PHUKET - THAILAND

PHUKET THE OF SOUITH

History of Phuket , Thailand

Phuket Ancient Times

Southern Thailand has been inhabited since the early days of mankind by ancient tribes who settled and or adapted their lifestyles to the local environment. Who arrived first and who pushed out or assimilated who has kept archaeologists occupied for a long time, and promises to keep them working for a good while to come.

Remains of domesticated rice found at Spirit Cave, Thailand, may date from before 6800 BC. The development of bronze (copper and tin) for use in weapons and tools generally marks the time when archaeologists consider a society to have left the Stone Age. Discoveries in Thailand since 1960 have upset traditional theories concerning the origins of copper and bronze technologies. It had been thought that the use of bronze had originated in the Middle East, but discoveries near Ban Chiang, Thailand indicate that bronze technology was known there as early as 4500 BC. This preceded the working of bronze in the Middle East by several hundred years. Greece by comparison did not enter the Bronze Age until 3000 BC and China not until 1800 BC. What tribe or group of people created this advanced civilization and what happened to them is a matter of great debate. The developments were localized and did not affect the region as a whole. This is due in part to Southeast Asia having some of the most inhospitable and inaccessible terrain in the world. This allowed some areas to develop into very sophisticated and modern societies while a few miles away deep in the jungles and remote mountain areas primitive societies survived.

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Tin, a commodity as valuable as gold to ancient kingdoms was discovered several millennia ago in the Kathu (central) district of Phuket. Tin in seemingly endless quantities was easily extracted from veins near the surface. While no written records exist of when tin was first discovered and mined, cave drawings and recovered artwork and other artifacts go back well into the Stone Age. In ancient times people did not mine for tin. They found it, usually after a heavy rain washed away the topsoil and exposed the layers of gravel bearing tin. Phuket had long appeared on the charts of ship captains from India and the Arab nations as a source of fresh water, firewood, and pitch to caulk their boats. Ships would anchor in the safe harbors of Phuket and wait for the monsoon winds to allow them to proceed across the Andaman Sea to the Indian subcontinent. As these ships were at times forced to wait weeks or even months for favorable winds, it is believed that these early sailors discovered the precious metal.

Among the earliest permanent residents of Phuket were primitive tribes similar to the Semang pygmies that still exist today in Malaysia. Small tribes of these hunter-gathers survived in the jungle by hunting and eating the bountiful fruits and roots found in the lush triple-canopy rainforest that then covered the entire island. Small groups of these Semang people are reported to have survived in the dense jungles of the Phuket’s interior until finally being displaced in the mid-nineteenth century by tin miners.

The coastal areas of Phuket were populated by a nomadic seafaring people, the Chao Nam or ‘sea gypsies’. The Chao Nam traditionally ‘strand looped’ or traveled from cove to cove, staying until the shellfish and other resources were depleted. They then moved on, allowing the cove to re-establish its former ecological balance before returning to repeat the cycle. Described as ‘Saliteers’ (pirates) the Chao Nam developed a rather unsavoury reputation among sea captains that plied the Straits of Malacca. The Chao Nam figured prominently in reports filed by early visitors of the area. Often they were described as a small but hardy people, who were expert sailors and who built small but sturdy ships that could weather the roughest seas. They moved from place to place like gypsies, encamping on the islands but never cultivating the soil. Piracy and fishing for pearls were their only means of support. They had no written language, practiced a religion based on animism, and were generally described as heathens of the first order. Captain Hamilton, an early European trader, writes of them: "Between Mergui (now coastal Burma) and Jonkcelaon (Phuket) there are several good harbors for shipping, but the sea coast is very thin of inhabitants, because there are great numbers of Freebooters (pirates), called Saliteers, who inhabit islands along the sea coast and they both rob and take people for slaves and transport them to the Sumatran kingdom of Atjeh (Indonesia) and there make sale of them and Jonkcelaon (Phuket) often feels the weight of their depredations." An early French Jesuit missionary believed it impossible to go by foot more than half a league from Junkceylon (Phuket) without life and property being endangered by bandits. The fierce reputation of these Saliteers (pirates) may explain why it took so long for permanent trading and mining settlements to be established on Phuket.

By the 3rd century there were scattered settlements of traders from south India along the west coast of Thailand. A four meter (13-ft) stone statue of the Hindu god ‘Vishnu’ was unearthed in the nearby province of Phang-nga. It is now on display in the Thalang National Museum in Phuket, and is one of many examples of art and sculpture recovered from this period. These early traders are believed to have been trying to establish a trade in cotton cloth, spices and tin.

How do I get there?

You can get to Phuket by land, sea or air. Phuket’s International Airport receives direct flights from countries all over the world as well as connecting domestic and international flights from Bangkok. A relaxing and scenic way to arrive in Phuket is by sea on a cruise liner, or by private yacht. Traveling overland, you can come by road from either of Bangkok, Malaysia, or Singapore, with a choice of taking a bus or hiring your own car to drive. Travel by train is also possible from each of these locations alighting at Surathani and making the last leg of the journey to Phuket by road.

When is the best time to come?

Phuket is great to visit at any time of the year. Traditionally, the busiest time is from late October until early April, with the Christmas/New Year period being the absolute peak. During these times you need to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Beach and weather conditions are perfect at this time ideal for diving, sailing too. If visiting at other times of the year, you will benefit from better prices for accommodation and services, and still enjoy wonderful weather. Even during the monsoon period July through to October, short rainsqualls are interspersed with beautiful sunny periods, allowing you to still enjoy the full range of outdoor activities available here.

Should I book accommodation before I get there?

For visits during high season, accommodation bookings are essential. Now with the advent of direct on-line booking services, you can search for a hotel in the location you want, according to your budget and preferred choice of facilities, and receive confirmation straight away. This enables you to make a good choice before you arrive and helps avoid disappointment. During low season, booking ahead on the net is also wise, as you’ll find that many of the hotels offer great online specials and packages that are otherwise unavailable.

Do I need a visa?

New Zealanders, Swedish and South Korean passport holders may enter Thailand for up to 90 days visa free. Most other nationalities require to obtain a tourist visa or transit visa. Check with a Thai Embassy or Consulate well before your planned date of travel to see what applies to you.

What is the Voltage and do I need an adaptor?

Voltage is 220 volts, but you will need an adaptor for Thai plug which can be found in most convenience stores.

Is Phuket safe?

Like anywhere, there are things to be wary of in Phuket. Keep these in mind and you will enjoy a safe holiday.

Be aware that at certain times of the year, the conditions off the beaches on Phuket’s west coast are such that tides and currents can be strong and unpredictable. During the Monsoon months of July through to October it is wise to exercise caution when swimming off open beaches particularly in the unpopulated areas.

Be wary of touts in tourist areas, selling services or offering assistance. Whilst unlikely to cause any physical harm, they may cause you needless expense and to waste valuable time. If you choose to follow-up on the advice of a tout inspect what’s on offer most carefully and don’t feel obligated.

Be careful of your valuables at all times, locking away travel documents, money, credit cards and travellers checks wherever possible. Don’t take large amounts of cash around with you and always keep your bag close to your person so that pick pocket and drive-by motorcycle thieves won’t be tempted to try their luck.

Lone travellers should be careful of people who might wish to befriend them with offers of snacks, sweets or drinks. Druggings are not unheard of and will leave you minus your luggage and valuables.

Use common sense when choosing what and where to eat. Hygiene is not always of the highest standard, therefore be wary of foodstuffs in open-air markets and mobile stalls. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t eat market and hawker food just choose only freshly cooked items and steer clear of anything that’s been sitting around a while. If buying fresh fruit try for something that still has it’s skin and has not been lying in icy water. Drink bottled water only and always wash your hands before eating.

Do people speak English in Phuket?

As a truly international resort, you will find that English is widely spoken by most who involve in the tourist industry albeit at differing levels of competency, and you will find that communication with Thai people is mostly a delight - with the exception only of the most hardened workers in the tourist industry.

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What to bring

What goods can/can’t I bring in

Import of illegal drugs, firearms and pornographic materials is prohibited. A litre of wine or spirits per person and up to 200 cigarettes is allowed, along with a reasonable amount of clothing, toiletries, and electronic items for personal use. Foreign cash may be brought into the country without restriction.

What clothes should I bring?

Lightweight cotton clothing is the most comfortable for this tropical climate. Being a beach resort, you can get away with wearing very casual clothing for almost any occasion at most venues. Shorts, T-shirts and sandals are the norm for daywear (men and women) and casual pants, short sleeve shirts (men and women), and simple dresses and skirts (women) ideal for night times. Those who like to dress up at night can do so without fear but be assured that it is not necessary. Do be respectful of the Thais’ opinion towards nudity and dress codes in public places. Nude and topless sunbathing is not approved of, and the wearing of skimpy beach attire or minus a shirt in restaurants is also frowned upon.

Do I need to bring my own sporting equipment?

Snorkellers may want to bring their own gear to save on the cost of hire. Dive gear is readily available and more convenient to hire here. Serious golfers may like to bring their own clubs, particularly if you plan to play frequently during your stay. However for the social hacker who wants to fit in only a game or two, gear can be hired at most courses around the island if you prefer not to lug the extra baggage around. Standard rates are around 500Baht for 18 holes, slightly more if you choose a superior quality of clubs.

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Transportation

How do I get from the airport to my hotel?

Upon arriving at Phuket Airport, proceed through baggage and customs (if flying international). Before reaching the public arrivals area, you will walk past counters where arrangements for the hire of minivans and taxis can be made. If you have made prior arrangements with your hotel for an airport transfer, you can safely bypass these counters and head directly outside to the transit area where drivers with placards are waiting. Look for the logo of the hotel you’re booked with and for your name. If no prior arrangements have been made, go directly to the taxi/limousine counters and state your destination including the name of the hotel and beach. The counter staff will fill out a ticket in exchange for the appropriate fee. You will be asked to follow an attendant to the outdoor transit lane where a taxi or minivan will be assigned. These services are offered at a fixed rate according to your destination and the mode of transport you choose.

How much will I have to pay for a taxi to my hotel?

Dependent on your destination, and the mode of transport you choose, your trip can cost anywhere from Baht 100 to Baht 600. If traveling by shared minivan to Patong for instance, the fee is Baht 100. If hiring a taxi, expect to pay up to 600 Baht.

Where can I get a map of Phuket?

For on-line maps go to Phuket-maps.com. On your arrival in Thailand, maps are readily available from all tourist information desks, the airport and book stores.

What kind of license do I need to drive a car in Phuket?

For short stays, an international driving license or a license to drive from your own country is at least required from most reputable car hire agencies. Whilst you can readily rent vehicles from private agencies without having to show any license at all, you will not be covered by insurance if you are involved in a traffic accident, and can be fined for driving without one if pulled over by local police. For stays of more than 3 months and particularly if you drive a private car, then a Thai driver’s license is necessary. Many people don’t realize this fact until it’s too late and their insurance company refuses to pay on the basis of not having the correct license (and yes, you can apply for and obtain insurance coverage without being informed of this minor detail).

