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The Low Season is here If you take a look around and see that there are few empty sunbeds on your favourite Phuket beach then the chances are its heading towards the low season. Chances are if you gaze up to the sky and see the clouds hovering above then its time to head inside as the rain is coming your way. If you happen to be in Phuket when it’s rainy season then you’ll definitely need to check out this list for some alternative things to do. Here’s some of our favourite things to do when the crowds have started to dissipate.  Simba Sea Trips’ Phang Nga Bay Tour Phang Nga Bay is a pretty special area as it is very protected and quite often has different weather patterns to that of Phuket and Phi Phi. More often then not, it can be raining in Phuket and dry in Phang Nga Bay. Even if it does rain it’s rarely a problem and a good part of this tour is spent exploring caves and canoeing through caves to get into sheltered hongs. Consider the Phang Nga Bay & Beyond Tour. Head downtown Old Phuket town provides a lot of opportunity to take in the vibes of the historic old architecture all while escaping the rain by ducking under plenty of well-covered areas, or into local cafes for a warm cup of tea. The Old Town offers private tours, is close to street markets, and provides a different view of Phuket than that of the commonly pictured beach regions. Shopping at new Central Floresta This brand new shopping centre just opened in September 2018 and if very fancy by Phuket standards. It resembles some of the fancy shopping malls in Bangkok. You could easily spend half a day strolling the shops in the new or old Central. In October there will be a new exciting experience opening up. Thai Cooking Class There are several Thai cooking classes available but one of our favourites is Pum’s cooking school. Pum will take you to the local fresh food market and discuss the different herbs, vegetables and spices. Once you’ve trapesed thorough the market you then go back to the school and cook up a storm. The best part is eating your own delicious food once you are done. Ice Skating Check out Ice Area in Boat Lagoon for some freezing fun. They have all the equipment you need for a great day on the ice. It does get very cold in there though so you may have to rent one of their jackets if you didn’t bring one on holiday. They have a great restaurant and bar upstairs which serves a great Sunday roast if you happen to be there then.    

Best ways to celebrate a special occasion in Phuket Updated 2022 The celebration of special milestones is one of the most enjoyable experiences that we all undertake during our time on Earth. Some milestones we celebrate during our working lives as we undertake the daily grind. Others, we are determined to plan holidays around in order to ensure we make the most of the special event. Many of us travel to exotic places in order to celebrate with our friends and family. Phuket, is one of the most popular tourist destinations for those looking to relax and unwind in the company of their loved ones. The brilliant backdrop that Phuket and its surrounding islands deliver makes it the perfect place to indulge in the company of those you hold most dear. While the affordability of the destination makes it a cost-effective choice for those looking to drag friends and family along for the experience. The interest in Phuket has been growing day by day as the world gets used to living with Covid-19. As tours slowly get more and more interest, tourists are requesting information regarding what the best celebration activities are in a post covid world. Read on as we detail our favourites. 1.     Hire a Private Charter Boat and tour the major attractions The sheer volume of magnificent, serene islands surrounding the main island of Phuket provides visitors with a sensational opportunity to witness nature in all its splendid glory. The best way to see these idyllic locations is via boat. Thousands upon thousands travel to these islands every year. With that said, the staggering increase in tourism over the past two decades has meant that most tourists are left crammed elbow to elbow with other tourists looking for the same experience. This is where a private charter boat hire simply can’t be beat. For a special occasion, hiring a charter boat with a reputable tour operator affords guests with the opportunity to see the best Islands. All in the absence of the crowds that normally flock to these locations. A private charter also offers guests with the freedom to choose the locations that most appeal and with the people that they cherish the most. Simba Sea Trips offers private charter boat tours of Phuket that are fully customized to what the guests would like to see. While doing so in the absence of the major crowds also keen to experience these glorious island locations. The private boat tours are an experience like no other, guaranteed to make any honeymoon, birthday, or any other special occasion one to remember forever. 2.     Jet off for a Picturesque Beach Wedding Many picture their wedding day as one with hundreds of guests at a hometown location capped with a nighttime reception. However, many others prefer a more intimate international celebration. It is becoming increasingly popular to venture overseas with a handful of your closest family and friends. The result is a small ceremony in a less traditional setting and an excuse to spend a few days celebrating with those whose presence in their lives are valued more than any others. Doing so opens up a lot of opportunities. Many travel to island locations as these provide an incredible backdrop, at a (generally) cheaper cost in terms of alcohol and activities, and jam-packed with memories guaranteed to last a lifetime. Phuket has long been one such location where couples set off in search of a smaller wedding with just the most important people in their lives in attendance. The island provides many beach locations for travelers to legally wed, and with the relatively low cost for accommodation and airfares (in the less touristy months). Of course, a small intimate beach wedding is a great idea for those that are in need of celebrating only with those that matter most. It also opens up  the opportunity to include the most loved guests in honeymoon activities, and it is why combining a beach wedding with a private charter tour is highly recommended. 3.     