Tag: Thailand

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5 Reasons You Should Visit Phuket Old Town

dixonthum

When people talk about Phuket, it’s usually about the beaches, island hopping, or partying in Patong. But there’s a whole different vibe waiting for you just a short drive inland—Phuket Old Town. It’s colourful, full of character, and packed with hidden gems you won’t want to miss. If you’re wondering what to do in Phuket beyond the beach, this charming heritage town is your answer.

Here’s why it should be on your must-visit list:

1. Bars and Cafes with Unique Vibes
Phuket Old Town is a paradise for cafe hoppers and cocktail lovers. Imagine sipping Thai cold brew in a pastel-themed cafe, or enjoying a signature cocktail in a vintage bar with moody lighting. Many of these spots are set inside beautifully restored colonial buildings, giving you that old-meets-new charm. Whether you’re into minimalist coffee bars or artsy lounges, the cafe and bar scene here is one of the best in Phuket.

2. Insta-Worthy Streets and Hidden Corners
This place is a dream for content creators. With colourful shophouses, quirky murals, lantern-lined streets, and old wooden doors, Phuket Old Town is full of photo spots that’ll light up your Instagram feed. Stroll along Soi Romanee or Thalang Road and you’ll find yourself snapping pics every few steps. Trust me, your phone’s storage will fill up fast.

3. The Iconic Sunday Night Market (Lard Yai)
If you’re in town on a Sunday, don’t miss the Phuket Sunday Night Market. Taking over Thalang Road every week, it’s buzzing with food stalls, handmade crafts, live music, and friendly vibes. It’s one of the best places to try local street food, shop for souvenirs, or just soak up the energy of the town.

4. Michelin-Worthy Street Food – A Pong Mae Sunee
Speaking of food, one of the must-try street eats in Phuket is A Pong Mae Sunee. This humble roadside stall has earned a spot in the Michelin Guide for its crispy coconut pancakes, known as a-pong. One bite in, and I instantly got why it made it into the Michelin Guide. Light, fragrant, and totally addictive, it’s the kind of snack you’ll want to grab a few of while exploring the streets.

5. Rich Culture and Heritage
Phuket Old Town isn’t just about pretty buildings—it’s full of history and culture too. Visit the Shui Wei Sheng Niang Shrine, dedicated to a Chinese sea goddess, or learn about Peranakan culture, which has shaped the architecture, food, and fashion of this area. From colourful tiles to traditional clothing shops and family-run museums, there’s a strong sense of heritage in every corner.

If you’re looking for something a little different on your Phuket trip—think less beach towel, more old-town stroll—then Phuket Old Town is where it’s at. Come for the food, stay for the vibes, and leave with a camera roll full of memories.

Travel

We Did Not Go for the Flying Hanuman Zipline but Went for the Canopy Jungle Walk Instead. Here’s Why!

dixonthum

During my recent trip to Phuket, I decided to try something a little different — and wow, I’m glad I did! Instead of just lounging by the beach, I went deep into the jungle for an adventure at Flying Hanuman Phuket. It’s about a 25-minute car ride from Phuket Town, tucked away in Kathu, and honestly, the journey itself already felt like an escape from the usual tourist spots.

This trip, we went for the canopy jungle walk, and it was amazing. The package comes with free 15 photo shots. The walkway is around 40 meters high and stretches over 200 meters, suspended right above the trees. It felt a bit scary at first, but once I got going, I couldn’t stop admiring the incredible view from the Thailand’s longest cable skywalk. The jungle below, the fresh air, and the sound of birds made it feel so peaceful — even though I was way up in the air! The whole walk took us about 30 minutes only.

What makes Flying Hanuman stand out is how it blends nature with adrenaline. You’ve probably seen photos or clips of their flying fox (zipline) — and yes, I tried that too! Soaring through the trees with the wind rushing past your face? Total adrenaline rush. I now understand why celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Usain Bolt have come here — it’s that good. Perhaps next time, I shall come here to challenge the Flying Hanuman.

@dixonthum

Tried something totally different in Phuket — a jungle adventure at Flying Hanuman! 🌿 Just a short 25-min ride from Phuket Town, this place offers serious thrills with activities like the flying fox zipline and a canopy walk that’s 40m above ground and stretches 200m long! 🌉 This time, we went for the canopy jungle walk. The view from the hanging bridge? Absolutely stunning 😍. Safety was a top priority — we were all suited up with helmets and harnesses, and the team made sure everything was secure. Make sure to wear activewear and sports shoes. Maybe next time, I’ll go for the actual Flying Hanuman. Even celebs like Kim Kardashian and Usain Bolt have been here! A must-try for anyone craving adventure in Phuket! 💯🌴 @Tourism Authority of Thailand @FLYING_HANUMAN #tatkl #amazingthailand #amazingnewchapters #yourstoriesneverend #FlyingHanuman #PhuketZipline #AdventureTime

♬ girls like me don’t cry (Sped Up) – thuy

Safety-wise, I felt completely at ease. Before we started, the crew suited us up with helmets and full harnesses, and they were super professional about checking everything. If you’re planning to go, make sure you wear the right clothes — t-shirt, shorts or a tracksuit, and sports shoes are perfect because you’ll be climbing, walking, and flying all over the place.

