Most people visit Phuket
for the beaches and because it's one of those 'must-see' tropical islands. For
those who can pry themselves away from the regular tourist trappings and head
across the island, they can catch a glimpse of what the island offered prior to
the growth of the tourism industry.
At the island's main crossroads at Ban Tha Rua stand bronze statues of Khunying Jan and her sister Mook, celebrating their heroic and
successful resistance to the Burmese invasion in 1785. In Phuket City, the ornate Chinese wats of Jui Tai and Put Jaw are testament to the island's economic
history. Tin was once the primary source of wealth for the island, and from the
16th century onwards, Hakka Chinese entrepreneurs and their workforces came to
the island to exploit the mines.
When the price of Tin dropped, the island shifted its
primary production to rubber and pineapple plantations and then, in the mid
1970's, turned it's attention to maximizing the possibilities provided by an
inexhaustible stream of tourists.
Between the headlands, particularly on Phuket's west coast, are the
sandy beaches fringing the Andaman Sea against a backdrop of the little explored
interior of heavily forested mountains. Chief among these beaches is Patong, the eternally busy repository
of most of Phuket's hustle
and bustle. This is where the Hawkers hawk, touts tout and the kathoey ladyboys bamboozle
beer-soaked tourists in the bars of Soi
Bangla.
In the 2004 tsunami Patong's
many hotel developments suffered badly, though Hat Kamala slightly to the north
bore the full brunt.
If the pace of life in Patong is taking it's toll, if the prospect of yet another
karaoke night seems simply too demanding, there are a myriad of alternatives to
chose from. After all, Phuket is a
considerably large island, nearly the size of Singapore in fact, so your
options are hardly restricted.
To find the quieter beaches it's advised you head to the
northern end of the island, where Phuket's
largest beach, Hat Mai Khao, remains
relatively unspoiled and less crowded. Just round the corner of the islands
southern tip is Rawai Beach,
which (by virtue of its east coast location) offers some fabulous sunset views.
Away from the water and the ribbon developments visitors
will find the interiors national parks and reserves, along with the rubber and
pineapple plantations. If the mind is soothed by these peaceful surroundings,
the body can also enjoy it's own
vacation during the nine-day vegetarian festival that falls each October, at
the end of the cool season in Phuket
- a true detox for body, mind
and spirit.
Amongst the myriad of pleasures on Phuket is the fabulous local cuisine. Don't be afraid to be
adventurous and seek out the eating-houses where locals are dining on mass.
This is a sure sign that the food is good and inexpensive. The experience alone
is enough to satisfy you but the quality of the meals will draw you back time
and again.
Relax and enjoy this slice of paradise, an island so rich
with offerings and yet so peaceful and rejuvenating. The speedboat day-trips to
Phi Phi Island are highly
recommended. Take in James Bond Island and the location for the filming of
Hollywood movie 'The Beach'. It's wonderful day on the water and a visual
delight.
For a wonderful holiday that will not break the bank, Phuket Island Thailand has to be
one of the most attractive destinations on the planet. Arrive, relax, indulge
and experience...
HOTEL
Beyond Resort Karon
Karon Beach Resort
51 Karon Road, Tambon
Karon Muang District
Phuket- Thailand
Stop at Beyond Resort
Karon to discover the wonders of Phuket. Offering a variety of facilities and
services, the hotel provides all you need for a good night's sleep. To be found
at the hotel are 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, Wi-Fi in public areas,
car park, room service. Guestrooms are designed to provide an optimal level of
comfort with welcoming decor and some offering convenient amenities like internet
access รข€“ wireless, air conditioning, balcony/terrace, mini bar, desk.
Entertain the hotel's recreational facilities, including outdoor pool, spa,
massage, pool (kids). Beyond Resort Karon combines warm hospitality with a
lovely ambiance to make your stay in Phuket unforgettable.
Article Source: www.agoda.com?cid=1728507