Celebrate your special occasion at a spectacular restaurant The timing of a trip to Phuket sometimes means that many visitors just so happen to celebrate a birthday or anniversary while visiting the region. To make the special occasion one to savior we’d highly suggest heading to one of Phuket’s many unique and divine Thai restaurants. With so much competition in the region, there is plenty of choice on offer. Nonetheless, we find it is always helpful to guide our readers towards some of the more memorable. Those, that will provide an experience that you’ll be hard press to find replicated anywhere else on Earth include: Mom Tri’s Kitchen Mom Tri’s Kitchen is hard to beat given its excellent Thai menu and perfectly positioned location. Nestled on a small cliff that provides beautiful sea views, the restaurant has long been a favourite for locals and tourists alike. While prices are high, the location complete with the delicious Thai cuisine makes it the perfect choice for an anniversary dinner or milestone birthday celebration. Mor Mu Dong For those looking for an authentic Thai dining experience, Mor Mu Dong provides exactly that! Located in the south of Phuket, amongst the mangrove in Chalong, food is served to guests seated on the floor of little huts. Adding to the experience, the Thai dishes are as authentic as you will get anywhere on the island which helps make this an experience unlike one you will get anywhere else in the world. Blue Elephant Phuket For a romantic setting that has to be seen to be believed, head down to Blue Elephant on Krabi Road. Situated within the magnificent Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion, you’ll feel like royalty dining on the exceptional food served up throughout your dining experience. A first class experience that is fit for any special occasion. An ideal experience if it’s just you and your significant other, or you and the very best of friends. 4.     Book a Hotel Getaway Often we get

Phi Phi Island Nightlife – What to do? Updated 2022 Phi Phi is Open! Great news for travelers to Thailand. The Phi Phi Islands are now fully open and ready to welcome visitors once again. So let’s get into what events and activities are available to those making a long-awaited return to the region! The Night of your Life If you have to have a good party when you are in Thailand, then Phi Phi Island nightlife will not disappoint you. This place is the life of the party. The island is on the southern side of Thailand. There are 6 islands here that make the larger Koh Phi Phi archipelago. Despite its small area, The Phi Phi Islands offer many things to do including the perfect beach side partying experience and night time entertainment in the whole of Southeast Asia. The place is quite laid back, fun and not shady. At night, the Island usually comes to life… live music, fire shows, DJ’s, party games, Thai boxing, loads of tropical cocktails, and al fresco dance parties erupting in the evenings … you name it. Here you will find lots of bars and clubs, people sipping some beer on the shores, some guzzling cocktails as they watch the beautiful sunset. Trust me, this place is loud, its lively, its energetic, it’s the place where people don’t sleep. All people come to do here is to party and let loose. That said, we have compiled this article for you so that when in Thailand, you don’t miss out on the Ko Phi Phi nightlife. Let’s dive in and Check out some of the best partying spots this side of the world. Have a blast. Best Koh Phi Phi partying spots Before we dive in, let’s roughly look at how the place is. Basically, most places where you can drink, dance and enjoy the Phi Phi Island Nightlife are found in the central town of Ton Sai. Because the place was damaged by the Tsunami of 2004, when they were rebuilding, there were strict regulations that put a limit on the size of the new constructions. So, its for that reason that most structures are at most two floors high. There are less rooftop bars or big hotels here. That doesn’t mean that the building limitations limit the partying. Oh no! There are plenty of partying spots. Check them out… Jordan’s Irish Pub If you want the Irish experience of the Ko Phi Phi nightlife, this dark green two stories drinking hole is where you should be. Yeah… its dark green for the obvious reasons. It’s a true Irish pub that offers 3-for-1 buckets and iced beer on tap right in the heart of the town. Much as some of the drinks are a bit on the higher side, and the clientele is mostly foreign, the chances of meeting and mixing other backpackers are promising. The place has TVs and a pool table. Seeing as it is two stories, you have the choice to grab a drink downstairs or grab a spot upstairs, chill and just watch as the partying unfolds outside. Major sporting events are shown here. And being Irish, Guinness is definitely served! Rolling Stoned Bar Established in 2001, this place is one of the most popular night spots in Tonsai Village. It has a mix of Thai hippie feel with some infusion of American alt rock scene. This bar hosts some of the best live band performances… be it rock, pop reggae… These musicians are versatile enough to play any style of music, until the earliest hours of the day, so long as the crowd is cheering and pumped. People begin streaming in late… usually after midnight when they can down some stiff whiskey as they enjoy the blaring music of the beach side techno bars. Apache beach bar Much as this beach bar has officially advanced into a restaurant and some guest houses, it is advisable not to stay here… anyway at least if you are hoping to get a wink of sleep that is. The thing is, this is one of the maddest in action when it comes to Phi Phi Island Nightlife spots on the menu. The party don’t stop here. It goes on into the early hours as party people enjoy the appearance of the sun over the karst mountains before the last batch of party animals officially retire. This place has a mix of open places covered in sand, seating with neon twinklers and fairly lights, and some bamboo and driftwood huts. Buckets of beer are the most popular drinks of choice. There are also dangerous fire shows, acrobatic shows and Full Moon Party courtesy of Koh Phangan. Carlito’s Beach bar Carlito’s is infamous for being the first and the oldest Ko Phi Phi nightlife partying spots. Dripping chairs from the eastern end of Ton Sai village into the sand in a mix of plastic tables and chairs this spot is covered with creeping vines and trees of the jungle. At Carlito’s there are fantastic views of longtail boats crowding the harbour. So, people enjoy thus view as they sip more buckets and chilled Chang beers than you can imagine. They also have fire shows every night, and of course a big dance floor for those who like to party the night away. If you are sociable and love noisy parties, you will enjoy the vivacious atmosphere that Carlito’s has to offer. Reggae Bar Located in the village near to Jordan’s Irish Pub, the best way to describe this place is ‘Muay Thai with Margaritas.’ It is one of the longest-established and most famous Phi Phi Island Nightlife spots. Its rowdy evenings of Muay Thai boxing fame extend from US to the UK, Australia to New Zealand. This place explodes with chants and heckles as punches fly around. The pros demonstrate strength as well as a few fighting sessions. Much as the bar is laid back, it gets rowdier as the night progresses.

