Inside Thailand

AOK AlkaPod Portable Water Alkaline pH Enhancer - Ionizer Reviews , price compare | alkaline water ionizer

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 09:43:00 +0000

AOK AlkaPod Portable Water Alkaline pH Enhancer - Ionizer Reviews , price compare | alkaline water ionizer: "AOK AlkaPod Portable Water Alkaline pH Enhancer Increases the pH level and filters your drinking water The AOK AlkaPod is portable, attractive, reusable and convenient for travel, camping or everyday use.Supplies active hydrogen ions - helps eliminate active oxygen (free radicals) " Produces smooth tasting water Specifications - " Attractive Stainless Steel construction " 7.87 inches (20cm) tall x 2.75 inches (7cm) diameter " Makes approximately 2.1 Pints (.5L) " Weight - Approximately 1 lb (empty) " Filter Life appr"

Tour de Isan 2009

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 05:29:00 +0000

Tour de Isan 2009
Date : 27 June - 7 July 2009

The 2nd Annual Tour de Isan is an 11 day charity bicycle tour through the Northeast region of Thailand, known as "Isan." This event starts in the town of Nong Khai and the Thai/Laos border and then winds 800 kilometers along the mighty Mekong River to Ubon Ratchathani with some days off along the route for rest, relaxation, and sightseeing. We will take you through the emerald green rice fields of the northeast heartland and show you the beauty and ecological importance of the Mekhong River. This ride shows you where few tourists have ventured before and finishes in the city of Ubon Ratchathani during their lovely Annual Candle Festival.

All riders must raise a minimum of US$ 1000 in donations to participate in the Tour de Isan 2009.

For further information
Website : www.tourdeasia.org ,www.tourdethailand.com/tour-de-isaan.html

When Songkran Festival comes

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 02:23:00 +0000

That’s right! Songkran holidays come again this year. Where do you plan to specially celebrate this Thai traditional New Year? Have fun splashing water to one another to cool off heat during the summer then.
The word ‘Songkran’ derives from Sanskirt, meaning pacing, stepping up or moving. Songkran holidays start from April 13 to April 15.
The first day of Songran holidays is called Maha Songkran Day whereas the second day is for temporary pause from work, and the third day signifies a Thai minor era.
Songkran has been Thailand’s New Year since Sukhothai period. However, Thai New Year was set on January 1 to be in line with the international practice in 1940.
Predictions about Songkran.
Predictions vary according to what day the Songran day falls on. Various interpretations are as follows:
Sunday
Food and crops will not yield much
Monday
High-level officials and civil servants will become powerful
Tuesday
There will be lot of thieves and sickness.
Wednesday
High-level officials will benefit from overseas countries.
Thursday
It will be conquered by high-rank people and other rulers.
Friday
Crops will be fertile. Nevertheless, there will be heavy rain, storm
and eye disease.
Saturday
There will be a lot of thieves and diseases.

Thai PM Abhisit escapes from interior ministry-TV

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 02:19:00 +0000

BANGKOK, April 12 (Reuters) - Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva managed to escape from the Interior Ministry in Bangkok by car on Sunday after scores of anti-government protesters broke into the grounds, Thai television stations reported.

A Reuters reporter said soldiers had made no attempt at first to stop the protesters, supporters of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra who was ousted in a coup in 2006, but later troops fired warning shots into the air.

Shortly before, the government had announced a state of emergency in Bangkok.

About 50 protesters broke through security at the interior ministry in Bangkok while Abhisit was in the building, but the prime minister escaped by car, a TV channel said.

Reuters journalists at the scene said soldiers initially made no effort to stop the protesters from entering the building but later fired into the air to prevent more from joining them.

Red-shirted protesters were also gathering at the capital's police headquarters while a crowd at Government House had grown to over 4,000.

Supporters of ousted Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra beat up an occupant of a government vehicle after dragging him out of the car at the interior ministry in Bangkok April 12, 2009. (Reuters)

The latest unrest comes a day after protesters stormed the venue of a summit of Asian leaders, forcing the event to be cancelled and seriously undermining confidence in the government.

In a weekly address to the nation, Abhisit said arrest warrants were being drawn up for those responsible for the unrest.

Police said they had already arrested Arismun Pongreungrong, a popular singer prominent in the summit assault, and were holding him at a police station north of Bangkok.

"In the current situation, what I have to do is to bring peace to the country, bring back governance and have a process of political reform," Abhisit said.

Abhisit appeared on television to warn the Thaksin supporters to stop or face tough measures allowed under the emergency.

"We want to ask you to stop such action. It is necessary for the government to adopt the measures allowed in the emergency decree, in order to get the nation back to peace," he said in a televised statement, hours after his car was attacked.

Anti-government protesters attack Thai prime minister's secretary Niphon Prompan (Centre, stripped shirt) at the Interior Ministry in Bangkok April 12, 2009. (Reuters)

Some armoured vehicles have appeared on the streets but no action has been reported by security officers.

Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban, who oversees security matters, implored the security forces to do their job.

"Police and military officers must fully and forcefully carry out their jobs lest more damage is done. Actions must be taken promptly and order be restored as soon as possible. Your superiors and I will take responsibility for all your actions," he said in a statement on television.

"NOT A COUP"

A Reuters journalist at the Interior Ministry said soldiers initially made no effort to stop the protesters from entering the premises but later fired into the air to stop others getting in.

Some protesters had disabled the tracks of two armoured cars near police headquarters. Others danced on top of the vehicles. Witnesses also saw armoured vehicles at the foreign ministry.

An army spokesman said on television the public should not be alarmed at the movement of such vehicles. This was not a coup, but part of the security measures Abhisit has ordered, he said.

