Phuket

Travelers' Takes

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Patong Beach- The other Part of Phuket

A November 2000 trip to Phuket by world designer Best of IgoUgo

Early MorningMore Photos

A small beach community that appears out of nowhere completely surrounded by mountains, the people the food and the shopping are great.....more so the people. This isdefinately a beach community, so sightseeing wise there really is not too much, but if you are into water sports and the sun the place to be. There is also a night market, just like there is in almost all Thailand cities...many things to see and by varying from cheap knock-offs to tailor-made clothing. Some of the vendors can be very pushy, so do not let them intimidate, if there is something that you like always negotiate and get a price that you are comfortable with. So all in all the daytime is geared towards the sun and outdoor activities, and the night is for shopping the discos, and a lot of tiny cafes. Definately seems like a very eclectic mix of people from all over the world, and seems to be geared towards the young and trendy...so make sure you pack the leather pants and a sporty shirt......

  • 5 reviews
  • 4 photos

Patong Beach- The other Part of PhuketBest of IgoUgo

Overview

School Teachers
Early morning walks on the beach are great, and if you are out by about 6 am, there is not a soul on the beach, great for collecting shells, taking pictures, or just enjoying the moment. There are many shops, and great buys, especially the tailors. This is the place to lay out in the sun, go to a disco, and completely relax. My most memorable part are the local people, including the transplants from Europe, had many great dinners with great company, and traveling alone you tend to meet more people.

Quick Tips:

Very relaxed community, dress casually and comfortably, can easily walk the entire town, it is not very big at all. Very fun enviroment, and it seems to be growing...whether that is good or not we will soon see...but it seems that very large discos are going in, megaplexes. A lot of street vendors especially at night.

Best Way To Get Around:

There are tuk tuks, small motorized rickshaws, can go anywhere in town for about 10 baht, .25 US. And it is very easy to walk around town.

Mayan Palace Nuevo VallartaBest of IgoUgo

Hotel | "Royal Paradise Hotel"

This is the only high rise hotel in Patong Beach...cannot miss it...it is pink and blue and can pretty much be seen from anywhere in town. The rooms are very nice and almost every room has a view of the water and balconies. If you are there with friends be aware though that you cannot take people up to your room without a charge and this is about $15.00, that was the only drawback, came back from the beach one day to change with some friends and they charged for them to go up, and did not tell me until afterwards.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by world designer on December 1, 2000

Mayan Palace Nuevo Vallarta
Av. Paseo de las Moras s/n, Fracc. Náutico Turístico Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico 63735
+52 (322) 226-4000

Monaco Hotel and CafeBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant

This is an outdoor bistro, that is owned by a person from Monaco, very friendly and nice waiters and staff...feel very welcome and at home. After talking with the owner for a while, and told him that I have an interest in cooking, took me into the kitchen, and let me cook with the chef for hours, finding out how to make true Thai cuisine. Made everyone feel welcome and will definitely go back again. Had a look at the rooms which were very nice and spacious, and has a true bed and breakfast feel. Meeting the local people is the best way to see a city, hear first hand how the people live, what they like, and get your bearings on what to do. Everyone is very friendly if you start a conversation, they will likely be just as interested in you.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by world designer on December 2, 2000

Wiwat Haute CoutureBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

This is a great shop in front of the Royal Paradise Hotel, there are a set of stores shops and restaurants in this area called the Royal Paradise Complex. This is the creation of a designer by the name of Wiwat Wisawarungroj, very creative, and an excellent designer of fine clothing. This includes mens and womens clothing, and most will be made to order for you, if you are there for a few days he will make while you are in town, otherwise you can have shipped to you anywhere. He will take all your measurements and keep on file so anytime you need anything you can call and order. Some of the clothing is very Versace like in design, and the sportscoats are very creative, and one of a kind, with fabrics sent to him from all over the world. I was very impressed with the workmanship, and professionalism of this shop.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by world designer on December 2, 2000

All over townBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

The discos are packed at night and usually don't get started until midnight, I guess that is probably the main reason I was alone on the beach at 6 am. But young crowds, good music, and they are building more and more discos all around town...seems to be a main attraction at night. The music is very Western in style, and so are the people, almost everyone speaks english, so definately easy to communicate. These dance places are usually over 10,000 square feet and accomodate hundreds of people.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by world designer on December 2, 2000

About the Writer

world designer
world designer
Rancho Santa Fe, California

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