After all that action, we grabbed some food at the restaurant onsite — simple, tasty stuff that hit the spot after all the activity. They also have a cute souvenir shop, so I picked up a few small things to remember the day.

All in all, Flying Hanuman was such a fun and unique experience. Whether you’re into nature, adventure, or just want to try something new in Phuket, I’d highly recommend giving this a go. Check out their website for the full list of packages they offer.

📍Flying Hanuman
89/16 Moo 6, Soi Namtok Kathu, Wichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Phuket 83120
Operating hours: 8AM – 5PM
Website: https://flyinghanuman.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/FlyingHanuman/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/flyinghanumanphuket/

Nature, Travel

Ultimate Guide to Phi Phi Island Hopping: Tips, Itinerary & Hidden Gems

dixonthum

Island hopping around Phi Phi Island was one of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Phuket, Thailand. I highly recommend adding this day tour to your itinerary—it’s an absolute must for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone craving a bit of adventure on the Andaman Sea.

Viking Cave

We gathered at Marine Plaza around 8am, where our tour operator Diamond Sea Marine Co. Ltd. briefed us before setting off. The staff was extremely friendly and humble, helping everyone feel at ease right from the start. A quick tip: if you’re prone to motion sickness, don’t hesitate to ask the crew for sea sick pills—they have them on hand, and trust me, the open-sea ride can get bumpy! We had our light refreshment before boarding.

@dixonthum

I’m all sunkissed but I love it! @Tourism Authority of Thailand #tatkl #amazingthailand #amazingnewchapters #yourstoriesneverend #islandhopping #phiphiisland #phuket

♬ Travel The World – Anders Sohn

Once we boarded the speedboat, we were off to explore the stunning islands around Phi Phi. Snorkeling masks were available but need to be returned, and if you didn’t bring your own towel, you could rent them easily. I also recommend bringing a waterproof bag, an underwater phone case, and a change of clothes—these came in really handy throughout the trip. There’s a simple shower room at the pier for rinsing off after the tour, so don’t forget to pack your own toiletries.

Our first stop was Monkey Beach, where wild monkeys greeted us from the limestone cliffs. While adorable, do be careful not to get too close—they’re still wild animals. However, feeding the monkeys wasn’t allowed, so our visit was a short and simple stop to observe them from a distance. Next, we dove into crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, surrounded by colourful fishes in every direction. It felt like swimming in a giant aquarium! I truly enjoyed that moment, even though I didn’t capture any underwater photos or videos. All those magical encounters with the fish are now beautifully stored in my memory.

We had lunch at Phi Phi Don, the main island of the Phi Phi group. The beachfront restaurant served decent Thai dishes and there were also souvenir shops to browse while we digested. There are also cafés and Instagram-worthy spots around where you can hang out and snap some great photos. Then, we cruised past Viking Cave, where you can spot ancient wall paintings and learn about the bird’s nest harvesting that still takes place there.

One of my favourite moments was at Pileh Lagoon—the emerald water framed by towering limestone cliffs made it a perfect photo op. We even took turns posing on a traditional long-tail boat, soaking in the view. Just so you know, the long-tail boat ride is not included in the package, so we had to pay a little extra to experience it.

And of course, Maya Bay, made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s movie The Beach. Although swimming isn’t allowed to preserve its ecosystem, standing on that powdery white sand and gazing at the turquoise bay was a dream come true. Make sure not to wander too far into the water, or the attendants will call you out over the loudspeaker with something like, “The man in the blue shirt, please come back!” or “Lady in red, stay out of the water!”—it can be a bit embarrassing! But honestly, props to the crew for doing their part to protect Mother Nature.

Our final stop was Khai Nok Island, a chill little paradise for sunbathing and water sports. You can rent a jetski, try a banana boat, or just relax at the island’s café with a coconut in hand.

By the time we returned to the pier around 5pm, we were sun-kissed, salty, and thoroughly worn out—but in the best way possible. The whole trip took around 8 to 9 hours and was packed with adventure, nature, and beauty.

Here are 5 tips to make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free!

1. Take seasick pills before the boat ride
Even if you’re not prone to motion sickness, the sea can get choppy. Ask the crew—they’ll have pills ready.

2. Bring a waterproof bag and phone case
Keep your belongings dry and snap awesome underwater shots without risking your phone.

3. Wear proper swimwear and pack dry clothes
You’ll be getting wet often. Quick-dry outfits and a change of clothes will keep you comfy throughout the day.

4. Use reef-safe sunscreen and stay hydrated
You’ll be under the sun for hours. Reapply sunscreen regularly and drink plenty of water.

5. Respect the rules and marine life
Don’t feed monkeys or step on corals. Stay within allowed zones—getting shouted at over the loudspeaker isn’t fun!

If you’re considering this tour, do it. It’s a full day of fun, and you’ll come back with a memory card full of stunning photos and stories to tell.

