< Previous080 AWAKEN II 2023081 SOUTH Samui / Phuket / Krabi Getting There & Getting Around Southern Thailand is a tourist paradise, boasting some of the country’s most spectacular attractions and breath-taking scenery. With international airports in Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai and Koh Samui, as well as domestic flights to and from Bangkok, travellers have a wealth of transportation options to choose from. For longer journeys, there are re- liable buses and trains that run all the way to the Thai-Malaysian border. To access the islands, boats are the main mode of transportation.082 AWAKEN II 2023 Discover The City A tropical getaway to the South is an absolute must-do. From stunning beaches and remarkable islands, greenery mountains to cultural sites and events, and a variety of tan- talising food, there is something for everyone. Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Tao are the most popular spots, but Nakhon Si Thammarat and Trang have also become increasingly popular. Relax in a beachfront bungalow, dip yourself in a pool villa, explore the forested mountains, enjoy water sports and uncover the region’s historic wonders. It’s all here, waiting for you to discover. Culture & Living Heritage The South is blessed with a plethora of serene beaches and islands, and Phuket is undoubtedly the most popular of them all, with a wide array of beaches and bays including Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamala and Surin. Fur- ther out, the Coral and Raya Islands offer a secluded paradise, while the old town of Phuket has a legendary charm all its own. Just north of Phuket lies the tranquil beach town of Khao Lak, with its pleasant and wholesome atmosphere. Phuket is renowned for its culture and exquisite temples, and the iconic Big Buddha stands prominently to the south of the island, a well-known landmark. Exploring the rich culture and colourful history of Phuket is a must for any traveller.083 Krabi is a hidden gem of natural beauty and adventure. Take a thrilling journey in a longtail boat to explore the idyllic islands and bays, including Koh Phi Phi, Koh Hong, Koh Poda, Koh Klang, and Cham Island. Enjoy a variety of activities such as diving, sea kayaking, fishing, rubberwood cultivation, and cloth weaving. For a spectacular rock-climbing expe- rience, head to Railay Peninsula. Relax on Nopparat Thara Beach or take an adventurous trekking tour to Dragon Crest. Visit Tiger Cave Temple to pay homage to Buddha and enjoy a bird’s eye view of Krabi from 600 metres above sea level. Explore other wonders of Krabi such as Thale Waek, Khlong Thom Hot Spring Waterfall, Ta Pom Khlong Song Nam, and Thum Pee Hua To. The paradisal island of Samui offers a breathtakingly diverse range of activities for visitors. From the clear blue seas and white sandy beaches of Nathon, Chaweng, Lamai, Bo Phut, Mae Nam, and Taling Ngam, to Ang Thong National Marine Park for diving and Na Muang Waterfall for swimming, Samui has it all. The main resort towns of Samui have retained their traditional Thai architecture, par- ticularly in Lamai and the Fisherman’s Village of Bophut, which has remained largely untouched for decades. Other must-see spots include Hin Yai and Hin Ta, Big Buddha, and the village of Ban Lipa Yai. Island hopping to Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan, and Koh Pha Ngan is also possible. Samui offers something for everyone; come and experience it for yourself!084 AWAKEN II 2023 Highlight - Happening Events Phuket and Krabi is renowned for its vibrant and impressive festivals, ranging from religious traditions to those held simply for fun. In October, witness the extraordinary Vegetarian Festival, where locals come together and celebrate with traditional cere- monies and delicious vegetarian feasts. December brings the majestic Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, a sailing event that brings together hundreds of vessels from across the globe. Febru- ary is the time for the Phuket Old Town Festival, a vibrant celebration of the heritage and culture of the area. June is the time for the Baba (Peranakan) Wedding Festival, a traditional event to celebrate the marriage of two peo- ple. March brings the Laanta-Lanta Festival, a traditional cultural event in Krabi, followed in April by the Krabi International Rock-Climbing competi- tion. November sees the spectacular Andaman Sea Festival and the unique Floating Boats of the Sea Gypsies, and the world-famous Full Moon Party on Koh Pha Ngan brings the year to a close. Don’t miss out on these incre- dible events! Highlight - Taste of the place Indulge in the unforgettable flavours of Southern Thai cuisine at one of the many incredible restaurants and cafes across the region. From Tu Kab Khao in Phuket to Yoong Khao Hom in Koh Samui, there are so many mouth-wa- tering dishes to try. Those looking for something a bit more unique should check out Three Monkeys Restaurant, Trade Winds Restaurant at Celes Resort, and 360°Sky Bar By Andacura. Thanks for picture: *IRC 1 on the beat. Phuket King’s Cup Regatta 2015. Photo by Guy Nowell Thanks for picture: facebook.com/threemonkeysphuket Thanks for picture: *IRC 1 on the beat. Phuket King’s Cup Regatta 2015. Photo by Guy Nowell 085 Cafe hopping is also a great way to explore the region, with options such as Great Shot Bar, See Sky Cafe Krabi, and Khaothong Hill. Whether you’re after a casual bite or a delicious dinner, Southern Thai cuisine is sure to satisfy. Highlight - Retail Therapy With its abundant shopping spots, Southern Thailand is a paradise for shopaholics. From bustling street markets to sleek shopping malls, there is something to satisfy every shop- ping desire. Phuket’s Chillva Market, Sunday Walking Street, Phuket Town Weekend Night Market, Jungceylon Shopping Mall, and the Premium Outlet offer a range of shopping experiences. Those seeking some- thing more laidback can take a trip to Krabi, where the night market and Vogue Department Store await. For a unique shopping experience, Koh Samui has a range of quirky night markets, such as Fisherman’s Village Walking Street, Lamai Sunday Night Market, and Nathon Walking Street. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Southern Thailand!087 Privileges • Year-Round offer : Get 10% Discount when apply promotion code “VZCITIBANK” via https://th.vietjetair.com Period : 1 March – 31 December 2023 • Premium Privilege : Extra baggage Allowance 15 kgs for all kind of Thai Vietjet Air Ticket for Domestic routes Period : 1 July – 30 September 2023 (Exclusively for Citi ULTIMA and UOB Infinite only) CITI AND UOB CREDIT CARDS Thai Vietjet Air Joint Stock Company Limited T hai Vietjet (VZ) claims itself as new generation airline with main base in Bangkok, Thailand. The carrier, founded in 2014, has been collaborating with Vietjet to expand its flight network and provide more opportunities for passengers to discover Thailand and many other destinations through its hospitable and enjoyable service. Currently, Thai Vietjet operates scheduled commercial services on its comprehensive domestic flight network, including flights connecting Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Hat Yai, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Surat Thani, Krabi, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Ubon Ratchathani, and a cross-regional flight between Phuket and Chiang Mai. The airline also offers convenient connections on its extensive international flight network, including direct flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Da Lat, Phu Quoc, Fukuoka, Singapore, Taipei, Phnom Penh, and a newly intro- duced direct service between Chiang Mai and Osaka. Thai Vietjet also provides a variety of add-on services to enhance its passengers’ flying experiences, including pre-booking baggage allowance, priority check-in, seat selection, and an oversize baggage allowance option, which allows passengers to carry their oversized sport or instrumental equipment with ease. Furthermore, Thai Vietjet recently introduced “SKY CAFÉ,” a cafe above the clouds where passengers can enjoy a collection of international cuisines from across the world with the best ingredients thoughtfully selected and prepared in biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging. Awarded the ‘Fastest Growing Low-cost Carrier of the 2020’ by Global Business Outlook Magazine and the ‘Fastest Growing Low-cost Airline- Thailand 2022’ by International Finance Magazine, The airline has also recently been awarded the ‘Most Passenger-Friendly Cabin Crew - 2021’ airline from International Finance Magazine, emphasizing its position as the ‘airline of hospitality’, reinforcing its core value of ‘Friendly & Fun’, together with ‘Safety’, ‘Punctuality, and ‘Affordable Price’. +66 (0)2 089 1909 (08:00 AM - 22:00 PM) vz.support@vietjetair.com www.th.vietjetair.com Terms & Conditions Year-Round offer: Apply to all card type Premium Privilege: Exclusively for Citi ULTIMA and UOB Infinite only, please present Citi ULTIMA or UOB Infinite credit card at counter check in • Flight change/Date change: Not permited • Name Change /reroute: Not permitted • Refund: Not permitted • Voucher is not applicable during holiday period088 AWAKEN II 2023089 Privileges • Special discount 30% on Best Available Rate. • Special discount 20% on regular spa package. Period : 1 March – 31 December 2023 CITI AND UOB CREDIT CARDS CELES SAMUI 175/3 Thaveerat-Pakdee Road, Surat Thani, 84320 Thailand +66 (0)77 900 999 rsvn@celessamui.com www.celessamui.com CELES SAMUI Terms & Conditions All offers are not combinable with other promotional rate Situated on a 270-meter-long stretch, one of the longest beachfront on the island of Koh Samui, Celes Samui is on the unmatched location on Bophut Beach offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand as well as Koh Pha- ngan. Inspired by its name, Celes Samui embodies serenity, modern comfort, and the warmth of Thai hospitality. Ranging from rooms to suites to villas, the resort offers nine distinctive room categories.Next >