The guide phuket october 2014

CONTENTS October 2014 22

30

42

44

46

51

THE GUIDE LIFESTYLE

THE GUIDE DINING

10

32 34 38 40 42 44

18 56 60 62 64

Introducing Naraphong (Bia) Phoneam Life’s a Beach The Guide Social Phuket Pulse Shopper’s Delight Events & Promotions

Mare Restaurant Let’s do brunch Wine Dinners Restaurant Highlights La Boucherie Koffee Culture

THE GUIDE BEAUTY THE GUIDE ACTIVITY 12 14 20 22

Hot Activity Baan Teelanka Activities on the island Water Sports in Phuket

THE GUIDE HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION 24 26 30 52

Phuket Beach Clubs Hotel Highlights La Flora Saturdays

46 48 50

Bangkok Hospital Phuket Spa Highlights Rarinjinda Wellness Spa

TIMETABLE 66 67

Bangkok Airways Timetable Thai Airways Timetable

THE GUIDE ANDAMAN 68 70 72 70

Northern Andaman Region Hotel Highlights Southern Andaman Getting to know Khao Lak Hotel Highlights Phang-Nga

Cover photo : The Crab House (Photo by : Chayut Wahphitak)

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

Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to Email: info@theguidephuket.com MANAGING DIRECTOR & EDITOR Punnaporn Eamso Guinault info@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)89 474 4704 CONSULTING EDITOR Barry Daniel editor@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)84 305 3974 ADVERTISING info@theguidephuket.com Tel: +66 (0)76 521 011 Mobile: +66 (0)89 474 4704 Kansirinphat Poolsiri marketing@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)89 288 1144 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Titaree Taweekit ann@theguidephuket.com Mobile: +66 (0)86 816 0516

GETTING TO KNOW...

Naraphong (Bia) Phoneam and Crab House

Huge (Delicious) Crabs Descend on Patong!

Crab House is a fabulous new crab and seafood restaurant that’s opened on Thanon Phangmeuang, the road behind the Jungceylon Shopping and Entertainment Center deep in the heart of Patong. And this is certainly one restaurant that you won’t have any trouble finding as a huge (and we do mean HUGE!!!!) crab sits on the pavement outside the front of this welcoming restaurant. As the name and monster crab icon suggest this is an eatery that focuses its culinary expertise very much on the six legged crustaceans for which the Andaman region is justifiably famous. Crabs!!!

But there’s far more to Crab House’s menu than just crabs.

In fact the menu is a veritable abundance of great, fresh seafood and other Thai dishes. All the classic Thai favorites are there featuring chicken, pork, beef and duck mixed with sumptuous spices and sauces and served by the friendly and accommodating staff. There are soups and salads, rice, noodles and veggies to make the whole extravaganza go with a swing, but undoubtedly the star attraction at the Crab House are the fresh Andaman cousins of the huge polystyrene crab that terrifies and amuses passers-by outside.

Crab House is the highly creative brain-child of two very experienced restaurateurs, the mother and son team of Sangdao Sridech and Narapong (Bia) Phoneam who recently returned from running their famous Thai restaurants in Newmarket and Saffron Walden in England for the past 12 years. These were pioneering Thai eateries serving elegant authentic Royal Thai cuisine using the finest, and often imported ingredients and became justifiably famous and successful in England.

Now back in the heart of Patong they plan to turn newlylaunched Crab House into an equally successful venture built around the fabulous flavors of local crab and seafood www.theguidephuket.com

dishes plus great cocktails, wines and beers and a lively atmosphere where every night is a bit of a crab-themed party.

Upon entering the fun-filled upstairs and downstairs space of Crab House, the guests will be immediately kitted out with protective bibs plus hammer and pliers with which to do battle with the succulent crustaceans upon which they are about to dine!

And then on they come in all their colorful, nobbly and tasty glory! There are blue crabs served in a bucket, or crabs stir-fried in yellow curry, or dancing in chili or black pepper.

You can have them baked with glass noodles and dark soy sauce, or complement them with a terrific selection of fish served with many favorite Thai condiments and sauces, or tiger prawns, live lobsters or any other sea-dwelling denizen from scallops to shrimps, and from squid and oysters.

Don’t forget to leave some tummy space for such delights as sesame dumplings in ginger sauce, taro balls in coconut milk, or let yourself be seduced by the cake of the day The selection of cocktails, wines (by bottle and by glass), beers and other drinks is extensive and reasonably priced to add fire to the crabby fun.

Make no mistake a night at Crab House will get you up close and personal with an array of mouth-watering cuisines and most of all with delicious CRABS! that will leave you happy, replete and laughing at the sheer fun of it all.

The Crab House 169/83 Phangmuang Rd., Patong, Phuket Thailand Tel: +66 (0)91 839 4953, +66 (0)76 687065 : The Crab House - Patong, Phuket

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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 think.

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

Hot yoga, the most popular yoga for men and women. It is the best 90 minutes workout, toning your muscles and getting you in shape fast! Beginners are welcome and it’s challenging for advanced practitioners, your instructor will guide you through the postures to provide you with the best workout ever. Sweat, detox and lose fat. No more stress, aches and pains. Kata Hot Yoga class is like a gas station, you gain energy instead of losing it. After the class you will feel amazing with a big smile full of vitality, wanting to come back for more. Get a healthy mind and a healthy body. Kata Yoga studio at the beach in Kata.

This is Phuket’s Mega show; it’s a cultural spectacle on the grandest of scales, complete with armies of warriors, vast troupes of dancing girls and elephants that literally rise up into the sky. The show takes place in the evening with a delightful dinner buffet. The park is the perfect family destination, rain or shine, offering a wonderful walking street with loads of traditional Thai handicrafts and colorful souvenir shops, exciting outdoor shows, fun arcade games and a tempting variety of delicious local foods.

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

www.tigerkingdom.com

www.katahotyoga.com

www.phuket-fantasea.com

Phuket Bird Paradise

Luxurious Day

Tarzan Adventure

Phuket Bird Paradise is the ultimate family entertainment featuring an abundance of our delightful feathered friends spread about a lovely verdant parkland. From parakeets, lorikeets and parrots, to eagles and cockatoos all the most famous and colorful birds are represented and you can interact closely with them and have your picture taken covered in friendly birds!

Charter “Isabella Rose”

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.

The hourly Bird Show is an amazing spectacle and it’s very exciting to enjoy the many tricks that the birds perform and to even join them on stage! www.phuketbirdparadise.com www.theguidephuket.com

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

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

Contact: Asia Marine Tel: +66 (0)76 239 111 Mobile: +66 (0)89 508 1333 www.asia-marine.net

www.tarzan-adventure.com

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Activities

Baan Teelankkeat n house of Phu

The upside dow

“What a feeling… walking on the ceiling!”

Lionel Richie’s feel-good 80s tune is being applied in a more literal sense, with the opening of Phuket’s newest quirky and unique attraction which enables visitors to actually dance, or walk, or crawl, or….on the ceiling !

Impress your friends with the funniest snapshots which will be a hit and will go a long way on the various social networks.

The 13 meter, three-levels, completely upside down, fully furnished house is the newest tourist attraction on the island.

The amusement, entitled “Baan Teelanka”, which fittingly means “upside down house” in Thai, is the first of its kind in the Kingdom and has become a must see for any tourist visiting the island. The easy going, light hearted and fun nature of the attraction coupled with its affordability appeals to all, from local residents to national and international tourists, of all nationalities, of any ages.

A-Maze-In-Phu

ket

Phuket’s first he

dge garden ma

ze

“Hey, I lost the way!

It’s ok…anyway…you’ve got all day!”

Don’t tell me that the garden is also upside down ? No it isn’t, but the brain-puzzling experience continues with a 1,000 square meter garden labyrinth, a second, not to be missed, attraction at the same address. Our maze is a creation of Adrian Fisher Design Ltd United Kingdom, an award-winning company considered the world’s leading maze designer with a portfolio of more than 500 facilities in 30 countries.

Baan Teelanka & A-Maze-in-Phuket @ Bypass Road, kilometer 2, between Premium Outlet and Siam Niramit Tel +66 (0)84 4565279, +66 (0)76 376245 Email: info@upsidedownhouse-phuket.com www.upsidedownhouse-phuket.com

www.theguidephuket.com

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 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 benefits 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, fitness 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.

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 waffles 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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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.flyinghanuman.com

www.theguidephuket.com

Hot Activities Thanyapura

Splash Jungle

Blue Elephant

Sports & Leisure Club (TSLC)

Phuket’s Wettest Wildest Water Park providing gallons of excitement for the whole family. The Water Park offers fun for the whole 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 Divine’s signature dishes and drinks created from fresh local organic ingredients; Entertain yourself at Booster Bar with live sports on big screen. Tree Club service available for kids below 10 yrs old. Open 8am-8pm daily.

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

Operation Hour 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Tel. 076 372 111 www.splashjunglewaterpark.com

Activities

17

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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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 five 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 fine strip of sand and a handful of pleasant eateries are situated just off the beach.

· Layan Beach

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

Patong Beac

· 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.

· 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.

· Patong Beach

Nai Thon Beac

h

www.theguidephuket.com

Nai Yang Beach

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

Patong is indeed a famous beach with beautiful soft sands and warm clear water. But right behind the beach is the hustle and bustle at the center of Phuket’s tourism business. Here the hotels, restaurants, entertainment and bar areas, street bazaars and shops are crammed in a colorful and lively mix that typifies a Thai tourist beach town.

