Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
In the Thalang district of Phuket island, the beautiful scenery was marred by the unexpected appearance of oil slicks and tar balls along four beaches. These are being carefully removed from the coastline of the Sirinat National Park by a mix of residents and authorities. The cleanup started on Friday after an alert was raised by the Layan Beach station chief.
Several beaches, including Nai Yang, Mai Khao, Nai Thon, and Layan, were swept by the oil slick and related deposits, thus sparking concern amongst park authorities. The sighting was further corroborated by hotel staff from the well-known Angsana Laguna Hotel, who noticed an unfortunate sea turtle hatchling, covered in crude oil on Bang Tao Beach. The Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre received the news and swiftly acted to aid the distressed turtle.
Lifeguards revive tourist pulled from Karon Beach surf
A male tourist from Iran was pulled from dangerous surf at Karon Beach unconscious and without a pulse last week.
Karon Police and Phuket Tourist Police received a report of another incident on the beach at the Centara Grand Hotel around 2:50pm.
By the time the police arrived, beach lifeguards and municipal lifeguards were providing first aid to the victim. From the police report, the rescuers managed to get his heart to beat again.
First the legalisation of cannabis, and now this: Thailand is looking into easing restrictions and backing progress on developing psilocybin mushrooms. You may know them as ‘magic mushrooms.
In a press conference last month, Justice Minister Somsak Thepsuthin put forward a push towards easing laws around psilocybin mushrooms in an effort to boost the Thai economy, and research the use of ‘magic mushrooms’ to treat various mental health issues.
Staying Safe on Phuket Beaches during the Phuket Monsoon season
Phuket Thailand, with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a tropical paradise that attracts travelers from all around the world.
However, this popular destination experiences a significant change in weather during the monsoon season, which
runs from May to October.
Now before we continue, we do have to point out that monsoon season in Phuket has many other names. Phuket Wet Season, Phuket Green Season, Phuket Low Season. Most people will call it Phuket Rainy Season.
Right back to the info…
While the allure of cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds might tempt you to visit during this time, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with monsoon season on the west coast beaches.
Now don’t think that during the whole of the rainy season in Phuket the weather is terrible and it just rains every day, it doesn’t and there are many days during the rainy season that the weather is stunning. However, the waves and rip currents on the west coast are generally always there, good for surfing BUT not so good for those who are just wanting t enjoy the tropical waters here in Phuket.
So here are a few tips on how to stay safe on Phuket Beaches during this time.
Stay Informed about Weather Conditions:
Before heading out to the beach, make sure to check the weather forecast. Phuket’s monsoon season often brings heavy rains, strong winds, and rough sea conditions. Websites, apps, and local news sources can provide you with up-to-date information about the weather situation. Avoid venturing into the water if the forecast predicts rough seas or thunderstorms.
Phuket Monsoon season brings about turbulent sea conditions, with strong currents and rough waves. It’s essential to exercise caution when swimming. Always swim in designated areas patrolled by Phuket lifeguards, as they are trained to monitor conditions and respond to emergencies promptly. If you’re not a confident swimmer, it’s best to avoid swimming altogether during the Phuket monsoon season.
Respect Warning Flags:
The Thai Local authorities use a flag system to indicate the safety of swimming conditions. Green flags usually indicate safe swimming conditions, yellow flags advise caution, and red flags signal dangerous conditions. Pay close attention to these flags and adhere to their recommendations. If it’s RED don’t swim.
Beware of Rip Currents:
Rip currents are fast-moving currents that can pull even experienced swimmers away from the shore. They are prevalent during the Phuket monsoon season due to the strong waves. If you find yourself caught in a rip current, remember not to panic. Instead, let the current take you out and DO NOT struggle, relax and go with the current, then when it slows down, swim parallel to the shore to escape the current’s pull and then make your way back to the beach.
If you’re going to the Phuket beaches with children, exercise extra caution. The rough sea conditions and strong currents can be particularly hazardous for them. Always keep a watchful eye on them, even if they’re playing in shallow waters.
Phuket’s monsoon season adds a unique dimension to your Phuket beach experience, but it also presents specific risks that require careful consideration. By staying informed about weather conditions, respecting warning flags, being cautious in the water, and taking proactive safety measures, you can enjoy the beauty of Phuket’s beaches while ensuring your well-being. Remember that your safety should always be the top priority, and adhering to these guidelines will help you make the most of your Phuket monsoon season getaway.
