Can we get a list of those resorts? Perhaps we can post them on Trip Advisor. Wasn't it previously mentioned that Club Med is one of those resorts? Just look at the back and see the sludge going into Kata!

Posted by VFaye on February 12, 2010 10:56

"Some resorts" would be an understatement as I understand that most places just flush right into the sea. I hear that some environmentalists have tried to point this out in the past but were threatened with legal action and other misfortune.

A few years ago, near the end of a very busy high season, Phuket experienced a 40 mile red tide from Mai Khao to Chalong that biologists attributed to "human activity". Conditions are ripe for this to recur in the very near future.

And let us not forget the jellyfish and other nastys that thrive in less than clean water.

Perhaps Phuket Wan can initiate an inquiry into the waste-water disposal methods of some of the higher end hotels. I think that local environmentalist John Grey of Sea Canoe fame already has some data, and he would make for an interesting interview.

Posted by Treelover on February 12, 2010 13:50

Guess they don't have a water to trash check. In the low season when the wind and waves start to come in so does loads of trash. In the high seas they get up early to try and get rid of the overnight trash that floats in.

Posted by mike on February 12, 2010 19:05

So what are the tests measuring, fecal bacteria or just clarity of water? I know Surin beach has sewage emptying directly into the ocean, sure don't swim there anymore.

Posted by Horse Doctor on February 13, 2010 09:14

"So in theory, if you get into trouble while swimming off Karon, you will know that you are about to drown in the island's best-quality sea water."

How crass.

Editor: Our priority is saving lives, not semantics. Most local media show indifference. We can't be accused of that.

Posted by Simon Smith on February 13, 2010 10:14

I am a competitor to Club Med, but I know that they operate their proper and well maintained and well run waste water treatment plan, so before accusing them, check with them first.

The sludge going into Kata comes from the canal running into the sea, so why don't you follow the canal to find out where the waste water is coming from?

kata hotelier

Posted by kh on February 13, 2010 11:45

Ed- any chance of a link to the full results? I would be interested to see how Patong featured.

Editor: The colored stars in the illustration show Patong did reasonably well. We don't think the information is posted online in full.

Posted by Mister Ree on February 13, 2010 21:09

"Summer Season" without warning of the deadly " Summer Season" monsoon rip-tides, that is when the tragedies happen.

Posted by Horse Doctor on February 14, 2010 11:02

What is missing from this report, BLARINGLY missing-is what are they testing for?
Lots of chatter," Yellow, blue, green..." Me thinks this is DISINFORMATION

How much s*** is in the water, Phuket?

I ask because every single neighbor, in their newly built firmly middle class homes or ramshakle tin hut - I count fifteen, has their toilet running directly into the stream.

Posted by Mustava Mond on February 14, 2010 11:10

To Mustava Mond. In south african speak your name means - must have a mouth.
May I sugest that when swimming anywhere here in Phuket, keep your mouth closed and just go through the motions, ok ?

Posted by Graham on February 15, 2010 05:49