What to see and do in Phuket, Thailand – top 10

By: Andy Burrows

Phuket's natural beauty, thriving international community and pristine beaches set it apart fro Thailand’s other resorts. Even after the tsunami of 2004, the communities consolidated efforts have succeeded in holding on to almost all of the former clout as a tourist hub. The tourist industry here is second to none, and visitors are always well catered for, no matter their preferences or background.

Adventure sports

Adventure sports are top-notch in Phuket, and due to the island's status as one of Asia's top tourist destinations, the offerings and equipment are first rate as well. The adrenaline sports of Phuket are all about getting a new perspective on things. Nothing affords this better than perching on the back of an elephant and traipsing through the jungle or taking a plunge under the care of Thailand's only licensed bungee jump operator. There's also a shooting range on the island and it's possible to join guided ATV tours headed to remote beaches and into the hills on the island's interior. Less jostling go-kart rides can be taken in most of the major towns.

Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre

The Gibbon Fund is found on the Royal Reserve on the same land as the Bang Pae Waterfall. This project takes domesticated gibbons and makes every effort to reintroduce them into the wild. To date, three families have been successfully grafted back into their natural environment, and lucky visitors can catch sight of these primates among the trees.

Water sports

The beaches at Phuket are world-renown for their clear and calm Andaman waters. Visitors arriving on the island have the opportunity to enjoy water-related sports and activity which are central to a stay in Phuket. Diving and snorkelling present a wonderful vantage point on the underwater environment. To take in the vistas directly above sea level, there are mooring areas all over the island with the possibilities of sailing lessons, dinner cruises, fishing expeditions and kayaking. Those who wish to raise themselves high above the water can gain a new perspective on the island while parasailing.

Island hopping

The Thai islands of the Andaman Sea are known around the world for their beauty and glamour. A couple of them have been featured in James Bond films, with another having appeared in the Hollywood film, The Beach. Boats can be chartered to every one of the islands in the archipelago, and some of them offer modern amenities and accommodation, while others remain remote and relatively untouched. Some of the most staggering views can be found around these more primitive islands and can be comfortably enjoyed from the boat, some of which are sleeper-equipped. Islands like Phi Phi have plenty of accommodation to offer guests.

Waterfalls

The three major waterfalls of Phuket are all worthy of their own daytrip. Ton Sai is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by palm trees. Kathu Waterfall is located farther inland and many visitors choose to stop here and enjoy a picnic or a swim in its cool pools. Bang Pae Waterfall sits on the land of the Gibbon Fund and visitors to this stretch of land can enjoy the scenic waterfall along with the added possibility of catching sight of a gibbon in its natural surroundings.

Eating out

What better reason to travel to Thailand than to enjoy the endless supply of Thai food? The abundance of fresh seafood only enhances this draw in Phuket, where the tourist scene rolls out a full menu of possibilities ranging from Thai favourites to international specialties. Quality dishes can be found at the food stalls and small restaurants as well as at the resorts and five-star hotels. The most authentic food is found away from the beaches.

Shopping

While Phuket's shopping scene is as exhaustive as the markets in Bangkok, there are still plenty of opportunities for bargain shoppers, antique hunters and more mainstream shoppers seeking souvenirs. Leather goods, ceramics, jewellery and clothing are in steady supply. It's even possible to get fitted by a tailor and have some clothes custom-made during your stay.

Thai kick boxing

Muay Thai is Thailand's contribution to the martial arts scene. This form of kick boxing has been developed and honed in Thailand for centuries, recognised today for its highly effective moves. Exhibitions take place in Phuket Town every Friday night. Meanwhile, those who wish to study Muay Thai will find training gyms located in Phuket as well as at Rawai and Chalong.

Temples

There are a few Buddhist temples, or wats, on the island. Most of them are easily accessed from the main roads, and local taxi drivers will readily know them all. Shoes should be removed and shoulders and knees covered before entering a Thai temple. Some of the well-reputed temples include Pra Nahng Sahng, Pra Tong, Put Jaw, Jui Tui and Sanjao Sam San. Wat Chalong is probably the most popular with tourists, with its many murals, unusual design and modern pagodas.

Promthep Cape

Promthep Cape has been widely photographed over the years, mostly for its spectacular scenery and beautiful sunsets. It's also worth a visit to take a look at the peculiar shrine which locals adorn with miniature elephants as a means of making merit. There's also a statue that was built in honour of the Thai prince who modernised the country's navigational methods and founded a maritime school in the 19th century.

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Phuket A Haven for Investor

By: Wolfgang Jaegel

These days, visitors to Phuket cannot help but notice the number of premium property projects being marketed on the island. Developers on this tourist hotspot are going all out to woo buyers with projects running the gamut from luxury villas to upmarket resort condominiums with ultramodern facades and interior design.

Post-tsunami Phuket’s property market is enjoying a boom fuelled by rising demand from expatriates. Real-estate consultants say foreign investors from Singapore, Hong Kong, Europe and the Mediterranean from the bulk of buyers who are snapping up properties across the island.

Traditionally hot market Property on Phuket has always been sought after, owing to its status as a top resort destination in Southeast Asia. About the size of Singapore, the 570 sq km island attracts tourists and investors with its striking natural beauty, unique brand of Thai hospitality and cost of living that is lower than other markets in the region such as Hong Kong and Singapore.

“[Phuket] distinguishes itself by its unique blend of safety, unrivalled hospitality, and the degree of sophistication of its economy and property market. It is a fully serviced island with first-class facilities, very accessible from anywhere in the region, thanks to its international airport, and benefits from a fantastic natural environment,” notes David Simister, chairman of CB Richard Ellis Thailand.

Bouncing back post-tsunami It’s not just luxury villas that are being snapped op on Phuket. Consultants say the island is enjoying strong demand across the entire spectrum of properties available. Supply has also evolved to fit all budgets, from US$70,000 ($1 approx US$ 0.64) to above US$ 7 million.

Where are these investors coming from? Analysts say demand has historically been from cosmopolitan Hong Kong and Singaporean residents, as well as western expatriates living in the region. That profile, however is changing. “ We are now seeing an increasing number of high net worth individuals coming from areas such as China, and expect to see more and more buyers from Europe as Mediterranean resort prices continue to rise and people realise that Phuket can offer a very good value-for-money exotic lifestyle.” says Simister.

Choice investment properties Potential buyers on Phuket invariably look for ocean-view properties, which are highly sought-after because of limited supply. These fast-selling developments include Trisara, which consists of exclusive US$ 2.6 million to US$ 5.3 million ocean-view and ocean-front villas on 1,300 to 2,900 sq.m. land plots adjoining an eponymous six-star hotel. Another sought-after development is The Heights, with 200 to 415 sq.m. sea-view condominium units priced from US$ 400,000 to US$ 950,000. Both projects sold half the units released within months of launching.

While buyers previously looked to projects on the traditionally popular west coast of the island. Phuket’s south and east coast are steadily gaining prominence as an alternative, as a result of the exhaustion of prime land in the west coast. A high-end project with prices lower than that on the west coast is Supalai on Ao Por, which offers three-and four-bedroom villas with sea views for less than 20 million baht. Just 20 minutes from Phuket International Airport, the area is less crowed and located near amenities such as golf courses and marinas. Such properties represent much better value for money, with higher capital-appreciation prospects as the area develops.

While consultants say Phuket’s property rental market is still in its infancy and most investors buy for owner-occupation, properties can offer healthy yields depending on their type, location and furnishings. Simister of CB Richard Ellis estimates that yields for an actively managed property can range from 6% to 12% a year, based on 100 nights’ occupancy. He adds that rental returns usually reach their full potential once the property and development it is in are fully completed and have been in operation for high seasons.

Room for more growth CB Richard Ellis is more bullish. Simister says, “Far from being a bubble, the high level of real estate activity seen on the island is only the beginning. Phuket is in the early stages of a long-term growth curve. The market has only one way to go, which is up, in terms of volume of sales, and range and sophistication of properties and facilities offered.”

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Phuket Honeymoon Spa Dedicated Relaxation

By: Maypopup M.

In this article, we will discuss why this subject is so important and how you can benefit from this information.

Have you ever wondered what right is up with phuket honeymoon spa? This informative state can give you an insight into everything you've ever required to know about phuket honeymoon spa.

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ingoing the function vicinity of the variety-new royal Spa is a relaxing experience in itself. The interiors are daubed in yielding and organic lighting, and furnished with antique and contemporary pieces. The song is reserved at discrete readings. While sipping on gently-brewed herbal teas, you are guided through the wide menu of Body, thoughts and Soul treatments by professionally-skilled members of force.

Alligned with the obsolete origins of Thai press, intentions are mostly from the Sri Vijaya kingdom that spanned the vital and southern regions of Thailand between the 7th and 9th centuries. The mostly Hindu influences came from India. Life-mass sculptures of handsome figurines, recreated from this era, are set in niches along the corridor primary to secretive suites. A figurine farther each scope holds a lit candle when it is taken, assuring you broad privacy.

Each secretive suite is easy yet elegant. The stockade are sheltered in mellow, rose-coloured silk with light green accents, and the intention shape of the lotus. With over 300 plaza metres of dedicated treatment locale, the spa skin 4 of these enclosed and outside suites, each with a very open 60 plaza metres.

Going through the final part of this article, we will see just how important the subject can be to many people.

Alligned with the primeval origins of Thai knead, outlines are mostly from the Sri Vijaya kingdom that spanned the middle and southern regions of Thailand between the 7th and 9th centuries. The mostly Hindu influences came from India. Life-mass sculptures of charming figures, recreated from this era, are set in niches along the corridor important to secretive suites. A figure outer each extent holds a lit candle when it is engaged, assuring you finished privacy.

Each reserved suite is austere yet elegant. The parapet are roofed in yielding, rose-coloured silk with light green accents, and the create pattern of the lotus. With over 300 shape metres of dedicated treatment vicinity, the spa skin 4 of these internal and outside suites, each with a very open 60 shape metres.