The driver of Thai prime minister's secretary Niphon Prompan is seen injured in his car after he was attacked by supporters of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra at the Interior Ministry in Bangkok April 12, 2009. (Reuters)

A demonstration at Abhisit's office, Government House -- the focus of the protests since late March -- had earlier appeared to be winding down as people left the capital ahead of the three-day Thai New Year holiday from Monday.

Up to 300 police with riot shields were about 200 metres (yards) from the site.

Leaders of the red-shirted, pro-Thaksin United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) said they had "arrested" one of the prime minister's security guards, claiming he had shot dead a protester at the ministry.

Independent witnesses saw no one shot and Abhisit's spokesman, Thepthai Senpong, dismissed it as "propaganda".

A Reuters reporter saw the man's badge, confirming he was part of Abhisit's detail. He said the guard was badly beaten up when he was brought to the Government House site where demonstrators later treated his wounds.

Speaking from a makeshift stage, UDD leader Jakrapob Penkair said the Thaksin supporters were ready to defend themselves.

"They are trying to force us into a people's war. We will bring more people to Government House because the best way to defend ourselves is with numbers," he said.

Source from Manager.co.th

Thaksin rejects talks offer

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 15:54:00 +0000

Fugitive former Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra Friday dismissed an offer by the government to hold talks, saying it was "nonsense'' and calling for an escalation of nine-day old protests.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said earlier that he was ready to negotiate with Thaksin, who was toppled in a coup in 2006, in a bid to end a blockade of the seat of government in Bangkok by Thaksin's supporters.

But Thaksin hit back by urging his loyalists to come from all over the country to a mass rally on April 8, which the so-called "Red Shirts'' say they expect hundreds of thousands of people to attend.

"The government said they want to talk. They are just talking nonsense,'' Thaksin told the protesters camped outside Government House in a video link from an undisclosed foreign location.

"I will join with the people in calling for true democracy and solving our problems once and for all. On April 8 we will repeat the people's revolution,'' he said.

He called for "as many people as possible'' to rally on the day in Bangkok or else in provincial centres if they were unable to reach the capital.

The former premier also hit out at the privy council, having accused two of its senior members last week of masterminding the coup against him.

"I ask the people... to come out en masse, to show that we really want to share a good future, otherwise the privy councillors will drag our country backwards,'' he said.

"In a few days there will be a historic change for Thailand,'' he added.

Thousands of demonstrators have gathered outside the premier's offices in the capital since March 26, demanding that Abhisit step down and call fresh elections, and forcing the cabinet to cancel its weekly meeting on Monday.

Police said about 1,500 anti-government activists remain outside the complex in the biggest rally since the prime minister took office in December on the back of a court decision that removed Thaksin's allies from power.

They said nearly 1,000 had also staged a secondary protest outside a Bangkok duty-free shop owned by a man accused of supporting their opponents.

On his return from the G20 summit in London, Abhisit echoed his deputy's earlier call for discussions with Thaksin, but ruled out an amnesty for the exiled leader who faces a jail term for corruption.

"I will tell (Thaksin) only that the government will reassure him of a fair trial but everything must proceed under the law,'' he told reporters.

"The government's standpoint is not to bargain in order to avoid future problems,'' he said.

Sukhothai , thai dance

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 08:33:00 +0000

Sukhothai , thai dance
Sukhothai Dance is an ancient dancing created from the tone appeared in Thai Stone Inscription. The movements are of gracefulness and gentleness of sculptures from Sukhothai period.
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Religious unrest in southern Thailand - 16 Nov 07

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 09:04:00 +0000

Thousands of people have lost their lives in the separatist struggle in southern Thailand. As a result, suspicion and tension has risen in the Buddhist and Muslim communities in the region. But one woman is determined to bridge the divide. Al Jazeera's David Hawkins reports.

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Thai PM Says He'll Stay Put

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 09:02:00 +0000

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Long neck Karen Hilltribe Villages in Chiang Rai,Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 16:49:00 +0000

We visited Long neck Karen hilltribe villages in Chiang Rai,Thailand.

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THAILAND WINS YET ANOTHER CHINESE TRAVEL AWARD

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 07:08:00 +0000

Thailand has been voted “The Best Destination for Leisure — Short Haul” by Chinese readers of TravelWeekly China Magazine. It is the third such award won by Thailand this year in China.
The award was presented during the gala award presentation on 14 December, 2007, at the Hilton Beijing, China. Accepting the award, Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Mrs. Phornsiri Manoharn, said, “This award belongs to the entire Thai travel and tourism industry for making Thailand such a wonderful destination for Chinese visitors.”
The “Best Destination” was judged in terms of superior product and excellent service, outstanding efforts and professionalism in catering to the needs of Chinese travellers.
Set up in 2001, Travel Weekly China is one of China’s top travel trade publications with a circulation of 85,000 travel professionals in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, as audited by BPA.
This year, Thailand has won three awards from the Chinese market:

* Top Destination for Hospitality for the 2007 World Traveller Awards by World Traveller Media (China) in December 2007;
* Promotion of the Travel Destination Award — Thailand 2007 by Travel Agent Magazine in December 2007;
* Best ADS (Approved Destination Status) — Thailand 2007 by National Geographic (Chinese language) in April 2007.

In 2006, China was the fourth largest source of international visitors, with a total 1,033,305, a market share of 7.48% of total arrivals.

Most were first-time visitors, comprising 57.48% of total Chinese visitors, or up 23.75%. Repeat visitors were up 56.18%. FIT travellers were up 42.33% while group tour visitors declined 31.11%.

With an average expenditure per person per day on 4,525 baht and an average length of stay of 5.75 days, Chinese visitors generated tourism revenue of 26,890.26 million baht for Thailand, up 31.64% over 2005.

In January-November 2007, Chinese visitor arrivals at Suvarnabhumi International Airport tabulated by nationality totalled 705,378. It is projected that they will again cross the one million mark in 2007.

As of October 2007, there are 143 direct weekly flight services linking Bangkok and 12 major Chinese cities. Chinese citizens can obtain visa-on-arrival facilities at all international airports in Thailand and stay for up to 15 days.

