Phuket 101 - A Phuket Photo Blog

Buddha Postures for the Seven Days of the Week

2012-03-07T06:27:00.000-08:00

If you have been to a temple (or 'Wat') in Thailand, you might have noticed that the Buddha appears in standing, sitting or reclining postures. In some you will even see seven (sometimes eight) statues of Buddha aligned next to each other, often with a donation cup in front of it. So what does it mean? Many people see them without really knowing what these images mean or are for. Each of them is for a day of the week, and you would pay respect to the statue representing the day you were born. There are of course a lot more than seven postures of Buddha and while we were researching we found different versions and explanations. If you want to know more, spend some time reading about the 110 postures of Buddha here, it is very interesting.

Sunday
"Seven Days Looking" - Pang Thawai Net
The Sunday Buddha image is standing with arms crossed in front of the waist with the right hand covering the left hand.
Buddha obtained enlightenment while sitting under a Bodhi tree (a large and very old Sacred Fig tree located in Bodh Gaya, about 100 km from Patna in the Indian state of Bihar). The image represents a time just after Buddha obtained enlightenment when, for gratitude, he stood and admired a bodhi tree for one week without blinking an eye.

If you were born this day:
You are respectable, wise, loved by friends and family, likely to be in a professional occupation. Your lucky day is Wednesday and lucky color is green while your unlucky day is Friday and unlucky color is blue.

Monday
"Pacifying the Relatives" - Pang Ham Yati
The Monday Buddha image is standing with the right hand raised to shoulder height with the palm out and the fingers extended (the abhaya mudra).

This image represents Buddha pacifying the relatives. When Buddha returned from heaven after three months, his relatives were arguing about the rights to water flowing through their land. Buddha persuaded them to compromise.

If you were born this day:
You are serious with a good memory and a love of travel, likely to be in a skilled occupation whose lucky day is Saturday and lucky color is black. Your unlucky day is Sunday and unlucky color is orange.

Tuesday
"Realizing Nirvana" - Pang Sai Yat
The Tuesday Buddha image is lying on his right side, head resting on his arm, toes even.

While the Lord Buddha was staying at Savatthi , there was an arrogant evil named Asura Rahu. He was so gigantic and didn’t pay respect to the Lord Buddha. So the Lord Buddha made himself bigger than the evil , in reclining position as to lower the pride of Asura Rahu. Seeing so , the evil succumbed and agreed to accept the teaching of the Lord Buddha.

If you were born this day:
You are serious, brave and active most probably in the services. Your lucky day is Thursday and lucky color is yellow, your unlucky day is Monday and your unlucky color is white.

Wednesday
Pang Umbat
The Buddha image for Wednesday is standing and holding an alms bowl with both hands.

It indicates the time Buddha returned to see his father after four years in his ministry. In the early morning, monks make their alms rounds to collect food. Buddha did the same and his father was appalled that Buddha was "begging" for food. Buddha calmed his father informing him that the lineage of Buddhas was to perform 'Pindabat' to be available to followers who devotedly bring food.

If you were born on the morning of this day:
You are polite, artistic and emotional, most likely working creatively. Wednesday night is your lucky time and lucky color is green. your unlucky day is Tuesday and unlucky color is pink.

If you were born on the evening of this day
You are hard working and honest, likely to be employed in a profession with the lucky day of Monday and the color white. Your unlucky day is Thursday and unlucky color is yellow.

Thursday
"The Meditating Buddha" - Pang Samti
The Thursday Buddha image is sitting in a full lotus position with soles upward and visible, the hands resting in the lap, right above left with all fingers extended, palms upward (the dhyani mudra).

After receiving bundles of grass from Sotthiya , he scattered it and made it as seat under the Banyan tree. He made a vow “ Skin , sinew and bone may dry up as they will , my flesh and blood may dry in my body , but without attaining completed enlightenment , I will not leave this seat.” With his strong determination, he achieved enlightenment. .

If you were born this day:
You are peaceful, calm and honest, likely to be a teacher or in the legal profession. Your lucky day is Sunday and lucky color is orange. Your unlucky day is Saturday and unlucky color is black

Friday
"Contemplating Buddha" - Pang Ram Pueng
The Friday Buddha image is standing with both arms crossed over the chest with the right hand covering the left.

A short period after the enlightenment, while the Lord Buddha stayed under the Banyan tree, he stated that it was too difficult for ordinary people to understand dharma and bring it into practices. He was discouraged to teach dharma.

This Dharma that I have found is profound, hard to see, hard to understand; it is peaceful, sublime, beyond the sphere of mere reasoning, subtle, to be experienced by the wise. But this generation takes delight in attachment, is delighted by attachment, rejoices in attachment and as such it is hard for them to see this truth, namely…nirvana.

However , with his great mercy and loving - kindness , he clearly understood that living creatures possessed different habits just like nature of a lotus.

If you were born this day:
This person is fun loving, friendly and ambitious, probably an entertainer or public figure. Their lucky day is Tuesday and the lucky color is pink. The unlucky time is Wednesday night and the unlucky color is light green.

Saturday
"Protected by the Naga King" - Pang Nak Prok
The Saturday Buddha image is sitting in a full lotus position in meditation on the coiled body of the naga Muchalinda that uses its head as a cover against rain.

This pose represents a time during the sixth week after Siddhartha's Enlightenment, when the naga king protected the meditating Buddha against heavy rainfall by making a shelter with his multi-headed hood and lifted him above the flood waters by coiling its body under him.

If you were born this day:
You are calm, logical and a bit of a recluse, very likely engaged in manual work of a skilled nature. Your lucky day is Friday and lucky color is blue. Your unlucky day is Wednesday during the daytime and your unlucky color is green.

Re Ka Ta Bar and Restaurant in Kata Beach

2012-02-29T09:09:00.000-08:00

Re Ka Ta is the latest trendy beach bar and restaurant in Phuket, part of the excellent and also brand new Boathouse in Kata Beach. If you are familiar with this part of Kata, you know that despite such great location right on the beach, this place saw many restaurants and not many successes. First it was a seafood restaurant called Goong, followed by another trendy but short lived restaurant called Oasis. Will Re Ka Ta succeed where the other didn't? That is still to be seen.

Re Ka Ta name sounds similar to the world famous Ku De Ta in Bali for a very good reason, it was designed by the same person. But that's probably the only similarity.

Re Ka Ta is a trendy and colorful bar but also a restaurant so we originally went there for dinner. Unfortunately that night it happened to be a buffet and we are not big fans of this concept a romantic dinning, except for brunches. So we decided to just go for a couple of drinks then move to the Boathouse for dinner, as both are connected and part of the same property.

The outdoor setting is very pleasant with an entrance terrace leading to different levels all fitted with lots of comfortable sitting, and even a small pool reflecting the colors of sunset when weather permits. The restaurant itself is partly indoor with air-con, which might not be a bad idea since the place tend to be hot with the amount of lighting and the location tucked between hills. Most tempting is of course the tables right by the beach with great views on the sunset and the small nearby island. The whole place is lit with fancy changing colors and the music played by a DJ was good but a bit loud to our taste. I guess they are trying to recreate a bit of this club mood that made KuDeTa in Bali so famous.

Price are as you can expect a lot higher than in your average bar, but the wine list is certainly a lot nicer too since it comes directly from the Boathouse.

Re Ka Ta is open daily from 9 am to midnight

Tel: + 66 (0) 76 330 421

Re Ka Ta is # 50 and the Boathouse is number 38 on Phuket Map by Phuket101

About Phuket - 10 Quick Facts for Lazy Readers

2012-02-23T07:05:00.000-08:00

If you have never been in Phuket before, you probably don't know what to expect apart from those annoyingly beautiful photos everyone posts everyday on Facebook. If you are not in the mood to search the net for hours and you just want to get an overview, we compiled here 10 Quick Facts about Phuket that will summarize some of the interesting facts. It is not meant to tell you everything you should know, but you will get the big picture in few minutes, maybe enough to know the basics to start, then you can follow the links to more detailed information.

1) About Phuket

Phuket is both an island and a province, the largest in Thailand and the size of Singapore (539 sq.km, 48 km north to south, 21 km east to west), located on the south west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and connected to the mainland by the Sarasin Bridge. The currency is the Thai Baht and the electricity is 220 Volt. Most of the population is Buddhist. Phuket has an International Airport mostly deserved by Thai Airways, Air Asia and Nok Air. (Read more in our Phuket FAQ.)

