Road Map In Thailand

Yi Peng Festival

2010-11-19T11:18:00.001+07:00

The activities include a procession and Yi Peng Khom Contest as well as various Krathong designing contests. Lanterns will be posed and decorated around the temples and houses. Arches will also be set up. In addition, various fun fests will be arranged to participate in; for example, Lanna cultural performances, light and sound presentation, boat racing on the Ping River, and floating of Krathongs.

2010-11-19T11:15:00.002+07:00

Although the holiday of Loy Krathong is now celebrated throughout the kingdom, Loy Krathong originated in Sukhothai, the first Thai capital. While particularly popular with couples who head down to any nearby body of water to light the candles and incense on their floating Krathongs, visitors can best appreciate Loy Krathong by heading to the ancient capital of Sukhothai, where the holiday was first celebrated. Highlights of the Sukhothai Loy Krathong celebration include displays of lighted candles and fireworks, folk dancing and a spectacular light & sound presentation.At the Sukhothai Loy Krathong festival, visitors will be dazzled by the float procession of large krathong from 17 Northern provinces. The procession will consist of krathongs from government agencies, state enterprises, private sectors, and the general public. There are also a Krathong design contest, the Miss Noppamas Beauty Contest, and Sukhothai arts and culture performances.

2010-11-19T11:15:00.001+07:00

Loy Krathong is a festival which occurs on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, a date which usually falls in November.Loy means to float and a Krathong is a small, hand-made “boat” or “raft” traditionally made from the leaves or bark of a banana tree and decorated with origami-esque banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense sticks. In modern days, Krathongs are often made of specially baked bread, so the Krathongs are biodegradable, although many use styrofoam. Many Thais believe that celebrating Loy Krathong by offering a krathong to the Water Goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha, will bring them good luck, particularly for couples, who will go to launch Krathongs together: a particularly auspicious event if the couple crafts their own krathong, although it is more common in modern days to simply buy krathongs from vendors near the water.During the night of the full moon, many people will light their candles and incense and celebrate Loy Krathong by releasing their floating offering on a river or other body of water. Governmental offices, corporations, and other large groups will collaborate on larger, more elaborate rafts, which are often judged in contests. Loy Krathong celebrations also typically feature fireworks displays and beauty contests.These beauty contests are known as Noppamas Queen Contests, named after Noppamas, a consort of the King of Sukothai in the 14th century, who is thought to be the first to float decorated krathongs. Consequently, the tradition of Loy Kratong is believed to have begun in Sukhothai, although it is now celebrated throughout Thailand, with the festivities in Chiang Mai and Ayutthaya the most popular.In Chiang Mai the Loy Krathong holiday is called Yi Peng. In addition to the krathongs floated in the waters around Chiang Mai, thousands of Lanna-style sky lanterns (khom fai) are released into the sky, part of the lantern oriented Lanna belief in their symbolically auspicious flames.

Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair 2009

2009-12-04T21:47:00.002+07:00

Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair 2009”

Miss Chutathip Chareonlarp, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office said that, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, in cooperation with the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Administrative Organization, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Municipality, Fine Arts Department, TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office, and relevant public and private agencies, will arrange the “Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair 2009”, during 11-20 December, 2009, at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park to celebrate the occasion that the UN World Heritage Committee announced the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park as a Cultural World Heritage Site in 1991.

In this event, there will be many interesting activities. Firstly, the Lord Buddha relics at Chao Sam Phraya National Museum for the public to pay respect. Furthermore, there will be exhibitions and booths to sell OTOP products and well-known goods from 16 districts. Visitors can see an aqricultural exhibition, flowering and decorative plants, and attend a food fair. The Community and Village Leaders’ Thai Country Song Singing Contest, floating market activities, cultural performances, Thida Krungkao Contest, Red Cross booths, as well as buying a Red Cross lottery for donation, are also some other features of this event.

Vistors should NOT MISS to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient people’s way of life in the imitation marketplace of the Ayutthaya Period and use a replica of an ancient coin, Phot Duang, to exchange for food and desserts. Admire the light and sound performance, “Krung Si Ayutthaya : The Great Kings” (15 rounds; 10 days 10 nights). The opening ceremony will be arranged on Friday,11 December, 2009. The ticket costs 200 baht and 500 baht.

TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office would like to invite tourists to visit the “Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair 2008”. For further information, please contact TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office at Tel: 0 3524 6076-7 or the Provincial Administration Office (Chief of Finance and Accounting Group) at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya City Hall, 2nd Floor, Four-storeyed Building, Tel: 0 3533 6563.

