Phuket. Vol.26 No.1 by LEK Phuket

Vol. 26 No. 1

www.phuketmagazine.asia

Phuket Magazine 1

Phuket Magazine

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Exciting Crocodile Show Certainly Leave You Very Impressed! T. 076 367 660 -1 Address: 15/15 M.5, Tambol Chalong, Phuket 83000 Central Festival Suko Spa

Wat Chalong

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Phuket Crocodile Wlord

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C o n t e n t s 24

Bay Regatta sails for 18th time

Exploring Phang Nga Province

Simon James, Kae Wattana and their team at Regattas Asia did a great job of organizing this year’s Bay Regatta, ensuring that the “party that sails around” will continue to do so. Little wind the first two days didn’t hamper the participants’ spirits and the sailors hung in there enjoying a final two days of good racing. We helped start this regatta and we are delighted to see that is remains strong and vibrant.

Cross Sarasin Bridge and a whole new world of village and community-based tourism awaits you in the nearest province on the Thai mainland. Tourism development has not yet arrived in many of these authentic little towns and villages and their traditional coastal livelihoods are unspoiled and intact. A slew of activities such as rubber tapping, fishing, hiking, sea canoeing, and mountain biking are all on offer. Be sure to visit Ao Maan Beach at Ban Saba Village.

Phuket Island Map 10 Restaurant Guide 56 Accommodation 58

If you’ve never experienced a Songkran in Thailand, you’re in for a treat, but be prepared to get wet – and don’t trust anyone, the water gun may appear out of nowhere wielded by the person you least expect. Make sure your phone and wallet are waterproofed; better yet only take the possessions you absolutely need if you are going to wander about during the festival. Be prepared to get wet, and wet and wet again - get ready for multiple changes of clothes. At some point, you’ll probably just elect to drip dry.

World’s Biggest Waterfight

Centara Karon hosts 21st Mekong Cup

Few people realize that Phuket annually hosts the largest ball hockey tournament in Asia. This year’s six-team event was held at the Centara Karon Resort again with teams from Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Chiang Mai all competing. The Phuket team even featured a former draft choice of the San Jose Sharks.

Andaman Map Krabi-Phi Phi Map

News | Features | Business | Events | Property

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Cover: Dragon Art Media’s Senior Art Director Apichai Ekapoom, took this shot of a tourist enjoying life on a swing on Ao Maan Beach in Phang Nga province. 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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A Disco Discreetly Named Seduction

Escape Hunt Experience is a great team-building exercise

Phuket Bike Week Bigger & Better than Ever

There are few more happening places on Soi Bangla, than Seduction. We will give you a taste of what’s on offer in this piece, but it’s best to just check out all the action yourself. Patong is all about unparalleled nightlife and that’s what Seduction offers.

The Escape Hunt Experience is one of Phuket's newest attractions. Having just celebrated its 6-month anniversary, the attraction is listed by Trip Advisor as one the “Top 10 activities to do in Phuket”. The concept revolves around playing the part of a famous London detective with a chance to voyage back 100 years to solve a mystery in a crime scene and escape from a room in 60 minutes! The games are built to use teamwork, brains, logic and more to crack the cases!

Phuket Bike Week is the biggest motorcycle event in Asia and it will celebrate its 21st anniversary from April 11th—19th. This event is expected to draw over 10,000 motorcycles, 50,000 visitors from more than 30 countries to Phuket. The excitement will take place in Patong Beach from April 11th—13th and then in Phuket Town from April 17th—19th.

Thai silk in Phuket

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.

fin Fabulous - first specialty wine distributor in Thailand

Benjawan Wisootsat, the Managing Director and owner of the Optimum group, created fin and has been successful convincing some of the best and most exclusive winemakers in the world to appoint her to be the exclusive distributor for their wines in Thailand.

Baan

Restaurant Bar & Coffee

Chill out with Delicious Food located on the Airport Bypass Road (opposite Blue Canyon Golf Club) one street light down from the New Town intersection (Muang Mai), 6.4km from the Phuket Airport.

Acoustic Band Every Friday 9.00pm-11.00pm

Tel. 076 621 107 Mobile: 084 753 5665 Phuket Magazine 9

HYATT REGENCY 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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Phuket Magazine 11

Spinnaker run hi-lites final day of Bay Regatta Story and photos by Scott Murray

n the final day, good wind allowed PRO Simon James to get in one of the famous spinnakers runs that the Bay Regatta is renowned for as the competitors sailed from the start line off Phi Phi Don to Ao Chalong. Interestingly, committee boat Rendezvous acted as both the start boat, and then racing ahead as the finish boat with the other committee boat Tom Howard’s Seraph acting as the gate off of Koh Maiton and eventually the finish line for the Cruising B class. Adrenaline was first across the line on the final day with a time of 02:25:29, narrowly beating Hurricane (02:25:37) Twin Sharks (02:25:53) and Blue Noze (02:26:58) in a closely-grouped finish. The much-hyped 40ft trimaran, a

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Formula 40, had teething problems in last year’s regatta and had to withdraw early due to a collision with its support boat Uravai, but this year, it flew—grabbing line honours three times. On handicap Mark Horwood/Merv Owen’s boat finished 7th with 23 points, but speed wise it kicked ass. This year’s racing class was won by Roland Dane’s Jessandra 11with a total of 5 points; second went to Fergus & Jennifer Wilmer’s Foo 4 with 8 points; third to Evegeni Nikforov’s First with 13 points; while Mick Tilden’s Fujin was fourth with 16 points and Nicolay Vlasov’s Tiburon was last with 18 points. The multihull class saw John Coffin’s Java take first overall with eight points. Second spot went to Alan Carwadine’s Asia

Catamarans Hurricane, who although they tied with Andrew DeBruin’s Bullet with 12 points took second spot because of higher placings in their races. Andrew was sailing with his son Fin and Scott Duncanson. Fourth place also saw a tie between John Newnham’s Twin Sharks and Kiril Stashevsky’s Galeforce, each with 20 points with the former getting the leg up because of higher race placings. George Eddings’ Blue Nose took sixth overall with 22 points and Mark Horwood/Merv Owen’s Adrenaline came seventh with 23 points. Last year, Grenville Fordham’s Nina beat almost all the Stealths but this year the light wind relegated her to last with 36 points. Danny Moore’s 3itch never seemed to find its groove either, coming in second last with 28

points. On the final day of racing in Cruising A, Niels Degenkolw Phoenix (03:55:30) finished almost an hour ahead of second place Sansiri Windstar helmed by Ging Patinyakorn Buranrom (04:49:57). The only two other boats to finish on the final day in this class were Libby Boyd and the Chinese students from the Krabi Sailing School on Mas Alegre, who came in at 05:38:33, and Dominic Buchholz’s Venus Hunter who finished at 06:14:41. Venus Hunter won the “persistence award” on the final day; drifting backwards, dangerously close to the reef on Koh Maiton, on the opposite side of the white buoy forming the gate with committee boat Seraph, they continued to drift and drift much

