Kata Noi Beach, the secluded sandy paradise south of Phuket, was ranked 19th in the Top 25 beaches by TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice.

Out of dozens of beaches that make Thailand one of the best vacation spots in the world, Kata Noi was the only Thai beach to make the list.

The Phuket beach was described by TripAdvisor as “waves and water like baby bear’s porridge: not too hot or cold, not too big or small. Simply perfect in every way. Really.”

Just an hour’s flight from Bangkok, most of Kata Noi is occupied by hotels, but those who seek the ultimate beach experience can gain access to it by walking from the popular Kata beach, or from the small entrance down the road towards Nai Harn.

Kata Noi is one of just three beaches in Asia that won travellers’ votes, the other two being Ngapali Beach in Myanmar (6th place) and Nacpan Beach of the Philippines (10th place).

Meanwhile the world’s top beach ranking went to Grace Bay on Providenciales, part of the Turks and Caicos islands.

The number of direct flights between Russia and Thailand is set to almost double after the Thai cabinet approved a proposed agreement to increase flight frequencies, the Bangkok Post reported.

The agreement increases Moscow-Bangkok direct flights to 70 from 40 a week and doubles weekly frequencies on the St. Petersburg-Phuket route to 28, according to the report. A Chiang Mai-Irkutsk daily flight will be replaced with a Krabi-Novosibirsk service.

The memorandum of understanding will take effect after an exchange of documents between the two foreign ministries, Thai government spokesman Maj Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd told the paper.

A total of 884,085 visitors from Russia came to Thailand last year, accounting for around 3 percent of the total, but the number of visitors from Russia slumped 44.97 percent from 2014.

The decline was due to the impact of falling oil prices and Western sanctions on the Russian economy and consumer spending.

In January this year, over 138,000 Russians visited Thailand, a 4.6 percent drop from the previous year.

Eurowings’ new low-cost flights to Thailand have opened up an entirely new market for the Lufthansa Group, focusing on price-sensitive leisure travellers, according to Dirk Grossmann, Lufthansa’s general manager for passenger sales in Thailand and the Mekong region.

Speaking to Travel Daily in Bangkok, Grossmann said the two new routes, which connect Cologne-Bonn Airport with Bangkok and Phuket, have achieved strong load factors since their launch in December 2015. But this appears not to have come at the expense of the group’s other Thai flights, operated by Lufthansa, SWISS and Austrian.

“The first flight to Phuket [on 19 December] was full, and also the outgoing flight had a high load factor. Then two days later we had the flight to Bangkok… [which] was full in and out,” Grossmann revealed.

“We are opening a new customer segment for Lufthansa Group. We don’t see decreasing passenger numbers in our Lufthansa, SWISS or Austrian flights – we keep the load factors. It’s a new target market for us.”

The new Eurowings flights operate on a low-cost model, with initial one-way fares starting from less than THB8,000 (approx. US$224). Passengers have the choice of booking a ‘Basic’ fare, which is essentially just a seat, or a ‘Smart’ fare which includes baggage and two meals. There is also a premium economy option that includes two meals, mileage, lounge access and extra baggage.

And this price-driven product is appealing a whole new audience, according to Grossmann.

“This is not only for the German leisure market, but also for Europeans. About half of the aircraft is sold by tour operators in Europe, but the other 50 percent are really price-sensitive individual travellers,” Grossmann said, adding that he believes the one-way fares will appeal to “a lot of backpackers, who usually fly one-way”.

Previous efforts to open low-cost flights between Asia and Europe have not seen long-term success. Most notably AirAsia X’s services from Kuala Lumpur to Paris and London were suspended in 2012 due to cost pressures. But Grossmann said he believes Eurowings has several factors in its favour which will ensure the flights’ long-term viability.

“The Eurowings product is available on all sales channels, via tour operators, via its own internet channel, via GDS, and via the general internet. This is really the difference to other low-cost carriers, which might me more restricted in terms of sales channels. And we generate synergies of being part of the Lufthansa Group, which is a strong partner,” he said.

“And most importantly, the whole Lufthansa network in Europe is feeding into it as well; it’s a worldwide network that connects to European and global destinations. Cologne is [located in] a very dense area with a large population, not only in Germany but extending into Belgium and Holland. People can drive from other countries in one or two hours from places like Brussels, Antwerp, Maastricht. The name is Eurowings; we don’t limit ourselves anymore to Germany.”

This confidence in the Eurowings flights is reflected in the fact that the airline has committed to operating the Thai services all-year-round, rather than seasonally. “Our plan is to make these flights stable, but will we increase frequencies? The market will show; if we have the demand and the capacity to increase, then we would do.

