket Boat Lagoon Unit no.A11, Lagoon Quay, 22/1 Moo.2 Thepkasattri Rd, Kohkaew, Muang Phuket 83000 +6695-257-9950 Instagram: onemorewave_phuket
One More Wave
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50
Transport
Transport on the island How much of Phuket have you actually seen? Wouldn’t you like to explore some more? Well, here we list some of your options for getting around the island’s highways and byways. To and from the airport Airport transfers are relatively simple. The airport is at the far north of the island, some 30 kilometers from Phuket Town and even further from most of the popular beaches like Patong and Karon. It is best to use one of the two official transport companies with booths right inside the arrival lounge, you can’t miss them. Private Airport Limousines or minibuses are available to get to the ma jor beaches at the south or west of the island. Metered taxis are also available. The Airport Bus is a cheaper alternative as long as you are not in a rush. Ask at the airport for their current departure schedules and pricing. Car rental is available and companies, such as Budget and National have offices located in the airport. ‘Tuk-Tuks’ If you want your own private taxi, look for a tuk tuk, a tiny mini-truck used to carry about four (or more!) passengers. The tuk-tuk gets its name from the noise its little engine
makes. There are fleets of these in all ma jor tourist areas and they will take you anywhere for a price. The going rate for the relatively short ride between Patong and Phuket Town can be as much as 450 THB, one way! You can also rent one of these tuk-tuks for the day. Expect to pay around 2,000 THB or more. This can be a good way to get about the island if you prefer not to drive yourself. Motorcycle Taxis These will be a new experience for many people and are a convenient, yet nerve wracking way to get around. All fares must be negotiated before the ride. These taxi motorcycle drivers are easily identified by their special colored jackets showing the location of their home base. Many have the word ‘taxi’ written in English on this jacket. Do not take a taxi from anyone who is not wearing one of these jackets. Renting a Motorcycle Motorcycles, big and small, can be rented all over the island and are a popular choice for many tourists. Zipping around with the breeze in your hair is tempting for anyone but do be careful, the hospitals here see a never-ending stream of foreigners arriving with skin missing from arms and legs, or sometimes worse. The accident rate on Phuket is one of the highest in Thailand with 90% of road accidents involving motorcycles! Note that Thai law requires the driver to carry a valid license at all times and all riders to wear helmets. Also motorcycle lights must be turned on at all times, including during the daytime! The police occasionally enforce all these laws, so beware. The real danger in Phuket is this: NONE of the motorcycles rented here have insurance. Renting Your Own Car Since Phuket is quite a large island, renting your own car can be one of the most pleasant ways to get around and it gives you freedom to go where and when you want. Renting is easy; private rental cars are readily found in every beach area and ma jor rental companies operate in most resorts. When renting private vehicles from the side of the road be aware that few of these vehicles have insurance and this can prove disastrous in the event of an accident. Renting a car allows you get off the island and see the beautiful, neighboring provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi. The roads are good and the scenery spectacular, making for a great day out. Regional Buses The long distance bus station is in Phuket Town and across from here both air-con tour buses and cheap, ‘orange crush’ buses leave for destinations north, south and east. There are regular services to Bangkok, Krabi, Surat Thani, Nakorn Srithammarat, Trang, Haad Yai and other minor provincial capitals.
