Imagine stepping onto the sandy shores of Phuket, the sun warming your skin and the distant sound of a Muay Thai session in progress. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or a fitness enthusiast looking for a change of scenery, Phuket offers an unparalleled training experience. But before you immerse yourself in the rhythm of kicks and punches, it’s essential to come prepared. Here’s your comprehensive guide.
Thailand/ Phuket Seasons
Understanding Phuket’s seasons will help you pack right and train better:
Rainy Season (May to October)
While sudden showers might seem like a dampener, they can be a blessing, cooling down the environment. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof bags to protect your gear. Accommodations are usually cheaper during this season due to lower demand, making it a great time for those looking to stay longer and dive deeper into their training without breaking the bank.
Cool Dry Season (November to February)
This is peak tourist season. While training, don’t be fooled- the weather still gets quite hot, especially in the afternoons. It’s also the best time for beach runs! Expect more fellow travelers and a vibrant atmosphere around Bangtao Muay Thai and the island.
Hot Season (March to May)
Hydration is key. Carry a refillable water bottle during training sessions and supplement with sodium, magnesium, and potassium to maintain electrolyte balance. Consider bringing an extra water bottle during parts of the day to beat the heat.
Clothing
Training Gear
For Muay Thai, invest in quality ankle supports. Ladies might want to pack a good sports bra for comfort. Remember, while the gym provides some gear for rent, having your own ensures better fit. It’s always a good idea to bring water to your sessions—mineral water is recommended, or ensure you’re supplementing with electrolytes.
For more details on training gear essentials, you can check out this post.
On top of that, you can always check out our very own Bangtao Fight Store to see what we currently have on offer.
Outside the Gym
Dressing up in Phuket is pretty casual. Board shorts and short-sleeved button-down shirts are perfect for men, while light, breathable fabrics work best for everyone in the hot and humid climate. Remember, for visits to temples and certain establishments, modest dressing is required. Pack long pants and a top that covers your shoulders.
Money
Card vs. Cash
While Phuket is modern, small local eateries, transport, and some gyms prefer cash. Always keep a mix. For a more convenient payment method, consider opening a local bank account and sync it to an app for easy QR code payments.
Exchange & ATMs
While the airport offers currency exchange, rates in the city tend to be better. Alert your bank about your travel to avoid card blockages.
Shops
7/11, Tops, Family Mart, Supercheap, and Other Convenience Stores
Beyond snacks, these stores are a haven for last-minute essentials. Look for 7/11, Tops, and Family Mart around the gym for your needs.
When buying water, consider buying mineral water instead of distilled water. Mineral water will stay in your system longer, making it ideal for training sessions in the heat.
Supermarkets & Markets
Local markets are a sensory delight. Try fresh tropical fruits like mangosteen or rambutan to boost your energy levels naturally.
Health Insurance
Accidents happen, especially during intense training. Ensure your insurance covers sports injuries. Familiarize yourself with nearby clinics or hospitals just in case.
When choosing an international travel or health insurance plan, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you have adequate coverage while traveling abroad:
Coverage Area
Make sure the insurance plan provides coverage in the specific countries you plan to visit. Some plans may have restrictions or limitations on coverage based on geographical regions.
Medical Coverage
Check the extent of medical coverage offered by the plan, including coverage for doctor visits, hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains.
Pre-existing Conditions
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, verify whether they are covered under the plan. Some insurance policies may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions or have waiting periods before coverage kicks in.
Deductibles and Copayments
Understand the deductible and copayment requirements of the insurance plan. This is the amount you will need to pay out-of-pocket before the insurance coverage begins.
Coverage Limits
Pay attention to coverage limits for medical expenses, evacuation costs, and other benefits. Ensure that the limits are sufficient to cover potential expenses in the event of a medical emergency.
Emergency Assistance Services
Look for insurance plans that offer 24/7 emergency assistance services, such as a helpline or hotline that you can call for assistance in case of medical emergencies or other travel-related emergencies.
Travel Interruption/Cancellation
Consider whether the insurance plan provides coverage for trip cancellation or interruption due to unforeseen events such as illness, injury, or natural disasters.
Lost or Stolen Belongings
Some insurance plans may include coverage for lost or stolen luggage, personal belongings, or travel documents. Evaluate whether this coverage is important for your travel needs.
Adventure Activities Coverage
If you plan to engage in adventure sports or activities during your trip, confirm whether the insurance plan covers injuries or accidents related to these activities.
Policy Exclusions
Review the policy exclusions carefully to understand what is not covered by the insurance plan. Common exclusions may include high-risk activities, certain pre-existing conditions, or specific destinations with travel advisories.
Provider Network
Check whether the insurance plan has a network of healthcare providers or hospitals in the countries you will be visiting. Using in-network providers may help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Reputation and Customer Reviews
Research the insurance provider’s reputation and read customer reviews to gauge the quality of service and customer satisfaction.
By considering these factors and carefully reviewing the terms and conditions of different insurance plans, you can select a comprehensive international travel or health insurance policy that meets your needs and provides peace of mind during your travels.
Comparison Websites
You can use comparison websites to see which travel insurance plan fits your needs:
Staying Connected and Safe
SIM Cards
Stay connected with a local SIM card, available at the airport upon arrival. This makes it easier to navigate, communicate, and stay in touch with new friends and the gym. You can also purchase tourist sim cards with data and call minutes bundled together from any 7/11 or Family Mart.
Cultural Insights
Embrace local customs with grace. In places like massage shops, you’ll be expected to remove your shoes, a small but meaningful gesture of respect. As mentioned above, when visiting temples, please dress modestly, and females need to cover their legs below the knee.
Essentials
Driver’s License
While scooters are a popular mode of transport, Phuket’s roads can be tricky. If you’re inexperienced, consider other transport options. If you would like to drive, either a vehicle or motorcycle, while visiting Thailand, you are required by law to hold an international driving license. When asked for, you need to show your international driving license along with your passport and national driving license. If you are staying long term, you are also able to get a Thai Driving licence. For a full guide on how to do this, read this article.
Sunscreen & Mosquito Repellent
The tropical climate means mosquitoes are prevalent. Dengue is a concern, so stay protected.
Electrolytes
Training in humid conditions can lead to rapid dehydration. Local pharmacies stock oral rehydration salts that are a lifesaver. We also have a range of electrolytes in Ringside Cafe at the gym.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
Water Quality
While tempting, avoid ice in local stalls as it might be made from tap water. When in doubt, stick to bottled water.
Embrace the Experience
Training in Phuket is as much about the culture as it is about fitness. Engage with locals, respect the customs, and embrace the learning curve. With this guide in hand, you’re not just prepared for training but for an enriching Thai experience. Welcome to your adventure with Bangtao Muay Thai, where we consider you part of the family from the moment you arrive.
Gifts
Consider bringing some extra cash with you to purchase gifts for your loved ones back at home!
If you’re not sure about their size or what they’d like, gift cards aren’t a bad idea either.