“Our priority is to run Eurowings as a reliable airline,” Grossmann concluded.

For the type of price-sensitive passengers that Eurowings is hoping to attract, this will certainly be an appealing option, compared to the ever-increasing number of one-stop flights between Asia and Europe. And with one-way fares available for less than THB8,000, Lufthansa is opening up a new market – not only for itself, but also for Asia’s tourism industry.

Our 180º Wellness team are based at our Absolute Twin Sands Resort & Spa, on the tranquil west coast of Phuket island, and here we offer a simple range of Detox programs to help you kick-start your wellness journey, either as part of your holiday or as a dedicated wellness week.

Our programs allow you to take full responsibility for your health and wellbeing as you meet your personal goals and embark on this new lifestyle. We are here to serve you and although we will guide you and provide all you need as part of your selected program, we will not get on top of you and allow you to of course experience the beauty and adventure of Phuket.

We strongly believe that to live well and make the most of your life, you need your health and gently easing yourself into wellbeing whilst holidaying with us will be transformational.

Record numbers of Chinese tourists are flocking to Phuket this month to join Chinese New Year celebrations on the island.

Phuket International Airport has been bustling for the past few days with tourists arriving on extra flights from mainland China and Malaysia, said Airport Director Monrudee Gettuphan.

“An extra 29 charter flights from China to Phuket were laid on between January 25 and February 26 by China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Shanghai Airlines, including an additional flight from Penang,” said Ms Monrudee.

“There was a peak in arrivals on flights from China between February 5 and February 8 and we have seen an increase in the number of Chinese tourists arriving compared to the same time last year,” she said.

“We usually process about 50,000 visitors per day on average, but on February 6 that number jumped to 54,000.”

Currently the airport is dealing with about 300 flights per day, mostly comprising Chinese visitors, followed by Russian and Australian visitors according to the latest airport statistics.

Security has also been bolstered at the airport for the Chinese New Year period by doubling security staff and conducting more frequent patrols. – See more at: http://www.phuketgazette.net/phuket-news/Tourists-flock-Phuket-Chinese-New-Year/63090#ad-image-0

Making a positive impact every time you travel is truly a rewarding experience, and as Mahatma Gandhi once said: “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”. More importantly, when it comes to giving back, everybody wins.

Surprisingly, you don’t need to devote huge chunks of time to doing good activities to reap their benefits. Research shows tangible positive changes by volunteering just 100 hours per year-a figure that works out to a not-too-onerous two hours per week. so on your next trip to the beautiful land of smiles, why not opt to spend a few hours out of your vacation to help someone in need; it could be a child or an animal every little bit truly goes a long way.

Before we share with you a few places in Phuket where you can spend your time giving back, here are some reasons why doing such an activity is good for the mind, body and soul.

1. GIVING TO CHARITY MAY IMPROVEYOUR SENSE OF WELL-BEING Knowing that you sacrificed something such as time or finances to help others in need can give you a sense of purpose in life, creating an improved sense of well being.

2. GIVING BACK CAN STRENGTHEN YOUR SPIRITUAL LIFE Selfless giving is a critical component to many spiritual and religious belief systems. Recognising that you have taken action in line with your spiritual beliefs by offering your resources to others in need can bring a sense of inner peace and contentment.

3. VOLUNTEERING WITH A CHARITY MAY RESULT IN PHYSICAL AND SOCIAL BENEFITS After making a financial donation to a charity, you may feel an inner pull to become more involved with the cause by donating your time and skill as well. This will result in the building of your social circle while reaping the physical, mental and spiritual benefits.

4. VOLUNTEERING HELPS YOU TO DEVELOP NEW SKILLS Gaining skills, knowledge and expertise are common side effects of volunteering. Giving others your time brings you interesting and challenging opportunities that might not come along otherwise.

5. GIVING BACK HELPS YOU TO GAIN A NEW PERSPECTIVE Life can be hard and when you’re feeling down, your problems can seem insurmountable. Volunteering can offer a new perspective—seeing people who are worse off than you are, yet still hanging in there, can help you see your life in a whole new light.

6. VOLUNTEERING ENABLES YOU TO SEE THAT YOU ARE NEEDED/ APPRECIATED When you volunteer, you realise just how much you are truly needed. Meeting people who need your help is a strong incentive to continue people are depending on you.

7. GIVING BACK BOOSTS YOUR SELF-ESTEEM Many volunteers experience a sense of increased self-esteem and self-worth, as helping others makes you feel good about yourself, as you know that what you are doing is impacting someone else’s life in a positive way.

