The Best of Phuket

There is perhaps nothing more romantic then planning a getaway for two in beautiful Phuket, Thailand. Blessed with beautiful beaches and small lively towns, Phuket is perfect for the ideal honeymoon or romantic date, as it offers many places to travel around in, and is often considered by many to be the paradise island. There are many tings to explore in Phuket that appeal to every kind of tourist, and many possible routes where a couple can spend some private time and still be able to enjoy the beautiful sights in store.

The numerous beaches around the island are perhaps Phuket's best draw. While many tourists often flock to these areas during the hot summer months, Phuket still remains relatively clean, unlike other destination spots. Despite thee rise of visitors in the area however, there are still many secluded beaches where a couple can spend time together with relatively little noises and disturbances. The Kata Yai beach, for example, is renowned as a surfing spot for some, but is considerably less crowded than nearby areas. For those who prefer exploring underwater by snorkeling or scuba diving, then the Laem Singh Beach is the perfect place to swim and watch the breathtaking sunsets. Kayaking is a popular recreation where couples can spend some time to themselves while a hired guide paddles them around. Other beaches include Bang Tao, Surin Beach, and Karon Beach, where restaurants and bars are frequent, but with lesser customers at any one time.

For couples who would like to take an active part in the island's nightlife though, there is always the ever-popular Patong beach, considered Phuket's party capital. There are many bars here that are actually aimed at couples looking to relax and have a great time, and rock joints and jazz clubs are frequent along most of the main roads. Shopping is also Phuket's national pastime, and cheap merchandise is found in both roadside stalls and air-conditioned shopping malls.

For couples who would like a more modern romantic getaway, the nearby Phuket town is the administrative capital of the island, and is easily the best place to go to view cultural landmarks such as the fascinating Phuket Culture Museum or the beautiful Wat Mongkol Nimit temple. Vendors and shopping malls are easily very common here at the most bargain prices. Despite having a thriving business climate, some of the cheapest and good quality hotels can be found here for the thrifty couple, such as the On On Hotel.

For couples who would like to experience something exciting and unique for their honeymoon trips or romantic getaways, then why not try a safari cruise? The Elephant Safari Hills camp, which is located at Khao Suk, offers a adventure-packed journey where visitors can travel on top of an elephant, spend the night underneath the stars in high quality tents served with topnotch meals and cocktails, and hours of exploration amidst the awe-inspiring tropical jungles found all over Phuket. Daytours to other travel packages that can last up to four days are available.

One can never get enough of the sea at Phuket, and romantic cruises are one of the selling points of the island. Couples can take a comfortable trip around Phuket, where the intimate atmosphere and stunning views of the seascape only adds to the romantic mood. Dinner cruises are available at the Banyan Tree, where couples can explore the area in a traditional Thai long boat, serenaded by musicians and first-class meals. For something to while away the hours a little longer, the Hong by Starlight tour provides stunning views of the sea and land, and offers fine dining and comfortable rooms to further the romantic atmosphere.

Thank you for reading my article. Please visit Salwar Kameez for more information on Kurtas

Sailing and Scuba Diving in Phuket

Looking for something new to do? Phuket has been known as one of the best tourist spots all over Asia. It has offered many beautiful places for sightseeing, and many activities for those who have a thirst for adventure. Now, there's something more that the hot spot is willing to offer to foreign and local vacationers: Sailing and scuba diving.

Over the years, the tourism industry in Thailand has been progressively developing into a global attraction. Phuket is one of the main contributors to this success. Its luscious beaches and tourist spots have been causing attention traffic from people al over the world, especially those coming from countries with colder climates. Phuket, coined as the Pearl of the South, is a taste of heaven for tourists, particularly sailors and scuba divers. It is without doubt a crown jewel of the Andaman Sea and of Thailand, all in all.

One of the most renowned diving spots in Asia and in the whole world is Thailand's Andaman Sea. The port or hub of diving is situated in Phuket, making it an important part of the whole experience. The shores of this beach boast of its beautiful sands, clear waters and abundant marine life. The physical features of the sea are a sight to see that is worth the cost. The tropical climate and the rich seas make the experience all the more wonderful.

Sailing and scuba diving can be experienced at any time of the year. The months between October and May, though, prove to provide the best winds and conditions for the best experience. The waters of the sea has its fleets of dive boats.

