A Quick Round Up Of Phuket News in August 2022
After the relaxation of the cannabis laws last month, unsurprisingly the Phuket news in August has been a little slow… An unfortunate dutch guy, great news on tourist visas and another crackdown on motorbike rentals.
Manhunt for Spear Fisherman
Not the brightest thing to do but a tourist went spearfishing inside the Phi Phi National Park and then posted his catch on social media. Outrage from Thai netizens ensued and the manhunt was on! The police did finally catch up with the dutch national and arrested him in Rawai. He will of course be vilified but we also hope the captain and crew of the longtail boat that he hired will receive the same treatment. The tourist may have been a bit naive but the boat crew would have been very aware that they’re breaking the law.
Longer Tourist Visas
Great news for tourists who like a long holiday in Thailand. From October 01st 2022 tourists from the 64 visa exempt countries can now get permission to stay for 45 days. Up from the previous 30. Escaping the winter blues in Europe has just got a little easier. Tourists travelling from countries that require visa on arrival are now entitled to a 30 day stay up from the previous 15.
you can find the list of visa exempt countries here.
GT Fishing Park
There’s numerous freshwater fishing parks in Phuket but GT Fishing Park has gone for the salt water option. We’ve had a little look and the location is great as is the fishing. We’re going to revisit next week and will get back with all the details.
gt fishing park is set in stunning grounds
Renting A Motorbike
We’ve always generally advised against this as a tourist for reasons you can read here. Recently the police have warned scooter/motorbike rental shops to not hire to anyone without a valid licence. Probably 90% of those who wish to. You might possibly find it more difficult to rent a motorbike at the moment but it won’t last long. It would mean a massive hole in the local constabulary’s income.
Diving In August
A very mixed bag with the weather but fortunately we didn’t have to cancel any trips. Quite a bit of rain around that caused flooding in Patong but no excessive winds to ruin the diving. Visibility is still great at the Racha’s and a few groups of fortunate divers had giant manta ray encounters on a couple of trips.
We’ve had good and not so good visibility on the King and Phi Phi days. The leopard sharks are still around and in general diving has been excellent
What’s On In September
A few things happening next month. Thailand surf championship 2022 will be held at Nai Thon Beach on the 07th September. Esther Bunny run will take place 10th – 11th September and the famous vegetarian festival kicks off on the 25th.
Anything else you want to know? Contact Us To Find Out What’s Happening In Phuket
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