A average stately Spa Suite includes: a secretive therapy preparation region (withdraw from the guest region), two lush storeroom-extents for guests, a shower and steam extent, a surplus extent, two interior treatment beds, a jacuzzi with a relaxing Thai-design couch, and a large outside suspended treatment bed. All venues have imposing views of the sand of Nai Harn Bay.

Two of the stately Spa Suites have sole skin: A wet-treatment marquee with a Zen backyard and mineral treatment beds, where you can indulge in a body clean, or any of the wet treatments, in full privacy. A lotus pool and buried jacuzzi finished these oases of relaxation.

After experiencing some of our dedicated treatment parcels - Honeymoon Experience, totality Relaxation, Away from it All, or A Day In The Kingdom of Siam - Body, thoughts & Soul will remain in your recall of Le royal Meridien Phuket liner guild royal Spa.

That's the hottest from the phuket honeymoon spa authorities. Once you're forward with these dreams, you'll be disposed to move to the next degree.

If you could take the main ideas from this article and put them into a list, you would a great overview of what we have learned.

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Jumeirah | jumeirah island | phuket ocean villas | beach villas

By: Matt

Jumeirah Hotel Pool Villas Released For Sale On Jumeirah Private Island PhuketThe Ultimate Valentine’s Day wish list item, HONG KONG, 12 January, 2008HONG KONG, 12 January, 2008

- TGR Group Asia, the visionary developer behind Jumeirah Private Island Phuket, has today announced that Jumeirah Hotel Beach Villas are being released for sale from 1 January 2008, just in time for lovers seeking the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift!

Jumeirah Private Island Phuket is an 80 acre exclusive island resort scheduled for completion in late 2009/2010 and set to offer levels of luxury, privacy and security as yet unseen in Asia Pacific.

In total, there are 12 pool villas set amongst tropical gardens that all command open sea views. The beach villas offer direct beach access and views of scattered islands.

Jumeirah Hotel Beach Villas are an investment based purchase with a compulsory lease back to the Jumeirah Group in place. Buyers can expect a minimum guaranteed yield of 5% for the first 3 years although projections are in-excess of 7%; and sixty days personal usage per year.

Each Jumeirah Beach Villa has direct beach frontage, 220sq metre indoor living space, 350sq metre external living space and a total plot size of 650 sq metres.

If you would prefer to take up permanent residency on the island, there are just a few remaining properties of the 48 residential villas being constructed, starting at US$3 million. So far homeowners from 14 different countries have committed to making Jumeirah Island Phuket their tropical residence.

All properties enjoy full access to a number of luxurious Jumeirah managed facilities including a super yacht marina capable of accommodating yachts of up to 70m with 24-hour access. Facilities will include four restaurants and bars as well as extensive leisure and fitness facilities including a large free form swimming pool, tennis court and Jumeirah’s signature Talise Wellness Spa. In addition, the Island will offer a private yacht club, boutiques, a business centre and a library with dedicated reading room

The island, set to be managed by Dubai based luxury international hospitality group Jumeirah, is located less than 500 metres off Phuket in the Southern Gateway of Phang Nga Bay and will encompass exclusive residential villas, resort, super yacht marina and yacht club.

Jumeirah Private Island Phuket will offer spectacular views of the limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay to the north, views of the beaches of Ao Po Bay to the west and two 450 metre white sand beaches with views of both Naka Yai and Naka Noi.

The greatest care has been taken to protect the ecology of the island. Only 25% of the island will be built on, an integrated rainwater collection scheme will be in operation, thermal insulation in all roof structures will reduce air conditioning energy consumption, double block cavity wall and double glazed windows and patio doors will encourage thermal efficiency.

The resort can be reached by a seven minute helicopter rise or by a 15 minute car journey to Phuket followed by a four minute private motor yacht ride. Transport on the island itself will be by electric car only.

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Ladyboys of Phuket

By James Spellman

When I first told my friends that I was planning an extended stay in Thailand, it is amazing how many times I heard the same stupid reply - "watch out for them ladyboys!" Again and again, I heard this inane comment until it really started to grate. Everybody making the same stupid joke as if it was clever and original. What a ridiculous stereotype of Thailand, I thought. As if there are ladyboys everywhere you go.

The funny thing is, once I moved to Thailand, I soon discovered that ladyboys, or katoeys as they are known in Thailand, really are everywhere. It is not just a handful of them working the tourist resorts. You will see them working in shops and restaurants. Even if you go out into the country, you will find katoeys. They really are everywhere.

In fact, I had not been here long before I had a personal acquaintance who was a katoey. One of the things I noticed was just how comfortable other Thais were in her company. Straight Thai men were quite happy to give her compliments such as telling her how beautiful she looked. They all called her 'she' as it is polite and made her happy.

Personally, I was initially a little uncomfortable in her presence. I wasn't scared she would jump on me. She was a pleasant and well-balanced person. I was just a little unsure how to deal with her. It was the charming way the other Thais treated her that soon put me at ease.

What is a Katoey?

What exactly is a katoey? I had this discussion with a couple of western friends recently. They both live in Phuket and both said that you can only call someone a katoey if they have had gender altering surgery; otherwise, you should use the term ladyboy. This I feel is a western invented distinction. Katoey is a Thai word and that is not how it is used.

Thais use the term much more loosely. They use the term for any man who acts like a woman. Transgender male is probably the closest English term. Men who have gender altering surgery are katoeys. So are those who take hormones to create female attributes such as breasts. So are those who dress up like a woman. In fact, even gay men who put on a bit of make up and flounce around are referred to as katoeys.

Why so many Katoeys in Thailand?

By this definition, there certainly are plenty of katoeys in Thailand. So why is this phenomenon so much more common here than in other countries? It seems unlikely that there is a genetic reason for Thailand to have more transgender males than other countries. I think the reason is much more to do with the tolerant attitude of the Thai people.

There are many katoey TV stars, singers and models. They even have katoey beauty contests. There have been several katoey movies such as 'Beautiful Boxer' which is the true story of a katoey who became a champion Muay Thai fighter. She would often kiss her defeated opponents.

Katoeys seem to be a widely accepted part of Thai society. This is probably partly to do with the Buddhist religion and its preaching of tolerance towards others. However, other countries with a strong Buddhist influence (Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Laos, Japan) are not known for their ladyboys.

There must be something else at work. I think one strong factor is the Thai belief that life should be fun (sanook). When they see a katoey, they think it is fun. They will laugh and joke about it but not in a nasty way. They certainly will not hurl abuse or threats as might happen in western countries.

So the main reason why there are so many katoeys in Thailand is simply that Thai society is open and tolerant to them. It makes you wonder how many transvestites there might be in western countries if our societies were a little more forgiving.

How Many Katoeys Work in Phuket?

In the wake of the tsunami tragedy and the media feeding frenzy that followed, a friend sent me an article from a British newspaper. The reporter was in Phuket and obviously struggling to compete for attention with reporters at harder hit areas. So he did what a lot of reporters in Phuket did and started focusing on the seedier side of the local nightlife. Quite what this had to do with the tsunami tragedy I am not sure.

This particular reporter seemed to be fascinated with the ladyboy scene. He made a few sweeping generalisations about Phuket's nightlife, suggesting the whole island was truly a cesspit of debauchery. He then claimed there were 5,000 ladyboys working in Phuket's sex industry and a huge demand for their services.

Where did he get this figure? It seems like a very bold claim. Is there a census? Do the authorities make a ladyboy count? I really doubt there was a reliable statistic available to this reporter. Like most of his report, I think he just made it up but he obviously saw enough ladyboys around to think it was a reasonable guess.

Phuket's high season population is estimated to be around 500,000. If 5,000 of them are ladyboys then that would be 1% of the population. That would seem very unlikely but not totally inconceivable. But he said 5,000 actually working in the sex industry. Where was this army of available ladyboys?

At Soi Katoey in Bangla Road, Patong, there are always a few dancing at the front of the soi. There is another katoey bar at the back and Moulin Rouge ladyboy show. But surely even at the highest estimate, there could not be more than 50 ladyboys working in Soi Katoey. There are maybe another 30 performing at Simon Cabaret Ladyboy Show - does that even count as the sex industry? For the sake of argument, let's say it does. Then there is the gay area around Soi Paradise. There are quite a few ladyboys around this area but I think an estimate of 100 would be very generous.

There are a few ladyboys freelancing along the beachfronts where they annoy passing drunks. But really, they are not there in very high numbers. Let's be generous again and say 100. Have I missed any? Maybe there are a few dotted around other sex establishments.

So even if we round up my figures, we have a very generous guesstimate of 300 ladyboys active in the sex industry. I actually think that is probably extremely generous. A lot of the above figures are probably the same katoeys moving from location to location and I think I have overestimated all my guesses. The total figure could be as few as 100.

So I would say somewhere between 100-300 katoeys working in Phuket's sex industry. Certainly not 5,000 but then a figure of 100 would not make good press.

Men and Katoeys

So what about the demand for Katoeys? Are there really lots of men looking for their services? Since their most common approach seems to be trying to fool very drunk men, I would guess that their services are not massively in demand. I have met a few men who have had sexual encounters with katoeys. Most of them claim it was a drunken mistake.

I did meet one guy who happily proclaimed he had just been 'blown off' by two katoeys in his hotel room. He was rather proud of himself and certainly not claiming it was a mistake. You do meet some funny characters in Patong.

I guess there is some genuine demand for katoeys. Although they are active in the gay area, I do not think it is strictly a gay thing. Although they are made-up as women, I do not think it is a straight thing. But there is a hard-to-define group of men who do find katoeys attractive. Certainly, there is a lot of curiosity about them. Every month, the word 'katoey' is in the top 20 list of search keywords that have led people to our Phuket website. And we only have a small section on katoeys.

