Choosing The Best Locations in Phuket

Phuket, the island destination in Thailand drawing the most tourists, offer a plethora of beaches, coves and bays. Deciding where on the island to book your hotel accommodation is an important step to a memorable holiday. Some like it secluded, peaceful and tranquil, some like the buzz of a busy holiday atmosphere and some like it somewhere in-between.

In this article we will give an abbreviated overview of the best and most popular Phuket beach destinations, what you can expect from the location and point you in the direction of some great hotels in each area.

Patong is without a doubt the centre of all activity in Phuket. It is alive with people, a congregation of restaurants, bars, pubs, shopping opportunity, water sports abound and even a large shopping mall, making it popular with those who likes an electric holiday atmosphere. A vibrant nightlife with an assortment of clubs and discotheques sees that the nocturnally inclined also have a blast of a time.

Patong is home to a large selection of hotels and sees some fine luxury accommodation options to more budget savvy and everything in-between.

If you would like to be close to all the action but not directly in it and out of earshot of any noise, try the 4 star Amari Coral Beach Resort, located in the southern most corner of Patong on its own private beach. La Flora Resort is another 5 star resident of Patong right in the centre of the beach. This stylish establishment offer accommodation for anything from single travelers to two bedroom villas for family vacationers. The brand new very hip and funky 4 star B-Lay Tong resort also needs to be mentioned. This Phuket resort is located to the upmarket northern end of Patong.

Pure white sand that glitters, Karon is the 2nd biggest of the primary Phuket tourist beaches. It is located just south, a 5 minute tuk tuk ride, from the glittering lights of Patong. Long and wide, it is debatable if Karon is not maybe the most sought after of all Phuket beaches. Many hotels line the road that runs parallel to the beach, but very little if any development has taken place on the beach. To the northern end of this beach several restaurants, bars and other commercial activity is centered. Probably the most upscale Phuket beach area, Karon is home to highly recommended hotel names the 5 star Movenpick Resort & Spa, Centara Karon Resort, Centara Villas Phuket and the Hilton Phuket Arcadia. Just recently the brand new 5 star Centara Grand Beach Resort opened its doors to the northern end of Karon. This Phuket hotel is in fact located directly on the beach and every room offers sea views.

Kata Beach is the smallest of the primary tourist beaches. White sands, crystal clear waters and Phuket hotels and resorts right on the beach. If you do not wish to have a road between your hotel and the beach, Kata is probably where you will find your choice of Phuket accommodation. All structures bordering Kata is low rise so views are unobstructed and set to stay this. A beautiful beach and area in general, Kata is a great choice, perfect for swimming and plays hosts to names like the luxury Mom Tri's Boathouse boutique hotel, Centara Kata Resort and the popular 4 star Andaman Cannacia Resort & Spa. All of which is recommended places of stay.

Surin Beach is home to several high-end 5 star hotels & resorts and is aptly referred to as millionaire's row. The beach is beautiful and the sand a fine white powder. These luxury establishments have also given rise to some top notch restaurants and wine bars. Suggest for discerning travelers, Surin will be a good choice. Names like The Surin Hotel (Formerly The Chedi Phuket Hotel) and Manathai Resort has made Surin their home.

Kamala Beach is located just north of lively Patong with its glittering lights and feverish nightlife. Kamala calls to those who like it quieter while still within easy reach of Patong. The southern end of the beach gets busier during high and peak season. Here, a range of restaurants and bars can also be found. However, simply head for the northern end all year round to find peace and quiet. Kamala is of course also home to one of the biggest Phuket attractions, The Phuket FantaSea. Kamala is home to, amongst others, the luxury Cape Sienna Hotel & Villas.

Bang Tao is an enormous 8 kilometer stretch of beach. The southern end of this beach offers a range of some nice mid range hotels while the north is occupied by the ultr luxury Laguna hotel complex. Just a little inland is a small market and the village of Cherng Talay. The predominantly Muslim community makes a living from fishing as they have been for generations. In Bang Tao you will spend most of your time on the beach, utilizing resorts facilities and activities or rent a jeep to check out neighbouring beaches. Not busy, not quiet and very little if any night life.