2) Phuket Name and History

Phuket is pronounced 'Pooket' (not: '...') and the original name was Jungceylon, which is the name of the giant 'Jungceylon Shopping Mall'. Before being 'Phuket City' the main town was 'Thalang', not far from the airport. The main source of income is tourism, but tin mining put Phuket on the world map all the way back from 16th century. An entire Kathu Mining Museum has been built in a remote location to preserve the tin mine history. Latex, pineapples, frozen fish, cashew nuts and palm oil are also main source of revenue.

3) The Beaches of Phuket

The nicest sandy beaches are all on the west coast, the most popular ones being of course Patong, Karon, Kata, Kamala and Bangtao, but some are still peaceful in the northern part: Naithon, Maikhao and Haad Sai Gaew. The East coast is covered by mangrove in the north and rocky in the south at the exception of few hidden beaches such as Laem Ka. The east coast offers beautiful view on the nearby islands.

4) The Main Towns
The main town is 'Phuket City' but everyone calls it Phuket Town. Thalang Road in the city center has applied to be a UNESCO heritage site with the many Sino Portuguese mansions and shophouses, including some jewels such as the 'Baan Chinpracha House Museum', 'China Inn', the Thai Hua Museum and the recently renovated 'Blue Elephant Restaurant'. The second biggest town is Patong Beach and it keeps on growing as you read this.

5) The Nightlife
Nightlife is really unique in Phuket, mostly in Patong Beach, but is also very active in Kata Beach and Karon Beach. Almost any beach has its bit of nightlife but 'Soi Bangla' is the hottest place on the island. Closing time is supposed to be 2am, but party always continues way beyond. Most popular night venues are the beer bars and the famous Go Go Bars, but also several Night Clubs and a very active gay nightlife.

6) Events and Festivals

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival occurs on the 1st to the 9th day of the 9th moon according to the Chinese lunar calendar (october). Songkran in April is an occasion to have fun throwing water at each other for a day and mostly party all night. Loy Kratong on full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar (November) is celebrated by releasing on the water little floats made of leaves, incense and flowers. Old Phuket Festival, end January, and Chinese New Year are the occasion for parades in town. The Phuket Gay Festival April 24 to 28 is also great fun.

7) The Landmarks

Phuket highest point is Radar Hill with amazing views of Patong and Chalong, other popular hills include the famous Big Buddha, Kao Rang Hill and Karon Viewpoint. Wat Chalong is the most visited temple and Promthep Cape is the southernmost viewpoint. The Heroine Monument on the way to the airport stands in memory of the two sisters who defeated the burmese in 1785. Some movies shot in Phuket: James bond Island in Phang Nga Bay, On On Hotel in Phuket Town in 'The Beach' and Baan Chinpracha was used in Heaven and Earth.

8) The Climate

The best time to come is (usually) between December and March and the temperature is around 24˚C. The hottest months are March and April reaching 35˚C when Songkran celebrates the start of the rainy season. The rainy season is (usually) from May to October but you will still get a lot of clear days and a very agreeable temperature, a lot of things to do, not to mention great prices in most hotels. However, the sea is usually rough during this month and swimming is not recommended. Read more

9) The Food

Thai food is famous all around the world and trying local restaurants should really be be part of your Thai experience. Phuket food is generally more spicy than in the rest of Thailand. Popular dishes are Tom Yum Koong (Spicy sour prawn soup), Tom Ka Kai (Chicken soup with coconut milk), Som Tam (Green papaya salad), Hor Mok (fish mousse), Kuay Tiew (Noodle soup), Pad Thai and more. If you can't eat spicy just say "Mai Pet" (not spicy). But best of all, Phuket is famous for its amazing seafood!

10) Around Phuket

The amazing limestones cliffs of Phang Nga Bay and the famous James Bond Island are about 75 km North East of Phuket, as well as Koh Panyee, the village entirely built on stilts. Phi Phi Islands are 46 km south east and Similan Islands are 120 km north west of Phuket. Khao Lak is 100 km away along the east coast, past the connecting bridge, while Krabi is 150 km driving along the east coast, past Khaosok National Park.

Kathu Waterfalls

2012-02-20T08:57:00.002-08:00

Kathu waterfall must be the world's smallest waterfall! But since it is indicated so prominently on maps and road signs you might wonder if it is worth a visit. The answer is no, but there are few things around is that might make it worth a visit.

The waterfall itself is about fifty centimeters high (seriously), more a trickle than a fall, but like any waterfall in Thailand, it attracts people. With parents picnicking around, several ice cream shops and a great local restaurant nearby, the place turns into a free pool and playground for kids on sunny week ends.

The restaurant called 'Pai Lin Restaurant' (Blue Sapphire) is more than a typical local Thai restaurant, you want to try something really different and good, just the way Thai people like it? no fancy chairs no fancy decoration... just great food and chickens walking casually around the tables (if only they knew!). Well, the place does have an open kitchen, just like fancy restaurants have nowadays, and you should go have a look, the family cooking and running the restaurant is warm and friendly. If you decide to experience local cuisine, don't go for classic dishes like I did the first times... they'll be good, but not memorable. Go overboard and try things you can talk about once home.. here are the ones we had and it was excellent.

'Moo Pa Pad Ped' (Wild Boar Curry) is my favorite, the taste and consistency of the meat is unique. 'Nam Prik Phuket' (assorted boiled veggies with a spicy shrimp paste) is really a local favourite and was really good, less pungent than in other local shops which I usually don't like. The 'Kra Doo Moo Tom Cha Muang' (Pork soup with sour leaves) was delicious, the leaves are giving a light and unusual sour taste to the soup. Then 'Pla Bilang' (Small deep fried fishes), deliciously crunchy without being too dry. Last but not least was the 'Kai Mod Daeng Kua Glua' (Fried red ants eggs) might be the most challenging, you really can see the ants and the big plump eggs. It was actually very nice, I guess have been in Thailand long enough to overcome the natural hesitation from our occidental education. The same dish also comes as a salad which tastes even better.

The most interesting activity near Kathu Watefall is without a doubt the Phuket Cable Ski, an exciting but pricey attraction, great for almost anyone from kids to adults. For 700 baht an hour you can practice on a knee board around an oval shaped lake, then once you are confident, try to stand on a wakeboard pulled by a cable moving at 26 km/h. It is quite intense and a great adrenaline rush. It also seems quite impressive when you fall off few times before standing up on a board, but it is never painful.

Just next to the cable ski and by the same owner is Palazzo, the most unlikely dinner show you would expect to find in such remote location. Show and dinner are set in a luxurious Art Deco circus tent with tons of red velvet drapes... strange but fun.

Another place worth mentioning in the same area is an excellent but rather shy 'Royale Namtok', which translates 'Royale Waterfalls'. The restaurant is tucked at the end on a tiny anonymous soi (a lane) and is not advertising much, but we once had an excellent Valentine dinner there.

So what is the verdict? The waterfall itself is a joke, Tonsai and Bang Pae Waterfalls are a lot bigger, but if you are around for some wakeboard, you should really try this Pai Lin Restaurant.

Kai Mod Daeng Kua Glua

Moo Pa Pad Ped

Nam Prik Phuket

Pla Bilang

Pak Ket

Kra Doo Moo tom Cha Muang

Palazzo Dinner Show

Phuket Cable Ski

Kathu Waterfall on Phuket 101 Map,

Islands Near Phuket

2012-02-16T04:18:00.000-08:00

There are so many islands around Phuket, big and small, it would take forever to visit them all. These are just few islands we had the chance to visit and we will be adding more as we travel around.

Coral Island (Map #1)

Coral Island, or Koh Hae, is one of the few islands you can reach within fifteen minutes by speedboat and spend the day playing on the beach, even during low season. With two beautiful beaches, the only accommodation is the small but nice Coral Island Resort offering small bungalows right on the beach. Read more

Koh Panyee (Map #2)

Koh Panyee in the bay of Phang Nga near Phuket is quite a touristic fishermen village almost entirely built on stilts. This is still a very unusual and interesting place to visit, but the trick is to go there early to be the only visitor in the village! Read more

Koh Sirey (Map #3)

Koh Sirey is really an island, but you would never guess it from a map and many probably have never heard of it. Connected to Phuket town by a very short bridge, this small piece of land doesn't have many particular signs but this is where you will find the beautiful Westin Siray Bay Resort. Read more

Racha Island (Map #4)

Racha Island is a small hideaway twelve miles south of Phuket, which is about two hours by boat or 30mn by speedboat. This lovely tiny island is very well known from divers as a clear dive site and. Racha is also the home of three resorts, The Racha, a luxurious villa resort, the Rayaburi and Baan Raya Resort. The two beaches of the main island are beautiful and the island can be explored. Read more

Koh Yao (Map #5)

Koh Yao consists of two large islands located half way between Phuket and Krabi. Koh Yao Noi, the smallest of the two has several hotels such as the beautiful Six Senses Hideaway Resort. Koh Yao can be reached from Bang Rong pier on the east coast of Phuket or from Krabi. The island doesn't have any majestic sights but is a popular mountain bike day trip. The east coast has rice fields, a small village on stilts and quite a few rubber plantations.