Locals say that in the old times, these ships used to be the way of trade and transportation of explorers, merchants, missionaries, and even pirates. However, there remains a large portion of the seas and islands that is unexplored at the present time. This brings about elated excitement with the diving and sailing activities.

The enthrallment coming from the mystery of the undiscovered areas gives off a thrill-seeking vibe to the tourists. The possibility of seeing new frontiers, more diverse water creature and sea life keeps the experience surreal. Whale sharks, unprecedented growths of coral reefs, different types of fish and animals are just a few of the aquatic life that can be found in the depths of this sea.

The best diving sites in Phuket and Andaman Sea include the Burma Banks in the archipelago of Mergui, the Surin Islands, the Similan Islands, the Andaman Islands, sites around the Phi Phi Islands, the King Cruise Wreck, Koh Dok Mai, Phuket West Coast Dive Sites, Rachai Noi, and Rachai Yai. All dive sites mentioned are diverse with marine life and clear waters, each offering something different for a varied and exciting experience with every encounter.

Visitors can choose between day trips or tours. For a more luxurious experience, more distant and deeper explorations are also offered. These are called "liveaboards". Wall diving and shallow water wrecks are some of the other activities that could be done depending on the vacationer's liking.

Michel Gerard is a Travel author based in Asia. Visit the Guest House Phuket website to book a room online and download your *free* ebook: "Stories of Authentic Eco-adventure Destinations for Travellers in Thailand" =>> http://www.guesthousephuket.com/ebook.html

Luxury Phuket Villa - Your Dream Destination in Thailand

Phuket the destination

Phuket is the biggest island of Thailand. It lies on the southern part of Thailand, on the west-facing Andaman Sea shore, on the southern point of Phang Nga Province.

Tourists love Phuket for the diverse range of attractions it offers. Some of them include the Phuket Aquarium, Crocodile Farm, FantaSea, Butterfly Farm, Chalong Temple, and the waterfalls. You will never run out of places to explore and new experiences to try in Phuket.

Phuket accommodation

For the tourist especially, accommodation is one of the main concerns on every vacation or trip. The question always arises: where to stay? If you're the type that wants to splurge, villas are the in thing now. Luxury villas in Phuket are increasingly becoming more and more popular as a favored option as opposed to the extravagant holiday accommodation offered by resorts and hotels.

Phuket villas

Phuket luxury villas are available for rent or for sale; you choose. Either way, booking is easy and can be done online. However, be aware the villas are booked out in no time especially during peak season, so do your reservations beforehand.

Long term villa rental

Villas is a perfect abode for those who opt to stay in Phuket for a relatively long period of time. It's always nice to have a place to go home to after your day of travel, business or even schooling. For those planning on having a permanent vacation house each time you visit, there are villas for sale in a wide range of locations with a wide range of prices. If, on the other hand, you're merely on a momentary holiday and have no definite plans of going back, you can always rent the villa of your choice.

Summary

In Phuket, you can always have a dose of nature and fresh air in the perfect holiday location in the villa of your choice. There are a multitude of locations varying from seafront, hillsides with spectacular views of beaches and bays and quiet areas inland.

If you're planning to spend your next holiday in Phuket, better book your villa before others beat you to it. With Phuket luxury villas, your holiday and vacation experience is a splendid guarantee.

CB Richard Ellis is Thailand's market leader in real estate sales, lettings, research, valuation and property management with over 20 years experience in Thailand. The Phuket villa market is well positioned with the island's supporting infrastructure including world-class amenities and leisure facilities and an International Airport offering good accessibility. Many investors choose to invest in the Phuket villa market as it offers a combination of western luxury and an exotic tropical lifestyle.

More information on Phuket Villa Sale. Visit http://www.cbre.co.th/en/phuketvillavillasinformation.asp

The Por Tor Festival of Phuket

The Por Tor or Hungry Ghost Festival of Phuket is an ancient religious ceremony originating from a Chinese tradition. In the seventh month of the lunar calendar, it is believed that the spirits of the ancestors descend to revisit their earthly homes. Spirits are usually feared in Thai culture, but the Por Tor Festival of Phuket is a happy, auspicious occasion.