The Best Islands in Thailand Updated 2022! Now the world has returned to a sense of normality following the covid-19 pandemic, its time to pack the suitcase and venture back to the incredible Thailand region. The world renowned beauty of the Thai region stems, in large part, from the wide array of spectacular Thailand islands that surround the region. All along the Andaman Sea and throughout the Gulf of Thailand sit a wide variety of sensational islands each with something to offer those who are fortunate to venture to the region. The difficulty comes in trying to decide which of these islands to visit (especially if limited by time), the best way to get there and how to make the most of your time once there. In this article we’ll go in-depth and provide ample detail about, what we consider, to be the can’t miss islands throughout the country that we consider the greatest on Earth! How many Islands in Thailand If you are wondering exactly how many islands in Thailand, well, put simply, there are too many to count! There are hundreds upon hundreds throughout both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. At best there are over 1430 islands in the region. They range from those barely big enough to step onto, to the more attractive islands where you can easily waste the day away bathing in glorious crystal clear waters and strolling on white sandy beaches. Thai Island Map See below for a map that illustrates the most visited Thailand islands. This map includes the major tourist islands such as the similan islands, koh chang and koh samui and shows precisely where these places are located. As can be seen there is a wide array of popular islands and the location of these tourist attractions are spread quite wide. Whether setting off across the Andaman Sea or across the Gulf of Thailand, you’ll have options a plenty. As you can see the majority of these islands are located off the coasts to the South of the island. What is Thailand’s largest Island The largest Island in Thailand is the very famous Phuket. Currently, there are more than 400,000 people currently residing on the island and it is the main tourist hub for people travelling to Thailand and in need of an island getaway. The total area of the island consists within 576 square kilometres, which makes it close in size to that of Singapore. The length of Phuket is approximately 50 kilometres and at its widest is just over 20 kilometres in width. As you can image the island can easily be traveled within a day, but despite its size there are plenty of things to see and do. Just some of the many popular activities on the island include: A visit of Big Buddha Strolling down Thalang Road Embracing the atmosphere at the Phuket Weekend Market Walking around Phuket Old Town Getting up close and personal at the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park The ultimate island group in Thailand Many travelers are keen to travel to island groups that allow the traveler the opportunity to venture to a number of unique islands within the space of a short day. Without any shadow of a doubt, the most popular island group in Thailand is the Similan Islands. This spectacular is made up of a number of islands of various shapes and sizes, all with a unique view to offer. The 9 islands that make up the Similan Islands Group are: Koh Huyong Koh Payang Koh Payan Koh Miang Koh Haa Koh Hok Koh Payu Koh Similan Koh Ba-gnu The island group is ideal for adventure seekers looking for perfect snorkeling and scuba diving conditions and the island shrubbery offers nature lovers and bird watchers with plenty to see and do. If you are looking for a lengthy days worth of activities in the most idyllic setting then a trip to the best island group in Thailand should really be on your wishlist! Which islands to visit in Thailand With so many beautiful islands in Thailand, ensuring that you see the most memorable given what will likely be a short stay is essential. That is why we’ll outline below the very best islands that you really should include in your travel itinerary so that you leave Thailand having made the most of your island getaway. So let’s get right into it. In no particular order…. Ko Tapu (James Bond Island) Made famous in the James Bond (hence the name) classic, The Man with the Golden Gun, very few leave Ko Tapu disappointed. Located approximately 25 kilometres North-East of Phuket, Ko Tapu is rife with glorious rocky cliffs rising sharply out of the water. Situated within Phang Nga Bay, tourists arrive in the location having cruised between limestone cliffs making the entrance to Ko Tapu that much more memorable. There are no shortages of photo opportunities within the area and you can instantly identify why the James Bond producers chose this location as the island paradise setting in the classic movie. The major negative is that, obviously, due to its immense popularity you’ll likely to be stepping on the toes of other tourists and can potentially be fighting for elbow room when looking to take that ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ photo. However, this can largely be avoided by taking an intimate boat tour into the area. Which is something that Simba Sea Trips provide. The lower volume boat trips cater to those looking to leave earlier in the morning, therefore missing a large percentage of the tourist traffic. This affords boat guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the area the way that nature intended; in relative solitude. If keen to witness Ko Tapu in all its glory, consider booking a spot on a Phang Nga Bay tour! Ko Phi Phi Don While 6 Islands make up the Phi Phi Islands region, without question one of the best of the bunch is Ko Phi Phi Don. The beautiful location has rebounded

