Hotels2thailand.com

2551/10/14

Phuket Hotels - The Delightful Residence For You in Phuket

By Mahendrasingh Singh

Comprising several beaches and brindled with a host of hotels, Phuket Island of Thailand is undoubtedly one of the most unique destinations, making travelers all the more wistful to come over and view it happily. Therefore, the entire batch of hotels in Phuket pays special importance to what tourists want and how the hotel services can be most appropriately blended with the primordial hotel amenities to impress travelers in the most amazing way. As you get down onto the ground of the Phuket International Airport, you can turn your way towards the Patong Beach or the alluring Nai Thon Beach, Rawai Beach, the amazing Kata Beach and several others that quite effectively appear to be packed with the most excellent lot of hotels, jazzing up the regions of the entire Phuket Island.

The above-mentioned beaches enchant you through the encompassing beach scenery and the Phuket hotels scattered over them can tickle your fancy in a moment's time. They have amusing buildings and they do everything for upping the luxury quotient that makes them highly recognizable. You can surely be fascinated by the Amari Coral Beach Resort and Spa whose beachside scenario as well as more than fine services let it bask in the applause coming from all its guests. And similar to above-mentioned resort, you have the Centara Kata Resort or the Kata Beach Resort embellishing the Kata Beach that are more than capable of keeping a track of the requirements of its guests. You can avail the benefit of Jacuzzi or bask in the enticing views forming the complementing part of these hotels. Way ahead of whatever you had ever expected from them, these Phuket hotels do everything to win your praise and at the same time they maintain the brilliance that marks them.

And while you sift through the Wat Chalong Temple or the amazing surroundings of the Old Phuket Town, the hotels of Phuket prepare themselves with their well-timed services supplementing the facilities so that they can heartily welcome you again when you return back. Due to the favorable location of these hotels, any guest gets the convenience of coming nearer to his favorite destinations.

Phuket Hotels also contain variety, for there are special hotels like The Sarojin, which appears to be quite successful in fulfilling the cravings of honeymoon couples.

And this is why this much-admired province of Phuket continues to keep up its status of being one of the greatest travel places. Hotels like Baan Karonburi Resort and Centara Karon Resort promise an extremely delightful stay that exactly gels with all that your family and friends feel like having. Exquisite style and upscale amenities constitute the things that ensure real satisfaction for all kinds of guests and because of this the hotels in Phuket stand out with all their unusualness.

Notice the unmatched variety that Phuket Hotels reveal to you and let AsiaRooms assist you to succeed in cracking the most satisfying hotel deals. So, don't wait and get into action hurriedly.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mahendrasingh_Singh

Very Cheap International Flights - 3 Secrets to Get Very Cheap International Flights

By Michael Lee

What if you could get very cheap international flights? You could be crossing the Atlantic or exploring the Amazon, without worrying about the airfare costs. Unfortunately, such trips may also dry up your savings. You might ask yourself, "Do I have to break the bank just to take that trip abroad? Is there no way I can get very cheap international flights?"

Fortunately, you don't have to shell out your whole life savings to travel to another country and experience the most exciting adventures. Now there are ways you can get very cheap international flights. If you're ready to get an international stamp on your passport and enjoy inexpensive airfares, read on!

1) Perfect Timing

Timing has a lot to do with getting very cheap international flights. For example, the economy has started to weaken in many parts of the globe. The U.S. recession does have a chain effect. This is the time when airlines pull all the stops just to get their seats filled; even hotels will lower their prices to attract guests.

And if you'll notice, many travel agencies and online airfare dealers have started putting together package deals, which specifically aim to make the most of small budgets and give the lowest airfare available.

2) Join Airline Websites

Another way you can get very cheap international flights is by joining airline websites. Sometimes, they give you discounts or offer you special promos as a way of getting you to stay a member.

Most of these websites also send you bi-weekly newsletters and offer other services (forum or "ask a travel agent"), which can help you get more insider information. If you're a person who often travels a lot and wants to take advantage of extremely cheap airfares, this is not a bad deal at all.

3) Buy and Sell

Sometimes, people who find that they can't make their flight or even get their money back choose to re-sell their plane tickets for a much cheaper price.

Try scouting Ebay for such opportunities although you might have to double check with the airline if the ticket is valid and transferable before bidding. On a side note, there are currently many show tickets being re-sold on the said website.

