The Greater
Vol . 2 5 N o. 2
magazine
www.phuketmagazine.asia
Phuket Magazine 1
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Phuket Magazine
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K H AO R A N G B R E E Z E R E S TA U R A N T
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 24:00. Location: The top of Rang Hill, Downtown Phuket. T. 076 355 775, M. 086 478 3927 4
Phuket Magazine
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Contents
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Hyatt Regency Phuket celebrates first year anniversary
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It hardly seems possible that the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort has been open for a year now. But this beautiful refurbished property on the road leading to Millionaire’s Mile has lived up to its hype and more. Featuring the largest swimming pool of any resort in Phuket, the Hyatt is a superb place to relax or entertain. Nestled on the hillside overlooking Kamala Cove at the southern tip of Kamala Beach, this five-star resort offers unobstructed panoramic views of the Andaman and spectacular sunsets.
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Phuket’s Asian Beach Games a huge success
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Some organizational teething problems were quickly overcome by host Thailand, who went on to dominate the fourth version of these exciting sea–and-sand based games winning almost three times as many medals as second-place, China. Forty-three countries competed in a whole slew of sports ranging from water polo to beach volleyball. A colourful closing ceremony saw Thailand pass the torch to the next host, Vietnam.
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The History of the Mission Hospital Phuket
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Chronologically, we take a look at the Mission Hospital in Phuket Town and how it has grown over the last 75 years. A lot of hard work and Christian love had kept this hospital going through some pretty tough times. One of more than 400 medical institutions around the world run by the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, whose goal is to care for humanity while teaching personal health principals.
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A Buyer’s Guide to Property Ownership in Thailand
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If you are thinking of investing in property in Thailand, the first step you should take is to choose a good lawyer. You will want a trusted guide to help you navigate the relevant Thai legal procedures, some of which can be complicated. A little background information on the legal avenues open to you can go a long way to help you choose the best path available.
Contents
52 Cover: Apichai Ekapoom, Dragon Art Media’s Senior Art Director, took this photo of a tourists enjoying the beauty of Kata Beach. DRAGON ART MEDIA Co., Ltd. Phuket Office: 169/63 Ban Benjamas, Soi San Sabay, Rat-U-Thi Song Roi Pee Road, Patong, Katu, Phuket 83150. | Tel. & Fax: (66 76) 341 685 | Advertising: Mrs. Suchada Piluek. Tel. 092 359 8835 | E-mail: suchada@dragonartmedia.com, ratchanee@ dragonartmedia.com | Bangkok Office: 1201/6566 Ladprow 94, Wanthonglang, Bangkok 10310 | Tel. (66 2) 559 0360 | Fax (66 2) 559 0363 | E-mail: info@dragonartmedia.com | Editor: Suphon Rattanaphon | Managing Editor: Scott Murray. E-mail: scottm@dragonartmedia.com | Associate Editor: Ken Loh | Creative: Apichai Ekapoom | Designers: Krisana Ekapoom | Production Coordinator: Nanta Boonmee | Enquiries: Please direct to Mrs.Suchada Piluek at 092 359 8835 or E-mail: suchada@dragonartmedia.com | Distribution: 10,000 copies per issue Phuket Magazine is distributed to more than 8,000 rooms of major resorts in Phuket region with a wide distribution network of free & retail copies over the island. All articles are published in good faith and based on bona fide information available to us at publication.No responsibility is accepted other than that stipulated by law.All material is copyrighted. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced in part or full without the previous written consent of the publisher. Neither can any part be stored in a retrieval situation, or transmitted by electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or any other means. Freelance contributions are welcome though responsibility cannot be accepted for unsolicited manuscripts. Opinions expressed are those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Please direct all editorial enquiries and contributions to the Managing Editor:scottm@dragonartmedia.com
นิตยสารภูเก็ตแจกจ่ายให้แก่โรงแรม รีสอร์ทชั้นนำ�ต่างๆ ทั่วพื้นที่ ภูเก็ต กระบี่ พังงา และกรุงเทพฯ รวมทั้งจัดจำ�หน่ายตามร้านค้า ที่ได้เลือกสรรแล้ว มากกว่า ๕๐๐ แห่งทั่วราชอาณาจักรอันได้แก่ บริษัทชั้นแนวหน้า องค์กร หน่วยงาน ทั้งส่วนราชการและเอกชน ที่เกี่ยวข้องกับอุตสาหกรรมการท่องเที่ยวทั้งภายในประเทศและ ต่างประเทศซึ่งต่างใช้นิตยสารภูเก็ตเพื่อเป็นข้อมูลอ้างอิงเผยแพร่ ข่าวสารบริการแก่ลกู ค้า นิตยสารภูเก็ตไม่เพียงแต่มงุ่ มัน่ ทุม่ เทอุทศิ ตนเพื่อการอนุรักษ์สิ่งแวดล้อมให้ดำ�รงอยู่ในช่วงเวลาอันยาวไกล เท่านั้น แต่ยังสนับสนุนการใช้ทรัพยากรธรรมชาติ ทั้งในภูเก็ตและ ภูมิภาคใกล้เคียงอย่างชาญฉลาดและมีจิตสำ�นึกหวงแหน
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WWW.PHUKETMAGAZINE.asia Phuket Magazine
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Thai silk in Phuket
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Oddy Hip Hotel close to centre of the action
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Glorious sea-view condos overlooking Patong
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Soi Bangla’s unparalleled nightlife
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Everyone knows that Jim Thompson made Thai silk known to the Western world over half-a-century ago, particularly by introducing it to the then editor of Vogue magazine. But it’s amazing the application of Thai silk today: check out the rather aptly named Thai Silk Collection close by the famous Wat Chalong, to get a look at a wide range of items that make for great gifts during the holiday season.
Certainly a different name for a different hotel, this hip new accommodation is an ideal place to stay for travelers seeking charm, comfort and convenience in Phuket. Located one kilometre from Patong Beach, the Oddy Hip Hotel offers quiet rooms with all the modern conveniences you’d expect to find in a good resort.
The Emerald Terrace Condominium @ Patong is located above the much sought-after west coast beach community of Patong. These condos offer great functional design with brilliant city, mountain, and Andaman Sea views, and are built to exacting Western standards, ensuring that they will always be in extremely high demand for both expatriates and tourists alike.
No trip to Patong is complete without a visit here, music booms out from every bar with bright lights and smiling scantily-clad girls dancing on chrome poles trying to entice you inside. Intoxicating, sexy, entertaining and compelling; check out The Sweet Bar on Soi Freedom, it guarantees you a relaxing and enjoyable night out.
We Café Salad and Coffee provides all natural goodness
We Café grows many of its salad and vegetable ingredients onsite, which is a cool concept making for a healthy lunch. This pleasant restaurant and coffee shop located on Chaofa West Road between Phuket Town and Chalong Temple is one street light down from Soi Talat as you head towards Central Festival.
Phuket Island Map 10 Restaurant Guide 56 Accommodation 58
Andaman Map Krabi-Phi Phi Map
News | Features | Business | Events | Property
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Exciting Crocodile Show Certainly Leave You Very Impressed! T. 076 367 660 -1 @gmail.com
Address: 15/15 M.5, Tambol Chalong, Phuket 83000 Central Festival Suko Spa
Wat Chalong
Phuket Crocodile Wlord
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HYATT R EGEN CY PHUKET RESORT Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort
Tel. 076 344 241
Mission Hospital
Seduction
The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa Phuket Phuket Crocodile World
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THE EXQUISITE PHUKET RESORT
H
yatt Regency Phuket Resort is blessed with one of the best locations on the island. Situated on the exclusive west coast—ten minutes from both the beachside restaurants of Surin and the nightlife of Patong, yet only 40 minutes from the international airport—the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort is nestled on a verdant, terraced hillside overlooking the beach of Kamala Cove. From almost every vantage point of the secluded property, including most of its 199 rooms that each has its private balcony, guests can enjoy unobstructed, cascading views of the Andaman Sea and its spectacular sunsets. Developed by Kamala Bay Ventures— which through its affiliates also owns Park
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Hyatt Siem Reap and Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa—Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort is the first Hyatt-branded property in Phuket and the second Hyatt resort in Thailand, following Hyatt Regency Hua Hin. The Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort is the first Hyatt-branded resort to open on Phuket and from almost every vantage point of the secluded property guests can enjoy unobstructed, cascading views of the Andaman Sea and its spectacular sunsets. The resort is nestled on the hillside overlooking Kamala Cove at the southern tip of Kamala Beach. Terraced up the verdant hill, this five-star resort offers unobstructed panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and spectacular sunsets from the majority of its 199 rooms.
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“We are delighted to bring the Hyatt Regency brand to one of the region’s most sought-after resort destinations and honoured to further strengthen our relationship with Kamala Bay Ventures,” says Keith. “The Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort is a unique and extraordinary hideaway offering tranquillity and seclusion in a stunning, natural setting. It is an ideal base for business meetings, families and leisure travellers, and we are eager to share the very best of Hyatt expertise and authentic Thai hospitality with our guests. We have been open for one year already and many guests from all over the world have stayed with us.” Since welcoming its first guest on 25 December 2013, the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort has accommodated more than 10,000 guests, with the highest number of visitors coming from the United States, German, Australia and regional countries. The resort has received both local and international recognition in its first year. Management realizes that opening a new property is always a challenge, but it is satisfied what the resort has achieved in such a short time. Credit is four-fold: it must be given to the hotel team for doing an amazing job; to the resort’s business partners, who have been instrumental in the resort’s initial success; the owning company for investing in the property; and to the guests who have stayed at the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort during its first year.
