| Things to do in Phuket : May 2008 |
| Phuket
has plenty of choices when it comes to places to see
and things to do. This time we would like to offer you
a guide to some activities which will give you an insight
into Thai culture. This understanding may improve your
holiday experience and perhaps persuade you to return
in the future. |
Visit a Wat (Temple)
The culture of Thailand is heavily influenced by Buddhism...
There are of course many temples in Phuket, but the most popular
is Wat Chalong which is situated to the southeast of Phuket
City.
Wat Phra Tong is also a popular attraction for both visitors
and local residents. Phra Tong means "Golden Buddha" One attraction
is that the upper half of the golden Buddha image appears to
sprout up from the ground. The temple is located on Thepkrasattri
Road 20 kilometres from Phuket City.
Wat Khao Nakkerd is on the top of Nakkerd Hill where a huge
Buddha statue is being built. The hill offers 360 degree panoramic
views. From Wat Chalong, drive towards Chalong and turn right
at Soi Yodsane. Follow this road for six kilometres. The route
is marked by yellow flags.
When you visit a temple remember to remove your shoes, hat
and sunglasses before entering the temple building and to dress
modestly. If you sit in front of any religious artifact such
as a Buddha image, you should not point your feet towards the
object. Importantly, women should not attempt to touch a monk.
Try Home Stay
Would you like to experience our local cultural flow and way
of life? Try a "home stay". An example is Kho Yao Community
Based Ecotourism Club, which offers tour itineraries.
The tours can include the experience of traditional fishing
for prawns and fish with a hinged floating basket or net. Try
your hand at the printing of batiks. You could also visit the
fruit orchards or a coconut plantation where monkeys do the
work.
Koh Yao is a Muslim community so guests are asked to refrain
from alcohol and to wear modest clothing whilst visiting. Accommodation
including three meals is 650 baht/person/night.
For more information: Koh Yao Homestay - Tel: 0 7659 7428,
08 9723 5367
E-mail: kohyao07@gmail.com, Website: www.kohyaohomestay.com
Try Muay Thai (Thai Boxing)
Saphan Hin Stadium in Phuket City stages regular demonstrations
by well-trained martial arts experts and there are plenty of
schools on the island offering training in Muay Thai. If you
prefer a quiet gym, then Rawai Muay Thai Camp in the south
of the island might be suitable for you. If you plan to watch
a Muai Thai fight for real, you should visit the Boxing Stadium
located in Bangla Road, Patong.
Where to go:
Saphan Hin Stadium-Saphan Hin, Phuket City.
Bouts are held every Friday evening from about 8pm.
Rawai Muay Thai Camp-Rawai
Tel: 08 1476 9377, Website: www.rawaimuaythai.com.
Phuket Muay Thai Camp and Gym-Kata Beach
Tel: 0 7628 4090, Website: www.phuket-muay-thai.com
Learn to Cook Thai Food
The unique and exotic flavor of Thai cuisine is well-known throughout
the world. If you love Thai food and want to learn how it’s done,
it is worth taking a day or two of your holiday to attend a Thai
cooking class. You get to sample what you have made!
In Phuket there are several cooking schools that offer excellent
courses where you can learn directly from professional Thai cooks.
The classes range from half-day sessions to advanced courses
covering several weeks.
Classes are offered at the following:
Mom Tri's Boathouse-Tel: 0 7633 0015-7, Website: www.boathousephuket.com
Kangsadaan Thai Cooking school-Land & House Park, Chaiyapruerk
Tel: 08 96511064, Website: www.kangsadaan.com
Sukko Spa, which also offers 'Thai cultural courses'
Tel: 0 7626 3222, Website: www.sukkospa.com
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