Blog

Whenever one is planning to do some fishing in Phuket, one thing that really matters is that you land a good catch. The good thing is that there are a lot of fishing trips and tours that can take you the very best fishing spots. You can choose to ship with local sea gypsies or do it while you are on your island hoping tours. There are lots places to fish. From deep sea fishing Phuket at the Andaman Sea to fishing parks, there is always some fish to catch. The good thing about fishing on this island is that you will find even the most exotic fish species that are usually sort after by most fishermen from all over the globe. There are also fishing charters that are available to assist travellers in the fishing based on both fishing skill level or budget. Besides the fishing packages, some of the fishing tour companies can add in customized charter trips as well as party cruises. All you need to know about fishing on the island of Phuket Whether its fresh water fishing or salt water fishing, you can enjoy them both in Phuket. Let’s examine these two options a bit more… Salt water fishing If you are one of the anglers or people that enjoys some deep sea fishing, then you are in luck. When it comes to big game fishing, Phuket takes the crown these days. It has become one of the greatest fishing destinations in Asia. Fishermen travel from all over the word to come and fish some of these exotic game species such as Wahoo, Sailfish, Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, and Giant Trevally. Even if you are fishing in the reefs, you will still be in luck as you can catch fish like the Snapper and Grouper among other fish. One thing about fishing in Phuket is that there are no disappointments. All you need is to book fishing tour and you will be able to enjoy your fishing. Salt water fishing sites in Phuket There are 3 famous destinations that most fishing boats visit: Racha Yai, Racha Noi, and the continental shelf. This is because they are closer. Most visitors are usually taken to Racha Yai because it is the largest Racha island, promising anglers some big game fishing. The current streams in the 3 destinations attract the Sailfish, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Longtail Tuna, Barracuda, Dorado coryphée and many more… If you want to specifically catch the Giant Trevally take Phuket fishing charters that go to Racha Noi. Here, you will also find some more varieties of game fish like Rainbow-runners, Dogtooth Tuna, and Black Marlin. For better access to the Black Marlin, had a little further to the edge of the continental shelf, also known as ‘the drop off’. The ocean floor here suddenly plunges from 130ft to almost 1000ft making it perfect for deep sea fishing Phuket. Besides the Black Marlin, swimming in these waters too are the Skipjack Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Barracuda and sometimes the Sailfish. Cost: The prices for Phuket fishing charters vary depending on the boat you take. The cheapest are traditional wooden Thai boat that cost about $350 for a group of four to six people. There is the option of a private charter abord a speedboat. This will cost about $815 for four to six people. If money isn’t the issue, get the experience of a lifetime fishing in Phuket on a yacht which costs between $2,000 to $3,600, depending on your fishing destination. Freshwater Fishing There are local fishing parks if you are not a fun of the sea experience. Some resorts have lakes that are artificially cultivated, and that accommodate a wide range of fish species. At these fishing parks, you will find both local fish as well as imported exotic species. Some fish hailed by anglers who visit these parks are, Alligator Gar, Wallago Leeri, Siamese Carp, Giant Mekong Catfish, Arapaima and the Pacu (similar to the Piranha). These giant fishes usually range between 300 and 500 lbs. The smaller species like Snakehead and Spotted Featherback (that swim backwards) have also been the talk of most anglers about how impressive they are. Cost A full day fishing (8-11 hours) attracts an entrance fee of between $100 to $320 per person. This fee includes the fishing rods and bucket of bait. Prices for fly fishing in Phuket are higher, costing about $225 per day. There are fishing guides to assist those who are new to fishing and some of the fishing parks charge an additional fee for one. Depending on the park, a half day (4-6 hours) will cost you between $100 to $270 though not all fishing parks offer the half day option. A considerable number of parks have meals and accommodation at varied prices. Fishing seasons Fishing can be done all year round. That said though, the best and most convenient time to fish is begins in October and ends in March. The seas are usually very high in the monsoon seasons between May and August which makes it perfect for hunting the Marlin. There is also the annual Phuket International Sport fishing tournament in November which runs for three days. During this fishing challenge, the anglers get to catch the marlin and other fish. Conclusion When fishing in Phuket, it all depends on what kind of experience you are going for. You can do small local boats, long tail boat or even go as lavish as doing a yacht with meals on board and insurance. Most fishing companies are usually fully booked. So, if you are traveling to Phuket and hope to fish while you are there, better book a boat or that yacht in advance. If you are also keen for some other adventures then nothing beats a relaxing trip out on a private charter boat tour of Phuket with Simba for some fun in the sun! So get in touch today to organize your group tour.

