Fah Thai Magazine Sep-Oct 2018

HAPPENINGS
THAILAND
PHUKET
SPOTLIGHT
Vegetarian Festival Phuket
Occurring from October 8-17,
this ritual celebration by the
Thai-Chinese community is
an act of veneration to honour
one’s ancestors and gods.
Although celebrated around
Southeast Asia, about a third of
Phuket locals take part making
it the largest such celebration.
Devotees dressed in white,
which signifies purification via
their abstinence in consuming
meat and stimulants, will enter
trance-like states, and perform
flagrant acts of self-mutilation.
All the festivities and processions
come to a head on the final day
where spectators line the streets
and fill the temples to witness
the crescendo of this impressive
albeit bizarre tradition.
During this time, visitors
will see Phuket transform
with restaurants, street stalls,
and pop-up tents serving up
all variety of vegetarian fare.
Be brave, some dishes may
look suspect but the flavours
can be surprisingly varied and rich. Despite the
seemingly violent nature of this Taoist tradition,
there’s a festive air and visitors are welcome
to view the processions and temple activities.
Jui Tui and Bang Niaw Shrines in Phuket Town
are the buzzing epicentres of festivities during
the celebration. For more information, contact the
Tourism Authority of Thailand, 191 Thalang Road,
T. Talad Yai, A. Muang, Phuket, +66 (0) 76 211 036.
GREEN ROOM SURF SHOP
Following its recent inclusion as an
Olympic sport, surfing’s popularity in
Thailand is on the rise. Good beginner
surfing beaches like Kata and Khao
Lak have seen a surge in domestic and
international tourists looking to learn
how to hang ten. There is a smattering
of surf shops peddling goods around
the island, but none with the style of
the Green Room Surf Shop in Nai Harn
Beach. You’ll find something for everyone
from a selection of men’s and women’s
beachwear, swimsuits, accessories,
bicycle rentals and, of course, surfboards.
Secondhand boards can be found as well
as a rack full of locally-made Elleciel
Surfboards. These unique wood and epoxy
masterpieces are equally at home on the
waves or on artistic display. Custom boards
available and encouraged. Stop by and
say hi to Nueng who will brew you up
a strong coffee to sip while you shop
for your new board. 15/53 Viset Road,
Rawai (Nai Harn beach), Phuket,
+66 (0) 83 102 9532
PHUKET’S NEW LIFESTYLE HUB
This September, Central Pattana Group (CPN) officially
debuts Central Phuket – the newest flagship resort
shopping destination in the heart of Phuket. It comprises
a complex shopping centre with 2 buildings (Floresta and
Festival) connected by a sky-link to bring the concept of a
leisure and luxury lifestyle and family excursion that’s all in
one place.
Housing over 400 retail stores, Central Phuket adds
many options to entertain its visitors with 3 world-class
attractions, including “Tribhum” – the Mystery of Three
Worlds in a 3D walkthrough theme park, “Aquaria,” Thailand’s
largest aquarium and “Tales of Thailand” – where people
can shop, browse and chill within the atmosphere of a
traditional Thai floating market. centralphuket.com
AO YON BEACH CAPE PANWA
Tucked away down a winding coastal
road on Phuket’s Cape Panwa peninsula
is a small unassuming strip of tropical
sea-kissed sand split in two by a rocky
headland. Although not on the same list
as Phuket’s famous west coast beaches,
this little gem is a quiet, scenic spot
perfect for a peaceful sunset with your
toes dangling in the Andaman. A weekend
favourite of the locals, you’ll find families
picnicking and teenagers taking selfies
with the cool formations on the rocky promontory.
You will discover several small cafés and restaurants
as you stroll the golden sands.
When the northwest monsoon isn’t blowing
(November-April) the sailing school offers training,
team building, day trips and more. In calm weather,
adventurous souls can rent a kayak and paddle across
the channel to Lon Island to wander the beach or
bring a snorkel and explore the aquatic wonders of
the barrier reef. T. Wichit, A. Muang, Phuket
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