While there are now a lot of ways to get very cheap international flights, you must also never underestimate the power of research and common sense. Prices fluctuate quickly and sometimes, what might seem like a great deal leads to a dead end. Stay on your toes and have a good trip!

Are you tired of paying too much for your plane tickets? Now you can get very cheap airfare and take advantage of hidden airfare bargains. Discover the secrets at http://www.squidoo.com/verycheapairfare
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Lee

2551/09/18

Aleenta Resort in Thailand

By Ian Pennington

Thailand has its distinctive charm and beauty that every tourist takes a favorable visit. Known for authentic Asian culture, spectacular beaches and friendly people, Thailand doesn't allow language barrier for it now to provide the world with remarkable travel packages that are worth spending. A strong sense of warmth and congeniality is apparent in every hospitality tourism facility like Aleenta Resort Thailand.

The naturalness of Aleenta Resort Thailand seems to be a paradise that gathers some environment aficionados from all over the world. Here, you can splurge some and rejuvenate yourself through the spa services. The sea breeze is calming and soothing. If you are wondering what Aleenta means, then hear ye. This romantic spot is named after the ancient Sanskrit that means rewarding life.

Aleenta Resort Thailand sets on a beautiful and serene beach in Phuket Thailand which not many tourists have discovered. It is situated on the west coast on Andaman Sea. It will only take you 15 minutes to reach Aleenta from the Phuket International Airport. Its natural zest and intimate ambience complements with the harmonious and unspoiled features of Thailand beaches.

Regarded as luxurious property, Aleenta Resort Thailand flaunts modern designs in its villas and suites that are of varied types like ocean view residences, pool suites, pool villas, ocean view lofts and beachfront villas. You can savor that island flavor of fun and excitement while taking a vacation at Aleenta. From the Robinson Crusoe inspired rooms to the stylish lofts, the ambience is truly relaxing.

Aleenta Resort Thailand is fast to entice travelers to benefit from what smaller accommodations can humbly afford. Its undomesticated condition is making it an authentically natural spot Thailand is proud about. It encloses 15 suites and villas that take every guest a picturesque view of Andaman Sea. If you are want a day trip to Phuket town, it's no worry as Aleenta is just about 40 kilometers away. It can be flown via Thai airways and other major airlines offering connecting flights. A few days of savoring the resort will give you a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The rooms are designed at Aleenta Resort Thailand are designed with comfortable and custom-tailored beds enhanced by custom-milled Egyptian cotton sheets. They are well equipped with iPods, music library, magazine area, DVD players, Jacuzzis, outdoor showers and pools. The Aleenta bistro is host to numerous evening affairs and cocktail parties. Chefs serve authentic Thai dishes and International choices of recipes as well. From outdoor barbecue party to Tapas night to Sunday brunch, fun is kept alive at Aleenta. Tourists gather around the pool lounge to savor a dip in the pool as well as gazing at the stars while sipping a glass of margarita or red wine.
Ian Pennington is an accomplished niche website developer and author.To learn more about Aleenta Resort, please visit Travel On Vacation for current articles and discussions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_Pennington

Luxury Alliances in Thailand - 5 Star Hotels in Bangkok

By Peter Fleming II

The simplest way to book a luxury hotel in Bangkok is selecting the official hotel websites of a particular hotel. Among the star rating hotels, 5 star hotels in Bangkok are the grand motels which are mostly preferred to stay by the luxury and elite class travelers. The guests of 5 star hotels in Bangkok include world famous celebrates, great politicians, famous wealthy businessmen, leaders, sportsman and great personalities.

The impeccable service of the five star hotels in Bangkok attracts its visitors endlessly. Choose one of the most unique, elegant and exquisite grand comfortable hotel in Bangkok. It will be worthy enough if you make a search of such hotels in search engines. However, the names of some 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok can be mentioned here.

The Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel which is located near the Chao Phraya River. You will definitely be pleased to see its elegantly decorated and well equipped rooms. Moreover, if you are business or leisure travelers then this resort have lots of facilities to offer to such visitors.

The room facilities include air-conditioning, telephone, minibar, room safe, satellite TV, voice mail, Tea & Coffee making facilities, room service, In-House Movies, Internet connection, hairdryer, Non- smoking rooms etc. Further, there are also deluxe room facilities, hotel facilities, leisure facilities, family facilities and many more. Above all, the hotel has a large swimming pool as well.

