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INTERVAL INTERNATIONAL

IntervalWorld.com

hy Go?

For an idyllic tropical Thai escape consisting of fun, sun, and culture. The coastal areas of Thailand are

renowned for their white-sand beaches, dramatic limestone outcroppings that rise majestically out of the clear turquoise

waters, world-class hospitality, and endless aquatic activities. And nowhere are these qualities more evident than on

Phuket, a small island off of the mainland in the Andaman Sea. Read on and you’ll understand why Phuket is a magnet

for travelers from all corners of the world.

Thailand, Coast

14 – 26

With temperatures on the rise, there are myriad

ways to beat the heat. Naturally, the island’s

beaches get their share of people looking to cool

off. Whether you decide to enjoy the energy of

Patong

and Karon (strands backed by bars and

restaurants, discotheques, and shops) or the soli-

tude of Nai Thon and Mai Khao (where the only

footprints in the sand may be your own), there’s

definitely an expanse of shoreline suitable for

every taste. Inland, Phuket’s verdant scenery is

just as glorious, and the shade affords respite

from the sun’s rays. Jungle excursions via all-ter-

rain vehicle or elephant, and river explorations on

bamboo raft, are popular ways to experience the

lush interior.

1 – 13

The dry season is a great time of year to break out

your golf clubs. Phuket boasts several courses,

including the famous Blue Canyon Country Club—

there’s a hole named after Tiger Woods — and the

71-par Laguna Phuket Golf Club.The latter is quite

challenging, but the scenery — lagoons and

coconut groves set against a backdrop of surround-

ing mountains and the Andaman Sea — is simply

breathtaking. After your game, explore the historic

Old Town section of Phuket. Its Chinese architecture

is fascinating, especially the old temples around the

main market. (The

Shrine of the Serene Light

exceptional.) Browse the shops for batiks, carvings,

ceramics, and jewelry, including locally sourced

pearls.

40 – 52

It can be tempting to lounge on a beach all day,

but make the time to explore the jungle.

Conservation is important to the Thai people, and

visitors can do their part by taking an elephant

safari through

Siam Safari

. Tours include a visit

to a pachyderm training camp and a ride through

the rain forest. Elephants are on the endangered

list, and a tour helps maintain the traditions of the

working animals and their

mahouts

(keeper-

drivers). After your adventure, make your way to

Kata Beach for a romantic seaside dinner at the

swank Boathouse Wine & Grill, which specializes

in Thai and French cuisines, and has an outstand-

ing wine list.

27 – 39

While the rainy season may bring showers that

interrupt your tanning session for a spell, they don’t

usually last long before the glorious sunshine returns

in force. But for those days you want to spend

indoors, there are plenty of entertaining diversions

that will keep you dry. View a variety of sea life at

the

Phuket Aquarium

. Go to the Mario Land

game zone, catch a movie, or peruse the shops at

the Jungceylon Mall. Enjoy an up-close encounter

with stunning big cats (and adorable cubs) at Tiger

Kingdom. And art lovers shouldn’t miss the Phuket

Trickeye Museum, a unique 3-D experience where

you

become part of the paintings!

PHUKET FANTASEA SHOW:

Learn about the history of Thailand from a cast of live performers (including elephants).

WAT CHALONG:

View a series of wall paintings that retell the life story of the Buddha at this temple.

GIBBON REHABILITATION PROJECT:

Spend time with these delightful indigenous primates.

NAI HARN BEACH:

This spot is typically uncrowded and offers fantastic mountainous scenery.

50 100 150

Weeks

Greatest

Demand

Greatest

Availability

Market

Average

2016 – 2017