· Paradise Beach

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

To get there follow a small cement road up to the hill through the jungle. It is a nice small beach with white, soft sand and large rocks flanking either side.

· Karon Beach

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.

· Nai Harn Beach

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

· Ao Yon Beach

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

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· 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.

Kata Noi Beach

Nai Harn Beac

ach

Bang Tao Be

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 influx of animals for the tourist trade. Today there remains just a few hundred elephants on Phuket Island, all domesticated, most working in tourism. Indeed, riding an elephant is an experience not to be missed. The lumbering monsters are incredibly agile. Taking an elephant ride helps to keep the beasts employed, fed and out of the cities, where many can be taken by destitute owners in search of money and food.

• Phuket Town Phuket Town is small but incredibly interesting, a potpourri of different cultural influences of markets and shopping centers, restaurants and other entertainment facilities.

Anyone spending a few days on Phuket Island should take time to visit, be it for sight-seeing, cultural or historical interest or shopping.

• Zoo Phuket’s only zoo is small, but pleasant, displaying some of Thailand’s almost vanished wildlife. Their tigers are fed well enough that one can sit with them and have a photo taken.

We recommend going early or late, to avoid the tour buses that arrive mid morning and mid afternoon. It is in a small road off the east side of Chao Fah East Road, about half way between the town and Chalong’s 5-way intersection.

The turnoff is well signposted and easy to find.

• 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 fight the internal struggle that every jumper meets when standing 54 meters above the ground. Logic might tell us it is quite safe, but another part of our body screams “No! Don’t jump!” But with their friends at the bottom, waiting expectantly, most people manage to throw themselves off and experience a rush like no other.

• Jungle Trekking With most of rainforest on Phuket long since eaten up by rubber plantations, it is not easy to find ideal trekking grounds. Again, it’s best to sign on with company providing this service. Often they take their trekkers right off Phuket into neighbouring Phang Nga province, where some beautiful areas of forest remain.

• Spas Massage and herbal steam rooms Health resorts, spas and herbal saunas are proliferating, and some fine example offering a wide range of treatments are now found on Phuket. Thailand has its own traditional herbal saunas, and there are several local ones around the island. While many large and resorts now feel they are incomplete without a spa, there are also several independent establishments.

• View Points Phuklet’s most famous view point, Laem Phrom Thep at the very bottom of the island, is on the ‘must see’ list for every Thai visitor to the island. Thus it attracts a fleet of tour busses and car each evening as people come to witness the sun fall into the Andaman Sea. Indeed, it’s often a spectacular sight, but there are many quieter places. The view point on the hill behind Kata Noi attracts fewer people and when the heavens turn red, the view from any of the beaches can also be spectacular.

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Activities

Water Sports in Phuket

Phuket and the surrounding Andaman Sea has gained a reputation as one of the world’s top diving destinations with the Similan Island Group in particular ranked in the world’s top ten sites.

Several advantages make this region one of the best for both learners and experienced divers. For learners there is world-class instruction at reasonable prices, plus warm, clear waters in which to gain confidence and experience.

Whale sharks, the biggest fish in the ocean at over 10 meters long, are more common in the Andaman dive sites than in any other part of the world, plus may species of large pelagic fish often feed on the stunning reefs.

The variety of corals, both soft and hard, is striking, plus warm water and year-round clarity makes this a great place to dive.

Learning to Dive There are an abundance of 5 star PADI facilities to learn to dive on Phuket. A dive course will usually take 3 or 4 days, starting in the classroom, then moving to the swimming pool and finally the open ocean. The result is a diving ticket recognized around the world and it’s difficult to find a cheaper, more pleasant place to learn.

Di i Diving D Daytrips ti For those who already have their diving ticket a good range of day trips is available. Destinations include the two Racha Islands south of Phuket, several pinnacles in the direction of Phi Phi and one large wreck of a car ferry that sank in a near perfect, 30 meter location in the lower Bay.

Diving Live-Aboards Serious diving enthusiasts come from around the world for extended days-long dive trips. Some run for 10 days and visit neighboring countries, usually Burma. Most divers book these trips in advance, but for those with time and flexibility a number of such trips can be booked in Phuket.

The Similan Islands, 90 kilometers northwest of Phuket, is the most common live-aboard destination. In good conditions the water visibility is generally in the range of 30 meters and the sea is generally quite calm, making the diving relaxed.

Fishing The waters around Phuket offer an abundance of game fishing opportunities and there are few places where one can catch sailfish so regularly. Boats invariably head to the Racha Islands south of Phuket where at certain times the deep, clear waters attract thousands of sailfish into very small areas, rounding up schools of smaller bait fish. Though they can be caught all year round, the monsoon season is particularly good.

A wide variety of other fish is also taken by trolling, including small tuna, Spanish mackerel, wahoo, dolphin fish and barracuda.

Bottom fishing can give an even greater variety in the catch.

Sailing Sailing is the ultimate way of exploring the surrounding region and there’s nothing better than spending days sailing island to island and being unhurried and quiet, this allows one time to really unwind and absorb the incredible surroundings. There are a number of large charter companies based in Phuket offering bareboat or crewed cruisers and yachts in Phang Nga Bay and the outlying islands of around Phuket and Krabi

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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 itself on

being different to their competitors, in turn making it a difficult task to put them under the same category.

However there are always similar foundations for each beach club such as signature cocktail menus, international DJs and stunning aesthetics that follow each beach club’s individual concept. ● East 88 Beach Lounge Located within the grounds of the Serenity Resort & Residences in the south of Chalong, the chic and trendy East 88 Beach Lounge features Phuket’s beachfront lifestyle at its finest with a vast pool facing toward the ocean. You will certainly enjoy amazing signature cocktails served around the pool, live performances from their incredibly talented resident DJ and the selection of Mediterranean, Asian and favorite Thai dishes all day long. Don’t miss the Sunday special with an affordable burger buffet and salad bar. www.serenityphuket.com ● O2 Beach Club O2 is a multilevel, modern-looking sprawling beachside party location which is located on the island’s East coast close

by Chalong Pier. The club’ focal point is centered around a s its sizeable swimming pool that flanks a well-stocked bar.

Behind the bar is a well-manicured garden featuring a beach volleyball court and play space for younger guests.

Beachside, there’s a sunbathing space with wooden sun loungers under the shade of tropical almond and palm trees and above the bar is a breeze-cooled lounge with scattered bean bags and faux-water-hyacinth furniture. www.o2beachclub.com/phuket ● 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. 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

● 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. Open from 10:00-22:00 hrs. www.bimibeachclub.com ● Xana Beach Club with Attica With its stunning location, 35 meter pool, state of the art sound system, cocktails 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. 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 ● Nikki Beach Phuket Nikki Beach Phuket is located on the West coast of Phuket along the breathtaking shores of Layan Beach, Bangtao.

Modeled on its other stylish and contemporary looking venues, Nikki Beach Phuket is adorned in plush, all-white sun beds, chic drapery and its trademark teepees. You can spend your days and evenings indulging in refreshing cocktails, endless champagne and an extensive menu of delectable dishes. www.nikkibeach.com/phuket ● RE KA TA Beach Club Phuket’s only true beach club parties run from just past sunrise to the midnight hour. Liquefy at the barefoot chic beach bar and refuel at Phuket’s healthiest gourmet restaurant.

No VIP area needed, every spot at RE KÁ TA overlooks postcard perfect, palm fringed Kata Beach. Go horizontal under the sun on ultra-plump loungers or enjoy a massage as therapists knead away all stresses in the Zen calm spa. You can also take home stylish reminders from the RE KÁ TA boutique. www.rekataphuket.com ● OBC Ocean Beach Club Overlooking the Andaman Sea at Karon beach, OBC Ocean Beach Club is set within the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa and offers a different beach club approach aimed at the higher society by offering delightful menus featuring prime cuts of meat and daily, fresh from the ocean seafood.

