Thaicenter Travel Blog

BANGKOK’S 9TH INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF DANCE AND MUSIC

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 17:06:00 +0000

Bangkok’s 9th International Festival of Dance and Music (Sept 9-Oct 11) is in celebration of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday. A report by Jennifer Parks.
Its been nine years since Bangkok took its first steps towards establishing itself as a Southeast Asian cultural hub. Its been nine years since Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance & Music set the ball rolling. Today the festival has garnered a reputation for excellence presenting only the best from around the world to discerning audiences in Bangkok. In keeping with this tradition the ninth edition (Sept 9-11 Oct) of the festival has in store acts that will find favour even with the most demanding of patrons.
As Thailand celebrates His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday this year, the festival in effect is dedicated to Him and opens with a spectacular performance paying homage to the musician in His Majesty. During his reign His Majesty has penned some 48 compositions, many in the blues style and the opening act, ‘His Majesty’s Blues Concert’, has 25 of Thailand’s leading singers giving voice to some of these compositions. Accompanied by an orchestra, singers like Ford Sobchai Kraiyurasen, Jennifer Kim, Radklao Amaradit, Ta Surachai Wongbuakao and Ben Chalatit Tantiwut among others, will more than do justice to the compositions. Pongprom Sanitwong Na Ayuthaya, producer, composer and musician is the man behind this amazing project. It was in 2006 that over a 100 Thai artists, cutting across label lines came together in celebration of the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty’s Accession to the Throne. A four set CD album was also released which soon became a collector’s item. This blues concert is another opportunity to hear rare compositions in concert and makes for a fitting opening to a spectacular festival.