Bangkok the capital city of Thailand has large number of sumptuous motels. In fact, Thailand also offers lots of 5 star hotels to stay. For instance Anantara Hua Hin Resort and Spa is located on the western shores of the Gulf of Thailand.

Among 5 Star Hotels In Thailand this five star alliance is really beautiful abode to stay. The rooms of this hotel include fitness center, fine dining nearby, meeting space, fine dining on site, banquets & meetings, Spa facility, high speed internet, outdoor swimming pool, etc. During your stay in Anantara Hua Hin Resort and Spa, you can take part into various activities such as horse riding, jogging and running, biking, shopping, playing volleyball, boating and strolling along the beach. So book Thailand Hotels and enjoy the tour.

Looking for 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok? We have best hotel room rates for Thailand Hotels. Select from thousand of hotels available to book online.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Fleming_II

2551/09/15

Karma Samui

The island of Koh Samui sits in the Gulf of Thailand and has an area of 246 square kilometres. Dotted with palm trees from long-gone palm plantations, the island has a true tropical feel. Koh Samui is the third largest island in Thailand and has a 55km loop road that circles the island, perfect for scenic outings in a hired car or taking a chauffeured 4x4 on a driving adventure. Waterfalls, jungle treks and secluded beaches are only some of the charms of this tropical jewel.

Five minutes south of Karma Samui is Chaweng Beach - a 3km long strip off the island's ring road that is lined with a plethora of shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. During the day one can shop for traditional Thai artifacts at the local markets or look for bargains amongst the branded outlets, many of which carry designer products manufactured in Thailand. In the evening the town comes alive with every form of entertainment from Thai dancers to contemporary nightclubs and chic restaurants.

Average annual temperature is around 30 degrees centigrade during the day, however, temperatures can fluctuate between 25 to 35 degrees. Occasional rains can be encountered in the Oct-Dec period but for most of the year the weather befits a balmy tropical paradise.
Karma Samui resort is nestled in a serene cove and rises gracefully from the blue seas and golden sands of a stunning tropical beach. Four minutes drive to the south one finds the bustle and excitement of the island’s major shopping and entertainment centre - Chaweng Beach; while the boutique international airport is conveniently placed only 15 minutes away. The 36 pool residences are arranged in 5 terraces, maximising the sea views and creating a village-like atmosphere with quaint buggy paths serving as unobtrusive transport conduits. Elements of Thai and contemporary architecture merge to create the perfect harmony of East meets West.
Rich Thai silks and handcrafted artworks adorn the interiors of the residences themselves, The restaurant and the reception and library areas, allowing a balanced and elegant flow from the interior to the exterior.

The concept of ‘choice’ is one of the key philosophies of Karma Resorts and Karma Samui embraces this ideal with bespoke experiences and lifestyle options to satisfy every requirement. Various choices include private in-residence dining with the option of personal chefs and waiters, dining in the restaurant or a romantic beach dinner under the stars. This is just a sample of the array of choices that can be tailored for each guest and every occasion.

Chakra Spa treatments can be enjoyed either in the privacy of one’s own residence or at the Chakra Spa centre, where the healing touch of Thai therapists will relieve and rejuvenate your body and soul. Individually tailored holistic regimes can be catered for at all levels to achieve the desired level of well-being.

Karma Samui’s luxurious and spacious pool residences sit within world-class resort facilities with a service level that creates a truly magical experience.

http://amazingthailand.tourismthailand.org/karma-samui

2551/09/11

Attractions In Phuket Thailand

By Scott Riefler

Phuket Thailand has many attractions one can discover either on day trips or longer. The Beaches are by far the biggest attraction to Phuket because it has many beaches for one to explore. You can keep yourself busy all year round with the many attractions in Phuket other than just the beaches however.

Taking day trips can be a lot of fun. I have rented long tail boat and gone to the many different islands that are about thirty minute boat rides from the many different piers on island. It's not hard to find a long tail boat as even many of the beaches have them lined up just off shore. A day trip is very inexpensive and will remind you of a time when life was simple and uncomplicated.
Rubber tree plantations are plentiful on the island and watching and learning how locals make latex from the rubber trees is educational as well as interesting. This age old tradition can also be viewed at night where the Thais find it cooler to work at night or work it as a secondary or night job to supplement their income.