Impressive cocktails and a charismatic bar team provide the foundations for a classy evening in Phuket. www.phuketarcadia.hilton.com ● Bliss Beach Club Bliss Beach Club is located on Bangtao beach and perfectly blends Phuket’s country and beach life. Playful, humorous, inspiring, gentle, melding vintage with modern, Bliss Beach Club carries guests on a subtle, laid back walk from midday sunshine, to twilight and into the haze of a perfect Phuket night. Sink bare feet into a deep green lawn abutting the exhilarating beach. Bliss is a timeless day stood still. www.blissbeachclub.com

HOTEL ►PATONG Amari Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 106-14 Andaman Beach Suites Hotel +66 (0) 76 341 879-83

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

B-Lay Tong Phuket +66 (0) 76 344 999 Banthai Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 850 Centra Ashlee Hotel Patong +66 (0) 76 349 800-7 Deevana Patong Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 341 414-5 Duangjitt Resort & Spa + 66 (0) 76 342 090-4, 340 310-1 DusitD2 Phuket Resort Tel.+66 (0) 76 337000 Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 340 680-5 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 340 608-9 Horizon Beach Resort Hotel +66 (0) 76 292 526-30 Merlin Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 294 300 Novotel Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 342 777

Highlights

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 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

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

Sawaddi Patong Resort

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

Hitlon Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa +66 (0)76 396 433-41 www.phuketarcadia.hilton.com

SLEEP WITH ME HOTEL design hotel @ patong +66 (0) 76 363 333 www.sleepwithmehotels.com

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

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

►KATA BEACH Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort and Spa +66 (0) 76 370 999 Club Med 66 (0) 76 330 455-60 Ibis Phuket Kata Hotel +66 (0) 2 659 2888 Kata Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 530-4 Kata Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 334-8 Katathani Phuket Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 330 124 Sugar Palm Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 404 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 www.theguidephuket.com

►KARON BEACH Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 284 555 Karon Sea Sands Resort +66 (0) 76 286 464 Karona Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 286 406-10 Mövenpick Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 396 139-48

Two Chefs Bungalows

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

HOTEL ►BANG TAO BEACH Amora Beach Resort Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 021-2 Bangtao Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 270 680-5 Banyan Tree Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 374 Angsana Laguna Phuket +66 (0) 76 324 101 Mövenpick Residence +66 (0) 76 396 139 Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort & Villas +66 (0) 76 336 900 Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort Tel.+66 (0) 76 360600

Highlights

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

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

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

Thanyapura Retreat

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

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

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

Twinpalms Phuket

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

►SURIN BEACH Amanpuri +66 (0) 76 324 333 Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort&Spa +66 (0) 76 271 271 The Surin Phuket +66 (0) 76 621 580 ►KAMALA BEACH Aquamarine Resort & Villa +66 (0) 76 310 600 Cape Sienna +66 76 337 300 Kamala Beach Estate +66 (0) 76 324 111-4 Kamala Beach Hotel & Resort +66 (0) 76 279 580-5 Andara Phuket +66 (0) 76 338 777

►NAIYANG & NAITHORN Dewa Phuket +66 (0) 76 372 300 Indigo Pearl +66 (0) 76 327 006-9 Naithon Buri Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 318 700 Naiyang Beach Resort +66 (0) 76 328 300 Trisara +66 (0) 76 310 100 L’esprit de Naiyang Resort +66 (0) 76 510 032-5 Airport Resort & Spa Naiyang Beach +66 (0) 76 327 771-4 Kasalong Phuket Resort +66 (0) 76 205 208-10 ►MAIKHAO Anantara Phuket +66 (0) 76 336 100 Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 363 999 JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa +66 (0) 76 338 000 Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Maikhao Beach +66 (0) 76 603 699

►CAPE PANWA Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 123-5 The Kantary Bay Hotel, Phuket +66 (0) 76 391 514 Radisson Resort Phuket Panwa Beach +66 (0) 76 602 500 Sri Panwa, Phuket +66 (0) 76 371 000 Phuket Panwa Beachfront Resort Tel: +66 (0) 7630 2944 ►PHUKET CITY i Pavilion Phuket Hotel +66 (0) 76 210 445-7 Phuket Merlin Hotel +66 (0) 76 212 866-70 Royal Phuket City +66 (0) 76 233 333 Sino House Phuket Hotel +66 (0) 76 232 494-5 The Metropole +66 (0) 76 215 050 ►NAKA ISLAND The Naka Island A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa Phuket +66 (0) 76 371 400 ►RACHA ISLAND The Racha Resort +66 (0) 76 355 455 ►SIRAY ISLAND The Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa Phuket +66 (0) 76 335 600 www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

In photo: Mr. Wiboon Nimitrwanich (2nd left), Executive Director of Advertising and Public Relations Department of TAT received the Global Beachfront Awards held by the Beachfront Club.

From right: Mr. John Everingham, Founder of The Beachfront Club, Mrs. Wei Liang Yu, Co-founder and Director of The Beachfront Club and Mr. Ananda Everingham, famous Thai actor-entertainer.

Thailand is Number One in the world for most beachfront hotels and resorts Thailand ranked first place in the new Global Beachfront Awards that recognizes countries with the most accommodation located directly on the beach.

In a poll carried out by the Beachfront Club, Thailand came ahead of many of the world’s best-known seaside destinations with an amazing 1,270 true beachfront hotels, resorts and bungalows where guests can step from their hotels directly onto the sand. This puts the kingdom ahead of the USA, (1,016 hotels), Mexico (943), Spain (736) and Philippines (591).

The Global Beachfront Awards recognize countries with the most true beachfront hotels; that is, accommodation with no obstructions or roads between guest areas directly the beach itself. The Awards were established to publicize hotels where travelers and beach lovers can enjoy a true beachside setting and not feel they have been subjected to false advertising about beach-side locations.

Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, TAT Governor said, “With their warm waters, soft sands and stunning, romantic backdrops, Thailand’s beaches have always been a major draw for tourists looking to enjoy a little piece of tropical paradise. So it comes as no surprise to anyone that the kingdom is making waves internationally, becoming even more popular among international tourists.

“Being able to step from your hotel right onto the sand has always been the perfect way to enjoy Thailand’s islands and coastline and we’re always working hard to preserve our beaches for generations to come.”

In addition, one of Thailand’s most popular islands of Ko Samui won the Global Beach Destination Award, which recognizes single destinations that have the most beach-side accommodation. With 270 properties right on the sand, Samui www.theguidephuket.com

beat some of the world’s best-known destinations including Mexico’s famous Riviera Maya, Mallorca in Spain, (a hot spot since the 70s) and the Mediterranean island of Crete.

The Beachfront Club was established to help travelers find and experience true beachfront hotels and tourism. Their interactive website with maps and an extensive database aims to register every proper beachfront property in the world, from boutique resorts to big brands and has now identified over 11,000 beachfront hotels and resorts in 109 countries.

For more information about The Beachfront Club please visit www.thebeachfrontclub.com

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Flawless La Flora!

Right in the very heart of Patong, just a stone’s throw from Party Zone Central on Soi Bangla, is a very special boutique resort called La Flora.

There are extremely few luxury resorts with beach access to Patong’s sands and which are also just a short stagger from the bright lights, bars, shopping and restaurants of the heart of Patong and La Flora is one. That in itself makes it a highly desirable place to stay and although quite compact, La Flora’s creative design has allowed them to pack, not just one, two extensive lap swimming pools, a spa, gymnasium, business center, reading corner and two excellent restaurants into their verdant plot directly abutting the golden sands of Patong Beach.

Although right on Beach Road, as soon as you enter the cool modern architecture of La Flora, you feel as though you have entered a gentler, saner parallel universe, where the staff is smiling and attentive and you immediately begin to relax and unwind.

La Flora is the only boutique resort in central Patong that offers pool villas, some of them right on the beach. There

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are 67 rooms in total which also feature Sea-view Suites plus Pool-view and Pool-access Suites. Our own suite opened out right onto a patio with loungers which gave immediate access to one of the large swimming pools, and so early morning and dusk swims were very much a feature of our stay. In fact you can almost swim onto Patong Beach itself at the end of the lap pool, and so

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dips in the Andaman Sea were also a feature of our stay.

La Flora is ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway or honeymoon and viewing the hand-holding and cuddling from many of our fellow guests, it appeared that a lot of the other visitors fell into these categories.

The room décor is modern and comfortable and seems to incorporate every convenience you could ask for such as WiFi, large flat screen TV’s, spacious bathrooms, balconies and patios plus swift and efficient room service, should you need it. There’s also a very relaxing spa, a business center and reading corner with computers.

One of the really great highlights of La Flora is the rooftop restaurant named “Surface” which overlooks the beach and the Andaman Sea. Supper there as the westering sun does its pyrotechnic best to amaze you, is a real treat. The menu of Executive Chef Suphathorn Junluang (Chef Alex) features many classic western and Thai dishes including terrific fish and seafood, fine Aussie beef and New Zealand lamb, plus pastas, salads sandwiches and naughtily tempting desserts. There’s a good selection of cocktails, beers and wines by bottle and glass and most importantly the prices are very reasonable.

All in all, the phrase “Flawless La Flora” seems to perfectly sum up this gem of a resort right at the heart of Patong.

La Flora Patong 39 Thaweewong Road, Patong Beach Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel: +66 (0)76 344241 www.laflorapatong.com

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Magnificent

Mare

Italian Restaurant!

The word Mare means “sea” in Italian and is the highly appropriate name of the Centara Grand Beach Resort’s signature Italian restaurant right beside the sands of Karon Beach. As you sit in the elegant U-shaped outdoor terrace of the restaurant, all you’ll hear is the rustle of verdant tropical foliage, the enticing clink of wine glasses, silver cutlery and the pulse of the beautiful Andaman Sea just a few meters away as it crashes onto the sands of the extensive Karon beach.

Each evening, acoustic live music is played to enthrall diners.

Mare’s charming location and ambience are only the first of the many beguiling pleasures that characterize this lovely restaurant.

Walking into the stylish interior, you’ll be greeted by the sparkling steel and glass state-of-the-art open kitchen where resident Executive Italian Chef Matteo works his culinary magic with no less than ten assistants in a blur of energy and creative passion. In addition the restaurant boasts its own wine cellar with a huge selection of fine vintages from every main wine region of the globe arrayed within the glass-fronted wine racks.

Chef Matteo hails from Genoa in Italy’s north-west overlooking the Ligurian Sea near the French border. He is no stranger then to the delights of fresh local seafood and has brought this passion to Mare. Of course the freshest, tastiest ingredients are central to the dishes and tastes that emerge from any kitchen and here Mare is abundantly blessed in its Andaman side location. www.theguidephuket.com

Mare’s menu is classically Italian, covering all the most famous dishes in a down-to-earth unfussy way and with a strong seafood motif deploying local fish, squid, lobsters and shellfish from the Andaman catchment.

