Phuket Honeymoon Spa Dedicated Relaxation

by Maypopup M.
We hope that you finish this article having learned at least a little bit of new information. If so, then we have done our job.

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

The more authentic information about phuket honeymoon spa you know, the more possible people are to believe you a phuket honeymoon spa skilled. Read on for even more phuket honeymoon spa reality that you can assign.

incoming the function part of the shape-new grandiose Spa is a gentle experience in itself. The interiors are daubed in gentle and expected lighting, and furnished with antique and contemporary pieces. The melody is reserved at discrete flats. While sipping on gently-brewed herbal teas, you are guided through the large menu of Body, thinker and Soul treatments by professionally-taught members of team.

Alligned with the early origins of Thai kneading, invents are mostly from the Sri Vijaya kingdom that spanned the crucial and southern regions of Thailand between the 7th and 9th centuries. The mostly Hindu influences came from India. Life-dimension sculptures of superb icons, recreated from this era, are set in niches along the corridor chief to personal suites. A icon past each scope holds a lit candle when it is conquered, assuring you inclusive privacy.

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

During the second part, we must switch to a more serious side to fully communicate the subject matter in a way for all to understand.

Alligned with the early origins of Thai kneading, invents are mostly from the Sri Vijaya kingdom that spanned the crucial and southern regions of Thailand between the 7th and 9th centuries. The mostly Hindu influences came from India. Life-dimension sculptures of superb icons, recreated from this era, are set in niches along the corridor chief to personal suites. A icon past each scope holds a lit candle when it is conquered, assuring you inclusive privacy.

Each secretive suite is unadorned yet elegant. The stockade are sheltered in supple, rose-coloured silk with light green accents, and the outline shape of the lotus. With over 300 establish metres of dedicated treatment region, the spa skin 4 of these interior and outside suites, each with a very roomy 60 establish metres.

A classic grand Spa Suite includes: a secretive therapy preparation locale (part from the guest locale), two grand closet-scopes for guests, a shower and steam scope, a place scope, two enclosed treatment beds, a jacuzzi with a relaxing Thai-variety daybed, and a large outside hanging treatment bed. All venues have grand views of the seashore of Nai Harn Bay.

Two of the grand Spa Suites have matchless skin: A wet-treatment porch with a Zen patch and granite treatment beds, where you can indulge in a body cancel, or any of the wet treatments, in complete privacy. A lotus pool and gaunt jacuzzi broad these oases of relaxation.

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

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

Dan Wallace
Krabi is a province of astonishing beauty, with spectacular views over the Andaman Sea and the closest coastal access to the Koh Hong island group, and the more famous Koh Phi Phi island. The province is largely ignored however by vacationers on luxury holidays in Thailand as Phuket is a short distance away and more notorious for it's luxury villas and condos.

Luxury villas are operating in Krabi, with all the amenities and service a guest would expect from the more developed Phuket, but with greatly reduced prices to reflect the seclusion and access of many of them. For a guest seeking isolation and total relaxation Krabi is a perfect place to come for your luxury holiday in Thailand.

The accommodation that has been built along the coast of Krabi province and islands off the coast such as Koh Lanta all share the same characteristics: private, luxurious and self-contained. Most have direct access to the beach and with spas, pools, restaurants and even shops, there is no need for guests ever to leave the confines of the villa area. Many villas offer personal chefs and maids to attend to your needs throughout the day, and drivers to shuttle you around should you wish to explore.
All of which is perfect for people who want a quiet, luxury break or an escape from the usual holiday crowd. Those who prefer not to stay around the pool being pampered for two weeks should definitely consider hiring a car or motorbike to explore the rest of the region.

As all the Krabi villas are located directly on the shore, with only indirect public access, the beaches are effectively private, for the use only of the resorts' clients.

Krabi has something for everyone, whether you are an active sportsperson, or a lazy beach bum. Its stunning scenery provides adventure in the form of rock climbing and kayaking, as well as pure relaxation with island hopping tours and laidback beach life.

Underwater enthusiasts will love the diving and snorkeling in Krabi's warm coastal waters, while nature lovers can visit elephant camps and explore the diverse flora and fauna in the national parks. There are also plenty of outdoor sports available, including fishing, golf and mountain biking.

After all that action, you can be pampered in one of Krabi's many spas, where you can try out a Thai massage, or visit the natural outdoor Jacuzzis at the Klong Thom hot springs site.

Immerse yourself in local culture with Thai cookery lessons or a visit to the famous Tiger cave temple with its spectacular mountain-top shrine. All of these activities can be arranged by the impeccable service on offer at some of the most unique Asian villas available.

These stunning Villa rentals are on a par with anything in Asia, yet very few people have a chance to experience them as they head to the more famous villas in Phuket and Samui.

For the more adventurous, or for those who have experienced the best of Phuket and Samui, Luxury villas in Krabi can offer something new and exciting for guests on vacation in Thailand.

http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/luxury-holidays-at-krabi-thailand-198441.html

Phuket, A Haven For Speed Boats And Yachts

Dan Wallace
The biggest island of the Kingdom of Thailand, Phuket - acknowledged as the 'Pearl of the South' - is an exceptional tourist destination, surrounded by the Andaman Sea in the Indian Ocean. With its wonderful coves and bays, palm fringed sandy beaches, scintillating waterfalls, limestone formations, and beautiful landscapes and scenery, Phuket has to its credit an array of interesting as well as unique attractions, which among many others, are Butterfly Garden and Sea Aquarium, Chana Charoen Crocodile Farm, Phuket Orchid Garden and Thai village, Khao Rang, and Ko Si Re. For those who want to explore the wildlife of the place, excellent options such as Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary and Sirinat National Park are available.

Phuket is also much famed for its wonderful beaches, such as, Ao Bang Thao, Ao Chalong, Hat Kamala, Hat Kalim, Hat Patong, Hat Rawai, Hat Surin, Ko Kaeo, Laem Ka Yai, and Laem Phromthep. Further, the place's gastronomy is simply amazing, whose evidences are world-famous festivals like Seafood Festival and Vegetarian Festival.

Along with these attractions, Phuket renders opportunities to enjoy a range of recreational activities, of which perhaps most popular ones are yachting and riding in the speed boats, apart from snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and scuba diving. In other words, Phuket is considered a haven for speed boats and yachts, and is one of the premier yachting destinations in Asia, especially South East Asia. Phuket's marinas represent almost all types of yachts from every continent. One of the prime reasons why yachting is so popular in Phuket is perhaps due to Phuket King's Cup Regatta - the largest as well as the most popular yearly sailing event throughout Asia.