Food and cakes are offered to placate the hungry spirits, which earns merit and good fortune for the worshippers. The festival is a colourful testament to the Chinese presence in Thailand and the intertwining of the two cultures. This unique occasion offers travellers an inside look at the deep religious and cultural history of the famous island.

The celebrations are centred around the Por Tor Kong Shrine in Bang Neaw, located centrally in Phuket Town. It takes place for about two weeks in August. It is believed that Por Tor Kong (the god of devils, who rules the underground) opens the gates of the spirit world to allow the Spirits to return to the earth during these two weeks. The shrine itself is colourfully and intricately decorated in the style of Chinese temples, and is worth a visit.

During the festival the shrine is bustling with activity as worshippers come from all over the island to bring offerings for their ancestors. Visitors will see mountains of red cakes shaped like turtles being offered at the shrine. The turtle symbolises longevity in Thai culture, while red represents prosperity for the Chinese, so these turtle cakes will give the bearer a long, happy life. Other gifts of food are brought to feed the spirits and are presented with incense sticks and prayers.

While you are at the shrine, you may have the opportunity to watch a likay, a traditional Thai performance. Look for a stage set up near the shrine, or just listen for loud music and singing, and you will be guided to the event. A likay is a traditional form of entertainment, incorporating singing, dancing, music and colourful costumes for an exciting show.

Movies about the Por Tor Festival will also be shown on stage at the event. The Por Tor festival in Phuket is an event not be missed; so, if you find yourself in Phuket this August, be sure to head over to the Por Tor Kong Shrine to take part in all the festivities.

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Paris accommodation, France and Venice accommodation Rentals.

Club Lime Still Phuket's Best Clubbing Venue

Rewind a few years and clubbing in Phuket was in a dire state. There was nothing but pop and cheesy techno, along with clubs playing local rock and country music. Times have changed, and visitors to Phuket now have a far superior choice of clubs to select from, and nowhere does it better than Club Lime in Patong.

What Phuket was missing for a long time was a venue championing the finer sounds of dance music. It was possible to hear zany chipmunk techno music, but for something with a little more soul, you had to look to Bangkok or else outside of Thailand. There are currently a small group of DJs in Phuket who have been steadily helping to build a vibrant clubbing scene in Phuket.

Club Lime first opened its doors a couple of years ago. The club had style and was a far cry from the typical beer bars and cheesy discos that Phuket is famous for. Club Lime was more like the type of venue you could find in England or America. It had the drinks prices to match, but it was difficult to complain because of the music policy.

From the beginning, the people behind Club Lime made a point to book serious DJs with a passion for the music they were playing. DJs such as Eddy and D[r]eadmongey rose to fame at Club Lime, playing everything from house to techno. But Club Lime didn't stop there. Every week it was possible to hear breaks, electro and even drum n bass.

What has helped cement Club Lime's reputation has been the string of quality DJs booked to play from overseas. These include everyone from Barry Ashworth and Jo Mills to Kraft Kuts and Inland Knights. These were DJs that might previously have played Koh Samui, but nobody was interested in bringing them Phuket.

The only problem that Club Lime has come across has been attracting a steady crowd of people on quieter nights. On the weekends the club has almost always been full, but during the week, except for the occasional group of tourists, numbers are usually no more than 20 or so.

The same, however, can be said of many clubs in Bangkok. It takes a big night to get people to make the effort. Club Lime is still one of Phuket's most enjoyable night spots and one only hopes that it continues to be so.

While Club Lime in Patong is a great place to spend a night, Phuket nightlife has a lot to offer travelers, including everything from indie clubs to hip hop venues.

Popular Holiday Islands in Thailand

Thailand is one of the leading travel destinations in the world and is home to many beautiful tropical islands. Some of these isles you might have heard of and some you will most likely never have heard of. This Thailand related travel article will list and review some of the most beautiful holiday islands in Siam.

Phuket

Phuket is the most popular island and is along with Pattaya and Bangkok the most popular tourist destinations of the country. There are many beautiful beaches on this isle which include Patong, Karon, Kata, Kamala, Surin and Nai Harn. If you enjoy the nightlife then perhaps either Phuket or Samui should be your choice for your next vacation.

