Home Posts Tagged "View Points Near Phuket"
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 28 | August 20
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.
Oil slicks threatens Phuket beaches, authorities seek culprits
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.
Read more here:
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.
Read more here: https://www.thephuketnews.com/lifeguards-revive-tourist-pulled-from-karon-beach-surf-89236.php
Staying safe on Phuket Beaches is different from any other country, here’s a great video we did on this:
Patong tuk-tuks warned against using public parking spaces
Patong Police have issued a warning for all tuk-tuks in the town to stop using public parking spaces, especially along the Patong beach road.
The warning follows a tuk-tuk driver caught using one of the public parking spaces on the beach road (Thaweewong Rd) on Saturday (Aug 12).
It also followed a slew of complaints on social media online, said a report by Patong Police.
Pol Capt Pongpan Tesawit of the Patong Traffic Police arrived and explained to the driver his infraction at 3:45pm on Saturday, said the report.
The driver had parked in one of two parking spaces along the beach road. The section where the tuk-tuk driver had parked provided 24 public spaces.
Read more here: https://www.thephuketnews.com/patong-tuk-tuks-warned-against-using-public-parking-spaces-89217.php
Magic Mushrooms Going To Become Legal In Thailand
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.
Read more here: https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/beauty-grooming/wellness/thailand-to-relax-laws-on-magic-mushrooms/
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 27 | August 6
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.
Read more here – https://5starmarinephuket.com/2023/08/01/maya-bay-is-closed/
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.
Reported at the Thaiger Read more here – https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-airport-launches-dedicated-taxi-zone-amid-public-transport-concerns
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.
Reported in the Thaiger Read more – https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/bluebottle-influx-at-phukets-layan-beach-officials-urge-caution
Street art in Karon praised as Banksy creation
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?”
Reported in the Phuket News Read More here – https://www.thephuketnews.com/street-art-in-karon-praised-as-banksy-creation-89019.php
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.
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 26 | July 23
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.
Read more here
Is a Phang Nga airport needed?
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?
Full story at the Phuket News here
Overseas arrivals now exceed pre-Covid levels
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.
Read more at the Bangkok Post here
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.
Read the full story here
Upcoming Events in Phuket
MONDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER 2023 FROM 09:00-19:00
PHIST 6 (Phuket Hotels Island Sustaining Tourism)
SAii Laguna Phuket
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.
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 25 | July 9
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.
Reported the Phuket Times on facebook – https://www.facebook.com/PhuketTimeNews
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.
Read more at The Thaiger – https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-elephant-sak-surin-safely-repatriated-after-22-years-in-sri-lanka
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.
Read more at The Phuket News – https://www.thephuketnews.com/police-praised-for-stopping-traffic-to-save-snake-88739.php
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.
Read more at The Thaiger – https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/foreign-nationals-in-phuket-donate-blood-amid-rh-negative-shortage
Upcoming Events in Phuket
MONDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER 2023 FROM 09:00-19:00
PHIST 6 (Phuket Hotels Island Sustaining Tourism)
SAii Laguna Phuket
SUNDAY, 9 JULY 2023 AT 10:00
Blackjack Dash
Phuket Yacht Club
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.
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 24 | July 2
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.
Read More – A tour group apologised after causing harm to Thai marine life
Hong Kong Airlines commences flights to Phuket
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.
Read More – Hong Kong Airlines commences flights to Phuket
Soi Rommanee’s place among world’s best streets
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.
Read More – Soi Rommanee’s place among world’s best streets
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 23 | June 25
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.
Read more – Phuket fails bid to host Specialised Expo
Phuket tourism revenue returns to pre-Covid level
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.
Read More – Stranded dolphin rescued, taken into care in Phuket
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.
And thank you to our awesome guests.
To see the full list, click here – https://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-ThingsToDo-cTopExperiences-g293915#9
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phuket Surf festival – www.facebook.com/events/549672407324383
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.
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 22 | June 18
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.
Reported Unilad.
Read more: Thailand Vows To Legalize Same-Sex Marriage
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.
Reported The Thaiger.
Read more: Phuket Lifeguards Warn of Poisonous Jellyfish on Island Beaches
Phuket police reunites tourist with lost wife
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.
Reported The Phuket News
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.
Reported The Thaiger
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.
All our fingers are crossed
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Special Expo 2028 – www.expo2028thailand.com
Phuket Surf festival – www.facebook.com/events/549672407324383
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.
As we settle comfortably into Phuket’s low season, spanning from May to October each year, there are numerous reasons to take a luxury speedboat journey with 5 Star Marine to the islands surrounding Phuket during this period. While the weather may be less predictable with higher chances of rainfall, the allure of this off-peak season gives unique advantages and captivating experiences.
