Phuket Tourism News | Episode 21 | June 11
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.
Read More Here: Shooting at Boat Avenue Laguna Phuket
Phuket Surf Contest confirmed
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.
Read More Here: Phuket Surfing Competition 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.
Read More Here: Turtle Rescued In Phuket
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.
Read More Here: Phuket Declared Thailand’s First Rabies Free
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Special Expo 2028 – www.expo2028thailand.com
Phuket Surf festival – www.facebook.com/events/549672407324383
Laguna Phuket Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phuketmarathon
An Evening with Tyson Fury – https://www.facebook.com/events/249161717663797
PHIST – https://www.facebook.com/events/6035872379834085
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
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.
What Islands Are Open in Rainy Season, June 2023
Phuket, Thailand’s rainy season, wet season, green season or whatever people call it, some of the islands in and around Phuket are closed so you will not be able to take a tour to them.
What Phuket Islands are closed and which Phuket Islands are open?
Let’s start with the Phuket Islands that are closed:
Although the Similan Islands are not in Phuket during the high season, we do have tours to them.
The Similan archipelago consists of eleven beautiful islands, and The Andaman Sea around the islands is one of the best-kept secrets of Thailand. The crystal-clear blue water is filled with marine life, which makes spotting, sharks, barracudas, triggerfish, and
various tropical fish, not a problem at all. It has some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world. Every year from the 15th May to the 15th October the whole of the Similan archipelago is closed to all tourists.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Similan. Please watch this video below:
If you are looking to have a similar experience to the Similan Islands then why not try the Phi Phi Tour. Stunning beaches and awesome marine life. Click here to find out more about our Phi Phi Tour.
Koh Ha and Koh Rok
Closed now and back open from the 15th of October are the tours to Koh Ha and Koh Rok. These two islands combine stunning water clarity with a diverse range of colorful marine life and corals, and therefore offer some of the best snorkeling opportunities you can find.
If you are looking to have a similar experience to the Koh Ha and Koh Rok then why not try the Phi Phi Tour. Stunning beaches and awesome marine life. Click here to find out more about our Phi Phi Tour.
Maya Bay Beach closing 1st Aug till 1st October
Maya Bay, Phi Phi is one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Thailand IF not the world. The beach was featured in the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio which was filmed over 20 years ago. It will close on the 1st August to give the Thailand National Park Authorities time to check and assess the last few months effects of tourists being allowed back on the beach.
Maya Bay may be closed BUT Phi Phi is all open – Find out more about the Phi Phi Tour – Click Here
Coral Island – Great for families
Coral Island is known locally as Coral Island is a great place to visit especially if you like to explore the region’s diverse marine environment and visit different islands., but most people will call it Coral Island. Although being a small island, it has a lot to offer whether you’re looking for a place to relax or go on an adventure.
The beautiful island getaway is only about 3 km southeast of Phuket. Coral Island has 2 main beaches: Long Beach and Banana Beach and the snorkeling off Banana Beach is awesome but more of that later. The island is about 2.5 Km long with a dense tropical jungle in the center of the island. There is one other secluded beach on the South of the island called Freedom Beach.
Coral Island is one of the best family-friendly tours that 5 Star Marine Phuket runs. The island is safe for children to play, with white soft sand perfect for sand castles, as well as rock pools during low tide for children to explore, and they can learn to snorkel right from the beach, which makes it a fantastic destination for the little ones, and for those that may be a little worried about snorkeling from the back of the boat or in deeper water. The marine life just off the beach is stunning.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Coral Island. Please watch this video below:
Khai Islands
If you are looking for an easy close by tour that is perfect for young families then the 3 Khai Islands tour; Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui, is one of the best.
The 3 Khai Islands is a group of small islands just 20 – 25 minutes away from the 5 Star Marine Phuket pier at Boat Lagoon Marina.