Maya Bay, a stunning beach located on the Thai island of Ko Phi Phi Leh will open again on the 1st of October after a well-earned 2-month holiday.
Among the myriad breathtaking destinations that Thailand has to offer, Maya Bay stands out as a true gem. Nestled within the Phi Phi Islands, this captivating bay has captured the hearts of travelers and locals alike, and its importance to Thailand goes beyond its natural allure.
Book a Private Boat tour to Maya Bay when it opens Click here
Maya Bay Phi Phi
Having gained international fame after being featured in the 2000 movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The bay’s pristine beauty and crystal-clear waters attracted a massive influx of tourists, turning it into a major tourist hotspot.
The popularity came at a cost as the delicate ecosystem of Maya Bay started to suffer from heavy footfall and environmental impact.
To address these concerns and protect the natural beauty of the bay, the Thailand authorities made the decision to close Maya Bay for two months every year, starting in 2018. The closure takes place during the monsoon season, usually from the 31st of July to the 31st of September. They have also put into place a host of new rules and regulations when the bay is open to help manage the number of tourists that visit the beach each day and where they can go when they get to the beach. No swimming in the bay.
So, the beach part of Maya Bay will reopen for guests from the 1st of October 2023. Book a Private Boat tour to Maya Bay when it opens Click here
But why do they close the beach part of Maya Bay?
There are several key reasons behind the annual Maya Bay closure:
Ecological Restoration: The high number of visitors, boat traffic, and pollution from tourism were severely damaging the coral reefs, marine life, and beach ecosystem. By closing the bay for two months, authorities aim to provide a period of respite for the environment to recover and regenerate.
Coral Reef Recovery: Coral reefs, which are highly sensitive to disturbances, were suffering from physical damage caused by snorkelers and divers, as well as from rising sea temperatures and pollution. The closure allows the corals a chance to recover and rebuild, which is essential for maintaining the biodiversity of the area.
Reducing Footprint: The temporary closure helps reduce the overall impact of tourism on the bay’s infrastructure, including waste management and erosion control. The break allows for necessary maintenance and restoration efforts without the constant presence of tourists.
Preserving Marine Life: Maya Bay is home to a diverse range of marine species. The influx of visitors, along with practices like anchoring boats on coral reefs, was disrupting the habitats of these species. A temporary closure helps protect these fragile ecosystems and allows marine life to flourish undisturbed.
Educational Efforts: The closure period is also used as an opportunity to raise awareness among tourists about the importance of responsible tourism and environmental conservation. This helps in changing behavior and reducing the negative impact of future visits.
Long-Term Sustainability: The ultimate goal of the annual closure is to ensure the long-term sustainability of Maya Bay as a natural attraction. By allowing the ecosystem to recover and thrive, authorities hope to strike a balance between tourism and conservation.
It’s worth noting that the decision to close Maya Bay for two months every year was met with mixed reactions. While it was applauded by environmentalists and conservationists, it also raised concerns among local businesses and communities heavily dependent on tourism for their livelihoods.
From 5 Star Marine’s point of view, we are very encouraging of the closure and we have always supported the efforts of the Thailand Authorities to manage not just Maya Bay, but all the stunning islands in Phi Phi and in Phang Nga Bay.
Maya Bay is not just a picturesque beach; it’s a symbol of Thailand’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the delicate balance between tourism and conservation. Its allure has drawn people from around the world, leading to both positive and negative impacts. The closure of Maya Bay and the subsequent conservation efforts underscore its significance and the importance of sustainable tourism practices.
As Thailand continues to evolve, Maya Bay serves as a testament to the nation’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures for generations to come.
Book a Private Boat tour to Maya Bay when it opens Click here
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Maya Bay Phi Phi Closed
As of the 1st of August 2023, Maya Bay in Phi Phi, Thailand will be closing its beach for 2 months. The beach being closed at Maya Bay, Phi Phi is to give the Thailand National Park Authorities time to check and assess the effects of tourists being allowed back on the beach during this past high season.
Maya Bay in Phi Phi will open again on the 1st of October 2023.
Phuket Airport accelerates taxi services with dedicated pickup zone
In a recent move to regulate taxi services in Phuket, Phuket International Airport put its foot on the accelerator and introduced a dedicated zone allocated for legally permissible taxis to facilitate the pickup of tourists. The news, revealed yesterday, came from a statement published by the airport itself, which was shared by Phuket MP, Somchart Techathavorncharoen.