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Transport
51
SCHEDULE TO/FROM PHUKET
PHUKET TO BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI)
BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) TO PHUKET
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
TG 226
0720
0845
Daily
TG 201
0745
0910
Daily
TG 202
1005
1135
Daily
TG 203
0830
0955
Daily
TG 204
1055
1225
Daily
TG 926
0930
1055
146
TG 685
1320
1445
Daily
TG 207
1320
1445
Daily
TG 208
1355
1525
Daily
TG 215
1400
1525
Daily
TG 953
1520
1645
16
TG 217
1655
1825
Daily
TG 963
1520
1645
57
TG 221
1815
1940
Daily
TG 927
1545
1710
257
TG 211
1910
2035
Daily
TG 216
1625
1750
Daily
TG 684
1925
2050
Daily
TG 218
1915
2040
Daily
TG 225
2240
2359
Daily
TG 220
1935
2100
Daily
TG 222
2035
2200
Daily
TG 212
2125
2250
Daily
BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) TO PHUKET (THAI SMILE) Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
TG 2281
1000
1120
Daily
TG 2273
1205
1335
Daily
TG 2275
1535
1655
Daily
TG 2283
1725
1845
Daily
PHUKET TO BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) (THAI SMILE) Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
TG 2282
1215
1340
Daily
TG 2274
1425
1555
Daily
TG 2276
1740
1905
Daily
TG 2284
1935
2105
Daily
CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
TG 2171
0940
1135
Daily
PHUKET TO CHIANG MAI Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
TG 2272
1235
1430
Daily
Days of Service: 1 = Mon 2 = Tue 3 = Wed 4 = Thu 5 = Fri 6 = Sat 7 = Sun
Phuket Reservation Call 0-7636-0444 Mon-Sun, 0800 - 1700 www.thaiairways.co.th / www.thaiairways.com / www.thaismileair.com
Transport by Boat Regular ferry boat services from Phuket run only to the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Yao Noi and Krabi. There are unscheduled boats to Koh Bon, Racha Yai and Koh Yao Yai. You can get to Koh Lanta by changing boats at Koh Phi Phi. Song-taews There are few buses on Phuket and the main form of transport from beach to town is the ‘song taew’; a truck converted to carry passengers in the back on two long benches. They are usually colorful with a sign on front showing where they are going. These vehicles leave from a set stop by the fresh produce market in Phuket Town, reaching every major beach area on the island. They run approximately every hour but there are no fixed schedules, and they run when there are sufficient passengers. When leaving the beach areas to head back to town they usually cruise slowly around the streets picking up passengers. Song-taews are slow but cheap with the fare from Phuket Town to Patong now set at just 25 THB per person!
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52
Andaman
g Gettion t know
The Southern Andaman Region of Krabi Krabi,, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta
Three hours drive south from Phuket through stunning limestone cliffs and dense forest brings you to the southern playground of the Krabi region of the Andaman overlooking Phang Nga Bay with its many scattered islands, hidden bays and beaches. Throw away your watch and bask in nature’s beauty or snorkel, dive, rock climb, fish, kayak, hike, sail, party, spa or wine and dine to your heart’s content – this region has it all. Ao Nang Beach Just 18 km from Krabi Town is beautiful Ao Nang with its 83 scattered islands. Each island is only a short distance from the next and so during low tide you can wade to a neighboring island, many with sandy beaches and crystal clear water and ma jestic limestone cliffs rising straight from the clear waters of the sea. Ao Nang has several famous beaches including East Rai Le, West Rai Le and Phra Nang cave which stretches to the foot of a prominent limestone range. Noppharat Thara Beach Just 20 km west of Krabi and three miles long, this beach is lined with ma jestic Casuarina trees and is in fact part of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Marine Park and is the location of the Park headquarters. As with Ao Nang, it’s possible to reach other islands in the bay on foot during low tides. Railay Beach This beach is generally divided into two sections, east and west. West Railey provides visitors with peace and quiet as it is a broad sandy beach with fewer facilities than Ao Nang. East Railey which lies across the peninsula from West Railey is different from other beaches in the area as it could actually be classified as a mud flat, especially during low tide. The main attraction for visitors to Railey Beach is the adrenaline pumping activity of cliff climbing. The limestone cliffs on the huge headland between East of Railey Beach and Phra Nang cave, as well as other nearby islands provide world-class rock climbing facilities against a stunning backdrop of the sea with approximately 700 routes of mid to high difficult rating. www.theguidephuket.com