Click Here For : Schedules of the Light and Sound Performance & Tour Programme of the World Heritage Site, Ancient Market, and Light and Sound Performance “Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair 2551”

เชิญชมเทศกาลบอลลูนนานาชาติ ตื่นตาทั่วน่านฟ้าเมืองมรดกโลกอยุธยา

2009-12-04T21:40:00.003+07:00

เทศกาลบอลลูนนานาชาติ ตื่นตาทั่วน่านฟ้าเมืองมรดกโลกอยุธยาบริษัท เอิร์ท วินด์ แอนด์ ไฟร์ จำกัด ร่วมกับ กระทรวงวัฒนธรรม กรมศิลปากร การท่องเที่ยวแห่งประเทศไทย และจังหวัดพระนครศรีอยุธยา พร้อมด้วยองค์กรผู้สนับสนุนจากทั้งภาครัฐและเอกชนเตรียมจัดงาน “เทศกาลบอลลูนนานาชาติประเทศไทย ครั้งที่ 3” หรือ Thailand in ternational Balloon Festival 2009 (TIBF 2009) ระหว่างวันที่ 3 - 6 ธันวาคมนี้ ณ วัดช้างและวัดมเหยงคณ์ ในบริเวณอุทยานประวัติศาสตร์พระนครศรีอยุธยา เพื่อเผยแพร่ความงดงามและความยิ่งใหญ่ของโบราณสถานมรดกโลกต่อสายตานานาชาติจากมุมสูงเป็นครั้งแรกของโลก พร้อมส่งเสริมการท่องเที่ยวและเศรษฐกิจเชิงสร้างสรรค์ของประเทศงานแถลงข่าวซึ่งจัดขึ้นวันนี้ (17 พฤศจิกายน 2552) ที่โรงแรม S 31 สุขุมวิท ได้รับเกียรติจากรัฐมนตรีว่าการกระทรวงวัฒนธรรม นายธีระ สลักเพชร ปลัดกระทรวงวัฒนธรรม นายวีระ โรจน์พจนรัตน์ อธิบดีกรมศิลปากร นายเกรียงไกร สัมปัชชลิต และผู้ว่าราชการจังหวัดพระนครศรีอยุธยา นายวิทยา ผิวผ่อง พร้อมด้วยนาวาอากาศเอกวีระยุทธ ดิษยะศริน อุปนายกสมาคมกีฬาทางอากาศและการบินแห่งประเทศไทยในพระบรมราชูปถัมภ์ นายจุตินันท์ ภิรมย์ภักดี รองกรรมการผู้จัดการใหญ่ บริษัท สิงห์ คอร์เปอเรชั่น จำกัด และนายยุทธ วาณิชชานนท์ นักบินบอลลูนอากาศร้อนคนแรกของไทย ผู้ริเริ่มเทศกาล เป็นผู้ร่วมแถลง โดยมีแขกผู้มีเกียรติผู้แทนจากองค์กรที่ให้การสนับสนุนโครงการ และสื่อมวลชนจำนวนมากเข้าร่วมงาน

ฐมนตรีว่าการกระทรวงวัฒนธรรม เปิดเผยว่า “ปัจจุบันกระทรวงวัฒนธรรมได้เร่งดำเนินการส่งเสริมโครงการที่ผสานความโดดเด่นทางด้านศิลปวัฒนธรรมและภูมิปัญญาของชาติเข้ากับแนวคิดเศรษฐกิจเชิงสร้างสรรค์ ภายใต้นโยบายไทยเข้มแข็งของรัฐบาล โดยเทศกาลบอลลูนนานาชาติประเทศไทย ครั้งที่ 3 หรือ Thailand International Balloon Festival 2009 นี้ ก็เป็นอีกหนึ่งโครงการที่เราได้ให้การสนับสนุนโดยหวังจะให้เกิดประโยชน์สูงสุด ทั้งในด้านการกระตุ้นเศรษฐกิจและการท่องเที่ยว รวมถึงการเผยแพร่ภาพลักษณ์ของประเทศไทย โดยเฉพาะความงดงามแห่งอดีตกาลและความยิ่งใหญ่ของโบราณสถานของจังหวัดพระนครศรีอยุธยาเมืองมรดกโลกสู่สายตาทั้งชาวไทยและนานาชาติ ซึ่งนับเป็นครั้งแรกของโลกที่มีการจัดเทศกาลบอลลูนนานาชาติในเมืองสำคัญทางประวัติศาสตร์อีกด้วย”

ในโอกาสเดียวกัน ปลัดกระทรวงวัฒนธรรมได้เปิดเผยว่า “เทศกาลบอลลูนนานาชาติครั้งนี้จะจัดขึ้นอย่างยิ่งใหญ่ โดยมีไฮไลท์อยู่ที่พลุไฟเฉลิมพระเกียรติในวันที่ 5 ธันวาคม เพื่อร่วมเฉลิมฉลองวโรกาสมหามงคลที่พระบาทสมเด็จพระเจ้าอยู่หัวจะทรงเจริญพระชนมพรรษา 82 พรรษา พร้อมได้เปิดโอกาสให้พสกนิกรทุกหมู่เหล่าได้ร่วมกันน้อมเกล้าฯ ถวายพระพรชัย และนำรายได้ส่วนหนึ่งสมทบทุนในการอนุรักษ์และบูรณะปฏิสังขรณ์โบราณสถานเพื่อเป็นมรดกทางวัฒนธรรมของชาติสืบไป”