A fantastic highlight and anchorage for yacht charter in Phuket is Pang Nag Bay, which is noted for its superb limestone formations and scenic beauty. A tender or a dinghy can be used to explore the stunning caves and inland lakes of the bay. Similarly, take a cruise from Phuket to the spectacular island of Koh Phi Phi, and experience its splendid scenery, white sandy beaches, and secluded bays. Above all, your yacht charter vacation would be incomplete without taking a cruise to the spectacular island of Krabi, which is much famed for its appealing beaches, tropical greenery, steeped cliffs, and beautiful coral reefs.

Different types of yachts and speed boat charter services are available to suit every pocket and taste and preferences. For instance, for those who are not interested in hiring skipper or crew on board, one of the options would be to charter bareboat. Chartering bareboat is an arrangement to hire a boat or yacht, in which no provisions or crew is included. Mostly, bareboat is chartered with full tanks of fuel and water.

Another most popular category is chartering skippered yachts, which is a great way to explore the beauty of the Andaman Sea, with your friends, family, and colleagues. This type of yacht chartering is usually inclusive of team training, onboard catering, and corporate facilities. Also, available are itineraries. Likewise, for those who want to enjoy vacation with a blend of relaxation and privacy, the best choice is to charter a crewed yacht. Hiring a crewed yacht would give you an experience of staying in a luxury floating villa, and in most cases, it comes replete with gourmet meals and drinks, personal service, and finest accommodations.

Options are also available for those looking for sophistication, such as, luxury yachts, which features facilities including in-house theaters, Jacuzzis on deck, excellent cuisine, swimming pools, and fish fighting chairs. Classic yachts, catamarans, super yachts, and sail boat, are the other popular types of yacht charter.

In a snap shot, Phuket is a romantic as well as alluring destination for a yachting vacation. With salubrious climate all-year round, stunning environment, the service of delightful people, and delicious cuisine, Phuket forms a perfect base for riding in the speed boat and yachting in the Andaman Sea.

A myriad of yacht charter speed boats agencies are now here to provide you expert services. One can also lean on the services of boat brokers for an enjoyable yachting vacation. Many of them have their own sites on the web. This in turn enables the tourists to book a charter service within the comforts of their home or work place. Just inform your likes and dislikes and preferences to these charter services, and they make all arrangements to make your vacation really an enjoyable as well as a memorable experience. No matter you have booked yachting services for a week or a month, you will at last feel that it was not enough!

http://www.myasianvilla.com/frontend/searchresult.aspx

The Largest Island in Thailand

Author: Douglas Scott
Phuket, is the largest island in Thailand. Its old name was Ta-lanf the word is derived from the old Malay Telong which means Cape. Phuket Island runs 48 kilometers north to south and 21 kilometers east to west. It is broken by a chain of mountains and valleys. The tallest peak, Mai Tao Sip Song is 529 meters. And 30 percent of the island is flat land located mainly in the central and eastern.

Everywhere is beautiful on Phuket Island but the south part of the island is straight out of a tropical daydream. The southern beaches offer some of the most glorious sun sets in the world

Phuket's beaches have the powdery sand, blue-green water, casuarinas trees, palm trees and strutting mynah birds, yet each is unique and each satisfies a different kind of traveller. Most of the beaches are located on the west coast of the island. The greatest concentration of shops, hotels, and restaurants are located around Patong.

The night market offers products such as silk, sarongs, handicrafts scarves, beach and leisure wear, leather goods and luggage, computer games CD's, and electronic gadgets. The main night market is easily found, it extends all the way down the Beach Road and is on all nights of the week. Every thing that is available lines the streets in brightly lit stalls. Another night markets is Along Raj-Uthid Road, merchandise includes recycled jeans, clothes, funky shoes, Thai sweets, orchids, ornaments and hair accessories.

Patong is the centre of the island's night life scene. Bars in Patong can be divided into go-go, beer bars, bars and regular bars. The road around Bangla road is only about half a kilometre and is pedestrianised in the evening making it easy to walk around and bar hop.

Pool and Sports Bars will show live sports matches from around the world. Go-go Bars are where girls dance on stage wearing nothing more than a bikini, or even less. The girls can spend time with the customers when they are not on stage and, the girls can have lady drinks bought for them and are available for take-out. Prices for bar fines and drinks are higher than in beer bars. Beer Bars are usually a small bar with a few stools. You can have a beer and play games or chat with the ladies working in the bar. If you like the girl and enjoy her company you can buy her a drink for which she earns some commission.

Weddings in Exotic Thailand, A Dream Coming True

The Kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia, making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern China. Its shape and geography divide into four natural regions; the mountains and forests of the North; the vast rice fields of the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands of the Northeast plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the peninsula south.

Thailand constantly is winning awards for its tourism infrastructure, recently the Swedish travel publication, Travel News, presented the annual Grand Travel Award - the equivalent of the travel and tourism industry's 'Oscars' - for the fifteenth consecutive year.

Thailand is increasing in popularity as a wedding destination as people seek more exotic environments and are able to hold more lavish receptions at luxury accommodation. There is nothing quite as touching as to play a part in someone's wedding, and locations such as Koh Samui and Phuket offer stunning luxury villa rentals to accommodate such groups. Many villas are purposefully build to offer the best possible setting, secluded, romantic, and beautiful, surrounded by the deep blue ocean, and row after row of coconut palms.

Organizers can provide Christian, non-secular or Buddhist-style weddings, and each can be completely customized to ensure the most memorable day possible. Everything you need can you provided to make your wedding perfect, at only a fraction of the cost that you would pay in your home country. Nothing is quite as romantic as saying 'I do' on the beach, on a tropical island, under the shining sun and bright blue sky. You can share your special day with friends and loved ones or simply savor the moment just for yourselves. We can help make all your wedding dreams come true.

Luxury villas in Phuket and Samui can accommodate wedding parties of up to 85 people just within a villa, or they can cater for groups of up to 150 people if staying outside. If you are planning on having a large Koh Samui Wedding, please contact us in advance for more information about the special packages we offer.

Another advantage of having your wedding in Thailand is that the wedding and honeymoon are part of the same package. With hundreds of attractions throughout Thailand it is great opportunity to travel the country and to enjoy the time with family and friends.