Negatives

Although katoeys are generally well accepted in Thai society there is still a negative side to their reputation. They do have a reputation for being spiteful and untrustworthy. I have personally met a few during my years in Thailand and I have to say that on the outside they all seemed well adapted and happy. However, I have also heard plenty of stories of katoeys involved in criminal activities such as pick pocketing and other thefts. They have also been known to harass and threaten passers-by late at night while looking for customers along the beachfronts.

These things certainly do happen but the scale of the problem is not clear. Whether katoeys really commit crime on a scale greater than other Thais is hard to judge.

They also have a reputation for being emotionally unbalanced. As I said, all the ones I have met have seemed fine. However, I think it is fair to say that the strains of their lives are very demanding and it is not surprising that many of them lose emotional control easily.

The tolerance of katoeys in Thai society is not absolute. Their families, particularly the fathers, sometimes reject them. Men who in most other ways are tolerant of katoeys, can still find it shameful to father one.

And the authorities' tolerance also has its limits. When a katoey volleyball team won the national championship, two of the team were selected for the national team. The government stepped in and blocked their selection. They did not think it was good for the country's image.

Saving Private Tootsie

In 2002, there was a Thai movie given the English title 'Saving Private Tootsie'. In this movie, a plane crash strands a group of katoeys in the jungle of a war torn neighbouring country. A group of macho Thai soldiers is sent to rescue them. The story revolves around the personality clashes between the flouncy katoeys and the macho soldiers as they try to escape this neighbouring country.

In the end, they all pull together to make the final crossing back to Thailand. The soldiers put aside their dislike for the katoeys and their leader returns home to finally accept his son, who is also a katoey.

The movie's message is one of tolerance that is typical of Thai society. At the end of the movie there is a nice quote from one katoey. "I may have been born in the wrong body, but at least I was born in the right country."

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Thai Wives - Why Are So Many Westerners Coming To Phuket To Marry?

By James Spellman

Here on the beautiful island of Phuket in Thailand, there are a great number of mixed Thai-Western marriages. It really is turning into quite a phenomenon. Around Phuket's schools and playgrounds it is common to see mixed-race children happily playing with the 100% Thai kids. They are usually easy to spot with fairer skin, western features and non-black hair. A whole generation of culturally diverse, multi-lingual children is growing up and will soon be quite an asset to Phuket's tourist industry.

This phenomenon of mixed marriages in Phuket has really exploded over the last decade. Of course, the major reason is the expansion of Phuket's tourist trade. When you have more than a million western visitors a year, it is natural that some of them will meet and fall in love with local people. Especially when the local people are so appealing.

But there must be more to it than that. The tourist resorts around the Mediterranean, Caribbean and US also receive millions of foreign visitors a year. There are mixed-nationality marriages at these resorts but not thousands in a small area like there are in Phuket.

One thing stands out when you look at Phuket's ex-pat population -the vast majority of us are men. Probably around 90% of the ex-pat population is male. That is not the case when you look at the breakdown of tourist visitors where the split is only 60-40 in favour of males.

So while there are many women visiting Thailand, only a small percentage of them decide to settle here. It is probably a similar percentage to those that settle at other holiday resorts. But the men are marrying Thai women and settling here in numbers that way exceed what is typical elsewhere. There is an obvious conclusion to draw. There are a lot of men coming to Phuket to actively seek wives. They are not just falling in love while on holiday - they are coming with the pre-planned intent of finding a doe-eyed Thai beauty to be their spouse.

Many men seem to be dissatisfied with their experiences of women in their home country. Society has changed rapidly in the west over the last few decades. Women have become more confident and assertive. They can be intimidating to approach and fast with a withering put-down. They are much more demanding in their relationships and expect a lot of concessions from their partners.Many men do not like it. They still want the fifties ideal of a feminine, doting wife.

So they come to Thailand in search of the answer to their problem. Here, they believe they can still find women who are beautiful, feminine and attentive to their husband's needs.

It is dangerous to generalise too much about the men who marry Thai girls and settle in Phuket. They all have their own story. Just the same, there are common patterns. You can place a lot of these men into three broad groups:

Group 1. There are those that come to Phuket for 'normal' reasons such as work or a break from work. It is natural that some of these people will meet and fall in love with locals. This happens all over the world. There is no doubt that Thai women are very charming so perhaps it is more common here than elsewhere.

Group 2. Then there are those who fall in love with their bargirl. The girls who work in the sex industry are good at selling themselves; it is their job. It is not usually the hardened sex-tourists that fall for their charms. They tend to pick up a new girl every night with no emotional attachment. It is the new guys. The men who come to Phuket for the first time, not quite knowing what to expect. They probably have an idea that they are going to pick up a prostitute but they don't know how it works. They end up doing the GFE (girl friend experience). That is picking up a bar girl and then keeping her for the entire length of the holiday. They act as if they are boyfriend-girlfriend. The girl gets plenty of time to weave her magic. She tugs the guy's heartstrings with her life story until he is brimming with sympathy. She gives him lots of affection and by the end of his holiday, he is in love.
(see http:// www.knowphuket.com/ naughtynightlife. htm for more info).

Group 3. Then there are those who come with the pre-planned intent of finding a wife. They have thought about it and come to the reasoned conclusion that a Thai wife would make their life better. Some of these guys will look for their new wife around the sex venues of Patong. Others want to stay away from the sex industry girls. They may try dating agencies or internet matching services. Some of them will try to meet 'good' Thai women away from the tourist resorts. Their approaches may vary but the conclusion is the same - they think a life in Phuket with a Thai wife would be better than their current life back home.

Whatever the reasons, the mixed Thai-Western marriage is now an established part of Phuket's scenery. Not all of these Western men find their dream wife. Many of these marriages run into problems but that is true of marriages the world over. There can be extra problems related to marriages between people from different cultures. Still a lot of western men are very happy with their choice.

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Phuket Vegetarian Festival - Great For Tourists

By James Bukovsky

The most important Phuket festival that is held each year must certainly be the Vegetarian festival. The Vegetarian festival in Phuket takes place during the first 9 days of the 9th lunar month of the traditional Chinese calendar.

The Vegetarian festival normally falls in the last week of September of within the first week of October.

The Phuket vegetarian festival is organized each year to celebrate the start of the Taoist lent. Due to the large number of Phuket residents with Chinese roots, the Taoist lent is celebrated among a large group of the population of Phuket. The vegetarian festival starts of by devout Chinese religious believers completely abstaining from all dairy and meat products.

The festivities in Phuket that are held during the vegetarian festival can be found at one of the five main Chinese temples on Phuket. The best Chinese temples to visit are the Bang Niaw Chinese Temple and the Jui Tui Chinese Temple.

The vegetarian festival involves more then only the abstinence of dairy and meat products. Other parts of the Phuket vegetarian festival includes the temple offerings to the Monks, offering of gifts to the nine emperor gods which awake during the vegetarian festival, fireworks and cultural shows but to name a few.

A number of participants to the vegetarian festival on Phuket act as mediums between the 9 deities to earth. These mediums try to achieve a special state of trance. Once this state of trance is reached, their cheeks are pierced by numerous sharp objects such as spears and knifes.

Afterwards these special Vegetarian festival mediums all join a large procession which takes them by many shops which have places altars along the street with special offerings. These mediums pick up the fruits which are offered to them by the shop keepers and they add the offerings to the sharp items which are sticking out of their cheeks. If there is no space available the mediums will give the offerings to bystanders.

It is said to be a sign of good luck and a true blessing if one is to receive a gift from one of the mediums during the vegetarian festival procession.

The atmosphere of the vegetarian festival is certainly unique and should be experienced by every traveler who is staying on the island during the event. If one was to describe the whole event in a few words then the festival could be described as a religious frenzy.

Where ever you look you will see spectacular ritual dancing, loud fireworks, blood stained shirt worn by the mediums and ancient religious worshipping activities.

If you ask the Phuket residents with Chinese roots as to the origin of the vegetarian festival then they will tell you a tragic story. They say that a Chinese theatre troupe visited Phuket around one and a half century ago.

The Chinese troupe was struck by tragedy when all members of the Chinese theatre troupe turned seriously ill. The story goes that they had turned ill because they had neglected to offer respects to the nine emperor gods of Taoism. The only way in which the Chinese troupe members could cure themselves was with a 9 day lent which included solely vegetarian foods, long periods of meditations and acts of self piercing.

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Laguna Phuket for High-End Clients

By Tony Champion

You know you are going somewhere special when your resort complex has its own lounge at the airport. Laguna Phuket Airport Hospitality Centre at Phuket Airport is available to resort guests for relaxing after or before their flight. And there is staff on hand to assist with arrival and departure queries.

Laguna Phuket is situated on sandy Bangtao Beach around 30 minutes south of Phuket International Airport. The beach stretches some 8 kms, along the edge of the Andaman Sea, on the west coast of Phuket Thailand.

Today, Laguna Phuket is probably Asia’s premier resort complex but when I first saw the area in 1982 it was nothing more than wasteland.

The dramatic transformation was brought about by the visionary Chairman of Singapore’s Wah Chang Group. From a tin-mining wasteland there grew 5 top-quality hotels and a shopping ‘village’ all set amidst beautiful landscaped gardens and a network of lagoons. Between them the hotels have 30 bars and restaurants and a whole host of facilities including gyms, games rooms, tennis, archery, swimming pools and watersports.

Adjacent to the resort is the 18-hole Laguna Phuket Golf Club This par 71 course makes good use of the undulating landscape and lagoons. All Laguna Phuket guests can enjoy reduced green fees.

Each of the hotels has a spa and by all accounts the Banyan Tree Phuket Spa is probably the best. When it comes to awards I tend to be a little cynical but there must be some substance when a hotel, like this one, is voted World's Best Spa Resort by readers of Condé Nast Traveler, the Top Spa & Retreat Experience by Arts & Entertainment Television Networks, USA, and a Top 10 Hotel Spa by Travel & Leisure magazine. The spa offers a wide range of treatments from body scrubs, to facials, manicures and pedicures. There are also complimentary (chargeable for visitors) yoga classes.