The statement, which was presented as a clarification was the aftermath of a series of issues encapsulated in a formal complaint lodged by none other than Somchart last month.
The document was marked specifically to the MP and affirmed by Monchai Tanode, sitting General Manager of Phuket International Airport for the Airports of Thailand (AoT) branch in Phuket.
Addressing the grievance about holidaymakers having to march in the rain to reach the bus stop within the airport’s vicinity, Monchai stated that the car park for the bus has now been switched to a sheltered area.
Bluebottle influx at Phuket’s Layan Beach: officials urge caution
Layan Beach has seen the arrival of Portuguese man-o-war, commonly referred to as ‘bluebottles’, washed ashore by the tide. Beachgoers are urged to observe caution and remain vigilant in light of this current issue.
This concern was brought to the public awareness by an avid reader of Phuket News who discovered four to five bluebottles on the shoreline on a recent Thursday. The largest was roughly about hand-size, igniting immediate alarm.
It is important to note that this is not the first time that bluebottles have appeared on Phuket’s shores. These creatures are regularly swept ashore in Phuket, depending on wind conditions. The last confirmed sighting of Portuguese man-o-war came a month ago.
An Englishman walks into a bar with stencils and a question: “Can I do some artwork?” Kenny, the owner of the Karon Aussie Bar, didn’t know who the man was, until the man asked, “Do you know anything about Banksy’s art?”
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
BTS’ Suga in Phuket and on a Private 5 Star Marine Boat Tour
World superstar Suga from K-pop boy band BTS was in Phuket recently taking some time offer during the Asian leg of his world tour. While in Phuket Suga took a private boat tour with 5 Star Marine Phuket and shared his experiences with his millions of fans with a YouTube Vlog.
It was a super cool having Suga on board and the staff where rather excited.
Not sure that Jay Leshark or I really understood why the staff were so excited until we both got educated by the team.
I say educated, I mean screamed at and shown many Tik Tok and YouTube clips.
The Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee (JPPSCC) in the Andaman provinces has urged Airports of Thailand (AoT) to continue its feasibility study on Phang Nga Airport.
A meeting of the JPPSCC in the Andaman provinces of Krabi, Trang, Phangnga, Phuket, Ranong and Satun was held recently to continue
talks with Phuket Airport after the AoT decided to defer the project.
Phuket airport has reached its full capacity of 14 million passengers a year. If it is expanded, it can handle up to 17 million, still below its peak period when it handled about 18 million passengers prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Imagine when the economy picks up and when it is high season, how crowded Phuket airport will be?
The Bangkok Post has reported that overseas arrivals now exceed pre-Covid levels, with bold plans to add more.
Phuket is targeting over 14 million international and domestic tourists with tourism-related revenue expected to exceed 200–300 billion baht by the end of this year, according to Phuket Tourist Association (PTA).
Phuket was hit heavily by the Covid-19 pandemic during 2020–2021 but tourists started returning once the Sandbox scheme kicked off in July, 2021.
Pilot project bolstering reforestation to combat Climate Change
A unique pilot project bolstering reforestation efforts was initiated in Phuket. This initiative marks a concentrated effort towards environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.
Spearheaded by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and the Rowing Association of Thailand,
the project saw its launch at the Nai Harn public park in Rawai.
The event was strategically selected based on a national rowing event scheduled to take place there for five days.
This reforestation venture supports EGAT’s overarching ambition of reviving local ecosystems through the creation of green spaces. This is in line with EGAT’s commitment to maintaining a carbon-neutral stance by 2050.
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Patong Surf Life Saving team rescued a turtle on Patong Beach
Lifeguard staff of Patong Municipality, Jetski and parasailing crews, plus tourists joined to help a Turtle now named “Nong Tao Talay”, who was caught in a huge amount of fishing lines and nets.
They managed to cut off all the lines and nets that was entangling, Nong Tao, and then they released it back to the sea.
Thai elephant Sak Surin safely repatriated after 22 years in Sri Lanka
The enduring odyssey of Sak Surin, an elephant initially gifted by Thailand to Sri Lanka, took a homeward trajectory as the elephant touched down in Chiang Mai, ending a 22 yearlong overseas sojourn.
Sak Surin’s journey back to Chiang Mai was an elaborate endeavor.