Luxury villas catering to wedding groups are likely to expand into other areas of Thailand as infrastructure improves, Krabi is fast becoming the next fashionable destination for high end visitors and Koh Chang near the Cambodian border is also seeing a large increase in visitors who are more adventurous and want to experience different areas of the country.

Whatever destination a wedding couple chooses, they are sure to be offered great value for money and an amazing choice of Thai villas from any destination they choose. With the incredible diversity throughout Thailand guests are no doubt going to have the wedding of their dreams when staying in their luxury accommodation in the beautiful country of Thailand.

http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/weddings-in-exotic-thailand-a-dream-coming-true-193247.html

A guide to Phuket's best beaches

Located midway along the west coast, Phuket's number one and most visited beach is Patong; a behemoth in terms of tourist numbers and reputation. The beach is quite nice here, although the whole package of shops, restaurants and bars is what gives this beach its great appeal. Patong Beach travel resource online Just north and south of Patong are Kamala and Karon beaches respectively; both of which are a little less brash and easier on the eye. Karon is the busier of the two and is known for its collection of upmarket hotels and resorts.

Not far to the south of Karon is Kata Beach, perhaps Phuket's all-round best beach. Kata has better sands than that of Patong and Karon, has fewer shops and bars and has a great feel to it, with shaded seating areas and some great shopping. As with the previous beaches, Kata is very appealing to the water sports enthusiast and is the island's most popular surfing beach. Unlike Patong and Karon, Kata also has some resorts and one or two bars directly on the beach adding to its appeal.

Kata Noi Beach is just over a headland to the south of Kata and is one of the most attractive and peaceful of beaches on Phuket. It has lovely, golden sands and great bathing and is surrounded on all sides by dense jungle. There's only one main resort here - Kata Thani - and a handful of shops, cafés and bars. Kata Noi is just a short taxi ride from the main Kata Beach and reachable on foot.

Nai Harn Beach is farther south again and very much like Kata Noi for peacefulness and exclusivity. Nai Harn is mostly frequented by locals and the high season weekends will see it thronged with happy Phuket residents. Like Kata Noi, Nai Harn is fed by a no-through road making it much more peaceful and less polluted than most other beaches on the island. There are also some very exclusive hotels here such as the Le Meridian.

At the very bottom of the island is Rawai Beach, an interesting retreat best known for its seafood restaurants and laid back feel. Rawai is very popular with the ex-pat community although the beach itself isn't that much to look at. Friendship Beach, about three kilometres northeast of Rawai, is the only one worth visiting on the east coast.

There are also several other beaches of interest continuing north of Kamala Beach, including Laem Sing, Surin, Bang Tao and Nai Yang. Of these, Laem Sing, next to Kamala, is by far the prettiest but least accessible. An arduous climb down a set of steep steps is the only access from the road high above, unless you have a boat. Once down there, the cute little bay of Laem Sing will not disappoint, with its soft sands and crystal clear waters.

Surin Beach is just a few minutes by bike or car from Laem Sing and is as far north as most visitors tend to get. Surin is somewhat of an upmarket option flanked as it is by million dollar villas. The seafood restaurants on the beach here are very good and the surf is also appealing. Bang Tao is just over a headland to the north and is Phuket's longest beach at eight kilometres. Tourist Phuket info online Needless to say this beach is great for a stroll and its tree-lined shelter offers an excellent opportunity for a picnic.

Nai Yang Beach is the only other main beach north of here and is the first beach coming from the airport. An affordable option, Nai Yang is becoming more and more popular with returning visitors who want something different and who can't be bothered to traipse all the way to the more popular southern Phuket beaches. A word of warning though: don't come to Nai Yang expecting a party!

http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=568647

Top 5 Beaches in the World

by William Brister
The lure of the bronze sun, vast azure skies and the endless blue-green oceans on a tropical paradise beach resort make for a perfect holiday destination. With hundreds of beautiful beaches to choose from, some have been given the distinction of being the best beaches in the world. Some of these resorts are listed below.

1) Ka'anapali, Hawaii One of the most populated, popular, and best beaches in Maui, Hawaii, Ka'napali is a paradise on earth. It is located in West Maui, two miles north of the historic whaling town of Lahaina and is surrounded by numerous elegant hotels and condominiums. The beach is three miles long and is full of fun-filled activities where you can snorkel, windsurf, jet-ski, parasail and even kayak. It is divided into two separate long stretches by a massive 300 foot cinder cone Pu'u Keka' known as the Black Rock. The rock divides the sand in two and swimmers find themselves bathing in deep water. The rugged lava coastline around the Rock is also an outstanding snorkeling spot, one of the best on the island. Swimming in the crystal clear waters is safe throughout the year but best outside the season of high winter surfs. travelocity.com

2) Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA With 60 miles of pristine beach, Myrtle Beach water sports and Myrtle Beach fishing are the finest among the different beaches in America. Besides lazing and tanning in the tropical sun, the soft wide beach provides ample opportunities for swimming, surfing, parasailing, shell collecting and volleyball.

Although your fun begins at the beach, always the most popular attraction, there is plenty more to do at Myrtle Beach. Besides beautiful beaches, it has delectable food, amusement parks, variety of shopping malls, lively nightlife and adventure sports. With hundreds of attractions, both indoors and outdoors, Myrtle Beach offers fun and excitement for all ages to enjoy.

This beautiful beach resort has more than 100 professional golf courses, a NASCAR sanctioned track, minor league baseball as well as tennis. You can take a deep sea fishing adventure from eight different piers or fish the backwaters and creeks all the way from Little River to Pawley's Island on the South Carolina coast. Moreover, there is a wildlife sanctuary where you are likely to spot alligators and deer combined with several boat tours to give you a real feel of the place. Visitmyrtlebeach.com

3) Cancun, Mexico Cancun is truly known as the vacation haven of the 21st century with gorgeous beaches of white sands and turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Having started off as a fishing village of only 120 people, Cancun is now a bustling beach resort with a population of half a million and a tourist onslaught of more than two million a year. One of Mexico's popular and best beaches it features world class resorts, hotels, clubs and malls. It offers something for people of all ages whether it an all-day fun at the beach or an isolated, tranquil island. It is close to Miami and has a number of activities to choose from like parachuting, jet-skiing, scuba-diving and golf. Topless bathing is an accepted activity in and around the surrounding areas of Cancun.