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to the exasperation of the committee, only to finally right themselves and then sail back around the buoy, cross the finish line properly and grab 4th place in Cruising A with an elapsed time of 06:14:41. Linda, also in Cruising A, was caught drifting backwards parallel to Venus Hunter for a while, but the captain in his Scottish brogue declared he would fight another day and withdrew from Dozens of colourful spinnakers sailed through the race leaving Vesome of the world’s most famous cruising nus Hunter to fight her way back solo. grounds, enjoying spectacular scenery and In Bay Regatta history, no one cappartying well into the night. tain, or boat, has won its class more often than Niels Degenkolw Phoenix and they did it again capturing Cruising A with 4 points; Sansiri Windstar was next with five; Mas Alegre was third with ten; Venus Hunter was fourth with 14; Linda fifth with 17 and Allsail Uhuru and Sailom finished tied for sixth with identical records at 20 points each. Cruising B class saw the Gillows on Poco sweep all three of their races taking first place overall. The regatta’s “courage award” went to Kevin Gillow, who after suffering a stroke last year, made a remarkable comeback to win this class with just his charming daughter Mia as the only other

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crew member. Meg Wehrle’s Aqua and Kevan & Sheila Perrins’ Oyster 435 Rusalka ended up tied with eight points, but Aqua took second based on two second-place finishes. Fourth went to Steve Johnson’s Bonobo (13 pts); Sergei Dikanov’s Rate was fifth (17 pts); and sixth spot went to Rob Devlin’s SY Ravensong (06:07:49), with Toot Yai fittingly bringing up the rear (23pts). On the final day, Toot Yai finished at Phuket’s Boat Lagoon, forgetting to notify the race committee leaving a few on the finish line scratching their heads and wondering where she went. Committee members had also given up on Bonobo, but she stuck it out finally appearing over the horizon and crossing the finish line last just before the 3:30pm cut-off time with an elapsed time of 06:32:40. A channel race, this regatta took place over four days. It kicked off March 5th with an opening night party at Chandara Resort & Spa (www.chandara-resort.com) near Ao Po Marina. Racing started the next day as yachts headed out in the direction of Koh Yao Noi, stopping in at the Paradise Koh Yao Boutique Resort & Spa (www.theparadisekohyao.com) for the evening’s party. On the second day out the fleet set sail in light

wind and headed for the P.P. Erawan Palms Resort on Phi Phi Don (www.pperawanpalms.com), the site of the second night’s party. For the third day of racing, the yachts sailed around the Phi Phi Islands with the evening’s party being staged by Arayaburi/ Bayview Resort Phi Phi (www.arayaburiphiphi.com). The final day of racing, saw competitors head back to Ao Chalong from Phi Phi, where upon finishing the regatta participants celebrated with a big bash and the final awards ceremony at the 02 Beach Club in Ao Chalong (www.o2beachclub.com). The Bay Regatta was founded by a photographer (John Everingham) and friends (Chris Schaefer and Andy Stephens). Everingham, a long-time Phuket King’s Cup Regatta committee member, was motivated in part by frustration at the annual struggle over setting that regatta’s courses. On the one hand, he wanted to shoot the fleet of sails contrasted against the dramatic scenery. The hard-core sailors, on the other hand, wanted their boats as far away from land as possible to avoid fickle winds. Dramatic photos would attract more sponsors, argued the photographer; but the sailors always won. So the stymied lensman rounded up some like-minded friends and established a regatta designed to sail among the dra-

matic limestone island towers and mainland forests of the waters off Phuket’s east coast. The problem was that some time the courses would go too deep into the Bay, where the wind she didn’t blow. So when the ACYC gained control over the regatta a couple years back a compromise was worked out between beautiful scenery and good sailing courses. In the deep channels Affectionately billed as “The Fun between the spectacular, Regatta”, the regatta leads participants vertical rock walls, the Bay through a course of different anchorages Regatta’s philosophy of fun-amidst-beauty shone and party venues. through for all to see. The hallmark of this event is a casual, fun-filled atmosphere. Many friends join together to sail the four-day event and while the sailing is serious for many racing class yachts, a large number of cruisers join for the experience of sailing through some of the world’s most amazing maritime scenery. Sailing scribe Kate Hubert has described the regatta thus: “The PNBR has always attracted cruising yachties – those who have abandoned the rat race and traded the bricks-and-mortar for a life afloat. So in addition to the toned bodies of the young race crews, there were also many retirees in the race. The tortoises, who carry their homes

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with them, may not look as shiny as the racing hares, but sometimes they finish ahead of the presumed front-runners. “ The oracle of Southeast Asian sailing Captain Marty once noted this regatta’s distinction, “Why does this regatta have Congratulation to Simon James, Kae Wattana a reputation for being the ‘Fun Regatta’ and their crew at Regattas Asia for doing a compared to the ususpectacular job of running the Bay Regatta. al ‘gung ho’ racing events that we have grown accustomed to? Well you only have to take a look around the moored yachts. There are families with children bonding together, groups of old friends, drinking buddies reacquainting themselves, familiar racing crews and foreign charter guests sharing the experience with some old-fashioned camaraderie. If you are going to spend so much money on a boat it’s good to see the owners fully utilize the vessel for what it is designed to be used for.

