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Phonsavan

Phonsavan (ໂພນສະຫວັນ) (pronounced Pon-savan) is the capital of Xieng Khouang Province in Central Laos. It is known primarily as the gateway to the Plain of Jars.

Understand
Phonsavan is the capital of Xieng Khouang Province. It was built in the late 1970s and replaced the old Xieng Khouang, which had been destroyed during the Second Indochina War. It is in the center of the Plain of Jars and has a pleasant climate all year around, although it can become chilly on winter nights due to its elevation of. The long winding main street of Phonsavan looks like the setting of a David Lynch-inspired spaghetti western minus the tumbleweeds. As soon as you leave town the countryside is dominated by green hills and pine forests. Villages consist of colourful wooden houses where ranching is the primary occupation. You will see more than one Hmong cowboy with brown and violet cowboy hats. During Hmong New Year there are bullfights.

The best-known tourist attraction is the nearby UNESCO world heritage site Plain of Jars. The main economic activities are governmental administration, mining (by Australian and Chinese companies), tourism, and the work of NGOs clearing unexploded ordnance (UXO).

Phonsavan is home to various ethnic groups, such as the Phuan, whose ancestors once founded the kingdom of the same name; the Hmong, whose New Year's celebrations in Xieng Khouang are famous throughout Laos; the Khmu, and the Tai Dam. There is also a minority of Laotian Chinese and Vietnamese, as well as some international workers and missionaries from Korea and Western countries. Typical local products are natural dyes and textiles, each with an individual pattern depending on the ethnic group, basketry, mulberry paper umbrellas, spoons made from war scrap or embroidery.

For general information visit the Provincial Tourism Department near the market, Thalat Nam Ngum, on the road to the airport.

By plane

 * Lao ATR72.jpg

By bus
Phonsavan has three bus stations: Xiengkhouang Station to the west of town center, Phonethong Station (Ban Ngoui or Ban Noi branch) to the south of town, and Phonsavan Bus Terminal (aka Bounmixay Southern Bus Station) further south of Phonethong station.

If you are traveling from Vientiane you can take VIP buses or local buses. The buses leave from the northern bus terminal and take 10–12 hours. The roads are paved but there are plenty of bends. The bus trip from Vang Vieng takes 7–8 hours. In May 2024 a bus ticket with hotel pick-up through an agent was 250,000 kip per person. There is only one van leaving at 09:00 from North bus station of Vang Vieng, but it may leave early — 20 minutes or more — so be there early, if you're not using a tourist agent. You may be told by some agents, that there is no option to go to Phonsavan directly from Vang Vieng (you could go to Luang-Prabang first), but this is incorrect. There is a tour agent in the night market area who can book the van. It is recommended to ask several tour agents and try finding someone who knows.

Minivans run daily from Luang Prabang ("Naluang International Bus Station") cost 255,000 kip (Jul 2024) and due to extremely poor road condition takes 11 hours for the 260-km-long trip, via Road 13 then Road 7. In Phonsavan the minivans terminates at Xiengkhouang Bus Station, not Manivone minibus station.

Shared minivan options to the most popular destinations, Luang Prabang (200,000 kip, Mar 2023), Vang Vieng and Vientiane, are offered by travel agencies.

There were two buses running daily from Vinh in Vietnam, going from the main bus station at 06:00 (no reservations necessary) (2011). Vinh can be reached easily by train from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. As of December 2022, no visa on arrival is available and e-visas are not accepted.

Get around
To get to other towns in the province you can take local buses or pick-up trucks. A normal tour inside the town costs about 100,000 kip. There are 9 travel agents in Phonsavan that arrange bike, motorbike and car rentals. A bike costs (depending on quality) from 50,000 kip per day. You can rent scooters for about 200,000 kip. Renting a minivan costs about US$80-100, but a four-wheel drive costs over US$150. This includes or excludes fuel, depending on the company.

Battlefields
During the Second Indochina War, Xieng Khouang was the scene of extensive ground battles and intense aerial bombardment due to its perceived strategic importance. The provinces of Houaphan and Xieng Khouang had been the stronghold of Pathet Lao forces and their Vietnamese allies. The heavy aerial carpet bombardments to neutralize those forces or to drop off unused ordnance after returning from missions in Vietnam turned the Plain of Jars quite literally into the Plain of Scars and the most heavily bombarded area worldwide. In addition to bombs, massive quantities of defoliants and herbicides were dropped.

Evidence of the intense fighting can be seen in the cratered landscape and in war relics such as unexploded bomb casings, tanks, and defensive positions. The resourceful locals refashion war scrap into items for everyday use, e.g., spoons in Ban Napia village, planters, fences, tools, pumps and barbecues.

 * MAG Marker Brick.jpg
 * MAG Marker Brick.jpg
 * MAG Marker Brick.jpg
 * MAG Marker Brick.jpg

Caves of refuge
During the war thousands of local residents took shelter in caves and set up hospitals and schools. The army used the caves as well to store weapons and medical supplies. Two major caves are open to the public:

Nature
Xieng Khouang is widely known for the Plain of Jars, but beyond its jars is the natural beauty of the province. Xieng Khouang's scenery is characterised by the highest mountains in the country (Mount Phou Bia), its pine forests, deciduous woodlands, rolling hills and grasslands. In the cold season the green hills of the Plain of Jars turn reddish brown, punctuated with yellow sunflowers and poinsettia in full bloom. Nam Ngum, the largest river in the province, originates in the highlands of Paek District and is one of the major tributaries of the Mekong. Nong Het and Phaxay District in particular offer stunning karst scenery with plenty of caves, cliffs, underground rivers and waterfalls. The area is particularly beautiful during peach and orchid tree blossoming in Feb.

Do

Buy
Typical local products from Phonsavan and the surrounding area include natural dyes and textiles decorated with patterns unique to each ethnic group, mulberry paper parasols, spoons made from war scrap and Hmong embroidery. In the villages the basket making is still of great importance. Basket work is traditionally performed by men. The typical Hmong shoulder baskets, which are used to carry food and goods are made from bamboo, another material used is rattan.

Eat
With a cool climate and relatively high elevation, Xiengkhouang produces many food items and forest products that are either not available or in scarce supply in other parts of the country. Specialty fruits of the province (seasonally available dependent on species) are Chinese pears (mak jong), passion fruit (mak nawt), peaches (mak kai), and plums (mak mun). Many different varieties of mushrooms are found here, such as hed deep, a yellow, flower-like mushroom common to the area. hed wai specific to the region, is exported at high prices (US$30–40/kg) to connoisseurs throughout the world. Another notable medicinal forest product unique to the province is ya hua, a root used to give strength and good appetite and for treating ailments experienced by women after giving birth. Xiangkhouang's local chili pastes are the jaeow bong, a sour version of the famous chili paste from Luang Prabang, and jaeow pa khem, a paste made from salted fish. One of the unusual foods that Xiengkhouang is famous for, available only here, is "sour swallow" (nok ann toong). Every year, beginning in August–September, migratory swallows, traveling from Russia and other northern areas, visit Xiengkhouang to bathe on dust platforms located on hill tops. The swallows are caught and placed in a container to ferment. Later they are prepared by either frying or cooking in a stew. The birds are best eaten whole—without the feathers of course.

Phonsavan has a surprisingly broad offering of food for a provincial town its size. There are about 32 proper restaurants and many pho (noodle) soup shops. You can easily find Chinese, Vietnamese and Lao restaurants, but here are some special places:

Stay safe
Motorcycle accidents are not uncommon due to poor brakes and equipment. When renting a motorcycle in town ensure the fundamentals, such as brakes, are in good working order.

Happy Motorcycles are reported to offer some level of insurance. Warning - Phonsavan is one of the most heavily bombed places in history. There is unexploded ordnance (UXO) everywhere. On average, 60 persons die each year due to UXOs. Use caution when wandering, and always stay on paths.

Connect
There are plenty of Internet cafes on the main street which are fast enough for Skype. There is a DHL drop-off point at the main market and a Lao post office. Nisha Restaurant, and sometimes the post office, sells postcards, which are difficult to get in Phonsavan.

Go next

 * Luang Prabang. Bus at 08:30, 200,000 kip, air-con
 * Plain of Jars
 * Vang Vieng. Bus at 07:30, 95,000 kip, air-con
 * Vieng Xai
 * Vientiane. Bus 95,000-130,000 kip at 07:00, 08:00, 10:30, 16:30, 18:40, 20:00. hours can be changed, most notably the 07:00 and 08:00 can be merged into one 09:00 bus. 20:00 is the VIP bus. All have air-con. Two different bus stations, the trip from the southern bus station passing Pakxan takes 8 hours, from the northern bus station passing Vang Vieng takes 10 hours.
 * Vietnam
 * Vinh. 06:30, 150,000 kip, air-con

title: Phonsavan


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Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area

Tad Xay and Pha Xay are two waterfalls in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area of Laos.

Understand
Tad Xay and Pha Xay are considered to be the most beautiful waterfalls of Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area (PKK). They consist of two falls within less than a kilometre. The stream Houay Xay has its source in the northern mountains of the park, meanders through dense and relatively untouched evergreen and dry deciduous forest, and finally empties about 2.5 km north of Ban Hatkhai into the Nam Mang, one of the three major rivers of the PKK area. This small stream appears to be a calm and gentle creek with little water during the dry season (October to May). As soon as the rain starts to fall, though, it turns as quickly as it dried out into a roaring "wild dangerous beast" for the rest of the year. Particularly in September, Tad Xay is nothing but a thundering white wall.

By reaching Tad Xay, the crystal clear waters Houay Xay are cascading over seven 1-3 metre steps, and then flowing in a sharp curve to the left through a picturesque small valley, to plunge 800 metres downstream over a steep 50-metre cliff info a breathtaking forested gorge.

"Tad" means waterfall in Laotian, "Pha" - cliff, "Houay" - stream, "Nam" - river and water.

By Car or Bike
Can be reached directly from Vientiane by car or motorbike. Turn left short before entering Thabok (Km 90, highway 13 south), the dirty (and during dry season, very dusty) road leads to Ban Houay Leuk (5 km). Always follow the road signs "National Park". After crossing iron bridge over the Nam Leuk turn right after 1 km. Two kilometres on, you'll pass another small village, Ban Hatkhai, which is the "gateway" to this part of the park.

For the time being, a bridge only half a kilometer before Ban Hatkai collapsed end of 2002, and is not passable during the rainy season, but can be by-passed without major problems during the dry season through the riverbed. The waters can be very deep there. Makeshift bridges have been constructed several times, but were later torn away by torrential waters. These bridges were also very narrow and shaky and it'a on the nerves of the driver to cross. The construction of a new, solid bridge turned out to be very costly for the villagers and it may still take some time to repair it.

