4 1 1 4 8 8

Leisure

Lifestyle

Page 27

SURIN

Living

Be beautiful. Make friends.

International DJs Giant Rain Shower Easy drinks & food
Surin Beach, 076 316 580, 10:00-19:00 hrs, bimibeachclub.com

4 1 1 4 8 8

EDITORS NOTE

Leisure

Lifestyle

Living

Page 27

t cannot be disputed that there are a number of issues with Phukets infrastructure
which need to be addressed to ensure that
it will continue to be seen as a world class
tourist destination. Luckily, a number of those
issues are currently being addressed and some
are actually in the process of being improved.
One of the main issues which has been a
continuous talking point has been the islands
International Airport, which saw a record 9.5
million arrivals and departures in 2012, up 13
per cent from 2011, and hopefully by the time
you are reading this the airports new Terminal
X will officially be servicing Phukets arrivals
and departures. Its also possible that a number
of you are some of the estimated four thousand
travelers that are to going to use it each and
every day.
The total expansion project has cost in the region of THB 5.8 billion, the new terminal building
using more than 100 million baht of that budget.
The remainder of which is being used to refurbish the existing terminal, build a new car park
and air cargo office, and other airfield improvements.
We at Phuketindex.com hope that the upgrades
to Phuket International Airport have made arrivals and departures to the island a lot less troublesome and that you will continue to choose
Phuket as your preferred holiday destination.

SURIN

Please enjoy your time here and we certainly

hope you enjoy reading our publication.

Leisure

Lifestyle

Living

Publisher Guide Vision Limited

Editor in Chief Jormnapa Utuchkul
Phuketindex.com Team Arnat Utuchkul, Nunghatai Cholchawalit, Matthew Pond, Siripong Mukda,
Paradorn Promkird, Sirisawan Hemtanon
Advertising Enquiries sales@guidevision.com
Subscription Enquiries subscription@guidevision.com
Tel. +66 (0) 76 240 749 Fax. +66 (0) 76 240 750
www.facebook.com/phuketindex

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40

36

27

CONTENTS
FEBRUARY 2014 APRIL 2014

On The Cover
27 Lard yai

22

Walking Street Market

12

Phuket News Update

Social Life
14 Health & Beauty

Renew, Refresh and Enhance your Face

16
22

Local Life
40 Feature

Phuket Darkroom Club: Dreaming in Analog

46

Event Interviews
Social Talk

Travel Life
25 Feature

48

34

Where to Go

Shopping

52

Local Talk

Recommended Items
Chayuth Keawklin
- The Identity of Window

52

Design & Awnings

Highlights of some of Phukets Best Eateries

Central Festival Phuket
A great day out for all the family!

36

Johan Homqvist

50

Way of Life

32

Hotel, House & Home

The Man Behind the Design

Places to Explore the Real Phuket

Where to Eat

Phuket Vegetarian festival

- Not for the Faint Hearted

Kiranee Narabal - A Regular Face on

Phukets Event Scene

Arts & Culture

Travel Talk
Goetz Bauer - From City Life to Beach Life

56

Directory

58

Special Feature
National Reporters Day
www.phuketindex.com

11

News
Phuket News Update

Phuket News Update

Cucina Reopens with
Expanded Concept

BAKE Now Open at

Villa Market Cherng
Talay

JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spas

award-winning Italian restaurant
Cucina recently reopened following a
two month refurbishment to broaden
and enhance guests dining experiences.

As a boutique bakery and caf,

BAKE is the perfect complement to
the new Villa Market, an international
supermarket known for its top quality
produce and services. A cosy retreat
to relax in before, or after shopping,
BAKE offers a fine selection of baked
goods, coffee, teas and refreshing
drinks to enjoy in a stylish setting.

The restaurant now operates as a

Pizzeria by day and Trattoria by night,
serving traditional Italian favorites
that are simple, flavourful and true
to their roots. The new menu offers
authentic favorites, including the
signature dishes Risotto Al Granchio
(Jumbo crab meat, celeriac puree)
and Pizza Con Prosciutto Crudo,
Rucola E Parmigiano, Tomato Sauce,
Mozzarella, Parma Ham, Parmigiano,
Rocket Salad. A must-try dessert is
the home-made Tiramisu.
The refurbishment has also seen the
creation of a new bar, renovation of
the wine shop and increased seating
capacity on the terrace, which now
has sliding doors around it to offer
protection from the elements when
needed.
To make a booking, please contact
the Restaurant Reservation Desk on
Tel: +66 76 338 000 or
e-mail: mhrs.hktjw.fbdiningexperience
@marriott.com

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This is the fifth BAKE to open since

the resort-operated bakery made its
sweet entrance to the Phuket dining
scene nearly four years ago. Phuket
gourmands can now easily find their
favourite BAKE goods at their original
location in Chalong, plus BAKE
Cherng Talay near Laguna Phuket,
BAKE British International School
and BAKE Sino@ByPass in Phuket
Town.

Angsana Laguna Phuket has recently announced

the appointment of Mr. Sree Valsan as the resorts
new Director Food & Beverage, overseeing the
six restaurants and bars at Angsana Laguna
Phuket,as well as being responsible for the
management of the resorts catering and banquet
operations.

Created with care and using only

the finest ingredients, BAKEs range
of tasty items are ideal for those
wishing to add some luxury to their
day or some decadent flavours to a
special occasion. Treat yourself with
BAKEs choice of gourmet chocolates, pralines, cookies, macaroons,
meringues and more.

Prior to joining Angsana Laguna Phuket, Mr.

Valsan, spent over 25 years in some of the
worlds finest resorts and restaurants. He started
his career in 1988 as a Hotel Operations Trainee
with The Krishna Oberoi Hyderabad. Among other
hotels he worked for are Hotel Bhaskara Palace
Ashok, Hyderabad, Taj Connemara, Chennai and
Holiday Inn Hyderabad. His last postion was the
Area Food & Beverage Director of Laguna Bintan,
where he oversaw the financial management,
planning, human resources, product design and
marketing of the F&B operations in Banyan Tree
Bintan, Angsana Bintan and Laguna Bintan Golf
Club. Mr. Valsans extensive background in the
hospitality world provides him with a well-rounded
perspective of the industry that will seamlessly
integrate into his current role.

BAKE@Villa Market is open daily

Angsana Laguna Phuket

from 8am-10pm
Located at Boat Avenue shopping
centre, Cherng Talay
bakebakery.com
facebook.com/bakebakery

www.phuketindex.com

Angsana Laguna Phuket

Appoints New F & B Director

10 Moo 4 Srisoonthorn Road,

Phuket 83110, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 324 101 Fax: +66 (0) 76 324 108
E-mail: reservations-lagunaphuket@angsana.com

News
Phuket News Update

Welcome Love Season with Quan Spas

Valentines Choco Bliss Treatment

For an intimate Valentines experience, call The Quan Spa,

Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa, and book your Couples
Chocolate Massage. This special 90 minute Valentines experience includes a soothing Pomegranate Sugar Foot Scrub, Hot
Chocolate Body Scrub and complete Body Massage using a
Golden Sexy Skin Hot Massage Candle. The result of the entire
experience is soft, smooth skin with a hint of chocolate aroma, a
natural aphrodisiac.
To start this Valentines experience, the couple is escorted to a
private couples spa suite. The treatment begins with a Pomegranate Foot Scrub to smooth, soften, brighten and refresh the
skin. The couple will then relax on treatment tables where two
therapists work side-by-side to apply a Hot Chocolate Body
Scrub which penetrates deep into the pores. At the end of the
body scrub, the couples use the in-room shower and return for
an invigorating complete Hot Candle Body Massage. And all of
this together with the scent of real chocolate in the treatment
room special treats of dark chocolate and homemade chocolate cookies.
Afterwards, it is time for the couple to retreat and take their time
by the waterfalls at the relaxation area.
The price for the Couples Chocolate Treats is 7,000THB* for
couples or 3,800THB* for individuals.
*Subject to 17.7% service charge and tax
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa

555, Moo 3, Mai Khao, Talang, Phuket 83110 Thailand

Phone: +66 (0) 76-363999

Chinese New Year

Mandarin Body Polish
& Glow at Cool Spa

Book a refreshing Mandarin Body Polish

& Glow for 60 minutes at Sri panwas Cool
Spa, at the price of 2,200THB++, and
receive a 30 minute complimentary Focus
Massage.
During Chinese New Year, Mandarin
Oranges are considered traditional symbols of abundance and good fortune. The
succulent flesh and juice of the Mandarin
is infused with sweet honey, milk and pure
essential oils to create an invigorating
scrub that cleanses away dead skin cells
leaving the skin soft and smooth.
Mandarins are an excellent source of
natural vitamin A & B, amino acids and
beta-carotene.
Conditions:
Offer is valid from 1st 28th Feb 2014.
The free treatment will be in the same
treatment room and adjacent to the
time of the paid treatment.
This promotion may not be combined
with other special offers.
Prices are in Thai Baht and are subject
to 10% service charge and applicable
government tax.
Cool Spa

88 moo 8, Sakdidej Road, Vichit, Muang,

Phuket 83000, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 371 000
Fax: +66 (0) 76 371 004

www.phuketindex.com

13

Social Life
Health & Beauty

RENEW
REFRESH
& Enhance

Face
Y

your

our face is what you show the world, reflecting your

youth, spirit and vitality. But what happens when little
wrinkles appear around the eyes or lips, age spots
& sagging skin start to become more visible or other
signs of aging start to appear and make individuals look older
than they feel?
Fortunately, we now have the cosmetic technology and procedures to correct or improve a host of facial imperfections.
From sun damage and acne scars to birthmarks and wrinkles,
a well-trained and experienced cosmetic surgeon can almost
always help achieve a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing
appearance.
Central Festival Phuket has one zone dedicated to health &
beauty featuring a range of leading beauty institutes with experienced, highly trained teams who offer an abundance of surgical
and non-surgical approaches designed to renew, refresh and
enhance the face.

Image Copyright Valua Vitaly, 2014 Used under license from Shutterstock.com

Heres our recommendations should you be considering a

facial cosmetic treatment.

The Skin Doctor

The Skin Doctors diagnose and treat a wide
variety of skin disorders in patients of all ages,
such as treatment programmes for various
skin conditions, especially acne and acne
scars, treatment of pigmentation problems,
and an array of cosmetic enhancement solutions. Treatments are customised to suit individual
problems and individual needs, without the use of
painful needle injections or skin irritable technology.
They also provide a new technique of lifting the face and neck
combining three technologies into a single treatment; Radio Frequency (radio frequency RF), Soft Laser and Lifting Tri-Polar. A
radio frequency emitter is pressed up against the skin to get past
the outer skin layers and deliver heat energy to the muscles and
tissues beneath. The heat helps to contract these layers and

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build up collagen levels. The overall result tightens up

the outer layers of skin and reduces wrinkling effects. This proven
medical procedure requires no scalpels; patients see the change in
30 minutes with no pain and impressive results!

Tel. +66 (0) 76 307 112

Social Life
Health & Beauty

Nitipon Clinic
Nitipon offers non-surgical treatments that maintain
healthy skin. We suggest you to try a Facial Design
Treatment Course at Nitipon Clinic. The highlights are
laser and injection-free anti-aging treatments which
combat wrinkles and firm up saggy skin. All products are
approved by the American FDA.
Non-invasive in nature, the Face Design treatment fights
off premature signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines,
and sagging skin. As blood circulation is stimulated,
making the skin appear more radiant and healthier.

Romrawin Clinic
Romrawin Clinic offer Turbo Bright Treatment, the technology
involves using the force of water and oxygen at the speed of 200
meters per second onto the skin so that the speed and heat can
impact the skin by entering the pores to remove dirt, fat
deposits and waste that are stuck in pores so it falls off.

During the 50-minute session, the beautician first removes makeup, before initiating the treatment Bio Stick,
coupled with whitening, detox, and multiple vitamins. You
may apply makeup right after the session. For optimal
results, 3-4 treatments are recommended.

Tel. +66 (0) 76 307 105

It also stimulates the dead cells that are dulling so the skin falls
off. This means no more dullness or dark spots. Instead the skin
condition is adjusted, bacteria is killed which means pores
cannot get infected or clogged, the skin is light and the skin type
is improved. The skin will also be able to retain moisture better,
and collagen can better grow. At the end, the pores will be able to
close better, marks will be less visible and the skin will feel even
and smooth.
This Turbo Bright treatment is acclaimed in the beauty and skin
circles as to having the effectiveness of Microdermabrasia and
Mesotheraphy combined in a new improved and very result oriented technology.

Tel. +66 (0) 76 307 097-9

www.phuketindex.com

15

Social Life
Event Interview

Longest Table
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
Friday 6th December 2013 saw Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa and SALA
Phuket Resort and Spa once again joining together to host the epic and regular
The Longest Table event to kick off the 4th annual North Phuket Culinary Arts
Festival.

Goetz Bauer - GM Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa

Im really happy with how the North Phukets Culinary Arts Festivals Longest
Table event has gone here at Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa & Sala Phuket
Resort & Spa. Last year, as soon as the event started it began to rain and this
is the only problem that we face and we
have no influence over. This year were
very lucky that its not raining and now to
stand here at night seeing all the lights
and fires coming from the cooking stations
makes it an outstanding event and its
great PR for the whole of North Phuket.

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Social Life
Event Interview

Re-branding Cocktail Party

Phunawa Resort
On Friday 6th December 2013, a cocktail party was held to mark the official launch of the rebranded Phunawa Resort, previously the Karon Sovereign All Suite Resort, at its rooftop bar.

Phunawa Resort Owner - Stefan Hermansson

I would like to announce to you that effective from today onwards there is no more Karon
Sovereign All Suite Resort. However we are still operating but now under the re-branded title of
Phunawa.
The main reason for the rebranding is to let everyone know that we will also be upgrading from
a 3 star resort to a 4+ star resort. Along with rebranding our name, we have also upgraded all
the resorts rooms, restaurant, and bar and have added additional services and facilities such as
a spa, kids club and sports activities.
I would like to officially announce that Phunawa will soon become the most well-known and
best resort in the market, especially for families, because most of our rooms are suites which
are located close to the mountain and sea.

www.phuketindex.com

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Social Life
Event Interview

Best of the West Vs Feast from the East Buffet

JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa
On Sunday 8th December 2013, JW Marriott Resort & Spa once again played
host to the final event of the fourth annual North Phuket Culinary Arts Festival
with a The Best of the West Vs the Feast from the East Buffet, the largest buffet to ever have been offered in Phuket.

Joerg Delin F & B Director - JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa

This Best of the West Vs Feast from the East Buffet being held at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa is the grand finale to the North Phuket Culinary Arts
Festival 2014, and is the largest ever in Phuket. The buffet is a chance for our
guests to sample all of our dining options at one time, with live cooking stations
from our Kabuki, Cucina, Andaman Grill & Ginja outlets all providing food and
beverage options for people to try out.
We believe that 380 have joined the event and enjoyed the various activities
available to them. There have been a variety of shows and entertainment, the
atmosphere has been tremendously vibrant, and its been a very successful
event with all the guests having a great time.

Dietmar Spitzer Executive Chef JW Marriott Phuket

Resort & Spa
This event here tonight has been fantastic! I have my entire team of 80 chefs,
from all our outlets, working hard at their designated cooking stations to make
sure that all the guests are well catered for. It has been extremely successful
especially the seafood station.

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Social Life
Event Interview

Hardys Winery Wine Cocktail Party at Beachcomber

Centara Grand Resort
On 11th November 2013, William Bill Hardy, the 5th generation and
brand ambassador for Hardys Winery hosted a Wine Cocktail Party (Four
cooking stations paired with Hardys wines) at Beachcomber, Centara
Grand Resort Phuket, where guests enjoyed good food, great wines together with a perfect sunset .