Did you know that Uber in Phuket, Thailand ceased operations in March 2018 because it merged it’s with the ride-sharing service Grab? You got that right. The notice was issued by Uber in March, 26, stating that they will be merging their operation with Grab to make ride sharing in Thailand easier and all-over Southeast Asia. The transition happened in April 8, 2018. So basically, the Uber services were moved over to the Grab Platform. So, is uber available in Phuket? If you are in Thailand and planning on using the Uber services, you need to make that taxi request from the Grab app. You are required to download the Grab app and create an account with them. What is Grab? Grab is a free mobile app that works just like Uber. It enables one to book a taxi. And like Uber Phuket, you can select pick up location and also see the estimated cost from one point to the next. So, if you are wondering is Uber available in Phuket, much as there are other internationally recognized taxi apps, only Grab operates in Phuket. Clients raised their concerns about Grab and Uber in Phuket. To respond to these concerns, the clients were told that their Uber account information and previous trips will still show on their accounts. What they won’t be seeing is any Uber vehicles in Thailand. Grab and Uber agreed to work together giving the drivers and riders some time to allow for the smooth transition. The app promised to continue its operations for two weeks in order for their clients to sign up to Grab. They promised to run Uber Eats until end of May 2018 as their clients signed up for the GrabFood platform. Two of the world’s largest riders, DiDi Chuxing and Uber, are backing Grab. SoftBank is also an additional investor. Other three companies also have a great stake in Grab. What do you need to use Grab in Phuket? A smartphone and the app are all you need so that you don’t have to rely on tuk tuks or other taxis. One thing you need to know as a tourist there is that the tuk tuk drivers have the reputation of overcharging tourists for short distances. Plus, if you want a better experience moving across the city, Grab is all you need. You will reduce your taxi cost fights and haggling by having Grab installed on your smartphone. How to use Grab Grab have 3 types of vehicles based on capacity and comfort. You can do saloon cars, limos as well as SUV limos. In Phuket, there are 30 of each of the three classes. They are mostly found around the island. However, you can still get more in Phuket town and Patong. Even though uber in Phuket merged with Grab, the Grab app is still as easy to use as Uber was. So just chose the class you want and the nearest vehicles in the class you selected will be displayed. When the driver picks up your booking, all you need to do is to confirm your pick up collection and voila! Just like that, they will follow you to where you will be waiting for the ride. The good thing about grab is that its just similar to uber Phuket. Usually, the cost is already decided by the meter when you order a ride. One thing that is advised especially if you are taking a limo is to negotiate the price based on what the app has showed. That said though, even if it varies, the price won’t be so much higher that what the app showed. What are the other options you have to move around? There are lots of options besides Grab. If you really know what the regular taxis charge, you can get on top of things and bargain your way to getting the best prices. But are they worthy alternative options and most important are they safe modes of Phuket transport. The other option is the tuk tuk. They are perfect for moving between short distances. Unfortunately, the terrain can make these three-legged vessels a bit dangerous. Motorbikes come with similar dangers like tuk tuk especially when the traffic is high, which it usually is. But if you are an experienced rider, it can be loads of fun. Buses on the other hand are as safe as they are anywhere. If you want a great one with air conditioning, hope on an orange or yellow one. Much as there is no Uber in Phuket, other countries can still continue to use the Uber app where the service operates. It was just a merger in Thailand. Not the end of Uber for other markets globally. All in all, if you want to use the other options besides Grab, do your research on how much you expect to be charged.

There are plenty of Phuket town hotels that one can stay in and easily access the beach. Well, it makes sense for visitors to prefer such hotels because for one, Phuket is well known to be the beach destination. Well lucky for you, there are lots of hotels that this article will recommend that are near the beaches and near town. There is a wide range of hotels. Those in the west coast of Phuket are the ones that are mostly near the beaches. You can also find those in Phuket which are overdeveloped in areas like Patong, making them quite noisy because visitors like visiting them due to their popularity. Then of course, you will find those that are a little on the quieter sides of Phuket such as Naithon or Kamala. On the east coast of Phuket, you will find some that are a bit underdeveloped then we also have those that are a bit on the inland areas, away from the beaches and seas. Whatever your choice, whether it is looking for high end hotels in Phuket town or those that a bit more on the affordable side, there will always be something for everyone. So, let’s have a look at the ones in Phuket town. Phuket city hotels Phuket city is officially the town centre of Phuket. A lot of business gets conducted here. For one, if you are planning on getting your accommodation within the town, chances are there will be no beach near the capital. So, unless you plan your beach tours separately, the experience will definitely be quite different from staying at beach hotels. That doesn’t mean that as a tourist, you won’t enjoy living in one of Phuket town hotels. There lots of businesses that are tourist oriented too. If your visit to Phuket is a long one, you will enjoy lots of Phuket lifestyle by staying in the town hotels such as the markets, shrines, museums and even some popular festivals like the Sunday Walking Street Markers as well as the infamous Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Trust me, town living is quite different from the party life of the beach hotels and bars. From back packing dorms to the flashier boutique hotels, you will find it all in Phuket town. Here are our top picks of hotels in Phuket town: Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel This hotel is a fairly new hotel in a beautiful colonial building, a quick walk from Phuket Old Town. Its one of the hotels you go to when you want the beautiful boutique