The remainder of the road to Tad Xay and Pha Xay is inside the forest and may occasionally get a bit rough and steep. This part after Ban Hatkhai, about 7 km long, is amazingly good. Finally, you reach the parking area, from where you are to explore the beautiful surroundings by foot.

Highly recommended for people who want to experience more of the beautiful nature: Ban Hatkhai offers well trained guides, who will bring you to Tad Xay on a rewarding 45-min boat trip and relatively easy 1.5-hour trek through wonderful jungle. Other treks to different destinations can be booked as well.

By boat
Ban Hatkhai can also be reached by boat from Thabok (a little bit more than 2 hours). It's not a regular tour so you have to find someone to bring you there and negotiate for the price.

Public transport
From Vientiane is available from bus stations at Talat Sao (Morning Market) or at Talat Thad Luang. These buses or pick-ups pass either Thabok or go once a day directly to Ban Hatkhai. Irregular and often overcrowded public transport is also available from Thabok to the Long Xan valley, passing Ban Houay Leuk. 1 km after this village at the junction Tad Leuk/Tad Xay, leave the car and walk for about 2 km.

Get around
Starting at parking area, two trails are marked with coloured triangles:
 * White-red is leading to the viewpoint of Pha Xay. Enter the forest less than 100 m before you reach the parking itself (almost there where the incoming road turns sharp left). Watch out for a big tree. A marker should be there, but people sometimes like to remove it. A dark hole in the otherwise dense vegetation may give you a hint. There can be fallen trees on the path which you'll have to climb over. After 200 metres you'll reach the viewpoint.

A safety fence is there, but be careful. It's going down 50 m straight and can be very slippery when wet. The cliff is not fenced over its entire length.
 * Yellow-red is leading to Tad Xay. It starts just left of the big signboard, where you have to cross a small bridge. During the dry season you can also be able to cross the river itself and walk up-stream inside the sandstone riverbed along the opposite riverbank to the waterfall.

It is also a very good place for a picnic. A large pool with clear water year round at the foot of Tad Xay invites visitors for a refreshing dip. Please do not litter or use soap in the water.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/


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Phrae

Phrae (แพร่) is a city in the Northern River Valleys of Northern Thailand.

Understand
An old and important community of Northern Thailand, Phrae was founded after Chiang Mai had been established as the capital of the Lanna Thai kingdom. With one of the largest reserves of teak forests in the country, it is on the banks of the Yom River, 555 km from Bangkok. It covers an area of about 6,538 square kilometres and surrounded on all sides by mountains with level plains in the middle.

Get in
The bus station is at the north end of Yantarakitkoson Rd. You can take the train to Den Chai and take a songthaew to Phrae.

See
There are many old buildings in Phrae. Try to get the Historic buildings of Phrae map if you can find it.

 * Phra That Phra Lo (พระธาตุพระลอ) is a 400-year-old chedi believed to contain the remains of a king named Phra Lo, ruler of Nakhon Maen Suang once located in the vicinity. It is said he died together with his two lovers, Phra Phuean and Phra Phaeng.
 * Wat Luang (วัดหลวง) Some of its major features include the viharn and Chiang Saen-style chedi enshrining a holy relic brought over from Myanmar. Others are the museum housing various antiquities including several 500-year-old Buddha statues and an ancient Lanna-style wooden structure.
 * To the west of Wat Luang is Wat Phra Non (วัดพระนอน) near the site of the old city walls. Some of the architectural works include the Chiang Saen-style ubosot with narrow openings to let in light instead of normal windows. Inside is a nine metre-long plaster reclining Buddha.
 * Wat Phra Bat Ming Mueang (วัดพระบาทมิ่งเมือง) was built in 1955 by combining two ancient temples. There is an old chedi containing a replica of the holy footprint inside.
 * The City Pillar Shrine of Phrae (ศาลหลักเมืองแพร่) features an inscription stone with ancient Thai scripts of the Sukhothai period describing the construction of a temple in the town.
 * Wat Sa Bo Kaeo (วัดสระบ่อแก้ว) is a temple with several exotic Burmese artistic-styled structures and Buddha statues. It is also where Burmese monks who travel to Thailand to study the Buddhist scripture stay.
 * Wat Chom Sawan (วัดจอมสวรรค์), a Burmese-style temple. Antiquities found here include marble Buddha statues, statues made of woven bamboos coated with lacquer, and Buddha statues made from ivory, as well as ivory scripture slabs with Burmese scripts.
 * Ban Thung Hong (บ้านทุ่งโฮ้ง), a village noted for the making of products made from Mo Hom (ม่อฮ่อม) material. It is a local cotton fabric dyed in blue which is used in making native and modern clothing.
 * Ban Rong Fong (บ้านร่องฟอง) specialises in making metal agricultural tools using traditional methods.
 * Ban Pong Si (บ้านโป่งศรี) at tambon Thin of Mueang district is a village which collects and exchanges second-hand household utensils for daily use.
 * A small, two-level waterfall, Namtok Mae Khaem (น้ำตกแม่แคม) is in Tambon Suan Khuan. There is another fall, larger and with three levels, in the vicinity. It is Namtok Tat Mok (น้ำตกตาดหมอก), which is about 22 kilometres from town.
 * Wat Phra That Cho Hae (วัดพระธาตุช่อแฮ) is a major religious site of the province. It was built in the time of Sukhothai. The 33 metre-tall Chiang Saen-style chedi housed a holy relic. It was built of bricks and covered with bright brass sheets.
 * Wat Phra That Chom Chaeng (วัดพระธาตุจอมแจ้ง) is a golden chedi that is 29 metres tall and enshrined a holy relic. There is also a museum of rare ancient relics.
 * Phraya Chaiyabun Memorial (อนุสาวรีย์พระยาไชยบูรณ์) honors the man who was governor of the town during 1897-1902. He was slain by rebelling Shan tribesmen when he refused to cede the town to them. After the rebellion was put down by government troops, King Rama V ordered a memorial erected in his honour.
 * Folklore Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์พื้นบ้าน), in the same compound as the Ban Fai Garden Restaurant (สวนอาหารบ้านฝ้าย), is made up of several buildings and wooden structures displaying the local way of life. The different types of wooden houses demonstrate the different status of the local people.
 * Hua Dong Market (ตลาดหัวดง) is the centre of products made from wood and rattan, mostly household furniture and decorative items.
 * Wat Phra Luang (วัดพระหลวง) features a Sukhothai-style chedi and is referred to by the local people as "That Neong" (ธาตุเนิ้ง), meaning the leaning chedi.
 * Wat Phra That Suthon Mongkhon Khiri (วัดพระธาตุสุโทนมงคลคีรี) is noted for its delicate sculptures with fine designs. There is also the golden teak structure in the Lanna-style which houses valuable relics of the North, including Buddha statues, lacquer ware, Lanna musical instruments, ancient weapons, and pictures depicting past events.
 * Kaeng Luang (แก่งหลวง) On the other side of the river is found the Tham Erawan (ถ้ำเอราวัณ) adorned with elephant-and-female-shaped hanging and protruding crops of rock.
 * Hua Dong Market (ตลาดหัวดง) is the centre of products made from wood and rattan, mostly household furniture and decorative items.
 * Wat Phra Luang (วัดพระหลวง) features a Sukhothai-style chedi and is referred to by the local people as "That Neong" (ธาตุเนิ้ง), meaning the leaning chedi.
 * Wat Phra That Suthon Mongkhon Khiri (วัดพระธาตุสุโทนมงคลคีรี) is noted for its delicate sculptures with fine designs. There is also the golden teak structure in the Lanna-style which houses valuable relics of the North, including Buddha statues, lacquer ware, Lanna musical instruments, ancient weapons, and pictures depicting past events.
 * Kaeng Luang (แก่งหลวง) On the other side of the river is found the Tham Erawan (ถ้ำเอราวัณ) adorned with elephant-and-female-shaped hanging and protruding crops of rock.

Do

 * WatChohae.jpg
 * The Phra That Cho Hae Fair (งานประเพณีนมัสการพระธาตุช่อแฮ), held around March, involves a procession to carry robes to cover the chedi. The procession follows the Lanna style. All participants are decked out in traditional Lanna attire.
 * Doklomlaengban Songkran Muangphrae Nung Mohhom Tae Ngam Ta or Songkran Festival in Phrae is held on 13–17 April every year at Chareun Muang Road, Yantarakit Kosol Road and around the city.

Buy

 * Mo Hom (ม่อฮ่อม) is a well-known hand-crafted fabric made in Phrae. Considered a quality product, using traditional methods in the weaving, dyeing and tailoring processes.
 * Another famous product is Pha Tin Chok (ผ้าตีนจก), a fine and well-made fabric with distinctive design. Apart from being widely used as material to make dresses, today it is also used to make items such as hand-bags, shoes, and household decorative items.
 * Another famous product is Pha Tin Chok (ผ้าตีนจก), a fine and well-made fabric with distinctive design. Apart from being widely used as material to make dresses, today it is also used to make items such as hand-bags, shoes, and household decorative items.

Sleep

 * Punjen Hide-Away turn off 5km after Wiang Kosai National Park. This small resort has 3 cabins with 2 bedrooms and private bathrooms, small kitchen area, and sitting area. It is next to the Saloke River, so you can listen to the sound of running water from your terrace. They have both bed and breakfast or a unique village tour over 3 days/2 nights.
 * Punjen Hide-Away turn off 5km after Wiang Kosai National Park. This small resort has 3 cabins with 2 bedrooms and private bathrooms, small kitchen area, and sitting area. It is next to the Saloke River, so you can listen to the sound of running water from your terrace. They have both bed and breakfast or a unique village tour over 3 days/2 nights.
 * Punjen Hide-Away turn off 5km after Wiang Kosai National Park. This small resort has 3 cabins with 2 bedrooms and private bathrooms, small kitchen area, and sitting area. It is next to the Saloke River, so you can listen to the sound of running water from your terrace. They have both bed and breakfast or a unique village tour over 3 days/2 nights.
 * Punjen Hide-Away turn off 5km after Wiang Kosai National Park. This small resort has 3 cabins with 2 bedrooms and private bathrooms, small kitchen area, and sitting area. It is next to the Saloke River, so you can listen to the sound of running water from your terrace. They have both bed and breakfast or a unique village tour over 3 days/2 nights.
 * Punjen Hide-Away turn off 5km after Wiang Kosai National Park. This small resort has 3 cabins with 2 bedrooms and private bathrooms, small kitchen area, and sitting area. It is next to the Saloke River, so you can listen to the sound of running water from your terrace. They have both bed and breakfast or a unique village tour over 3 days/2 nights.

title: Phrae


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Khao Phra Thaeo Non-Hunting Area

Khao Phra Thaeo Non-Hunting Area is a non-hunting area in Phuket Province,Thailand.