Do I need a license to drive a motorcycle?

Whilst you don’t need a license to hire a motorbike, you can be arrested for driving without one, so be sure to have your home country license if not an international license. Also be aware that you will not be covered by insurance if involved in an accident on a rented motorcycle, despite what you are told. It is important to keep this in mind when choosing to hire and ride around in what are often dangerous conditions for inexperienced riders.

Are there car seats available for children in hire cars?

International hire car agencies can provide car seats for children if requested in advance. Small, local hire car companies are less likely to have them but there are exceptions.

Is local transportation easily accessible?

Phuket is geared for the tourist with hotel limousines, tour buses and hire cars etc to the extent that most visitors don’t avail themselves of the local transport as often as they might. There is good reason to however as it is an economical and entertaining method of getting around the island. It requires that you be a little adventurous and be prepared for the unexpected, but the rewards are worth it. Local buses travel to and from destinations right around the island from early morning ‘til early evening. Destinations are written on the front, and you just flag them down in the street. Local tuk-tuk’s are always available in the street - do your own bargaining for the fare before you set off. Another alternative is the motorbike taxi not the safest mode of transport but an interesting experience and handy for short distances.

How much is the departure tax?

Baht 500

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Food

What kind of food can I find on Phuket?

You’ll find practically everything on Phuket, from local Thai to international cuisines ranging from French, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, Indian and more. Sophisticated restaurants, sidewalk cafes, terraced or garden outlets, groovy eateries, bakeries, delis, local style cafés and canteens you have you pick of venues. If you want to do your own thing shop at the many open air fresh food markets or western style supermarkets and cook up your own feast.

Can I find vegetarian or Halal food?

If you are vegetarian you’ll find many dishes to please you, as will those with a preference for Halal food.

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Kids

Is Phuket a good place to bring kids?

Judging by the numbers of families that visit Phuket each year Phuket is certainly suitable for a family holiday. Thais are very welcoming to children and the vast range of activities and attractions here will keep them occupied and amused all day long. Take the usual precautions about health drink bottled water only and wash hands frequently to ward off any bugs.

What activities are there for kids?

Kids will enjoy water sports activities by the beach, elephant trekking, safaris, visits to the zoo and various aquatic museums, animal centres, mini golf, visits to open air markets, bowling, go-kart racing, horse riding, and much much more.

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Special events

What events will be on when I am in Phuket?

Visitors will come across various different events and festivals held on the island during the year. Some like the Thai New Year celebration Songkran are held annually on the same date every year. Others like the Chinese Vegetarian Festival are held to coincide with the phases of the moon in the ninth month of the year, and thus change their dates from year to year.

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Accommodation

Where should I stay?

Depending on your budget and preferred activities, there is an entire range of accommodation possibilities ranging from budget type bungalows to the fully blown 5-star luxury resorts. You may like a quiet location away from the madding crowds, or alternately, love to be in the thick of things. Our suggestion is to work out your daily accommodation budget and conduct your search of the options on that basis. Note the facilities offered at each and the locations they are in. You can read up on each location on our web pages. If you need some extra help check through our Special Offers page to see what bargains are on offer. Likewise our Suggestions page will give you some hints about types of accommodation suited to different tastes. Having identified what looks to you to be the right location for the right price book on-line for immediate confirmation.

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Itineraries

What tours should I go on?

Choosing tours is sometimes like going in a lucky dip. There are so many options available and you’re not sure what each are going to be like. Our advice is to research a little before hand on your options and ask the advice of those who have been before. Check out our tour pages on Things to See and Do/Tours & Excursions. Then visit our Travel Forum to post your questions or see what other people recommend.

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Business

Can I own a business in Phuket?

Yes, but it depends on the type of business you seek to own. Foreigners can own and do operate businesses in Phuket, subject to certain restrictions. Under Thai law, some categories of business cannot be majority owned by foreigners, whilst others can, subject to certain conditions being met. Still others have no restrictions placed at all. The authority on this issue is Thailand’s Alien Business Law.

Who do I contact to find out about business?

To find out general information about doing business in Thailand, there are a number of publications now available that will answer most of your initial queries for limited expense. Such books are found at Asia Books stores, DK Books and Bookazine stores throughout the country. You may then want to go directly to a business adviser a locally based, reputable international law firm would be the best option who can give you specific information according to your targetted business. They will also be abreast of any changes in the laws to your advantage. Several internet search directories list the names and contact details of such law firms in Bangkok.

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Money

What credit cards can I use?

Visa and Mastercard are widely used at major hotels and some restaurants, AMEX less. Small hotels, restaurants and many shops do not accept credit cards so be prepared for this possibility also. Use your credit card to obtain cash from ATM’s. This is the cheapest way to obtain Thai Baht. ATM/s are located in the main areas of Patong and Phuket Town, as well as at Phuket Fantasea in Kamala Beach, at the Siam Commercial Bank at ChoengTalay (near Laguna Resort) and at Karon Beach. You can also withdraw cash on your credit cards from local exchange tellers but need to show your passport.

Are travellers checks accepted in Phuket?

Yes. Foreign denomination checks are easily exchanged for cash however it is not the cheapest way to buy Thai Baht. Foreign exchange counters are located in all major tourist areas.

ACCOMMODATION IN PHUKET

Located in Southern Thailand, Phuket is the largest island and one of the popular tourist destinations in the country. Often termed as 'Pearl of the South,' Phuket is known for its beautiful hills, white sandy beaches, world-class diving sites, lush tropical forests, and of course for its cosmopolitan culture that has provided the city a flavor of its own. Tourists in Phuket can enjoy some amazing scenery, beautiful sunsets and warm blue sea, or indulge in a variety of exciting activities like scuba diving, yachting, water-skiing, windsurfing, jet-skiing. Other attractions in and around the city include Phuket Aquarium, Bang Tao Beach, Karon Beach, Surin Beach, Patong Beach, Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, Phi Phi Island, Racha Islands and the Similan Islands. Phuket also boasts a wide range of hotels and resorts, restaurants, pubs and bars, nightclubs, shopping malls, golf courses and other entertainment options to make your visit a wonderful experience.

There is no dearth of accommodation options in Phuket, ranging from luxury hotels to island villas to beach resorts to innumerable budget hotels, lodges and apartments. With several types of hotels available in Phuket, you will have a tough time making the right choice for accommodation here but various websites and travel agents would help to find the accommodation to your budget/requirement. Below is given a brief list of hotels/resorts for your perusal:

Absolute Patong Ville Phuket - 19 Sirirat Road Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150

Absolute Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa - 42/11 Taveewong Road Patong Beach Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Access Resort & Villas Phuket - 459/2 Patak Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Adamas Resort Spa Phuket - 92 Moo 3 Baan Na Tai Naiyang Beach Tambol Sakoo Phuket 83110

Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort & Spa - 7/1 Ketkwan Road Karon Phuket 83000

Andaman Beach Suites Phuket - 60/12 Rad U Thit Song Roi Pee Road Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150

Andaman Cannacia Resort & Spa Phuket - Karon Road Kata Beach Phuket 83100

Andaman Seaview Hotel Phuket - 1 Soi Karon Soi 4 Karon Road Karon Beach Muang Phuket 83100

Andaman Seaview Resort - Bangtao - 82/9 Moo 2 Baan Bangtao Cheangthalay Thalang Phuket 83110

Aquamarine Resort & Villa Phuket - 17/38 Moo 6 Kamala Beach Kathu Phuket 83150

Aspery Hotel Phuket - 5/41-54 Patong Beach Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

At Panta Phuket Hotel - 310/51 Moo 1 Baandon Cherngtalay Road Thalang Phuket 83110

Avantika Boutique Hotel Phuket - 4/1 Thaweewong Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Ayara Hilltops Phuket - 125 Moo 3 Surin Beach Srisoonthorn Road Tambol Cherngtalay Phuket 83110

Baan Krating Jungle Beach Boutique Resort Phuket - 11/3 Moo 1 Wiset Road Tambol Rawai Ao Sane Phuket 83130

Baan Sukhothai Hotel Phuket - 70 Bangla Road Patong Beach Phuket 83150

Baan Yin Dee Boutique Resort Phuket - 7/5 Muean Ngen Road Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150

Ban Raya Resort & Spa Phuket - 7/26 Moo 3 Tumbol Rassada Muang Phuket 83000

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa Phuket - 94 Thaveewong Road Patong Beach Phuket 83150

Baramee Resortel Phuket - 266 Phrabaramee Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Bel Air Panwa Resort Phuket - 89/9 Moo 7 Sakdidet Road Wichit Muang Phuket 83000

Benyada Lodge Phuket - 106/52 Moo 3 Cherngtalay Talang Phuket 83110

Best Western Phuket Ocean Resort - 562 Patak Road Karon Beach Muang Phuket 83100

Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa Phuket - 124/29 Moo 3 Tumbon Cheung Thalay Thalang Phuket 83110

Bhukitta Hotel & Spa Phuket - 20-28 Phang Nga Road Phuket 83000

Blue Marine Resort & Spa Phuket - 290/1 Prabaramee Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Burasari Resort Phuket - 32/1 Ruamjai Road Tambol Patong Amphur Kathu Phuket 83150

By The Sea Khao Khard Beach Phuket - 7/6 Moo 6 Soi Bor Rae Sakdidech Road Vichit Muang Phuket 83000

Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket - 27 Moo 8 Sakdidej Road Cape Panwa Phuket 83000

CC Bloom's Hotel Phuket - 84/21 Patak Road Soi 10 Karon Phuket 83100

centara Karon Resort Phuket - 502/3 Patak Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Centara Kata Resort Phuket - 54 Ked Kwan Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Centara Villas Phuket - 701 Patak Road Karon Beach Muang 83100

Chava Resort(The) Phuket - 113 Moo 3 Tambon Cherng Talay Thalang District Phuket 83110

Club Andaman Beach Resort Phuket - 2 Hadpatong Road Patong Phuket 83150

Courtyard by Marriott Phuket at Surin Beach - 106/27 Moo 3 Cherngtalay Talang Phuket 83110

Courtyard Phuket at Kamala Beach - 100/10 Moo 3 Kamala Beach Phuket 83150

Courtyard Phuket at Patong Beach - 48 Ruam Jai Road Patong Beach Phuket 83150

Deevana Patong Resort & Spa Phuket - 43/2 Raj U Thid 200 Pee Road Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150

Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa Phuket - 284 Prabaramee Road Patong Phuket 83150

Duangjitt Resort Phuket - 18 Prachanukroh Road Patong Phuket 83150

Front Village Phuket - 566 Patak Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa - 333 Patak Road Karon Beach Muang District Phuket 83100