In addition a delectable selection of traditional and modern Italian dishes is on offer including a delicate antipasto selection, sampler platters and stone-baked pizzas. Both lunches with lighter meals, salads, sandwiches and pizzas and mainstream dinners are both fully catered for.

Chef Matteo’s selection of signature dishes includes starters of Australian Wagyu beef carpaccio with salad and 28 month aged Parmigiano cheese shavings, or sautéed squid with fennel and Parmigiano sauce. The home made potato

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gnocchi with imported rabbit ragout is an unusual treat and for the best of both worlds try the medallion of char-grilled Australian veal tenderloin plus seared yellow fin tuna, white lemon cream and caramelized leaks.

Try to leave space for the classic homemade tiramisu, the puff pastry Bourbon vanilla ice cream sponge with bitter cocoa sauce or the cheese and fruit selection brimming with fresh imported classic European and New World cheeses paired with local fruits.

Mare also boasts the services of a well-trained Sommelier, who is happy to give guidance in selecting well-paired wine complements to the cuisine from a cellar of over 100 labels covering all the key regions and varietals, as well as offering 24 wines by the glass.

Mare at the Centara Grand Beach Resort at the northern end of Karon Beach is certainly one of the region’s finest Italian eateries and should not to be missed!

Centara Grand Beach Resort 683 Patak Road, Karon Beach, Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 201234 www.centarahotelsresorts.com

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Food & Restaurant

LET’S DO BRUNCH! The Vijitt Resort Phuket

Every Sunday From 12.00 – 3.00 Hrs. Enjoy our expansive mouthwatering Seafood Buffet, Sushi, Live cooking stations, BBQ, Western and Thai hot dishes, and our all you can eat Home Made Desserts.

• Baht 1,099 net per person with free flow 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 Infinity Edge Swimming Pool Kids Club for 4 to 12 years old.

Tel: 076 363 600 www.vijittresort.com

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Sunday Brunch at Two Chefs Kamala Beach Every Sunday from 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs. Enjoy great atmosphere, live music and delicious international favorites at Two Chefs Bar and Grill in Kamala. Graze from the large international buffet with copious selections of fresh meats, sea foods, salads, American comfort food, Scandinavian favorites, Thai dishes, Mexican classics, desserts and fresh breads from our bakery. Happy hour lasts all day and night with sangria at just 195 baht a carafe.

• 495 baht per adult • 295 baht for kids and under three years are free Tel: 076 385 052

www.twochefs.com

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Twinpalms brunch Every Sunday from 12.00 – 15.00 Hrs.

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

• 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

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 flow 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 flow non-alcohol drinks • Adult THB 1,800* per person • Child THB 900* per person Buffet with free flow wines and selected cocktails • THB 2,150* per person *Price is subject to 10% service charge and 7% applicable government tax.

TSLC members discount benefits is not applicable.

For reservations, please contact DiVine Restaurant Tel: +66 (0)76 336 000 www.thanyapura.com

Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket Sunday Family Day Join Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket to spend quality time with your family. Available every other Sunday of the month.

Start your day with their famous Sunday Brunch at Mare restaurant, featuring Alaska crab, Fine de Claire oyster, Foie Gras station, roasted lamb, grilled rib eye steak, French cheese selection and more…

Live entertainment, clowns roaming and free access to kids club, letting mum and dad enjoy themselves!

After your succulent meal, enjoy their waterpark or simply chill out at their beach club.

THB 1,900 net per person (free for children below 12 years old!)

Bookings recommended Tel : +66 (0)76 201 234 Email : marermcpbr@chr.co.th www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

Two Chefs Restaurants Keep on Partying The Two Chefs restaurants all over Phuket are famous for unrivalled food, great value, music, laughter and all round good fun. They recently opened their Kamala branch to expand their magic formula from their heartland in Phuket’s south into the island’s north-west, and their great quality is still the same.

In 2001 Two Chefs opened their first Phuket eatery in Kamala, then moved location after just one successful season over to Kata Beach where they established their extremely popular restaurant which thrives there today. Outlets in Karon and Kata Hill followed and last December they re-opened a branch where it all started for them 14 years ago, back in Kamala.

The recently-opened Two Chefs Kamala is located in the Icon Park Condominium complex on the hill going towards Kamala driving north from Patong. All the Icon Park condo units are sold and with new hotels in Kamala having big plans for the high season, the new Two Chefs is becoming a similar bustling, fun-filled space to all the other successful restaurants in the group.

Two Chefs Kamala has a warm, welcoming and modern interior, with both indoor air-conditioned and outdoor dining areas. The menu offers the same extensive range of cuisine which has made Two Chefs well known and loved throughout Phuket, with a large selection of steaks, imported meats, fish, seafood, pastas and salads as well as Tex-Mex, featuring such treats as tacos, nachos and chicken fajitas.

Tempting desserts such as blueberry cheese cake, brownie, and apple crumble with homemade vanilla sauce, strawberries and whipped cream also await you in Kamala and all the cuisine is served with the famous Two Chefs friendliness and Scandinavian flair that is their trademark. www.theguidephuket.com

Two Chefs Kamala is open from 12am to 11pm in low season, (7 am to 11pm in high season) and serves lunch during the day, plus their large a la carte menu is also available throughout the day.

Every time you visit a Two Chefs outlet you’ll be greeted by a bright and happy wave of energy encompassing laughter, lively chatter, uplifting music, clinking glasses and the unmistakable aroma of good food and downright hedonism.

Every Two Chefs has a terrific ability to bring good times, good food and reasonable prices to visitors and residents of Phuket and that’s why they are so popular throughout the island and all year round.

There is no question that the Swedish owners, who are in fact the eponymous “Two Chefs”, have hit upon a formula that is making them one of the happiest, fun places to be for good food and good times at the most reasonable prices in Phuket.

Two Chefs Bar & Grill - Kamala Icon Park Condominium 9/96,9/97,9/98,9/99 Moo 6, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel: +66 (0)76 385 052 Contact Person: Mr. Henrik E-mail: kamala@twochefs.com TwoChefs @ Kata Beach 243 Koktanod, Kata Beach, Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel: (66) 076 333370 Two Chefs @ Kata Center 32 Karon Road, Karon sub-district, Muang , Phuket 83100 E-mail: katacenter@twochefs.com Tel: +66 (0)76 330065 Two Chefs @ Karon Beach 256-7 Patak Road, T.Karon, A.Muang, Phuket 83100 E-mail: karon@twochefs.com Tel: +66 (0)76 286479 www.twochefs.com

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L KATA CENTER BRANCH CRAYFISH BUFFET! AT TWO CHEFS BAR & GRIL ON FRIDAY 22ND AUGUST 2014

CHANDON SUMMER LIMITED EDITION 2014 LAUNCH PARTY IN PHUKET Exclusive launch party of Chandon Limited Edition 2014 in a nautical classy theme at Xana Beach Club on Saturday 23rd August 2014

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Restaurant   

• Da Vinci Restaurant Italian With one area dedicated to fine Italian dining in a cozy ambiance and another for pizza’s cooked in a traditional wood fired oven, this restaurnat offers the best of both worlds and has a children’s play area so that parents can relax and enjoy the food.

Tel: 076 289 574 www.davinciphuket.com Location: Naiharn and Kata

• 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

• Acqua Restaurant Italian Acqua’s superbly creative owner/ chef Alessandro Frau selects the finest and freshest ingredients from around the globe to create the most exciting, healthy and delicious ltalian cuisine.

Acqua overlooks Kalim Bay just north of Patong on Phuket’s west coast and is open every day from 16:00 until 23:00.

Tel: 076 618 127 Lacation: Kalim Bay

• 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

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Food & Restaurant

Restaurant   

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

Heavenly food served by angels.

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

• Two Chefs International We are proud to introduce our delicious food – imported juicy steaks fresh seafood, pasta, modern Thai food and much more. Enjoy your food in one of our nice restaurants with a good glass of wine from our extensive international wine list.

We also serve breakfast, lunch, texmex menu 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

• East 88 Beach Lounge International & Thai East 88 Beach Lounge is Phuket’s coolest restaurant and bar “located right by the sea within Serenity Resort & Residences.

Lounge or dine in style and enjoy the view over Chalong Bay while being pampered by our team, food, drinks and cool vibes. “Special events, theme evenings and happenings”.

Happy hour from 17.00 – 19.00 Hrs. Email: events@serenityphuket.com Tel: 076 371 900 www.serenityphuket.com Location: Rawai www.theguidephuket.com

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

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

• Baan Rim Pa Thai Baan Rim Pa Restaurant translates as “the house on a cliff” and commands a sensational location on a beautiful headland overlooking Kalim Bay to the north, and the lights of Patong to its immediate south. One of Phuket’s first and most fashionable restaurants, Baan Rim Pa is internationally famous for its superb Royal Thai Cuisine; ambience; culinary standards; wine cellar and perfect service. The restaurant regularly wins accolades from the Thailand Tatler Best Restaurant Guide and The Wine Spectator Award for excellence.