Understand
Phuket's last significant virgin rain forest is a designated non-hunting area located in the northern part of the island, NE of Talang. Walk up by the Tonsai waterfall, or, if you want to spend the day walking in the quiet majesty of a tropical forest, there's an 8-km hike right through the park from Bang Pae waterfall to Ton Sai.

Guides are available in the park. A small museum and information centre is located at the bottom of the waterfall.

Get in
Take Rte 402 to Thalang. From the Heroine's Monument Circle, take Route 4027 east for about 7-9 km. The entrance is clearly marked on the left.

Fees and permits
The entrance fee for adult foreigners (this boils down to those who cannot speak Thai) is 200 baht.

title: Khao Phra Thaeo Non-Hunting Area


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Phu Chi Fa

Phu Chi Fa (ภูชี้ฟ้า) Forest Park is in Chiang Rai Province of Thailand. In an area of outstanding natural beauty, this peak is a word-of-mouth secret with minimal crowds or touristic tackiness. It is not one of the tallest peaks in Northern Thailand, but its remote location, winding approach roads and final spectacular view make it a trek worth making.

Understand
From December to February, the chance of seeing a spectacular sunrise over a sea of clouds is good.

History
The area is today part of Thailand but the area is traditionally a "Tai-Lao homeland". The border division between Thailand and Laos created by the Mekong River (visible for the eagle-eyed from the summit) is relatively new.

Landscape
An outstanding array of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and elegant peaks.

Flora and fauna
Farmland and orchards/vineyards turn to bush, scrub, and grass near the summit.

Climate
Chilly for Thailand in the morning and pleasantly cool throughout the day.

Get in
Driving is evidently the easiest option to get to the area, but be aware of the challenging nature of both the road and the (pickup truck) drivers on it. Cars are available for rent starting at around 1,000 baht per day (plus refundable deposit around 20,000 baht) at Chiang Rai airport. A full tank of petrol (~1,000 baht) will get you there and back safely.

Directions from Chiang Rai (2½-3 hours)

Leave the city southbound on Rte 1 (Phahonyothin Rd). Take the turn off for Rte 1020 which will lead you south and then east. 1020 eventually splits in a rural town, with a left turn continuing as Rte 1020 and straight on becoming Rte 1021. Follow Rte 1021. You will begin to see signs for Phu Chi Fa and will take a left turn for Rte 1155 before reaching the town of Ngao. This road passes through some incredible scenery but you will need to keep an eye on signs at junctions. Eventually you will come to a checkpoint, keep right. A little further you will reach a T-junction. Take a right, following the signs for Phu Chi Fa Forest Park. From here it is a direct road and you will see signs for the amenities, parking, camping, information, and the viewpoint, i.e., the peak.

Every day, there is a 17-seat minibus bus leaves Chiang Rai for the village of Phu Chi Fa at 13:00. As of Feb 2018, the fare is 150 baht one way and 300 baht round trip. The return trip leaves Phu Chi Fa at 09:00 next morning. It takes about 2½ to 3 hours depending on traffic and number of stops. Before this time, there appeared no direct public transport.

Fees and permits
None.

Get around
For seeing the sunrise, there is local transportation at 05:00 for 30 baht each way to ride from the village to the park parking lot where you start the 750-m hike to the view point. At other times, it's on foot all the way.

See
Walk the final 750 m on a dirt path to the summit and be rewarded with the immense beauty of the Thai-Laos border.

During the months from December to February, the chance of seeing the spectacular sunrise over a sea of clouds is good.

Do
Enjoy a traditional song from local children in hill tribe costume as you climb. They will spot you, and those not astonished by your presence (assuming you are not Thai!) start singing - a smile or "sawaadee kaaa(p)" as you pass by is fine, but this is a rare circumstance when rewarding them with a few baht doesn't seem unethical. They are fun and friendly, and fascinated by farangs. Rather than hassling you as they might at Angkor Wat they will return to happily playing shortly and rather than being some cabal of gangsters, the money goes straight to their proud parents, invariably just a few feet away. Those unwilling to support the use of children for income could instead teach them a little of your language or compliment their song (dee dee!) or attire (suay maahk!).

Buy
There is a minimal amount of warm clothing and souvenirs available for purchase at the final car park near the summit. Don't pay more than 80 baht for a scarf.

Eat
Food is available at several restaurants at the village of Phu Chi Fa. The prices are very reasonable. There is no food available at the park.

Sleep
The village of Phu Chi Fa has the lodgings, from camping tents, hotel rooms to bungalows. The cost is about 200 baht per tent to 500-800 baht per bungalow. The prices depend on supply and demand and one's bargaining skills. Unfortunately, many of these lodging places are not visible online and cannot be booked in advance through the Internet. However, if you avoid major Thai holidays and weekends, there is plenty of supply for lodging.

As of Feb 2018, brown roofed bungalows at the very top, right (facing uphill) with 2 full beds, TV, hot water, good beds, clean, balcony, even mini fridge, water and instant coffee were 800 baht full price but you can haggle. There is a sign with a phone number you must call, they speak a little English and will meet you. Car next morning to Phucheefa is 60 baht per person nonnegotiable.

There are several other places that cost 500-600 baht and are in much worse condition.

Camping
Camping is available at the village of Phu Chi Fa. The cost is about 200 baht per tent depending on supply and demand. The cost is higher during Thai holidays.

Go next
There is little choice but to retrace your steps for most of the journey. Taking Rte 1021 eastward rather than westward back to Rte 1020 will take you through Phayao Province, near Phayao town and to Chiang Mai along back roads in a little under four hours.

title: Phu Chi Fa


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Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing (also sometimes spelled Phuntsholing), the second largest town in Bhutan (population around 30,000), is on the Indian border, next to the town of Jaigaon.

Understand
Phuentsholing is the point of entry for travelers arriving by bus from Kolkata and Siliguri and the town functions primarily as a place where Bhutanese and Indians do business. With a population approaching 30k, it is the second largest city in Bhutan, after Thimphu. The town itself is actually nothing more than a jumble of concrete, non-descript buildings squashed in a small area between mountains and the border; it also lacks a dzong, famous monastery, or in fact anything of particular interest to tourists. However, like all of Bhutan, it does offer a clean and safe environment in which to go about your business. Indian nationals require a travel permit to enter Bhutan proper, but can visit Phuentsholing without any documentation.

The tourist information office is located in the Bhutan Post Building. Tel: +975 5 251–393.

Entry procedure
The information below is relevant only to guests, foreign nationals with visa clearance documents, or those with a work permit. Bhutan does not operate a visa on arrival system, and visitors without correct documentation will be denied entry. The border immigration is open twenty-four hours.

 * 1) Receive exit stamp from Indian immigration office (see 'Cope' on Jaigaon page)
 * 2) Inside the Bhutanese immigration complex, travellers are directed to a tourist area where there is an information desk, immigration officials, a currency exchange and waiting area. There is a fee of 10 ngultrum to enter the facility.
 * 3) Present your visa authorisation document.
 * 4) Travellers are not be permitted to leave the immigration complex building without a guide

Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Phuentsholing, but they do require proof of citizenship, such as a voter card or passport, to travel beyond the town. In Phuentsholing, they will be issued a permit to visit other parts of the country. There is a Nu1,200 per day fee to go beyond Phuentsholing and a guide (Nu2,000 per day) is a requirement. (a list of guides is available at the immigration office)

By bus
Before entering Bhutan, non-Indians are required to receive an exit stamp in their passports at the Indian immigration office. Therefore, when getting on the bus, inform the driver that you'll be getting off in Jaigaon, and so your luggage should be placed in an area from where it can be removed easily - certainly not under piles of luggage of passengers going to the final destination. Request the driver to let you off near the Indian immigration office (next to the movie theater). It is a five-minute walk from there to Bhutan gate.
 * From Kolkata. The Bhutan Government runs a direct service from Kolkata to Phuentsholing, with buses departing Esplanade Bus Station at 7PM on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, with the return journey starting from the Phuentsholing office of Bhutan Post at 3PM on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The journey takes around 18-25 hours (depending on road work) and costs 350Rps/Nu. The buses are comfortable, but because much of the highway through West Bengal is like the surface of the moon, don't bank on getting much sleep on the way.
 * From Siliguri. Buses depart at 7:30AM and 2PM every day from opposite Golden Plaza on Burdwan Road (behind Air View More). Tickets are sold at a counter near the bus. It is roughly a four-hour journey. See 'Go next' on Siliguri page for more information.

By train
The nearest railway station to Phuentsholing is at Hasimara, which is approximately a 30 minutes bus/auto ride. See Jaigaon page for more information.

There are around 50 trains each week departing from Siliguri Junction or New Jalpaiguri station (also in Siliguri) which stop at Hasimara. The journey takes between 3 and 4 hours.

Get around
The town center can easily be covered on foot, but there are an abundance of taxis for journeys out of town. Reserve cars are also available from Kings Travels, dial-098304-28401/093319-39486.

See

 * Amo Chuu - a Crocodile Breeding Centre on the banks of the river behind the bus station. The crocodiles are bred in order to be released in a nature reserve.

 * Chukha Hydrothermal Project.

 * Karbandi Monastery. After an Indian pilgrim became pregnant after praying at this monastery to conceive, the temple has become a regular port of call for couples wishing for children. For those who do not have parental ambitions, the view from the monastery over Phuentsholing and the Bengal Plain is still worth making the trip. The monastery is located a short distance above the town. Take a cab up and walk back.
 * Zangthopelri Lhakhang This town centre temple represents the heaven of Guru Rinpoche. On the ground floor there are statues of eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche and paintings on Buddha's life while the next floor contains eight bodhisattavas and statues of Avalokiteshvara and Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. On the top floor, there is a statue of Amitabha.

Do

 * Wander round the town and plan your journey in or out of the country.

Buy

 * Phuentsholing does not have any handicraft gift shops, and so do not leave your souvenir shopping until your departure from here.
 * The town has a good selection of supermarkets, electrical and computer shops, and a fresh vegetable market.

Eat
Being on the Indian border, the town has a great selection of Indian restaurants.

Alcohol
The Bhutanese are generally very liberal consumers of alcohol, and so the town has a high number of bars. One can choose from a range of Bhutanese brands of whiskeys, rums, brandies, gins, and a peculiar green concoction called sonfy which one would be wise to avoid. Two whiskey brands, Special Courier, and CSJ, made with Scottish malt, are actually quite pleasant. More internationally recognized brands of alcohol are also available at some of the more reputed watering holes, such as the bars at Hotel Kuenga and at Hotel Druk-Bhutan.