hotel experience with stunning views as well as private balconies. The good thing with this hotel is that it’s just 30 minutes’ drive to Patong Beach. It only has 17 rooms but at great prices. The floors are wooden and air conditioned with a mini bar and some safe. They have ensuite bathrooms and some come with a living room and a kitchenette. There is Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool. Pearl Hotel This is one of the Phuket town hotels that is located in the centre of the city, Like the name suggests, it has a pearl themed décor and has contemporary non-smoking rooms. There is an outdoor pool where guests can lounge and get massages. If you are one that enjoys some bit of nightlife, they also have a nightclub. Being modern and all, they also have Wi-Fi in the whole hotel. It is also 30 minutes’ drive to Patong, Kata, Nai Yang and Karon beaches. It’s also just 15 minutes’ drive to the central festival. The hotel is simply furnished with air conditioning in all rooms, satellite TV and a well-stocked minibar. You can get food at their coffee shop or snacks at the Pearl Cocktail Lounge. Plus, they have a 24-hour front desk and business centre. WOO Gallery & Boutique hotel PG – adults only. This hotel has a garden and a shared lounge. They also do airport transfers and room service, as well as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Some of the places that can easily be accessed are Chinpracha House and Thai Hua Museum. There is satellite TV, fridge and while here you get to enjoy à la carte or an American breakfast. Island Escape by Burasari This one is one of the Phuket city hotels that is just a few km, 8, from Old Phuket Town. It comes with both a restaurant as well as accommodation. They also have a fitness centre and an outdoor pool. There is a bar, a garden and a shared lounge. They have a 24-hour front desk that helps tourists with currency exchange and they also offer room service. Every morning, the resort offers American as well as Buffet breakfast. The Island Escape by Burasari is family friendly as it hosts a kid’s playground. They also offer a variety if sports and games such as darts, table tennis, billiards and an area for cycling. Thai Hua Museum is accessible easily, 8 km away, Chinpracha House is also the same number of kilometres from the hotel. The Memory at On On Hotel This is one of the Phuket town hotels that were built a long time ago… some 100 or so years back. Trust me, the beds are probably 100 years old. As mentioned earlier, there is something for everyone in Phuket town. Well, this is one of those joints that are perfect for backpackers. Plus, they also have a small café. Well, that said, this place was recently renovated and it re-opened its doors in 2013 as The Memory at On On Hotel. This hotel now has newer suites and nice rooms. It still has dorms too. Peranakan Boutique Hotel First off, this is one of the Phuket city hotels that are set in the town itself. It is only 1.1 km of Chinpracha House, and offers WiFi as well as allergy-free rooms. Other places near the hotel are Saphan Hin Mining Monument, 1.6km away, Chao Fah Variety Market, 3.1 km away and the

Wondering how to get from Phuket to Koh Lanta? One thing about Koh Lanta is that it is one of the less explored Islands in Thailand. Because of that, it makes it a bit complicated to get to the island. The beauty of this island makes it worth the hustle to get there. There are 9 beautiful sandy beaches that have perfect views of rugged islands popping from the Andaman Sea. It is perfect for couples, families as well as backpackers. Much as getting here is hectic, this doesn’t make it impossible. A bridge links Phuket to the mainland. Unfortunately, there isn’t one linking Koh Lanta to the mainland. So, there is a stretch of water to consider at some point. That is the reason for this article – to show you how you can get here easily and comfortably. Well, here is some reliable info on the means you can use to get to Koh Lanta from Phuket. How to get from Phuket to Koh Lanta easily Phuket to Koh Lanta distance The Phuket to Koh Lanta distance on a straight line is 80.8 km. That said though, it might take one a bit longer than expected. Plus, the time you take might vary depending on the means of transport you choose – bus, ferry, speedboat… Now, if you choose going by land, the distance ends up being 240 km because there is no straight line here. So, give yourself a travel time of between 4 and 6 hours. That said, most people prefer using the ferry when the weather is good. Let’s have a look at the different means of travel…. Phuket – Koh Lanta by speedboat If you have a little more to spare and no time to waste then take the speed boat. The advantage is that they are faster and they do more trips a day. If you are considering a Koh Lanta to Phuket speedboat, it will take you about 1 hour and 35 minutes. Keep in mind that it might stop between islands. Plus, if you are torn between a ferry and a speedboat, a speedboat will save you more time for fun activities as well as exploration. Simba Sea Trips offers private charter boat tours of Phuket that provide the ultimate experience while maximizing comfort and space. Ferry from Phuket to Koh Lanta This is the most famous means of travel between the two places. There are several ferries to choose from. There are also two starting points. So, you have the option to choose the one that is closest to where you are residing. You can also choose between a regular ferries or high-speed ferries. Of course, regular ones will take longer because they have to go through Koh Phi Phi. It takes about two hours from Phuket to Phi Phi. Then on Phi Phi island, you have to wait an hour before taking another one from Phi Phi to Koh Lanta which takes about one and a half hours to get there. The high-speed ferry from Phuket to Koh Lanta is faster but not considerably cheaper than a speedboat. So, if you can handle sea travel, then do the speedboat. Consider the little money you can save using the ferry as well as the amount of sightseeing you will enjoy while aboard the ferry. Bus travel There are no direct buses to Koh Lanta Island from Phuket. Ferry travel is still included with this option. First off, you will have to board the bus at Krabi to take you the pier where you will get on the ferry bound for Koh Lanta. With this option, you have to book a bus to Krabi at Phuket Bus Terminal 2. At Krabi, get on a van to Koh Lanta which will take you to the Hua Hin Pier where they will get on the ferry to take you to Koh Lanta. Whether you choose traveling from Koh Lanta to Phuket speedboat or ferry is all up to you. Just weigh and choose what works for you based on your budget and the time you have to spare.

