“Past Infection” Guideline for Sandbox Travelers

March 6, 2022 By Uncategorized No Comments

Updated on 3 February 2022

Phuket Provincial Public Health Office would like to announce the
“Past Infection” Guideline for Sandbox Travelers

‘Sandbox’ Travelers who test positive for Covid-19 in Phuket but were infected before
arriving into Thailand can be considered for ‘no quarantine’ or ‘isolation’.

Release criteria: (all must be met)
1. You must be asymptomatic.
2. Your CT level from the RT-PCR test in Phuket must be more than 30 in both genes.

3. Medical certificate to prove your Covid-19 infection within the last 3 months
If the above criteria are not met, you must be quarantined or isolated for 10 days from
the first day of your RT-PCR positive test.

How?
● Submit the medical certificate of past infection to your hotel.
● Submit a lab result in Phuket that shows your ‘CT’ more than 30.
● The SHA Plus Manager of your hotel must keep records of your documents for
future reference with the Phuket Provincial Health Office.
● If you are able to present the above documents, you will be released.

ตื่นตาไปกับไดโนเสาร์เสมือนจริง ในดินแดนไดโนเสาร์ “Dino Fest 2022” ที่ใหญ่ที่สุดในไทย

March 4, 2022 By Uncategorized No Comments

เซ็นทรัลพัฒนา ชวนผจญภัยดินแดนไดโนเสาร์ “Dino Fest 2022” ใหญ่ที่สุดในไทย ตื่นตาตื่นใจไปกับฝูงไดโนเสาร์เสมือนจริง

บริษัท เซ็นทรัลพัฒนา จำกัด (มหาชน) พาเหล่าสัตว์โลกล้านปีบุกเปิดจินตนาการเด็ก ๆ และครอบครัวใน “Dino Fest 2022” ผจญภัยดินแดนไดโนเสาร์เสมือนจริงใหญ่ที่สุดในไทย พบกับไดโนเสาร์ 24 สายพันธุ์ จำนวน 36 ตัวที่สามารถเคลื่อนไหวและส่งเสียงร้องได้จริงตามหลักชีววิทยา ตั้งแต่ยุคแรกเริ่มไปจนถึงยุคสูญพันธุ์ ได้แก่ ยุคครีเทเชียส ยุคจูราสสิก และยุคไทรแอสสิก ชุบชีวิตให้เหล่าสัตว์โลกล้านปีกลับมามีชีวิตอีกครั้ง

 นอกจากนี้เซ็นทรัลพัฒนาขอมอบความสุข เติมรอยยิ้มและความสดใส เปิดรอบพิเศษในการเข้าชมเหล่าไดโนเสาร์ฟรีแก่บ้านเด็กกำพร้า หรือเด็กพิเศษในท้องถิ่นอีกด้วย มาร่วมตื่นตาตื่นใจไปกับเหล่าไดโนเสาร์เสมือนจริงได้ที่ศูนย์การค้าเซ็นทรัล ภูเก็ต วันที่ 04 – 20 มี.ค. 2022.

ดร. ณัฐกิตติ์ ตั้งพูลสินธนา ผู้ช่วยกรรมการผู้จัดการใหญ่ สายงานการตลาด บมจ.เซ็นทรัลพัฒนา กล่าวว่า เรามีศูนย์การค้าเซ็นทรัลอยู่ทั่วประเทศ และเราไม่เคยหยุดนิ่งที่จะนำ Magnet Event ใหม่ ๆ ไปยังสาขาต่าง ๆ ของเรา เพื่อให้ลูกค้ารู้สึกว่าศูนย์การค้าเซ็นทรัล เป็นศูนย์กลางการใช้ชีวิตที่พวกเขาจะได้สัมผัสกับไลฟ์สไตล์และประสบการณ์ใหม่ ๆ อยู่เสมอ สำหรับครั้งนี้ เราเตรียมงาน “Dino Fest 2022” ยกขบวนไดโนเสาร์และสัตว์โลกล้านปีไปบุกที่ศูนย์การค้า 4เพื่อให้เด็ก ๆ และกลุ่มครอบครัวได้เติมเต็มจินตนาการกันอย่างใกล้ชิดกับเหล่าไดโนเสาร์หลากหลายสายพันธุ์ โดยมีไฮไลท์พิเศษคือ เราได้ใช้เทคโนโลยีให้ไดโนเสาร์สามารถเคลื่อนไหวและส่งเสียงร้องได้จริง เสมือนว่ามีชีวิต โดยแต่ละตัวจะมีเอกลักษณ์ที่ โดดเด่นไม่เหมือนกัน ทั้งรูปร่าง ท่าทางและเสียง มีตั้งแต่ไดโนเสาร์กินเนื้อ ไดโนเสาร์กินพืช สัตว์เลื้อยคลานบินได้ หรือแม้กระทั่งปลา เด็ก ๆ จะได้เติมเต็มจินตนาการ ได้ความรู้ ฝึกทักษะการสังเกตและจดจำ และผู้ใหญ่เองก็จะได้รับความสนุกสนานไม่แพ้กัน เหมือนได้หลุดไปอยู่ในโลกล้านปี