Mid-range

 * Midpoint Hotel, Tel:+975-5-254903 - Mobile:17616379 - In Dhamdara away from the hustle and bustle of the town - with a swimming pool, a restaurant and a bar. Rooms range from Nu.770/- to Nu.2000/-
 * Hotel Druk-Bhutan, PO Box 385 - Tel:+975 5254451/254496/251163 - Mobile:17110318/17110140 - Pleasant, in Dhamidhara, away from the hub of town - overlooking the Toorsa river - with garden and mini-pool.
 * Hotel Druk. The town's largest and one of the main tourist hotels - patio for sitting out - near Bhutan Gate (on the right when entering the town from Jaigaon).
 * Hotel Druk. The town's largest and one of the main tourist hotels - patio for sitting out - near Bhutan Gate (on the right when entering the town from Jaigaon).

Connect

 * The area code for Phuentsholing is 05. When calling from overseas, dial +975 5 XXXXXX
 * E-mail: Connections in Phuentsholing are not fast, but one of the better places is Phajoding, located on the second floor on the main street leading from Bhutan Gate, across from the entrance to Hotel Druk. NB: International phone calls and internet service are much cheaper in India, so you might consider crossing over into Jaigaon to message your contacts.

Go next
In Bhutan:

 * Paro - sacred sites, handicraft stores, international airport - bus and shared taxi options
 * Thimphu - the bustling capital city, shopping, dzongs, - buses every thirty minutes (Nu400), shared taxis (Nu1,000) (Update March 2023)

In India:

 * Siliguri - a cosmopolitan city, large shopping malls, Buddhist monasteries, international airport - buses (Dophu Transport +975 77870211) at 7:30AM and 2PM (Nu300) - a four-hour journey

title: Phuentsholing


text:
Phuket

Phuket (ภูเก็ต), pronounced (roughly) "puh-KET", is Thailand's largest island. It is 48 km in length, 21 km at its widest, and is in Southern Thailand, on the west-facing Andaman Sea coastline, suspended from the southern tip of Phang Nga province by a pair of short but substantial road bridges.

Cities

 * — the administrative centre of the province with the cheapest accommodation
 * — home to Phuket Aquarium
 * — home to Phuket's most popular yacht anchorage and the primary gateway to the islands off Phuket
 * — the second most-developed beach after Patong, split into Karon Yai and Karon Noi Beaches
 * — small bay with stunning views, between Kamala and Surin Beaches
 * — many posh resorts, Thai villages, and restaurants, very quiet and far away from it all
 * — the largest and most popular beach resort known for its nightlife
 * — jumping off point for lots of local islands, popular with locals for eating on the beach
 * — an up-and-coming upmarket destination

Other destinations

 * — 10 minutes from Rawai, an ideal island for a day of snorkelling and relaxing
 * — 15 minutes by speedboat from Chalong Bay, accessible all year
 * — fishery villages, walking along nature trails, fishing and biking
 * — quiet, mostly Muslim island with a few bungalows
 * — gorgeous little island with only one (expensive) place to stay
 * — two islands (Yai and Noi), popular with scuba divers and a relaxing snorkelling destination
 * — sea Gypsy colony, connected to the mainland by a causeway
 * — Phuket's last significant virgin rain forest

Understand
Phuket lies in balmy Andaman Sea waters on Thailand's Indian Ocean coastline, 862 km south of Bangkok. The island-province enjoys great popularity as a travel destination. Most beaches are on the west coast, with Phuket Town to the southeast and the airport in the north.

Phuket used to derive its wealth from tin and rubber, and enjoys a rich and colourful history. The island was on one of the major trading routes between India and China, and was frequently mentioned in foreign traders' ship's logs. Phuket's top earner now is tourism, which has transformed the island into Thailand's wealthiest province. Expect prices to be a bit higher than on the mainland.

The west coast of Phuket was hit severely by the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004, but almost no evidence of the damage remains.

Climate
Phuket is hot and humid throughout the year. The hot season is generally considered to be from Mar to early May. During the summer monsoon season from May-Oct, mornings and afternoons are sunny and clear, but it tends to rain in the evenings and water clarity goes down. Locals consider Nov-Feb the "cool" season, and the weather is quite tolerable. It's comparable to Florida's summer weather in temperature and intensity of rain storms: 25-33 degrees Celsius, scudding clouds, short and thunderous rainfalls in the afternoons and evenings. Surfing is possible off the western beaches.

Culture
Phuket is a melange of Buddhists, Thai-Chinese, Muslims, and Moken people. The majority of the population in the rural areas are Muslim. Outside of the provincial towns, the rural folk speak with a thick Southern dialect which is difficult for even other Thais to understand. The booming tourist economy over the past decade has led to many young people leading lives similar to those in Bangkok. Altogether, the lifestyle of the urban Thai-Chinese resembles that of their Bangkok brethren.

By plane

There are very frequent flights from Bangkok and direct flights to many other airports in the region. A wide variety of airlines have year-round direct flights to Phuket from elsewhere in Asia, as well as the Middle East, India, and Australia. Other destinations (mostly in Europe) have seasonal charter flights.

The airport is notionally divided into Terminals 1 and 2, with some charter and low-cost operators using the second, but these are only a short distance apart and connected by an air-conditioned walkway.

International flights

 * Australia - Jetstar flies from Melbourne and Sydney.
 * Cambodia - Thai AirAsia flies from Siem Reap
 * China - Lots of flights including from Beijing, Zhengzhou, Shenzhen, Xi'an, and Kunming.
 * Hong Kong - Cathay Pacific, HK Express and Air Asia (resuming March 2023) run flights
 * India - IndiGo flies from Bangalore, Delhi and Mumbai. Go First flies from all those locations and Kolkata too.
 * Malaysia - FireFly flies from Penang, using small ATR turboprop aircraft. AirAsia, Batik Air Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines have flights from Kuala Lumpur. Qatar Airways also operates daily flights from Kuala Lumpur.
 * Qatar - Qatar Airways operates direct daily flights from Doha
 * Singapore - Thai AirAsia, Singapore Airlines and their low-cost brand, Scoot as well as Jetstar Asia fly there.
 * Taiwan - EVA Air operates non-stop flights from Taipei to Phuket.
 * Switzerland - Edelweiss Air operates seasonal direct flights from Zurich.
 * South Korea - Asiana Airlines flies non-stop from Seoul with connections from New York. Jin Air and Korean Airways also fly direct from Seoul.
 * Vietnam - VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines fly from Ho Chi Minh City.

Charter flights
There are many charter flights in high season from European and Asian countries. Many charter flights from Russia are suspended, as of Nov 2022.

Domestic flights
Several domestic airlines fly here, including Nok Air, Thai Air Asia, Bangkok Airways and Thai VietJet Air.

Thai Airways flies from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport several times every day, and once daily from Chiang Mai (but there are no direct flights in the opposite direction). Additionally, they sell tickets from/to many domestic and international destinations with stopovers in Bangkok, which are usually cheaper (especially international) than if you book separate tickets. Worth checking if you book just a few days before flight, as low-cost airlines may cost just a few less in this situation, but you get world-famous Thai Airways service.

Air Asia fly from Phuket to Chiang Mai direct, twice a day at 10:35 and 19:20, affording an opportunity to combine a beach holiday with experiencing the wildlife and exotic cultures of northern Thailand. From Chiang Mai to Phuket flights depart at 13:00 and 21:45. They fly from two cities in Isaan as well, daily from Udon Thani (handy for a trip into Laos) and four times per week from Ubon Ratchathani.

Bangkok Airways has a monopoly on direct flights between Phuket and U-Tapao (Pattaya/Sattahip) and Ko Samui. They also have 6 daily flights from Bangkok. Fares are usually the same as Thai Airways, but sometimes they have very inexpensive promotional fares.

Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways fly to Suvarnabhumi (pronounced: soo-Var-na-phoom), whereas Nok Air flies from Don Mueang Airport. This may be of importance when you have a connecting flight.

Airport transport
To get from the airport to your destination, there are several options:

Private bus service

The Phuket Smart Bus connects the airport with Rawai Beach and all points in between along the west coast. Fares are 100 baht. This is also an excellent way to get around the west coast.

Municipal airport bus

 * It's air conditioned and operates every day 08:30 - 18:30 with hourly departures. From the airport to its terminus at Phuket Town bus station costs 100 baht (Nov 2022) and takes 1-1.5 hours. Local buses run from there and Ranong St Market to all the major beaches until around 18:00. After getting off the bus just cross the street and wait for the continuing bus there. It is a very convenient and comfortable spot, with no touts or hustlers, plenty of shade and a minimart for drinks and snacks. The bus will stop anywhere along its route upon signalling the driver. See Airport Bus Phuket.

If you are going to take the municipal airport bus from Phuket to the airport in the afternoon (especially the 16:30 and 17:30 buses) you should allow yourself plenty of time. With dozens of schoolchildren getting on and off during weekdays and/or congested traffic the bus is frequently delayed en route.

Minibus

They are basically door-to-door shared taxis and a good value. They will get you to your destination much faster than the municipal/government buses. E.g. to Phuket town, to Patong and to Kata Beach. When you get off the plane, don't dally, because when the minibuses fill up, they leave. If you miss the first group of them, you may have to wait until the next plane comes in, because they don't leave until they're full.

The minibuses will stop at a travel agent about halfway to Patong. They'll ask everyone to get out (you don't have to) and then they'll ask you where you're staying, and they'll try to sell you a hotel or overpriced tours on the guise that they are a government agency. You're not obligated to use the hotels they push. Just say you already booked a hotel, and tell them the name. (If you don't yet have a hotel, just say "Holiday Inn".) They will inform the driver, and he/she will drop you off at the hotel. This is a little annoying, but it's over in 10 minutes, and you're on your way again. Any travel agent can arrange a minibus ride for the way back to the airport.

Metered (yellow) taxis

 * Aka "Taxi Meter" - Turn right as you exit the airport building (ignore the touts) and you'll see a stand at the end of the walkway. Tell your destination to the staff at the stand and they will give you a paper with the taxi driver number for you to keep in case you need to report a problem. The rate is what is displayed by the meter plus the airport fee. You may stumble upon a freelance taxi driver who will take you from the airport to Patong for a flat fee. If the driver is pleasant, you may wish to ask for his mobile number for the return trip later.

Limousine (blue) taxis

They are expensive. The airport co-op booth tucked away towards the back is a little cheaper than the competition. Despite the name, most "limousines" are Toyota Camrys with leather seats, though you may get a Mercedes. It is also likely that your limousine will stop at a travel agent in order to sell you hotel rooms and/or tours. Before you purchase your fare, insist that you do not want to stop at any travel agency along the way. (They will try to legitimise stopping at the travel agency by insisting that "the driver must sign in" or "the driver needs to stop here for directions")

By train
There are no direct train services to Phuket. But many trains leave from Bangkok central station going south. The most comfortable are the sleeper trains. Travellers by train disembark at Phun Phin railway station near the city of Surat Thani and continue for another 5 hours by regular bus to Phuket. Do not buy the bus ticket until you actually see the bus and can make sure it is not standing room only, as it picks up passengers at the popular Ko Samui ferry. If full, wait for the next one.