อธิบดีกรมศิลปากร กล่าวว่า “กรมศิลปากรได้มีการเตรียมความพร้อมด้านสถานที่จัดงานบริเวณวัดช้างและวัดมเหยงคณ์ ในเกาะเมืองอโยธยาอย่างดียิ่งเพี่อไม่ให้เกิดผลกระทบใดๆ ต่อโบราณสถานสำคัญที่ทรงคุณค่าทางประวัติศาสตร์ และยังได้เตรียมจัดการแสดงชุดพิเศษมากมายเพื่อสร้างความบันเทิงแก่นักท่องเที่ยวตลอดระยะเวลาการจัดงาน ทั้งการบรรเลงบทเพลงไทยอมตะและบทเพลงพระราชนิพนธ์ โดยวงดุริยางค์สากล กรมศิลปากร ซึ่งได้รับเกียรติจาก คุณบัณฑิต อึ้งรังษี วาทยกรระดับโลกชาวไทยมากำกับวงในวันเปิดงาน พร้อมทั้งการแสดงศิลปวัฒนธรรมไทยที่น่าตื่นตาตื่นใจ หนึ่งในนั้นก็คือการแสดงโขนยกรบที่ยิ่งใหญ่อลังการ”

นายยุทธ วาณิชชานนท์ นักบินบอลลูนอากาศร้อนและผู้ริเริ่มเทศกาลบอลลูนนานาชาติซึ่งจัดขึ้นเป็นครั้งที่ 3 นี้ กล่าวเสริมว่า “การจัดงานครั้งนี้เป็นที่เฝ้าตั้งตารอทั้งจากนักท่องเที่ยวที่มาเข้าชมนับแสนคนในทุกปีที่ผ่านมา และเหล่านักบินบอลลูนรับเชิญที่จะมาเข้าร่วมบิน โดยในปีนี้ มีนักบินบอลลูนชื่อดังจาก 5 ชาติเข้าร่วมกิจกรรมได่แก่ ญี่ปุ่น ฟินแลนด์ เนเธอร์แลนด์ อังกฤษ และไทย ซึ่งนอกจากความงดงามจากหมู่บอลลูนยักษ์หลายหลากสีที่ล่องลอยเหนือท้องฟ้าพระนครศรีอยุธยาแล้ว ยังมีกิจกรรมระหว่างวันอีกมากมายที่จะสร้างสีสันและความสำราญให้กับนักท่องเที่ยวผู้เข้าชม สำหรับปีนี้ยังมีกิจกรรมพิเศษ คือการประกวดภาพถ่าย ซึ่งคณะผู้จัดงานจะร่วมมือกับสมาพันธ์สมาคมการถ่ายภาพแห่งประเทศไทย ฟูจิฟิล์ม และโรงแรมในเครือเกษมกิจ จัดขึ้นเพื่อเปิดโอกาสให้ประชาชน โดยเฉพาะเยาวชนได้มีส่วนร่วมในโครงการและพัฒนาฝีมือการถ่ายภาพ”

แหล่งท่องเทียวในเชียงราย

2009-11-23T20:44:00.001+07:00

นอกจากภูชีฟ้าแล้ว ที่เชียงรายยังมีแหล่งท่องเทียวอื่นที่น่าสนใจอีก

เมืองเชียงรายขึ้น ประกอบด้วยประตูเมือง 12 ประตู คือ

1. ประตูสรี

2. ประตูนางอิง

3. ประตูใหม่ (เชียงใหม่)

4. ประตูยางเซิ่ง (ยางเทิง)

5. ประตูท่านาค

6. ประตูเจ้าชาย

7. ประตูท่าทราย

8. ประตูหวาย

9. ประตูท่อ

10. ประตูป่าแดง

11. ประตูล่อ

12. ประตูผี(ฮ่อม)

Festival & Event

2008-03-15T13:39:00.003+07:00

The 10th Thailand International Kite Festival “Coloring the Sky”
Date : 8 - 9 March, 2008

Venue : Rama VI camp, Cha - Am , Phetchabur

Hi-light :

1. Thai Kites form 4 Regions, Kites from Rattanakosin Era

2. Chula and Pak - Pao Kites competition, The World Largest Chula Kite Show

3. Fast Kite Flying and exhibition workshop International Kite Show

4. Kite Show from more 16 countries with Giant 3D flying : Maple Kite train, Sexy Legs Kite, Giant Gecko Kite, Giant Octopus Kite, Free Willy Whale Kite, Smiling Sun Kite, Teddy Bear Kite, Mermaid Kite, Banner Art Kite etc.

5. Night Kite Show

6. Stunt Kite Show, Activities and Workshop

7. THEOS Satellite Kite, Tetrahedron Kite Show, Science for Kids Activities by Geo - Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (public Organization) (GISTDA)8. Kite Stall Contest, Arts Activities, Kite Workshop, etc.

9. Parachuting Show

10. Remote-controlled Small Airplane show

11. Balloon Show

12. Visit the summer seaside palace of H.M. the King Rama VI

13. OTOP Fair, Food Fair14. Safe Energy Global Warming Caravan

2007-12-16T22:33:00.000+07:00

Work From Home
Work from home tips, discussion, information. Share your ideas annd submit articles for free. Featured listing will be free for your website at www. Newlinkdirectory. Com for each article submission.

Krabi at a glance

2007-11-26T22:24:00.000+07:00

Krabi at a glance

Located approximately 814 kilometers from Bangkok is Krabi Province, one of most attractive destinations in southern Thailand. Encompassing an area of 4,708 square kilometers, the western border of Krabi is the Andaman Sea, the northern borders are Surat Thani and Phang-nga Provinces, the southern borders are Trang Province and the Andaman Sea and the eastern borders are Nakhon Si Thammarat and Trang Provinces. Krabi is an ideal getaway destination teeming with natural attractions including white sandy beaches, fascinating coral reefs, numerous large and small islands and verdant forests with caves and waterfalls.