Amenities and Services The Sunset Grill, on the terraced hillside, is the resort’s signature restaurant offering both indoor and outdoor dining, focusing on daily sourced local sustainable
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The Pool Bar is where guests can enjoy the sunset and cocktails accompanied by chill-out tracks from the resident DJ
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The Sunset Grill, on the terraced hillside, is the resort’s signature restaurant offering both indoor and outdoor dining.
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products, market-fresh vegetables, seafood, seasonal selections and prime meats served from its show kitchen. Meanwhile, overlooking the pool, The Pool House offers all-day dining on authentic Thai and Italian cuisine where Executive Chef Alessandro Martinelli brings 15 years of culinary experience to create authentic Italian cuisine with meticulously selected sustainable local products. In addition, The Pool Bar is where guests can enjoy the sunset and cocktails accompanied by chillout tracks from the resident DJ. After indulging, guests may wish to work off any extra calories in the Fitness Centre, equipped with the very latest strength and cardiovascular machines where they can access the Internet, watch TV or listen to their own MP3 player while exercising. Alternatively, they may prefer to swim a few laps in the expansive infinity pool overlooking the beach. The 72-metre pool, flanked by loungers and open salas, is longer than an Olympic-sized pool and is one of the largest on the island. Guests can also enjoy always the resort’s complimentary buggy service and head to Nahm Spa at the top of the property, which houses eight private spa suites. Taking ‘mother ocean’ and its ebb and flow as key inspiration, the spa offers a combination of authentic Thai and specialist international treatments incorporating indigenous ingredients wherever possible. While parents are occupied, offspring can enjoy the facilities of Camp Hyatt, equipped with a full range of games, toys and electronic entertainment, or take part in a variety of activities, such as shell collection,
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The Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort features a spectacular outlook over the Andaman Sea.
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(in this page) Nahm Treatment Room, (above right) Kamala Ballroom and (below right) Kids Club (Camp Hyatt)
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sand play and visiting a local worm farm. We also have a complimentary shuttle tuk tuk service, between the hotel, Patong and Kamala Beach from 10am-6pm daily. When the occasion calls, Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort offers 402sqm (4,327sqft) of state-of-the-art meeting and conference facilities, including a pillar-less ballroom splashed with natural daylight; a spacious pre-function area; three multifunctional rooms; and a boardroom. Meeting clients can also utilize the poolside area to create unique pre or post-function gatherings. The resort’s dedicated events team is on hand to make any type of meeting, social event or wedding a successful and memorable occasion. Recent events include the InterNations Phuket October Event and the La Chaine des Rotisseurs Chapitre dinner.
A wide variety of room types are available Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort, including Ocean View Terrace Rooms, which feature a private 65sqm (700sqft) terrace. The larger-than-average rooms, ranging from 44–105sqm (473–1,130sqft), feature a 40-inch LED television and highspeed wireless Internet access, as well as spacious bathrooms separated by floor-toceiling glass where guests can bathe while looking out over the Andaman Sea. For guests requiring a more exclusive experience, Regency Club rooms have access to a host of exclusive facilities and services, including personalized check-in and check-out; complimentary breakfast, drinks throughout the day and evening cocktails; one-hour’s free use of a meeting room; and access to the Regency Club infinity pool overlooking the entire bay.
About Hyatt Regency
H
yatt Regency hotels are conveniently located in urban, suburban, airport, convention and resort destinations around the world. Properties range in size up to more than 2,000 rooms, feature intimate and large meeting spaces and offer a full range of services and dining options tailored to serve the needs of conventions, business travellers or resort vacationers. Hyatt Regency enables all guests – whether they are traveling to work, unwind or gather in celebration – to feel productive and revitalized.
Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort | 16/12 Moo 6, Tambon Kamala, Amphur Kathu, Phuket, Thailand, 83150 E-mail: phuket.regency@hyatt.com | T: +66 76 231 234 | phuket.regency.hyatt.com
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Easy Branches Pro have combined all the aspects of charter/ brokerage on sea, land and air along with luxury lifestyles into a single website platform which in turn directs the inquirer to individually speciic websites relating to each category separately. Each sub site is dedicated to one sector of lifestyle and it’s supporting industry encompassing not only charter, but also include for the purchasing of yachts, super yachts, planes, helicopters and villas. Though our master platform you can tailor a lifestyle experience that can include one or all of the categories listed in a one stop booking format. Fly to your destination in a private jet or helicopter, or sail to your super deluxe villa with a private yacht, be treated to VIP services all the way through with personal attendants taking care of your every need.
Your information listed in our site will be showing to two hundred and sixty nine countries, there are also one hundred sixty ve dierent currencies available in this website. Owners, Service Providers, Manufacturers, Brokers and Agents are welcome to join us by application through our multitier marketing partnerships.
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the Asian Beach Games 2014 24
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T
he Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) laid the proper foundation with the organization of the Asian Beach Games. The Asian Beach Games were held first in the beautiful island of Bali, Indonesia, the second at the majestic city of Muscat, Oman, and the third edition at the charming coastline of Haiyang, China. The fourth edition of the Asian Beach Games was held from November 14 to 23, 2014 in the stunning paradise of Phuket, Thailand. Since 2008, the Asian Beach Games is becoming bigger and better, and it has been proven by the OCA and the host cities to be an outstanding success. The Asian Beach Games serves as a perfect venue where sports-and-fun-loving people meet in an atmosphere that is both condusive to the environment and tourism. With a strong initiative to support and promote the sports development model of the OCA, the government of Thailand and key officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Sports Authority of Thailand, and the National Olympic Committee of Thailand joined forces to host the 4th Asian Beach Games and make it a reality that will leave a long-lasting sporting legacy on the country and its people. The 4th Asian Beach Games was the biggest ever in terms of the number of sports and participants, and these competitors revelled in the pristine beaches of Phuket and their glorious combination of sea, sun and sand. These attributes make Phuket a complete sporting destination, beyond its natural beauty. Visitors to Phuket were welcomed with warmth and the beautiful smiles of the people and were smitten by the distinct charm of the island.
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Spectacular fireworks brings curtain down on Asian Beach Games
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he 4th Asian Beach Games came to a spectacular close at the Saphan Hin Sports Center in Phuket on the night of November 23, with Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul presiding. The closing ceremony featured four fantastic shows with more than 800 performers. The ceremony started with the first performance "Magic of Dream Destination", which reflected the true value of Phuket natural resources, followed by "Magic of Memory". The participating athletes and officials from all 43 nations then paraded in together with the flag procession. After that, came the OCA (Olympic Council of Asia) Lowering of the Flag Ceremony, followed by the flag handover to next hosts Vietnam, represented by Mr Le Khanh Hai, the Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and Prof Hoang Vinh Giang, the Deputy President of the Vietnamese Olympic Committee. The Hoisting Ceremony of the Vietnamese Flag was held moments later, followed by an impressive performance from Vietnam. The third show "Magic of Impression" was then performed, followed by the flame extinguishing at the cauldron and the release of colourful sky lanterns. The closing ceremony continued with "Magic of Happiness", which created an unforgettable impression
of participating countries, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Nevertheless, the highlight of the closing ceremony was the release of turtles to the sea, an Andaman tradition. urging all participating countries to preserve nature as well as recognizing the cordial hospitality of the Phuket residents. Vietnam will host the 5th Asian Beach Games between September 24 and October 3, 2016. Story & Pictures from http://www.phuketthailand2014.com Rank
NOC
Gold
Silver
Bronze
Total Medals
1
Thailand
56
37
33
126
2
People’s Republic of China
16
11
21
48
3
Republic of Korea
9
14
14
37
4
Islamic Republic of Iran
9
14
8
31
5
Vietnam
8
12
20
40
6
Kazakhstan
8
9
10
27
7
Indonesia
7
7
14
28
8
Japan
7
5
7
19
9
Mongolia
6
0
4
10
10
Bahrain
5
2
0
7
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A JOURNEY THROUGH THE LIFE OF MISSION HOSPITAL PHUKET
I All these time, Mission Hospital Phuket may not have positioned ourselves to be at the forefront of medical technology advancements, but we have always strived to maintain our services at an international standard.
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n 1940 Dr. & Mrs. Arthur Geschke with their son arrived in Phuket to start the medical work. Mr. Tan Cheng Hor, a kind Chinese businessman, offered them the use of a previous Chinese school building as a clinic. He was a staunch supporter of their medical work. The staff, including Tan Oui Kiang, So Sek Tang, Mine Siew Myim, Mrs. Goh, and Charles Yao helped scrape and paint the old school. The grand opening in 1940 was attended by a number of government officials and leading citizens. On 7, December 1941, the bombs that smashed the U.S. Navy at Pearl Harbor also smashed the plans of the fledgling mission on Dibuk Road. The clinic was closed and occupied by Japanese forces. The war ended in 1945, but Phuket had to wait four more years, until May of 1949, to have its clinic reopened by Frank Criders. Mr. Tan Cheng Hor welcomed returning missionaries in September of that year and Mr. & Mrs. Edward Lim became business manager and OPD Supervisor/Anesthetist. In 1950, financial distress threatened to overwhelm the struggling clinic. Mr. Charles Scott gallantly rescued it by soliciting a regular monthly stipend
from local tin-mining companies to subsidize operations. Then in 1953, water arrived inside the clinic in faucets – the first time it was not carried in by buckets with Dr. Erwin Winton overseeing this engineering marvel. In 1960, the first mission owned residence was built on a three rai tract of land at the city gates, under the direction of Dr. James Webster. In 1961, Dr. Ronald Van Arsdell became the first doctor to speak Thai directly to the patients without a translator. In 1962, Dr. Paul Watson also communicated in Thai without a translator. This made a strong impression on people and won their trust and friendship. The patient count began to climb steadily upward and the old school building became more and more crowded. Mr. Tan Chin Gwan, a tin-mining businessman, patient and strong supporter of the clinic from the very beginning had major surgery in Bangkok Adventist Hospital. He was mush impressed with the quality of patient care and arranged to donate twenty-five rai (about ten acres) of his rubber plantation on Thepkasatri Road, for a beautiful hospital site. It was on the main highway leading into the city. Even though Mr. Tan died in 1962, his kindness will always live on in the hospital,
No matter how much the island and its people’s lifestyle have transformed over time, the mission stays unchanged.