Tel: 076 340 789 www.baanrimpa.com Location: Kalim Bay

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

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

• Jasmine B Western and Thai Cuisine Dine in the heart of Chalong in our lovely air-conditioned stylish restaurant, or in our delightful garden setting on sumptuous western seafood and meat dishes, or from a wide selection of elegantly-prepared Asian, fusion and Thai classical meals and sensational desserts all prepared by our talented Thai Chef Thanasak Thipayaroek.

Relax at our garden bar and sample our full range of luscious cocktails, wines and beers.

Tel: 076 384 237 www.jasmineb-restaurant.com Location: Chalong opposite Home Pro Shopping Center

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Bonjour from LA BOUCHERIE The right place for a true French experience!

It’s not difficult to find French cuisine in Phuket these days, but how do you know the restaurant you choose to dine in will give you authentic French food?

One beautiful day in Phuket, three of us paid a visit to LA BOUCHERIE, a new French restaurant located in Chalong which opened its doors in May 2014, our aim, to find a real French touch. They themselves have claimed “their meat will never disappoint even the most fussy of beef lovers!” And they also claim their selection of salmon, tuna and white meat is also pretty hard to beat.

The restaurant is designed in a bistro style with a red theme, and the ever friendly staff adds to the restaurant’s terrific atmosphere. Meals can be enjoyed from either the terrace or air conditioned building, both areas of

which are comfortable and provide enough space between tables for an intimate dining experience.

Upon arrival we were warmly welcomed by La Boucherie’s Head Chef Philippe, a friendly guy who is always willing to advise on the expansive menu that includes a selection of meats, steaks, Chateaubriand, tartar and so much more. After some deliberation, Chef Philippe recommended we sample what he believed to be the re best dishes which made up a full 3 course meal. b After enjoying an amuse-gueule of Bruschetta, it was A time for Chef Philippe’s recommended starters, Burgundy ti SSnails (Escargots de Bourgogne), a timeless garlicand-herb-flavored French specialty, a truly French a classic of “Foie Gras” Terrine, and a Beef “Carpaccio”, c the French version of the classic Italian dish which uses th the best quality beef imported from Australia. The th escargots were delicious, cooked to perfection, and the e sauce, well, simply put, was amazing. The “Foie Gras” Terrine sa melted on the tongue like the creamiest butter, whilst the m B Beef “Carpaccio” was exceptional; the beef was the very h highest quality meat, wonderfully tender, and seasoned to perfection. Not a bad start to a meal. p

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Then came the main course, a superb prime rib steak (all their meats come from Australia) accompanied by roasted potatoes, mashed carrots and spinach. The steak was perfectly seared with a deep brown, crisp exterior and rare interior whilst retaining its juices, as for the vegetables, they could quite easily have been a standalone dish of their own.

As for the dessert, Chef Philippe had recommended tiramisu and orange soup. This is a house specialty; it’s a fresh twist on the classic tiramisu and is a true pick me up, what a way to finish a meal.

Of course no meal is ever complete without an accompanying bottle of wine; our wine of choice was a Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, such an unbelievably perfect match! Wine prices at La Boucherie start at 890 Baht for a red Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, and go up to 16,500 Baht for a Charmes Chambertin French Burgundy. Mid-priced wines include a Bordeaux Haut Médoc at 3,350 Baht, and many other world famous labels. As for whites, the choice ranges from a French Sancerre through to a Chassagne Montrachet.

All wine prices include tax and service charges and you’re sure to find a wine at a price that suites your budget.

We had a really enjoyable time at La Boucherie, the food & wine, atmosphere and staff were all perfect, and more importantly, it was a true French dining experience.

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

LA BOUCHERIE, Chalong branch 19/107-110, Moo.8, Chaofa Rd. (East), Chalong, Muang Phuket 83130 Tel : +66 (0)94 807 6831 Email : Yann.boquien@laposte.net www.laboucherie-asia.com

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Lifestyle

Koffee Culture Nowadays, drinking coffee has become one of many people’s daily routines, and due to this there are a growing number of coffee shops popping up all around the island. Whether you’re looking for a fancy, basic or spectacular coffee shop you’re bound to find one that offers a quality brew that suits your needs and taste.

Coffee lovers usually know that how well coffee beans have been roasted defines its taste, however, there are many factors to what gives a bean its taste, such as where the bean comes from, the temperature in which it grows, the machine used to grind it, the technique used to produce that ultimate cup of coffee etc.. Transforming a coffee bean into an

amazing cup is not a simple task, that’s why people are often prepared to pay a little bit more just to enjoy the aroma and taste of their favorite cup from those who they have grown to trust the most.

Once they have found that ‘ONE’, life becomes a little easier.

Coffee tasting is somewhat similar to wine tasting, there are as many tastes, colors and flavors in one cup and there is no right or wrong on how you describe your preferences, whether you’re a beginner or a specialist; you find your own favorite aroma and just go with it!

Because coffee brings peace along with happiness, let your favorite cup drive your life and make your day!

Bake

If you’re looking for a good place to sip a very fresh roasted coffee in Phuket, BAKE should be one at the top of the list.

BAKE has its own beans under the “Bake Hill Tribe Coffee” brand - 100% Arabica Coffee from Thailand’s finest organic mountain – “Mae Suai”, a district in the western part of Chiang Rai which has been producing coffee since 1969.

As BAKE’s coffee beans are freshly roasted and ground at BAKE, every brew gives not only a fresh roasted aroma but also the finest intensity. A wide selection of fresh bakeries, pastries, cakes, sandwiches and ice cream are available daily in a stylish contemporary atmosphere. Visit BAKE to experience a freshly roasted coffee and order your custom roast and blend.

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Bake

The Coffee Club

“Good Food, Great Service, Excellent Coffee” - The Coffee club is Australia’s largest home-grown café group with over 340 stores across Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, New Caledonia and China. Their coffee, produced with respect for people and the planet, as they only purchase beans that have been grown according to the UTZ Certified Code of conduct for responsible coffee production. One of The Coffee Club’s signatures is a well-trained barista who brews an excellent coffee with care. Coffee beans have been roasted in Australia for maximum flavor without bitterness or acidity; it’s perfect for your morning cup. Visit The Coffee Club at Turtle Village, Banana Walk & Jungceylon Patong and Kata beach.

The Co

ffee Clu

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Coffee Brick

Coffee Brick is Phuket’s first drive though coffee shop and is located in the car park of Tesco Lotus Chalong. Coffee Brick is a modern container style outlet with a trendy and inviting interior. Their chosen brand of coffee is the much talked about, “Mivana – which comes from a selection of the finest beans grown organically in a forest conservation project in the northern part of Thailand called, Mivana, which includes a chemical free process. As Mivana coffee is medium roasted, it gives a fine aroma, smooth taste, small touch of acidity and less bitter. When applied to Coffee Brick’s quality coffee maker, an authentic Italian Faema E61, it will create a unique coffee taste that will not be forgotten quickly

Coffee Brick

Chic Room Cafe

Chic Room Café is a wonderful boutique cafe’ located in the heart of the island’s business and culturally historic town.

It also serves as a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

At Chic Room Cafe they use only the finest Arabica coffee beans, resulting in a delicate and elegant Italian espresso.

A stylish taste with superb aroma, these pure Arabica beans are perfectly suited for all espresso based drinks. Their delicious breakfast menu will give your day a boost, and they offer the perfect working lunch or something for those who are socialising. Plus the sumptuous Chic Room Cafe’ dinner menu will bring a perfect end to your day.

m Cafe

Chic Roo

Factory Café

Factory Cafe is a sleek, industrial style outlet which occupies the ground floor of an obscure building down a small alley in quiet Phuket Town. Its luxury interior design contrasts dramatically with the Greek architecture surrounding the building. The Café has a brick counter on gray concrete floor, with brown leather sofas and metal folding chairs.

Coffee recipes at Factory café are far more creative than the average coffee outlet and their taste and presentation often impress even the most disconcerting coffee enthusiast. Factory café also serves a wide selection of Thai & Western fusion food, desserts and alcohol drinks until late at night. All in all Factory Café is the perfect place to stop, take a break and have a coffee and a cake.

Factory Caf

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Health & Beauty

Bangkok Hospital Phuket   

Bangkok Hospital Phuket is part of the fastest-growing Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) group, the largest hospital network in Asia-Pacific and among the world’s top five. We are capable of delivering world-class tertiary care across comprehensive sub-specialties: cardiology, orthopaedics, ophthalmology, oncology, gynecology/ obstetrics, colorectal disease, etc. Bangkok Hospital Phuket is not only well-recognized locally, but it is also a world-leading health & wellness destination favored by an international clientèle: Asia, Australia/Oceania, Europe, America, Middle East, Russia/CIS countries. Our number of foreign clients registers robust 20% growth from 78,000 in 2012 to 95,000 in 2013.

The JCI International Accredidation testifies to our uncompromising and immaculate standards of medical care that paves the way to your unique medical experience amid world-renowned Thai hospitality.

Nowadays, many visitors come to Phuket and combine their holiday with medical treatment of their choice. As a leader in medical tourism for over a decade, we are a sought-after destination for cosmetic & reconstructive surgery, dental work, hip/knee replacement, arthroscopic spine surgery, cancer diagnosis and treatment, cardiovascular interventions, etc. This is simply your worthwhile holiday combined with medical care at greater value and par excellence.