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“Instead of racing for a couple hours and going home, be prepared to live aboard for four days and use the galley, toilet and inbuilt luxury interior for what it’s worth. At the same time, the crew can develop some seamanship qualities and other boat handling skills not found on the race course. Make no mistake though, whether it’s a racing or cruising boat, monohull or multihull the racing element is alive and well. When the starting signal sounds it is sheet on and go for it. After the racing, it’s off to the overnight anchorage area and prepare for another prize-giving party at some of the finest resorts on offer in Thailand. Then get ready to do it all again the next day. To get through it all, calls for an exercise in endurance.” Congratulations to Simon James and Kae Wattana and their hard-working and cheerful team for keeping the tradition of the Fun Regatta alive and well. Andy

Dowden and Claire Mossup did a great job MCing their respective awards’ presentation nights as well. The regatta is more famous for the spectacular settings of its courses and parties than the sense of sailing triumph, and continues to evolve while maintaining its original brief – to bring the joys of sailing right into the midst of the spectacular environments that surround Phuket. It appeals to the serious, the not-soserious and the not-at-all-serious “racing” sailors, combining spectacular natural scenery with lively parties and some sail boat racing. The region’s yachting community visits three of Thailand's most scenic provinces in four days of racing and five days of partying. Camaraderie and fun are cornerstones of the event and as participants end up reliving each day’s sailing with post-race beverages and lively conversation followed by a casual dinner, a prize-giving ceremony

and entertainment on shore. Host sponsors for the regatta were the Chandara Resort & Spa, the Paradise Koh Yao Beach Resort & Spa, the Arayaburi Boutique Resort, the Bay View Resort, the PP Erawan Palms Resort and the O2 Beach Club. Regattas Asia was the event organizer and The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Yacht Racing Authority of Thailand (YRAT) and the Ao Chalong Yacht Club (ACYC) are the supporting authorities. Local supporters included B&G, Canvas Creations, Electrical Marine, Quantum Sails, Octopus Electrical Services, Krabi Boat Lagoon, Phuket Boat Lagoon and SY Seraph. The official media partners are SEA Yachting and the Greater Phuket Magazine. While regatta partners included Asahi, Asia Catamarans, Haad Thip, Jungceylon, Mont Clair, Singha Light, Neil Pryde and the Mangosteen.

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Explore Phang Nga’s stunning karst topography Story and photos by Apichai Ekapoom

There’s a lot more to Thailand than the beaches and bars of Phuket Island. Phuket Magazine takes a look at the fascinating world of village and community-based tourism along Phang Nga Bay.

Every morning fishermen go to check their catch (below, far left); as tourists prepare to take a longtail to their canoeing trip from Klong Kien pier, the base from which to visit Phang Nga Bay National Park (below, second from left). A vista from the surrounding topography (below, second from right); the area is also its highly popular with bicyclists (below, far right).

ทุกเช้าจะเห็นชาวบ้านออกไปดูไซที่ตนดักไว้บริเวณท่าเรือ (ภาพเล็กซ้ายมือ) ในขณะที่อีกหลายคนกำ�ลังเตรียมตัวออกไปรับจ้างพายเรือแคนนูให้นักท่อง เที่ยว (ภาพถัดมา) ท่าเรือคลองเคียนนอกจากจะเป็นจุดลงเรือไปเที่ยวเกาะ ต่างๆ แล้ว ยังได้รับความนิยมจากนักขี่จักรยานอีกด้วย (ภาพเล็กขวามือ)

Phuket Magazine

huket hosts visitors with a variety of interests and aspirations. For many, a vacation here means happily whiling away their days lying prone on white sand as gentle waves break over their toes and they sip sweet libations. Then there are the â&#x20AC;&#x153;semi-adventurousâ&#x20AC;? types who power through a relentless circuit of scuba and snorkelling trips, or swim in so-called deserted island lagoons, which just happen to have fifteen other tour boats visiting that day. However, for those who travel with a well-honed sense of curiosity, there is always the urge to go deeper and scratch below the surface of standard tourist offerings to try to find a glimpse of authenticity. Tambon Klong Kien operates out of 8 small towns along the Phang Nga Bay about two hours north of Phuket. The town is barely a blip on the map; it is however

the jumping off point for tours to Phang Nga Bay National Park. Apart from that, you probably would never have heard of it. You can take a tour that lasts from a single day to a whole week, during which time you will visit villages such as Ban Klong Kien, Ban Hin Rom, and Ban Saba. Ask your friends if they have heard of such places and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll doubtless receive blank stares. This is a good thing because it means that tourism development has not yet arrived in such authentic little towns and villages and that their traditional coastal livelihoods are still unspoiled and intact. Tambon Klong Kien offers a range of activities such as Thai massage, rubber tapping, fishing, hiking, sea canoeing, and mountain biking. There is enough to choose from to fit the interests and fitness levels of every visitor.

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คลองเคี ย น หมู่บ้านอันสวยงามที่รอการสัมผัส ใ

เรื่องและภาพโดย อภิชัย เอกภูมิ

นวันหยุดพักผ่อนของหลายคนที่มาเที่ยวภูเก็ต มีความต้องการพักผ่อนที่ไม่เหมือนกัน บาง คนอาจต้องการแค่ นอนคว่ำ�หน้าบนหาดทรายสีขาวเพื่อให้คลื่นสาดซัดเท้าเล่น จิบเครื่อง ดื่มเย็นๆ ริมสระว่ายน้ำ�สวยๆ บางคนต้องการความตื่นเต้นผจญภัยเช่นดำ�น้ำ�ดูฝูงปลาและ ประการัง อย่างไรก็ตามยังมีนักท่องเที่ยวจำ�นวนมากที่ต้องการจะสัมผัสวิถีชีวิต วัฒนธรรม ของชาวจังหวัดภาคใต้ บ้านคลองเคียน อยู่ในอำ�เภอตะกั่วทุ่ง จังหวัดพังงา ในตำ�บลมีทั้งหมด 8 หมู่บ้าน ตั้ง อยู่ทางฝั่งอุทยานแห่งชาติอ่าวพังงา ถ้าขับรถจากสะพานสารสินใช้เวลาประมาณ 2 ชั่วโมง ถ้าดูจากแผนที่จะพบเพียงแค่จุดบอกตำ�แหน่งธรรมดา แต่ที่นี่เป็นอีกจุดหนึ่งที่บริษัททัวร์พา นักท่องเที่ยวมาลงเรือไปเที่ยวตามเกาะต่างๆ ในอ่าวพังงา คลองเคียนมีธรรมชาติที่สวยงาม เงียบสงบ คนในหมู่บ้านเป็นชาวมุสลิมเกือบทั้งหมด ใช้ชีวิตอย่างเรียบง่าย ท่านอาจใช้เวลาสั้นๆ เพียงหนึ่งวัน หรือ หนึ่งอาทิตย์ในการสัมผัสวิถี ชาวบ้าน เช่น บ้านคลองเคียน บ้านหินร่ม บ้านสะบ้า หากท่านรู้จักคนที่เคยมาเที่ยวที่นี่ ท่านจะได้รับคำ�บอกเล่าที่แสนประทับใจจากเขา อาชีพหลักของคนในหมู่บ้านคือทำ�สวนยาง สวนปาล์มน้ํามัน และออกทะเลจับสัตว์น้ำ� วิถีชีวิตของที่นี่ยังไม่เปลี่ยนแปลงจากกระแสนัก ท่องเที่ยวไปมากนัก ยังคงมีความสวยงาม เรียบง่ายเหมือนที่เคยเป็นมา ที่คลองเคียนมี กิจกรรมให้ท่านเลือกสัมผัสหลายอย่างอาทิเช่น นวดแผนไทย ชมการกรีดยาง ตกปลา นั่ง เรือชมเกาะแก่งต่างๆ หรือจะขี่จักรยานชมธรรมชาติที่สวยงาม

Phuket Magazine

Ban Hin Rom, another small town, beautiful and tranquil.