which stands today as a result of his generous gift. The Luanganuphas family, of which Mr. Tan Chin Gwan was the founder, has continued their staunch support for Mission Hospital Phuket. In 1963, funds had been donated for a new hospital. Dr. Sam helped with the electrical wiring and Dr. Effie Jean with the solicitation of hospital equipment. 9 February 1965 was the exciting dedication day for the new modern thirty-bed hospital. It included a modern surgery suite from which patients could be rolled to their room instead of being carried by orderlies. Another novelty: meals were served to the patients from the new hospital kitchen. Relatives no longer had to bring in meals for their sick. Governor Tawat (Uan Surakul) cut the opening ribbon. Participating staff included Medical Director Dr. Paul Watson, Drs. Dam and Effie Jean, Business manager A.P. Roda and the Director of Nurses Mrs. Roda. Mr. Tan Cheng Hor, now deceased, was represented by his wife, while Mr Tan Chin Gwan, also deceased, was represented by his son, Tan Leong Lee. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Scott were present though. 9 October 1970 marked the opening of the new hospital wing and the thirtieth anniversary of the first
By next year. Mission Hospital Phuket plans to build a new four-storey building, next to the management centre. which will house a physical therapy centre, a conference room and a new dental clinic. It will also serve as storage centre for medicine and electronic medical records. The old dental clinic will be converted into an extension of the emergency department. medical clinic opened by Dr. Geschke in October of 1940. Deputy Governor Sawadi Prapaipanit opened the new wing by cutting the ribbon. Hospital officials were Medical Director Dr. Paul Watson, Dr. Somsak Supunavong, Director of Nurses Nursia Supunavong and Business Manager T.Y. Billones. The bed capacity was increased to fifty. 1971 saw a cafeteria kitchen annex added as well as paved recreational area and two homes for doctors. 1976 then saw building and financial plans approved for a new outpatient clinic on the hospital grounds. On 9 October 1979, a new outpatient department was dedicated. The new addition contained a pharmacy, laboratory, four doctor’s offices and a dental office as
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well as rooms for medical records and physical therapy. Governor Saneah Vadamathon cut the ribbon. The family of Chin Gwan provided a private band for the ceremony. In 1980, Dr. Nantje Twijnstra opened a dental clinic. Participating staff included Dr. Eden L. Smith, Administrator T.Y. Billones, and Mrs. Billones, Director of Nurses. By1983, three new private hospitals had opened in town and the Phuket Adventist Hospital faced a crisis of great financial loss that placed it on the brink of closure. This keen competition inspired a master plan for hospital modernization and funds were solicited. In 1984, the completion of the master plan for modernization made for a turning point in operations. Additions included two fully air-conditioned, carpeted and furnished suites as well as an intensive care unit, complete with cardiac monitor and EKG machines. Renovation was also begun on older areas. Mrs. Primprao Rattanayan , Chief Operating Officer The laboratory and X-ray departments were renovated and newly Mission Hospital Phuket would like to express a sincere equipped in 1985, and an ambulance appreciation towards all our generous contributors who have was added. Donated continuously been supporting the hospital. At present, we are f u n d s e n a b l e d in need of financial support for our construction project of t h e c o n s t r u c t i o n of physiotherapy the mother and child building. Your donations will go a long and a public heath way in making the project a success. auditorium, which would also serve as the hospital workers’ chapel for daily worship 1990 saw the Mission Hospital Phuket celebrate its 50 anniversary. The celebratory health exhibition was
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opened by Governor Chalerm Promlert and he also cut the ribbon to open the event. Hospital staff in attendance included President Mr. Ronald Koh, and Dr. Kittiporn Tantrarongroj, VP-Medical Affairs as well as doctors, nurses and the rest of the staff. The hospital continued to serve not only the local populace but tourists as well. A demand for newer and more patient rooms became evident so in 1992 the plans were drawn to construct another building. A fundraising campaign was started and one such activity was a concert given by selected hospital staff under the direction of Dr. Kittiporn Tantrarongroj, staff surgeon. In 1993, the new 3 storey- building was opened. A special program was held in front of the new building and was well attended by officers of SAUM: Mr. John Lee, president of AHS/A; Mr. Ronald Kho, former president of the hospital and other guests. Mrs. Nursia Supunavong was the administrator, Mr. Neil Wayne Bayne, the Vice-President of Finance, and Dr. Kittiporn Tantrarongroj, the Vice-President for medical affairs, while Mr. John Malkiewycz supervised the building construction. This modern structure stood in front of the old hospital building constructed in 1965, and the ground floor contained the Emergency Room, the Dental Clinic, and the Accounting & Radiology departments. The second and third floors housed modern patient rooms with two suites on each floor. In 1999, the hospital continued its faithful service to the community but it was affected to some extent by the regional economic slump so that in June the hospital leaders merged mission Hospital Phuket with Bangkok Adventist Hospital. Mr.Neil Wayne Bayeta was appointed chief operating officer, and improvements and
renovations were made on the old hospital wing. The south wing, formerly used as patient rooms was converted into a suite of operating rooms and the east wing was converted into a JCU. In August 23, these facilities were opened with a special program presided over by Governor Chadej Insawang. Also in attendance were Mr. Robert Burchard, president of the two hospitals, SAUM treasurer Mr. Tom Massengill, MP Anchalee Tepaboot Vanit as well as retired and former workers and hospital staff, who graced the occasion with their presence. In 2000, the old OR, which had served the community for over 30 years received a major reconstructive surgery itself. It was converted into a modern and well-equipped labor and delivery room. The old patient rooms across the hall were also renovated. A special dedicatory program was held on October 15 attended by Pastor Robin D. Riches, President of the Mission hospitals, along with his wife Ann, OB-GYNE consultants and practitioners from Phuket town as well as OB patients and hospital staff. Construction was started to relocate the laboratory, physical therapy and dietary departments as well as the snack bar. In December, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Burchard went home to the USA. In 2001, Mr. Theerayut Assavapisitkul became the new president for the two mission hospitals. In January, renovations were started on the OPD, and while construction workers were busy tearing down, putting up and giving the area a new look, hospital staff was busy meeting the requirements of the Ministry of Health program called “Safe Motherhood”. Their hard work paid off when in August 20 Dr. Kittipan Tantiwit, the Chief of Medical Staff, on behalf of the hospital administration & staff received the certificate
The availability of vegetarian food has gained the hospital considerable popularity among the health conscious as they can rest assured that every meal taken during the stay here is not just delicious but also very healthy. for completing the requirements, and Mission Hospital Phuket became the very first hospital in Thailand to receive such a certificate. The grand opening of the OPD was on November 22. The pharmacy and medical records rooms were completed, the area where the laboratory used to be was converted into a medical library and physicians’ lounge, doctors’ clinics were near completion and centralized air- conditioning and automatic doors had been installed.
M
ission Hospital Phuket is one of more than 400 medical institutions around the world that is run by the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. This Christian medical organization has the goal of caring for humanity, teaching personal health principals, and sharing the great and wonderful love of God to society. For over 73 years the Mission Hospital has stood alongside Phuket’s residents to serve and care. Not only has the hospital served Phuket, but the community in Phuket has also cared for Mission Hospital as well like one big family. The years past attest to the good will of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church towards the physical and spiritual health of the residents of Phuket and the neighboring provinces Even though many years have gone by, the hospital’s principals and goals still stand firm to this day and will continue to lead Mission Hospital Phuket in developing its services in the future to be a witness of the love of God, and stand by Phuket’s residence continually.
Mission Hospital Phuket Call. 0763 237 220-6 E-mail: mkt@missionhospitalphuket.com www. missionhospitalphuket.com
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A BUYER’S GUIDE TO PROPERTY OWNERSHIP IN THAILAND
Written by Marcus Collins, DFDL Partner and Managing Director Samui and Phuket offices; Michael Peart, DFDL Senior Adviser, Koh Samui; and Christopher Neale, DFDL Legal Adviser, Koh Samui.
Introduction Please indulge us in a self-serving (but true) opening gambit: if you are thinking of investing in property in Thailand, the first step you should take is to choose a good lawyer! You will want a trusted guide to help you navigate the relevant Thai legal procedures, some of which can be complicated. A little background information on the legal avenues open to you can go a long way to help you choose the best path available. The following is a summary of the basic principles of Thai property ownership which will give a foreigner thinking of investing in Thai property a clearer picture of what is involved.
Am i allowed to buy land/property? This is usually the first question asked by foreigners. Although Thai law (the Land Code) prohibits foreigners from owning land in Thailand, there are ways in which foreigners can effectively own or have control of land and still comply with existing Thai laws. The following three procedures are the most common:
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1. The purchase of land through a Thai limited company. Buying land/property in a Thai company name is a popular choice among foreigners who wish to acquire an interest in freehold land in Thailand (as opposed to the leasehold option set out below). In order to comply with Thai law, the shareholding in a Thai company must be at least 51% Thai (i.e. majority) with the foreign shareholding being a maximum 49%. In previous years, nominee shareholdings (i.e. where the Thai shareholders were simply named individuals with no financial interest in the company and with weighted voting rights being given to the foreign shareholders) developed as a way of giving foreigners control of the company’s affairs. However, the Thai Government now cracked down on Thai companies set up with nominee Thai shareholders, which has led to a change in the initial company set-up. Your lawyer can discuss the practicalities with you.