8. VOLUNTEERING KEEPS YOU INFORMED ABOUT ISSUES OF SOCIAL INJUSTICE When considering donating to a charity, many people tend to research the issues connected to that organisation.

As a result, you become more educated about social injustices around the world. You may discover new points of view and opinions on topics about which you were previously uniformed. This knowledge may position you to help increase the awareness of social problems among those in your sphere of influence from a balanced and educated standpoint. With all the positives associated with giving back and making an impact circulating through your mind, here are a few charities that we believe will be instrumental in making you feel completely satisfied on your next visit to Phuket.

Pick, choose and refuse from our exclusive selection of drinking spots with a view in Phuket that will quench your thirst, while captivating you with its exquisite scenery baba nest exclusive rooftop bar.

BABA NEST EXCLUSIVE ROOFTOP BAR
This stylish rooftop bar, rated one of the best in the world has captivating panoramic views of the surrounding islands and Andaman Sea. Once you to the rooftop, you will be greeted by a deck scattered with beanbags and low tables surrounded by an infinity pool that gives guests the illusion of being afloat between the sea and sky. Tranquil tracks and light Japanese bites punctuate the action, and signature cocktails are to die for, along with their vast list of fine wines and champagnes. So to get your evening off to a fantastic start ensure that you make reservations in advance so that you can drink the night away.

Address: 88 Moo 8, Sakdidej Road, Wichit, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Telephone: +66 (0) 76 371 000
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday; 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

THE KEE SKY LOUNGE
A mere few minutes away from Patong Beach is a shining beacon of liquor together with 360-degree views. Escape in the Kee Sky Lounge’s charming aura with classic jazz and soft Brazilian music resonating throughout. More excitingly, the Sky Lounge has two terraces on two levels the first level has a circular bar, with two enclosed dining rooms, while the second level has a larger terrace with a bar. On each terrace, guests are entertained by skilled bartenders who perform juggling acts while preparing drinks. In terms of décor, an inviting beige and grey colour scheme creates a perfect contrast and sets the mood alight, with a futuristic lighting set-up. If the views, and décor weren’t enough, guests can check out the wine cellar with a great selection of wines and champagne. We can’t do this bar much justice, so a visit to see it firsthand is a must.

Address: 152/1 Thaweewong Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Telephone: +66 (0) 76 335 888
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday; 5:00 pm – 12:00 am

CLIMAX ROOFTOP BAR
Located on the rooftop of Absolute Bangla Suites, Climax Rooftop Bar is centred on the booze and the panoramic view offering a perfect escape for guests with a fantastic pool to lounge by. Once you set foot inside this intimate bar, away from the dizzying madness far below, you will be escorted by the wonderful staff to the circular bar where you will be able to select between a large number of cocktails, mocktails and smoothies, complemented with a comfortable, polished feel. If you’re feeling peckish then the food here is enticing in range and truly scrumptious. One thing is for sure; guests will be spoilt for choice from start to finish.

Address: 68/1 Soi Bangla Square, Off Bangla Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Telephone: +66 (0) 81 979 6262
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday; 7:00 am – 12:00 am

WASSA HOMEMADE BAR
Immerse yourself at this fantastic spot with views of the whole bay of Patong on Phuket’s west coast while you sip on mixed cocktails and chow down on a selection of finger-food. The cool breeze will intoxicate you while you listen to the best R&B tunes in this little hut all made of wood and surrounded by dense forestry, so do ensure you tick this off your list while on vacation. With several areas where guests can sit and relax, Wassa Bar offers a great escape, but do ensure to visit just before sunset, because once the sun dips the lights of Patong will illuminate your night.

Address: 50 Pee Road, Patong, Ban Patong, Phuket, Thailand
Telephone: +66 (0) 91 882 9322
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday; 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Powered by a surge in Asian tourists, Thailand’s visitor arrivals in 2015 hit an all-time record of 29.88 million (+20.44%) and generated around 1.44 trillion Baht, up 23.39% over 2014 in Thai tourism revenue.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor, Dr. Yuthasak Supasorn, said “It was another remarkable year in 2015. The performance endorses the scope and effectiveness of the 2015 Discover Thainess campaign and its success in restoring travel confidence.”

The latest data released by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, earlier this week, indicated 21,275,750 visitors, or a 71.20% market share, were sourced in Asia, which generated about 821 billion Baht in revenue.

Asian markets dominated the country’s top-10 list. China gained the top spot for the second year in a row generating 7,934,791 visitors, up 71.14% on 2014.