Mai Khao Beach is at almost 10 kilometers, the longest beach in Phuket. Situated at the northern tip of Phuket, this area has seen limited development and construction. If you don't like to share a beach with too many other tourists, Mai Khao is your place. This is an area to get away from it all and spend your time in quiet and tranquil seclusion, though the nearby location of the airport does bring some air traffic noise every now and then. Sala Phuket Resort and Spa and Anantara Phuket Resort and Spa are two quality resorts in Mai Khao that deserves a closer look. Be careful when swimming here May to October with strong under currents and a steep slope into the ocean making things hazardous.

Just south of Mai Khao is Nai Yang beach, home to the fabulous Indigo Pearl Resort. Once again, commercial development is limited. The setting is lovely and tranquil and like Mai Khao, it is removed from any major activity and Patong is an approximate 45 minute drive away. A good choice to spend a few days in blissful seclusion, recuperate and then head for a more active environment.

Well then, this should help you make a more informed decision before booking Phuket hotels. Alternatively, should you need more information or suggestions for the best hotels and accommodation options for your unique requirements, contact our friendly and helpful team. We will be happy to assist.

The Best Hotels in Thailand.com is an online Thailand hotel and travel guide offering secure online Thailand hotel and resort accommodation bookings. To get all the Thailand travel information you need, the best rates and special hotel accommodation offers, visit us now at http://www.thebesthotelsinthailand.com

Have a Luxurious Stay at Five Star Hotels in Phuket & Bangkok

Phuket is the world famous tourist destination. People around the globe love to visit this large island of Thailand which is located in Thailand's west coast in the Andaman Sea. Accommodations of Phuket provide enormous luxury facilities. Along the beautiful beaches and natural ambiance, Phuket offers a variety of hotels and resorts. Staying in one of the 5 Star Hotels In Phuket can create an everlasting impression.

Far from the madding crowds of the city life, Phuket is the tranquil heavenly place where travelers can spend a few moments of their life peacefully. While your stay in the hotels what you can expect at best is the warm hospitality and proper attentive service. However, the deluxe hotels include the facilities like bars, restaurants, spa centers, etc.

Amidst the tranquil settings of vast blue sea, good weather of the coastal beaches and the scenic beauty of sunset, Phuket is such a place to mesmerize you with its every possible sight seeing attractions and Thai culture and its friendliness.

Get your mind relaxed by diving or water-skiing on the clear blue water of the island. If you feel to rest then the resorts or motels of Phuket are just good to mention. The 5 Star Hotels in Phuket are the real place to stay for it provides world class facilities to its visitors. Whether you are availing a honeymoon trip or enjoying a vacation with your friends or family, the requirements for staying comfortably is well arranged for every type of guests.

Thailand's capital city Bangkok is the home to many luxury hotels and resorts. The city offers a good life style which reflects the cultural combination of Asia and Europe. The Buddhist architectures which prevail in Bangkok are the most significant historical importance of the city. Moreover, Bangkok is also nice place for shopping in the big malls and shopping centers. However, Thai delicious foods make the city's restaurants the best place to dine.

Bangkok Hotels are the heavenly spots where one can stay peacefully and comfortably but the Five Star Hotels have its own special causes to make your stay better. If you want the comfortable luxury accommodations then choose 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok.

Looking for Five Star Hotels? We have best hotel room rates for 5 Star Hotels In Phuket and 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok. Select from thousand of hotels available to book online.

Teenagers' English Summer Camp - Leisure & Study

A vacation in Phuket Island is indubitably a wonderful idea to appreciate the white sand beaches and clear waters of Thailand in family. While adults are taking a rest, teenagers certainly want more fun activities of their own. An English summer camp in a reputable International school in Phuket is a great possibility as teenage children can have fun being with other youths while their parents enjoy more freedom.

