White Box Restaurant Something a Little Different

The White Box Restaurant at Kalim Bay has become one of the trendiest restaurants in Phuket over the past few years. With its chic and pristine white decor against the backdrop of the Andaman Ocean, the restaurant and the lounge bar has become a favourite jaunt for droves of tourists and local residents.

The conceptual atmosphere of the restaurant is a great first impression separating itself from others and embracing a unique atmosphere with a minimalist decor. With a sophisticated European fine dining environment merging together with a more laidback dining atmosphere of Asia, east meeting west has never been more complimentary than within White Box.

Set over three floors, with the ground floor as reception, the second floor is a trendy dining area with indoor and outdoor seating. The third floor is reserved for the ultra-modern lounge equipped with strategically placed neon lighting and a unique retractable roof that allows provides an amazing open-air atmosphere allowing the fresh ocean breezes to subtly waft within.

The lounge is not only an ideal place to relax before your meal, but it also makes for a great after dinner venue where you can often enjoy international deejays and special events on a regular basis. On these nights you will see the beautiful and trendy people of Phuket strutting their stuff in fine fashion.

The menu concentrates on Mediterranean delights with a selection of Thai favourites. The al a carte menu is influenced by countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece and the South of France. With a vast selection of Asian starters such as Tom Yam Seafood, Tempura Tiger Prawns and pan-fried lobster with mango, apple, dragon fruit and tamarind sauce, your taste buds will be taken to their limit.

You could sample some Mediterranean cold and warm starters that include beef Carpaccio, the exquisite mozzarella and mango rolled in pata neora, wild mushroom ravioli, Phuket lobster soup with cognac, and sliced duck breast with shitake risotto, red wine reduction & air of parmesan.

The Mediterranean and Thai main course menus are split into two varieties  land and sea. With a choice of some classic Thai cuisine favourites such as the ever tasty lamb massaman and steamed snowfish with ginger and mushrooms, there is a classy edge to the Thai menu. European main courses are a varied choice of imported steaks and local seafood inspired Mediterranean dishes.

The White Box menu is already filled to the brim with Mediterranean and modern Asian classics that tantalize the taste buds. The choice of appetizers, filling main courses and rich desserts is startling. An exotic choice of seafood and imported Australian steaks ensures the menu has something for everyone.

The atmosphere of the main restaurant areas (indoor and outdoor) and the roof-top lounge area provide diners with a classy yet trendy atmosphere that keeps people coming back for more. If you were debating whether or not to visit the White Box, don't delay, you will have a great evening within a wonderful restaurant at one of the best locations on the island.

White Box Restaurant, 247/5 Prabaramee Road (Beach Road) Kalim, just north of Patong. Tel: (+66) 0 76-34-62-71

The Lakes the other course at Blue Canyon

Over the years, the Blue Canyon Country Club was known as one of the finest golf clubs in Southeast Asia, home to many international tournaments with some of the world's best golfers partaking, such as Tiger Woods, Freddie Couples and many more. The Canyon Course at the club has always had a great reputation, but you might not know that Blue Canyon has another course called The Lakes, which is also a fantastic challenge and one of the best courses on the island in its own right.

The Lakes is an 18-hole course, set over a par of 72 and is a test and challenge for golfers of all abilities. As the name of the course might suggest, water features on 17 of the 18 holes, so make sure you take enough balls along!

Enjoying 5 different sets of tee-offs for every hole, each time you play the course it offers a different approach. Don't be too disheartened because although there is lots of water, the fairways are extremely wide and welcoming, just to counter-balance the difficulty of the water hazards.

There are some fantastic world-class holes at the course, such as the par-4 18th, which was voted as the Best Par Four in Asia by the Asian Monthly magazine. Although The Lakes is not as difficult as the main Canyon Course, it really is a fun challenge for your Phuket golf holiday. The course has fast greens and also enjoys lots of tree-lined fairways that break up the watery environment.