Koh Bon (Map #6)

Koh Bon is one of the closest islands from Phuket that be reached very easily from Rawai Beach by longtail boat. This small hideaway features two beaches; one is reserved to the guests of the Evason Resort with a restaurant and even some honeymoon beach suites. The other beach is also very nice and has a very popular restaurant, perfect for a lazy day on the beach or playing some water activities.

Rang Yai Island (Map #7)

Rang Yai Island is a beautiful private island located about five kilometers east of the Boat Lagoon and Royal Phuket Marina. If you want to experience a Robinson Crusoe lifestyle, Rang Yai offers camping and bamboo bungalows. You can spend some time kayaking or mountain biking and even visit a pearl farm. Reaching it by longtail boat from Laem Hin pier costs around 1,200 baht round trip.

Koh Kaeo (Map #8)

Koh Kaeo, facing the famous Promthep Cape, is just a tiny island you can visit by longtail boat from Rawai. Apart from a tiny beach, the only particular signs of this island are the two large golden buddhas, one sitting and one standing as well as a small temple on top of the hill.

Koh Maphrao (Coconut Island, Map #9)

Koh Maphrao or Coconut Island is quite a large but rather unknown island very close to Phuket. Built in the recent years, the luxurious Coconut Village is almost the only reason to go there. If you happen to eat at Laem Hin or Kru Suwit Floating Restaurant, you will see the island on the other side of the bay.

Phi Phi Island (Map #10)

Phi Phi of the most visited islands departing Phuket or Krabi and after the movie the beach, it got even more popular. With its beautiful beaches and bays, Phi Phi is mostly a destination for young travelers who feel like party on a tropical island. We went there many times but need to go back to write a proper page about it.

Similan Islands (Map #11)

The Similan Islands are clear blue diamonds in the Andaman Sea... You don't even need to be a good photographer to get some striking photos. Ideally, you should go for a two days trip to make the best of it... it's far and can be tiring to reach by speedboat, plus you'll have the best beach almost for yourself in the morning. Read more

View Islands near Phuket in a larger map

Splash Jungle Water Park Phuket

2012-02-12T01:12:00.000-08:00

Splash Jungle Water Park in Mai Khao Beach, just next to the airport, is the attraction we have been waiting for a long time in Phuket. It's not really huge and it's a bit pricey, but you can spend a good part of the day having fun, eating or even drinking in the water of the pool bar.

Splash Jungle is divided in five main attractions; for starters, drift gently in a tube in the 335 metres long stream of the 'Lazy River' circulating around the entire water park, easy and fun to hang and splash with friends before the 'big one' called 'Boomerango'.

Once ready, pick a tube and climb at the top of the main tower and select one of the five giant sliders. The vertical wall of Boomerango is the scariest but probably the most popular, while the spinning funnel of the 'Super Bowl' is fun for making you from 'slightly disorientated' to 'really dizzy'. Two sliders are open-air and one is a long and dark pipe, not recommended to people subject to claustrophobia.

Once you've got your adrenaline shot, go play in the artificial wave pool... no worries waves are not very big and it is a good place to relax in the swell. Try also the 'Hot Spring', a pool at 35˚C set in a North Pole atmosphere.

Kids have their own pool called 'Aqua Play' with plenty of small sliders, waterfalls and water games. Every once in a while, a monster water bucket located at the very top of the kids playground will empty its content in a gigantic splash.

Done with it or need a break? Have lunch at one of the two restaurants, nothing fancy but this kind of snack lunch goes really well with the summer atmosphere of the Park. Make sure you have a drink at the pool bar... the place is quite hot and sitting in the pool with a cocktail or a chilled drink is great for your tan!

Splash Jungle Water Park entrance is 1,295 Baht for adults, 650 Baht for kids and free for children below 5 years old. Residents will pay 500 Baht on presentation of a Thai driving license. Keep your eyes open when visiting shopping malls, they often give discount coupons.

Splash Jungle Water Park on Phuket Map by Phuket 101

Nai Dam Restaurant in Kathu

2012-02-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

Nai Dam Restaurant in Kathu looks just like any restaurant by the roadside of Phuket. It's not fancy, there are no exterior sign of luxury and even the restaurant signboard is hardly visible. I'm not easily impressed after trying so many restaurants in the past years, but today, I was!

Nai Dam Restaurant is a great place for Thai food lovers. It is cheap and they have some really delicious specialties. It's so well known that even one of the Princesses, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, stopped over many times to eat at Nai Dam when visiting Phuket or Phang Nga.

I have been there before, but was always too lazy to order something out of the ordinary. It was always good but not really worth writing about. But today we only ordered the house specialties and it was really excellent. Our favourites were:

'Moo Paa Phad Phed Kub Bamee Louk' (หมูป่าผัดเผ็ดกับบะหมี่ลวก - Wild Boar in Curry with Yellow Noodles)
'Pla Samlee Phad Prik Thai Dum' |
(ปลาสำลีผัดพริกไทยดำ - Pan fried cotton fish with pepper).
'Phad Dok Hom Moo Sub'
(ผัดดอกหอมหมูสับ Spring onion flowers fried with pork) you should really try this, it is sweet and you would never guess these are spring onions.

It was hard to come up with attractive photos, since they didn't bother with the restaurant atmosphere, but once you try the food, you won't care much for the setting! For the record, we paid 450 baht for three well served dishes and a beer.

Nai Dam restaurant is easy to spot once you know where it is: opposite the new Supercheap convenience store in Kathu (photo), before the Caltex traffic light when coming from Phuket Town. Parking is easy.

Moo Paa Phad Phed Kub Bamee Louk
Pla Samlee Phad Prik Thai Dum
Phad Dok Hom Moo Sub

Nai Dam Restaurant on Phuket Map by Phuket 101

Pak Nam Seafood Phuket

2012-02-08T07:07:00.000-08:00

Pak Nam Seafood in Phuket Town is a great restaurant located outside the tourist roads. It is very well know from locals and residents who like to host parties and even bring friends for a casual business lunch, or just a dinner for two if you are in a mood for good seafood.

You can sit in the main open air room, at the terrace or in one of the air-con rooms. The menu is vast and in English, staff can speak also enough English to take your order.

We have been to Pak Nam many times and here if you need some recommendations, here is what we like to order as you can see on the photos:

'Pla Sai Tok Kamin' - small deep fried fishes with turmeric.
'Pad Pak Miang Koong Seab' - green leaves with dry shrimps.
'Pla Ka-Pong Nung' - a large steamed fish.
'Yum Toa Poo' - green beans salad with squid.
'Kaeng Poo' with 'Bee Hoon' - Crab curry with rice vermicelli.
'Tom Yum Talay' which we don't need to introduce anymore.
One of their specialty is 'Pla Jalamed' - white Pomfret fish with mushroom and soya sauce.
'Taow Toey' - the same dish but with grey Pomfret fish, more expensive and of course it tastes even better.

Pak Nam Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and can be busy on some days in which case it can take some time to be served. Price is very affordable and if you are more than four guests, you should really consider booking in advance.

It's not really easy to find Pak Nam so better print the map. You will have to turn right at the traffic lights just past the Mission Hospital located just at the city limit, on the way from town to airport.

Pak Nam Seafood, 52/220 Ratsadanuson Rd,

Tel: 076 240240

Pak Nam Seafood

Yum Toa Poo

Pad Pak Miang Koong Seab

Kaeng Poo with Bee Hoon

Pla Sai Tod Kamin

Pla Ka-Pong Nung

Pak Nam Seafood on Phuket Map by Phuket 101

The Racha

2012-02-06T08:14:00.000-08:00

The Racha is a small luxury hideaway on an island near another island, twelve miles south of Phuket to be exact. Once in a while, even people living in Phuket need to get away from it all and find another little piece of paradise.