By bus
Buses to mainland destinations including Bangkok, Chumphon, Hat Yai, Krabi, Phang Nga, Ranong, Satun, Sungai Kolok and Surat Thani use the BKS terminal off Phang Nga Rd in Phuket Town.

The most reliable buses from Bangkok are the public BKS buses from the Southern Bus Terminal to Phuket. The journey takes 13 hours. There are also some private bus companies, Phuket Travel Tour, Phuket Central Tour, and Phuket Travel Service. Khao San Road operations have a bad reputation for theft, often turn out to include a "surprise" transfer to a minibus at Surat Thani, and are best avoided.

From Phuket bus terminal to your final destination, you can take a motorcycle taxi, tuk-tuk, meter-taxi, or bus.

A local bus goes to the main beaches. It's not unusual for the tuk-tuk drivers at the bus terminal to tell arriving travellers that the local bus service has finished, even though it hasn't. The bus stop is near the market in the old town. From Bus Terminal 1, make a right onto Phang Nga Rd. Continue down Phang Nga until it terminates at Yaowarat Rd, then turn left. Within a few steps you will see a roundabout. Once at the roundabout, keep right. By keeping right, you will find Ranong Rd. Within 100–200 m you will find the local bus stop.

There are two bus terminals in Phuket; a small, old one in town, and one huge modern one 4 km north of town. You can take a 10 baht pink songthaew (leaves every 30 minutes) between the two. There are also 3 regular songthaew lines within Phuket Town, and both bus stations are served by them. There is a very useful big map just outside the bus stations (look where the taxis are waiting at the old bus station, and at the very rear, not towards the entrance, at the new bus station) that displays the three songthaew routes within Phuket town. Last one at 19:00.

Before exiting the Phuket bus terminal, grab a free Phuket map from the information window. While supplies may always not be on hand, the map is a great way to get your bearing before jumping-off.

By car
Phuket is directly connected to the mainland by the Sarasin Bridge. From Bangkok, take Hwy 4 through Nakhon Pathom, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, through Ranong province’s Kra Buri and Kapoe districts, Phang Nga Province’s Takua Pa and Thai Muang districts and onto Phuket Island. The total distance is 862 km. You may be better off getting to Phuket by public transport and renting a car on the island.

By boat
Ferry services connect from Rassada Port in Phuket Town to Ko Phi Phi and to Krabi Province on the mainland twice a day, taking 90 to 120 minutes. It's usually a pleasant ride, but can be rather bumpy when it's windy.

From the harbour, you could avoid the minibuses and take a songthaew to Phuket Town. If it doesn't show up at the bus stop right outside the terminal, you'll have to walk past the gate outside the harbour and along the road, turning left at the first T-junction, about 600 m, then on the main road you can catch a cheap songthaew. There's a picture of all the routes posted just outside the terminal near the bus stop inside the complex. Last one leaves at 19:00.

There are speedboats from/to Ko Racha (45 minutes), Phi Phi (1 - 1.5 hours), the Similan Islands (about 3 hours) and other islands. Boats and yachts can be chartered all year from Phuket at Chalong Bay, Rawai Beach, the Boot Lagoon, the Yacht Haven and Royal Phuket Marina. Boats from Phi Phi and Phang Nga can be found by visiting the local beaches. A search for Phuket speedboat charters will turn up many companies providing inter-island charters and services.

Phi Phi speedboat transfers (no tour) are provided by the Zeavola Resort, which has dedicated speedboats for Phi Phi transfers. Most companies doing Phi Phi speedboat tours will not accommodate transfers that include baggage due to space limitations.

Prices for speedboat charters to/from Phuket depend on distance/size of boat.

It's possible to visit Phuket by cruise ship. However with the collapse of Star Cruises, the main operator, options are severely limited. As of Feb 2023, no cruise ships are scheduled to visit.

Get around

Phuket is a large island and you need some form of transport to get around. Luckily, there are a variety of transport options for various budgets. Hotels generally offer shuttle bus services into Phuket Town, and also have taxi and car hire facilities.

Songthaew
This is the cheapest public transport in Phuket. Within Phuket Town buses run pink, and beyond, to other beaches and areas, go blue. Almost all buses display their destination in English.

Pink - fare 15 baht. The bus runs from 6:30 to 20:30.

The route number is indicated on the windshield on the left side

 * Route

Blue - ticket Price depends on the distance and route: 20-50 baht. The bus runs from 7:00 to 18:00. On the windshield (or above it) is written the name of the final stop of this route

Since the bus has no actual stops, you need to "catch" it with your hand raised up. You can exit at any point of the route-you will need to press the button on the ceiling.

Smart bus
Phuket has a very convenient and comfortable bus: the Phuket Smart bus. This will take you anywhere you need to go along the entire West coast.

Fares were from 50 to 170 baht. As of Nov 2022, the cost of the bus has been lowered to THB 100 / trip, regardless of where you board and depart. Thanks to this bus, you can not only get from the airport to the beach, but also get between the main beaches of the Western part of the island. On the first trip you need to buy a reloadable electronic ticket, which is called Phuket Rabbit card. It costs 300 baht, of which 100 baht is the cost of the card itself, which is not refundable, and 200 baht in credit. You can travel if the card amount is at least 170 baht. The card is valid for 7 years.

Tuk-tuk
The minimum fare is 200 baht. The cost of an hour of rent will be 200 baht. At the same time it can accommodate up to 4 - 8 people. At night, fares go up by around 50%.

Motorbike taxi
The fare starts from 20 baht for 1-2 km, they are almost at every corner. Drivers are dressed in brightly coloured and numbered vests

Prepaid (taxi prepaid)
In any tour office both in the international and domestic terminal of Phuket airport you will be offered a taxi to the desired hotel / beach. You just pay the full amount of the trip, you are given a receipt, which indicates the number of the car, go to the Parking lot, look for a car with the specified number and you're on your way.

Taxi meter (taxi meter)
If you leave the airport building on the street, you will see a counter where you can take a taxi. Rates are as follows:

 * 100 baht airport fee
 * first 2 km: 50 baht flat fee
 * next 2-15 km: 12 baht per km
 * next 10 km: 15 baht per km

Rideshare apps
Uber or Grab. You can also book in advance for a certain date and time.

Motorbike rental
Bike rental locations are located in almost every quarter. Standard rental price - from 300 baht (the cost of rent depends on the duration and model). An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for vehicle rental, with a motorcycle endorsement if renting a motorbike, the IDP must match the license class of the home country of issue and must be appropriate to the vehicle being used; both documents must be carried. The IDP is seldom requested by the person renting you the vehicle but will be required (along with the vehicle's STNK registration papers). If you're stopped by the police typically a "fine" will allow you to keep driving but this strategy will quickly unravel if there is an accident involving damage or injury. An IDP is easily obtainable from motoring clubs in your home country such as the AA in New Zealand and the UK and the AAA in Australia and the US. When you rent you need a passport or a deposit. Be cautious to leave your passport with the renter. Getting theft and/ damage insurance on your rented scooter or motorbike is also an issue as 99% of the companies renting out motorbikes or scooters do not offer this. If you want your rented motorcycle or scooter to be insured against theft and/or damages, Bikago is the only motorbike rental agency in Phuket offering this, as of June 2023.

Car rental
Anyone over the age of 20 can rent a car in Phuket, either at the airport or at various beaches. The longer the rental period, the lower the price per day. Standard rental price - from 600 baht (the cost of rent depends on the duration and model). To rent a car you will need a passport. Use discretion about letting the rental agency keep your passport, and check to see what insurance is available and what it covers you for.

Boat rental
For those wishing to make regular boat trips, to travel from Phuket to other places, there is a great opportunity to rent a boat or yacht. Depending on the need, you can use a small boat with a outboard motor, a boat with an average capacity of five to eight people or a real pleasure yacht.

By thumb
Hitchhiking would be delightful if it weren't for the taxi mafia. Any car can double as a taxi. Mention at least 3 times that you're not going to pay: "no money". "Free ride". "No taxi". Ask if this is clear to the driver. If the driver later on still insists on money, be sure to move on before they get their corrupt police friends involved.

Talk
Phuket is one of Thailand's premier tourist destinations and (basic) English is widely spoken, especially in the beach areas. That said, even a little Thai will draw smiles and can be useful in the less frequented areas of Phuket. There are also a number of Thai language courses on the island for those who wish to take their language skills to the next level.

See

 * Individual listings can be found in Phuket's district articles

Phuket is known the world over for its beaches. There is a wide variety of beaches, some calm, some totally ruined by millions of visitors each year. But you can explore the interior of Phuket, a fertile hilly expanse that consists of mangrove forests, fishing villages, rubber and pineapple plantations, small Muslim communities and shrimp farms.

Do
Swimming, snorkeling, diving, yachting, sailing, jet-skiing and parasailing are among the more popular activities on the island. Other activities include freediving, windsurfing, kite surfing, wakeboarding, and deep sea fishing. Popular kite surfing locations include Nai Yang in summer and Chalong Bay in winter season. Sea canoeing is a popular activity in Phang Nga Bay, as many grottoes are only accessible by canoe. Sailing Regattas include the Kings Cup in December, Pangna Bay Regatta normally in February and Phuket Raceweek in July.

Diving
Phuket has some decent dive sites. Most dive sites are off nearby islands, but distances are fairly short and there are dozens of dive shops and boats to cater to your needs, most based near Chalong Bay. The reefs in the area are in a healthy condition with both solid hard corals and colourful soft corals. There is also an abundance of marine life. Most of the dive locations are suitable for all levels of divers, but there are also some that are quite deep.

The most well-known dive site in the Phuket area is Racha Yai with its sloping rocky reefs and its abundance of solid coral forests. It is home to Ter Bay where there is an exciting wreck in the depths of 25–35 m. The island south of Racha Yai, Racha Noi, is a haven for experienced divers as the depths are greater and the currents stronger. The overall topography is strikingly different from Racha Yai with huge granite boulders. The diving in Racha Noi compared to Racha Yai is definitely more challenging but the rewards are greater.

Just off Phuket, is the limestone island of Ko Doc Mai that soars vertically from the seabed. It is home to a diverse fish and offers the opportunity to view leopard sharks, moray eels, octopus, and turtles. Phuket can also function as a base for dives further afield, such as Ko Phi Phi. Diving in Phuket's warm clear blue waters is best from mid-Oct-May, when the calm seas and rain-free days make Phuket diving great.

