Peaceful Phuket

Wichai Praisa-ngob, the Governor of Phuket, asked people, both Thai and foreigners, who are worrying about the situation in Bangkok, to change their destination to Phuket. He said that the island was very beautiful , calm and was not affected by the violence or protests in other part of Thailand. Moreover, the accommodation and services costs decrease during this time of the year.

Meanwhile Tawee Tongcham, the Mayor of Karon Municipality, said that during the ‘green season’ this year the municipality would hold many activities to promote tourism in Phuket. He told us that on May 22nd, there would be a new event called ‘Phuket Live Volume 1 Jazz on the Beach’ near Nong Harn Lake. He said the event would be crowded with tourists from Scandinavia and local visitors.

During May 31st – June 5th, the 5th Senior World Cup would kick off in Phuket, including some matches at Karon Stadium: there were senior football teams from eight countries joining the tournament.

In November, the women’s World Beach Volleyball Tour 2010 would again take place on Karon beach.

The mayor added that Karon Municipality planned to hold activities continuously to promote Phuket tourism and asked people and related organizations to express assurance to tourists that Phuket was free from any violent protests.

Phuket may present itself as host for ‘World Expo 2020′

Due to the request of the Thai government to find a province to host the World Expo 2020, Wichai Praisa-ngob, the Governor of Phuket, called a meeting to discuss presenting Phuket as the host of the event. The attendees at the meeting were Smith Palawatwichai – a Vice Governor of Phuket; Somboon Jirayus – the President of Phuket Tourism Business Association; representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, Southern Hotel Association of Thailand, and private sectors.

World Expo 2010 at Shanghai, China

Wichai revealed that the qualifications needed by a host province were:

1. The province must have more than 1,000 – 1,500 rai of area to hold the World Expo 2020
2. The province must have its own international airport (or the location of the province must be within 200 – 250 far kilometers from Suwanbhumi International Airport, Bangkok)
3. The province must have proper public utilities and a long term plan in transportation development to Bangkok, with no more that 150 minutes traveling period including a mass electric train development project, high speed train and railway development project, double railway project, transportation investment projects or marine transportation projects that would be used to travel to the event.
4. The province must have enough 3 – 5 star hotels or they must be located within 150 minutes from the event location.
5. The province is supported by local administrative organizations and the residents to host the event.
6. The province must have development strategies that match with socioeconomic development plan.
7. The province must feature its uniqueness in tourism and culture or be outstanding in economic innovation or alternative power development.
8. After the event, the province can develop the conference center, plus academic and social learning centers.”

The area planned to be a possible location of World Expo in Phuket is at Thachatchai in the very north of the island, where an international conference hall and product exhibition center has already be planned for construction.

In addition, the related sectors are quite confident that Phuket has a high possibility to be selected since the island’s conditions are better than other candidates in Thai provinces.

A sun drenched treasure trove

Every year more words are written describing the diverse marine life that prowl the depths of Thailand's oceans and every year more divers visit the country. With one of the most diverse aquatic habitats, from submerged rocks and pinnacles to sheer walls and coral gardens, Thailand has a lot to offer to the scuba diver with all levels of expertise and experience. 



Due to this diverse marine and diving environment, Thailand has attracted diving lovers from throughout the world due to which it has become one of the most popular destinations for scuba diving. For the last three decades, Phuket has been catering to a huge number of visitors from almost every part of the world out of which a large percent is of scuba divers looking out to dive in some of the finest diving sites in Asia.
Today, scuba diving has become on of the biggest businesses and the island of Phuket offers many great diving centres and services from leisure dives to advanced courses in diving.



Scuba Diving destinations in Phuket:
One of the best diving sites in Phuket is the Racha Islands located off Thailand’s southern coast. The small island of Racha Noi provides some overwhelming underwater scenic views and has been renowned for encounters with manta ray and whale shark.




King Cruiser Wrecks and Shark Point also attract a large number of scuba diving enthusiasts to try their hands on. The water around and in the Ao Phang-Nga has been notable for their marine life profusion offering access to diverse marine and coral life unrivalled anywhere else in Phuket.



Diving in the destinations such as Mergui Archipelago, Burma Banks and Similan islands can be an awe-inspiring experience for the fans of scuba diving Thailand. Ko Phi Phi Lae and Ko Phi Phi Don are the regions characterised for stunning topography, amazing cliffs of limestone, many hard coral gardens and excellent soft corals, sea whips, black coral and orange sea fans.
While scuba diving, the divers can frequently see whale sharks, large pelagic fishes, manta rays and silver tip sharks. With its vast variety of tropical fishes variety, the place has impressed even the most seasoned divers. Scuba diving Thailand can be done all year through but the best time is during October to June when the waters are calm and you can have the ultimate scuba diving experience.