Malaysia in second place delivered 3,423,397 arrivals representing an increase of 30.99% over 2014.

Four more Asian ‘plus million’ markets followed: Japan (1,381,690), Korea (1,372,995), Lao PDR. (1,233,138), and India (1,069,149).

Delivering a respectable 4.30% increase, the UK market closed the year in seventh place with 946,919 visits, the highest performance in Europe.

Singapore followed in eighth place supplying 937,311 visits up 11.04%.

Russia, despite a decline, closed the year in ninth place with 884,085 visitors.

In tenth place, the USA market grew 13.62% to deliver 867,520 visits.

The regional overview placed East Asia, which includes ASEAN, top with 19.87 million visits representing a market share of 66.5%. This region generate nearly 760 billion Baht in income to Thailand.

Despite the economic situation, Europe remained second with a market share of 18.84% or 5.63 million visitors with 408 billion Baht in revenue.

There were encouraging, bright spots in the region, indicating that Thailand’s traditional markets remain resilient. Noteworthy examples were Italy recording an 11.90% increase to 246,066 visits; Spain with 150,940 visits improving 29.03%; Germany with 760,604 visits up 6.34%, and France 681,097 visits up 7.25%.

South Asia was third with a market share of 4.70% on 1.4 million arrivals generated income to Thailand at 61.27 billion Baht (+22.55%).

Another interesting growth is the Americas region with 1.23 million arrivals (+12.31%) generating revenue of 77.86 billion Baht for the country, an increase of 15.82% over 2014. The Middle East also had double digit growth at 10.07% to 658,129 arrivals and generated over 46.31 billion Baht, up 17.67% in revenue.

The TAT Governor said, “Looking at the 2016 prospects; such as, a severe winter and lower airfares, TAT could encourage more travel from Europe, but our 2016 goals focus on balancing the market share, driving higher spending and extending the length of stay by promoting secondary destinations and high value travel experiences.”

Powered by a surge in Asian tourists, Thailand’s visitor arrivals in 2015 hit an all-time record of 29.88 million (+20.44%) and generated around 1.44 trillion Baht, up 23.39% over 2014 in Thai tourism revenue.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor, Dr. Yuthasak Supasorn, said “It was another remarkable year in 2015. The performance endorses the scope and effectiveness of the 2015 Discover Thainess campaign and its success in restoring travel confidence.”

The latest data released by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, earlier this week, indicated 21,275,750 visitors, or a 71.20% market share, were sourced in Asia, which generated about 821 billion Baht in revenue.

Asian markets dominated the country’s top-10 list. China gained the top spot for the second year in a row generating 7,934,791 visitors, up 71.14% on 2014.

Malaysia in second place delivered 3,423,397 arrivals representing an increase of 30.99% over 2014.

Four more Asian ‘plus million’ markets followed: Japan (1,381,690), Korea (1,372,995), Lao PDR. (1,233,138), and India (1,069,149).

Delivering a respectable 4.30% increase, the UK market closed the year in seventh place with 946,919 visits, the highest performance in Europe.

Singapore followed in eighth place supplying 937,311 visits up 11.04%.

Russia, despite a decline, closed the year in ninth place with 884,085 visitors.

In tenth place, the USA market grew 13.62% to deliver 867,520 visits.

The regional overview placed East Asia, which includes ASEAN, top with 19.87 million visits representing a market share of 66.5%. This region generate nearly 760 billion Baht in income to Thailand.

Despite the economic situation, Europe remained second with a market share of 18.84% or 5.63 million visitors with 408 billion Baht in revenue.

There were encouraging, bright spots in the region, indicating that Thailand’s traditional markets remain resilient. Noteworthy examples were Italy recording an 11.90% increase to 246,066 visits; Spain with 150,940 visits improving 29.03%; Germany with 760,604 visits up 6.34%, and France 681,097 visits up 7.25%.

South Asia was third with a market share of 4.70% on 1.4 million arrivals generated income to Thailand at 61.27 billion Baht (+22.55%).

Another interesting growth is the Americas region with 1.23 million arrivals (+12.31%) generating revenue of 77.86 billion Baht for the country, an increase of 15.82% over 2014. The Middle East also had double digit growth at 10.07% to 658,129 arrivals and generated over 46.31 billion Baht, up 17.67% in revenue.

The TAT Governor said, “Looking at the 2016 prospects; such as, a severe winter and lower airfares, TAT could encourage more travel from Europe, but our 2016 goals focus on balancing the market share, driving higher spending and extending the length of stay by promoting secondary destinations and high value travel experiences.”