When we talk about paradisiacal destinations that seamlessly blend stunning landscapes with vibrant culture, Phuket emerges as a prominent name. Nestled in the heart of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is an island province in Thailand, known for its breathtaking beaches, rich heritage, and diverse experiences. So, where exactly is Phuket located?
Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is situated in the southern part of the country, approximately 860 kilometers south of Bangkok. Geographically, it lies off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. Its strategic location positions it as a gateway to some of the most enchanting destinations in Southeast Asia.
The geographical coordinates of Phuket Island are approximately 7.8804° N latitude and 98.3923° E longitude. Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket shares maritime borders with Phang Nga Province to the north and the Krabi Province to the east.
Despite being an island, Phuket is easily accessible by various means of transportation. The Phuket International Airport serves as a primary entry point for travelers from around the globe. Additionally, ferries and speedboats connect Phuket to nearby islands and mainland destinations, offering convenient access for tourists seeking to explore this tropical paradise.
The strategic location of Phuket contributes to its allure, offering visitors an array of experiences. From the serene sun-kissed beaches of Patong, Karon, and Kata to the culturally rich Old Phuket Town, each corner of the island boasts its own unique charm. Moreover, its proximity to stunning limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and vibrant coral reefs makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Phuket, an island paradise nestled in the Andaman Sea, beckons travelers with a myriad of experiences that cater to every taste and preference. From tranquil beaches to vibrant cultural encounters and adrenaline-pumping adventures, this Thai gem offers an eclectic array of activities to indulge in. Let's explore the plethora of things one can do in Phuket!
Phuket's coastline is adorned with an array of picturesque beaches. Patong Beach, bustling with energy, is perfect for water sports and vibrant nightlife. For a more laid-back atmosphere, Kata and Karon beaches offer pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. Surin and Kamala beaches, with their serene ambiance, are ideal for relaxation and family outings.
Delve into Phuket's cultural heritage by visiting Old Phuket Town. Wander through the charming streets adorned with Sino-Portuguese architecture, vibrant street art, and ornate shrines. The Phuket Thai Hua Museum and Jui Tui Shrine provide insight into the island's history and cultural fabric.
Savor the diverse culinary landscape of Phuket. From bustling markets serving authentic Thai street food to high-end restaurants offering delectable seafood delicacies, the island tantalizes taste buds with its flavorsome offerings. Don't miss out on Phuket's signature dishes like Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup) and Massaman Curry.
Explore the surrounding islands and their natural wonders. Take a boat tour to Phi Phi Islands, known for their emerald-green waters and towering limestone cliffs. Visit James Bond Island, made famous by the movie "The Man with the Golden Gun," or discover the hidden gems of Similan and Racha Islands for snorkeling and diving escapades.
For adrenaline junkies, Phuket doesn't disappoint. Try zip-lining through lush jungles, ATV rides, or jungle trekking in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park. Water activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and surfing await adventure enthusiasts.
Phuket, the crown jewel of Thailand's island destinations, is adorned with a tapestry of captivating attractions that lure travelers from across the globe. From stunning natural wonders to cultural landmarks steeped in history, let's embark on a journey to discover the essential places that define the essence of Phuket.
Perched atop Nakkerd Hill, the iconic Big Buddha statue stands as a symbol of peace and spirituality. This towering 45-meter-tall marble statue offers panoramic views of the island and serves as a serene sanctuary for visitors seeking tranquility and spiritual reflection.
Among Phuket's most revered temples, Wat Chalong is a testament to Thai architecture and Buddhist culture. Adorned with intricate designs and ornate decorations, this temple complex is dedicated to two highly respected monks and is a significant spiritual center for locals and tourists alike.
A short boat ride from Phuket unveils the breathtaking Phang Nga Bay, famous for its limestone karsts jutting out of emerald-green waters. James Bond Island, with its distinctive rocky pinnacle, and Koh Panyee, a floating fishing village, are highlights of this mesmerizing bay.
The historical heart of Phuket, Old Phuket Town, narrates stories of the island's past through its vibrant streets lined with colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings. Art galleries, quaint cafes, and bustling markets add to the town's cultural charm, inviting exploration at every turn.