Holiday Inn Resort Phuket - 52 Thaweewong Road Patong Beach Phuket 83150

Horizon Beach Resort Phuket - 64/39 Thaweewong Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Hyton Leelavadee Phuket - 3 Pracha Nukhro Road Patong Phuket 83100

Ibis Patong Hotel Phuket - 10 Chalermphrakiat Road Patong Phuket 83150

Impiana Phuket Cabana Resort & Spa - 41 Taweewongse Road Patong Beach Phuket 83150

Indigo Pearl Hotel Phuket - 116 Moo 1 Nai Yang Beach & National Park Phuket 83000

JW Marriott Resort & Spa Phuket - 231 Moo 3 Mai Khao Phuket 83110

Kamala Beach Hotel & Resort Phuket - 96/42-3 Moo 3 Kamala Beach Kathu Phuket 83120

Karon Living Room Hotel Phuket - 481 Patak Road Karon Phuket 83100

Karon Princess Hotel Phuket - 194 Karon Road Karon Phuket 83100

Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa Phuket - 208/2 Karon Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Kata Palm Resort & Spa Phuket - 60 Kata Road Tambon Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Kata Poolside Resort Phuket - 36-38 Kata Road Kata Muang Phuket 83100

Katathani Beach Resort Phuket - 14 Kata Noi Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

La Flora Resort & Spa Patong - 39 Taweewong Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort - 29 Soi Karon Nui Tambon Karon Amphur Muang Phuket 83100

Leelawadee Boutique Hotel Phuket - 1/1 Siriraj Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Malisa Villa Suites Phuket - 40/36 Kata Road Kata Muang Phuket 83100

Manathai Resort Phuket - 121 Srirunthorn Road Surin Phuket 83110

Mangosteen Resort & Spa Phuket - 99/4 Moo 7 Soi Mangosteen Phuket 83100

Mercure Patong Phuket - 239/14 Raj-U-Thid 200 Pee Road Patong Phuket 83150

Metropole Hotel Phuket - 1 Soi Surin Montri Road Phuket 83000

Millennium Resort Patong Phuket - 199 Rat Uthit 200 Pee Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Mom Tri's Boathouse Phuket - 182 Kata Beach Phuket 83100

Mom Tri's Villa Royale Phuket - 12 Katanoi Road Kata Beach Phuket Phuket 83100

MS Guesthouse Patong Phuket - 14/13 Ratpatanusorn Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Naiya Buree Boutique Resort - 95/22 Moo 1 Tambol Rawai Amphur Muang Phuket 83130

Novotel Phuket Beach Resort Panwa - 5/3 Moo 8 Ao Yon Khao Khad Road Muang Phuket 83000

Novotel Phuket Resort - Patong Beach Road Patong Phuket 83150

Old Phuket Hotel - 192/36 Karon Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Orchidacea Resort Phuket - 210 Khoktanod Road Kata Beach Phuket 83100

Paradise Koh Yao Boutique Beach Resort & Spa Phuket - The Paradise Koh Yao Koh Yao Noi Phang Na 82160

Paresa Phuket - 49 Moo 6 Layi Nakalay Road Kamala Kathu Phuket 83150

Patong Bay Garden Resort Phuket - 33/1 Thaweewongse Road Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150

Patong Bayshore Hotel Phuket - 89 Rat U Thit Road Patong Phuket 83150

Patong Beach Hotel Phuket - 124 Thaweewong Road Patong Beach Patong 83150

Patong Beach Lodge Phuket - 207/21-25 Rat U Thit 200 Years Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Patong Green Mountain Hotel Phuket - 14 Soi Prabaramee 3 Prabaramee Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Patong Paragon Hotel Phuket - 280 Prabaramee Road Patong Krathu Phuket 83150

Patong Resort Phuket - 208 Raj Uthit 200 Pee Road Patong Beach Phuket 83150

Patong Villa Hotel Phuket - 152/1 Taweewong Roand Patong Phuket 83150

Peach Blossom Resort Phuket - 23/12 Karon Road Kata Beach Phuket 83100

Peach Hill Resort Phuket - 2 Laemsai Road Kata Beach Karon Phuket 83100

Pearl Hotel Phuket - 42 Montri Road Phuket 83000

Phuket Pavilions Hotel - 31/1 Moo 6 Cherngtalay Thalang Phuket 83110

Phulin Resort Phuket (The) - 10/2 Patak 18 Patak Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Poppa Palace Hotel Phuket - 14-16 Rat U Thit 200 Pee Soi 1 Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Print Kamala Resort Phuket - 74/8 Moo 3 Nar Had Road Kamala Beach Kathu Phuket 83120

Quality Resort Patong Beach Phuket - 22 24 & 26 Thaweewong Road Patong Phuket 83150

Rattana Beach Hotel Phuket - 514/ 1-8 Patak Road Karon Phuket 83100

Rayaburi Hotel Patong Phuket - 3/8 Soi Sawatdirak Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Rico's Hotel Phuket - 64/10-11 Soi Bangla Square Patong Phuket 83150

Rome Place Hotel Phuket - 23/8 Soi Hub Ek Phuket Road Muang Phuket 83000

Royal City Hotel Phuket - 154 Phang Nga Road Muang Phuket 83000

Royal Paradise Hotel Phuket - 135/23 Paradise Complex Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150

Seaview Patong Hotel Phuket - 2 Taweewong Road

Secret Cliff Resort & Restaurant - 707 Paatak Road Karon Cliff Phuket 83100

Seeka Boutique Resort Phuket - 164/8 Nanai Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Serene Resort Phuket - 175 Koktanode Road Kata Beach Muang Phuket 83100

South Sea Karon Phuket - 204 Karon Road Muang Phuket 83100

Sugar Palm Karon Resort Phuket - 542/1 Patak Road Karon Beach Phuket 83100

Sugar Palm Resort & Spa Phuket - 20/10 Kata Road Kata Muang Phuket 83100

Sunset Beach Resort Phuket - 316/2 Phrabaramee Road Tambon Patong Amphoe Kathu Phuket 33150

Sunwing Resort & Spa Phuket - 22 Moo 2 Cheung Thalay Thalang Phuket 83110

Thara Patong Resort Phuket - 170 170/1 Thaweewong Road Patong Beach Phuket 83150

Thavorn Beach Village & Spa Phuket - 6/2 Moo 6 Nakalay Bay Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

Thavorn Palm Beach Resort Phuket - 311 Patak Road Karon Amphur Muang Phuket 83100

The Aspasia Phuket - 1/3 Laem Sai Road Kata Beach Karon Muang Phuket 83100

The Chedi Phuket - 118 Moo 3 Cherngtalay Thalang Phuket 83110

The Granary Resort Muang - 120/1 Moo 6 San Pe Sua Road Muang 50300

The Kris Resort Phuket - 110/83-84 Moo 3 Bangtao Beach Phuket 83110

The Royal Palm Beach Front - 66/2 Thaweewong Road Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150

The Tique Patong Phuket - 29 Sawatdirak Road Patong Kathu Phuket 83150

The Village Resort & Spa Phuket - 566/1 Patak Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Tropical Garden Resort Phuket - 247 Koktanode Road Kata Beach Muang Phuket 83100

Woraburi Resort & Spa Phuket - 198-200 Patak Road Karon Muang Phuket 83100

Where to eat in Phuket

If you love food, you will love Phuket. There are restaurants to suit every taste serving a huge selection of western and Asian food. The variety of cuisine and dining experiences is one of the major attractions of the island. You can eat breakfast at your hotel, lunch at a local noodle stall by the roadside, and have dinner with fine wines in a sophisticated air-conditioned restaurant.

Fancy a snack in between? One of the wonderful characteristics of Thailand is the reverence for food and eating, so you can eat at almost any time of the day. Tropical fruit, banana fritters, barbecue chicken and sticky rice? It is all here.

While Thai food is renowned world-wide for its wonderful flavours and fresh ingredients, Phuket is especially famous for its seafood, and, you don't have to empty your bank account to enjoy the most sumptuous of dishes. Browse through our location and food guides, or go straight to our handy directory with contact details and reviews of restaurants all over the island. If you'd like to learn about Thai cooking, check out the information about schools which offer short courses.

OIt doesn't matter how many options there are, if you don't know about them, what's the point? If you've no way to compare them, how can you decide?

Yet dining out – whether for a special occasion at a restaurant brimming with atmosphere, or for a casual lunch, local Thai-style – is probably the most important, and potentially one of the most memorable, elements of your visit to Phuket.

Without real information, too many visitors take pot-luck, or go with the tuk-tuk driver's commission-based recommendation. Many stay with one or two familiar places, having had one disappointment too many – and no time to waste.

Most miss out on the fabulous array of dining opportunities Phuket offers.

And that's where Where to Eat comes in: Consistent, reliable up-to-date information that puts the choice where it belongs – with you, the guest.

Restaurants by Type

Thai

• Baan Rim Pa
• Lim's
• Natural Restaurant
• Patong Seafood
• Ratri Jazztaurant
• Sala Bua
• Thai Brasserie

Thai and Western

• Andaman Restaurant
• Baan Yin Dee
• Babylon Beach Club
• Rockfish
• Sala
• Salathai
• Sawasdee Thai Cuisine
• Skippers
• Sphinx
• Two Chefs
• Watermark

International Cuisine

• 3 Spices
• 360 Bar and Dining
• Baba Dining Lounge
• Black Cat
• Coco Palm
• Concaved Beach Restaurant
• Don's Café
• Jean Pierre@BYD Lofts
• Joe Kools
• Joe's Downstairs
• Joe's South
• L'Orfeo
• Mae Naam
• Mom Tri's Kitchen
• Montes Restaurant
• On The Beach
• Phuja Nirvana
• Pinocchio
• Rain-Hail
• Red Onion
• Siam Indigo
• Spice Poolside Café
• Supper Club
• The Dining Room
• White Box

American

• PGS Steak & Rib House

British

• Drunken Monkey
• Floyd's Brasserie
• The Yorkshire Inn

Chinese

• The Royal Kitchen

French

• Café Java
• Flavors By Chef Arkom
• La Boucherie
• Royale Nam Tok

German

• K-Hotel

Indian

• Baluchi
• Baluchi & Border Town

International/Irish

• Angus O'Tool's - Irish Pub, Restaurant & Guesthouse

Irish

• Irish Times Pub
• Molly Malone's
• Scruffy Murphy's

Italian

• Da Maurizio
• Kalim Seaview
• La Gritta
• La Scala
• Salvatore's
• Trattoria Capri Da Rico

Japanese

• Fuji Japanese Restaurant
• KoKu Japanese Restaurant Kata
• KoKu Japanese Restaurant Patong

Latin American

• Latino's

Mediterranean Cuisine

• Bleu Blanc Grill
• Taste
• The 9th Floor
• The Cliff
• The Green Man
• The Mangosteen

Mexican

• Coyote

Patisserie

• Les Anges

Seafood & BBQs

• Catch Beach Club
• Catch & Grill
• Mali Waterfront
• Thru the Sea

Spanish

• El Toro

Steak House

• Harrys Steakhouse
• Hog's Breath Café
• Horn Grill Steakhouse
• Karlsson's Patong
• Karon Café
• Papa Steak and Pizza
• Sam's Steaks & Grill
• Wildfire

Wine and Grill

• Mom Tri's Boathouse

Getting around Phuket

The map shows the routes of the major highways on the island. Going from Patong to Phuket Town takes about twenty minutes, and in less than an hour you can reach just about any point on the island. The main roads on Phuket are generally in good condition and well marked with signs in both Thai and English. The mountainous terrain limits the number of roads that cross the island east to west so at times you will be taking a roundabout trip to your destination.