Encased within a specially designed cage that was placed in the cargo hold of an Ilyushin IL-76, Sak Surin was accompanied by a team of four veterinarians and two mahouts who had journeyed to Sri Lanka earlier to facilitate the repatriation.
Phuket Police praised for stopping traffic to save snake
The Police on duty at the Heroines Monument in Phuket this have been praised online for stopping traffic at the Heroines Monument to prevent a python crossing the road from being run over. The over 2m long python crossed the road and then local animal control offices came and took the python and released it into the jungle well away from the busy roads of Phuket.
Foreign nationals in Phuket donate blood amid Rh-negative shortage
In an uplifting gesture of community unity, the Immigration Department of Phuket extended heartfelt appreciation to the 121 foreign nationals who donated blood at a special drive held at the Central Floresta shopping complex. The blood donation event was jointly orchestrated by the Phuket Immigration Department and the local chapter of the Red Cross Society.
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Living Waters Phuket Donates 14,000 spinal boards
Medical supplies worth over US$1.1 million consisting of 14,000 spinal boards has been donated by Living Waters Phuket to the Thai Ministry of Public Health and National Emergency Medicine Foundation. Owner of 5 Star Marne and of Living Waters Shaun was on hand to be part of the handing over event in Phuket Town.
A tour group apologised after causing harm to Thai marine life
The serene waters of Ao La on Koh Racha Yai, situated south of Phuket, were recently embroiled in controversy when tourists from a tour company, engaged in activities harmful to marine life and environment. They posed for photos with seemingly innocent starfish in hand and ventured onto delicate coral reefs, drawing the ire of locals.
They have said sorry for their actions but it does look like there will be a big fine and the possibility of a prison sentence. PLEASE not touch the marine life. Just take pictures and leave only footprints in the sand.
Hong Kong Airlines’ inaugural direct flight from Hong Kong arrived in Phuket on Thursday (June 21) evening, bringing 147 passengers to the island. The firetrucks where out in force to create a rainbow of water as the jet taxied its way to the Phuket international Airport terminal.
The inclusion of Phuket’s historical alley, Soi Rommanee, in the list of The World’s 20 Most Beautiful Streets has garnered praise from caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, according to acting government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri. The announcement was made on June 22.
Soi Rommanee is arguable one of the most photographed places in all of Phuket and is a must see when coming on holiday to the island.
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Phuket fails bid to host Specialised Expo
Sad news came out last night (June 21st) from Paris as Thailand has not won its bid for Phuket to host the World Specialised Expo 2027/28 following the final voting held at the 172nd general assembly of the event organiser, the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), in Paris. We would like to say well done to the Phuket TAT the Phuket Governor and all the
local Phuket companies and businesses who have all put in so much effort to try to win the bid. We would like to wish Serbia congratulations in their bid to host the event in Belgrade.
It has been reported in the media that tourism in the southern island province, that’s Phuket by the way, has returned to its pre-Covid level by revenue, while the number of visitors remains lower than before the pandemic due partly to fewer returning Chinese tourists, according to local authorities. Seems that the Russian’s who came in force during the high season were big spenders.
Stranded dolphin rescued, taken into care in Phuket
A young bottlenose dolphin, which was spotted in Phuket waters has been successfully rescued and is now receiving treatment at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre (PMBC), as confirmed by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR). The authorities successfully rescued the lost bottlenose dolphin that had ventured into the Tha Chin River in the Ratsada
district of Phuket. Residents, anglers, and fishermen in the district spotted the dolphin swimming in Tha Chin River near Koh Sire Bridge and reported it to the Sireetarn Marine Endangered Animals Rescue Centre.
Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice and the Best of the Best Things to Do Thailand 2023
For the third year running, 5 Star Marne Phuket has been awarded the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice award, and that alone is awesome:
BUT!!!!
Two of our private tours, our Phi Phi Island Private Tour and our James Bond Island Private Tour were ranked in the top 10 “Best Of The Best
Thailand 2023” Making them one of the top 10 things to do in Thailand for any traveller visiting the Kingdom.
The Tripadvisor’s travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Overall Experiences Thailand 2023 top 10 were picked due to the high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period and each winner has passed a Tripadvisor rigorous trust and safety standards.
Did you know that fewer than 1% of Tripadvisor’s 8 million listings are awarded Best of the Best, signifying the highest level of excellence in travel.