With striking modern hotels along the beach front and a lively nightlife, it is a fantastic getaway for the weary traveler. It encloses a huge lagoon, with water on both sides. Also, much of the Yucatan is easily accessible from here. There are two quite separate parts to Cancún: the zona commercial downtown which houses the shopping and residential centre and the zona hotelera - a string of hotels and tourist amenities around the Cancún Island. This is a narrow strip of sandy beach connected to the mainland at each end by causeways. cancun.com

4) Montego Bay, Jamaica Montego Bay is known for its long sandy stretch of bay with miles of coral reef and some of the most beautiful and best beaches in the world. Montego Bay is Jamaica's second largest city and rests between the gently sloping hills of Bogue, Kempshot and Salem. It extends approximately ten miles from the suburban rich area of Reading at its western edge to the plush villas and resort hotels of Ironshore and Rose Hall to the east.

Montego Bay is made up of two distinct parts - The Gloucester Avenue now called the Hip Strip and the city proper or the downtown.

All along the coastline are beautiful luxury hotels with three main public beaches which offer all amenities and several water sports. For a quieter and tranquil atmosphere you can head to the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean Beach Park, east of the town of Ironshore.

Montego Bay offers a wide variety of entertainment and sporting activities. From fun on the beach to the delicious food served at the waterfront, white water rafting and adventure sports, catamaran rides and fishing charters, it has it all. montego-bay-jamaica.com

5) Phuket, Thailand Sand between your toes, stunning tropical sunsets, cold drink in your hand and warm blue inviting seas - this is picture perfect Phuket. This island is known for its silky soft beaches, superb oriental hospitality and great value accommodation. You can go diving in the Andaman Sea, golfing at championship courses or indulge in exciting eco-adventures in the tropical forest of Phuket. Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to surrounding islands or a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay, or simply enjoy Phuket's vibrant nightlife in Patong Beach.

Known as the Pearl of the Andaman, Phuket is a large island in the Indian Ocean. The surrounding waters contain much varied marine life and the town is known for its quaint Sino-Portuguese architecture. It is a very attractive island for sightseeing with lovely seashores and forested hillsides.

www.travelonguide.com

Phuket as a tourist destination

Phuket the biggest island of Thailand, is approximately as big as Singapore and lies exactly 867 kilometres south of Bangkok surrounded by the Andaman sea in the Indian ocean.

The wealth of Phuket comes originally from its tinmines and its kautschuk. The island lies on a traditional trade route between India and China and is displayed often the logbooks of old foreign ships . The historical influences on Thailand are numerous. Even today houses built at the end of the 19th century bear witness to Chinese and Portuguese influence.
The Portuguese, French, Dutch and English traded peacefully with Phuket / Thailand.

Other visitors came with less peaceful intention. The most famous monument in Phuket is from the heroines Thao Thepkasattri and Thao Sisunthon, who led the islanders successfully against an invasion by the Burmese in 1785.

Phuket has wonderful bays and sandy beaches with palm trees. Towards the interior of the island you will find jungle, waterfalls and lakes. The gastronomy and hotels are exquisite. All possibilities for sports and leisure are available.

On Phuket you can find everything to make your holiday an unforgetable experience.

Probably the main attraction of Phuket is its stunningly beautiful coastline. There are soflty rising sandy beaches with calm water and rocky cliffs with wild surge. From the northern tip of Phuket, where the Sarasin-Bridge connects the island with the mainland, range the following beaches and places of interest:

Phuket-Town:
The provincial town is a sleepy town, but also a popular aim for shopping bargains. Neat colonial style residences and tradehouses, which were built in the 19th century from the tin and kautschuk barons, as well as shady arcades give it this very special character.

Rang Hill:
Located on the hill top adjacent to Phuket town. Enjoy a meal or a drink whilst enjoying a birds eye view of the hustle and bustle below. There is also a fitness-park.

The Thai Village:
In this thai village at the Thepkasattri Road you can have a typical southern Thai lunch. There is also a cultural show with Thai dancing, sword fighting, Thai kickboxing, a performance of local customs and a elefant show. You also can buy typical handycrafts.

Thalang National Museum:
Not far away from the monument of the two heroines is the Thalang National Museum. Within the museum is a permanent exhibition about the life on Phuket/Thailand. There are also artefacts and excavations exposed, which have been found at the coast, as well as souvenirs of the war with the burmese.

Mai Khao Beach (40 kilometers from Town):
This sandy beach lined by pines is the largest beach on phuket. From November to February giant turtles come onto shore to lay their eggs.

Nai Yang Beach (30 kilometers from Phuket Town):
is part of the Sirinath National Park. The biggest part of the woody beach contains of Casurina-pine-trees. There are also wide mangrove woods. The quiet surrounding makes it the perfect beach to relax, have a picnic, swim and snorkel.

Wat Phra Thong:
This temple is situated inland from Nai Yang beach and shelters a Buddha statue, which is partly buried underground. The legend says, that once a boy tied his waterbufflo to a protrusion from the ground. At this place both, the boy and the water buffalo became sick. The villagers started to dig and discovered, the pile was the golden tuft of hair of a Buddha statue. Nevertheless they weren't able to free more than the upper part of the statue. Thereupon they built a temple above. In the year 1785 burmese aggressores tried again, to fully excavate the statue, but they also failed, being attacked by a swarm of hornets.

Ton Sai Waterfall Forest Park & Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park (22 kilometers from Phuket Town):
This 22 square kilometre national park teems with bears, porcupines, gibbons and makak-monkeys, lizards and more than 100 different kind of birds.
Roaring waterfalls provide the perfect resting place to cool down.

Pansea Bay, Surin Beach, Sing Cape & Kamala Beach (24 kilometers from Phuket Town):
These beaches lie very close together. Due to the high waves and the undertow it isn't recomended to swim at Surin beach. But there are beautyful sunsets to be seen. On the other hand the north end of Kamala beach is relatively safe for swimming.

Patong Beach (15 kilometers from Phuket Town):
The most developed beach of Phuket offers a huge variety of Leisure possibilities. Three kilometres of shopping, windsurfing, snorkeling, sailing, swimming and sunbathing. The nummerous restaurants invite you to sample cuisine from around the globe. There are a number of excellent seafood restaurants.

Karon and Kata Beach (20 - 17 kilometers from Phuket Town):
Both beaches are very long, relatively quiet and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sailing and sunbathing.