Koh Samui

Samui is ranked among the top 5 vacation destinations in the country and has been known for a very long time as a backpacker heaven. Samui has however been under development a great deal during the last decade and visitors can now choose from a wide range of luxurious hotels and resorts. The beaches on this island rank among the finest of Thailand. Chaweng beach is the most popular beach resort area of Samui.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is still relatively unknown to the general public however it is one of the fastest growing travel destinations of Siam. If you would like to visit Koh Chang then you should take the ferry boat from Rayong as there is no airport on this Thai isle

Koh Samet

Although Samet is not a very large island, it is one of the most romantic of all the Thai islands. Many travelers are like to visit Samet as it is located not too far from Pattaya. A lot of day trips are also organized to this wonderful isle.

James is a travel consultant living on Phuket and is working on a number of projects. If you are looking for information about Phuket then be sure to visit his Phuket guide and for information about Samui please visit his Samui Guide.

Indulge Yourself in Lavish Settings With Phuket Accommodation

Tourists and travelers often pick a hotel or resorts while coming to visit any place of historical importance far from their own native land. There are a lot of hotels in metropolis that appears as an appropriate preference for travelers who decide on for luxurious accommodation. Phuket is the largest island in Thailand is distinguished for its white sand beaches and tranquil milieu.

The soothing climate and hospitable natives makes a visit to this place enticing and beguiling. The courteous and trained staffs and hotel members are ever ready to provide sophisticated Phuket accommodation and utmost services for making it as a best choice for the travelers during their stay. They will be enthralled and overwhelmed after receiving an oasis of warm hospitality from these hoteliers. The type of luxury and comforts are a part of the Phuket deals that every member of these resorts and hotels reckon and thus put their best efforts to covers all the demands and desires of any individuals boarding their hotels for staying during their vacation or holiday trip.

Often hotels and resorts are situated at the heart of an urbanized place or town or even a city so that all other business oriented travelers too can accomplish their works and cherish the moments of stay in these reputed hotels. Some of the renowned names in this niche industry segment are: - holiday inn resort, le meridian Phuket resort, Sheraton Grande Laguna, The Westin Siray Bay, Best Western Allamanda, Kata Beach Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Phuket Resort, Burasari Resort and a lot more.

The hoteliers also keep in mind about the budget of an average family or a group of individuals planning to stay and accordingly packages and menus are prepared. Based on this facet, different categories and sections are made starting from average but countable facilities to luxurious Phuket accommodation so that the joy and happiness of the travelers can be treasured. Special discounts and lucrative offers too are provided in their services so that every individual can enjoy their stay besides relishing the luxuries through the Phuket deals that staff members organize. Accordingly, even different room tariffs are maintained as there are some travelers, who make frequent visits and also want to enjoy the luxuries and comforts.

Evaluation of the budget is one of the basic factors that a traveler should keep in concern before even making plans for a visit to any place of historical importance or even in some private business tours. This is because based on this facet. The class of Phuket deals can be made to enjoy without even a trace of hesitation. Cost of meals, room rates and particular amenities like utilization of the Internet etc. comes into these Phuket accommodation schemes which a tourist should carefully note and observe before relishing their embedded luxuries. Even transportation cost and other means of communication to reach a particular location where a selected hotel or a resort is located counts a lot during the planning of a visit or tour is made for perfect seeking of fun and amusement with family and friends.

Mr. Pankaj is providing SEO Services to las-margaritas, Phuket Hotel & Restaurant at Karon Beach. Now you can sample flavours from Mexico, Thailand, South America, and more, all under one roof at reasonable prices. Plus Las Margaritas also offers many traditional Continental Cuisine items. Explore phuket hotels, phuket inn, phuket resorts and much more.

Phuket Private Jet Terminal

In the expansion plans for Phuket International Airport are considerations to open a dedicated private jet terminal.

It is proposed that private investors will be responsible for the development and that it will be constructed separately from the main terminal building. It's thought that if the plans go ahead, the terminal will offer VIP ground handling services and hospitality that rivals five star hotels.

Phuket International is already the second busiest civil airport in Thailand and has seen an increase in the number of private jets, mostly used by property developers seeking out land a development opportunities in the area.

If plans go ahead for the new terminal, Phuket will be sure to attract more private jet charter clients and will be a popular destination for charter operators and brokers.

Private Jet Charters are a growing business and are being recognised by many to be the most time efficient way to travel. Many airports have or are considering private terminals to enhance their service offering and increase their revenue. Airports with dedicated private travel facilities are the perfect partner as they promote a speedy departure and reduce delays on arrival.