For panoramic sunset vistas, Promthep Cape stands unrivaled. Located at the southern tip of the island, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in a mesmerizing array of colors.
Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere, Patong Beach is Phuket's party hub. By day, it's a sun-soaked paradise offering water sports and beachside relaxation, while by night, it transforms into a lively entertainment district.
In essence, Phuket's geographical location in the Andaman Sea makes it an alluring destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure. As we delve deeper into exploring this captivating island, we unravel more about its fascinating history, vibrant culture, and the myriad of activities it offers.
Stay tuned for our next segment, where we delve into the captivating history and cultural tapestry of Phuket!
]]>View Of New York City From The Sunset Over Manhattan, USA
Manhattan is one of the 5 main districts of New York City. Manhattan is a commercial, cultural and financial center in New York. There are many famous landmarks, museums, universities and tourist attractions. There is also the United Nations Headquarters.
New York City, New York, USA: located on the continent of North America.
]]>If we had to select ten places, here are the ones we would recommend you to visit in Paris. Go ahead and fall in love!
What would Paris be without its symbolic Eiffel Tower? Built by Gustave Eiffel to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution, it is presented at the Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1889. 324 meters high, it is one of the most visited monuments in the world with nearly 7 million visitors a year.
The first floor houses the Eiffel Tower 58 which extends over two levels, 58 meters above the ground as its name suggests. On the second floor, the view is the best at 115 meters because you have a diving view on the ground below. Finally on the 3rd floor at 275 meters, you can see what the office of Gustave Eiffel was. For the more adventurous one, it is possible to use the stairs and climb the steps (1,665 to the summit).
The ascent of the Eiffel Tower is a must to enjoy the magnificent view of Paris.
One of the most enduring symbols of Paris: Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as Notre Dame, a Roman Catholic cathedral is located on the eastern half of the Ile de la Cité. It is widely considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in France and Europe. Begun in 1163 and completed in 1345, this cathedral is a sight with its portals surrounded by his many sculptures and gargoyles that adorn the roof.
We advise you to walk around the cathedral, then go inside and climb the 387 steps to the top of the towers. The climb to the top of the towers can be exhausting, but you will get a panoramic view of the region and see the famous gargoyles up close.
The Louvre is the most visited art museum in the world. Located in the heart of Paris, this historic building is a former royal palace, with an area of 210,000 square meters including 60,600 for the exhibitions. The museum is housed in the Louvre, originally a fortress built in the late 12th century under Philip II. The remains of the fortress are visible in the basement of the museum.
The collection is divided into eight departments:
Louvre Museum; is the world's largest art museum. It was founded in the Louvre Palace in Paris, the French capital. It is located on the banks of the River Se that passes through the city. There is a wide range of collections from prehistoric times to the 21st century.
Under the spell of ancient Roman architecture, Napoleon commissioned Jean Chalgrin the design of a triumphal arch dedicated to the glory of imperial armies. Built in the 19th century, it is the largest monument of its kind in the world. Impressive sculptures adorn its pillars. In addition, the names of 558 generals and the great victories are engraved on the top of the arc. Under the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of France.
The panoramic terrace above the door offers a beautiful view of Paris. 50 meters high, 45 meters wide and 22 meters deep, the Arc de Triomphe is located on the Place de l'Etoile which leads to the Champs Elysees which is nicknamed "the most beautiful avenue in the world." It stands on 1.9 km between Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe. There are many luxury boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Guerlain, Montblanc …), places of ehntertainment (Lido, cinemas), famous cafes and restaurants (Fouquet's).
Find the best way to visit the "City of Light" enjoying a cruise on the Seine, especially at night. When the sun sets, the monuments are lit slowly. You get a panoramic view to the forefront so you can enjoy the beauty of Paris: Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Pont Alexandre III and many more.
You can also enjoy a dinner cruise on the Seine aboard a boat. For about two hours, you are welcomed.
Montmartre is a hill located in the north of Paris, 130 meters high, having its name to the surrounding neighborhood. It is best known for the white-domed Basilica of the Sacred Heart, at the top. It was completed in 1919 and honors the French victims of the Franco-Prussian war of 1870.
