Jul
13
2011
Get ready for the 3rd Annual Kathu Cultural Street Festival to be held from the 15-17th July 2011. This 3 day event celebrates the Chinese heritage of Phuket and aims to preserve the traditions and culture of the island’s long and culturally mixed history. The centre point of the festival will be Kathu shrine, spanning down Wichit Songkram road where there will be parades, performances, competitions and games everyday from 5-10pm.
Kathu Cultural Festival, Phuket
Previous years have showcased Chinese opera and acrobatic performances, elaborate traditional Chinese costumes and painted faces, vintage cars, street vendors selling a variety of souvenirs and OTOP products and of course lots of delicious Thai food !
Kathu is located approximately half way between Phuket town and Patong, it has historical importance as it was the centre of the tin mining industry in Phuket and is home to the recently new phuket tin mining museum. So if you are in Phuket why not check it out, who would have guessed there to be such a wealth of culture and history only 10minutes drive away from Patong ?
Kathu Festival, Phuket
Kathu Festival, Phuket
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
24
2011
Some might say that a holiday to Thailand would not be complete without taking a picture with a Ladyboy or ‘Kathoey’ as they are called in Thai. A fascinating and unique species, many people are afraid of ladyboys who are often misunderstood, this is where one of the leading night time entertainment attractions in Phuket introduces tourists to the family friendly side of transvestites.
The Simon Cabaret show with their slogan “Let your imagination fly…” first opened in 1991, and is a full on theatrical extravaganza performed only by Ladyboys. The show is not a clumsy strip dance like you might think, but a highly professional show with great choreography, stage concepts, high tech sounds and lightning and most important of all – the most beautiful and glamorous Ladyboys in Phuket!
The Simon Cabaret Show includes highly entertaining acts with many breathtaking stunts, a good dose of comedy and flamboyant fun. Even after your return home, the magic of the show may leave you still wondering just how beautiful men can be as women
At the end of the show, visitors have the opportunity to take pictures with the glittering ladyboy performers to capture those unforgettable moments with the wonder that is the Thai ladyboy.
Simon Cabaret Show
Tips
Look your best – Especially if you plan on taking photos beside ladyboys, so that you don’t lose out to their extravagant beauty
Bring your camera – to take pictures after the show, but audiences are strictly not allowed to take any photos or videos inside.
Don’t forget to bring small change – If you want to take pictures with the ladyboys, they won’t be friendly enough to take pictures without a tip, they typically expect about 100baht.
Interested ? The Simon Cabaret Show is quite affordable with VIP seats at 800Baht/ adult and 600baht/child or regular seats at 700 Baht/adult and 500 Baht/ child for. Performances are held everyday twice at 19.30 and 21.30.
Simon Cabaret Show, Phuket
Useful Links
http://www.phuket-simoncabaret.com/
Simon Cabaret Show Video – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qel4U0nmQOI
Contact Info
info@phuket-simoncabaret.com, info@simongroups.com
Tel: 076 342 1146/ 076 340 437
Rgds, ^^ Anthony Nur Hasan (Thavorn Hotels & Resorts)
Popularity: 2% [?]
Tags: cabaret, entertainment, kathoey, ladyboy, Patong, Phuket, show, simon, transvestite | 
Comments (1)
Comments (1) May
17
2011
For those who really love underwater beauty but haven’t mastered scuba diving or are too lazy to go through all the steps of practice and certification, snorkeling is just the answer for you. With a snorkel that’s shaped like a letter ‘ J’ for you to breath through and a diving mask you are ready to go !