Off The Beaten Track in Phuket Part 1 – Beaches

Over the past ten years, tourism in Phuket has literally tipped off the scales, which in some respects is a great thing for the Thailand tourism industry in general. However, this means that most of the island has become – in a commercial sense – well-trodden. As a resident of Phuket for many years, I have seen and done things on the island that most holidaymakers never get to experience.

The main tourist regions in Phuket are the likes of Patong, Karon and Kata, but in all honesty, there is something to see and do in every corner of the island but holidaymakers very seldom get to see the island in all its full glory. Please enjoy my off the beaten track in Phuket information about beaches, with another part detailing nightlife and dining in the coming days.

Beaches

Most holidaymakers to Phuket don't get very far away from the more commercialized Phuket beaches such as Patong. If you just explore a little, you will find yourself on deserted beaches, the likes of which you only see in your dreams.

Starting at the north east of Phuket, you will find Nai Yang Beach, just a five-minute drive from Phuket International Airport. During the low-season months (April-November), you will be the only person on this majestic stretch of sand.

At the northernmost spot on Phuket, you can experience the wilderness style beach of Haad Sai Gaew, roughly translated as Crystal Sands. Situated at the northern end of Mai Khao Beach, here you will find some quaint grass topped restaurants and an uncluttered beach that is usually desolate.

Slightly north of the popular Bang Tao Beach, there is a stretch of sand known as Layan Beach, although contrary to popular belief, the beach is south of Layan Bay. Because no major roads run directly through Layan, not so many people visit this beach.

Ya Nui Beach is located between the viewpoints of Laem Phromthep and Kata Viewpoint on the south western coast of Phuket within a quaint cove. The beach is a snorkeler's paradise, and with the small island of Koh Keyao Noi just 400 meters away, you can take a refreshing swim. The beach is just over 150 meters in length and a great place to have a little stop off to enjoy the scenery.

Phuket Schedule Down South

As you no doubt already know, on this blog we don't just talk about golf, but also the things that you can do when you are in Phuket in between rounds of golf. The southern end of Phuket really is one of the most beautiful places on the island, so please enjoy a day trip showcasing the best parts of down south in Phuket.

8:30am: Wat Chalong

This is simply one of the finest Buddhist temples in Phuket and is a favourite with tourists and locals alike. The temple is not only the largest, but also the most visited on the island.

10am: Big Buddha Temple – Chalong

A short drive from Chalong Temple is the lofty Big Buddha Temple and viewpoint. Meander up the winding mountainside tracks to the peak of the summit. The 45-metre high golden Buddha statue can be observed from miles around. The panoramic views allow you to enjoy the east and west coasts of the island just by turning you head.

11:30 Noon – Friendship Beach for Lunch

Between Chalong and Rawai, you will find the beachside Friendship Beach Restaurant and Resort. The excellent international cuisine and wondrous views looking out towards Chalong Bay will long live in your memory. The restaurant also owns a swimming pool, which customers are allowed to take use. Refuel your body by taking a spot of lunch at the restaurant.

1pm: Phuket Seashell Museum  Rawai

Moving swiftly towards Rawai Beach, you will encounter the Seashell Museum on Visit Road. The museum is now 40 years old and is home to over 2,000 species of shells. Be sure to check out the world's largest pearl that weighs in at 240kg.

2pm: Rawai Fish Market

Moving onto Rawai seafront, you can take a swift stroll along Rawai Fish Market. From 1pm onwards every day, the fishermen come back to the shore with their daily catch. Seafood really doesn't come fresher than straight off the boats.

2:45pm: Laem Phromthep Cape Viewpoint

This purpose-built viewpoint owns restaurants, shops and a lighthouse overlooking the Andaman Ocean on the road between Rawai and Nai Harn. Check out the amazing views and you will sure to be mesmerized by its beauty.

3:30pm: Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn Beach has the reputation of being one of Phuket's finest and most picturesque beaches. This is a surfer's paradise, and you will enjoy an hour strolling across this majestic stretch of golden sand.

5pm: Kata Viewpoint

On the mountainous coastline roads from Nai Harn to Kata, you will find Kata Viewpoint. From this lofty vantage point, you can witness not only Kata Noi Beach, but also Karon Beach in the distance. This is the quintessential photograph opportunity.

