Travel tips

Inside information

One of the things you’ll notice when you fly into the resort destination of Phuket, is the extent of the island’s lush vegetation and greenery. Sixty percent of the island is covered by forests, rubber and oil plantations.  The popular resort beaches lie on the west coast, whilst its mountain range stretches north to south of which the highest point is Mai Thao Sip Song (Twelve Cains) at 529m above sea level.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand with a population of around 320, 000 people and a land area of 543 square kilometres (about the same size as Singapore).  It is located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of southern Thailand and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

A brief check on the history of Phuket unravels a tin trade with the English, French and Dutch and skirmishes with the Burmese in the 17th and 18th century. Chinese workers and businessmen were employed in the tin mines during the 17th century, the influence of which still remains in Phuket today; notably with Phuket cuisine. In 1785 the Burmese attempted to attack Phuket. The siege which lasted two months ended after the Burmese were forced to retreat. Nowadays with the demise of the tin mining trade due to low tin prices, Phuket’s main industries are divided into two; one is rubber, the other tourism. Thailand is now the biggest rubber producer in the world. Whereas tourism has attracted millions of visitors to the resort region over the last 30 years.

Squeaky White on the Horizon

One of its main tourist attractions is, of course, the beautiful palm fringed beaches and golden or white sands that stretch for miles. Tiny palm coves and bays inundate the coastline where some of the most gorgeous and luxurious hotel resorts blend in with the natural beauty. When considering the quieter Phuket resorts, one particular beach comes to mind. That is Karon beach, a short distance south of the main Patong beach. Karon beach spans 6 km of coastline and is famous for its beautiful white sands which make that unique squeaking noise as you walk on it. Favored by couples and families, Karon beach can claim fame to the Horizon Karon Beach Resort and Spa located at the southern end of the beach and just a stone’s throw from the idyllic Kata beach. The resort itself is set on 16000 sqm of land and is surrounded by a forest vegetation of lush green. It’s slightly elevated position offers marvellous views which allows for guaranteed peace and tranquillity. Easy access to the area from Phuket town and the more lively Patong beach offers its visitors the chance to not only relax and enjoy Karon’s lush natural surroundings but also to participate in more vivacious activities such as exciting nightlife and shopping. The resort offers free scheduled transport to Patong Beach. Also available around Karon beach are marine activities such as diving and snorkelling, day trip excursions can also be arranged. Honeymooners who stay more than four nights may enjoy extra added on service at the Karon Beach Resort Hotels by receiving complimentary gifts on arrival. While families who reserve a second inter-connecting room for children can enjoy a 30% discount on the room-rate and a 20% discount on all beverages and food consumed at the hotel resort during their stay.