Nai Harn Beach (18 kilometers from Phuket Town):
A white sandy beach with a shallow lagoon in between two rocky cliffs. Home to the royal meridien yacht club, Nai Harn provides for good swimming, sailing, sunbathing.

Phromthep Cape:
This cape, the southern tip of Phuket, directly follows Nai Harn Beach. The best place on the island to view the sunset. Although, can get crowded at weekends.

Rawai Beach (17 kilometers from Phuket Town):
This beach, lined by palm trees is famous because of the sea gipsies, who live there. This is a pebble rather than sandy beach. The best place to charter a longtail boat to one of the many islands surrounding Phuket.

Chalong Bay (11 kilometers from Phuket Town):
The restaurants here serve the best seafood all over Phuket.

Wat Chalong:
Inside the buddhist temple some kilometres up-country from Chalong beach are the statues of the most worshiped buddhist monks: Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang.

Phanwa Cape (10 kilometers from Phuket Town):
On the southern tip of this peninsula is the oceanographic institut and the Phuket aquarium, where you can see hundrets of exotic marine inhabitants of the waters around Phuket.

Pearl Farms:
On the neighbouring islands of Nakha, Rang Noi, Rang Yai and Bon are pearl farms. Special permission is required to survey them.

http://mellow-phuket.com/phuket.htm

Phuket Thailand Smiles Once Again For Visitors

by Denise Hummel
When Fred Varnier, General Manager of the Amanpuri Resort and Spa in Phuket, Thailand did his rounds at about 9 a.m., the morning of December 26, 2004, he noticed a strange, large puddle beside the pool. The weather had been dry for days and guests had yet to swim in it that morning. While he was ruminating about it, he received a call from Richie, an Australian lifeguard down at Amanpuri's private beach. "I've never seen the tide this low," he said, "You'd better come take a look." Fred's curiosity was peaked so he made his way down to the beach where 50 guests were already taking in the sun and gazing at the pristine white sands and crystal waters of the bay. What he saw alarmed him. The tide was indeed so low and so far out that local long boats were resting oddly and precariously on their keel. He didn't know where all the water had gone, but he was certain of one thing. It would have to come back.

Calmly, but swiftly, he evacuated the beach. Had he made the observation one day prior, the evacuation would have been incrementally more difficult. On Christmas day the beach was considerably more crowded as the Amanpuri had orchestrated an elaborate party, focused on the hotel's younger guests, complete with Santa Claus and elephant entertainment. Guests were told to leave everything and to immediately make their way up the stairs to the hotel, situated elegantly and safely on a cliff overlooking the sea. Moments later, a wall of water surged forward, taking out every beach lounge chair and umbrella on the beach. Minutes after that a second wall from the opposite direction took out the ocean-side gym. Fifty Amanpuri guests owe their lives to a savvy, young lifeguard and a confused, but decisive General Manager. The puddle of water Fred had seen earlier that buttressed his decision to evacuate the beach had been the result of the earthquake, too far away for people to take notice, but strong enough to have moved a significant amount of water from the pool to the surrounding walkway.

For the weeks that followed, Amanpuri sent a convoy of their hotel trucks filled with employees to Khao Lak, formerly an up and coming beach town which had been a tourist departure point for boats to the Similians. It was one of the hardest hit communities, and while the town was spared, most resorts were destroyed and many tourists and Thais were lost to the ocean's fury. Amanpuri employees, many of whom were trained in first-aid and most of whom spoke other languages, were among the first to aid the survivors in their quest to find loved-ones and to seek medical attention and shelter in the days to come.

In visiting the Amanpuri on October 5th this year, one would hardly be able to guess that it had been so close to such destruction. The gym has been rebuilt, beach chairs and umbrella's replaced, and the coral reef which abuts its beach, although probably changed in an ecological and geological sense, remains as beautiful as it was on Christmas day. The spirit of the Thai people, and indeed all employees of every nationality was clear to me, although directed to more pleasant endeavors, that being spoiling their guests who were back to frequent their favorite hotel and spa so quickly and in such numbers that the hotel was at 93 percent occupancy at the time of my visit.

I have come at a unique time, at the beginning of Ramadan and of the Chinese Buddhist Vegetarian festival. The Vegetarian Festival has attracted people in record numbers, locals and tourists alike, and the town was filled with street vendors selling local vegetarian delicacies. There is an air of festivity, although the holiday is also quite intense spiritually in that locals who practice Chinese Buddhism attend temple every day, walking kilometers in procession from one temple to another, some in a deep state of trance, preparing to engage in what can only be described as the self-flagellation and even mutilation that marks this ten-day period. Body "piercing" without anesthesia are among the rituals performed.

Back up the hill at the Amanpuri, surrounded by a coconut grove and insulated from the rest of the world, including the holiday commotion below, guests prepare for their spa treatments, so relaxed that they look like they are in a trance of their own. The usual spa body scrubs and reflexology treatments exist, but this is no "usual" spa. It was created by Zecha as a world of holistic healing with the world-renown consult of Rosamond Freeman-Attwood. Everything flows here: harmonious service, massive treatment suites with the serene backdrop of the ocean, and a black granite steam-room which is bigger than my living room in Italy. A Thai fruit-facial and a 90-minute Thai massage that is a combination of European technique and Thai gymnastics that centers the body and the soul is something to be experienced at least once in a life-time.

The Aman resorts are probably the most famous in Asia and are noted for having repeat guests, "Aman-Junkies" as they are known, who like me, a mere Aman novice, but striving junkie, like to go around telling their "in-the-know" friends and colleagues just how special these properties are. Thus my reason for telling all of you! Apart from the usual consistency of service, this particular Aman location is situated on a spectacularly beautiful peace of property with breath-taking views from almost every area of the property. Ed Tuttle, American architect and designer, has created a hotel which is a series of pavilions and villas, made of Maka wood (similar to teak) infused with such exquisite Thai design that one hardly wants to leave the property.

However, like me, you like to take in the local scenery and culture, I highly recommend a boat trip to Phang Nga bay. By Amanpuri yacht or kayak, the startling limestone formations jutting up from the sea will leave you speechless and humbled at the immense beauty of mother earth. If paddling isn't your cup of tea, let the Amanpuri staff cater to your every need as you sit back and take in the scenery.