Krabi's topography is mostly mountains and highlands separated by plains in some parts. Flowing through Krabi City to the Andaman Sea at Pak Nam Sub-district is Maenam Krabi which is 5 kilometers in length. In addition, there are several canals originating from the province's highest mountain range, Khao Phanom Bencha including Khlong Pakasai, Khlong Krabi Yai and Khlong Krabi Noi. Lush mangrove forests line the canals and the banks of Maenam Krabi particularly before it empties into the Andaman Sea. The provinces sandy soil conditions are suitable for growing various agricultural products, particularly rubber trees, palms, coconuts, cashew nuts and coffee.

Due to the influence of the tropical monsoon, there are only two seasons in Krabi; the hot season from January to April and the rainy season from May to December. Temperatures range between 17 °C and 37 °C.

Krabi is administratively divided into 8 Amphoes (Districts): Amphoe Mueang, Khao Phanom, Khlong Thom, Plai Phraya, Ko Lanta, Ao Luek, Lam Thap, and Nuea Khlong. The provinces jurisdiction covers not only in-land districts and sub-districts, but also extends to more than 130 large and small islands including the world famous Phi Phi Islands.

In addition, Krabi is the location of two world class beaches Ao Nang and Hat Rai Le which offer numerous diving trips, restaurants, shops etc. Additional attractions in the province are stunning limestone cliffs and rock formations which make it a heaven for rock climbers and a National Park located approximately 40 kilometers outside of town with lakes, caves and spectacular natural scenery.

Historical Wonders

2007-11-18T13:24:00.000+07:00

Vihhara Laikhum
Technorati Profile

The beauty of Vihara Laikhum lies not only in its penrfectly calculated architctural proportion.
but also in the supreme craftmanship put into therefined gold details that is contracted to the
background colour of red, which is that colous of the whois consttruction. The atmosphere inside the vihara can conjure faith in visitors, who will be thrilled by the painthings that recount the stories of Suwannahong and Sung Thong.
Wat Phra Singh at the end of Chiang Mai's Ratchaumnean Road Prra Singh sub-district, within city moat.

10 Ideas for new Year's in Thailand

2007-11-15T13:44:00.000+07:00

10 Ideas for new Year's in Thailand

1.Tune on to the tevevision set and listen to HM the King's New year's Speech

2. For solemnity visit a church and learn more about the Christian. Uplift and join yous Christian brethren in their worship in prayer and song.

3. Farewell to the bygone year at Laem Phromthep
Enjoy the last ray of the year at the mast awesome sightseeing spot where the sun sets lates than any other place in the country

4. Take a Cha Phraya Rive Cruise
Enjoy the romatic atmosphere of the New year's Eve and admir the freworke from Sathon brige.

5.Moonlit dinner on the Top of Bangkok 's higherst building

on the tip of State Tower. The dome is a fabulous restaurant perfect for a moonlit dinner whlie enjiying the breathtaking view of bangkok by nigh

6. Launch a Floating lantern at Wat Phrathat Dol Suthep

Eam metrit and pray foy the good thing in the year to come

7. Countdown in Freezing temperatures at Dot inthanon

Lin down to gaze at the stre from the highest spot of thailand and countdown to new year with yous loved ome.

8.Bathe the New Year's light before anyone at pha Chana Dai, Khong Jiem District,Ubon Ratchathani

9. Offering food aims to monk at Sanam Luang

10.LUmphini Park

Exercise and breahe in fresh air on the first morning of year and stat the year with better care for you health - the best New Yeas's resolution

Thee Lor Su Waterfall

2007-11-12T01:26:00.000+07:00

Thee Los Su Waterfall

Nothing beadts the inspining beauty and grandeur of Thee los su waterfall the forests the waters cascade down the cliff 100 metres in height and spans ared of

400 m. Thee Lor Su is ranked as one of the mast stunning waterfall in Asia

Travel & Food in Thailand

2007-11-12T01:15:00.000+07:00

Talay waey

Talay waek. or divided sea, refers to aphenomenon when the low tide is separater
into two directions in the midde of the Andaman sea, revealing a long white sand
dune that becomes a passage connecting together the three islands, namely Koh
Tab, Kon Kai and Kon Mo, hencethe name Talay ware

Loi Krathong

2007-11-07T22:54:00.002+07:00

“Loi Krathong” is traditionally performed on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, which usually falls on some day in November. The floating of a ‘Krathong' – a banana–leaf cup – is intended to float away ill fortune as well as to express apologies to Khongkha or Ganga, the River Goddess. Some believe that the ritual is meant to worship the Buddha's footprint on the bank of the Narmada River, while others say that it is to pay respect to Phra Uppakhut, one of the Lord Buddha's great disciples.

The Loi Krathong Festival is celebrated nationwide in Thailand, especially where there are rivers, canals or sources of water, with different unique characteristics.