Because of its simplicity nowadays snorkeling is considered more of a leisure activity than a sport. Even non-swimmers can enjoy snorkeling with the help of life jackets. Snorkeling is best done in waters which are 1-4 metres in depth so you can see the full beauty of marine life such as coral reefs and sea creatures. Phuket is surrounded by crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches which make it a haven for water sports such as diving and snorkeling. Here are some great snorkeling sites you may find on Phuket island:
Snorkeling in Phuket
Snorkeling Sites in Phuket
Kata beach
Considered one of the best shallow reefs in Phuket, on good days visibility is up to 15m whilst on bad days it can be only 1m. For beginners and children the shallower southern end is recommended, whilst advanced snorkelers may want to try the northern end. Tip – Do not snorkel here in the summer unless you consult lifeguards first
Paradise beach
The reef is about 150m from the shore so recommended for stronger swimmers and snorkelers. To reach Paradise beach, long tail boats can be chartered from the southern end of Patong or follow Patong’s beach road southwards. Despite suffering damage from the tsunami its still a great spot for snorkeling with plenty of colouful sea life to enjoy. Snorkeling is best here in winter months, the summer can see strong currents.
Freedom Beach Phuket www.freeedombeach.com
Freedom Beach
This is a lovely quiet family beach. It can only be accessed by boat, long tail boats can be hired from Patong for 1,300-2,000bt or from Tri Trang which is the cheaper and nearer option. As there are no roads leading to this beach, it is much less commercialised with no jet-skis or banana boats to disturb. Although lots of corals in the shallow water were destroyed by the tsunami they are growing back. There are lots of fish close to the beach, perfect for children
Karon Beach
One of the most famous beaches in Phuket, with its unique white sands this long stretch of beach offers good snorkeling at the southern end. Occasionally turtles like to lay their eggs here, something to look out for! For prime beach front accommodation in Karon, welcome to our very own Thavorn Palm Beach Resort.
Snorkeling Tours
Besides all these great sites there is an abundance of islands nearby Phuket which are fantastic for snorkeling, the easiest way to access these is to go on one of the numerous island day tour packages available. The most popular ones are day tours to: Phi Phi islands, Phangnga island, Racha yai island and the Similan islands. Please visit our Islands Page for more information on these.
Have fun and enjoy snorkeling in Phuket, but don’t forget to pay attention to safety. Remember – Red flags on the beach mean no swimming !
Stay posted for more snorkeling tips, meanwhile if you have any recommended snorkeling sites in Phuket feel free to share
Anthony Nur Hasan (Thavorn Hotels & Resorts)
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
9
2011
Amazing Thailand, Amazing Temple
Thailand is a Buddhist country and there are many impressive temples throughout the country. Perfect Beauty is the only expression which comes to mind when thinking of a Wat, a temple in the Thai language. Buddhism requires all male believers to spend some time in their life as a monk. So, a Thai temple is much more than just a monastery. It influences life, culture and education and the Wat is very much a community center. In Bangkok it is also a place of silence where people can hide from the stress and traffic outside the Wat. With so many temples spread out across Thailand, let us start our exploration in the South of Thailand, Phuket.
Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong is the largest temple in Phuket and it is most important Buddhist temple. Many Thais come here to be blessed by the monks and receive a good luck charm in the form of a string tied around the wrist, which they believe protects them from injury and illness. The prayer hall contains the statues of three of the temples most famous monks: Luang Por Chaem, Luang Por Chuang and Luang Por Gluam, definitely worth the climb up the stairs.
Wat Chalong also offer the markets around, where you can buy cheap souvenirs, drinks etc.
For the most memorable visit try to time your trip for the weekly holy day when the monks chant Buddhist scriptures in the mornings. The holy days are based on a lunar calendar, so check with the locals to plan your excursion.
Wat Chalong is about 8 km outside Phuket Town. Take Vichit Songkram Road to the Bypass Road and turn left, and drive for about 10 mins. Wat Chalong is on the left.
Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong
Wat Chaiwatthanaram (Ayutthaya)
Located on the bank of the Maenam Chao Phraya, to the west of the city island is Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother, Wat Chai Wattanaram was conceived as a replica of the Angkor temple. A Royal monastery, the temples unique feature is a huge prang which is surrounded by smaller prangs. This symbolizes Mount Meru, the abode of the heavenly gods. Now restored, the temple is also accessible by a long-tailed boat trip from Chankasem Palace Pier. Admission to the temple is 20 Baht and opening hours are 08:00 to 18:00.
You can reach the temple’s ruins by bicycle if you have hired one, and a Tuk-Tuk fare will be in the 30 Baht range from the town centre. Long-tail boat services are available from Chankasem Palace at around 350 Baht for the full one-hour round trip.
