Phuket The Pearl Of The Andaman Thailand

By: Dan Wallace

Located 862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand's largest island, which is often dubbed as the pearl of the Andaman, or the pearl of the South. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South's wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of the Southern part of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, the province covers an area of approximately 543 square kilometers (excluding small islets). It is estimated that Phuket Province covers an area of approximately 590 square kilometers if its 39 other small islands are included. The islands total length, from north to south, is estimated at 48.7 kilometers and approximately 21.3 kilometers wide.

Staying on the island is easy, as there are only two seasons in a year - the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season of Phuket is between September and October as they are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average temperatures ranges between 23 and 33 degree.

Thailand's property outlook continues to remain very healthy, especially in the luxury villa rental market according to international property analysts. There are many factors that are supporting the growth of the villa rental market, such as increasingly wealthy professionals from Hong Kong and Singapore taking advantage of luxury villas at very competitive rates globally, as well as increasing numbers of expatriates around Asia with a high disposable income. As Thailand is just a few hours away from 2 thirds of the global population there is a huge potential market to tap into.

There is an ever growing choice of luxury villas for rent throughout Thailand, however it is Phuket that offers some of the best properties for luxury vacations. Phuket also has the most developed infrastructure with excellent roads, hospitals, and all the amenities one could need. Developers are recognizing a trend in that guests no longer just want to sit by the beach all day every day and now villa developments are appearing around Marinas, near golf courses and mountains throughout the island offering unparalleled choice for the guest.

Phuket has an impressive portfolio of first class resorts and hotels and serves as the perfect home-base from which to explore the other provinces and islands in the region. The waters of Southern Thailand are internationally renowned for their vitality of marine life, striking coral reefs and high visibility. There are numerous dive companies conducting trips around the Phuket and Andaman seas, especially the Similan Islands. Most of these operators offer the full range of courses, in many different languages, affiliated to the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). Whether you are an absolute beginner or an experienced diver, the Southern bounty of sea life will make your dive an event never to be forgotten.

Another favorite pastime for travelers to Phuket is sailing. The Andaman region holds a treasure-trove of lagoons and bays perfect for sailing and stands as a gateway to prime sailing spots such as Langkawi, the Mergui Archipelago and the Similan Islands. Yachts and motor boats may be chartered from the Phuket Yacht Haven Marina or the Boat Lagoon for day trips, overnight excursions and live-aboard adventure tours. A number of companies also conduct accredited sailing and dive courses. Managers of luxurious villas often can arrange everything for you too making the vacation as enjoyable and stress free as possible.

Other activities include golf. Dotted throughout the Southern provinces are a number of golf courses of international standard. Phuket Island alone boasts four prestigious courses, Phang-Nga and Surat-Thani are also home to some stunning greens. There are some great choices of villa rentals around these golf courses catering to the die hard fans of the sport.

Article Source: http://www.dummiesguideto.com

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, Kaew 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.

Article Source: http://add-articles.com

Phuket Focus On Kamala Thailand

By: Dan Wallace

The Kingdom of Thailand draws more visitors than any other country in southeast Asia with its irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms. Few countries are so well endowed.

From the stupa-studded mountains of Mae Hong Son and the verdant limestone islands of the
Andaman Sea, to the pulse-pounding dance clubs of Bangkok and the tranquil villages moored along the Mekong River, Thailand offers something for every type of traveler.

The best overall time for visiting most of Thailand climate-wise is between November and February when it is not too wet and not too hot. The south is best visited when the rest of Thailand is miserably hot (March to May), and the north is best from mid-November to early December or when it starts warming up again in February. If you're spending time in Bangkok, be prepared to roast in April and do some wading in October - probably most challenging two months, weather-wise, in the capital.

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand. Phuket's appeal lies in the beauty of the island, and the variety of relatively inexpensive activities on offer. Thailand's largest island has wonderful food, vibrant nightlife, an excellent range of accommodation and great beaches, but there's a lot more to do besides sunbathe! Diving, fishing, eco-adventure tours in the forests, touring the amazing area around Phang Nga Bay, trips to the outlying islands and elephant trekking are just a few of the alternative activities on offer.