William Bill Hardy Brand Ambassador Hardys Wines:

The event tonight here at the lovely Centara Grand Resort is actually a
double celebration, we are celebrating Hardys 160 years in business
this year and were also celebrating the launch of some new wines
which carry my name. In fact, this new William Hardy range is being
launched for the first time here at this event tonight. Those are two
big reasons were here tonight, but were also very good friends
with the Assistant Food & Beverage Manger here at
Centara Grand Resort and hes put together a
function where were pairing some of our
Australian wines with some dishes, and
the evening is about the match of the
wines and the food.

www.phuketindex.com

19

Social Life
Event Interview

Hardys Wine Dinner at Sams Steak & Grill

Holiday Inn Phuket
Tuesday 12th November 2013 saw Holiday Inn Resort Phuket host a
Hardys Wine Dinner at the resorts popular Sams Steak & Grill. Guest of
honour for the exclusive wine dinner was William Bill Hardy who provided
a fascinating presentation on his wines and his personal recommendations
for pairing five Hardys wines with a five course dinner.

Morgan Layberry Executive Assistant Manager, Food and

Beverage, Holiday Inn Phuket
The whole evening has been wonderful. The wines have been fantastic,
and the recommendations from Bill Hardy and Ambrose Wines & Spirits
have been very easy for us to work with in terms of making a menu that
matches well and delivers well with the customers. I think everyones had
a wonderful night and I have certainly enjoyed myself. Its been a great
success overall!

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9.00-24.00

Social Life
Social Talk

Kiranee
Narabal
A Regular Face on Phukets Event Scene

huket Island is relatively small compared to other tourist destinations, but

all year round Phuket is able to offer
both its residents and visitors a wide
range of world class events for those who wish to
attend. From live music concerts, food festivals,
and sports competitions to lectures, conferences,
exhibitions, fund raisers, religious ceremonies
and festivals, exhibits, and family fun, Phuket has
something going on almost every week of the
year, and a growing number of these events now
draw visitors from all over the world.
For those who are regular attendees at the
islands events, it doesnt take long to realize
how small the island is, as after attending maybe
3 or 4 events you can be sure that 60 or 70
percent of the faces you would have
seen before, and one of those faces is
probably going to be that of Kiranee
Narabal, Khun Joey, who attends a
large number of the islands events
either as a guest, guest speaker or
MC. However, for those who know
Khun Joey and her hectic business
life, its amazing that she gets to
attend events at all.
In the following pages you too can get to
know Khun Joey and find out her opinion on the
islands events.
A true Phuketian, Khun Joey is CEO/Co-Owner
of Unique Communications - Asia, a communications company specializing in providing public
speakers, DJs and MCs for events, and also
organizing small and large scale functions. She is
also the third generation of her family to be owner
and head of the local private Thalang Wittaya
Kindergarten and School, along with being a part

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time lecturer at both Phuket Prince of Songkhla & Phuket Rajabhat

Universities. And if that isnt quite enough to take up a young
womans day, she also has time to be secretary of the Business
and Professional Womens Associations of Thailand - Phuket
Chapter, MC, media host & TV presenter.

Social Life
Social Talk
the Kings Cup Regatta, where
media partners etc would get
involved.
Phuket also now has such a
diverse group of nationalities
that live and work here that the
whole image of people attending
events here has changed a lot,
from the way they dress through
to conversation, it is completely
different.
I also believe the part that
media plays in Phuket now has
changed the outlook of people
who attend events here. Before
people werent worried about
being seen but now they want to
be, and theyre not just attending
for the purpose of business, its
so much more about socializing
with people from a vast range of
industries.

How often do you attend events nowadays?

I would say that nowadays its at least once a week, theres
always something which comes up which I will be invited to
either as a guest, MC or as part of the organizing committee, especially if theyre related to academies or government
organizations.

Have Phuket events changed over time?

Yes events here have definitely changed. When I was younger,
events here were pretty much Thai only affairs organized by
government organizations, NPOs, local Thai companies or
organizations. At this time everybody in Phuket knew each
other either through their families or through business organizations such as the Lions Club, Rotary etc and all the events
were organized and attended by this small group of people.
However, nowadays with such a dramatic change in the
islands industries events and their attendees are so much
more diverse and multi-cultural, and rather than being purely
local business or government organized they will involve a
sponsor. In the past an event in Phuket would never have
had a sponsor unless it was one of such a large scale like

Gaining
respect is
of far greater
importance
than gaining
attention

Can you tell us something unique/interesting that most

people wouldnt know about you?
Most people know me as a local businesswoman; others know
me as a lecturer. However, what a lot of people dont know
about me is that Im a marathon runner. Those here that are
fans of fitness and sport will know that I partake in most of the
races that happen in and also outside of Phuket.
In addition, people also wont know that Im the secretary for
the Private Education Association of Phuket. I, get together
regularly with the owners of the islands other private education
institutions to try to develop the standards and services offered
by Phukets private education facilities.

How important is your look when attending events here

and why?
For me this isnt really important. From a young age I have
always believed that yes your look is important, but gaining
respect is of far greater importance than
gaining attention, it lasts a lot longer. Of
course I care about how I look but I care a
lot more about how I carry and put myself out.

I always attend events in a different role

and it is important that I present myself
according to my role at an event.
Obviously if Im attending a themed event
I will dress according to the theme, and if
I attend a fashion event I will wear an outfit
which is made by the events designer, its
important for me that I adhere to and follow
the requirements of any event which I
may be invited to or wish to attend.

www.phuketindex.com

23

Social Life
Social Talk
Although they are not the most luxurious of events, these
types of events are a great opportunity for people to learn
about and see the real side of Phuket.
However, I do understand that those involved in the organization of these events need to do more to attract foreign
visitors. In the long term it will be a big win situation for
Phuket, not only will they bring more visitors to the island,
they will also help to keep the islands original culture and
heritage.

What event are you looking forward to the most this

year?
That would have to be the Kings Cup Regatta, one of
Phukets biggest and most
important events held to celebrate His Majesty the Kings
birthday.
This event could be held anywhere in Thailand but Phuket
is lucky enough to have been
chosen as the host destination
for a world class sailing event,
which also marks possibly the
most important day in Thailands calendar.

In your opinion what is

the best regular event in
Phuket and why?
What is the best Phuket event
you have attended?
For me personally, this is an
event which I was recently asked
to be involved with as an MC.
Central Festival Phuket was
lucky to host an event with Dave
Pearson, the worlds number one pool entertainer, and currently the
holder of four Guinness World Records for speed pool. He was here
to attempt to break some of his world records and I spent a great deal
of time with the event organizers and Dave getting to know about him
and what he does.
On the day of the event I was at the venue from lunch time until 1am,
and the entire event was so impressive and was the best event I have
ever been part of.

What are some of the events that people really should attend
if they get the chance?
There are many great events here, but in my opinion the best events
for foreigners to attend are Phukets cultural events such as The
Phuket Old Town Festival and Chinese New Year Festival. Why?
Because if youre a foreigner here its a chance for you to witness a
part of Phukets history and culture. An event in Phuket is not just a
party on the beach, and people have to realize this.

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For sure it has to be the

Phuket Vegetarian Festival; this cannot be compared to
anything else because its an event that has everything. It
offers entertainment, it offers culture, and it offers food and
so much more.
When I was younger it was such a small affair for only
those of Chinese heritage, but now its broadcast to a
national audience and attracts thousands upon thousands
of visitors. However, I still feel Phuket could do more to
make it more appealing to foreign visitors and not only
Thais. More marketing should be done in the English
language so that people really understand what the true
meaning of the event is and what each of the different days
represents.

What are your top tips for those wanting to attend

Phukets events?
It is important that people carry themselves correctly and
they respect the hosts of the event. Dress respectively
when it is required of you and always greet people in the
correct manner, this is very important because after attending
events for a short time you can be sure you are going to
see these people again. Also, make sure you always carry
your business card, something which I am guilty of not
doing. Business is around every corner here and you never
know when business is going to come your way.

