Specialist Holidays
1. Scuba Diving
The Andaman Sea offers stunning underwater scenery teeming with colorful fish and reefs, as well as crystal-clear waters. Day excursions and live-aboard boats for multi-day trips, depart for popular dive sites, including the Similan Islands.
Scuba Cat Diving • 94 Thaweewong Road, Patong • 07629 3120 • www.scubacat.com
2. Cycling
An ideal way to explore rain forests, mountains, and countryside villages, cycling holidays traverse some of Phuket’s prettiest back roads and offer an intimate way of experiencing local lifestyles. Tours leave from Phuket to Khao Lak and Khao Sok National Park.Amazing Bike Tours Thailand • 07628 3436 • www.amazingbiketoursthailand.asia
3. Sailing
Sailing enthusiasts throng Phuket for the annual King’s Cup Regatta and The Bay Regatta. During the rest of the year, Phuket is a popular hub for sailors who want to explore Phang Nga Bay. Marinas, chartered boat tours, and yacht clubs provide a range of daytrips and overnight journeys.Phuket Sail Tours • 199/20 Moo 5, Srisoonthorn, Thalang • 087 897 0492 • www.phuketsailtours.com
4. Wildlife Watching
The national parks of northern Phuket, Khao Lak, and Khao Sok provide sanctuary to many exotic bird and animal species. Several tour companies offer itineraries geared toward spotting elusive creatures in the wild.Paddle Asia • 18/58 Radanusorn • 07624 1519 • Birding day trip: 6:30am–2:30pm daily • www.paddleasia.com
5. Culinary
From simple sidewalk food stalls serving basic Thai-style fried noodles to upscale white-tablecloth restaurants overlooking the sea, Phuket represents a veritable foodie paradise in Southern Thailand. The island also offers a number of schools where you can learn to cook Thai food.
6. Kayaking
See the wonderful lagoons of Phang Nga Bay by kayak – visit enchanting aquatic grottoes, or join an overnight trip where you camp on an uninhabited island. Some tours explore the mangrove forests along Phuket’s coasts.John Gray’s Sea Canoe • 124 Soi 1 Yaowarat Road, Phuket Town • 07625 4505 • 07625 4506 • 07625 4507 • www.johngray-seacanoe.com
7. Spiritual Vacations
Although not generally considered a “spiritual” destination, Phuket does have plenty of soul-seeking opportunities. Many high-end hotels offer yoga classes, while meditation retreats are held at local centers. Watch monks at Buddhist temples perform timeless ceremonies, or join a meditation retreat.
8. Family Vacations
Many hotels in Phuket hotels are child-friendly – they feature special kids clubs, pools and supervisors. With its numerous beaches, golf courses, water parks, tennis courts, and venues such as Phuket Fantasea, the island is a great place for family travel.
9. Honeymoons
As a honeymoon destination, Phuket boasts spectacular beauty: white sand beaches, palm trees, emerald waters, and an extensive choice of resorts, bungalows, and private villas. Few places in the world offer as much romantic possibility, coupled with such good facilities, as Phuket.
10. Rock Climbing
Whether you are an amateur or a veteran cliffhanger, the limestone rock formation on Ko Phi Phi has scenic routes for climbers of all levels. The routes are well-maintained and there is a climbing course for beginners.Spidermonkey Climbing • Loh Dalum Bay, Ko Phi Phi • 07560 1026 • www.spidermonkeyphiphi.com