If you are one who prefers a calming environment at Krabi, then Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is one of the chapters that you need to consider adding to your book of life’s travels and adventures. This is a popular natural attraction, a luxury picturesque wonder, that has been drawing tourists from all over the place. This place is all about taking care of the desires of people who love nature. So, if you are looking to take a short break from the beaches and islands when visiting Krabi, then this is your best bet. The highlights of Thung Teao Perfect eco-tourism spot What makes this park be a tourist destination that is unlike the rest is its simplicity and innate beauty. The moment you set foot in to this natural park, you will be greeted by a spectacular combination of colours. There are very long trees that if you look up to the sky, they seem to cut off this park from the rest of the world. What visitors have is an enclosed sphere of emerald and crystal blue colours to devour. First time visitors and repeat ones alike feel like they have been transported into a different realm. One other thing that makes Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is how visitors can hop from one limestone cliff to the next. These white limestone cliffs contrast perfectly with the green groves of the dense forest. One thing you have to admire at this place us the way different animals and plants intermingle and blend into this natural park. While here, one popular site that is a must visit and a site to devour is Thung Teao’s crystal lagoon. It got its name because of the crystal effects that the waters produce. It is a fantastic swimming spot and this beautiful ecological spot is the heart of the park. Emerald Pool Krabi Also known as (Sa Morakot), the Emerald Pool in Krabi is also a unique attraction in the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. It is located in the Khao Pra-Bang Kram area. With a 2.7-kilometre nature trail and a crystal pond this place is home to some exotic animals and plant species such as the Pitta Gurney bird which for a while people believed that it was extinct. There is a limestone foothill that opens up to a stunning emerald pool with warm and crystal-clear emerald waters which are superb for swimming. Much as the Emerald Crystal Pool is the highlight of this park there is also a waterfall to explore. This pool is an amazing ecotourist spot which surrounded by the tropical forest with an amazing blend of aquamarine colours. It’s perfect for birdwatching. Krabi Hot Springs – the perfect Emerald Day Spa The hot springs here flow from an underground volcanic chamber which cascade creating a waterfall that flows down into the stream and some natural ‘bathtubs’ in the rock. The waters are about 35-42 degrees Celsius which are perfect temperatures for relaxing. The mineral salts in the hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties. These jacuzzi like baths topped with the thermal spring waters are just perfect. When the crowd clears, that is the best time to relax in this emerald day spa… This hydrotherapy birth is pure bliss I assure you. Parting shot: Treat the park with care Since Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is one of the few tropical virgin rain forests that are still intact in south of Thailand, one of the things that the people who take care of the park ask of the visitors is treat this place with respect. The main aim of this is to assist in conserving the beauty of the park. So, while you are here, do not throw your trash everywhere or try plucking the plants or shoot the animals and birds in their natural habitat. This is a NO HUNTING zone. Let the only kind of shooting you will be doing be one done with your camera. Otherwise, have a blast feasting your eyes onto this natural gem.

