May
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2010
As far as holiday destinations go, it is hard to find one offering a greater variety of sights and attractions than the island of Phuket. With a diverse range of culture and customs, there are plenty of options when choosing how to enjoy your stay. Although the beautiful beaches are the obvious destinations in Phuket, the rest of the island contains many hidden treasures that are easily accessible and just as impressive. Cultural attractions range from historic sights; such as Buddhist temples and statues, traditional buildings and gardens, to the markets and the exciting nightlife. Natural wonders are also abound with the tropical forests offering waterfalls and beautiful sightseeing along the coast and through the mountains, as well as the national parks with a diverse range of wildlife and plants.
Phuket Town is the heart of the island, providing ready access to all the islands attractions while having a vibrant pulsing life of its own. The markets provide cheap shopping and food, perfect for backpackers, and the city centre offers many restaurants and clubs along with beautiful private art galleries and venues for live music every night of the week. Thavorn Grand Plaza is a great central location for exploring all of Phuket and our friendly staff are more than happy to help with any queries or arrangements to make sure your stay is unforgettable.
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
8
2010
Getting There
Phuket Town is located approx 30 km south of Phuket International Airport and within 30 minutes drive of all of the islands major beaches. The Thavorn Grand Plaza is situated right in the heart of the vibrant capital, surrounded by quaint street bazaars, day and night markets, food and beverage outlets, cinemas, shopping malls and wonderfully preserved Sino-Portuguese buildings and Buddhist temples. While providing the perfect base to explore the island’s stunning beaches, the hotel is in a prime location for shopping and sightseeing in Phuket Town and for guests to catch a glimpse of a more authentic and traditional Thai way of life on the island.
If you are staying at the Thavorn Palm Beach or Thavorn Beach Village resorts and can tear yourself away from their relaxed and tranquil settings for an afternoon, then Phuket Town is is just a short drive away and well worth a visit to experience the local Thai culture. Song Taew buses (a truck with open back and sides) operate cheap, public services from many of the beaches around the island and with an abundance of taxis, cars, motorbikes and Tuk Tuks for hire, Phuket Town is easily accessible and is truly a must see destination for any visitor to the island.
You will often hear the names Phuket Town and Phuket City being used interchangeably, but rest assured they refer to the same place, the bustling, administrative centre of Phuket. To clear up any confusion, it was recently awarded city status, but most people, especially the locals still refer to it is as Phuket Town and for the purpose of this guide we will do the same. Our guide to Phuket Town begins with what is undoubtedly the main cultural attraction, the stunning streets and buildings located in the Old Town.
Old Town
You can pretty much cover all of the sights of the Old Town on foot, but the best time of day to attempt this is either early morning or later on in the afternoon when there is some relief from the soaring temperatures and high humidity. There are a great variety of sightseeing opportunities on offer including many stunning examples of Sino-Portuguese architecture, Chinese and Buddhist shrines and temples as well as museums and quaint shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. All of these attractions are centred around some very special roads in the heart of Phuket Town.
Famous Roads in the Old Town
The cultural and historical significance of the Old Town as well as it’s obvious touristic appeal was recognised in the early 1990s and after many years of decline the core main streets and a series of smaller streets known as ‘Sois’ were handed a conservation award and the Sino-Portuguese shops and houses have since been beautifully restored. The distinctive ‘five footway’ pedestrian walkways, which cleverly link each building to the next with a high roof covered, curved archway were also reclaimed as public space. The famous streets of the Old Town include Dibuk Rd, Soi Romanee, Thalang Rd, Krabi Rd, Yaowaret Road, Phang Nga Rd, Rasada Rd and Phuket Rd.
Dibuk Road (meaning ‘Tin’ in Thai) is named in reference to the industry that the Old Town was built upon and has many fine examples of old Chinese Style ‘shophouses’ restored in wonderful detail. Shophouses, as the name suggests are individual units in a row of houses, with the front portion and often the entire ground floor designated for commercial purposes and the remainder as a family area for the owners of the property. The family areas contain beautiful internal courtyards and elegant facades.
Disecting Dibuk Road is Yaowaret Road and along here you can find many examples of shophouses still being used as they were originally intended. Shops such as Kid Dee offer an eclectic mix of Asian arts and crafts, whilst Wassana and Thana Manee have beautiful examples of Thai silk and textiles.
At the Intersection between Dibuk Street and Yaowaret Road, head south and take the first right onto Thalang Road. This road is a strong remnant of the past and is the beating heart of the Old Town. Here you will find some delightful examples of the ‘five footway’ walkways linking shops, traditional businesses, restaurants and cafes. Towards the Eastern end of the street on the left hand side is the quaint little Soi Romanee, a colourful little back street with an equally colourful history. Now the place of little cafes and guesthouses it was once the popular red light district servicing the tin miners in the town. To celebrate the restoration of the Old Town and to showcase the culture of the area, an annual ‘Old Phuket Town Festival’ has been running since 1998. Throughout this festival, Thalang Road is closed off to traffic and becomes a ‘walking street’ to recreate the Old Town ambience of the days before cars and motorbikes.
Cross over the road at the Yeowaret intersection and on to Krabi Road, home to the cultural gem that is the Tai Hua Museum. Formally the Thai Hua Chinese School, the museum is a splendid example of European influenced, Sino-Thai architecture. The museum is now used to showcase Phuket’s unique ‘Baba’ community, and serve as a local community centre for arts, culture and language. Further along the road heading west is the Phra Phitak Chyn Pracha mansion. This is a fine example of a sino-colonial massion and has been used as a location for several movie and TV productions including “the Killing Fields” and the “Young Indiana Jones Chronicles”. Continuing west along Krabi road you will discover beautiful examples of Chinese Temples called the Sam San Shrine and the Thye Guan Tong Shrine.
Running parallel to Thalang Road and Krabi Road and just to the south is Phang Nga Road, which is perhaps most famous for its use as a movie set for the Hollywood blockbuster ‘The Beach’. In the film, the rather dilapidated On On Hotel doubled as the Bangkok Flophouse and is a mecca for film fans all over the world. There are more hidden surprises to be found on Phang Nga Road however, and take a turn down a small alleyway adorned with Chinese writing and discover the beautiful Chinese ‘Shrine of the Serene Light’. Built in 1889, there is a peaceful garden and a beautiful multi-coloured temple to discover. All along the main street you can find wonderful examples of the Old Towns Chinese influence.