Pra Nang Beach Connected to Railay by a small path, Phra Nang is on the outermost headland, backed by limestone cliffs soaring above the beach. At the bottom of the cliff lies the Princess Cave or Tham Phra Nang Nok where local fishermen leave offerings for good fortune. Klong Muang Beach/Tubkaak Krabi’s latest beach destination, Muang Klong boasts both 5-star and boutique hotels like the Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort has rebranded to Dusit Thani Krabi Resort since July 2015, the Nakamanda and the Tubkaak Resort and offers powderwhite sand and safe swimming. The Lanta Island Group About 53 islands are included in this group situated at the southern limit of Krabi Province. Koh Lanta Yai is the largest and is both a traveler’s and up-market vacationer’s paradise and is as yet relatively undeveloped. You can get to Lanta on the regular ferry from Jao Fah Pier in Krabi Town. The prime attractions are its long beaches, clear water, laid back atmosphere and scuda diver’s paradise where most of the nicest beaches and tourist attractions are located. The Phi Phi Islands Known for phenomenal natural beauty, particularly the famous twin bays with their the curving beaches upon which lies the largest town. Phi Phi islands are some of the most beautiful in the world with superb scenery, silvery sand beaches and Emerald green seas with coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. Hardly two hours journey by boat from Ao Nang, the twin islands Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh provide excellent accommodation options and are known as ma jor “party islands.” Poda Islands Situated south of Ao Nang, 8 Kilometers offshore, Koh Poda or Poda Group Islands are fringed by clear waters and offer white sandy beaches, as well as, pristine coral reefs. These islands are not affected so much by the monsoon therefore are year-round attractions and an excellent place for fishing. Poda island with white sand beaches and clear turquoise seawater abounded with schools of colorful fish.
Sightseeing by Canoe or Kayak Many companies offer sea canoeing and kayaking adventures around Phang Nga Bay and into the many coves, caves and islets dotting the otherworldly shores around Krabi, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. Fishing Abundant sea and even freshwater fishing is available all over this region, from squid boating, to line fishing in Phang Nga Bay, to big game adventures off the Continental Shelf drop-off. Don’t let that big one get away! Bird Watching A trip to Krabi can be a very rewarding visit for any bird lovers. With easily accessible mangroves and low lying forests, there are many places to spot rare birds. Two excellent locations are Khao Kanat Nam, close to Krabi Town, and Khao No Chuchi Forest Preserve.
Highlight Attractions.. Emerald Pool Emerald Pool or Sra Morakot in Thai is located at Klong Thom District. This hot spring originates from a warm stream in the lowland forest. The intensity of the pool’s turquoise colored water varies according to the light and time of the day so a good time to visit is at dawn or early morning. Tiger Cave Temple Tiger Cave Temple or Wat Tham Sua in Thai is located about 3 kilometers from Krabi town. The inside of this cave features tiger prints captured in stone and is in the middle of an abundant forest with gigantic ancient trees. This place is remarkable archaeologically as many artifacts have been found on the premises including tools, pottery and the mold for the Buddha’s footprint.
Highlights & Activities... Rock Climbing Apart from marine sports, Krabi is also an ideal place for rock climbing. Lines of sheer limestone cliffs along Tham Phranang and Rai Le Beaches have challenged thousands of climbers from all over the world every year. The levels of difficulty of the various routes vary, so Whether you’re a professional or just an aspiring adrenalin junkie, the craggy karsts of Krabi offer a huge array of bolted mounts. Diving Both scuba and snorkeling are widely available in warm, coral and fish infested waters with full PADI accreditation courses and live-aboard adventures.
Partying Phi Phi is known worldwide as “Party Island central” and Koh Lanta is not far behind. Krabi Town is more sedate, but there are plenty of good bars and a live music scene to enjoy. Shopping Outlet Village Krabi is located on Phetchakasem Road. It is on the way from the city to the local airport and features a tall lighthouse near the entrance and 6,000 sqm of retail space. Throughout the year, many Thai and foreign travelers visit this outlet which offers over 100 selected leading brands for all ages. Clothing discounted up to 70% is available here. It is open daily from 11:00 a.m. - 9.00 p.m. Enjoying the Local Seafood Have a seafood feast and savor the fresh day’s catch in any number of a fun, laidback, or fine-dining restaurants all over this region.