If you're in the area, do visit the Square of Tertre, few blocks from the Basilica. There are many artists setting up their easels to paint tourists or exhibit their work. Place du Tertre is a reminder of the time when Montmartre was the hub of modern art in the early 20th century; many artists such as Amedeo Modigliani, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh worked there. The Espace Salvador Dalí, a museum dedicated primarily to sculpture and drawings of the Spanish painter, can be found a few steps from the Square of Tertre.
The famous cabaret Moulin Rouge is located in Montmartre.
The Château de Versailles is the most famous castle in France. Built in the 17th century as a symbol of military power of France and as a demonstration of French supremacy in Europe, Versailles was the seat of political power in the Kingdom of France from 1682 to 1789. This huge complex of buildings, gardens and terraces is definitely a must for any visitor who will be captivated by exceptional accommodations, lavish decorations, furniture and gilded works of Renaissance art.
Visit Versailles: you will start by the State Apartments and the famous Hall of Mirrors, the Queen's chamber. Do not forget to stroll through the famous "French" gardens.
The Latin Quarter of Paris is located on the left bank of the Seine, around the Sorbonne. Known for its student life, lively atmosphere and bistros, the Latin Quarter is the home to many higher education institutions, such as the Ecole Normale Superieure, the Ecole des Mines de Paris or the Ecole Polytechnique. The area takes its name from the Latin language, which was once widespread in and around the University since Latin was the international language of learning in the Middle Ages.
The Luxembourg park is a private garden open to the public created in 1612 at the request of Marie de Medicis to accompany the Luxembourg Palace. The Parisians affectionately call it the "Luco". The garden surrounds the Palais du Luxembourg, where the Senate seats. Redesigned by André Le Nôtre, it is very pleasant to walk around; you will also find an orchard, several varieties of apples, an apiary and a greenhouse with orchid collection. There are 106 statues, a bronze reduction of the Statue of Liberty and 3 beautiful fountains.
The Moulin Rouge is a cabaret known as the spiritual birthplace of the famous French Cancan. Located at the foot of Montmartre hill in the heart of Pigalle, it was built in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler. Initially introduced as a courtship dance, the cancan made possible the birth of the cabaret, now present in many countries around the world. Today, the Moulin Rouge is a tourist attraction, providing entertainment for visitors from around the world.
Its style and its name have been imitated and borrowed from other nightclubs around the world, Las Vegas, for example. In addition, many films have helped the reputation of the cabaret, such as Baz Luhrmann’s movie in 2001, starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor.
Fans of Mickey can visit Disneyland Paris which is located 32 km from central Paris, with a connection to the suburban RER A.
Disneyland Paris has two theme parks: Disneyland (with Sleeping Beauty's castle) and Walt Disney Studios. Top attractions are Space Mountain, It's a Small World and Big Thunder Mountain.
Paris, France: It is located on the continent of Europe.
]]>Amsterdam, Netherlands: located on the continent of Europe.
]]>Petra, Jordan: located on the continent of Asia.
]]>London, England: located on the continent of Europe.
]]>Istanbul where Asia and Europe meet is one of historical wonderment and contemporary innovation. Once referred to as Constantinople, the Turkish city is a cornucopia of cultural discovery. These 17 photographs only scratch the surface of all the extraordinary landmarks and attractions Istanbul has to offer.
Like something out of a fairytale, the Galata Tower pierces Istanbul’s skyline with it’s conical cap. It’s the perfect place to get an unrivalled panoramic view of the sprawling city and even better now that there is a restaurant and bar on the upper floors.
The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks. He surveys Beyoğlu and Karaköy from his enthroned position, while the colorful lights of the tower can be seen at night from anywhere in the city. Here is an overview of the history of the Galata Tower and some interesting facts about its use.