Luckily we don't need to go too far, a two hour boat ride and here is Racha Island, a small pearl in the ocean. This tiny island is very well known from divers as a clear dive site, especially for beginners like me. I did my first dive there and even without prior dive, the experience was fantastic. By twelve meters deep the water was crystal clear, I felt like flying effortlessly above a surreal landscape! Gently drifting just a meter above corals formations full of life, fishes flying above and below and other divers in the far, it was simply amazing, and a lot easier than I anticipated. It was just a diving day trip on a course called 'Discover Scuba Diving', and when I saw Racha Island from the boat, I promised myself to go back and spend a week end on it.

And we did go back... The story is that I had to work on a really difficult project and I needed absolute concentration and no computers around. The Racha was just what we needed... a tropical island with nothing else to distract us but the tropical blue sea, a white powdery sand beach, an amazing sunset, some great food by the beach... wait a minute, this is already very distracting!

We rode a speedboat to the island and on arrival the beach looked so inviting, even with the many dive boats anchored for their day dive. I was not to blame them, this is how I discovered the island in the first place.

A wobbly floating pontoon took us to the beach and from there straight to a beautiful open air lobby. Our room was large and nice but we spent very little time in it.

The resort consist of seventy villas and pools suites, three restaurants and a beautiful spa. Our room didn't have a pool, but we spent most of our time by the main pool and the beach anyway. Believe it or not, the work I thought would take me the whole weekend was wrapped in just few hours!

So the rest of the time was just for us to explore the tiny island, enjoy great seafood dinner on the beach and just sit and look at the sun setting are the best things you can think about. Work done, a glass of wine, both of us staring at the sunset on a small paradise island in Thailand.

14 Great Hotels in Phuket

2012-02-03T05:52:00.000-08:00

Here is our little collection of 14 great hotels in Phuket. We personally tried, enjoyed and would recommend any of these resorts without hesitation. Staying at a hotel is fully part of your holiday, so it should be an experience and a memory in itself, a memory you will bring back home as much as the beach or the food. These might not appear cheap but all have personality and all were a great experience. The hotels below are not the only ones we tried of course and the list will grow, but we started with the fourteen we liked most and sorted them by alphabetical order... for now :)

Amari Coral Beach Resort (Patong Beach)

Amari Coral Beach is one of these rare resorts in Phuket having a very unique location on Patong Beach while having their own small sandy cove and a unique view on the entire bay with all sea facing rooms! Read more

Banyan Tree Resort (Bang Tao Beach)

Banyan Tree Phuket on Bangtao beach is the most luxurious of the five resorts nestled in the Laguna Complex. Open since almost two decades, Banyan Tree is still recognized as one of the ultimate resort experience in Asia. Read more

Evason Phuket Resort (Rawai Beach)

Reviews are mixed about The Evason Phuket, so this was our chance to see it once more ourselves... Yes, the resort is a bit old and is a bit too big to provide that great 'Evason' feel we loved in Hua Hin or Koh Yao. But Evason often offers amazing rates for a four - five star hotel, so see it as your chance to experience the famous Evason lifestyle and service! Read more

Holiday Inn Phuket Resort (Patong Beach)

Holiday Inn Phuket is a success story since a very long time, and their team makes sure it stays this way. Many might not associate the brand 'Holiday Inn' with 'Luxury Island Resort', so you might be in for a surprise. The location is great if you want to get the best of both faces of Patong: the beach and the city with its shopping and famous nightlife. And yet once in the resort, it is surprisingly quiet. Read more

Le Meridien Phuket Resort (Relax Beach)

Part of the "Best Beaches of Phuket' collection, here is one more inaccessible beach only for the use of a hotel's guests. Not well known from most tourists, it happens to have the nicest sand and most amazing blue sea on the island, and it is not even far Patong Beach. This is the nest of Le Meridien Phuket. Read more

Novotel Phuket Resort (Patong Beach)

Novotel Phuket Resort at the northern end of Patong Beach offers sea views not many hotels in Patong can afford. Designed with typical Thai roofs over an imposing lobby, palm trees and greenery everywhere around three huge cascading pools, the resort is a small Thai oasis in a frantic town. Read more

Renaissance Phuket (Mai Khao Beach)

Forget crowded beaches and tourist frenzy! Despite the common belief that Phuket is a busy tourist island, there are some striking beaches you won't have to share with anyone but your own shadow! Read more

Sala Phuket Resort (Mai Khao Beach)

Sala Phuket Resort on Mai Khao Beach is one of our favourite resorts in Phuket, but it is not a hotel to please everyone. Sala Phuket is really a romantic resort for couples and it does not come cheap either but still is affordable. Read more

Six Senses Hideway Yao Noi (Koh Yao Noi)

Six Senses Hideaway Yao Noi on Koh Yao Island is not your usual 'Phuket Resort’, it is a destination in itself. Especially designed for romantic couples in search of an escape from the stress of the big city, this is a perfect hideaway to spend few days before moving to the fun of Phuket Island... Read more

The Racha (Racha Island)

Trisara Villas (near Naithon Beach)

Secluded and luxurious, Trisara is one of the ultimate romantic resorts in Phuket. I know, I mostly have romantic resorts in my blog, but isn't it one of the best way to enjoy such a tropical paradise? Read more

Twinpalms Resort Phuket (Surin)

Not many hotels in Phuket have set the trend for other hotels to follow, but Twinpalms is one of them. Creative and original in many ways, Twinpalms doesn't have beachfront access, doesn't have sea view and is not cheap either. But from the opening day, it was an instant success. Read more

Villa Royale (Kata Noi Beach)

We stayed several times at very unique Villa Royale in Kata Noi Beach. The concept is very original as part of the hotel was actually a privately owned house and each suite is different. One even comes with its own wine cellar. In addition, Villa Royale features one of the best and most romantic restaurants on the island. (Story to come soon :)

Westin Siray Bay Resort (Koh Sirey)

I never thought I would be standing in a trendy beach resort of Phuket while looking at Phuket Island. Westin Siray Bay Resort is a new hotel built on a hillside of Koh Sirey, a tiny island on the east coast of Phuket. From your balcony at night you will be surprised how close the city lights of Phuket Town are! Read more

10 Things to Do in Phuket Off the Beaten Tracks

2012-02-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

Like most people you want to visit Phuket but you would prefer to see it from a less known angle, places most people haven't heard of, and where the chances to meet another tourist are rather thin. Many would say there are no such places in Phuket anymore, but there are! After seventeen years spent on Phuket Island, I found a lot more than you think! So here are some of the little places I rediscovered in the past months and where I spend time when I feel like getting away from it all, and these are just few among many!

Haad Sai Kaew Beach (North Phuket)

Haad Sai Gaew, means 'Glass Sand Beach' in Thai is a beautiful endless beach located at the very north of Phuket Island. During the high season, The sea over there has a nice blue tone and walking alone for miles, you would never guess you are still in Phuket. It is also home of some great small seafood restaurants. Read more

Wat Srisoonthorn

Wat Srisoonthorn sounds like any another Wat, and since there are maybe 40 of them in Phuket, you might ask what can be different about this one? I has a huge reclining Buddha very visible from the main road, but missed by most visitors. Read more

Bang Pae Seafood (Phuket East Coast)

Another of our great week end favourite in Phuket. Bang Pae Seafood serves a large choice of delicious and really local dishes. Sit in a perfect nature setting made of huge mangrove trees growing right into the sea and totally out of the beaten tracks. Read more

Radar Hill View Point
Phuket has quite a few viewpoints but some less visible than others are actually much nicer. The panorama from the 'Radar Hill' is simply breathtaking. Once you are up there, you will barely see anyone but locals and you'll wonder why. Read more

Wat Kao Rang
Here is of other sitting Buddha of Phuket, not the Big Buddha but the original and first sitting golden Buddha on the island, built long ago on the hillside of the popular Khao Rang Hill in Phuket Town. Here too, many people don't even know about this beautiful temple. Read more

Discover Secret Old Phuket Town

Thalang Road is where everyone goes on a Phuket exploration, it's a nice walk and a must do. But if you too have a passion for old houses, you might want to explore a bit deeper to uncover some amazing mansions still standing right before our eyes, but everyone drive too fast to even notice them. It is so easy to imagine Phuket hundred years ago when standing in front of one of these beautiful mansions. Read more

Go to Phang Nga

Phang Nga Bay is huge and you can explore it endlessly without meeting any tourists. Stop at the reclining Buddha inside Suwannakuha Cave and its naughty monkeys. Cruise around Phang Nga Bay and visit a renowned water cave. Get a unique glimpse of Koh Panyee daily life by renting your own boat early morning. Read more

Explore 'SuperCheap'

This is a shop like you never saw one before! Even shops shop here! And it is also about how you can get lost in their amazing maze of everything you need for your daily life or local business. An experience in itself and you will get a good glimpse on what people use for their everyday life. Read more

Laem Ka Beach (Phuket South East Coast)

Laem Ka Beach, in the very south of Phuket near Rawai is a beautiful little gem hidden from view, only the ones in the know might find it. But you have to be a bit curious or adventurous to get something different and obviously some did their homework since I found about fifteen people lazyng on sun loungers. Read more

Mor Mu Dong (Phuket South East Coast)

One of the most local and talked about but hard to find seafood restaurant in the eastern mangrove of Phuket island. It's great, fun and you get a full blast of the real local life. By now, everyone knows that Andrew Zimmern from 'Bizarre Food' tried it and so should you. Read more

Dino Park Mini Golf in Kata Beach

2012-01-30T06:53:00.000-08:00

Dino Park Mini Golf has been opened in Kata beach for many years and is still a great place for families and friends to go for some easygoing fun and competition. With its 'Jurassic Park meets Flintstone' look, the golf was an instant hit from the first day and prehistoric style never gets out of fashion.