Taking a sea canoe off the eastern part of Phukets calm waters to go cave exploring can be a fun way to get a little extra sun as well as a good workout. There are many little islands, coves and caves to explore with a canoe off Phuket's east coast and water is tranquil and turquoise blue.
The island offers many shows also like monkey shows and snake shows. Many bus tours will take you to the caves in Phang Ngn bay and to visit James Bond Island. Another famous day trip is a boat ride out to Phi Phi Island for the day. I find this boat ride rather boring but I have made the trip many times so now I am partial.

If you enjoy Thai boxing, there are several places you can go and watch Thai boxing and even train with the young men. I personally enjoy watching a fight every now and again. The action is real, not staged and the hype is almost as good as wrestling on TV. There is Thai boxing in almost every small town in Phuket.

For those who enjoy the nightlife in Phuket there is none better then that found in Patong Beach. The town has many discos and a nightlife like no place else in the world. Patong has been voted the number one nightlife spot my several men's magazines. The many beer bars and night spots can be fun to explore is a relaxed and laid back attitude one would expect to find in the islands of the Andaman Sea.

If you find you want to get away from the average tourist hangouts, Phuket town can offer some interesting shows and live entertainment. It even has some great festivals like vegetarian festival and Chinese New Year's.

I have now lived on the island for several years and grown to call Phuket Home. The island is more than just a great tourist destination; it's a great place to live.

Scott Riefler is an expert in dealing with Phuket Real Estate and finance related matters. He has written several informative articles on topics like mortgage, home refinancing, real estate loans and real estate insurance. He regularly contributes articles to web guides on real estate and home refinancing. Sign up for our free informative newsletter at: Phuket Apartments Newsletter
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Riefler

Have a Luxurious Stay at Five Star Hotels in Phuket & Bangkok

By Peter Fleming II

Phuket is the world famous tourist destination. People around the globe love to visit this large island of Thailand which is located in Thailand's west coast in the Andaman Sea. Accommodations of Phuket provide enormous luxury facilities. Along the beautiful beaches and natural ambiance, Phuket offers a variety of hotels and resorts. Staying in one of the 5 Star Hotels In Phuket can create an everlasting impression.

Far from the madding crowds of the city life, Phuket is the tranquil heavenly place where travelers can spend a few moments of their life peacefully. While your stay in the hotels what you can expect at best is the warm hospitality and proper attentive service. However, the deluxe hotels include the facilities like bars, restaurants, spa centers, etc.

Amidst the tranquil settings of vast blue sea, good weather of the coastal beaches and the scenic beauty of sunset, Phuket is such a place to mesmerize you with its every possible sight seeing attractions and Thai culture and its friendliness.

Get your mind relaxed by diving or water-skiing on the clear blue water of the island. If you feel to rest then the resorts or motels of Phuket are just good to mention. The 5 Star Hotels in Phuket are the real place to stay for it provides world class facilities to its visitors. Whether you are availing a honeymoon trip or enjoying a vacation with your friends or family, the requirements for staying comfortably is well arranged for every type of guests.

Thailand's capital city Bangkok is the home to many luxury hotels and resorts. The city offers a good life style which reflects the cultural combination of Asia and Europe. The Buddhist architectures which prevail in Bangkok are the most significant historical importance of the city. Moreover, Bangkok is also nice place for shopping in the big malls and shopping centers. However, Thai delicious foods make the city's restaurants the best place to dine.

Bangkok Hotels are the heavenly spots where one can stay peacefully and comfortably but the Five Star Hotels have its own special causes to make your stay better. If you want the comfortable luxury accommodations then choose 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok.

Looking for Five Star Hotels? We have best hotel room rates for 5 Star Hotels In Phuket and 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok. Select from thousand of hotels available to book online.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Fleming_II

2551/09/01

Phuket Vegetarian Festival


Date : 29 September – 7 October 2008
Venue : Various Chinese shrines, Mueang District, Phuket The Thai-Chinese in Phuket have long passed on the vegetarian festival to purify mind and soul by refraining from meat consumption and meditating. Symbolising the presence of the deities throughout the festival are 9 lanterns lit up and placed aloft on Ko Teng poles. On the 6th day of the festival, there will be religious processions and incredible displays of face-and-body piercing. On the last day, there will be a “Koi Han” ceremony to exorcize ill fortune and a farewell ceremony for the deities at night. Contact: TAT Southern Office : Region 4, Tel : 0 7621 7138, 0 7621 2213Website : http://www.tourismthailand.org/

2551/08/29

How to get there ?

