Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is an island situated to the southwest of Thailand, in the Andaman Sea. Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and covers an area of 540 square kilometers. On the island resides about 600 000 inhabitants. This is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia.

In the seventeenth century, for ability to trade with Phuket fought the Dutch, English and French. They called the island Junkseilon, and it was important because of the rich source of tin. In September 1680, a ship of the French East India Company visited Phuket and left with a full cargo of tin. A year or two later, the Siamese king Narai, searching for a way to reduce the influence of the Dutch and the English, set as the Governor of Phuket the French medical missionary Brother René Charbonneau. He was a member of Siamese mission of the Société des Missions Etrangères, and governor remained until 1685. In that year, King Narai confirmed the French ambassador French monopoly on the tin, and the Sieur de Billy was appointed as the new Governor of Phuket. However, the French were expelled from Siam after the Siamese revolution in 1688. Next year Desfarges led the expedition to take up Phuket and regain at least part of the French influence in Siam. His occupation of of the island did not result in anything, and he left in 1690. The Burmese attacked Phuket in 1785. Francis Light, a British captain who was passing by the island, informed the local administration that the Burmese forces are preparing to attack. Than Phu Ying Chan, the wife of the recently deceased governor, gathered the army. After a month-long siege of Phuket Burmese forces retreated. Women became local heroines, and King Rama I awarded them the title. During the reign of Rama V Phuket became the center of the southern provinces for the production of tin. In 1933, Phuket became a province. In December 2004, Phuket was hit by a devastating tsunami, which has caused enormous damage across Thailand. Due to the tsunami died many people. In the following period were reconstructed the tsunami consequences, so that now they are practically invisible. Phuket is a popular destination on the tourist map and Thailand and Southeast Asia.

Phang Nga Bay is an amazing place that should be at the top of the list of places to see. Phang Nga is unique, and day spent here will be a memorable experience. The bay is characterized by its limestone cliffs vertically stab in the emerald green water. These small islands are home to protected fauna, landscapes that stretch along the bay leaves unforgettable memories. Isle of James Bond and Koh Panyee are two most famous places in the bay.

James Bond Island is one of the biggest attractions of Phang Nga Bay. Became world famous after the role he had in the movie about the famous spy "The Man With the Golden Gun". It gathers the largest number of tourists to enjoy the view of the island where was staying James Bond.

 Koh Panyee is a unique village that was all built on the water. There are restaurants where visitors enjoy after visiting of the island James Bond. Once visitors leave, a community that resides here closes its restaurants and shops, and continues to live in the quiet community of fishermen.

The Old Town is one of the biggest features of the city of Phuket. In this historically rich part of the city can be seen shrines, temples (Buddhist and Chinese), decorated and well-preserved shops, attractive cafes, public and private museums, and even a small street red light district. There are grandiose Chinese - colonial palaces built by the tin barons over a 100 years ago. Restaurants and cafes that are located in the old town are great for relaxation and refreshment during the fiery days.

Bangla Road is known to its rich nightlife. Then, this zone becomes closed to traffic and the fun begins. Bangla is famous for inappropriate nightly entertainment, girls, beer and music. This place is crowded throughout the year, and the bar owners are openly compete for customers. Music can be heard throughout the night, and party going until the early morning hours.

Simon Cabaret Show is a spectacular display of color, originality and fun. Cabaret has become one of the most entertaining attractions in Southeast Asia. Every night the show comes to watch a few thousand visitors. Simon Cabaret is the biggest transvestite show in the region.

Wat Chalong is one of the most important temples in Phuket, and each year attracts thousands of people. Decorated with a infinite reflections of hundreds of tiny glass pieces and several pagodas. During certain holidays, the temple became the host of the fair where you can enjoy various types of Thai food. Great harm would come to Phuket and not visit the Wat Chalong.

Great Buddha is visible from most of the south of Phuket. Huge Buddha stands on a hilltop Nakkerd and looks down over Chalong, Kata and Rawai. It`s 45 meters high, and its construction cost 30 million bahts. Beside him stands a small Buddha which is made of brass. From this place is an extraordinary view of the island.

Phi Phi Islands are another place that everyone should visit. Phi Phi of the island are considered to be the star of Thailand, and reason is that they are found in a number of films. The beauty of these islands is exceptional. Two islands particularly stand out for something unusual. The first is Phi Phi Leh, where no one lives, and the other is Phi Phi Don, where there are no roads.

 

 Phuket FantaSea show is something fun and wacky. Trapeze artists, elephants on stage and pyrotechnics, that all make this show reminds of Las Vegas. A rich program with many participants dressed in traditional costumes, amazing effects, and masks elephants, this is really a great way to exercise and have fun.

 

Panorama of Phuket is a must see attraction of the island. There are many places on the east and west side of Phuket from which it can be seen an unforgettable sunrise. On the edge of the island is a unique view of the sea, and further on of the island Phi Phi.

 

Finally, beaches. The island is full of beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular are Patong Beach, Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kamala Beach, Surin Beach, Mai Khao Beach, etc.. But these are just some of the beautifully landscaped beaches where the fun is guaranteed. Visitors can own to explore the island and find the best beach for themselves.

Phuket is an island of fun. This is a place which offers visitors an unforgettable enjoyment and entertainment. This is the place to enjoy the nightlife, unique performances, stunning beaches, culture and delicious dishes. Phuket is a beautiful heavenly place with many attractions. Phuket is one of the best destinations for complete enjoyment and relaxation.