Island of Phuket is Full of Joy and Splendor
Countless Excursions Available on Thailand's Largest Island
Nov 14, 2009
The island of Phuket has an abundant number of beaches and hotels for tourists to choose among for their stay. Close to the northwestern tip of the island, about a 25-minute drive from the airport, one will welcome brilliant sunsets and quiet solitude.
JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa
When tourists first arrive at the JW Marriott on the northwestern side of the island, there is a eagerness to just chill-out at one of the three dazzling pools or lounge on Mai Khao Beach, a rather large stretch of pristine sand. Maybe even take a leisurely walk across the vast property of the hotel and its blooming gardens, reflecting pools and a lily pond with a small Buddist shrine for prayers and meditation. One does not ever have to leave the hotel if they do not wish. The Children's Pavilion and its special MAZE programs is an added benefit to those staying at the JW Marriott. It's a good place to leave the children for a few hours in order to get those much needed couples' massages. They have many activities lined-up and there will be no complaints from the kids.
Mai Khao Beach
Although beaches naturally give off a nice ambiance, the beach here is unique for its location within the Sirinath National Park. This 17 kilometer (km) stretch of beach is also home to a sea turtle sanctuary, where eggs are laid and eventually hatch in April of each year. In addition, a rather stunning sunset can be seen at this beach on any night.
Phang Nga Bay & the James Bond Island Tour
Although quicker speed-boat tours are offered, nothing will beat the experience of taking an all-day tour upon the June Bahtra. The traditional junk rigged schooner includes a sundeck and large sun canopy with mattresses, where one can lounge for the whole trip. Cruising along what is arguably the most beautiful scenery in the world, taking photographs and relaxing on the deck is a great way to spend the day. In addition, the staff and tour guides speak many languages and are very obliging.
The tour includes transferring to a long tail boat and visiting the Sea Gypsy Village (Koh Panyi) where over 2000 people live. Attractive and cheap souvenirs will be found here, although be prepared to be hassled by some peddlers, especially the ones offering to take photographs of tourists with monkeys. The village also includes a very small local school and a village mosque.
After everyone climbs back into the long tail boat, it goes to the James Bond Island where The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed. The scenery around the island and the island itself are quite beautiful. The small beach is perfect for a quick swim and memorable photographs. At the tours conclusion, everyone makes their way back to the June Bahtra for the return trip to Phuket. However about halfway back to the island people can jump from the boat for a quick swim if they wish.
Elephant Trekking
Another activity that shouldn't be missed, is the Siam Safari elephant trek in the jungle with fabulous panoramic views of the island. One has a choice of a 30 minute or a 45-60 minute trek atop these large mammals. The highly-skilled trainers and their families actually live in huts on the property with the elephants. Immediately after the trek, one can feed the elephants and buy some souvenirs where a soap carver is hard at work. In addition, a show will be performed at the conclusion of the visit. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful toward everyone, especially children.
Famous Simon Cabaret Show in Patong Beach a Must See
Sometimes it is hard to tell, but the show is performed by an all-male cast. Although the actors mimic the music instead of actually singing, the show is impressive with talented dancing and attractive costumes. Although the closer you sit to the stage, the more noticeable it becomes that the costumes are in great need of cleaning. After the performance, the actors will all line up outside for photo opportunities. However, the ladyboys will request money in exchange for the pictures. Patong Beach is an eventful place to visit at night without the children. There are family friendly eating establishments in the area, nevertheless, the area is famous for its more seedy establishments and clientele.
Trip to Phuket, Thailand is Eventful
There are many other excursions available on Phuket, including a boat tour of the Phi Phi Islands where The Beach was filmed. Additional activities include kayaking, river-rafting, canoeing, diving, ATV riding, playing golf, taking a Thai cooking class, snorkeling and much, much more. One should stay in Phuket for at least one week to get the most value from visiting the island. Two weeks would be ideal and make for a great visit to a beautiful place. See additional travel article "Tranquility and Ancient Culture Found in Bali."
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