GETTING THERE By road from Phuket Take a minibus or frequent local bus from Phuket Town’s bus terminal with information regarding timetables, taxi or mini-van shuttle services readily available at hotels, travel agent or Phuket Airport. Renting a car is also a good option and the roads are wide, modern and relatively quiet. To Krabi and Phi Phi by boat It is possible to charter a speedboat or similar transportation to Krabi or Koh Phi Phi, or there are frequent daily ferries operating between Phuket and Phi Phi Island and then on to Krabi, or via the Koh Yao Islands, each taking about two hours.
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g n i t t e G o t know
the Northern Andaman Region
of Khaolak, Phang Nga
Just an hour’s drive north of Phuket in mainland Phang Nga province, Khaolak is a beautiful area with long, sandy beaches fringed by the many surrounding national parks offering nature lovers a pristine landscape of beaches, jungle-covered mountains, forested valleys, mangroves and estuaries. There’s an abundance of comfortable resorts and bungalows blending into the scenery along the coastline and being more low-key than, Phuket, it’s a place to take it easy, read a book and get back to nature. Go for long walks on the beach, take a nature tour and explore the interior, go sightseeing by elephant, trek through the jungle, or go rafting along the local rivers with one of the daily Eco-Tours.
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Khaolak is also a great jumping off point in the high season for a trip to the Surin and Similan Islands, renowned for world-class scuba diving, or for the gorgeous Khao Sok National Park further to the north.
Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 371371 www.maikhaodream.com Ranyatavi Resort Phang Nga Tel. +66 (0) 76 580 800 www.ranyatavi.com The Hotspring Beach Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 580 000-28 www.thehotspringbeach.com Bor Saen Villa & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 418 888 www.borsaenvilla.com Kho Yao Bay Pavilions, Koh Yao Noi Tel: +66 (0) 76 597 441 www.koyaobay.com Koh Yao Island Resort, Koh Yao Noi Tel. +66 (0) 76 597474-6 www.kohyao.com Elixir Resort Koh Yao Tel. + (66) (0) 87 808 3838 www.elixirresort.com The Sarojin Te. +66 (0) 76 427 900-4 www.sarojin.com Casa de La Flora, Khao lak Tel. +66 (0)76 428 999 www.casadelaflora.com JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 888 www.marriott.com Le MĂŠridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 427 500 www.starwoodhotels.com Ramada Resort Khao Lak Tel. +66 (0) 76 427 777 www.ramadakhaolak.com Kantary Beach Hotel Villas and Suites, Khao Lak Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 700 www. kantarybeach-khaolak.com Khao Lak Orchid Beach Resort Tel : +66 (0) 76 486 141 www.khaolakorchid.com
La Flora Resort & Sp a, Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 00 0 www.lafloraresort.co m
Khaolak Merlin Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 300 www.merlinphuket.com The Shambhala Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 486 600 www.shambhalakhaolak.com Khaolak Bhandari Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 751-4 www.khaolakbhandari.com Mukdara Beach Villa & Spa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 429 999 www.mukdarabeach.com Khaolak Paradise Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 429 100 www.khaolakparadise.com Khaolak Oriental Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 443 480-3 www.khaolakoriental.com Khaolak Bay Front Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 641 www.khaolakbayfront.com Apsaras Beach Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 444 www.apsarasresort.com Monochrome Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 427 700 www.monochromeresort.com The Briza Beach Resort Khao Lak Phang Nga, Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 600 www.brizakhaolak.com Baan Krating Khao Lak Resort (Next to Khao Lak National Park) Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 188-9 www.baankrating.com Luckanawadee Boutique Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 85 477 3271 www.lackanawadee.com Khaolak Countryside Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 474-6 www.thekhaolakcountrysideresort.com www.khaolakcountrysideresort.com