Accommodation in Phuket is justifiably amongst the elite of the world. Luxury villas dot the landscape throughout the island, from beach front villas to ocean view villas there is a luxury Phuket property that will suit the needs of every visitor to this island.

If relaxation in a small seaside community is what you're after, you'll find Kamala a delight. Kamala is the most beautiful and sought after holiday spot on Phuket Island. Perfect sunsets, unspoiled tropical beaches and cascading mountains are some of the highlights that make the area unique. Located on Phuket's west coast, just north of Patong, it's less hectic that its neighbour.

Formerly a quiet, fishing village, Kamala is a beautiful spot in which to relax and enjoy the still peaceful village atmosphere of this scenic, unspoiled beach. The area behind the beach has developed over the last few years giving a greater choice of local places to eat and drink, as well as an incredible array of beautiful property rental options which blend into the natural scenery maintaining the tranquility of the area.

More secluded resorts nestle higher up amongst the trees on the headland, capitalizing on the wonderful sea and mountain views, and only a few minutes walk to a sandy white beach on the northern end. Villa rentals in Kamala offer a fantastic choice, with lavish villas jutting out into the ocean offering fantastic views of Patong, and convenience for traveling to the best beaches in Phuket and the best nightlife.

There are excellent villa rental options in the lush hills behind Kamala, unique to Thailand luxury villas are built to target affluent young city professionals with gleaming aluminum surfaces and minimalist design, villa designers are gaining recognition worldwide for their imagination in design and style.

Geography

Phuket is the biggest island in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea off southern Thailand. The island is mostly mountainous with a mountain range in the west of the island from the north to the south. The mountains of Phuket form the southern end of the Phuket mountain range, which ranges for 440 km from the Kra Isthmus. The highest elevation of the island is Mai Thao Sip Song (Twelve Canes), at 529 m above sea level.


70% of the island is covered by forest. The western coast has several sandy beaches, while on the east coast beaches are more often muddy. Near the southernmost point is Laem Promthep (Brahma's Cape), which is a popular sunset viewing point.

In the mountainous north of the island is the Khao Phra Thaeo Non-hunting Area, protecting more than 20 km² of rainforest. The three highest peaks of this reserve are the Khao Prathiu (384 m), Khao Bang Pae (388 m) and Khao Phara (422 m). The Sirinat National Park on the northwestern coast was established in 1981 and protects an area of 90 km² (68 km² marine area), including the Nai Yang beach where sea turtles lay their eggs.

One of the most popular tourist areas on Phuket is Patong Beach on the central western coast, perhaps owing to the easy access to its wide and long beach. Most of Phuket's nightlife and its cheap shopping is located in Patong, and the area has become increasingly developed. Patong means "the forest filled with banana leaves" in Thai.

Other popular beaches are located south of Patong. In a counterclockwise direction these include Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, and around the southern tip of the island, Nai Harn Beach and Bang Tao Beach. These areas are generally much less developed than Patong, and sought out by individuals, families and other groups with a preference for more relaxed and less crowded environs than Patong.

There are several coral islands to the south of Phuket, the Similan Islands lie to the north west, and Phi Phi Islands to the south east. All the islands are suitable for diving.

Kata Noi Beach

Kata Noi is a beach on the southwestern side of the island of Phuket in Thailand. It prolongs the Kata Beach to the south.

The beach is bordered to the north by the Mon Tri's Boathouse resort, and most of the beachfront is occupied by the resort of Kata Thani.

2004 earthquake and tsunami

Maximum recession of tsunami waters at Kata Noi, before the 3rd, and strongest, tsunami wave (sea visible in the right corner, the beach is at the extreme left), 10:25 AM local time.

Approximate maximum rise of tsunami waters at Kata Noi (3rd tsunami wave), 11:00 AM local time.

Regular sea level at Kata Noi beach, a few days after the tsunami.

On December 26th 2004, the area felt a mild earthquake around 07:59 local time, which later turned out to be the repercussion of the massive 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake occurring at that time near Sumatra. Few people actually felt the earthquake, and no alarm was given, apart for casual radio broadcasts on the local Thai radio.