This year, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has joint with Educational Institution and Thai Baot Association to present the Electric Float Procession from Taksin Bridge to Krungthon Bridge and the 12 lighten up buildings and historical sites along Chao Praya River during Loi Krathong Festival.

http://www.loikrathong.net/en/

Regal Splendour

2007-11-06T00:36:00.000+07:00

Regal Splendour
The Royal Barge Procession
Three and twenty Mandarins of the lowest Order of the Palace appeared first, every one in a Balon [barge] of State…These were followed by fifty other balons of his Majesties Officers...[which] had from thirty to sixty oars apiece...After these came twenty balons more, bigger than the former...Next, the king appeared in his, raised upon a throne of a piramidal figure and extraordinary well gilt...and...rowed by six score watermen... We reckoned in all one hundred and fifty nine, of which the biggest were near six score foot long and hardly six foot over at the broadest place.
— A description of the royal barge procession of 1685 by French Jesuit, Père Guy Tachard

Over three centuries have since passed, yet this breathtaking spectacle remains awe inspiring, not only in its majestic beauty but also the grace with which the fleet of 52 barges solemnly glides down the Chao Phraya River — the ‘River of Kings’.

When the gilded paddles of the principal barge, the swan-prowed Sri Suphannahongse, are raised in unison, it is as though a mythical bird is about to lift from the water.

The other 51 barges, arrayed across the river in what is traditionally termed a battle formation, create a panorama of rare regal splendour. The blare of conches and trumpets, the songs of the coxswains, and the stentorian chants of the paddlers provide the right cadence for the oar strokes, enhance the spectacle, and mesmerize spectators into respectful silence – much as these same rare sounds have done for hundreds of years

The Royal Barge Procession is the ultimate reflection of the Thai fascination with water, the central element in Thailand’s rites of passage, festivals, and religion. An aerial view of Thailand’s northern and central plains reveals why. A vast silvery labyrinth of natural and hand-dug waterways slices through the lowland plains. Villages hug banks of rivers and canals and draw from them the life-sustaining water that nourishes lush crops and harbours fish, the two staples of the Thai diet. It is along these liquid highways that a variety of water processions have travelled over the centuries.

In descending order of importance, they include

Coronations

It was only appropriate that a prince travel in the most exalted vessel available to the most important event in his life: his coronation. Although wheeled vehicles have replaced barges, records of their magnificence abound in ancient manuscripts.

A Water-borne Procession with a Buddha image

Since ancient times, barges have carried revered Buddha images. When King Naresuan the Great (1590-1605) rode to battle, the Suphannahongse royal barge bearing the Phra Chai Buddha (Victory Buddha) image containing relics of the Lord Buddha led the flotilla. In 1781, barges transported the Emerald Buddha from Ayutthaya to its final home in Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaeow. The famous image that now occupies the nave of Wat Suthat was transported from Sukhothai to Bangkok on a raft

Royal River Tour of the Great Capital

In the former capital of Ayutthaya and also in Bangkok, kings embarked on royal river tours along the moats that embraced their stout city walls. It was for this reason, as well as defensive considerations, that until the late 19th century, no permanent bridges were erected over the moats, and the royal progress on these annual circuits went unimpeded.

The Royal Kathin Procession to Present Monastic Robes

The progenitor of the Royal Barge Procession as we know it today dates from the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai (1275-1316 AD). The Lanna Chronicles note that the King was conveyed by night in a fleet of barges to present robes to the monks to mark the end of the three-month Buddhist Rains Retreat, a ceremony known as the Kathin ritual. By the mid-Ayutthaya period a few hundred years later, these processions were conducted during the day.

http://www.tatnews.org/emagazine/3517.asp

The Great Outdoors

2007-10-30T00:15:00.000+07:00

Thailand is a tropical rural country. Vegetation of incredible contrasts covers the whole country, ranging from the northern limestone hills blanketed in dense monsoon foliage to the tropical rainforests of the south. These leafy retreats are home to an unbelievable wealth of exotic plants, insects, animals and birds, enabling you and your children an unparalleled, ‘first hand’ lesson in living botany.

With over 110 national parks and reserves to visit, you and your family can picture yourselves as a band of intrepid explorers. Discover hidden trails and see unusual wildlife as you walk under canopies of unspoiled greenery. Track tiger paw prints through jungle growth and if fortunate, spot this beautiful feline in full majesty

Stumble across secret caves, splash around in streaming waterfalls or sooth muscles in natural hot springs, as your family gets close to nature on a range of specialised eco-adventure tours. Just a couple hours drive from the capital, vast Khao Yai is the country’s oldest national park inhabited by herds of roaming wild elephants. Ideal for spotting almost 400 bird species and innumerable wild orchids, ascend Thailand’s highest peak of Doi Inthanon for stupendous panoramas. Cavorting gibbons and colourful hornbills are just two of the magical creatures to see within Thailand’s largest national park at Kaeng Krachan.

2007-10-30T00:09:00.000+07:00

นีพาสนะครับ พิมพ์เอาห้ามก็อป
botszaa@bscclub.com

Bangkok

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Bangkok was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty. It is now the country's spiritual, cultural, diplomatic, commercial and educational hub. It covers an area of more than 1,500 square kilometres, and it is home to approximatlely ten million people or more than 10% of the country's population.

Over the last few decades, Thailand's capital city, Bangkok, has changed into a modern, exciting and sophisticated city. It offers to visitors not only the cosmopolitan amenities they would expect from other big cities, but also a unique treasure trove of cultural attractions. Thailand, in the heart of Southeast Asia, was never colonised and thus kept its unique culture and heritage intact. Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpse of Thailand's gentle culture amidst the bustle of a great and dynamic metropolis. This great city has had astounding success in combining the ancient and modern world.

