A taste of Thai culture – Authentic flavours, culture, and adventures await in Phuket
OVERVIEW
Experience the best of Phuket with Cassia—authentic flavours, cultural workshops, and adventures that bring you closer to the island’s vibrant soul.
Phuket’s stunning coastlines and delectable cuisine are just the beginning. Beyond the familiar lies a world of experiences that invite exploration and connection into the heart of Thailand’s rich culture and natural beauty. Beyond the beaches, Thailand’s largest island is a haven for those craving immersive encounters with local culture—from farm-to-table feasts to bustling night markets. Whether you’re here to unwind, forge new connections, or embark on fresh adventures, every moment draws you closer not just to fellow travellers but also to the island’s vibrant essence.
Wholesome local flavours: Farm-to-table dining in Phuket
Peel back the rich layers of Phuket’s food culture at Open Kitchen—an inviting space that brings farm-to-table dining to life with ethically sourced ingredients. Begin your culinary adventure with a stroll along the lotus lagoon trail, which leads to SEED, a sustainable farm teeming with native herbs and plants. Meandering through nature’s harvest offers a refreshing reminder of the origins of our food—far removed from the aisles of city supermarkets and fancy grocers.
Back at your table, choose from an array of à la carte dishes or let the head chef surprise you with a meal catered to your tastes. Each ingredient reflects the commitment to sustainability and thoughtful sourcing, creating a dining experience that feels both personal and meaningful. It’s more than a meal—it’s an opportunity to gather, share, and create moments that are uniquely yours.
Get your kicks in at a Muay Thai lesson
Muay Thai, as “the art of eight limbs”, is more than a sport – it's a symbol of Thailand’s resilience and culture. Originating centuries ago as a form of self-defence and discipline, it has grown into one of the world’s most well-known forms of martial arts – famed for its dynamic use of punches, kicks, elbows, and knees.
At Cassia Phuket, guests of all skill levels – whether curious beginners or seasoned fighters – are invited to participate in Muay Thai lessons, guided by expert trainers. Discover the rich history of this martial art and its role in society, where it fosters values respect, perseverance and strength. Experience the Wai Khru ceremony, a traditional pre-fight ritual that pays homage to teachers and opponents, before stepping into the ring for personalised coaching and interactive sparring sessions.
Adding a practical touch, your Muay Thai coach will also introduce you to simple Thai phrases for everyday use – greetings, expressions of gratitude, and farewells – making it easier to connect with locals during your stay.
Set against the serene backdrop of the lagoon, this setting allows you to not only master new moves but also connect with the Cassia community. Beyond the lessons, this immersive experience invites you to embrace Thai culture while making lasting memories with fellow guests.
Join a Hock Hoe Lee workshop to experience Phuket’s coffee culture
Phuket’s thriving coffee scene, brimming with artisan roasters and chic cafes, traces its roots to Hock Hoe Lee—known as the island’s original coffee roaster. Founded in 1958 by Tan Cheng Long, a Chinese immigrant, Hock Hoe Lee began as a humble shop near Phuket’s Jui Tui Shrine. Here, Tan roasted and sold coffee to tin-mining workers, earning a loyal following for his “magic beans.”
Today, the legacy of this once tin-mining hub lives on at Laguna Phuket, a place that was rehabilitated from its mining roots into a vibrant, modern destination. Just as Hock Hoe Lee grew from serving local workers to becoming an iconic part of Phuket’s coffee culture, Laguna Phuket has flourished into a thriving community that celebrates both its history and its future.
Image: Hock Hoe Lee via Facebook
Get a taste of this rich history (and a cup or two while you’re at it) at a Hock Hoe Lee Coffee Workshop, curated exclusively for Cassia Phuket guests. Held at the Open Kitchen, the workshop begins with Coffee History Talks, offering insights into the brand’s heritage. Watch the “bean-to-cup" process come to life, then move on to a guided tasting session to explore the distinctive flavours of Phuket’s beloved coffee. You will also learn about sustainable practices coffee production practices, adding a deeper appreciation for every sip.
Grill and chill: Feast with friends over mookata
If you love barbecue and hotpot, mookata brings the best of both worlds together, combining sizzling barbecued meats with flavourful hotpot simmered right at your table. A cherished favourite in Thailand, mookata celebrates the communal essence of the country’s food culture. Sharing this meal is often seen as a meaningful way to connect, with the interactive cooking process fostering togetherness among your your dining companions.
Gather your squad and tuck into juicy cuts of meat grilled on a dome-shaped skillet, while fresh vegetables and noodles simmer away in a flavourful broth.
Whether you choose to enjoy the experience outdoors or cook in the comfort of your room, this interactive dining experience is the perfect way to bond with loved ones, enjoy great food, and share plenty of laughs. With Cassia’s spacious kitchen and living areas, you can make the most of your time together—creating not just delicious meals, but lasting memories.
Vibrant nights and tuk-tuk adventures in Phuket
A visit to Phuket’s night markets is a sensory adventure, made even more memorable by a ride in its iconic tuk-tuks. Hop on the Cassia Tuk Tuk for a journey through the island’s bustling hotspots, where the sights and sounds of local life come alive.
Start at Bangtao’s Friday Night Market, a lively gathering where the air is filled with tantalising aromas, the chatter of vendors, and the rhythms of live music.
This treasure trove is perfect for discovering handmade jewellery, intricate Thai textiles, and quirky keepsakes—a reflection of the community’s creative spirit and cultural heritage.
Discover Bang Tao Beach after dark
As the sun sets, a whole new side of Bang Tao Beach comes to life. Just a short walk from Cassia Phuket, the shoreline offers a mix of relaxed beachside charm and lively nightlife options. For those seeking a chic, energetic atmosphere, head to some of Phuket’s most stylish beach clubs, like Maya, where world-class DJs set the tone, and the cocktail menu is as carefully curated as the décor. If you’re in the mood to keep dancing, Catch Beach Club is the prime spot for upbeat tunes and expertly mixed drinks.
There’s also Carpe Diem for those who prefer a more relaxed island vibe, where handcrafted beverages and gourmet bites pair perfectly with a front-row seat to the night views of Bang Tao’s coastlines.
When you’re ready to turn things up a notch, wrap up the night at Soul Shack. This lively venue is where the fun begins when other places wind down, offering DJ sets, pool tables, and plenty of space to dance the night away. A favourite among both travellers and locals, Soul Shack embodies the community spirit and rounds off your evening on a high note.
Cassia Phuket: Where culture, adventure and connection meet
Phuket’s authentic flavours, rich culture, and exciting adventures are just the beginning. At Cassia Phuket, every experience not only brings you closer to the island’s spirit, but also to new friends and cherished connections.
Live, laugh, and love your way through the island’s hidden gems, discovering even more with every step you take. Your next adventure is just around the corner - are you ready to dive in?