Travel Life
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Best Places
to Explore

PH

Feature

000

the Real Phuket Way of Life

Phuket has many places to visit and lots of things to do for any holiday maker. In fact, there
are so many fun places to visit and interesting things to do its sometimes difficult to choose.
However, if you take a visit to Phuket Town, youll find a variety of attractions all within easy
reach of one another. These places reflect Phukets true identity and allow you to see and get
to know the route of its culture and the way of life of true Phuketians.
Weve chosen our five best and most interesting places to visit, and we believe that they
should all be on the list of places to visit for anyone visiting the island. All of these places are
popular places to visit for their own individual reasons.
If youre here in Phuket or planning a trip here, dont miss these places of interest and youll
have a wonderful vacation.

www.phuketindex.com

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Travel Life
Feature

Phuket Indy Market

Phuket Towns twice-weekly Indy Market on Dibuk Road
is known in Thai as laad ploy kong (a market to let go
of your goods). It is also a place where locals, especially
teenagers and young adults, come to enjoy themselves
with an entertaining mix of vendors, live performances
and more. The good thing about this lively but relatively
unknown market is that its small and clean. Its made
up of just one lane along Limelight Avenue, next to the
popular Lemongrass Restaurant..
The many goods displayed at Phuket Indy Market include
jeans, flip-flops, shoes and ladies bags made from water

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hyacinths. There are also some quite unique items such

as customised handmade key rings, and the most fun item
of all is a single rice grain with your name stenciled onto
it, which can be used as part of a pendant, key ring or
bracelet.
Many youngsters are encouraged to join in and express
themselves through creative activities and the organizers use the stage to promote Thai traditional festivals,
international events and the building up of public awareness issues

Open: Every Thursday and Friday

16:00 22:00

Travel Life

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Lard yai
83
Walking Street Market
000

D
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IL

PH

Feature

Lard Yai, which in Chinese means Big Market Street, is known here as the
Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market, and it was organized to promote and
preserve the architecture and buildings of Old Town Phuket, and also to keep the
culture and way of life of Phuket people. The market is designed to show the different and unique composition of the area and showcases elements of the wide
variety of races and religions, including Indian, Pakistani and Chinese, Buddhist
and Muslim.
The market is separated into four different zones - food, souvenirs, handcrafts
and shows. Contemporary and traditional food plays a huge part in the market
featuring items from the various races and religions. Styrofoam, smoking and the
selling of pirated goods are banned from the market.
The style of this market is similar to the Old Phuket Town
Festival, held only once a year, but now with the
Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market you
can experience the true Phuket Old Town
for one day, every week of the year, and
the colourfully lit buildings of the market have made it famous and popular
with a large number of both tourists
and locals.

Open: Thalang Road

every Sunday
16:00 - 22:00.

www.phuketindex.com

27

Travel Life
Feature

Khao Toh Sae

Located on the
west side of Phuket
Island, Khao Toh
Sae (Toh Sae
Mountain) is the
islands highest
peak at approximately 250 meters,
the equivalent of a
70 storey building.
Khao Tah Sae is
distinguishable by
the vast number of radio and television aerials positioned at the
very top.
Due to its steep incline, Koh Toh Sae is a popular jogging spot
for a large number of Phuketians looking to improve their physical
performance, plus being a little off the beaten track it also has the

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added bonus of clean fresh air. If you want to join the

locals and try this run its advisable to take it slow as it
really is quite high, and the higher you go, the lower the
air pressure gets.
For true Phuket people, Toh Sae is not just a place for
exercise; its also a place for worship as it is home to the
Por Ta Toh Sae Chinese shrine. Toh Sae is a deceased
patriarch that has been highly respected by Phuket
people for a long time; they say that Toh Sae is a guardian spirit who protects them from bad things. Within the
shrine are statues of the white, black and red Toh Sae.
Recently, Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization
has resurfaced the access road to Toh Sae providing a
much easier and safer journey to the top, and making it
much more accessible for anyone looking for the most
beautiful birds eye view of Phuket Town.

Travel Life
Feature

Koh Sirey
Located in Tambol Rassada, a few kilometers
east of Phuket Town, is a quiet headland named
Koh Sirey (Sirey Island). This little unique getaway, only 20 square kilometers in size, is connected to Phuket by a short bridge which crosses
a channel, as you cross the bridge you will see
a large number of fishing boats in the port to the
right, this is Rassada Port, Phukets main fishing
hub.
After you cross the bridge onto Koh Sirey,
continue for about another 500 meters and youll
arrive at Koh Sireys first sight seeing opportunity, monkey view point. Many locals visit the
wild macaque monkeys who live in the mangrove
forest, and there are a number of street vendors
selling peanuts, bananas and corn which you can

throw to the monkeys from a specially created feeding area

complete with monkey statues.
Carry on a little further, turn right at at Koh Sirey Clock Tower,
and on the right hand side you will see the entrance to Wat
Sirey. The temple is situated high up on a hill, and along with
a big lying Buddha positioned inside the temple, you also can
enjoy great views over the town and Phang Nga.
Follow the coastal road for about 5 minutes and you will
come across Phukets largest sea gypsy settlement, called
Chao Lay. This village was seriously damaged by the 2004
tsunami and therefore new houses were built for the
habitants by NGOs. The old village was rebuilt in 2006 and
looks almost like it did prior to the tsunami.

www.phuketindex.com

29

Travel Life
Feature

Talad Sod Satarana

On any visit to Phuket, along with a bountiful
amount of nature there is also an abundance of
food to be found. If you eat as the locals do, or
where they do, youll be amazed at the freshness and quality of ingredients used, and the
main source of most of these is Talad Sod fresh
market. Talad Sod is the largest and oldest fresh
food market on the island and a walk around
it is an experience which any visitor to Phuket
should not miss.
Located on Ranong Road in the heart of Phuket
Town, Talad Sod Satarana is the first choice
for locals looking for fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, herbs & spices
and pretty much everything else there
is to buy fresh and edible. To get to
see the real side of the market you
have to arrive early as it opens at
5am and usually closes by 11am.
The fresh produce sold here has
usually come direct from local farms,
so many Phuket restaurants purchase
their ingredients here in the knowledge
they are buying the best and freshest
produce available on the island.

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In addition to having the highest

standards of hygiene, the fruits,
vegetables and meat are sold
at the cheapest possible prices,
and always by vendors who
always have with a pleasant
and genuine smile.

an Italian experience

Alessandro Frau
Chef/Patron

324/15 Prabaramee Road - Kalim Bay - Patong - Phuket

Tel 076 618127 email: reservations@acquarestaurantphuket.com
www.acquarestaurantphuket.com

Travel Life
Where to eat

Where t

eat

From authentic Thai to succulent seafood, Phuket boasts an impressive

array of dining experiences. Many visitors to the island wont know where
to start when choosing a restaurant here.
Read on for some of the highlights of some of Phukets best eateries.

Savoey Seafood

Savoey Restaurant is located on the corner of Soi Bangla and

Patongs Beach Road. Savoey Restaurant is known throughout
Thailand for its delicious fresh seafood. Dining is in a covered sala
area, with comfortable seating and a casual Andaman Sea ambiance. Choose from fresh fish, king prawns, crab, mussels, oysters,
squid, and Phuket Lobster done in a variety of ways. Savoey
Seafood Restaurant opens early but the fresh live seafood does not
arrive until after 6pm. Popular with locals with friends in tow, it also
attracts many walk-in customers with the flaming pavement-side
cooking.
136 Taweewong Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket
Tel: +66 (0) 76 341 171-4

KEE Sky Lounge

High above the city, the KEE Sky Lounge & Restaurant
embraces the fresh Phuket breeze, while offering a magnificent panoramic view of Patong. There can hardly be
a better venue anywhere in Phuket for delectable food,
pleasant music and casual al fresco dining. Helpful and
friendly staff will serve you an eclectic mix of tasty fusion
food painstakingly created with the freshest ingredients
from around the world. It is the only one of its kind in
Patong and does not disappoint. It is the perfect place if
youre entertaining guests or friends, or if you simply want
to unwind with good food, long cool drinks, while looking at
the impressive skyline from your table.
152/1 Thaveewong Rd., Patong Beach,
Kathu, Phuket 83150
Tel: +66 (0) 76 335 888