By air

This is perhaps the easiest way to get to Phuket. Domestic airlines operate several flights daily between Bangkok and Phuket. Some flights go to Phuket via Samui Island with a 40-minute stopover. List of operators are as follows:

Phuket Air offers daily flights to Phuket and the journey takes only 1.20 hours. Call 02 6798999 or visit http://www.phuketairlines.com/ for more details on flights.

Bangkok Airways has daily flights connecting Phuket with Pattaya and Samui. For more information, contact their Bangkok office at tel. 66 2265 5678. Reservations can be made at tel. 66 2265 5555. Alternatively, browse its website at http://www.bangkokair.com/ for more flight details.

Thai Airways International has numerous daily flights servicing the Bangkok-Phuket route. In addition, they have regular flights connecting Phuket with Hat Yai, Surat Thani, and Narathiwat Provinces. For more information, contact their Bangkok office at tel. 02 628 2000 or book your seat online at http://www.thaiairways.com/

One-to-Go by Orient Thai operates a daily flight between Bangkok and Phuket. The flight time is 1.20 hours. Call 1126 or visit http://www.onetwo-go.com/ for more information.

Air Asia also offers several daily flights connecting Bangkok and Phuket. The flight time is 1.20 hours. Visit http://www.airasia.com/ or call 02 5159999 for reservations.Nok Air has several daily flights between Bangkok and Phuket with a flight time of 1.20 hours. Visit http://www.nokair.com/ or call 1318 to make your reservation.

Destination Air porvides first class seaplane transfers to and from Phuket Internation Airport to resorts and hotels located in the Andaman sea. Popular destinations are such as Ko Phi Phi, Krabi, Ko Lanta. Services commence in July 2006. Contact Bangkok Office of Destination Air at Tel: 0 2261 5323, Fax: 0 2261 5331 or visit http://www.destinationair.com/

Getting to Phuket from abroad

There are several direct flights between Phuket and international destinations, e.g. Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Penang, Singapore, and Sydney.Dragon Air, Malaysia Airlines, Silk Airand Singapore Airlines also operate international flights connecting Phuket with other destinations. Please call airline offices for more details.

Transportation to and from the airport

Phuket International Airport is located approximately 30 kilometers north of the city, tel. 076 327230. Taxis between Phuket City and the airport costs approximately 400 baht but the fare to the beach ranges between 500 baht and 600 baht (The rate may decline now). Minivans charge approximately 80 baht /person to town, but 120 baht/person to Patong, Kata and Karon Beaches. Phuket Limousine (tel. 076 248596), located approximately 1 kilometer west of the city, operates hourly shuttles to the airport from 6.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

By bus

Air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal for Phuket several times daily. Trips by air-conditioned bus, which normally leaves in the evening, take about 13 hours. Call 0 2434 7192, 0 2435 1199 or visit http://www.transport.co.th/ for more information.

By car

From Bangkok, take Highway No.4 (Phetchakasem Road) through Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani and Phang-nga Provinces, then cross the Thep Krasattri Bridge or Sarasin Bridge to Phuket Island. The total distance is 862 kilometers and the travel time is approximately 12 hours.

By rail

There is no direct train service to Phuket. Travelers arriving by train must get off at Phun Phin Railway Station in Surat Thani Province and continue by regular bus to Phuket. For more information, call the State Railway of Thailand, 1690, 0 2223 7010, or 0 2223 7020.

By Ferry

During the high season, travelers may opt to get to Phuket from Ko Phi Phi and Ko Lanta (both are in Krabi Province). Few ports in Phuket provide this service with fares ranging between 300 bahts and 500 baht. The trip may take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on weather conditions.