For tourists, Bangkok has a feast of attractions to offer. The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temples of great beauty and fascination, magnificent palaces, classical dance extravaganzas, numerous shopping centres and traditional ways of life, especially along the "Venice of the East" timeless canals and the Chao Phraya River of the "River of Kings" winding through the city. It is worth taking a trip along its waters before exploring further into different canals to take a glimpse of old Bangkok.

Useful tourist information on Bangkok can be obtained from the official website of the Bangkok Tourism Division : www.bangkoktourist.com

Destinatio Guide Bangkok
Khon Masked Dance at Sala Chalermkrung Theatre

Khon is Thailand's classical masked dance that is regarded as one of the most refined of performing arts. It was originally limited to the royal court. Performances are extremely expensive to produce, requiring lavish costumes, elaborate masks and headgear, and stage accessories that require highly skilled craftsmen to create. The scenes performed in the traditional Khon are taken from the Ramakien, a series of significant episodes in Thai literature based on the Indian epic of classical mythology the Ramayana that greatly influenced the literature of almost all nations in Southeast Asia.

Khon at Sala Chalermkrung is performed every Friday and Saturday at 8.30 pm. Tickets cost 1,000 baht and 1,200 baht. Call Sala Chalermkrung at Tel: 0 2224 4499 or visit or Thaiticketmaster at Tel: 0 2262 3456 or visit www.thaiticketmaster.com for reservation. For more information about the performance and Sala Challermkrung visit www.salachalermkrung.com

Bang Lamphu
One of the oldest parts of town
Bang Lamphu district has become famous over recent years due to the emergence of Khao San Road as the popular destination for the worlds young budget travellers. The area has an interesting history as it is located in the Rattanakosin Island area.

It gets its name from the lamphu trees that used to grow here. This tree has vertical roots and is a favourite gathering spot for fireflies. The canal that makes Bang Lamphu part of Rattanakosin Island was dug during the reign of King Rama I and has had many names including Klong Ong Ang because there used to be a community here making the big earthenware pots called ong.
The first palace was built here by Princess Chakjesda, a relative of King Rama I. Although the palace has now gone, a small part of a wall remains on Phra Sumen Road, opposite the hexagonal-shaped Phra Sumen Fort. This fort is one of the original 13 constructed to defend Bangkok.

Bang Lamphu has been the location of many of the major events in Thailand's recent history. The Democracy Monument on Ratchadamnoen Klang Road has been the rallying point for many political movements. There is a house on Phra Arthit Road, where Pridi Banomyong lived when he established the Seri Thai organization to fight the Japanese occupation during World War II.
Today, Bang Lamphu is an interesting mix of buildings built over a century ago in the colonial style side by side with modern buildings and shop houses. It is well worth a visit to what is possibly Bangkok's first suburb.
Old Bangkok Walking Tour
Siam Soundtrek presently have Mp3 tracks available for 15 sites within Bangkok's historical Rattanakosin Island, including the Giant Swing, Wat Suthat, and the Brahmin Chapels. All these sites are found within walking distance from Khao San Road.
Mp3 tours and maps can be downloaded for free at www.soundtrek.org, or Mp3 players can be rented at the Rim Khob Faa Bookstore next to the Democracy Monument on Ratchadamnoen Road.

Bank of Thailand Museum

Bank of Thailand Museum is located in the Bang Khun Phrom Palace, one of the splendid historical sites in Bangkok with artistic beauty in architectural designs and decorative arts. The Palace has a long history tracking back to nearly one hundred years. It was originally a royal residence of H.R.H. Prince Baripatra Sukhumbhand, a son of H.M. King Chulalongkorn and H.M. Queen Sukhumala Marasri, and was a government office for a period of time until 1945, when it became the office premise of the Bank of Thailand and was renovated to house the Bank of Thailand Museum in 1992. The opening ceremony of the Museum was graciously presided over by H.M. the King and the Queen on January 9, 1993.

The main objective of the Museum is to preserve Thai currency, one of our important cultural heritages, as well as to stimulate the research and study on the history and evolution of Thai currency. The exhibitions started from the prehistoric medium of exchange the ancient currency, used in different eras up until the present day. In addition, it also highlights the roles and responsibilities of the Bank of Thailand, the governors, as well as the history of Bang Khun Phrom Palace and H.R.H. Prince Baripatra Sukhumbhands life. The exhibitions compose of 14 rooms such as:
Ancient Coins Room: The exhibition in this room dated back to the prehistoric era when medium of exchange such as shells or beads were used as money until the introduction of coins, including Funan coins, Dvaravati coins, Sri Vijaya coins, as well as Lanna and Lanchang money, which had been used before the Kingdom of Thailand was found.

Pot Duang Room displays Pot Duang coins, circulated from Sukhothai period up to the reign of King Rama V of Rattanakosin period, as well as their methods of productions.
Thai Coins Room displays Thai flat coins which were initiated by King Rama III up to the present day.
Thai Banknotes Room displays the evolution of the Thai paper money from the first issuance of paper money called Mai in King Rama IV reign through the issuance of banknotes series circulated in the present day, including the commemorative banknotes issued on special occasions.
Gold and Commemorative Coins Room displays commemorative gold coins, silver coins, nickel coins, gold bond, as well as gold bullions which are used as currency reserves.
Bank of Thailand 60th Anniversary Room displays the history, the roles and responsibilities of the Bank of Thailand as well as the important events of the Bank, in chronology.
Baripatra Memorial Room displays the life, works, activities, and the talents of H.R.H. Prince Baripatra Sukhumbhand.