• Bangkok-Phuket Colorectal Disease Institute: world-class destination for colorectal-disease care, with popular colonoscopy and da Vinci Robotic Surgical System.

• Bangkok-Phuket Heart Center: from primary phase diagnosis to sophisticated heart treatment such as cardiovascular interventions, advanced cardiac imaging.

• Bone and Joint Center: comprehensive orthopaedic and musculoskeletal care highlighting Minimal Invasive Surgery (MIS) technique for arthroscopic joint, spine surgery.

• Oncology Center: leading cancer care complete with advanced screenings and diagnoses for breast cancer, cervical/ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, abdominal cancer, etc.

• Bangkok-Phuket Institute of Cosmetic Surgery (BPICS): more than 1,000 breast surgery cases are performed here each year, also world-famous for breast augmentation/lifting, face lift & rhinoplasty, VASER liposuction and body contouring, etc.

• Dental Center: crowns, bridge, veneers and dental implants are the most popular procedures for travel tourists and medical tourists.

• Neurology Center: our rapid stroke pathway for diagnosis, imaging, and treatment in case of acute stroke, infarction and haemorrhage, is committed for total patient safety and rehabilitation.

• Phuket Fertility Center: fulfill your family dream with proven ), In IVF technology such as Intrauterine Insemination ((IUI), Vitro Fertilization (IVF), VF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).

• Eye Center: Refractive active Lens Exchange (RLE) surgery is a day-case surgery ery for eye treatment that is very popular for our clients aged ed over 50 to correct far-sighteness problems oblems by virtue of multifocal lens for seeing nearand far without glasses.

Our team of doctors, rs, nursing staff and international coordinators inators are readily on hand to provide ide you with exceptional healthcare care experience. For more information, ormation, please contact uss at tel tel. +66 (0) 7625 4425, orr e-mail: info@phukethospital.com al.com

SPA

Highlights

The Oasis Spa Phuket

The ultimate spa experience where treatments are created combining ancient secrets and advanced discoveries in beauty and wellness. Luxurious spas designed with a Thai atmosphere to allow clients to enjoy superior service without unnecessary formality. 3 branches in Phuket Laguna, Bang Tao, Kamala, Kata Phuket.

Tel: 076 337 777 www.phuketoasis.com

The V Spa

5 Star Massage

5 star Massage in Patong is a Unique, elegant, modern and comfortable salon where the very well-trained staff offer a complete range of massage and beauty treatment services at reasonable prices. 5 Star Massage is French owner and managed. All The massage girls are certified form massage school in Thailand and only offer authentic massage services that will make you leave refreshed, revitalized and rejuvenated.

Open daily 10.00 – 23.00 and offering great value for money.

Tel: 089 535 4637 www.5-star-massage.com

Let’s Relax Spa

The V Spa aims at bringing back guest to nature, built in the shape of a villages style the pretty small straw roofed Salas blend totally with the natural beauty of the jungle. Each has been designed with nature at heart and fashioned.

When in Thailand, don’t forget to have a Traditional Thai Natural Touch Treatments. At The Vijitt Resort Phuket, you can have one right on the private spa executive room or at the open air Salas. Traditional Thai Natural Touch Treatments is soothing and relaxing it’s definitely worth it. Try also the resort’s Aromatherapy oil massage, Thai essential oils are used to penetrate your body and ensure long lasting health and beauty. It removes body aches, loosens knotted blood vessels, cures beriberi and helps your body systems recover from stress and anxiety. You will surely feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

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

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Relaxing the mind and revitalizing the body seems to be what everybody needs nowadays, after a hectic schedule, a busy lifestyle and a stressful city living. But when and how can you afford to take time off to free yourself from so much stress and take time to relax your body and revitalize your senses with your busy lifestyle? At Let’s Relax, you can let loose, reward yourself, indulge, relax and enjoy the fineness pleasure of pampering yourself.

Tel: 076 346 080 www.letsrelaxspa.com

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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

Vara Spa

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

Tel: 076 343 444 www.varaspa.com

Sala Spa

Sala Spa: Exotic, mysterious, decadent total indulgence awaits! 5 indoor treatment rooms and 3 beachfront massage stations. Facilities also include sauna and steam rooms. For more details please refer to the spa menu In your room.

Reservations are essential to avoid disappointment.

Please press the spa button on your phone or Ext: 5000. Offer not to be used in conjunction with any other promotions.

Tel: 076 338 888 www.salaresorts.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

RarinJinda Wellness Spa Phuket Unwind, refresh, relax and rejuvenate your body and mind with our luxurious treatments by our skillfully trained therapists and friendly staff in our award-winning facilities in the heart of three capitals.

RarinJinda Wellness Spa is indeed Phuket’s most complete spa with expertised therapists and most up-to-date spa technologies. Right at the heart of Patong Beach adjacent to Jungceylon Shopping Center, RarinJinda Wellness Spa offers clients wellness, good health and luxurious pampering in a spa sanctuary. RarinJinda Wellness Spa is an urban spa fully equipped with all of the latest spa technology and facilities at high international standards, yet deeply rooted in the Thai massage and healing traditions.

Our spa treatment rooms are specially prepared to offer optimal comfort and treatment efficacy.

RarinJinda Wellness Spa has been recognized both locally and internationally, including the Best Luxury Destination Spa at Luxury Spa Award 2012, Best Day Spa at the Asia Spa and Wellness Festival Gold Awards 2009, Outstanding Day Spa and Outstanding Destination Spa at the Thailand Tourism Awards 2010 and 2008 respectively. Moreover, RarinJinda Wellness Spa has been certified with ‘Thailand Trust Mark’ by Department of Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, guaranteeing superior quality spa.

Facilities include: • Rainforest Steam • Infrared Sauna • Quartz Stone Bed • Colonic Detox • Cellutech www.theguidephuket.com

• Ayurveda • Hot Stone Therapy • Aromatherapy • Classical Thai Massage

Our approach to healing is holistic, with treatments designed to revitalize mind, body and soul, applied with complete attention and individual focus by our highly trained therapists. RarinJinda’s spa treatments are creatively adapted from traditional and contemporary spa theories around the world and delivered in traditional Thai Hospitality and style, producing an exotic spa journey towards health and wellness.

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Selecting from: • Elements of Life (90 mins), our signature treatment, which seeks to restore a person’s balance with naturethrough a combination of water, fire, earth and wind treatments.

• Ayurvedic Hideaway (2hours), a treatment adapted from the ancient Indian therapy that stresses a balance of three substances: wind, spirit and air, stimulating and cleansing your chakra.

• Aromatic Hot Stone Massage (90 mins), a treatment which therapist applies the optimal heat level to increase blood flow to treated area for accelerated healing and relaxation.

• Aromatherapy Oil Massage with Herbal Compress (60 mins), using our own blend of essential oils extracted from plants, fruits and flowers. The treatment deeply relaxes the body and relieves it from muscular pain and tension.

• Royal Siamese Retreat (2 hours), the epitome of authentic Thai traditional therapy consisting of a traditional Thai Massage and hot compress of fresh Thai herbs.

• Wellness Treatments, offering various treatments to put you on path to wellness.

Furthermore, all products used in all of our treatments are available for take-home purchase. The products marketed under Blooming Spa brand, and combined the use of modern ingredients, Thai Herbal extracts and manufactured with modern technologies combining the best of East and West spa knowledge and therapies.

Rarinjinda Wellness Spa Phuket 184/14 Pangmuang Sai Kor Rd., Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83140 Tel: (66) 76 336724 E-mail: rjphu@rarinjinda.com www.rarinjinda.com www.facebook.com/theguidephuket

• Location: Rawai, Phuket • Land area: 9,600 sq.m.

• Project type: 2 stories 1 building, 4 stories 2 buildings • Residential unit: 119 units • Commercial unit: 8 units • Unit type, Unit details, Unit area (sq.m.)* ○ Saturdays Live : 1 bedroom 1 bathroom 57.00 ○ Saturdays Learn: 2 bedroom 2 bathroom 84.00 ○ Saturdays Love: 2 bedroom 2 bathroom 80.00 ○ Saturdays Let: 2 bedroom 2 bathroom 88.00 ○ Saturdays Lux: 2 bedroom 2 bathroom 96.00 • Price per sq.m.: Start from 72,000 baht** • Project start: 2014

• Project complete: October 2016 • Ownership: Foreigner freehold 49% COMMON FACILITIES** • Lifestyle library and meeting room: 80 sq.m.

• Gym: 100 sq.m.

• Deck and feature pool: 100 sq.m.

• Changing room, Locker: 85 sq.m.

• Swimming pool: Front pool 9 X 25 m., 2nd pool 8 X 24 m.

• Parking: Indoor and Outdoor • Garden • 24 Hours security • Condominium juristic person

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ATTRACTION NEAR BY • 5 mins to Rawai beach, Nai Harn beach, Laem Ka beach • 7 mins to Ya Nui beach, Promthep cape, Chalong pier • 15 mins to Kata beach, Karon beach • Diving school, Surfing school, Kite school, Boxing gym • Fish market, Vegetable farm, Art school • International restaurant and Local seafood restaurant • Chalong temple, Big buddha, Seashell museum • International school and Nursery • Golf club and Driving range • Tesco Lotus supermarket, Home Pro Village Remark: * The unit size is the estimate size only ** Information above can be changed without prior notice Developed By: The Attitude Club Co., Ltd. Moo 1 Soi Pattana, Saiyuan Rd., Rawai, Muang, Phuket 83000 E-mail: sales1@theattitudeclub.com www.theattitudeclub.com/saturdayscondo

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THE EMERALD NIRVANA Patong-Kalim Oceanfront Residence, Condo & Villa, 5 Star Resort & Beach Club All of our condominium have been warmly accepted in design and location, we therefore are delighted to establish the Emerald Nirvana to customize the art of living for those who love to live naturally by the sea.

