The Action Eight for Phuket Thailand

Kerrie Hall reveals eight exciting ways to get the adrenaline pumping in Phuket Thailand in the Fah Thai March and April 2007 edition.

Endless summers, fabulous seaviews, beachside dining, wonderful sunsets and a laid-back lifestyle are exactly what makes PHuket a true tropical paradise. But while this is heavenly for the most part, what is life without an adrenaline rush once in a while?

Ever wanted to dive with turtles, learn to surf, be a boogie-queen, or go on a jungle adventure? You’ve come to the right place. Seize the moment and live your dreams with one of these eight exciting experiences awaiting you in Phuket Thailand.

1. Martial Art Mix

An explosion of worldwide interest in the King’s sport of muay thai, or Thai boxing, is attracting many international visitors to Phuket’s training gyms where experts run professional courses in the centuries-old martial art. Originally used on the battlefield in male combat, muay thai is also attracting a growing number of females fans interested in learning for fitness and competition. Students enrol in courses ranging from one week to several months that, along with personal techniques and kickboxing sessions, also include gym workouts to increase body strength. Schedules are serious in the Phuket Thailand gyms, but still leave plenty of time for enjoying other attractions in the region of Phuket.

How to: Mixed Martial Arts and Muay Thai Training Centre (www.mmaphuket.com) and Phuket Muay Thai Camp (www.phuket-muay-thai.com).

2. Surf’s Up in Phuket

Popular with the surf fraternity during monsoon season (April to November) when currents, winds and swells descent on the west coast of Phuket, the beach scene gets funky with local and international board-riders and boogiers hanging out for waves. Although not of the mind blowing calibre raved about on the international circuit, the local surf scene does attract a decent crowd for fun of the sport and is a great place to learn. Several surf competitions in Phuket are held each year from Surin in the north to Kalim and the south of the island at Kata Beach. Nai Harn is also a popular surf spot during these months on Phuket, with a legion of surfers and boogie-boarders catching some great waves.

How to: Learn to surf or rent a board at Phuket Surf School (phuketsurf.com) located at the southern end of Kata Beach.

3. Jungle Jaunts on Phuket

Nature lover will delight in the variety of wildlife found in the tropical jungles of the Andaman region and within easy reach of Phuket Thailand, including the myriad of national parks located just over Sarasin Bridge on the mainland in Phang Nga province from PHuket. Drive yourself or take a tour, but be sure to pack a swimsuit, as many feature stunning waterfalls and natural pools for a refreshing dip after exploring the nature trails. For the serious and hardy trekkers, Khao Sok National Park is a few hours drive from Phuket Thailand and offers hiking trails deep into the jungle where untouched beauty abounds. A wealth of exotic animal and bird speices can be sighted, such as wild elephants, macaques, gibbons, hornbills and perhaps even an elusive tiger.

How to: Paddle Asia (www.paddleasia.com) offers a wide range of extreme adventures in Phuket, including hiking, rafting, and mountain climbing.

4. Kayaking in Phuket

The amazing waters of Phuket and the region are easily explored by kayak. Sea kayaking, in particular offers many great experiences including the chance to explore offshore islands, karsts and caves. Head to Yanui in Phuket; this is one of the most scenic coastal regions in the island’s south- with gorgeous surrounding beaches and uninhabited islands nearby, plus a rich marine life to view with a snorkel.

How to: Kayaks are available for hire by the hour from a beach operator at Yanui Phuket. John Gray Sea Canoe (www.johngray-seacanoe.com) offers accredited educational, environmental tours in Phang Nga Bay and beyond.

5. Dive In

The elusive Green Sea Turtle, weighing up to 200kg, is the largest hardshell sea turtle found in tropical, subtropical and warm temperate waters off of Phuket. Protected by the Endangered Species Act, it can be sighted in Phang Nga Bay, the Similan Islands and occasionally Phuket’s west coast. This marine species brings excitement to any dive expedition in operation around the Adaman region of Phuket and along with the amazing coral reefs found here, make this home to some of the world’s best dive sites.

How to: One of Thailand’s oldest and most famed dive operators is Fantasea Divers who run expeditions off Phuket, into Burma and beyond (www.fantasea-divers.com).

