8 Tips To Have A Fun Time With Your Kids In Gatlinburg

BY  Sibashree Jan 4, 2024

Situated on the western coast of Phuket, one of the most popular tourist attractions is Patong Beach. There is a range of activities with something for everyone.  You can party, relax at a spa, sample delicious food, enjoy the shopping, or indulge in water sports. It’s all there. The 3-km golden sand strip is very popular among beach lovers.  So, if you are looking for something similar, this article is the one for you. Read till the end and discover some hidden gems in Patong and which places you should avoid going in Thailand.  When to Visit Patong? If you want ideal weather, then the best time to visit is from mid-December to the end of February. The peak month for tourism is January, when the weather is best. Another peak is in July and August when many European travelers have vacations. May has the fewest visitors, and autumn is quieter, too, but Patong sees plenty of activity all year round. May to October is the time to witness some large waves and scary swells, and nobody pays for such sights. Hence, visit it from November to April when the weather is pleasant.  Even during sunny days, it is important that you are careful on the beach and look for potential red flags.  Where To Stay In Patong? There is plenty of excellent accommodation at Patong Beach. Prices may be generally higher than in Phuket city, but there is a wider selection of budget accommodation too. Whatever your budget, you are sure to find a selection of hotels in Patong, Thailand that suit your needs and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. 1. Hotel Clover Patong Phuket  4.8  (2,130 reviews)  #5 of 429 hotels in Patong  162/8-11 Taweewong Road Patong Beach, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand  Hotel Clover Patong is the perfect place for you if you're looking for fun, comfort, and a responsible stay.   The hotel is designed as a modern surfing spot right in the heart of lively Patong Beach.   You can expect great service to ensure that you feel comfortable and happy during your stay.   Whether you enjoy exploring the city or relaxing on the beach, the amenities and activities are tailored to meet your needs.   Experience the perfect mix of fun, style, and excellent service at Hotel Clover Patong—where your stay will be truly memorable.  2. Burasari Phuket  4.4  (4,958 reviews)  #8 of 42 resorts in Patong  18/110 Ruamjai Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand  Nestled on Ruamjai Road in Patong, this boutique resort offers a stylish and serene escape.   It is just minutes away from the vibrant beach, exciting shopping, and lively nightlife that Patong is famous for.   With its inviting swim-up bar and two refreshing pools, it’s the perfect spot to relax after exploring the area.   Burasari boasts 182 comfortable rooms, including the uniquely designed Mood Collection Rooms and convenient Pool Access Rooms.   Each room comes equipped with air conditioning, tea and coffee-making facilities, complimentary wireless internet, and a lovely balcony to soak in the views.   It’s truly a haven for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a delightful getaway.  3. Andaman Embrace Patong  4.1  (1,190 reviews)  #15 of 42 resorts in Patong  2 Hadpatong Road, Patong Beach, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand  00 66 76 370 000  Andaman Embrace Patong is located just a few minutes' walk from Patong Beach, known for its white sandy shore.   It is also conveniently located near many shopping areas, entertainment venues, and major tourist attractions.   The hotel offers 297 stylish guest rooms with modern furniture in warm colors, creating a calm atmosphere.   Guests can enjoy two beautiful swimming pools with swim-up bars, perfect for relaxing and unwinding.  4. Novotel Phuket Resort  4.5  (5,689 reviews)  #5 of 42 resorts in Patong  282 Phrabaramee Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand  00 66 76 342 777  Novotel Phuket Resort is located on a hillside with views of Patong Bay.   It covers eight acres of beautiful gardens and is only a short walk from Patong Beach, nightlife, and shopping.   The resort features 217 modern rooms and a three-tiered pool facing the Andaman Sea.   