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Travel Life
Where to eat

ConCaved BeaCh reStaurant

MeXiCan
taPaS
at BaBa
neSt

Todays Mexican
cuisine is a delicious
blend of European
foods and those indigenous to Mexico.
Ingredients such
as corn, rice, and
beans are combined
into beloved dishes
loved throughout the
world.
Spices and peppers are also important ingredients in
Mexican cooking. The rich diversity in flavour and texture
of Mexican food offers a unique and scintillating taste
experience. .
Sri panwas stylish and exclusive rooftop bar Baba Nest
has recently unveiled a cool celebration of the cuisine
of Mexico with a new line-up of hand-crafted Tapas that
deliver the authentic flavours of Mexico. Serving shareable
plates and contemporary interpretations of regional Mexican favorites such as Tres Amigos Nachos, Tacos Patron
and Burrito a la Speedy Gonzalez, the restaurant goes
beyond classics to offer a range of exciting and flavorful
cuisine served together with 360 panoramic views of
the surrounding islands, the Andaman Sea and Phukets
Southeastern peninsula.
When in Phuket, Baba Nest is a must visit. Open daily
from 5pm.
*A minimum spend of THB 1000 net per person
is applicable for all non-hotel guests.
88 moo 8, Sakdidej Road, Vichit, Muang,
Phuket 83000, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 371 000 Fax: +66 (0) 76 371 004

Concave Beach Restaurant is modern and chic and is beautifully

positioned at the most concaved point of Patong Beach. If youre looking for an exclusive beach front dining experience Concaved Beach
Restaurant is without question the must place to visit. The highlight of
Concaved Beach Restaurants menu is the authentic French Cuisine.
However, they also offer a range of Thai and International dishes and
fresh seafood. Concaved Beach restaurant is the ultimate romantic
dining location with a choice of cuisine that pairs beautifully with the
venue.
11 Thaweewong Rd., Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150
Tel: +66 (0) 76 341 171 ext.501

BiMi BeaCh CLuB

JuSt got Bigger and Better!

Since the opening of BIMIs new indoor restaurant, beach days no

longer need to end when the sun goes down. The venue was opened
on 27th December 2013, and over 75 diners can be hosted for an
experience of lifestyle degustation. The BIMI menu was inspired by
the dynamism of the sea, brimming with zest, flavor and life. With light
beach food, seasonal produce and beach side BBQ delights, you will
find the food a delicious combination of Thai and International cuisines.
The BIMI BBQ, favored by most diners, features a chefs selection of
the freshest meats and fish, with indulgent lobster and oysters upon
request. The BIMI in-restaurant bar also serves an invigorating choice
of cocktails, flowing wines and champagnes, all mixed, flared and
prepared by the islands hottest bartending talents.
Opening Hours
BIMI restaurant all day menu from 11.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs
Exclusive BBQ menu from 19.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs
BIMI Beach Club: 10.00 22.00 hrs
Surin Beach, Tel. +66 (0) 76 316 580,
Fax. +66 (0) 76 316 576, bimibeachclub.com
www.phuketindex.com

33

Travel Life
Where to go

Central

Festival Phuket
A great day out
for all the family!
Spread over at total of 35 rai, and with over 250 specialist outlets filling 120,000sq.m sprawled across four
floors, Central Festival Phuket is a fantastic shopping
centre experience for the entire family thats not to be
missed!
Perhaps youre wondering how a day at a shopping
centre can be fun for the entire family, its pretty obvious
that when it comes to shopping, mum and dad usually
love to shop till they drop, but when it comes to the kids,
they might drop a lot sooner than mum and dad would
really like. After hanging out in the dressing room and
waiting at the cash register they may tire of the experience.
So lets get the kids out of the way first, and with the
options available at Central Festival Phukets Eduplanet
Zone, located on floor P2, mum and dad can leave the
kids at any one of a number of

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educational orientated centres. Mum and dad can restassured that the kids will be under specialised supervision
at all times, in an edutainment environment with a clear
conscience that they will have fun and their minds stimulated, whilst theyre getting a good old-fashioned dose of
retail therapy.
At present, Eduplanet features distinct zones catering for
kids of various ages. Gymboree Play & Music, for kids
aged 0-5; provides age-appropriate childhood development
programs aimed at helping develop their physical and social
skills. Hands on Crafts, for kids aged three to 12, allow them
to show their creative side with clay modeling and art activities, whilst ECC Phuket is a private language and computer
school which provides classes for kids aged 3 upwards.

Travel Life
Where to go

So now the kids are taken care of its time for mum and dad
to shop, and with their diverse selection of shops you really
can shop until you drop. At Central Festival Phuket you will
find an incredible array of stores supplying a diverse selection of goods and services, from designer brands to teen
fashion, electronics, accessories, jewellery, shoes, bags,
books... anything you could possibly wish for!
International fashion items may not be at the top of a
Phuket tourists shopping list, but expatriates may look at
these shopping opportunities differently! If you follow fashion trends, youll enjoy the fashion showcased at Central
Festival huket. Shops offer the latest collections from the
fashion capitals of the world Milan, London, Paris and
New York to titillate the fancy of well to do Phuketians and
expatriates alike.
Amongst Phukets emerging middle and upper classes
international brand-consciousness is strong. Discerning
shoppers seek original goods, which the shops in Central
Festival Phuket can guarantee.

So once the kids are all educated out, and mum and dad all
shopped out, recharge, rest and recover with some food. Central
Festival Phuket has gone the extra mile to bring in the finest
culinary sensations from the every corner of the globe.
Central Festival Phuket offers numerous cafs, restaurants and
an extraordinary food court. On some days eating seems to be
the main attraction, with shopping coming in second! From trendy
restaurants offering cuisine from around the world to cafs where
coffee is king, to fast food fixes from home youre sure to find
something to please the entire familys taste buds.
Whether it is Local, Continental, Mediterranean, Asian or International cuisine, Central Festival Phuket serves up the most diverse
taste sensations to suit every unique visitor that arrives, at great
quality restaurants and a world class food court, laced around the
mall as well as outdoors.
So now the entire familys revived and the bellies are full, why not
unwind and finish the day with a family movie at Central Festival
Phukets SF Cinema. Lets face it; nothing comes close to sharing
popcorn while watching the latest offering from Hollywood.
There really is something for everyone enjoy a visit to
Central Festival Phuket, a great family day out!

www.phuketindex.com

35

Travel Life
Travel talk

Goetz
Bauer

From
City Life to
Beach Life

erman born Goetz Bauer was

appointed General Manager of
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
in April 2013. After leaving school
Goetz embarked on his career in the Hotel &
Tourism industry, a choice he made because
of his fond memories of travelling to the South
of France with his family as a child. His first
appointment in the industry was with Hilton
International for whom he worked for 6 years in
various locations including Munich and London.
Goetz then made the decision to further his
education and studied hotel management in
Switzerland; something which even today
he says was a fantastic experience. Having
successfully graduated, Goetz then joined the
Marriott Group; a group whose management
policy allowed department heads the freedom to
try new ideas. His career with Marriott has seen

36

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Travel Life
Travel Talk

him in various positions and locations including

Director of Sales in Berlin, Germany, Director
of Sales & Marketing in Karlsruhe, Director
of Marketing at Renaissance in Saigon, and
previous to relocating to Phuket as General
Manger of Marriott Executive Apartments
Sathorn Vista in Bangkok where he stayed
living with his family for two and a half
years.
Having spent much of his career working in
downtown and city hotels, Goetz is now happy
to be working at a beach resort for the first time,
something which he says is a dream for him as he
sees the island life as paradise. However, with this
move in environment comes an adjustment in his managerial
style, which he will now have to adapt to suit his new location. He is aware that
resort properties are impacted by the weather and this means he has had to shift
his focus from a maintenance and upkeep point of view. He will now have to carry
out maintenance during a low season which could be seriously affected by the rain,
something which he has never been faced with before, but is sure he will
be able to manage. However, on a positive note, he will now be able
to arrange more outdoor activities what with the outdoor space
and weather that he is now going to have the pleasure of working
with come the high season.
Goetz has taken over the at Renaissance Phuket Resort
& Spa with the resort being in a very strong position, the
guest satisfaction and associate satisfaction rates are
very high and he is sure hell be able to keep up the
momentum that was created by the opening team of the
resort. He does realise that keeping the momentum is a
lot more difficult to keep than to achieve. However, he is

www.phuketindex.com

37

Travel Life
Travel talk

very positive that with the team they

have in place, and the support they
receive from owners and regional
office, that the future of the resort will
certainly be good.
For Goetz, the best part of his job
is working with and meeting people,
something which others who have left
the industry have told him that they
miss greatly. And Goetz thrives on
motivating his team, which to him is
the main aspect of his role as GM.
Goetz hopes that now he is here in
Phuket he can get a better balance
between his work and personal life
and enjoy what the island has to
offer. However, he appreciates that