Explore the Spectacular Ko Phi Phi Leh Updated 2022! Considering all the amazing places to visit in Thailand, we always get asked what puts Ko Phi Phi Leh at the top of most people’s lists. Put simply, Ko Phi Phi Leh is a place of immense beautiful. The island hideaway is surrounded by clear, crystal waters, golden sand and jagged cliff-face views. Such is its beauty, it was used as the location for the Hollywood blockbuster, The Beach. The movie is told from the perspective of Richard (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) who is in search of paradise and finds himself joining a secret civilization living in a location untapped by tourism. That the Phi Phi Islands was chosen as the location suitable to represent this ‘undiscovered paradise, says it all really. Ko Phi Phi Leh offers more than just a place of natural beauty for those fortunate to visit. There are plenty of things to do here for those looking for an adventure. Therefore, to help readers decide, we’ll now provide our list of the top 8 things to do while visiting the Koh Phi Phi region. What are the best things to see at Ko Phi Phi Leh? Step into Phi Phi Leh National Park Witness the Viking Caves Trek to the Ao Lo Dalam viewpoint Snorkel in the crystal clear waters Rock Climbing the Limestone Cliffs Journey to Mosquito Island Dive at Bida Islands Kayak around the island   1.  Step into Phi Phi Leh National Park There is very good reason that the Ko Phi Phi Leh region was chosen for The Beach, and nothing gives a clearer indication of this than the Phi Phi National Park. The scenery is unrivaled in its beauty, and lush cliff-faces disappear into the crystal clear water below. The serenity is evident thanks to the lack of hotels, hostels, or any form of accommodation in the area. Laze on the beach and scan your eyes around the seascape and you’ll bare witness to a range of boats anchored in the waters, silently bobbing up and down. Visiting the region on a Phi Phi Island sunrise boat tour is perhaps the best way to experience the scenery as you’ll be afforded privacy and comfort – all in a setting that has to be seen to be believed. 2. Witness the Viking Caves The magnificent Viking caves at Koh Phi Phi are a must-see. Located at the North-Eastern side of the island the caves possess evidence of great history. Inscribed within the caves are colored chalk drawings thought to be the work of pirates over one thousand years ago. Much wildlife can be witnessed when touring the area and there are an abundance of swiftlets nesting within the caves. The area can be discovered as part of a Simba Phi Phi Island tour and is the 5th stop on the comprehensive tour. 3. Trek to the Ao Lo Dalam viewpoint While the beach is the obvious attraction, many tourists make sure to undertake a hike to the Southern point of Ao Lo Dalam. This 30 minute walk is quite comfortable and achievable for most visitors. The viewpoint is the perfect place for rest and relaxation and while you regain your breath, you are afforded a sensational view. The Ao Lo Dalam region itself is considerably more quiet than Maya Bay, and possesses a curved sandy beach with calm crystal clear blue waters. The ideal place to soak in the Phi Phi surrounds. 4. Snorkel in the crystal clear waters You simply can’t get the most out of a trip to Ko Phi Phi Leh without slipping on some snorkeling gear and dipping your head into the water. The perfectly clear water makes for absolutely ideal snorkeling conditions. There are a number of outstanding places to slip into the snorkeling gear including at Maya Bay and Hat Yao. The warm water temperature adds extra encouragement. Don’t be surprised if you have company on your snorkel as there are many clown fish, black-tip reef sharks, eels and many other fish that will often come and say a friendly hello. 5. Rock Climbing the Limestone Cliffs The cliffs that surround Koh Phi Phi Leh are simply stunning and afford adventurers the opportunity to test their rock climbing skills. Most of the climbs are advanced so they might be a little unconquerable for the complete novice. There are well-rated companies that offer all the equipment and guidance to complete the activity and you’ll find their knowledge of the area will hold you in great stead. In the heat of summer the rock surface can get quite hot so it is highly advisable to wait until late in the day to undertake a climb. For those, not confident enough to tackle the cliffs with hand and foot, most boat tours will take you close enough to the cliffs that you can at least get close enough to vicariously live through others that are hanging off the cliffs. 6. Journey to Mosquito Island It might sound like a place to avoid thanks to the name, but this could not be further from the truth. Mosquito Island is one of the most interesting places in the ko phi phi leh region. The site is renowned for many famous shipwrecks that litter the region and provide the perfect diving opportunities. Perhaps the most famous is the King Cruiser wreck that is over 85 metres in length and affords divers with hours of exploration opportunity. With that said Mosquito island is named as such for a reason. So we highly recommend that if you travel to the island that you make sure to pack some bug spray! 7. Dive at Bida Islands While the beaches may be few and far between at Bida Islands, this ko phi phi leh location is the perfect place to dive. Bida Islands is made up of a series of smaller islands all home to a wide range of coral. For the expert divers, the aptly

27 Things to do in Phuket in 2022 2022 Update! The most common question that we get asked from the guests on our boat tours is “what are the best things to do in Phuket” (other than our Simba tour of course!). The answer is not an easy one. There is an abundance of enjoyable locations, events and activities that can be experienced by couples and families alike. Therefore, to help us help you we have polled our staff and collated a list of the 23 things that we believe are the best of the best when it comes to enjoying Phuket as covid restrictions are loosened! 1. Cruise around Phang Nga Bay at Dusk The Phang Nga Bay region is renowned for a few incredible tourist spots (James Bond Island being one of them – more than that below). However, with the sheer volume of limestone cliffs and backdrops to stun even the most ‘difficult-to-please’ tourist, an evening venture to this spectacular region is a must. The Simba Sea Trips social club cruise is one of the few options that take in this incredible region in the late afternoon hours. Long after the other boats have departed for shore, you and your fellow guests will have the opportunity to saviour Phang Nga Bay in all its glory, in the absence of the crowds. 