More in Music
Music has been central to the festival through the years and this edition too has a lot to offer: a percussion ensemble from India, a symphony concert and an evening devoted to jazz. On Sept 12, an all-female percussion ensemble, Stree Shakti will take the stage. Led by Anuradha Pal it is one of India’s leading percussion ensembles and Anuradha Pal is arguably one of the sub-continents best percussionists. Using traditional percussion instruments like tabla, ghatam, kanjira, pakhawaj and mridangam the ensemble churns out powerful beats. The music finds its basis in the classical traditions of India but is in no way out of context in the modern era.
Moving to another classical tradition, Sept 23 sees a symphony concert by the Ekaterinburg Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra dates back to 1912 and is one of the best operatic and Ballet orchestras in Russia. In honour of His Majesty (Rama IX)’s Birthday the orchestra will tackle Symphony No. IX in D minor, Op. 125 by Ludwig Van Beethoven. This symphony by Beethoven was a landmark event, for the first time a composer used the human voice like he would an instrument. So expect a full chorus with four soloist singers. Also on the programme is Scheherazade Op. 35 by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Conductor Mikahil Granovsky from the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the most looked-forward to conductors in Russia will take the baton.
On 8th October jazz and popular music fans will hear all permutations and combinations possible, First on is Coda Jazz Group from Australia which effortlessly blends classical, rock, electronic, operatic with jazz, creating a rich tapestry of music, With three albums to their credit the group popular on the Australian festival circuit, will delight with its heady mix.The same evening Saskia Laroo band from The Netherlands takes the stage next. Saskia Laroo has been hailed by the American press as ‘Lady Miles’. A trumpet stylist, Saskia’s multi-national unit pulsates with contemporary sounds, groovy rhythms, exciting solos, and rap vocals. Saskia has performed with the likes of George Benson and is a name well received all over the world including at festivals like Montreux. The last act of the evening is Monsieur Camembert which has been at the forefront of ‘Gyprock’ explosion in Australia for the past eight years. A triple Aria Award winning ensemble, with Yaron Hallis leading from the front the group promises the ultimate in music.
The Opera Quotient
When it comes to music Operas are the ultimate expression and this festival sees two: Eugene Onegin (Sept 22) and La Traviata (Sept 24) both staged by Ekaterinburg Opera Theatre, Russia, one of the oldest and most respected companies in Russia. The staging of Eugene Onegin is a remarkable event; it is the first Russian opera to be staged in Bangkok ever. An opera in three parts the story centres around a selfish hero who lives to regret his blasé rejection of a young woman's love and his careless incitement of a fatal duel with his best friend. It is the perfect example of a lyric opera and closely follows Pushkin’s original work. Around 180 artists (cast and orchestra) will bring to stage this, Tchaiovsky masterpiece.
The second opera of the season is a Verdi favourite: La Traviata. Based on Alexandre Dumas’ play La dame aux Cameilas it is an intimate work dealing with the conflict between the ‘real’ world of love and the ‘false’ world of societal expectations. The hero is tricked into giving up his love because she is well below his ‘station’. Playing Violetta is soprano Natalia Margrit, Italy’s most well-known soprano and a regular performer at La Scala and the Paris Opera House (she has also performed with Jose Carreras), while Alfredo is tackled by Dmytro Kuzmin, a soloist with the Kiev Opera House.
The Magic of Ballets
This festival sees the ballet take on a contemporary hue beginning with Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company which on Sept 18 presents ‘Upon Reaching the Sun’, taking its cue from an excerpt from ‘Woyzeck’, the fragmentary play by 19th-century German writer Georg Büchner. The excerpt describes the imaginary journey of a lonely orphan girl. The Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company is one of Israel's most prominent dance companies identified with the works of its artistic director – Rami Be'er. Expect a cutting-edge contemporary dance performance.
Compagnia Aterballetto, Italy goes into more familiar territory with Romeo and Juliet (Sept 27). This is the first full performance of Romeo and Juliet as a contemporary ballet. At the helm of the company is Artistic Director Mario Bigonzetti one of Italy’s most critically acclaimed and famous contemporary choreographers. Expect a striking, eclectic performance with spectacular sets and costumes, both designed by the world-famous installation artist Fabrizio Plessi.
The next instalment in ballet takes a classical detour with Swan Lake (Sept 29-30) followed by a neo-classical Pedro & Inês (Oct 2), both ballets are by Portuguese National Ballet.
Every one in Bangkok is familiar with Swan lake but this version has an unexpected twist in the tale. A staging that just has to be seen. Pedro & Ines is based on a true story. The ballet centres around Pedro, the son and heir of King Alfonso IV, who was forced to marry Princess Constanza even though he was in love with Inês. After his wife’s death Pedro fled to be with Inês. Inês, however, is murdered on the orders of the king. On succeeding to the throne Pedro had Ines’ corpse exhumed and crowned. The court was forced to acknowledge her as queen by kneeling before her and kissing her decomposed hand.
Never has Thailand seen such a dramatic and shockingly true story told on stage. The use of huge water tank on stage as the performance arena adds to the drama. Following this dramatic staging is another one, that of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Zurich Ballet (Oct6-7). A ballet in two acts it is based on William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy that portrays the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of amateur actors, their interactions with the Duke and Duchess of Athens, Theseus and Hippolyta, and with fairies who inhabit a moonlit forest. Classified as Zurich Ballets biggest production, this ballet has the most amazing sets ever seen yet. Consider the fact that they are shipped to Thailand in four 40ft containers by sea and over 65 cubic metres by air and you can begin to understand the size of the production.
At the helm of this, one of Europe’s foremost ballet companies, is Artistic Director Heinz Sporeli, the continent’s most celebrated choreographer. Adding their might to the production are actors (Anthony O’Donnel and Bill Alexander) from Royal Shakespeare Company, London and an orchestra led by well-known conductor James Tuggle from USA.
Traditional Dances
The saga of traditional dance this festival begins with India and one of its foremost exponents of kathak: Pallabi De. Kathak is one of six major classical dances of India and the most dynamic. This performance (Sept 12) by Pallabi De and her group will trace the history of the dance form from the temples of ancient India to its modern incarnation.
Next on are traditional dances from Veracruz, Mexico by Grupo Jarocho National Dance Company (Sept 14). The Spanish word Jarocho describes a person or music from the state or city of Veracruz and this show is a musical expression of the creative core of Jarocho directed by Richard O’ Neal (former assistant director of Riverdance).60 dancers and technicians pay homage to the mix of European, African and indigenous roots that is Veracruz reflected in its music and dance traditions.
While Tango is by no means a traditional dance it holds that status in Argentina. On Sept 16 come face to face with the fiery passion of Argentinean tango with No-Bailaras Tango Company. Argentina’s best known choreographer Silvana grill presents a performance, ‘Grotesque Passion Dance’, that synthesizes traditional tango into a dramatic contemporary showcase
South Korea steps in next with the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theatre (Sept 20). A keeper of the flame as far as the traditional dances of Korea go, the company’s mission is to serve as a springboard for Korean dance worldwide. More than 40 of Korea’s most talented dancers will take to the stage.
The finale
Bringing the curtain down on this nearly six-week long festival are two performances by Ballet Nacional de Espana (Oct 10-11). Over 50 dancers of Spain’s leading dance company will present Flamenco and Spanish Dances in three productions: Caprichos, Dualia and Cambalache. The training ground of every Spanish dancer of note, the company has preserved all styles of Spanish dance yet has managed to combine tradition with modernity with surprising ease. Director Jose Antonio’s career is defined by his wide body of work as a director and in 2005, he was awarded the ‘Medalla de Oro al Mérito en las Bellas Artes’, by the Spanish Ministry of Culture. Expect to be stunned by this electrifying performance.
The festival is presented by BMW, B.Grimm, , Dusit Thani Hotel, Siam Cement Group, Thai Airways International and Tourism Authority of Thailand.