5:30pm: Kata Sunset Bars

After a busy day, you will be ready to kick back, relax and enjoy the Phuket sunset with a spot of food and drink. A cluster of bars and restaurants positioned above Kata Noi is the ideal place to do this. These restaurants provide some of the loftiest views overlooking the Andaman Sea that one could imagine. Get here as early as possible to ensure you get a table with the best views.

The New Best Golf Course in Phuket Red Mountain GC

For many a year, Blue Canyon Country Club was widely accepted as the premier golf course on the shores of Phuket, no doubt due to its amazing layout and a reputation that has seen it host some of Asia's highest ranking golf tournaments with world-renowned players such as Tiger Woods and Freddie Couples gracing its fairways. However, now there is a new kid on the block that is changing the face of Phuket golf as we know it  Red Mountain Golf Club.

Located near to the Loch Pam golf complex in Kathu, Red Mountain was first created just over 5 years ago, and from the moment the first ball was struck on Hole-1, you knew it was going to be something special. Shaped and molded through an area of the island that was formally a tin-mine, the course weaves its way through, as you could expect, red mountainous terrain against the backdrop of carpeted fairways, elevated tees and glass-like greens that wouldn't look out of place during the US Open.

Although the conditions are simply supreme and stunningly maintained, the focal point of the course is its awe-inspiring natural scenery that really takes it to the next level.

Set over 18 holes and a distance of approximately 7,000 yards, this 72-par course is championship golf personified, and we are sure that over the next few years it will be hosting some of the continents best tournament and golfers that's how good it really is.

As we said earlier, Blue Canyon was always seen as the darling, the jewel if you like, of the Phuket golf scene, but now there is another big player in town and it's not taking no for an answer.

The New Best Golf Course in Phuket Red Mountain GC

For many a year, Blue Canyon Country Club was widely accepted as the premier golf course on the shores of Phuket, no doubt due to its amazing layout and a reputation that has seen it host some of Asia's highest ranking golf tournaments with world-renowned players such as Tiger Woods and Freddie Couples gracing its fairways. However, now there is a new kid on the block that is changing the face of Phuket golf as we know it  Red Mountain Golf Club.

Located near to the Loch Pam golf complex in Kathu, Red Mountain was first created just over 5 years ago, and from the moment the first ball was struck on Hole-1, you knew it was going to be something special. Shaped and molded through an area of the island that was formally a tin-mine, the course weaves its way through, as you could expect, red mountainous terrain against the backdrop of carpeted fairways, elevated tees and glass-like greens that wouldn't look out of place during the US Open.

Although the conditions are simply supreme and stunningly maintained, the focal point of the course is its awe-inspiring natural scenery that really takes it to the next level.

Set over 18 holes and a distance of approximately 7,000 yards, this 72-par course is championship golf personified, and we are sure that over the next few years it will be hosting some of the continents best tournament and golfers that's how good it really is.

As we said earlier, Blue Canyon was always seen as the darling, the jewel if you like, of the Phuket golf scene, but now there is another big player in town and it's not taking no for an answer.

Phuket Day Schedule Island Hopping

Phuket affords its guests a vast amount of holiday options when you're not playing golf, none more exciting than island hopping. With numerous outlaying islands that provide you with secluded bays and idyllic paradise retreats, there are no more beautiful places to visit in South East Asia than the islands surrounding Phuket. Please enjoy our example of the islands you can visit on a single day tour route, ideally with a speedboat, which will make the journey not only speedier but also more interesting.

9am  Departing from Boat Lagoon or Royal Phuket Marina

Start off your day by departing on your boat of choice from Boat Lagoon Marina or Royal Phuket Marina. From here, you can start out your journey towards the beautiful and famous Phi Phi Island.

10am  Monkey Island

En-route to Phi Phi, your first stop of the day will be at Monkey Island. Although you can visit the island, many of the tour operators will make a flying stop to the island, allowing you the opportunity to take some breathtaking photographs, which you will fondly remember when your holiday is over. As the name might suggest, here you will find peaceful and uncluttered beaches, where the monkeys will come down from the trees and pay you a visit.