2. Take a boat tour to James Bond Island Unless you are actually on board our Phang Nga Bay tour, we often encourage those on one of our other tours to put Phang Nga Bay at the very top of their wish list. A day trip to this location will provide you with some exceptional scenery and memories that will last forever. The most memorable location within Phang Nga Bay is Ko Tapu, otherwise known as James Bond Island, made famous in the Bond classic “the man with the Golden Gun”. Be sure if travelling to this location to book a tour that leaves early – the reason for this is two fold: * To avoid the crush of tourists arriving in the region, or at least the vast majority of them. *To get to the area with enough time to make an entire day of exploring the region and indulging in the atmosphere. 3. Watch the Sunset over the Andaman Sea Without question one of the most spectacular sites in a Phuket sunset. And what better way to see one than from out over the Andaman Sea. This is the perfect experience for the romantic couple in search for the perfect end to a Thai day. The best way to experience this is in the quiet solitude of a spacious boat trip where you’ll have all the space required to cozy up next to your loved one. Simba Sea Trips offers a Phi Phi Sunset Tour that takes in the spectacular sites of Phi Phi before concluding the day with a spectacular sunset cruise back into port. With the high season just coming into effect, now is the perfect time to book this incredible tour! 4. Go off the beaten track in search of a hidden beach While most tourists come to Phuket to walk along some of the most glorious beaches in the world, doing so generally means fighting significant crowds (especially in peak season). Everyone knows about Maya Bay, Patong and Kata but what many aren’t aware of is the amount of lovely and isolated beaches that exist off the beaten track. To reach these locations you’ll need to hire a car or scooter but the experience will be well worth it if you are looking to escape the crowds. Rather, than soaking in the sun elbow to elbow with other tourists, hitting a location like Banana Beach will provide you with much more space to read a book, lounge around and swim in the crystal clear waters. 5. Swim in the Crystal Clear Waters at Ko Hong Island For swimming conditions that are hard to beat, the turquoise waters that surround Ko Hong Island are the place to be. This popular tourist destinations provided glorious white sand, and picturesque scenery that makes it a must-see for many visitors. Its popularity means that it is sometimes difficult to find some space which is why it is best to experience Ko Hong from the comfort of a private boat. While many boat tours can take you to the region, for ultimate comfort it is best to travel on a boat that limits capacity for customer satisfaction purposes. This is what makes the Simba Sea Trips Krabi Island Boat Tour the one. With smaller boat sizes and an earlier departure time than the competitors, you’ll experience Ko Hong the way it is meant to be experienced. 6. Hire a scooter and ride around Koh Yao Noi The small fishing island of Koh Yao Nai simply must be reached by boat. Once there, tourists can hire a scooter or bicycle and spend a few hours speeding around the island. The island circuit on a scooter or bike is about 20km in circumference meaning that you’ll have plenty of time to explore the hidden beaches, farms and rice paddies. There is also delicious local delicacies available for purchase making this location ideal for those looking to escape the crowds, have some fun and fill their stomachs with some spectacular food. 7. Stop off at Big Buddha An extremely popular location, the Big Buddha is a statue of huge religious significance. The statue itself stands 45 metres high and is 25 metres wide. It is covered in beautiful Burmese marble. Visitors to the region will be quick to realize that the monastery is under restoration and those who are feeling charitable have the opportunity to contribute to the restoration project. The area can get crowded so take into consideration that if you are solely looking for activities to escape the crowds then this journey might not be for you. 8. Soak in the Karon View Point For

Everything you need to know about Coral island Phuket 2022 Update: Book a coral delight tour and experience the sensational region in all its natural glory! Known officially as Koh Hae, Coral Island is one of the finest tourist attractions for visitors looking for a time saving location that can be considered one of the best islands near Phuket. Koh Hae in Phuket is made up of two main beaches – Long Beach and Banana Beach. Each offering fun activities for those fortunate enough to visit. The two beaches get extremely busy during the day (especially during the high season) but offers a serene nighttime atmosphere. Despite the busy setting, if you are willing to walk, reaching the furthest points of either beach will afford you some space. Activities to do on Coral Island There is a large range of activities available on both Banana Beach and Long Beach. Not surprisingly, the majority of these are water-based activities. Some of the most popular include: Canoeing Snorkeling Scuba Diving Parasailing (only available on Long Beach) Kayaking Banana Boating Leapfrogging from activity to activity is bound to occupy your time and you can pick the activity best suited to you and your family. However, if you are looking for a less adventurous, more relaxing beach experience, Coral Island still delivers. Massages are available at the Eastern end of Long Beach and a small hiking trail is also available in close proximity to the massage area. Additionally, there are painting classes and other low-key activities available at nearby Coral Island Resort. How do you get to the Island There are a number of ways to get to Coral Island. The most common is achieved via long-tail boat from two nearby locations – Chalong Pier or Rawai Beach. The arrival point will take you no longer than 30 minutes to reach given the close proximity of the island to the mainland. If you are in an even greater hurry then taking part in a speedboat tour to Coral Island is your best bet. Many operators run snorkeling and diving trips to Coral Island and the speedboat is capable of reaching the destination in little more than 15 minutes. So not only do you get an experience to saviour but you get where you are going in style and speed. Where to stay on Coral Island Most visitors do not bother seeking accommodation while visiting Coral Island in Thailand. The reason being that it is so close to the mainland that a short trip back at the end of the day can get them back to their hotel or hostel with hours to spare. However, with that said