The Banyan Tree Phuket even has a dedicated Spa Pool Villa featuring a ‘floating bed’ pavilion with king-sized bed, a swimming pool in landscaped gardens, an open-air sunken bathtub, Jacuzzi, steam and sauna room, massage pavilion and an outdoor Thai sala.

I have to say though that if a spa is important to you the facilities at the other hotels cannot be dismissed, more especially as they come from the same pedigree. At the Dusit Laguna, Laguna Beach Resort Phuket, and the Sheraton Grande Laguna you will find an Angsana Spa.

Angsana Spas were developed by the Banyan Tree Spa and place particular emphasis on the use of aromatherapy. They also offer body scrubs, skin treatments, facials and a variety of massages including Thai, Swedish, Hawaiian, Balinese, Indian Head and warm oil.

So there you have it. Top quality hotels with a wide-range of facilities, an 18-hole golf course, 8 kms of sandy beach and an award-winning spa. All with easy air access via Phuket International Airport. Could you wish for anything more?

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Enjoy A Budget Holiday In Phuket

By Pauline Go


Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand and a traveler can end up spending a lot of money without even realizing it. Most money in Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is spent on transportation. This is because there is no public transportation system and spending money on a tuk-tuk means being taken for a ride if you are a tourist.

However, you can save money and still enjoy a fantastic holiday in Phuket.

Remember, tuk-tuk drivers are all a big gang and they have set standard prices of any trip around Phuket. So, bargaining with a tuk-tuk driver will get you no where. However, you can try bargaining if you are a regular customer. Or else, you should try and share tuk-tuk with a fellow tourist. Make sure you check the price quoted is per trip and not per person.

A better option of traveling around Phuket is to use the local Songtaews. These are nothing but small pick-ups with wooden benches to accommodate 20 people if seated or 40 standing passengers. Most Thais use Songtaews and you will get a chance to rub shoulders with the locals. Songtaews are privately owned and they run between the beach resorts and the town. All you need is to flag one down as there are no fixed stops.

If you decide to visit Phuket on a whim and have not arranged transportation in advance, make sure you avoid the tuk-tuks and the airport limousines. You can catch a metered taxi from the airport which costs half the price. Or, you can also catch the public airport bus which plies 12 times a day from the airport to Phuket town.

You should remember that the cost of living in Phuket is still low compared to the US and the UK. And you can enjoy a budget holiday in Phuket if you are willing to go local. This is not just save you money but you will be able to learn more about the local culture and you will appreciate it for sure.

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Phuket Hotels - Where To Stay On Your Business Trip

By Neal Arora


Phuket is paradise for tourists and business travelers who venture to this Thai destination. Tourism here rests not just on the influx of leisure travelers, but the business visitors as well. Many business-men and entrepreneurs are interested in investing in Phuket, expecting greater dividends. The Phuket Hotels are ideally suited to meet their requirements on a business trip.

Most of the business transactions involve a lot of traveling and if Phuket is your destination then there is little to bother about. An array of luxury to cheap abodes with convenient business facilities makes accommodation convenient in Phuket. Most tourists on a business trip are on the look out for those hotels in Phuket that provide good conference facilities.

The provision for a meeting room, a conference hall, internet access, business center, currency exchange, audio-visual equipments are among the few ingredients that the business tourists require on their trip. Most of the 5 star, 4 star and 3 star Phuket hotels cater to these needs of the guests. Well-appointed business and conference rooms consist of LCD screens, screen projectors, movie projectors, slide projectors, overhead projectors and micro-phones. These conference instruments aid the delegates in conducting their business proceedings.

Banquet facilities are also part of the hotel amenities at the business hotels in Phuket. Guests are selective about the location of the hotel and they book as per their requirements. The business hotels in Phuket are located conveniently. Some business trips do not involve conferences and business meets. Such travelers can bank on the budget accommodations in Phuket. It helps if you make prior booking so that you can avail best deals of business hotels in Phuket.
Some of the important Business Hotels in Phuket are:

Sri Panwa
Villa Salika
Amanpuri
Villa Zolitude
Trisara
Bundarika Villa Resort
Aleenta Resort And Spa

Some of the hotels offer exclusive executive floors and suites that are furbished with IDD telephones, internet facilities, data ports and 24 hour room service. If you choose to have an impressive conference followed by adequate leisure and fun then you can book the luxury Phuket hotels. The Phuket hotel reviews are evidence of the quality of service and assistance that are meted out to the business guests.

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Accredited Thai Massage school in paradise island, Phuket, Thailand

By Sasote Jullopas

Phuket has some of the best trained massage therapists in the world. Thai government approved massage schools, with curriculum designed by health and massage experts, teach massage techniques and therapies that have been practiced since the time of the Buddha more than 2,500 years ago.

In phuket, Phuket Traditional Thai Massage school ( PTM ) is located in Phuket town and is operated by Arjarn Pinit Soysuwan and his partner, Dr. Pheangchit Lim In. Both studied and taught at Thai Traditional Medical Association in Bangkok for more than 20 years before opening their own school in Phuket.

¡°In Thai culture, massage is a family tradition where most children are taught the fundamental concepts in Thai massage from an early age,¡± explained Dr. Pinit. ¡°At the end of the day , when the family gathers after a long day's work, they share a meal and give each other a relaxing massage.¡±

Much of traditional Thai massage is based on the teachings of Cheewaka Ko-marrapat, an Indian healer who lived at the same time of the Buddha. Traditional Thai massage, which is a form of pressure applied by touch to specific energy points and energy lines on the body, is a combination of Thai and Indian healing therapies.

Traditional Thai Massage is the mot effective and comprehensive system to energize and strengthen the body. It promotes the flows of the energy in the energy lines and the flow of blood in the blood vessels and capillaries. Pressure of deep massage will relax and release the adhesion of the fascia and allow to flow freely.

Thai massage has been one of the ancients healing arts of traditional Thai medicine. In the part decades, the general public-and, more recently, a rapidly growing number of people outside Thailand-have shown increasing interest in Thai massage.

The PTM offers courses for tourists and visitors to Phuket who want to learn Thai Traditional Massage.

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Phuket Gay festival

by jeff

7th Phuket Gay Festival

Now in its seventh year, Phuket's annual Gay Festival has become one of the island's top tourist draw cards, and this year is likely to be no exception. Staged again in Patong, from 2 to 5 February, it is expected to attract over 10,000 participants from as far a-field as the UK and US, Italy, Germany, Japan Singapore and Hong Kong. With a grand parade through Patong, stage shows at the Paradise Complex, street cabarets and sporting events, it is also set to be the most colourful three days the island has ever seen.

In the past Thailand's leaders have often cited the country's strict moral code as a reason for blocking such event as this, but Chanok Kaewseenuan, better known as Khun Tangmo - Chairman of the Phuket Gay Community and festival organizer - believes that things are slowly thawing out as authorities begin to understand just how much spending power the international gay community can bring to the country.

"Thailand has become more open about this matter. We have a better image and are accepted in the society," he says. "The recent international gay event at Crown Plaza Phuket in Karon brought a lot of income to the island. There should be more events with different concepts organized here that will promote Phuket as a beautiful destination and show that we are even better after recovering from the tsunami," Khun Tangmo told Phuket Post, adding that Phuket will be hosting the International Gay Games this October for the first time.

Last year's Phuket Gay Festival raised over 500,000 baht in five days to support schools, temples and villages damaged by the tsunami, and Khun Tangmo's plan is for this year's donations to go to those who have yet to be reached by government support. "This festival is mainly organized to boost harmony among everyone, for fun and to support the island. We don't organize activities like this only for the fun of it. We give something back to the public."
Patong's gay community was also instrumental in helping to establish the Sabaidee Clinic at Patong Hospital. Open daily from 4.30pm to 9.30pm the clinic was established to give Phuket gay population a place to seek medical advice, assistance and counselling.

An addition to this year's festival will be the Patong Business Fair in Soi Paradise, where local associations and businesses, including entertainment venues, beauty salons, massage parlours, hospitals and hotels, will be exhibiting their services - and again showing just how important the gay community is to the financial health of Phuket. "We have done a lot for the island and more people accept us for what we are," Khun Tangmo said. "Being gay is not wrong. We can be happy living in the same society with others and I hope that more people will be more open to this."
7th Phuket Gay Festival (2006-02-03 14:36:47) Now in its seventh year, Phuket's annual Gay Festival has become one of the island's top tourist draw cards, and this year is likely to be no exception. Staged again in Patong, from 2 to 5 February, it is expected to attract over 10,000 participants from as far a-field as the UK and US, Italy, Germany, Japan Singapore and Hong Kong. With a grand parade through Patong, stage shows at the Paradise Complex, street cabarets and sporting events, it is also set to be the most colourful three days the island has ever seen.

In the past Thailand's leaders have often cited the country's strict moral code as a reason for blocking such event as this, but Chanok Kaewseenuan, better known as Khun Tangmo - Chairman of the Phuket Gay Community and festival organizer - believes that things are slowly thawing out as authorities begin to understand just how much spending power the international gay community can bring to the country.

"Thailand has become more open about this matter. We have a better image and are accepted in the society," he says. "The recent international gay event at Crown Plaza Phuket in Karon brought a lot of income to the island. There should be more events with different concepts organized here that will promote Phuket as a beautiful destination and show that we are even better after recovering from the tsunami," Khun Tangmo told Phuket Post, adding that Phuket will be hosting the International Gay Games this October for the first time.

Last year's Phuket Gay Festival raised over 500,000 baht in five days to support schools, temples and villages damaged by the tsunami, and Khun Tangmo's plan is for this year's donations to go to those who have yet to be reached by government support. "This festival is mainly organized to boost harmony among everyone, for fun and to support the island. We don't organize activities like this only for the fun of it. We give something back to the public."
Patong's gay community was also instrumental in helping to establish the Sabaidee Clinic at Patong Hospital. Open daily from 4.30pm to 9.30pm the clinic was established to give Phuket gay population a place to seek medical advice, assistance and counselling.