You can enjoy traditional Thai restaurants and bars with stunning sea views.   There is also a kids’ area, a spa, a massage and fitness center, and a terrace for watching sunsets.   At Novotel Phuket Resort, everyone can enjoy simple pleasures. 5. Andaman Beach Suites Hotel  4.1  (844 reviews)  #67 of 429 hotels in Patong  60/12 Soi Rat Uthit 200 Pi 2, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand  Andaman Beach Suites Hotel offers a stunning view of Patong Bay.   It is one of the few tall buildings on Patong Beach in Phuket. You can enjoy a beautiful landscape and feel the energy of Patong's famous beach, just a short 150-meter walk from where all the sun, sea, sand, and fun are.   You will find many shops, restaurants, bars, and spa centers nearby. After exploring, relax on the oceanfront and beachside promenade.  What Are Some Fun Activities To Do On Patong Beach?   Apart from chilling on the beach and clicking beautiful pictures, here are some other fun activities you can do in Patong Beach:   1. Sunbathing And Swimming Patong is a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and even building sandcastles. The temperature of the water is perfect for swimming. Moreover, Patong receives bright sunny days, and it’s great for sunbathing, but don’t forget the sunscreen and take regular breaks in the shade. 2. Beach Massage You will find plenty of masseurs on or near the beach who offer head massage, foot massage, or a Thai complete-body massage. Moreover, you can enjoy the sounds of the waves. Your worries will disappear completely. 3. Water Adventures Patong is popular for a range of water sports, like windsurfing, parasailing, and even jet skiing. Licensed operators are common around Bangla Road. Always check that operators are genuine and that equipment like jet skis is licensed and insured. 4. Snorkeling On the north side of the beach, you will find fantastic snorkeling spots and many vendors who offer equipment for snorkeling for rent. You can also go on tours to snorkeling to various reefs, caves, and also the islands located nearby. 5. Nightlife Nightlife is mostly concentrated on Bangla Road.  There, one can find many pubs, beer bars, dance clubs, and lounges. There is so much variation in nightlife that it can be indeed difficult to understand where to initiate. 6. Dining Patong is perfect for foodies. You can get every type of major global culinary experience here. You will find Korean, Indian, German,  Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Scandinavian, and many more international options. There are also, of course, delicious and authentic Thai restaurants amongst the international cuisine that you must also try. 7. Shopping Visitors are often surprised at the variety of shopping options available. At night, the town transforms itself into a massive marketplace. You will find stalls selling clothing, accessories, jewelry, beachwear, and much more. Starting prices are high, so you have to negotiate hard. There are also plenty of shopping malls where you can find brand-name goods at reasonable prices. Things To Consider Before Visiting Thailand Thailand is one place laden with the most precious beauties of nature. Due to its natural and artificial marvels, it continues to woo the attention of people from different parts of the world. Here are some things you need to consider before visiting Thailand.  Let us begin with the discussion here so that you have a better understanding. The Rainy Season Varires Usually, the rainy season in Thailand ranges between June to October. It fetches heavy showers in central, north, and western Thailand. But one can experience rainfall in the Gulf of Thailand and the Southern coast a bit later, usually from October. The rainy season travel denotes lower prices and, at the same time, the smaller crowds. Look Out For The Recommended Vaccinations If you are moving to Thailand without vaccination, your initial investments before landing there will be wasted. The protocols for tourists on the vaccination are stringent. COVID-19 vaccine is a must, but at the same time, you can not leave behind vaccinations against tetanus and hepatitis. They are essential, and the authorities may ask you about them. The Thailand Tourist Visa Fetching a tourist visa for Thailand is quite simple for a listed citizen. It is because they offer a thirty-day visa exemption, mainly for countries like the USA, the UK, South Africa, Australia, and more. Be sure to check out check out the list of countries. When you arrive with the visa exemption, you need to fill out an entry form for the sake of immigration. You should have proof of exit from the country. It helps show that your stay in Thailand does not exceed thirty days. What To Pack For Thailand?  