Although it is not known when exactly the Galata Tower was built, it is generally believed that the tower became alive during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian around AD 507. At that time the Genoese called the tower the "Christea Turris" or "Tower of Christ", while the Byzantines called it "Megalos Pyrgos" or "Great Tower". However, during the Genoese era, the tower took on its present form when the Galata district was inhabited by the colonies of the Republic of Genoa, which served as economic and trading posts in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
The tower was badly damaged by an earthquake in 1509, but restored by the famous Ottoman architect Hayreddin, who also built the famous Sultan Bayezid II Complex in Edirne. During the reign of Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, the tower had a very different purpose in that it housed prisoners who were sentenced to work on the seaport of Kasımpaşa. At the end of the 16th century, astronomer Takiyüddin Efendi added an observatory at the very top, but during the reign of Sultan Murat III. Become a prison again between 1546 and 1595.
The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks. He surveys Beyoğlu and Karaköy from his enthroned position, while the colorful lights of the tower can be seen at night from anywhere in the city.
As the 17th century turned, the tower was used for a short time by the Mehter Band, an Ottoman military band, and in 1717 the Brandobservatory, due to the bird's eye view of the historic city. In 1794, a fire destroyed the tower, but it was during the reign of Sultan Selim III. Restored. At this time, a cumba (niche) was added. After the destructive effects of another fire in 1831, the tower was again restored on behalf of Sultan Mahmut and extended by two more floors and a conical tip. Today, the 66.90-meter-high tower only serves as a tourist attraction. Visitors stand in line to enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view of Istanbul from the balcony. Fortunately, an elevator takes visitors up to seven floors, but the last two floors are accessible only by stairs.
As for some interesting stories about the Galata Tower, one of the most famous stories revolves around the legendary Ottoman aviator Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi. According to a report by Evliya Çelebi, a researcher who recorded his observations in a famous Seyahâtnâme travelogue, Hezârfen Çelebi flew with wings from the spire to Doğancılar Square in Üsküdar. Because of this spectacular performance, Sultan Murad Khan was allegedly suspicious and sent him into exile to Algeria.
Open from 9am to 7pm
The Ortakoy Mosque in Turkey is located in front of the Bosphorus Bridge and must be one of the most picturesque backdrops of all Istanbul mosques. Indeed, photos of the Ortakoy Mosque show that the bridge often uses the background to demonstrate Istanbul's particular juxtaposition of tradition and modernity.
Commonly known as the Blue Mosque due to the hand-painted blue wall tiles, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is still a functioning place of worship. A popular tourist attraction due to its phenomenal architectural design which incorporates both Byzantine and Islamic elements, the mosque is one of only three in Turkey to have six minarets – apparently the architect misheard the request for altın minareler (gold minarets) as altı minare (six minarets).
Beautiful Sultanahmet Mosque picture.
Once the world’s largest cathedral, the Hagia Sophia was erected in 537 AD as a Byzantine basilica before it was converted into an Ottoman mosque in 1453. Still as jaw-droppingly stunning as the day it was finished, the Hagia Sophia is now a museum that welcomes architecture and cultural lovers all year round.
At 19 miles long, the Bosphorus not only connects the Black Sea with the Mediterranean, but also splits Istanbul between two continents, Europe and Asia. Probably one of the most important straits in the world, this watery boundary houses numerous Byzantine and Ottoman fortifications as well as a mixture of residential homes, making it ideal for a boat trip.
With so much going on above ground, it should come as no surprise that Istanbul also has some exceptionally intriguing venues below the city’s surface. Like something out of the Lord of the Rings franchise, the Basilica Cistern is an underground water reservoir just beneath the Hagia Sofia. Reached by a 52-step staircase, the 9,800 square-metre space houses 336 columns and has the potential capacity to store 100,000 tons of water.
One of three suspension bridges over the Bosphorus strait, the recently renamed 15 July Martyrs’ Bridge links Europe and Asia. Like something you might expect to see on the Californian coast, the magnificent bridge currently holds the slot of 25th longest suspension bridge in the world. Pedestrians can no longer walk across it, but it does make for a great sunset backdrop for all the Instagram posts you’ll be taking.
You’ll find these colourful steps in the arty Cihangir district of Istanbul. The wonderful story about how they came about is similar to that of the Selarón Staircase in Rio de Janeiro. Huseyin Cetinel, a retired forestry engineer painted the steps in bright colours over four days. Why? To give people something to smile about. The local government reacted rather abruptly and repainted the concrete steps grey, but soon the steps regained their colourful hue after public outrage.