An addition to this year's festival will be the Patong Business Fair in Soi Paradise, where local associations and businesses, including entertainment venues, beauty salons, massage parlours, hospitals and hotels, will be exhibiting their services - and again showing just how important the gay community is to the financial health of Phuket. "We have done a lot for the island and more people accept us for what we are," Khun Tangmo said. "Being gay is not wrong. We can be happy living in the same society with others and I hope that more people will be more open to this."

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Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa Hotel Patong Beach Phuket

by Maypopup M.

Would you like to find out what those-in-the-know have to say about Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa hotel Phuket? The information in the item below comes pure from well-educated experts with unique expertise about Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa hotel Phuket.

The Phuket Islands are known the world over for its picturesque beaches placid scenery and navy glittering seas. The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket is one of Phuket's best hotels. The Resort boasts of a enormous three hundred and thirty quarters and suites. All the quarters in Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket drudgery and drudgery, comfortable and have friendly concealed balconies. The resort is set amidst a rambling twenty acre patch and boasts of every ability that you may want during your defer. The position of in Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket is very convenient for tourists as it is placid, and not too crowded, and yet close to the shopping and entertainment attractions of Patong township.

The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket submits you a range of span in quarters and suites. You can chose from four different kinds of suites like the Ocean suite Ocean Front suite, expensive Suite and Super expensive Suite.

The suites in the sumptuous Wings are set in low incline buildings surrounded by plush backyards. The quarters in Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket proposal you every amenity and are equipped with close bathquarters with mineral floors. Key skin of the quarters comprise concealed balconies and loaf areas for relaxation, refuge safes, satellite and videotape shoot TVs, well-stocked tiny bars and extras such as wool dryers and brunette/tea making gear.
What an exciting way to begin this article, now let's take a look at what else we can learn about this topic!

The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket submits you a range of span in quarters and suites. You can chose from four different kinds of suites like the Ocean suite Ocean Front suite, expensive Suite and Super expensive Suite.

The suites in the expensive Wings are set in low rebel buildings surrounded by lavish patchs. The quarters in Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket submit you every amenity and are equipped with close bathquarters with sandstone floors. Key skin of the quarters contain concealed balconies and recline areas for relaxation, sanctuary safes, satellite and videotape coat TVs, well-stocked little bars and extras such as curls dryers and brown/tea making tools.
The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket provides you a spacious make of cuisines and eateries. The resort has nine different kinds of restaurants and bars where you can try out a make of cuisines and dishes. There is an abundance of creative seafood at the Diamond Hut Restaurant, or austerely try the sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki and other authentic Japanese foods.
The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket is one Phuket's finest resorts and you are steady to have a really memorable experience here.

eloquent enough about Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa hotel Phuket to make firm, educated pickings cuts down on the terror thing. If you concern what you've just academic about Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa hotel Phuket, you should have nothing to anxiety about.

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Patong Merlin Hotel Patong Beach Phuket

by Maypopup M.

There are many great aspects to this subject, which we will review carefully so that you may get the most from it.

Phuket in Thailand is known for its pasty sandpaper seashorees, tender coarsen provision and stunning regard of both sea and mountain. One of the most legendary seashorees of Phuket is the Patong seashore which is visited by millions of tourists. thus, you will find heaps of sumptuous hotels and options near and on the Patong seashore. If you want to settle in a bestow tailor in a world brand option then you must settle at the Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket, which is the most legendary option in Phuket.

scene of Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket:

This rewarding festival destination in Patong is a select international diversity which is located just in the core of the Patong seaside. As you get nearer to the hotel you will find that the diversity is a conglomeration of 6 low mount buildings nestled in 8 acres of land and almost unknown among the palm groves. The credible palm foliage suggest cool and dappled ambience to the diversity. Sit below a ranking likeing the subdued character, listening to the sound of the roll blowing through the foliage and hire your nose smell the sense of the sea.

plot Facilities at Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket:

Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket boasts of 386 sumptuous quarters and suites. The quarters are equipped ensuites and there are close balconies. The scope facilities at Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket involve satellite television connection, air provisioners, IDD phone connection, minuscule bar and refrigerator, tea and chocolate maker and also private dining break.
What an exciting way to begin this article, now let�s take a look at what else we can learn about this topic!

scope Facilities at Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket:

Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket boasts of 386 opulent quarters and suites. The quarters are equipped ensuites and there are close balconies. The pause facilities at Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket enter satellite television connection, air stateers, IDD receiver connection, minute bar and refrigerator, tea and chocolate maker and also private dining pause.
Hotel navy and navy at Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket

Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket also has an in house restaurant route offer a strain of ingestion options for the guests. You can eat cuisines of your span while in the route. The cafes of the hotel are located in such a way that you can have your morning cup of tea or brunette while haveing the steamy morning sun. The route also has provisions for arranging any print of parties, small or large.

The topic facilities at Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket involve conference facilities and there are well equipped assembly midpoint in Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket.

Three swimming pools add to the beauty of this international option which has admirable army and army to proffer. Whether you take a spray in the water or bask by the poolside, you will forever be mesmerized by the beauty of the surrounding. There is also a tennis date, kid's casino, rubdown service and a gymnasium in Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket.
Other army and army at Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket involve scope army, baby meeting facilities, laundry army and car parking break. There is also a pub in Patong Merlin Hotel in Phuket.

This article is the perfect way to gain the information that you need to fully appreciate the complexity of this subject.

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Dusit Laguna Hotels Phuket

by Maypopup M.

If knowledge is power, then after you have finished this article, you will be feel like Mighty Man when this subject is brought up in casual conversation.
Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket - skin as one of the elite hotels in Phuket in Thailand. Each of the quarters at this hotel is large and have acute interior plan. A varied array of leisure and recreational facilities would seasoning up your continue. Priding itself as one of the daintyst hotels in Thailand, Dusit Laguna Hotel plants the guests with several reasons for selection it as their feast abode.

position of Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket

The look of Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket that makes it a rostrum out is its zenith position. The hotel is 22km from the Phuket International Airport. It takes about 20 report to achieve the airport.

The hotel gives tranquil access to many of the foremost tourist destinations in the city. The tourist acne that are situated close to the hotel are Wat Phra Tong and the Thalang Museum. These are two of the foremost tourist attractions here. The place where the hotel is situated has good connectivity with the break of the city via different modes of carry. You would also have many breakaurants at the vicinity of the hotel.

area Facilities at Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket

We hope that you have gained a clear grasp of the subject matter presented in the first half of this article.
The hotel gives tranquil access to many of the main tourist destinations in the city. The tourist acne that are situated close to the hotel are Wat Phra Tong and the Thalang Museum. These are two of the main tourist attractions here. The place where the hotel is situated has good connectivity with the support of the city via different modes of carrying. You would also have many supportaurants at the vicinity of the hotel.

space Facilities at Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket

This luxury hotel offers accommodation of the utmost haltard. Every position of the quarters is crafted custody in intellect that the guests are delivered the extreme comfort. The quarters free by the hotel are superb with amazing interior project. The extent facilities at Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket enter every position of your comfort..

Guests can opt to continue in the air conditioned quarters. The quarters come with unlikely controlled influence TV with cable connection. You would also have phone with international turn dial capacity in each of the quarters. It's a pleasure and delight to continue in the sincerity of these snug quarters. All the quarters are large. Each of them is painted in quick hues that quicken up the ambience. scenic curtains add to the majesty. Each of the quarters in this hotel is furnished to the extract. Each of the quarters is complete with specially lush orthopedic bed.

Hotel military and navy at Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket

The hotel offers a beware blowing scale of military and military. As presently as you stair inside the resort, you would be greeted with tender hospitality. The swimming vacant by the hotel is large and handsome. Brush off your weakness by splashing into the water. To feast in form there is also a well equipped gymnasium.

The hotel also caters to the sellingmen. The hotel has a handsome and extenty selling middle. The conference extent is equipped with the hottest of apparatus. What more, you want not go far for your dinning. Hotel military and military at Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket comprise a great remainderaurant. like your dinning in a beware blowing ambience. some talk watering cuisines are brought to the move by this remainderaurant.

With all these facilities, the guests here are treated to a dainty time really. So, come and have a great continue here at Dusit Laguna Hotel in Phuket.

Knowing the ins and outs of this topic will help you to fully understand the importance of this entire subject.

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Amanpuri Resort Phuket Thailand

by Maypopup M.

After reading our article, you can impress your friends with the amazing amount of knowledge you have gained on this subject.
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket has a sincere background and a calm surrounding. Amanpuri hotel is located near the Pansea coastline in Phuket. This hotel is situated in the sultry plot part of Phuket, which is lovely and captivating. As a luxury resort, it is sole and unparalleled. It is because of the vanguard maintenance and extraordinary army, Amanpuri hotel in Phuket has been rated as a five star resort.
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket won prestigious awards for its military. Among them, the Conde Nast medal and trek and Leisure medal are the predominant ones.
The site of Amanpuri hotel in Phuket is very significant. It takes just 25 notes to make the Phuket Island. The Phuket airport too is very close. It is from the Amanpuri hotel, that you can like the best outlook of the Andaman Sea. The long stretched sandes, with superb coconut plants operation across, are the marvels of the spot.
So far as the extent army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket are troubled, the hotel does not bequeath any loophole in its army. The quarters are well furnished. Every luxury costume is bejeweled with a emperor bulk bed and other services. The bathquarters too are very fashionable, with secede hand shower and pour bathtubs. Dining at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket is also a lovely and elaborate business. There are continental restaurants preparing Italian and traditional Thai food. The coastline restaurants and bars are also there to assist you sensational dishes of the peak lesson.
Among other services and army, there are children's squares, children's swimming lake, coastline clubs, gym, store, luxury boutique and many more. For more information browse through the part condition and Recreation at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket .
For the rest of this article, we will discuss the meaning behind what we have learned about this subject so far.
So far as the extent army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket are troubled, the hotel does not bequeath any loophole in its army. The quarters are well furnished. Every luxury costume is bejeweled with a emperor bulk bed and other services. The bathquarters too are very fashionable, with secede hand shower and pour bathtubs. Dining at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket is also a lovely and elaborate business. There are continental restaurants preparing Italian and traditional Thai food. The coastline restaurants and bars are also there to assist you sensational dishes of the peak lesson.
Among other services and military, there are children's squares, children's swimming merge, coast clubs, gym, annals, luxury boutique and many more. For more information browse through the portion aptness and Recreation at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket .
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket also prepares health and recreation programs. There are expressly maintained spas and knead centers. Other inside and outside playoffs will also help you in your health and recreation programs. The Other services and army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket contain a car square, disabled facilities and move and tourism guidance.
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket will hence be an paradigm destination both for the leisure tourists and marriage couples. It is a place where people come to people and overcome the enchanting beauty of type.
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The tropical beaches of Phuket