Two of them (Khai Nai and Khai Nok) have superb sandy beaches and incredibly clear water where swarms of colourful and friendly fish come to swim around you. This makes these two Khai Islands perfect for those who have never tried snorkeling and would like to try, or for those who are a little nervous to snorkel in deep water. You are able to walk into the water and snorkel right from the beach, you don’t even need to float or swim as you will be able to explorer the underwater world while sanding.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Khai Island. Please watch this video below:
Maiton Island
Maiton Island offers some fantastic snorkeling. The coral reefs are alive and teeming with a variety of tropical fish and you can also Enjoy a mesmerizing experience through a giant clam garden. The best time for snorkeling at Maiton Island is from December to May when the sea around Maiton is crystal clear like a blue mirror.
After a couple of hours of snorkeling, it’s time to catch dinner.
Head out a little deeper and drop in a hook and bait and you will soon catch a fish or 3, and if they are big enough then you have dinner sorted as well, which you can give to the 5 Star Marine Phuket Team and they can take care of this for you and have it cooked up with Thai flavors and spices on the BBQ while watching the sun set behind Phuket.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Maiton Island. Please watch this video below:
Raya or Racha Islands
The two tropical Racha Island; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, are sometimes called Raya Island or even King Island. BUT the name doesn’t matter as these stunning Phuket tropical islands provide the ideal destination to enjoy nature with some of the best snorkeling reefs in Thailand and quiet, tropical white powdery beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The Racha Island are comprised of two islands, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. (Yai means “big” in Thai and, noi means “little”). The islands possess crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. They are very popular with divers and snorkellers, with challenging dive sites for advanced divers as well as plenty for beginners and snorkellers.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Raya or Racha Island. Please watch this video below:
Koh Hong
Among the more than 150 islands of the stunning Phang Nga Bay, Koh Hong is by far one of the most beautiful destinations with possibly some of the best views of Phnag Nga Bay from it’s awesome viewpoint.
Koh Hong is off the east coast of Phuket, in fact Koh Hong is closer to Krabi than it is to Phuket. Koh Hong island is known for its stunning natural beauty, soft white sand, and sparkling, crystal clear waters, making it a one-of-a-kind place for relaxation and island adventure.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Koh Hong. Please watch this video below:
Shaun Stenning said, Nestled in the sparkling turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is a tropical haven renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. However, beyond the mainland lies a collection of captivating islands that add an extra touch of magic to your Phuket experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best islands in Phuket, each with its own unique charm and allure. Whether you’re seeking secluded beaches, thrilling water sports, or simply a serene escape, these islands are sure to delight and captivate your senses.
Phi Phi Islands: Known as one of the most beautiful island groups in the world, the Phi Phi Islands are an absolute must-visit destination. With their towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, these islands offer breathtaking scenery. Take a boat tour to explore Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” or go snorkeling and diving to witness the vibrant coral reefs that teem with life beneath the surface.
Similan Islands: A true paradise for divers and snorkelers, the Similan Islands boast some of the most pristine waters in the region. This group of nine islands is home to a thriving underwater ecosystem, where you can encounter colorful coral gardens, manta rays, and even whale sharks. The Similan Islands are a protected national park, ensuring the preservation of their natural beauty and wildlife.
Racha Islands: If you’re yearning for a tranquil retreat, the Racha Islands, also known as Raya Islands, are the perfect escape. Located just a short boat ride from Phuket, these islands offer serene white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green hills. Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun. The Racha Islands offer a peaceful respite from the busier tourist areas.
Coral Island (Koh Hey): Situated just off the southeastern coast of Phuket, Coral Island lives up to its name with its vibrant and diverse marine life. The island offers an array of water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing. After exploring the underwater wonders, relax on the island’s picturesque beaches or indulge in a delicious seafood feast at one of the beachside restaurants.
According to Shaun Stenning, Phuket’s best islands offer a delightful range of experiences, from adventure-filled water sports to serene escapes where you can unwind and connect with nature. Whether you choose to explore the famous Phi Phi Islands, dive into the vibrant marine life around the Similan Islands, or seek solitude on the Racha Islands, each destination promises unforgettable memories and postcard-worthy views. So, pack your swimsuit, embrace the tropical vibe, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Phuket’s island paradise.
