Muay Thai
What fuels the global phenomenon of Thai Boxing The rhythmic shouts and the heavy thuds of fists hitting punching bags are a familiar morning soundtrack in Phuket, where there’s even an entire street devoted to Thai boxing. But Muay Thai is far more than just a sport for Thailand. It’s a pillar of national identity,…
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Live the adventure
Jurassic World Rebirth lands just beyond Phuket Some say you can hear the plot of Jurassic World Rebirth coming from a mile away. A ragtag group of adventurers lands on a remote island, planning to exploit dinosaur DNA – and naturally, some of them get chomped. But let’s be honest: it’s not 1993, and you’re…
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Lights, Camera, Thailand!
RL’s guide to cinematic locations around Thailand Hollywood filmmakers are renowned for highlighting beautiful locations, and Thailand’s stunning landscapes have long provided the perfect backdrop for war dramas, action-packed adventures, and even commercials. Below, we’ve curated a list of 15 films – along with the iconic locations you can visit to experience the magic of…
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ART & CRISIS management
When asked about her work, Khun Aom (Sornchart Krainara) playfully responds that she does everything – except three things. Then, with a mischievous smile, she lists three outrages sections of the Criminal Code. Like many great jokes, this one holds a grain of truth. Anyone involved in event management or truly connected to Phuket knows…
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The artistic nomad
Christian Develter’s cultural narratives in vibrant colors In the world of South East Asia’s contemporary art, Christian Develter’s name has become synonymous with bold color palettes, intricate patterns, and a deep exploration of cultural narratives. Yet, it is his personal journey which feels his work with life. Since the mid-1990s, the Belgian-born artist has lived…
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Phuket streets going global
The inspiring journey of the Queen on Street Photos by Yada Ordiazz At just 15, Prapaporn ‘Nong Fiat’ Srimuang doesn’t listen to fairy tales. Known on stage as Queen on Street, she lives a real-life tale that embodies the magic of talent meeting opportunity. The young musician’s journey began humbly in Patong several years ago, where…
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The island of artistic
Thailand Biennale Phuket 2025 For the first time in its history, Phuket becomes the stage for the Thailand Biennale of Contemporary Art – the country’s most significant public art event. Preparations for this five-month celebration have spanned a full two years of curatorial dialogue and organizational work. On the following pages, we will present a…
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The Mansion
Phuket’s history comes alive at Baan Ar-Jor By Julia Sinikova Nestled in northern Phuket, Baan Ar-Jor is perhaps the most architecturally impeccable time machine one could imagine. This 88-year-old Sino-Portuguese mansion effortlessly transports visitors to an era before emails and fax machines – a time when Phuketians were mining tin and planting rubber trees. Built…
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Bangkok Mysteries: Silk
Jim Thompson’s fascinating life and legacy If you’ve been to Thailand, you’ve likely encountered the iconic Jim Thompson silk shops. Behind these elegant stores lies an intriguing story – one of adventure, art, mystery, and even some Russian connections. This is the tale of Jim Thompson, a man who brought Thai silk to the global…
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Roots of elegance
The amazing story of Thai silk Silk, one of the world’s most luxurious fabrics, has captivated humanity for over 6,000 years. According to Chinese legend, Empress Si Ling Chi discovered silk while sipping tea beneath a mulberry tree. When a cocoon fell into her cup, a fine thread unraveled, revealing the precious fabric. For centuries,…
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Lotus Arena
A world-class concert ground in Phuket Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Khao Lak, and Koh Phangan may each argue about which of them is Thailand’s best destination. Yet, no one disputes that the top New Year’s concerts take place in Bangkok and Phuket. Bangkok has long been the music capital of the Kingdom, if not the region.…
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One island, three new year
Many things make the Land of Smiles unique, and one of them is that Thailand celebrates New Year three times, with each celebration occurring at a different time of the year. Western New Year The tradition to celebrate New Year on the morning of January 1 was adopted in 1940 when the acting Prime Minister…
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The significant beauty
Peranakan heritage comes to life in Phuket Phuket’s complex history is rarely touched by tourists coming to the island for beach fun and nightlife. One of the island’s hidden gems is the Phuket Peranakan, or Baba-Yaya culture, which has flourished in Phuket Town for centuries but only recently started making headlines, namely after the Phuket…
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Nine day, Nine gods
The true meaning of Phuket Vegetarian Festival Photos by Maksim Romashkin A Phuketian’s calendar is full of festive events. Each year, the island celebrates holidays ranging from Western and Russian Christmas to the Buddhist Makha Bucha Day, the Chinese Hungry Ghost Festival, and the Muslim Ramadan. However, standing out among them is the Vegetarian Festival, a unique local…