I asked Fred Varnier what message I could give to my family, friends and colleagues in the United States. "Just tell them to come back as soon as possible," he said, "While we have been spared destruction and loss of livelihood here at the hotel, others in the area who rely so heavily on tourism to support the local economy are dependent on tourists having faith that this environmental anomaly will not revisit us in these next centuries. Let them know that we have recovered and that we are more than capable of receiving them with warm smiles and open hearts."

I did visit Khao Lak, one of the areas hardest hit by the Tsunami. Boats washed from the sea kilometers inland and still leaning precariously against buildings or beside roadways signal the absurdity of focusing on zoning set-backs from the ocean or formulating emergency drills. We must accept this historic event as a once in a lifetime seismic event and move on. As I headed back to the hotel to prepare for my flight to beautiful Chiang Mai, I asked my driver. "I have heard that Chiang Mai is quite spectacular; which do you like better Phuket or Chiang Mai." The Thai culture figured prominently into his response, "Well," he answered, "Chiang Mai has the mountains --- but we are lucky. We have the sea."

Many rebuilt hotels in the area are offering discounts that we will not see again as consumers, perhaps ever. There is no better time to come to this great land, both for our own enjoyment, and to be a part of the process of healing. As the Thais say, "Yin-dee-ton rub-krub-ma" -- simply said, "welcome back."


http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=143756

Excellent day trips from Phuket Island - Thailand

by Andy Burrows
Phuket is named the Jewel of the Andaman. Or is it maybe the prime gem in the crown of Thailand's tourism? However, Phuket is just the core of a spacious wonderful playground. And the other part of the 'crown' is worth discovering, even if the tropical fabulous beaches you're sunbathing on seems so great you never want to get away from them. Phuket sightseeing tours are a must.

Making day trips from Phuket Island is definitely a must when you visit this South East Asian tropical piece of Heaven. Within a few hours ride or trip by boat are several mind-blowing landscapes including the renowned Phi Phi islands, the wonderful Khao Lak coast, the eye-opening Pha Nga Bay, exclusive scuba diving off the Similan islands, and the breathtakingly beautiful karst-scapes of Krabi. There are national parks boasting lush forests, picturesque fishing villages, spectacular waterfalls, crystal clear waters, private tiny islands, pristine mangroves and exclusive beaches to seek out.

Phuket is without a single doubt Thailand's best developed and most popular island, a high standard, jet-set travel destination that has become a very upmarket place during the last decades. If you're travelling to Phuket for your next holiday you'll invariably find yourself based at one of several wonderful bays lined along the West Coast. From this location you can either rent a private car or use the option taking one of the available day trip tours to a destination of your choice. This is highly recommendable and there are both many travel agents and opportunities.

For first time visitors exploring the island itself is absolutely a great idea. There are numerous exciting and splendid beaches. Towards the south from Kamala you'll find a cluster of the best, past the popular and crowded Patong, and onwards to the posh Kata and sweeping Karon. Every beach is worth making a stop for a few hours to sunbath or sample a spicy Thai papaya salad (som tam) for lunch. Keep travelling south and you'll finally reach the untouched Nai Harn beach, a good spot for avoiding the crowds. All beaches on Phuket have their own special ambience.

To reach the island's north takes about a one-hour drive. This area has not been developed and tourists do not dominate the scene. The east coast's mangroves offer an altogether different look of Phuket. While visiting this area you might want to cool off in Khao Phra Thaeo National Park's Bang Phrae Waterfall or drop in on the 'singing gibbons' at the Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre. Tours to this area of Phuket are very rewarding.

The best scenery can be found offshore, the first thing on you itineraries list should be a trip to Phi Phi. This distinctive craggy island is formed like a butterfly. The island featured in the Hollywood movie The Beach and was world news because of the Tsunami tragedy. Actually there are several islands, and the majority of the available trips stop off for some mind-boggling snorkelling adventures en-route. Food is mostly served once you arrive at Phi Phi Ley's paradisiacal Maya bay. Only campers and park rangers are allowed to spend the night here so you'll have the immaculate beach all to yourself. Phi Phi Don is more dramatic and was drastically overdeveloped before the gigantic Tsunami washed it all away. On a tiny sandwich of coconut palms the resorts are found between two gorgeous bays, with rising to the blue sky karst cliffs all around. Once you've reached this spot you probably not want to make the trip back to Phuket!

Similarly popular and impressive is Pha Nga Bay's unique karst seascape, enjoyed free promotion in the James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. Now also known as the James Bond Island, this is a must-see on all trips from Phuket but its all part of a gigantic theatre of pillars, dotting this vast bay and must be ranking as the most photogenic spot in the whole Andaman. Lunch will be served at the idyllic fishing village of Koh Phan Yee, which is positioned in the water on stilts. Don't forget purchasing some souvenirs and stroll around this remarkable community. Kayaking among the karst cliffs and caves is especially rewarding.

If diving is your thing and you have just one opportunity to see the finest, then you may want to join a few days lasting trip to the Similan islands which are located West of Phuket. There is also a protected marine reserve and diving excursions or day trips are the only way to reach the area's unspoilt reefs, or swim in the clear blue ocean. If you do not have a dive certificate, no worries there are plenty of available courses. As an alternative you could take a tour to Hong Island, between Krabi and Phuket and simply enjoy underwater snorkelling and unwind. This unique island boasts a hidden lagoon inside, reachable at low tide only through a cave tunnel.

Renting a car for a drive into the hinterland is also a great option. Phuket is by a short causeway linked to the mainland and after that you have the freedom, roaming the lush isthmus provinces of Southern Thailand. Travel to the north to Khao Lak, to explore a more untouched and wild shoreline, and some fabulous coastal parks. Khao Sok National Park is a bit beyond this with its vast lake, magnificent rainforests and distinctive landscapes. In the park chalets you can even stay overnight. Thai tropical national parks feature fantastic ecosystems full of streams, waterfalls, nature trails, a few animals and varied birdlife.

Even Krabi is a popular tourist destination attracting many visitors, it can conveniently be reached within a 90 minutes drive from Phuket and features some of most distinctive landmarks in the region. But this is a completely other destination!

www.1stopphuket.com

Phuket - Top Holiday Destination in Thailand

by James Bukovsky
Phuket Island - Popular Vacation Destination

Phuket has grown into one of the premier holiday destinations in South East Asia and is one of the busiest travel destinations of Thailand. It has replaced Bali as the most popular holiday island in the region.

What makes Phuket island such a great travel destination?