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 20 | June 4
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 Cannabis Association is calling for support
As reported here on PTN over the last few weeks, In the recent elections the party that won had in its manifest that it would make cannabis illegal again. This has sent shock waves around Thailand as cannabis has become a billion THB industry in a very short time and has created lots of new jobs and helped to bring back tourists.
The Phuket Cannabis Association is calling for support to stave off any prospect of cannabis becoming recriminalized under the coalition formed by the leading Move Forward Party.
We still are not 100% sure what will happen, but after talking to some of the many weed shop owners here in Phuket, they think that cannabis will not be criminalized again, BUT that there will be new restrictions put into place such as asking for id for anyone buying weed and keeping these records so that authorities can see.
It will be interesting to see what happens in the next few months.
Phuket launches inspections to curb foreign crime
Last week the ‘white accommodation scheme for foreigners’ was announced by Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew. The scheme is being overseen by Pol. Col. Thanet Sukchai, Superintendent of Phuket Immigration.
The scheme aims to work with landlords who have foreigners residing on their properties, including rented houses, apartments, condos, and hotels.
The Phuket landlords will be asked to monitor the behavior of all foreigners staying at their residences to ensure that no inappropriate activities are being carried out, with a particular focus on international crime syndicates that may use Phuket as a base for their illegal ventures.
The dinner was to help raise money so that local children can play a greater role in the industry’s future in Phuket as it offers scholarships to local students who wish to fulfill their dream of working in the hotel industry.
Over 3 million THB was raised on the Phuket Charity Events from silent auctions, online auctions, and a live auction which had some amazing prizes.
The event was a huge success and well done to the Phuket Hotels Association
Snake Season in Phuket
Every year when the rains start to arrive in May snakes across Phuket Island are on the move to find shelter and food, and this does mean that during May and June, there is an increase in people calling for help to remove snakes from their homes.
There are a few different types of snakes in Phuket with 2 being venomous.
Golden Tree Snake – Non-Venomous
Rat Snake – Non-Venomous
Reticulated Python – Non-Venomous
Monocled Cobra – Venomous
King Cobra – Venomous
The most common snake found in people’s homes is the Monocled Cobra. They eat small rodents so people’s house is an ideal places to find their favorite food. But before you all start canceling your trips to Phuket due to snakes, it’s highly unlikely that you will encounter a snake, or even get close enough to be bitten. Most snakes don’t want to encounter humans so they will just try to get away, and it’s only when people start to try to interact with snakes that they will bite.
Phuket Som Tam Restaurants gives back 200,000 THB
A European tourist had his bag returned by a kind hearted Phuket Son Tam restaurant owner, with the tourist’s bag containing money and assets worth 200,000 baht.
The tourist had visited the restaurant the day before and had a 60THB tasty and spicy som tam before forgetting his bag (with 200,000 THB in it)
The next day he contacted the restaurant owner and came back to collect his bag. The bag was there with everything still in side.
The big question is WHY would you be walking around with a bag with 200,000 THB worth of things inside????
Tik Tok star gives Phuket fruit vendor 2000 THB
In something of an internet trend, a Tik Tok “Star” from Australia has given a fruit vendor in Phuket 2000 THB for his kindness, and of course to help the Tik Tok get likes and engagement.
The way this type of video works is that a person (the person doing the video) pretends that they are homeless or have not eaten or has some sort of desperate story and then begs for food or drink. If the person gives something to them, the big revile is that the person doing the video IS not broke and homeless and has lots of money so gives away money for people’s kindness.
The fruit vendor gave the Tik Tok guy some mango and sticky rice for FREE after the guy had said he had not eaten all day and had no money.
This type of video has been going on for a few years on social media and it’s a good way to increase likes and subscribers.