Thais are taught from childhood to maintain jai yen (cool heart), public displays of anger are rather rare and generally do not achieve the desired effect. Ayou attempt to travel around the island, or anywhere in Thailand, you will undoubtedly be given ample opportunities to develop this skill for yourself. Thailand may be known as the "land of smiles", but trying to cross the street anywhere in the kingdom even at a marked crosswalk is literally taking your life in your hands. Thais may pride themselves on their polite behavior but while observing them attempt to operate motor vehicles, polite is unlikely to be the first adjective that comes to mind. On display daily are an array of driving skills, or lack thereof, that would logically conclude with the driver being admitted to an asylum, or being cremated. In a quirk of nature it seems those who operate a motor vehicle like an idiot, or while drunk, or ‘hopped up’ on amphetamines usually kill or injure the innocent. None of the above types of drivers are an endangered species on the island and to observe them in there natural habitat just walk outside on any street, you will not have to wait long. Fleeing the scene of an accident when at fault has become almost expected behavior throughout the kingdom. While driving (or walking) the unwritten rule of the road is the bigger and or more expensive vehicle always has the right-of-way, and can drive on whatever side of the road that pleases them. My intention is not to scare you, but to remind you that traveling in a foreign country can be as perilous as it is pleasurable.

Motorbikes

The warm balmy climate, the natural beauty of the island, and the winding mountain roads, all make Phuket a natural for cruising around on a motorbike. Motorbikes are the most common mode of transportation on the island. Motorbikes are also the most common cause of serious injury and death on the island. No statistics are available as to the number of motorbike injuries sustained by visitors to Phuket but the number is substantial. Insurance is not available on any rental motorbike. If it is damaged or stolen you will have to pay it’s for replacement plus any property damage or injuries caused to others. Phuket has and at times enforces a motorbike helmet law. The helmets available here are more for decoration then a serious safety device, but the fine for a driver without one is 500 baht. In Patong on the corner of Soi Bangla and Rat-u-Thit Road starting around 6pm and continuing to about 8pm the local police collect a little ’tea-money’ from motorbike riders without helmets. This money trap is so well known that motorbike taxis line up early to ferry you down and back to the police station to pay your fine. One cheap source of entertainment is to stand on the corner and marvel at the astonishing number of local Thais who although know about this blatant "rip-off" masquerading as traffic enforcement; but get caught without a helmet anyway. The daily rental rate for the small motorbikes like the ‘Honda Dream’ is 100-150 baht. The larger bikes rent for 300-500 baht, but in both cases the locals will be quite happy to charge the uninformed more.

Motorcycle drivers dressed in a green or maroon vests are providing a short trip taxi service. They are at times the fastest and cheapest way to get around. Simply wave one to a stop and ask for the fare to your destination.

BUS

There is a daytime bus service (songthaew) to most parts of the island. Songthaew (means two rows) which refers to the two wooden benches that run down each side of this colorful wooden-body public transport vehicle. All buses run on a loop route between a beach location like Patong and back to the songthaew stop on Ranong Road in Phuket Town. The bus fare between Patong and Phuket Town is 15 Baht, and the travel time is about thirty minutes. It is unfortunate they do not circle the island on the new ring road or travel from beach to beach, for example to travel from Patong seven kilometers south to Karon beach you must first take the songthaew 15 kilometers to Phuket Town transfer to another songthaew and ride approximately 20 kilometers to Karon Beach. Any effort to improve the bus service and or extend the hours of operation is violently opposed by the tuk-tuk (taxi) drivers who insist the competition will cut into there business. Compared with tuk-tuks a songthaew is generally a safer ride, with fewer hassles, from a driver who is more likely to be sane and sober, and at a fraction of the price of a tuk-tuk. Stiff competition indeed. One option is renting a songthaew with a driver by the day for touring the island or going on a beach Safari, the rate is quite reasonable when split among even a small group.

To arrange for the rental of a Songthaew tear out the following page, fill in the information, and ask someone at the front desk of your hotel to telephone the songthaew company (They do not speak English very well so you will need the assistance of someone who speaks Thai).

TAXI AND TUK TUK



(tuk-tuks) the notorious three-wheeled smoke-belching variety are now extinct on Phuket. They have been replaced with small red vans with open sides. The drivers have for the most part been allowed to nuture their nefarious reputations and continue to represent the largest source of complaints by visitors to the Tourist Police. The drivers fiercely fight any attempt to make them use meters. Generally tuk-tuk drivers (Mafia) show there displeasure at ant attempt to control them by blocking one or more major highways on the island. The authorities immediately buckle in the face of this pressure and rescind to offending requirement, leaving both residents and visitors to the island with a woefully inadequate, unruly, unsafe, and overpriced transportation service. Many tuk-tuk drivers like to double as travel agents - Don’t Do It!. They will normally only take you to a place that will pay them an additional commission over and above what they overcharge you for the ride in the first place. Contrary to conventional wisdom, taxis (tuk-tuks) are not a good source of information unless you enjoy being taken for a ride.

The standard rate for a ride from one point in Patong to another is 20 Baht, from Patong to Phuket is 150 Baht, from Patong to Karen Beach is 100 Baht, and from Patong to the airport (a forty five minute ride) is 450 Baht. A rainy day, a late night trip, a navy ship in port, or just about any other reason is an excuse to charge more but if you know the basics you should be able to negotiate a reasonable rate. The rate paid is by the distance traveled not by the number of passengers. If the driver wants to charge by the person wave him on and catch another.

Tuk Tuks are plentiful in Patong and Phuket Town but travel to many areas in the north or south part of the island may require you to negotiate a round trip rate because finding a tuk- tuk for the return trip may be difficult. It is generally not difficult to negotiate a rate with a tuk-tuk driver that has him sleeping in the parking lot while you walk around the national park, dine at a seafood restaurant, or watch the sunset at Cape Promthep. Start at 100 to120 Baht per hour depending on the distance to be traveled and be prepared to pay 150 Baht per hour.

In Patong at least half of the tuk-tuk drivers are polite, honest, and hardworking. Tuk-tuks that are driving around looking for customers are generally a better bet than the ones (perched like a vulture) waiting for you outside hotels and restaurants. The polite way to stop a songthaew or tuk-tuk on the street is to hold your arm out in front of you, palm down and make a up and down motion.

CAR RENTALS

Cars and jeeps can be rented at numerous locations around the island. A valid international driver’s license or a state license from one’s own country is all that is required. Rates begin at 700 baht per day with unlimited mileage. You pay for the gasoline. Most major hotels are serviced by Hertz and Avis car rental companies. The most expensive place to rent a car is at the airport. If a vehicle is rented at one location and dropped off at another, there is a usually a 200 baht charge. Private owners of jeeps parked along beach roads in Patong and Karen Beach charge 800-1000 baht per day not including gasoline. The price includes first class insurance which covers both parties.When renting a vehicle, be aware that you are liable for all damages to the vehicle, read the fine print. Make sure you car is insured for accidents caused by another party that then flees the scene of the accident. Virtually all of the areas of the island you are likely to visit are accessible with an ordinary 2-wheel drive vehicle.

LONG TAIL BOATS

The ubiquitous longtail boat is found wherever there is water in southern Thailand. The current version with the motor mounted on the back is just the latest modification on this ancient but quite seaworthy craft. Often called the workhorse of the Andaman Sea, longtails are used in to provide a number of marine services. While not as flashy or fast as modern speedboats, a voyage in a longtail boat is an interesting experience and a great way to take short sightseeing trips. The one serious disadvantage of the longtail is the almost complete lack of safety equipment such as lifejackets. Longtails are not advisable while traveling with small children or non-swimmers. Rental prices average 400 baht per hour for a short trips and up to 1000 baht for an entire day.

Helicopter Tours

Provide what has to be the ultimate method for sightseeing and taking photographs of Phuket and the surrounding areas. Helicopter service is provided by two companies Southern Flying Group at Tel: 247-237/9 and Southern Helicopter Service Tel: 216-389. There are no scheduled flights at this time, so you must call and arrange for a charter.

Things to See & Do (Around Phuket)

Phuket Fantasea & Show

This is a must-see, the show is fantastic. It had grand opening in February 16, 1999. (I was in Thailand that time too and I remember that.)

OSimon Cabaret

A show with beautiful ladies, that actually are men. This is also worth a visit, good entertainment. One soft drink is included in the ticket price and also hotel pick-up if you buy your ticket in advance (tour agency).

Bang Pae Waterfall and Gibbon Rehabilitation Project

Nice waterfall and you can also visit Gibbon Rehabilitation Project and support their work. Sometimes visitors can have a guided tour and get more information about each monkey, sometimes they don't allow any visitors at all to enter the area. There are a restaurant in this area so you can relax and have some food and enjoy the waterfall.

Prompthep Cape

A noted beauty spot with great panoramic views. Also a favourite vantage point for watching Phuket's spectacular sunsets.

Seashell Museum

The seashell museum boasts beautiful fossils up to 280 m years old from all over the world.

Phuket Zoo

Daily shows with elephants, crocodiles and monkeys. You can also get photographed with a tiger. Open daily 08:30-18:00.

Marine Biological Research Centre

There is a good aquarium with a variety of both ocean and freshwater fish. Open daily 10-16.

Butterfly Garden and Aquarium

Landscaped open air enclosure with thousands of colorful butterflies, plus an excellent tropical aquarium. Open daily 09-17:30.

Naga Pearl Farm

This well known commercial pearl farm offers tours and and demonstration of pearl culturing. Located on Naga Noi island and accessible by boat from Po Bay; contact Naga pearl tour and resort, tel (076) 213-723. Open daily 09:00 - 17:30.

Wat Chalong

One of Phuket's largets Buddhist temples, Wat Chalong in the south of the island behind Chalong Bay is highly revered for the images of two of its former abbots who possessed legendary healing skills.

Wat Phra Thong

Located in Thalang District, this temple is famous for its gold (now covered withplaster) Buddha image half-buried in the ground. Legend has it that many people have died trying unsuccessfully to unearth the statue.

Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

The last surviving patch of the rainforst that once covered the island. Lush flora plus attractive waterfalls located close to Thalang.

Rang Hill (Phuket Town)

A great place with panoramic views of Phuket Town.