Ground handling is an essential part of the private jet charter experience and offers many benefits over travelling on commercial airlines. Predominantly offering a check in time of an average of ten minutes and in many cases allowing the passengers car to drive directly to the steps of the aircraft. A real benefit for regular business travellers who would otherwise be spending up to three hours at the airport prior to departure.

Rob Dore is co-owner and Marketing Director of Jet Booking Direct who offer private jet charters and jet charter management services.

How to Find the Right Lawyer in Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is the largest island of Thailand found in the Andaman Sea. Its economy mainly relies on the rubber industry (being the biggest rubber producer in the world) and tourism. Though relatively one of the most expensive retirement destinations in Thailand, thousands of expatriates still prefer to reside in Phuket.

Due to the enormous progress in the island, services of Thailand lawyers have become more in demand for both Thai nationals and foreigners alike. Instead of personally handling Phuket real estate transactions, for instance, people hire legal experts in order to save them time and effort, as well as to prevent any complication with Thai property laws. Investors who want to establish a business in Phuket also prefer to hire a lawyer for the Thai company registration, visa and work permit and other legal matter concerning to registering a company in Thailand.

Increasing demand for legal services in the island has brought in many small and big time law firms in Thailand to expand their practice to Phuket. Though there are few licensed local attorneys based there, not all can be classified as competent and knowledgeable on the legal technicalities involving law from the foreigners' home country as it relates to their activities in Phuket. Samples of such instances are the Thailand prenuptial agreement and its relationship to the laws in the foreigners' home country or drafting of a Thai Will to fully cover both the assets in their home jurisdiction as well as in Thailand. A Thailand lawyer with experience handling legal works with foreigners is a necessity.

Extra care must be observed in order to protect your interest and by way of making sure that the Phuket law firm that you will hire is worth the fees. Take the following tips to save yourself from the hands of inept attorneys.

1. Do not grab the first lawyer who offers his service. Always check all the available options. Talk with 2 or 3 lawyers and select the one you feel most comfortable with.

2. Do not be deceived by advertisements. Some are actually too good to be true. It is better to select one that proposes realistic claims.

3. Do check the internet. Typically, the most popular and established firms are able to create websites that covers the Phuket legal services they render. Some even render free assistance via chat or emails. Their replies will reflect their expertise on the field and will actually reveal if they are capable enough to handle the case.

4. Do try to check their law office in Phuket. A personal visit at the place of business can show you how professional the Law Firm operates. This will also give you the opportunity to ask the Phuket lawyer some questions such as the field of legal expertise, services being rendered and the corresponding rate being charged.

Jose Darrel Bella works as a Consultant for Siam Legal International, Thailand's largest legal service network with offices in Bangkok, London, Los Angeles, Phuket, Samui, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Hua Hin. Email us or call +66 (0) 253 8100 to speak with our Phuket Lawyer or if you need an English-Thai speaking lawyer in Phuket.

Phuket Inn and Phuket Resorts Will Rejuvenate Your Bonds With Your Near and Dear Ones

The stress and traumas of daily lives can take a toll on the personal relationships of a specific individual. Indulging in too much of work load can affect personal liaisons to a great extent and unknowingly you will drift towards a gap which will be hard to bridge. Thus taking some time off and planning a trip to a distant destination with your family can revitalize and rejuvenate your bonds with your near and dear ones.

One name which stands out in the crowd when it comes to blissful and ambient tourist destination is Phuket which is the largest island in Thailand. This southern province of Thailand is laced with white sand beaches and awe inspiring scenery which will undeniably sweep you off your feet. The multi hued and affluent culture, traditions and history of this place will also astonish you to great lengths. The fact that Phuket is witnessing a huge input of tourists, which seem to be growing in number virtually every year.

The Phuket inn and Phuket resorts also proffer a wide assortment of lavish amenities which will let you breathe in peace and let you explore inner peace. These Phuket inn and Phuket resorts cater to a wide variety of tourists; so irrespective of your financial stamina, you can look forward to having a good time in Phuket. The pearl of Thailand as Phuket is often fondly termed can also act as a stress buster which will seem inviting you to a dream island of happiness and fun filled environments.