These summer camps are usually for non-English speakers who learn English in addition to the practice of sports like football, swimming, tennis and golf. There are of course other options oriented more on sports for native English speaker teenagers. Phuket is the ideal place in Thailand for a summer camp. All the teens that participate in a camp are delighted and do not regret any minute to be there.

These camps are very educative with lessons and activities every day. When the children arrive at the International Phuket airport, a few teachers are present to welcome and drive them to the school by van. There are a few very big facilities with wide green areas including football pitches and several indoor halls for other sports. There are also swimming pools, generally a small pool for kindergarten and primary children, and a large pool for secondary children.

A summer camp is not only a solution to occupy children during a family trip, but a unique experience for young people who can be sent alone to Phuket and be very well taken care of by the school organizing the summer camp. There, they can meet friends of their age of different nationalities and have fun lessons like cooking in addition of the language classes. It is certainly a wonderful learning experience.

A camp generally has 30 students for a two weeks camp. During these summer camps, the teenagers have English classes normally in the morning and evening provided in classrooms with different proficiency levels. The classes are punctuated with snacks and drinks every two hours, and sport activities like basketball, badminton or football are organized in the afternoon.

Some activities for teenagers can also be arranged for shorter terms like a week or on a daily basis in some smaller schools or organizations. Kayaking, yachting, snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing and banana boat riding are great water sports that teenagers will enjoy on their own. And for those teenagers who want to stay with their parents, there are always a multitude of fun activities that can be enjoyed together as a family.

Participating in a English summer camp in Phuket can be a memory of a lifetime for many teenagers who will go back home with new friendships made. Phuket has top international facilities and schools that can accommodate parents and teenagers alike.

Michel Gerard is a freelance travel author based in South East Asia. Visit Reperages Thailand Travel's website to read more about a summer camp in Phuket. Free Travel eBook also available for download => http://www.travel.reperages-thailand.com

Visiting Beaches in Phuket

Beaches are integral part of any Phuket tour. The island hosts an array of beaches, all of which have something distinct about them. Famous beaches like Patong, Karon, Kata and Kamala are located in Phuket. Beaches of the Island are the rendezvous of sports, adventure, shopping and night life.

Patong Beach

Patong, most visited beach in Phuket, offers mist-wrapped mornings and the sunsets which are always worthy to watch. And Patong isn't finished with natural beauty. Add to it colorful atmosphere, a range of restaurants, fun-filled nightlife, fabulous fun-making, and the temptation to visit Phuket become irresistible. A long white sandy stretch, Phuket offers thrilling adventures and fast-paced shopping. Any visit to Phuket is incomplete without Patong trip.

Karon Beach

If you wish to avail full range of facilities, dining and activities, but are not too fond of crowds, Karon is your destination. A stretch of squeaky white sand, Karon beach has a number of budget guest houses, restaurants and bars. Some artists have built here a complex of huts and galleries, which would interest art lovers. A football stadium, which hosts both national and international events, is also located near Karon Beach. One can get here rejunevating spa and shop for handicrafts. For enjoying nightlife, you could visit Patak East Road.

Kamala Beach

Kamala is considered the most beautiful beach in Phuket, offering panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Ringed by forested hills, this calm and pleasant beach has pretty white sands. If one seeks more than sunbathing, facilities like boats are available. At Kamala Beach, one can get a feel of old Phuket. Shopping in village markets has its own charm. One would find a range of hotels and apartments are nestled around the fishing village. After a day of water sports and shopping, one can entertain in evenings at Phuket FantaSea Entertainment Complex, known for sparkling dances and leg-shaking music.

Kata Beach

Milky sands and turquoise waters make Kata Beach different. Surfers like to have fun at Southern end of Kata beach. Every year, during December, beautiful yachts from all over the region arrive in Kata to participate in King's Cup Regatta, Asia's premier sailing event. Tourists wishing to explore beyond the beach can take assistance from several dive shops and tour operators. One could also shop for souvenirs and readymade clothes at shops in Kata village. A popular tourist resort, there are sufficient number of restaurants and hotels too.

