Oil disaster a tourism bust, boom Columbia, S.C. — Daydreams of beach sunsets have been replaced by anxious Internet checks for many vacationers headed to the Gulf Coast, while hotel clerks there are busy answering calls about a massive oil spill and whether there’s a shot at a refund. Ala & Fla tourism campaign: Beaches are open & oil-free Oil Spill advertising campaign in Alabama, Florida and Mississippi to keep tourists from cancelling beach trips VOILÀ Takes Flight with its Newest Redemption Partner: Mexicana Airlines Members of VOILÀ Hotel Rewards, the world’s first hotel loyalty program created for independent hotels and hotel groups, can now exchange the points they earn during hotel stays for MexicanaGO Points, redeemable for flights anywhere the airline flies. Today’s announcement marks the second major airline to join the VOILÀ Hotel Rewards network and further increases the benefits offered by the … Broadway at the Beach named top attraction Myrtle Beach, S.C. is the number one United States destination for a beach and sun vacation, according to the TripAdvisor® 2010 Traveler’s Choice Awards. Phuket shunned by travellers PHUKET: In poll results sure to shock many in Phuket, Thailand’s Koh Lanta, Khao Lak, Koh Pha-Ngan and Koh Samui have won 4 out of 10 honors for the Top Ten beach destinations in Asia. Phuket did not …

Source: Phuket shunned by travellers | hotel discount miami

I live in Pattaya and visit Phuket now and again by personal car, but in your case there are 2-3 options, the best two options depending on your budget is 1; taxi or bus to Suvarnabhumi Airport and fly via Air Asia (check out http://www.airasia.com/ for prices & times) or 2; bus or taxi it up to the southern bus station in Bangkok (Ekami) and catch a 12 hour bus ride to Phuket.

phuket is only nominally an island you can get to it by road and I would be very suprised if there were any ferries from Pattaya,thats one helluva boat trip.You can fly easy enough from bangkok or get the bus ….if you have time to spare get the bus it’s far more interesting if much slower,cheaper too…..it’s a long drive though and will take a day

Source: How to reach phuket from pattaya? « Inside Pattaya

Vacationing in Phuket ? Finding Your Luxury Resort in Karon

Inside information

One of the things you’ll notice when you fly into the resort destination of Phuket, is the extent of the island’s lush vegetation and greenery. Sixty percent of the island is covered by forests, rubber and oil plantations.  The popular resort beaches lie on the west coast, whilst its mountain range stretches north to south of which the highest point is Mai Thao Sip Song (Twelve Cains) at 529m above sea level.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand with a population of around 320, 000 people and a land area of 543 square kilometres (about the same size as Singapore).  It is located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of southern Thailand and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

A brief check on the history of Phuket unravels a tin trade with the English, French and Dutch and skirmishes with the Burmese in the 17th and 18th century. Chinese workers and businessmen were employed in the tin mines during the 17th century, the influence of which still remains in Phuket today; notably with Phuket cuisine. In 1785 the Burmese attempted to attack Phuket. The siege which lasted two months ended after the Burmese were forced to retreat. Nowadays with the demise of the tin mining trade due to low tin prices, Phuket’s main industries are divided into two; one is rubber, the other tourism. Thailand is now the biggest rubber producer in the world. Whereas tourism has attracted millions of visitors to the resort region over the last 30 years.

Squeaky White on the Horizon

One of its main tourist attractions is, of course, the beautiful palm fringed beaches and golden or white sands that stretch for miles. Tiny palm coves and bays inundate the coastline where some of the most gorgeous and luxurious hotel resorts blend in with the natural beauty. When considering the quieter Phuket resorts, one particular beach comes to mind. That is Karon beach, a short distance south of the main Patong beach. Karon beach spans 6 km of coastline and is famous for its beautiful white sands which make that unique squeaking noise as you walk on it. Favored by couples and families, Karon beach can claim fame to the Horizon Karon Beach Resort and Spa located at the southern end of the beach and just a stone’s throw from the idyllic Kata beach. The resort itself is set on 16000 sqm of land and is surrounded by a forest vegetation of lush green. It’s slightly elevated position offers marvellous views which allows for guaranteed peace and tranquillity. Easy access to the area from Phuket town and the more lively Patong beach offers its visitors the chance to not only relax and enjoy Karon’s lush natural surroundings but also to participate in more vivacious activities such as exciting nightlife and shopping. The resort offers free scheduled transport to Patong Beach. Also available around Karon beach are marine activities such as diving and snorkelling, day trip excursions can also be arranged. Honeymooners who stay more than four nights may enjoy extra added on service at the Karon Beach Resort Hotels by receiving complimentary gifts on arrival. While families who reserve a second inter-connecting room for children can enjoy a 30% discount on the room-rate and a 20% discount on all beverages and food consumed at the hotel resort during their stay.