Splendid swimming pool, fitness centre and many other facilities. All units are sea view at a definitely affordable price. Having your own private Kalim beach within 100 m from the condominium, the Emerald Nirvana is on the Kamala-Patong road, Kalim beach, yet the Patong is within your reach (2 Km).

The Jade Villa @ Emerald Nirvana

Unique Private Pool Villa with Panoramic Oceanfront View.

Unique and exclusive sea view pool villas nestled on a hilly slope with breathtaking views over the Andaman sea and perfectly in tune with the nature that surrounds it. Each villa is spacious and ingeniously designed to provide an individual and stylish character where you can enjoy spectacular sunsets without leaving your own private infinity pool.

The villas are on the ground of a luxury development of apartments, villas and 5 star hotel with an array of amenities as well as an exclusive Beach club.

They are located a few km away from Patong, allowing easy and quick access to the heart of entertainment with shopping venues, restaurants and its eccentric nightlife. Our degree of involvement from the development right through the day-to-day operation by our team of experienced villa management professionals and rental providers, means that no competitors knows their product as well as us. With our existing “Rental guarantee & Vacation home program�, you are assured a return on your investment of at least 10% per year taking into consideration your individual financial requirements.

THE EMERALD NIRVANA 4233 Kalim Beach Rd., Kathu, Patong, Phuket Thailand 83150 Tel: +66 (0)85 543 5435, +66 (0)82 333 3416 www.emerald-nirvana-phuket.com

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Team from Serenity Resort & Residences, Phuket, Friendship Beach Resort Wellness Spa, Sunsuri Phuket, The Vijitt Resort, Mangosteen Resort & Ayurveda Spa and All Seasons were on hand &forAtmanjai some good clean fun at Nai Harn Beach

rt Phuket Classic 2014 Press conference At The Vijitt Reso 13th September 2014. www.theguidephuket.com

on

The Big Cleaning Day at Patong Beach ident and led by Mr Pierre-Andre Pelletier,Vice Pres cipated The management team of Amari Phuket tly parti recen bers mem team r othe the and d Area General Manager, South Thailan in the big cleaning day at Patong Beach.

Cocktail reception of Nature-Culture Solo Art Exhibifti

by Chompu Saetae at Boathouse Phuket on September 2014 and thisonart exhibition will be presented from Septembe5th r 5, 2014 – October 31, 2014

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Laguna Phuket was selected host venue of the 18th Inter-Islands Tourism Policy Forum, took place durinthe g 20-22 August.

And attended by leaders from eleven member cities of the Forum comprisi ng Jeju (Korea), Hainan (China), Okinawa ( Japa n), Bali (Indonesia), Southern Prov ince (Sri ka), Hawaii (USA), Canary Island (Spa in), Zanzibar (Tanzania), Cebu (Phi lippi LanPenang (Malaysia), and Phuket (Tha nes), iland).

September 7,2014 Gorgeous Radenska Green Party at Davinci Kata on

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t e k Phu Pulse Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket las Phuket celebrating the Centara Bariand Centara Vilsta of the year award runner up!

Cabin d 5th Best Airline for Bangkok Airways rankeby SmartTravelAsia.com Service Worldwide 2014 ealed the winners

lAsia.com has rev Recently, SmartTrave in Travel 2014” vel poll called “Best tra s iou of their prestig und the world s of travelers from aro that involved million year Bangkok s Thi s. nd e travel bra voting for their favorit bin Service Ca in the Best Airline for Airways is ranked 5th .

Worldwide category

uket’s Executive Chef Dusit Thani Laguna Ph r Chefs Program Hosts Young Italian Maste Executive Chef

Phuket’s own Dusit Thani Laguna led Italfour other highly skil ed Silvano Amolini join Master ian Ital ung “Yo the d host ian chefs to design an kok, in ng Ba e sit Thani Colleg Chefs” program at Du n of issio mm Co de Tra Italian co-operation with the Thailand.

Darren Shaw (far right), Area Gen eral Manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort and Centara Villas Phuket together with Chailai Khumsawad (far left), Hotel Manager of Centara Villas Phuket celebrating the succ ess of Maychaya Wongsaw nd (2 from right), Restaurant Cap tain of The Cliff Restaurant at Centara Villas Phuket and Som mart Wangsupiyo (2nd from left), Bartender of Mare Italian Rest aurant at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuekt who gain ed 2nd and 3rd place of in The Centara Barista of the Year 2014 award held at Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel Bangkok.

Am ar i Ph uk et re ce ive s Th e Gr ee n

Le af Aw ar d Amari Phuket recently received the Green Lea f Award from The Green Leaf Found ation, which is given to organisations that have excellent sta ndards to maintain the environment.

The management tea m, led by Mr Pierre-An dre Pelletier – Vice President & Are a General Manager, South Thailand (front row – middle) ce lebrated proudly upon receiving the award at Samutr Bar.

DoubleTree Resort by Hilt on Phuket – Sur Beac Announces New Appo h intment Of Executive in Chef Mr.

Jason F. Burgett has tak en the helm as Execu for DoubleTree Resor tive Chef t by Hilton Phuket - Sur in Beach with effect from 1st August 2014.

Over the course of his 20-year hospitality ca reer, Jason has been based in USA and latest Seych elles, working for a number of res taurants and hotel s, including Melange Bistro, Sushit arian, East by Southw est and The Movable Feast, Cafe’ Zola.

His immediate positio n prior to transferring across Hilton Worldwide was Execu tive Sous Chef at Hilt on Seychelles Northholmes Resort & Spa. At DoubleTree Resort

by Hilton Phuket - Surin Beach, Jason is responsible for ove rall restaurant opera tions included Asia Alive restaurant, Champions Bar & Gri ll, Boardwalk and The Food Store.

and JW rine Turtle Foundation rathon Mai Khao Ma th Turtle Fun Run and Mini Ma Marriott 10 n in conjunction

tle Foundatio Mai Khao Marine Tur porters Resort & Spa and sup ket Phu tt rrio with JW Ma Mini Marathon d an n Ru Fun tle held the 10th Tur n 700 2014 with more tha on September 14th, ket.

Phu , ch Bea o Lake, Mai Kha runners at PruJeh San the rt po sup l wil nt eve ed at the Part of the funds rais ject, The Marine pro st we ne ’ tels ho foundation and ve as n Center, which will ser urn Turtle Shelter & Educatio ret to le ab un tles who are a home for injured tur to the sea.

uk et na me d On e of Du sit Th an i La gu na Ph fo r 20 14 As iaR oo ms To p Re so rts udly announces that

the Phuket pro ms Roo a Asi Dusit Thani Laguna by ard aw 4 Top Rated 201 233 its s ros resort has earned the ac 93% of s gained a score recently. The resort ha lve months as iews over the last twe rev nce erie exp est gu based on the ints po six of out ing five well as achieving a rat “would stay d an ” iew rev ll the “overa n website, combined average of atio od mm ine travel acco again” scores in the onl AsiaRooms.com. ge, log onto una Phuket review pa l To visit Dusit Thani Lag .htm nd awards.com/thaila http://www.asiarooms

Charity opera event dazz les Phuket

Trisara Luxury Resor t hosted a truly stu nning “Night at the Opera” even t, raising funds for loc al charity Phuket Has Been Go od To Us. The sold out event fea tured exclusive perfo rmances from FIVERA, Thailand’s first and only pop-ope The lucky attendees ra band. were serenaded thr oughout the evening with a gorge ous blend of classic s, arias and pop music.

Guests also indulged in an incredible array and drink, prepared of food bythe talented chefs of Trisara.

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Lifestyle

Shopper’s

Delight

MAI KHAO BEACH ● Turtle Village The Exclusive Shopping Destination on Mai Khao Beach for the best dining and shopping on Mai Khao Beach. Cuisine choices match wonderfully with the gift, souvenir, antique and clothing selections.

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

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

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

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

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

Turtle Village (Photo

gazine)

by.. Art & Culture Ma

● Tesco Lotus Park This shopping square offers easy shopping and leisure options to Cherng Talay and Surin Beach residents and has facilities for expats and hotel guests as well as locals. A large Tesco Lotus supermarket with parking space is at its nucleus while diagonally opposite stands a McDonald’s branch with both indoor and outdoor seating. Sells everything from food and drink to household goods and is open from 06:00 – 22:00.

PATONG BEACH ● Jungceylon Located centrally in Patong Beach is the newest addition to the growing trend of shopping malls in Phuket. ‘Jungceylong’ was the old name for Phuket when it was still a prosperous port town and trading in the region was at its peak. This shopping mall retains a lot of the old history of Phuket in its architecture and style and is a joy to visit for this alone.

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

Canal Village

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● Banana Walk The area’s newest shopping centre 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 even can improve your well-being at a spa or make yourself even more beautiful at an aesthetic centre or at the onsite hairdresser.

