Phuket Slogan and Etymology

Slogan

The provincial slogan is:

Pearl of the Andaman, southern paradise, golden beaches, land of the duo of heroines and highly revered Laung Pho Chaem.

Etymology

The name Phuket (of which the ph sound is an aspirated p) is apparently derived from the word bukit (Jawi: بوكيت) in Malay which means mountain or hill, as this is what the island appears like from a distance.

Before that its old name was Thalang, derived from the old Malay "Telong" (Jawi: تلوڠ) which means "Cape". The northern district of the province, which was the location of the old capital, still uses this name.

source : From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Phuket Economy

Tin mining has been a major source of income for the island since the 16th century. Chinese businessmen and Chinese workers were employed in the mines. Most were Hakka Chinese, and their influence on Phuket culture and cuisine can still be felt today. With falling tin prices, the mining has now all but ceased. In modern times, Phuket's economy rests on two pillars: rubber tree plantations (making Thailand the biggest producer of rubber in the world) and tourism, with a thriving diving industry attracting thousands of divers each year. Various nightlife activities such as prostitution attract thousands of men and women each year as well. Even though it is illegal the police will look the other way for a fee, which is paid by the clubs and bars.

Since the 1980s the sandy beaches on the western coast of the island have been heavily developed into tourist centers, with Patong, Karon and Kata being the most popular ones. Since the 2004 Tsunami, all damaged buildings and attractions have been restored.

The island is currently going through an intensive period of leisure urbanization with many new hotels, apartments and houses under construction.

source : From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Tsunami

On December 26, 2004, Phuket and other nearby areas on Thailand's western coast suffered extensive damage when they were struck by the Boxing Day tsunami caused by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake. The waves destroyed several highly populated areas in the region, killing as many as 5,300 people nationwide, and tens of thousands more throughout the wider Asian region. As many as 250 people were reported dead in Phuket, including foreign tourists. Almost all the major beaches on the west coast, especially Kamala, Patong, Karon and Kata, sustained major damage, with some damage also being caused to resorts and villages on the island's southern beaches.

By February 2005 many damaged and most undamaged resorts were back in business, and throughout 2005 life slowly returned to normal for the people of Phuket. As of November 2005, following strenuous recovery programmes, there is little obvious remaining tsunami damage other than at the most remote beaches, and the tourist industry, which drives the Phuket economy, has now almost fully recovered.

In the beginning of December 2006, Thailand launched the first of 22 U.S.-made tsunami-detection buoys to be positioned around the Indian Ocean as part of a regional warning system against giant waves caused by earthquakes under the sea. The satellite-linked deep-sea buoy will float 1,000 km (620 miles) offshore, roughly midway between Thailand and Sri Lanka.


source : From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Phuket Brochure

http://www.ebooktourismthailand.org/epage/phuket.pdf

Phuket History

Most geologists believe that the area known as Phuket today was once a cape that extended into the Andaman Sea. Geographical formations gradually changed the capes location, finally detaching it from the mainland.

A famous Greek philosopher, Claudius Ptolemy, was the first person who mentioned the cape in his book written in the year 157. The cape was locally referred to as Jung Ceylon, which was located between latitudes 6 N and 8 N (the present site of Phuket Island). Natives called the place Cha Lang, which evolved to Tha Lang the name of the main town to the north of the island.

As a perfect stopover sheltering traders from monsoons, Jung Ceylon welcomed merchants from India, Persia, Arabia, Burma, China and also Siam. During the 16th century, the island was also a popular trading port for tin with Portuguese, Dutch, English and French traders flocking to the island. This contributed to making the development of mining so unprecedented. Chinese businessmen and miners later migrated to Phuket and soon enjoyed thriving business wealth.

Apart from serving as a meeting point for traders from Europe, Central Asia and China, Phuket also attracted ambitious immigrants, especially those from Portugal and China, to work in the tin mines. With its colorful history, visitors admire the Sino-Portuguese style architecture in the city especially those buildings located along the Thalang and Yaowarat Roads.

Thalang town was surrounded by Burmese troops who invaded the coastal area in 1785. It was under the leadership of Chan, the widow of the governor, and her sister, Muk, who united local residents and successfully fought and drove the invaders out of Phuket. It took over 30 days for the defending troops of Phuket, under the command of Chan and Muk, to claim their victory. As a result of such heroic deeds, noble titles were granted to Chan and Muk as Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon respectively. To honor them, a monument was established at Tha Ruea Intersection, 12 kilometers to the north of Phuket City in 1966. They are still highly respected by Phuket residents even today.

However, 24 years later, the Burmese succeeded in seizing Thalang causing many local residents to flee to Phang-nga and Krabi. In 1825, some of them returned to re-establish a town and established a rice farming community. On the other hand, the area to the south of the island (Phuket City today) was developed and became a tin trading center.

When Phuket was elevated to a town in 1850, it attracted more immigrants from Thalang and nearby communities. In 1894, Phuket was promoted to be a Monthon administrative unit under the supervision of the central administrative body (located in Bangkok).

In 1902, Phraya Ratsada Korsimbi, a Sino-Thai businessman who contributed to developing the modern city of Phuket was appointed Governor of Phuket. He also helped to improve the welfare of local residents and set up the market system in the countryside. In 1916, Phuket became a province.

The tin mining industry has gradually failed to generate economic growth in Phuket, especially after 1985 when the price of tin fell by half. However, with its natural resources, Phuket later emerged as a tourist destination with great potential. This polished pearl of the Andaman is truly a destination that provides visitors with memorable experiences.

The islands long history has shaped the distinctive Phuket of the present with its diverse ethnic groups, culture, architectural influence, and fine cuisine. With approximately 35 percent of the population being comprised of Thai-Muslims, it is possible to see an equal number of Wats (Thai temples) located next to Mosques.

