Philipp Meier is a Phuket-based travel writer specialising in round-ups and features that centre on Thailand. A big fan of independent travel, he's passionate about Thai culture and wandering off Thailand's well-trodden tourist trails.
Philipp Meier

Philipp Meier

Freelance writer, Time Out Thailand

Articles (1)

The best things to do in Phuket this weekend (March 5-8)

The best things to do in Phuket this weekend (March 5-8)

It’s no secret that Phuket is a magnet for night owls and beach-loving hedonists. With exuberant parties under starry skies running all weekend long, it’s easy to overlook the island’s other evening attractions – from adrenaline-pumping Muay Thai fight nights to cultural shows that journey through Thailand’s history. Luckily, we’ve got you covered.   Partygoers can stick to the classics – MAYA Beach Club and the like – for night after night of big name DJs bringing the best in house and tropical beats to heavy crowds. Or, if your idea of a good night leans more towards the laid-back, head to Royal Phuket Marina for some yacht-themed networking or frolic with the kids at a day-long pool party atop HOMA.    Throw in some cultural shows and hard-hitting boxing bouts and, wherever the wind takes you in Phuket this weekend, this quick-fire guide will make sure you end up in the right place. Did you know that Julian Marley is coming to Phuket this May?

Listings and reviews (6)

Get a kick out of fight night at Bangla Boxing Stadium

Get a kick out of fight night at Bangla Boxing Stadium

Few experiences capture Phuket’s high-energy spirit quite like a night of Muay Thai in the heart of Patong. At Bangla Boxing Stadium, fighters step into the ring all week long, delivering punchy bouts as local talents go head-to-head with international challengers. Expect flying kicks, sharp elbows and roaring crowds as eight fights unfold over five rounds each – if they last that long. Ringside and stadium tickets both include a free T-shirt, plus a small discount when booking through the official website. Doors open at 8pm, with the first fights kicking off around 9pm and running late into the night. Mar 6-8. Ringside/VIP: B1,900. Stadium: B1,500. Tickets here. Bangla Boxing Stadium. 8pm-late
Frolic with the fam at HOMA’s longest pool party

Frolic with the fam at HOMA’s longest pool party

Kids in tow? No problem. HOMA is where you want to go this weekend with a family-friendly pool party where grown-ups and little ones can both dive into the fun. Floating on the pool you’ll find inflatable flamingoes, unicorns and plenty of other wacky floaties bobbing around, while DJ Via spins a lively mix of Afrobeats from the poolside decks. While kids get silly, parents can sip a drink and soak up the sunshine while younger partygoers splash along to the rhythm – making this one of Phuket’s more playful ways to spend the afternoon. Mar 6. Free. HOMA Phuket Town. 5.30-8.30pm
Join an International Women’s Day lunch supporting disadvantaged kids

Join an International Women’s Day lunch supporting disadvantaged kids

Mark International Women’s Day with purpose at this charity lunch hosted by Phuket Has Been Good to Us – the foundation supporting disadvantaged children at Kamala School. Held at Courtyard by Marriott, get involved with this year's theme: ‘Give to Gain’ – highlighting how empowering women strengthens communities and nurtures future leaders. Guests hear from international speakers, bid in fundraising prize auctions and enjoy an afternoon of entertainment – with drinks flowing from 11.30am. Come solo or book a table for up to 10 people and help raise vital funds, with organisers aiming to hit half a million baht by mid-afternoon. And for the record, women and men are both warmly welcome.   Mar 6. B2,000 per seat. For tickets, email here. Courtyard by Marriott, Phuket Town. 11.30am-3pm
Sip cocktails at the monthly Grow Boating event

Sip cocktails at the monthly Grow Boating event

You don’t need a yacht – or a big budget – to enjoy a touch of marina-side glamour. The monthly Grow Boating evening at Royal Phuket Marina invites curious newcomers and seasoned sea lovers alike for a relaxed night of networking by the water. Designed with a casual marina crowd in mind, the event keeps things friendly while still delivering plenty of luxury touches. Expect first-rate canapés, a generous buffet courtesy of Royal Phuket Marina and plenty of bubbly flowing as you overhear boaters swapping stories of the sea at Asia’s only carbon-neutral marina. Mar 6. Free. Grow Boating Evening, Royal Phuket Marina, RPM Members’ Lounge. 5pm-7pm
Step into the wacky world of Siam Niramit Phuket

Step into the wacky world of Siam Niramit Phuket

Part theatrical spectacle, part cultural time machine, Siam Niramit Phuket brings Thailand’s past vividly to life. The show recreates scenes from the country’s history with a full arsenal of stagecraft – booming sound systems, dozens of dancers and even a 300-cubic-metre water tank that transforms the stage into a flowing river – bring a rain coat, maybe? Added to the effects, be prepared to be doused in smoke and dazzled by lightning as angels glide across the stage’s makeshift storm, adding to a sensory-packed production that moves through Buddhist mythology and the rise and fall of ancient kingdoms. Before the curtain lifts, wander through the nearby Thai village market to glimpse traditional crafts or arrive early for the optional buffet dinner. For an easy night out, hotel pick-up can also be added to your booking. Mar 5-8. From B1,800 per person. Tickets here. Siam Niramit Phuket. 5.30-10.30pm
Shake a leg with Demayä at Maya Beach Club

Shake a leg with Demayä at Maya Beach Club

Electronic music fans head to Maya Beach Club this weekend as Dubai-based DJ-producer Demayä lands behind the decks. Known for blending melodic Afro house with stripped-back, minimalist grooves, the rising artist builds a reputation for pushing the edges of the genre. The beachfront dinner show pairs beats with sea breezes and tasty crowd-pleasers like pizza, tangy chicken spring rolls or buttery salmon sushi – all enjoyed before the dancefloor fills up. But, with champagne on ice and the waves rolling in beside you, you could easily skip the dinner and go straight to the dancing.  Mar 7. B1,000 per person. Tickets here. Maya Beach Club. 7pm-2am