Travel

IT’S HERE! PHUKET’S 2024 WET SEASON HAS ARRIVED

Published

9 months ago

May 7, 2024

When it rains, it pours. But usually not for long.

Phuket has three seasons… dry, hot and wet. Maybe there’s a few months where it’s hotter than the rest of the year. But most of the time just reliably hot and tropical. And during the annual wet season, which is a welcome relief from the hot season, it rains.

Phuket’s wet season appears to have arrived today although there will still be some hot a dry days as the 2024 wet season settles in.

From now until November is called the wet season, the green season or monsoon. It WILL rain during the wet season, sometime with a torrential, short downpour. It will disrupt what you’re doing for a short time. But, like the Thais, you just carry on with whatever you were doing when it passes.

Thailand, and Phuket’s, weather is driven by an annual monsoon cycle. It sweeps out of the Indian Ocean from the south west for half of the year. And for the other half, hotter, drier air gets dragged down from the north east and the Asian continent.

Apart from a few low pressure systems that sweep down from China, or out of the South China Sea, the tropical monsoon is the overwhelming feature of Phuket’s weather. It’s reliable and reasonably predictable.

You can also follow the rain as it approaches Phuket during the wet season HERE. The animation is just a screenshot every 10 minutes, for the past hour.

The monsoon also coincides with Thailand’s location in the south east Asian tropical rain belt, the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone. This generally means that the winds are mild – there are never any typhoons or crazy weather. The odd tropical storm is as bad as it gets. Winds much over 23-30 knots are very rare at any time of the year.

The timing of the Thai wet season isn’t the same around the country and isn’t exactly the same every year, although it is reliably consistent. Chiang Mai does not have the same rainy season as the Gulf of Thailand islands. Koh Samui’s wet season is month’s after the beaches on the west coast facing the Andaman Sea.

Phuket’s wettest months, statistically, are September and October.

The annual celebration of Songkran, the Thai New Year on April 13, is usually timed to match both the end of the hot season and the start of the annual wet season. The festival centre’s around ‘water’, traditionally the gentle washing of Buddha images and the hands of the elderly. In most provinces, including Phuket, the start of the monsoon starts to build in the month or so later after Songkran and runs until November.

Monsoon rains tend to be short, intense bursts of rainfall. They could last for a few hours in the middle of the day, but they could just as easily be over within about 15 minutes in the morning or evening. But the torrential rain is always matched with warm temperatures so it can be more of a relief than a hassle.

And, at the very worst, the rain is always warm.

The monsoons do little to stop Thais who will continue to carry on with their businesses – it’s just part of Thai life.

The rain starts? No worries. Out with the ubiquitous 20 baht ‘poncho’ available at every 7-Eleven or Family Mart. They’ll fall around in the wind but at least keep most of you dry, even if anything below your knees is saturated.

But the monsoons are part of the cycle of life in Thailand. They bring the rains to make the drops grow and fill the dams. Whilst inconvenient, and may force you to re-schedule your boat trip, they are a part of Phuket life.

Once upon a time Phuket had a distinct high and low tourist season but the changes in international tourist mixes have made many of the Andaman Sea destinations busy throughout the year, rain or no rain.

Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Phang Nga, Khao Lak and the Phi Phi islands are just a few of the popular destinations where the daily weather is a feature of the daily coastal living. The weather drives many of the activities but is very easy to follow.

It usually start raining from mid April until November each year. September and October are reliably the wettest.

But even on the west days there is still plenty of things to do. Remember, it’s been raining during the wet season in Phuket for centuries so the locals know that life goes on, even when the skies go dark and the rain starts to fall.

So it is with your tourist options as well – cooking classes, world class shows, excellent restaurants, world class shopping centres, poking around Old Phuket Town – all excellent options for the rainy days.

Maybe even a romantic walk along a wind swept beach, remember although it’s a bit wet, you’re still wearing just shorts and a cotton shirt! Some of your most memorable photo moments will be during and after the rain. And the sunsets during the monsoon are the best of the year.

And for the surfers, the south west monsoon does offer some rideable surf for the beginners. You can rent a board or get some lessons along most of the west coast beaches during this time of the year.

But the strong south westerly winds during this time usually make the west-facing beaches unsafe for swimming for the duration of the monsoon. Watch for the red flags along the patrolled beaches and take instructions from the lifeguards.

Some of the smaller islands and diving spots also shut down during the monsoon season.

Yes, the rain will fall from time to time during the monsoon. But it will be over soon enough and you can on with holiday.

Travel

Ethical Havens: Thailand’s Elephant Sanctuaries Offer Hope and Healing

Published

16 hours ago

January 30, 2025

Wadi

Thailand’s elephant sanctuaries are pioneering ethical tourism, providing a safe haven for elephants rescued from logging and tourism industries. These sanctuaries offer visitors a chance to observe elephants in natural settings, promoting conservation and animal welfare.

Sanctuary Spotlight: Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

A New Life for Rescued Elephants

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, endorsed by National Geographic and World Animal Protection, is at the forefront of ethical elephant tourism. The sanctuary features a 600-meter canopy walkway, allowing visitors to observe elephants from above as they roam freely across 30 acres of lush, tropical land.

Ethical Practices in Elephant Care

Chain-Free Environments and Natural Behaviors

Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) runs Asia’s first completely chain-free elephant sanctuary. This approach allows rescued elephants, many of whom have experienced decades of abuse, to roam, socialize, and engage in natural behaviors without restrictions.