Awards like this come with hard work, dedication and an amazing team. We are so proud of our team who have all individually contributed to these awards.
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Thailand vows to legalise same-sex marriage.
The Move Forward Party leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, promised to legalize same-sex marriage within 100 days of taking office.
After attending the second annual Bangkok Pride parade since 2006, which took place over the weekend, Limjaroenrat described Thailand as ‘a country driven by love, not fear’.
“Diversity is not a weakness, but a strength of this country,” the former member of the House of Representatives wrote to his social media.
Phuket lifeguards warn of poisonous jellyfish on island beaches
Phuket Lifeguard Service has issued an official warning to beachgoers and swimmers about the presence of poisonous jellyfish in the waters surrounding the island. The alert comes after several Portuguese man-o-war jellyfish was found washed up along the west coast beaches in recent days.
A photo of one such jellyfish was posted on the Phuket Lifeguard Service’s official Facebook account, accompanied by a warning and advice on first aid measures for those who might be stung. The post advised those affected to seek help from lifeguards on the beach or visit a medical facility, such as a doctor’s surgery or hospital.
Tourist Police officers provided required assistance and safely reunited a Russian family after the husband reported his wife as missing in the early hours of June 9.
New Na Klang-Ao Jik road links Phuket and Phang Nga, boosting tourism
The newly completed Na Klang-Ao Jik road, which connects Phuket and Phang Nga, is set to provide a boost to local tourism and cross-provincial transport. The Department of Rural Roads (DRR) has invested approximately 282.8 million baht (US$8.5 million) in the 4.2-kilometre road, which is part of a city expansion project in Phang Nga’s Thai Muang district.
Phuket vies for Specialised Expo 2028, boosting health and medical tourism
As the final presentation and vote for the Specialised Expo 2028 approaches, many Thai citizens are eagerly awaiting the decision, hoping that Phuket will be chosen as the host city.
The Thai delegation is set to present their case to the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) on June 21, highlighting the southern resort island province’s potential as a host location.
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Shooting at Boat Avenue Laguna Phuket
UPDATE:
As reported in the Phuket Tourism News, there was a very rare shooting at Boat Avenue Phuket just outside the major resort area of Laguna Phuket.
Since we reported on this shooting the authorities and caught a suspect and they are currently being questioned.
Dmitry Aleynikov, 44, was shot four times while in his car in front of a restaurant at Boat Avenue laguna, an outdoor shopping complex. He was shot once in his chest and twice in his left arm. A fourth bullet sliced his wedding-ring finger. He is still recovering in a Phuket hospital.
Police are still investigating the motivation for the shooting.
Phuket surfing competition confirmed – June 23 – 25 at Kata Beach
Local surfers have the chance to enter the upcoming competition in Phuket free of charge and stand the chance to win cash prizes, organizers have confirmed.
The event will take place at Kata Beach which is one of the most popular surfing beaches in Phuket.
Kata Beach extends 1.5 kilometers on the west coast of the island of Phuket in Thailand. It is a very popular tourist destination, with multiple hotels and restaurants near the beach and a few surf schools open during the rainy season when the surf is at its best in Phuket.
Bolt now available in Phuket
The Department of Land Transport (DLT), operating under the Ministry of Transport of Thailand, has officially confirmed that the Bolt application and its drivers are now legally authorized to operate in Phuket and throughout Thailand.
With this confirmation, the total number of taxi apps available for local residents and tourists to use has reached seven an will hopefully help the high prices that have been historically charged by taxi drivers in Phuket.
Turtle rescued in Phuket
An injured olive ridley sea turtle was discovered at Thai Mueang Beach in Phang Nga province on Thursday (June 1) and is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre (PMBC). The young turtle lost one of its flippers after getting entangled in fishing nets, wildlife experts believe.
Phuket declared Thailand’s first rabies-free province by DDC
Phuket has been declared the first rabies-free province in Thailand by the Department of Disease Control (DDC). The announcement was made by Phuket Vice Governor Danai Sunantharod, who revealed that DDC Director General Tanet Kratsanaitawiwong praised the province’s successful efforts in preventing and controlling rabies in both animals and humans.
This achievement comes after a steady decline in rabies-related deaths in Thailand, with 18 fatalities reported in 2018 and only three in the following year. Notably, Phuket has not experienced a single rabies-related death in the past 15 years.
Good news considering the number of street dogs there are in Phuket.
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.