There are long stretches of white sand beaches wherein you can sun bathe, water ski, wind surf and scuba dive. You can also go topless bathing at some of the beaches which are free from hawkers and witness fewer crowds than other popular beaches. Some of the most renowned and awe inspiring beaches are: patong beach, mai khao beach, surin beach, rawai beach, kata beach, karon beach, kamal beach and a horde of other beaches. The vivacious nightlife is an open invitation to those who wish there were timeless celebrations and love to indulge in parties not caring what hour of the day it is.

The cheap shopping accessible at Phuket will also make you crave for going on a shopping spree. Phuket inn and Phuket resorts also proffer every feasible mean to pamper and spoil your self. You just name a thing and it is there for you. Some of the services include: rooftop swimming pool, spas, saunas, gym, cinema, high security, internet connectivity, home country direct, maid services, laundry services, Room services and a lot more. But before plunging into the all important decision of choosing a specific Phuket inn or resort, it is imperative to consider certain factors which might prove decisive.

Doing a bit of research on the World Wide Web will prove handy as it will escalate your know how and acquaintance with Phuket inn and Phuket resorts. Equipped with this savoir faire, you are now ready to relish the joy of Phuket.

Mr. Pankaj is providing SEO Services to las-margaritas, Phuket Hotel & Restaurant at Karon Beach. Now you can sample flavours from Mexico, Thailand, South America, and more, all under one roof at reasonable prices. Plus Las Margaritas also offers many traditional Continental Cuisine items. Explore phuket hotels, phuket inn, phuket resorts and much more.

Lady-boys in Phuket, Thailand

If you come to Phuket, your itinerary will surely include the famous side shows by those Katoey's or lady-boys. Be ready for a rich sensory experience and a time of enjoyment as they go all out to please the weary customers and patrons or tourists. It is not just about making a living, it is about a way of life. It is not a sleazy existence but a means of maintaining a lifestyle as a lady-boy they would not be able to in their own native village. They wear very revealing dresses showing their ample silicone emphasized breasts while they sing and dance in their performances. Their perfect measurements and their beauty makes them the envy of many real women.

The men and the women watch transfixed as they go about their routines. In Malaysia, they are known as Maknyah's or the derogatory term 'pondan' or 'she-males' in the West.

It is sometimes difficult to discern who is real or who isn't. Some of them are indeed beautiful. I believe God in his immense mercy is giving them a chance to live a life they should have been given since birth. They are obviously more ladies than men. Transsexuals or trans-gender are those who think they are a woman born in a man's body, while a transvestite is a man who likes to dress up like a woman.

In Thailand, being a lady-boy is less derogatory for example than in the west. They are accepted by society as the third sex and are not openly discriminated against. Many Thais have a slight stature, sport smaller bodies like a woman and quite hairless. Boobs are easier to fix but a sex change operation is more complicated, and expensive. My heart really goes out for them as they undergo it to reach their quest of being a real woman. Injection of female Hormones are also part of the routine they have to undergo.

One of the country's most famous lady-boys is Nong Toom, who went from champion Thai kick boxer to being a transsexual. A movie, Saitree Lex, was made about the true story of a lady-boy volleyball team known as the 'Iron Ladies' won the national championships in 1996 against the odds.

Maria is the founder & owner of Patongbeach-hotel.com. http://www.patongbeach-hotel.com

A Few Days in Phuket

Phuket has a mixed reputation, partially deserved but also partially unfair. The first image that pops into many people's minds is the overdeveloped and rather seedy stretch of Patong beach. However, remember that this is just a small part of a big island and is easily avoided if that's not your thing.

Recently, my family and I stayed at Kamala beach, a bit further north of Patong and a world apart. Kamala is quiet, with no accommodation built directly on or behind the beach. It is a beautiful natural cove offering great photo opportunities and peace and quiet. Another advantage (for me) is the lack of vendors on the beach, here you really will be able to relax without having to refuse the Henna tattoo and doughnut sellers every 5 minutes!