บ้านหินร่ม หมู่บ้านเล็กๆ ที่สวยงาม และเงียบสงบ

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ao Maanâ&#x20AC;? the wonderland

o Maan Beach at Ban Saba Village is a small beach but offers fabulous views of the surrounding area. There are many activities to partake in such as canoeing, sunbathing, Thai massage, ATV riding and elephant trekking. Beyond is the vast expanse of Phang Nga Bay, dotted with the verdant rocks of uninhabited islands. Taking in the view in both directions one is inspired to marvel at the expanse of undeveloped natural beauty of this region, just a short drive from the throngs in Phuket. How to go there: From Sarasin Bridge, take highway No.4 to Khok Kloi then go around 1km, u-turn to Thanoon and drive 26km, to Klong Khian Pier.

Phuket Magazine

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อ่หาดทรายสวย...ทะเลใส...ใกล้ าวหมาน เกาะ

าดอ่าวหมาน ตั้งอยู่ที่หมู่บ้านสะบ้า เป็นหาดทรายเล็กๆ ที่สวยงาม ตั้งอยู่ไม่ไกลจากท่าเทียบ เรือคลองเคียน หาดนี้เพิ่งพัฒนาเป็นชายหาดที่สมบูรณ์ และเปิดให้บุคคลทั่วไปได้เที่ยวชม เมื่อ เดือนมกราคมที่ผ่านมา โดยที่นี่มีกิจกรรมหลายอย่าง เช่น พายเรือแคนนู อาบแดด นวดแผน ไทย เหนือฝั่งขึ้นไปยังมีกิจกรรมนั่งช้างชมธรรมชาติ ขับรถเอทีวี อีกทั้งยังมีจุดถ่ายภาพที่สวยงาม อีกด้วย หาดนี้เป็นทางผ่านทางเรือจากภูเก็ตเพื่อไปเที่ยวเกาะต่างๆ ในพังงา จึงทำ�ให้เป็นจุด แวะพักที่ดี และเริ่มได้รับความนิยมจากนักท่องเที่ยวอย่างต่อเนื่อง การเดินทางสัมผัสวิถีชาวบ้าน ซึ่งไม่ไกลจากภูเก็ตเช่นที่บ้านคลองเคียน อาจสร้างแรงบัน ดานใจหรือสร้างพลังในการดำ�เนินชีวิตให้กับท่าน และยังอาจเป็นประสพการ์ณใหม่ในการพัก ผ่อนวันหยุดที่คุ้มค่าอีกด้วย การเดินทางไปบ้านคลองเคียน จากภูเก็ตใช้ทางหลวงหมายเลข 4 เมื่อลงสะพานสารสิน ขับตรงไปโคกกลอยประมาณ 1 กม ให้กลับรถ และเข้าทางท่านุ่น จากนั้นขับตรงไปตลอดระยะทาง 26 กม จนถึงท่าเทียบเรือบ้าน คลองคียน

Phuket Magazine

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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 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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Phuket Magazine

The World’s Biggest

Water Fight

f you’ve never experienced a Songkran in Thailand, you’re in for a treat, but be prepared to get wet – and don’t trust anyone, the water gun may appear out of nowhere weilded by the person you least expect. Here some tips, make sure your phone and wallet are in waterproof bags, better yet only take the possessions you absolutely need if you are going to wander about during the festival. Be prepared to get wet, and wet and wet again - get ready for multiple changes of clothes. At some point, you’ll probably just elect to drip dry. Be very careful when driving, or being pillion on a motorcycle during Songkran – you are a fair game. Too many have been hurt taking a sharp corner only to be met with a torrent of water in their face and super slick pavement. If you’ve got a short fuse, either find a deserted island or leave the country. People are going to throw wa-

ter at you whether you like it or not. Chiang Mai is well known for its Songkran activities; in Bangkok, the place to be is Khao San Road, and in Phuket, well, if you really want to get wet head to Patong’s Soi Bangla. Songkran is celebrated as the traditional Thai New Year's from 13 to 15 April. The date was originally set by astrological calculation, but is now fixed. It falls at the end of the dry season, in the hottest time of the year. Traditionally, Songkran was a time to visit and pay respects to elders, including family members, friends and neighbours. Nowadays, people roam the streets in pickup trucks with containers of water or water guns (sometimes mixed with mentholated talc), or post themselves at the side of roads with a garden hose and drench each other and passersby.

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Thais also celebrate Songkran by going to wats to pray and give food to monks. They also cleanse Buddha images by gently pouring water mixed with a Thai fragrance over them. It is believed that this will bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year. In many cities, Buddha images from important monasteries are paraded through the streets so that people can toss water at them, ritually â&#x20AC;&#x153;bathingâ&#x20AC;? them, as they pass by on ornately decorated floats. Many Thais make New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resolutions and besides washing household Buddha images, take the opportunity to give their home a thorough cleaning as well. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the

Phuket Magazine

Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Songkran is also celebrated in Myanmar (called Thingyan), Laos (called pee mai lao), Cambodia, (called Chaul Chnam Thmey), and by the Dai people in Yunnan, China or have their own water-splashing festival. The term Songkran comes from Sanskrit "Sankranta" and means" a move or change", in this case the move of the sun into the Aries zodiac. Originally this happened at the vernal equinox, but, as Thai astrology did not observe precession, the date moved from March to April.

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Phuket Magazine 31

Thai Stix triumph in 21st

Mekong Cup Story & Photos by Scott Murray

ith a 3-2 Mekong Cup final victory over the Singapore Chili Crabs, Bangkok’s Thai Stix ball hockey team put to rest the ghosts of recent past, especially last year’s heartbreaking last-minute championship loss to the Hong Kong Islanders. The tourney saw six teams compete for Southeast Asia’s most coveted ball hockey trophy: four came from Thailand; the Phuket Pucks, the Chiang Mai Highlanders, the Thai Stix and the Bullies Resurrected (the last two based in Bangkok); one team came from Singapore, the Chili Crabs; and one from Hong Kong, the Islanders.