Travel

What You Need to Know About Chaithararam Temple (Wat Chalong) in Phuket

dixonthum

During my recent trip to Phuket, I had the opportunity to visit the renowned Wat Chalong, officially known as Chaithararam Temple. This temple stands as the largest and most significant among the 29 Buddhist temples on the island. Located in the Chalong Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District, Wat Chalong is not only a place of worship but also a peaceful escape and a wonderful reflection of Thai spirituality and tradition.

The temple complex features several beautiful buildings (there are four main ones, to be exact), each with unique architecture that really stands out compared to other temples I’ve visited in Thailand. The main attraction is the 60-meter-tall chedi called Phra Mahathat Chedi. This elegant structure houses a relic believed to be a fragment of Buddha’s bone. The walls and ceilings are decorated with vibrant murals depicting the life of Buddha, and countless golden statues add to its sacred atmosphere. If you climb to the top floor, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the temple grounds and surrounding area.

One building that left a lasting impression on me was the hall that displays life-sized statues of three highly respected monks—Luang Pho Cham, Luang Pho Chuang, and Luang Pho Kleum. These monks are known for their wisdom, compassion, and healing skills. Luang Pho Cham, in particular, is remembered for his role in helping people during the Chinese rebellion in 1876. Devotees often visit this hall to pay respects, and some even leave small offerings in gratitude.

I also found it fascinating to learn about the different Buddha postures associated with the days of the week. I discovered that I was born on a Wednesday, and the posture for this day is Buddha holding an alms bowl while standing. This symbolizes Buddha’s return to his father after years of meditation, and it represents kindness, compassion, and modesty.

There’s also a unique tradition practiced at Wat Chalong—burning firecrackers in a dedicated brick kiln. If your wish made at the temple comes true, it’s customary to return and set off firecrackers as a way to thank the Buddha and ward off bad luck. The loud pop-pop sounds add a rather exciting and joyful vibe to the temple visit.

A few tips if you’re planning to visit:

  • Dress modestly. Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. This is a must for entering any temple in Thailand.
  • Never climb or sit on Buddha statues. It’s considered very disrespectful.
  • Follow the signs and temple rules. There are usually clear instructions around the complex—respect the space and the people there.

Visiting Wat Chalong was more than just a tourist stop for me—it felt like a meaningful cultural lesson wrapped in a peaceful, spiritual experience. Whether you’re seeking spiritual insight or simply want to appreciate the art and history, I highly recommend adding Wat Chalong to your Phuket itinerary.

📍Chaithararam Temple (Wat Chalong)
70 หมู่ที่ 6 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Opening hours: 8AM – 5PM (daily)
FREE entry
Website: https://www.wat-chalong-phuket.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/ChaithararamTempleWatChalongPhuket/

Nature, Travel

Sea Turtle Release 2025 at Naiyang Beach, Phuket – A Dream Come True

dixonthum

As a passionate turtle lover and a proud member of the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia, I have always dreamed of visiting a turtle sanctuary and taking part in the release of hatchlings into the wild. That dream finally became a reality during my recent trip to Phuket, where I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the 13th Sea Turtle Release 2025 event at Naiyang Beach.

A Special Event for Turtle Conservation
The Sea Turtle Release 2025 was organized by the Turtle Conservation Group Phuket, supported by Tourism Authority of Thailand on 22 March 2025. This annual event, now in its 13th year, aims to raise awareness about sea turtle conservation while giving these beautiful creatures a better chance at survival. We arrived at Naiyang Beach around 3pm, just in time to witness the vibrant atmosphere filled with excited visitors, conservationists, and volunteers.

The event was more than just a release ceremony. There were stage performances, food stalls, charity sale booths, and educational workshops where visitors could learn about the importance of sea turtle conservation. The highlight, of course, was the release of 75 one-year-old Olive Ridley sea turtles back into the ocean.

Why One-Year Old Turtles?
You might wonder why these turtles were not released immediately after hatching. The answer lies in their survival rate. Newly hatched sea turtles face immense challenges, with a low survival rate due to natural predators and environmental hazards. By raising them for a year in a protected environment, their chances of survival increase significantly once they are released into the wild.

My Experience Releasing A Baby Turtle
When my turn came, a volunteer guided me on how to properly hold the baby turtle. I was instructed to gently place it onto the sand and not touch it again once released, allowing it to find its way to the ocean on its own. The moment I held my turtle, it flapped its fore flippers swiftly, as if eager to dive into the sea. The instant I placed it onto the beach, it crawled determinedly towards the waves, without even a backward glance—no goodbye for me! (How rude, right? 😆)

A Heartwarming and Meaningful Experience
Participating in this event filled me with immense happiness and pride. Watching these young turtles take their first steps into the vast ocean gave me hope that conservation efforts like these will help maintain, or even increase, the population of sea turtles to a healthier, more sustainable level.

A huge thank you to the Tourism Authority of Thailand for allowing me to be part of this meaningful event. If you’re a nature lover or a conservation enthusiast, I highly recommend experiencing this unforgettable moment for yourself! Maybe next year?

Stay updated about this annual sea turtle release event with Phuket Love Turtle