Phuket - excellent scenary (Phuket)

Member Name: ecolier

Product:	Phuket
Date:	08/10/09 (33 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good transport links, Excellent scenary

Disadvantages: None

As with many holiday makers in the UK, I visited Thailand on my trip to East Asia. During my Thailand visit, I stopped at Phuket. This is a famous spot for tourists who like the exotic cities with delicious food. From Phuket, you can also go to see some other stunning places within a stone's throw like Bangkok and other South East Asian cities.

--- the BASICS ---

Phuket is in the south of Thailand. As there are lots of tourists it is well connected to Bangkok and some planes may even fly directly into the area from regional airports. The area is famous for its stunning beauty and unspoiled beaches.

--- PLACES to visit ---

The Phang Nga Bay National park, located in the heart of Phuket is a wonderful scenic route. There are 42 strange shaped islands mostly formed by limestone. A Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun" was filmed in one of the islands - the Tapoo Island where it has since been named the James Bond Island. The best way to visit these islands is to join a boat tour from Phuket or to paddle (hire) a canoe. There are also some day-cruising trips passing through these limestone islands with various stops for tourists to enjoy the quiet and beautiful beaches.

Taking a boat trip to the Pan Yee Island will see the sheer vertical limestone cliffs of the beautiful Phang Nga Bay. There are some floating restaurants and the one on the pier is worth a try. Its decoration is quite unique with shells hanging down from the ceiling. It offers chips, fried chicken and prawns. After the meal, many tourists can buy some souvenirs at a few shops nearby or visit the water village at the back exit of the restaurant.

Apart from the islands, the Phang Nga Bay forest is another spot that can be explored. Tourists can go to the Tone Pariwat in Phuket Sealand to play with the rapids or take an elephant ride. The elephant will take a trip going through the rain forest, streams and muddy grounds. Although the ground is rough, riding on the elephant is exciting. It is very used to be ridden and will greet us by raising its long nose for many times! The boat accommodating 10 persons hiring for 3 hours is about 300 pounds. It is fun to go there. Even if you do not have a group of 10 people, there are other tourist you may join or ask them to join you to split or share the costs.

--- CONCLUSION ---

Thailand is a place with many different features. There is the commercial side of the country with the hustle and bustle of Thailand but within a few hours you will find yourself in one of the most beautiful places on earth. With so many English speaking tourists you will not feel isolated too - give it a go, consider Phuket in your next visit!

Summary: Well worth visiting if just for the scenery.