Contact information:
International Public Relation Division
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2253 7419
E-mail: prdiv3@tat.or.th
Web site: www.tatnews.org

Wat Doi Suthep, Chang Mai – A Not So Spiritual Journey

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 01:16:00 +0000

This topic Wat Doi Suthep, Chang Mai – A Not So Spiritual Journey is not an obscure one but we have tried to compile some fundamental points about this topic in this article.
No one judge for you and you should also not let others judge for you. You are reading this article about Wat Doi Suthep, Chang Mai – A Not So Spiritual Journey and now it is for you to judge if it is worth it or not. By Nomadrick Chapo

The Buddhist Temples in Thailand are simply impressive. This is particularly true of Wat Doi Suthep, the mountain temple outside Chang Mai.

Wat Doi Suthep

More or less located on the top of Suthep Mountain, Wat Doi Suthep is a day trip from the city. You’ll notice I didn’t write an “easy” day trip. When the Thais build a mountain temple, they’re serious about the mountain aspect.

Suthep Mountain is large as is the road winding up it. I had planned to rent a mountain bike and ride up to it early in the morning. While sitting in a beverage establishment the previous evening, the bartender had to take a minute to himself to stop laughing after revealed my plans. I wasn’t sure if this was because I was actually in the establishment or because of the road up the mountain.

The next morning I was a little less enthusiastic about my riding plans, so much so I rented a moped. Off I went and, after a few wrong turns, I was headed up the mountain. I felt a bit guilty as I passed a few people riding bikes up the hill. As I putted up the hill, I thought the exercise would have done me well. Up I went enjoying the view. And up I went and went and went. If there had been any turns off the road, I would’ve sworn I had taken a wrong turn.

It turns out the ride from Chang Mai to the Wat was something like 22 miles. All of it up hill at a grade that would get a whimper out of Tour de France rider. The people riding up the hill were definitely not professional riders. It was like watching a progression of misery. The higher you went, the more unhappy the looked.

Pulling into the parking lot for the Wat was like pulling into a disaster zone. Twenty or so bikers were sprawled out on the ground in various states of agony. Some appeared to have ridden to a soft looking spot and just fallen over. Most were saying things like, “Never again.”

I spent an hour up at Wat Doi Suthep overlooking the valley below. It is definitely worth a day trip from Chang Mai. Just don’t try to mountain bike to it. I never saw any of the wounded in the parking lot actually come into the Wat!

About the Author: Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of writing journals. Travel journals are great travel accessories and travel gifts for student travel, family vacations and adventure travel. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com for more travel articles.

No one judge for you and you should also not let others judge for you. You are reading this article about Wat Doi Suthep, Chang Mai – A Not So Spiritual Journey and now it is for you to judge if it is worth it or not.

Party-list MPs cannot move to another party:Chermsak

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:00:00 +0000

Party-list MPs cannot move to another party:Chermsak

By Manager Online

2 December 2008 18:07

AFP Photo.

December 2, 2008
Bangkok - The party-list MPs would lose their jobs and could not move to another party after their parties were disbanded, according to Chermsak Pinthong, former member of the Constitution Drafting Assembly.

       The Constitutional Court dissolved the People Power Party (PPP), Matchimathipataya Party and Chart Thai Party because of voting fraud.

       The ruling took place at the Administrative Court although some pro-government members gathered to press the Constitutional Court this morning.

       "No matter whether you are satisfied or not with the verdict, we ask you to accept it," said Chat Chonlaworn, head of the nine-judge panel.

       Chermsak said that the party-list MPs and executives of those parties should be covered by the ruling, according to the objectives of the 2007 Constitution Law.

       Previously, some party-list MPs submitted their resignations to get ready for the court's ruling.

       109 executives of the three parties were totally affected. 37 were from the PPP while 43 from Chat Thai Party and 29 from Matchimathipataya Party respectively.

       The PAD announced it would resume the protests if Chalerm Yoobamrung or Mingkwan Saengsuwan were nominated as the new premier.

       Pramon Sutheevong, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said the business sector wanted to see the setup of a new government and other political parties should be given an opportunity to form the government.

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Baiyoke Sky Hotel Bangkok

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:57:00 +0000

Baiyoke Sky Hotel Bangkok
Address: 222 Rajprarop Rd, Rajthevee, Bangkok, Thailand

Baiyoke Sky Hotel Bangkok Info

Strategically located in the heart of downtown Bangkok, the 88-storey Baiyoke Sky Hotel is Thailand's tallest. Surrounded by bustling market and entertainment attractions, this hotel is within easy walking distance of many major shopping centers such as Central World Plaza, Gaysorn Plaza and the Peninsula. The business center at this hotel features a full range of modern equipment and around-the-clock professional assistance. The hotel is also home to the highest open-air golf range in Thailand located on the 18th floor of Tower II. All of the Baiyoke Sky Hotel's 673 spacious rooms and suites are equipped with full facilities. For your reservation at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Bangkok, please select the dates of your stay and complete our secure online booking form.

Room Amenities

Air Conditioning
Bathrobes
Coffee/Tea Maker
Hair Dryer
In Room Safe
Internet Access (wireless)
Mini Bar
Non Smoking Rooms
Satellite/Cable TV
Television

Facilities

Bar/Pub
Business Center
Coffee Shop
Meeting Facilities
Restaurant
Safety Deposit Boxes
Salon
Shops
Tours

Sports and Recreation

Gym/Fitness Facilities
Massage
Sauna
Spa

More Information please visit to Baiyoke Sky Hotel Bangkok

Thai crocs feel bite as financial woes dull taste for luxury goods

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:16:00 +0000

Thai crocs feel bite as financial woes dull taste for luxury goods

By Manager Online

29 October 2008 15:41

AFP Photo.