Getting around Phuket

Car Rental Service

Avis Car Rent Airport Tel: 0-7635-1243, Kata Beach Resort Tel : 0-7638-1530-3
- Boomerang Travel & Tour 71/13 Patak Road, Chalong Bay Tel: 0-7638-1690
- Dusit Laguna Hotel Bang Thao Beach Tel: 0-7632-4322-9
- Hertz Car Rent Thawon Palm Beach Hotel, Karon Beach Tel: 0- 7638-1034-7
- Holiday Inn Patong Beach Tel: 0-7634-0608
- K.M. Travel Phangnga Road Tel: 0-7621-0893
- Le Meridian Karon Noi Beach Tel: 0-7634-0480-5
- The Metropol Hotel Montri Road Tel: 0-7621-5050
- Pansea Surin Beach Tel: 0-7632-4017-20
- Patong Merlin Patong Beach Tel: 0-7634-0037-41
- Pearl Village Nai Yang Beach Tel: 0-7632-7006
- Phuket Arcadia Karon Beach Tel: 0-7638-1038-40
- Phuket Airport Tel: 0-7632-7258
- Phuket Cabana Patong Beach Tel: 0-7634-0138-4
- Phuket Car Center Takua Pa Road Tel: 0-7621-2671-3
- Phuket Island Tel: 0-7638-1010
- Phuket Yacht Charter 5/3 Chao Fa Road Tel: 0-7621-6556
- Phuket Horizon Car Rent 235/4 Yaowarat Road, Tambon Talat Nua, Muang

District Tel: 0-7621-5200

- Pure Car Rent Opposite Thavorn Hotel, Ratsada Road, Tel: 0- 7621-1002
- Via Rent A Car 70/85 Rat U-Thit, Patong Beach Tel: 0-7634-0160

Motorcycle taxis

It costs approximately 20 baht / person / trip to travel around Phuket City. Alternatively, motorcycles can be rented from rental agencies located on Rasada Road or from several operators along beaches. The cost may vary from 150 baht 300 baht / day, depending on the number of cylinders.

Songthaeo and Tuk-Tuk

Songthaeos are operated along Ranong Road to several destinations on the beaches. The cost varies from approximately 20 baht to 25 baht / person / trip. Normally the service is provided from 7.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m.

Tuk-Tuks can be chartered to the beach however, the rates which can be negotiated are higher at 200 baht to Patong Beach, 230 baht to Karon and Kata Beaches and 300 baht to Nai Han and Kamala Beaches. However, Tuk-Tuks drive around the town at the rate of 20 baht.

Taxi Meter

Visitors can call 076 232157-8 to get a metered taxi that will take them anywhere in Phuket. The metered fare will include a 20 baht surcharge.

Getting to nearby provinces

By bus

There are regular bus services (VIP, air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned) to neighboring provinces such as Krabi, Phang-nga, Chumphon, Ko Samui (bus/boat), Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ranong, Surat Thani, Satun, Hat Yai, Takua-Pa and Trang. Departures are from the Phuket Bus Terminal off Phang-nga Road. For more up-to-date schedules and fares, call Phuket Air-conditioned Bus Station, tel. 0 7621 1977.

Taxis & Vans

There are shared taxi and van services between Phuket and other nearby provinces. Fares of both are generally around double the fare of an ordinary bus. The stations of both taxis and minivans are also on Phang-nga Road.

By air

Some domestic airlines operate flights from Phuket to Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Hat Yai and Samui. For more details, check with your travel agent or the TAT office.

Getting to nearby islands from Phuket

Boats to nearby islands can be found at the following ports:

Rawai Beach

An old local port, it is from here that long-tail boats depart for nearby islands such as Ko He, Ko Racha Yai, Ko Mai Thon, Ko Lon, etc. The chartered price depends on the distance.

Ao Chalong

The largest port of Phuket that has all kinds of boats, including cruisers of tour companies which organize package tours to other islands.

Ao Makham

Located near Phanwa Cape, the port is only for cruisers and container ships.Boat Lagoon Port (Ao Sapam) The port is for traveling boats of tour companies.

General Information


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

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

Phuket borders on Phang-nga Province to the north. The other 3 sides are encircled by the Andaman Sea the place where many of the best diving sites are located. The island is connected to Phang-nga Province by Sarasin Bridge and Thep Krasattri Bridge.


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

Phuket's topology is exceptional with 70 percent of its area covered with mountains which stretch from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains located in the central and eastern parts of the island. The island does not have any major rivers except for a total of 9 brooks and creeks.

Phuket is divided into 3 administrative counties namely Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Thalang and Amphoe Kathu.