Enter a primeval lush jungle and soon you will encounter your first full-scale Triceratops, while a nasty looking Brontosaurus is keeping a placid eye on you from high above the trees...

The game is played in the middle of a beautiful rain forest with a huge volcano blasting clouds of smoke and erupting sounds in the background. Some challenges include water, obstacles made of bones, and I suspect what looks like Dino poo, even a hole is played inside the (hot) volcano. The game is just right, not too hard or easy so everyone can enjoy and the original setting keeps your eyes busy while you are waiting your turn. The whole thing looks pretty real, even the jungle heat!

Will you recognize the Deinonysaurus, Stegosaurus, Eichynosuarus, Euoplocephalus, the handsome Dimetrodon and the very smart Troodon Formosus? (I think that was him, he didn't leave his name card).

It's great fun after a day on the beach, and a game can last between to 30 to 40 minutes, but people tend to play the last part of the game pretty quickly as the area gets pretty hot towards the end. Best is to go after dinner, it's more colorful with the lighting and less hot, some say it's even more fun in the rain.

Located near Kata center main intersection, just opposite of Starbucks, Dino Park is also a very popular restaurant called 'Dino Bar' serving Dino Burgers in a prehistoric cave like garden. I was disappointed that the burgers were not really made with real Dinosaur meat. The bar serves nice cocktails and ice coffees you will really appreciate after such hot game. Dino Park is part of the Marina Phuket Resort and on some evenings the resort's baby elephant comes and visit the mini golf.

Open daily from 10am to midnight.

Price: 240 baht for adults, 180 for children.

Dino Park Mini Golf is #7 on Phuket Map by Phuket101

Banyan Tree Phuket

2012-01-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

Banyan Tree Phuket on Bangtao Beach is the most luxurious of the five resorts nestled in the Laguna Complex. Open since almost two decades, Banyan Tree is still recognized as one of the ultimate resort experience in Asia.

Banyan Tree will always be a special place to me as I worked there as a resort host for a short while, so I know how difficult it is to make sure that each guest is taken care of just right, and how every little detail becomes important. With so many year of experience, they certainly do this extremely well.

You can choose among four or five types of villas, all perfectly enclosed with own garden or pool for a total privacy. At first it might sound surprising to come so close to the beach and lock yourself in the privacy of your own villa, but once you try it, you will love it. You can have great in villa dining and the sea is just steps away with all the beach facilities.

With six restaurants in the resort, you can treat yourself every single day without having to leave: Saffron (Thai Cuisine), Watercourt (Mediterranean Cuisine), Tre (French Vietnamese), Sala Terrace (French Fusion and Seafood), Tamarind (Seafood and Asian Cuisine) and Banyan Café at the golf course. Best but expensive is the romantic dining on a private longtail boat in the middle of the lagoon, with candle and star lights, it is hard to beat. You can also get a shuttle to dine at any of the others resorts in the Laguna Complex.

Banyan Tree Spa is also one of the most outstanding on the island. Treatments certainly don't come cheap, but even though, you will have to book in advance to get one! We tried it and without a doubt, it's worth the money.

Then you have your own 18 holes golf course right there in front of the lobby! How cool can it be for a golfer?

The beach of Bangtao is nice and relatively quiet in this area, and you can walk to some beachfront seafood restaurants. These are not really 'local' restaurants, they know since long time that guests from five star resorts usually have more money and less sense of 'local prices', but it is still nice to eat on the beach for a relatively cheap price. (Read about 10 Best Local Seafood Restaurants in Phuket here).

Read more here about Banyan Tree Phuket.

View Phuket Map by Phuket101 in a larger map

The Art of Driving in Phuket - Renting a Bike or a Car in Phuket

2012-01-23T04:07:00.000-08:00

With so many things to see and do in Phuket, renting a bike or a car seems to be one of the best ways to get around freely at low cost. But it comes with some risks and dangers. Following these basic rules might help avoiding unnecessary trouble.

Renting a Car in Phuket

Best is to rent for a well-known international brand, usually at Phuket Airport or from your hotel, easy, safe and worry free. Might also be a good idea to get the full insurance to cover all possible costs and you can even rent a GPS for 100 baht to find your way around. You'll need an international driving license, a credit card and of course a passport. If you chose to rent form a private company, only use recommended companies as scams are not unusual. Prices seem to start at 1,000 baht a day for a Jazz size.

Renting a Bike

You'll find them everywhere, but none will come with insurance. Expect to pay 150 to 200 baht a day for a Honda Dream or a Honda Click (automatic gear). If you rent it per month, it can go as low as 95 baht a day, but you better practice your bargaining skills! You will need an international driving license and passport: police controls are quite frequent and even though a fine could be considered small, it's a frustration and a waste of time (you might get away with a bribe, often works). Rent only from your hotel or a recommended rental shop and you will also save yourself possible 'trouble' (someone might steal your bike). Large rental shops often rent bikes as well. Until recently you could rent a very big bike as it didn't require a different driving license than the car license (while Thai use one for the car and one for the bike). This seems to have changed, and remember, with bigger bikes come seriously bigger risks.

The Driving:

Except for the fact that you'll have to drive on the left side of the road if you are not familiar with it, the rest seems to be quite normal at first, but be ready, you are in for a surprise (or two). Bikes often drive on the wrong side of the road as a shortcut, and take over on the left as much as on the right, especially at traffic lights, so keep an eye on your three mirrors. In western countries, this is not allowed, and you might get a bad surprise when turning left or turning right across a street.

Beware of the slippery roads (water or sand) and never assume than someone will give way, even at a stop sign, until you made some kind of eye contact.

Another fact: You will try to stop at the orange light, but in Phuket everyone else speeds up! You might even see an eighteen wheels truck crossing an intersection up to 3-4 seconds after the traffic light has turned red! Equally, when your traffic light turns green, do like the locals do: still check on the right if an eighteen wheels truck is not coming through at full speed! I saw it!

A branch of tree on the road means there is a car, a truck or a bus stopped somewhere on the road ahead with some engine trouble (You would normally use a reflecting triangle).

Helmets (and sit belts) are compulsory, but you will only see half of the riders using one, the rest just carry one in the front basket for eventual police controls, in which case they'll pop the helmet onto their heads for two minutes and drop it back in the basket once... 'safe'. Back seat passenger is also required to wear a helmet... Phuket has been very resistant to this law, and when you see four riders on the same bike, that would make a lot of helmets to carry anyway! Just remember, even though riding a bike on a tropical island is a lot more fun with your hair flying in the wind, the helmet is for your safety!

What to Do In Case of accident in Phuket:

Get someone to call 191 or better: 1155 the tourist police number and call an ambulance if necessary. For Ambulance call 1554. You might hear all kinds of stories but you will stand better chances with a English speaking police officer, even if just a little. Unfortunately, by definition, you are 'Farang' ('foreigner' or 'tourist') and therefore will be considered richer and will have to pay for the damage, even in blatant cases. Other fun rule: In the case of an accident between a car and a bike, the car will most of the time have to pay (car is more expensive than a bike, therefore has more money). If you are a foreigner driving a car and hit a bike, then it's double trouble. Do not move any vehicle, even if you are causing traffic jam. Call also your insurance, they usually send someone to help with the paperwork or call your rental company.

If you drink and drive you are taking a higher chance, police controls are rare, but do exist, so sometimes it's better take a Tuk Tuk back to your hotel and pick up your bike the next day.

