Curator’s statement
Thailand was the first place I have ever been outside of the U.S., and it will forever hold a special place in my heart. I traveled there to train at the Bangtao Muay Thai/MMA gym, with a side of fun and leisure. The best part was connecting with people from around the world in different parts of their lives sharing an interest and love for the training lifestyle and sport. Staying in Bang Tao was a breath of fresh air; its peaceful yet fast-paced, small-town vibes gave a calm escape from everyday life in the U.S.
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Where to stay in Bang Tao
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Things to do in Bang Tao
Roaming with elephants at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Training at Bangtao Muay Thai/MMA gym is a must! You can be anything from a beginner to a UFC fighter—all are welcome to take Muay Thai/ MMA classes.
Adventure Mini Golf located across the street from Bangtao Muay Thai/MMA gym offers food and drinks, as well as an 18-hole mini golf course. Enjoy a meal and hop on the green, rain or shine.
Take a short drive to Surin beach where the water is blue, the beach is clean, and local food and drink carts are nearby in case you get hungry as you swim and tan. I spent a whole day at this beach and it was one of my favorite spots with an amazing view.
Bangtoa Beach, though smaller than Surin, offers dining on the beach side, horseback riding, massages, and jet skiing. This beach is more for fun experiences and those who like activities.
Get a massage—foot, hand, sport (deep tissue), or Thai massage. There are massage businesses everywhere in Thailand, but the ones you find on the beach are not only cheap, but also the most peaceful and relaxing.
Pa Tong is made for tourists. If you want to experience nightlife, head down to Pa Tong for endless entertainment, bars, food, affordable and high-end shopping, and Muay Thai fighting.
Pa Tong Boxing Stadium/ Bangla Boxing Stadium: Both stadiums offer nights of fighting for you to experience the culture and entertainment of women's and men's Muay Thai fighting.
Visit Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, where you can walk amongst and feed elephants that have been rescued from companies that injure and abuse these animals through elephant painting, riding, and timber loading.
Places to eat & drink in Bang Tao
Sunset dinner on Bangtao Beach
Ringside Cafe, located in Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA gym, offers balanced meals and a wide range of options like protein snacks, lunch and dinner items, and smoothie bowls. Enjoy a meal while watching UFC fighters train.
Pit Thai Food Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. They have a wide array of foods ranging from Thai to American cuisine.
Central Café and Bistro was my go-to almost every morning for a coffee. They offer a wide variety of coffee options, from standard espresso to matcha and teas, as well as pastries, lunch and dinner, and Italian artisan gelato.
The Lazy Coconut Restaurant is a part of a resort, but is open to the public. A more expensive dining option than the others, but it offers great service, exceptional food and drink, and a day pass that lets you eat, swim, and relax on their sun beds by the pool.
Catch Beach Club has great food, good service, music, and occasional dancers and DJs. If you want to have a good time, get a little tipsy, and dance, this is the place for you!
Need to know
Be cautious about the ice in your beverages. Only drink ice with holes in the center, as this ensures it is filtered water; otherwise, you may get sick.
The Grab App will be your best friend! Similar to Uber, it provides cheap rides to any destination and delivers food options for nights you may want to stay in.
Lastly, check out the local food stands posted around busy streets and in neighborhoods. These offer fresh meat, fruit, vegetables, and more for cheap and easy meals made fresh.
Travel Advisor
Abby Simons
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Thailand page.