Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
of Thai Muang in nearby Phang-Nga province. It also has unforgettable three-day pack-
ages to Krabi and luscious Khao Sok.
Information
DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
During the May to October monsoon, large waves and fierce undertows sometimes make
it too dangerous to swim. Dozens of drownings occur every year on Phuket's beaches, es-
pecially on Laem Singh, Kamala and Karon. Red flags are posted to warn bathers of seri-
ous riptides.
Keep an eye out for jet skis when you are in the water. Although the Phuket governor
declared jet skis illegal in 1997, enforcement of the ban is another issue. Long-tails can
be hazardous too. Do not expect the boat to see you!
Renting a motorcycle or motorbike can be a high-risk proposition. Thousands of
people are injured or killed every year on Phuket's highways. If you must rent one, make
sure you at least know the basics and wear a helmet.
There have been late-night motorbike muggings and stabbings on the road leading
from Patong to Hat Karon, and on the road between Kata and the Rawai-Hat Nai Han
area. Random sexual assaults on women can happen as well. Women should think twice
before sunbathing topless (a big no-no in Thailand anyway) or alone, especially on an
isolated beach. It can also be dangerous to run alone at night or early in the morning.
MEDICAL SERVICES
Local hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, emergency rooms and outpatient-
care clinics. Both Bangkok Phuket Hospital and Phuket International Hospital have hy-
perbaric chambers.
0 7625 4425;
www.phukethospital.com
; Th Yongyok Uthit)
Reputedly the fa-
Bangkok Phuket Hospital
(
vourite with locals.
Phuket International Hospital
( 0 7624 9400;
www.phuketinternationalhospital.com
; Th Chalermprakiat)
Inter-
national doctors rate this hospital as the best on the island.
TOURIST INFORMATION
The weekly English-language
Phuket Gazette
(
www.phuketgazette.net
)
publishes inform-
ation on activities, events, dining and entertainment around the island, as well as the
latest scandals.
Phuket Wan
(
www.phuketwan.com
)
is frequently juicier - and more
newsworthy.