Put Jaw (Phuket Town)

Phuket's oldest and largest Chinese temple on Ranong road.

Sea Gypsy Village and wild monkeys (si-re island) A small island on the east side of Phuket, connected with a small bridge to the main Phuket island. If you drive over the bridge and then continue 1 km and look at the right side of the road you will find a place where you can see wild monkeys. There are mostly local thai people coming here to feed the monkeys with bananas and chew nuts, if you are lucky the monkeys will grab that directly from your hand.

Windmills

Close to Prompthep cape there are windmills and also a good viewpoint to look over the sea and watch sunsets.

Minigolf

You can play this on both Karon and Patong beach, at Dino Park and Pirates Cave.

Golf

Phuket have a couple of good golf courses to suit your needs. See our golf section for more information.

This picture is taken from Phuket Country Club

Bungy Jump (Kathu) Jungle Bungy Jump is located in Kathu and you jump above a river.

Bowling

You can play bowling at the top floor of Ocean Plaza at Bangla road. The current prices are: 30 baht för shoes, 30 bath for socks, 85 (75) baht for each game and person. Open daily to 02 am. If you are a local citizen, use your Gazetter Card to receive 10% discount. (As an amateur I feel happy with my score of 133 points.)

Phuket Beaches

Patong Beach, south of Phuket

Patong Beach is the most active beach in Phuket. Recently upgraded from "Village" to the status of "City". Famous for its long sandy beach but also for its famous hyper active nightlife, patong has the largest concentration of visitors on Phuket Island.

Growing at the speed of light, it will offer a large range of activities during day or night, an amazing choice of hotels and a life style to fit any type of visitors. Since the past ten years, Patong Beach has changed a lot and became a family destination, eventhough all the bar girls are still at the same place (Bangla Road), you will see many couples and family strolling along the many new streets opened lately.

It offers a beautiful tropical beach ringed with lush green mountains. The bay is a 5 km gently curving crescent of beautiful white sand, suitable for every kind of water sport.

It is the most developed of all Phuket’s beaches, almost solidly lined with hotels, bungalow complexes and a concentration of restaurants, shops and night-spots appealing to all tastes. It is not recommended for those in search of tranquillity, but definitely suitable for those looking for a lively holiday.

Patong Beach is a public beach, there are no closed or reserved areas. In practice however, most of the beach has been staked out by private vendors who will rent you a long chair and shade umbrella for 50 Baht per person. Pay your money take your seat and let the show begin.

Venders selling everything including massage services, food, beverages, fresh fruit, clothes, jewelry, electric power tools, etc. will beat a path to your chair. One intrepid vender of note has been sighted pushing a cart full of "folding step ladders" down the place. To prevent that boring serenity that many seek from a beautiful tropical setting, here you will be treated to the sight and sound of numerous jet skis (500 Baht per hour), para-sailing (500 Baht), and any number of other small water craft with large motors.

Those seeking a less commercial and quiet atmosphere may want to head north on the seaside road a short distance to the intersection with Phrabarami Road (which means "road constructed through Royal influence") the main road to Phuket Town. Here the seaside is strewn with large granite boulders that deter all but the most determined venders and offers an opportunity to comb for small seashells that often wash ashore here.

Just around the rock outcroppings to the north is the much quieter Kalim Bay. On the South end, near the bridge connecting to the Coral Island Resort are a group of long tail boats for hire.

SOUTH COAST BEACHES

Everywhere on Phuket Island is beautiful but the south part of the island is straight out of a tropical daydream. The southern coastline is blessed with magnificent mountains covered with lush jungle forest that stretch out to meet the azure blue sea and are framed with white powder sandy beaches and fringed with coral reefs. When you see a photograph of Phuket, it is likely to have been taken in the south part of the island. The southern beaches offer superb vistas and some of the most glorious sunsets in the world. The South Coast Area covers the part of the lies south of Relax Bay on the west and then across the island to include the Cape Panwa area. Many of the best hotels and restaurants in Phuket and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world are located here.

Karon Beach

Karon Beach is a long gently curving beach of small sparkling white sand dunes, crisp clean water and a few evergreen trees.

As you circle the roundabout, you can go east through the village and you will be on the main highway running east and west across the island, or you can continue south along the road to Kata beach and the rest of the south coast beaches.

In the past years, many resorts and large hotels opened almost everywhere, with unique views on the bay. Recently paved, the long beach front offers an excellent walk to choose among the many restaurants serving seafood. Among the most famous are the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort (very Large), the Karona Resort (more cozy), or the famous Marina Phuket, (Luxurious Bungalows with seaviews). Of courses there are dozens more hotels, if you wish to see them all, have a look at Karon Beach Hotels

BOf course, shops, tailors and souvenirs florishe almost anywhere, convinience stores and bars. From the circle, the road going inland is now the "hot spot" of Karon beach with dozens of bars, some with girls, some other more trendy. Many restaurants are also open here, with a large choice of cuisines, including mexican and steak houses.

During the months of June through September, the strong south-west winds brings surf from the open sea. Karon Beach and Relax Bay Beach receive continuous big waves and experienced surfers head out to challenge them. The southern end of Karon Beach has the most surf activity and there are surf stations with boards for hire. One of the amusing thing in Karon is the noise of the sand when you walk on the beach... try it!

Kata Beach

Kata Beach (Rice Field Bay)

BKata Beach is the biggest of two beaches called Kata: Kata Noi and Kata Yai (Noi means small, Yai means big).

Nightlife is now quite active in Kata Center, a large choice of restaurants and bars open their doors all day, but it looks more lively at night. Choice of food is large, from Scandinavian, Indian, Pizzerias or English, but of course seafood and Thai food restaurants as well. Many bars are still in the old "phuket way", with girls calling you when you walk down the street, but lately some more original bars opened with a friendly cozy style, like the "Cafe del Mar". Shop till you drop with hundred of souvenir shops, tailors and dive shops opened till late. Kata is a small village, half way between the hyper active nights of patong beach and some other remote beaches.

BThe Club Med Complex dominates this scenic beach, but it is open to the public, serving every evening a different buffet and a show performed by the staff. One of the most popular hotel in Kata, further down the street, is the Boathouse, consisting of two sections: the main hotel with a renown restaurant, and the amazing Mom Tri's Villa Royale. Newly open and already popular is the Jiva Resort, an excellent value for money, just opposite of Club Med.

This is the beach of choice if you are swimming with small children because it remains shallow for about thirty meters from the shoreline. Koh Poo (crab Island, maybe because its shape), the small island off the north end, has a lively coral reef that is excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Mask and fins can be rented on the beach for about 100 baht. If you stroll to either end of the beach you will find many little places that offer tasty Thai food.

Kata Noi Beach

Separated by a small headland from the larger beach, this charming little bay is nestled up against lush emerald green jungle covered mountains. Quiet and convenient, this tranquil little piece of paradise is one of the nicest places to stay on the island. There is a small coral reef at the south end but caution must be taken, because of the steeper drop off from the shore than at Kata Yai and because this beach is affected more by rough weather. Only one hotel is open on this beach is the Kata Thani Resort.

VIEW POINT

Along the coast road between Kata Beach and Nai Harn Beach is situated a large public pavilion where you can rest and enjoy the spectacular view. Visible from this vantage point you can see three of Phuket’s prettiest bays, Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon Beach.

From this scenic vista you can watch the emerald green waters of the bay change to shades of blue and indigo as they pass over the coral reefs. Just across the street a number of fruit and soft drink venders set up everyday, and provide a good place to sample some local fruit or enjoy a cool drink.

RELAX BEACH

Five minutes south of Patong Beach, as you climb the hill you will see a large hotel complex on your right. This is a good place to pull off to the side of the road for a minute and enjoy the scenery. Unfortunately, access to this beach is blocked by the Le Meridien Phuket, and unless you are a guest there this beach can only be reached by boat from Patong.

Bhere is no official lookout point here -- just a few chairs and an abandoned roadside restaurant, but it is a great place to watch the white bellied sea eagles feed early in the morning. They soar the sky in a circular pattern making a dramatic dive into the sea and taking flight with fish on their talons for breakfast. While watching the birds, its a great place to appreciate the gentle breeze, the magnificent view, the stunning hues of blues and greens all framed with a white sandy beach, and the lazy white clouds as they roll silently past. You can feel and breathe the beauty of Phuket. That is what draws people to visit here, and what brings them back time and again. Unbelievable as it may seem it only gets better as you continue to the south.

Phuket South Small Beaches

Nui Beach

For a guaranteed remote beach experience that will rival anything you will find on the offshore islands, give this beautiful little beach paradise a try. You might be able to reach Nui beach on a mountain bike or motorcycle but it is not recommended. It is certainly not to be tried on a standard rental motorbike like a Honda "Dream". The trail is deceptively steep and you will fight the whole way to maintain traction on the loose soil and gravel on the path. The safest way to enjoy this truly beautiful and pristine beach is by walking the 2km trail to the beach. It is a beautiful but fairly steep climb as you walk around and down the rocky headland to the beach below. To get there: Follow the road south from Kata to the main lookout pavilion and continue down the road about a half kilometer and you will see a small parking area and sign for Nui Beach.

Ao Sehn Beach

A small bay lying northwest of Nai Harn Beach. The rather unusual entrance to this beach ensures that it will remain a secluded little hide-away that few tourists will find. To get there you must pass though the gates of the Phuket Yacht Club Hotel, drive through the underground parking lot on the left and continue on through the hotel to a very narrow and rough road that winds along to the northwest about 1km to Ao Sehn. The beach is small, clean, and dotted with rocks large and small -- very romantic. A great picnic place.

Yanoi Beach

A sleepy little hide away with interesting rock formations and good snorkeling from the beach. Located at the bottom of the hill between the Promthep viewpoint and the wind powered generators on the next hill to the west, this beach is easy to drive past. Only a small restaurant and parking lot are visible from the road but walk past them a few feet and you are rewarded with a beautiful sheltered bay framed with large rock formations and a coral reef. Being located at the southern tip of the island only a few minutes drive from most of the hotels, this little beach is one of the best kept secrets on the island.

Prompthep Cape

‘Prom’ is the Thai word for the Hindu God ‘Brahma’ signifying purity and ‘Thep’ is Thai for God. Promthep is a headland stretching into the sea and forming the extreme south-end of Phuket Island. It has traditionally been the prominent feature for mariners approaching the island. No trip to Phuket would be complete without taking a few photos of the breathtaking panoramic vista overlooking the southern tip of the island. The best time to visit is as the sun sets over the Andaman Sea. But don’t miss the sunrise if you can make it there at that hour, as many people feel it is even more spectacular and the crowds are a lot smaller. The view is practically irresistible for photography since the bay reflects images of coral reefs as the waves in changing hues break upon rock boulders.