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.

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SHOPPING & DINING

● Karon Bazaar A large, covered market-like shopping centre set in the central area of Karon Beach Road, right between Woraburi Phuket and Moenvenpick Resorts. The bazaar features just about everything you’ll ever need. Karon Bazaar is a smaller beachside version of the famous Phuket Weekend Market in Phuket Town. Aimed at tourists, the place is a great opportunity for an evening stroll.

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

It’s literally possible to spend a full day here - shopping, catching the latest movies, and dining out at the range of international restaurants that offer everything from French cuisine to Japanese to local Thai outlets. ● Premium Outlet Phuket Brand-name clothing and sports accessories at bargain prices, it’s located on the Bypass Road. Apart from Thai brands, other items on sale include Lacoste, Guy Laroche, Hush Puppies, Warner Bros, Pierre Cardin, Van Heusen, Levi’s, Lee, Nautica, Adidas and Nike and feature discounts of up to 70%. ● Phuket Weekend Market The Jatujak (or JJ) weekend market in Bangkok is world famous but few people realize that there is an equally good alternative here in Phuket, albeit on a smaller scale.

Situated opposite the Naka Temple (which is also worth a visit) outside of Phuket Town, just 5 minutes from Central Festival on the Chao Fa West Road lies Phuket’s equivalent to Bangkok’s JJ Market.

Here you will find all manner of things for sale from seemingly useless second-hand household junk and cute little trinkets to garden ornaments, clothing and ideal presents for all your friends and family. There is also an abundance of food and drink stalls to keep the energy levels up whilst you wander around.

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

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Lifestyle

EVENTS & PROMOTIONS CHALLENGE LAGUNA PHUKET TRI-FEST The Challenge Laguna Phuket Tri-Fest gets underway on 23 November with the 21st Laguna Phuket Triathlon and culminates with the 2nd Challenge Laguna Phuket a week later on 30 November. Between these world-class back-to-back triathlons, take in the excitement of the Challenge Laguna Phuket Tri-Fest.

Rub shoulders with visiting pro athletes, take part in training camps led by triathlon experts and enjoy social events at our award-wining hotels. Online registration opens until 10 Nov for Laguna Phuket Triathlon, 15 Nov for LPT Team Relay and 6K Fun Run, and 20 Nov for Challenge Laguna Phuket.

Laguna Phuket 390/1 M. 1 Srisoonthorn Rd., Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel: 076 362 300 Email: info@challengelagunaphuket.com www.challengelagunaphuket.com

THE SUNDAY SUNDOWNER Every Sunday from 6 pm (Happy hour 5pm-7pm) Burger buffet & Salad Bar Price 499++ THB. (Kids below 12 at 199++ THB.) Free flow soft drinks 140++ THB extra.

EAST 88 BEACH LOUNGE E-mail: east88@serenityphuket.com www.serenityphuket.com

RELAX AND PLAY AT PHUKET’S MAI KHAO BEACH WITH CENTARA GRAND WEST SANDS RESORT PACKAGE

TRIPLE NIGHTS DELIGHT

Make the most of your Phuket holiday and enjoy your stay at Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket. Relax on an idyllic beach, unwind by the pool and revitalize your body and mind. Phuket has much more to offer including a range of outdoor activities for you to explore. We encourage you to stay longer and pay less, with our hot deal on ‘Triple Nights Delight’ – Stay 2 nights and get 1 free night!

Book now on the Dusit Best Available Rate. Minimum 3 consecutive nights stay. Valid from now until 31st October 2014.

Terms and conditions apply.

For more information or reservation: Tel: +66 (0)76 362 999 E-mail: dtlprsvn@dusit.com Website: www.dusit.com

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Deciding on the 500-meter long beachfront or the huge Splash Jungle water park with its thrilling water slides is likely to be the most difficult part of your day when you stay at Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket with the Relax and Play package, available between now and 30 November 2014.

Designed for families or groups of friends, the package provides spacious accommodation, a blissful massage, and total poolside or beach relaxation.

The starting rate is Baht 4,500 per night in a Deluxe Family room for guests reserving a minimum of two nights at Baht 9,000.

All rates are subject to service charge and government tax.

More information and a reservations form can be found at www.centarahotelsresorts.com

Transport

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Call Center 24 Hrs Call Center 24 Hrs

1771

PHUKET TO SAMUI

SAMUI TO PHUKET

PHUKET TO UTAPAO

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

PG252

0935

1030

Daily

PG251

0805

0935

Daily

PG252

0935

1230

Daily

PG260

1125

1220

Daily

PG259

0925

1025

Daily

PG282

1510

1645

Daily

PG254

1300

1355

Daily

PG253

1125

1225

Daily

PG256

1600

1655

Daily

PG255

1430

1530

Daily

PG258

1905

2000

Daily

PG257

1730

1830

Daily

PHUKET TO BANGKOK

UTAPAO TO PHUKET Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

PG281

1300

1440

Daily

BANGKOK TO PHUKET

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

PG270

0700

0825

Daily

PG271

0805

0930

Daily

PG272

1020

1145

Daily

PG283

0845

1010

Daily

PG284

1110

1235

Daily

PG275

1000

1125

Daily

PG276

1215

1340

Daily

PG924

1220

1345

Daily

PG274

1435

1600

Daily

PG273

1355

1520

Daily

PG909

1610

1735

Daily

PG277

1655

1820

Daily

PG278

1910

2035

Daily

PG279

1945

2110

Daily

PG280

2210

2335

Daily

PG220

2155

2320

Daily

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

TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE CONSULAR REPRESENTATIVES FUNCTIONING IN PHUKET

Visa

001-800-11-535-0660

Australia

AMEX

02 273 5544

Master Card

001-800-11-887-0663

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

076 372 600

Ireland

076 281 273

Austria

076 248 334-6

Italy

076 381 792

Czech Republic

076 249 400

USA

076 342 270

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

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

BANGKOK (SUVARNABHUMI) TO PHUKET

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

TG 226

0725

0850

Daily

TG 201

0745

0910

Daily

TG 202

1000

1130

Daily

TG 203

0830

0955

Daily

TG 204

1055

1225

Daily

TG 205

1015

1135

Daily

TG 206

1210

1335

Daily

TG 207

1220

1340

2

TG 208

1340

1505

1356

TG 215

1415

1535

Daily

TG 212

1500

1625

6

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 223

1955

2115

Daily

TG 222

2035

2200

Daily

TG 225

2240

2359

Daily

TG 224

2205

2335

137

PHUKET TO CHIANG MAI

CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

Flight

Dep

Arr.

Days

TG 1212

1130

1325

Daily

TG 1111

0855

1050

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

DAVID CAR RENT Autos Car Van Truck Rentals Phuket Thailand We offer the best Car Rental Services for Phuket Car rentals all include first class insurance nce 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

www.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 classified as a mud flat, especially during low tide. The main attraction for visitors to Railey Beach is the adrenaline pumping activity of cliff climbing.

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

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

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

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

Ao Nang Beach Just 18 km from Krabi Town is beautiful Ao Nang with its 83 scattered islands. Each island is only a short distance from the next and so during low tide you can wade to a neighboring island, many with sandy beaches and crystal clear water and 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 fishing. Poda island with white sand beaches and clear turquoise seawater abounded with schools of colorful fish.

Andaman

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HIGHLIGHT ATTRACTIONS..

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

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

Tiger Cave Temple Tiger Cave Temple or Wat Tham Sua in Thai is located about 3 kilometers from Krabi town. The inside of this cave features tiger prints captured in stone and is in the middle of an abundant forest with gigantic ancient trees. This place is remarkable archaeologically as many artifacts have been found on the premises including tools, pottery and the mold for the Buddha’s footprint.

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

HIGHLIGHTS & ACTIVITIES...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Andaman

•Krabi Hotel Highlights •

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

Sofitel Krabi Phok eethra Golf & Sp a Resort TTel. +66 (0) 75 62 7 800 www.sofitel.com w

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

GETTING TO 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 nature tour and explore the interior, go sightseeing by elephant, trek through the jungle, or go rafting beach, take a n along the local rivers with one of the daily Eco-Tours. alo K Khaolak is also a great jumping off point in the high season for a trip to the Surin and Similan Islands, rrenowned for world-class scuba diving, or for the gorgeous Khao Sok National Park further to the north.

ACTIVITIES

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

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

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

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

Sea Kayaking There are several companies offering sea cave kayaking tours from Khaolak to nearby Phang Nga Bay, a UNESCO O World Heritage Site. From m the departure point, the ‘mother ship’, s which also transports the kayaks, takes k you to limestone kes islands that have collapsed into ntto themselves leaving the interior intact and untouched h hed over many years.

Sea caves lead into these lagoons go oons and when the tide is right the result is akin to o visiting a parallel world where time stands still.

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

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

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

•Phang Nga Hotel Highlights •

The Paradise Koh Ya o Boutique Beach Resor t & Spa Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 584 450, www.theparadise.biz

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 Méridien 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

& Spa, Khaolak La Flora Resort 8 000 Tel. +66 (0) 76 42 t.com or es www.laflorar

Khaolak Merlin Resort Tel. +66 (0) 76 428 300, +66 (0) 76 443 300 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

Koh Yao Yai Village by treasury Vi llage Group Tel. +66 (0) 76 363700 www.kohya oyaivillage.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