|  FUN FACT
INSIDER TIP
Phuket offers a vast range of Southern Thai delicacies such as kaeng som and khua kling, but be warned that they’re some of the spiciest dishes around.
SHOP TALK
Browse for local keepsakes and Asian-style antiques, reproductions and furniture at Ancient Arts. Bypass Rd, tel: +66 (0)81 893 8426
JAVA JOLT
Great coffee and sandwiches made with home-baked bread are what puts Woody’s Sandwich Shoppe Chalong a cut above other local offerings. There’s free wi-fiand the place is open 24/7. Fisherman’s Way Park, tel: +66 (0)76 282 403, www.khunwoody. com
CHEAP EATS
Quality international food such as pastas and pizzas at affordable prices are served alongside Thai cuisine at Shakers. Rat-U-Thit 200 Pee Rd, Patong, tel: +66 (0)76 344 542
TOP TABLES
With superb panoramic views Climax Poolside Dining & Music Lounge is a chic hangout and one of Phuket’s rising hotspots. Thai-inspired modern cuisine is complemented with a wellstocked wine cellar. After eating, groove to the DJ or chill out next to the pool. Bangla Rd, tel: +66 (0)76 343 606, www.theclimax. net
AT YOUR LEIWURE
One of the best places to pick up used books in good condition is South Wind Books. It has an extensive range with lots of recent titles and a very friendly, knowledgeable staff. Phang Nga Rd, tel: +66 (0)76 258 283
LATE & LIVELY
Located on Rawai Beach, Nikita’s has been drawing crowds for the past 15 years. It’s a favourite haunt of local yachties and its beachfront bar makes it the ideal place to enjoy a cocktail or two before heading out to a club. Rawai Beach Rd, tel: +66 (0)81 272 0561, www..nikitabarphuket.com
OVERNIGHT
Luxurious poolside villas are available at low prices at the newly opened Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas. The resort hosts regular music events and Bites Café is open 24 hours. Two-bedroom villas are available from THB6,000 (S$251/A$209). Laguna Phuket, tel: +66 (0)76 336 900, www.outriggerphuket. com |
