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IN THE PICTURE #63: MICHAEL RAFAEL
In this feature called ‘In the Picture‘ we ask great photographers from all over the world to share their 10 most favorite Thailand photos with our readers. See Thailand through the lens of the photographer, read the background stories and learn more about the land of smiles.
The beautiful photos shown below are almost all from Phuket. Super nice, because at the moment we are busy writing several articles about Phuket. The photos really showcase the beauty of Thailand’s largest island. Thank you Michael Rafael for this beautiful collection!
Hello Michael, could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello Thailand Magazine readers!
My name is Michael Rafael. Born in Manila and raised in Bulacan, a city in the Philippines. I have been living and working here in Thailand for almost 11 years now. I have had a passion for photography since my school days, but it was not until I started working here in Phuket that I got into it. My enthusiasm for the beautiful scenery, beaches, and culture of the island has led me to make photography my hobby while I am here.
I work in the Orchidacea Resort as a guest services supervisor and also as a part-time musician. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and am also interested in digital marketing, graphic design, and product development.
Perhaps one day I may welcome you to beautiful Phuket!
Michael Rafael
#1
March 2019 – Sunset above Ya Nui Beach on Phuket.
Looking at this photo after I took it gives me strong emotion. How the sunset marks the end of the day and spending some time watching it, knowing that there will be sunrise tomorrow and another sunset. It gave us hope. A beautiful reminder that every end means a new beginning.
#2
June 2021 – Kalim Beach on Phuket during sunset.
My favorite part when creating sunset shots is capturing the wave’s movement, luckily the weather is in favor of me when I did this one on Kalim Beach.
What is your favorite destination in Thailand?
Phuket! Not just because I live here, but because this is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to visit Thailand. For families, couples or even just single travelers.
Which place / destination in Thailand is still on your wish list to visit?
Pai, a town in Mae Hong Son province in the northern part of Thailand. This place is a unique destination with beautiful nature. This place is also great for astrophotography as there is less light pollution here.
#3
April 2021 – Laem Promthep View Point on Phuket during sunset.
As always, the sunset here is breathtaking.
#4
June 2021 – Kata Beach on Phuket, in the early morning.
This is how this place looks like and one of the reasons to fall in love with this island. White sand beach, turquoise water, and a blue sky.
Which place / destination do you recommend our readers to visit and why?
The Similan islands. This place is amazing. I have not been there yet, but this place has a beautiful white sand beach and a place to snorkel.
Where do you like to eat?
Well, a very difficult question to answer, because there is a lot. But a restaurant called “Red Chair” in Kata offers a wide variety of Thai dishes that will surely please everyone.
#5
January 2021 – The Chalong Temple on Phuket.
I’m lucky enough on that day that I took this shot because there are not too many people visiting the temple. Normally this place is so crowded and full of devoted Thai; offering and praying.
#6
January 2021 – Big Buddha on Phuket.
This was taken the same day that I visited Chalong temple and it was late afternoon. The sun shines almost behind Phuket’s Big Buddha so I’ve had this idea of doing some sun flare shots.
Tip us a nice coffee shop or bar where our readers can drop by.
Again, a difficult question, for there are many. But there is a beautiful place I visited a few months ago. It is at the end of Kata Beach and is up on the hill overlooking the nearest beach, Karon Beach. The name of the place is “A Blanket and A Pillow“, a cafe with hammock and tent rentals, so you can spend the whole night in a tent. A nice experience.
What is your favorite Thai dish?
I have the top 5 on my list but I will give you the best and that is Kra Pao Moo Crob (Crispy Pork Belly with Thai Basil) with a sunny side up egg, it is so delicious and I love crispy pork.
#7
August 2015 – Bangla Road in Patong on Phuket.
This is the time where Bangla Road in Patong is full of tourists from all over the world. The street is so loud. Bars and pubs are all side by side full of people.
#8
December 2017 – Thailand.
A Thai dancer performing the Thai traditional dance, real beauty, and a magnificent demonstration of the richness of Thai culture.
What is your favorite accommodation in Thailand?
You can visit the hotel where I work, which is “Orchidacea Resort“. We have a good Trip Advisor rating and I can guarantee you that the view from our deluxe room is one of a kind.
Do you have a (travel) tip that might come in handy in Thailand?
Be mindful, respect the culture, and support local merchants and businesses when you can.
Is there a Thai phrase or word our readers need to learn?
“Mai ao ped” or “I don’t want spicy”, This would be very useful for sure lol.
#9
January 2019 – Sunset at Ao Sane Beach on Phuket.
Ae Sane Beach is one of the most peaceful beaches around Phuket, though it’s small, it’s a really good place to have some privacy and also the Ao Sane Restaurant next to it is one of the best.
#10
October 2019 – Viewpoint 1 on Koh Phi Phi.
It was the first time I visited Koh Phi Phi and stayed for two nights. Really recommended for anyone who’s planning to visit the place. Stay there for at least two nights or more.
What type / brand of camera do you use?
I use Nikon D3200 and my lenses are Nikkor 50mm 1.8G and Tokina 11-16mm DXII
Where can our readers find your work / photos?
Last question, who should we also ask our ‘In the Picture’ feature?
You can check out my cousin; Joshua Ferrer. He’s a young photography enthusiast who also lives here in Phuket. Here’s his Instagram account.
#11
November 2016 – Thailand.
This is the first time that I saw how the traditional Thai house blessings look like. Monks are praying while the owner of the house and his family members give some offerings.
#12
April 2021 – Laem Promthep Cape on Phuket.
This is one of the most memorable photos that I took. A milky way shot above Laem Promthep Cape. The most popular viewpoint here in Phuket. I woke up at 3:00 AM just for this shot.
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