Surin Beach

If you wish to relish delicious seafood and sunbath in peaceful and pleasant atmosphere, Surin could be your option. A casuarina-lined beach, Surin has calm and refreshing atmosphere, thanks to the absence of jet-skiis and speedboats. However, the beach is good to enjoy activities like snorkeling and and surfing. Near the beach, one can find facilities like shops, bars, cafes and small hotels.

Bang Tao Beach

A long milky beach, Bang Tao is known for luxurious resorts and villas. One can enjoy a slew of activities including golfing, windsurfing, elephant riding, kids sports, rock climbing, horse riding and ropes course. At open-air village market in close vicinity of the beach, one can get first-hand experience of a conventional Thai market.

Chalong Bay

Muddy coastline makes Chalong Bay unsuitable for most water sports. However, it does have a jetty where you can hire boats. Tourist facilities like parking, restaurants, information kiosks and shops are located on jetty.

Panwa Beach

Panwa is a tranquil beach at a short distance from Phuket town. The foremost attraction of the beach is Phuket Aquarium at the Phuket Marine Biological Center. It is the centre of most water sports competitions in Phuket.

Laem Sing Beach

People wanting a reclusive day can visit Laem Sing which has a white beach at the center and rocky outcroppings at both ends. Located between Patong and Surin, Laem Sing is good for snorkeling and sunbathing. You would find some locally run restaurants and bars, but no accommodation facilities are available.

Dinesh Patairya has been writing on tourism for several online and offline publications for years. He is currently working for a project on Phuket [http://www.yourasianvacations.com/thailand/phuket/index.html] with YourAsianVacations.com

Luxurious Phuket Resorts Will Pamper You With Their Value Added Services

Holidaying and vacationing is emerging as a strong contender amid populaces as they are increasingly becoming aware of the bad effects that prolonged working can have on their relationships and family. The increasing burden that work related responsibilities put on us makes it a compulsion to holiday once in a while; even when a while means a year. The fact that holidaying can rejuvenate your latent energies and makes it possible to adjust and balance professional and personal life will make many a people wonder as to why didn't they think of this before.

After finalizing on the motive, it is imperative to settle on the destination as there is an assortment of tourist destination ready to allure you into their laps. In such circumstance one name that makes it stand out from the rest is Phuket. Phuket is the largest island and a south province in Thailand which boasts of innumerous white sand beaches and exquisite nightlife. One can find blissful ambience and a milieu of exquisiteness in this pearl of Thailand. It is however imperative for folks to plan their trip well ahead of time to avert last minute hassles and unreserved worries.

One can use the World Wide Web to locate various Phuket inn and phuket resorts to acquire an apt know how and acquaintance with the environment there. They can also reserve rooms well in advance to make their travel and accommodation utterly straight forward and unproblematic. The vivacious night life and a plethora of adventure activities can make this trip the most memorable one of your entire life. There are a lot of Phuket resorts which are sea facing and can provide you with every ultra modern amenity that you wish for; from private swimming pools to internet connectivity to boat services. These phuket resorts have become synonymous with luxury and lavishness.

Based up on your reading up to this point do not fabricate an opinion that phuket is a place only for the high end individuals as it is indeed a location which welcomes all with open hands and a warm heart. Even if you are voyaging on a shoe string budget, you can find a multitude of phuket inn which will save you a lot of resources which can then be adjusted against other travel expenses. The mouth watering delicacies and awe inspiring scenery can bring you to your wit's end. Apart from this, you can indulge yourself in water skiing, scuba diving, surfing and a horde of other fun filled activities which will leave you exhausted yet craving for more. Some of the most sought after beach resorts are: - trisara resort, pacific club, Six Senses Hideaway Yao Noi, JW Marriott Resort & Spa, Anantara resprt and spa, the pavilions, twin palms, Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket, The Racha, etc.