Last, but not least is Rasada Road, home to our very own Thavorn Hotel (not be confused with the Thavorn Grand Plaza). The lobby of this historic building houses a wonderful collection of artefacts and memorabilia from Phuket’s prosperous tin mining past. At the Western end of Rasada road is the Suriyadate traffic circle home to an interesting fountain designed with fish shapes. It is also worth noting that if you travel straight over the traffic circle and continue west along Ranong Road you will find two beautiful examples of Chinese temples named the ‘Jui Tui Shrine’ and ‘Pud Jow Shrine’. The Pud Jow Shrine was built over 200 years ago and is the oldest of its kind in Phuket.
If you are looking for something a little different from the hell raising party scene to be found in resorts such as Patong, then why not sample a more Asian style of nightlife in the many bars and clubs tucked away in and around the Old Town.
There are a number of pubs located along Yaowarat Road, which dissects the famous streets of the old town. Many feature quality live music on a nightly basis and cater to a mixed crowd of Thai locals and westerners. A firm favourite is Timberhut, which gets packed out most nights and takes you on a musical journey with a quality house band first and then later on in the night, DJ’s manning the decks pumping out international and Thai dance music. Further along Yaowarat Rd, towards Thalang Rd. You will find both sides of the street lined with small live music bars featuring local artists. Things kick off along here around 21:30 most nights and often you find all of these bars packed and busy. Another quality venue is Sofa on New Dibuk road. This stylish two storey bar caters more for a hip and trendy local Thai crowd and has a friendly atmosphere with quality Thai music from live bands.
In 2009, Thalang Road experienced an extensive face lift removing all electricity cables from above the street and burying them under the road. This makes this a wonderful place for a evening stroll and there are some delightful, quaint little restaurants located in beautifully restored sino-portugese buildings serving up delicious authentic food. One such cafe is the welcoming China Inn Café & Restaurant. This cafe has a variety of unique dining settings such as the courtyard out back, which are brimming with Chinese artifacts. They serve up all the traditional Thai favourites as well as some unique dishes and have friendly and attentive staff. There are a number of other quality dining options in the Old Town with Salvatore’s on Rasada Road serving up classic Italian dishes and many restaurants along Dibuk road are much in keeping with the delightful classic style of the old town. They serve up Thai and International cuisine and have very respectable wine lists with Raya being the pick of the bunch. For a hip and trendy dining experience try Eatzz or Lemongrass, both located next to Sofa on New Dibuk Road.
On the doorstep of the Thavorn Grand Plaza .
As a guest at the Thavorn Grand Plaza, you really don’t have to travel far for an afternoon of shopping and entertainment. The Robinsons Department Store and Ocean Shopping Mall are literally located on your doorstep and are both great places to pick up good quality products at reasonable prices. Ocean is also the place to go for entertainment activities and houses a multiplex cinema showing all the latest English Language blockbusters (with Thai subtitles), ten pin bowling alley, karaoke booths, games arcade and restaurants.
Just opposite the main entrance to the Thavorn Grand Plaza are the Pensri, Phuket Square and Expo markets. These wonderful bazaars house a quality range of clothes and accessories all at bargain prices. And if you have worked up an appetite shopping, then just across the road from the Expo is Uptown Restaurant which is very popular with locals and westerners as they serve up all your favourite Thai dishes at very reasonable prices. For the smells and tastes of real authentic Thai food, there is no place better to go than the fresh food market that sets up every evening behind The Robinsons Department Store. Dive in and find yourself some new and interesting flavours.
If you are looking for a more traditional dining experience then there are plenty of quality restaurants only a short walk from the hotel. You only need step out of the front entrance to find Laem Tong Chinese restaurant, one of the oldest and finest Chinese restaurants in Phuket.
There is also plenty in the way of nightlife to enjoy in the area surrounding the Thavorn Grand Plaza. While many establishments maintain a distinctly Thai flavour, they are also popular with westerners and are a great place to grab a beer or cocktail, listen to live music, watch major sports events and mingle with the locals. Kor Tor Mor, located at the eastern end of Chana-Charoen Road near the traffic circle is very popular with the hip and trendy local Thais and is always busy. This place has a smart casual dress code so remember to leave your shorts and flipflops for the beach.
There are also a number of bars in the area offering a more colourful night scene. A couple of places have a unique and distinctly quirky feel to them as beautiful girls belt out songs in the hope of obtaining floral necklaces from the Thai and western patrons sitting in the audience. While these establishments are more discreet than those found in resorts such as Patong there is little doubt about the intentions behind buying the girls the floral tributes. Pink Lady is the best place to witness this fun and slightly corny stage show. Bossy, or Cayote Bar as it is sometimes known, offers another version of the girly dance show, only this time they are on stage dancing energetically to pumping dance music. There are also a number of cool bars with open-air beer gardens close by that stay open late and offer relaxed surroundings, with James Garden being particularly popular.
Nearby Attractions
Phuket Island is a mountainous region and there are plenty of vantage points to get spectacular views over the beaches, islands and the crystal clear Andaman Sea. There are also a couple of good viewpoints close by to Phuket Town which provide unrivalled views of the cityscape below. The first is Khao Rang Hill which is popular with locals as well as tourists who enjoy jogging along the shady routes or exercising in the fitness park. There is plenty of seating available to relax and take in the view and there is a quality restaurant called Tunk Ka, which serves fantastic food with equally fantastic views over the town. The second viewpoint is called Toe Sae Hill, but is known locally as Monkey Hill after the community of macaques which inhabit it. Another great place for a stunning view of Phuket Town is the 10th floor outdoor pool at Thavorn Grand Plaza!
There are a couple of places to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a while, the first being King Rama IX Park. This is a popular destination for locals looking for relaxation or exercise and you will find many people jogging or taking part in group exercise classes in the early evening. The second is Saphan Hin, a large leisure park close to the sea that is popular with locals looking for a quiet place to sit, relax and enjoy a family picnic. It also offers a number of sports and recreational facilities including a large swimming pool, tennis courts, petanque, basketball, an indoor sports hall as well as a sports stadium and Thai boxing Stadium.
If hustle and bustle is exactly what you require then every weekend, from mid afternoon till about 9pm, The Jatujak Weekend Market comes to life on the outskirts of Phuket Town. It is a wonderful open air market and bazaar with an enormous variety of products on offer. In fact, it is worth a visit for the food alone and you have not seen fried chicken until you have seen the whole chicken (head, beak, feet and all) coated in their special blend of herbs and spices! Many people eat their way around the market enjoying such dishes as Thai Fish cakes, sticky rice, bbq seafood, papaya salad as well as sampling delicious seasonal fruits such as mango, dragon fruit, bananas and rambutan, easily recognisable by its red and spiky peel. You can also buy quality souvenirs, Asian arts and crafts as well as clothes and accessories, which makes this a must see destination for those in search of a bargain.