During low season, there are fewer tourists, meaning less crowds when you take a day trip to discover hidden gems. You get to enjoy a trip with 5 Star Marine to incredible viewpoints, tropical beaches, hidden caves and picture-perfect islands with more tranquillity. Additionally, you are able to carve out a bespoke itinerary which is perfect for you and your friends / family as all our speedboat day trips are customisable; meaning that you have the chance to explore at a more relaxed pace, without the peak season crowds.
Here is some inspiration to embark on a tropical island adventure during low season:
Phi Phi Islands
This beautiful archipelago consists of six small islands off Thailand’s coast, with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh serving as the main attractions.
Renowned for their awe-inspiring landscapes, turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, the Phi Phi Islands have much to offer. With a Phi Phi day trip, you will get the freedom to explore these islands at your leisure, tailoring your itinerary to match your interests and desires. Whether you seek snorkeling adventures, refreshing swims or beach time relaxation, our experienced team can assist in crafting the perfect day.
Consider a visit to Monkey Beach, where playful macaques eagerly welcome you, or indulge in a picnic lunch and snorkelling amidst vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish at Bamboo Island. If you crave the serenity of a hidden cove with emerald-green waters, a refreshing swim in Pileh Lagoon offers the perfect opportunity.
Phang Nga Bay
Venture into the captivating realm of James Bond Island, nestled within Phang Nga Bay, and discover why it holds an esteemed place among the most iconic destinations. Made famous by the 1974 film “The Man with the Golden Gun,” this limestone paradise continues to mesmerize visitors. Experience the renowned Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island private day trip with 5 Star Marine for a memorable adventure.
As boats cannot approach the protected marine area too closely around James Bond Island, the nearby Koh Ping Ghan serves as an ideal vantage point for capturing memorable photographs of the famous island. Here, a striking leaning rock stands tall, complemented by inviting caves to explore.
Afterward, immerse yourself in some exciting sea canoeing—a great way to see Phang Nga Bay up close and personal. Navigate through narrow tunnels, enter hidden caves and discover serene lagoons. James Bond Island and its surrounding wonders await, offering a day trip with 5 Star Marine filled with breath-taking sights and cherished moments.
Racha Islands
If you want to escape to paradise, we recommend a private speedboat day tour to Raya or Racha Islands, providing you with a personalized experience tailored to your desires. These islands provide a stunning day trip location to relax and truly step back and appreciate nature.
Offering a harmonious blend of peaceful, serene settings together with incredible marine life and some of Thailand’s finest snorkelling areas. Discover secluded tropical white powdery beaches and crystal-clear blue seas, unveiling the natural beauty of this area.
Located under 1 hour from 5 Star Marine’s base in Boat Lagoon, you can relax and unwind at the Racha Islands, enjoying peaceful nature walks, serene beach time and world class snorkelling. If you would like to concentrate on some incredible snorkelling spots, our crew know some of the most impressive areas including Siam Bay, which is located on Koh Racha Yai and is renowned for its exquisite coral reefs and marine life including vibrant fish species and even sea turtles.
Khai Islands
For the ultimate in easy, or for a family friendly day trip from Phuket, one of the top locations includes the Khai Islands, which are a trio of small islands (Khai Nai, Khai Nau and Khai Nok). They are super convenient to get to, taking merely 20 minutes by private speedboat before arriving at your destination.
Savour every moment of your experience, at a leisurely pace. At 5 Star Marine, we prioritize your relaxation and encourage you to fully immerse yourself in the joys of the day trip. Enjoy your time shallow snorkelling right from the beach at the Khai Islands, and luxuriate in seeing fish swim right up close to you and being able to relish the experience based on your own timings.
For a fun lunch for groups of friends or families with smaller children, allow us to arrange a delightful beach picnic, providing a hassle-free and enjoyable dining experience.
Coral Island
Coral Island offers a plethora of exciting activities for both children and adults alike. It is a mesmerizing paradise celebrated for its crystal-blue waters and diverse marine life—a must-visit destination for snorkelling enthusiasts. Situated south of Phuket, Coral Island captivates with its vibrant coral reefs and thriving underwater ecosystems.
At the Banana Beach Club, you’ll discover a spacious, open-style restaurant serving a diverse selection of dishes. Indulge in a delightful meal amidst a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, the club offers relaxing massages, opportunities to explore the coastline with canoes and countless Instagram-worthy spots. With ample space, comfortable loungers, shaded tables, swings and playful areas to explore, this destination caters to the enjoyment of both children and adults.
Prepare to be enchanted as you uncover the wonders that lie beneath the surface of Coral Island’s waters—a conveniently located day trip paradise where the beauty of the marine realm unfolds in all its glory.
We hope you feel inspired to go out and explore during this low season. With so much to see and the opportunity to have some utterly stunning spots all to yourself; this really is the time to get out on the water for an adventure.
Please contact us to discuss any island adventures, or to book a bespoke private day trip itinerary.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
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.
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.