10:45am – Arrival at Phi Phi Leh

Phi Phi Leh is famously the location of Maya Bay, which is the place where the hit movie The Beach was partially filmed. Those who have seen the movie will already know the untold beauty you can expect on arrival. Take advantage of the excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, where you can view a plethora of tropical fish in the clear blue waters. Explore Lho Samah Bay and Pi Leh Cove, whose beauty has to be seen to be believed. The much-revered Viking Cave will also be on your itinerary, so keep that camera ready at all times.

1:30pm  Snorkeling at Hin Klang

Hin Klang is an underwater reef on the way to Bamboo Island. Strap on your snorkeling gear and explore the deep blue abyss. The reef is also sometimes referred to as a coral mountain situated to the north of Phi Phi. Being 90 meters long and 60 meters wide, you sometimes don't realize you have reached it until it is upon you. This is one of the best places to snorkel in and around Phi Phi, which makes it one of Thailand's best too!

2:30pm  Bamboo Island

5km north of Phi Phi Island, you will find the aptly named Bamboo Island. The waters in and around the island are extremely shallow, and even though many boats take the island in during their routes, the island is still relatively peaceful. The island is only 500 meters across, but the beaches are simply breathtaking. This is yet one of the other best snorkeling destinations in the whole of Thailand.

4pm – Khai Island

On your way back from the Phi Phi Island region, you will encounter Khai Island, where you will find the islands of Koh Khai Nok and Koh Khai Nai. The islands are known for their beautiful rock formations, beaches, corals and emerald green waters. If you are fortunate enough, you might sneak a glimpse of the dolphins that sometimes inhabit the surrounding waters. This is a great way to finish off the day. From Khai Island, Phuket is only a 30 minute journey.

Shop Until You Drop in Phuket

Phuket might be known for its unimaginable beauty and beachside destinations that provide visitors with that special subtropical getaway, but with a rapidly evolving infrastructure, shopping has become as important as the beaches for travelers. Whether it's local Asian artworks and handicrafts, copied goods, jewelry or the latest designer gear, Phuket shopping simply has it all!

Shopping Centres

Ten years ago, Phuket's shopping mall options were limited to Tesco Lotus, Big C, Robinsons at Phuket Town and Mackro. Although that was still more than acceptable for such a small island, times have rapidly changed.

The Jungceylon shopping complex is Patong's first and only shopping center  which is still more than enough. With a range of shops that sell everything from the latest fashion designs, handicrafts, electronic goods, sportswear and imported food items, visitors to Patong have never looked back. Jungceylon is also home to the Shooting Caf, a fully equipped state-of-the-art cinema and more international fast food joints than you can imagine, the town has moved into the 21st century in style.

Central Festival is one of Phuket's favourite shopping centres, situated within close proximity to Big C on the commercial park on the outskirts of Phuket Town. This famous shopping chain is home to a wide selection of boutique stores with the latest fashion styles, as well as a cinema, food court and a vast choice of international restaurants. The supermarket in Central is a great place to buy a wide selection of imported goods.

If you are a stickler for food items imported from the western world, the Villa Market Complex at Chalong and the new one in Cherngtalay are the places for you. This is the supermarket to visit if you cannot find the food and grocery items you desire within Phuket's other supermarkets. Although the prices can be quite high, you can normally get what you want at Villa Market, which is a great addition to the Phuket shopping scene.

The Market of All Markets

The Weekend Market on the outskirts of Phuket Town has become stuff of legends. Opening in the mid-afternoon each Saturday and Sunday, this market has now achieved cult status. Whether you desire copied CDs, DVDs, clothing or a wide range of locally made handicrafts and artworks, the Weekend Market has it all. The hustle and bustle of the atmosphere creates a character that is unique. Try out your haggling and bartering skills, absorb the atmosphere and have a great evening.

Markets make up a pivotal role in the Phuket shopping scene. The fresh food market at Phuket Town has always been a great place to buy very affordable food and grocery items, and this is where the locals do their shopping.