Travelling out of Phuket Town along the bypass road you will find an astonishing number of quality shopping outlets including Central Festival Phuket, Big C, index Shopping Mall, Tesco Lotus, Homeworks, all which are explained in greater detail in our section on shopping.
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2010
Fishing:
The variety of fish to be caught in the Andaman sea is astounding and a number 1 experience for enthusiasts of all abilities. There are daily trips offered, which will take you to the rather small islands around Phuket, where you will encounter such fish as Red Snappers, Rainbow Runners etc. And the best thing is: You don’t have to be a pro, since even beginners will be rewarded with a big catch.
Diving:
The Andaman Sea, which is separated from the Bay of Bengal through the Andaman Nicobar Egde, is a part of the Indian Ocean. Phuket is the biggest province in Thailand and at the same time the biggest Island in Thailand. There are quite a few world class diving spots, which offer great experience and fun for everyone, regardless of qualification, level or experiences. There are plenty of beautiful hard and soft corals to be discovered and the underwater world is rich, multifaceted and lush. As well as being inhabited by smaller fish like prawns, seahorses etc you will also find larger fish like stingrays, manta rays, calm sharks, deep sea fishes such as barracudas, mackerel, tuna fish and even the mighty whale shark.
Phuket is definitely the number 1 diving spot in South East Asia with the most well known diving trips heading out to the famous Phi Phi Islands or the King Cruiser’s Wreck. In Phuket there are plenty of diving schools. Most of the diving schools offer basic diving courses such as Padi Open Water license, common daytrips and Live-Abroads. They differ in quality and service as well as in the equipment so be sure to shop around and choose wisely.
Shark Point ( Hin Musang):
Depth: 5 – 28 Meters Travel time to Spot: 1 ½ hrs
The Shark point is one of the most famous and versatile diving spots in Phuket. The accumulation of three main crags plus the variety of several smaller under water rocks offers a perfect possibility to take gorgeous under water pictures for you holiday photo album. The name shark point is developed from regular meetings with the anxious leopard shark.
Anemone Reef (Hin Jom Naam):
Depth: 5 – 26 Meters Travel time to Spot: 1 ½ hrs
The anemone Reef is located on very flat and sandy ground and is completely overgrown with anemones. The reef offers an excellent home for crabs, prawns and various anemone fishes. The eutrophic (nutrient rich) water works like a main magnet for small reef fishes, which are looking for food and shelter. Big swarms of snappers as well as mackerels together with tuna fishes can be seen at the anemone reef.
King Cruiser Wreck:
Depth: 12 – 32 Meters Traveling time to spot: 2 ½ hrs
In May 1997 the so called cruiser ran aground and sank after it collided with the anemone reef. Now this huge Wreck lies on the sea bottom 32 meters deep. The conditions and circumstances around the wreck’s area require good diving skills in order to avoid getting into trouble with the wayward ocean current.
Fortunately, neighbored to the Anemone Reef and Shark Point, life was growing at the site of the wreck in no time and one can find plenty of fishes such as pelagic fishes, turtles, harmless sharks, and the scorpion fish. The Wreck is a good place where a diverse marine life meets the diver.
Paragliding:
The best spot for paragliding is Patong Beach, where Paragliding is available almost every day. The famous beach vendors will offer you special rates and bargaining is a must. One should definitely inspect the speed boat before the fun starts, since some of them might not be well motorized, and it appears that because of a lot of tailwind the parachute passes the speed boat. Please be aware, that in case of accidents or damages you are alone responsible and there are no insurances included.
Climbing:
During the last few years, the Phang Nga and Krabi provinces have became well known all around the world for the huge variety of climbing possibilities and climbing spots, most notably at the the beautiful Railey Beach. Elevated, cliffs and deep lime stone rock faces, pose a challenge for climbers of every skill level. Some of the cliffs are a few hundred meters high and after reaching the top, a stunning view over the beautiful landscape awaits you. Especially around Krabi you can find climbing schools with courses for beginners, which are also offering equipment for pros and more experienced climbers.
Sailing:
If you are looking to experience a sailing Trip in Phuket, you should do this at Nai Harn, Patong or Kata Beach. Toppers and Dinghies are available at Patong Beach whereas Catamarans, Hobby Cats and Top cats can be found at Kata Beach. The Sailing Company called Yacht Pro is reputed to be a good school to attend sailing courses. You can contact Yacht Pro under Phone: 076-232 960 or www.sailing-thailand.com
Kite Boarding:
The best time to practice Kite Boarding in Phuket is from November until the end of April as well as in July and August. Introductory courses are being offered at Kata Beach as well as at Nai Yang Beach. We can recommend 2 surf schools.
- Kiteboarding Asia – Phuket, Nai Yang, www.kiteboardingasia.com
- Kata Surf Shop and Surf School
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
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2010
Welcome to the bustling Patong night life!
Patong, once known as the red light district of Phuket, has undergone a period of transformation in recent years. The area’s once notorious nightlife has been tamed somewhat to make it friendlier to women, couples and families and Patong now has something for everyone. That’s not to say that you can’t find some wild action anymore – you certainly can – but it does mean that a much wider variety of entertainment options exist to make your nights in Phuket as much fun as your days.
Patong Discos and Dance Clubs
Patong plays host to several nightclubs and discos where those so inclined can let their hair down and get their boogie on. While not featuring top DJs (indeed, most clubs play the exact same music every night, sometimes more than once a night) they do have heaving dance floors and a lot of energy. Most discos in Patong charge a 100 baht admission fee but rather than being a cover charge, this is actually a drink minimum since you get a voucher and most clubs charge 100 baht for almost all drinks.
Tiger Disco is located on Soi Tiger, off of Bangla Road. This place is happening almost every night of the week and is often full of ‘freelance’ bar girls. Tai Pan is located at the intersection of Bangla and Rat-U-Thit road and has long been a favourite Patong hot spot. Although the laws now force it to close at 02:00 instead of sunset it still gets pumpin’ every night.
Next to Tai Pan you’ll find Baya Beach, a more mellow place with a tropical theme. On the beach road look for Banana Disco, popular with young people for its two level dance floor and hip lighting. Safari Club is located on the hill that overlooks Patong from the south. This is the main late night venue and has an indoor and an outdoor club, both open until dawn.
Go-Go Bars in Patong Beach
This is the reason why many people come to Patong in the first place – sexy young girls barely wearing bikinis swaying seductively to the music. Go-Go bars aren’t the raunchy circuses they used to be but they still provide plenty to look at. According to the law, there is no actual nudity anymore but these rules are often ignored.