The Elephant Nature Park Experience

Witnessing Elephant Bonds and Rehabilitation

At the Elephant Nature Park, visitors can observe the strong bonds formed between elephants. This sanctuary also rescues dogs, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to engage in animal welfare activities beyond elephant conservation.

Conservation Challenges

Balancing Tourism and Elephant Welfare

With an estimated 2,200 wild elephants remaining in Thailand, sanctuaries play a crucial role in conservation efforts. These ethical havens provide alternatives to harmful practices like street begging and logging, which have historically endangered elephant populations.

Supporting Ethical Elephant Tourism

How Visitors Can Make a Difference

Visitors can support these sanctuaries through ethical tourism, donations, and volunteer work. By choosing accredited sanctuaries, tourists contribute to the well-being of rescued elephants and promote sustainable, responsible wildlife tourism in Thailand.

Travel

Exploring Bangkok’s Aquatic Wonders: A Journey Through Canals and Aquariums

Published

16 hours ago

January 30, 2025

Wadi

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, offers unique aquatic experiences that blend traditional charm with modern attractions. From serene canal tours to state-of-the-art aquariums, visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s rich water culture.

Chao Phraya River Adventures

Longtail Boat Canal Tours

Embark on a private longtail boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok’s hidden canals. This 1-2 hour journey provides a glimpse into local life and showcases the city’s stunning riverside scenery. Visitors can marvel at historic landmarks and experience the tranquility of Bangkok’s waterways, offering a unique perspective on the bustling metropolis.

Underwater Marvels

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

Dive into an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World, located in the heart of the city. This world-class aquarium offers visitors the chance to observe a diverse array of marine life up close. One of the highlights is the Glass Bottom Boat experience, where guests can glide above sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish in a specially designed vessel.

Cultural Insights

Temple Visits by Water

The boat tours often include stops at significant cultural sites, such as the magnificent Wat Pak Nam Pha Si Charoen Temple. Visitors can admire the temple’s impressive Big Buddha statue and gain insights into Thai Buddhist traditions. This combination of aquatic travel and cultural exploration provides a comprehensive Bangkok experience.

Modern Attractions

Innovative Aquarium Experiences

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World goes beyond traditional aquarium offerings. With daily feeding shows and interactive experiences, visitors of all ages can engage with marine life in exciting ways. The aquarium’s commitment to conservation and education adds depth to the entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for eco-conscious travelers.

Planning Your Aquatic Adventure

Practical Tips for Visitors

When planning your water-based exploration of Bangkok, consider booking tours in advance for better rates and availability. For canal tours, bring sun protection and stay hydrated. At SEA LIFE Bangkok, arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of the various attractions, including the popular Glass Bottom Boat ride.

By combining traditional canal tours with modern aquarium experiences, visitors can gain a comprehensive understanding of Bangkok’s relationship with water, from its historical significance to contemporary conservation efforts.

Travel

Tropical Paradise: Unveiling Thailand’s Hidden Beach Gems

Published

2 days ago

January 29, 2025

Wadi

Thailand’s beaches continue to captivate travelers worldwide, offering a perfect blend of stunning coastlines, breathtaking scenery, vibrant nightlife, and a tropical climate that caters to both relaxation seekers and adventure enthusiasts. Here are five beach destinations in Thailand that you absolutely must experience:

Railay Beach: A Rock Climber’s Haven

Dramatic Cliffs and Crystal Waters

Railay Beach in Krabi is renowned for its awe-inspiring limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and world-class rock climbing opportunities. For an unforgettable experience, consider renting a kayak to explore the hidden caves along the coastline, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of this unique destination.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Movie Location

Turquoise Waters and Cinematic Beauty

Maya Bay, located in the Phi Phi Islands, has gained international fame as the backdrop for the movie “The Beach.” This picturesque location boasts turquoise waters and powdery white sand. To fully appreciate its tranquility and avoid crowds, plan your visit early in the morning, allowing you to soak in the serene atmosphere.

Phra Nang Beach: A Secluded Paradise

Snorkeling and Local Legends

Surrounded by towering cliffs, Phra Nang Beach in Krabi offers visitors stunning views and excellent snorkeling opportunities. While enjoying the beach, don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Princess Cave, which is steeped in fascinating local legends, adding a touch of mystery to your beach experience.

Koh Lipe: The Maldives of Thailand

Crystal-Clear Waters and Coral Reefs

Koh Lipe, often referred to as the “Maldives of Thailand,” is a pristine island paradise boasting crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. This destination is a dream come true for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. For an unforgettable experience, head to Sunrise Beach to witness a spectacular start to your day as the sun emerges from the horizon.

Koh Lanta: Family-Friendly Serenity

Laid-Back Atmosphere and Calm Waters

Hat Khlong Dao on Koh Lanta offers a perfect blend of relaxation and family-friendly amenities. With its long stretch of white sand and laid-back atmosphere, this beach is ideal for unwinding. The calm waters make it safe for swimming, while a variety of beachfront dining options cater to all tastes. While enjoying these stunning beach destinations, take the opportunity to explore Thailand’s rich culture and natural wonders. Visit ancient temples, embark on hikes to breathtaking viewpoints, or indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Thailand truly is a country that keeps on giving, offering endless possibilities for an unforgettable vacation.