Wanakarn Beach Re sort & Spa Tel: +66 (0)76 584 30 0 www.wanakarnresort.c om
The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 800 www.thesandskhaolak.com Beyond Resort Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 592 300 www.katagroup.com/beyond-khaolak Khaolak Sunset Resort Tel. + 66 (0) 76 485 075-77 www.khaolaksunset.com/ Baan Khaolak Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 485 123-4 www.baankhaolakbeachresort.com The Andamania Beach Resort Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 666 www.andamania.com Palm Galleria Resort, Khaolak Tel. +66 (0) 76 427 000 Khaolak Wanaburee Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 385 333-5 www.wanaburee.com Mai Khaolak Beach Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 592 000 www.maikhaolak.com Khaolak Diamond Beach Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 600 www.khaolakdiamondresort.com Khaolak Emerald Beach Resort & spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 700 upto 28 www.khaolakemeraldresort.com Royal Bangsak Beach Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 592 555 www.royalbangsakresort.com Sansimar Khaolak Beachfront Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 900 -5 www.khaolak-beachfront.com Andaman Princess Resort & Spa Tel. +66 (0) 76 592 222-9 www.andamanprincessresort.com The Paradise Koh Yao Boutique Beach Resort & Spa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 450, www.theparadise.biz
Iniala Beach House Tel. +66 (0) 76 429 439 www.iniala.com
PHUKET TO SAMUI
SAMUI TO PHUKET
PHUKET TO UTAPAO
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
PG252
0935
1030
Daily
PG251
0800
0900
Daily
PG282
1510
1645
Daily
PG250
1125
1220
Daily
PG259
1100
1200
Daily
PG256
1600
1655
Daily
PG253
1240
1340
Daily
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
PG258
2050
2145
Daily
PG255
1430
1530
Daily
PG281
1300
1440
Daily
PG257
1730
1830
Daily
PG287
1910
2010
Daily
PHUKET TO BANGKOK Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
PG270
0700
0825
Daily
BANGKOK TO PHUKET Dep
Arr.
Days
UTAPAO TO PHUKET
PHUKET TO CHIANG MAI Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
PG247
1110
1315
Daily
PG290
0850
1015
Daily
Flight
PG272
1020
1145
Daily
PG289
0625
0750
Daily
Flight
Dep
Arr.
Days
0805
0930
Daily
PG248
1415
1620
Daily
PG276
1215
1340
Daily
PG271
PG274
1440
1605
Daily
PG283
0850
1015
Daily
PG909
1610
1735
Daily
PG275
1000
1125
Daily
Daily
PG924
1225
1350
Daily
1355
1520
Daily
PG286
1725
1850
PG278
1905
2030
Daily
PG273
PG280
2210
2335
Daily
PG277
1655
1820
Daily
PG279
1945
2110
Daily
PG220
2155
2320
Daily
LOST CREDIT CARDS
CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET
TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE CONSULAR REPRESENTATIVES FUNCTIONING IN PHUKET
Visa
001-800-441-3485
Australia
076 317 700
Ireland
083 969 6084
AMEX
02 273 5500
Master Card
001-800-11-887-0663
Austria
076 248 334-6
Italy
076 263 923
Czech Republic
076 249 400
USA
076 342 270
Diners Club
02 232 4100
Denmark
076 388 283
Korea
076 234 452
HSBC
1590, 02 614 4000
Finland
076 360 000
Norway
076 237 156
City Bank
1588, 02 232 2484
France
076 304 050
Sweden
076 380 000
JCB
02 256 9151-4
Germany
076 610 407
United Kingdom
076 615 862
INTERNATIONAL CALLS DIAL: +66 - 76, INSIDE THAILAND CALLS DIAL 076- FOR PHUKET Muang District Police Station
212 129
Phuket Airport
327 230-6
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
342 719/20
Bangkok Phuket Hospital
254 425
Thalang Police Station
313 919
Mission Hospital
237 220-6
Phuket Provincial Immigration Office
221 905
Patong Hospital
342 633-4
Phuket Deep Sea Port
393 572
Phuket International Hospital
249 400
Phuket Post and Telegraph Office
224 883
Vachira Phuket Hospital
361 324
Cherngtalay Branch 1 14 Bandon-Cherngtalay Road (Near Laguna Phuket) Tel: 076 325 799
Surin-Bang Tao Branch 25/63 Soi Had Surin 8 , Moo3 (Near Palm Seaside Restuarant) Tel: 076 386 599
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort Branch 3 Srisoonthorn Road, Bangtao Beach, Cherngtalay Tel: 076 360 600