Is it a nice thing to do? Well, giving someone 2000 THB might not change their life and to be fair it’s cheaper than paying for online adverts so maybe it is a good thing to do.
I guess it must work as it made the local news.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phang Nga Bay Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phangngamarathon
Laguna Phuket Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phuketmarathon
An Evening with Tyson Fury – https://www.facebook.com/events/249161717663797
PHIST – https://www.facebook.com/events/6035872379834085
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
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.
Snorkl Mini Scuba Tank Review
About a year or so ago we did a review video on a product called the Snorkl, which sold itself as “A shallow diving kit that lets you breathe freely under the surface with no bulky scuba equipment to get in the way of your exploring. No scuba certification is required. The starter kit, which includes a hand pump, sells for around $500 USD”
In the video we spent two days just trying to fill it up with air using the hand pump that was provided, and to be very honest it was no good at all. We couldn’t get any air into the tank using the hand pump and we came to the conclusion that it was a complete waste of time.
BUT
We had a few comments from a few people saying that this product was great and we just didn’t take it seriously or use it correctly. So, now we have done part 2 and this time we got some professional help thanks to the awesome team at H2O Sports here in Phuket, we had a tutorial on the tank, and how to fill it up and they gave us their feedback on mini scuba tanks for use in the leisure market.
Before all that let’s look at what we have:
What is a Mini Scuba Tank?
Exploring the mesmerizing beauty of the deep sea is an exhilarating experience. While traditional scuba diving equipment allows us to explore the underwater world, advancements in technology have introduced a new option for diving enthusiasts: mini scuba tanks.
One of the most significant advantages of mini scuba tanks is their portability and convenience. Unlike traditional scuba tanks, which are large and heavy, mini scuba tanks are compact and lightweight. They are designed to be easily carried and allow for hassle-free transportation, making them ideal for travelers or divers who prefer to be unencumbered by heavy equipment.
Mini scuba tanks are designed to be user-friendly, making them accessible to divers of all skill levels. They typically come with a simple regulator system that is easy to operate and maintain. Unlike traditional scuba diving equipment, which requires extensive training and certification, mini scuba tanks can often be used without formal diving qualifications, although it is still recommended to have some diving experience and knowledge.
Is the Snorkl Mini Scuba Tank any good?
The primary disadvantage of mini scuba tanks is their limited air supply. Due to their compact size, they contain significantly less air than traditional scuba tanks. The duration of your dive will be limited. But before all that you have to get air into the tank. So, the only way that we have found is to fill the mini scuba tank with a normal air tank, if you have one. The one we used from H2O Sports in Phuket was only 200 THB and it filled up our tanks over 10 times.
The marketing words on the Snorkel say that you get 10 minutes of air, but in our tests, you get 3 mins at the most.
So, is it any good? In our opinion the Mini Scuba Tank is not that good, however, it does have a use, and that use is as a backup tank.
Mini scuba tanks can serve as an emergency backup option during dives. They provide an additional air source that can be used in case of an equipment failure or when a diver unexpectedly runs out of air. This backup air supply can be a lifesaver in critical situations, allowing divers to safely ascend to the surface.
They have been using these mini scuba tanks for this purpose and it’s only in the past few years with the rise of people trying to make businesses grow quickly using crowdfunding that the Mini Scuba Tanks have been marketed to the leisure industry.
We have tried and it was fun for 1 or 2 minutes BUT with a mask and snorkel and some underwater breath training, you will have just as much fun and you won’t have to have a huge air tank with you to keep topping up your air.
Safety note:
Before embarking on any diving adventure, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and make an informed decision based on your experience level and diving requirements.
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 19 | May 28
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.
Vietjet Takes off to Phuket
Starting from the 19th of May Vietjet is now running the first and only direct service between Hanoi and Phuket.
Vietjet’s new service between Hanoi and Phuket includes one roundtrip flight per day, with each leg taking approximately three hours.
With the new direct route between Hanoi and Phuket, travelers can now fly directly and conveniently to Vietnam’s capital city and other Northern tourist attractions such as Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, and more.