We chose Kamala because it seemed ideal, having a young family. We didn't want to be in an area that was too crowded, but still with a nice beach and swimmable sea. We stayed in the Marriott Courtyard, and it was a choice between either that one or the Marriott Courtyard on neighbouring Surin beach (I had a promotional offer to use up at one of these two hotels). As we were travelling with my in-laws (who are Thai) the choice was simple. Surin was badly affected by the Tsunami and many people died, especially in the Courtyard hotel. Kamala was left untouched. Thai people fear ghosts and that is a big reason why tourism was slow to recover in the affected areas. They wouldn't even entertain the idea of staying at Surin for fear of upsetting any trapped souls. So...Kamala it was! If you wish to pay your respects while in Phuket there are a few memorial sites around the island. At the southern end of Kamala there is a monument just behind the little river that runs behind the beach and a little grassed area and pavilion.

What to do in Phuket when you get bored of the beach and the hotel pool though....well there is a lot! We hired a car so it made accessing these places easy for us, but the "songthaews" are regular and there's always a taxi or your hotel will usually arrange something for you. Of course we sampled the more family orientated activities, starting off at the rather more off-the-beaten-track Gibbon Rehabilitation Sanctuary.

This is worth a visit, even if slightly out of the way, to do your bit for a good cause. The centre is run by volunteers (European when we visited) and attempts to rehabilitate gibbons that were orphaned by poachers or kept as pets. They go through several stages of training before being released back into the wild, although of course some don't make it. The only ones you can see are the latest arrivals who are still used to a lot of human contact, as they develop through the programme they are moved further into the rainforest and away from human contact. There are a couple of nice trails you can walk while here, a few refreshment stalls and elephant rides. If you're interested, the staff are happy to talk to you about their programme as well.

Following on the animal theme we then visited Phuket Aquarium and it's related attractions. Most people only look around the aquarium itself and then go, and the aquarium is fairly sizeable although beginning to look a little shabby. They do have a great selection, and some especially large fish that scared my daughter! If you're travelling with kids this is a great way to entertain them for a couple of hours. If you've got an appetite for some more, the entrance fee also gets you into the "Baby Farm" as my daughter called it! It's a building at the back of the main aquarium where they run breeding programmes for many varied species of sea life. Be careful if you go in there as the Thai's are never that hot on health and safety, there are plenty of opportunities to fall over! And just a bit further down the road is a small facility that breeds turtles.

Phuket Zoo is, in my own opinion, a grim place best avoided. Sure if you have a little child, they probably will enjoy it and again it's a good way to pass some time. But any older children may be upset by the cramped and dirty enclosures and the obviously stir-crazy animals. A lot of the facilities appear uncared for and dirty. This place does have a poor reputation and fully deserved, if you can....stay away.

If temples are your thing there are plenty of those to visit. We went to the Phuket Big Buddha, which is really only accessible on wheels, it's a 6km winding road up a big hill. But when at the top you are rewarded with magnificent views all around. The Buddha itself wasn't complete when we visited in October 2009 but was still a magnificent sight. Also worth a look in is Wat Chalong, probably one of the most visited temples in Phuket. We were (or rather I was) treated to a procession of Miss Teen Thailand contestants in the temple grounds during our visit!

If you find that you need to hit the shops then Phuket Town should cater for your needs, as well as the nearby hyper-global-mega malls (!!) of Big C and Central Festival. Phuket offers many superb photos opportunities and if you're able to hire a car, I'd recommend a trip to one of the many viewpoints (they're shown on any good map). You can get some spectacular sunset shots.

There are countless other activities such as trekking, boat trips, fishing trips, go-karting, Muay Thai fights and training camps and much more. Phuket can be a sleazy, booze trip if you want and Patong can certainly offer you that. But don't think that this is all Phuket has to offer! You should have a great time!

Matthew's Travel Website, http://www.matthewt.co.uk
My blog, http://matthewted.blogspot.com

International Soccer Teams Participate at Phuket Invite

The 8th Phuket International Soccer 7s Tournament will take place on November 27-28, 2010. Different teams from different countries will meet again to compete against each other in the goal to win the championship title of the annual soccer tournament. Now in its eighth year as an annual event, the Soccer 7s organizers and the people behind the event have been successful in inviting teams from all over the globe to showcase their talent, athleticism and camaraderie both in and out of the playing field.

Participants from all over the world include different teams from England, India, Singapore, Japan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Australia, Cambodia, China, Germany, and of course, from its host country, Thailand. The global diversity of the teams and their players add up to the excitement of the game and the challenge of pure skill. Everybody is openly invited to form a team and join the competition.