Wat Rong Khun or White Temple (Heaven of Earth)
Located near the city of Chiang Rai, about 5 kilometers to the south, Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) is one of the most beautiful and unique temples in Thailand. Designed in white with some use of mirrors, the color symbolizes Lord Buddha’s purity, and the mirror stands for Lord Buddha’s wisdom that “shines brightly all over the Earth and the Universe.” The bridge leading to the temple represents the crossing over from the cycle of rebirth to the Abode Of Buddha. The small semicircle before the bridge embodies the human world. The big circle with fangs is the mouth of Rahu and representats hell, suffering, and the impurities of the human mind (similar to the Christian concept of original sin). All of the paintings inside the ubosot (assembly hall) have golden tones. The four walls, ceiling, and floor contain paintings showing an escape from the defilements of temptation to reach a celestial “all seeing” state. On the roof, there are four kinds of animals representing earth, water, wind and fire. The elephant stands for the earth; the naga (Buddhist grouping of serpent deities) stands for water; the swan’s wings represent wind; and the lion’s mane represents fire.
If coming from Mae Sai district of Chiang Rai International Airport. Or Chiang Rai. Given way to the south, A. Phan, Chiang Rai, Phayao on the way from Chiang Rai. Pass the traffic lights of the second bus straight from time to red light, turn right Khunkorn separate (the way to the waterfall Khunkorn) and turn right into. This takes a few minutes from Chiang Rai to reach Wat Rong Khun. The museum is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 to 17:30 am, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays 8.00 am – 18.00 pm.
Wat Chaiwatthanaram (Ayutthaya)
Bangkok Temples (Wats)
Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
This is the one travel attractions of Bangkok you should not miss. It is a large compound located near Sanam Luang in the very heart of Bangkok. The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha were built after King Rama I ascended the throne as the founder of the Chakri Dynasty on 6 April 1782 and have undergone several repairs and renovations.
The Grand Palace consists of several buildings with different styles of architecture. Wat Phra Kaeo is renowned as the most beautiful and important Buddhist temple in Thailand. It houses Phra Kaeo Morakot (the Emerald Buddha), the most highly revered Buddha image carved from a single block of fine jade.
By visiting here, you will also find Phra Kaeo, the temple complex which houses the Emerald Buddha, is located on the grounds of the Grand Palace, – an unusual placement, which may suggest protecting the temple from internal disturbance rather than from external dangers.
From Bangkok, its can be reach by take the BTS Skytrain to Taksin Station. From here take a Chao Phraya River Express boat to Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier. It is a short walk from the pier to the entrance to The Grand Palace public entrance Wat Phra Kaew open every day start on 8.30am – 3.30pm with 250 Baht as charge (include Grand Palace).
Note : Women visitors must wear long pants or long skirts. Men in short pants are not allowed to enter the temple. Photography inside the main temple is forbidden.
Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Pho or Wat Phra Chetupho
As it is generally known to the Thais, is mainly famous for the huge Reclining Buddha statue it houses. At 20 acres large, it is the largest Wat in Bangkok, and is technically the oldest too, as it was built around 200 years before Bangkok became Thailand’s capital.
The highly impressive gold plated reclining Buddha is 46 meters long and 15 meters high, and is designed to illustrate the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The feet and the eyes are engraved with mother-of-pearl decoration, and the feet also show the 108 auspicious characteristics of the true Buddha.
Wat Pho is also famous as Thailand’s first university, and is center for traditional Thai masage – the rich, famous and powerful have all been known to come here. Inscribed on stone in the walls of Wat Pho are all that was known about Thai massage dating from the reign of King Rama III (most previous texts were lost when the Burmese destroyed Ayuthaya).
The entrance to Wat Pho is on Chetuphon road. Entrance is 20B. It’s open every day, opening hours are from 08.00am to 5.00pm, with a break from 12.00pm to 1.00pm. Guides can be hired at the entrance for 150B for one person, 200B for two, 300B for three, but they’re not really needed. On Sundays, you can see students being taught traditional Thai dance and music.