Thousands of people visit Thailand every year. But the first question that is bound to strike you is the list of packing. The internet is flooded with the same question. Thailand is one country that lives with its traditions. 1. Outfits Therefore, you should skip the tight-fitted clothing. But the smartest way to do it is to check out the weather forecasts and then strategize clothes packing. However, do not forget to keep the rain jacket under any conditions. A pair of dresses for ladies and trousers for men if you are planning to hit a fancy restaurant. Unisex polo shirts with collars.  Outfits that keep the knees and shoulders covered if you are visiting temples or archaeological sites.  Culottes/shirts. Trunks or swimming costume if you have plans for snorkeling. Sarong.  2. Footwear Just like other Asian religious sites, taking off shoes is a must when visiting Thailand’s religious shrines. Hence, pack shoes that are practical and easy to put on and off. For example, consider packing: Comfortable trainers, tennis shoes, or sketchers if you are planning to walk a lot. Flip-flops for Patong and other adjacent beaches.  Loafers for hitting dinning destinations in and around Patong.  Places Not To Visit In Thailand You may have heard a lot about the must-visit places in Thailand. But have you ever looked for the list of places that you must abstain from visiting? Some areas in Thailand are extremely crowded, and if you are not a lover of it, then you must subtract them from your list. 1. Krabi and Phi-Phi You may have heard about some hot favorite places like Phi Phi and  Krabi. Yes, these places have their popularity, but they lack the Thai authenticity you always seek when visiting Thailand. Independent travelers do not have much to explore on these islands.  2. Hua Hin Hua Hin has recently become a retreat for retired Westerners. But it is quieter than Pattaya and Phuket, with almost no tourist destinations. Apart from a few markets, you wouldn’t find too many interesting sights to visit here. Hence, there’s no point in spending all this money on a quiet destination like Hua Hin.  3. Pai This lovely destination set across rice fields was once a backpacker's paradise. But over-western influence and tourist saturation have left this place with some serious damage. You might find it difficult to find decent local food here, which is the basic criterion of traveling. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  1. What is Patong Beach famous for?  Patong Beach is famous for its energetic nightlife and bustling atmosphere, featuring numerous bars, nightclubs, and go-go bars, particularly along Bangla Road.   2. How much is a taxi from Phuket Town to Patong?  A taxi from Patong to Phuket Town will cost approximately 400-550 Baht (around $11.40 to $15.70 USD), but this can vary by season, negotiations, and whether you use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Bolt.   3. Is Patong Beach dirty?  Patong Beach can be dirty, experiencing issues with rubbish washing ashore from boats and local pollution from high tourist numbers, especially in the low season.  Let Patong Beach Be Your Next Travel Destination  Patong Beach In Thailand has its attractions, which is why the place's popularity keeps increasing with time. The beach is indeed beautiful, with myriad attractions. But apart from the beach, if you are looking forward to an exotic Thailand tour, the aforementioned points may help you out. Having said that, here comes an end to this comprehensive guide. Patong Beach in Phuket is a must-visit destination once in everyone’s lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Go pack your bags now! Thank you for reading this one till the end!

