Most tourists heading to Phuket head straight for the beaches. And that’s understandable. But Phuket Town has much to offer and can be an excellent base to explore the rest of the island. Although the west coast beaches may be an hour away, that is … [Read more...]
Sun-Loungers and Umbrellas Return to Phuket Beaches
Authorities in Phuket have eased the restrictions that have been in place on sun-loungers and beach umbrellas. The new rules came into effect on February 27, 2017. I was in Phuket last week and can confirm that sun-loungers and umbrellas are allowed … [Read more...]
Thai Authorities Push Ahead With Phuket Clean Up
Regular visitors to Phuket could be forgiven for rolling their eyes when they read stories about another clampdown on the island's taxi 'mafia' and attempts to clean-up the island's beaches. But the latest campaign on Phuket seems to have teeth and … [Read more...]
Phuket Fantasea
Described by the owners as a '140-acre cultural theme park', Phuket Fantasea (written as FantaSea by the owners) has rapidly established itself as one of the most popular visitor attractions on Phuket island. Built at a cost of over USD 100 million, … [Read more...]
The Sea Dragon that Protects Phuket
According to an ancient Chinese legend, the island of Phuket is a golden sea dragon known as Hai Leng Ong. For those that believe in such things, Hai Leng Ong is regarded as the protector of Phuket. Hai Leng Ong Statue at Queen Sirikit Park, Phuket … [Read more...]
Book Review: Catching the Sun by Tony Parsons
I first became aware of 'Catching the Sun' after watching the author being interviewed on BBC World. During that interview, Tony Parsons described his latest novel as a 'love letter to Thailand', but did the book live up to that description? The … [Read more...]
Phuket Airport Bus
If you are flying in or out of Phuket, the government-run airport bus can be a convenient transport option, especially if you are staying in Phuket Town. The route does not include the most popular beach resorts so it won’t be an ideal option for … [Read more...]
Hotel Review: Lub Sbuy Guest House, Phuket Town
Earlier this week I stayed at the Lub Sbuy Guest House in Phuket Town. I only stayed for one night, but was impressed with the accommodation which is more akin to a boutique hotel. Lub Sbuy (which is pronounced more like 'lap sabai') is the Thai … [Read more...]
Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Throughout Thailand at the moment, many Thai people (especially those with Chinese heritage) are observing the Taoist lent period which lasts for 9 days and 9 nights. This is marked by Thailand's vegetarian festival and although the origins are … [Read more...]
Where to Stay in Phuket
When visitors begin to research the best place to stay in Phuket they can be left with a bewildering array of opinions and conflicting advice. In the descriptions below I offer my own personal opinions on various beaches in Phuket and some of the … [Read more...]
Hotel Review: The Village, Coconut Island, Phuket
Last month I spent 3 days with my family at the luxurious hideaway, The Village on Coconut Island just off the east coast of Phuket. Without doubt, this is the most exclusive accommodation I have ever stayed in and here is my review of the … [Read more...]
Hotel Review: The Palms, Kamala Beach, Phuket
Last week I stayed for 3 days with my family at The Palms on Kamala Beach, Phuket. The hotel is located towards the southern end of Kamala and is only a 2-minute walk to the beach. The Palms isn't a typical hotel because it is more like an apartment … [Read more...]
Ao Phang Nga and James Bond Island
A popular day tour from Phuket, Krabi and Khao Lak involves a visit to the islands and rock formations of Ao Phang Nga (Ao= Bay). The bay is located in the Andaman Sea in between Phuket and Krabi and incorporates some stunning scenery. Mangroves line … [Read more...]