The Phuket shopping scene is so vast that we have only provided you with a handful of options, but this is more than enough for you to get everything you want at the best prices. You just need to perfect those haggling techniques now!

Three things that make the perfect golf holiday package

Golfing in a tropical country is something like a dream come true for many, so it makes sense that you use the same company to book your entire holiday. We are experts on the tourism industry in Phuket and can show you the three main factors that should help you to understand why so many people are booking golf holiday packages with Phuketgolf.net.

Green Fees

Obviously if we are talking about golf holiday packages, we need to start with the green fees. We have the most competitive green fee rates for Phuket golf courses, much cheaper than calling the course yourself and paying as a walk-in customer. We have green fee prices for all Phuket's best courses, where we will personally book your desired tee-off times so you don't have to worry about a thing.

Please click here to see our choice of Phuket golf courses.

Accommodation

We also have the facilities to book accommodation for your holiday. We have a great choice of hotels in the best locations such as Patong. We can give you the best advice regarding hotel accommodation and find something that suits you perfectly. We also have a holiday villa rental directly on the Loch Palm golf estate that you can see by clicking here.

Taxi Transfers

Whether to and from the airport, or to and from the golf courses, we have our own drivers and cars so you never need worry about transportation.

Golf Packages

We have a great selection of Phuket golf packages that combine the above three factors: green fees, accommodation and transportation. Booking an all-in-one golf package is the best way to simplify your holiday's organization. Let us take the stress away from you.

Phuket Schedule Down South

As you no doubt already know, on this blog we don't just talk about golf, but also the things that you can do when you are in Phuket in between rounds of golf. The southern end of Phuket really is one of the most beautiful places on the island, so please enjoy a day trip showcasing the best parts of down south in Phuket.

8:30am: Wat Chalong

This is simply one of the finest Buddhist temples in Phuket and is a favourite with tourists and locals alike. The temple is not only the largest, but also the most visited on the island.

10am: Big Buddha Temple – Chalong

A short drive from Chalong Temple is the lofty Big Buddha Temple and viewpoint. Meander up the winding mountainside tracks to the peak of the summit. The 45-metre high golden Buddha statue can be observed from miles around. The panoramic views allow you to enjoy the east and west coasts of the island just by turning you head.

11:30 Noon – Friendship Beach for Lunch

Between Chalong and Rawai, you will find the beachside Friendship Beach Restaurant and Resort. The excellent international cuisine and wondrous views looking out towards Chalong Bay will long live in your memory. The restaurant also owns a swimming pool, which customers are allowed to take use. Refuel your body by taking a spot of lunch at the restaurant.

1pm: Phuket Seashell Museum  Rawai

Moving swiftly towards Rawai Beach, you will encounter the Seashell Museum on Visit Road. The museum is now 40 years old and is home to over 2,000 species of shells. Be sure to check out the world's largest pearl that weighs in at 240kg.

2pm: Rawai Fish Market

Moving onto Rawai seafront, you can take a swift stroll along Rawai Fish Market. From 1pm onwards every day, the fishermen come back to the shore with their daily catch. Seafood really doesn't come fresher than straight off the boats.

2:45pm: Laem Phromthep Cape Viewpoint

This purpose-built viewpoint owns restaurants, shops and a lighthouse overlooking the Andaman Ocean on the road between Rawai and Nai Harn. Check out the amazing views and you will sure to be mesmerized by its beauty.

3:30pm: Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn Beach has the reputation of being one of Phuket's finest and most picturesque beaches. This is a surfer's paradise, and you will enjoy an hour strolling across this majestic stretch of golden sand.

5pm: Kata Viewpoint

On the mountainous coastline roads from Nai Harn to Kata, you will find Kata Viewpoint. From this lofty vantage point, you can witness not only Kata Noi Beach, but also Karon Beach in the distance. This is the quintessential photograph opportunity.

5:30pm: Kata Sunset Bars

After a busy day, you will be ready to kick back, relax and enjoy the Phuket sunset with a spot of food and drink. A cluster of bars and restaurants positioned above Kata Noi is the ideal place to do this. These restaurants provide some of the loftiest views overlooking the Andaman Sea that one could imagine. Get here as early as possible to ensure you get a table with the best views.