2. The registering of a leasehold interest. A registered lease is relatively uncomplicated and easy to acquire and register. A long term lease can be held and registered in your own name (no company required). Foreigners are permitted to lease land in Thailand for a maximum of 30 years with an option to renew for a further period of 30 years. A lease registered with the Land Office remains in force throughout the term of the lease, regardless of whether the freehold owner sells or otherwise transfers the freehold. However, even though the owner may agree to a renewal clause in the lease agreement, it is uncertain at present whether this right can be enforced against a purchaser/successor of the freehold interest. If the lessor is a company and the company is sold as opposed to the land held by the original lessor, of course, the situation would not change and the new shareholder would then have to deal with the lessee based on the original lease agreement. As opposed to land a foreign buyer can have the ownership of a house registered in his own name although he only has a lease of the land it stands upon.
Chanote – and Nor Sor 3 Gor are the only land titles where registered right of ownership or lease can exist. Any land titles lower than these are not recommended for foreign investment. In some cases upgrading to Chanote would make land subject to these lower ranked “titles” also suitable for foreign investment.
The lawyer’s role - due diligence & contracts Once you have chosen your property, your lawyer will carry out due diligence on your behalf. A search will be carried out at the Land Office to verify the identity of the owner and whether or not there are any encumbrances against the property. Your lawyer will also check the access to the property – i.e. is there a public or private road leading to the property? If it is a private road your lawyer will need to ensure a servitude (registered access) is marked on the relevant title deed at the Land Office upon completion of the purchase.
3. Condominiums. Foreigners can own a condominium in their own name but not more than 49% of the aggregate unit space of the condo development may be owned by foreigners. Once the foreign quota is full foreigners can only lease condominium units and these leases can be registered with the Land Department as is the case with land as explained already. Also foreigners could establish Thai companies and acquire freehold title to a unit. The explanation provided above in respect of purchasing land with a Thai company applies here too.
The classes of land title When you are in the process of looking for a Thai property, it is very important to find out the class of title of the land. The following is a brief description of some of the rights in land you will find in Thailand and which are suitable to be bought or leased and can be used to build houses or apartment or condominium buildings. Chanote - Nor Sor 4 Jor is the only document that can be described as a true land title deed, because it alone confirms ownership of land. The land was accurately surveyed and plotted in relation to a national survey grid. Unique numbered marker posts set in the ground mark its boundaries. It is possible to subdivide the land into smaller plots. This is the best title available. Nor Sor 3 Gor signifies the land occupier’s right to possess the land, but without conferring actual ownership. De facto though there is little difference between Chanote and Nor Sor Sarm Gor. The land is in general accurately surveyed and each plot is cross-referenced to a master survey of the area and a corresponding aerial photograph. Unique numbered marker posts set in the ground mark its boundaries. It is possible to subdivide the land into smaller plots. The second best title available as it can be readily upgraded to Chanote title.
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Foreigners are permitted to lease land in Thailand for a maximum of 30 years with an option to renew for a further period of 30 years.
As far as contracts are concerned, there will usually be a Reservation Agreement between the buyer and the seller pursuant to which a deposit securing the property will be paid by the buyer (usually between 5 and 10%). There will be a time period stipulated in the Reservation Agreement (usually 30 days) for the due diligence to be carried out. If due diligence is satisfactory then the buyer and seller will proceed to sign a Sale and Purchase Agreement. If due diligence is not satisfactory the buyer may withdraw and get a refund of his deposit. It is important that as a buyer you make sure your lawyer checks and approves the Reservation Agreement prior to you signing it. There have been cases in the past where buyers have signed a Reservation Agreement without legal advice and subsequently had problems getting their deposits back when the due diligence turned out to be unsatisfactory. If due diligence is satisfactory and a Sale and Purchase Agreement is signed, your lawyer will attend the Land Office on completion of the transfer to ensure the property is transferred into your company name (or your personal name if leasehold) with simultaneous payment of the balance of the purchase price.
What fees are payable upon buying land? There are basically two types of fee payable when you buy land; firstly, your lawyer’s fee. Most lawyers have standard rates for the buying of land and property so make sure that you ask for their fee schedule. The second set of fees you will be liable to pay are at the Land Office upon transfer of the land. These are: Land Office Fee for land purchase: Specific Business Tax - 3.3% of the actual purchase price; Transfer Fee - 2% of the appraised (by the Land Dept/Min of Interior) value of the Land; Withholding Tax - 1% of the actual purchase price. Companies that dispose of immovable properties are required to deduct tax at 1% from the proceeds. A progressive scale applies to capital gains derived from immovable properties by individuals.
Land Office Fee for registering a lease: 1.1% of the registered rental/lease amount. There is no capital gains tax in Thailand (unlike many countries) and withholding tax on property is the comparable replacement. Although one might expect the seller to pay the withholding tax, in practice, this is not always the case and really depends on what has been agreed during negotiations. It is often the case that Land Office fees are shared 50/50 between the buyer and the seller.
The thai system of land measurement You will often hear Thais and foreigners talking about the “rai”. Land is measured in Thailand by Wah, Ngan, and Rai. The following is an easy conversion table; 1 Wah = 4 m² = 42.7 ft² 1 Ngan = 100 Wah = 400 m² 4,277 ft² 1 Rai = 400 Wah = 1,600 m² =17,109 ft² 1 Acre = 2.5 Rai = 4,000 m² = 42,772 ft² 1 hectare = 6.25 Rai
What are the risks? As with any land or house purchase, there are always risks involved no matter where you buy. Your lawyer will help you to identify and minimize them. For example, is the property on a completed development? If it is not on a completed development what is the probable completion time? How long has the development been under construction? Is it possible it may never be completed? What kind of construction warranty will be provided – 1 year, 2 years, 5 years? Who will be my neighbors? Are there any other building developments planned nearby? Where is the water source? Is there sufficient electricity supply? Who manages the communal facilities like security, refuse collection, shuttle services? How is the property currently owned?
Summary Seeking the advice of a lawyer who is a property specialist when considering the purchase of property in Thailand is recommended- just as you would do back home. There are law firms in Thailand offering qualified legal advice. We hope you will choose DFDL.
Our contact details are as follows: BANGKOK OFFICE 9th Floor, The Dusit Thani Building, 946, Rama IV Road, Silom, Bangkok, 10500 Thailand E-mail: thailand@dfdl.com, Telephone: +66 2636 3282, Fax: +66 2636 3290 PHUKET OFFICE 100/208-210 Moo 3, Kamala Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand E-mail: phuket@dfdl.com, Telephone: +66 76 279 921, Fax: +66 76 279 926 KOH SAMUI OFFICE 157/34-35 Moo 1, Bophut, Koh Samui, 84320, Surathani, Thailand E-mail: samui@dfdl.com, Telephone: +66 77 246 081, Fax: +66 77 246 082
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Thai Silk Collection in Phuket
Thai silk shop near Wat Chalong
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t’s amazing what people buy on impulse while on holiday. Items are snapped up in the heat of the moment only to get discarded or hastily passed on to neighbours, once home. That sequined T-shirt you paid 500 baht for looked so cool in Thailand, but doesn’t
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look that hot on you now? And just why on earth did a shocking-pink fake Lacoste polo shirt appeal so much a week ago yet you wouldn’t be seen dead in it down at the pub. It’s all a bit like bad sunburn: it felt good at the time but now you just wish it’d go away. Still, some items are dependable and reflect quality and class. Thai silk, for example. This is a US$ 15-million-a-year export business and not to be taken lightly. A great place to check out Thai silk is the rather aptly but not very imaginatively named Thai Silk Collection close by the famous Wat Chalong. This colourful stand-alone shop is a pleasure to wander around in as it seems that every nook and cranny has a surprise waiting for you. To begin with, there’s a replica silk loom at the entrance with an information film loop showing the process of silk preparation. The adjacent silk-clad life-size mannequin is a little scary but
moving along you’ll come across silk toiletry bags, elegant and colourful scarves plus a rather conservative-looking collection of men’s neckties (no Mickey Mouse or Daffy Duck here) meant more for the office than a party. In an enclave is a rack with Chinese-style padded jackets ideal for that long-planned North Korea trip retailing for a cool 6,900 baht right next to ladies’ beach party wear, blouses, nightdresses, pajamas, and some excellent quality men’s silk shirts. Of course, there are items aimed squarely at the mass market such as key rings, coin purses and the like but if you’re after attractive silk bed sheets, pillow covers and ultra-soft cushions look no further. All along the far wall you can sift through the many bolts of silk that cost between 590-690 baht a yard, depending on the quality but right next to them
things start to get a little surreal: Have you even heard of Thai silk skin conditioner? Me neither; and you’d have thought that Botox would be the last thing you could buy in a silk outlet but apparently not. There has to be method to this apparent madness but we’re in Thailand so anything goes… Rounding off the collection is a counter selling handsome silk shopping bags and striking ladies’ purses and silk elephants, neck supports and nick-knacks. Thai Silk Collection has English-speaking staff, attractive parquet floors and a fiercely-cold air conditioner. At around 200sqm, the shop is not vast and you can ‘do the tour’ in a matter of minutes. It’s also good to know that you can use a credit card (minimum 500 baht) and that there’s plenty of parking space.