Phuket Information

Located approximately 862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand's largest island, which is often dubbed as the pearl of the Andaman, or the pearl of the south. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South's wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of the southern part of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, the province covers an area of approximately 543 square kilometers (excluding small islets). It is estimated that Phuket Province covers an area of approximately 590 square kilometers if its 39 other small islands are included. The islands total length, from north to south, is estimated at 48.7 kilometers and approximately 21.3 kilometers wide.

Phuket borders on Phang-nga Province to the north. The other 3 sides are encircled by the Andaman Sea the place where many of the best diving sites are located. The island is connected to Phang-nga Province by Sarasin Bridge and Thep Krasattri Bridge.

Staying on the island is easy, as there are only two seasons in a year - the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season of phuket is between September and October as they are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average temperatures ranges between 23 C and 33 C.

Phuket's topology is exceptional with 70 percent of its area covered with mountains which stretch from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains located in the central and eastern parts of the island. The island does not have any major rivers except for a total of 9 brooks and creeks.

Phuket is divided into 3 administrative counties namely Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Thalang and Amphoe Kathu.

Phuket has a lot more to offer its visitors other than its natural heritage sea, sand, sky, beach, forest, and world renowned diving sites. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell delighting travelers to the city, while Phuket-style hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition, accommodations ranging from world-class resorts to tropical-style bungalows have warmly catered to the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there is a lot more to sample than just Phuket's famous lobster. Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly unique destination.

Surin Beach Hotels

Amanpuri Resort

The most desirable and exclusive property in Phuket, the Amanpuri has an unrivalled reputation as a luxury resort where personal service, recreational facilities and fine cuisine complement the unique splendor of its surroundings. The Amanpuri offers beautifully decorated Thai style pavilions, a private beach, grass and hard tennis courts, and a private fleet of 20 cruisers and sailing craft (the largest of any hotel in Southeast Asia). Pansea Beach is quiet and picturesque and provides all the watersports you could want. These are only a sample of the delights that await you at this stunning resort.

Ayara Hilltops

Surrounded by nature indigenous to its hillside setting, Ayara Hilltops in Phuket, a luxury boutique resort in Phuket is Thalang district offers an arresting view of the azure waters of Surin Bay amidst rich, exotic tropical greenery atop Surin hill. This is only one of the many elements providing a calm and relaxing stay for guests at Ayara Hilltops.

Benyada

Benyada Lodge, a paradise on Phuket Island, is situated in secluded environment where ocean view and privacy are promised. The Benyada Lodge, Phuket is only 5 minutes walk from Surin beach and within easy walking distance to shops and restaurants. Styled in Thai contemporary architecture, all rooms and facilities offer comfort of a luxurious resort and tranquility of a hideaway purlieu. Decorated in earth tone green colors with contemporary furniture. All room types are elegantly designed with convenience and relaxing atmosphere in mind. Detail Of Roomtype: Junior Suite rooms are 42 sqm, uniquely decorated with a private sea view terrace. They are fitted with a double bed only, 2 single beds are unavailable. They have a living area with a sofa. Bathroom have a separate bathtub and shower. Benyada@Sea rooms are 28 sqm.Deluxe room with a private lagoon view and tree view terrace. They are fitted with a double bed only, 2 single beds are unavailable. Bathroom have a shower only. Studio rooms are 28 sqm, fitted with a double bed or 2 single beds. Bathroom have a shower only.(Not sea view).

Manathai Hotel and Resort

Manathai Resort is a small boutique resort hotel, located in the heart of beautiful Surin Beach Phuket Island. This exciting stylishly presented property faces the turquoise Andaman Sea. It is an exclusive area adjacent to the Amanpuri & Laguna resorts with direct access to the white sands of Surin Beach. The resort is only 20 minutes drive from Phuket International Airport and from Patong, the around the clock entertainment venue of the island.

Suringate

Surin Gate, designed to provide a relaxed atmosphere, with a warm and friendly service. Surin Gate with its lushly landscaped tropical garden and swimming pool features a range of facilities that is sure to please every member of the family. Just some of the reasons to stay at the privately owned, passionately run Surin Gate.

The Chedi

A luxury resort, established on Phuket for many years, the Chedi is a place where service is second nature, facilities are first rate and guests often return year after year to an easy blend of elegant simplicity, style and seclusion. Simple, yet sophisticated thatched cottages, nestle into a hillside dotted with coconut plantations that gently descend to the lovely white sand beach of Pansea Bay. Lapped by the waters of the Andaman Sea, it offers a perfect choice for a relaxing beach vacation.

Twinpalms Phuket

Phuket�s most in hotel: Twinpalms features innovative tropical interiors with stylish restaurants, superbly dimensioned swimming pools, lushly landscaped tropical water gardens and well-trained, thoughtful and unpretentious service. Twinpalms als only uses pure and natural products with cutting-edge technology, first-class accommodation and a truly world-class spa. We even have our own original art collection as well as a fully equipped library and a fabulously appointed wine cellar. Twinpalms is also in a great location next to Surin Beachs Millionaires Mile and we have our own private beach club on Surin Beach itself - a wonderful length of beachfront on Phuket. These are just some of the reasons to stay at Twinpalms Phuket.

Villa Arawan

Villa Arawan is a contemporary five-bedroom northern Thai-style villa located within a private estate, Ayara Surin, with its own entrance at the end of a no-through road. The Villa has outstanding seaviews of Surin and Bang Tao beaches on the West coast of Phuket and also overlooks the small peninsula between the two beaches where the exclusive Amanpuri and Chedi hotels are situated. A large living space is the main feature of the villa: its fully air-conditioned indoor area is 550 sqm with a further 500 sqm of outdoor terracing.