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Top 7 Phuket sunset view points Update 2022! If you have the good fortune of traveling to Phuket on a holiday, then the chances are that you’ll be looking to take advantage of the glorious sunset view point opportunities that the region provides. This is precisely why we have created a list of the best Phuket locations to experience an idyllic sunset. The glorious backdrops that Phuket has to offer, combined with the tremendous weather (for the majority of the year) provides visitors with the opportunity to soak in sunset views that have to be seen to be believed. From dining at restaurants situated on the ocean in full view of the sunset to boat tours that provide an equally intimate experience, Phuket is rife with places to take in the evening spectacular. Here is our list of the 7 best places to witness the sunset in all it’s glory. 1. On a boat in Phang Nga Bay Without question, in our (slightly biased) opinion, the best place to witness the natural beauty of a Phuket sunset is as a part of a boat tour of the spectacular Phang Nga Bay region. With Simba Sea Trips you’ll experience a complete afternoon in Phang Nga Bay including stops in Koh Phanak, Koh Panyee, Koh Phing Kan and James Bond Island before journeying back to Phuket island with the glorious sunset as a backdrop. This slow journey home affords you the opportunity to soak in the sunset with a completely unobstructed view and follows a satisfying day of activities and memorable scenery. The perfect way to relax and cap off one of the most memorable experiences imaginable. So book your Phang Nga Bay Social Club Cruise today! 2. Promthep Cape No list of most popular sunset view points could be considered credible without listing the Promthep Cape in the first 3 positions. Considered one of the most popular sunset viewpoints in phuket, Cape Promthep offers a view over Rawai Beach in addition to spectacular snapshots of the beautiful hills located to the South of the cape. While the location can get crowded at summertime, the width of the viewpoint path means that there is always plenty of space to get an unobstructed view of nature in all its magnificent glory. The region also provides the opportunity to observe a number of other interesting landmarks including the popular lighthouse. Having soaked in the sunset, you may be feeling a bit peakish so make sure to take advantage of the array of stalls lined up along the carpark including those selling native snacks as well as summery tourist merchandise including sarongs and beachwear. 3. On a Boat in the Phi Phi Islands As Phuket is consider the ‘pearl of the Andaman Sea’ it only makes sense to embrace the glorious sunsets that it has to offer. One of the best ways to do this is having spent the day seeing another jewel of the Andaman Sea – Phi Phi Islands. The Phi Phi Islands is unquestionably one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand and is frequented daily by hundreds of tourists. While most go early and arrive back happy on the mainland before sunset, they don’t realize they have missed a fantastic opportunity. There is not much that beats a speed boat carving its way through calm waters as the sun disappears over the horizon illuminating the sky in a sea of orange. If you would like guidance as to which speed boat is best for you check out our guide here. Thankfully, guests of Simba Sea Trips are afforded this very opportunity on a Phi Phi Island Sunrise Tour. This day long tour takes in all the essential stops in the region before climaxing with a sunset boat trip back to shore with a glorious backdrop that needs to be seen to be believed. 4. Big Buddha When it comes to places to see the sunset in Phuket, Big Buddha is definitely a must visit. It is widely considered one of the most holiest and popular temples in Phuket and affords visitors a memorable, spiritual experience. Big Buddha rests upon the Nakkerd Hills and stands at an epic 45 metres in height. Constructed out of Burmese marble, the massive temple is considered a symbol of hope which is why it’s often frequented by locals in addition to the many tourists venturing to catch a glimpse. However, what makes the Big Buddha experience even more memorable is catching a glimpse of the sunset as it settles across the ocean behind the statue. This, combined with the serene environment when atop Nakkerd Hills is an experience that should appeal to the majority of visitors to the region and we highly encourage stopping by! 5. Monkey Hill One of the more light-hearted activities during a trip to Phuket, Monkey Hill is also one of the most attractive settings to watch the sunset. As you can tell by the name, the highest hill in Phuket is jam-packed with adorable and mischievous monkeys. These adorable little creatures are found all the way up the hill and can be observed on the long trek up from the bottom of from the backseat of a taxi, or a scooter. But we warned: they are keen to steal anything you have on your possession – from bananas to wallets. While the trek up the hill is bound to be filled with hilarity and laughter, undoubtedly one of the greatest benefits of Monkey Hill, given its height, is the sunset view it provides to those who make it up the top at dusk. The wide-ranging view provides the perfect backdrop after a long hike and while sipping on a water (or beer). Definitely one experience you should add to your itinerary. 6. Radar Hill Viewpoint Phuket has a large number of view points but none is higher than the radar hill viewpoint. This stunning site for a sunset view provides a staggering perspective of Patong. The viewpoint provides a

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.