Reclining Buddha
Wat Phra Chetupho
Wat Suthat and Giant Swing
Wat Suthat Thepwararam , constructed in 1807, is one of the most important temples of Thailand and is regarded to have an excellent plan. The ordination hall is the longest in the country. The mural paintings inside were created by craftsmen in the Third Reign (1824-1851). The principal Buddha image is called “Phra Phuttha Tri Lokkachet” in the Subduing Mara position. The inside of the temple is renowned for its beautiful murals and frescoes. Outside, a number of Chinese statues can be seen. It is thought that these were brought over from China during the reign of Rama I when they were used as ballast on rice boats.
In front of the temple is the famous Giant Swing. The Giant Swing, with a height of 21.15 metres and painted red, is a landmark of Bangkok. Some postcards of Bangkok contain photos of it. The existence of a red giant swing in front of Suthat Temple in Bangkok is an indicator of the once strong influence of Brahmanism in Thailand.
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing are located to the east of the Grand Palace on the route that leads to the Golden Mount (Wat Sakhet). With an admission fee of 20 baht, the temple is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. Can be reach by take the Skytrain to National Monument and then take a taxi.
Wat Suthat
Gadis Wijaya ^^ (Marketing Mgt Trainee)
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
3
2011
Phuket is a world renowned family holiday destination and with the stunning variety of activities on offer it is easy to see why. Aside from the paradise tropical white sand beaches that snake endlessly along the western coastline of Phuket, there is an abundance of fun and exciting activities to make this the perfect family getaway.
Phuket has all the ‘usual’ family favourites you would expect from a quality, Tourist destination such as Go-Karting, Water Park, Bowling, Cinema, mini-golf. It also has an abundance of stunning, once in a lifetime activities which will give your family treasured memories and photo albums to cherish for years to come.
I have looked at all the options and after careful deliberation have narrowed down my list to the Top 10 Most Memorable Family Activities in Phuket to ensure you enjoy the Family holiday experience of a lifetime.
1. Fantasea
Tell me what could be better than a show that has disappearing elephants? A show that combines disappearing elephants with a audio visual feast of acrobatics, spectacular fireworks, air ballet, special effects. This spectacular show, which would not be out of place on the Las Vegas Strip, combines visual effects with elements of Thai tradition. The Fantasea show is located in Kamala beach, only a 10 minute taxi ride from our Thavorn Beach Village and Spa. You can purchase tickets to see the show only or combine the show with a sumptuous Thai buffet. Phuket Fantasea is a magical Family Day out not to be missed.
http://www.phuket-fantasea.com/eng/index.php
Phuket Fantasea, Thailand
2. Elephant Trekking
The elephant is the largest mammal on Earth and when seen up close and personal, they truly are a magical sight to behold. Trekking through jungle terrains and rubber plantations astride one of these majestic beasts will be one of those memorable experiences that stay with you a lifetime and one that your children will want to share with their friends as soon as you get back home. For most of the tours, elephant treks will also involve another fun activitiy such as bamboo rafting or a ride on a buffalo cart.
Elephant Trekking, Phuket, Thailand
3. Snorkelling & Diving Trips
The warm, tropical waters surrounding Phuket provide the perfect marine environment for an amazing family day out snorkelling or diving. Day trips and live-aboards can be booked throughTour Operators up and down the beach resorts in Phuket.
Every single moment floating in the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea with the sun on your back, reaching out to schools of inquisitive and colourful fish are moments you will treasure for a lifetime. There are hundreds of world class dive sites to explore, where a stunning variety of fish including the occasional leopard shark and manta ray, habitat a variety of coral ecosystems.
Snorkeling in Phuket, Thailand
4. Sea Kayaking
Sea Kayaking Day Trips and some even by twinkling starlight are centred around the magical Phang Nga Bay and Krabi are an amazing experience and the perfect family activity. A whole new world is waiting as skilled tour guides lead you through an intruiging and mystical network of interconnecting limestone caves. For the film enthusiasts amongst you, most Sea Kayaking Tours will stop off at “James Bond” Island, the iconic limestone outcrop famous for its use as a setting in the film the Man With the Golden Gun’.