Thailand Q&A

Q: Are there any poisonous/dangerous animals or insects in Thailand?

A: Yes there are a few poisonous animals in Thailand, although there are very few incidents that occur. Generally speaking, you will only come into contact with venomous creatures when in countryside or jungle environments. Thailand does have poisonous snakes, scorpions, jellyfish and centipedes, but 99.9% of travelers never have any problems.

Q: Is Thailand a safe place to walk at night?

A: You can find places within any country that aren't safe ? this is a sad fact of life. However, Thailand is one of the safest holiday destinations in the world to walk the streets at any time of the day or night. Use your common sense though, especially if intoxicated.

Q: Is the water in Thailand safe to drink?

A: Negative! Although drinking the tap water in Thailand will not kill you, you could get an upset stomach by doing so. Buy bottled water from the shop and use that instead, even when cleaning your teeth.

Q: Will I be able to access the internet easily when in the country?

A: Yes. Although the speed of the internet in Thailand will probably be much slower than your home country, there are hundreds of internet cafes at every turn. If you have a laptop computer, bring it along, because many of the bars, restaurants and hotels now have wireless internet connections.

Q: What is the voltage of electricity?

A: The voltage in Thailand is 220 volts, 50 cycles per second. Generally speaking, Thailand?s plug sockets are two-pronged, so bringing along a converter is a good idea, although you can actually purchase a converter in Thailand.

Q: In case of emergencies, what standard are the hospitals?

A: Bearing in mind you will have holiday insurance which covers medical bills from accidents or illness; you will most likely be treated in one of the nation?s international hospitals. This is ideal, because the international hospitals can be akin to glorified hotels with private rooms and extensive food menus. The facilities in Thailand?s international hospitals are more than likely better than those of your own country ? they really are that good.

Q: If I want to book a tour, who can I trust to organize it for me?

A: If you are staying in a hotel, it is highly probable that there will be a tour desk in the foyer. If so, use it. If not, there are hundreds of tour kiosks scattered throughout all of Thailand?s major tourist destinations, and as the tours are generally standard across the board, you will not be ripped off.

Q: Are supermarkets and shopping malls closed on Sundays?

A: No. All the major shopping malls and supermarkets are open 7 days a week.

Q: Can I use my credit cards when holidaying in Thailand?

A: Credit card usage is accepted in most upscale restaurants and in department stalls. Tailors will also accept credit cards. Restaurants at the cheap end of the scale normally only accept cash payment.

Q: Will I need to speak Thai to get by?

A: In all the major tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai and Hua Hin, you will easily get by just using English. However, if you are travelling across the country through rural areas and Thai towns, you will struggle to converse, so some kind of translation book might be a good idea, just in case you find yourself in a squeeze.

Q: Do I need a driving license to ride a motorbike?

A: Yes you do. Although most of the population do not own a driving license, as they prefer to chance it and if the police catch them, they will be subject to a small fine between 200-500 baht.

Phuket Country Club Affordable and Affluent

I always get asked about which is the best value-for-money golf course in Phuket. There are so many to choose from. Although you get great value at Loch Palm, I would always say that Phuket Country Club in Kathu is the one that manages to offer the best course and facilities for the best price. I have been playing Phuket CC for nearly ten years and I can tell you it is one of the friendliest clubs I have visited in Thailand.

The Course

Set over 18-holes and a yardage of 6,162 yards from the white tees, the course is partially tree-lined while having a few water hazards to keep you guessing. The course is always in immaculate condition with good quality greens and fairways.

The award-winning 10th hole is an interesting par-5 in a u-shape that straddles a large lake from tee to green. What's so interesting about the hole is that the longest of hitters may opt to try and drive the entire lake and land the ball on the green in one shot, on a par-5! I will tell you that not many people successfully drive the green, which is over 240 yards from the tee, but it's always worth a try, unless you are protecting a good score over the first nine holes.