Snuba Diving is the safest and easiest way to try diving on holiday in Phuket. The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swim fins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving. The air, however, instead of coming from tanks strapped to the diver's back, comes through a long hose from tanks on pontoon rafts on the surface. No certification required, children 8+, just like SCUBA diving except easier. Snuba trips go to most Phuket dive sites. No heavy equipment to wear, no long classes, maximum depth of 7 m. Professional dive guides accompany each group.

Freediving
Phuket is a leading dive centre in Thailand and has become a freediving hotspot. It is the home of the area's only AIDA instructor training centre. Most freediving trips go out with scuba dive boats to well-trafficked dive sites, but some freediving off the beach is also possible. The local operators are usually very happy to find like-minded divers and will happily give pointers.

Muay Thai
There are many muay Thai camps on the island offering instruction to visitors. There are courses available for people of different levels of fitness, and those who train hard may be given the option to fight. Chalong Bay and Rawai especially is home to almost a dozen muay Thai gyms. If you're interested in a one-day lesson or a six month training stint, it's a good place to look.

Sailing and yachting
Phuket has become a sailing and yachting centre of Thailand and adjacent countries. It's the home of Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek, King's Cup Regatta, Phang Nga Bay Regatta, the Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX), four marinas, and the Phuket Yacht Club (PYC). Well-sheltered anchorages teem with yachts. The marinas are all on the east side of the island, which makes them an ideal starting point to explore the natural wonders of Phang Nga Bay. An entire fleet of traditional junk-rigged boats is berthed there, offering day trips. One company that offers private charter tours is Lamoet.

Snorkelling
Snorkelling can be enjoyed in sheltered bays all around Phuket. It is particularly enjoyable at easily accessible reefs at Patong, Karon and Kata Beaches. Fins, mask, and snorkel can be rented on a daily basis from shops all over the island. Full and half day trips are available to the islands surrounding Phuket. Most popular are Ko Hae, Ko Racha Yai, Ko Khai (a hidden gem in Phang Nga Bay), and Ko Phi Phi. There are many tours available at very cheap rates and speedboats will be filled with up to 65 people. Research your options before signing up for any tour.

Snorkeling trips to Racha & Phi Phi Islands
Agencies sell all-inclusive day trips from all over Phuket. Quality and safety seem to correlate with prices paid. The lower-end speedboat tours take approximately 30-35 passengers per 2-engine speedboat and 50-60 passengers on 3-engine speedboats. Very cheap tours take over 100 people in a speedboat. The higher-end tours take approx 15 to 18 passengers on 2-engine speedboats. Insist on knowing the exact number of guests that will be on the boat. Keep in mind that tour desks will tell you anything to get your money, as they receive up to 65% commissions from the lower-end tours. It is always best to contact the dive company directly to ensure that you are getting what you pay for.

The more people on the boat, the longer it takes to get on and off at each stop, thus lowering the amount of time you get to spend off the boat. A packed boat is not very fun or safe when there are large waves.

Private companies providing small group tours are few. Can only be booked direct). The tours include stops at all the major sights, higher quality lunches (from picnic to seaside sit-down restaurant meals), full sets of snorkelling gear, minibus transport, fresh tropical fruits, snacks & drinks on board, foreign owner/guide, small groups, attention to safety, and national park fee. Prices vary based on services, amenities and extras are provided.

Buy
Phuket Town is a source of cultured pearls, niello ware, pewter ware, ornaments and dried seafood. Specialist shops dealing in souvenir products can be found on Ratsada, Phang Nga, Montri, Yaowarat, and Tilok-U-Thit Rd, in Phuket Town, Thepkasattri Rd, north of town and at the beach centres of Patong, Kata, Karon, and Rawai.

Phuket's larger beaches are ravaged by ravenous hordes of tailors, who are certainly cheap, but will screw you over if they can. For example, suits done in 24 hours are usually just glued together and will fall apart the first time you take them to a dry cleaner. Choose your own fabrics (you can buy them on Thalang Rd in Phuket Town), insist on multiple fittings and check the quality of work carefully. It makes little difference which tailor shop you choose, since they're all just sales fronts for a few central sweatshops.

There are two giant shopping malls in Phuket: Central Festival, at the northwest edge of Phuket Town, and Jungceylon, in Patong.

There is a night market that opens from Th-Su, a couple of traffic lights past the Central Festival shopping mall. You can buy many things from clothes to jewellery to sunglasses. A great place to visit during your stay.

A small store without a name in Latin letters can be found on Ranong street opposite the market hall and 7-Eleven West of the small roundabout. Standard commodities can be bought there in large quantities (e.g. 12 pack of mosquito repellent, 3 pack of SPF50 sun screen, 5 pack of shower gel) for a discount.

Eat

 * Individual listings can be found in Phuket's district articles

Food in Phuket is surprisingly cosmopolitan, especially in Patong, as many foreigners have set up shop to cater to their fellow travellers. All the usual Thai favourites are of course still available, with a particular emphasis on seafood. See the individual town articles for detailed listings.

Phuket has its own style of preparation and cooking. Some interesting local dishes include:

 * Fried or boiled noodle dishes (หมี่ผัดหรือหมี่น้ำแบบต่าง ๆ), usually with pork or chicken, are available at many noodle shops in Phuket Town such as Mi Ton Pho, Mi Sapam, Mi Ao Ke, Mi Hun Pa Chang.
 * Khanom Jin (ขนมจีน), a version of noodles eaten at breakfast, usually served with a spicy curry sauce and fresh vegetables.
 * Nam Phrik Kung Siap (น้ำพริกกุ้งเสียบ) is a mixture of dried chili and smoked shrimp eaten with various fresh vegetables.

Cashew nuts and pineapples are grown in Phuket and available all year round. The nuts are available dried, fried, or coated. Phuket pineapples are some of the most delectable, sweet and firm available.

Drink

 * Individual listings can be found in Phuket's district articles

Phuket has a vibrant nightlife, second only to Pattaya among Thailand's beach resorts. Patong's is by far the busiest of the lot. There are plenty of other bars, discos, clubs and activities catering to every taste, from pastor to sex-tourist.

Sleep

 * Individual listings can be found in Phuket's district articles

There are lots of options available in Phuket. But for the more popular hotels and resorts in the better locations you should book at least a couple months in advance during high season (Nov-May). The best rates are usually found on-line and many hotels offer best rate guarantees when you book direct. Most of the time you will pay more if you walk in and take the rack-rate.

There are 5 main areas for tourists to stay in Phuket. Patong is the most popular due to its active nightlife, street markets and calm water beaches however this area isn’t for everyone (especially people with families). The quieter areas include Kata, Karon, Rawai and Nai Yang, all with great markets and quieter beach areas.

Mail
If you want to send mail, post offices and parcel services are widely available. In Phuket Town, there is a post office at the corner of Phang Nga Rd and Montri Rd. In Patong, there is one at the appropriately named Soi Post Office, a side-street of Thavee Wong Rd (near Molly Malone's).

Telephone
You can usually pick up a free Thai SIM card at the airport in the baggage claim area. Look around for a booth or a kiosk. You can also pre-purchase a Thai SIM card online or purchase one at one of the many phone shops all over Phuket. Pay phones are uncommon, as most Thais have mobile phones. Phuket has very good mobile phone coverage. Mobile Internet is available from all providers. The area code for Phuket is 076. Dial 0 if you're calling from within Thailand.

Cope
There is a wide array of international newspapers and magazines at some bookstores in Phuket Town and Patong. You can also follow local English radio through the website of Phuket FM Radio and on 91.5 FM.

Stay safe
Particularly in the summer monsoon season, there are strong currents on many of the beaches and drownings are a depressingly common occurrence. Four tourists died during a single 3-day stretch in June 2009. Heed the warning flags on popular beaches and play it safe if off the beaten track.

Crime as of late has definitely increased in the Phuket area among farangs (Westerners) and you should keep this in mind and be vigilant of anyone who wants to befriend you or trick you into gambling (which is illegal) or anything else you consider out of the ordinary. Katoeys (ladyboys) are notorious for pick-pocketing as you walk around the tourist areas at night. Also muggings take place on a regular basis. Avoid walking down unlit sois; stick to the main roads. If something looks/sounds too good to be true, it surely is. Tourist police can be contacted locally by dialing 1155. They have a good basic understanding of English (many are farangs), so if you're in trouble these people should be contacted first. Thai police speak hardly any English and normally take the side of the locals even if at fault. Always insist on the Tourist Police if you have any run-in with the Thai Police. Use only metered taxis and ask hotels to call, take down driver license plate and taxi license number before you get in. You can use the receipt from a taxi to complain to police or find lost property, so take a receipt and license numbers.

Don't overstay your visa! Two offices in Phuket can extend your visa: one in Phuket Town and one in Patong. The extension is valid for extra 30 days of the departure date stamped in your passport. The cost is 1900 baht. You'll need to provide a passport-sized photo. The Immigration Office in Phuket Town is at the end of Phuket Road near the pier.

Secret menu price changes
A handful of establishments in the touristy nightlife areas have more than one menu: a normal menu, and an absurdly overpriced menu. Both menus contain the exact same items, except the overpriced menu tends to double, if not triple, the prices stated on the regular menu. Upon sitting down, waitresses may elect to bring you one or the other, depending on how touristy/intoxicated you or your groups looks. There are reports of tourists going to an establishment one night and returning the following night, only to see that the prices have doubled. This may be tricky to catch, especially if it's your first time at the establishment. Since the establishments that employ this practice are in the more expensive tourist areas, don't expect the best prices to begin with, but if something seems absolutely ridiculous, such as 500-1000 baht for a cocktail, either leave or ask whoever is serving you politely about the high prices. If you play your cards right, your server may eventually bring out the less expensive menu or offer lower prices. Be especially careful of this menu tactic during the high season (summer), at crowded venues, at the seedier venues, and on weekends. One way to avoid this is to dress down slightly and not wear flashy/expensive clothes and jewelry.

Too-good-to-be-true drink offers

The nightlife area is full of many very pushy club promoters on the street waving all sorts of incredibly attractive drink offers in your face in order to get you to come to their bar/club. Unfortunately, a decent amount of these offers are scams and have strings attached in one way or the other. For example, certain promoters may claim that their bar is offering 25 baht beers and shots all night long. While they will honor the drink deal, you will be charged an absurd entrance fee of around 1500 baht per person on your bill. Refusing to pay once you have already consumed may lead to the staff members getting angry and aggressive. When talking to club promoters in the nightlife area, it is absolutely necessary that you first not accept any deal that is simply too good to be true, and second to ask as many questions as possible before accepting any deal plus state that you will not accept or pay for any expense that was not discussed. Even if the club promoter promises certain terms to you, be sure you confirm the terms with whoever is serving you once you get inside to make sure there is no miscommunication and everyone is on the same page.