October 29, 2008
SAMUT PRAKAN, Thailand (AFP) - At the Elite Thai Leather factory in Bangkok, craftsman contort tough Thai crocodile hides into any style of luxury handbag a fashion designer wants.

Bright blue handbags made from the dyed rough hide with the intact crocodile head transformed into a clasp are a huge hit in Asia, while Europeans prefer their accessories made from the smoother skin from the reptile's belly.

Luckily for all but the reptile itself, the ridge-headed, smooth-bellied Siamese crocodile meets both those needs and has helped send the Thai reptile hide industry rocketing.

But despite its many qualities, even the tough-skinned Thai croc is not immune to the global financial slowdown, which has seen stock markets around the world plummet as consumers tighten their purse strings.

Last year, Elite Thai Leather earned about 10 million baht (293,000 dollars) selling exotic leather products, said president Panotkorn Usaiphan.

Until late summer, the company's plans to earn the same this year seemed on target, he said, with orders between January and August "normal".

But exports began to fall in September and October.

As demand drops for crocodile handbags, shoes and even the meat of the reptile, those who raise the raw material are starting to feel the bite of a looming global recession.

"My product is luxurious goods, so the global financial crisis has already affected my business for the past three to four months," says Arporn Samakit, of Sriracha Crocodile Farm, which exports about 3,600 croc skins each year.

"My total sales in local and foreign markets have dropped to six to seven million baht per month, down from ten million baht per month. Next year is not likely to get better," she told AFP.

David Chiu, Thai Leathergoods Association president, said he expected all leather exports to drop up to ten percent next year on the back of financial woes.

But although the credit crunch is prompting people to strike luxury handbags from their shopping lists, Kanya Amorntheerakul of Thailand's Department of Export Promotion says the industry can adapt.

"Europe is down, but we try to gear for new markets," she said, citing fast-growing India and China as possible new customer bases.

Between 2002-2006, Thailand's yearly exports of live Siamese crocodiles more than doubled, while exports of skins rose to 31,983, from 3,795, according to the United Nations Environment Programme's conservation monitoring centre.

Exports of the animal's meat -- an increasingly popular exotic treat -- rose to nearly 400 tonnes in 2006, from about 25 tonnes (55,000 pounds) in 2002.

Thailand has also managed to turn crocodiles into a comprehensive industry, starting at the farms that have been turned into tourist attractions.

At the Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm and Zoo about 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) from Bangkok, tourists are entertained by musclemen who wrestle crocodiles to a thumping rock and roll backbeat.

Just beyond the shows and trolley tours are some 60,000 crocs destined to become belts, bags and steaks. Indeed, Panotkorn's bright blue crocodile skin handbag once sunned itself in the enclosure of the Samut Prakarn farm.

Although other crocodiles are reared in Thailand, the Siamese species accounts for 87 percent of the kingdom's crocodile skin exports and all of its crocodile meat exports.

Before being transformed into a handbag or a belt, the Siamese crocodile is dark olive green dappled with black, three metres (about 10 feet) long, smaller and more docile than the saltwater variety also native to Thailand.

Almost extinct in the wild and featured in only a few zoos around the world, the Siamese is almost exclusively found in the hundreds of small crocodile farms that dot the Mekong river.

The farms range from tiny, illegal family-owned operations to the sprawling Samut Prakan Zoo.

The Siamese crocodile is also, apparently, tasty and healthy, and is often sold for novelty appeal in Europe and America.

Fancy restaurants offer the reptile as an alternative to beef and several online companies offer Thai crocodile alongside zebra, springbok, kangaroo and other exotic edibles.

"Crocodile meat is delicious -- no fat, no cholesterol," said Arporn.

One British company charges 15 pounds (nearly 26 dollars) for a 290-gram (10.2-ounce) can of Thai-made crocodile curry -- and it is this sort of luxury that Thailand's crocodile trade is hoping can endure the financial crisis.

More than 400 Thais flee Cambodia after border clashes: official

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:02:00 +0000

BANGKOK (AFP) - More than 400 Thais have fled Cambodia after a deadly border clash between troops from the two countries, a Thai foreign ministry spokesman said Thursday.

No official evacuation plan is in place, but the ministry has urged all Thais not on urgent business to come home. Spokesman Tharit Charungvat said that 432 of about 1,500 Thais in Cambodia have so far heeded the warning.

"We have convinced them to return on a Thai Airways flight," Tharit said, adding that they arrived home on Wednesday.

Military transport planes remain on stand-by in case an evacuation plan needs to be implemented, he added.

Two Cambodian soldiers were killed and a handful from each side wounded Wednesday after a three-month dispute over patches of land near Cambodia's ancient Preah Vihear temple boiled over into gunfights.

Senior military officials from both sides are due Thursday to sit down and try and ease tensions, but there are fears in the Cambodian capital of a repeat of anti-Thai riots that broke out in January 2003.

A dispute over ownership over another temple sparked a night of riots in Phnom Penh that saw Thailand's embassy and several Thai-owned businesses burned and looted, prompting Thai military planes to fly in to rescue their nationals.

Cambodia and Thailand have until recently enjoyed good relations, with many Thai businesses investing in the neighbouring country as economic growth there reaches double digits.

By Manager Online

Buffalo Racing in Chonburi

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:51:00 +0000

You could be forgiven for thinking that a domesticated buffalo is not built for sprinting, but in Chonburi town, the gateway to resorts along the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, farmers have managed to tweak a turn of speed from these working animals that is nothing short of amazing.

The annual Buffalo races, 13 October, are a hotly contested series of sprints across on an open space in front of the town’s municipal offices.
Tourists and the town’s residents turn out for these amazing races that have been featured in the past on CNN and the BBC as a must-see event.