ทะลุมิติไปผจญภัยในอาณาจักรไดโนเสาร์ ท่องยุคครีเทเชียส ยุคจูราสสิก และยุคไทรแอสสิก เผชิญหน้ากับเหล่าไดโนเสาร์เสมือนจริงหลากหลายสายพันธุ์ ตื่นตาไปกับเหล่าไดโนเสาร์นักล่าตัวฉกาจ อาทิ Spinosaurus (สไปโนซอรัส) ไดโนเสาร์กินเนื้อที่ใหญ่ที่สุดในโลกมีกระโดง ยาวกว่า 12 เมตร, Giganotosaurus (จิกาโนโตซอรัส) กิ้งก่ายักษ์แห่งอเมริกาใต้ และ Tyrannosaurus (ไทรันโนซอรัส) ไดโนเสาร์กินเนื้อขนาดใหญ่และทรงพลัง สนุกสนานไปกับเหล่าไดโนเสาร์กินพืช อาทิ Parasaurolophus (พาราซอโรโลฟัส) โดดเด่นด้วยหงอนที่มีลักษณะเหมือนท่อกลวงยาว, Ouranosaurus (อูราโนซอรัส) กิ้งก่าผู้กล้าหาญ และ Triceratops (ไทรเซอราทอปส์) หรือที่รู้จักกันในนามยักษ์ 3 เขา โลดแล่นไปกับสัตว์เลื้อยคลานบินได้ อาทิ Questzalcoatlus (เควทซาลโคท์ลุส) สัตว์เลื้อยคลานบินได้ที่มีขนาดใหญ่เท่าเครื่องบิน, Pterodaustro (เทอโรดอสโตร) สัตว์เลื้อยคลานบินได้ที่มีลักษณะคล้ายกับนก Flamingo คือปากยาวโค้งที่มาพร้อมกับซี่กรองที่ใช้กรองกินสัตว์เล็กๆ เป็นอาหาร และ Pteranodon (เทอราโนดอน) สัตว์เลื้อยคลานบินได้ที่เป็นที่รู้จัก ดำดิ่งลงใต้น้ำไปพบกับปลาโบราณเลื่องชื่ออย่าง Mawsonia และอื่นๆ อีกมากมาย

ผจญภัยท่องโลกล้านปี สัมผัสกับเหล่าไดโนเสาร์ขนาดมหึมาอย่างใกล้ชิด ที่ต้องบอกว่า ยิ่งใหญ่ สมจริง และ ไม่ควรพลาด กับ “Dino Fest 2022” ที่ศูนย์การค้าเซ็นทรัล ภูเก็ต วันที่ 04 – 20 มี.ค. 2022.

11 Things Not to Do in Phuket

February 26, 2022 By Uncategorized No Comments

Things Not to Do in Phuket

Just like in any country, there are a few customs everyone should respect and a few things you should not do in Phuket. Some are petty and casual; some are serious and could lead to real trouble. If you are familiar with Thailand, you probably know and respect those rules, even the untold ones. Many of them seem so obvious and common sense; we shouldn’t even have to mention them. And yet, it is well known that people often do things outside their country they would never consider in their own so if you know about the rules listed below and respect them already: well done! If you don’t, maybe you should think about it.

Also, let’s add that Patong is not really Thailand  so it’s a little more easy-going than the rest of the island, but once you go out of Patong, people might frown at you.

1. Don’t disrespect the Royal Family

Thailand Royal Family

The Royal Family is hugely respected in Thailand, and any sign of disrespect can have consequences. During your holiday you might be surprised how deep this respect is. Everyone stands up before the movie at the cinema when the national anthem starts playing. It’s only a minute, don’t worry, but stand, please. In Bangkok, and even more so in Chiang Mai, the national anthem plays in the streets at 8 am and 6 pm. Absolutely everyone freezes instantly (that’s how you spot the tourists: those who keep moving with a puzzled expression on their face)

2. Don’t wear your shoes in a temple

Leaving your shoes outside is well known and you probably already know that because you remember seeing a bunch of shoes abandoned in front of houses and temples. If you think about it, it does make a lot of sense not to bring the outside dirt inside your own home, especially in Thailand where people tend to sit or even eat on the floor. If you stayed in Thailand long enough, you might even start doing it back in your home country yourself!

Note that nowadays, you don’t need to take off your shoes in most shops or offices, but a decade ago it wasn’t unusual to remove them to enter some offices! In doubt, look in front of the shop: if there are shoes, do it too or ask 

3. Don’t visit a temple with short clothes

Temples are highly revered religious places, and it seems to be common sense to dress appropriately to enter a church or a mosque. At least that’s what one would think. Unfortunately, it is not unusual to see people casually walking in with sleeveless shirts or revealing skirts. Please wear at least a T-shirt with sleeves, skirts or short pants that reach knee level, and remove hats or caps. This dress code is only enforced in a few temples such as the Grand Palace in Bangkok, but theoretically, the same applies to every temple of Thailand. Monks live on temple grounds so please have some respect and decency.

4. Don’t take Buddha images out of the country

Buying Buddha Images in Thailand

A few years ago it was considered ‘cool’ to have a Buddha image, a statue, carving or even worse: a Buddha head on a spike. These are religious items and not decorations. National campaigns helped a lot in educating travellers about this ethic, and things are getting better. However, shops still sell those attractive golden or elegantly carved stone items, and some people always buy them. If found in your luggage at the airport, unless registered, authorities may confiscated your Buddha statue or image.

5. Do not touch a monk

It would be best if you did not touch a monk. It may sound strange, but that is the way it has always been so if you see a monk in the street, always give way. Monks are very respected, and people step aside, and so should you.

6. Don’t point your feet at someone

That’s doesn’t look like much but pointing your feet purposely at someone is considered disrespectful or even insulting in some cases, feet being the lowest part of the body and in contact with the dirt of the ground. Thai people being friendly and not confrontational in general, no one will tell you to remove your feet from that seat in front of you, but you’ll frown upon big time.

7. Walk around town without a shirt (and ride a bike)

Unless you live in a coastal town, would you walk without a T-shirt in the streets of your hometown? You probably wouldn’t. (We know some will say yes, just because). The same goes here. While it’s OK in Patong and other touristic beaches of Phuket, wear a T-shirt when going inland or in Phuket town. If you ride a bike, it’s even worse; yes, it has this relaxed feeling when you drive topless, but it will be a ‘bloody painful’ feeling if you fall on the road! Anyway, even if you have a fantastic body, it’s not a pleasant sight to anyone.