BY  Barsha Aug 18, 2023

Cumbria is a stunning region in the northwest of England, renowned for its unspoiled wilderness and picturesque Lake District. With wild moorlands, immense mountain ranges and beautiful lakes, Cumbria provides a wealth of experiences that make it one of the most desirable places to visit in the UK. Whether you are looking for an action-packed holiday or just want to relax in some stunning countryside scenery, Cumbria has something for everyone. From ancient villages steeped in history to modern cities brimming with culture, there's plenty to explore here. There are numerous activities available such as hiking and biking through breathtaking landscapes or taking part in water sports at Lake Windermere. History Of Cumbria The Lake District National Park, covering most of Cumbria, offers visitors some truly breathtaking views due to its mountainous terrain interspersed with picturesque lakes – making it one of England's most popular tourist destinations since Victorian times! Originally a rural area largely untouched by industry or modernisation, it has evolved significantly over time yet managed to retain much of its original charm thanks to efforts made by conservationists and locals alike – meaning that those looking for peaceful walks through stunning landscapes will not be disappointed when visiting this unique corner of Northern England! Places To Visit Cumbria is home to many stunning and historic villages that are well worth visiting. The village of Windemere, which was first established in the 12th century, is one such example; here you can stroll through its cobbled streets while admiring the quaint cottages and Georgian buildings or take a boat ride across the lake for some stunning views. Other popular places include Grasmere with its picture-perfect waterfalls and Keswick with its wonderful mountain scenery – both excellent spots for outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling. Last but not least Cumbria offers visitors sites that showcase incredible natural beauty too! From tranquil lakeside scenes in Ullswater or Coniston Water to towering peaks at Scafell Pike (England’s highest peak) – there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights waiting around every corner here! For those wanting a more relaxed experience then why not try one of Cumbria's many nature reserves? These special areas contain some rare species including red squirrels, otters, and ospreys – perfect if you want to get close up with wildlife without disturbing it too much! Things To Do Hiking and adventuring in the Lake District is an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. With its rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountain ranges, Cumbria is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Britain. The region offers a wide range of trails for both experienced hikers and those looking for a stroll around the landscape. There are scenic routes through forests and riverside paths leading up to breathtaking summits – perfect for taking in panoramic views over the National Park! For those looking for something more challenging, there are also plenty of difficult climbs available which require technical skills such as scrambling or rock climbing. Exploring local markets and cultural centers is another great way to immerse yourself in Cumbrian life during your stay here. From vibrant street markets like Keswick's Saturday Market where you can pick up unique souvenirs or try delicious local dishes made with fresh produce from nearby farms; to historic towns like Ambleside with their abundance of indie shops selling locally crafted goods - these places offer visitors an insight into everyday life in this beautiful corner of England that cannot be found anywhere else! Finally, no visit to Cumbria would be complete without taking time out just to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery on offer here! Whether it’s spending time peacefully fishing on one of its many lakes or simply sitting back admiring views from one of its many viewpoints – there’s something incredibly calming about being surrounded by natural beauty while breathing clean air far away from any hustle & bustle. So make sure you take some time out during your trip here so you can truly appreciate what makes this part of England so special! Accommodation Accommodation in Cumbria is as varied as the landscape itself, and there are plenty of options to choose from depending on what type of experience you’re looking for. Campsites and caravan parks in Cumbria offer a great way to immerse yourself in nature while still having access to modern amenities such as showers, toilets, and laundry facilities. Cumbria also offers other accommodations, including a wide range of hotels to suit your budget, holiday cottages to let, and traditional camping sites for tents and touring caravans. If you do choose to camp, take note of our camping tips. Conclusion In conclusion, Cumbria is a wonderful location to visit for a truly enjoyable vacation. With its stunning views and abundance of outdoor activities, it's perfect for individuals, couples, or families looking to experience the beauty of nature firsthand. The region also has an incredibly rich culture and history that can be explored through its folk songs, quaint villages, and historic sites. Whether you're after adventure or relaxation this part of England really does have something for everyone – so don't miss out on the chance to explore all that Cumbria has to offer! Planning a journey overseas? Take a look at more of the best places to travel in August. Read Also: Top 4 Ways Of Preparing An Enjoyable Retreat Celebrate Your Happiness With Family Friendly Gites South Of France Looking For Your Next Fun-Filled Family Vacation: Head To Aquaventuras Park