The races are taken very seriously by the owners of the buffaloes. Prizes for the first nose past the finishing line guarantee owners go to considerable lengths to ensure their buffaloes are in tip-top condition.
Clouds of dust rise as these hefty animals pound down the short course at an alarming speed, reminiscent of a stampede. The crowd roars in support of the favourites and the atmosphere is as an enthralling as watching thoroughbred race horses.
Admittedly, mites slower than a race horse, but the buffaloes are no slouches when it comes to making a short dash for glory.

Although this day of fun and competition would succeed with just the buffaloes as the celebrities, there are other activities to make it a worthwhile outing for families.
A fair with food stalls and handicrafts appeals to visitors who love authentic Thai food, snacks and sweets. Then there are the rides for children, concerts of folk music and, of course, a beauty contest where the prize is the honour of being declared Miss Buffalo.
Not exactly the most adhering of titles for an aspiring beauty queen, but it does not seem to deter contestants from seeking the limelight of the catwalk.
Here is a festival that provides photo opportunities to capture an unusual adaptation of the 100-metre dash. Well worth seeing, is always the conclusion of those who make the effort to travel to Chonburi.

If the more traditional version of four-legged races is more appealing then the venue should be the Horse Show, 23 October at the Sanctuary of Truth, also in Chonburi province, on the outskirts of Pattaya The show is organised to commemorate the reign of King Rama V, the Great, on a day set aside as a national holiday to honour a ruler who initiated many of the developments that ultimately encouraged the economic and social transformation of the nation.

THAI board orders probe into captains’ strike against PPP MPs

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:47:00 +0000

THAI board orders probe into captains’ strike against PPP MPs

By Manager Online

8 October 2008 12:33

MGR Photo.

October 8, 2008
Bangkok - Thai Airways International board is gearing up to examine whether the Thai Airways captains refused to allow the PPP MPs get on board.

This morning, PPP Surin MP Farida Sulaiman was about to take the Don Muang-Surin flight to go back to her hometown.

She said the flight’s captain closed the plane’s door to show protest against the PPP MP.
It was reported the captain announced that he did not welcome the tyrant, PPP MPs and politicians who harmed people. He emphasized he would not welcome all those people forever.
Another captain and pilot later refused to allow PPP Nong Bua Lamphu MP Chaiya Promma and Nongkhai MP Chomphu Chanthathong be on board.
Both MPs were to fly from Don Muang to Udon Thani.
Thai Airways union issued its urgent statement, saying the union did not order those captains to act against the PPP MPs. The union confirmed the captains were entitled to make such decision.
So far, nearly 400 people have been injured and three were dead due to clashes between the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) protesters and police.

Believing history will not repeat itself after Chamlong’s arrest

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:42:00 +0000

Believing history will not repeat itself after Chamlong’s arrest

By Manager Online

6 October 2008 13:35

AFP Photo.

October 6, 2008
Bangkok - Defence ministry’s permanent secretary Gen Apichart Penkitti expressed his concern over Maj Gen Chamlong Srimuang’s arrest, saying the incident would not lead to violence like the May uprising in 1992.

Chamlong, one of the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) leaders, were arrested yesterday after casting his vote on Bangkok Governor candidate.

Gen Apichart said there would not be violence as soldiers were neutral.

Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat called army chief Gen Anupong Paochinda to show his concern about the incident.

Deputy Prime Minister Gen Chavalit Yongchaiyudh said he would go ahead sending his men to negotiate with the PAD demonstrators.

Pipob Thongchai, one of the PAD leaders, said the arrest of Chaiwat Sinsuwong and Maj Gen Chamlong Srimuang led to the review of the negotiation with the government.

The PAD leaders would wait to see the result of the Appeals Court’s verdict at 2:00 pm today before announcing their standpoint to the protesters this evening.

Peerapol Trithasavit, permanent secretary of the interior ministry, urged governors in each province to explain to people, so that they would not come to join the PAD rally in Bangkok.

HOT DEALS ALL AROUND In Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:28:00 +0000

Centara Chaan Talay Resort & Villas Trat
"Hot Deal" is priced from 1,530 baht per night, not inclusive of breakfast or any other meals, and available until October 31 only for bookings made online via http://www.centarahotelsresorts.com.
For more information, call 02-101-1234 ext 1.
Novotel Bangkok
"Six Signatures of Sleep" comes with special bedding and pillows and available until December 31. The package includes one-way limousine transfer, a night's accommodation with American breakfast, Internet access, 20 per cent discount on F&B and late check-out until 3pm.
Advance booking is required and payment must be made by credit card. For more information, call 02-209-8888 or email hotel@novotelbkk.com.
Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai
"Heavenly Honeymoon" is a three-night package with accommodation in a Deluxe Spa Room, buffet breakfast, round-trip airport transfer, one candlelit dinner in-room with a bottle of sparkling wine and strawberries, bathrobes and four hours and 40 minutes spa treatment for both persons.