6. Hold Tight in Phuket

An emerging activity for thrill-seekers bound for Phuket during monsoon time is kite-surfing – also known as fly-surfing or kite-boarding – the art of jumping waves on a wakeboard and flying through the air propelled by wind and a hovering sail. A rapidly growing sport across the world, many enthusiasts travel with their own equipment and can be sen ripping along the waters at Karon Phuket and off Rawai Beach Phuket Thailand.

How To: Kite Thailand (www.kitethailand.com) has a base at the south end of Rawai Beach at a restaurant called Baan Had Rawai, where lessons for kite-surfing are held during high season in a large shallow sandy area ideal for learning this exciting pastime.

7. Phuket Beach Digs and Bumps

Recent host of the SWATCH-FIVB World Tour Women’s Professional Beach Volleyball Tournament and other popular competitions, Phuket has witnessed a rise in the popularity of this energetic sport, with volleyball nets on most major beaches of Phuket. Many Thai locals are now forming teams for friendly matches and anyone is welcome to join in the Phuket beach action and fun. The activities start when the day cools down, sometime in the late afternoon, when volleyball matches can be found on the sand at Surin, Patong, Karon, and Nai Harn. It’s a great way to meet new friends on Phuket and indulge in fun fitness – plus, the waves are right there for a quick dip afterwards.

How to: Phuket Sports and Tennis now welcomes volleyball enthusiasts to its new international standard volleyball court at Rawai in southern Phuket.

8. On the Water in Phuket Thailand

Boating is one of Phuket’s most popular adventure activities for visitors, and the variety of watercraft available for charter is astounding, although usually, the tour itineraries are set on dedicated courses that don’t deviate from its path along Phuket’s shores. One new luxury operator in Phuket, OmniMarine (www.omnitrips.com) however now offers exclusive experiences designed for the individual aboard a range of imported European vessels. Itineraries are specilised to cater for every whim. It might include a half-day outer island trip on a super-speed, six-passenger Silver Clour or overnight cruising of the Phuket’s Similan Islands Marine National Park aboard a private, fully-catered Ferretti motor yacht. Those who prefer the buzz of being at the helm couldn’t be in a better place to learn. Home of the King’s Cup, Asia’s largest sailng regatta, Phang Nga Bay Regatta in Phuket, Phuket Race Week and other regular yachting events, this part of the Thai cost boasts some of the world’s best sailing waters. With a growing number of marinas in Phuket on the island an more planned for the Andaman region, the opportunities for sailing adventures look set to abound.

How to: The popular Sunsail Phuket (www.sunsailthaildand.com) runs a training school for novices thorugh to competitive racing and Yachtsmaster level.

Bring on the Night – Whistler Nightlife at a Glance

Written by Iris Dineen for the Whistler The Magazine Winter 2006 / Spring 2007 edition. Published solely to promote tourism to Whistler’s nightlife, music and pub scene throughout the year.

Whistler in the winter is best known for its great skiing and snowboarding, but its after-hours scene is fast approaching the same level of recognition among repeat visitors. Let’s face it: Whistler’s vibrant nightlife makes it an extremely popular place to party.

Part of the equation with Whistler’s nightlife is an abundance of great local talent: brilliant resident DJs and local bands keep everyone hyped and the nightlife scene fresh. Clubs in Whistler still regularly mix up the entertainment scnee by booking big-name bands and world-famous DJs.

While finding social activities is easy it’s sometimes hard to decide where to go, because Whistler has so much to offer, especially in nightlife. There is enough going on to satisfy all your social desires. If you’re a “social butterfly”, the eye candy, dancing, socializing, good times and laughs are just a few of the wonderful joys you will encounter in Whistler Village nightlife. Here’s the inside scoop on the pubs and clubs from a locals’ perspective.

It starts with Whistler Buffalo Bill’s, also known as, the cougar bar, which always draws a large crowd. Whether you’re twenty something or fifty something, you will have the time of your life with a gread dance floor, pool table, and video games. Buffalo Bill’s is a fabulous choice and a great place to meet new friends in Whistler. Across the way is Moe Joe’s, where you can always find a great DJ or live show during nightlife. This underground Whistler club is always packed and has the juiciest floor filling entertainment in town.