38

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since he is new to the island and to the

resort he has to put a lot of effort and
energy into his new role.
The team at Phuketindex.com would like
to thank Goetz for taking time out to
allow us to interview him and we wish him
well in his new position at Renaissance
Phuket Resort & Spa.
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
555 Moo 3, Mai Khao, Thalang, Phuket,
83110 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 363 999
Fax: +66 (0) 76 363 988
Renaissancephuket.com

33/7-9 Vichitsongkram Rd., Talad Nua, Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel: +66 (0) 81 892 2807, +66 (0) 86 662 7766, +66 (0) 76 219 406
Email: info@numsang-hifi.com Website: www.numsang-hifi.com

Numsang Hi-Fi

Music, video & home automation - anywhere life takes you

Local Life
Feature

Phuket Darkroom Club

PHUKET
DARKROOM CLUB
Phuket Darkroom Club

Dreaming in Analog

Phuket Darkroom Club, or PDC, was founded in March 2012 by a small group of black & white (b & w) film photography lovers,
using a small darkroom in the back office of Rijiras Kitchen Suppliers as a rendezvous point for members gatherings, where they
exchange their experiences and passions about the monochrome world, and sometimes, continue their conversation in the tiny
darkroom while enjoying their print development till late into the night.
It was unofficially started in Phuket
back in 2010 by two gentlemen who
are passionate about b & w film photography, Kettepon Rijiranuwat (Sak) and
Achitrawit Churmung (Loong). The two
men shared their dreams and visions
to build a good quality darkroom that
can be used for b & w film and print
development and to enjoy it as a hobby.
Furthermore, unlike digital photography,
whose popularity is rapidly increasing, b
& w film photography was gradually disappearing. Not even one b & w film and
print development shop can be found
in Phuket Town. Sak and Loong found
that it was an inspiring point and huge
encouragement for anyone, particularly
b & w film photography beginners who
wanted a chance to use a proper darkroom..and this was the beginning of
the PDC journey.
Phuket Darkroom Club

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Local Life
Feature

Phuket Darkroom Club

It wouldnt be picture perfect for PDC

without Jose. Jose Louise Gay, a
former Spanish Consulate in Phuket,
and a major b & w film photography
enthusiast. He had crossed paths with
Sak and Loong during his years of service in Phuket and they became good
friends. Jose bought a small shop
house in Soi Soon-Uthis, converted
it into his residence, and used part of
the space to keep the largest archives
of glass plate negatives which he won
at an auction from Liang-Eiw studio
when it shut down several years ago.
With a kind offer from Jose, a corner

Phuket Darkroom Club

of his shop house was given to Sak and

Loong to build their first darkroom and
their dream was fulfilled. When Jose
relocated to New Zealand a year later,
the darkroom was moved to a new home,
which was attached to Rijiras office.
In March 2012, a third member, Prapas
Kianpotiramared, AKA Tard, joined the
group and they decided to officially form
the PDC. They use Facebook as a channel to communicate with members and to
share their passion, they regularly post
valuable quotes from great and famous
b & w film photographers, useful techniques, beauties and loves, knowledge
and photos shot by members. In the
same month the first basic b & w film
photography course was conducted and
more members have joined the group
since.
To date, PDC has more than a dozen
active members in Phuket who meet on
a regular basis to go out and shoot films
and return to the PDC office to develop
and print them. Several b & w photography courses have been organized for
members and other people during the
past year allowing them to explore b & w
film photography and gain knowledge and
experience of a darkrooms working. PDC
currently has more than 400 friends and
members on Facebook and the number is
continuously increasing.

Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

www.phuketindex.com

41

Local Life
Feature

WORLD IN GREY

analog photography show

On 1st May 2013
at Chalermraja
Cultural Center
Phuket got to is to see its very first
b & w film photography exhibition,
organized by the PDC. The exhibitions
audience was able to enjoy the beauty
and charm of more than 50 selective
and refined b & w photos from the PDC
members.
Among the display were old and rare
photos of Phuket taken by admired
local photographers that have not been
published anywhere before. These
valuable photos include their Majesties the King and Queen during their
visit to Phuket in 1959, an aerial view
of Phuket, way of living, old architecture, and the historic tin dredger. All
of the featured photos were made
using genuine and authentic darkroom
processes, something which is hardly
used in the modern era. In addition,
visitors also had the opportunity to see
a group of brilliant b & w film photos
from the masters who had crafted and
refined their works exclusively to join
the event.

Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

42

www.phuketindex.com

Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

Local Life
Feature

TIPS
FOR SHOOTING
IN BLACK AND
WHITE
Phuket Darkroom Club

Learn to think
in black and
white
If youre shooting in black and
white, your biggest handicap is
that your own eyes see in color.
Color is vibrant and therefore dominating. Being able to perfectly
visualize what you are looking at in black and white can massively
improve your black and white photography. This is even truer if you
are working in film, as you dont have a screen which you can set to
black and white.
Learning to turn off your color vision is neither easy nor difficult - it
just takes some practice. If you make the effort, it will happen. Look
at black and white images as much as possible, and then try to
imagine them in color. Observe how the light looks indoors and outdoors at different times of day, intensity of shadows, shapes, forms
and textures - they all look different in black and white versus color.

Pay equal
attention to
shadow
Great shadow detail can
truly make a black and white
photograph look amazing.
When shooting film, this
works to your advantage
as youll have more detail
in the shadow areas than if
shooting digital. Look for interesting patterns and
textures when working in shadows, and to obtain
maximum detail, meter the darkest area of what
you are photographing and bracket based on that
reading.

Phuket Darkroom Club

Pay attention to light

Paying attention to light is a basic tip for improving
photography all together, considering photography is
based on light. The way light falls on objects, landscapes and people is even more important in black and
white, as there is no color information. The intensity of
the light and how it interacts with the surroundings are
key factors in black and white photography. If youre using artificial light, you can control these factors. If youre
using natural light, youll need to learn to work them to
your best advantage to achieve the style you want.

Know your film

When shooting black and white
film, your choice of film brand
plays as significant a role as
your lighting and camera settings. Grain size, contrast,
sharpness, tonal range and
push/pull factor will all vary with
different types of black and white film. Everyone has their own
specific taste and style when it comes to black and white photography and playing around with different types of film can help you
find what works for you.
Information Source: istillshootfilm.org

www.phuketindex.com

43

Local Life
Feature

On this page is a selection of black & white pictures

from members of Phuket Darkroom Club.
Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

Phuket Darkroom Club

44

www.phuketindex.com

KEE
Sky Lounge

Thanachart
Bank

Boxing
Stadium

Jungceylon
Shopping
Centre

Banana Walk

- Incredible 360 Patong View

- Fusion Food & Fun Cocktails
- Outdoor Lounge
with Chilled Atmosphere
- Live Music Entertainment
(Except Sunday)
o

Open Daily
5:30 PM - Midnight
6th & 7th Floor ROOFTOP,
The KEE Resort & Spa

Local Life
Arts & Culture

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Not for the Faint Hearted

he Phuket Vegetarian Festival is now one of the

worlds most talked about festivals and can only be
described as mind-blowing. This dramatic celebration takes place during the first nine days of the
ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar.
This auspicious event sees the whole island taken over by
the white clothed devotees, and for nine days they convert
to vegetarians, and follow the traditions of refraining from
killing animals for food, drinking alcohol, engaging in sex,
quarreling or telling lies, all in order to purify their minds
and bodies.