Sea-kayaking, Phuket, Thailand
5. White Water Rafting
White Water Rafting can usually be combined with other exciting jungle tours such as Elephant Trekking and this all action family adventure along Mountain Rivers, snaking there way through stunning jungle settings will provide a lasting memory long after your clothes have dried off. Yes, this is a wet and wild ride, but the warm humid temperatures of Phuket’s will ensure you don’t catch a chill.
White Water Rafting, Phuket, Thailand
6. Camping in the Similan Islands
Camping Trips are not every family’s idea of the perfect holiday, but then you’ve never camped in such a tropical paradise as the Similan Islands. Large Camouflage Tents are pitched just off the beach in what is surely one of the most breathtakingly beautiful locations on earth. Most dive shops offering Day Trips to the Similan Islands National Park offer the overnight package which gives you more time to enjoy the stunning natural beauty, world class snorkelling and pristine, unspoilt white powdery beaches. The Tour Guides will take care of your every need such as food, drinks and snorkelling equipment and there is a restaurant and shower facilities on the island. Other than that, relax in this corner of heaven away from the hustle and bustle of the habited world.
Camping in the Similan Islands, Phuket, Thailand
7. ATV Tours (All Terrain Vehicle)
Discover the natural landscapes of Phuket as your guide leads you on your very own ATV Family adventure, journeying through farmland, rubber plantations, local villages and jungle terrain. Traversing muddy inclines and bumper trails, this tour will test your skill and driving ability. Full protective gear, instruction, practice session and safety briefing is provided. Like many of these adventure tour activities you can combine a day tour with elephant trekking or white water rafting
ATV Tours, Phuket, Thailand
8. Sailing Trip
Sailing is a thrilling family activity and there are few places better places than the stunning Andaman Sea to try it out. There are a number of options for chartering boats for a days sailing from Phuket where you can explore unforgettable and diverse marine terrain, including beautiful islands and beaches away from the crowds, just your family, the crew and the open seas.
Sailing in Phuket
9. Overnight Eco-Tour
Get back to nature and spend the night in an eco lodge set amidst stunning limestone mountains and jungle terrain. Wake up to the sounds of the jungle all around you and set off to explore the worlds oldest rainforests in the koh Soc National Park as you take in Elephant Trekking and a leisurely crawl along the Sok River in inflatable canoes.
Earth Lodge, Phuket, Thailand
10. Beach Horse-Riding
Galloping along deserted beaches on horseback is the stuff of movies and you can experience this exhilarating family activity here in Phuket. With tours operating during the day and at sunset you can be sure that you capture that perfect moment.
Horse Riding on the beach in Phuket, Thailand
If you would like any further information on Phuket or activities in Phuket then you can contact me via Facebook at:
http://www.facebook.com/friendsofthavorn
Roger Gibson
Marketing and Comms. Manager
Thavorn Hotels and Resorts (THR)
Phuket, Thailand
Thavorn Palm Beach Resort (TPB) is situated in a prime beach front location on Karon Beach, a World Renowned Family Holiday destination.
Thavorn Beach Village & Spa (TBV), nestled on the secluded and tranquil bay of Nakalay between Kamala and Patong beaches, offers a private get away full of Thai traditions and is described by our former guests as a hidden paradise.
For special promotional rates, please visit our facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/friendsofthavorn.com
Popularity: 2% [?]
Apr
19
2011
Coming to Phuket? Thinking of coconuts, blue seas, lazing on the beach, carefree days and UV rays? The tropical island of Phuket is so much fun, but sunburns are not. Fear not, if you are sun smart and SPF friendly you can still safely enjoy the sun without risking sunburn or damage to your skin, here are some easy but essential tips to keeping you sunburn free.
1) Apply sunscreen before and often Sunscreen should be applied 30 mins before going out in the sun to allow time for the skin to absorb the sunblock. As a rule of thumb, if you are playing sports or swimming, re-apply sunscreen every hour, otherwise re-apply sunscreen every two hours.