First tsunami

Around 09:30 AM, as about 20 people were playing on the beach or bathing, the sea started to retreat by about 100 meters within the space of about 5 minutes. A few people who were bathing, seeing the water retreating around them were left standing, puzzled. Asked about the phenomenon, Thai vendors on the beach were as puzzled as tourists, having never seen such a thing.

As the sea was staying at a very low level, quite far from the beach, people started to see that some fish had been left stranded in some pools of water, and started to play with the fish for possibly 5 to 10 minutes. Suddenly, without a warning and any visible sign of an approaching danger, the sea started to rise again, inducing everyone to run to the higher part of the beach. The water continued to rise swiftly, although not as fast as the people running. Eventually the sea drowned the totality of the beach, until it stopped almost exactly at the top of the one meter cement wall lining the beach. People, who were in the sea up to the waist, were able to climb over the small wall into the safety of the gardens of the Kata Thani resort, although they often left their belonging on the beach chairs in haste.

The sea stayed at its high level for possibly 10 to 15 minutes. Some tourists actually went back in the high water to fetch their floating belongings. The sea started to retreat again slowly, dragging parasols, beach chairs etc... with the receding water.

Retreat-and-rise cycle

The retreat-and-rise cycle was repeated several times that day, a full cycle taking between 30 to 45 minutes between each peak.

The third wave was the largest. It overran the small wall lining the beach, flowed into the gardens of the Kata Thani hotel and almost instantly smashed into and destroyed the front rooms of the hotel, also inundating the central restaurant. The area at the southern end of the beach was most badly hit, and the beach restaurant was swept out to sea.

Casualties

There were some injuries, but no fatalities at Kata Noi on the occasion of the tsunami. The waters receded and rose rather swiftly, but, owing to the steepness of the beach, remained contained and did not generate rushing breaking waves as on flatter beaches such as Patong Beach or Khao Lak.

Luckily, nobody died in this area and it was fortunate that it was on higher ground and that there were only 20 people on the beach.

This past year one could see that Kata Noi beaches returned back to their natural beauty.

Patong Beach - A sun worshipper's guide

Patong's 2 km strip of golden sand is one of the most popular beaches in Phuket, it's a place to watch the world go by. By day, Patong Beach is a hive of activity with parasail and jet-ski operators, boat drivers, beach vendors and masseuses all vying for the attention of the many visitors relaxing on the beach chairs.

During November to April (NE monsoon) the water is very flat and calm. May to October (SW monsoon) there can be some larger waves on some days however Patong beach is safe to swim on most days, pay attention to the red flags when they're out.

Everything you could possible need is available on Patong Beach, except someone to rub suncream on your back.

Sunbeds are aplenty on Patong Beach, a set (2 sunbeds, a table and an umbrella) costs THB 200 for one day (2007).

There are 3 sets of public toilets spaced out along the beach that are reasonably clean, you usually have to pay 5 baht (US$0.15) to use them.

Beach Eats && Watersports in Patong Beach

The sunbed vendors also sell a wide variety of food, drinks, snacks and of course ice cream. Even better is that you don't have don't have to leave your sunbed, you're every need will be taken care of.

The whole length of the Beach Road is full of restaurants and cafes (there's even a McDonalds) so lunch won't be a problem, nor any other meal for that matter.

Patong beach is jet-ski and parasailing heaven, operators can be found every few hundred meters.

Exercise caution and wear a lifejacket when participating in motorised watersports - most jet-skis have "no insurance" stickers on them, very re-assuring! Also popular is banana boat, waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Hobie cats are available, as are kayaks and windsurfers.

The best place to surf at Patong Beach is at the north end, where the waves can be quite good, fast and open to the wind.

Beach Activities && Beach Vendors

Some good snorkeling can be found by the rocks at the north end of the beach, equipment can be rented on the beach easily.

There are a couple of volleyball nets for those who enjoy beach volleyball, everyone's welcome to play - it's a great way to meet people. Games usually start around 4.30pm as it starts to get cooler.