As you wander down and around the corner in Whistler Village to the jungles of Tommy Africa’s, prepare yourself for a great mix of music and fabulous staff. The vibe here is electrifying and it’s a frenzy of fun every night of the week from’80s night to special events, and the best part is the funky jungle atmosphere. Right in the Whistler Village Square you can venture down into Maxx Fish, which features theme nights, and costume parties; this palce is always full of late-night energy. Just a few doors down is the Savage Beagle, the perfect all-purpose destination in Whistler nightlife with a classy lounge atmosphere upstairs and a wild dance floor downstairs. Last but certainly not least on the Village Stroll in Whistler is Garfinkel’s Night Club, one of the locals’ favourite clubs with Whistler’s hottest dance floor. Some of the best DJs spin at this Whistler club and celebrity sightings are part of the Garfinkel’s legend.

The pubs in Whistler have a cozy yet buzzing atmosphere and are something you will definitely want to explore. You can often catch live entertainment in the late afternoon and early evenings. Check out Merlin’s The Dubh Linn Gate, Tapley’s, Black’s Pub, Brandy’s at The Keg and the Brewhouse in the Whistler Village or Dusty’s Bar and Grill in Creekside. The Whistler pubs are where it’s at if you’re looking for great food, entertainment and friendly service.

Another great place to socialize is on the heated patios in Whistler. These are great places to have a cold drink while you thaw out after a full day of skiing or riding. The patios are the best place to people watch and are a premium pre-party place in Whistler. The Longhorn Saloon, the Garibaldi Lift Company (GLC), Citta’, The Amsterdam Pub and The Mix are frequented by both visitors and locals. Join the crowd.

If you’re in the mood for comfy seating and warm atmosphere in Whistler, we can heartily recommend the Crystal Lounge, Cinnamon Bear Lounge & Grill, the Firerock Lounge, Monk’s Grill, the Bearfoot Bistro’s Champagne Bar, the Araxi Lounge, Elements, the Fifty Two 80 Bistro Bar, three below, Mallard Lounge or 21 Steps “Attic.” Lounging in Whistler is a great place to catch up with friends and rest up for your next big day ahead.

Every night is an adventure in Whistler whether you’re looking for a relaxing lounge, a friendly pub, or bumping club, we can almost guarantee that no visitor will leave unfulfilled.

More information about Whistler Resort, nightlife, pubs, entertainment, recreation and Whistler-Blackcomb is located here.

Kool Koh Chang Travel - What to do in Koh Chang Thailand

Victor Paul Borg reveals the Thai Island’s rising style stakes in Fah Thai – March/April 2007 with permission on March 14, 2007. Part 1 of 2.

Thirty years ago, Konchai Thanasrikul was the first one on the Koh Chang beach at Had Tha Nam, and he immediately envisioned its potential, purchasing a cheap plot of beachfront property and building the Siam Beach Resort’s cluster of rustic bungalows.

“There was nothing at the time,” says Natrapee Somnam, the manager of the Koh Chang resort and Konchai’s confidante. “no road, no water, no electricity, and no cold drinks. Koh Chang guests had to come from the mainland on a long-tail boat that docked on the beach.”

And come they did: Western escapees seeking virtual exile on a tropical island, enchanted by this one’s strips of brilliant – Koh Chang white sand, towering coconut palms, and inviting sweeps of blue sea. The Westerners changed the beach’s Thai name – which means “Beach Pier Water” – to one that was truer to its character, Lonely Beach, a name still in use today.

“Konchai realised that Koh Chang would be as successful as Phuket,” adds Natrapee. Not quite another Phuket, at least not yet, but not far behind now either. Still one of the quietest beaches, Had Tha Nam now boasts five resorts, and last year, Koh Chang’s Siam Beach felt compelled to adapt to the times by tearing down the rustic bungalows and rebuilding swankier residences complete with air-conditioning, TV and parquet floors. The island of Koh Chang was on the up – both in terms of visitor numbers and in style of accommodation.