Luxurious phuket resorts will pamper you with their value added services such as spas, which will revitalize your body and mind relentlessly. Now before you start planning things down, look up on the internet and if possible book rooms in a phuket resorts well before you arrive there. Search for credible reviews and apt testimonials to support your decision as you do not want t o go there and find a completely different situation.

Mr. Pankaj is providing SEO Services to Pacific-Club-Phuket, dedicated and devoted to proffer you nothing but the very best in hospitality wherein you will return home with cherished memories for lifetime.

When it comes to holidaying in Phuket Beaches and Phuket Hotels, it is imperative to look up on the World Wide Web for pertaining information on availability of beach resorts on karon beach Thailand. In this milieu, one name that stands out in the crowd for proffering precise and resourceful information is Pacific Club Phuket.

Train Travel is Cheap and Convenient

Train travel is a way to save money this summer, allowing you to take a family vacation. It can be considerably cheaper than air travel or traveling by car because the ticket price is not directly related to the price of fuel. Train travel is also much more convenient and hassle-free.

Discounts are available for many people that travel by train. All students, seniors and veterans receive a discount. AAA members receive 10% off. Children (ages 2-15) pay half price and one infant (0-2 years of age) per adult is free.

In addition to the many discounts offered, miles are earned each time you travel by train. These miles can be redeemed not only for free train travel, but also for free airfare. Amtrak, the major train company, also has a credit card that allows members to earn additional miles on all the purchases they make using that card.

Travel by train can be much more convenient than flying. Check-in is considerably faster at train stations than airports. There is no security to pass through. You just show that the name on your train ticket matches the name on your identification, if asked.

Train stations are conveniently located in the middle of the city, not on the edge like airports. This helps cut down on taxi fare to your desired destination.

When purchasing train fare, keep in mind that the price can vary between locations, so check the price from nearby cities to your destination. It may be cheaper to drive a little ways and catch a train from another city.

The price to travel by train also varies greatly by the accommodations chosen and services provided during train travel. It is harder to purchase regular coach seating in the summer, and around Thanksgiving and Christmas. These seats are usually booked well in advance. You can also choose from first-class seating, business-class seating and a variety of sleeping accommodations. Some of these rooms have showers and food provided. For other accommodations, food can be purchased on most trains.

Consider train travel this summer. Statistically it's much safer than driving. It can be a relaxing and peaceful ride, accompanied by beautiful scenery. Also, the price can be much more affordable than air travel or car travel.

Gina Clark writes on budget travel and financial issues. Visit her blog to learn additional ways to save money on your vacation.

Overnight Stay in India - Airport Transfer + Hotel + Breakfast For One Day Stay Or Break in Travel

Now you are going to a new country and you don't know any one there who is to receive you at the airport or guide you personally. When you get down at the airport there will be frauds and goons waiting for their prized catch that is You. Its generally difficult to do on your own in a stranger country. I understand your situation as I have been through this many times myself. Once I was asked by a driver in 'Mumbai' for 800 Rupees where he promised me to take me to a good hotel. Finally he took me to this place called 'Chakala' in 'Andheri 'which is hardly 10 Kilometer from airport. There I was taken to a hotel where I paid for 3000 Rupees and found out that it was a brothel. You can't imagine how embarrassed I was then.

Now things are changing though. Internet has made it easy for all of us. With improving services in India companies have come forward with novel plans to help you tackle this kinda menace.

There are many companies leading the travel market who offer this service. They are offering you world class service for Overnight Stay in India for only 99$ (starting price). This service will include Car transfer from Airport to Hotel plus one night accommodation in three star or similar hotel + breakfast. You will be received by an English speaking trained executive from the company who will take care of all your needs. More over till the time you stay in the city you are entitled to 24*7 customer service over phone.

I am particularly impressed with the service of one which you may check online here. Overnight Stay India

So don't take risks and go hunting in the dark next time you are visiting India or some other country. Use the expert service and save your self some time, money and embarrassment. Use the Over Night stay or bed breakfast and Inn packages available from a reputed country.I will be glad to know that my articles helped you in any way.