Phuket Magazine

After round-robin play in the morning, the Chiang Mai Highlanders (0-3-2) and the Phuket Pucks (0-4-1) had to make a hasty exit, finishing fifth and sixth overall. The first semi-final saw a battle of the two Bangkok teams with the top-seeded Thai Stix (5-0-0) beating the fourth-seeded Bullies Resurrected (1-2-2) 6-1. The other semi-final saw the second-seeded Singapore Chili Crabs (3-1-1) come back from a two-goal deficit to beat the third-seeded Hong Kong Islanders 3-2 (3-2). That set up a final between the Thai Stix and the Chili Crabs. Singapore jumped out to an early 1-0 lead, but the Thai Stix

The event was staged at the Centara Karon Resort Phuket at Karon Beach for the fourth straight year.

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This was the fifth solo championship for the Thai Stix, but their first since 2004. stormed back with three unanswered goals. Singapore scored a late goal to make it close but when the final whistle sounded the Thai Stix had triumphed and were back on top the Asian ball hockey world. Yves Gaboriault did an outstanding job in his first year as tourney organizer; referees Craig Noon and John Casella also did a great job of maintaining order, as there werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t any serious incidents throughout.

Phuket Magazine

Though this was the 21st Mekong Cup, it was the first time a team from Phuket had entered the competition. Credit must go to Joe Burgess of Nok & Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar/Restaurant who organizes a ball hockey every weekend in Surin (you contact Joe at atchara1986@ hotmail.com). The Phuket team even featured a former draft choice of the San Jose Sharks, Dominik Bielke who was drafted in the seventh round in 2009.

Thai Stix - 2015 Mekong Cup champions

List of Mekong Winners

The Thai Stix last won the Mekong Cup in 2004 and captain John Stevens and goalie Yves Gaboriault are the only surviving members from that team on the Stix today though Phuket team-member Scott Murray as well as referee and former tourney organizer John Casella were also part of that dynasty, which won four titles over five years. The Stix are now tied with the Hong Kong Islanders for the most Mekong Cup championships with five each. Thai Stix forward, and the youngest

player on the team, Aku Korkonen, was the tournament MVP as he scored 10 goals. A charity auction at the awards banquet raised Bt40,000 for the Vivian Slot scholarship fund (http://www.unizg.hr/vivianscholarship). The event was staged at the Centara Karon Resort Phuket at Karon Beach for the fourth straight year; the resort did a great job as host, and put on a lavish and sumptuous buffet for the awards dinner.

1995 – Bangkok/Kuala Lumpur (co-champions) 1996 – Singapore Chili Crabs 1997 – Kuala Lumpur Cobras 1998 – Kuala Lumpur Cobras 1999 – Singapore Chili Crabs 2000 – Bangkok Thai Stix 2001 – Bangkok Thai Stix 2002 – Bangkok Thai Stix 2003 – Singapore Chili Crabs 2004 – Bangkok Thai Stix 2005 – Hong Kong Islanders 2006 – Hong Kong Nordiques 2007 – Hong Kong Islanders 2008 – Hong Kong Islanders 2009 – Hong Kong Islanders / HKL-MJM Petrzalka 2010 – HKL-MJM Petrzalka 2011 – Hong Kong Islanders 2012 – Singapore Chili Crabs 2013 – Montreal Coupe Burrows 2014 – Hong Kong Islanders 2015 – Thai Stix

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Similan Islands

Phuket Magazine

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Escape Hunt Experience will test your mettle

he Escape Hunt Experience is Phuket's newest attraction, opening last August. Having just celebrated its 6-month anniversary, the attraction is listed by Trip Advisor as one the “Top 10 activities to do in Phuket”. The Escape Hunt Experience Phuket is one of the many The concept revolves around playing the branches worldwide, with the flagship branch being located part of a famous London detective with in Bangkok. The concept in brief rea chance to voyage back 100 years to volves around playing the part solve a mystery in a crime scene. of a famous London detective with a chance to voyage back 100 years to solve a mystery in a crime scene and escape from a room in 60 minutes! The games are built to use teamwork, brains, logic and more to crack the cases! What do I do in the “adventure”?

Phuket Magazine

We cannot give too much away so we don’t spoil the surprise but you will need to use all your skills and intellect combined with nerves of steel to solve a great mystery set in a unique setting. With your team, you hunt for clues and solve puzzles to escape from the room. You have 1 hour to do so and your game master will help you when required so everyone is guaranteed a great experience. There are currently 4 different game room options. How do I play The Escape Hunt Experience? To answer this now would give away the whole surprise so let’s just say it is one of the most exhilarating ways to spend 90 minutes with your friends. The adventure lasts 60 minutes but you should arrive 10 minutes before for your briefing and afterwards you will be offered refreshments and time for feedback and discussion so allow 90 minutes in total (or more if you want to just hang out). The adventure itself involves escaping from a room where a crime has been committed. Solve the mystery and escape. Sounds simple? Just try! Why play The Escape Hunt Experience? The Escape Hunt Experience is designed to be one of the most fun ways you will ever find to spend 90 minutes of your time with your friends or a partner. It is also many other things – educational, di-

dactic, bonding, inspirational, exhilarating, spontaneous, challenging and much more. You will learn a lot about yourself and the rest of your team in a very short time and most of all have a great deal of fun. The Escape Hunt Experience loves seeing the looks of excitement and satisfaction on our guests faces when they escape! In Phuket, there are a total of 8 game rooms with 4 different mysteries, allowing for competition between groups. The rooms are “Poison in the Dining Room”, “Kidnapping in the Games Room”, “Fire on the Sinking Ship” and “Bomb in the Workshop”. The games are designed for ages 7

and up and teams play in groups of 2-5 to race against the clock. This new attraction is good for family fun, friends, couples, big groups, small groups and even corporates team building activities! The large lounge and reception area can hold up to 90 people at one time so it is a great place to come and have some fun. The Escape Hunt Experience Phuket is open 7 days a week from 10am – 9pm and it is located in Kathu, just opposite the Tiger Kingdom. Prices start from 690 THB per person depending on the number of players. You can make a booking online on the website at www.escapehunt.com or give them a call at 076-323-861.

In Phuket, there are a total of 8 game rooms with 4 different mysteries, allowing for competition between groups.