Rawai Beach

Is a favored picnic spot for Thais who flock to the seafood stalls sitting under the trees that shade this narrow but picturesque bay. The beach is not so great but the water is shallow and safe for children and it is protected from the wind. There are many longtail boats and speed boats anchored here that you can hire to make trips to the nearby islands. Try to find one with life jackets because when the wind picks up the seas can become quite rough.

Many foreigners live in this area because of its tranquility, therefore you will find many types of cuisine mainly located all along the beach road, and even some popular trendy restaurant like "Mimi's" a bit inland. Lately a beautiful resort opened on the hill overlook Rawai Bay: the Mangosteen Resort with nice and cozy individual bungalows.

Not far is the famous Promphthep Cape, very popular among local because of its point of view offering beautiful sunset from a high point.

Chalong Bay

This calm and serene bay offers shelter to a fleet of boats from sailing yachts to tour boats seeking shelter against strong winds. It is also a famous take-off to well-known islands like Phi Phi, Coral Island, Mar Thon Island, Racha Island and the dive sites of Dok Mai and Shark Point. It bustles with activity from the crack of dawn till 9.00 am as the boats leave for their destination of the day . From 4.30 to 5.30 PM this bay is again quite busy with the passengers returning from their offshore island tours. Seaside restaurants by the pier attract bus loads of tourists in the evening after they have been to see the famous sunset from Promthep Cape

Siray Island

Is a small and hilly island located four km east of the capital and separated from the main island by a canal. The main attractions are a village of Sea Gypsies which occupy the Tokay Beach, and a giant hill-top reclining Buddha. Fishing villages and prawn farms are found along the coast where mangrove forests provide shelter and homes for fish, crustaceans, and shells.

NORTH BEACHES

By taking a tour or Beach Safari of the northern beaches of Phuket you will certainly be leaving the crowds behind. The north part of the island is less developed and gets only a tiny fraction of the visitors to Phuket. Many of those waiting to be loaded like cattle on to a boat and shipped off to Phi-Phi Island or one of the other tourist Islands seeking a remote island experience would be well advised to keep their feet dry, and drive for an hour to the north end of Phuket. Miles of unspoiled beaches, and good food await you. The rugged beauty of the northern beaches can only be enhanced by the feeling of having them all to yourself.

As you travel north you will encounter beaches dominated with casuarina pine trees rather than palm trees. These unusual trees are like a natural beach umbrella and offer cool shade from the blistering tropical sun, and a if you listen carefully they make slight singing sound as they sway to the call of the offshore breezes. Expect a quiet enchanting experience if you break away from the herd and visit the north end of the island.

Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach is located fifteen minutes north of Patong as you reach the top of the Khao Phanthurat pass 303 m (990 ft) above sea level you will look out over the breathtaking panoramic view of Kamala Bay. The 2.5 km crescent shaped bay is dotted with casuarina trees on the first half of the coastline and coconut palms and sugar palms decorate the other. In the past two or three year, Kamala has changed a lot and became a small beach resort with all the facilites for perfect holidays, but still peaceful and friendly. Many New hotels opened along he beach road, and some more secluded on the smaller southern beach, like the Kamala Bay Terrace Resort or the the Kamala Beach Estate.

In spite of the large Park entertainment center in the north end of the valley Kamala has maintained its small fishing village atmosphere.

bIf you take the first left turn at the bottom of the grade you will come to a small bridge continue to the left and you will find two isolated small beaches. The little lanes and meandering small roads that branch off lead to beautiful beach houses and cottages and several low rise condominiums.

This end of the beach offers a peaceful tranquil environment with crystal clear water and coral reefs just a few meters offshore. Back to the bridge and a right turn brings you to a small fishing village strung out along the beach going north. Intermixed with small houses is the occasional store and restaurant.

The atmosphere at Kamala is very relaxed and a very pleasant location for those looking for a quiet beach for sunning or taking a long lazy stroll along a mostly deserted beach. The little shops selling food are quite good and the prices are low enough that you can eat Thai style; by eating a little food from a large number of stalls. The Kamala Valley is a popular rental area for those who are staying a few months or more on the island.

Laem Sing Beach

Is 20 minutes north of Patong, and is the first stop on our beach safari. The beach is not visible from the road but the small parking area is located about half way up the grade at the north end of Kamala Beach look for the small handmade signs. This is one of the undeveloped beaches frequently missed by visitors who are unaware of its location. Its a five minute walk down a fairly steep path to reach this remote little beach. The natural beauty of this beach is enhanced by the fact it sits well below the highway which lends a serene and quiet feeling that is not always present on other beaches in Phuket. The interesting rock formations along Laem Sing Beach offer some the best snorkeling opportunities on the island. Noted during recent visits was an increase in the number of beach venders and the occasional sighting of jetski activity, but it is still a pleasant little beach get-a-way well worth going out of the way for.

Some recent reports coming back suggest that many readers stopping here on the first leg of there beach safari are being taken in by the quiet charms of this hidden bay and are spending the whole day here. ( Click here to see large photos of Laem Sing Beach)

Surin Beach

A kilometer north of Laem Sing Beach lies the popular Surin Beach. As of now this beach has not been developed and it is a quiet and peaceful bay lined with a row of stately Casuarina trees.

A tropical beach with pine trees rather than palm trees may seem out of place to many but the local Thais flock to this beach on weekends and holidays and bask in the shade provided by these unusual trees. The middle of the beach front is occupied by a dozen Thai beach-style mini restaurants serving up sizzling seafood to hungry visitors. Surin Beach is usually the second stop on the north beach safari and a good place for lunch because the next beach stop does not serve food.

For the careful swimmer Surin offers some good snorkeling opportunities at both ends of the beach but during the rainy season the water visibility is not very good. Big waves that are common on Surin beach during the monsoon season have caused a steep drop from the shore to the water line and can create dangerous undertow conditions. During high tide when the swells are big and running swiftly good surfing conditions exist here and is becoming an increasingly popular sport. There are no vendors renting surf boards at the beach yet but that may change in the future. Good surfing conditions can make for hazardous swimming and care must be taken with children and non-swimmers.

Surin Village

Is the traditional heart of Phuket’s Muslim community. As you pass through this picturesque village strung out along the highway you will see the Ban Thao Mosque. This impressive and ornate structure is the largest mosque on the island. Visitors are allowed and discrete photos may be taken, but care should be exercised and avoid going on Fridays the Muslim holy day. The village offers several roadside markets that offer up delicious Muslim food and fruit picked fresh from the many nearby orchards. When ordering food or buying fruit you may have to resort to "point and smile technique", because English is for the most part only spoken by the younger generation. At the traffic light you can continue straight to the Heroines Monument and the main road to Phuket Town or turn left onto highway 4020 and continue your tour of the northern beaches.

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Pansea Beach

Is a small secluded quiet beach that has a special feeling and many agree it is the finest beach on the island. Although it runs for only 250 meters it has fine white sand that glistens in the light and reflects off the clear blue sea. It has lively coral reefs and artistic rock formations embellish both ends that seem to frame the beach into one idyllic vision of a tropical beach paradise. Beauty has its price and in this case the natural beauty of this small protected natural bay attracted the famous Chedi Resort and the ultra-exclusive Amanpuri Hotel. This upscale resort plays host to the international celebrity set who don’t mind paying the ultra-high prices charged for privacy. Pansea Beach seems to be an exception to the law in Thailand that all beaches are public, because these hotels are allowed to run off all outsiders.

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Bang Tao Beach

Is a 8 km long sweeping crescent shaped bay with a gentle slope and absolutely pure white sand and is fringed with rows of casuarina trees. The constant but gentle breeze on this bay has made Bangtao Beach very popular with windsurfers and it plays host to several international competitions each year. The main entrance to Bangtao beach is 2 km north of Surin Village and marked with large signs from the sprawling Laguna Phuket complex that takes up most of the middle of the bay.

This remarkable complex of five luxury resort hotels integrated into one into what appears to be small city by the sea.

The Banyan Tree Phuket, The Allamanda, Dusit Laguna, and the Sheraton Phuket all employ the same low rise village style architecture that are uniquely designed to blend with the vastness of the old tin mine which is what this area used to be. The old tin mining lake is now a beautifully landscaped lagoon that serves as a watersports center.

uThis is a classic example of the modern one-stop all-inclusive tourist location. Your entire holiday can be spent here without leaving the complex. Guests can charge their meals to their hotel rooms at any of the 28 restaurants and bars throughout the complex. The adjourning Banyan Tree Golf Club course, the beach, blooming flowers everywhere, rock gardens, manmade waterfalls everything is tastefully designed and organized to give their guests a serene and happy environment for their carefree holiday. As Bangtao Beach is 40 minutes from town and the restaurants and entertainment centers on the island most of the guests staying here have bought themselves a package deal from their travel agents.o

Mai Khao Beach and North Beaches

Mai Khao Beach (White Wood)

At 9km (5 ½ miles) is the longest beach on Phuket. A pristine white sand beach that is devoid of development and protected as part of the Nai Yang National Park. Camping is allowed but there are few facilities If you are in search of a remote and isolated beach to have all to yourself this is it. (See photos of Mai Khao Beach)

Le Phang Beach

Shares a common boundary with Bangtao Beach and is located on the northern end where the beach merges with a river estuary and lagoon. It is a very beautiful area and is home to many birds and animals drawn to the marshy conditions. The access to this area is limited to either walking down the beach from the Laguna Phuket area or by driving a good distance out of the Laguna Phuket complex back on the highway and following the directions as if going to Nai Thon beach before reaching the turnoff. The many trails that take off into the hills overlooking the beach here are popular with hikers and birdwatcher’s.

Sirinat National Park

Was declared a national park in 1981. This park protects one the last remaining mangrove areas on the island. It is a fairly small park with only a few facilities. What make the journey here worthwhile is the elevated wooden walkwayway built by park officials that allows you to easily explore the unique and diverse eco-system of a coastal mangrove forest. The pathway is well marked and posted signs offer interesting information about manyof the different species of animal and fish that thrive in marshy shade provided by over twenty different types of mangrove tress that grow in the park. This is a must do visit for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Sai Kaew Beach

Runs from Mai Kao to the Sarasin Bridge. The beach is white and rimmed with firs the whole length. Phuket’s most northern beach. At the far northern end near the Sarasin bridge are a few inexpensive restaurants that serve excellent food.

Naithon Beach

A new blacktop road will take you winding along through rubber plantations and hills overlooking the Andaman Sea where coral reefs show clearly beneath the azure blue water and waves breaking over magnificent rock formations offers yet another breathtaking scene as you make your way along this 15 minute journey to one of the most beautiful and isolated beaches on the island.

As you descend the last hill you will find a peaceful, quiet cove, beautiful along its length, and well sheltered from wind and waves and offers wonderful swimming. Both ends of the beach are flanked with rocky headlands jutting out to the sea. Corals and rich marine life are drawn to the rocks and they offer excellent fishing.