Once the residence of court medic, Salih Efendi, the ‘Red House’ is always a curious discovery when taking a river-boat ride. Painted deep crimson to indicate the home of an important civil servant, Hekimbaşi Yalisi not only adds a splash colour to the banks of the Bosphorus, but also some architectural variety.
If you’re a cat person, then Istanbul is the city for you. You can’t walk two steps without encountering one of the city’s many street cats. Whether they are taking a nap on a motorbike seat or taking shelter from the sun in a building’s doorway, cats are the unofficial symbol of Istanbul.
The vibrantly-coloured painted buildings on Yerebatan Caddesi in the historical Sultanahmet district will brighten your trip to Istanbul. Near the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia, numerous restaurants, cafes and hotels have reinvigorated the street, whose name translates as ‘the avenue that sinks into the ground’, into the perfect must-visit destination to take some respite from Istanbul’s hustle and bustle.
If you want to try a classic Istanbul delicacy then head to the Galata Bridge on the mouth of the Golden Horn, where you’ll find traditional Turkish boats selling fish sandwiches. Over a century ago, enterprising fisherman, who brought their catch from the Bosphorus and Sea of Marmara to sell by the bridge, started to cook the fish and sell it as a cheap snack.
Built by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, the majestic Topkapi Palace is one of the most superb examples of Ottoman architecture with its opulent designs that adorn the walls and ceilings. The enormous UNESCO World Heritage site was constantly being adapted to reflect each reigning Sultan’s tastes, making it a truly unique piece of history and a must-visit experience while in Istanbul.
In a megatroplois such as Istanbul, there are multiple transport options but you ought to try the restored 19th century tram on İstiklal Caddesi, not necessarily for efficiency but for nostalgic novelty.
In a city that can boast over 3,000 mosques, you could be forgiven for thinking that you might get bored at the sight of them. But with such variation, each mosque tells a story. Overlooking the Golden Horn, the beautiful Süleymaniye Mosque is the city’s second largest. Built by the the famous Ottoman architect, Mimar Sinan, it’s an exceptional example of 16th century Ottoman architecture and also houses the tombs of Süleyman and his wife Haseki Hürrem.
The grandeur of the former 15th-century cannon foundry is truly captivating. Another commission of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, the Tophane-i Amire has gone through various uses, from education centre to military museum. Today though, it’s the ideal architectural location to host art exhibitions in its three cathedral-like spaces.
With it’s picturesque views across the Bosphorus and verdant landscaped grounds, the Sabancı University’s Sakıp Sabancı Museum in Emirgan was once the villa of the Egyptian prince, Mehmed Ali Hasan. It’s since become known as ‘the mansion with the horse’ because of the equestrian statue by French sculptor, Louis-Joseph Daumas, in the hilltop garden. Today the museum houses a permanent collection of Turkish paintings as well as showcases temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists such as Ai Weiwei.
With its remarkable Byzantine frescoes, the former Greek Orthodox Church is something of a hidden Istanbul gem. Now a museum, the Chora Church is filled with an array of impressive mosaics that depict the life of Christ and the painted dome show Mary with 12 attendant angels. It’s a little piece of heaven within the original walled part of the city that can’t be missed during your trip.
]]>Moscow, Russia: located on the continent of Europe.
]]>Bora Bora Island, French Polynesia: It is located on the continent of Oceania. Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia, a French Overseas territory in the South Pacific. Polynesian settlers first settled in the island around the 4th century is thought. Its original name is "Pora Pora", which means first birth in Tahitian.
]]>Lungern, Switzerland: located on the continent of Europe.
]]>Vienna, Austria: located on the continent of Europe.
]]>Melbourne, Australia: located on the continent of Oceania.
]]>Budapest, Hungary: located on the continent of Europe.
]]>Beirut, Lebanon: located on the continent of Asia. Beirut is the capital of Lebanon. Beirut, with a population of over 1.5 million, is located on the edge of a bay that is slightly protected from the impact of the sea. Beirut has a typical Mediterranean climate.
]]>Hallstatt, Austria: located on the continent of Europe. Hallstatt is a village in the Salzkammergut region of Austria. This beautiful village is on the shore of Lake Hallstätter.
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