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Phuket is known for its idyllic beaches with soft sands, azure ocean waters that are perfect for water sports, exotic culture steeped in history and thrilling nightlife that let you party the night away; an island paradise does not get any better than this! A visit to this enchanting island would not be complete however, without sampling the delectable delicacies that are on offer which let you experience rich and distinct flavours. Those wanting to combine sampling local cuisine with some culture can visit when one of the local food festivals are taking place. The most popular of such events is the Phuket Vegetarian Festival that usually takes place in October. Spanning for a period of around nine days, this unique and colourful festival is based around the belief of the local Chinese community; they believe that abstaining from eating meats of any kinds for a certain period of the ninth lunar month will bring about good health. The festival features a wide variety of fascinating acts and ceremonies of devotion which some way find quite gruesome! It is common to see fire-walking as well as body piercing of various kinds as devotees are known to puncture themselves with sharp instruments including skewers. Most of the ceremonies are held at the Chinese temples on the island, the main one being the Jui Tui Shrine. Ceremonies and street parades aside, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a great place to sample special vegetarian dishes. Many of these dishes are available at markets and roadside stalls and include such ingredients as soybean. Another food related event held on the island is the Phuket Good Taste Food Festival. Celebrated in order to encourage and promote the island's food vendors, this event features a large number of stalls where you can try such succulent dishes as BBQ fresh water prawns to satay sticks. Previous editions of this festival have also included a range of entertainment with a variety of musical performances and dances providing plenty of family fun. Those visiting the island and planning to stay in shape during these festivals as well can also try the organic food Phuket has to offer that can be sampled at such retreats in Thailand as Thanyapura. Providing holistic healing for mind, body and spirit, Thanyapura also has well equipped sports facilities for young and old alike. Google+
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