Undoubtedly, diving in this area is of a high standard and the place is a host of many excellent diving sites. In fact, Phuket has managed to develop an entire tourism industry due to its scuba diving attractions and today, a large number of scuba divers visit the place every year.

There are endless diving opportunities in Thailand and the place has been listed in the top ten scuba diving sites. It is not surprising why a large number of people get attracted towards the place due to its world-class scuba diving Thailand sites, crystal clear water and white clean sandy beaches. It is just the ideal place for the adventure lovers.

Award winning Marina

Royal Phuket Marina is Thailand is a world-class luxury lifestyle marina community, rivaling top resort communities in Europe and the Caribbean. It is located on Phukets up-and-coming eastern seaboard overlooking scenic Phang Nga Bay.

The Marina was developed by telecom tycoon Gulu Lalvani, the founder of Binatone, the world's second largest manufacturer of digital cordless phones in line with his vision of promoting Phuket as a world-class yachting hub in one of the world's most idyllic and accessible locations.



The marina is double the size of any other yachting haven in Phuket, with 350 berths for yachts of up to 30 metres long, and the only facility with a non tidal boat lock, deepwater basin and private moorings on the doorstep of residences.

More than half of the Royal Phuket Marina development is devoted to leisure and shopping facilities, including cafes, restaurants, a fitness centre and spa, which are set amidst landscaped gardens and attractive communal areas.



Royal Phuket Marina was awarded the prestigious Five Gold Anchor by the Yacht Harbour Association, an arm of the British Marine Federation.

The marina has quickly established itself at the forefront of Phuket's yachting establishment, sponsoring the prestigious international Phuket King's Cup each December.

Also host to PIMEX 2010 which was a great success with plans now in full swing for the Phuket International Boat Show 2011, Asia’s Favourite Boat Show.
PIMEX 2011 aims to have more boats in the water than any other boat show in the region. Based at the beautiful award winning Royal Phuket Marina, this stunning location shows off the event at its very best. Not only a ‘working’ marine environment showcasing the yachts in their element, the marina is also home to first-class restaurants and bars that are sure to be buzzing with excitement throughout the show. 

MARINA SERVICES

Here are answers to frequently asked questions regarding the Marina's Services.

1. How many yachts can the Marina house, and up to what size?
   The Marina has 350 berths, and can accommodate yachts of up to 35 metres.
2. What differentiates Royal Phuket Marina's services to other Marinas in the area?
   Royal Phuket Marina is the island's only marina with a boat lock, non-tidal deepwater basin and private moorings on the doorstep of residences.
3. What services are provided by Marina management?
   Aside from amenities such as water and electricity and extras like cable TV, phones, wifi, and full service yacht management, we also provide round-the-clock security. Staff can also have your yacht ready for you and at your doorstep (if you live in the residences) in minutes.
4. What sort of transport facilities do you have for the yachts?
   We have a 60 tonne travel hoist and 5 tonne forklift, along with hand trolleys for clients to use to and from their boats.

Absolute Dining : Phuket Restaurant Guide

Phuket has so many places to eat, from street stalls to high-end resort dining rooms, making it hard to choose where to go for a meal. If it’s Thai cuisine you’re craving and you’re looking for a special place to dine in Phuket, pick from one of these five favorite restaurants.



Baan Rim Pa is the obvious choice for fine Thai dining on Phuket. The traditional Thai menu, attentive service and large wine list attract foreigners and locals looking for a special meal. The elegant, open-air dining room is nestled in the hills overlooking Patong and Kalim bays so if you arrive in time for sunset be prepared for a stunning view.



Baan Rim Pa has long been established as one of the most famous restaurants in Thailand and a favorite of visitors from all over the world. With a menu featuring Thai dishes formerly found only in the Grand Palace of Thailand, Baan Rim Pa is the standard for Thai cuisine fine dining on Phuket Island and throughout Thailand. This Phuket Thai restaurant also features a piano bar showcasing live jazz, blues and Broadway standards nightly. The Cellar has won Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for consecutive years since 2002. Baan Rim Pa also features one of the best selections of spirits and cocktails in the region, nightly ice- and fruit-carvings, a cigar bar and a Thai handicrafts boutique. Founder Tom McNamara's "home on the cliff" has it all. Baan Rim Pa is simply the finest in the Kingdom.
The curries and typical Thai dishes are delicious but the fresh-caught seafood is what’s really shines at this Phuket institution. Pick your fish or shellfish and let your server know how you’d like it prepared and then sit back and enjoy the view of Chalong Bay and the surrounding islands. Kan Eang @ Pier looks fancy (it was completely renovated in 2007) but is really just a great, basic seafood restaurant.