Drink prices tend to be higher in Go-Go bars but this is offset by the fact that many of the girls in them are free to come and go as they please, with no bar fine involved. Soi Seadragon has the most go-go bars in Patong, with Playschool, Showgirls. Above Club Rio, which has (some say) the sexiest dancers around. Dragon Club is also popular, but some think the music is a little on the loud side.
Phuket Beer Bars
The quintessential Patong entertainment, a beer bar is one of the countless little places that are jam-packed together on the bar streets and sois of Patong. These places employ numerous pretty hostesses whose job is to make bar owners revenue. The most common phrase heard is repeated over and over again; “Hello, welcome” said to anyone who walks by.
Once you’re in the bar, expect to be surrounded by these girls who will lavish attention on you like you’re Hugh Heffner and entice you to play a game of connect four or hammer-the-nail-into-the-block-of-wood.
Be wary if a girl wants to bet on one of these games; they have little else to do during the day time and spend lots of time practicing. The day you beat a bar girl at connect four you’ve been in Patong way too long. The games are just a diversion, however as the real entertainment is the girls themselves. For a modest fee you can relieve her of her bar duties for an evening on the town.
If you’d like to spend a little more time with her that can usually be arranged as well; for that you and your new friend will have to come to your own arrangement. Beer bars are ubiquitous in Patong and there’s no shortage, just head to one of the many sois off of Bangla and you’ll be hip deep in them. A few of the better ones are The Point, Sharky Bar and Black Cat.
Sports Bar
Sports Bars in Phuket generally divide into two concepts: Those with large TV screens and pool tables along with a darts board and those with just large TV screens. You will be informed ahead of time about sporting events by announcements – generally outside the bar. If the match you were hoping to see is not on in one, just keep on looking and you’ll find it.
Music Pubs
If you’re all about the music then you have plenty of options in Patong. There are quite a few places where the most important thing going is the tunes. For die hard rockers there’s Rock City on Rat-U-Thit road, which features AC/DC and Metallica tribute bands. It may not really be Angus Young or James Hetfield, but it’s a good substitute.
Molly Malone’s features Celtic music nightly, Banana Club (below the disco) also features live bands, as does Margaritas, at the Rat-U-Thit/Bangla intersection.
Upscale Bars/Cocktail Lounges
Its not all girlie bars and go-gos in Patong. There are some more refined places with style and class where you can sip something sexy in trendy surroundings. Club Rio is a cool place to check out some latin jazz and dig the scene on Bangla Road.
The Patong Bay Garden Resort has a lovely and quiet cocktail lounge, located right on the beach, while Joe’s Downstairs also features a hip piano bar overlooking the rocky headland at the beach’s north end. La Baia has lots of comfortable seating and a sophisticated vibe and The Sofa is filled with plush sofas and armchairs in which to recline and enjoy a martini.
Cabarets & Transvestite Show
Once upon a time if you wanted to see boys who pretend to be girls (so well that it’s hard to tell they’re boys – if they still are) then you had one choice: Simon Cabaret. Combining glamour, song, dance, comedy and elaborate staging, this was a one of a kind experience; the sort of thing you could only see in Phuket.
Although Simon Cabaret is the first (and some say still the best), a number of other ladyboy cabarets have sprung up in recent years, such as Sphinx, My Way Cabaret and Moulin Rose. The shows, costumes and performers get more and more extravagant every year as each theatre raises the bar and dares the others to match them, but one thing remains the same: it’s the kind of thing you can only see in Thailand.
The beer bars account for a majority of the hangouts along Bangla Road nightlife hub, and its numerous side streets (like Soi Eric and Cocodrile). The hostesses always say “Hello, handsome!”
Because no drinking scene would be complete without construction tools, beer bars like to keep hammers, nails, and large chunks of wood on hand. The game: competitors see who can be the first to drive a nail into the tree trunk. Not only is it a good lesson in the inverse relationship between alcohol consumption and coordination, but it’s also the ideal place to make bad puns (getting hammered, getting nailed, insert your own here).
There are plenty of pool tables in Patong for those that like more traditional games.
Most beer bars hang a bell within easy reach of patrons. Grasp the rope, give it a good ring, and bask in your newfound popularity: you just bought a round of drinks. The details of who benefits from your generosity varies from bar to bar – in some you buy only for the girls, in some you buy for all the staff.
While not as prevalent as many people expect, Patong does have its fair share of go-go bars (try Soi Sea Dragon). Fun loving people, whether guys or girls, singles or couples, gay, straight, or ambiguous, flock here to play in the moonlight. It’s an all night party with something for every taste. Scantily clad girls (or guys, if that’s your thing) stand on stage, six or eight at a time, bending their knees to the music and wondering what television shows they’re missing. (Actual experience may vary – some places are quite lively.) When the girls aren’t dancing, they’ll let you buy them drinks in exchange for conversation, sometimes more. With names like Crazy Girls A-Go-Go, Bottoms Up Club, Coyote Bar, and Playschool A-Go-Go – well, you can imagine.
Bangla Road Hot Spots
The heart of Patong nightlife is surely Bangla Road, or more properly, the arcades of bars known as ‘Bar Sois’. Each one has its own unique character and style, from clean and organized Soi Eric to loud and bright Soi Tiger.
Rat-U-Thit Road
The intersection of Rat-U-Thit and Bangla is a happening spot, with nightclubs like Tai Pan (FBI), VIP and Baya Beach attracting large crowds. There are quite a few interesting spots popping up on Rat-U-Thit, as well as long time favourites. 2 Black Sheep is a popular place for locals to go and watch the game, have some grub or just enjoy a beer without all the hassle and hubbub of Bangla Road.
Paradise Complex
The biggest attraction of Rat-U-Thit Road is the Paradise Complex. Thailand is very tolerant of different lifestyles (just take a look at the blatant transvestites if you doubt that) and the Paradise Complex was purpose-built to be a gay playground.
In Bangla most bars don’t open before nine o’clock in the evening. The official closing time is 1 am for bars/pubs and 2 am. for discos. In recent years the authorities have cracked down on places operating later, but it’s still possible to find places open until 5-6 am. Just ask around at the bars to find the late night venues. Just remember that these places are circumventing the law, so there is a small chance that they will be raided by police, with patrons facing ID checks and urine tests for drugs.