Vietjet is already operating the only direct route between Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket with two-hour flights daily.
PHAB 5 a Massive Success
The title said it all, “A Fabulous Cause for Celebration”
On the 20th of May 2023, hundreds of Phuket residents came together to enjoy a night of stunning food and drinks from some of Phuket’s most luxurious hotels. The ACES Angsana venue was the perfect backdrop for the PHAB 5 Masquerade gala dinner.
The dinner was to help raise money so that local children can play a greater role in the industry’s future in Phuket as it offers scholarships to local students who wish to fulfill their dream of working in the hotel industry.
Over 3 million THB was raised on the Phuket Charity Events from silent auctions, online auctions, and a live auction which had some amazing prizes.
The event was a huge success and well done to the Phuket Hotels Association
New rules for Weed in Thailand, is there or not?
Now this is a tough one to answer as no one is 100% sure what will happen. How has this come about, well; in the recent elections the party that won had in its manifest that it would make cannabis illegal again. This has sent shock waves around Thailand as cannabis has become a billion THB industry in a very short time and has created lots of new jobs and helped to bring back the tourists.
We still are not 100% sure what will happen, but after talking to some of the many weed shop owners here in Phuket, they think that cannabis will not be criminalized again, BUT that there will be new restrictions put into place such as asking for id for anyone buying weed and keeping these records so that authorities can see.
It will be interesting to see what happens in the next few months.
Update on the SpeedBoat accident in Phuket
The captain of the speedboat that crashed into a channel marker in Chalong last week has been charged for the accident and it is reported that he has tested positive for a substance.
Luckily for all passaged and crew, no one was seriously hurt.
Similan Islands Closed
The Similan Islands are now closed. Yes, we have told you this before but we are still getting many people asking to book this tour.
Every year, from May 16th until the 15th of October 2023 the Similan Islands are closed to visitors to safeguard the marine habitat and stimulate its recovery. At 5 Star Marine, we stop running tours to the Similan Islands from the 5th of May. Are reason to close the tour off early is that the seas out to the Similan Islands are very open which means they get a lot rougher than seas into Phang Nga Bay.
Maya Bay Closing?
Yes, it is, when? Well, we believe that it will close on the 1st of August 2023, however, we have still not had any official statement as yet from the Thailand National Park authorities. We also believe that Maya Bay will be closed for 2 months and reopen on 1st October.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phang Nga Bay Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phangngamarathon
Laguna Phuket Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phuketmarathon
An Evening with Tyson Fury – https://www.facebook.com/events/249161717663797
PHIST – https://www.facebook.com/events/6035872379834085
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
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.
Full Details Here MAYA BAY CLOSING 2024
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 18 | May 21
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.
Speedboat accident in Phuket
On Wednesday 17th May a Phuket speedboat carrying 37 people hit a channel marker in Chalong Bay in the south of Phuket. The accident occurred when Thanathip Marine 555 was bringing foreign tourists back from Phi Phi Island to Chalong Bay.
The Phuket speedboat smashed into a channel marker about 700 meters from Chalong pier and sustained huge damage to the bow (front) of the boat. Around 10 people including the Thai speedboat driver suffered broken limbs and all the injured were taken to hospitals around Phuket.
The Phuket authorities were very quick to respond to the incident and had cleared the roads to Chalong Pier to make it easier for the emergency services to arrive and all injured parties were delt with as soon as they arrived at Chalong Pier.
The captain and other individuals will be questioned to find out what was the cause of this accident.
Similan Islands Closed
The Similan Islands are now closed. Yes, we have told you this before but we are still getting many people asking to book this tour.
Every year, from May 16th until the 15th of October 2023 the Similan Islands are closed to visitors to safeguard the marine habitat and
stimulate its recovery. At 5 Star Marine, we stop running tours to the Similan Islands from the 5th of May. Are reason to close the tour off early is that the seas out to the Similan Islands are very open which means they get a lot rougher than seas into Phang Nga Bay.