Phuket has a lot more to offer its visitors other than its natural heritage sea, sand, sky, beach, forest, and world renowned diving sites. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell delighting travelers to the city, while Phuket-style hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition, accommodations ranging from world-class resorts to tropical-style bungalows have warmly catered to the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there is a lot more to sample than just Phuket's famous lobster. Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly unique destination.

History of Phuket

Most geologists believe that the area known as Phuket today was once a cape that extended into the Andaman Sea. Geographical formations gradually changed the capes location, finally detaching it from the mainland.


A famous Greek philosopher, Claudius Ptolemy, was the first person who mentioned the cape in his book written in the year 157. The cape was locally referred to as Jung Ceylon, which was located between latitudes 6 N and 8 N (the present site of Phuket Island). Natives called the place Cha Lang, which evolved to Tha Lang the name of the main town to the north of the island.

As a perfect stopover sheltering traders from monsoons, Jung Ceylon welcomed merchants from India, Persia, Arabia, Burma, China and also Siam. During the 16th century, the island was also a popular trading port for tin with Portuguese, Dutch, English and French traders flocking to the island. This contributed to making the development of mining so unprecedented. Chinese businessmen and miners later migrated to Phuket and soon enjoyed thriving business wealth.

Apart from serving as a meeting point for traders from Europe, Central Asia and China, Phuket also attracted ambitious immigrants, especially those from Portugal and China, to work in the tin mines. With its colorful history, visitors admire the Sino-Portuguese style architecture in the city especially those buildings located along the Thalang and Yaowarat Roads.

Thalang town was surrounded by Burmese troops who invaded the coastal area in 1785. It was under the leadership of Chan, the widow of the governor, and her sister, Muk, who united local residents and successfully fought and drove the invaders out of Phuket. It took over 30 days for the defending troops of Phuket, under the command of Chan and Muk, to claim their victory. As a result of such heroic deeds, noble titles were granted to Chan and Muk as Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon respectively. To honor them, a monument was established at Tha Ruea Intersection, 12 kilometers to the north of Phuket City in 1966. They are still highly respected by Phuket residents even today.

However, 24 years later, the Burmese succeeded in seizing Thalang causing many local residents to flee to Phang-nga and Krabi. In 1825, some of them returned to re-establish a town and established a rice farming community. On the other hand, the area to the south of the island (Phuket City today) was developed and became a tin trading center.

When Phuket was elevated to a town in 1850, it attracted more immigrants from Thalang and nearby communities. In 1894, Phuket was promoted to be a Monthon administrative unit under the supervision of the central administrative body (located in Bangkok).

In 1902, Phraya Ratsada Korsimbi, a Sino-Thai businessman who contributed to developing the modern city of Phuket was appointed Governor of Phuket. He also helped to improve the welfare of local residents and set up the market system in the countryside. In 1916, Phuket became a province.

The tin mining industry has gradually failed to generate economic growth in Phuket, especially after 1985 when the price of tin fell by half. However, with its natural resources, Phuket later emerged as a tourist destination with great potential. This polished pearl of the Andaman is truly a destination that provides visitors with memorable experiences.

The islands long history has shaped the distinctive Phuket of the present with its diverse ethnic groups, culture, architectural influence, and fine cuisine. With approximately 35 percent of the population being comprised of Thai-Muslims, it is possible to see an equal number of Wats (Thai temples) located next to Mosques.

Phuket Island - Popular Travel Destination in Thailand

By James Bukovsky

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

What makes Phuket island such a great travel destination?

Phuket is first of all an inexpensive holiday destination. Phuket hotels, resorts and guesthouses can be found in all price categories and ratings and prices are considerably cheaper then what one would encounter in Europe or America.
Dining in restaurants or buying drinks in bars or clubs on Phuket is also less expensive then what most tourists are used to paying back in their home countries.

Phuket Beaches

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

Phuket Nightlife

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

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

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

Phuket Shopping

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

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

If you are going to visit Phuket for a holiday then please make sure to visit the brand new Phuket Junkceylon mall in Patong or the Central Carnival Mall along the Phuket by-pass road.
James is currently living on Phuket and is working on a number of projects. If you are looking for a great Phuket hotel then do consider staying at Club Bamboo Resort. Read more about Samui in his Samui Guide.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Bukovsky

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