by George

The Beaches of Phuket
Phuket is a tropical Thai holiday island and is one of the premier travel destinations in the world. The beaches of Phuket are well known for their white sandy beaches lined with gracious palm and coconut trees.
Most tourists staying on Phuket during their holiday unfortunately only visit the Phuket beach located closest to their hotel. It is a shame as there are so many beautiful Phuket beaches which the tourists could visit. The best way to see all the beautiful beaches of Phuket is by renting a motorbike or jeep and by simply driving up and down the coast line of Phuket as travelers will encounter countless beautiful and deserted Phuket beaches.
Some of the nicest beaches of Phuket are the Phuket beaches mentioned below.

Bang Tao Beach
The beautiful Bang Tao beach is located next to the upscale Phuket Laguna complex where a number of excellent 5 star Phuket hotels are located.

Kamala Beach
Kamala beach is one of the most popular of Phuket beaches and is located only a few minutes drive from Patong beach. Travelers looking for a Phuket beach area which offers a peaceful surrounding should consider booking a Phuket hotel or resort in the Phuket beach resort area of Kamala.

Karon Beach
The most popular of Phuket beaches after Patong beach is Karon beach and is located just south of Patong. Karon has a long beach and numerous resorts line this Phuket beach. Tourists visiting Phuket with children often prefer the somewhat laidback atmosphere that Karon beach has to offer.

Patong Beach
Patong beach is the busiest of all the beaches of Phuket. The vast majority of entertainment and business venues are located in Patong beach. If travelers are looking for a Phuket beach resort area where they can party until the early hours of the morning then Patong beach is the ideal choice for them.

Surin Beach
One of the most upscale Phuket beach areas is the area around Surin beach. If tourists do visit Surin beach then they should definitely try the excellent and inexpensive seafood which is served at the Surin beach side restaurants.

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Karon beach resort - another popular destination on the island of Phuket

by David Yuri

When it comes to planning a vacation, the options are endless. What makes a good or even perfect vacation destination? The things people look for is what they are interested in: stuff they can do, places they can visit and other things like that. What are your interests?
A popular destination for a relaxing vacation is the island of Phuket. Located in the southern part of Thailand, this island is also called 'the pearl of the Andaman' because it comprises all the necessary attractions which appeal to every tourist, no matter their preferences.
Let's start with the places you can visit. A great tourist attraction is the Phuket zoo. It has a surface that stretches on 10 hectares. Within this vast area there are over 100 types of amphibians and reptiles, 600 bird species and over 45 kinds of mammals.
The Phuket Seashell Museum is home for various rarities. In it you can view the only left-handed Noble Volute ever to be discovered and a very rare golden pearl. Other attractions include giant clams or fossils over 380 million years old.
For people interested in culture, one of the biggest Buddhist Temples, the Wat Chalong, represents a very important attraction in Phuket. One of the reasons may be the enormous half buried Buddha, which has a fascinating history going back ages ago.
There are lots of interesting things you can do as well. The nightlife in Phuket is restless and filled with great and fun activities. Everything you can do or visit in Phuket needs a place where you can rest. This is where the Phuket hotels come in play.
Phuket hotels come in all sizes and comfort standards. Ranging from two stars to five star hotels, you can always find a room which serves your interests the best. Depending on your preferences and budget, the Phuket hotels provide choices for every tourist.
For the tourists that seek sunny beaches for a quiet and relaxing vacation, they should set their eyes upon Karon beach resort. Patong beach, which is located further north, provides the perfect solution for people on the look out for fun and wild nightlife.
The Karon beach resort has a beach approximately 1.5 km long. After the tsunami disaster in 2004, most areas here have been fully recovered, leaving just a few spots which need to be redeveloped. This is the perfect location to spend some time relaxing and watching breathtaking sunsets on the beach.
There are just a few Phuket hotels in Karon beach resort which have direct access to the beach. Even so, you will find whatever you heart desires here and all you need to do to get to the beach is cross the road, which does not have a lot of traffic.
There are also lots of interesting places you can spend your time in Karon beach resort. These include bars or restaurants like H2O Entertainment or Harry's Restaurant and Pub. All you need to do is get there and the rest will come by itself.

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- Mall Fever : Phuket wants More

Mall Fever : Phuket wants More ( Phuket News )

by Aparna Raut Desai

That malls are a great place to be would be attested by pretty much any number of Phuket residents you care to ask. There's nothing like the sanctuary of a great big air-conditioned oasis on a scorching hot Phuket day. Some enter and would probably never leave, if not for irate and bemused security personnel ushering them out at the end of a gloriously hedonistic few hours. There's something about the sheer volume of space, swirling masses of people that you are nevertheless detached from, and the convenience of finding pretty much anything you fancy- and a lot you wouldn't expect- up an escalator, down a floor or round a square. On Phuket, hundreds find their way to their favourite mall every week, sometimes everyday. Some are lured by low prices and discounts, others are attracted to quality and still others to absurdly extravagant price tags. Different shelves for different selves, but generally speaking, Phuketians have embraced malls with the felicity of a union between sticky rice and mango. They simply go together. A plethora of malls have sprung up over the last decade or so, with Central Festival and Jungceylon, more recent additions to the scene -- the latter having only thrown open its doors this year -- dwarfing many others that were already in place.The fabulously sabai-sabai Thai motto blends seamlessly with the comfort and convenience offered at colossal shopping stops. In a survey conducted by the Phuket Post, covering 200 odd locals and tourists in Patong, Phuket city, Kata, Karon, Kamala and Cherng Talay, an impressive 24% admitted that they visit a mall daily. 28% said they made weekly visits to malls, and 42% are to be found heading the mall way atleast once a month. An overwhelming 66% said they thought Phuket's malls were “excellent”, with only a small group of 14% insisting they are not as good as those in bigger cities around the world and a tiny fraction of 2% putting them down as “terrible”.One member of this last rather minuscule group reasoned that Phuket has just about enough of malls, and it would perhaps be a better idea to build universities and other educational institutions to promote learning among the younger generation.Which brings us to a rather pertinent but not a very pursued consideration: just how many malls are too many? Given the popularity of the superstore, there is no question that it is here to stay. But how many more do we want ...need...or indeed, are able to cope with? The construction of a Tesco Lotus store at Cherng Talay was in the eye of a recent storm, until the sudden lull, accompanied by the opening of the store. While those that virulently opposed the store did so mainly on the basis of doubts about the legal authorisation of the project, an essential part of their argument against the construction was the effect it may have on local businesses.Demonstrators argued that opening a big store in the heart of a residential area would eventually affect the sales of little stores and shops run by locals.Indeed, coming back to the survey conducted by the Post, 32% of the participants said they shop a great deals less at stores than they did before malls came along. 26% said they only visited small stores in emergencies. Together they constitute more than half of the total number of shoppers interviewed. 42% said they shopped at smaller stores as much as before.As for smaller stores themselves, a large number of erstwhile mom-and-pop stores have shed their Thai names and personalities to don the smart, crisp appearance and modus operandi of chain store marts. There is a certain change happening on the retail face of Phuket, and it's happening fast. However, it's a noteworthy fact that the local stores that have not yet changed their warm and local style of running things are holding on steadfastly and are a long way away from losing heart...or, as they report, business.“Yes, malls are popular,” says the owner of a grocery store in a suburb of Phuket city. “But people in the area sill prefer to come to my shop, as the service is personal and they enjoy chatting and exchanging pleasantries. They could never find that in a mall. “The sense of community keeps people coming here,” he said. “We have people who do their shopping with friends so that they can share what they couldn't afford alone.”It's exactly the kind of warm, communal kinship that would be lost if stores and neighbourhoods like this were on their way out. The beautifully Thai traits of sharing and caring between neighbours and friends could be threatened by the advent of competitive, consumerist want-it-all attitudes that now plague many areas in the developed world.The key word, as for most other considerations, is balance. And it is of course as elusive a notion here as anywhere else. Where do you draw the line? And who draws it? How do we find that delicate balance between modern convenience and social traditions? Certainly, the arguments for development are strong. Perhaps even more persuasive than convenience, is the case for employment. Malls do, without a doubt, provide employment and even opportunity for a great number of people. In Phuket, it's not just the service staff employed in the thousands at various outlets that need to be taken into account, there are also various SMEs that set up shop on the properties. A walk through Big C, Lotus, Central or Jungceylon will feature sightings of not only branded stores, but a plethora of little local stalls selling anything from spices to dried fruit, trinkets to silk, handicrafts to cheap sunglasses.As Khun Songphol Pongrapeeporn, General Manager Marketing Activities of Central Festival Phuket told the Phuket Post, Central Festival employs more than 1,000 working at the various outlets there. “One mall employs the equivalent of 3 hotels, in terms of numbers. Malls are important to the economy of Phuket not just for employment but also for SMEs and other businesses.” Khun Kijja , the General Manager of Index Living Mall Phuket, also emphasises the importance of malls to Phuket's economy. “The demand for consumer goods in Phuket has increased every year,” he said. “And as we know, Phuket is a tourist destination. Millions of people from around the world come to visit Phuket and we have to make sure that their needs are met as well. Prior the opening of the Index mall on Phuket, we had many customers from Phuket that wanted more choice than they had on the island. They chose to buy what they needed at our branches in Bangkok and had them delivered to Phuket. We opened the Index Malls on Phuket to satisfy the demands of the customers, so they can get want they want right here and do not have to travel to Bangkok.”Many of the people we interviewed in areas that do not currently have malls, including Kamala and Kata-Karon, cited travel as a reason for the need for more malls on Phuket. “We like to shop at malls, and if we had malls in our own areas, we wouldn't have to drive all the way to Patong or Phuket city,” they chimed. “We don't want to drive through all that traffic.” Indeed, some interviewees thought that having more malls spread across the state would reduce the congestion on the roads. Which brings us back, again, to the delicate question of balance. People want comforts and they want conveniences. In the rush for development and modernisation, it is often the traditional and the simple that is lost without a trace. Like the controversial proposed changes to the FBA, another bill mooted by the military government that met with vigorous opposition was a retail law, which proposed restrictions on the construction of supermarts and big stores to help reduce competition for traditional retail outlets.For now, the picture is rosy. The few malls and super stores on the island are doing a roaring trade, especially with the advent of the High Season. Locals and tourists alike are delighted with the huge complexes and the entertainment they offer. Local stores, even if in diminished numbers, are still commanding a faithful following.For the sake of culture and the beautiful simple ways that are still alive on the island, we hope that sooner rather than later, those responsible will come up with a definitive and realistic boundary on exactly how many malls are too many, so that Phuket, both modern and traditional may be allowed to coexist in harmony, without either facet threatening the existence of the other.