Cheers

Stop Off Destinations For a Trip to Australia

Australia is a long way from any other continent and so getting here can feel a bit like running a marathon. A good option is to break up the flight and include a stop off on your way to or from Australia. Another good idea is to stay a little longer and visit another country in the southern hemisphere whilst you are here.

This solution won't work for everyone though. You need at least 3 weeks to visit Australia so adding on a couple of 3 night stop offs will sadly reduce your time too much. One stop off for a couple of days however could be manageable.

Many travellers choose to do a stop over for a few days on the way there or way back from Australia. This also has the added benefit of breaking up the long flight and the jet lag. Asia is usually a classic choice for this and see below for more recommendations for stop overs:

Bangkok and Thailand

This is a popular holiday destination for the Australians as there are a few flight operators keeping flights competitive, and it's still reasonably cheap when you get there.

Here are some suggestions as to what to do whilst in Bangkok:

1) A must visit is the Grand Palace. Whilst you can't actually go into the Palace the buildings are beautiful and can be admired from the outside. This is the official residence of the King but is now only used for special occasions.

2) The Wat Sai Floating Market is a good one to visit and you can get on a barge outside the Grand Palace. It's also good to combine a visit to the Royal Barges Museum. They have some fabulous boats on display that have been used by the King.

3) For the best shopping go to the Chatuchak Weekend Market It's very large so its easy to get lost here. There is everything you could possibly think of here and it's also a good place to eat as there are plenty of restaurants. My advice is to get there early as the heat and crowds get worse as the day goes on. It is open from 7am.

4) If you would like to see more of Bangkok, then take a Segway Tour. This is a tour with a difference as you will be on a 2 wheeled electronic device. They are easy to use and they give you a real sense of freedom as you cruise the streets of Bangkok.

5) No trip to Thailand is complete without experiencing the Bangkok nightlife. Head to the city and take in a lady boy show or just enjoy a few drinks and watch the world go by.

If you would rather head to the beaches of Thailand then consider the area around Phuket. Jet Star fly directly to and from Phuket from Sydney and at certain times of the year there are special reduced fares.

I'd only recommend Phuket if you are a party animal. It's a bit like an Asian equivalent of Ibiza. It's a very big resort with hundreds of clubs and bars and restaurants. If you are after a quieter holiday then I would head to Phi Phi Island. This is a popular day trip from Phuket but a great alternative if you need some quiet time. It is near where they filmed "The Beach."

There isn't room in this article to explore all the stop off alternatives. Other stop over options include Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and Singapore. If you are travelling from the US then Fiji is a good stop off to break up the flight and see another beautiful island getaway.

If your trip to Australia is more than 3 weeks then I'd seriously consider a trip to New Zealand or even the tropical island of Bali. The flight times from Australia are reasonable.

Jennifer Schillington has nearly half a decade of experience in travelling Australia and has recently had a baby. Her website, http://www.realaustraliatravel.com offers practical information for planning your trip to Australia as well as what to do and where to go. Click here for more information on travel from Australia

Thailand - A Place For Everyone

If you are planning to make a stunning trip on this Summer, then Thailand would be your top destination. Well, better known to all the tourist for its white sand beaches, large coconut trees, blue sky and coastal mountain ranges; Thailand is the ultimate top choice for everyone. Being the melting pot for diverse cultures, this country is the regional hub for business, tourism and transportation. This land is constantly delivering its best values to everyone around the world. If you pick Thailand as your top destination then do not miss Phuket.

Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia. It is the 20th largest country of the world in terms of land areas. It has a population of about 66 million people. The official language spoken in the country is Thai, English is also spoken there. It is considered a mandatory language in the education and learning system. Other native languages are also spoken in the country. The larger part of the residents are believer in Buddhism, followed by Islam, Christianity and others. Most of its traditions and cultures have been affected a great deal by other cultures, among which you will find the Indian culture, the Chinese culture among others.