Conclusion, yes it's fun convenient and cheap, but be always aware and maybe get an insurance before living to put all the chances on your side!

Promthep Cape

2012-01-20T10:56:00.000-08:00

Promthep Cape at the southernmost point of Phuket island seems to be an absolutely irresistible spot for a good old-fashioned sunset photo. This landmark has always been the meeting point for a good hundred tourists, mostly Thai, to line up on the west facing coastline with cameras ready. Huge colorful buses download a horde of daily tourists hungry for a picture and the place starts buzzing with flash all directions. It's actually funny to see how many people take sunset photos with a flash!
With its elevated location and few small islands nearby, Promthep Cape is certainly a nice place to see a sunset, but it is not really amazing. Watching the crowd is almost more entertaining: most people are texting of playing facebook games while waiting for the six o'clock moment.

Promthep Cape cape is Phuket's symbol and you will recognize its tall sugar palms on car plates having a special number. In case you didn't know, you can buy a special 'lucky' number and your plate will be decorated with the symbol of the province.

If you feel courageous, and clearly not many do, walk all the way down to the end of the cape. It is quite easy to go there, but without training, on the way back you might wonder why did you have to inflict this to yourself.

What is around to see Promthep cape? Not much, the Lighthouse, which is also a mini museum, doesn't display much to look at and even from the top doesn't offer any particular view. The shrine surrounded by hundreds of elephants statues and carvings in all sizes and colors is a lot nicer. You can't miss it.

Once done with your sunset photo, there are only two things left to do: a bit of touristic shopping if you like stuff made of shells or 'I love Phuket' tee shirts or what I recommend instead, have diner 'Al Fresco' at Promthep Restaurant. The sky displays its last colors over the bay while enjoying a good seafood dinner. Now that's the way to end the day.

Useful Tip: If you made it that far and you enjoy nice viewpoints, continue driving toward Nai Harn Beach and stop at the Windmill Viewpoint.

View Phuket Map by Phuket101 in a larger map

Novotel Phuket Resort

2012-01-16T07:23:00.000-08:00

You can choose to laze around the pools or walk down to the beach just across the road. This part of the beach is less crowded and often nicer than other parts, and you can enjoy beach activities or beach massage.

Novotel Phuket Resort features three restaurants; 'Rueng Thai' serves a traditional Thai Cuisine while the 'Old Fisherman', you guessed it, is an open air seafood restaurant. The 'Coffee House' is where your breakfast will be served as well as evening theme buffets. Don't be shy on the rock lobsters, the steamed fish or the giant prawns!

If you stay for a while you can find other dining alternatives nearby. Go for local food or even try the food stalls by the road, it can be a lot of fun, or go overboard and treat yourself at the excellent (but pricey) Da Maurizio.

End your lazy day at 'The Hourglass' by the lobby, a cozy bar with some cool music and a glass of wine, or just enjoy the lobby's amazing views of Patong bay beyond the pools.

Nightlife and shopping are not at walking distance but getting to the famous Soi Bangla, the hot street of Patong and Jungceylon shopping mall is just a few minute ride by tuk tuk or taxis. Don't worry there are always taxis standing by.

The spa is large and has a good range of treatments. Try it at least once, as spa is so much part of a holiday in Thailand. The best is still a good traditional Thai massage in the open air salas near the pool, such a nice treat after a hot day at the beach. A small fitness room is available with a trainer, and kids are welcome with a small kids club.

Novotel Phuket Resort offers three room types: Superior, Deluxe and Family Suites, most have been refurbished with a nice modern Thai style. Rooms are not very large by Phuket standards, but have all the convenience you can expect from a four star international resort, and the views from the balconies are beautiful.

The hotel grounds and some venues could do with a new design, but the location, the large pools and frequent special offers make it a great value. The main point of the Novotel is all about the beach at an affordable price so have a look at the current rates of Novotel Phuket Resort

Novotel Phuket Resort on Phuket Map by Phuket101 in a larger map

Amari Coral Beach Resort

2012-01-08T08:13:00.000-08:00

Amari Coral Beach is one of these rare resorts in Phuket having a very unique location on Patong Beach. Blessed with its own small sandy cove and a unique view on the entire bay, all the rooms at Amari Coral Beach are facing the sea!

This four star resort is located at the southern end on Patong, just past the large bridge... It is quite a large hotel and despite a slightly dated architecture, the renovated design, two large pools and one of the most romantic restaurants in Patong, makes Amari Coral Beach a long time winner.

With 197 rooms, five restaurants and a large open air spa with private sea view massage rooms, Amari Coral Beach has many attractive points. If you want to try scuba diving, you can even have your first lesson right in the resort, the resort has it's own dive center and you will be able to safely practice in the pool. Fitness is well equipped and tennis courts are available.

'La Gritta', the very popular Italian restaurant overlooking the sea, is the nicest one. 'Rim Talay' is also very nice and having a cocktail on the sea deck by the sea is a nice treat. Twice a month, the 'Jetty Restaurant' offers a very romantic starlight barbecue, where you also can spend a nice peaceful day in one of the nice loungers.

And once you are ready for some fun, Patong is nearby; tuk tuks and taxis are always standing by to give you a quick ride.

For rates and reservations see Amari Coral Beach Resort.

La Gritta is # 16 on Phuket101 map

Wat Chalong

2012-01-07T20:39:00.000-08:00

Wat Chalong, built at the beginning on 19th century, is the largest and most visited Buddhist temple in Phuket. Its real name is Wat Chaitararam, but you probably won't hear it or see it on any road signs. It's not my favourite temple to photograph, but it is almost a must to visit.

The most recent building on the grounds of Wat Chalong is a 60 meters tall 'Chedi' sheltering a splinter of bone from Buddha. Walls and ceilings are decorated with beautiful painting illustrating the life of Buddha, as well as many donated golden statues.

Wat Chalong Chedi is built on three floors so feel free to climb all the way to the top floor terrace to get a nice bird view on the entire temple grounds. Few more steps will lead you to a glass display where the fragment of bone can be contemplated. You can see the nearby Phuket Big Buddha from there, but actually you can see it from almost anywhere in the southern part of Phuket island.

The central temple is where most Thai people will make merit by offering lotus flowers and adding a small piece of gold paper to the monks statues inside. No need to tell you to remove your shoes, you already know that and the sea of shoes in front of the temple will remind you anyway. In theory you should wear long pants and no sleeveless shirts... but this requirement seems to belong to a past era.

Once in a while, you will hear loud explosions of firecrackers coming form a brick oven-like construction. That's another way to make merit, it is supposed to show your gratitude when one of your wishes has been granted. One person stands by to lit the firecrackers for you, the big ones are pretty scary but make fun photos (see video).

On the side of the temple a dozen of small shops are selling all kinds of souvenirs and tourist stuff... Strangely, the shops selling religious items are outside the temple ground, next to the gate, go figure...

Then there are the occasional large fun fairs, displaying lots of food, plenty of favourite Thai games and loud stage performances. It's always fun, noisy, entertaining and will certainly give you interesting of opportunities to take some fun photos and an insight on Thai life.

How to get to Wat Chalong:
From Phuket town, take 'Chaofa Road' in the direction of Chalong and Rawai. There are two Chaofa Roads: the one you need is passing in front of Central Festival and all the shopping malls. It's about 10 km from Central on the left, well indicated.

Useful tips? Wat Chalong is a nice stop on the way to the nearest interesting point: the Big Buddha. If you like temples, see also the reclining Buddha of Wat Srisoonthorn.

Lisez ici la version Française de Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong on Phuket 101 Map

China Inn Phuket

2012-01-03T10:22:00.000-08:00

The list of Restaurants to try when in Phuket is longer than one would think! China Inn is a lovely little restaurant in the middle of the Thalang Road, the historical street of Phuket Town. Everyone who has walked down that street admired it and most even took photos. But how many stepped in or had a lunch in its garden? Not that many.
The Restaurant was an old family house renovated with great taste and style, a lot of money and more than two years work. They didn't fall in the usual trap of making a new house out of an old one, they kept the soul of the house alive and you can't help but admiring the result. The typical Sino Portuguese red facade, the Chinese doors and beautiful floor tiles are an invitation to photography.

China Inn is also an antique and handicraft shop and the first room is full of items to browse or buy. Except a blackboard with a hand written menu outside the house, no one will greet you or invite you inside, so help yourself and walk in. Pass the shop and enter the second room where you might find someone at the counter to walk you to the garden where only few tables are set. This is one of the surprising aspects of China Inn; house is beautiful, food is good, but staff is cold like if they were actually doing you a favour by allowing you to have lunch.