Are you planning on traveling to Thailand and the question on your mind is: How big is Phi Phi Island? Now, if you have never been, I will have you know that this is a remarkable piece that has rightfully garnered the label – the Asian paradise. All this hailing of this perfect place is because of the clear turquoise waters, the fine white sandy tropical beaches as well as the fantastic picture-perfect landscape with stunning rock formations. Its beauty is probably the reason why Danny Boyle couldn’t resist having his movie The Beach (which featured Leonardo DiCaprio) shot here. Phi Phi Island is blessed with great archaeological hidden treasures. Apparently it is one of the oldest places in Thailand that dates back to the prehistoric era. How many Phi Phi Islands are there? So really, how big is Phi Phi Island? If you never knew, Phi Phi island is a small archipelago which is a conglomerate of 6 other smaller islands. Popularly known as Koh Phi Phi in Thailand, these small islands that make up the larger Phi Phi island are stunningly beautiful. For years they have been ranked as the best attraction in southern Thailand. This gem can be found 43km west of the Krabi coast. The 6 islands include Koh Phi Phi Don, Koh Phi Phi Leh, Koh Bida Nok, Koh Bida Nai, Koh Phai (also known as Bamboo Island), and Koh Young (also known as Mosquito Island). All these islands are part of Hat Nopparat Thara-Ko Phi Phi National Park. The park alone is 38,790 hectares where you will find corals and marine life. At Phi Phi, you will also find caves, limestone mountains with cliffs as well as stunning long white sandy beaches. How big is Phi Phi Island and its smaller islands? The biggest Phi Phi Island is the Koh Phi Phi Don at 9.73 square kilometres (8 km length and 3.5 km width). It is the only island here that is inhabited. It is followed by the Koh Phi Phi Leh 2 kilometres. Much as Phi Phi Don is the largest it’s the beaches of Phi Phi Leh that are visited by many people. The whole island of Phi Phi sits on a 12.25 square kilometres area. The other smaller islands are just but large limestone rocks jutting out of the sea. Koh Phi Phi Don, the biggest Phi Phi Island, features 3 main areas. There is the busy main village which is located between the Tonsai and Dalum bay. This buzzing village is packed with hotels, shops, bars, and restaurants. The second feature is the tranquil and tropical Laem Thong beach which houses just but a few resorts. The third feature is the southern coast which has some accommodation spots in between the jungle and the sea to choose from. While you are here, there are no cars or bikes. So, in order to get by or move around Koh Phi Phi, you will have to do so by foot. So, make sure that you bring comfortable shoes since you will be on your feet all day. This island usually feels like a small intimate place south of Thailand. Well don’t let the size fool you. You can easily get lost and find yourself on the wrong side of the bay. So, while walking around always keep tabs of the routes that you used. One thing for sure is that Phi Phi islands will give you that drastic change of scenery as well as a bounty full of exhilarating activities to engage in that are bound to meet your expectations, regardless of your personality or interests. There is something for everyone – for the beach-goer, the party animal, the adventure-seeker as well as the explorers. Now once you discover how to get to Phi Phi, start enjoying some of the best island activities available in this wondrous region!

Phuket has got much more to offer than meets the eye. So if you are tired of beach tours and beach hoping, what better and unique way to unwind than trying an elephant ride Phuket? If you didn’t already know, Phuket is also famous for elephant trekking experiences, a side of Phuket fun activity I assure you you won’t want to miss out on. Note: Please be aware that there are many elephant activities that are highly controversial and should be avoided. You can read more about these activities to avoid here.  This has become one of the most popular things for tourists and locals alike love to do. It may sound a bit scary thinking about riding on a back of an elephant. But if you are the adventurous kind, taking a break from beach tours and snorkeling and enjoying some elephant trekking Phuket with family and friends is one of very special and exciting things to consider. Elephant Rides in Phuket done the right way Want to see and explore the sea-side and different sites of Phuket in a way that you have never seen before? Climbing on an elephant while you tour different places can be something amazing! This way you get to enjoy the sites and the beauty of Phuket from a perspective that is absolutely different – clear view of the whole scenery. I assure you, your vacation won’t be complete without an elephant ride Phuket. So, let’s take a look at some of the best places to consider when booking your elephant tour in Phuket. The Elephant trekking Phuket locations to consider First and foremost, you have to ensure that you undertake Elephant Trekking with a reputable provider. Scared? Well you don’t really have to be. Let me ease your mind a little. An elephant is regarded as of the holiest and most important animals in Thailand. They are worshipped and lots of care goes into taking care if these animals. So, don’t sweat it because you will be trekking and riding with the ‘holy’. Well, below are some of the places to really enjoy Phuket elephant rides… Kokchang Safari This is a 20-year-old elephant camp which is situated in Kata Noi in Phuket. It is the first elephant camp in the area and one of the popular elephant trekking spots in Phuket.  