8. Don’t take that selfie with protected wildlife

Protected Wildlife Photography

“Oh they are so cuuuute, and they look as sad as ‘Puss in Boots’! I’ve got to get a selfie with that slow loris (photo) or that cute gibbon or that weird looking iguana!”. Just don’t. These are endangered species, and people going around inviting you to take a photo for money are doing something highly illegal. By taking this photo, you are doing something illegal too, you encourage the trade, and you are making things worse for this species. Be smart.

9. Don’t collect coral or shells to take home

Don’t pick it up! It doesn’t look like much, and it can even be a nice souvenir, but shells and coral are protected, and you are not supposed to take any home. Eventually, you can buy some at the shop in Jungceylon and keep them in their bag to prove you didn’t pick them up, but we’ll need to clarify this point.

10. Don’t feed the fish!

Don't feed fish in Phuket

It’s frequent to be surrounded by a swarm of colourful fish when swimming on an island near Phuket. Feeding the fish seems to be a nice gesture as they look so hungry and eager to grab a piece of that toast you kept (or banana!). But beyond that simple gesture are ecological consequences you can’t see at first. Fish behaviour changes and relies on humans to survive and they stop cleansing the coral below, which starts to die. Bread contains yeast which also provokes constipation, frequently killing the fish. In protected areas, it is illegal and could get you a year in prison or a 100,000 Thai Baht fine! So no feeding and no standing on coral, please!

11. Don’t ride elephants

Phuket Elephant Trekking

Some might say “so why are there so many elephant trekking in Phuket then?”. What was considered casual entertainment a few years ago is slowly changing and riding an elephant is now considered animal cruelty. Elephants are respected intelligent animals, and riding them create a lot of stress. Fortunately, the new trend is to visit a sanctuary or rehabilitation camp (Tree Tops Elephant Reserve), feed the elephants and see them play by themselves in the water and mud! The same goes for any other animal displays: zoo, dolphin shows or tiger kingdoms. It is best is to avoid them!

Thailand now accepting applications for permanent residency

February 26, 2022 By Uncategorized No Comments

Thailand is now taking applications for permanent residency from now until December 30, 2020. The number of expats who can apply is capped at 100 per nationality plus 50 stateless individuals. But permanent residency isn’t easy to get in Thailand and applicants need to speak Thai. Local blogger and Samut Prakan school employee Richard Barrow posted on Facebook saying he tried applying a few years ago, but he wasn’t accepted. He says he will apply again this year and could use some advice on how to get accepted.

Richard recommends visiting the website Thai Citizenship, which is run by Chris Larkin, a citizen in both Thailand and Australia.

Here’s the main qualifications for permanent residency:

  • Hold a Thai work permit for at least 3 consecutive years.
  • Work for the current company for at least 1 year.
  • Earn an annual income of at least 80,000 baht per month for at least 2 years, or have filed a tax return for an annual income of 100,000 baht for at least 2 consecutive years.

Applicants will also need the proper documents to file an application. The Thai Immigration has copies of the documents on its website, click HERE to visit. He’s the documents applicants need:

  • TM.9 application form
  • Form of personal information sheet
  • Health certificate from a government hospital
  • Map of residence and place of work form
  • Salary certificate
  • Letter of employment to the Department of Labour

It costs 7,600 baht to file an application. If it’s approved, the residency permit costs 191,400 baht. The permit costs 95,700 baht for spouses and children of those with a residence or who are Thai citizens.

If the application goes through, the applicant will then go through an interview at immigration with a panel of around 7 to 10 officials. Chris calls it a 5 to 10 minute “semi-formal chit-chat” were the applicants talks (in Thai) about themselves and why they want to remain in Thailand (The Thaiger was doing ok up to that part).

If immigration accepts the application, then it goes through what Chris describes as the Ministry of Interior “Black Hole.” He says the process is more “obscure” and approval is at the discretion of the Minister of Interior. In the past, the process took years, but he says recently it has been a lot faster.

Here are the benefits of permanent residency…

  • You are granted to stay permanently. In other way, you don’t need to apply for an extension of stay anymore
  • You will receive a certificate of alien registration
  • You will be able to have your name in a House Book (Ta Bian Ban) not a yellow one, a blue one
  • You can enter in the same counter as Thai citizens for immigration passport control for arrival or departure
  • A child whose both parents are permanent residents in Thailand must be granted Thai citizenship
  • You will be able to buy a condominium in Thailand without transferring money from abroad
  • You will be able to apply for citizenship 5 years after your name is registered in a blue ta bian ban
  • Able to become director of a Public Thai company
  • And you will be exempted of notification of your address every 90 days

Thailand Updated Entry Rules from 1 March 2022

February 24, 2022 By Uncategorized No Comments

23rd of February 2022, The Thailand CCSA (Center for COVID situation Administration) has announced the Updated Entry Rules for coming to Thailand which Are going to be applied starting from 1 March 2022 onwards.

Updated Entry Rules

Fully Vaccinated Travelers arriving in Thailand can enter through the Updated Test and Go Model, which States that the Traveler Must undergo 1 PCR Test On day 1 upon arrival, and Quarantine in the Hotel room until the Result of the Test Appears. The PCR Test On Day 5 is not Required anymore for all arrivals entering the Kingdom from 1 March onwards. In Addition to that, The Required COVID 19 insurance coverage has been reduced from 50,000 USD to 20,000 USD.

Thailand updated entry rules

Refund for PCR Test Day 5

For Our Valued Guests Who Have already booked a 2nd PCR Test on Day 5 and arriving 1 March onwards, you can request a refund of The Second Test in case of arriving 1 March onwards and the refund Process will Start accordingly.