There is a small fishing village across the road from the beach with some small bungalows and a few small restaurants. There is seldom more than few people on the beach but if you want total solitude backtrack down the road south keeping a sharp lookout and you will find two small beaches. A magnificient Bungalow Resort and Spa offers amazing views right on the Naithon Beach : Andaman White Beach.

To Get There: From Surin Village drive north past the turnoff to Bangtao Beach and continue north about three km and you will enter a small village. Turn left on the first blacktop road and you will start climbing up hills into rubber plantations.

Alternative Route: Travel northward on Thepkrasattri Road (Hwy. 402), pass the Heroine Monument, and Thalang town and turn left on into the side road 4031 the airport turnoff. The canopy of rubber plantation trees forming an arch of branches over the road is very picturesque. Turn left at the sign for Nai Thon Beach and follow it for 2 km to the beach.

Nai Yang Beach

Is noted for its impressive forest of tall casuarina trees, and as a picnic spot for Thais. Mobile food and fruit venders gather around the perimeter of the park and do a brisk business especially on weekends.

As throughout southern Thailand if you find a beach that is popular with local Thais it will also have a wonderful selection of grilled seafood stalls and other Thai munchies and Nai Yang Beach is no exception.

During low tide swimming can be good and a large coral reef a short distance offshore harbors a considerable variety us sea life and seashells are known to wash ashore here, especially after a monsoon storm.

Nai Yang Beach has a very different feeling than beaches to the south. The Pearl Village Hotel across from the beach usually has an elephant in residence that will give you ride on the beach and splash water on you for a few baht. Nai Yang is usually the last beach stop on the north beach safari. (See Photos of Nai Yang Beach)

Nai Yang National Park

Comprises two beaches the Nai Yang and the Mai Khao beach and covers over 10 miles of beautiful white sandy beach on the north end of the island. Most planes fly over the park when landing at Phuket’s airport. At low tide from the air the sea can appear muddy compared with the translucent water off the beaches farther to the south and partly for that reason the beaches here have always been less popular with tourists and are not as developed. Another reason is the shore drops steeply into deeper levels, creating unpredictable and potentially hazardous water currents during the monsoon season. All of which is just fine with the Giant Ridley Sea Turtle who can weigh up to 850 kg (1874lb) and who tend to be shy creatures and prefer the beach to themselves. Between November and February each year these lumbering giants clamber onto the sandy shore at night to lay their eggs. Digging holes with their flippers, they lay up to 200 leathery-shelled eggs, an instinctual behavior said to be 90 million years old. Unfortunately the number of sea-turtles who make there yearly appearance continues to decline. This has led to efforts locally to increase the turtle population, with education programs for villagers and the release into the wild of turtles spawned in captivity. The turtles usually lay the eggs very late at night and you are allowed to witness this wonder of nature, but try not to disturb the turtles laboring at their task. Authorities maintain strict surveillance on the turtle eggs and move many of them to special hatchery fields.

Located on the north end of Nai Yang Beach is the Nai Yang Park Visitor’s Center, which offers displays of corals shells butterflies, turtles, and other interesting fauna found on the island. Camping is allowed on both beaches and the park maintains a few modest bungalows near the Visitor’s Center.

North Phuket Golf

Banyan Tree Golf Course

Located in the Laguna resort complex, this championship course is convenient for golfers staying in the Bangtao area. It is both a beautiful and challenging course with plenty of water hazards to lure your errant shots. The course itself has a natural beauty with the lush green mountains providing a background and picturesque palm trees lining the fairways.

The spacious clubhouse produces delicious Thai and international food at reasonable prices, but the price on cocktails can take your breath away. Remember it is customary to tip your caddie 100 baht for nine holes and 200 baht for 18 holes.

Phuket town: Thai antiques and shopping guide

Phuket Town General Information

MAP OF PHUKET TOWN

Phuket town was founded a little over a century ago by Chinese and Malaysian merchants to service the nearby tin mines, and the harbor near Phuket was better suited to handle larger ships than the traditional capital city of Thalang. It spite of growing pains that come with being a boom town and a major fire that destroyed much of the city Phuket town grew and prospered to become the commercial, social, and political center of the island.

The beginning of the 20th century was a period of positive growth for Phuket. Tin mining boomed, and the very capable and benevolent governor Rasada Korsimbi helped diversify the island’s economy and the capital city of Phuket began its modern expansion. The town of Phuket grew rapidly, its streets lined with handsome buildings, and ships from all over the world called at its bustling port.

Today the main attractions are the old Sino-Portuguese buildings, the elaborate Chinese and Thai temples, and the public markets. Most of the buildings in Phuket’s city center were constructed nearly a hundred years ago, during the period of the first great tin boom. These building show mixed Chinese and western influences in their architecture called Sino-Portuguese. It is a style common to all coastal tin-mining settlements on the Malay Peninsula. The buildings are characteristically much longer than they are wide, and the entry ways have fancy latticework. Many lovely examples can be found on Dibuk Road, if you take the town walk-a-about you will pass many of the more important of these buildings. Phuket’s Town Hall, Provincial Court, and Nakorn Luang Bank are also good examples of this style of architecture. Phuket’s Town’s oldest public structure, Government House, is a wonderful example of architecture from earlier this century. Moviegoers may recognize it as the ‘American Embassy’ in Phnom Phen in The Killing Fields.

The last few years Phuket has experienced a significant growth but has managed to retain a lot of its original flavor derived from its multicultural roots. The best way to appreciate the full layout of Phuket is to hike up Rang Hill, just to the town’s north.

A temple tour, shopping experience, and town walk-about

Take a walk through Phuket’s colorful streets. You will visit Chinese and Thai temples, and walk past the old colonial mansions. You will stroll through the Chinese quarter, stop to browse for unusual gifts in some truly unique shops, or eat at any one or more of the dozens of places that you will encounter on this walk. Remember, many of the places along this tour are not routine tourist destinations. Many of the people, particularly in the small food and fruit stalls, will only understand you if you speak Thai, so just smile a lot. If you wish to purchase something, politely point to it and they will show you three fingers for 30 baht, or five fingers for 50 baht, etc.

from the Songthaew (Bus) stop on Ranong Road. Begin the tour by taking a minute or so to watch the hustle and bustle as the Thais shop, bargain, exchange gossip, and cajole the merchants. You will be assaulted by the sights and the pungent smells of a traditional Asian fruit market. You might want to spend a few minutes wandering through the maze of small stalls selling all manner of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, spices, household goods and clothes. You will no doubt see many strange and exotic items for sale -- piles of colorful of chilies, maroon mounds of kapi (pounded shrimp paste), betal nuts, pickled garlic, and tamarind -- to name just a few. Many of the street stalls offer the traditional Phuket breakfast of Khanom chin -- rice noodles buried under a spicy minced fish curry served with fresh vegetables.

When you have had enough, cross Ranong Road and walk to the left past the Thai Airways Office. Peek at the beautiful old colonial mansion at the rear of the compound. Continue on Ranong Rd to Wat Nua, a Thai temple. There is an interesting bot behind the main wat , as you leave the temple and walk along the street you will see several examples of traditional (in this case very old) wooden dormitories for monks.

At the next corner, cross to Put Jaw Temple. This Chinese Taoist temple is the oldest in Phuket and is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Built over 200 years ago, it was severely damaged in a fire and renovated about 100 years ago. The main hall holds statues of the goddess and her attendants.

Through the compound wall to the left is a more ornate and more recent Taoist temple, the Jui Tui Temple. It is dedicated to Kiu Wong In, a vegetarian god. Before the altar are cakes, oranges, pineapples and other offerings from devotees. Also on the altar are a pair of red wooden blocks made from bamboo roots and shaped like twin halves of a mango. These help you make decisions. Pose a question that requires a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. Toss the blocks in the air and watch how they land on the floor. If both land with the same side up the answer is ‘no’; if they land, one up and one down, the answer is ‘yes’. Be sure to leave a donation at the alter. It will go towards the upkeep of the shrine. Of particular interest at this temple are the fine carvings of guardians on the huge teak doors. Look also at the photos high on the left hand wall which shows the temple in its various incarnations. This is the temple where many Vegetarian Festival activities take place in the fall. In one of the small service buildings on the left is parked an ornate sedan chair and a chariot on which the image of the deity is placed before it is pulled through the streets of Phuket during the Vegetarian Festival.

Exit Put Jaw, turn left and return to Ranong Road. Turn left go to the corner with the stoplight and turn right on to Patiphat Road go one block to Krabi Road. Turn right cross the street and walk 50 meters on the left to the Chinese temple Sanjao Sam San which is set well back from the road. Built in 1853, this shrine is dedicated to the ‘Goddess of the Sea’ who serves as the patron saint of sailors. When a new boat is launched, a ceremony is held here to bless it. It contains some intricate carvings and has a more refined atmosphere than Put Jaw.

Continue down Krabi Road. On the left are huge yards with beautiful old colonial style houses built by late 19^th century rubber and tin barons. At the next corner turn left onto Stool Road. Just before the next intersection (Dibuk Road) you will find the Phuket Sea Group where they sell several hundred varieties of tropical fish. Across the street is the Silk Master this large emporium sells silk products from all over Thailand and is a common stop for tour buses.

At the corner, turn right onto Dibuk Road. Walk down Dibuk Road. The houses on the right are in the style called Sino-Portuguese, characterized by its tiled-roofs and the thick ribbings across the peak and down the roof edges. These were built by and are lived in by old Chinese families. Look closely at the beautiful treatment of the entrances. At the next corner are two more excellent examples of the colonial style commercial buildings. At this corner you have a choice , if you wish to see several more examples of the old colonial buildings follow the directions for the ten minute walk up and back on Yaowarat Road, or simply continue straight on Dibuk Road and pick up the tour at the temple on your left just past the gasoline station. Turn left on to Yaowarat Road. A short way up on the right in a very cramped yard is perhaps the most beautiful of the colonial houses, a stately two story residence. Just beyond on the right are more Chinese style shophouses and at the next traffic light is a colonial home in a pretty yard. A even prettier one is on the left-hand side of the street. Back track down Yaowarat and turn left onto Dibuk Road. Halfway down on the left is Wat Mongkol Nimit, a Thai Buddhist temple that offers a clear contrast in style with the Chinese Taoist temples seen earlier in the tour.

Cross the street to Soi Rammani, this small soi is the heart of the old Chinese quarter, complete with a traditional Chinese noodle shop halfway down on the left. Soi Rammani exits onto Thalang Road which has a concentration of Sino-Portuguese shophouses that are being restored as and has been designated by the government as the "Road of Culture". The Loft, located at 36 Thalang Road is the newest addition to a growing number of galleries in this up and coming neighborhood. The Loft is mainly a home decoration boutique, but it is also an art gallery, it has a tasteful selection of artwork from Vietnam, Burma and Thai celadons, and Chinese porcelains.