Thailand Honeymoon Ideas In search of unique and exotic honeymoon ideas as the covid era slowly fades into the abyss? Thailand, the Land of Smiles, is a top destination for unforgettable honeymoons. Thailand is full of diverse, exotic places and offers limitless possibilities for romantic things to do. So what do couples do on honeymoons in Thailand? Thailand offers a big city, islands and the jungle so there are honeymoon ideas for everyone. Let’s start with the big city, Bangkok. Bangkok will be an eyeopener for many first time visitors to South East Asia. It’s busy, it’s hot, there’s strange smells and it’s huge. But don’t be scared off by this, there’s still plenty of romantic things to do on honeymoon in Bangkok. Check out some of our recommended honeymoon ideas below; Couple Massage and Spa Sessions First up there are some amazing spas to check out for a couple’s massage. Our favourite is Organika Secret Spa. It truly feels like you’ve stepped into an oasis secret garden. Even all the doors to the treatment areas look like hidden doors leading to magical rooms. It is such a romantic spa and any of the treatments there would be perfect honeymoon ideas. Our favourite is the couples’ treatment called ‘Lost in Neverland’. It will be four and a half hours of bliss creating an unforgettable honeymoon. River Cruises Another great honeymoon idea in Bangkok is to go on a Chao Phraya River cruise. This certainly is high on the list of the list of romantic things to do. We love Anantara’s Manohra Cruise. The boat was an old rice barge and now serves as a wonderful traditional boat to cruise down the river. As you cruise down the river you will see an array of exotic places such as temples, The Grand Palace and Wat Arun dotted on either side of the river. On the boat you will be served a delicious Thai dinner as you watch the scenery and listen to traditional Thai music. This experience will be sure to make an unforgettable honeymoon. Nightlife and romantic dinners Rooftop bars are also a fantastic option for romantic things to do. You can sit up on the rooftop at a table for two and dine looking over the twinkling city lights. Most of these are dimly lit with candlelight. There are several hotels that have these rooftop bars but our favourite is Vertigo with its multi-levels and nooks you can get a really private area to make it really romantic. The Most Romantic Things to do on a Honeymoon in Phuket As you have seen above, Thailand is full of exotic places for unforgettable honeymoons. Now let’s focus a little more on romantic things to do in Phuket and where to go in Phuket for a honeymoon. Private Boat Charter If you want a truly unforgettable honeymoon then look no further than chartering your own boat. Simba Sea Trips has a range of optimized private boats in Phuket from entry level to lux to take you to some exotic places only accessible by boat. They will make sure that your day will be full of romantic things to do on the water. For their private charters, you can choose from one of their tried and tested itineraries to Phang Nga, Krabi or Phi Phi Island. Or if you wish, you can design one of your own for up to 8 hours on the water. Simba can arrange some Champagne for you too at an additional cost for your Phuket honeymoon. Book a boat tour now! Kata Rocks Resort Kata Rocks is not only a stunning, sleek and designed resort for a Phuket honeymoon but it also houses an amazing array of rocks that have been flattened by the sea and now serve as the perfect spot for a dinner for romantic things to do on a honeymoon. Your Phuket honeymoon wouldn’t be complete without dining on these special rocks. The fantastic team at Kata Rocks will set up a private dining table for you to enjoy an amazing dinner under the stars. Now that is a honeymoon idea! Still searching for romantic things to do in Phuket or romantic holiday ideas? Romantic Picnic How about a romantic picnic on the beach? Check out Romantic Picnics and get them to entice you with some romantic holiday ideas for a picnic for just the two of you. They have some great packages available and will set you up a very romantic picnic complete with candles, cushions and a rug. Best Places to Travel in Thailand by month   If you are looking for the best places to travel in Thailand throughout the year to create an unforgettable honeymoon then check out the months below for what’s on when and where in Thailand. There’s sure to be some great honeymoon ideas in some exotic places throughout Thailand; Best places to travel in January Go check out the Chinese New Year celebrations in Bangkok. Best places to travel in February Go check out the Chiang Mai Flower Festival for all the new blooms Best places to travel in March March is when Thailand celebrates National Thai Elephant Day Best places to travel in April The biggest holiday of the year is Songkran or Thai New Year. This is known as the biggest water fight in the world. If you happen to be on your Phuket honeymoon during this time then be sure to head to Bangla road to celebrate. Best places to travel in May The Rocket Festival in Yasothorn Provence is a festival that tries to encourage the rain for the rice fields. Best places to travel in June Head to Pan Sai in Loei Provence for the Ghost Festival Best places to travel in July July is all about the candle festival in Ubon Ratchathani Best places to travel in August In August there is another Ghost Festival but this time in Phuket. Best places to travel in September Time to celebrate