Throughout the festival wafting smoke fills the air and

drums are sounded, especially during ceremonies. Its
believed that the louder they are the better, because the
noise drives away evil spirits. Some of the highlights of
the festival are the ear splitting sound of firecrackers,
lion dances and incredible acts of self -mortification
such as climbing knife ladders, walking on hot coals,
a ritual bridge crossing and street processions through
the main roads of Phuket Town in which the mediums,
in a state of trance, have their cheeks pierced and bodies spiked with various types of sharp objects like large
knives, skewers and other household items without
showing any signs of pain. This is definitely not recommended for the faint hearted.
Although the true origins of the festival are unclear it
is believed that it originated in the south-eastern part
of China near the Fujian Province. It is believed it first

46

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Local Life
Arts & Culture

came to Phuket in 1825 when the island was a trade

center between China, India and South East Asia,
and a large number of Chinese immigrants came to
work at the tin mines and rubber plantations. At this
time, there was a group of Chinese opera singers who
had come to entertain the workers and it was during
the Chinese ninth lunar month that Phuket was hit
with an epidemic which caused many of the group
to become very sick. After some time it was realised
that they had forgotten to pay homage to two of the
emperor gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone
Teh. The traveling opera then knew that they would
have to observe a strict vegetarian diet.

The traveling opera all recovered from the sickness,

and the people of Phuket were so amazed that the
vegetarian ritual, and its ceremonies, had resolved
the problem they embraced the faith enthusiastically. Thus the festival began on the first evening of
the ninth lunar month and continued until the ninth
evening and has done ever since.
Today, the belief is that the festival will bring good
luck to individuals who partake as well as to their
communities.

www.phuketindex.com

47

Local Life
Shopping

DESIGN MIRROR

TREE BRANCHES WALL DCOR

An eye-catching mirror design that cleverly uses the natural

beauty of wood. Its an elegantly simple design: a frame for
the mirror is formed with two pieces of wood running either
side. This design mirror is never more at home than when
reflecting the greenery of the world outside.

As if it sprouted on your wall, taking in warmth and tender

spirit of your home for nourishment, this beautiful stainless
steel tree branch wall hanging is eye-catching. A great way to
bring a touch of nature to your space.

s
m
e
t
I
d
e
d
n
Recomme
LOTUS FLOWER TEA
LIGHT HOLDER & BOWL
Both decorative and functional, these beautiful
stainless steel open lotus flowers are designed to
hold a tea lights and potpourri. A great feature in
any room in any house.

JADE SCULPTURE
RECTANGULAR
CERAMIC VASE
This contemporary style vase
would make a great conversation
piece in any home. Perfect for tall
stem flower arrangements, this
vase series is tall and strong.

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A hand carved red jade sculpture set on a copper

coloured stainless steel base. Handmade by a Thai
designer.

DECORATIVE CERAMIC BOWL

This one of a kind ceramic bowl has been handmade
and formed This beautiful porcelain bowl does double
duty. Hang it on the wall, it becomes a work of art on the table it serves food magnificently. Use it as a
beautiful fruit bowl.

Local Life
Shopping

Cozy Company

1/1 Lagoon Rd., Cherngtalay,

Thalang, Phuket Thailand 83110
Tel: +66 (0) 76 270 847
Fax: +66 (0) 76 270 633
Mobile: +66 (0) 81 970 8272
Email: cozy_company@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT METAL
WALL MIRROR
This beautiful hanging mirror will beautify any
room. The frame is handcrafted, breathtaking
in designs & an instant eye catcher.

CERAMIC VASE
This handmade brown and white vase is
crafted of ceramic and acts as a simple
accessory piece to existing dcor. Place
anywhere in your home for visual interest.

PETRIFIED WOOD
CANDLE HOLDER
Bring a unique piece of nature into your
home with this beautiful hand carved
petrified wood candle holder.

GLASS TEARDROP TEA

LIGHT HOLDER
These are very attractive retro items, an ornate
brushed steel base with a delicate glass shade
which features gold leaf mosaic design.

STONE TOPPED TABLES

Wood & stone make up this tables simple, modern
design. With a distinctive granite stone top, and a
wooden base, these tables are a true reflection of
natural beauty.

LEATHER &
STAINLESS STEEL CHAIR
This modern leather chair has a steel frame of dependable
sturdiness with a high-shine chrome finish. The chair is ideal for
a waiting room or office, but is versatile enough to be used in a
variety of settings.

www.phuketindex.com

51

Local Life

Local Talk

Chayuth
Keawklin

The Identity of Window Design & Awnings

ver the years, Mr Chayuth Kaewklin

has gained vast experience in business management from a variety of
leading companies; it was his ambition
to have a successful career within this field. Today,
he is the owner of a business called Window
Design & Awning or WDA Phukets leading
provider of Tension Fabric Structures, Awnings
and other Sunshade Systems.
In the following article get to know more about
this successful business man as he tells us more
about WDA and what he hopes for its future.

What is your educational background

and work experience?
I was born in Phuket and graduated from Mahanakorn University of Technology in Bangkok with a
Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering. Once
I had graduated I returned to Phuket and started
working in the business service sector. I was very
lucky to be employed by some very successful businesses including Tesco Lotus, Central
Festival Phuket, Colisum Paradise Cinema, Allied
Metals and Mr Curtain. However, after a while
I found the daily routine of going to the office
mundane and I wasnt earning the kind of money
I really wanted, therefore, I started to think and
plan about starting my own business, something
I knew, with my personal experience and knowhow, I could do. I chose to start a Sunshade Systems & Awning business because I believed it is
an industry which would see continuous growth. In
addition, what with Phukets heavy rain and strong
sun it makes a high demand for durable shading
and protection solutions. I founded this company
in 2008 to supply and install outdoor curtains in
Phuket and later started manufacturing Tension
Fabric Structure canopies. Within my role, I am
also responsible for sales, fabric fabrication and
installation supervision in Phuket and the nearby
provinces.

52

www.phuketindex.com

Local Life
Local Talk
and window awnings. Each of our awnings is designed to
enhance the look of their setting and is highly durable. We
are experts in designing, fabrication and installation of tension fabric structure canopies and automatic vertical blinds
for rain and sun protection.
We provide the full services from designing, fabrication
until installation, and our products are manufactured using the highest quality materials available on the market
today. We have our factory for fabric fabrication, which
can facilitate single piece fabric up to 2,000m2 in size. Our

How do you see yourself?

I am brave enough to make decisions on my own, always keep to
my word and can wade through pretty much all situations. I
am not somebody who struggles with self-perception and
I am always open to learning new things and taking advice on issues. I like to do and learn together, and grow
along with my business. This is my identity; I know that
success is very difficult so the stronger I am, the more
knowledge I gain, and the more diligent I am will not
only help my business but also my life. These are the
main traits that I try to implement into my business and
personal life.

Why is Window Design & Awnings so special?

Window Design & Awnings manufacture and supply a large
variety of designer indoor and outdoor awnings including terrace

steel parts are cut precisely using laser cutters and

then assembled and welded by highly skilled steel
sub-contractors. Our steel sub-contractors are familiar with
complex 3D steel assembly. The fabricated steel is then sent to
a HDG (Hot dip galvanize) processing plant, the surface will be
cleaned, degreased, and then dipped into a hot galvanize pool for
rust protection. Finally, the steel frame will then be top coated with
marine grade paint.
Our products have been installed in a number of the islands
shops, offices, homes, hospitals, hotels & resorts and
luxury villas. In addition, our products all come with
5 yrs warranty covering 100% of any failure
and 10-15 yrs warranty for the fabric.

www.phuketindex.com

53

Local Life
Local Talk
All structures are pre-fabricated and
installed by local Vietnamese workers.
We just order, deliver, and provide
a guide for installation. We need to
expand the market to countries within
the ASEAN region and its quite simple
to do as it only takes no more than 10
days to transport the items, and if the
item is not complex it can be installed
by the purchasers, which is a budgetsaving to customers and saves our
time. However, if its a big job, we
have a team of designers to control
and oversee the installation. We are
also lucky enough to have the
opportunity to go to work for
big projects in Laos,
Cambodia and Myanmar
in the near future.