It has come to be known as a growing economy. The economic growth over the years has been greatly influenced by its strong exports. The exports earn the country over 100 billion dollars every year. The major exports are its rice (which is the country's main produce that has made it the world's largest exporter of
the crop), textiles, cars, jewelry, fishery products, electrical appliances, etc.

The Bangkok is the capital city and the largest urban area. It is the main economical center of the country. This is very evident especially by the fact that the city is home to all of the country's key commercial banks and other financial organizations. It is also home to many multinational corporations which have based their various regional headquarters in the city. This has been largely influenced by the lower cost for the workforce.

Phuket Thailand is an island also within the country. It is the largest island in Thailand. Phuket in itself is a province in the country. The island is known for its tin and rubber, two exports that have earned the island most of its wealth. It is also known to attract tourists who go there to visit its beaches and learn of its history.

Find out more information about visiting Thailand!

The Best Beaches of Phuket

Phuket Island is one of the most popular travel destinations of Thailand. One of the main reasons why so many tourists visit  each year is because it has some of the finest beaches in all of Asia. If you love beach holidays then you should definitely consider visiting this magnificent island on vacation.

Phuket has a large number of beautiful white sandy beaches and most of these amazing beaches are located on the west coast of the island. If you are planning a trip to this Thai holiday island then there are several beaches which you should definitely visit and spend some time at. I have listed for you some of the best locations down below.

Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn beach is my favorite beach on on the island and many expats prefer to spend their free days at this spectacular beach. There are only a few resorts at Nai Harn beach which is why you won't feel crowded at this beach. There are however a number of great little seafood restaurants at this destination and prices are generally very affordable. If you are looking for activities then you will also be happy at this excellent beach as there is a number of water sport companies located at this beautiful location on the island.

Surin Beach

Another very popular Phuket beach among the expat population is Surin beach which is located between Laguna and Kamala bay. This long white sandy beach is also home to some of the finest seafood restaurants of the island. This wonderful location generally only gets a bit crowded during the high season. There are a few resorts located in the Surin area however this area of the island is generally better known for its high end real estate projects.

Patong Beach

Patong beach is one of the most crowded beaches however many travelers certainly seem to prefer this. You will never get bored at this location as there are plenty of  vendors, massage ladies and water sport companies offering you jet skiing, water skiing and parasailing. If you enjoy shopping then please note that there are plenty of shops and boutiques which line the main road of Patong.

Kata Beach

One of the most popular beaches is most certainly Kata which is located just south of Patong. Kata is one of the longest beaches of Phuket so you can enjoy up to a certain level of privacy when spending the day at Kata. The water of the Andaman Sea is generally very calm during the tourist high season. During the low season there are some waves and during this period of the year you will find local surfers hanging out at this wonderful location.

James is travel consultant living on Phuket and is working on a number of projects. If you are looking for information about Phuket then be sure to visit his Phuket guide which includes an excellent section on Krabi.

The Bang Pa-In Palace

Among the line-up of well-known tourist spots in this ancient province is the Bang Pa-In Palace which has a history dating back to the 17th century. According to a chronicle of Ayutthaya, King Prasat Thong (1630-1655) ordered the construction of a palace on Bang Pa-In Island in the glorious Chao Phraya River. The King founded a monastery, Wat Chumphon Nikayaram, on the land belonging to his family estate on Bang Pa-In Island and then had a palace built to the south of that monastery and in the middle of the island where he could occasionally dwell. Wat Chumphon Nikayaram and the palace, encircled by a lake 400 meters long and 40 meters wide, are the remains of King Prasat Thong's construction work at Bang Pa-In.Historically speaking, the Bang Pa-In Palace served as a summer residence for royal members after King Prasat Thong. But when the new capital was instituted in Bangkok,

Bang Pa-In was no longer in use and left uninhabited for 80 years. It was demolished with the fall of Ayutthaya and was restored in the mid-19th century by King Rama IV, who was really fond of the place and periodically spent his summers there. Most of the buildings that can be seen today date from the reign of King Rama V (King Chulalongkorn). Today the palace is used occasionally by Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit as a residence and for organizing receptions and banquets. The palace is currently located just a few miles down the Chao Phraya River from Ayutthaya.