New Quarantine Packages

You can check our 1 Day Quarantine Packages in Thailand through the below links:

If the Test result is Negative, the traveler will be able to Travel freely around Thailand, and if the PCR Test is Positive, The Guest will need to be Isolated in Either Quarantine Hotel, or Hospital Depending on the Symptoms and how severe the Illness is.

Phuket Big Buddha

February 24, 2022 By Uncategorized No Comments
Big Buddha Phuket

Phuket Big Buddha – What to Do at Phuket Big Buddha?

 

What to Do at Phuket Big Buddha?

The Phuket Big Buddha is a 45-metre-tall white marble statue visible from anywhere in the southern part of Phuket. This impressive landmark is probably at the top of everyone’s ‘Must-Do in Phuket‘, and it is indeed a jaw-dropping site, and the panoramic views from up there are breathtaking. Koh Samui always had a very popular Giant Buddha, and it seems that Phuket wanted to have a bigger one.

Phuket Big Buddha Video

When was Phuket Big Buddha built?

Phuket Big Buddha started in 2002 as the foundation stone was laid by General Phijit Kulawanich, Privy Councilor, on May 22, 2002. The official name is ‘Phraphutthamingmongkhol-akenagakhiri Buddha’ that translates as “Happiness on top of Nakerd Mountain”.

The Construction of the Phuket Big Buddha

The statue is built with people’s donations and is still under construction. If you want to help finish the construction, you can sponsor a white marble piece for 300 or 1,000 baht, depending on the tile’s size. At this time, the Buddha is complete, but the sweeping staircase is still under construction.

Big Buddha Phuket

Visiting Phuket Big Buddha

The road to the statue is well paved and easy to ride despite many curves; however, drive slowly and carefully on the way down. When reaching the top of the hill, you will find ample and well-organised parking. As you approach the site, a security officer will check your attire, and if your shorts or skirts are too short, you will be required to wear a sarong, provided for free.

Phuket Big Buddha

A recently added sweeping staircase now leads to the Buddha monument. Note that the stairs are only to climb up; you are not allowed to walk them down. There is a separate way down on the hillside, and a security guard sitting there all day makes sure people respect this rule. Don’t worry if you forgot to take your photos and selfies the first time, as it’s easy to go back on the way out.

Phuket Big Buddha

If you wonder or worry, There are 94 steps to reach the Big Buddha and climbing them is relatively easy (thank you to our reader Joni for counting them for us!)

The panoramic views

From up there, you will get some pretty stunning bird view on three large bays. Before that day, I always thought they were far from each other. Directly in front of the Big Buddha in Chalong Bay, and when the sky is clear, you will even see Phang Nga Bay! Few steps to the west, another short staircase will take you to a terrace from which you’ll get a beautiful view of Kata Bay and Kata Noi Bay. You might even recognise Promthep Cape and even Nai Harn Windmill. The best spot to see the third bay is to stop at the restaurant on the way up. From up there, you’ll get from there a magnificent panorama of Karon Beach.

Kata Beach from Big Buddha Viewpoint

The Big Buddha of Phuket is a site to visit. It has become a bit of a tourist attraction, but it is indeed imposing and worth a photo. If you prefer more modest but beautiful temples, the sitting Buddha of Wat Kao Rang or the reclining Buddha of Wat Sri Sunthorn is more humble.

Big Buddha Phuket

On the way down, you will walk through a temple where monks sit all day to give blessings and hold occasional ceremonies, mostly for local visitors. Here too, people donate money for the temple and buy amulets. This place also serves as a museum narrating the history of the Big Buddha construction. You can purchase snacks and drinks all along the way, but of course, no alcohol is allowed.

Is there a dress code at Phuket Big Buddha?

There is no dress code to visit Phuket Big Buddha. However, the Giant Buddha of Phuket is a tourist attraction, but it is also an active temple with monks, so remember to dress appropriately and try not to speak too loudly, as we often hear. At the entrance of the path leading to the temple, security will check your attire. Sleeveless shirts, too short pants or skirt above the knee are not authorised, so if you wear short skirts or shorts, they will hand you a free sarong and ask you to wear it.

Big Buddha Dress Code

Nak Kerd Seaview Panoramic Restaurant

On the way up or down, don’t miss a chance to stop at one of the many panoramic restaurants for snacks or drinks. Enjoy a Thai lunch at Nak Kerd Seaview Cafe with a beautiful view of Karon Beach, or even just a coffee, a soft drink or a beer; the birdview is worth the photo.

Star Mountain Sunset Restaurant in Phuket

Big Buddha Phuket Info

Location: Chalong
Address: Soi Yot Sane 1, Chaofa West Rd, Nakkerd hill near Chalong
Open: 6 am – 7.30 pm
Phone: 083 556 2242
Dress Code: No short skirts or short pants, no sleeveless Tee shirts
Price: Free
Built: 2002
Official name: Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Akenakiri
Height: 45m

How to get to Phuket Big Buddha?

The Big Buddha is at the top of Nakkerd Hill near Chalong, in the south of Phuket Island. . follow the many signs on the way to Chalong Circle. It would be hard to miss, and it is not far from Wat Chalong. A small winding road off Chaofa West Road leads to the site itself is now in good condition but can be tricky on the way down; drive carefully.

  • Distance from Patong to the Big Buddha: 23 km
  • From Phuket International Airport to Big Buddha: 45 km
  • From Phuket Town to the Big Buddha: 16 km
  • From Bangtao to Phuket Big Buddha: 55 km
  • From Wat Chalong to the Big Buddha: 8 km

Big Buddha Phuket Map

Open this map on your phone ▷ https://goo.gl/maps/QfuQU3YyHwX2JrTR6.

Can you walk to the Big Buddha of Phuket?