Stay healthy
Tap water should be regarded as non-potable. Liquids from sealed bottles nearly always are, and should be used wherever possible, for example, when brushing your teeth. Bars and restaurants universally purchase ice made from purified water.

Go next

 * Ao Nang — 3 hours by ferry, the top beach destination in Krabi province
 * Ao Phang Nga National Park — famous for its limestone cliffs, caves, mangroves, fishing villages and James Bond Island
 * Khao Lak — family-oriented resort region for those looking for peace, quiet, and nature
 * Khao Sok National Park — one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in Thailand
 * Ko Phi Phi — parts of The Beach were filmed at this stunningly beautiful location
 * Ko Lanta — another laid-back island destination that is gaining more popularity
 * Ko Phayam — one of Thailand's most beautiful small islands, 20 min by boat from Ranong
 * Ko Yao — one of the last islands in the region that is not over-developed
 * Similan Islands — national park consisting of nine small islands, hugely popular among divers due to its outstanding beauty. Dive trips leave from Khao Lak.

title: Phuket


text:
Phuket Town

Phuket Town (เมืองภูเก็ต Mueang Phuket) is the provincial capital of Phuket Province.

Understand
Phuket Town is the largest town in Phuket Province. It has a population of 79,000 (2020) and is the economic hub of the island. For the most part just an ordinary, scruffy provincial Thai town, it's hardly a major tourist attraction, but the Chinatown area is worth a quick look and there are some great Thai-style shopping opportunities too. Overall, accommodation and food in the town is cheaper than near the beaches, and can provide a refreshing change of pace.

Get in
Buses and "Songthaews" connect Phuket Town to major beaches around the Island, and start from Ranong Rd at the Down Town Market. To get there if you are at the old (number one) bus station, follows these steps
 * 1) Walk back out to the road you came in on, and turn right on Phang Nga Rd.
 * 2) Walk to the end of the road, about a kilometer, turn left at Phuket Rd.
 * 3) Turn right at Ratsada Road.  Keep walking until you pass a roundabout (Suriyadej Fountain Circle).  You will see a fleet of large blue Songthaews  a couple of hundred meters along on the left. Songthaews come in different size and shape.  The first ones you come to go to Patong. Further along, they go to the other beaches. You will also see buses going to Patong at the bus station itself, for 40 baht.

The most popular service at the market is the one to Patong (25 baht, 45 minutes) which leaves every 30 minutes between 07:00 and 18:00. Fares to other beaches range from 15 to 30 baht. If you miss the last bus back a taxi will cost 200-400 depending on your bargaining skills.

Bus Terminal 1 (the old terminal downtown) has no markings indicating it is Terminal 1. Buses from here run to local destinations, for example, Khao Lak and Takua Pa. To Khao Lak is 90-120 baht.

Phuket International Airport is 30 km to the north of Phuket Town, about 30 minutes by taxi (500 baht), 45 minutes by shared minibus (100 baht) or 1 hr 15 min by the only #1 Government-endorsed Airport Bus Phuket from the bus terminal (100 baht) check out www.airportbusphuket.com. This is still the old Number One bus terminal.

Buses run to the airport between 06:00-18:30, and from the airport to town between 08:00-20:30.

There is a large sign on the wall with times. Pay your ticket with the money collector on the bus only, and not at the Airport Terminal.

Bus Terminal 2

This is the (relatively) new terminal, some distance from the old one and most of the longer-distance buses come and go from there.

To get from one station to the other (and vice versa), you will see a fuchsia/hot pink-coloured songthaew. It parks in bay number 12 at the new bus station. This is the bus station shuttle and it will take you to the old number one bus terminal for 10 baht. It orbits between the two stations.

When arriving at this station, you will immediately accosted by taxi drivers. Do not immediately engage a taxi unless you are in a hurry. Take a minute to survey your options. The taxi desk is at the rear of the station. Out of sight, at the front of the station, are where the motorbike taxis hang out. This is usually a much cheaper option.

If you want to go to Patong or the other beaches directly from this (number two) terminal, then you will pay 250 baht per person to hire a songthaew outright as you would a taxi. This price assumes a full passenger load.

To get to the beaches far more cheaply, take the fuchsia songthaew to the number one bus terminal and follow the suggestions there.

Get around
Phuket Town is just a little too big to be covered comfortably on foot. There's little organised public transport as such, but motorbike taxis and four wheeled tuk-tuks cruise about looking for fares.

See

Phuket Town's low-key attractions are mostly related to its colourful Chinese history and heritage, found in the Chinatown area on the northwest side of the city around Thalang Rd.

Buy
Shopping seems to be the main reason for visitors to come to Phuket Town. In addition to local markets and a slew of malls and departments stores, Chinatown's Thalang Rd offers a large selection of boutiques and galleries retailing traditional handicrafts as well as antiques from the region. Phuket Night Bazaar occupies a large area where you can get local stuff (though you might find the same things much cheaper at the Big C supermarket).

Markets

 * Ranong Market Ranong Rd, is the largest local market. A warren of stalls selling anything and everything, it can be hot, sweaty, and chaotic, but an interesting experience if you've not been to one before.

Mid-range

Drink

Go next
Catch a ferry from Rassada Pier to Ko Phi Phi, Rai Leh, or any of the surrounding islands.

title: Phuket Town


text:
Phu Quoc

Phú Quốc (pronounced fú-kwóg) is a large tropical Vietnamese island off the coast of Cambodia. It is only accessible from Vietnam. In the Gulf of Thailand 45 km west of Ha Tien on the Vietnamese mainland and 15 km south of the coast of Cambodia, Phú Quôc is ringed with some of most beautiful beaches in Vietnam and offers the best seafood in the country. The island is undergoing rapid change as high-rise resorts and other tourist amenities spring up all over the island.

Understand

Phú Quôc is a mountainous and densely forested island of 574 km². It is 48 km in length from south to north and has a population of approximately 103,000 people (2012).

Phú Quôc Island served as a base for French missionary Pigneau de Behaine from the 1760-80s and at one time he provided shelter here for Prince Nguyen Anh (later Emperor Gia Long) when he was being hunted by the Tay Son rebels. During the Vietnam War there was little fighting here but the island was used by the South Vietnamese Army as a prison for captured Viet Cong.

Phú Quôc is not part of the Mekong delta and also doesn’t share the delta's extraordinary ability to produce rice and fruit due to the low quality of its soil and inaccessible terrain. It is, however, home to the best fish sauce (nuoc mam) in the world, and is also reputed to produce high quality pepper and fantastic seafood.

Another point of interest in Phú Quôc is the island's native dog. This dog was a wild animal that was trained as a hunting dog by local people. These days they are very domesticated and it's unusual to go anywhere on the island without seeing one. These animals have unusually sharp teeth (as they tear their food when they eat it rather than bite), and have claws that over the years have been optimised for catching prey and are razor sharp.

Phú Quôc Island and its beaches were voted "The Cleanest and Most Beautiful Beach in the World" by ABC News in 2008. However, this has changed dramatically. Insiders call the island "the world's first rubbish dump on which tourism is run" or "the island, where nature and rubbish grow together" because of the excessive pollution (mainly plastic bags) outside the tourist resorts.

As of 2020, parts of Phú Quôc have become a huge construction site for high-rise residential areas, several new towns and suburbs. There are plans for a complete rebuilding of Dương Đông city center, and to replace the existing small PQC airport. The new international airport south of Dương Đông opened in early 2013. The main north-south road between Bai Thom and An Thoi is already being upgraded to a 2+2 lane highway, a new all-weather road from Dương Đông to Gan Dau is ready as far as Cua Can, which has a new bridge. A golf course and a casino are planned in the north. Phú Quôc is becoming something completely different.

Climate
Phú Quôc Island has a tropical climate with three seasons: high, shoulder, and low.

 * High season: During Nov-Mar, the daily maximum temperature typically averages about 31°C, and the daily minimum temperature (before sunrise) about 23°C. The skies are generally sunny, with possibly some light high cloud in early morning that clears by mid-morning, and the humidity is at its lowest for the year.
 * Shoulder season: During Apr-May, the temperatures are a bit higher than during the high season, and the humidity around 80-85%. Crowds are fewer during this time and there are good chances of reasonable weather.
 * Low season: The period between Jul-Sep is dominated by the monsoons.

Get in
Visitors from any country arriving in Phú Quôc by cruise ship do not need a visa for stays of up to 15 days. A passport with at least 45 days' validity is required. Visitors arriving by plane can get a 30-day tourist visa free of charge, even if they'd otherwise need a visa to enter Vietnam.

By plane

There is a wide variety of transport options available on arrival. Many of the more expensive hotels can have somebody pick you up on arrival, and taxis are of course available (120,000 dong to Dương Đông as of Feb 2020). It is also only a short walk to the center of Dương Đông. If you arrive late without a reservation then you can stay the first night in one of the inexpensive guesthouses opposite the airport entrance.

As of Dec 2022, there's no motorbike taxis nor regular buses that can take you to city center.

If air tickets are fully booked, you can do the following:

 * Keep an eye on the airline websites and grab any published tickets at the earliest opportunity. They should put on extra tickets closer to departure.
 * Ask any travel agents in the area.·
 * Go to the airport and try to get a flight on standby.

By boat
There are ferries and hydrofoils between Phú Quôc and Rạch Giá (pronounced: Rad-Ya), Hà Tiên and Hon Chong. Operated by Superdong and Phu Quoc Express.

You may be told by tour agents that the fast boats are full, but if you go to the dock where the boats depart you may have the opportunity to buy tickets from street sellers, or book tickets online with Baolau.com.
 * Rach Gia - Phú Quôc: 08:00 - 10:20, 12:40 - 15:00, 13:00 - 15:20 operated by Superdong

Hydrofoils take 2½ hr, cost 320,000 dong. Book at Superdong. When coming from Ho Chi Minh City you can book a combined night-bus + boat ticket for around USD26 (including pick up from hotel) at travel agencies. The boats are clean, comfortable and efficient.
 * Ha Tien - Phú Quôc 08:00 - 13:00 - 230,000 dong - operated by Superdong about 1½ hours (as of Jan 2020)

Small fast ferries (not hydrofoils) take 1½ hr. Cost, 230,000 dong. Daily at 08:00 and 13:00. Large car ferry (steel -hulled, capacity 400 passengers, 300 motorbikes, and 30 cars) leaves at 08:20, takes 2½ hr and costs 165,000 dong. Motorbikes cost 100,000 dong.
 * Hon Chong - Phú Quôc - 10:00. Costs 160,000 dông.