Phuket is first of all an inexpensive holiday destination. Phuket hotels, resorts and guesthouses can be found in all price categories and ratings and prices are considerably cheaper then what one would encounter in Europe or America.

Dining in restaurants or buying drinks in bars or clubs on Phuket is also less expensive then what most tourists are used to paying back in their home countries.

Phuket Beaches

The palm tree lined beaches of Phuket Island are of course world famous due to its crystal white sand and clear water of the Andaman Sea. Some of the nicest and most popular beaches found on Phuket Island are the beaches at Patong, Kamala, Karon, Kata and Nai Harn.

Phuket Nightlife

The Phuket nightlife is another reason why many tourists visit Phuket each year on holiday. Many tourists seem to keep coming back each year for especially the nightlife and bars of Phuket.

Most Phuket island nightlife venues can be found in Patong beach along the well known Soi Bangla. A number of large clubs are located along Bangla road in Patong including the very popular Tiger disco and the new Seduction Disco.

You can also find along Bangla road and the many small streets leading into Soi Bangla hundreds of beer bars. Each beer bar has a number of beautiful Thai ladies working for them who there to please the clients.

Phuket Shopping

Going shopping in Phuket in the past was not one of the most interesting activities for tourists due to the lack of a good variety of shops and products. Most of the shops sold the same tailor made clothing, bootleg movies and software and fake designer clothing.

Over the last few years however, a number of large shopping malls have opened on Phuket housing well known international retailers, unique local boutiques as well as international restaurant outlets such as Outback steakhouse and Burger King.

If you are going to visit Phuket for a holiday then please make sure to visit the brand new Phuket Junkceylon mall in Patong or the Central Carnival Mall along the Phuket bypass road.

http://www.phuketbeach.net

Thailand’s Vegetarian Festival

by: John Turner
First time visitors arriving in Thailand at the start of any October might be puzzled by the myriad of eye-catching bright yellow pennants displayed by street vendors or nowadays even strung out in front of restaurants. What it simply means is that the annual Vegetarian Festival is upon us once again.

This unique Thai festival had its origins on the southern island of Phuket some 180 years ago and has gradually spread to virtually all parts of the kingdom. Rather surprisingly, it is actually of Chinese origin and not really Thai at all. It began among the Chinese immigrants who had flocked to Phuket in the early 19th Century to work in the tin mines that once provided the island’s economy. According to local historians, about the year 1825, a mysterious epidemic struck the Chinese miners and their leaders met to discover the cause. They noted that the traditional Chinese rituals were being neglected, and the mining community was accordingly ordered to undergo a period of fasting as a penance. After nine days, the disease vanished as mystifyingly as it had arrived.

Now no one likes going hungry for days on end, so the village elders decided on a compromise. They vowed that each year on that anniversary the Chinese on the island would practice a period of cleansing by adopting a vegetarian diet. Offerings to the Chinese divinities would naturally be made and a strict code of conduct would be followed, which included sexual abstinence and foregoing the consumption of alcohol. As the years went by, something bizarre also took place. Individuals spontaneously began to be “possessed by spirits” during the festival and would take to impaling themselves with sharp object or slashing themselves with razor sharp knives. Yet once the spirit had left them, there would be no visible wounds or even the slightest scars. This Hindu like self-mutilation naturally drew Thai tourists to the island, and these Thais carried the idea of a vegetarian festival back to their home provinces.

Nowadays, the Vegetarian Festival is observed in virtually every fair sized city in Thailand. The yellow pennants one sees bear a Chinese character in red, with the Thai word “jeh” next to it. Both mean vegetarian. Any vendor displaying these flags will be selling flesh free food and the restaurants will have adapted their usual recipes to meatless cooking.

In Bangkok, the Vegetarian Festival is best seen in Yaowarat – the city’s picturesque Chinatown. It begins there on the first day of the 9th month of the Chinese lunar calendar with ceremonies similar to those on Phuket. Even before that, Chinatown residents will have started stocking up on vegetarian meat substitutes – usually high protein soy bean products, and it has been estimated that meat sales drop by as much as 70 percent during the ten days of the festival.

But the festival is not merely limited to Chinatown or the Chinese-Thais. Many ethnic Thais and even foreign expats welcome the change to a vegetarian diet, and perhaps one restaurant in five will switch over. In fact, vegetarian tourists have been known to plan their visits to the kingdom to coincide with this period.

The dishes offered during the Vegetarian Festival are nothing short of delightful. All of the Thai favourites are available, but with a slightly different twist. Instead of tom yam gung (spicy shrimp soup), there will be tom yam jeh (spicy vegetable soup). Gaeng matsaman, a delicious southern Thai curry made with chicken, potatoes, onions and peanuts, instead will have the chicken replaced by tofu. Gaeng kiao wan, a mild green curry usually made with chicken or fish, will now be made with soy protein. Mushrooms of all types will be used in abundance, and the big yellow Japanese soba noodles are used to produce a version of kweitiou pat Thai (noodles fried Thai style) that is well worth waiting for.

In fact, Thailand’s Vegetarian Festival is probably one of the best times to visit the country, even though it does fall within the rainy season. After all, you can always carry an umbrella. And the choices of food offered at this time of year rival the best of any cuisine that Asia has to offer.

So next time you come to Thailand, look for those yellow pennants. If it is not that time of year, just tell your waiter you want to try the aharn jeh, the dishes on the vegetarian menu. Most restaurants will have one. It makes a pleasant break from the usual meat heavy diet that is so common in the west.

Aharn jeh aroy mahk! Thai vegetarian food is delicious. Try it and see if you don’t agree. You should also visit us on http://www.foodinthai.com where you will be introduced to the origins and types of Thai food, Thai cooking, courses and the various Cooking Schools in Thailand. We hope you will stay with us and enjoy learning more about it.

foodinthai.com

Sailing from Phuket for a day

by Andy Burrows
The marine industry has shot up since the Thai government lowered boat import tax from 200 per cent down to 0 per cent. Sailors here will not want for spectacular scenery and sailing. The deep-blue water sailing of the Andaman Sea off the west coast is a joy for all yachties, while the east coast calm Phang Nga Bay offers year-round activity and spectacular, unique scenery.

Phuket's powdery-sanded west coast beaches and the dark, deep blue waters are famed the world over. The west coast also offers the highest concentration of entertainment and accommodation. However, all the marinas are on the southern and eastern coasts, which are sheltered all year round.