Admission requirements:
1. Free admission.
2. Please dress respectfully and take off shoes before entering the Bang Khun Phrom Palace Building.
3. Visitors should not touch exhibited items and display cases.
4. Photography is not permitted inside the Museum.
5. Smoking is strictly prohibited.
6. Food and beverages are not allowed in the Museum.
7. Avoid making excessive noise during the visit.

How to visit the Museum
The museum is open for pre-arranged group visitors from 9.30 a.m. 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Please contact the Museum at least one week in advance at

The Bank of Thailand Museum
273 Samsen Road, Bang Khun Phrom,
Bangkok, 10200
Tel. 0 2283 5286, 0 2283 6723, 0 2283 5265
Fax. 0 2283 5283

Khao San Road
Where the worlds young travellers meet.
Khao San Road is a favourite crossroads for the young travellers on a budget. It has evolved over the last two decades from just one small hostel providing low-budget accommodation become one of the worlds most well-known destinations. It has been featured in many movies and television documentaries.

During the day, Khao San Road is the scene for back-packers looking for a cheap room while others are arranging transport to their next destination in Thailand or overseas. Some will be just chatting with friends over a cup of coffee or a bowl of noodles.
At night, it turns into a lively thoroughfare lined with street stalls selling cheap clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs and thousands of other items. The lights are on at the many bars where the travellers tell tales of the days adventures and discoveries and the plans for tomorrow. Khao San Road is not just for foreign travellers, many young Thai people like to hang out there, including members of the TV and film production industries.

The location is very convenient for visiting the many tourist attractions on Rattanakosin Island. It is just a 10-minute walk to Sanam Luang and The Grand Palace.

During April when Thais celebrate the Songkran Festival, Khao San Road becomes a fun-filled battleground as everyone, Thais and foreigners indulge in splashing each other with water.
The area is also well-known for the wide variety of inexpensive food. This ranges from spicy Thai Tom Yum Gung soup to the ever-popular banana pancake.

How to get there:
Bus routes 3, 9, 32, 64, 39, 44, 53, 59, 503, 509, 511

Thailand Festival

2007-10-13T23:33:00.000+07:00

Products > Family

Where Dreams Become Reality
Ranked among the world's most popular tourist destinations, Thailand is a breathtaking paradise not to be missed. Blessed with a diverse variety, this ancient mystical land has it all- palm-studded white sand beaches, forested mountains cloaked in dawn mists, well-preserved ruins of historic civilisations, not to mention the excitement of Bangkok's modern metropolis.

Your family will gain an invaluable and educational insight into the breadth of Asian life as it arouses the senses with a fabulous wealth of traditional customs, cuisine, music, dance and art. Far from an inconvenience, by journeying as a family you will experience sights and sensations that most seasoned travellers only dream about touching. More active family members will soon be exhausted by the limitless and awesome selection of leisure and adventure pursuits.

Cheering ringside at the physical thrills of the classic martial art of Muai Thai will leave you breathless. Tee-off on a lush tropical fairway at the numerous internationally designed golf courses, or be soothingly pampered within the ambient setting of a sumptuous spa. Submerge to the deep as you snorkel over colourful coral reefs swarming with vibrant sea life, while toddlers hand out a feast of fruit to docile lumbering elephants.

Attractions

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Attractions

Hat Yai, which is situated approximately 28 kilometers from the city of Songkhla, is an important gateway to Malaysia and Singapore. Strategically located only 60 kilometers from the port of entry at Sadao, Hat Yai has only recently been developed and has rapidly been transformed into the commercial, transportation, communication, educational, and tourism hub of the south. Tourists enjoy shopping at Hat Yai for various goods ranging from fresh produce to consumer products such as electrical appliances. The area of Niphat Uthit 1, 2, or 3 Roads is where major commercial shops are located. Several shopping centers available include Lido Shopping Center, Odeon Shopping Center, Sanehanuson, Hat Yai Plaza Shopping Center, and Si Kimyong Market on Phetkasem Road.

2007-08-19T15:31:00.001+07:00

map

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History of Songkhla

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History of Songkhla

Songkhla, a medieval pirate stronghold, is a historic, albeit sleepy town with a thriving fishing community. Another Srivijaya outpost in Thailands southern region, Songkhla was initially named Sa-thing". Previously a port and a coastal trading post where Indian, Persian and Arabian merchants came to exchange their products, the place was named "Sing Lha" after the 2 lion-shape islands at the mouth of the city's lake. At present, these 2 islands are Koh Nu (Rat Island) and Koh Maeo (Cat Island). The old part of Songkhla is located at the present-day Amphoe Sathing Phra.

Songkhla at a glance

2007-08-19T15:25:00.000+07:00

Songkhla, one of Thailand's important ports and coastal provinces, is located 950 kilometers from Bangkok. Occupying an area of 7,393 square kilometers on the eastern side of the Malaysian Peninsula, the province is bordered by the States of Kedah (Sai Buri) and Perlis of Malaysia to the south and the Gulf of Thailand to the east. In addition, Songkhla borders on Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phatthalung Provinces to the north, Yala and Pattani Provinces to the south, and Satun and Phatthalung Provinces to the west.