The palace structures give a picture of various architectural styles, set in a large park around ponds and waterways. The only royal residence open to the public is the Chinese-style Wehart Chamroon Palace that was built entirely of materials taken from China. Moreover, there is an Italian-style palace, a circular pavilion with steps leading down to a pool, the refined Thai-style Aisawan Tippaya Asana Pavilion in the middle of a lake and, across one of the waterways, a Buddhist chapel in the Neo-gothic style with stained-glass windows. Within the extensive gardens are European statues and monuments commanded to be erected by King Rama V in memory of members of his family, one of them a dearly loved Queen who drowned in a boating mishap.

Some sites of interest in the Bang Pa-in Palace include Phra Thinang Wehart Chamroon, Phra Thinang Utthayan Phumisathian, Wat Niwet Thammaprawat and Memorial to Queen Sunandakumariratana. Phra Phra Thinang Wehart Chamroon is the Chinese-style two-storey mansion constructed by the corresponding of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and bestowed to King Chulalongkorn in 1889. The ground floor consists of a Chinese-style throne; the upper storey houses an alter enshrining the name plates of King Mongkut and King Chulalongkorn with their respective queens. This Chinese-style mansion was the much preferred residence of King Vajiravudh or King Rama VI (1910-1925) when he visited Bang Pa-In Palace.

Phra Thinang Wehart Chamroon is so beautiful and astonishing that Prince Ookhtomsky, a personal escort of the Czarevitch, the future Czar Nicholas II of Russia, praised on a visit in 1890 that "It is really a palace of romance, with ornamented tiled floors, massive ebony furniture, gold, silver and porcelain freely used for decorative purposes and delicate fretwork on the columns and on the windows. Evidently we have before us the principal sight of Bang Pa-In. The Emperor of China himself can scarcely have a palace much finer than this!"

Phra Thinang Utthayan Phumisathian is situated to the east, opposite the pond. It is a two-story ornately erected building, which is painted alternately in dark and light green. Its balcony is the same in design as that of a Swiss chalet. Before being devastated by fire during the restoration in 1938, the entire building was built from wood and adorned with mahogany furniture imported from Europe. It was the favorite residence of King Chulalongkorn when he resided at Bang Pa-In Palace. Prince Ookhtomsky extolled it was "furnished luxuriously and with refined taste and comfort." Unluckily, it was burnt down by chance in 1938. The new building which replaced it was constructed in 1996 at the expressed wishes of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. The water tank, disguised as a Neo-gothic tower, is only part of the original structure still existing.Built by King Rama V, Wat Niwet Thammaprawat looks more like a Gothic Christian church than a Thai monastery. Tourists can reach the temple by crossing the river in a small trolley-like cable car, which is free of charge. Meanwhile, the Memorial to Queen Sunandakumariratana is another place of high interest in the palace compound. In 1881, Queen Sunandakumariratana drowned when her boat sank in the Chao Phraya River while she was on her way to Bang Pa-In Palace. King Chulalongkorn was so grief-stricken and thus set up a marble obelisk as a cenotaph to her memory. The King also composed the dedication himself in both Thai and English.

The Bang Pa-In Palace is nestled in Tambon Baan Len, Amphur Bang Pa-In, which is 18 kilometers south of Ayutthaya. It lies 58 kilometers north of Bangkok by rail and 61 kilometers by road. To get to Bang Pa-In from Ayutthaya, one can go by Phahonyothin Road and make a right turn at Km. 35 for another distance of 7 kilometers to Bang Pa-In Palace. The palace is open to the public everyday from 08.00-16.00 hrs. The admission fee is 50 Baht.

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