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The
L
Oddy Hip Hotel
ocated one kilometre from Patong Beach, the Oddy Hip Hotel offers quiet rooms with all the modern conveniences you’d expect to find in a good resort: a safety deposit box, free Wi-Fi & LAN, cable TV, air-conditioning, coffee & tea making facility, IDD telephone and a minibar/fridge. The ensuite bathrooms feature free toiletries and rain-shower facilities and guests can rent motorbikes or make tour arrangements inside the hotel. The Oddy Hip Hotel is home to 19 bedrooms, all tastefully furnished; it’s a 25km trip from Phuket
International Airport, and a short distance to the famous nightlife on Bangla Road, Jungceylon (Patong’s international Shopping Center) and the adjacent Thai Boxing Stadium. The hotel has a coffee shop, pool and sauna as well as massage and laundry services; the concierge can also arrange an airport shuttle taxi. It’s an ideal place to stay for travelers seeking charm, comfort and convenience in Phuket.
162/78-79, Phangmaung Sai 3 Kor Road, Ban Patong, Phuket, Thailand Number Office: +6676364747 Number Fax Office: +6676364757 Number Mobile: +66935790069 E-Mail: theoddy_hotel@hotmail.com
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THE EMERALD TERRACE
CONDOMINIUM
@ PATONG PHUKET Glorious sea-view condos overlooking Patong
E
merald Terrace is located on a lush and tranquil hillside, on Asia’s finest resort island of Phuket. Overlooking the much sought-after west coast beach community of Patong, you are just a few minutes away from a plethora of world-class amenities, including shopping, fine dining and Patong’s world-renowned vibrant night life. Emerald Terrace offers condo units of great functional design with brilliant city, mountain, and Andaman Sea views. The high quality design, built to exacting Western standards, ensures that the residences at the Emerald Terrace will always be in extremely high demand for both expatriates and tourists alike. This condominium complex offers a place to relax in comfort and peace, with the view of your choice, but at the same time it’s a wise investment close to all that vibrant Patong has to offer. Emerald Terrace is designed to make the most of its natural surroundings while offering a location that is convenient, and includes all the latest modern conveniences. Phase I features 7 Floors of 141 Units with decked rooftops: divided as follows: Studio~ 105 units; 1 Bedroom ~ 22 Units; 1 Bedroom & private rooftop ~ 8 Units; & 2 Bedroom & private rooftops ~ 6 Units. Phase II will feature 36 units.
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Facilities at the Emerald Terrace Condo include a fitness center, a swimming pool & Jacuzzi, a beautiful garden, Indoor Parking Facilities, 24-hour security, smart card access and CCTV, & Internet & cable TV. Emerald Phuket Development, the mother company, is located in Phuket and is a high-quality commercial and residential real estate development company, which choose to situate itself in one of Asia’s most popular holiday hotspots. The company is renowned for selling luxury condominiums at affordable prices. It offers guaranteed returns on investments, sea view holiday homes, and some of the most beautiful properties along the coast of Patong and Kalim. The Emerald Phuket Developments will continue to stand behind its promise to provide a high quality of life, quality lifestyle, and quality condo to each and every owner. The first step in proving this is by using only high quality, eco-safe materials to better the overall quality of the developments as well as to help keep the natural beauty of Phuket intact. Emerald Developments Phuket is a turnkey solution development company that can design, plan, budget, invest, contract, and build high-end projects. It is one of the best and most successful developers for building luxury condominiums at affordable prices in Phuket. The Emerald group has successfully completed one project that sold out quickly with 100% customer satisfaction (www.kathu-golf-condo-phuket.com).
Emerald Developments has been featured in several magazines and the local news as “setting the standard for quality & comfort for condominiums in Phuket.” Emerald Terrace Patong Condos is an example of just that: unique design, quality materials, and high standards. Feel free to come and have a look at these beautiful sea-view luxury condos. They are Patong Phuket’s best designed luxury condominiums, located only minutes away from the beach. But hurry, they are almost sold out now. http://www.emerald-phuket-developments.com/
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H ai r
The Cozy World is a fullservice beauty salon dedicated to consistently providing high customer satisfaction by rendering excellent service, quality products, and furnishing an enjoyable atmosphere at an acceptable price/value relationship. We will also maintain a friendly, fair, and creative work environment, which respects diversity, ideas, and hard work.
&
B ea u t y
S a l o n
Jungceylon
Shopping Center
Chang Club Soi Sansabai
We’re here
Soi Sansabai
Soi Bangla
Hospital
Call: 086 953 5362 w w w. t h e c o z y wo rl d . c o m
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Soi Bangla it all happens here
No trip is complete to Patong without a visit here.
I
f you want nightlife this is the place to be, from bars to clubs and all kinds of entertainment this is where the action is: from shows to places to party the night away, there are not many locations that offer this many options jammed into one area. Bangla Road will take your breath away the first time you visit — it is the epicentre of the bar scene in Patong. Music booms out from every bar with bright lights and smiling scantily-clad girls dancing on chrome poles trying to entice you inside. For 100 baht you can pose for photos with lizards and snakes or pretty lady boys. Bangla Road is intoxicating, sexy, entertaining and compelling: a place where you'll never be alone, which will keep coming back for more. You can find a bar and sit and watch the world walk past, or buy anything from cigarettes to chewing gum, hilltribe hats, wooden frogs that croak, badges that flash bright lights and cigarette lighters bigger than your hand from the constant stream of street vendors. In the middle of Soi Bangla you will found Soi Freedom. Inside this soi, we recommend The Sweet Bar; the staff is very friendly and Mr. Chid is an excellent manager interacting well with all patrons, ensuring them a relaxing and enjoyable night out.
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WE CAFÉ SALAD & COFFEE Fresh and Healthy Food in Chalong
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e Café is a pleasant restaurant and coffee shop located on Chaofa West Road between Phuket Town and Chalong Temple one street light down from Soi TaIat as you head towards Central Festival. Opened in October 2012, it stands adjacent to a famous hydroponic farm which has been growing and selling fresh salad and vegetables since 2000 to distribute to Phuket’s many restaurants and hotels. We Café grows many of their salad and vegetable ingredients onsite, which is a cool concept and makes for a healthy lunch.
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Restaurant Guide Around PHUKET The PHUKET Magazine team began eating their way around Phuket in the 1980s, and is still going strong. Phuket has a surprising array of local and international cuisines. Here are some of our favoured selections from all over the island.
Joe Louis Thai Restaurant This unique, exotic dining experience features authentic Thai cuisine, while gazing upon a marvelous display of original, traditional Thai puppets. Courtesy of the Joe Louis Puppet Theatre, these intricately detailed marionettes, their puppeteers and the creator, have become famous worldwide. Open daily from 11.00 to 23.00 hours. Joe Louis Thai Restaurant, Jungceylon, Phuket 181 FL.2 Zone A, Jungceylon Phuket, Rat-U-Thit Song Roy Pee Rd. Tel. 076 366 740 www.joelouisthairestaurant.com
SALA Restaurant Situated within the surrounds of the Mai Khao National park, SALA Restaurant is located beachfront and adjacent to stunning infinity pools. SALA Restaurant offers a chic, relaxed dining experience in a contemporary setting. SALA Phuket Restaurant offers an exceptional blend of mouth-watering international cuisine and scrumptious traditional Thai delicacies. Tel. 076 338 888 E-mail: fbphuket@salaphuket.com www.salaphuket.com
Catch Beach Club Catch Beach Club offer the finest selection of salads, pizzas, pasta, shawarma, Thai food dishes, rotisserie selections, a sushi and sashimi counter and much more. Open daily: Lunch Buffet 12.00-15.00 hrs Buffet Dinner every Tuesday and Friday 19:00-22:00 hrs. Located: Surin Beach Road, Cherng Talay, Phuket 83110, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 76 316567 www.catchbeachclub.com