there is one significant advantage to staying on the island during your visit – space and comfort. This is great for those looking to experience the region in the absence of the massive crowd. Once evening hits and the majority of tourists depart, you’ll be left to your own devices. This is especially apparent in the late hours of the evening and at breakfast time when the next batch of tourists have yet to arrive. This provides you with ample opportunity to soak yourself in the calm, relaxing environment afforded to you. Be warned though, that if you want a room with a scenic ocean view then you best book early as the prime viewing rooms are quick to sell out, especially around the high season. Commonly asked questions How far is Coral Island from Phuket? Coral Island is situated just 3 kilometres off the mainland and therefore is an attractive option to visitors. The closest departure point to the island is Rawai Beach which is located 6.5 kilometres (4 miles) away. Where is Coral Island positioned? Coral Island or Koh Hae, is Southeast of Phuket and features two popular beaches – Long Beach and Banana Beach. How far is Coral Island from Bangkok? If you are coming from Bangkok, you need to likely take an airplane to Phuket airport prior to making your way to the island. Officially, the distance between Bangkok and Coral Island is measured at 708 kilometres. What is the best hotel in Coral Island? Due to the close proximity of Coral Island to the mainland, the only available accommodation on the island is the Coral Island Resort. How do I get to Coral Island? You can conveniently rent a longtail boat from either Rawai Beach or Chalong Pier. The cost of the boat will vary depending on the season and your negotiation skills but will likely be approximately 1500 Baht for the day. How about Traveling a little further?  While Coral Island serves a great purpose as a nearby island location, there are many other quality islands located a little further out from Phuket. The most appealing regions of which are Krabi, Phi Phi and Phang Ngay Bay. Each of these three locations are perfect destinations and can be visited in ultra-comfort as part of a Simba Sea Trips Phuket boat tour.

The Essential Info on Phuket City Considered one of the oldest cities in all of Thailand, Phuket City remains a favoured destination. It has much to offer those who travel to the region. Read on as we give you background information regarding this great Thai tourist destination. Where is it? The City of Phuket is located approximately 860 kilometres to the south of Bangkok. It is the capital of Phuket Province and is currently home to over 60,000 permanent residents. It encompasses two tambons (districts),  Talat Nuea and Talat Yai. The municipality covers an area of 12km sq and is one of the 32 municipalities situated throughout Thailand. By size alone, it is the 20th largest municipality. The city’s history The Phuket province has an intriguing history. The region was previously known as Thalang (translation – cape) with the location of the old city in the North of the province as opposed to the south east location where the capital currently stands. Despite Phuket Town’s rich and illustrious history it was only elevated to city status on the 13th of February, 2004. We say despite, because a simple glance around the City reveals an array of older buildings reflective of a time when tin mining was an important aspect in the region. These buildings were largely established by Chinese migrants who arrived in their droves in the area during the 19th century in search of prosperity. This followed two important historical moments in the region’s past – European discovery and the Burmese invasion. EUROPEAN DISCOVERY The first European contact was made in 1545, when a Portugese explorer by the name of Fernao Mendes Pinto arrived in Thailand (known as Siam at the time). The Portugese referred to Phuket at the time as Junk Ceylon and it was a pivotal stopping port for trading vessels to top up supplies and provisions. Despite its popularity, the vessels that approached the port often encountered run-ins with pirates and subsequently the island became less of an attraction to travelling vessels as they looked to avoid the pirates. This was on top of the rough seas that surrounded the region and caused much grief for ship captains. Gradually, as tin became more of an asset to the region, the popularity of the island again grew and led to a large increase in ships venturing to the foreshore. BURMESE INVASION In 1785, the region was hit with an invasion by the Burmese who perceived a weak defense and therefore mounted an offensive to take the area. The locals knowing that they did not have the numbers to defend such an advance, created a brilliant strategy to defend the area. The women of the city dressed in soldiers uniforms and took up positions along the city walls. When the Burmese approached they were surprised with the numbers of perceived soldiers and therefore called off the invasion. In recent times, the region was substantially damaged by the Boxing Day Tsunami in 2004. The strength of the wave caused significant damage to many of the resorts along the western coastline and caused the death of over 250 people in Phuket alone. Things to do in Phuket City What are some of the best things to do in Phuket City if you are pressed for time? We’ll list our top 5 favourite sites to check out (in no particular order). Journey up Rang Hill The Summit at Rang Hill (Known to the locals officially as Khao Rang) is located in the north-western region of the city. It is the second highest summit overlooking Phuket City and as such offers spectacular views for those who venture to the summit. In addition to offering a wonderful view of the city there are also a number of famous landmarks that can be seen from the summit, including Phuket’s Big Buddha, and a number of the popular tourist islands. The walk up the hill is interesting in itself with features including a large sitting Buddha, three restaurants, and an exercise park near the summit for those using the hill as an excuse to burn some calories! Explore Phuket City on Foot While it is still commonly referred to as Phuket Old Town, Phuket City, in our opinion, is best explored on foot. This way you can stroll through many of the restaurants, coffee shops and bars within the area while also observing the rich architecture that