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THE EMERALD TERRACE CONDOMINIUM @ PATONG, PHUKET Glorious sea-view condos overlooking Patong

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 worldrenowned 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.

Phuket Magazine

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

Phuket Magazine

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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Phuket Magazine

Phuket Bike Week

Bigger and Better than Ever P

huket Bike Week is the biggest motorcycle event in Asia and it will celebrate its 21st anniversary from April th 11 —19th. This event is expected to draw over 10,000 motorcycles, 50,000 visitors from more than 30 countries to Phuket. The excitement will take place in Patong Beach from April 11th—13th and then in Phuket Town from April 17th—19th. Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island offering visitors white sands and great sea breezes at Patong Beach while the Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell over travelers to Phuket Town. Event highlights include a motorcycle exhibition, bike parades, the “Ride for Peace”, custom Bike contests, live entertainment, the Miss Phuket Bike Week competition, bike accessories as well as apparel from local and international venders. Join in the convoy to help restock Sea Animals. Also Safe Riding, helmets on head & lights on bikes. Phuket Bike Week makes donations for underprivileged schools and daycare facilities for mothers in prison. New this year, there will be bikers and their display booths from Malaysia, Singapore, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, China and Turkey at Loma Park, Patong Beach. There

will also be 1/4 mile (400m) drag races for bikes at Sapanhin in Phuket Town. Phuket Bike Week is brought to you by Phuket Province, Patong and Phuket Town Government, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Ride Thailand Magazine and many Phuket Motorcycle Clubs. The West Coast Phuket Bike Week is the biggest motorcycle Ride (Thailand) Co., Ltd., owns the copy- event in Asia and it will celebrate its 21st right and has organized Phuket Bike Week since anniversary from April 11th—19th. its first year in 1995. Other events it has been involved with include Malaysia SIC MOTO GP, 3Nation Charity Ride, and Ride Thailand Society. Past international corporate sponsors include Singha Beer, Coca-Cola, Jack Daniels, Bangkok Airways and Michelin plus an assortment of local and regional businesses sponsors. Media coverage has been from Thai TV channels, multiple newspapers, magazines, radio stations, and websites in both English and Thai. There has also been coverage from other South-East Asian media outlets with international coverage coming from Fox sports.

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11-13 APRIL 2015, Patong Beach, Phuket PHUKET BIKE WEEK 2015 SCHEDULE DAY 1: SATURDAY 11 APRIL 2015 15.00 – 24.00 Motorcycle Festival 16.30 – 18.00 Riding convoy around Patong Meeting point – at Hatpatong Alley, opposite Loma Park 17.30 – 18.30 Live music by rock band 18.30 – 19.00 Cowboys & Indians show 19.00 – 19.30 Show from Miss PBW2015 contestants 18.00 – 19.00 Welcoming motorcycles convoy. Local culture show 19.30 – 20.30 Opening ceremony Phuket Bike Week 2015 21.00 – 01.00 Music Festival & Beach Party DAY 2 : SUNDAY 12 APRIL 2015 15.00 – 24.00 Custom bike competition & Motorcycle festival 18.00 – 19.00 Live music by rock band 19.00 – 20.00 Tattoo competition 19.00 – 22.00 VIP Grand Dinner (at Patong Graceland Hotel) 20.00 – 01.00 Live Music with Different Bands & Beach Party DAY 3 : MONDAY 13 APRIL 2015 12.00 – 18.00 Celebrate Songkran (Thail New Year) with bikers 18.00 – 19.00 Live music by rock band 19.00 – 20.00 Miss Phuket Bike Week 2015 Contest. 20.00 – 20.30 Thank you Party hosted by Pra-yai (Bid Budha) Bike Club 20.30 – 01.00 Music Festival & Beach Party

17-19 April 2015, at Sapan-Hin, Phuket Town PHUKET BIKE WEEK 2015 SCHEDULE DAY 5 : FRIDAY 17 APRIL 2015 13.00 - 24.00 Motorcycle Festival 14.00 - 17.00 Safe riding demonstration 18.00 - 19.00 Thai culture show 19.00 - 20.00 Welcome speech by Bike Club president 20.00 - 24.00 Music Festival & Live Bands DAY 6 : SATURDAY 18 APRIL 2015 13.00 - 15.00 Motorcycle Festival, Gymkhana and Stunt show 16.00 - 18.00 Convoy around Phuket Town then ride to Royal Thai Navy Sea Port to help restock Sea Animals. Meeting Point – at Sapan-Hin Park 17.00 - 18.30 Custom bike competition 19.00 - 20.00 Live music by Rock band 20.00 - 21.00 Opening Ceremony and speech from Mayor of Phuket Town and authorities of Phuket Town 21.00 - 21.30 Miss Phuket Bike Week 2015 Winner & finalists 21.30 - 23.45 Music Festival and Live concert by Carabao band DAY 7 : SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 13.00 - 15.00 Motorcycle Festival 16.00 - 18.00 Show from Miss Phuket Bike Week 2014 and 2015 20.00 - 21.00 Dinner Party 21.00 - 24.00 Live Music with different bands

• •

VIP REGISTRATION: 1,500 BAHT INCLUDES ; GRAND DINNER , 2 T-SHIRTS (1 LONG SLEEVE AND 1 SHORT SLEEVE), BANDANA, PIN, PATCH, STICKER, RIDE THAILAND MAGAZINE, KEY CHAIN, WRISTBAND ENTRY EVERY DAY, EVERY SITE. REGULAR TICKET: 200 BAHT INCLUDES WRISTBAND ENTRY, EVERY DAY, EVERY SITE. For more information about Phuket Bike Week please contact; Mr. Wittaya (Sumon) Singkalah | E-mail: sumon@ridethailand.com | Mobile: +66(0) 81 691 6346 Ms. Nat | Mobile: +66(0) 87 697 1255 | Email: ridethailandtour@hotmail.com 99/10-12 Bypass Rd., Muang Phuket, Thailand 83000 | Tel: +66(0) 76 352 069 | Fax: 66(0) 76 261 028 www.phuketbikeweek.com | www.ridethailand.com

Phuket Magazine

Thai Silk Collection in Phuket Thai silk shop near Wat Chalong

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 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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Phuket Magazine

Phuket Magazine 49

The first specialty wine distributor in Thailand.