The thing that separates this competition from other soccer tournaments is the lack of prize money for the winners. The thing that drives the participating teams to travel all the way to Thailand is showmanship and the desire to play. It is just passion in its purest form. The principle behind the success of the tournament is sincere camaraderie between the playing teams.

Healthy competition is the key to this contest. Proof that this works is the fact that it has been a continuing annual event, lasting for eight years already. Passion for the game, for friendship, for sportsmanship and for fun is what keeps the spirit of the game alive.

There are basically two categories in the Phuket Soccer 7s Tournament. These are the Open Men Category and the Masters Men Category. There are currently 24 teams registered under the Open category and 20 teams signed to the Masters category. There is also another tournament for soccer players, the Phuket Spicy Soccer 7s. The said tournament is turning three years old on February 2011.

An estimate of 300 games to be played by 88 teams originating from 18 countries is expected in the 8th Phuket Soccer 7s, together with the 5th Andaman Soccer 7s. Both tournaments are watched-out for events in Thailand by players and fans alike. The two tournaments will commence on November, with the Andaman tournament happening one week before Phuket's.

The venue of the games is tentatively decided to be at the Phuket International Academy (PIA) or the Karon Stadium. The locations are not only amenable to the playing field for the games; they are also convenient for players flying from different countries. This is because these venues are situated proximal to the hotels where the teams will check in and to the airport, too.

Of course, the organizers will not permit for the soccer teams to not experience the night life of Phuket. Relaxation and de-stressing are only fit for the players after a day of serious football business. Parties will be all around the city. The players can enjoy local food and specialty cuisine in various restaurants. Clubs and bars are open for their night time enjoyment.

Michel Gerard is a Travel author located in Asia. Visit the Phuket Soccer 7s website to read more information on these International Soccer 7s tournaments in Phuket, Thailand. =>> http://www.thai7s.com/phuket

Water Sports For All to Enjoy in Phuket

Phuket is the biggest island in Thailand and is a destination where visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports. Fishing, yachting, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing and banana boat riding are the main water activities visitors can find in the province.

All levels of swimmers can snorkel and experience the joys of swimming over coral reefs with colorful fish. The best locations for snorkeling in Phuket are Laem Sing Beach, Kata and Kata Noi Beach, and Ao Sane Beach among a few others. Snorkelers are advised to wear a T-shirt and protective UV cream as the sun is usually very hard.

For people who want to try deep water scuba diving, Phuket has lots of fantastic diving sites. A multitude of diving shops offer to beginners PADI Open Water courses, and for the experienced divers a selection of diving trips are organized around smaller islands. The Similans, Phi Phi islands, Koh Racha Yai & Noi have the best spots for a dive.

Besides swimming, snorkeling and diving, other water sports can be enjoyed on the water like fishing. A fishing boat can be rented for the day for five or six persons where not only fishing, but sunbathing, can be experienced in the Andaman Sea. All the fish caught, mainly Tuna, will end as a dish for lunch, prepared by the crew on board of the boat.

Sea kayaking is another good way to explore the coast of Phuket from the sea. Kayaks with one or two seats can be rented at several beaches: Nai Harn, Ao Sane, Tri Tra and Yanui Beach. Kayaking tours are also organized to explore Phang Nga Bay's cliffs and caverns. It is recommended to ask if it is safe to kayak on the western coast as big waves and courant can be dangerous at times in Phuket.

Jet skis are available for rent in the main beaches but are regrettably overpriced because renters are together in an agreement not to compete and prices will be never discounted. There have been reports of tourists being scammed into paying huge bills for damages to the machines they did not do. The advice would be not to rent them and at the same time help for a better environment with less noise pollution.

Para-sails and banana boats are other activities available. Parasailing is safe as there is someone present during the short trip to make sure that the parachute goes the correct way. Banana boat is a great way to share with five other friends a few minutes of fun on an inflatable banana towed by a speedboat on the water. The fun is over when everyone is eventually thrown into the water.

Phuket definitely has everything that a visitor would want to do on a vacation at the seaside. From very busy beaches to smaller ones, everyone can find a favorite place to go and enjoy water sports.

Michel Gerard is a Travel author located in Asia. Visit the Phuket GuestHouse website to book your accommodation online and grab your *free* ebook: "Stories of Authentic Eco-adventure Destinations for Travellers in Thailand" => http://www.guesthousephuket.com/ebook.html