Source: Vacationing in Phuket ? Finding Your Luxury Resort in Karon ...

Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club Invites Brazilian Soccer Schools for a Friendly

Brazilian Soccer Schools (BSS) is now established in Phuket, Thailand, at the Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club (PIASLC).  The highly regarded youth soccer training programme is available at the highest regarded sports and recreation facility in Southeast Asia.

Famous BSS is based upon Futebol de Salao (FDS).  The training and game is known for a 5-a-side version of football originally from South America.  It is played with a smaller (size 2), and a little heavier (465gm) ball that has very little bounce to it.  Brazilian Soccer Schools FDS is available as part of the Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club Brazilian Soccer Camp programme.  

Located on the resort island of Phuket, Thailand, PIA is situated in an environment of natural beauty in proximity to a national park.  PIASLC will establish a benchmark as a regional destination for sports, arts and wellness in Thailand and Asia, and perhaps the world.  Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club

“Futebol de Salao is really how I got started. This is my love, the thing I enjoy the most ,’’ stated Ronaldo, Brazil, Real Madrid and Former FIFA World Player of the World.

The game of Futebol de Salão was popularized in Brazil where famous players such as Pele, Rivelino, Zico and right through to Juninho, Ronaldo, and Rivaldo were brought up first playing FDS before moving onto traditional football. They all credit that Futebol de Salão shaped soccer skills. The International Confederation of Futebol de Salao (ICFDS), originally set up Brazilian Football Academies and Soccer Schools in the United Kingdom, and now supervise the sport across the world, and have setup professionally managed centre’s in numerous countries.

Each day has a 3 on 3 world cup with awards for the winners, MVP’s and other special prizes for the best goal celebration. Participants enjoy a fun filled day with face painting, samba music and quizzes as part of the signature event. Highly qualified professional coaches make certain a carefully supervised, educational and rewarding experience. Phuket International Academy Brazilian Soccer Schools

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Phuket International Academy PIASLC Matches Up With Brazilian Soccer Schools for a Friendly

Brazilian Soccer Schools (BSS) can be found in Phuket, Thailand, at the Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club (PIASLC).  The highly regarded youth soccer training programme is available at the highest regarded sports and recreation facility in Southeast Asia.

Famous BSS is based upon Futebol de Salao (FDS).  The training and game is known for a 5-a-side version of soccer with origins in Brazil.  FDS is played with a smaller (size 2), and slightly heavier (465gm) ball that has very little bounce to it.  BSS FDS is offered as part of the Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club Brazilian Soccer Camp programme.  

Located on the resort island of Phuket, Thailand, Phuket International Academy is situated in a locale of natural beauty next to a national park.  The vision of Phuket International Academy is to realize the intellectual, physical, creative and spiritual potential of all students, members and participants of the three centres.  Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club

“Futebol de Salao is really how I got started. This is my love, the thing I enjoy the most ,’’ is a quote from Ronaldo, one of the most respected players in the world.

The game of Futebol de Salão was popularized in Brazil where famous players such as Pele, Rivelino, Zico and right through to Juninho, Ronaldo, and Rivaldo were brought up first playing FDS before moving onto conventional football. They all credit that Futebol de Salão made a great impact on their soccer skills. The International Confederation of Futebol de Salao (ICFDS), established Brazilian Football Academies and Soccer Schools in the UK, and now oversee the game across the world, and have setup professionally managed centre’s in many countries.

Each day has a 3 on 3 world cup with awards for the winners, MVP’s and many special prizes for the best goal celebration. Kids enjoy an entertaining day with face painting, samba music and quizzes as part of the signature event. Highly qualified professional coaches make certain a highly supervised, fun and rewarding environment. Phuket International Academy Brazilian Soccer Schools

Read more...