Phuket Helps Thai Tourism Boom
Monday, December 13th, 2010Thai tourism has barely flinched at the threat of global recession, and a full programme of events and festivals is set to float the economy into 2011 with ease. The island of Phuket is key to the Thai appeal: a tropical paradise with the unusual benefit of easy mainland access via two bridges. With endless white beaches, amazing local wildlife and dramatic mountains in the interior, Phuket has learnt everything and more from archetypical Caribbean holidays. You’d also expect positive comparrisons with Mauritius holidays which offer a similarly Indian Ocean-based cultural appeal.
Among the brochure of Thailand holidays, Phuket is perhaps second only to Bangkok as a tourist destination in Thailand, but it will be naturally preferred by anyone who doesn’t fancy a buzzing metropolis for a holiday destination. The ideal getaway for a later annual holiday, visits to the island in December will coincide with two fabulous sporting events. Professional athletes of the highest calibre are attracted to the Laguna Phuket triathlon, taking in (as these events do) a 1,800 metre swim, a 5,500 metre cycle ride and a a 12,000 metre run. There’s a much less gruelling six kilometre fun run for anyone who wants to have a go (though book in advance to avoid disappointment).
Among these important events in the December calendar is Phuket’s Kings Cup Regatta, a week-long sailing event with Royal patronage. In its twenty fourth year, the Regatta attracts competitors from around the world and has grown to be the biggest and most popular in all of Asia. With various vessels competing, there are many trophies up for grabs by the different classes. Spectators and passers-by will have as much to enjoy on the water’s edge as the yacht-owners on the waves. Seeing the keel boats and multi-hulls facing off against each other is great fun, and there are plenty of habourside events to keep more sceptical tourists entertained.