“

fin fabulous is needed” is a lifestyle company founded in 2003 for tailor-made exclusive events and as a specialty distributor of handcrafted boutique wines. Benjawan Wisootsat, the Managing Director and owner of the Optimum group, created fin and has been successful convincing some of the best and most exclusive winemakers in the world to appoint her to be the exclusive distributor for their wines in Thailand. The number of bottles of every individual wine produced by these world famous winemakers is Wines from “fin fabulous is needed” are limited and all these so found in Thailand's leading five-star hotels, called boutique wines represent less than 5% top restaurants and best boutique resorts. of the world wine production whereas more than 95% of all wines produced in the world are commercial efforts and products of industrial farming. fin does not import any factory wines even though these wines represent today about 97% of all wines sold in Thailand.

Phuket Magazine

It is an honour for Benjawan that an exclusive group of top winemakers has agreed to give their world famous wines to her young company to distribute them exclusively to the best destinations for wine lovers in Thailand. Today there is a tremendous demand for these wines all over the world but the size of the small vineyards, mostly familyowned for generations, cannot be extended. Therefore, you will not find these top boutique wines distributed by Fin in any retail shop or supermarket, but exclusively on the wine lists of Thailand's leading five-star hotels, top restaurants and best boutique resorts, carefully selected by Benjawan. If you visit or live in Thailand and have taste, class and lead an individual lifestyle, ask for wines from Fin. Any place that has wine from fin on its wine list can be considered a five-star hotel, a top restaurant or an exclusive boutique resort and will surely fulfill your high expectations and fit your lifestyle choices.

Phuthai Massage & Spa invites you to explore your comfort zone

hile on holiday in Phuket it would be a crime not to have a massage or health treatment. Phuket is justly famed for its abundance and variety. So don’t be tempted to just head down to the nearest salon and ask for a “head, back and shoulders” or a straightforward foot massage. There are many more exciting and adventurous treatments out there and by deliberately trying something new you might find the perfect health treatment.

sage focusing on the back, head and shoulders.

Thai Massage

Facial Treatment (Signature Organic Facial)

A technique to stimulate circulation and improve flexibility, No oil is used and a two-piece outfit is worn. Palms and thumbs are applied to pressure points to relieve tried muscles and to improve blood circulation.

Sport Massage Relax with strong strokes and a special aromatherapy massage allowing for more muscle and tendon flexibility.

Foot Relaxing Massage This treatment promotes relaxation to the entire body through the use of pressure points and foot massage.

Back Massage Banish fatigue with this deceptively simple combination of upper body mas-

Thai Herbal Steam Thai Herbal Steam is a very therapeutic and popular hydrotherapy treatment. The herbal steam consists of combinations of aromatic Thai fresh herbs including turmeric, plai, lemongrass, Camphor and kaffir lime. Herbal steam soothes, relaxes and reduces stress.

Powerful herbal antioxidants and natural nutrients to address and correct skin texture. Organic ingredients such as lemongrass, tamarind, cucumber and botanical oils are used to deeply cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate the skin. There’s also a lymphatic facial massage to improve blood circulation and help achieve firmer skin.

Experiment with different sensations Although Phuket is full of the usual health treatments and massages, it is also home to some weird and wonderful moments. Try something different; even if you find that small fish chewing steadily on your feet doesn’t rock your world, it will make for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Contact Info

Phuthai uses Kaya high quality products, which they created to take care of their customers. Phuthai also sells high quality spa products.

PHUTHAI MASSAGE & SPA 199/106 M. 9, T. Thepkrasattri Thalang, Phuket Phone: (076) 621 087 089 0737 9001 084 753 5665 082 808 1937

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Plus + Property

lus Property Company Limited, a subsidiary of Sansiri PCL., is one of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading real estate agency and property management companies. The company launched its business in September 1996 and has since expanded to immense proportions under a registered paid capital of 600 million baht. With over 15 years of property management business, it is entrusted by both the private and government sectors. The head office is based in Bangkok with the company's network now expanded to a further two locations: HuaHin and Phuket, guaranteeing clients' satisfaction when looking for their ideal property ranging whether it be SELLING-BUYING -RENTING. Plus also provides online services through a website www.plus.co.th to reach and cover all its targets. Phuket Branch Contact Detail 69/17 Moo 2, Vichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Phuket 83120 Tel. (+66)76-681-188 Email: phuket@plus.co.th

Phuket Magazine

BE SEDUCED BY THAILAND’S ULTIMATE CLUBBING EXPERIENCE WWW.SEDUCTIONDISCO.COM | WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SEDUCTIONDISCO

Phuket Magazine 53

Nested in the unique and serene location of Kamala Beach

he Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach provides the best of both worlds; guests who want to relax can indulge themselves on the quiet, tranquil stretch of white sand beach and enjoy the resort’s commanding views over the Andaman Sea with direct beach access and fullservice facilities, but when there’s an itch to shop or experience Phuket’s renowned attractions, vibrant Patong Beach is just a 10-minute ride away on the resorts free daily shuttle service (schedule dependent). The 166 guest rooms, suites, and villas feature a spacious, modern and efficient design, while maintaining the full sense of relaxation and comfort for which the Novotel brand is globally renowned. The resort features contemporary décor inspired by nature with touches of wood throughout, and each guest room boasts views of either the lush gardens or the Andaman Sea. The latest addition to the property, On the Roof, is a rooftop bar with an amazing 180° view of Kamala Bay’s clear turquoise water surrounded by forested hills and stunning sunsets, this experience makes it an absolute must for travellers to the area. The Living Room lobby bar offers light snacks

and a variety of beverages to welcome guests with a touch of Thai hospitality. At the swim-up Lilo Pool Bar, guests can also relax by the pool and enjoy cocktails and refreshments with ocean views. For wellness and relaxation, the resort has an outdoor Infinity swimming pool and a wellness centre, In|Balance, which includes a well-equipped fitness centre and day with spa and massage treatments. The resort’s Kid’s Club can keep children entertained with educational and fun-filled activities while parents take a dip in the sea, exercise, or indulge themselves with a spa treatment. True to Novotel’s commitment to successful meetings, the hotel’s main function room can accommodate up to 250 delegates and is pillar-less with natural light and a separate spacious pre-function area. The main function room can be divided into four multi-purpose meeting rooms for small to medium meetings and events. The meeting rooms offering state-of-theart equipment and facilities with a technical support team on standby to ensure the success of all meeting and events.

Please call for reservations at (+66) 076 303 700. E-mail: H7235-RE1@accor.com. For more information about the resort, please visit www.novotelphuketkamala.com.