You can walk to the big Buddha through a relatively easy hillside path that starts opposite Baan Karon Resort on Patak Road, in Karon Beach. The climb is only 2.5 kilometres on Google map and 1 Kilometre if you believe the boulder on the photo below. The climb is not too steep, but it’s not recommended to climb to the Big Buddha site if you have a heart condition or lack of physical exercise. The dirt road is now wide and well cleaned up, but some parts are still narrow and relatively steep.

Walking to the Big Buddha of Phuket

You could also walk up the main road, but 5.7 kilometres from Chaofah Road would be much longer. On the bright side, you can stop at many panoramic bars and restaurants, but doing it with a motorbike is definitely the most comfortable way to do it, allowing you to stop anytime you feel like it.

 

 

FAQs about the Big Buddha

  1. Q. How tall is the Big Buddha oh Phuket?

    a. The Big Buddha is 45-meter-tall, on top of a high hill overlooking Chalong Bay.

  2. Q. Is there a dress code for Phuket Big Buddha?

    a. Yes there is a dress code: do not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts or skirts above the knee. If you do, the security guard will hand you a free sarong and ask you to wear it.

  3. Q. How much does it cost to visit the Big Buddha?

    a. Visiting the Big Buddha is free, but making a small donation is a nice gesture.

  4. Q. How can I get up there?

    a. The Big Buddha is frequently part of day trip tours, but Tuk Tuks can take you up there. Self-driving is also an easy option.

 

Phuket Nightlife

February 22, 2022 By After Dark Excursion No Comments

Where to party and what to do in Patong at Night?

Patong Nightlife in Phuket is famous the world around for being colorful and carefree. It has evolved a lot to reach every traveler type and is not as rowdy as Pattaya or Bangkok. During the high season (November to May), the nightlife is vibrant in most beach towns. Patong Beach is lively and colorful until 2 am (officially), but often past 4 am.

Nightlife in Patong features great nightclubs hosting international DJs, a few rooftop bars, more live bands than you need, and ladyboy shows that defy your imagination. You might even be tempted to have a look inside those notorious go-go bars at least once.

Rooftop Bars

Kee Sky Lounge

KEE Sky Lounge Rooftop at the Kee Resort

Andaman Sky Lounge

Andaman Sky Lounge in Phuket

Wassa Bar

Wassa Homemade Bar in Patong

Where to Party in Patong?

Past sunset, Patong Beach turns itself into a gigantic party town. And since not everyone enjoys the same type of party, there are many ways to enjoy the night, from rooftop bars to international nightclubs. Below are some of the best-known places, but walk around, and you will find an incredible array of bars and clubs.

Bangla Walking Street

Bangla Walking Street in Patong Beach, Phuket

Bangla Walking Street, also called Soi Bangla or Bangla Road is the heart of all Phuket Nightlife, and the battle for night supremacy is raging between Soi Seadragon and the new Tiger complex. Over the years, the centre of interest has been moving up and down Bangla road depending on seasons and popularity, but the ever-changing face of Patong nightlife is worth a look. Of course, wherever you go in Bangla, friendly ladies will call you with a big smile and encourage you to have a drink and play a few silly bar games; everyone is welcome.

Illuzion Night Club

Illuzion Night Club

White Room

White Room Disco Phuket

Kudo Beach Club

Shows and Live Bands

Live bands are everywhere in Patong, and thankfully, the sound and skills have improved a lot in recent years. It’s a fierce competition, but not everyone can afford a great band, and some venues would do better concentrating on their food. The best live bars are, without a doubt, New York Music Bar and the famous Hard Rock Cafe.

New York Live Music Bar

New York Live Band Phuket

Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe Phuket

Hooters

Hooters Phuket

Simon Cabaret Show

Simon Cabaret Show

Shopping and Night Markets

Jungceylon

Jungceylon Shopping Mall Phuket

Malin Plaza Night Market

Malin Plaza Night Market Patong

Otop Market

Otop Market Patong

Go-Go Bars of Phuket

The concept of Go-Go Bars in Soi Bangla doesn’t vary much between places. It always rotates around a few standard features. So what happens in there? At the centre of the room is an elevated stage with stainless poles, surrounded by stools. Sofas and small tables are lined up around the room, sometimes on two levels, and they play loud music with flashing colourful lights.

Suzy Wong’s A Go Go

The famous Suzy Wong's Go Go bar on soi Bangla in Patong Beach

Suzy Wong’s is already an icon of Soi Bangla nightlife, and you can’t go to Patong without visiting them. They gave a great deal of effort to the new bar facade with its bright red Chinese decoration and massive door. Despite being the last bar in the Soi Seadragon, you won’t walk by without being intrigued. But go-go bars are not only about beautiful facades, so you’ll ask what makes this one any different from any other go-go bar?

Harem Bar

Harem A Go Go Phuket

Harem Lounge is the most luxurious bar in Phuket, with plush red velvet sofas and curtains all around, two main stages with four smaller platforms on each side. The place feels cosy and intimate, and the staffs are beautiful. Just like this wasn’t enough to make you want to visit, Harem is also the most extensive bar since it occupies the space that used to be Playschool and Candy Club.

Other Nightlife Stories

Paradise Complex Gay Street

gay-phuket-

For almost twenty years, the Phuket Gay party zone’s heart has been beating in the Paradise complex in Patong Beach. I don’t know if the fancy name had any influence on the choice of location, but it’s effortless to find, right at the foot of the ‘Paradise Hotel’, a 24-floor tower standing in the centre of Patong like a lighthouse, well you get the picture. There used to be an impressive gay festival, but it stopped in 2017.