Best beaches in Phuket Updated: A holiday to Thailand means exploring some of the best beaches in Phuket and boat tours to the nearby islands. Phuket has some of the best beaches in Asia if not the world. Phuket is very unique in that there are in excess of 20 high-quality beaches to visit in a relatively compact area and indeed most of the island’s principal resort and accommoda/krabi-classics-railay-beach/tion locations are built around very accessible beach front. We focus on 7 beach locations for this article – they are all favourites of the Simba team and all definitely the best beaches in Phuket. Kick back and check out these places of natural luxury, lush sands, tall palm trees and clean waters, ready to welcome all the visitors with their lovely smooth waves! Some Common Sense Beach Tips It is important to remember that substantially all of the best beaches in Phuket Thailand are located at the southern tip of the island or along the length of the West Coast. The East Coast (ie facing Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay) is dominated by estuaries and mangrove forests; good for the local fisherman but not at all suitable as a beachside location. With respect to safety, it is very important to note that for most beaches surf life-saving coverage is limited or non-existent and nowhere near the standards typically found in Australia and the US. Accordingly, you must take responsibility for your own safety and like many other beaches around the world, Phuket does experience rough surf conditions (particularly in low season) and strong currents/rips. This article highlights some of our favourite beaches with a particular focus on the less well-known, family friendly locations and some fabulously hidden secrets. Now we make our first mention, for those of you with the time to explore a little further afield from Phuket, our personal favorite area to visit outside of Phuket…. Krabi. Railay Beach, Krabi Railay beach Krabi is a truly postcard-worthy, idyllic tropical landscape which has two beaches, one facing east, the other facing west, with a great selection of reasonably priced hotels, bars, and restaurants in between these two beaches. Walk the stretch of the beach with the pristine blue and the velvet sand and enjoy the peace of the warm sun glazing your skin with gently warm rays.  Krabi is particularly well known with the adventure seekers and rock climbers and has a much more laid back feel to it than most of the busiest beaches in Phuket. Laying on this beach in Phuket and soaking in all the best beauty of the island. Once you realize that you are now lying on the sand of the best beaches in Phuket and probably all of Earth, then it becomes surreal! Rock climbers from far and wide come to Railay Beach Krabi to hone their skills and scale up and down one of the numerous climbing sites in and around the Railay Beach area. It looks exhausting, and it sure is fun to watch these fit and toned guys and girls give it their best shot. Another highlight if you’re staying overnight in Railay is the sunset relax session on the west facing the beach. Drink some very reasonably priced cocktails on beach mats, while the local Thais and tourists alike enjoy a game of beach football as the sun goes down.  A great way to close out an awesome day. So as an aside trip from visiting the best beaches in Phuket, Krabi should not be missed.  It offers something different to the usual tourist destinations out of Phuket being Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay. What to do on a Krabi tour If you have limited time and are unable to spend a stunning night or two in Krabi, a great way to see the highlights of Krabi in one day out of Phuket is the Krabi Island tour operated by Simba.  We are the only tour company operating a day tour to Railay Beach Krabi, one of the best beaches in Phuket, out of Phuket and we are proud to share with you on this tour the amazing sites of Krabi. Arrive at Koh Hong National Park before the crowds as our first stop.  This is a truly beautiful beach, a paradise on earth, and you’ll be so glad you got out of bed so early to experience this amazing national park all to yourself (tour departs at 630am). Stops and Activities Following on from breakfast on the beach is a visit to the intriguing Koh Hong Lagoon, then snorkeling stop nearby Chicken Island before we arrive at what we believe to be the best beach in Krabi, Phranang Beach.  