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Wine Connection Bar & Grill The retro industrial Bistro and Bar which brings a spark along Kata Area. The bricks walls mix of leather sofa and metallic chairs, and rustic wooden tables’ décor with the perfect lighting design create a stylish yet cozy atmosphere. The large terrace connected to indoor seating creates the spacious and airy feeling and closely feel the freshness of the open Grill Bar area. Next to the wine bar and the bistro areas, an original wine shop stocks various wines from around the world to select. With Live DJ performance, it turns the night even more fun! Wine Connection Bar & Grill is the perfect place for: - A casual dinner with friends and family, to share classic Bistro and Grill dishes while sampling wines from all over the world. - Late night reunions to share more wine and draft beers among friends in a lively atmosphere animated by a Live DJ every Fri & Sat Opening daily from 4pm until 1am Address: Kata Center – Kata Night Plaza Restaurant: 076 330 209 Wine Shop: 076 330 208 www.wineconnection.co.th
Baluchi The award winning Baluchi restaurant is one of the finest Indian restaurants in Phuket, specializing in tandoori and curries. It is conveniently located in the heart of Patong. Open daily from 13.00 -11.30 / 15.00 - 23.30 hrs. Horizon Beach Resort, Soi Kep Sap, Patong, Phuket Tel. 076 292 526-30
Lobster & Prawn Restaurant Lobster & Prawn’s slogan is “No view but great taste” and it is true. A warm welcome and excellent service combine with reasonable prices. At lunch you can enjoy a red snapper, or you can find many kinds of high quality imported meat for those who are not too keen on seafood. Open daily from 07.00 – 24.00 hrs. 36, 38 Kata Road, Kata Beach, Muang, Phuket Tel. 076 333 177-9 www.katapoolside.com
Kan Eeang @ Pier
Yuri Japanese Restaurant Yuri Japanese restaurant offers a variety of Japanese cuisine and a wide selection of Japanese favorite dishes such as Sushi, Sashimi and Rice Bowl topping of your choice. A special set menu “Bento” is also available at a promotion price. Open from 17.00 hrs. to midnight Located at the 8th floor on the main building (wing 4). Raj-U-Thit Song Roy Pee Road, Patong, Phuket Tel. 076 340 551 www.patongresorthotel.com
Kan Eeang @ Pier has been a favorite restaurant among locals and visitors from around the world looking for the best seafood for more than 30 years. Kan Eeang @ Pier continues to satisfy any plate with freshly caught seafood form the bay and local Thai specialties. Kan Eeang @ Pier outdoor terrace stretches 200 meters along Chalong Bay. Its unique design blends traditional style with modern chic décor creating and incomparable ambience. Open: daily from 10.30 – 23.00 hrs. Tel. +66(0)76 381 212 www.kaneang-pier.com
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Accommodation Guide NORTH AND WEST COAST Andaman White Beach Resort 28/8 Moo 4, Tambon Sakoo Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 316 000 Fax 076 316 399 www.andamanwhitebeach.com Aramas Resort & Spa 92/3 Moo.3, T. Sakoo, A. Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 316 000 Fax 076 316095 info@aramas.com www.aramas.com Blue Canyon Country Club 165 Moo.1, Thepkrasattri Rd., T. Maikhao, A. Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 327 440-7 Fax 076 327 449 www.bluecanyonclub.com Bundarika Phuket 89 Moo.6, Layan Beach Cherngtalay, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 317 200 Fax 076 317 299 www.bundarika.com
Chandara Resort & Spa 99/1 Moo.6, Pa Khok Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 317 800 Fax 076 317 850 www.chandara-resort.com Indigo Pearl Nai Yang Beach & National Park, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 327 006, 327 015 Fax 076 327 338 -9 www.indigo-pearl.com Layan Beach Resort & Spa Village 62 Moo.6, Layan Village Cherngtalay, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 313 412 Fax 076 313 415 www.layanphuket.com JW Merriott Phuket Resort & Spa 231 Moo.3, Maikhao, Thalang Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 338 000 Fax 076 348 360 www.merriotthotels.com Missionhills Phuket Golf Resort & Spa 195 Moo.4, Pa Klok, Muang Mai Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 310 888 Fax 076 310 899 www.missionhillsphuket.com
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Naithornburi Resort 9 Moo.4, Tambon Sakhu, Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 318 700 Fax 076 318 777 www.naithonburi.com SALA Phuket Resort & Spa 333 Moo.3, Maikhao, Thalang Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 338 888 Fax 076 338 889 www.salaphuket.com
BANG TAO BEACH Allamanda Laguna Phuket Tel. 076 362 700 Fax 076 324 360 www.allamanda.com Amora Resort & Spa 322 Moo 2, Srisoontorn Rd., Bangtao, Cherngtalay, A. Talang, Phuket, 83110 Tel: 076 324 021-2 Fax 076 324 243 www.amorahotels.com/Phuket Banyan Tree Phuket Tel. 076 324 374 Fax 076 324 375 www.banyantree.com
Dusit Laguna Resort Hotel Tel. 076 324 324 Fax 076 324 174 www.dusitlaguna.com Laguna Beach Resort Tel. 076 324 352 Fax 076 324 353 www.lagunabeach-resort.com Laguna Holiday Club Phuket Resort Tel. 076 271 888 Fax 076 271 853 www.lagunaholidayclub.com Laguna Phuket Holiday Residences Tel. 076 271 888 Fax 076 271 853 www.lagunaholidayresidences.com Sheraton Grande Tel. 076 324 101-7 Fax 076 324 108 www.sheraton.phuket.com Trisara 60/1 Moo.6, Srisoonthorn Rd., T.Cherngtalay, A.Thalang Phuket 83110 Tel: 66 76 310 100 Fax 66 76 311 300 www.trasara.com
SURIN BEACH
PATONG
Amanpuri Resort Pensea Beach, Phuket Island Tel. 076 324 333 Fax 076 324 491 www.amanresort.com Ayara Hilltop 125 Moo 3, Surin Beach, Cherngtalay Phuket 83110 Tel. 66 76 271 271 Fax 66 76 271 270 www.ayarahilltops.com The Chedi Phuket 118 Moo.3, Cherngtalay Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 324 017-20 Fax 076 324 252 www.chedi-phuket.com Twinpalms Phuket 106/46 Moo.3, Surin Beach Rd. Cherngtalay, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 316 500 Fax 076 316 599 www.twinpalms-phuket.com
Absolute Bangla Suites 68/1 Soi Bangla Square, Patong, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 341 901-10 Fax 076 341 122 www.seapearl-beach.com Absolute Sea Pearl Beach Resort 42/1 Taveewong Road, Patong Beach, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 341 901-10 Fax 076 341 122 www.seapearl-beach.com Amari Coral Beach Resort Patong Beach, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 340 106-14 Fax 076 340 115 www.amari.com Aventika Boutique Hotel 4/1 Thaweewong Rd., Patong Beach Amphur Kathu, Phuket 83150, Tel. 076 292 801-5 Fax 076 292 808-9 www.aventika-phuket.com
KAMALA BEACH Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa 22 Mu 6, Layi-Nakalay Rd., Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 310 777 Fax 076 310 748 www.ayarakamalaresort.com Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort 16/12 Moo 6, Tambon Kamala, Amphur Kathu, Phuket, 83150 Tel: 076 231 234 Fax: 076 231 233 www.phuket.regency.hyatt.com Kamala Beach Estate 33/6, Kamala Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83120 Tel. 076 279 756-9 Fax 076 324 111 www.kamalabeachestate.com The Aquamarine Resort & Villa 17/38 Moo.6, Kamala Beach Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 386 070-3 Fax 076 310 630 www.aquamarineresort.com Kamala Dream 74/1 Moo.3, T. Kamala A. Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 279 131 Fax 076 279 132 www.kamalabeach.net
Banthai Beach Resort 94 Thaveewong Road, Patong Beach Amphur Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 340 850-4 Fax 076 340 330 www.banthaiphuket.com Baan Yindee Boutiqe Resort 7/5 Muean Ngen Rd., Patong Beach Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 294 104-7 Fax 076 294 108 www.baanyindee.com Best Western Sawaddi Patong 21 Sainamyen Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand Tel. 076 343 444 Fax: 076 343 443 www.patongsawaddi.com B-Lay Tong 198 Thaveewong Road, Patong Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 344 999 Fax. 076 344 998 www.b-laytong.com
Burasari 18/110 Ruamjai Road, Patong Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 292 929 Fax. 076 292 930 www.burasari.com Club Andaman Beach Resort 2 Patong Rd., Krathu, Phuket Tel. 076 340 530 Fax 076 340 527 www.clubandaman.com Cozy Wold (the) Soi Sansabai, Patong, Phuket Tel. 076 340 886 Mobile: 086 953 5362 www.thecozyworld.com Deevana Patong Resort & Spa Tel. 076 341 414-5, 341 705 Fax 076 341 706 www.deevanapatong.com Holiday Inn 52 Thaweewong Rd., Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 340 119, 076 342 137 Fax 076 340 101 www.phuket.holiday-inn.com
Impiana Phuket Cabana 41 Taweewong Road Patong Beach, Phuket , 83150 Tel. 076 340 138 Fax 076 340 178 www.impiana.com La Flora Patong 39 Taweewong Rd., Patong Beach Kathu, Phuket 83110 Tel. 076 344 241 Fax 076 344 251 www.laflorpatong.com Millennium Resort Patong 199 Rat-Uthit 200 Pee Road Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 366 110 Fax 076 601 817 www.millenniumhotels.com Mercure Patong 239/14 Raj U Thid 200 Pee Road Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 302 100 Fax 076 302 111 www.mercurepatongphuket.com Royal Phawadee Village 3 Sawatdirak Road, Patong Beach Kathu, Phuket 83 150 Tel. 076 344 622 www.royal-phawadee-village.com
Marriott’s Phuket Beach Club JW Marriott Phuket & Spa
Most tourist amenities are on Phuket's west cost, so we've listed more accommodation from this area. However, those looking to get away from the bustle should visit the many other beautiful parts of the island.