The garden area is relaxing and nice for a peaceful lunch so don't go there is you have to be somewhere soon... time seems to move at a different pace, and thirty minutes can pass before your first course is served. But that's ok, take your time to explore the place, you might want to go upstairs too where they sell Chinese style clothing... China Inn used to have a room for rent up there, but they no longer rent it.

We of course ordered Thai dishes as it seems the logical choice in a Sino Portuguese house, but you also can select European fusion dishes. The Pomelo salad was very nice and the Massaman curry with shrimps was also excellent.

I went there more than five times, and I always reach the same verdict. Service is cold, food is slow and a bit pricey, but the house is beautiful and the food is good and goes so well with the atmosphere, I still take my friends when exploring the Old Town.

China Inn is located on 20, Thalang Road (between Wilai Restaurant and Kopitiam) and opens only for lunch, from Monday to Saturday. Keep in mind that it is closed on Sunday, travellers often forget that Phuket Town is pretty quiet on that day! Call 076-356239 if you want to secure one of the very few tables.

China Inn is #13 on Phuket 101 Map

Koh Sirey (Koh Siray)

2012-01-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

Koh Sirey is an island, but you would never guess it from a map and many probably have never heard of it. Connected to Phuket town by a very short bridge, this small piece of land doesn't have many particular signs but this is where you will find the beautiful Westin Siray Bay Resort (Like many words translated from Thai, the spelling often differs).

This small island is only 20 km square and is visible from quite far with its Thai temple built at the top of a hill. Driving up there is easy and a small road drives around the temple, surrounded by many small shrines dedicated people passed away. Park where you can and walk to the temple to enjoy a nice bird view on Phuket town. The temple also shelters a golden reclining buddha which without being really impressive (like the one at Wat Srisoonthron), is still as big as the temple. A note : the old guy standing by inside the temple will request a donation if you want to take a photo of the reclining Buddha, this is most unusual and he is pretty grumpy, so better drop a small note in the donation box (It's a nice gesture anyway).

Beside the Westin and the temple, Koh Sirey is home to a Sea Gypsy village also known as Chao Lay. Not far behind the resort is Plylaem Seafood, a nice seafood restaurant where you can get a nice and affordable lunch before heading back to the mainland.

Don't miss the many monkeys at the bridge, the area now clearly indicated by green signs, and the monkeys enjoy the fruits regularly given by the locals. It's hard to resist this little guys, these are not yet as tamed as the one on Monkey Hill also in Phuket Town, and certainly not as naughty as the ones in Phang Nga Cave (which also shelters a reclining buddha).

Also on the way to the island, the fishing port might be an opportunity for a photo... it is always a bit surprising to see workers and fisherman loading ice in the sun with their face entirely cover by a hood like bank robbers :)

Koh Sirey is not really a destination in itself, but it's an area of Phuket that deserves to be seen a bit more or if you you are like us eager to explore every corner of the island.

Koh Sirey is Blue#38 on Phuket Map by Phuket101

Lor Rong Food Market - Phuket Specialties

2011-12-29T22:42:00.000-08:00

Had enough tourist food and want to try real Phuket specialties? When visiting Phuket Town, if you have a bit of time and are curious about Phuket real local food, you have to stop by Lor Rong Market. This little food place might just look like any others, but is in fact a very well known and popular venue for Phuket people and very few long time residents.

I drove many times in front of Lor Rong without paying much attention to it... until recently. I thought it was just a regular Thai food place, so just like many, I just went on.

Once you know about it, food on display looks a lot more interesting. It's not very big and looks very basic, but some of the sweets and dishes prepared here are real specialties and some can't be found anywhere else. People are very friendly and will be very pleased to see you trying the food they are very proud of.

Some sweets to try:

Kao Maow Tod (photo 1 and 2):

Banana deep fried with a special young rice crumbs coating... very nice but certainly not diet friendly!

Kanom Sod:

Assorted Phuket fresh snacks

Kanom Krok Phuket Style: (photo 3 and 4)

Small sweet made with coconut milk and rice flour, cooked in this fun looking pan with little clay lids. Phuket people eat it with sugar.

O Eow: (photo 5)

Jelly made from banana with shaved ice and syrup.

For the salty dishes:

Poh Pia Phuket Style: (photo 10)

Fresh spring rolls served with a sweet brown sauce, stuffed with red pork or shrimps, crispy pork, bit of lettuce and turnip.

Mee Hoon Kradook Moo: (photo 6)

Fried vermicelli topped with fried shallots and spring onion, served with a clear soup and pork ribs. Excellent.

Mee Thai: (photo 8)

Same as above but with fried with brown sugar and coconut milk, topped with sliced omelet and served without soup. Try it, this is the only place where you can have it!

Loba: (photo 9)

Deep fried Pork giblets: intestines, ears and fat belly also served with sweet brown sauce and cucumber.

O Tow:

Stir fried small oysters with flour, crispy pork, taro, chili and eggs.

Lor Rong is located past the local bus station, after the famous Jui Tui Shrine, on the way leading to Central Festival. If you have your own transportation, it is fairly easy to find. So you should stop over to sample some of these Phuket specialties. If you really can't make it to this area, some of these dishes can also be found in the middle of town at Loktien Restaurant, but it is always more fun to go out of the beaten roads and sit among locals.

(Thank you to my friend Khun Praew for sharing her knowledge of Phuket!)

1) Kao Maow Tod

2) Kao Maow Tod

4) Kanom Krok

5) O Eow

6) Mee Hoon Kradook Moo

7) Kanom Sod

8) Mee Thai

9) Loba

10) Po Pia Phuket Style

11) Kanom Sod - Phuket Sweets

12) Kanom Sod - Phuket Sweets

Lor Rong Market is #47 on Phuket Map by Phuket101

New Tiger on Soi Bangla in Patong Beach

2011-12-25T06:51:00.000-08:00

The New Tiger entertainment complex in the famous Soi Bangla in Patong Beach is about to take a serious bite at the nightlife scene in Phuket. With three floors dominated by three massive tigers, much highed ceilings and a lot more room to walk around the new Tiger is a party monster. A blast of lights and colors are taking this gigantic Flintstone cave looking venue to a much higher level of party zone.

The original Soi Tiger has been open for more than a decade and was often used as a Landmark in Patong. It had some ups and downs, but already, there was no way to miss it. On the ground floor were all the little beer bars with the girls dancing on the counter for most, and upstair was, and still is, the popular Tiger Discotheque. The entire building was easy to recognize with this rocky cave look you will see in several other places in Patong, such as the Tiger Inn, and the Patong Boxing Stadium in the back of Jungceylon.

But lately, this good old the old Tiger is looking very tired and the crowds, like moths, are attracted by brighter the lights and the dominating look of the new boss in town. Maybe it is time for this old veteran to get that well deserver retirement.

At the time this story is written, only the ground floor has been completed and even if only half of the available bars are rented, it already looks busy and lively. The new Tiger is very ambitious and so vast, it could easily swallow three times the old one.

Some bar names sounds rather familiar like Stockholm bar and some sound new in town: Pink Paradise, Mini Cooper Bar. Q Bar and Blix occupy the prime spots just on the street front.

Anyway, bars come and go and names as well. The new Tiger will see some ups and down like its elder brother, but the battle for Bangla supremacy is looking promising for the New Tiger.

New Tiger is # 21 on Phuket Map by Phuket101

Banzaan Market in Patong Beach

2011-12-25T00:58:00.000-08:00

Banzaan Market in Patong Beach is a great experience during your holiday... it is a lot easier to access than local markets since it is located just behind the huge Jungceylon Shopping Mall. Get your first glimpse of fun looking Thai fruits, amazing fishes, strange veggies and colorful sweets!

Banzaan Market (‘banzaan’ means 'fresh market' in Hokkien) is very clean and bright, it might lack a bit of the local feel you get in other fresh markets on the island, but foods on display is of very good quality and offers a wider variety as well. A good way to start on the first days and try to get to a real local one later. Banzaan Market is open all day but it's a lot nicer to come in the morning, even at 10 or 11 am shelves are still well supplied.

The ground floor is where all the fresh food is. As most markets, the place is divided in zones: fruits, veggies, meat, fish and all the cooking ingredients. People are friendly and often speak a bit of English. This will be your chance to see a lot of unusual Thai fruits, so don't hesitate to buy some funny looking ones and try them. Except the Jack Fruit and the well known Durian, all other fruits, even scary or weird looking one like the Dragon fruit, the Salai or the Custard Apple are sweet and don't taste strong.