Maya Bay Closing In August 2023?
Yes, it is, when? Well, we believe that it will close on the 1st of August 2023, however, we have still not had any official statement as yet from the Thailand National Park authorities. We also believe that Maya Bay will be closing in August 2023 and reopen on 1st October.
Neutering Phuket Monkeys
Monkeys are everywhere in Thailand and these inquisitive little creatures do look cute and cuddly; however, they are wild animals and can cause a lot of damage if left unmanaged. There have been parts of Phuket where the local government has moved monkeys away from tourist areas due to the risk of monkeys biting.
Feeding wild monkeys, although looks great for your Instagram reel or Tik Tok video, but it does cause issues, and its something that the local Phuket authorities want to stop.
The other thing that the local Phuket wildlife officials want to stop is the number of monkeys. So, to control the population of macaque monkeys, dozens have been caught and taken to the Nature and Wildlife Education Centre at Khao Phra Thaew Wildlife Sanctuary where they are Neutered and then released back into areas where they can be safe and away from tourists.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phang Nga Bay Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phangngamarathon
Laguna Phuket Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phuketmarathon
An Evening with Tyson Fury – https://www.facebook.com/events/249161717663797
PHIST – https://www.facebook.com/events/6035872379834085
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
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.
When you come to Phuket there are a few things that are on most peoples to do list. Beaches, Thai food, see an elephant, visit a Temple, see James Bond Island, and visit Phi Phi and walk on Maya Bay Beach.
The question is can you do them all?
Generally, yes you can, as most people when coming to Phuket are here for around 2 weeks and you can easily do all these things and more in 14 days.
BUT
What if you are not here for 2 weeks and your time is limited, or what if you have loads of other activities planned and you only have 1 day spare that you use to see as much of the surrounding Phuket islands as possible, what are your options?
One of our most popular tours is the Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay combined Tour. This private boat tour means that in 1 day you will be able to head down to Phi Phi and get to walk on the stunning Maya Bay.
Maya Bay, Phi Phi is one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Thailand IF not the world. The beach was featured in the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio which was filmed over 20 years ago.
After you have had your “BEACH” moment you can head out to Pilah lagoon which many people don’t realize was also a backdrop used in the movie The Beach and offers stunning clear water to get that ultimate tropical sea selfie.
If you want to do some snorkeling on your tour then Phi Phi is the place to do this, before you head up to Phang Nga Bay and see the iconic James Bond Island.
Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island
Before you get to see the amazing James Bond Island, whose name in Thailand as Ko Ta Pu, you can experience the spectacle that is Phang Nga Bay. This stunning bay offers you so much to see and do. The hundreds of caves alone could take you months to explore and that’s not to mention the stunning hidden lagoons and beaches or the stunning limestone Karsts that rise up from the emerald waters which you can explore up close by kayak.
But we are her to see the iconic James Bond Island
James Bond Island is one of the must do’s when you are on holiday in Phuket. The island that most people take their selfies in front of is what is called Ko Ta Pu, translated into English, which means Nail Island. This was the island that in the James Bond Movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” was the backdrop when James Bond and Scaramanga had their duel. The island that your private boat will drop you off is called Khao Ping Kan, but both are more commonly known as James Bond Island.
Once you have had that 007 experience it’s time to jump back on the boat and head back to the 5 Star Marine Phuket pier, but before your day is over, how about a stop on a tropical island to enjoy a drink and watch as the sun set behind Phuket. What a way to finish your awesome day.
So, to answer the question, Phi Phi and James Bond on The Same Day – Is It Possible?
With 5 Star Marine Phuket, Yes, it is.
For more details on this or any of our tours visit – https://5starmarinephuket.com/locations/
Full Details Here SIMILAN ISLANDS CLOSING 2024
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.
Similan Islands Closed
The Similan Islands are now officially closed.