Blue Canyon Country Club
Nai Yang
Airport SMT Carrent Budget Car Rent
Nai Yang Beach Indigo Pearl
KARON BEACH Centara Karon 502/3 Patak Rd, Tambon Karon, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 396 200-5 Fax 076 396 491 www.centarahotelsresorts.com Centara Villa 701 Patak Road, Tambon Karon Amphur Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 286 300-9 Fax 076 286 316 www.centarahotelsresorts.com Hilton Phuket Arcadia 6, Karon Soi 2, Tambon Karon Amphur Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 396 038-44, 396 433-41 Fax 076 396 136 www.phuketarcadia.com Karona Resort & Spa Karon Beach, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 286 406-10 Fax 076 286 411 www.karonaresort.com Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort 29, Soi Karon Noi, Tambon Karon Amphur Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 370 100 Fax 076 340 479 www.phuketbeachresort.lemeridien. com Movenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach 509 Patak Road, Karon Beach Phuket 83100 Tel. 66 76 396 139 Fax 66 76 396 122 www.moevenpick-hotels.com The Acces Resort & Spa 459/2 Patak Rd., Karon Beach, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 398 489 Fax 076 398 488 www.accessresort.com The Village Resort & Spa 566/1 Patak Road, Karon Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 398 200-5 Fax 076 398 206 www.thevillageresortandspa.com
KATA BEACH
KATA NOI BEACH Katathani Hotel & Resort Tel. 076 330 124-6 Fax 076 330 127 www.katathani.com Mom Tri’s Villa Royale Kata Beach, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 333 568 Fax 076 333 001 www.villaroyalephuket.com
NAI HARN The Royal Phuket Yacht Club 23/3 Moo1, Vises Road, Rawai, Muang District, Phuket 83130 Tel. 076 380 200 Fax 076 380 280 www.theroyalphuketyachtclub.com
RAWAI BEACH The Evason Phuket 100 Moo 2, Vised Rd., Tambol Rawai, Muang District, Phuket 83130 Tel. 076 381 010-7 Fax 076 381 018 www.evasonresorts.com The Mangosteen Resort & Spa 99/4 Moo.7, Tambon Rawai Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130 Tel. 076 289 399 Fax 076 289 389 www.mangosteen-phuket.com Villa Zolitude 53/25 Moo.5, Chafa Nok Rd., Chalong Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130 Tel. 076 521 333 Fax 076 521 330 www.villazolitude.com
CAPE PANWA Bel Air Panwa 89/9 Moo.7, Sakdidet Road, Tambon Wichit, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130 Tel. 076 200 773 Fax 076 200 774 www.belairpanwa.com Cape Panwa Hotel 27 Mu 8, Sakdidej Rd., Cape Panwa Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel. 076 391 123-5 Fax 076 391 177 www.capepanwa.com Novotel Beach Resort Panwa Phuket 5/3 Moo 8, Ao Yon Bay, Tambon Vichit Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel. 076 393 300 Fax 076 200 334 www.accorhotels-asia.com/3571 Sri Panwa Phuket 88 Moo. 8, Sakdidej Road, Phuket 83000, Thailand Tel. 076 371 000 Fax 076 371 004 www.sripanwa.com
PHUKET CITY
Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort & Spa Phuket Merlin Hotel 7/1 Ketkwan Road, Karon 158/1 Jawaraj Rd., Muang Muang, Phuket 83100 Phuket 83000 Tel. 076 370 999 Tel. 076 212 866-70 Fax 076 216 429 Fax 076 370 900 www.merlinphuket.com www.phuketnalina.com Royal Phuket City Managed by A Hotels & Resorts Phang-Nga Rd., Muang Phuket 83000 International Tel. 076 233 333 Fax 076 233 335 www.ahotelsandresorts.com www.royalphuketcity.com Centara Kata 54 Kedkwan Rd., Tambon Karon Amphur Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 370 300 Fax 076 333 642 www.centralhotelsresorts.com
OFF PHUKET
Arahmas
KHAO LAK Khao Lak Merlin 7/7 Phetkasem Rd., Lumkaen Taimuang Distric, Phang-Nga 82210 Tel. 076 428 300 Fax 076 443 200 www.merlinphuket.com/khaolak/ La Flora Resort & Spa, Khaolak 59/1 Moo.5, Tambon Kukkhak Amphur Takuapa, Phang-Nga 82190 Tel. 076 428 000 Fax 076 428 029 www.lafloraresort.com Le Meridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort 9/9 Moo. 1, Tambol Kuk Kak Amphur Takuapa, Phang -Nga 82190 Tel. 076 427 500 Fax 076 427 501 www.khaolak.lemeridien.com
KRABI Amari Vogue Resort 149 Moo 3, Tambol Nongtalay, Amphur Muang, Krabi 81000 Tel. 075 607 777 Fax 075 607 700 vogue@amari.com www.amari.com Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort Tel. 075 628 000 Fax 075 628 048 www.sheraton.com/krabi
ISLANDS PHI PHI ISLANDS Holiday Inn Resort Tel. 075 621 334, 08 1676 7317-8 Fax 075 621 334 www.phiphi-palmbeach.com Phi Phi Island Village 49 Moo 8, Loh Ba Gao Bay Phi Phi Island, Muang, Krabi 81000 Tel. 076 363700 Fax. 076 214918 www.ppisland.com Zeavola 11 Moo.8, Laem Thong, Koh Phi Phi Ao Nang, Krabi 81000 Tel: 075 627 000 Fax 075 627 025 www.zeavola.com
LANTA ISLAND Andaman Lanta Resort Tel. 075 684 200-2 Fax 075 684 203 www.lanta.de/andamanlanta Lanta Island Resort Tel. 075 684 124-6 Fax 075 684 128 www.lantaislandresort.com Pimalai Resort & Spa 99 Moo 5, Ba Kan Tiang Beach Koh Lanta, Krabi 81150, Thailand Tel. 075 607 999 Fax 075 607 987 www.pimalai.com
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Nai Thon Beach
KOH YAO YAI Koh Yao Yai Village 78 Moo 4, Koh Yao Yai, Amphoe Koh Yao, Phang-nga 82160 Tel. 076 363700 Fax. 076 214918 www.kohyaoyaivillage.com
Racha Island
THALANG
Trisara Layan Beach Resort
Layan Beach
Phuket Pavilion
Koh Katha
Bang Tao
Laguna Golf Club Laguna 30 Phuket 40 Resort Hotels
Banyan Tree Allamanda Sheraton Canal Village
Dusit Laguna Laguna Beach Resort Amora Resort & Spa oon Thon Rd . S ri S 4025 Twinpalms
The Chedi
Surin Beach
Kamala
Phuket FantaSea
Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort The Aquamarine Resort & Villa
Loch Palm
Thavorn Beach Village
Kalim Sunset Restaurant
Patong
The Blue Marine Daimond Cliff Novotel d. Wich it Son hram R gK
Salathai Resort Impiana Phuket Cabana Sala Bua Restaurant Banthai
Baan Boa Resort Amari Coral Beach
Royal Paradise Thara Patong Narry Boutique & Inn Holiday Inn
Le Meridien
The Front Village
Central Karon Village
KOH YAO NOI Koyao Island Resort Tel. 08 1606 1517-8 Fax 08 1606 1518 www.koyao.com The Paradise Koh Yao 24 Moo 4, Tambon Koh Yao Noi Amphur Koh Yao, Phang Nga 52160 Tel. 081 892 4878 Fax 081 894 2736 www.theparadise.biz
Andaman White Beach Resort
Karon
Thavorn Palm Beach
Phuket Arcadia Karona Resort & Spa
Karon Beach Resort Marina Phuket
Kata Kata Noi
Koh Pu
4028 Club Med
Kata Beach Resort Mom Tri’s Boathouse Mom Tri’s Villa Royal Kata Thani View Point
The Racha
Tel. 076 355 455 Fax 076 355 240 www.theracha.com
Nai Harn
Katamanda
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KATA-KARON
Kata Beach Resort & Spa Kata Beach, Tambon Karon Amphur Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 330 530-4, 076 330 200-4 Fax 076 330 128 www.katagroup.com Mom Tri's Boat House Kata Beach, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 330 015-7 Fax 076 330 561 www.boathousephuket.com The Aspasia Phuket 1/3, Laem Sai Road, Tambon Karon Amphur Muang, Phuket 83100 Tel. 076 333 033 Fax 076 333 035 www.aspasiaphuket.com
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Novotel Phuket Resort Kalim Beach, Patong 83150 Tel. 076 342 777 Fax 076 342 168 www.phuket.com/novotel Patong Merlin 44 Thaweewong Rd., Patong Beach Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 340 037-41, 292 218-9 Fax 076 340 394 www.patongmerlin.com The Blue Marine Resort & Spa 290/1 Prabaramee Rd., Patong Amphur Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 370 400 Fax 076 370 499 www.thebluemarine.com The KEE Resort & Spa 152/1 Thaveewong Rd., Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076-343 555, Fax 076-343 567 www.thekeeresort.com The Royal Paradise Hotel 135/23 Rat-U-Thit 200 Years Road Patong Beach, Phuket 83150 Tel. 076 340 666 Fax 076 340 565 www.royalparadise.com
Le Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club
Nai Harn Beach Promthep Cape
(Sunset Viewpoint)
4233
Phang Nga Bay: Site of those amazing vertical towers of rock that rise directly from the sea. It is an easy daytrip from Phuket – one that should not be missed. Most trips here take visitors to James Bond Island, though this is just one notso-impressive rock in a bay full of geographic wonders. The ultimate way to go is to rent a boat for the day, or join the June Bhatra day tour.
PHANG NGA
Sea Kayaking: Visit the caves in
limestone islands along the west side of Phang Nga Bay. This is an excellent way to see the scenery. John Gray, the original ‘Caveman’ who started it all, offers overnight tours within the bay.
The Paradise Koh Yao
small bungalows
Driving off Phuket: With
a bridge connection to the mainland province of Phang Nga, driving into the surrounding provinces is easy and safe. Just be sure any rental vehicle is cleared to leave the island, and that it is insured. For maps showing a network of routes to explore, go to www.phuketmagazine.com.
Yao Yai Resort
PHUKET
The Racha
Racha Islands: Both
of these rocky islands are beautiful, despite having few beaches. They make ideal daytrip destinations and are easily reached by speedboat or longtail from Rawai.
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Island Resorts: About a dozen upmarket resorts are hidden on islands and around the shores of Phang Nga Bay, offering truly delightful, quiet escapes in beautiful surroundings. See www.phuketmagazine.com for details of location and contacts.
Ban Raya
Diving: Phang Nga Bay is a boating wonderland, but it is shallow with silted water. Diving is thus restricted to south of Koh Yao Yai, where there are several beautiful underwater peaks that are accessible in all but really wild weather. In the high season, dive boats venture way off this map to places like the Similans.