Veggies corner is always fascinating with so many unknown species of plants that often resemble more like weed. You might recognize the several ingredients used in the popular Tom Yam or Tom Ka: Lemongrass, Galangal and Kafir lime.

Meat corner is probably not as popular as the fish area, but looks a lot more hygienic than in Phuket town market or local village markets. Despite their 'raw' display, meat sold in markets is often fresher than the one found in 'better presented' supermarkets.

The fish corner is also interesting with, a large variety of very fresh looking fishes and seafood, but what catches the eye most are the live hanging crabs endlessly swimming in the air suspended by a string, the eels and catfish are still frantically swimming in their buckets and the cockle shells might spit at you is you stare at them too long.

A set of escalators takes you upstairs where you will find a food court, but only half the stalls seem to be used. The Hemingway restaurant downstairs seems to be a lot more successful. One corner of the second floor sells unbranded cloths and jeans.

On your way in or out, have a look at the colourful little Chinese shrine, people often miss it, but it's kind of cute.

At night the street surrounding the Banzaan market becomes a huge night market where you can buy food, sweets or drink from dozen of food carts.

Open: 6 am to 9 pm
Location: Sai Kor Road, Patong beach, (behind Jungceylon Shopping Mall)

Banzaan Market is #8 on the map, #1 is Junceylon. View Phuket Map by Phuket101 in a larger map

Phuket Airport: Good Things to Know

2011-12-22T03:38:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows that the most stressful time for any traveler resides between the moment he leaves home and the moment he drops his luggage in a (satisfactory) hotel room. Everything in between is just a long list of things to worry about: taxi, luggage, lost passport, how far is the gate, why is the queue so long, etc. I can't predict everything, but at least I can give you few hints about Phuket International Airport.

Phuket Airport: On Arrival

Be ready to queue... immigration is a lucky draw, the queue you are about to pick will always be the wrong one anyway. But think about this: even if it goes faster than you expect, your luggage hasn't arrived anyway! So take it easy, you'll get through eventually. Important point, there are 2 luggage claims: Domestic and International. If you did your immigration in Bangkok you will arrive at the Domestic terminal BUT your luggage are waiting in the International terminal. Since you are now aware of that fact, you will quickly spot the sign pointing to the right direction, and it's only 10 meters away out the door.

Getting from Phuket Airport to your Hotel:

You booked your transfer in advance of course? If not you have 4 options.

Airport Limousine: Best and maybe not as expensive as you think, several counters are located right outside the baggage claims. They might appear a bit pushy and look like touts, but they are not. It's just competition: if they don't convince you, the next counter will (or might). It cost a bit more than taxi meter, but it's hassle free (well most of the time) and prices are clearly displayed (expect 400 to 600 Baht but you get a nice new Camry.)

Taxi Meter: Located far outside, turn to the right as soon as you step outside and walk all the way to the end of the building... it's not really far. Make sure taxi turns on the meter! There is a surcharge of 100 Baht for Airport... I haven't use it myself but I will. A reader reported a Phuket Airport-Kamala by Taxi meter cost 400 Baht while it would cost 600 to 700 by limo. There used to be another weird story when taxi would stop on their way at their office and a travel agent would come to the car, trying to convince you to change hotel for all kinds of silly reasons, the real one being their commission of course. (It happened to us too)

The Local Bus... seriously? Phuket Airport is on Mai Khao Beach, 30 to 40 km from your hotel and you just did few thousand miles.

Rent a Car: Easy, they are just outside the domestic gate. If you arrived from international, turn right past the customs (before stepping outside) and walk all the way to the end, you'll see the logos from far anyway. Better take an internationally known brand, and make sure you have your international license... later I'll tell you how fun it is to drive in Phuket! Rates for a Honda Jazz or Honda city start at 1,000 baht/day with insurance. You can rent a GPS for 100 Baht/day.

Other Interesting Points:

- There are several ATM past the customs, all from well known banks, so safe to use and exchange rate is good. (I don't cover bad luck cases).

- Hotel representatives are not allowed inside Phuket Airport terminal so if you booked a transfer with your hotel, go straight outside and find your name.

- Once you picked up your luggage, there is STILL one duty-free shop! Your last chance to pick a bottle of something...

Leaving Phuket:

There are two terminals, but the entrance is the same. Good Tip: if someone drops you, taxi or friend, at the departure terminal and you see a big queue outside the door waiting at the scanner (happens a lot if you leave at the same time as a big charter), ask your driver to drive DOWN at the ARRIVAL door... there is usually nobody there! Once in, walk either right or left to one of the elevators to reach the second floor. Then send me a thank you mail once home.

In the terminal, there is not much excitement here, especially since you are leaving. Proceeding to the check in counters is simple but time varies, like anywhere else. If you have time to waste there are several restaurants or pubs. Bill Bentley is cool, and Thai Airways restaurant on third floor is comfortable and food is pretty good, but I wouldn't recommend it if your time is short... service can be slow, as well as the bill. I always thought if someone should understand he words 'speed', or 'fast' or 'I'm in a rush but I'm hungry' that would be the Airport staff... wrong guess.

Then you also can pick between local counters, Subway or Burger King (often crowded). If you pass immigration and move inside international lounge, you'll find... oh, surprise: Another Burger King! There is so far only one Duty Free shop for perfumes, alcohol and cigarettes, but you can still find few interesting deals.

Notes

If you plan to leave your car for a domestic flight somewhere, it costs 200 baht per day and finding a parking spot can be stressful at certain hours, so allow extra time. Reaching the airport at the end of the afternoon as well... traffic is very unpredictable.

Some Distances from Phuket Airport:
Airport to Patong: 37.7 km, 53 mins
Airport to Kata : 47.4 km, 1 hour
Airport to Karon : 43.4 km, 1 hour
Airport to Panwa : 43.9 km, 1 hour
Airport to Bangtao : 21 km, 29 mn
Airport to Phuket Town : 32.8 km, 40mins
Airport to Rawai : 48 km, 58 mins
Airport to Chalong : 40 km, 50 mins
Airport to Kamala : 27.6 km, 36 mins
Airport to Surin : 23.3 km, 29 mins
Airport to Mai Khao : 8 km, 18 mins

Cliquez ici pour la version Française de l'Aéroport de Phuket

Phuket Airport on Phuket 101 Map just next to it is Splash Jungle Water Park

Suay Restaurant in Phuket Town

2011-12-19T06:06:00.000-08:00

Not often do we find a successful new young and creative restaurant in Phuket. Suay (meaning 'beautiful') has mixed with style the simplicity of a small house with a good atmosphere and a fun cuisine. Tucked in a small garden, Suay Restaurant is a pleasant place for a lunch or a light dinner in good company. Price is affordable and cuisine is creative and original, so don't be shy: try things that sound funny from the menu. The location just in the center of Phuket town makes it easy to access.

Set in the middle on a small garden, what strikes first is how simple yet warm the setting is... you can decide to sit inside or al fresco in the 'veranda' like area, which is definitely the best.

We went there a few times and had the chance to try several of the creations. It was so nice we even decided to select Suay for our 'House Blessing Ceremony' (Tanboon Baan) buffet! In case you have never seen one of these event, we invited friends and family to join us in the morning for the blessing of our house ceremony by nine monks who were specially coming all the way from a Phang Nga Temple. I'll write about it soon.

The food is Thai fusion, but we all know that 'fusion' nowadays is no more a quality, so let's call it 'Innovative Thai Cuisine' or 'Young Thai Cuisine'. This is your chance to try the blue sticky rice, known for its calming qualities... or the Sticky Rice Mango Spring Rolls or even Black Sesame Ice Cream. Many of the classic Thai dishes are here but they all come with a nice personal touch: Som Tam, Tom Yum and Nam Tok Nua (Beef salad), chicken satay and some frog legs with garlic and pepper to name a few. Some names on the menu are still mysterious, so we'll just have to go again: 'Mrs Piggy Took Sun Bath' (Moo Dad Diew) and 'Apple Salad with Catfish Cigar', 'Pomelo Salad with Salmon Carpaccio and Roasted Chili Dressing'. Overall it is a very refreshing experience for a very affordable price.

Location: 50/2 Takua Pa Road
Tel: 081 747 2424
Open for lunch 11:00-16:00 and dinner 18.00-22:00, closed on Monday.

Suay Restaurant is # 45 on Phuket 101 Map - #32 is the famous Ka Jok See Restaurant