10 Tips to Spot a Ladyboy in Phuket

Phuket Ladyboys

Did you know that in Bangla Walking Street, those tall, slim, pretty and sexy ladies dancing with colourful outfits and feathers are what is locally called a ladyboy? A ladyboy is a transvestite that is considered here a woman. They look very feminine and get a lot of attention. On Bangla road where they perform their little act of “look at me! I’m more feminine than your wife”. Just keep in mind that while they encourage you to take their photos, payment is always requested once the photo is taken.

10 Fun Ways to PARTY in Patong

10 Ways to Party in Phuket

Where to Party in Phuket? Everyone expects something different from his holiday, but everyone wants to see the best of it in a minimum amount of time and (almost) everyone wants to PARTY! Here are 10 fun ways to party wild in Phuket, don’t take it too seriously. This is not a Top 10 that would suit everyone, just 10 Fun Party Tips we would recommend to my visiting friends. The list could go on and on, but these are a good start.

Party and Hangover Drinks

Energy drinks are part of the daily landscape of Thailand. Convenience stores always dedicate several fridge shelves to those tiny bottles. Do they work? That might depend on which brand, but mostly that will rely on you. If you are an Italian espresso drinker like us, that might give you a mild boost; for some, it’s an all night long kerosene. If you don’t know what these tiny bottles are, you might want to memorise some of the names! ‘Energy Drinks’ are used as mixers to help you party through the whole night, while ‘Hangover Drinks’ make the next day less miserable. Better safe than sorry!

Foreign tourists can now apply to stay for up to nine months in Thailand

October 5, 2021 By One Day Excursion Recommended, Events No Comments
(Photo by the Airports of Thailand)

Foreign tourists can now stay in Thailand for up to nine months without the need of travel abroad to have their visas extended, three months on the initial visa with two extensions of three months each.

Thailand’s Ministry of Interior says the new rules came into effect on October 1st, and are valid until September 30th next year, in a bid to boost the tourism industry.

Foreign tourists will, however, have to meet certain requirements to qualify as long stayers.

First of all, they must agree to a period of quarantine, as part of the Public Health Ministry’s measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, and must show booking receipts from the hotels in which they will isolate.

Then, they must show evidence of payments for their lodgings during their stay in the kingdom, which can be a rented house, a rented condominium room or a title deed of a condominium room.  They are also required to have health insurance, with a minimum of US$ 100,000 cover for COVID-19 treatmentvalid for the entire period of their stay in the country. They must also have health and accident insurance coverage of40,000 baht for out-patient treatment and 400,000 baht for in-patient treatment.

Having met the requirements, tourists will be granted a special tourist visa (STV), which is for single use and will allow them to stay in Thailand for 90 days, which can extended twice by90 days per extension. The visa extension fee is 2,000 baht.

Phuket Sandbox Updated 18 Jun 21

June 19, 2021 By Uncategorized No Comments

PHUKET SANDBOX FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

◉ As of 1st July, 2021, Phuket, Thailand will be open to international travelers.
◉ There will be no quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated travelers who are tested negative seventy-two <72> hours before arrival in Phuket.
◉ You must spend at least fourteen <14> nights in Phuket before being able to travel freely in the rest of Amazing Thailand.
◉ You may stay for less than fourteen <14> nights and return to your home country directly from Phuket.
◉ Children aged six <6> or above must get a COVID test before departure from their home country.
◉ In case parents are found to have Covid-19 during their stay in Phuket, the children will be required to be put into isolation for fourteen <14> days thereon.
◉ Every traveler must obtain a ‘Certificate of Entry’ (COE) before being eligible to fly into Phuket International Airport.
◉ Check the website https://coethailand.mfa.go.th/ for the required documents and the four easy <4> steps to apply before arriving in Phuket.
◉ The Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General takes three <3> working days to process steps one <1> and step three <3> respectively so please leave enough time to apply.
◉ Applicants must continually check the result of their application on the website after submitting each step.
◉ Every traveler must obtain a ‘Certificate of Entry’ (COE) before being eligible to fly into Phuket International Airport.
◉ Check the website https://coethailand.mfa.go.th/ for the required documents and the four easy <4> steps to apply before arriving in Phuket.
◉ The Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General takes three <3> working days to process steps one <1> and step three <3> respectively so please leave enough time to apply.
◉ Applicants must continually check the result of their application on the website after submitting each step.
◉ Foreign travelers must have insurance covering the treatment and medical expenses for COVID-19, with a minimum coverage of One Hundred Thousand US Dollars <100,000 USD>.
◉ The insurance must cover the total duration of your stay in Thailand.
◉ Please print out one copy (with receipt) as you will need to show at Phuket International Airport upon arrival.◉
◉ International travelers with the following vaccines are able to enter Phuket.
◉ WHO approved vaccines

◉ Thai FDA approved vaccines:

      ◉  AstraZeneca
      ◉  Moderna
      ◉  Johnson & Johnson
      ◉  Sinovac Biotech
      ◉  Sinopharm
◉ You must be vaccinated more than fourteen <14> days but within one <1> year before entering Thailand.
◉  A proof of vaccination must be submitted when applying for your ‘Certificate of Entry (COE)’.
◉  Airlines that announced direct flights to Phuket are:
    ◉  THAI Airways International
    ◉  Singapore Airlines
    ◉  Emirates
    ◉  Qatar Airways
    ◉  Hongkong airlines
    ◉  EVA Air
    ◉  Korean Air
    ◉  Jinair
    ◉  Cathay Pacific
    ◉  KLM
◉  Please check airline flight schedules on their websites as this list might change.
◉  Please be aware that some airlines might not be able to operate to your home country when returning due to their current regulations. Please check carefully.
◉  You are responsible to check their requirements for returning to your home country.
◉  You must get an ‘RT-PCR’ Covid test issued no more than seventy-two <72> hours before traveling and submit as per the requirements of the ‘Certificate of Entry’ (COE) – Step four <4>.
◉  Ensure that you have printed out:
◉  Your approved ‘Certificate of Entry’ (COE)
◉  Your ‘SHA Plus’ hotel reservation(s) showing at least fourteen <14> nights stay with the ‘SHABA’ confirmation (please see ‘Accommodation’ section below).
◉  Your Insurance policy summary showing the required coverage and receipt
Your RT-PCR test result
◉  You must download the ‘Mor Chana’ mobile application as soon as possible after landing.
Upon arrival at Immigration, you are required to:
        ◉  Your passport
        ◉  Completed a ‘™.6’ immigrational arrival card
        ◉  Provide your printed ‘COE’
        ◉  Provide your Visa (if applicable)
        ◉  Your “SHA Plus” hotel booking with the ‘SHABA’ confirmation (please see ‘Accommodation’ section below).
        ◉  Your travel insurance
        ◉  The ‘Mor Chana’ application loaded in your mobile telephone and ‘Check In’ at Phuket International Airport
        ◉  Your return flight confirmation from Phuket International Airport in the event you are staying in Phuket for less than fourteen <14> nights.
◉  ‘Mor Chana’ is an application that is simple and easy to use as it helps to track and trace where Thai residents, nationals and visitors alike in the case a Covid-19 case has been identified and contact needs to be made.
◉  In the application, there are four <4> points of information to be made accessible, which are ‘Camera’, ‘Location’, ‘Pictures’ and ‘Store’.
‘Mor Chana’ will notify users when they are at risk of being near or contacting a COVID-19 infected person.
Wristbands will be used ONLY in cases where tourists don’t have a mobile telephone or have an older telephone which won’t allow the sharing of their location.
◉  ‘SHA’ is a certification for businesses who meet the basic standards of hygiene and health safety for their products and services in accordance with the nationwide measures to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
◉  ‘SHA Plus’ is a certification for companies/individuals who have received their ‘SHA’ certification ‘PLUS’ at least 70% of their workforce has been fully vaccinated.
◉  The ‘SHA Plus’ list is constantly updated as and when businesses are certified.

◉  Follow this link: https://www.thailandsha.com/shalists/m/ to keep updated of ‘SHA Plus’ businesses.

◉  You can go anywhere within the Phuket province, BUT you must strictly follow the ‘DMHTTA’ precautions:
         ◉  D – Distancing
         ◉  M – Mask wearing
         ◉  H – Handwashing
         ◉  T – Temperature check
         ◉  T – Testing for COVID-19
         ◉  A – contact tracing application (‘Mor Chana’).
◉  Masks must be worn at all times in public areas. Fines are in place if you fail to adhere to this.
◉  A COVID-19 rapid test is required on day five <5>.
◉  You are required to scan ‘Mor Chana’ application and do a temperature check at your ‘SHA Plus’ hotel every day during your first fourteen <14> days stay.
◉  It is mandatory that you book a ‘SHA Plus’ hotel for the first fourteen <14> nights in Phuket.
◉  Residing in a private residence is not allowed on the first fourteen <14> nights for COVID-19 control purposes
The first seven <7> nights reservation must be at one hotel and after their PCR test is negative on day eight <8>, you can move to another hotel. After the next test on the thirtheen <13> night proves to be negative, you can then move to another SHA Plus+ hotel.
Once you have made your ‘SHA Plus’ hotel reservation(s), you must advise the hotel(s)/tour operator(s) or OTA(s) that you are joining the “Phuket Sandbox” project so that the hotel(s) can enter your booking details into the ‘SHABA’ (SHA Plus Booking Authentication) system and you will then receive a QR code and Reference number as required by the ‘Certificate of Entry’ application. No other forms of confirmation of reservation will be accepted.
◉  All ‘SHA Plus’ hotel bookings must be fully pre-paid for the first fourteen <14> nights or less if you are planning to stay in Phuket for less than fourteen <14> nights.
◉  Upon arrival at the airport, the PCR tests results will be issued within twelve <12> hours. During this time, you must remain in their hotel room until you have received a negative result.
◉  ‘RT-PCR’ tests on day six <6> and day twelve <12> are mandatory.
◉  RT-PCR Covid-19 test
◉  Every hospital in Phuket can provide an ‘RT-PCR’ test.
◉  The cost of an RT-PCR covid test ranges from two thousand five hundred <2,500> to four thousand <4,000> Thai Baht per person.
◉  Covid-19 testing is at your own expense.
◉  IF your covid-19 test is positive, you will be immediately admitted to a hospital for treatment.
◉  The Department of Health, Phuket will investigate your movements and notify and isolate those who have been in direct contact with you since your arrival.
◉  We recommend that you only book an excursion with ‘SHA Plus’ certified companies for your safety.
◉  The following marinas are open for service: Ao Por, Grand Marina, Ratsada Pier, Chalong Pier. From these ports you may travel by ‘SHA Plus+’ certified boats only to Phuket provincial islands.
◉  On the first fourteen <14> nights, you are allowed to visit islands in Phuket Province which include Koh Naka Yai, Koh Naka Noi, Koh Rang Yai, Koh Maprao (Coconut island), Koh Tapao Noi, Koh Tapao Yai, Koh Lone, Koh Mai Thon, Koh He (Coral island), Koh Bon, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi.
Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao and Phang Nga Bay are NOT a part of Phuket province. You are not allowed to visit these places in the first fourteen <14> nights stay.
◉  We recommend that you only use ‘SHA Plus’ certified restaurants for your safety
◉  The consumption of alcohol in restaurants, bars and other places forms part of the provincial Covid-19 restrictions which are updated regularly by Provincial Governors. Compliance is mandatory under the ‘Disease Control Act’ when restrictions are in place.
◉  We recommend that you use only ‘SHA Plus’ certified taxis, minibuses and limousines.
◉  If more than two <2> persons are in a vehicle, masks must be worn at all times.
◉  Visitors who wish to drive themselves are able to rent a car during the first fourteen <14> night stay in Phuket.
◉  What’s open?
              ◉  The Central Floresta – the largest department store on the island and Porto do Phuket in Cherng Talay
              ◉  Many locally owned and managed restaurants are open across the island
              ◉  The beaches are all open, but please watch the flag warning system
              ◉  Surfing on many of the top beaches is in season
              ◉  The vibrant and in trend Phuket down small coffee shops, eateries and markets are open
              ◉  Some marine companies offering trips around Phuket island and island hopping within the province
              ◉  Dive shops and schools in some areas
              ◉  We expect more and more businesses will very slowly re-open as the year moves ahead
  • ◉  In the case you have a relative or friend who is already resident in Thailand, they are allowed to visit and stay with you during your fourteen <14> ‘SHA Plus’ hotel night stays.
  • ◉  Your friend or relative is responsible to comply with the current domestic travel requirements when traveling to see you.
  • ◉  At the time of press (and please be reminded that these regulations can/may change by individual Provincial Governors) the following regulations are required:
    •        ◉  Fully vaccinated (two <2> vaccinations) OR one vaccination of the AstraZeneca vaccine
OR
  •        ◉  Show a Negative Covid-19 test within the past seven <7> before traveling to Phuket
OR