As of May 2024 there are now free buses (large low floor, electric, green colour, displaying "xe buyt mien phi") connecting the fast ferries' landing port of Bai Vong (Cảng Bãi Vòng) and main town (Duong Dong, Dương Đông) center. So do not be deceived by taxi touts. Route 20 serves Bai Vong port — Suối Tranh Waterfall — Duong Dong main town stopping at Highland Coffee shop — Grand World (Parking T2). Departures approximately hourly, 05:30 to 14:00 from Grand World end and 07:30 to 16:00 from port Bai Vong end.

At Bai Vong pier there are free electric golf carts shuttling the 500 m between the pier and parking lot to save walking.

The boat can get overcrowded and may have the unfortunate lingering odor of vomit. The journey is pleasant and smooth during the low season, but is often beset by jarring waves during the high season. Hotel staff can advise you of ocean conditions.

A ferry connection to Sihanoukville (Cambodia) and visa-free-entry have been discussed.

Get around

 * Walking: One of the joys of the top-rated Long Beach accommodations  is that everything is so accessible.  Base yourself at Mai House or the Tropicana and you can walk to everything and happily fill a three- or four-day holiday doing nothing at all. Camp down at La Veranda and you might not emerge.
 * Motorbike: There’s no doubt about it, if you’re young enough (at heart anyway) you’ve got to try seeing some of Phú Quôc on a motorbike. They can be hired for US$5-12 a day from your hotel or resort. There is no paperwork, no insurance, and no deposits. You negotiate if you break or lose your bike. There is a request that you refill with fuel when you finish. Roads are mostly red dirt and full of potholes. As in much of Asia, there are no traffic rules in the usual European or North American sense: you are responsible for not hitting anybody or anything, and you are responsible for anyone else hitting you, and that's about it. You are supposed to drive on the right, but not everybody always does that. So there you have it, not entirely safe, but an awful lot of fun. Don't fret too much if you run out of petrol or get a flat tire. You’ll be amazed how fast a local will stop to help you. Puncture repairmen are plentiful on the island and will leap at the chance to come to your aid for a small fee. See also Vietnam by motorcycle.

 * If you do find yourself in a bit of strife with your rental, there are a few repair shop on the island that will mend your bike at a price cheaper than at the place you rented it. One place that does this, is Gia Phu at 25 Tran Phu in Dương Đông (Linh- +84 93 813 7988). Depending on the severity of the damage, it could save you a lot of money.
 * Motorbike and scooter rental market rate is: automatic scooters 150,000 dong/24 hr, manual motorbike 120,000 dong/24 hr, as of May 2024
 * Motorbike taxis are about 200,000-400,000 dong or US$10-20 for a day trip. Be sure to be precise as to how many hours and locations you want to see with the driver. It's difficult to really lower the price for a half-day or less.

 * Jeeps: After a motorbike, your next best option is a Jeep with driver. Given you pay for petrol, it can work out a little more than a half or full day’s hire of a taxi, but well worth it. Call Jeep For Rent locally at +84 93 9402 872. US$30 for 6 hr, US$50 for 24 hr.
 * Taxi: Taxis are plentiful in Long Beach, but there can be a tiresome delay. As of Dec 2019 there are plenty of taxis, and Grab works well in the main centers of population. Booking taxis by the day is often a better bet. They’re more expensive than you might be used to in Saigon. There are small yellow taxis that have a flag fall of 5,000 dong (Dec 2019) which is as cheap as the cheapest Saigon taxis. All taxis use meters, and you pay what the meter shows. Short trips in Dương Đông are up to 60,000 dong. For a full day and a given itinerary you make a flat deal, e.g., 650,000 dong for around one-half of the island, which may be what you would end up with also if the meter were running. It seems that you mostly pay for the distance driven; the driver sleeping in the drivers' hammocks does not cost that much.
 * Boat: Saigon Phú Quôc Resort have their own large boat you can charter from Long Beach. Otherwise all resorts run tours with charter boats. Cost varies depending on number of passengers.

See
There are pearl farms on the west side of the island south of Dương Đông town. The Phú Quôc Pearl Farm is about 10 km away, and they have a cafe/restaurant and a shop.
 * The roads going round the northwest corner of the island are an interesting ride on a motorbike. The roads are quiet and safe, and also the unpaved roads are easy to ride (just be careful of loose sand in some places). You can stop for coffee or lunch at the to see the views at the mouth of the . There are nice quiet beaches at the westernmost shore of the island, and the road east from Ganh Dau goes through dense forest. There are dozens of large colourful fishing boats in front of Ganh Dau in the afternoon.
 * At the southern tip of the island is the fishing of . There are some fishing boats to see. You can hire a boat to take you to the small islands south of Phú Quôc from there.
 * There are a couple of pepper farms that can be visited. The pepper plants is grow hanging from a long pole, with small green peppers on them. You can buy pepper products there to bring home as souvenirs.
 * Some of the fish sauce factories can be visited.

Ask your hotel for an island tour, which may include visits to a fish sauce factory or the nature reserve.

Diving and snorkeling
Phú Quôc offers diving in two separate locations. Up north on the west side of the island or south at the An Thoi Islands.

Up north there are three main diving locations with all of them at a maximum depth of 10 m. They are especially great for beginners. Sites are surrounded by corals and funky rock formations which provide shelter to a variety of fish and species of nudibranch.

Down south there are up to 20 different dive sites around a group of 13 islands with depths ranging from 10-40 m. The majority of the islands are surrounded by coral and are slowly being converted to marine protected areas, thus giving you a slightly better chance of seeing more and bigger fish and lots of nudibranches.

The route to the south is not as well protected as the northern site which means you might be in for rocky ride on the boat and mild to strong currents.

Snorkeling tours pick you up at your hotel in the morning and take you to the islands in the south. It usually includes the boat trip, snorkelling gear, lunch, and transportation. Don't expect to see a lot of fish and coral under water. But still a nice way to spend a day.

Buy
There are ATMs in Dương Đông town around night market area. If you want to exchange money, the nearest bank is 500 m from the Night Market.

Main articles to buy are:
 * Fresh seafood
 * Pearls

Eat

 * Other Indian restaurants on Phu Quoc include New Delhi and the excellent Sher-e-Punjab (Dec 2019).
 * Other Indian restaurants on Phu Quoc include New Delhi and the excellent Sher-e-Punjab (Dec 2019).
 * Other Indian restaurants on Phu Quoc include New Delhi and the excellent Sher-e-Punjab (Dec 2019).

Sleep
Unlike most other Southeast Asian destinations, there is a substantial risk that all (affordable) hotels are fully booked when you arrive, so it is advisable to book ahead. This certainly applies in Jan-Feb, the dry high season as the island gains popularity.

Budget accommodation can be hard to come by but the best bet is to head to the south end of Long Beach. In low season en suite bungalows can be found for USD10 and rooms for USD8. The cheapest lodgings are Nhat Lan, Viet Thanh or Lien Hiep Thanh. They are at about 40 min on foot or 10 min by motorbike taxi (10,000-20,000 dong) from Dương Đông.

 * resort phu quoc Daisy Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 7, Dương Đông town, +84 84773. 844 412. email: info@daisyresort.com.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.
 * resort phu quoc Daisy Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 7, Dương Đông town, +84 84773. 844 412. email: info@daisyresort.com.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.
 * resort phu quoc Daisy Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 7, Dương Đông town, +84 84773. 844 412. email: info@daisyresort.com.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.
 * resort phu quoc Daisy Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 7, Dương Đông town, +84 84773. 844 412. email: info@daisyresort.com.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.
 * resort phu quoc Daisy Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 7, Dương Đông town, +84 84773. 844 412. email: info@daisyresort.com.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.
 * resort phu quoc Daisy Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 7, Dương Đông town, +84 84773. 844 412. email: info@daisyresort.com.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.
 * resort phu quoc Daisy Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 7, Dương Đông town, +84 84773. 844 412. email: info@daisyresort.com.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.
 * resort phu quoc Daisy Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 7, Dương Đông town, +84 84773. 844 412. email: info@daisyresort.com.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.
 * 9 Station Hostel, a very large hostel. Hostel has a great common area, pool, billiards, and foosball. Very clean and great decor. Same owners as the fancy Lahana Resort next door although all facilities are separate.

Stay safe
Your biggest risk on Phú Quôc is getting sick or being involved in an accident. When setting out on a motorbike trip, ensure you have a basic first aid kit and your hotel telephone number with you.

By boat
When leaving the island by boat, you can get a mini-bus ride from Dương Đông night market to Superdong East Pier for 25,000 dong at 07:00, about a 40-min journey. Hotel pickups seems to vary from free to 60,000 dong.

 * Rach Gia - 2 hr 20 min
 * Ha Tien - 1 hr 20 min

By plane

 * Ho Chi Minh City - 1 hr
 * Hanoi

title: Phu Quoc


text:
Piacenza

Piacenza is a city in Emilia-Romagna.

By plane
Linate and Malpensa (Milan) and Parma airport are the nearest. Piacenza can be reached also from Bologna and Bergamo Orio al Serio airport.

By train
Piacenza is linked with the major cities in Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy by regional and local trains (Piacenza - Ancona and Piacenza - Milan line).

By bus
There is also a bus service (see below for SETA) to Cremona.

Get around
SETA run the local buses.

Mi Muovo is an integrated public transport pass for the region. Short-stay visitors might use "Mi Muovo Multibus", a 12-trip bus ticket, see Emilia Romagna.

Do

 * Attend a A1 league volleyball match in the Pala Banca by Copra Elior Piacenza (men) or Rebecchi Nordmeccanica Piacenza (women).
 * Rugby Union: Rugby Lyons play in Serie A Elite, the top domestic tier. Their home ground Stadio Walter Beltrametti (capacity 3000) is 3 km south of town centre.

Buy
Coppa Piacentina - a type of cold cut produced in the region

Salume Piacentini - the most famous cold cut made in Piacenza

Eat

 * Osteria Santo Stefano, Via Santo Stefano 22 (one of the best yet a bit pricy osterias)
 * Osteria del Trentino, Via Del Castello, 71 (one of the most famous ostterias in the town of Piacenza)
 * Trattoria La Pireina, Via Borghetto, 137 (a really typical traditional Piacentine restaurant)
 * Trattoria San Giovanni, Via Garibaldi 49/A. (sober yet stylish interior, very good cooking)

 * Signor Gelato, Via Vittorio Gadolino 5. Home made ice cream just outside city centre.

Sleep

 * Grande Albergo Roma, Via Cittadella 14.
 * Hotel Ovest, via Primo Maggio 82.

Connect
As of June 2022, Piacenza has 4G from Tim, and 5G from Iliad, Vodafone and Wind Tre.

Go next

 * Milan
 * Parma
 * Cremona

title: Piacenza