Continue down Thalang Road and turn left on Yaowarat Road where a few feet down on the left you will find the 88 Ancient Art gallery, which displays a variety of ceramics, including Vietnamese celadon, Chinese Ming vases and Cambodian Buddha images from the Bayon period. Finding interesting and exotic artwork is the specialty of the this gallery. Across the street at 51 Yaowarat is Ban Boran Textiles which features fabrics from six countries in the region. While most of the textiles are in long pieces, some have been made into stylish shirts, trousers and scarves. Many of the fabrics displayed here can only be found in the remote villages where they are produced. At 39 Yaowarat Road you will find a very interesting selection of art objects at the Ban Boran Antiques shop They import gold jewelry from South India, Buddha images from Sri Lanka and Burma, and silver from Pakistan and Egypt. On a recent visit there were a set of old opium weights, said to be very difficult to find, and some very old and delicate examples of Thai folk art. On the same block at 27 Yaowarat Road is the Touch Wood Antique Furniture shop which sells colonial antique furniture mainly from neighboring Burma, Laos and Vietnam. Most of the stock seems to be either Victorian or Edwardian designs but many other examples of teak and cane furniture are on display. At the intersection turn left on to Phang Nga Road and walk a few feet to the Puk Shop at 7-9 Phang Nga Road. This venerable old shop is a Phuket institution and a true treasure hunter’s dream. A eclectic mix of everything from Chinese and Thai antique ceramics acquired from Phuket residents decades ago, to regular items found at any tourist stall. Many regular customers stop by often so as to not miss some of the more unusual items that pass through. On a recent visit there were some very rare Burmese manuscripts, and some exquisite Chinese ceremonial chests, that were not expected to be there for very long. You never know what to expect when you browse through this crowed shop. Down the street at 68 Phang Nga Road Antique Arts is another long time Phuket institution and has an exquisite collection of Chinese porcelains, brass and lacquerware. For almost a quarter century the owners of this shop have been offering quality antique furniture and art objects most of which are imported from China. Frequent buying trips are made to the Hokkien region of China to uncover the type of quality items that regular customers have come to expect. From here go one block south to Rasada Road. You are now several blocks from the traffic circle near the market where you started. As you go west on Rasada toward the traffic circle you will pass gift shops that offer local Thai products, generally at better prices than the shops in the tourist areas, one on each side of the road. At the traffic circle look for a tuk-tuk (taxi) because for the next stops on the tour you will want a ride. If you are feeling very adventurous you might try a motorcycle taxi as they are faster and cheaper.

If by now it is near lunch time, or if you are hungry, you might consider taking a short side trip to enjoy lunch at the top of Khao Rang Hill which overlooks the city and offers a panoramic view.

To continue your walk-a-about tour, take a taxi to the Phuket Provincial Court. This beautiful old building is still being used, a relic of the past. On the ground floor, peek into the antiquated courtroom with its wooden judge’s bench, unchanged since the last century. Return to the street. On the opposite corner, across the large lawn, is the Provincial Hall, home to a number of provincial offices. This elegant 90 year-old building is famous for it’s unique architecture, having 99 doors and a history nearly as old as Phuket Town. Movie fans may remember it, as it served as a replica for the French Embassy in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in the film "The Killing Fields".

Khao Rang Hill

Offers not only a sweeping view of the city and the island to the south, but several good restaurants, a exercise park and the largest sculpture of Buddha on the island. Famous for it’s view of the surrounding area it is a pleasant place to catch a cool breeze and watch the sunset. On the north side of the hill about half down is a giant nine meter tall seated figure of the Buddha in the ‘Suppression Evil" pose.

Saphan Hin

Another place for rest and relaxation in the city where Phuket Road meets the sea. It is the site of the monument to the Australian Captain Edward Miles who brought the first tin dredge to Phuket in 1907. The monument commemorates 60 years of dredging in Phuket and shows the importance of tin mining, even comparatively recently played in the island’s fortunes. A prolonged recession in the price of tin has however, resulted in the virtual extinguishing of the industry on the island, and except for the continued operation of a single refinery, all other tin mining activity in Phuket has ceased.

Saphan Hin is also the location of a sport center, large playing fields, many fine restaurants, and the island’s boxing stadium. It serves in addition as the site of two colleges, Phuket Community College and Phuket Vocational College.

Bars and night life in Phuket

Phuket has a thriving night life and it’s one of the main attractions of the island. There are plenty of places to party after a day at the beach, including lively Thai style nightclubs with live bands, Western discos thumping with dance music, small beachside bars, sedate pubs and go-go clubs full of friendly ‘company’. In general the nightlife in Phuket is concentrated around the tourist beaches of Patong, Kata/Karon and Rawai, as well as Phuket City.

Patong nightlife

The heart of Phuket night life is Patong beach, with Bangla Road being the main strip. There are dozens of arcades of tiny bars packed right next to one another, as well as several large western style nightclubs. The discos charge up to 400 baht for admission but this includes two drinks. Soi Seadragon is home to the majority of the go-go bars, while Soi Eric, Soi Tiger and Soi Crocodile are among the most popular strips. Safari Bar on the outskirts of Patong is the main after-hours venue. A rock-climbing wall, food stands, and indoor and outdoor dancing areas are some of the attractions there.

Kata and Karon nightlife

The Kata/Karon area is a smaller, quieter, version of Patong and caters more to Scandinavian visitors. There are a few bar lanes located there, but no large discos. Rawai, on the southern tip of the island, is a sleepy beach town during the day, but has plenty going on after dark. Rawai beach is lined with dozens of small and medium sized bars and many of them tend to bend the rules regarding closing times.

Phuket night life also offers a number of more family oriented activities. Central Festival Walk and Jung Ceylon feature English language cinemas showing major western films. There are two mini-golf courses on the island, three bowling alleys, a go-karting track and a shooting range. The Green Man British Pub near Kata and Rawai hosts a Thursday night pub quiz and there are live jazz jams every Wednesday night at Music Matter - a little jazz joint found in Phuket Town .

Phuket Town nightlife

The night life in Phuket Town is predominantly made up of Thai style nightclubs scattered all over the maze of one-way streets that make up old town Phuket. These joints are lively affairs, packed with a crowd of Thais and resident foreigners. They usually feature live bands playing a mix of western covers and traditional and contemporary Thai music. If you’re partying Thai style, pick up a bottle of whiskey at a bottle shop and bring it with you. Corkage fees are almost never charged, although it is expected that you will buy ice and mixers from the bar. Grab a table and start clinking glasses with everyone within arm’s reach. Most Thai discos have no common dance floor, preferring to pack everyone around ‘standing tables’.

Karaoke is highly popular in Thailand and there is a wide range of establishments where you can live out your pop-star fantasies. These range from hole-in-the-wall places with Thai music and friendly hostesses to large restaurants that rent out private booths by the hour. Some hotels offer VIP Karaoke in a private hotel room complete with an attendant to fill your drinks. Many of these karaoke places provide a selection of beautiful hostesses who charge by the hour to sit with you, though not all of them will willingly leave with you.

Girlie bars: for those hoping to find some company for the evening there is no shortage of places with friendly girls or gay boys. This aspect of Thailand is very much acceptable and is carried out in a relaxed and open way that isn’t entirely sleazy and is recognised by some as one of the country’s attractions! Many of the bars in specifically designated areas operate for this very purpose, though the atmosphere is by no means intimidating and you’re welcome to sit and enjoy a drink and watch the TV or people in these bars without being hassled. On a slow night some of the girls will happily sit and chat with you (and ask for drinks) even if you have no intention of taking them home. They are only trying to make a living and can be genuine and fun company.

The staff members at most of the bars in Patong are more than happy to accompany customers for the evening, although you will have to pay a 300-500 baht ‘bar fine’ if you wish to take them elsewhere. In the smaller areas, such as Rawai, you will find ladies who are willing to overlook the bar fee, especially if they think a more long-term arrangement is a possibility. Other places, especially if they have discreet entrances and dancers, will be a little pushier.

Phuket city Discos

Q-Spot:

this Thai style nightclub is relatively new to the scene. The d�cor is very classy and the dance floor is roomy. Just off of Ratsada Rd in Phuket town. Address: 34 Phang-Nga Rd., A. Muang, Phuket 83000, Tel: +66 76 256 588, Email: info@qphuket.com , Opening hours: Daily 7pm - 1am.

Timber Hut: another popular nightclub, Timber Hut has a good house band and serves good food, although service can be a little slow. Address: 118/1 Yaowarat Rd., A. Muang, Phuket 83000, Tel: +66 76 211 839.

Blue Marina: located at the basement of the Blue Marlin hotel in Phuket Town, usually chock-a-block full by 11.00 pm - pumping music from a live band - great atmosphere. Address: 158/1 Yaowaraj Rd., T. Taladayai, A. Muang, Phuket 83000, Tel: 076 212866-70

Patong Discos

Discos in Patong stay open until 2 a.m. blasting out techno and dance music. Admission fees can be up to 400 THB which includes 2 drinks.

FBI: located at the end of Bangla, this claims to be the finest bar in Thailand and is certainly popular for its friendly staff - free entry.

Banana: 400 THB for 2 drinks - this nightclub draws the crowd with great music, great drinks and a slightly less rowdy clientele. Address: 124 Thaweewong Rd., Patong, A. Kathu, Phuket 83150, Tel: +66 76 340 306.

Tiger: right in the heart of Bangla - great music - and the place kicks off only after 1.00 am. Address: 49 Bangla Rd., Patong, A. Kathu, Phuket 83150, Tel: +66 76 345 112, Email: tigerdiscotheque@yahoo.com

Seduction: big dance floor, free entry before midnight, lots of space for good dancing - drinks are quite pricey at 200 THB a hit. Address: 39/1 Bangla Rd., Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Tel: +66 76 340 215, seduction.discotheque@gmail.com, Beach Party Every Wednesday Night 10pm till Late.

Baya Beach: next to FBI, this bar kicks off only after 2.00 am - one of the best pick-up joints on the island - free entry. End of Bangla Road

Safari: the only after-hour place to go - an outdoor nightclub with two areas and an array of entertainment like rock-climbing and other games - located en route to Karon - open from 12.00 am and closes in the morning. Address: 28 Sirirat Rd., Patong, A. Kathu, Phuket 83150.

Clublime: located along the Patong Beach Road, this newly opened establishment is frequented by residents and is known to be sleaze-free. Address: Thaweewong Rd., (Patong Beach Rd.) close to Rock City, 076 341613, 085 7871195, mail@clublime.info, Open from 9pm till Late.

Other discos

Phuket city and Patong are the two party centres on the island but you’ll find plenty of evening fun in other resort areas. However, they tend to limit themselves to bars and restaurants that retain a relaxed character and you’re likely to find a few bars that have a dance floor and good tunes rather than a proper disco. These are invariably found in the vicinity of the busy centres

HOPE YOU ENJOYED THE VIRTUAL TRIP TO PHUKET

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