Every year, from May 16th until the 15th of October 2023 the Similan Islands are closed to visitors to safeguard the marine habitat and stimulate its recovery. At 5 Star Marine, we stop running tours to the Similan Islands from the 5th of May. Are reason to close the tour off early is that the seas out to the Similan Islands are very open which means they get a lot rougher than seas into Phang Nga Bay.
Is Weed legal in Thailand?
In 2018, Thailand became the first Asian nation to legalize medical cannabis. Although cannabis was decriminalized, smoking or vaping in public places is still subject to punishment as a public nuisance infraction. You will see cannabis café’s everywhere in Phuket, there seem to be more of these than 7/11 stores.
But what are the Rules on Cannabis?
Please note that the below are guidelines and the rules may and often do change without notice:
Is it raining in Phuket and what are some of the best apps to use to check the weather in Phuket?
The Phuket weather is always a hot topic. We are currently in what is known as the shoulder period in Phuket. This is the period between the high season and the low season. During this time there are some rain showers that happen, mainly at night with some epic thunderstorms to watch, but these pass relatively quickly.
Some of the apps that we use to check the weather in Phuket are:
We also have a live cam at our 5 Star marine Phuket office which you can see at: https://www.youtube.com/@phuketweather144
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
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.
LATEST NEWS: Similan Islands Thailand are now fully Open
The Similan Islands is one of the best-known island groups in Thailand, and its fame is heavily due to having some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world.
Established as a national park in 1982, Similan Islands are an archipelago of 11 islands in the Andaman Sea, 70 km off the coast in Phang Nga Province. This little archipelago is one of the most interesting snorkeling areas in the world, with stunning crystal-clear waters and an array of marine life. It’s home to turtles and whale sharks (depending on the time of year).
The conditions for coral growth are ideal, with a minimum prevailing sea temperature of about 28°C and exceptionally clear waters. More than 200 species of hard coral alone have so far been identified in this area, while these islands have the greatest profusion of reef fish in Thai waters.
Fun Fact – Similan Islands are the maritime border between India and Thailand
Originally the Similan Islands consisted of 9 islands. The name Similan comes from Malaysian, which means 9. In 2014 the islands Koh Bon and Koh Tachai were added to the Mu Ko Similan National Park. So now the Similan Islands consist of eleven islands but the name has remained the same. To keep it all a bit clear, or to possibly make it a bit unclear the islands have all been given a number in addition to a name.
Koh Huyong (nr 1)
Koh Payang (nr 2)
Koh Payan (nr 3)
Koh Miang (nr 4)
Koh Ha (nr 5)
Koh Payu (nr 6)
Koh Hin Pousar (nr 7)
Koh Similan (nr 8)
Koh Bangu (nr 9)
Koh Bon (nr 10)
Koh Tachai (nr 11)
What to expect on your 5 Star Marine Phuket Similan Island Private Boat Tour
By selecting to go to the Similan Islands Private Boat Tour with 5 Star Marine you will get to see more than you would be able to with other tour operators. The experienced team will take you to the best snorkeling spots and picturesque islands, plus can help you pick the perfect beach to relax upon, ensuring that your day out in these stunning islands is everything you could wish for.
What will you see at the Similan Islands Private Boat Tour?
In the Similan Islands are clownfish (Yes that’s right Nemo fish as most people call them), moonfish, moray eels, seahorses, squids, turtles, all kinds of rays, reef sharks, barracudas, whale sharks, manta rays, and many other species of colorful tropical fish.
Of course, you may not see all these amazing marine creatures at the Similan Islands Private Boat Tour, as it will depend on when you are there, but you are guaranteed to see an array of tropical fish in some of the most crystal-clear water that you will ever experience.
We have not even mentioned the stunning viewpoints at the Similan Islands and if you are feeling fit and healthy then you can head up to the top of one of the viewpoints to get a perfect picture of tropical island life.
Similan Islands is stunning. Is it worth the 2-hour boat ride from Phuket? The answer is simple, Yes, it is.
Book the tour here – https://5starmarinephuket.com/locations/similan/