Reporting by Witchureerat Kunprom, Chutima Sridasatang and Sunisa Nuntharak

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- Puravarna Windsurfing Rally for His Majesty The King

Puravarna Windsurfing Rally for His Majesty The King ( Phuket News )

Medal winners from recent Olympic Games and international competitions will be particpating in the windsurfing competition, the "Puravarna Windsurfing Rally for His Majesty The King" being heldon Phuket to celebrate the auspicious occasion of His Majesty The King's 80th Birthday Anniversary.Tourism Authority of Thailand in association with The Yacht Racing Association of Thailand and The Windsurfing Association of Thailand by The Eastern Windsurfing Club will be jointly hosting the event will be titled to be held from January 15 - 20, 2008 off Thailand's famous West coast of Phuket. The rally will commence at Nai Yang, in the North of the island and end at Nai Harn, at the South, passing the world famous beaches of Surin, Patong, Kata and Karon among others, on the way.In addition to a world class entry of top athletes from 21 countries, the Thai national team will also enter the competition. The presence of 30 of the world's best exponents of windsurfing promises an exciting event. The route to be used in the competition cruises along many famous beaches surrounding Phuket island. More than 100 kilometres of breathtaking scenery and marine environment await participants in this world's first windsurfing rally.Another highlight will be the sports equipment, sport clothes, and other accessories which have all been specifically designed to fit with the philosophy and objectives of the event. Even boards, sails, and racing suits have been produced in yellow, the color of His Majesty The King.The Chairman of the National Board of Director, Dr. Suwit Yodmanee, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, commented about several unique points in this rally drawing attention to the world class competitor entries. He went on to add that the competition will be broadcasted to about 170 million households worldwide, providing the great opportunity to showcase Phuket Island, the Pearl of Andaman, and the leading tourist attraction of the region.Event Manager, Thanit Raksanaves of the Eastern Windsurfing Club said that he is thrilled to have such a broad international entry especially from the major European Countries, Scandinavia, North America and Asia and especially the European countries that have produced so many of the world's greatest windsurfers. Topping the list are Christoph Sieber, from Austria who is the Sydney 2000 Olympic gold medallist; Guy Gribb, UK's number one national windsurfer for 13 consecutive years; French former world professional champion, Patrice Belbeoch; Riccardo Giordano, Italy's number one national windsurfer for 14 consecutive years and former European Windsurf Champion. Representing Asia will be Asian Games silver medallist and SEA Games gold medallist for five consecutive years, Saad Panyawan, along with Aran Homraruen, Thailand's national windsurfer who won several medals at the Asian Games.

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- Phuket: A Millionaire's Playground?

Phuket: A Millionaire's Playground? ( Phuket News )

by Aparna Raut Desai

“Just because you have a million doesn't make you a millionaire...” goes the saying. Indeed, a few millions today are rapidly becoming common place, but the term 'Millionaire' sill retains the exclusive lustre of the Super Rich.Just because a journalist can spell mililioniare doesn't get her any closer to having a few or indeed any where close to a million sitting in the piggy bank, and so it's very fortunate for this story that Phuket seems to attract the Super Rich in droves. Exclusive, elusive droves that is. Millionaires, for some peculiar reason, do not fancy being stuck in fabulously lax traffic jams on the way to Soi Bangla, or even gyrating wildly to the 1057th rendition of “Where is the Love” in a packed to bursting Thai pub.Why in Black Eyed Peas' name do they come here then, you could be forgiven for asking. And accordingly, I asked.“The golf!” stated a stately couple from Sweden, obviously mystified over the possibility of another answer. “We've been here two weeks and we've tried every golf course on the island. There is some absolutely superb golfing terrain available here. It's such a beautiful island too, we're definitely coming back. Soon.” Isak told me. They've particularly enjoyed playing at the Red Mountain golf course, he confided.... “it's state-of-the-art. “Although some others that we played on could do with some maintenance,” he added a trifle disdainful. “Not all of them were maintained to the standard professional golfers are used to all over the world. We will certainly only be returning to the few that were. It's a pity that some courses would let standards slip like that.”Isak and Julia were not not the only members of the rather elite crowd I spoke to on this story that golf had lured to the island. Bryan Lunt, chairman of the Absolute Group of companies and investor on the island, also spends considerable time on the island putting through the greens. Having just paid an obscene amount of money for a golf cart for his Discovery Bay residence in Hong Kong he told the Phuket Post in November, “Phuket is a great location for golf, the island is so beautiful and the people are so service minded.”Bryan reckons it's the Thais that make the very special allure of Phuket. For the Super-Rich too, the genuine warmth and smiles of the Thai people are a big draw. Even millions it seems, can't buy everything. “There is so much difference between the professional, polite smiles of staff all over the world, especially in the West and the gorgeous beaming faces of the Thais,” he insists enthusiastically. Craig and Karen, from Australia sailing in the King's Cup were also shopping for furniture for their 8,000 sq mtr home in Keswick island on the Great Barrier Reef. It stands to reason that self-made millionaires don't amass their wealth by squandering it, and attractive prices on Phuket can be a bonus to even those who don't have to count their $100s. The Kalizma, the gorgeous 100 year old 165 foot Edwardian Motor Yacht that belongs to the India's liquor tycoon, Vijay Mallya of United Breweries and Kingfisher Airlines, ranked 664 in the Forbes list of billionaires in 2007, caused a right little flutter on the island when she first docked at the Yacht Haven marina months ago. Moored at the Yacht Haven marina for months, the splendid yacht will be home to the flamboyant Millionaire whenever he visits the island another example of the profile of visitors to Phuket.On another marina not too far down South from the Yacht Haven, another tycoon...this time a telecom baron is making waves...and islands with his plans for Phuket. Gulu Lalvani, the British telecom moghul, having just launched the world's first Aquaminiums at the Royal Phuket Marina, is planning a base for superyachts off the coast of Phuket. A colossal facility that could handle superyachts ranging from 40 to 70 metres, with the intention of drawing a number of super-rich, like himself, to the area.Millions, apparently -- just like misery -- love company. Indeed the inlfux of the Super-Rich to the island can be credited in great measure to pioneering havens for the rich like the Amanpuri, where incidentally, Mr Lalavani bought his first home in Phuket and decided to 'retire' on the island. The induced demand created by the likes of the spectacularly luxurious Amanpuri has spurred the development of more fantastically decadent lifestyle options for those who are accustomed to them, and the Rich are lapping it up.With just the right mix of the things that make a millionaire's lifestyle, Phuket is preparing – and rapidly – to become a playground for those rolling in it.

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Phuket's Secret Beaches

by James Spellman

Phuket's beaches are world-renowned and tourists flock from across the globe to visit the famous beaches at Patong, Karon, and Kata. So much so that many people complain these beaches have lost their charm. They say Phuket can no longer claim to be an idyllic tropical island getaway. The beaches are too crowded. Sun loungers line the entire length of the beaches, sometimes in rows three or four deep. Jet skis, banana boats and parasail boats plough through the water while vendors ply their wares up and down the beach. They say Phuket is finished as an island getaway destination and only caters to the party crowd.
These people have not spent enough time exploring Phuket. There are more than 40 beaches around Phuket Island and there is something to suit all tastes. If you want a beach with good holiday facilities but not too crowded then Nai Harn, Kamala, Surin, Bang Tao and Nai Yang all have good hotels and restaurants yet do not draw big crowds. If you really want to get away from the crowds then Nai Thon and Mai Khao beaches in the north of the island are usually very quiet.
Still all these beaches are well known in Phuket and firmly in the tourist travel guides. In this article, we will look at some beaches that still remain undiscovered to most tourists. We will not even include Laem Sing or Yanui in this list. They are both charming beaches but they have become well known and usually have plenty of visitors. Some of the following beaches are not even known to many of Phuket's residents. These are Phuket's secret beaches.


Banana Beach

This beautiful beach is in the northern half of Phuket between Bang Tao Beach and Nai Thon Beach. It is a lovely two-hundred meter strip of sand, studded with rocks in the middle and ringed with trees. It is a good swimming beach and there is some great snorkeling. There is no accommodation and just a single beach restaurant with a handful of sun loungers at the southern end.
There are usually only a handful of visitors at this beach. The majority of them arrive by longtail boat from other beaches but in fact, you can see the beach from the coast road above and there is a trail down.