Discovering the Region
Andaman
If you look at the island of Phuket as the centre of the huge and fascinating Andaman region, not the whole destination itself, you open up a new range of possibilities. Whether travelling by land or sea, you will discover a region of great geographic diversity and beauty. And travelling through this verdant countryside dotted with friendly villages is surprisingly easy. For land exploration, there is a network of excellent, quiet roads connecting mountains, beaches and lowlands. But the ocean route is the special one for Phuket, giving direct access to islands, beaches, cliffs and caves of stunning beauty. Backroads of Krabi: The area between the main highway linking Phuket and Krabi and the bay is crisscrossed with backroads through some amazingly beautiful country.Vertical limestone mountains rise from plantations and mangrove forests. There are cave temples and villages and coloured springs. This is a delightful area to explore by car or bike. See www. andamandiscoveries.com for anuthentic home stays and community-based tourism.
Island Bungalows: Many cheap and
friendly backpacker bungalows can be found on islands and beaches all up and down the Andaman coast from Malaysia to Burma. Some are a little difficult to find, making them all the more interesting. We’ve marked some here with their web addresses. See www. phuketmagazine.com
KRABI
Amari Vouge Resort Andaman Holiday Resort Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort
Krabi town
Krabi: This destination is almost as
famous as Phuket, and is being developed rapidly. There are many resorts along the coast here, some in secluded locations. One can get here from Phuket by road or boat. The three-hour drive is easy and beautiful, ideal for an overnight trip.
many resorts
Chartering yachts: The ultimate way to go in this
water wonderland. Both bareboat (see Sunsail) and crewed charters are available from the major companies at competitive prices. TML runs a 4-day, round-the-bay, join-in cruise that takes in all the highlights.
Holiday Inn Resort (P.P. Island) P.P. Island Village
Phi Phi: These islands had their
central village washed away by the tsunami, though a number of beautiful little resorts up the east coast were completely untouched. Tour boats are running again and many bungalows have rebuilt and reopened. And the islands remain stunningly beautiful.
Koh Lanta: This large island in
Krabi province is one of the new frontiers now being developed. Already there are many bungalows and resorts of all grades. The drive from Phuket takes 5 hours, crossing 2 ferries, and is pleasant. During the high season, there is a boat from Phi Phi to Lanta.
many resorts
Pimalai Resort & Spa
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Krabi, Koh Lanta & Phi Phi
K
rabi province is renowned for its status as an ecotourism destination, and many visitors, especially Europeans, visit this region to enjoy the national park forests as well as the beaches, islands and marine national parks. The Phi Phi Islands lie just 48 kilometres east of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, but are considered part of Krabi province. Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley have long been acclaimed world-wide for their natural beauty. Phi Phi Ley itself is part of a protected marine national park, and offers no accommodation. What it does offer are spectacularly scenic cliffs and coves for boating excursions, as well as great snorkelling and diving. The larger island of the two — the once heavily populated and ever-picturesque Phi Phi Don — was hit hard by the 26 December 2004 tsunami. Ton Sai Bay, a particularly favoured destination and commercial tourism centre, took the brunt of the wave. Clean-up operations have progressed significantly and the area has returned to its former splendour. Fantastic spots on the north of the island remain unscathed. Three private beachfront resorts — Phi Phi Holiday Inn,
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Phi Phi Island Village Resort, and Phi Phi Natural Resort, as well as several bungalow resorts — are fully operational, offering excellent accommodation and access to all the landmarks for which Phi Phi is so famed. On the Krabi mainland, Ao Nang Beach presents a bustling seafront village with plenty of budget guesthouses and bungalows scattered around upmarket seaside resorts. Ao Nang has much charm and character, and it’s well worth taking the time to sample the many cafés, soak up some sun and chat with the friendly locals. By night, the beachside bars are buzzing with music and a variety of activities for the lively visitor. Beyond Ao Nang and Krabi Town, plenty of other adventures await. You’ll find canoe and kayak companies, boat tour operators, snorkel hire stands and abundant dive shops. All this indicates one thing — there’s a lot to be seen offshore. Inland, a visit to Wat Tham Seua (Tiger Cave Temple) is recommended. Even if you don’t like the thought of having to climb 1,237 steps to the mountaintop shrine, with its spectacular views of Krabi Province, there’s still a lot to be seen in the village below, home to some 300 monks and nuns. For those who do fancy climbing, head to Railay Beach. While part of the mainland, Railay can only be accessed by boat. There
are some more resorts and great beaches in this region, as well as wonderful trekking trails and interesting caves, but the biggest attractions are the climbing walls, which should not be overlooked by the adventurous traveller. Phra Nang peninsula and many of the numerous islands along the coast are accessible by daily ferry service from Phuket and Krabi Town. Longtail boats also ferry passengers around the region. Koh Lanta Yai, one of the most popular islands for tourists in the Krabi region, is accessible by ferry from Phuket and Krabi Town, and also by car ferry from the mainland south of Krabi Town to Koh Lanta Yai via Lanta Noi. It’s best to rent a 4WD vehicle or motorcycle, since the roads are not as pristine as the beaches and coastal scenery. A large national park at the southern tip of Lanta Yai is great for trekking and wildlife spotting. The island has a range of accommodation plus restaurants and bars to suit all tastes and budgets. Excellent diving is available. For more information see: www.phuketmagazine.asia www.aonang.com www.kolanta.net
BURMA Koh Samui: Mergui Archipelago: 800
Thailand’s other famous island tourist destination.You can drive Phuket to Samui in about 5 hours over good roads with beautiful scenery. Regular ferries at Don Sak take cars to Samui. Signposts OK, but need a map as there are many roads.
Ranong:
uninhabited islands in Burma waters, now open to visitors, but facilities are few. Some interesting boat trips from Kawthaung, opposite Thailand’s Ranong. These are world’s last islands in tropical waters still in pristine condition.
lively frontier town; entry to southern Burma and Kawthaung just across a wide estuary. Gateway to Burma’s pristine Mergui Archipelago.
Coast road to Ranong:
a beautiful drive with beaches to the west and forested mountains to the east. Four hours from Phuket to Ranong. Good roads and sign posts. Many side roads to waterfalls and parks.
Koh Phra Thong: a community of private escapes and resort bungalows was damaged by the tsunami, some have rebuilt.
Northeast season: strong
winds from the South China Sea bring rain to Samui untill March, but little, save the wind, reaches the Andaman side.
Catch the waterfalls: along the road to Ranong, but they dry up by March each year.
Similan Islands: frequently calm and clear they provide the most beautiful diving in the Andaman and are the most popular dive sites.
Takuapa: old tin-mining
centre, now a quiet, rural town with few attractions.
Thap Lamu: naval base and
fishing port. Boats depart from here for the Similan islands. Large jetty and small village.
Khao Sok National Park: the largest and most beautiful national park in south Thailand. A large dam in the middle gives access to stunning geography and forests. Park headquarters is on the road at southern side.
Phang Nga town: scenic little provincial capital with a mix of old wooden buildings and new concrete, set among towering karst mountains. Accommodation available. Nearby jetties with boats going to Phang Nga Bay. Worth visiting.
Khao Lak: the area most
seriously damaged by the tsunami but rapidly re-building and beautiful to visit.
Temple Caves: the backroads of Krabi secret many caves in the karst mountains with Buddhas. Great exploring.
Phang Nga Bay Regatta: a fun regatta sailed in Jan/Feb in the famous bay of vertical rocky islands; 4 days sailing; parties every night and participants sleep on boats most nights.
Koh Lanta: a fast developing, new resort
island with dozens of bungalow resorts, 1 to 5 stars. An hour’s drive from Krabi, with two car ferries. Fast boat links from Phi Phi and Krabi in high season.
Scattered islands: many small islands along this coast are only accessable by those with a yacht, providing ideal cruising grounds.
Diving season: the Andaman is calm and clear untill May, and the diving along the whole coast is good to spectacular. Koh Rok Nok & Rok Nai: national
parks with tent accommodation. A favourite area for gamefishing, specially for sailfish.
Koh Talibong: a large estuary island with
flocks of seasonal seabirds; sea grass beds here support Thailand’s last family of dugongs, or ‘sea cows’ related to manatees.
Fishing the continental drop-off: about 60 kms
offshore the shelf drops off providing serious big game fishing.
Tarutao Islands: southern-most islands bordering Malaysia’s Langkawi. Uninhabited national park with walking tracks. Park office on northwest corner.
Butang Islands: some of the most beautiful islands in the region. Only Koh Lipe has accommodation, a sea gypsy village and regular transport to the mainland. Ideal for those with a yacht.
Trang: quiet province
with tourism attractions – islands, Buddha caves, emerald pools, temples and resorts. Pretty to drive around here.
Trang Islands: the three
islands here all have small resorts on beautiful beaches. Lots of snorkelling and relaxation. Daily boats in the high seasons from the coast at Pak Meng jetty.
Satun: a border
town with immigration post and a regular ferry – a few times daily - to Malaysia’s Langkawi.
MALAYSIA Phuket Magazine 63
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Phuket Magazine 65
Natural Park
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D E S I G N
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Phuket Magazine
Caffeine coffee bar and Capucci Pizzeria Beautiful Italian cafe' in Kathu,warm shabby chic vintage atmosphere with high quality coffees, cakes, pasta and between the best voted Italian pizza in the island. All at very reasonable prices. Come and visit in Kathu 94/22, Wichitsonkrang Rd., just opposite ThungThong Restaurant (big chicken statue rest) 100m from Phuket Country Club. We are open from11:00 to 22:00 Delivery nearby restaurant Please Call: 081 432 6587 Buon appetito
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