The second most interesting hole is the island par-3 17th. This short par-3 has a slightly elevated tee meandering down to a green that is located on its own island. Being the 17th hole, this is a real score breaker, but is infinitely beautiful and exciting.

Facilities

The course facilities are very good and combine a large clubhouse, locker rooms, restaurant, tennis courts, pro-shop and swimming pool to provide everything you could possibly need after a round of golf. I always find the caddies at Phuket CC to be excellent, extremely friendly and very knowledgeable about the course.

Phuket Day Schedule Nature Spots

We don't just talk about golf on this blog, as we like to ensure you make the most of your holiday time in Phuket when you are not on the course because there are so many things to see and do on the island. This article details Phuket's nature spots for your enjoyment, so strap on your hiking boots and prepare yourself for a wondrous day observing the island at its abundant natural beauty.

9am – Sirinat Marine National Park

Sat in a beautiful location on the northwest coast of Phuket, straddling the Andaman Ocean is the Sirinat National Park, set over 90 square kilometers. Named after the Queen of Thailand, the park is home to some of the finest and most peaceful beaches in Phuket, such as Nai Yang and Mai Khao, alongside coral reefs, mangrove forests and dense jungle beauty. If you want to see Phuket at its beautiful best, a trip to start your day at the National Park is a must. The Casuarinas tree lined beaches provide that paradise island retreat that not so many tourists get to see nowadays, so take full advantage of your daytrip.

11:30am  Brunch at Indigo Pearl Resort

This five-star resort on the northwest coast of the island is the ideal place for a spot of brunch. Refuel your body for the day ahead by dining at one of Indigo Pearls  famous and critically acclaimed restaurants. The Indigo Pearl has one of the finest reputations on the island for high quality cuisine at affordable prices.

1:30pm – Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

This national park is situated on the northeast coast of Phuket, combining conserved jungle vegetation and a host of birds, gibbons, barking deer, bears, wild boars, monkeys and langurs. With several forest trails available, which are ideal for hikes, you can hire your own guide and explore until your heart is content. The park also has a small information center and a museum that you can take advantage of. Within the park, you can also explore its other famous natural attractions:

3:30pm – Ton Sai Forest Park

As part of Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, the Ton Sai Forest Park owns a waterfall that isn't the biggest, but is very scenic and worth  a visit. The waterfall is located near to the entrance of the park, so it is easy to access. Bask in the natural surroundings and realize what a beautiful part of the world Phuket is, especially when observing it at first hand.

5pm – Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae Waterfall is also part of Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, and is known as Phuket's largest waterfall. Depending on the time of the year, the waterfall could have a limited amount of water. However, the 15 minute trek to the waterfall meanders through scenic jungle surroundings and is worthwhile in itself. On the grounds of the Bang Pae Waterfall, you will also find the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center, where you can observe these clever monkeys and make a small donation to the cause. Overall, the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park provides you with a wide choice of natural delights within the same area. Those who enjoy a natural wilderness will have the best time imaginable, just remember that it could be a long day, so wearing the appropriate attire and using sunscreen is essential to your well-being.

Thailand Etiquette – Do's and Dont's in Thailand

It is important to remember that Thai social nuances are different to those in the western world. Whereas we reserve the rights in our own countries to speak out against how country affairs are conducted, Thailand is a little different.

 DON'T Speak Out Negatively About The Thai Royal Family

The Thai Royal Family is revered across the nation and must be treated with the utmost respect at all times. DO NOT publicly criticize the King of Thailand or any member of the Royal Family. You may find yourself with a lengthy prison sentence or at best a large fine. It has happened before to unknowing visitors and it will happen again. Beware!
DO Keep Your Feet On The Ground

In Thai culture, the feet are the lowest part of the body, which is a negative thing. DO NOT use your feet to point at things or show the soles of your feet to other people. Keep the soles of your feet firmly on the ground at all times and everything will fine.
DO Not Cause a Thai to Lose Face

Thais are a non-confrontational nation who would rather smile than argue. Never ridicule a Thai in private or public, because this will make them lose face. This is an important aspect of Thai culture and should always be remembered
DO Exercise Tolerance