An undeniably historic town endowed with ancient ruins, arts, and places of cultural importance, Songkhla, a melting pot of Thais, Chinese and Malays, charms visitors with its unique traditions, dialect, and folk entertainment. These characteristics are reflections of the provinces rich cultural heritage, which has been preserved and passed down from generations to generations.

Hat Yai, a district of Songkhla, is perhaps better known than the provincial capital itself. Hat Yai serves as a southern hub of communication, trading and transportation as well as a gateway to Malaysia and Singapore. In light of this, Hat Yai has gained importance as the driving force of economic growth in the southern region.

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Phuker

2007-06-17T02:24:00.000+07:00

Phuket
Located approximately 862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand's largest island, which is often dubbed as the pearl of the Andaman, or the pearl of the south. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South's wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of the southern part of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, the province covers an area of approximately 543 square kilometers (excluding small islets). It is estimated that Phuket Province covers an area of approximately 590 square kilometers if its 39 other small islands are included. The islands total length, from north to south, is estimated at 48.7 kilometers and approximately 21.3 kilometers wide.
Phuket borders on Phang-nga Province to the north. The other 3 sides are encircled by the Andaman Sea the place where many of the best diving sites are located. The island is connected to Phang-nga Province by Sarasin Bridge and Thep Krasattri Bridge

Staying on the island is easy, as there are only two seasons in a year - the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season of phuket is between September and October as they are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average temperatures ranges between 23°C and 33°C.

Phuket's topology is exceptional with 70 percent of its area covered with mountains which stretch from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains located in the central and eastern parts of the island. The island does not have any major rivers except for a total of 9 brooks and creeks.

Phuket is divided into 3 administrative counties namely Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Thalang and Amphoe Kathu.

Phuket has a lot more to offer its visitors other than its natural heritage sea, sand, sky, beach, forest, and world renowned diving sites. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell delighting travelers to the city, while Phuket-style hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition, accommodations ranging from world-class resorts to tropical-style bungalows have warmly catered to the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there is a lot more to sample than just Phuket's famous lobster. Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly unique destination.
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History of Phuket
Most geologists believe that the area known as Phuket today was once a cape that extended into the Andaman Sea. Geographical formations gradually changed the capes location, finally detaching it from the mainland.

A famous Greek philosopher, Claudius Ptolemy, was the first person who mentioned the cape in his book written in the year 157. The cape was locally referred to as Jung Ceylon, which was located between latitudes 6 N and 8 N (the present site of Phuket Island). Natives called the place Cha Lang, which evolved to Tha Lang the name of the main town to the north of the island.

As a perfect stopover sheltering traders from monsoons, Jung Ceylon welcomed merchants from India, Persia, Arabia, Burma, China and also Siam. During the 16th century, the island was also a popular trading port for tin with Portuguese, Dutch, English and French traders flocking to the island. This contributed to making the development of mining so unprecedented. Chinese businessmen and miners later migrated to Phuket and soon enjoyed thriving business wealth.

Apart from serving as a meeting point for traders from Europe, Central Asia and China, Phuket also attracted ambitious immigrants, especially those from Portugal and China, to work in the tin mines. With its colorful history, visitors admire the Sino-Portuguese style architecture in the city especially those buildings located along the Thalang and Yaowarat Roads.

Thalang town was surrounded by Burmese troops who invaded the coastal area in 1785. It was under the leadership of Chan, the widow of the governor, and her sister, Muk, who united local residents and successfully fought and drove the invaders out of Phuket. It took over 30 days for the defending troops of Phuket, under the command of Chan and Muk, to claim their victory. As a result of such heroic deeds, noble titles were granted to Chan and Muk as Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon respectively. To honor them, a monument was established at Tha Ruea Intersection, 12 kilometers to the north of Phuket City in 1966. They are still highly respected by Phuket residents even today.

However, 24 years later, the Burmese succeeded in seizing Thalang causing many local residents to flee to Phang-nga and Krabi. In 1825, some of them returned to re-establish a town and established a rice farming community. On the other hand, the area to the south of the island (Phuket City today) was developed and became a tin trading center.

When Phuket was elevated to a town in 1850, it attracted more immigrants from Thalang and nearby communities. In 1894, Phuket was promoted to be a Monthon administrative unit under the supervision of the central administrative body (located in Bangkok).

In 1902, Phraya Ratsada Korsimbi, a Sino-Thai businessman who contributed to developing the modern city of Phuket was appointed Governor of Phuket. He also helped to improve the welfare of local residents and set up the market system in the countryside. In 1916, Phuket became a province.

The tin mining industry has gradually failed to generate economic growth in Phuket, especially after 1985 when the price of tin fell by half. However, with its natural resources, Phuket later emerged as a tourist destination with great potential. This polished pearl of the Andaman is truly a destination that provides visitors with memorable experiences.

The islands long history has shaped the distinctive Phuket of the present with its diverse ethnic groups, culture, architectural influence, and fine cuisine. With approximately 35 percent of the population being comprised of Thai-Muslims, it is possible to see an equal number of Wats (Thai temples) located next to Mosques.