The package is priced at 54,400 baht and valid until December 31. For more information, call 053-253-888.
Paradee Resort, Ko Samet, Rayong
"Revival Package" is priced at 57,250 baht per person. It includes three-night accommodation in a beachfront Pool Villa, breakfast and afternoon tea, a massage and candlelit seafood dinner with a bottle of Veuve Cliquot champagne and round-trip transfer by speed boat.
The offer is valid until October 31. For more information, call 02-438-9771 or email reservation@paradeeresort.com.
Sukhothai Bangkok
The property on Sathon Road is offering 90 minutes of Balinese Boreh spice treatment for an introductory price of 3,900 baht until October 31.
The treatment begins with a massage merging the best traditional pressure techniques from the East and West. The body is then brushed and wrapped with warm spice ingredients such as ginger, cinnamon to improve blood circulation, followed by a massage. For more information, call 02-344-8900 or email spabotanica@sukhothai.com.
City Hotel, Sing Buri
Located downtown on Highway 311 that connects Sing Buri and Lop Buri, the property provides rooms with air-con, TV and cold shower priced at 300 baht per night. For more information, call 036-511-189, 036-512-254.
Marriott Resorts & Spas
The "Exclusive Thai Residents Package" is available at properties in Bangkok, Pattaya and Hua Hin until October 31 and applicable to Thai citizens and resident expatriates only. Benefits include a night's accommodation with American breakfast for two persons, and priced at 3,900 baht net a night at Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa, 3,800 baht net at Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa and 3,600 baht net per person at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa.
For more information, email reservemarriott@minornet.com or call 02-477-0755; web site: http://www.marriott.com.
Westin Grande, Bangkok
Located on Sukhumvit Road, it is offering a one-night package priced at 5,800 baht with deluxe accommodation for two persons, buffet breakfast and late check-out until 4pm. The package is valid until November 30 and a minimum two nights stay is required.
For more information, call 02-207-8000 ext 8340 to 8342 or visit its web site at http://www.westin.com/bangkok.
Chaophya Park Hotel, Bangkok
"Explore Bangkok" is priced at 3,500 baht per night for single and 4,500 baht for double occupancy. Benefits include accommodation in a Business Deluxe Room with breakfast and dinner, use of high-speed broadband Internet, all-day tea and coffee, a choice of daily newspapers and a day-long subway pass. The offer is available until January 1, 2009.
Ban Suan Klang Muang Resort, Mae Hong Son
This modest resort only has eight guest rooms in a quiet corner downtown. Air-con rooms are priced at 650 baht and those with fan 400 baht per night. For more information, call 053-612-477.
3Sis Bed and Breakfast, Chiang Mai
This family-run B&B is situated downtown. All its nine guest rooms with private bath come with air-con, refrigerator, satellite TV and access to wireless Internet throughout the property. Single rooms are priced at 1,000 baht per night and twin rooms 1,300 baht and include breakfast.
For more information, visit http://www.3sisbedandbreakfast.com or call 053-273-243.
Rates quoted do not include service charges or VAT, unless noted. Offers such as room upgrades and late check-out are usually subject to availability.
Source from www.bangkokpost.com

Myanmar, Thailand to combat trans-border animal diseases

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:44:00 +0000

YANGON, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar and Thailand will cooperate in combating trans-border animal diseases along their borders under a sub-regional economic cooperation strategy program, the leading local weekly Yangon Times reported Wednesday.
Under the Ayeyawaddy-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS) program, tasks relating to development of livestock breeding in villages along the Myanmar-Thai border and joint combating of trans-border animal diseases by the two countries will be implemented starting November this year under a three-year project until attainment of such a status that animals free from diseases can be traded safely, the Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department (LBVD) was quoted as saying.

As a preparatory move, a Thai delegation from the Animal Development Department had made a study trip to some Myanmar border towns last month, making arrangements to establish animal quarantine laboratories in areas such as Tachilek-Maesai, Myawaddy- Maesot and Kawthoung-Ranong to fight trans-border animal diseases under the ACMECS program.
The Myanmar side is to offer building and health workers, while the Thai side is to provide technical knowhow and materials, reports said.
Myanmar has been placing emphasis on control of trans-border animal diseases, introducing similar animal quarantine laboratories in border trading areas with other neighboring countries.
Under an agreement between the LBVD of Myanmar and the Agriculture Department of China's Yunnan Province reached in 2006, animal quarantine labs in border trading areas such as Muse, Lashio, Kengtung and Myitkyina are being built.
These labs will help transfer information speedily and test the safety of live animals and animal byproducts intended for export and import through border trade, experts said.
In December 2007, under an agreement signed between the LBVD and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the latter will provide aid worth of 102 million Japanese yens (about 829,000 U.S. dollars) to Myanmar to help it fight five animal diseases including avian influenza by setting up laboratories, exchanging information and conducting refresher courses for the diseases control.
Earlier in late 2003, Myanmar, Thailand and Malaysia signed a trilateral memorandum of understanding to help Myanmar fight foot and mouth diseases by setting up five free zones of the diseases in order to boost trade in hoofed animals and their products between Myanmar and the two countries. Enditem
Source - Xinhua News Agency (Eng)

25 provinces on high alert

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:08:00 +0000

Meteorological Dept warns of more rains, floods in coming days
Khao Yai National Park in Prachin Buri yesterday stopped people from going to waterfalls or forest trekking for fear of landslides triggered by downpours.
Park chief Narong Mahannop said heavy rains and flooding in much of the park had forced it to issue the warning.
Meanwhile, Ayutthaya declared all districts flood risks as water in the Rama VI Dam continued to rise.
In Ban Mor, Saraburi, a girl is missing, while two boys were rescued from torrents in a canal.
In Wang Thong, Phitsanulok, 100 millimetres of rain flooded buildings, including a women's prison.
Residents of Noen Maprang evacuated to a local temple, fearing a recurrence of 2007 flooding.

Heavy downpours in Lop Buri caused floods that affected 23,500 families in Muang, Khok Charoen, Chai Badan, Nong Muang, Ban Mi
and Sa Bot districts. They have been declared disaster zones.
Some 3,000 houses in Ban Mi were submerged. Irrigation workers have delivered 20 pumps to help drain floodwaters.
The floods might also force Muang district schools to close tomorrow.
Forest floods from the Khao Khor range hit some 200 homes in Phetchabun's Muang district. A 700-metre stretch of Highway 21 was
impassable.
In Nakhon Ratchasima, residents of some 200 flood-hit homes in Muang district were still waiting for food and drinking water.
The Loei River is about to break its banks and riverside villages are on 24-hour alert.
The Meteorological Department warned of more rains and flooding in the next two days over most of the country.
It said Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Tak, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phetchabun, Loei, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Lop Buri, Sara Buri, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chanthaburi and Trat were at particular risk.
Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com

THIS BEEMER IS NOT MUCH OF A GUZZLER

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:25:00 +0000

New diesel unit makes the 520d more powerful and efficient, and quieter too
BMW's new 2-litre diesel engine, first introduced in the X3 and 3-Series, is also now available in the 5-series.
The new third-generation common-rail power unit, the first of its kind in the Thai market, has been dramatically altered for increased output and torque while fuel economy has improved by as much as 10 per cent, thanks to piezo in jectors that boast an enormous fuel pressue of 1,800 bars. This means that the fuel particles are finer and are able to mix well with the air in the combustion chamber.
The new engine is also quieter and emits a lower amount of carbon dioxide, BMW said.