Bar Girls in Patong
Girlie bars in Patong (mostly bar beers are girlie bars) have up to 10 “bar hostesses” willing to go with tourists for money. Many girls are looking for a boyfriend, some for a short time, others longer term – mainly as a financial asset. If you get on well, she may well accompany you on trips around Thailand, providing fun company and a local insight among the general services, but you will have to negotiate a rate first. You will also have to pay a “bar fine” each time “for a date” After that, it’s up to you!
Bar fine – This is the fee to cover a bar’s ‘loss’ when taking a girl out of the place for a ‘date’ and can vary with each establishment. Usually 200 -500 Baht for the evening. If you’re planning to spend a few days or longer with the lady, you’ll need to negotiate the fine with the bar. This does not cover her fees which would be discussed directly.
Bar Girls in Patong – Some Tips
It’s generally good advice to stay with a girl for only one night. This avoids the situation where after two nights, she considers you her boyfriend. This can produce jealous if you look, or are tempted by other girls – even if you are paying!
If you decide to take her on trips etc., be prepared to pay for meals, tickets and extras. A gift will be expected, usually anything gold bracelet, necklace, etc.,
You can be sure you’ll be asked for your Email address, so she can keep in touch with you, in case her family needs money. She will keep in touch with you, but be aware she may get help from friends or other visitors to write back, so don’t write anything you don’t want others to read. Sooner or later you may receive an e-mail requesting financial help because her mother is sick, or the family buffalo has died. The same Email will reach several boyfriends – not just you. And that’s the start…
The above is general advice based on general experience, not every working girl is the same. You can have lots of fun and a great time!
Getting Around at Night
At night Soi Bangla turns into a pedestrianised walking street with Tuk Tuks and motorcycle taxis at both ends to provide a ride home. Prices are negotiable and tend to increase with the number of passengers, the distance and the lateness of the hour. Many Tuk Tuks charge excessive and inflated rates so it’s best to check with other visitors and locals first. ALWAYS agree the price before you get in as it’s difficult to negotiate after the journey.
Both motorcycle taxis and Tuk Tuks can be flagged down anywhere along any of the streets. Head for Banana Disco on the Beach Rd (Thaveewong Rd) where most of the Tuk Tuks and motorcycle taxis stay. Or at the other end of Bangla (near Tai Pan.)
Dangers & Annoyances
The streets of Patong are quite safe at night. In fact, safer than in many cities in western countries. Incidences of violence against tourists are very rare, but there have been cases of pickpocketing.
Ussually it have been made by friendly Katoeys (ladyboys) that are famous for lifting wallets and having sudden bursts of nasty behaviour, so be extra careful around these ‘ladies’. Just use your common sense and make sure your belongings are secure. If you take photos of the Katoeys, be prepared to pay or they can get angry.
The most common complaints from tourists visiting Patong is caused by aggressive behavior of some people trying to sell of offer something; from Indian restaurants to timeshare presentations, from tailor shops to Tuk-Tuk tours. Ignoring these characters usually does the trick. Women are generally safe to go out at night, though care should be taken when travelling alone in Tuk Tuks and motorcycles.
Tourist Police Station: there’s a Police Information Centre on the Beach just where starts Bangla Road.
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Karon is often referred to as ‘Patong’s little sister’ because has its own version of Soi Bangla – only on a smaller scale and it has its dining locations, only fewer than Patong. Most of the nightlife is centred 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.
Karon Center
Football, Clapton’s and Magic Bars
Coming from the beach and the traffic circle, the first turn off to the left leads to a warren of bars. The Terrace Bar, on the corner itself is upstairs and makes for a good people-watching spot. On the opposite side stand three bars – all so similar that they seem to be run by the same person – Football, Clapton’s and Magic – all serving drinks in a flurry of loud music, friendly hostesses and general bonhomie.
Location: Soi Islandia, Open: 18:00 – Late
Angus & Arfur O’Tool’s
This Irish pub is the only one of it’s kind in Karon – serving international ales, bottled beer and all-day pub food. There are no bar girls clinging onto you, and there’s no ear-splitting music. What you can expect is plenty of sports on the huge screens and a genuine pub feel to the place.
Location: Soi Islandia. Open: 10:00 – 24:00
The Little Mermaid
A restaurant that turns into a bar later in the evening, the Little Mermaid is open-sided to the road and therefore a good place to observe the goings on in the girlie bars across the road. Plus, you can order some inexpensive food while you are drinking. Rooms for rent upstairs.
Location: 634 Patak Road. Open: 08:00 – 24:00
Gun Bar
Featuring a bunch of friendly girls that seem to be on permanent lookout for a new ‘friend’, the Gun Bar is unpretentious and another place to watch the rather more raunchy action across the street.
Location:Next o Little Mermaid, Patak Road
Anybody’s Bar
Does the name of this bar suggest something to you? Featuring fairly loud music and a large screen, Anybody’s could be anywhere.
Location: Opposite Gun Bar, Patak Road
Sutin Bar
Sutin is one of the few bars in this area that actually offers you something to do while sinking a few beers. That something comes in the shape of a pool table. Sutin also features a large screen and friendly staff.
Location: Further up Patak Road from Anybody’s Bar
Soi One Man
Diagonally opposite Sutin Bar is One Man, a soi containing a dozen girlie bars, among them the Cherry Bar, Lucky Bar, Kenny’s Bar, Sahara, Eva, September Bar and Bacchus. They’re all open sided, quite intimate yet pretty noisy but the good thing is that they stay open late and are suited to night owls. Some bars feature pool tables and have dartboards. The street is festively lit by overhead strings of bulbs and in high season it rocks.
Location: Off Patak Road, Karon Centre
Luang Poh Chuan
This road is located about three kilometres south of Karon Centre and it is Karon’s answer to Patong’s Soi Bangla.
Its nightlife is not as prolific as Patong but you can still have a good barhopping night out here.
Bangla Plaza
This collection of shop-house sized bars is to be found on the right side of the road coming away from the beach. The soi is lined with bars and they’re mostly girlie or ladyboy venues. All are open-sided with extra tables outside featuring the occasional pool table and go by the names of Winner Bar, My Way Bar, Nan, Nightflower, Black Cat and Jinda. There’s more of the same all the way to the end of the alley, the only exception being Montana Music Bar situated in a sub soi to the right about halfway down. This is an air-conditioned place with a few chairs outside that specialises in retro music and is bar-girl free. Good area for barhopping.
Karma Lounge
A good, two-storey Friday-night live music venue with impromptu jams. Karma has been attracting a musical crowd for years now and holds some pretty interesting parties and events. Downstairs is a straightforward bar while upstairs, where a lot of the action takes place, is more of a lounge-like affair. Tasteful music, interesting videos, a genial host and English-speaking hostesses all add up to a bar ahead of the local competition.