Phuket Magazine

Johan Hansen, President and CEO of Beach Projects Development Co., Ltd., the investment group behind BB Phuket (front row, 3rd from left), marks the launch of BB Phuket with the release of 2,000 butterflies. The butterfly is the symbol of BB’s “Stay Unordinary,” a metamorphosis of luxury, art, cuisine and natural beauty.

Johan Hansen, President and CEO of Beach Projects Development Co., Ltd., the investment group behind BB Phuket (3rd from right) and his wife mark the launch of BB Phuket, the region’s most incredible island destination. He is joined by Blaise Claude Montadon, COO of Beach Projects Development Co., Ltd., (1st left), Dr. Anthony W. Perillo, the founder of LaCinic Phuket (2nd left), Arne Quinze, Belgian urban installation artist (3rd left), and Dr. Michel Pfulg, founder and medical director of LaClinic (far right).

BB Phuket launches with release of 2,000 butterflies to mark extravagant Grand Opening weekend

B Phuket, Southeast Asia’s new high-profile resort and the region’s most incredible island destination, marked its grand opening weekend with the release of 2,000 butterflies, the symbol of BB Phuket’s “Stay Unordinary” resort concept. The butterfly release was a culmination of two days packed full of excitement, glamour, performance art, live music, drinks, great cuisine, revelry and poolside fun at BB – the shape of more good things to come at this brand new and luxurious Phuket East Coast resort destination. The Grand Opening weekend began with a press conference, welcoming media guests to BB Phuket and its “Stay Unordinary” fun vibe. Guests enjoyed a menu of foie gras, snowfish and other delectable dishes for lunch at BB’s Jo’Ha’ Restaurant before taking a tour of BB and its expansive grounds, mangrove forest, boutique retail facilities and forthcoming artistic appointments. BB’s exquisitely manicured garden welcomed the guests to the evening Grand Opening party on Saturday night, at which hundreds of exquisitely dressed guests enjoyed a selection of BB’s signature cocktails and live music by The Lady Circus (NYC) band and Christophe Hetier and Angela McCluskey (Stars of Telepopmusik from Paris). The night was set off by performance arts including contortionist Natasha King and a massive fireworks display, raising a standing ovation from guests. The next day after a la carte brunch, BB Phuket’s courtyard garden

was selected for the release of 2,000 butterflies, poignantly marking the finale of an incredible two days. Johan Hansen, President and CEO of Beach Projects Development Co., Ltd., the investment group behind BB Phuket, lead the butterfly release, and was joined by Belgian artist Arne Quinze and senior members of the Beach Projects board. Johan spoke of his delight at the grand opening occasion, saying, “BB Phuket is the result of the inspiration I found when I came to this magical area for the very first time. The tree in front of the resort was my original muse, my stimulus for creating this beautiful resort; I genuinely believe my passionate and dedicated creative team has delivered the most incredible island destination in the region, and it’s still growing, still metamorphosizing. Thank you to the amazing people who have made this vision a reality.” BB Phuket trail-blazes an entirely new destination on the world luxury traveller’s map. Just like its location at a rural spot on Phuket’s East Coast opposite Maprao Island, the story of BB is anything but ordinary, bringing together art, cuisine and entertainment in a unique destination created through an artistic vision, embracing nature and fun and aims to be, and stay – unordinary. For reservations, please email BB Phuket at reservations@bbphuket.com, or call +66 (0) 76 380 100. For more information on BB Resorts, please visit www. bbphuket.com

About Beach Projects Development Co., Ltd.

t was almost 20 years ago when Johan Hansen started on his path as a real estate professional in Brussels, Belgium. To this day, he remembers his first steps in the property business, driving thousands of kilometers to assist his first customers, closing his first deals. He believes that it’s his philosophy of “1% of inspiration and 99% of perspiration,” that brought him his first successes. Over the years, Hansen’s company became one of the biggest private real estate development companies in Belgium and in 2005 it was renamed Skyline Projects as it expanded operations to other European countries and in the end – to Asia, a place Hansen fell in love with and made his home. In 2012 Hansen established the Beach Projects investment group. The dazzling BB Phuket is the group’s first development in Asia. Please visit www.beachprojects.com For further information, please contact Vivaldi Public Relations, Tel: +66 (0) 2 612 2253 Ext.103, Fax: +66 (0) 2612 2254; Website: www.vivaldipr.com Veerawan Saejao | Senior PR Executive T: +66 (0) 85 000 1476 Email: veerawan.s@vivaldipr.com Tanyaporn Kanchanahoti | PR Executive T: +66 (0) 84 448 3067 Email:tanyaporn.k@vivaldipr.com

Phuket Magazine 55

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

Phuket Magazine

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

Baan

Restaurant Bar & Coffee

Relax at the Baan Restaurant Bar & Coffee

aan Restaurant Bar & Coffee is a pleasant restaurant and coffee shop located on the Airport Bypass Road (opposite Blue Canyon Golf Club) one street light down from the New Town intersection (Muang Mai), 6.4km from the Phuket Airport. Open every day from early morning to midnight, it stands adjacent to a hydroponic farm. Baan Restaurant Bar & Coffee grows much of its salad and vegetable ingredients on-site, which is a cool concept and makes for a healthy lunch. And every Friday from 9.00-11.00pm, you can enjoy your meal listening to an acoustic band.

Tel. 076 621 107 Mobile: 084 753 5665 201/1 Moo 5, Tepkrasattri, Talang, Phuket 83110

Phuket Magazine 57

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

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

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

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

The Oddy Hip Hotel A 1km from Patong Beach, The Oddy Hip Hotel offers a quiet rooms with safety deposit box, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, airconditioning and a minibar/fridge. En- suite bathrooms feature free toiletries and shower facilities. Guests can rent motorbikes or make tour arrangements inside the hotel. The Oddy Hip Hotel is 25km from Phuket International Airport, 1km from the nightlife at Bangla Road, a short distance from Jungceylon, the international shopping center and its adjacent Thai Boxing Stadium. Outside the hotel, you can try the pool and sauna. For guests convenience, airport shuttle/taxis can be arranged. Room and laundry services are available. The Oddy Hip Hotel 162/78-79, Phangmaung Sai 3 Kor Road, Ban Patong, Phuket, Thailand. Tel: +6676 364 747. Fax: +6676 364 757 Mobile: +6693 579 0069. E-mail: theoddy_hotel@hotmail.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

Phuket Magazine

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

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

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

4031

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

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

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.

Phuket Magazine

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. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Phuket Magazine 61

Krabi, Koh Lanta & Phi Phi

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,

Phuket Magazine

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

Phuket Magazine

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Phuket Magazine 67

Phuket Magazine