The 1,995cc four-cyliner engine now produces 177 horsepower at 4,000rpm (up from 163ph at the same engine speed) and 350Nm of torque from 1,750rpm tp 3,000rpm (up from 340Nm at 2,000rpm) and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission featuring a good-looking electronic gearshift.
BMW said the new gearbox comes with upgraded hydraulics, innovative torque converter and powerful management software that offers a more spontaneous response. The extremely fast and efficient, gearshift results in reaction times that are 40 per cent faster, with the actual gearshift time almost halved. Shifting back a gear is now just as fast, too, thanks to the direct gear-path finder.
Acceleration from zero to 100kph is touted to be 8.4 seconds (down from 8.6 seconds) and the top speed is 226kph (up from 223kph).

Average fuel comsumption is now only 16.4kilometres per litre (compared to 14.5kpl using the previous engine). If driven sparingly, the 520d can now travel up to 1,150km with a tank of fuel.
Driving the 520s is fun with the crisp steering offering tidy handing while the suspension offers plenty of grip. Response from the engine is instaneous, allowing you to exit corners faster than a petrol-powered 5-Series.
Inside the cabin, the noise level is so low that you can mistake it for a petrol-powere car. Apart from the improvement to the nengine itself, noise-absorption materials used in the 520d do a great job.
Brakes, antilock-braking system-governed discs with brake-assist are top notch and offer plenty of bite.
Apart from the new engine, there are a large numbe rof upgrades such as the cruise-control system, Bluetooth mobile-phone connection and smart-entry system, which unlocks doors automatically and allows keyless ignition.
The steering wheel featured "shortcut" buttons so you do not have to use the iDrive controller everytime to perform your "favourite" functions.
Other features include rain sensor, onboard computer, automatic climate control and park-distance control with audio visual display via the monitor screen.
The benefits of the BMW diesel technology have become more obvious on the 520d. With a nifty list of accessories, BMW has raided the bar making the 520d a highly attractive mid-sized luxury car that is also reasonably cheap to run. If you do not mind the bland styling, that is.
AT A GLANCE
Engine: Four-cylinder DOHC 16-value common-rail diesel
Displacemtn: 1.995cc
Max power: 177hp @ 4,000rpm
Max torque: 350nm @ 1.750-3,000rpm.
Tranmission: Six-speed auto
Suspension (f/r): Spring strut/multi-link
Fuel-tank capacity: 70 litres
Average fuel economy: 16.4kpl
Price: Bt3.69 million
Distributor: BMW Group Thailand
Caption
DRIVING the 520d is fun with the crisp steering offering tidy handing.
Source:
KINGSLEY WIJAYASINHA
THE NATION

Surat Thani Tourist Attractions

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:30:00 +0000

Surat Thani once formed part, and may have been the centre of the Mahayana Buddhist, Srivijaya Empire which, steeped in legend and mystery, dominated the Malay peninsula and much of Java some 1,500 years ago. Srivijaya was best described by the itinerant Chinese monk I Ching after a pilgrimage he made to India during the late 600s. Archaeological discoveries at Chaiya indicate the former empire's splendour.
Festival and Event on Surat Thani
Chak Phra Festival
Chak Phra FestivalThis festival is held in October every year. Surat Thani celebrates the official end of the annual 3-month Buddhist Rains retreat (Phansa) with the Chak Phra Festival (literally ?the procession of hauling the Buddha image'). The tradition stems from the belief that the Buddha ascended to Heaven during Phansa to preach to his mother. The festival marks the Buddha's return to Earth, and is an occasion for religious merit-making and general celebrations. Local people organise dazzling land and waterborne processions of revered Buddha images (to symbolise the Buddha's return to Earth) and boat races on the Tapi River where long boats, each manned by up to 50 oarsmen, are ebulliently raced. Religious devotion, spectacle and merriment combine to make Surat Thani's Chak Phra Festival a memorable annual event.
Rambutan Fair
ngo-rong-rianThis annual fair is held in August. The first rambutan tree was planted in Surat Thani in 1926, and this fair celebrates the delicious fruit, which now grows widely in the area. Highlights include exhibitions of local products and ornamental plants, floats adorned with rambutan and other fruits, and deminstrations of trained monkeys who harvest coconuts.
Travel Attention
Phra Boromathat Chaiya
Phra Boromathat ChaiyaAn ancient pagoda, located in Wat Phra Boromathat Chaiya, Amphoe Chaiya, housing Lord Buddha relics. The structure is believed to be constructed during the Sivichaya period over 1,200 years ago.
Chaiya National Museum

Located at Wat Phra Boromathat Chaiya, Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Chaiya. It is a historical and archaeological museum. The first building puts on exhibition stone and bronze sculptures discovered in the ancient city of Chaiya, for example, sculptures of the God Vishnu and Bohdisattva Avalokitesvara. The second building exhibits artifacts of protohistoric down to historic periods from Dvaravati, Srivijaya, Lop Buri, Sukhothai to Ayutthaya. Art objects and several other crafts are also displayed here. Chaiya National Museum is open daily between 09.00-16.00 hrs. except for Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is 10 Baht each.
Suan Mokkha Phalaram
This is otherwise known as Wat Than Nam Lai (Monastery of Flowing Water), a monastic community located in a beautiful and peaceful natural park where Buddhists go for meditation practice. There are several teaching pavilions which many paintings and poems illustrating moral teachings known in Thai as "Entertainment Houses for the Soul".