Location: Corner of Luang Poh Chuan and Patak Road
Bar Soi
Just before Karma Lounge there’s a U-shaped bar soi with bar after bar of unpretentious and friendly drinking holes. Amazon is a family-run place with sports on the box while a Reggae Bar is hidden in the back folds of the soi. The usual ‘halloa, where you goa?’ gang of provocatively-dressed ladies add to the atmosphere but the soi’s nowhere near as seriously charged as a Patong equivalent.
Location: East end of Luang Pho Chuan Road Farang, Asia, Phuket Bars
Farang
The girlie bar to end all girlie bars, Farang goes through transformations throughout the year, picking up pace at high season and limping through the low. Success breeds imitators so adjoining Farang Bar are Asia Bar and the mellower Phuket Bar.
Location: Diagonally opposite Karma Lounge on Patak Road, Karon’s ‘high road’
Open: Late afternoon – Late
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
7
2010
Kata is the kind of place to relax with a cocktail or beer in an open-air bar or restaurant, do some shopping, watch the big game on a pub screen, or enjoy a quiet evening.
Most evening venues are excellent choices for families and couples with outdoor cafes and good value local restaurants. Kata’s small roads have resisted fast and furious development and helped retain the small town atmosphere.
Night life is concentrated at the ends of the beach rather than the centre. A must for everyone staying in Kata is watching the sunset from the Reggae Bar overlooking Kata Noi, the view is spectacular.
Over the last year, Kata’s small bar/beer areas at both ends of the beach have expanded, so you don’t have to go far for more action. But for the real party scene head for Patong, just a 10-minute drive north.
Ska Bar
South Kata is not known as a nightlife destination; the major exception being the Ska Bar right at the southern end of the beach itself. The Ska Bar is nestled among granite rocks and has a great view along the beach. Here, expect lots of reggae, dreadlocks, Bob Marley look-alikes and a friendly atmosphere. Keep your eyes open for organised events as Ska Bar has been known to throw major parties.
Back on Kata Road towards Kata Centre there are perhaps 20 bars jammed with mini-skirted girls and any single male walking past them is fair game. This strip is known locally as Kata Night Bazaar and it all starts to go off after 20:00 and goes on until late. In the bazaar itself, Flamingo’s Splash Lounge organizes parties, has a swimming pool and live music. Neighbours, Killer Whale and The Beach Club are also a cut above the nearby out-and-out girlie bars.
At the three-way intersection along Thai Na Road up on the left Lek’s Bar has been there for ever – but Lek herself has been long gone. This bar features live music and has two similar hangouts next door and a near neighbour called Café del Mar which has good reputation for cocktails.
Easyriders Bar
This is one of the best places in Phuket to catch a good raunchy live band.
Number One
Located opposite Easyriders, this is an open-to-the-street setup that’s good for tuning in to Easyriders’ music without bursting an eardrum.
Bluefin Tavern
This is an old favourite bar with locals, divers and lovers of Tex Mex Cuisine. Here you can sit on the elevated terrace to people-watch or cool off in the air-conditioned interior. A few doors down is the Anchor Bar – another old favourite, famous for its all-day breakfasts and pool facilities.
Look out over Kata Noi on Kata Hill because these places are two extremely popular venues with small viewpoint which are perfect after the beach. These restaurant-bars are all about reggae music and have developed from their beginnings to become successful sunset-viewing party locations.
Ratri Jazz Restaurant
This is a fantastic place to enjoy a gourmet meal, live jazz and sensational hillside sunset views out over the Andaman Sea.
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
5
2010
Phuket Town
The nightlife scene in Phuket Town is certainly different in all senses to Patong. People like to characterize Phuket Town nightlife as being slow, boring, with locations too far apart. But Phuket Town nightlife has a distinctly local and Asian flavor that’s an acquired taste once you get to know it.
The scene in Downtown nightclubs and bars is very indicative of Thai culture: it’s fun and no one is taking anything too seriously.Close to Thavorn Grand Plaza Hotel on Chana-Charoen Road are some of the night hot spot are:
Kor Tor Mor
Is a popular pub/club that caters to trendy Thais. Located near the Seahorse Circle, it’s usually packed every weekend and on some Friday nights it is sometimes hard to get in. The house band plays Thai pop and rock nightly plus DJ’s fire up the dance floor between the acts and later on. It’s the perfect place to go if you want to mingle with locals. As is the norm in most Thai nightclubs there is no cover or corkage charge if you bring your own whiskey, ron or liquor but you will need to pay for mixers, ice and beer. Don’t wear shorts and sandals here since there’s a dress code.
Aek-Ka-Nek (Johnnie Walker pub)
Next door to Kor Tor Mor this is a large and newer place with a Thai language sign (that translates to ‘Aek-Ka-Nek’) but most people identify it by the huge Johnnie Walker logo next to the sign.
It’s quieter than Kor Tor Mor but still a happening place with a good house band.
Buddy Café
Buddy Café is about as Thai as you can get. Some 40 girls dressed in provocative and revealing costumes sing nightly. Visitors usually purchase garlands of ‘flowers’ and put them on to the singers’ necks. The singers later cash in the garlands with the café’s management. There’s plenty of plush seating and over-the-top décor and you can also order food.
Chit-Lom
“Definitely this is a place for sleepless people”. This venue is a special place for those who want to keep dancing all night long. Open daily from 02:00AM being one Disco very famous among local people who enjoy having fun after all other places closed.
Montree Road
O’Malley’s Irish Lounge Bar
Is an Irish bar and is located in the heart of Phuket Town. O’Malley’s is a comfortable place fit for everyone, including kids. It offers pub food, drink, and coffee and has occasional live music and deals on beer. Ideal place if you want to catch up with local expats especially on sports nights. O’Malley’s also has a pool table, free WiFi and a Playstation.
Fantasia
This is another quintessentially Thai place, complete with extremely attractive and skimpily dressed dancing girls in a pretty good floor show, flashing lights, expensive drinks and a slight air of seediness. Be prepared to pay more here – for company, drinks and ‘friendship’.
All in all, this is a whole lot more entertaining than your typical Go-Go bar in Patong.