  •        ◉  Show evidence that they have fully recovered from Covid-19 in the previous ninety <90> days.

  • ◉  If you show any Covid-19 symptoms it is your legal responsibility to immediately get a test.
  • ◉  IF you are shown to be ‘positive’ for Covid-19 and traveling with a group or family, everybody in the group or family must undergo a test and stay in an Alternative Hotel Quarantine (AHQ) covered by your expense. The remaining nights in the SHA Plus+ hotel will be cancelled automatically and the guests will be refunded in order to pay for the ALQ accommodation.
  • ◉  In all cases, if you are tested positive whilst in Thailand, you will be responsible for all medical expenses which must be covered by your ‘Covid-19’ insurance sum. In the case your medical insurance does not cover certain items, then you will be personally responsible to settle any outstanding before being discharged from hospital.
  • After spending fourteen <14> nights in Phuket, you are free to go anywhere in Thailand but you must follow each province’s restrictions which can change.
  • You must follow your home country’s entry requirements and Thailand is not responsible or able to assist with such updates by individual countries.

Proposed Phuket Sandbox Program in July: Here’s what you need to know

May 31, 2021 By Events No Comments

Good news for vaccinated travellers, you may travel to Thailand without the need to quarantine under the proposed Phuket Sandbox Program starting July 1st.

The Thai government and Tourism Authority of Thailand encourage all travellers to get inoculated prior to their travel to Thailand. Those who were not vaccinated can still travel to Phuket but must stay in Alternative Local Quarantine (ALQ) for 2 weeks.

Planning to travel to Thailand in July? Here are some of the things you need to know. However, it is important to note that the plan is not yet official and may be subjected to changes depending on the COVID situation in Thailand.

Who can travel to Phuket?

Basically, everyone is welcome, including foreign travellers and their children. However, under the Phuket Sandbox Program, visitors must stay in Phuket for at least 7 days, after which they are free to travel.

Vaccinated travellers from low and medium risk countries must have received their vaccines at least 14 days prior to their travel to Thailand. Travellers must present a vaccine certificate as part of the requirements. Minors do not need to show vaccine certificates, but travellers ages between 12 and 18 must undergo rapid antigen test at their own expense, which cost around THB1,200 to THB1,500.

I got vaccinated; do I have to undergo testing and quarantine?

Protocols differ for international and domestic travellers:

For international travellers:

  • Vaccinated travellers (over 18 years old) must do an RT PCR test on day 5 of their stay.
  • Non-vaccinated travellers (over 18 years old) will need to do an RT PCR test upon arrival and stay at ALQ (Alternative Local Quarantine) Hotel for 14 days.
  • International travellers between 12 and 18 years old will need to undergo a rapid antigen test at Phuket International Airport upon arrival. However, children under 12 years old can travel to Phuket with their parents and do not need to undergo any test.

For domestic travellers:

  • Vaccinated travellers (over 18 years old) can enter Phuket without the need of doing any test.
  • Non-vaccinated travellers, including minors ages between 12 and 18 years old, will need to do a rapid antigen test at the checkpoint. Meanwhile, children under 12 years old, can enter Phuket with their parents and no need for tests.

I passed the immigration, what now?

All travellers must download the Thailand Plus Mobile App for contact tracing during their entire stay. It uses GPS and Bluetooth to detect locations of mobile phone combined with check-in records via QR code scanning in locations during the travellers’ journey.

From the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. Transfer and hotel must be SHA-approved (Safety and Health Administration).

Can I go on island tours?

Vaccinated travellers are allowed to do activities within Phuket, but they must observe standard protocols of DMHTT (distancing, mask-wearing, hand washing, testing, Thailand Plus). On day 5, guests will undergo an RT PCR test. If they test positive, they will be transferred to the hospital. If they tested negative, they can visit other islands around Phuket (Phi Phi Islands, Koh Yao, Phang Nga Bay) for a one-day tour.

Can I go to other provinces?

Guests must stay at least 7 nights in Phuket before travelling to any other Province around the Country. They will need to do an RT PCR test 72 hours prior to their departure. In addition, they must present it with the COVID 19 Vaccination certificate at the checkpoint of their destination.

Tourists are allowed to stay less than 7 days in Phuket and travel back home or to another country. However, they are not allowed to travel to another province in Thailand before finishing 7 nights in Phuket. This is to help revive the flailing tourism industry in Phuket.

Source: Royal Vacation, Thai Embassy