Get rid of the Plastic Bag in Phuket!

image used with permission - Green Fins

In an attempt to reduce the environmental damage caused by the use of plastic bags, retailers across Phuket will be handing out 840,000 free cloth shopping bags over 84 days to commemorate the 84th Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

This cloth shopping bag project has been seriously embraced by many companies and they have all requested their staff to strictly enforce the policy AND staff will be rewarded for their adherence to the scheme.

The goal is one that seems to be an insurmountable mountain, especially when one considers the amount of plastic bags that each of us gathers in a day - a single trip to a 7-11 convenience store equals an average of three bags as they insist on bagging every item separately; (and many of us stop by several times a day).  If you buy a lot of food from the street stalls that's another plastic bag extravaganza – but do we really need all those plastic bags OR is there an alternative?

              

Natural beauty, natural scenery and abundant smiles

The numerous websites, compiling the escapades of holidaymakers, although entertaining reading, often fails to offer the complete Phuket experience.

There are many places of stunning natural beauty in Phuket that can be easily accessed by visitors. A favourite of Tim's is Khao Pra Taew National Park - the last protected rainforest on the island.

Here, there is a beautiful waterfall set in the mountains called Bang-Pae Waterfall. The many times I have visited there have been local people swimming in it, but I never remember to bring my swim suit. 

Don’t forget to bring yours. 

Have fun!

They also have a Gibbon Rehabilitation Project that tries to reintegrate gibbons back into the wild; usually after the animal has spent years in a nappy, sitting on someone’s  shoulder. 

For a lunch of typical Thai food and hospitality surrounded by peaceful nature, try the local restaurant – "Peang Prai" – which overlooks  a serene lake.

              

Valentine's Day

This particular day is meant to be an occasion to "celebrate love", to remind your loved one to tell you how much "you are loved", to give card shops a boost in sales – the list is endless.

Here in Thailand any excuse for a celebration is a good one - love and all. This year our Valentine's Celebration took place at Top of the Reef – our fine dining French restaurant. Chef Chamnan designed a special menu for the occasion, guest couples were shown to their tables and the evening began.

Drinks were poured, love was toasted, the violin played and kisses exchanged.  

Happy Valentine’s Day

What did you do?