"The sailing here is incredible," says Bob Welders, a tourist from Australia, "I spend most of my time on the water and the rest eating the great seafood and partying in Patong - you can't beat Phuket."

Marinas are all the craze in Phuket and are popping up anywhere possible, to accommodate the rich influx of yachts from around the world. Many yachties are moving towards relocating their yachts from Europe or the Caribbean as mooring fees are much lower. The island is shaping itself as an international yachting and sailing centre.

Thus, you'll have no problems finding a daytrip sailing from Phuket. Phuket online tourist resource There are a range of charting companies as well as schools offering ASA and RYA certification. Those wanting to sail the Andaman for a day will probably head for the Similan Islands. This collection of nine incredible islands is located in a marine national park, which has kept them picture perfect. The Similans are a top diving destination and the sands above are no less stunning than the corals below.

The other option, and probably the best option during the green season, is to take your sailing to the east coast, to the waters of Phang Nga Bay. The islands and karst rock formations dotted all through the bay provide the most unique scenery in the world. Besides tying up and swimming to the uninhabited rocks and beaches, you can spend time exploring the 'haung' ('rooms' open to the sky and surrounded by rock, accessed by walking or wading through a cave entrance).

If you're looking for a restaurant, try sailing to Koh Yao Noi and visit The Paradise, where lunch is served in an open-air pavilion on the beach. Nearby Koh Yao Yai is the largest island in Phang Nga Bay and it takes roughly an hour to get there by sailboat.

You won't want to miss the Phi Phi Islands, just a few hours sail away. Phi Phi Don is the largest island and popular with a younger crowd for its diving, cute bungalows and extensive nightlife. The national park beaches of Phi Phi Leh, the location for the filming of the 1990s movie The Beach, have a pretty and relaxed atmosphere. Beyond Phi Phi is Krabi, which is reserved and much like Phuket was back in the 1980s.

Closer to Phuket, just 20kms away, lie the islands of Koh Racha Yai and Noi. These are both still undeveloped for the most part and Racha Yai offers accommodation. Phuket cruising guide There are two beaches on Racha Yai, one deep and one shallow - but both lovely. Koh Khai is just within sight of the eastern shore of Phuket and good for snorkelling.

Holidays in Thailand - Phuket in 10 exciting days

In spite of the tsunami of 2004, Phuket has steadily rebuilt much of its infrastructure so that it now holds as much of its previous glamour as before. Its beautiful beaches foster excellent diving conditions, and the ever-clear Andaman waters never let divers down. The nightlife is thriving and there's always something to get on board with, so you'll never find yourself without something to do.

Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre At this time, at least three families of rescued gibbons have been introduced back into the wild and currently live on the Royal Reserve. Their distinctive calls can be heard in the forest, and visitors who catch a glimpse of these animals are always glad they came. A stopover or maybe even a quick swim at the nearby Bang Pae Waterfall makes this trip twice as appealing.

Adventure sports Phuket is loaded with activities to get your heart racing and your adrenaline pumping. The island is home to Thailand's only licensed bungee jump operator who, on top of those credentials, is the only operator in all of Asia to insure this activity. Those wishing to dive into the forests and hills on the island can do so on the back of an ATV or strapped to a lumbering elephant. A shooting range in Chatong has safe and reputable facilities, and go-kart tracks are easy to find. No matter what your preference is, there's an outlet for the adventure seeker on vacation.

Island hopping The archipelago of islands that extends past Phuket is known around the world for its beauty. Chartered daytrips can be arranged to almost any of these Andaman Islands, where passengers can enjoy sightseeing, snorkelling and depending on availability, overnight accommodation. You may have seen a few of these islands in feature films like The Beach or a James Bond movie. A few of the more outstanding islands are Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Coral Island, ,, Similian Islands and Sirey Island.

Water sports Water sports at Phuket are multi-faceted. Parasailing over the Andaman offers a great perspective with the coast on one side and the horizon on the other. Scuba diving and snorkelling in the famously calm, clear waters is a fun activity that the whole family can participate in. For those with a penchant for sailing, there are dinner cruises to enjoy, sailing lessons in which to enrol and fishing trips on which to embark.

Waterfalls Phuket's waterfalls are great places to take a swim or enjoy a picnic. Kathu Waterfall is the farthest inland and offers inviting, cooling pools for a quick dip. Ton Sai is often photographed due to its pools and tall palm trees. The island's Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre is home of the island's third waterfall, Bang Pae, and those who venture here are also afforded the opportunity to glimpse one of these rare animals.

Shopping Shopping is a popular pastime anywhere in Thailand. Shoppers in Phuket will find the whole gamut of traditional souvenirs. Silk, cotton and custom-made clothing can all be found at attractive prices, as can leather, jewellery and antiques. Patong is home to many of the markets and due to the everyday tourist scene, shoppers do well to come prepared ready to bargain for a price that both parties can agree on.

Eating out Restaurants in Phuket cater for every palette with international and world-class Thai cuisine available all over the hottest tourist districts. Fresh seafood is in seemingly endless supply, and most dishes are tailor-made to satisfy tourists--not too spicy without a specific request. Authentic Thai food is easier to find the farther inland you go, where the crowds of tourists give way to legitimate Thai villages and communities.

Thai kick boxing Visitors who come to Thailand specifically to study martial arts will not be disappointed in Phuket. Phuket Town, Chalong and Rawai are all home to open training gyms where students learn the ancient martial art form of Thai kick boxing, or Muay Thai, which has increasingly gained world recognition for its highly effective combat style. Its popularity is evident in the droves of spectators that gather every Friday to watch the fights hosted in Phuket Town.

Promthep Cape Promthep Cape is one of Phuket's most photogenic spots, a fact to which the crowds of tourists testify. On-site is a popular merit-making shrine covered in miniature elephants. There's also a statue erected in honour of a 19th century prince well-known for founding a Thai school of navigation. The cape is a great place to take spectacular photos, especially at sunset when the evening light bathes this southernmost point of the island.

Temples Wat Chalong is the most visited Buddhist temple on Phuket, due largely in part to its unique design and décor, spacious grounds and modern chedi (pagoda). Other well-known temples include Pra Tong, Put Jaw, Jui Tui, Pra Nahng Sahng and Sanjao Sam San. When visiting any temple, locals will appreciate it if you practice proper etiquette--namely covering your legs and shoulders, taking off your shoes and maintaining an air of reverence when inside the sacred buildings.

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