How much has your industry grown

in Phuket?
We have been very lucky; our company has
seen a growth in sales every year. There
are many reasons for the continued growth
including the growth of the real estate
market and also the increasing popularity of
sunshade and awning products. Before the
designs were quite unsightly, but nowadays
they are very modern looking, and in most
cases they dont only look good but also
make their locations look more beautiful
too. They are also a lot easier to install than before and can be made
to cover low or high budgets. It is
my belief that in the future the
market will remain bright; there
will always be customers who
want to have installations in
new buildings or to improve an
old buildings exterior. As for our
own business, we are now not only
operating in Phuket but the whole
South of Thailand and also neighboring
countries. In order to develop our brand and
keep our business stable it was the only
thing to do.

What are your opportunities for

ASEAN?
We have already successfully supplied and
installed Tension Fabric Structures for Big C
department store in Hanoi City, Vietnam.

54

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Window Design & Awnings

70/89 Moo 4, Chao Fah West Rd.,
Tambol Vichit, Amphur Muang,
Phuket 83000
Tel: +66 (0) 76 216 447
Mobile: +66 (0) 89 724 6914
Fax: +66 (0) 76 216 448
Email: arunsawadde@hotmail.com
Website: www.tentphuket.com,
www.windecor.co.th

Directory

Construction & Maintenance

Mai Khao Construction
96/75 The Royal Place, Moo 1, Chalermprakiet Ror.9 Road.,
Tambol Kathu, Phuket 83120 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 86 280 0596

Phuket Swimming Pool Eqipment Co., Ltd.

369/122-124 Yaowaraj Road, Tambol Taladyai,
Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 214 261

Antique Furniture
Fine Orient

Children Family Dental Clinic

51/20 Moo 2, Tambol Vichit, Amphur Muang,

Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 521 552

15/8, Montri Road, Tambol Taladyai, Amphur Muang,

Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 210 069

Soul of Asia

Sea Smile Dental Clinic Patong

5/50 Moo 3, Tambol Cherngtalay, Amphur Thalang,

Phuket 83110 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 271 629

Awnings & Curtains

Artizarn 80

189/18 Rat U-Thit 200 Pee Road, Tambol Patong,

Amphur Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 340 066, +66 (0) 76 340 238

Health Clinics
Chalong Medical Clinic

9/120 Sakdidaj Road, Tambol Taladnua, Amphur Muang

Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 81 541 8384

39/4 Moo 9 Chao Fa (East) Road, Tambol Chalong, Muang,

Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 282 468

Orawan Curtain

Patong Inter Medical Clinic

96/42 Moo 1, Chalermprakeat R.9 Road, Tambol Kathu,

Amphur Kathu, Phuket 83120 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 248 465-6

Car Rental
Lagoon Car Rent & Car Wash
53/1 Baan Don Cherngtalay Road, Tambol Cherngtalay,
Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83110 Thailand
Tel : +66 (0) 89 474 3612

Pure Car Rent

75 Rasada Road, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 211 002

56

Dental Clinics

www.phuketindex.com

71/39, Prabaramee Road, Tambol Patong, Amphur Kathu,

Phuket 83150 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 346 803

Law Offices
Jus Laws & Consult International Law Firm
The Royal Place (Next to Tesco Lotus), 96/14
Chalermprakiet Ror. 9 Road, Tambol Kathu, Amphur Kathu,
Phuket 83120, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 304 353-5

PK International Law Office

8/16 Chao Fa (East) Road, Chalong, Muang,
Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 384 014

Directory

Outdoor Activities

Recreation & Rooms

Phuket Adventure Mini Golf

Baan Suanpak

72/44 Moo 3, Bangtao Beach Road, Soi 2

Tambol Cherngtalay, Amphur Thalang,
Phuket 83110 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 314 345

123/3 Soi 4/2 (Soi Suanpak), Vichitsongkram Road,

Tambol Talad Nua, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 95 872 8725

Phuket Cable Ski

86/3 Moo 6, Vichitsongkram Road, Amphur Kathu,
Phuket 83120 Thailand (Near Kathu Waterfall)
Tel : +66 (0) 81 273 7530, +66 (0) 86 283 2941

Pet Hospitals

Pirunsin Resort
250/5 Moo 8, Highway Road No 4031 Thepkasattri-SakooNai Yang, Tambol Thepkasattri, Amphur Thalang, Phuket
83110 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 95 020 7877

Restaurants

Raksatt Small Animal Hospital Phuket

Ceramic Kitchen Bar and Restaurant

14/4 Maeluan Road, Tambol Taladyai, Amphur Muang,

Phuket, 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 211 549

185/15 Moo 7, Srisoonthorn Road., Amphur Thalang,

Phuket, 83110 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 272 151

Rattanatibeth 24 hours Referral

Animal Hospital

Natural Restaurant

64/189 Moo 1, Chao Fah East Road, Tambol Vichit,

Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 213 464-5

Print & Design

108 Graphic Design
7/25 Moo 2, Thepkasattri Road, Tambol Rasada,
Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 83 392 6744

Southern Media
29/1 Chaofah Road, Tambol Taladnua, Amphur Muang,
Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 245 542

Property Agents
Phuket Premier Property
30/60 Moo 1, Saiyuan Road, Tambol Rawai,
Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130 Thailand
Tel : +66 (0) 86 788 8080

Phuket Real Estate Solutions

80/1-2 Soi Dr.Wattana, Taweewong Road,
Patong Beach, Amphur Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 81 892 1108

62/5 Soi Phutorn, Bangkok Road, Muang,

Phuket 83000, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 224 287

Security Systems
Phuket Group Sales and Service
71 Krabi Road, Tambol Talad Nua, Amphur Muang,
Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 259 219-20

S.K. Telecom Phuket

128/72 Moo 5, Tambol Rasada, Amphur Muang,
Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 620 600

Shipping Companies
Big Move Phuket
11/14-15 Moo 1, Chaofa Road, Tambol Chalong,
Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 263 987-9

Siam Pickpack
23/104 Moo 2, Thepkrasattri Road, (Boat Lagoon)
Tambol Koh Kaew, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 76 238 791-2

www.phuketindex.com

57

Special Feature
National Reporters Day

Thai National

Reporters Day
In Thailand, March 5th of every year is National Reporters Day. Phuketindex.com is the part of Phukets local media, and we
are continuously striving to convey information & news that is beneficial to quality of life and tourism, and also to promote the image
of Phuket.
In the following article, the chiefs of some government agencies give us their opinions of the operations of Phukets media.

Khun Tanet Munnoy

Director of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources As the officer in charge of the
environment on the island I know that environmental issues are important to tourist. Environmental
issues will affect tourism as a whole, and it is not only our staff that can change society. It is
important we have cooperation from the media in relation to campaigns and provide information
to the public.
I admire the work of Phukets media and feel they are very effective. Today, with such a wide
variety of technology, media publications, online media, radio or TV stations, communities can
access any information they so desire, in particular important issues such as a tsunami or earthquake
disaster warnings. We would like say thank you to all those journalists who take social
responsibility seriously and recognize the importance of environmental conservation. They
are great role models for the future generation of news reporters.

58

Khun Chaianan
Suttikul

Khun Thawat
Sriveerachai

Khun Santi
Pawai

Kathu Mayor Journalists in Phuket

can offer useful information to the
community clearly and frankly. They
should ensure news sources are
reliable and they should distribute
news quickly and precisely. Phukets
journalists should take pride in their
career and work to create a good
image for Phuket.

Director Phuket Coastal Fisheries

Research and Development Center
Media is a profession important to
society and the community. News reports
should be presented based on facts and
should be useful to the community. Journalists must be a voice representing the
government in linking information back
to the community. Our agencies should
work together to support local projects
and develop local sources to support news.

Director Phuket Office of Tourism

and Sports Mass communication has
developed greatly in recent years.
With todays technology, news can be
published widely and quickly, and its
important all journalists ensure news is
created accurately. Our agency is directly
responsible for tourism and sports and
we ask reporters to highlight news that
has an interesting perspective.

www.phuketindex.com