THE ANNUAL WORLD GOURMET FESTIVAL

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 17:04:00 +0000

Since its inception eight years ago, the World Gourmet Festival has grown in prominence to feature an extraordinary line up of some of the world’s best chefs. Several food festivals are hosted throughout the world, however, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is the only hotel to bring award winning Master Chefs under one roof for a week long celebration of outstanding food, superb wines and to share tips and information on how to create award-winning cuisine. Confirmed participating chefs are:
Patricia di Benedetto, ByeByeBlues, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
Paul Wilson, The Botanical, Melbourne, Australia
Michael Ginor, Hudson Valley Foie Gras, New York, USA
Romain Fornell, Caelis, Barcelona, Spain
Douglas Rodriguez, Gaucho Restaurants, London, UK
Steven Snow, Fins Restaurant, Sydney, Australia
Nicole Krasinski, Rubicon, San Francisco, USA
Roberto Donna, Galileo, Washington DC, USA
Suzanne Tracht, JAR Restaurant, Los Angeles, USA
Susur Lee, Susur Lee, Toronto, Canada
Katrina Kanetani, Pier Restaurant, Sydney, Australia
The event is coordinated and overseen by Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok Executive Chef Nicolas Schneller and Shintaro Chef, Satoshi Sawada and Biscotti Chef, Danilo Aiassa. Each chef will host two evenings in one of the hotel’s restaurants; and a cooking demonstration either for lunch or dinner. You may catch them all at one time at the seven-course Gala dinner on Thursday, 13 September 2007.
The World Gourmet Gala Dinner promises to be a unique and memorable affair. A cocktail reception will take place from 7:00 pm followed by a seven-course dinner and entertainment. A live auction will feature exciting travel prizes that showcase sister Four Seasons hotels around the globe.
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok proudly extends support to HRH Princess Soamsawali’s “Save a Child’s Life from AIDS Project” under the auspices of the Thai Red Cross Society which provides medicine for pregnant mothers who are afflicted with AIDS. A portion of all proceeds from the Gala dinner will be donated to this charity

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 17:03:00 +0000

The Thailand Open is Thailand's premier annual international sports event and the only ATP Tour event in Southeast Asia.
+ Date - Saturday 22th, September 2007 to Sunday 30th, September 2007 + Venue - Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok Thailand
+ Qualifying Rounds - Saturday 22th, September 2007 ----> Monday 24th, September 2007+ Main Draw - Tuesday 25th, September 2007 -----> Thursday 27th, September 2007+ Final Round - Friday 28th, September 2007 -----> Sunday 30th, September 2007