T2
This is one of the main shakers when it comes to nightlife in Phuket Town. Again, it’s popular with the Thai whisky & mixer set and it doesn’t offer anything wildly original in terms of musical entertainment. The bands usually blast out Thai Indie stuff and the odd Western rock tune. The DJ plays a kind of techno-hip hop hybrid and it’s all very, very loud. Not really a place to meet people because of the noise but if you’re into dancing that’s another story
Phang Nga Road
Roxy
Owned and run by two Turkish brothers from Istanbul, Roxy was opened in 2007. A small but well-liked bar, Roxy offers live sport, darts, an English pub-sized pool table as well as a quiz night every Wednesday. Drinks are reasonably priced and their interesting menu features western, Mexican and Turkish food. In fact, it’s the only place in town that serves real Turkish food.
Rassada Road
Chivas
This club is a friendly place to mingle with young locals and is located right in the heart of town on Rassada Road near all the major banks. Chivas is probably the only venue in town that features two bands nightly playing mainly Thai rock/pop plus DJs spinning the usual techno between the acts.
Yaowarat Road
Timber Rock (formerly Timber Hut)
Timber Rock, having opened 20 years ago, is an icon in the Thai pub scene in town. It attracts westerners (also called “farangs”), locals and is also located on Yaowarat Road, not far from the old town area. Timber Rock features one of the best bar bands in Phuket and the place is jumping almost every night and gets almost manic on weekends. There’s an upstairs seating area if the tiny dance floor is too claustrophobic for you. Food is also served here but don’t expect instant service.
Rockin’ Angels
This is a must for music lovers and artists. The Singaporean owner is a guitarist and singer and an all-round nice guy and so impromptu jam sessions are the norm, with some very lively evenings.
Blue Marina
Carrying on further up Yaoworat Road, adjacent to the Phuket Merlin Hotel is Blue Marina, which, with its basement location and exposed ceiling, is reminiscent of a hip underground music club, is favy famous among Thai university students. The club hosts well-known Bangkok bands from time to time.
Sineha Bar
A trendy bar with deep-blue doors and walls, Sineha has become a newly popular bar among young and trendy Phuketians and this makes it a good place off the tourist beaten path in which to meet locals. There is a limited menu and prices are a bit higher than normal but are still reasonable.
Romdee
Romdee means ‘feeling good’ and is located next door to Sineha Bar on Yaowarat Road. In a vintage shophouse converted it into a simple and friendly bar, it’s an atmospheric meeting place.
Black & White
Opened in late 2009, the charming Black and White features regular live music and friendly service.
Takua Pa Road
Ka Jok See
Ka Jok See (meaning ’stained glass window’) is one of the most successful restaurants on the island. The front door is hidden behind a lovely ivy façade and the vintage shophouse features old wooden-beamed ceilings and is decorated with old photos and Thai crafts and objects. It’s a great place for a candlelit romantic dinner or a special night out with friends as later into the night Khun Lek, the charming owner and great host, selects top music and completely turns Ka Jok See into a dance joint. Located near Khanasutra Indian Restaurant on Takua Pa Road, a short walk from the Rassada traffic circle
Michael’s Bar & Restaurant
Michael’s Bar, on Takua Pa Road off Rassada, is basically an expat venue and features a pool table, sports TV, Internet connections and Western snacks. Regular Happy Hour is from 12:00 – 05:00 (or 16:00 – 19:00 in low season.). Located near Ka Jok See, Takua Pa Road
Phuket Road
Bale Karaoke
Karaoke is extremely popular in Asia and Thailand is no exception. Locals in Phuket usually combine eating, drinking and crooning and this is the place to do it either in private ‘VIP’ rooms or in the open bar space. Located on Phuket Road, diagonally opposite the Phuket Immigration Office, Phuket Road.
Tilok Utis 1 Road
Music Matter
With the best Mojitos in town, Music Matters is run by a local musician. The open-sided hole-in-the-wall bar has hopping jazz jams every Wednesday night. Located not far from the Ocean Plaza shopping, on a small Soi between Tilok Utis 1 Road and Phuket Road. Music Matter is actually hiding behind a small restaurant that has long ivy at front.
New Dibuk Road
Sofa Disco & Pub
Sofa Pub is located at the entrance of an up-and-coming nightlight area called Limelight Avenue along New Dibuk Road. It has live bands and some interesting dishes. Sofa Pub is a regular hangout for Phuket yuppies and features a modern yet warm atmosphere with friendly service, it has mix of resident DJ’s and live local bands. Located on the New Dibuk Road and is easily seen by the huge Chivas sign out front, so you can’t miss it.
Eatzz Bar & Restaurant
Eatzz has live music nightly from 21:00 onward, played by a Filipina/Thai duo singing mostly folk and pop music. In the same area along Limelight Avenue, there are a few more pubs and bars, mostly spacious and very Thai. Located on Limelight Avenue is just right behind the Sofa Pub.
Other places are Envy and Lemongrass.
Other Locations
Bossy Bar (formerly Coyote Bar)
Next to the Bus Station of Phuket, this place deserves to be known as the best venue in town to see dancing girls. The staff is composed by a large number of beautiful and sexy girls who are happy to be serve drinks to the tables, while hosting customers to have conversation and maybe “something else”. Every night there is live music. Open daily from 20:00 PM to 04:00 AM
Pink Lady (in different locations)
All locations offers live music nightly sung karaoke-style by young and sexy girls as well as some private karaoke rooms. The same company owns more similar venues in Phuket Town not all of them have live bands. These are the Pink Lady Club, behind Sengho Bookstore and Pink Lady 2002, not far from the Royal Phuket City Hotel. Pink Chamois and Pink Lady cater to Thais and other Asian men wanting to meet ‘friendly girls’. Drinks are more expensive than in most other night places in town, as are other ’services’. The other Pink Lady is behind Sengho Bookstore on Montree Road. Pink Lady 2002 is on Phang Nga Road near the junction of Montree Road.
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
5
2010
There is never a dull moment is Phuket, and you will find there are events and festivals throughout the year. When you plan your trip to Phuket it is a good idea to check to see what is happening at that time of the year. Whether you are young or old there is definitely something to suit everyone.
Songkran which takes place in April is the Thai New Year and is a great excuse to have a big water fight. All over the island you will see people soaking everyone with water guns. Especially around Patong beach where people drive their pick-up trucks with big barrels of water on the back drenching passersby. It is an event never to be forgotten and extremely fun.
April 2010
Phuket Bike Week: 9th to 12th
Phuket bike week is spread over the four days and three nights that lead up to the Songkran festival. For all of those motorbike lovers out there this is definitely the place to go when travelling to Phuket. There will be a bike exhibition at Jungceylon and if you go to Loma Park you will be able to go to the beach party and music festival. The event is organised by the Phuket Riders Club and this year they plan to have a “Ride for peace” where there will be around 2550 motorbikes riding all over Phuket.