2) Which SPF SPF stands for ’sun protection factor’ and the amount of protection from UVB Rays. Sunscreens with SPF 15 filter out 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30% filters out 97% , SPF 50 filters 98% and SPF 100 blocks out 99%. So if you have fair skin opt for a higer SPF. A higher SPF does not mean you can stay out longer as the effectiveness decreases over time. UVA Rays lead to wrinkling and spots so make sure your suncreen offers UVB and UVA protection.
3) You’ve missed a spot! Before going out in the sun, make sure that each part of your skin that will be exposed is coated with sunscreen. Apply sufficient amounts of sunscreen particularly on your hands, face, ears or even a part of your hairline to prevent the damaging effect of the ultraviolet rays of the sun.
4) Choose the right type Creams and lotions are good choices for daily use on both your face and body. If you are prone to acne, gels are recommended as they are oil-free and won’t clog pores. Sprays are useful in covering hairy places on the body (arms and thinning scalp), not to mention restless children. Add accessories such as SPF lipbalm and hair protecting spray with SPF.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
5) Don’t stay out long between 10 am and 3 pm This is when the sun’s rays are the strongest. If you’re outdoors during this time, keep in mind that you’ll burn faster than at other times of the day.
6) Don’t forget your eyes Your skin is not the only one that can be harmed. Your eyesight needs protection too. Wear sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes.
7) Wear a hat Wide-brimmed hats are the best, they prevent your scalp as well as your face from too much exposure to the sun. They help a lot in shielding your head and your face from the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Even if you have already put sunscreen on your face, a hat will offer extra protection for your face, neck and hair.
8) Aloe vera Aloe vera is a wonderful plant and aloe vera creams can be used for so many things such as insect bites, burns, reducing the effect of scarring. It also acts as a soothing agent for sun affected skin and eases the symptoms of sunburn.
9) H2O Be sure to drink plenty of water, you will need to consume more than normal as your body loses water through sweating. This will help keep you body hydrated inside and out.
If you have any tips of your own, feel free to share them here 
^^ Gadis Wijaya
Sunbathing in the sun
Popularity: 1% [?]
Apr
12
2011
Thai food is popular worldwide and known to be a healthier type of cuisine. Whilst this is true, not all Thai dishes are good for the waistline. Here are our top picks for light local dishes that are highly delicious and will keep the pounds away.
Yum Talay (Seafood Salad)
‘Yum Talay’ a seafood salad has a quintessential Thai taste, a powerful mix of salty, spicy, sweet and sour flavours that contrast well with the light textures and cool taste of seafood. A low calorie low fat dish, but high in flavours and taste satisfaction.
‘Yum talay’ can include an assortment of seafood such as fresh prawns, mussels, squid, crab in a dressing that’s made of fish sauce, garlic, lime, chillies tossed with shallots, Chinese celery and lettuce.
There are variations of ‘Yum’ salad for example it can include beef or glass noodles instead, but with fresh seafood in abundance here in Phuket, it’s recommended you try this dish here.
Yum Salad - Thai Seafood Salad
Nam Prik Long Rua
Is a sweet and mildly spicy chill dip made of shrimp paste, chillies, shredded madan fruit, hairy eggplant, ‘rakam’ fruit and sweet pork . Originally it was created to be served to noblemen who had to travel by boat, The technique of fyring ‘nam prik’ (chilli sauce) with other ingredients, preserved the sauce perfect for long sea journeys. ‘Nam prik long rue’ translated means ‘chill sauce dip on the boat’
As its normally served with a large helping of fresh vegetables it makes for a healthy dish on the side or as an appetizer.
Nam prik long rua
Seafood Tom Yum
Probably one of the most famous of Thai dishes, Tom Yum is a spicy and sour soup. It delivers a kick with every spoonful which comes from the use of strong herbs such as kaffir lime leaf, lemongrass, galangal (Thai ginger) and of course chillies.
Tom Yum has different variations for example chicken or prawns can be used instead of seafood, or a little coconut milk can be added (tom yum nam koon),
Tom yum seafood is a healthier alternative to its cousin dish ‘tom kha gai’ which is a similar but much thicker and coconut milk based soup with chicken.