Stepping up Public Relations Campaigns for the 24th SEA Games

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 09:42:00 +0000

Thailand is stepping up public relations campaigns for the 24th Southeast Asian Games, or SEA Games, to be held from December 6 to 15 this year.As Thailand is celebrating the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th birthday anniversary, 5 December 2007, the 24th SEA Games is considered part of the special celebrations. It will be the biggest games ever in the history of the SEA Games, with 45 sports to be contested (two of them demonstration events) and 485 gold medals up for grabs.The forthcoming SEA Games will take place in five provinces. The northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima, commonly referred to as Khorat, will be the main venue for the Games. The opening and closing ceremonies will be held in this province. Other venues include Chon Buri in the East, and Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, and Bangkok in the central region.In order to facilitate the coverage of the Games by members of the media, the Main Press Center and the International Broadcasting Center will be established in Nakhon Ratchasima. Three sub press centers will be set up in Chon Buri, Pathum Thani, and Bangkok. This is the sixth time for Thailand to host the Games, and it is the second time that the main venue of the SEA Games will be held outside of Bangkok, after it was successful in the city of Chiang Mai in 1995.Among the 11 countries participating in the Games, Thailand will send the highest number of athletes and officials, with 1,1,38. The remaining 10 countries have confirmed they would send more than 8,600 athletes and officials. The 24th SEA Games is called, in short, KOSOC, which stands for Khorat SEA Games Organizing Committee. Interested persons may obtain more information about the SEA Games at its two websites: www.2007seagames.com and www.2007seagames.th. One of the theme songs being use for the Games is “Rhythm of the Winner.” After the SEA Games, Thailand will host the 4th ASEAN Para Games from January 17 to 26, 2008 in Nakhon Ratchasima.Myanmar has reportedly informed the organizers that it would send a number of athletes and officials to Nakhon Ratchasima by a charter flight. Thai authorities are preparing two airports in this province to accommodate charter flights. One is the military airport, which is suitable for small aircraft for VIPs, and the other is the commercial airport, suitable for larger aircraft transporting athletes and officials.According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Northeastern Office, Region 1, tour programs will be arranged for participants in the upcoming SEA Games. It is expected that the Games will help promote tourism, not only in the host provinces, but also in other areas of the country.In Nakhon Ratchasima alone, at least five to six million tourists are likely to visit the province this year, compared to 4.9 million in 2006. The increased number is expected to earn the province 8.2 billion baht in tourism income, against 7.8 billion baht last year.

HUA HIN/CHA-AM GOLF FESTIVAL 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 09:12:00 +0000

Every day throughout August 2007, play a round of golf at participating courses. Select from any one of seven magnificent courses in Hua Hin/Cha-am.
Springfield Village Golf & Spa
The Imperial Lake View Hotel & Golf Club
Palm Hills Golf Resort & Country Club
Kaeng Krachan Golf and Country Club
Sawang Resort & Golf Club
The Majestic Creek Golf & Resort
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course
The above offer is available except for when organised events for the Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival are in progress. Organised tournaments, being held every Sunday, are rotated around the seven courses. Apply to compete in these tournaments. Players achieving holes-in-one at designated holes are entitled to prizes ranging from 100,000 – 1,5000,000 baht in value. Or enter the longest drive contests.
Other festival highlights include free golf-swing clinics with a renowned golf pro and his team from Heartland Golf Schools and an opportunity to try out the latest range of equipment. Browse around and check out terrific bargains and hot deals on a wide range of specially-discounted golf products, including 10-30% savings on Pro Shop products at all golf courses.
Contact information: HUA HIN/CHA-AM GOLF FESTIVAL 20077 PARTICIPATING GOLF COURSES

Special Promotion

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 09:11:00 +0000

As part of the ongoing Bangkok Fest & Fun campaign, tourists visiting Bangkok between now and December 2007 can purchase a Bangkok Fest Mileage Card and shop at various outlets, becoming eligible to take part in a lucky draw to win 80-baht’s weight worth of gold* (equivalent to roughly 880,000 baht). To be eligible for the draw, tourists simply have their Bangkok Fest Mileage Card stamped and validated at various tourist spots around the city.
Each card costs only nine baht and is available from more than 1,200 branches of Thailand Post Co., Ltd. nationwide, until 30 November 2007.
Proceeds from the sale of the cards will be donated to The Chaipattana Foundation, founded by His Majesty King Bhimibol Adulyadej of Thailand, and Friends in Need (of “PA”) Volunteers Foundation Thai Red Cross.
* 'Baht' is a traditional measure for weighing precious metals used by Thai jewellers and is the weight on a 'baht' coin. One 'baht' is equivalent to 15 grammes

