17
Apr
2006
I live in Thailand fulltime so I guess I can give you fairly good advice.
1. How rainy will it be in August? not too bad...its raining here right now where I live(very close to Phuket) and its the "dry season"...its the tropics...you gotta expect climate changes.Still it will be quite warm so no need to worry about bringing anything more than shorts and t-shirts.
2. How buggy? Again its the tropics...jungles have bugs...take the good with the bad...Bring some Skin so soft and you will be fine.
3. How is the diving post Tsunami? Very very nice...enjoy
4. As we want to stay for three weeks (sweet!) should I book them up front or just book a week and negotiate the other two weeks when I'm there?
Why anybody would want to spend more than 1 week in Phuket is beyond me.This country is truely one of the most naturally stunning places on earth and Phuket is quite touristy..Do a Google of Koa Sok ntnl park, or Chiang Mai and consider seeing some other parts of Thailand besides the tourist demimonde of Phuket.also if you are into diving,research Ko Tao and Ko Phangnan.
5. I have young kids (6 & 9) dare I take them off the CM compound? Is it a heathen den of drugs and prostituition or just pricey tourist traps?
Thailand has its prostitutes sure,but unless you plan on dragging your kids into go-go bar,or into a pub for a few pints you wont even notice them.drugs are highly illegal here and some offenses bring the death penalty,so no drug issues to speak of.
Yes Phuket is a tourist trap,yes its over priced compared to the rest of Thailand,however that still akes it about 50% the price of stuff in america and europe.Its a very inexpensive place to live and visit.
Also not when you finally do venture out for a evening of shopping,when purchasing from vendors in small shops and road side stands always xounter offer 1/3 the price they just quoted you....bargaining is sport to the Thais...better get good at it.
Again I STRONGLY suggest you travel within the country..dont be a pickleheaded tourist who only sees Phuket...what a waste!
Enjoy your stay in LOS(Land of Smiles)
Darren DJ
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