It is the norm in the western world to become visibly agitated when things don't go our way. Communication breakdowns in Thailand can lead to heated disagreements. DO NOT lose your temper in the heat of the moment, even if it's a dispute over a restaurant or bar bill. Just smile, do the right thing, and you will find things work out just fine.
DO Not Wear Skimpy Clothing in a Temple

When visiting a Buddhist Temple, wear the appropriate clothing. Skimpy clothing should be reserved for the beach and the discotheques. It is especially important that women DO NOT wear short skirts, low-cut shirts or reveling shorts when visiting a place of worship in Thailand.
DO Check Your Laundry When Returned

This is not a life or death Do or Don't, but Thai laundry services are famous for returning the wrong items back to you. If you do not check the contents of your laundry, you might find your expensive Lacoste Polo Shirt has miraculously shape shifted into a pair of 1980s dungarees or an 18th century corset.
DO Wai Correctly

The  Wai  is the hands together greeting in Thailand. Realistically speaking, a Westerner should never Wai first to a Thai, because we are perceived as visitors from another society whose ideals are different. If a Thai Wais you first, then by all means return the gesture. However, if you do mistakenly Wai first to a Thai, don't worry because they already know that we do not understand their culture properly and they will just giggle about it.

Friendship Beach

One of the best kept secrets on Phuket is the Friendship Beach Resort & Restaurant on Visit Road between Chalong and Rawai. Nestled idyllically on a scenic beach within viewing distance of Chalong Pier and Bay, Friendship Beach is a restaurant come resort that typifies that paradise island feel.

The establishment is fundamentally a resort with holiday bungalows, however, the restaurant is one such place that only the local expatriate community knows about. The restaurant is open in nature, allowing the stiff ocean breeze to gently refresh you while you dine. The large communal swimming pool is the centerpiece of the restaurant, which every paying customer is allowed to utilize. This approach creates a warm and friendly family atmosphere.

The amazing ocean views are something you have dreamt about. The picturesque outlaying islands such as Koh Lone not only provide sanctuary for Chalong Bay, but are also breathtaking in stature. You can sit within footsteps of the ocean and take a lung full of that clean subtropical atmosphere.

The restaurant is fundamentally open style, with a main bar area surrounded by pagodas, which can make your dining experience quite private if you wish. The menu has gained quite a reputation with locals over the years. With a choice of high quality European cuisine, American, Mexican and a sprinkling of Thai, there is more than enough for everyone to enjoy. The restaurant prides itself on not using artificial coloring or MSG type additives of any kind. Only fresh and healthy ingredients are used when preparing some of the tastiest food found anywhere on the south side of the island. The delicious vegetarian menu provides guests with a myriad of options you can't find anywhere else in Phuket  this is a seriously health conscious restaurant.

One of the major pulling factors of Friendship Beach is the live music on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Over the years, these two nights have become popular with those in the know. Friday nights is when some of the island's favorite musicians take the stage and perform some blues music classics for eager customers. Local musicians from bands such as the Groove Doctors usually form the majority of the house band and play into the night. Sunday afternoons from 4pm until late, you can enjoy the soulful delights of the talented jazz band that make for a soothing melodic afternoon. The female Filipino vocalist has a great voice and is very personable with the customers. Her vocals can sometimes mirror the great Shirley Bassey, which is quite a compliment in itself.

Friendship Beach really is a place you should visit during your time in Phuket. The fact that not so many tourists get to see the natural beauty that the restaurants offers is a shame. It's the sort of establishment that will bring you back time and time again. The word of mouth aspect of Friendship Beach has already assured it a cult following with locals. Now you have the opportunity to see the place for yourself  don't miss out!

Opening Times: Daily from 08:00 - 23:00

Friendship Beach Restaurant, 27/1 Soi Mittrapap, Friendship Beach, Rawai

Phuket 83130 Thailand

Phone: (66) 076.288.996

Fax : (66) 076.289.139

Mobile Phone: (66) 089.727.2296 (Starr)

(66) 089.471.9908 (Pee)