BY  Sibashree Jan 22, 2026

Is Koh Tao safe? Now, this is the question everyone is asking about Koh Tao these days. The reason? This island of stunning beauty has suddenly become the “Death Island.” Since 2014, the news of foreign tourists dying or going missing on the island has been common. But this is not the season that makes Koh Tao famous. Let me share with you a fascinating story about how I felt when I visited Koh Tao for the first time. We really had our toes in the sand, and you have to be here to understand how this island is the crown jewel of the sustainable tourism and green economy initiatives of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. “What adds to Koh Tao’s success is the whole-of-society mindset shift that we have seen over the past few years. We’ve seen an evolution from just trying to raise profits and attract more tourists to creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious tourism experience that truly makes Koh Tao unique. I am thrilled to see the results of UNDP BIOFIN’s work that has contributed to this change and will continue to support local communities in working towards Thailand’s ambitious climate priorities.” - Renaud Meyer, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Thailand. BIOFIN stands for Biodiversity Finance Initiative. It has played an active role in convincing the diving and fishing communities here about the importance of protecting the biodiversity and marine life. Nevertheless, this Turtle Island is gorgeous, and it is also pristine. So, along with celebrated locations such as Raja Ampat in Indonesia, Koh Tao is also emerging as a place to encounter stunning marine life and beautiful reefs. The First Impression At Koh Tao I don’t know whether it is the “Fortune favors the brave” trick or something else. But I visited Koh Tao in July with my girl gang and found a clear sky to our greatest surprise. However, the experience at Mae Haad Pier was not that pleasant. The crowd was endless when we were trying to get off the ferry. The men were bare-skinned, and they were hauling their backpacks. Furthermore, a few Thai men kept asking, “Where are you going?” It was very confusing whether to answer them first or jump off the ferry first! I am an introvert, and suddenly there was too much energy around me. So, it took me a while to get accustomed to the crowd. But after that, it was absolutely okay. Koh Tao Is Growing: And We Saw How The Infrastructure Is Changing Do you know that the first adventure travelers arrived at Koh Tao in 1977? They took the coconut and fish transport boats to reach this island for diving. Since then, infrastructure development on Koh Tao has been significant. The concrete streets are clean. Also, many shops, restaurants, and hotels looked new. Also, the shops' advertising was quite cool, and along with the pharmacies and cafes serving espresso, there were motorbike rental shops. Now, motorbikes are the best way if you want to explore this small town at your own pace. The rental price starts at around 150-200 THB per day. Another great thing was the availability of ATMs. It was such a relief! Moreover, the crowd buzz was just right as it was the rainy season. It was enough to soak in the local culture. However, we always got our spots at the cafes and restaurants. In addition, we were using the TrueMove connection, and the coverage was quite decent throughout the island. Getting Around Koh Tao The island is walkable. Furthermore, moving around was pretty easy with the motorbikes, taxis, and ferris being frequent. Also, Koh Tao is close to the Koh Samui Airport and the Chumphon Airport on the Thai mainland. So, since it does not have its own airport, the initial transit can be challenging.  What Are The Things To Do On Koh Tao?  Scuba diving, hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the beaches are the best things to do on Koh Tao. Here are more details. 1. Scuba Diving You can get your PADI certification, and there are as many as 84 dive schools on the island. “We produce around 100000 PADI certfied divers every year. This is an affordable place and the price you get here is matchless.”  • Kim, Big Blue Diving,  Other diving companies we got to know about there were Roctopus Dive, Goodtime Adventure, and Ban’s Diving Resort. However, diving here has seasonal specialties. For example, January to May is the best time for diving. Having said that, February is the month if you want to enjoy a swim with the whale sharks. 