dominates many of the streets that make up the town. You can easily tick off the whole town in a day given how closed-in the city is. With that said, we’d suggest performing this activity in the early morning or later in the evening when the temperature is cooler (especially in the summer months), Any walking tour should end on Phuket Walking Street if you are in the vicinity on a Sunday. This weekly market takes place from 4pm to 10pm each and every Sunday and is tailored towards the whole family with plenty of kid-friendly activities and toy stalls to peruse. Spend some time on Thalang Road Centrally-located as the main street within Phuket City, this narrow paved strip is the centrepoint for many attractions, quaint clothing stores and cozy cafes. Thalang Road is perhaps best known for the colourful, glorious Sino-Portugese architecture that encompasses all the shops, restaurants and guest houses on the road. The street runs perpendicular to Montri and Thepkasattri Roads and ends at the Yaowarat Road junction, where it continues on as Krabi Road. The Phuket Trickeye Museum For those looking for a great afternoon of fun with a couple of hundred photos added to your phone gallery, the trick eye museum should be top of your list. Opening in 2014, it has quickly become an extremely popular stop for visitors and locals alike. The museum features approximately 100 paintings that aim to deceive the eye. This is achieved by creating a 3D illusion on a flat support. Located at the corner of Phang Nga and Montri Roads, the Museum provides sample

Thailand National Parks worth a visit in 2022 If the white sandy beaches, the yummy tropical cocktails, the breathtaking temples, or the awe-inducing archaeological sites come to mind when you think of Thailand, then you might be surprised to find out just how captivating Thailand National Parks can be. You will have an unforgettable experience, especially since you get to observe the wildlife in their natural habitat and from a safe distance. Visitors and locals attest to the fact that Thailand National parks are priceless gems that make the country an irresistible choice for holidaymakers and locals alike. If you are wondering how many national parks in Thailand there are, note that Thailand has hundreds scattered across the country. So which Thailand National Parks are worth seeing as we move beyond covid and try and get back to nature? We have made it easier for you to choose from. Read on now! Experience the Khao Sok Nature Resort Located in Southern Thailand, the Khao Sok Nature Resort has the most compelling features that you must see when in the country. One of the most beautiful and most visited of all Thailand National parks was founded in 1980. The nature resort is part of the Thailand government’s efforts to preserve the environment and natural development. Once you visit Khao Sok, you will be taken aback by the rich-green rainforest which has the reputation for being the oldest in the world. In addition, you won’t help but feast your eyes on the huge limestone mountains that rise magnificently into the skyline. They also have seemingly bottomless valleys, intriguing caves, beautiful lakes, as well as exotic species of plants and animals. Want some ideas on what to do in Khao Sok Nature resort? You can engage in a number of activities at the Khao Sok nature resort. If you are brave enough, you can request a not-so-close but personal encounter with an elephant, get your adrenaline pumping by taking a nature walk in the jungle on foot or explore clear waters by means of a canoe. If you are the kind of person who likes knowing facts about places, then be sure to sit near a tour guide and ask as many questions as you can about the resort itself, as well as the history of the plant and animal life in the resort. Whatever is the case, you will remain enthralled by the rich diversity Khao Sok nature resort offers. Thinking about how to get to Khao Sok National Park? The best way to get there is to first get yourself to Phuket. If you aren’t already in the region, regular flights arrive at Phuket Airport throughout the day and night. In terms of getting to the park, you can take a taxi or a hire car. Try the Doi Inthanon Tour Doi Inthanon is infamous for having the highest mountain in Thailand called the Inthanon mountain. In addition to this unique feature, visitors have a variety of interesting places to visit within the park and fun activities to engage in. To kick-start your Thailand national parks tour to Doi Inthanon, you can engage the services of a tour guide. The guide can plan activities for you to do and select places to visit based on their cultural and historical significance. But start by visiting the National Park itself. A good tour guide should be able to show you other interesting spots that are on the way to the park. These include passing through the scenic villages and settlements, via acres of rice fields, vineyards, and beautiful fruit orchards. Along the way, you will meet very friendly locals who will warmly greet you with a smile and an embrace. Thinking of what to get to do in Doi Inthanon national park? Here are some of our best recommendations: At the Doi Inthanon national park itself, you can decide to head straight to the mountain peak, which is 8415 feet (2,565 meters) above sea level. It is important to follow all instructions while on the climb. When there, feast your eyes on the glorious, surrounding landscape. Awaken the adventurer in you by going on a “search” for the remains of the previous king of Chiang Mai entombed in the park. From there take a hike along the Angka Luang natural trail so that you can enjoy the view of the forest from above. To finish off your Thailand national parks tour to Doi Inthanon, pay a visit to the twin pagodas (Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Bhumisiri) erected for King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit to mark their fifth cycle birthdays. Historians note that each pagoda also enshrines Buddha’s relics. Chiang Mai National Park Chiang Mai National park is ranked amongst the most important landmarks in northern Thailand. These parks have some of the most beautiful species of plant and animal life. In addition, you will also find lush-green jungles, captivating mountains, waterfalls, and other water bodies. One of the parks found in the vicinity of Chiang Mai is the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. The Doi Suthep has many exciting features and landmarks. To begin with, the Doi Suthep is home to the notable Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Bhubing Rjanives palace. You will also find the twin mountains known as Doi Suthep and the Doi Pui. The Doi Suthep will thrill hikers to no end. This is because of the many trails that crisscross throughout the park. A hike should take you through numerous caves, beautiful views of the mountain points, lush greenery, as well as the thunderous waterfalls. Speaking of waterfalls, make sure you visit the infamous Bua Tong Sticky waterfall. This waterfall is located about an hour and a half drive from Old City Chiang Mai. The Bua is famous for the fact that you can walk barefooted along the waterfall’s edge without slipping, as the bed of the waterfall grips or sticks to your feet, giving you a firm, if unexpected, footing! What to