Located near the Kata’s beautiful oceanic viewpoint, there is no construction in this scenic environ. That alone makes it a camp that people like visiting. The thick jungle overlooks the Kata Noi Bay. There are several routes for elephant riding here – from 20 minutes ride on these holy animals to 1-hour treks. There extensively trained handlers with vast experience. So, when elephant trekking Phuket at Kokchang, you need not worry about the safety of you and your family as you ride along the paths and trails of the densely populated tropical forest as you enjoy the beauty of the scene and take photographs. If you are lucky you can get a ride on the neck of the elephant. Remember to stop by the banana kiosk and watch the elephants feeding at no cost. Sea View Elephant Camp This is a very recent addition to elephant ride Phuket companies. One thing that this camp is famous for is its excellent service and affordable deals. The camp was opened in 2010 and it is located near the Kata viewpoint. The camp has got very comfortable seats for trekking around the camp on elephants. Besides trekking they have other entertainment activities such as paintball and ATV. Kalim Elephant Camp If you want to enjoy elephant trekking as well as fantastic sea views, then this elephant camp is your best choice. It is located on a hill which overlooks the beautiful twin beaches, Kalim and Kamala. Taking a ride on these beautiful animals as well as enjoying the best sea views is worth the visit and will give you an adventurous experience of a lifetime. The camp opens at 8 am. Phuket Elephant Trekking Tours This is the nearest elephant tour Phuket from the sanctuary park along Patong beach. It is the first proper elephant sanctuary in Phuket. The tours are mainly educational and for observation. Visitors get to have close encounters with these creatures as well as walk with these elephants as well as watch them bathe, play and socialize in a natural environment. With this tour, visitors are picked from the hotel and the elephant trekking begins at 7 am. Other timings can be arranged to suit the schedule of the visitors. Traveliss Elephant Trekking What makes Travellis a well-trusted elephant trekking Phuket spot is the twenty years of experience. First off, it offers its clients a splendid trekking experience as well as giving them elephant shows. So, if you are interested in meeting and feeding baby elephants, then this is the place to be. The treks are usually an hour long. Kinnaree Elephant Trekking Located in Rawai, Kinnaree is another great tourism company that offers Phuket elephant rides. It has a wide range of packages and combos suited for different types of tourists. First off, they pick up and drop the tourists to and from the hotel. The rates are pretty affordable. While trekking here, you will also be able to observe these mammals in their most natural form. They roam and bathe freely. This sanctuary is worth all your time and money! Green Elephant Sanctuary Park When you visit the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park you will be able to observe these large creatures as well as enjoy some short walks around the park. The park has two slots – morning and afternoon. This park offers a unique trekking experience for its visitors. Enjoy your elephant ride in Phuket when you visit one of these spots!

Best Beach Resorts in Phuket Most travelers who arrive on their Thai holiday dream of staying in one of the best Beach Resorts in Phuket. With the beaches this amazing, one can only imagine what the resorts have to offer. Today, there are thousands of hotels. The most affordable ones are the ones located far from the beaches. But if money is not an issue, then you should check out those right on the ocean. With that said, we must mention that they are limited and in high demand. If you are willing to spend a lot of money on accommodation, then you need to get good value for your money as well as what you expect. So, when looking at some of the popular Phuket Resorts in order to choose wisely, you might want to take a few things into consideration. Things to consider when looking for Best Phuket Resort If you want to get the Best Beach Resorts in Phuket, then we have prepared this article for you. A lot of research went into coming up with this list and based on the quality of the beach, the quality of the hotel itself based on features and the quality of service offered. The thing is, even with beach resorts people usually have varying tastes. Different designs appeal to different people. So, in the list that we have provided, we will try to be as vast as possible in order to cater for the various tastes of different visitors. Below is what you need to consider: What is the status of the beach in terms of its beauty? Is it a rocky beach or a sandy one? Is the beach a private beach or public? What is the state of hotel in terms of the quality of services, amenities, age, design and the outlet? Does the hotel rank as one of the popular Phuket resorts on social media platforms and major tour guide websites such as the Trip Advisor? Are there other interesting sports surrounding the hotel? How pricey is it in comparison to what the hotel has to offer? Are you looking for a hotel that is a remote romantic getaway on an unseen beach or a small boutique hotel? That said, let us run you through some of Phuket’s finest resorts… Marina Phuket Resort The Marina Phuket resort is one of these beach fronts that offer a rainforest retreat in a busy beach area. It is an almost invisible enigmatic resort overlooking the Karon Beach. What makes it one of the best Beach Resorts in Phuket is the fact that it’s on Karon Beach, which has the most beautiful sandy stretch. It’s also a bit busy. If you are one that likes the urban life, then this one may not be your cup of tea. It is a complete forest with scattered rooms. In the middle of this is a jungle covered swimming pool … exotic palm trees, green walls and a waterfall. This place is a tropical paradise to behold. Most of the pavements connecting the rooms are raised footpaths that literally channel through the lush vegetation. Besides being one of the best beach resorts, the Marina also has the best restaurants… the only ones in Karon with a view of the sea. The restaurant, The