Tom Yum Gung
So why not give these figure friendly local dishes a try? They are easy to find all around Phuket, and also served here at the Old Siam Restaurant at Thavorn Palm Beach Resort
Popularity: 1% [?]
Apr
2
2011
Karon Beach is the second largest beach in Phuket, spanning some 4km this wide expanse of white sandy beach is less crowded and more relaxed than Patong, and therefore has much more of a family feel to it.
Family activities such as the Dino Park Mini Golf are worth a visit. Located in the centre of Karon Dino Park Mini golf has 18holes to play, its ‘dinosaurized’ designed grounds are really natural and fun to play in. After some mini golf, you can visit the Wat Suwan Khiri Khet (Karon Temple) perched on the hill above Karon circle, about half a kilometer from the beach along Patak road. This temple features a black Buddha statue inside and two big snakes as guardian outside.
Karon temple
For the girls Karon beach has plenty of shopping opportunities such as; Karon Market, Karon Plaza, Aroona Karon, Karon Bazaar and Karon circle. Here you will find items such as; souvenirs, dvd’s, cd’s, computer games, sunglasses, silk tablecloths and bed covers, hats, Crocs, copy name-branded shoes, snorkeling sets, body boards, T-shirts, watches, belts, suitcases, beachwear and handicrafts.
Water activities such as banana boats rides, water-skiing, windsurfing and wakeboarding are popular in Karon. Even if you’re only swimming or sunbathing with such a great view of the Andaman sea, Karon beach is an attraction in its own right. If all the sun and activity leaves you thirsty and hungry, don’t worry there are plenty of local vendors on the beach selling food and drinks, fresh coconut juice straight from the coconut is a must-try!
The southern end of the beach has a fine coral reef stretching around the small headland into Kata Yai and Pu Island. It’s a popular snorkeling point, snorkeling gear is available for rent so you can check out the sea life for yourself.
Karon Beach
Karon Beach In the evening the wide footpath that parallels the beach is popular with joggers and after the sun sets Karon never runs out of bars and pubs for you to visit. It has a nickname as ‘Patong’s little sister’- no need to explain further. Most of the Karon nightlife is centered in the bars off Patak Road near the northern traffic circle and three kilometres to the south on and just off Luang Poh Chuan Road. There are many other fun activities that you can try in Karon such as elephant trekking, Thai Cooking classed or even Yoga classes, so Karon is really full of attractions and should be recommended for all ages for a relaxing yet fun vacation. Stay posted for more Karon travel info …>! Anthony Nurhursan Karon Beach Sunset
Karon Beach Sunset
Popularity: 1% [?]
Tags: beach, dino park, family, Karon, market, mini golf, shopping, temple, things to do |
Comments (1)
Comments (1) Mar
16
2011
Thai massage is a type of massage in Thai style that involves stretching and deep massage. It is normally performed on the floor, and the client wears comfortable clothes (the massage parlor can provide these). It is known in Thailand as “nuat phaen boran” which literally means the “ancient-manner massage”.
The masseuses use their hands and forearms to apply firm pressure to your body. They may also use their elbows, knees and feet. The original Thai massage included having the masseuse walk on the subject’s back, as well as pulling fingers, toes and even hair. Although these techniques are mostly practiced on locals these days, as foreigners find them a bit scary. Unlike western massage techniques that use a ’squeezing’ motion on the flesh, Thai massage is composed of movements that apply pressure on different points of the body and the masseuse manipulates the client’s body into different positions to stretch the muscles.
Ancient Thai Massage
You’ll still find that sometimes the masseuse may be a little too strong for your taste, so if it’s your first time just ask her to be more gentle.
A good Thai massage results in lowered stress levels, relief of tension and stiffness in muscles and joints, and improvements in energy levels and blood circulation. In short, it makes you feel really, really good !
Most traditional local Thai massage places are simple affairs without much attention paid to fancy décor. You’ll find them in shop-houses near the beaches or in many hotels and resorts in Phuket. A typical massage session lasts about two hours and costs 300-500 baht. A foot massage session is about 40-50 minutes and costs 400-500 baht.