Songkran: 13th – 15th
Songkran is the Thai New Year and is celebrated all over Thailand. For Thai people this is the most important event of the year. For everyone here it is a time when people get to relax, enjoy themselves and pay respect to their elders.
The 13th is the main day where people from all over Phuket make their way to Patong beach to enjoy the one of the biggest water fights in the world. Everyone is armed with water guns and simply spray anyone and everyone. You also see people dabbing talcum powder on people’s faces as a New Year blessing.
Be careful when riding a motorbike during this time as you are sure to have buckets of water thrown at you, it might sound quite daunting but it is a very fun time and everyone should experience Songkran at least once in their lifetime.
Apart from all the fun it is also a time for religious rituals. Like most New Years in other cultures it is a time for cleaning for the New Year. A lot of the Thais will clean Buddha images, and going to the temple to pray.
Phuket Punchline Comedy Club: 21st
The Punchline Comedy Club delivers the very best from the UK comedy scene, and has been established in Far Eastern Countries since 1994. If you are in Phuket when they are having a show it should deffinitly be on your list of “things to do in Phuket”.
When: Wednesday 21st April 2010.
Doors: 8pm Show: 8.30pm
Where: Holiday Inn Resort Phuket, Patong Beach
Tickets: 960 Baht in advance/ 1200 Baht on the day, available at many outlets including Woody’s Sandwich Shoppes in Patong, Chalong, & Laguna, and also on Tue 20th April 2010 between 5pm-7pm in the Holiday Inn Resort lobby. Please visit http://www.phuketcomedy.com/ticket_info.html for list of all outlets
Detailed info: www.phuketcomedy.com
Booking info: 089-646-9278
July 2010
Phuket Race Week: 21st – 25th
The Phuket Race Week is an annual event which takes place on the East side of Phuket Island. People travel from all over the world to gather their boats and yachts together for one of the largest regattas in South East Asia.
If you enjoy sailing then the Phuket Race Week is the place to be.
August 2010
Por Tor Festival
This festival dates back from ancient China where they believe that during this time the gates of the after world open up allowing the spirits of the dead to be set free. In order to keep the spirits from causing mayhem the Chinese make food offerings for the hungry ghosts and pay their respects. It is very common for them to give Turtle shaped cakes to the spirits because turtles are animals that represent longevity.
October 2010
Phuket Vegetarian Festival
The Vegetarian Festival falls either in late September or Early October, which is the ninth Chinese lunar month. The Vegetarian Festival is one of Phuket’s most famous Festivals and it lasts for nine days. During the nine days various rituals are performed to purify both body and mind. During the Vegetarian Festival participants also go on a strict diet, where they can only eat non-animal based food and products.
Some of the rituals performed at the Phuket Vegetarian Festival are described as “acts of self-mortification”. Such acts include piercing of the cheeks and tongue with sharp objects such as knives and pins. Other rituals you will see at the Phuket Vegetarian Festival are walking over hot coals, and climbing ladders with sharp bladed rungs.
November 2010
Loi Krathong
Loi Krathong in English means “to float a raft”. The tradition behind Loi Krathong is where Thai People send small handmade rafts a float into the seas in order to give respect to the goddess of water. It is also a way to try to gain forgiveness for all of the bad things you may have done in the previous year.
In Phuket you will see many people launching their krathongs made out of banana leaves with flowers and candles. You will also see many people flying khom fai (fire lanterns) into the night sky. It is a very beautiful sight during Loi Krathong
December 2010
King’s Cup Regatta (add a bit more)
The King’s Cup Regatta originally started in 1987 to celebrate the 60th Birthday of His Majesty the King of Thailand. Now after 13 years the King’s Cup Regatta is Asia’s largest regatta.
The King’s Cup Regatta goes on for around eight days five of which being race days. It is all somewhat of a social gathering and you will be able to see all the boats anchored just off Kata Beach. It is really quite a picturesque sight and there are plenty of parties to attend during the King’s Cup Regatta. The whole experience should definitely not be missed if you are in Phuket during December.
Laguna Phuket Triathlon
The Laguna Phuket Triathlon is a fun annual event which takes place in the Laguna Resort located by Bang Tao Beach. Athletes from all over the world join in the fun whether they are professional or simply amateur athletes. The entire event consists of a 1.8km swim, a 55km cycle and then finally a 12km run. If you think you have the energy and strength then why not join in the fun?
Patong Carnival
Just another excuse to have more celebrations, the Patong Carnival is basically put on to celebrate the start of the high season.
There are lots of various food stands, things to buy such as local handicrafts. You get to see some beautiful local Thai dancing on some of the various stages that are erected across Patong Beach. There are also fireworks displays and parades to enjoy. It is definitely worth visiting the Patong Carnival if you are in Phuket during the middle of December.
New Year’s Eve: 31st
Just like anywhere else in the world, New Year’s Eve in Phuket is a huge party. Pretty much anywhere on the island you will find lively events happening. Most beaches will have some kind of beach party. In Patong and Karon you are sure to see fireworks and most other parts of the island too.
March 2011
Phuket Gay Festival
The Gay Pride Festival in Phuket first started in Patong as quite a small street party in 1999. Over the years up till now it has grown to around ten thousand visitors. The Phuket Gay Pride attracts visitors from all over the world and is a big event for the gay community in South East Asia.
The Gay Pride lasts for 4 days with a street a parade and is now funded by the Gay community and businesses from Bangkok and Pattaya.
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
5
2010
Must like the rest of South East Asia, Phuket has a tropical climate with a rainy or monsoon season. The hottest time of year in Phuket is between April and May where we see temperatures reaching between 27C to 36C (80F to 95F). During this time you also get short bursts of heavy showers, which is a great as this helps to cool things down a bit.
The best time to visit Phuket is between November and March, as it is less humid and slightly cooler. You’ll find temperatures ranging from 24C to 32C (75F to 89F)
The monsoon season is between May and November, but Phuket is still very hot during this time and it doesn’t necessarily rain every day, it is still a very pleasant time to visit and you are guaranteed to see the sun shining in between showers.
Popularity: 1% [?]
May
5
2010
Nowadays there are many language schools in Phuket, aimed not only to local Thai people but also to foreigners. Most schools are teaching English but there are also a number of schools that teach Thai and Chinese to foreigners.
Especially for those expats who plan to live or work here in Phuket, learning Thai makes life so much easier to be able to communicate with the locals. Thai people are very friendly and love it when foreigners make an effort to learn their language.
For those foreigners who have TEFL or TESOL qualifications then it is also an opportunity for you to work as a teacher in Phuket.
Popularity: 1% [?]