Rock mainly serves seafood and Thai cuisine, as diners enjoy the view of the sea. Isn’t that just romantic? It’s the perfect romantic resort in Phuket because of its natural, intimate atmosphere. The Surin The Surin is on the list of one of the best Phuket beach resorts because it is hidden in Phuket’s gorgeous beaches. According to history and geography, this is an extraordinarily lucky resort. So, when you visit here, you should feel very privileged because you will be walking on the most untamed beaches of Phuket. Built in 1980, this beach hotel used to go by the name the Pansea Resort. It was the first of its kind with international standard accommodations on Phuket island. This is the reason why the developers got to build it around the best beaches on the island. What makes it hidden is the luck of Geography in the form of a small headland which cuts the area of the beach it was built on from the main Surin Beach. So even with crowds coming to Surin, unless you know it, it’s impossible to suspect that just beyond the small but heavily forested headland lies one of the most pristine beaches in all of Phuket. The beach is to die for with soft sand and calm, warm clear water. For those that love to swim in peace, this is the spot for you. The Nai Harn The Nai Harn Phuket is one of the beaches that is in a great location south of the island. It has a classic, timeless design and it has not always been one of the best Beach Resorts in Phuket but also one of the most iconic ones. When it opened in the 80s as the Mandarin hotel, it was infamous for being one of the most exclusive beachfront hotels in Phuket. All the rooms offer great views of the sea. Built among thousands of coconut trees this prestigious hotel lies on the hillside of Nai Harn Beach making it a hotel that is overlooking the most beautiful scenery in Phuket – the unique view of the vast crescent of white sand and turquoise water. It got its fame for being the leading, most luxurious beach resorts in Phuket. There are no constructions interfering with the natural beauty surrounding this coconut-covered island. It a romantic Best Phuket Resort because just having breakfast in the terrace that has such a fantastic view, watching the sun rise or watching the sunset approach in the evening can take one’s breath way. The best feature of this resort is the rooftop where guests can get a unique panorama of the Nai Harn bay, yachts anchored in front of the islands and the Promthep Cape.

Koh Khai Island Koh Khai Island in Phuket is one of the many islands that Thailand has to offer especially if you are looking for a place to just get away and soak in some sun. Seeing as there are several islands that Phuket has to offer, if you are not sure about where to go, your best bet is Koh Kai as it consists of 3 smaller islands: Khai Nok, Khai Nai and Khai Nui. So that way, you get to hop from one island to the next, even in the space of just half a day. The biggest of these islands is Khai Nai Island. It has spectacular views and a white sandy beach which makes it perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Khai Nui is the smallest of the three and has spectacular coral reefs and is also ideal for snorkelling. Whereas Koh Khai Nok, boasts a decent number of restaurants and kiosks where one can get souvenirs. Things to do on the Khai islands The islands of Koh Khai Phuket are approximately 15 minutes off the East Coast of Phuket in Phang Nga Bay. Much as the area is relatively small compared to most islands, it has gained its popularity mainly because there is plenty to explore. There are exciting bars as well as lot of activities to engage visitors such as snorkelling, scuba diving or water skiing. Plus, you can simply choose to just have a picnic on the superb sandy beaches. The waters are very clear all year round and has beautiful, colourful corals, crystal white sand and different types of marine life. Such landscape is to die for. You can take very beautiful pictures of the surroundings and marine. One thing you need to remember though is that feeding of the fish is forbidden. So, when you visit Koh Khai Island in Phuket, tempting as it may be, feeding of the marine life can get you arrested as it is illegal. Because it’s very popular with visitors, expect it to be a bit crowded. It is very popular with families because of the shallow waters which makes it easier to get closer to the fish. Plus, with so many restaurants, water sports and beach activities to enjoy, Koh Khai  is the perfect place to visit when vacationing with family. Food is not an issue when you visit the island. You can devour a variety of fresh tropical fruits such as pineapples and watermelons. There also snacks like grilled corn and seafood skewer. You can also just sit at a bar, sip some cocktails and enjoy the music. The best time to visit Koh Khai Island is between December and May, when the weather is mild and not too hot, making it perfect for enjoying the island as well as swimming. In order get here, most people usually book tours through tour companies. If you want a more personalized experience, a private speed-boat Phuket charter is recommended and Simba Sea Trips offers you the opportunity to do so.  This is perfect for groups of friends and family who want to explore Koh Khai Island Phuket intimately. Can one stay at Koh Khai? No. There are no overnight stays allowed on the island as there are not resorts or hotels there. This is one of the few disadvantages. So, if you are planning on overnight visits one will have to opt for accommodation from surrounding islands. One of the options to consider near Koh Kai is a hotel called Koh Lipe which is about 18 km from Koh Khai Phuket. The other option is to stay in government operated bungalows on Koh Adang or camp there if you are allowed to. Although most will charter a boat and see it all in a day. Khai islands have become a popular tourist attraction so even if they can be a bit crowded, they are well worth the visit.