2. Hiking Koh Tao has many beautiful viewpoints, and you can easily hike along any of them. These viewpoints are:  Two View  John Suwan Viewpoint  Chalok Viewpoint  Mango Bay Viewpoint  Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint  Love @ Khao Tao Viewpoint  We started our day early so we could enjoy the fresh air and complete the walk before it got crowded.  3. Exploring The Koh Tao Beaches We were impressed to witness the initiatives to protect the beaches of the island. Stunning is an understatement for them. Also, for lazy travelers like us, these beaches are the best things about Koh Tao. Now, you will get many beaches with palm trees, white sands, and aqua blue water. However, I have seldom seen beaches being so sincere about the recycling programs and cleanups. We relaxed in our hammocks and allowed the sea breeze to caress our cheeks and hair. Furthermore, among the beaches we visited, Ao Chalok Ban Kao and Sai Daeng were my silent favorites. Those beaches were quiet. Also, as we visited Koh Tao in the monsoon, the more touristy ones, such as Tanote Beach, Sairee Beach, and Ao Luek, were not that crowded. These are usually full during the peak months. Pro Tip The sand is beautiful on Koh Tao beaches. But it is not smooth. So, you will need your flip flops. Chaloke Harbor was an exception. But most beaches have the remains of the bleached coral. So, make sure that you don’t cut your feet.  Moreover, these beaches offer amazing sunrise and sunset views. 4. Nightlife On Koh Tao We were on Koh Tao till around 9 PM, and by then the bars had come to life, and we could hear the rock and pop music they were playing. The quiet vibe of the island is gone after sundown. The groups of divers and young tourists here get busy with tropical cocktails and local beers. Also, the fire dancers were putting up their shows. One more thing I learned from a local pub owner. You can be a part of the Pub Crawl here three times a week. Friday, Wednesday, and Monday are the days. Along with all these activities, you can also try ocean kayaking and rock climbing. Furthermore, snorkeling at Hin Wong Reef is a lot of fun.  How Is Koh Tao Making A Successful Ecotourism Movement  It was fascinating to see how all the people and local businesses of Koh Tao came together to reduce the impact on the environment. With around 500000 visitors here every year, the small island gets a lot of waste. Most wastage comes from the packaging and construction work. Food waste and bathroom waste amounts are also quite high. Now, non-profit organizations such as Trash Hero Koh Tao are working to make the island clean. They encourage the locals and the visitors to get involved in the reef and beach clean-up drives. When you clean the waste with your own hands and see what the plastic bags, bottles, and straws do to the sea and the marine animals, you will never throw them carelessly. Furthermore, the hotels here play a proactive role. We chose Ban’s Diving Resort for our stay, and they have a separate section to make detergents and soaps from organic waste. Also, they compost the fruit scraps and vegetable waste and use the gray water, along with sorting the recyclables. Moreover, the food they serve at their restaurants has vegetables from their organic gardens. Is Koh Tao Safe To Visit?  Back to where I started this article. The recent cases of tourist deaths have been a bad patch for the reputation of Koh Tao. Though it has been years now, it felt weird seeing such a scarce presence of police here. I think I last saw some officers at Mae Haad Pier. Also, it was even more alarming here to know that most officers don’t understand or speak English. However, the local people here and business owners here are so committed to maintaining the sanctity of the place that we did not have any problem during our stay. We were a bunch of women, and we never even felt unsafe. Tips To Follow If You Want To Visit Koh Tao Safely  Are you renting a motorbike? You must click all the scratches on the vehicle, and your rental agency will need a photocopy of your passport.  Furthermore, keep the international driver's permit for motorcycle driving handy and wear your helmet. Moreover, don’t forget to get travel insurance. You cannot stroll at night alone. Be with a group, and even if you are going to the bay alone in the daytime, keep your hotel staff member informed. Be mindful of how much you are drinking. The buckets can seem fun, but they are traps, and sometimes they are drugged. When you are on the speedboats, you have to wear life jackets. It does not matter if you can swim or not. Koh Tao Is Beautiful But A Bit Overhyped  Koh Tao deserves all the accolades for its sustainable tourism initiatives. However, I think it is a bit overhyped if you are not diving. For a diver, it is an excellent place to get the PADI certification and explore the coral reefs. The beaches are good, but not something that you won’t find anywhere in Bangkok or anywhere else. So, it’s a 5/10 kind of experience for me. What’s your take on this? Read Also: What Is The Ultimate Luang Prabang Itinerary Planner For Solo Travelers? What Are The Best Restaurants In Cape Town? What Are The Best São Tomé Eco-Lodges?