This Week in Phuket: Rail Talks, Event Picks & Rain Warnings

Hey Phuket Fam!

Welcome to the 7th edition of the Phuket Community Newsletter! Your go-to source for the latest happenings in Phuket and beyond. 

Here’s what we’ve got lined up for you today:

🚊 Phuket Rail Link In Talks

📅 What’s Happening in Phuket This Week?

🌧️ Phuket About to Overflow

🎬 Ever Thought Durian Could Be a Movie Star?

🚊 Big Changes Ahead: Will the Phuket Rail Link Happen?

There’s talk that Phang Nga’s governor is pushing hard for a Phuket rail link. This could actually be a game changer if it happens.

Why should you care?

• No more endless traffic jams when you’re trying to head to Phuket.

• Quick, easy trips between Phang Nga and Phuket.

• Tourism boost = more job opportunities and business growth.

Is this just another promise, or will they finally pull through this time?

Here’s what’s on the table:

• The plan includes a rail link from Phang Nga to Phuket International Airport, with high-speed options.

• They're talking about environmental concerns and want to make this a green project.

• The governor is really pushing for financial backing, and he's meeting the Prime Minister to keep this on track.

Let’s not sugarcoat it. Projects like this can take years (if they happen at all). 

And we’ve seen big ideas fizzle out before. But with the current infrastructure problems and growing demand for transport solutions, this one might stick.

So, what’s next? Stay tuned. We’ll be keeping an eye on what unfolds.

Check out the full article for all the details: Phang Nga Governor Pushes for Phuket Rail Link.

📅 What’s Happening in Phuket This Week?

From live music to a 5AM run (yes, you read that right), here’s what’s worth checking out.

This Week’s Picks:

Wednesday 16 Oct
Wilson’s Live Music Night
If you need a mid-week reset, swing by Wilson's Cafe.
Live music, a free welcome cocktail (yeah, free), and laid-back vibes.
It's happening from 6 pm to 9 pm—perfect for winding down without shutting down.

Thursday 17 Oct
Pub Quiz Night at The Green Man Phuket
Think you’re smart?
Put it to the test at the weekly pub quiz.
Great way to meet new people, flex some knowledge, and have a laugh.
Starts at 8 pm, so get there early if you want a good seat.

Saturday, 19 Oct
Reggae Waves by Rotary Club of Patong Beach
Now this is one not to miss.
Reggae beats, delicious food, and the chance to support a great cause.
All at Carpe Diem Beach Club, starting around sunset.
Trust me, the vibes are unmatched—and you're giving back in the process.

Sunday, 20 Oct (5AM)
SPK Run 2024
Yup, it's early.
But it’s all for a good cause—supporting education for Phuket Women’s School and raising funds for Thalang Hospital.
You’ll feel good about yourself and be done before the day even starts.

So, whether you’re looking to chill or give back, Phuket’s got you covered this week.

Go make the most of it!

🌧️ Is Phuket About to Overflow?

With the rainy season in full swing, are we about to see major flooding?

Phuket’s reservoirs are nearly maxed out, and the local authorities are on high alert.

So, what does this mean for us?

Here’s what you should know:

• Heavy rains have filled up key reservoirs to 90% capacity—and more rain’s on the way.

• If they overflow, expect flooding in low-lying areas. Think roads turning into rivers.

• Authorities are already monitoring the situation 24/7, but if you’re in a flood-prone area, it’s time to prepare.

The Big Deal:

Let’s face it, flooding can mess with our plans and, more importantly, our safety.

Here’s what you should be thinking about:

• Know your area. If it’s low-lying, take extra precautions.

• Stay updated on the local news and weather alerts.

• If you have travel plans, especially around the island, keep an eye on the roads—things can change fast.

Phuket’s infrastructure has handled heavy rain before, but with reservoirs this full, the risk is real.

Stay smart, stay safe, and let’s see how this plays out.

Want to dive deeper into the details?
Here’s the full article: Phuket on high alert as reservoirs near overflow.

🎬 Ever Thought Durian Could Be a Movie Star?

Seriously, when was the last time you thought a film could make you rethink durians?
That’s exactly what The Paradise of Thorns does.

This Thai film dives deep into life in rural Thailand, but with a twist—durians take center stage.
It’s about way more than just the fruit, though.

At its heart, the film is about devotion.
Not just to family, but to the land and culture that makes Thailand what it is.

Why does this matter?

If you’ve ever spent time in Thailand, you know how much durian is part of the culture.
It’s not just a fruit; it’s a way of life for many communities.

Here’s the real deal:

• The film shows the struggles of a rural Thai family and how their livelihood is tied to durians.

• It digs into the traditions and sacrifices that come with farming durian (it’s not as easy as just planting a tree).

• And it’s all wrapped up in a story about devotion—to land, to family, and to keeping traditions alive.

The Story To Think About:

How many of us are so caught up in the modern world that we forget where our food comes from?
This film is a reminder.
It’s also a rare glimpse into a side of Thailand most tourists never see.

If you’ve ever been curious about how important something like durian can be to a community, this film is for you.

Ready to check it out? Released in theaters now, and on screens across Southeast Asia.

Here’s the full article for more details: The Paradise Of Thorns explores durians and devotion in rural Thailand.

And that’s a wrap for this week! Stay tuned for more insider tips, event news, and all the latest on life in Phuket.

Got a scoop or event suggestion? We’re all ears! We’re also on the lookout for contributors from around the island, so if you’re interested in joining the team, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Cheers,
Codi & The Phuket Community Team