A massage at any of the five-star hotels is naturally more expensive – the price can be triple this, or even more. On the beach, the fee for a massage and foot massage is around 300 baht an hour.
Enough with the talking . Let the video talk itself, Traditional Thai Massage video clip
Going for a Thai Massage? Tips
If it is your first time to go for a Thai massage here are few tips for you
- Avoid eating a heavy meal beforehand
- Let the masseuse know your complete health history, in case you have pre-existing conditions for which massage is not recommended (see below)
- Similarly tell the masseuse if you have bad back or painful knees or maybe if it’s your first Thai massage and ask them to be gentle. You want to go out with relaxed and peaceful body, not a painful one because of the wrong level of massage
- Just say ‘mai nak’ which means ‘not heavy’ in Thai
- If the massage shop allows you to choose masseuse yourself, it may be easy to fall for the young attractive masseuse but bear in mind the older ladies are more experienced and generally give the best massages!
- Tipping is also recommended, a reasonable tip anywhere from 20baht upwards can make a big difference for the masseuse. Its also particularly useful if you plan on making a return visit as they are likely to give you a better massage for next time
- Traditionally Thai massage uses no oil, but nowadays you will find that many places offer oil massages too, catering for foreigners liking of a soft and relaxing oil massage
- While you are being massaged, try to relax as much as possible and work with your breathing so it synchronized with the rhythm of the massage
- Always drink a glass of water just after your massage is completed (most shops should offer this automatically). The act of massage releases toxins in your body, and these should be washed through internally too, drinking water helps this process
Thai Massage stretch position www.michellemerrifield.wordpress
So based on these great effects, Thai Massage is suggested for most people. But Thai massage is not recommended for people with; infectious skin diseases, open wounds, pregnancy, post surgery , post chemotherapy ,radiation and also massages should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.
Many people who regularly have Thai massages find that their body becomes more relaxed, energetic and flexible . They also find Thai massage can reduce stress, improve blood circulation and centers the mind and body.
Enjoy…..^^ Anthony Nur Hasan
Popularity: 2% [?]
Mar
16
2011
Hi! I’m Anthony, I ‘m the new Marketing Management trainee here at Thavorn Hotels & Resorts, Phuket. It’s my first week here, and on my first day off I went exploring. Let me ask you, when you think of Thailand, what do you think of ? White sandy beaches, shopping for exotic accessories, night life on the beach, great spicy food, a go-go bar or ladyboy show?? Well there’s one thing you should not miss when you go to Thailand, especially Phuket and that is - Thai Massage ! In almost every tourist area, Thai Massage shops flourish, peaceful air-conditioned relaxing havens with beautiful aromas and relaxing music.
I went yesterday to Karon beach where Thavorn Palm Beach Resort is located, and believe me , its damn hot! It’s a really great place that I can reach by using the free shuttle bus service for guests, from Thavorn Grand Plaza in the heart of Phuket city. I fall in love too much for the beach. I sun bathed for 3 hours, read a couple of books, swam, and the after effect, my body just feels so tired and heavy! That’s where the local Thais comes in handy, Thai MASSAGE !
A few steps away from Karon Beach, at Thavorn Palm Beach Resort, just across the road, you can enjoy a traditional Thai massage by the poolside, under the shade of a mini gazebo. Perfectly cooling (much cooler than a massage on the beach) and you can even enjoy a cocktail too Perfect answer to my problem. I can relax and get the perfect massage for my tired body.
In places like neighbouring Patong Beach, you can also get a pedicure and or manicure. Or how about braids in your hair? And the ultimate to make you feel young – specialists who will individually but gently pluck out all your white or grey hairs!
After your holiday in Phuket you can go back with a great tan, clean and healthy feet, freshly painted fingernails, an exotic new hair style and younger looks. So what are you waiting for? Phuket is just a place where it’s a holiday everyday !
Stay posted for my Thai Massage tips…..! ^^ Anthony Nur Hasan
Karon Beach
Thavorn Palm Beach Poolside
Popularity: 1% [?]