TAT TO ORGANISE SECOND ROADSHOW TO REVIVE CHINESE MARKET

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 09:09:00 +0000

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is to organize the 2nd Thailand Road Show in China during 26-31 August 2007. Invitations have been sent out to the private sector to join the roadshow which will cover China's commercial capital of Shanghai as well as the emerging cities of Nanjing and Guangzhou.
China has been one of the fastest growing markets in terms of visitor arrivals to Thailand in the last few years. However, arrivals have been affected in the first half of 2007, and the roadshow is designed to help reverse the decline by providing the necessary assurances to the Chinese travel trade, and also introduce many of the new products and services.
Last week, TAT Governor Mrs. Phornsiri Manoharn, Governor of Tourism Authority of Thailand met with Mr. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, the newly elected chairman of the Thai–China Tour Operators Association, members of his committee, as well as association members to discuss the launch of “quality tour packages”.
These special packages include many of the main attractions, sightseeing spots, shopping opportunities, and other services designed to enhance the satisfaction levels of Chinese visitors and help them steer clear of the so-called “zero-cost tours.”
Mrs. Phornsiri noted that in 2006, China was the fourth largest source of visitors for Thailand after Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea. Visitor arrivals from China crossed the one million mark for the first time, touching 1,033,305, which generated tourism income of 28,849 million baht.
Last April, Thailand was voted one of the world's most favourite destinations for Chinese tourists. In January-June 2007, Chinese visitor arrivals at Suvarnabhumi Airport tabulated by nationality totalled 364,642, a decline by 20.41%.
Mrs Phornsiri said she expected the roadshow to help arrest the decline and give TAT a chance to re-orient the visitor profile towards the high-end market and highlight the quality products and services featured in the new quality tour packages.
She said that Chinese tour operators who sell these quality packages will be provided with the necessary marketing promotion support by TAT and the Thai-China Tour Operators Association. They will also be provided with an official seal of approval, so that their products can be clearly distinguished by the clients.
A number of familiarization trips have been organised by TAT for Chinese tour operators and travel media to visit Thailand and see for themselves the new Thai products and services.
“We are confident that with the full support of the private sector in selling these quality tour packages, the Thai tourism industry will regain the trust of Chinese visitors and also create a new market opportunity for Thai tour operators,” Mrs Phornsiri said.
Thailand and China established diplomatic relations in 1975. Two-way trade during January-August 2007 grew 30 % to US$13.9 billion and Chinese investments in Thailand tripled to US$200 million.

AMAZING THAILAND GRAND SALE 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 18:22:00 +0000

The Amazing Thailand Grand Sale, Thailand's annual three-month shopping extravaganza from 1 June until 31 August, 2007, offers world-class shopping, a diverse selection of quality products and services, special discounts of 10 - 70 per cent and promotional offers being extended by participating department stores, shopping complexes and retail outlets along designated ‘Shopping Streets’ in Bangkok and the popular tourist destinations of Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket and Hat Yai.
The ‘Shopping Streets’ provide a convenient opportunity to spot great buys in an exotic range of unique crafts and cottage industry products, including exquisitely hand-crafted decorative items for home and living and fashion accessories, available in the traditional as well as contemporary design.
In addition to discount offers of up to 70 per cent from participating establishments, check out the special promotions offered by retail and service outlets displaying the ‘Thailand Grand Sale’ decal. These include free gifts, vouchers and lucky draw prizes. Visa International is also offering a special gift for visitors who charge 10,000 baht or more* to their Visa card at participating outlets.
To take advantage of these promotional offers, simply look out for the "Amazing Thailand Grand Sale" decal on display at participating outlets and charge your purchases on a Visa card during June 1 – August 31, 2007.
*Terms and conditions may apply.
BANGKOK’S ‘SHOPPING STREETS’ Along Sukhumvit Road from the Siam Discovery Center intersection to The Emporium on Sukhumvit Road
Bangkok’s famous ‘Shopping High Street’ is home to several world-class department stores and shopping plazas namely — Siam Discovery Center, Siam Center, Central World Plaza, Erawan Bangkok, Amarin Plaza, Gaysorn, Central Chidlom, Zen, Home Pro Plus, Robinson Department Store, The Emporium and The Mall Department Store.