What better location could there be for Thai massage other than the beach, readily available and excellent value for money, the masseuses are set up in the shaded areas. Other types of massage and reflexology are also available.

Throughout the day beach vendors walk the beach selling all manner of things, silks, clothing, henna tattoos, costume jewellery, fruit, ice creams, nuts, ornaments and games to name a few. Sometimes you'll see the oddest of items that will have you laughing out loud.

A polite 'no thank you' is all that's required to ensure they pass you by however the ice cream sellers are usually most welcome. Should you wish to look at something on offer you're not obliged to make a purchase. When actually buying something you'll need good bartering skills to get a good price, bartering should always be conducted in a warm friendly manner with a smile on your face (the smile is the most important part).

Hotel Tik’s Place *** Phuket, Thailand

Thai Style Guesthouse and Service Apartments

If youre looking for that special place where you can enjoy quality rooms at near backpacker prices, Tiks Place is the place to stay in Kata Center . Tiks Place has not been discovered yet. Its got todays quality and amenities with yesterdays prices.

Located on a small, quiet street in the heart of Kata Center , Tiks Place is tastefully decorated including queen-size beds, satellite TV, air conditioning, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffee pot, in-room safes, hot water shower and probably some other things that we cant remember.

The beach is about a 5-10 minute walk depending on whether youre in a hurry or window shopping along the way. About 25 meters from the reception area, youll find restaurants, pubs, shops, tour agents, dive shops, massage parlors, foot reflexology centers and other places thatll make you happy.

About the best thing we can say about Tiks Place is that most customers are repeat customers. Once youve stayed with at Tiks Place, youre not likely to look for a better place. Meet Tik and her crew. Theyre the best.

High Season: 1 Nov - 31 Mar Starting from 1,290 baht
Low Season: 1 April - 31 Oct Starting from 990 baht

Hotel Katanoi Bay Inn *** Phuket, Thailand

WELCOME TO KATANOI BAY INN

Welcomes you to our cosy, clean, down-to-earth family inn well suited to travellers on a budget or anyone wanting comfort without pretensions

We're just 20 metres from the snow-coloured sands of Kata Noi - which means

"little Kata". It's a little more secluded than other tourist areas because it's away from the main roads to Patong and Phuket Town

ROOM SERVICE

Standard and Superior rooms are airconditoned.All rooms have a refrigerator and hot-water shower

FACILITIES KATANOI BAY INN

Katanoi Seafood & Restaurant serves fresh seafood from the boat to your table, authentic Italian pizza, Thai food, and huge breakfasts.

CONTACT US

69/1 Katanoi Rd. T.Karon A. Muang Phuket 83100
Thailand
Tel. (66 76) 333 308-9
Fax. (66 76) 333 545

E-mail:katanoi_bayinn@hotmail.com

Website:http://www.katanoibayinn.com

Golden Sand Inn, Karon Beach, Phuket Thailand

Golden Sand Inn is located directly on the white sandy stretch of Karon Beach, Phuket Island. Sun, sand and sea combine to create a superb canvas of natural beauty. If relaxing at our pool, dining in our restaurant or simply enjoying our service brought to you with the famous Thai smile - we will make Golden Sand Inn your home away from home The resort has 89 rooms and Bungalows located in the garden and pool area Just a few step across to the most beautiful Karon beach and only 45 minutes away from Phuket International Airport to Hotel

Boomerang Village Cottages, Phuket Thailand

Boomerang Village Cottages is situated in Kata Beach: ex village of fishermen that developed in harmonic way with the nature, a mix of thai tradition with the demands of a modern and variegated tourism endowed with one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole country. Kata is situated behind the southern promontory of Karon and is divided into two parts: Kata yai (Great Bay) and Kata noi (Small Bay),KATA is an interesting beach. The small island of KO PU is at short swimming distance from the beach and along the run there are beautiful coral barriers.

Boomerang Village Cottages is situated on Kata hill side, with panoramic views of Kata Beach , to approximately 80 mt from the sea level , dipped in the nature of a tropical garden of 6000 Sq.m., from the beach about 650/750 mt.(5-10 minutes) and the Kata center 300mt, from airport 45 minute