Surin Beach Phuket Surin beach in Phuket, occupying the west coast, is one of the most beautiful and natural spots on the island. The beach is a lot more natural now because of the closure of the many beach clubs in the area. It is home to the Millionaires Row, a 1 kilometer stretch of fine white sand and a breathtaking Andaman clear blue sea. The Millionaires row prides itself for its luxury hotels, boutique shops, Surin beach restaurants, high end villas and hosts some of the finest residences Phuket has to offer. The beach can get busy due to the beautiful Surin beach weather during the summer. However, visitors will notice it is much less frequented in comparison to the neighboring Patong and Kata Beaches. It’s very popular all year-round.  The beach is an excellent spot for sunbathing on fine and white sand. Its calm and clear waters are admirable for snorkeling and kayaking, as well as boogie-boarding and surfing. Though for swimmers, it is reasonable to take note of strong currents that may often come during the low season. The beach is surrounded by shops, restaurants, resorts and residences. While it can get busy in the peak summer months, visitors will notice it is much less frequented when compared to Patong and Kata Beach. So what is there to do at Surin Beach in Phuket? Let’s find out now. Where to Eat when visiting the Beach With Surin beach Phuket world-class resorts, finding a great place to eat at beach is very easy. While most Surin beach restaurants specialize in seafood dishes, there are plenty of international style restaurants that can be visited as well. Although some restaurants may be temporarily closed during COVID-19 restrictions, we recommend you trying out the following restaurants: Cudos Surin Beach Restaurant – this establishment is located in close proximity to the Plaza and offers guests many tasty Mediterranean dishes. Diamond Beach Club – This Beachfront club and bar is an incredibly popular dining choice with great Mediterranean food offerings. Very hip and trendy. Oriental Spoon Grill and Bar – Renowned for its delectable fresh seafood, this tasty establishment provides a Sunday roast to die for. Located inside the Twin Palms. You could also explore the back of the beach to the streets behind. Here you will come across a more authentic local Thai experience. Stores here offer Thai food, an assortment of other Asian style cuisine and convenience stores if you just want to grab something quick and easy to take with you to the beach. The number of stalls increases exponentially during the peak tourist season so expect a lot more options at that time. Snorkeling at Surin Beach During the peak season, Surin Beach is an ideal Phuket snorkeling location. This is because the waters are ridiculously calm and clear. The avid snorkeler can venture to either the Northern or Southern ends of the beach and find great snorkeling spots located by the rocks. For those looking to hire gear, there are vendors located along the 1 kilometre stretch of beach, who’ll provide all you need for approximately 200 baht. With that said, we advise you to avoid snorkeling here during the late October to early March period due to the variable weather conditions and rougher seas. Surfing at Surin Beach While the rougher sea weather between late October and early March make Snorkeling next to impossible, it is the perfect weather for those looking for a surf.  While ideal, be prepared to fight the crowds in search of the perfect wave. There are three sections of Surin Beach recommended for surfing. The Northern end, the Southern end and in the middle. We’d recommend, unless you are an ultra-experienced surfer to avoid the middle section as it is rocky and considered quite dangerous for novice riders. If you are keen to give surfing a go, then boards can be hired from the lifeguard posts for approximately 300 baht per hour. Various other Water Sports If Snorkeling and Surfing are not your thing, but you are still in search of a rush, then there are plenty of other watersports available at Surin Beach. Kayaks are without doubt the most popular alternative, and you’ll see many in the area if you arrive during the hot summer months. Boogie Boarding is also a popular surfing alternative and these are seen in great volume between May and October when the tourist numbers are lower.  With that said, even boogie boarders can get into danger so it might be worth picking a calmer location if you are just starting out.   Walk through the local Food Stalls If you venture back off the beach to the streets behind, you’ll stumble upon a more authentic Thai experience. The local stores here offer up Thai Food, an assortment of other Asian style cuisine and convenience stores if you just want to grab something quick and easy to take with you to the beach. The number of stalls increases exponentially during the peak tourist season so expect a lot more options if traveling here at that time. Surin Nightlife The beach offers a great deal of tranquility. It also has its own fair share of Surin nightlife, restaurants and beachfront hotels. Initially Surin Beach Phuket region used to have a bustling night experience.  A lot changed when many beach clubs were all closed or demolished because of being illegally built. Right now what you will get is legitimate. Some travelers may wish stick to the resort experience while at the beach, others may wish to explore and enjoy the local nightlife scenes. There is a cozy beach town that offers great venues where a visitor can chill out and enjoy the atmosphere while sipping on a drink of choice. You will find a wine bars with very friendly staff, great ambiance and a great selection of international wines, spirits and beers. You will not miss out on a wide selection of over 160 fine wines, as well as specialty hand crafted menus by in-house chefs. And