Beach Hut Stays in 2022 With the world quickly moving on from the covid pandemic and looking to step outside and into the fresh, untapped air, a beach hut stay is becoming an increasingly popular option for tourists. While in Thailand, it won’t hurt to enjoy a stay in one of the finest Phuket beach huts. Much as hotel stays can be ideal especially if you are on a budget, you still can spend a couple of nights in a beach hut on the island just for the experience.  Looking for some recommendations on which best huts or as some call them, beach bungalows to stay in as you take a break from the usual hotel stay experience? Now if it’s your first time to Thailand, we want to make sure that you make the most of your time here. We’ve already talked about the best things to do in Phuket and the best ways to celebrate in Phuket. Now, let’s talk about some amazingly unique places you can stay. So, this is why we have come up with this article to give you all the guidance you require. Phuket Thailand beach bungalows you want to stay in Being the most popular travel spot, Thailand boasts itself in its historical spots, rich culture and spectacular landscape. Everywhere you go, there is always something beautiful to feast your eyes on. Don’t even get me started on the gorgeous white sandy beaches along the most beautiful clear blue waters. What more reason for staying at Phuket huts on the beach do you need? If you have never explored these as an accommodation option, you need to even if it is only for one night. You will be glad you never passed at this experience. You will have easy access to walk on the smooth, white sandy beaches as well as taking a dip in the beautiful water. Is it privacy you are looking for? You’ll get it. If you are a party animal, we have got you covered. You will always find the perfect accommodation spot near the beach to suit your need. So, lets dive in and check out some if the finest Phuket beach huts we think are worth staying at. Kata Beachwalk Hotel & Bungalows The Kata Beachwalk Hotel and Bungalows is one of the luxurious Phuket Thailand beach bungalows which is located just a few minutes’ walk to entertainment spots of Phuket. It is only about 50 meters from the white sandy Kata beach. This hotel is also 1.7km km from Dino Park Mini Golf. Other places near this hotel are the Kata View Point, 2.7 km away and the Big Buddha, 12 km away. This is one of the luxurious hotels which is also located on a quiet beach in Kata. Here, you will find 22 exquisite and fresh fully equipped modern hotel rooms and 8 beautiful bungalows overlooking the sea. The rooms are also family like. They serve American breakfast at the hotel. The Phuket International airport is 47km from the hotel and they offer paid shuttle services. Much as its ok for families, couples particularly love staying at these bungalows. Naiya Beach Bungalow Explore this beach bungalow that has a natural, tropical design. This is one of the Phuket huts that has a secluded and relaxing atmosphere. It is set in a big garden away from the hustles of the town life at the south end of Phuket. It is built on a hillside. Now if you are one who loves the beach, you will enjoy the panoramic view of the clear blue sea. Some of the places that are within walking distance to the Naiya Beach Bungalow are Phromthep cape, Ya Nui beach and Nai Harn beach. Rosewood Phuket We promised to give you a highlight of the most stunning Phuket beach huts. Well, this is one of them, perfectly located along the beach in a very tranquil spot in Phuket. One thing that makes it different from the two that we have described above is that it is perfect for family because it can keep both kids and adults entertained. They have a large pool, a kids club, a spa and water sports. They have 71 villas and pavilions with some beachfront units that provide an easy access to the sea. All units have private pools with outdoor tubs, showers, Bluetooth speakers and all. The highlight of this spot is the dining experience. The have fantastic breakfast buffet and the food can be custom made. Nang Thong Bay Resort This resort is a great choice for travellers visiting Khao Lak. It has the perfect family setting and great amenities for guests to enjoy. The rooms a well-conditioned with a minibar and a fridge. WiFi is also available. They also have a pool and a restaurant at the resort which can be a great relaxing break if you have a busy day. Free parking is available for guests. The Gold Elephant Restaurant, Siam Turmeric and Spinach Restaurant are conveniently located a few minutes from the resort. So, if you are looking for an Asian experience, these are the restaurants to visit. You can also experience other popular attractions such as the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall and Ton Pring Waterfall. Patong Bay Hut One of the other Phuket beach huts we have to highlight is the Patong Bay Hut where you will literally be a few steps from the Tri Trang Beach. It is also about 1.9 km from the Freedom Beach. The Patong Beach isn’t too far either – 2.5km. The one thing that makes this particular hut special is its exclusivity. You can have the whole cabin to yourself or share it only with the people you came with. The cabin has rooms with balconies, flat-screen TV with cable channels, minibars and kitchen amenities like coffee/tea maker. Aothong Beach Bungalows These modern bungalows are very cosy and have a Thai style interior. They are well conditioned and come with a private balcony.