Here you will find the most amazing small beach with an enormous and spectacular limestone rock face towering over this beautiful landscape.  Look out for the peculiar display of phallic objects in a small cave.  A local fisherman’s tradition of days gone by. For the more adventurous at Phranang cave, there is a secret cave to find and crawl through in the pitch black on your hands and knees, or a challenging climb up a steep side of a hill, clawing your way up the track, clinging to fig tree roots to reach an amazing viewpoint of the famous Railay east and west beaches. You’ll also find a secret lagoon perched way up in the jungle at the top of this limestone karst. After a busy morning of sightseeing swimming, snorkeling or climbing, it’s time to be whisked away to the Grand Centara Resort Krabi for a scrumptious, indulgent lunch at this beautiful 5-star resort. Moving on to Nai Harn, this is located in the southern cape near Rawai and work our way north along the west coast towards the airport. Nai Harn / Ao Sane / Ya Nui Beach If you are looking for the beach that can start your day with a chill vibe then you shouldn’t be looking at places such as Patong Beach in Phuket

Wat Cherngtalay Wat Cherngtalay is the new favourite weekend destination is Phuket.  So, if you are looking for something fresh besides the usual famous places such as Patong, Phromthep Cape or Old town Phuket, then this place is going to be a breath of fresh air that’s for sure.  Much as the places just mentioned are considered the top-rated tourist destinations in Phuket, the place where most tourists dream of visiting, there are times when one just craves for a new experience because these popular spots can be a bit overwhelming given the massive crowds that you will encounter there. So, if you are looking for an equally, less overwhelming alternative, then try out Wat Choeng Thale temple. This is a pretty exciting neighbourhood on Phuket’s west coast that is both charming and packed with character. And what makes it the perfect weekend gate away is its seaside location. The Wat Cherngtalay Temple This Buddhist temple sits on large grounds with enough buildings there and is located near Laguna Beach on Phuket Island. It is a serene beach so whenever you need some peaceful time, then you should go there – the perfect place to spend those 48 hours of your weekend at the Andaman Sea. So, head on to Wat Cherngtalay if you are looking to rejuvenate and reset your mind from the hustle and bustle of Phuket’s hyper streets and life in general.  There main attraction here is the Buddhist monument which houses a bone relic of Buddha which is originally from Sri Lanka. The architectural design and artwork on both the outer and inner walls of the temple are to die for. You will find get to see painted murals of intricate scenes of daily Thai life plus interactions of the Buddhist disciples and Buddha. These disciples include the monks and everyday people. The light posts have been crafted with the lights in Buddhist figures hands. Most Thai locals usually come to Wat Choeng Thale temple to make offerings and receive blessings by the monks. There is also an area where one can burn incense sticks. So, what is interesting at the temple? Is there anything in particular to do here that draws visitors to the temple? Well, to be honest, not really. Well, here is how to spend your time in this new favourite weekend destination. Having mentioned the painted murals above, normally people just come to the temple to walk around, enjoy the interesting and intricate artwork and take photos. It’s also a very serene place for prayer and meditation. That said though, be prepared for some distractions and sounds and the few stray dogs that have made the temple their home and territory.  Other things to do… The good thing about this place is the warm waters and smooth sand of the Surin beach. So, if you get tired of the temple, you can always go and take a swim here. There are other water-based activities that you can enjoy here too. Plus, while at Surin beach, you will always find a restaurant along the beach for drinks and lunch. There are Laguna hotels and resorts near Wat Choeng Thale temple as well as the Canal village. You can take a ferry trip and enjoy the views of the hotels there. And if you are planning stay the night, you will not run out of places to wine and done. The spots to hang around in the evening are the Bampot Kitchen & Bar, Catch Beach Club or the Palm Seaside Restaurant & Lounge   To get to Wat Cherngtalay, if you are coming from the Heroines Monument, there is a secluded sign post for Surin Beach. Take that road and stay on it for not more than 15 minutes. The temple will be on your right-hand side. There is a parking inside the temple’s grounds just before Cherng Talay Village grounds. Let the reviews do the talking With google reviews of like 4.3 out of 5, if you are into enjoying historical places, walking around this Buddhist temples is worth giving it a shot.