Khao Thaphet Wildlife and Nature Education Station
Phra That Khao Thaphet or Phra That Si SuratLocated some 6 kms. from town along the Surat - Nasan Road, highway no. 4009 and covers 1,162 acres. The station houses many caged wild animals. The hilltop, some 210 meters above sea level, offers panoramic views of Ban Don municipality, the Tapi River and Ban Don Bay. On Khao Thaphet is also located the stupa named Phra That Si Surat or locally known as Phra That Khao Thaphet which houses Buddha relics donated by the Indian government some 30 years ago.

Oyster Farms
Are found around the estuarine areas of the Kradae and Tha Thong Rivers, in Amphoe Kanchanadit. Oyster Bred there are substantially larger than those found elsewhere. To visit the farms is by hiring boats from Tha Thong quayside for some 30 minutes.
Ratchprapha or Chieo Lan Dam
Moo Ban Phumriang
Some 6 kilometers east of Chaiya, is an arts and crafts centre well known for its gold and silver brocade silk cloth and jute headwear.

Monkey SchoolsMonkey Schools
The schools where monkeys are trained to pick coconuts, there are 2 places: one is located in Amphoe Kanchanadit, some 13 kms. from Surat Thani along Highway No. 401 and another one is at Ban Khlong Sai, Amphoe Tha Chang, some 35 kms. along Highway No. 41. Visitors are advised to check with local travel agents for full details.

Bhumibol International Mountain Bike Championships 2008

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 05:40:00 +0000

HUMIBOL DAM INVITATION INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN BIKE CHAMPIONSHIP 2008
At Bhumibol Dam, Tak Province
23 - 24 AUGUST 2008
Bhumibol Dam in Tak province will be hosting the Bhumibol Dam Invitation International Mountain Bike Championships for the fourth consecutive year on August 23 – 24, 2008. Noted for its scenic landscape, Bhumibol Dam provides an ideal setting for the mountain bike races.
The event is being jointly organized by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in cooperation with the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and Bhumibol Dam to promote ecotourism in tandem with outdoor sports at both a national and international level.

ACTIVITIES :
1. Sweat Mountain Bike (60 km.) on 23 Aug.
start 08.00 hr. Tak Province - Bhumibol Dam
2. Family Bike (16 km.) on 23 Aug.
start 13.00 hr. Bhumibol Dam
3. Funny Bike (10 Km.) on 23 Aug.
start 14.00 hr. Bhumibol Dam
4. Conqueror Bike (5 km.) 0o 23 Aug.
5. International Mountain Bike (39 km.) on 24 Aug.
start 09.00 hr. Bhumibol Dam
6. Amateur Bike (24 km.) on 24 Aug.
start 09.30 hr Bhumibol Dam
Other activities :
- Funny bike (sightseeing around Bhumibol Dam)
- Bike equipment shops (special price)
- OTOP products of Tak Province
- Flok music by Bhumibol Dam youth club. (evening)
- Youth activities for environ mental prootection and global warming concerns.

Contact information :
- TAT Call Center: 1672
- Events Promotion Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Tel. 66-2250-5500 ext. 3495-8
- TAT Tak, Tel. 66-5551-4341-3 E-mail: tattak@tat.or.th
- Public Relations Department, The Electricity Generation Authority of Thailand
Tel. 66-2436-4822, 66-2436-7864
- Reservation Department, Bhimibol Dam
Tel. 66-5554-9509, 66-5559-9093-7 ext. 4001, 4002
- www.bhumiboldam.egat.com, www.tourismthailand.org

The International Wax Sculpture Ubon Ratchathani Province

noreply@blogger.com (155cafe) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 15:19:00 +0000

The International wax sculpture
At Ubon Ratchathani Province
1 - 31 July 2008

Week 1 : 1 - 6 July 2008 "Visit the Artisan Community"
Activities
- Opening the 3rd International Wax Sculpture
- Visit to candle crafting communities and learn the insights into an ancient artistic
tradition and local culture.
- Gathering of art students from all art institute in Thailand.
- Activity "I-san Tourism Year"
- Start of wax sculptures by International artists.
- Displays of local flags, performances, pottery, etc.

Week 2 : 7 - 13 July 2008 "Global Cooling by Wax Sculpture"
Activities
- Wax sculpture made by representatives of 9 countries from Germany, China,
Japan, Turkey, Mexico, Ukrain, Luxembourg, Italy and India including
Ubon Rachathani local artist, work under concept "Global Cooling @ Thailand"
at Ubon Ratchathani National Museum.
Week 3 : 14 - 20 July 2008 "A Touch of Buddhism And Arts"
Activities
- 18 July 2008, The Buddhist Lenten Candle Procession parade.
- Wax Sculpture by International Young Artists from the Greater Mekong Subregion
: China, Myanmar, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand.
- Enjoy light and sound Show, Miss candle beauty contest.
Broadcasting via www.tourismthailand.org on 18 July 2008

Week 4-5 : 21 - 31 July 2008 "Wisdom on Buddhism Land"
Activities
- Display of the Buddhist Lent Candle created by Ubon Ratchathani’s local artist
- Presentations of I-san flok performances and various kinds of food.
- Exhibition of 10 masterpieces created by 9 international artists plus 1 local artist at
the Ubon Rachathani National Museum. The exhibition will be until 31 July 2008.
- Melting the Candle Cerenony ; "Back to Emptiness" on 31 July 2008

For any further information
- TAT Northeastern Office : Region 2
Tel. : 0 4524 3770-1, Fax. 0 4524 3771
Email : tatubon@tat.or.th
- Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Tel : 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3475-77
Email : eprodiv@tat.or.th
- TAT call center 1672
- Website : www.thailandwaxcraving.com
-www.tourismthailand.org