Special with its setting, Kan Eang@pier is located just next to the Chalong pier offering a picturesque dining venue and a fantastic culinary experience. Serving Andaman seafood, local specialties and Japanese cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Operating since 1973, the restauran is very famous among locals and tourist alike for its seafood.

You can enjoy daily caught seafood in any cooking style. Whether BBQ, steamed, fried or sashimi. Try Nam Prik Goong Siap, Bua Tod, Hor Mok, or crab meat creamy curry served with white noodles and so much more.
Phuket’s most appealing restaurant for the sophisticated international traveler is located far away from the busy noise of international tourism. LIM’s, tucked into a setting of tall trees and lush vegetation on the hillside above Kalim Bay, features Modern Thai Cuisine, the latest sounds from Europe’s top DJ’s, all in a setting of tropical splendor and fine art..


The 60-cover hillside restaurant encompasses everything a class act should: ultra-fresh food, expertly prepared select ingredients, great background tunes and a sense of occasion in unusual and tasteful surroundings.

Lim's is located in Kalim, just to the north of Patong, but this beach feels like it's on another planet – the difference in atmosphere being that great. If coming from Patong, drive one kilometer along the Beach Road and, just after where the road separates around a tree in the centre, turn right up Soi 7 where the Orchid Hotel makes the corner. You'll find Lim's up the hill on the right-hand side of the soi.
Mom Tri’s elegant beachfront restaurant on Kata Noi is consistently ranked one of the island’s best restaurants. The airy dining room attracts a mix of foreign visitors and local tourists, and the Thai and Mediterranean menu satisfies everyone’s tastes. During high season, reservations are essential.


Enjoy fine dining in an award-winning restaurant set just above the rocks overlooking Kata Noi Beach. Panoramic sea views combined with the sound of the waves below create a peaceful, sensually indulgent and romantic setting.

European favourites and Thai dishes are served either on the open-air terrace, covered patio or Thai sala. An exuberant menu offers delicious creations from talented executive Chef Sura. Popular dishes include hot crab soufflé, light and savoury appetisers, tuna carpaccio, Phuket lobster and Angus beef tenderloin.

Mom Tri's Kitchen is the winner of the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for 3 years in a row and has over 350 labels including an extensive organic wine list and 16 wines available by the glass.
As of 18th December 2009 SILK will be at Andara Resort Villas - Phase 3. Offering traditional thai cuisine in a contemporary setting, with stunning views of the Andaman sea The menu combines the finest traditional Thai ingredients prepared with a focus on authenticity of taste and texture. The delicious creations are carefully concocted using local flavours and time-honoured techniques and the freshest ingredients.



This sleek, chic rooftop restaurant just around the corner from Surin Beach serves traditional Thai food and very international cocktails to a cosmopolitan crowd. Sit out on one of the comfy balcony loungers or inside in the air-conditioned dining room.

The sweetest spot

Golf instructors tell students to hit the ball in the sweet spot, and that’s sensible advice. For golfers of every standard, Phuket is probably the sweetest spot of all for hitting a golf ball. While other destinations in Thailand are also home to good courses, only in Phuket is it possible to enjoy first-rate golf, plus sun-drenched beaches and coral-reef diving, all close to fine cuisine and a varied nightlife.

Phuket Country Club’s Old Course was the first championship standard 18-hole golf course built on Phuket Island. It is located almost in the center of Phuket and can easily be reached from any of the main beach and hotel areas.

The Old Course at Phuket Country Club is best described as a friendly resort golf course. Not intimidating or humiliating; wayward shots are not severely punished. High handicappers can score well, while at the same time low handicap golfers will find the course quite a challenge. The Phuket golf course is set in a valley with the golf course meandering through hills and limestone cliffs and traversing 3 distinct environments (6 holes in undulating hills, 6 holes on the level and 6 holes through landscape forest). In danger of being overshadowed by its exciting new companion course (Red Mountain Golf Club), Loch Palm is still one of Phuket’s most popular and enjoyable layouts. This 18 hole course par 72, 6,555 yards palm tree-lined beauty recently completed a major re-design and upgrade.

Nestling beneath a panoramic range of jungle-clad hills, it is easier-going and less undulating than the newcomer, although is still capable of throwing down many challenges and giving your overall game a thorough workout. On the front-nine your main objective will be keeping the golf ball on dry land; many holes are played alongside the loch (a sizeable lake), which has a habit of cutting across some of the gently undulating fairways. Red Mountain Golf Course is the newest golf course on Phuket Island as of July 2009. The course was designed to take advantage of a huge variety of landforms and dramatic elevation changes, making it Phuket’s hilliest course.