Pansea Beach

Right at the northern end of Bang Tao Beach is beautiful and peaceful Pansea Beach. There are two up-market resorts here yet the location retains its refreshing tranquility. Just offshore is Kala Island (or Kata Island depending who you believe) which shelters the shallow bay from waves so it is always calm. The waters are too shallow for swimming and when the tide is out you can walk to the island. It is a great beach for paddling and ideal for children to play. There are no refreshments here so it is a good idea to bring a picnic.

Pon Beach

This secluded little beach is in the headland north of Patong. The locals know it as Nai Yair Beach. It is amazing how few people find this beach considering it is located so close to the hordes at Patong. There is nothing here but a couple of rural shacks and a few grazing cows. It is a sandy beach but not good for swimming due to the rocky seabed. There is some good snorkeling.
There are usually a couple of locals renting sun loungers and selling refreshments. They can also provide you with a small barbecue to cook your own. There may be a small charge for crossing the private land to reach the beach.

Paradise Beach

In the headland south of Patong, there are two beautiful beaches that remain relatively unspoiled. They are not as undiscovered as the other beaches we mention on this list but still a break from the heaving masses at Patong. The first is Paradise Beach. Right at the tip of the headland, you can reach it by road (track) or boat.
It is a beautiful beach with overhanging trees. There is no accommodation but there is a restaurant and there are plenty of sun loungers. The beach is not the best for bathing due to the rocky seabed close to shore but there is some excellent snorkeling. There are usually plenty of people around but still it is surprising how many people in Patong do not know this beach is here.
Freedom Beach

You can only reach this stunning beach by boat. It is in the headland south of Patong all the way around and back towards the Karon Beach side. Still it is well worth the boat ride with fantastic bathing and snorkeling.
There are a couple of restaurants and plenty of sun loungers under the trees. The locals take great care of the beach and it is always pristine. Plenty of people do make this a day trip from Patong but the beach is never crowded and again it is surprising how many people in Patong do not know this beach is here.

Nui Beach

This beach is most known for how difficult it is to reach by land. Located between Kata and Nai Harn, the only way to reach it by land is down a two-kilometer dirt track that is almost impossible to traverse in a car. You can just about do it on a motorbike but it is better to walk or let one of the locals take you down on their ATV for a small fee.
It is also known as the most expensive beach in Phuket because you have to cross private land to reach it and they charge 250 baht for the privilege. This fee does get you a sun lounger and drink. When you do arrive, it is a beautiful secluded spot with good swimming and snorkeling. There is a rustic restaurant overlooking the beach but no accommodation. It is never crowded.

Ao Sane Beach

This beach is in the headland at the north end of Nai Harn Beach. You need to go through Le Meridian Phuket Yacht Club's car park to reach it but they do not stop you. There is a restaurant here and some budget bungalows by the beach. There are usually a few people around but it is never busy.
It is actually a series of three small beaches split by little rocky headlands. None of them is good for swimming due to rocks and corals close to shore. There is some excellent snorkeling.

Laemka Beach

This little beach is at the southern end of Phuket between Rawai and Friendship Beach. It is not signposted and a little difficult to find but a beautiful spot. The Evason Resort and a small bungalow resort are nearby but still the beach remains quiet. It is one of the few southern beaches where you can have a swim and there are nice views out to the southern islands.
Ao Yon Beach Nestled deep into Cape Panwa is Ao Yon Beach. This is the best beach on the southern side of Phuket. Although it is well developed with residential property, there are no hotels or restaurants by this beach. It is home to Phuket Yacht Club and there are always plenty of boats moored in the bay.

It is a beautiful stretch of sand and a good bathing beach. It is usually very quiet and a real getaway.

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Phuket Hotels: Renders Memorable Experiences

by Nancy Eben


Phuket, Thailand is the largest island in the country and Asia's most desirable island. It is rightly called as the 'Heaven on Earth' for its powdery, palm fringed beaches, wonderful coves and bays, and sparkling island-dotted seas. 'Pearl of the South' as Phuket is commonly referred to, is a unique mix of hustle and bustle, along with some great and awesome beauty. The island offers many different looks and feels to the visitors to discover and enjoy, but it all depends on which part of Phuket Island one is visiting. To get a taste of the famous and vibrant nightlife Patong Beach is the place, with all the noise and just about any thing one might care to treat oneself. For a laid back and relaxing, time Kata, Karonk beaches are ideal wit its natural beauty. In fact, it is a tropical wonderland and offers something for just about everyone. Phuket- Asia's most popular beach destination is blessed with amazing scenery, astonishing tropical sunsets and warm blue sea. Phuket's biggest attraction is its wonderful beaches, each having a unique character, but it has lots more to offer then its magnificent beaches and clean seas. For the adventure seekers there are the mangroves of the east coast and the inland jungles, nature areas and even waterfalls. Phuket also has the more conventional sight seeing options, such as museums and other attractions. Exploring the island on a hired moped bike is a unique experience and a wonderful way to get to know the island. An exquisite selection of tropical beach hotels in Phuket, wide range of family resorts to simple good value hotels Phuket are available on the beaches. Phuket- has everything to create a delightful picture for a truly memorable holiday. It is the place to extend your horizons, go for diving in the Andaman Sea, play golf at the world famous golf courses, explore the tropical rain forests, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, or just take a quiet cruise around the magical Phang Nga Bay. This fun island has an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, superb hospitality and great value accommodation in hotels Phuket. There is plenty of accommodation available ranging from standard bungalow resorts to 5 star hotels in Phuket. Phuket caters to all tastes, every budget, and promises a memorable holiday in the exotic surrounds of one of the most exciting island getaways.

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Phuket Photo

kata beach & Hat Yai beach, Phuket, Thailand

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Phuket Photo

Phuket - menu on the beach

there you can find some wonderful beach restaurants and the menu cards are very special and charming

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-Safer homes, Smarter homes

Safer homes, Smarter homes ( Phuket Local News )

Muggings, burglaries and daylight snatchings are on the rise. With growing prosperity has come the price, a steady rise in Phuket's crime rate. While it might not be time for panic yet, the signs are ever-mounting, and safety on Phuket is a hotly debated subject on the island just now.While the police force itself has been lauded for doing a great job with the limited resources it has, talk has been rife about how Phuket needs infrastructure, in all departments, that actually reflects the number of people who live here at any given time. While safety on the streets depends on a number of factors, safety at home, or in the workplace is far more personal, and one in which we can generally exercise much more influence. So how much impetus, especially in the recent scheme of things, need we be giving this crucial consideration? What can we do to make our homes safer... and have we been implementing these measures...and perhaps very pertinently; what do they cost?The Phuket Post spoke to Mr Elliot Klein, Senior Resident Consultant with the Maximum Security Division of Saen Yim Co. Ltd, who has some bleak observations about the safety situation in Phuket and Thailand as a whole.“This is a growing problem not only in Thailand but all across the Asian market. I have personally visited dozens of facilities, none of which had adequate security to prevent thieves, attackers or terrorists from having free access,” revealed Mr Klein. “The consequences of continued inaction will be the rapid growth of bravado and audacity of criminals, as their actions go unfettered and their targets become richer. Eventually we will get a situation like New York City of thirty years ago, when criminals ruled the streets and people were afraid even in their homes.“Using other locations around the world, we can easily predict the trend in crime as it has happened almost universally. It goes like this: first there is street crime, like purse snatching, theft from cars, muggings, etc. As criminals get away with these crimes, they are emboldened and gain confidence.“That's when burglaries occur, and criminals realize how much more there is to be gained from homes than from people walking around. Then the worst happens, home invasions. This trend, that is obvious to everyone but being ignored by every almost villa and condo developer and builder, will cost all of us in the long run,” warns Mr Klein. “They still prefer to believe that fancy kitchens and nice landscaping are more important than real security arrangements, even though evidence to the contrary is readily available.“This tragic environment is avoidable if developers, builders, agents and property managers take action now to enhance their security arrangements so that criminality becomes extremely difficult and unprofitable,” he continued. The upside, Mr Klein says, is that excellent security can be a powerful marketing tool for the builders and developers since potential buyers are actively looking for homes that offer advanced security equipment, personnel and techniques. “According to the latest research commissioned by the Homebuyer Show at ExCeL (UK), almost three-quarters (72 %) of home buyers believe good security is an essential factor in their decision to buy a property.”The greatest security threat to homes in Phuket right now, Mr Klein told the Phuket Post, is apathy. “Ignoring the truth and thinking, 'it won't happen to me'.”“Very few homes have any security at all,” Mr Klein observes. “Those that do have minimal measures, and the home-owner then believes himself to be safe, leading to carelessness. For instance, I recommend every home have an alarm system with sensors on all doors and windows. But this should be considered one element in a complete security program, not the only necessity.”So what would he recommend, be the minimum level of security a home should have, and is it available on Phuket? “A real locking gate, motion sensor lights around the perimeter of the property and on the house, solid wood outside doors with hinges on the inside, double key deadbolt locks on all outside doors, 7cm steel screws in all outside doors hinges, strikeplates on all outside doors, locks on all windows, smoke and fire alarms in all rooms, fire extinguishers in every room, smoke hoods in every room.” Mr Klein listed. “These are all available at HomePro, Home Works (except maybe smoke hoods) at minimal costs.“I would recommend the same measures for homes with children as for homes without. This requires a complete security program, not stop-gap measures giving a false sense of security leaving the home-owner vulnerable. To have the kind of elite security for a home and family, that only the Impossible Mission Force or Ocean's 12 can penetrate, I would advise any home-owner to spend at least what they spend on vehicles, and as much in monthly fees as they spend on alcohol, tobacco and dining out,” he said emphatically.For more information, contact Elliot Klein, Senior Resident Consultant, Maximum Security Division, Saen Yim Co. Ltd Tel: +66 76 249-310

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