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Celebrating Loy Krathong in Phuket
The beautiful Loy Krathong festival will be celebrated throughout Thailand on November 15, with all social media pages posting images of floating lanterns ascending into the sky. However, this is exactly what will not happen in Phuket, as the floating lanterns are the symbol of the Yi Peng Festival, coinciding with Loy Krathong but celebrated…
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Bangkok GRAD: Russia’s first Rotary Club sets sail in Thailand
Honored members of Thailand’s vast network of Rotary Clubs had a very special night to celebrate as the first Russian-speaking Rotary Club opened its doors in Thailand. Officially named the Rotary Club of Bangkok GRAD, the first Russian club held its inaugural Charter Night at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok on Tuesday, June 25. Rotary…
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HEAR THEM ROAR: Jurassic World 4 begins filming in Phuket area
Does the Phuket jungle hide any dinosaurs? From June 13 through July 16… yes, it does! Jurassic World 4, aka Jurassic City, is being filmed in the Phuket area right now, and we know at least one exact location! Thailand has long been a favored destination for filmmakers, with numerous movies, TV series, commercials, and…
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Phuket among UNESCO’s Сities of Gastronomy
What is special about local food? “Loved by many, understood by few” – this statement rings particularly true for Phuket’s cuisine. While millions of travelers flock to the island each year to enjoy its natural beauty, hospitality, and culinary offerings, few venture beyond the beachside eateries to explore the deeper gastronomic traditions that earned Phuket…
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Madness in Privacy
Inside Phuket and Samui hotels featured in The White Lotus Described by IMDB as “comedy” and “drama,” The White Lotus series has captured the attention of audiences worldwide. In its essence, it stands far apart from traditional genres, much like how Game of Thrones defied simple categorization. Both are emblematic HBO productions, renowned for pushing…
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Sawatdee!
Getting to know your first Thai word Sawatdee kha! The Thai greeting is often the first phrase a tourist hears upon landing in Thailand. While most vacationers know how to say “Hello” in Thai, few are aware of the meaning behind the word. What exactly do Thais convey when they greet each other (and us,…
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Women’s strength and beauty in the art of Celine Masson
Slowly, but surely, Celine Masson is getting used to being called a painter or an artist. “Calling me an artist? Please, not yet – maybe soon! No, no, I’m kidding. I’m getting used to it now. Painting is what I want to do for the rest of my life. But it still sounds very strange…
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1785: The History of Phuket’s Heroines
Phuket is known worldwide as a tropical paradise, with its scenic beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and extravagant nightlife. Yet, the official symbol of the province is not a palm tree against the backdrop of the Andaman Sea but two women with short, man-like haircuts holding swords. This symbol reflects Phuket’s pride and identity. The island’s history…
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Chinese New Year in Phuket
How to get the most out of it If you reside in Phuket or spending a vacation here in February, you’re in luck! You have the opportunity to join in on the local celebrations of Chinese New Year. In 2024, the Year of the Rabbit ends on February 9, and the Year of the Dragon…
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Surprising Trade
Unveiling the maestro behind Phuket’s premier celebrity-infused events Asking a Phuket resident about their “previous life” hardly raises an eyebrow. Moving to Thailand often entails a life-changing experience, including complete career overhauls. A decades-long history of success can be effortlessly left behind, replaced by a once-hobby or side hustle. The land of smiles thrives on…
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Bamboo Siamensis shines at The Pavilions Phuket
Phuket’s connoisseurs of all things beautiful were treated to a very special fashion night at The Pavilions Phuket on Nov 18 when the luxury pyjamas and loungewear brand Siamese Dreams revealed its new collection of elegant resort outfits designed in collaboration with The Pavilions and inspired by the hotel’s lush greenery. The exquisite loungewear fashion…
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Festivals coming up in Phuket
Vegetarian Festival When: Sunday 29 September – Monday 7 October Where: Phuket Town & Chinese Buddhist Temples The Vegetarian Festival is celebrated annually in Phuket. It is a 9 day period in which locals abstain from animal products and perform rituals to cleanse their minds and bodies. The festival in Phuket has its origins in…
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The Tropical Aroma of Ropp…
Paul Ropp designs are creations known for being happy, colourful, flowing, fun, playful, sassy, original and sensual. Pieces that get attention and compliments for their unusual beauty and artistic flair, they are comfortable, soft and luxurious. Made, as Paul says, for people who “Prefer to be Naked.” If we talk about luxury resort wear, it’s…
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Real Life in Phuket Magazine 