Loi Krathong is one of the most high-spirited festivals that are celebrated nationally in Thailand. People refer to this famous floating lantern festival or float a basket festival as the ‘festival of lights’. Much as it is not an official public holiday in Thailand it is a Buddhist festival that is highly looked forward to and celebrated in Thailand.  To show you how valued this exuberant festival is, it is also celebrated by few neighbouring places outside Thailand. The only difference is that it goes under different names there. In Sri Lanka, they call it Il Full Moon Poya, in parts of Myanmar, it goes by Tazaungdaing festival while the Cambodians call it Bon Om Touk. How is the date of the festival of lights determined? The date of this festival is not fixed. It changes every year. Like most other Buddhist holidays, what usually determines the date is that the festival occurs on the night of the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar. Normally as per the Gregorian calendar this infamous festival falls on the month of November every year (or October and November as per the Western calendar). It’s only the dates that keep changing. So typically, the date is announced a month before the festival. The Thai people will be celebrating Loi Krathong 2021 on the night of Friday, November 19th. What does the name as well as the festival mean?  Remember earlier when we mentioned that it’s a floating lantern or float a basket festival? Well, ‘Loi’ means ‘float’ whereas ‘Krathong’ refers to a small basket which is usually adorned with flowers, candles, banana leaves and incense sticks. Hence the ‘float a basket’ festival. So, the festival is to get rid of misfortunes by floating them away in the baskets. It’s meant to cleanse people’s minds, lighten their souls and give them a fresh start.  On the evening of the festival, the locals of Thailand meet together to release the Krathongs in to rivers, lakes, and canals as the seek for purification and forgiveness from the Goddess of Water. The origin of the festival The festival originated in the oldest Sukhothai Kingdom which goes 800 years back and is related to Lord Buddha and water. The Loi Krathong Festival originated in the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom which dates back 800 years. It is a festival that is closely associated with water and Lord Buddha. Because it was believed that the people of the Sukhothai Kingdom and the Thai locals today are closely connected to water and rely heavily on agriculture, they had to pay tribute to the river goddess Pra Mae Khongkha and Buddha and show gratitude for the water resources that they had in plenty as well as ask for forgiveness for the water pollution they have caused. So just like 800 years ago, people are also looking forward to wash away sins of the past year and look forward to a clean state and good fortune the following year. Its all about letting go of past anger and hatred of any form. Place the festival is celebrated Much as the Loi Krathong 2021 will celebrated all over Thailand, there are specific places where the festivities happen on a massive scale. If you want to have the full experience here are the places to consider… Sukhothai is considered to be the birth place of the festival. As opposed to other places which celebrate the festival 3 days, here it continues for about five days. Here you will experience floating lights, parades and lively performances, beauty contests as well as almsgiving practice to Buddhist monks. Chiang Mai is one of the best places to fully experience the festival. You have the advantage of enjoying the picturesque views of the sky lanterns, exhibitions, fireworks, colourful parades, and traditional dance performances. What makes Bangkok the other place to consider experiencing the festival is number of ponds and waterways there are to launch the Krathongs. The most popular places to launch the lighted baskets are Asiatique riverside, Wat Saket, Lumpini Park, Chao Phraya River and Benjasiri Park. Get there and enjoy the floating processions and fireworks. Phuket has lots of major beaches so if you don’t mind the large crowds, consider participating Loi Krathong 2021 celebrations here in places like Patong Beach, Nai Harn Lake, Suan Luang Park and Saphan Hin Park. How long does the festival last? Usually, it lasts 3 days in most places in Thailand. The place that the celebrations last for 5 days like I mentioned above is at Sukhothai. Preparations as well as decorating for the festival are usually organized about a week before the festival. Planning for the 2021 festivals? As per Thai government travel by foreign tourists will begin on October 1st, 2021. Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19), only those who have been vaccinated and hold the inoculation certificate will be exempted from quarantine. There may also be some changes to the details of the event. So, contact your travel agency before making any travel plans.