The Rising Tide of Koh Chang

Elsewhere on Thailand’s second largest island (after Phuket), the real estate development has proceeded even faster. Koh Chang – whose Thai name translates to “Elephant Island” as it is shaped like an elephant’s head – is the largest of an archipelago of 52 islands which were designated a National Park in 1982. At the time, it was home to a few thousand fisherman and a rugged backpacker’s hideway; rapid growth in tourism only came in 2001 to Koh Chang when the government tramaced the road that sirts almost all of its coast and improved the ferry service from the mainland.

The introduction of Bangkok Airways flights a few years later made it all the more accessible – flight time from the capital is just 40 minutes to Koh Chang – and the proximity to Bangkok ensured that it became a viable weekend getaway for city slickers loking for some fun in the sun. Visitor numbers to Koh Chang have climbed to around 800,000 annually, and the transformation from a backpacker’s escapade to an upscale destination resort is now almost complete.

This new influx of higher-budget tourists spurred the construction of several plush Koh Chang resort on some of the west coast’s beaches – best of which are the Amari Emerald Cove Resort and Spa; AANA Resort and Spa; Ramayana Resort and Spa, Aiyapura Resort and Spa, Panviman Resort, and the SPA Koh Chang. All come kitted with luxuries set among tasteful designs and boast impressive spas offering all types of exotic therapies – traditional or modern massages as well as many rejuvenation treatments.

More new Koh Chang resorts are sprouting up with at least two openings expected in March; The Dewa, from the same owners of the upscale Ramayana, and the swanky Princess Resort Koh Chang by the Dusit chain, whose 96 rooms are a study of sublime Thai contemporary design.

Now, the island of Koh Chang is also due to get another first in the form of two separate private luxury residential developments – Tranquility Bay Residence near Bang Bao and Siam Royal View in Khlong Son village – to be sold as holiday or retirement homes, both complete with private yacht marinas.

Something for Everyone in Koh Chang

Not all resorts are high-end in Koh Chang, but different types of visitors will find something that suits their tastes and budgets in the three main beaches. Broadly speaking, these house expensive designer resorts at Had Kai Bae; cheaper backpacker bungalows at Had Tha Nam; and mid-range accommodations at Had Sai Khao, the longest beach in Koh Chang.

Yet, all these beaches hold the three quitessential Koh Chang experiences: a Thai massage under the coconut palms right in the sand, a dinner of fresh grilled seafood on tables set up on the beach and shows by the famour fire jugglers.

It is also possible to choose from a multitude of water-based activities such as snorkelling, or diving tours to explore coral reefs filled with barracudas at a cluster of offshore isles from Koh Chang in the south or fishing trips to reel in a variety of marine life, including the night time catching of squid.

Emerald Island, Koh Chang

Everywhere else, Koh Chang largely remains gloriously natural. The new developments are limited to small pockets along the west coast. Every vista is dominated by the interior spine of Koh Chang’s mountains, which meet the clouds at the higher summits, and are covered in impenetrable old growth jungle.

Indeed, the island of Koh Chang is one of Thailand’s greenest spots, and it is a joy to explore on a moped and make fascinating little discoveries –waterfalls and lagoons, tranquil creeks or streams, and a handful of quiet undeveloped beaches. The tastes of nature are all around: fresh watery wind, massive trees looming overhead, birdsong in the mornings, cacophonies of toads at night, short-tailed macaque monkeys dashing across the road, and cobras hissing in the grass.

The easiest way to get closer to the forests of Koh Chang is on an elephant at the elephant camp called Ban Kwan Chang in Khlong Son village. The camp’s 10 elephants and 10 mahours (elephant masters) – one mahout for one elephant – all hail from Surin, the northeastern province where mechanical tractors have yet to supersede the trunked workers in farms.

“We buy all the elephants when they are old and no longer strong enough for the farm,” explains Somsri Saiyot, who runs the camp with his mahout colleagues on Koh Chang island. “Elephants typically live until about 80 years old, and we only have females here, as males can be violent at times.”

The docile giants are playful with Koh Chang tourists, joyfully frolicking and trumpeting when fed, and splashing in the river like excited children during the treks that take Koh Chang visitors up the river and into the virgin jungle on elephant back.

Part 2 Continues Here.