The entire Red Mountain site, like Blue Canyon, Phuket’s other famous golf course, is an abandoned tin mine. The hole routing explores the four corners of the former tin mine property representing a memorable tour of Phuket’s historical landscapes. Hillsides and gullies etched in sandy tailings over the years by storm waters feature on several holes. Towering cliffs cut out of the hills and flooded canyons frame several other holes. Golfers face the full range of natures hazards; wind, water, slopes and elevation changes. Red Mountain is the highest golf course on Phuket Island and dramatic views are realized from many of the points on the golf course.

Absolute Heaven : Phuket Spa Guide

Aside from the amazing cultural heritage, to-die-for shopping, distinctive mouthwatering cuisine and tropical climate, Thailand is blessed with a unique attribute that has cemented its reputation as a preferred destination: its people. Warm and welcoming, the “Land of Smiles” is unparalleled, greeting with a beautiful “wai” and making sure each guest feels right at home.



It is no wonder that such factors and especially this sense of hospitality – found only in Thailand – translates flawlessly into the spa and wellness experience. Apart from the kind hospitality, Thailand is endowed with herbs and serene sanctuaries that provide the guests with many indulging retreats such as herbal streams, hot herbal compress or traditional Thai massage. The world renowned Thai massage illustrates the distinctive culture and exotic heritage, where each style reflects different characteristics and massage techniques such as the Royal Thai massage, the Commoner Thai Massage and the Lanna Thai massage. Just as Thailand is a melange of cultural influences, here you can find Ayurvedic treatments from India, Chinese acupressure and homegrown “Thai Boran” ancient Thai massage techniques. Every desire is brought to soothing fruition, from rejuvenation to relaxation to detoxification, in the most elegant and natural settings.



When you want to unplug from the world and replenish your health, sometimes you nhave to find a special place that offers plenty of “Me Time” with soothing treatments along with programmes of meditation, yoga and mental equilibrium. These destination spas in Phuket represent the very best of the best. On the island jewel of the Andaman, Phuket hosts the flagship Banyan Tree Spa of Banyan Tree. This is a must-visit for spa enthusiasts visiting Phuket : a holstic approach to traditional Eastern healing therapies administered in a luxurious sanctuary of the senses, including open-air spa pavilions. For the ultimate indulgence, the Banyan Harmony massage is conducted by two therapists who work in uncanny unison : by the time head and feet are massaged simultaneously, the sense of utter bliss may be overwhelming. Another highlight is the Thai Traditions menu, which offers treatments with local zest to both men and women.



In the midst of just 62 exclusive private pool villas and pool villa suites the Six Sense Destination Spa Phuket offers a complete immersion in contemporary and holistic treatments, presented in a very private, pristine tropical sanctuary. Programmes at this premiere island destination begin following an in-depth diagnostic evaluation. Therapies have been inspired by a blend of Chinese, Indian, Indonesian and Thai disciplines. All aromatic oils, scrubs and wraps are performed with signature Six Senses spa products. The fitness programmes – often decribed as groundbreaking – include kinesis training, postural enhancement, and oxygen fitness therapy. Meanwhile, guests dine on the freshest spa cuisine at the interactive earth kitchen or raw food restaurant overlooking the stunning Phang Nga bay.



Another blissful retreat , Sukko Cultural Spa & Wellness is a contemporary Thai realm set amidst six acres of a luxuriously landscaped tropical forest, and has also been called the “Abode of Bliss”. The 5-star spa provides a blend of tradtional Thai customs and wisdom derived from ancient Siam. Massage treatments are based on Thai-Ayurvedic principles using only natural herbs and extracts. The spa also offers half- and full-day Cultural Wellbeing programmes, which include lessons in Thai massage, cooking, and fruit and vegetable carving. Sukko which translates to “abundant happiness” certainly lives up to its name.



Phuket also offers some impressive resort/spa combos. the Aleenta PhuketHotel is mind-blowingly beautiful and its spa has the facilities to match. Float into heaven with treatmenst from the extensive spa menu, like the Earth and Sea in the sky package that includes a salt scrub, a wrap of sea minerals and rare Thai herbs, a floral bath and Hawaiian massage. Or go for the After Sun Healer package to restore your skin after a long day sunbathing. Alternatively pamper your abused-by-the-keybord fingers with a spa manicure package.




Body and Mind Day Spa in Phuket offers discerning visitors a spa experinece without the ludicrous price tag. Decorated in a contemporary style, the spa has treatments that specialise in Oriental healing therapies such as the Thai foot massage, along with treatmenst using the Jurlique range of therapeutic products which are fairly hard to find in this part of the world. For visiting couples, the spa has a range of candlelight promotions to choose from.


Life in the modern metropolis can be extremely hectic to the point of nerve-fraying. When time is of the essence, convenience is the key. Luckily there are retreats of calm, waiting for a welcome moment of Zen.