Issue #33 · Monday 19 October 2026

Phuket Pulse

Two sections: what visitors should know this week, and what Phuket business owners should act on. Every Monday.

Phuket this week

Heavy rain week: rain expected on 7 of 7 days, highs around 29°C. Best day Wed 21 Oct. Wettest Sun 25 Oct (43.1 mm).

Mon 19 Oct
Rain showers
28° 24°
12.6 mm · 92%
Tue 20 Oct
Rain showers
29° 24°
14.3 mm · 96%
Wed 21 Oct
Thunderstorm
29° 24°
10.8 mm · 82%
Best day
Thu 22 Oct
Drizzle
30° 25°
9.4 mm · 86%
Fri 23 Oct
Rain showers
30° 24°
12.6 mm · 94%
Sat 24 Oct
Thunderstorm
29° 24°
40.9 mm · 92%
Sun 25 Oct
Rain showers
26° 24°
43.1 mm · 84%
Wettest
Driest windowsWed 21 Oct, Thu 22 OctA wet week overall — plan outdoor plans around these days.
This week on the island

For visitors

Featured local businesses and what to do this week.

Phuket News

Jellyfish warning issued as Patong swimming reopens

The Marine and Coastal Resources Office No. 9 issued a jellyfish warning after providing information to tourists and officials about risks and first aid. Warning signs and vinegar bottles have been installed along the beach, while lifeguards report generally calm seas in Patong with most areas open for swimming. Freedom Beach remains closed due to strong currents, and visitors are urged to avoid red-flagged areas and contact lifeguards if assistance is needed.

What it means for youVisitors should not touch jellyfish or rub stings, and must seek help from officials immediately if stung, following specific guidance on whether to use vinegar depending on the species.
Read the full story at Phuket News →
Phuket News

Kathu Shrine procession marks Vegetarian Festival end

The Kathu Shrine procession began at 6:45am on October 18, the eighth day of the nine-day festival, gathering in front of Makro Phuket before moving towards Saphan Hin. Spirit mediums performed traditional rites carrying ceremonial objects and symbolic weapons as part of the Iew Keng ritual to bestow blessings. The final day’s procession for Lor Rong Shrine is scheduled to begin assembling at 7:30am on October 18.

What it means for youTourists can observe respectful participation by residents who set up altars along the route, while businesses should anticipate crowds during these key festival rituals.
Read the full story at Phuket News →
Thaiger Phuket

Portuguese woman caught overstaying nearly 5 years in Phuket

Read the full story at Thaiger Phuket →

Happening this month

  • Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2026 Schedule (9 - 19 October 2026) 9–19 October 2026
For Phuket business owners

The business brief

What changed this week, what it means for you, and one thing to do about it.

Thaiger

Thailand seeks World Bank loan for clean energy

Thailand is pursuing a US$200 million World Bank loan to fund solar power installations and energy-saving upgrades in public buildings and industrial areas. The proposals follow discussions at the 2026 IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings on October 17, with Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas meeting World Bank Group President Ajay Banga. The financing would be channelled through EXIM BANK, focusing initially on Bangkok and industrial estates for rooftop solar panels and electrical system upgrades at schools and healthcare facilities.

What it means for your businessBusiness owners may see opportunities in energy service companies covering initial costs for upgrades, allowing organizations to pay gradually through long-term service fees rather than large upfront investments.
Read the full story at Thaiger →

AI tip: Answer reviews faster with AI drafts

Feed a review to an AI and ask for a short, calm response that thanks the guest and fixes the complaint. Read it, adjust it, post it. Fast owner replies improve how your rating looks to the next reader.

AI tip: Translate menus with one pass

Photograph your menu, have an AI transcribe and translate it into two or three languages, then check dish names by eye. A readable menu in a guest's language converts walk-ins.

Listing health check788 of 837 listings in the directory are missing details like opening hours (767 have no hours listed). Owners: a complete listing gets more clicks — reply to this email or use the 'list your business' form to fill yours in this week.