The 3rd Khao Koh Mini-Half Marathon.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 18:21:00 +0000

Date
5 Nov 2007

The athlete could register at the starting point, at 4.30-5.30 hrs. Starting time is at 6.00 hrs.
Location
At the viewpoint area, in front of the Health Office, Amphoe Khao Koh, Phetchabun
Detail

The Khoa Koh Tourism Business Association, in conjunction with the 1st Cavalry Division, the Phetchabun Military Camp, Phetchabun Provincial Administration, Khao Koh District Office, Khao Koh Hospital and Khao Koh Health Office has organized the 3rd Khao Koh Mini-Half marathon on Sunday, 5 November 2006 at 6.00 hrs. Start at the viewpoint area, in front of the Health Office, Amphoe Khao Koh, Phetchabun. With the aims to encourage people to exercise, renovate the area around Khoa Koh Royal residence by an income of this event as well as opening the Khoa Koh Tourism Season.
The race is divided into 3 categories:- Half –Marathon, 21 km. Admission fee is 400 Thai baht, win the cash prize 5,000 Thai baht and trophy. Start at 6.00 hrs. - Mini–Marathon, 10 km. Admission fee is 200 Thai baht, win the cash prize 2,500 Thai baht and trophy. Start at 6.15 hrs. - Fun-Run, 3 km. Admission fee is 100 Thai baht, win the trophy. Start at 6.30 hrs. (No admission fee for student)
The participant will receive T-shirt, certificate, souvenir medal. The snack and water are available at finish point. (Drinking water is available every 2 km.)
In this regard, baggage leaving point, accommodation, restroom and shower are free of charge.
The race starts at the viewpoint area, in front of the Khao Koh Health Office, for the Half-Marathon (21 km) run to Ruenrudee Intersection, turn right and u-turn at the intersection to Khao Koh Royal Residence, run to Ban Kong Neam route, pass the monument and reach to the finish line. For the Mini-Marathon (10 km) run to Ban Kong Neam route, u-turn at Ban Dok Champee Village and reach to the finish line, for the Fun-Run (3 km) run to Ban Kong Neam route, and u-turn at Ban Simarak then reach to the finish line.
TAT Northern Office: Region 3 would like to invite you to participate in the Khao Koh Mini-Half Marathon and also enjoy the Loi Krathong Festival on 5 November, 2006 at 6.00 hrs.

The 4th Siam Flora Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 18:20:00 +0000

Date
24 Oct 2007 - 2 Nov 2007
Place
At 10.00-21.00 hrs., the MCC Hall, the Mall Bangkae, Bangkok Admission fee is 30 baht, some of the income will donate to the Princess Pa Foundation, Thai Red Cross Society.
Detail
Enjoy the beautiful flora, to honour H.M. the Queen, featuring the plant that received H.M. the Queen’s name, the tropical plants, the 60 species which have been newly found as well as the high-price plant such as Bonsai, Impala Lily, and Croton etc. The National Flora Contest is organized, winning the Royal Trophy of HRH Princess Soamsavali Kitiyakara, the categories are: 1. A single orchid plus a garden decoration.2. The 6 categories of Bonsai. 3. The 22 categories of Aglaonema.4. The 10 categories of Frangipani.5. The 8 categories of Impala Lily.6. The 9 categories of Caladium.7. The 7 categories of Croton.

BHUMIBOL DAM INVITATION INTERNATIONAL-

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 18:19:00 +0000

Bhumibol Dam in Tak province will be hosting the Bhumibol Dam Invitation International Mountain Bike Championships for the fourth consecutive year on August 25– 26, 2007. 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.
Local and international bikers are being invited to participate in this friendly event.
The mountain bike races feature three main classes consisting of Professional, Amateur and Family teams and five key categories consisting of:
Competition Bike races covering a distance of 40 km
Amateur Bike races covering a distance of 25 km
Family Bike races covering a distance of 24 km
Sweat Bike races covering a distance of 60 km
Funny Bike
Each category is divided into sub-categories according to sex and age as well as open races.

Re-Entry Permits

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:32:00 +0000

Application fee for a single re-entry permit is 1,000 Baht. A multiple re-entry permit (per visa) is 3,800 Baht Application fee for a single re-entry permit is 1,000 Baht. A multiple re-entry permit (per visa) is 3,800 Baht

Temporary Tourist Visa:

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:31:00 +0000

According to the Interior Ministerial Announcements, passport holder from 20 countries may apply for visas at the immigration checkpoints for the purpose of tourism for the period of not exceeding 15 days. - The applicant must possess means of living expenses 10,000 Baht per person and 20,000 Baht per family accordingly. - The applicant must produce full paid ticket which is usable within 15 days since the date of entry. - Visa on arrival is provided at 23 designated international checkpoints and should produce the application from his/her recent photograph (2 ½ inches)is attached. The application fee is 1,000 Baht. - Visitors who enter the Kingdom with Visa on Arrival generally cannot file an application for extension of stay except in special cases such as illness which prevents them from travelling, etc.They can submit an application at the Office of Immigration Bureau, Immigration Division 1, Soi Suan Plu, South Sathon Road, Bangkok 10120.Tel:0-2287-3127 or 0-2287-3101-10 ext. 2264-5 or at website http://www.police.go.th/frconten/frconten.htm List of 20 countries is as follow: 1. Bhutan : Kingdom of Bhutan 2. China : People’s Republic of China (including Taiwan) 3. Cyprus : Republic of Cyprus 4. Czech : Czech Republic 5. Estonia : Republic of Estonia 6. Hungary : Republic of Hungary 7. Kazakhstan : Republic of Kazakhstan 8. Latvia : Republic of Latvia 9. Liechtenstein : Principality of Liechtenstein 10. Lithuania : Republic of Lithuania 11.maldives : Republic of Maldives 12.Mauritius : Republic of Mauritius 13.Oman : Sultanate of Oman 14.Poland : Republic of Poland 15.Russian Federation 16.Saudi Arabia : Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Republic of Denmark 17.Slovakia : Slovak Republic 18.Slovenia : Republic of Slovenia 19.Ukraine
List of Thailand’s immigration Checkpoints which provides facilities for issuance of visa on arrival area as follow: 1. Suvarnnabhumi Airport, Bangkok 2. Chiangmai International Airport, Chiangmai 3. Phuket International Airport, Phuket 4. Hatyai International Airport, Songkhla 5. U Tapao Airport, Rayong 6. Mae Sai Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai 7. Chieng Sean Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai 8. Chieng Khong Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai 9. Betong Immigration Checkpoint, Yala 10. Sadoa Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla 11. Samui Airport, Surat Thani 12. Sukhothai International Airport, Tak Immigration Checkpoint 13. Bangkok Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Bangkok 14. Sri Racha Immigration Checkpoint, Chonburi 15. Mabtaput Immigration Checkpoint, Rayong 16. Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint, Nong khai 17. Samui Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani 18. Phuket Immigration Checkpoint, Phuket 19. Satun Immigration Checkpoint, Sutun 20. Krabi Immigration Checkpoint, Krabi 21. Songkhla Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhia 22. Chiangrai Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Chaingrai 23. Surat Thani Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani Visa Extension Application for a 15-day extension of stay for any visa is possible at the immigration Office at Soi Suan Plu, Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok. Tel:0-2287-9101-10. The fee is 500 Baht.

Tourist Visa Exemption

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:31:00 +0000

According to the Interior Ministerial Announcement dated 1 October B.E. 2545 (2002), 20 December B.E. 2545 (2002), 18 October B.E. 2547 (2004) and 6 May B.E. 2548 (2005), passport holder from 40 countries and Hong Kong SAR do not require a visa when entering Thailand for tourism purposes if their stay in the kingdom does not exceed 30 days. - The application must possess instrument of means of living expenses 10000 Baht per person and 20000 Baht per family accordingly. - Please also be advised that ordinary passport holders of 40 countries and Hong Kong who intend to engage in certain activities are eligible to apply for a visa when entering the kingdom if their qualifications meet the conditions set forth by the Office of Immigration Bureau. For more information Bureau, Soi Suan Plu, off South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120 Tel. 0 2287-3101-10 or website http://police.go.th List of 40 countries and one region is as follows: 1. Australia : Commonwealth of Australia 2. Austria : Republic of Australia 3. Belgium : Kingdom of Belgium 4. Brazil : Federative Republic of Brazil 5. Bahrain : State of Bahrain 6. Brunei Darussalam : Negara Brunei Darussalam 7. Canada 8.Denmark : Kingdom of Denmark 9.Finland : Republic of Finland 10.France : French Republic 11.Germany : Federal Republic of Germany 12.Greece : Hellenic Republic 13.Hong Kong : Hong Kong Special Administrative Region 14.Iceland : Republic of Iceland 15.Indonesia : Republic of Indonesia 16.Ireland : Republic of Lreland 17.Lsrael : Republic of Lsrael 18.Italy : Republic of Italy 19.Japan 20.Korea : Republic of Korea 21.Kuwait : State of Kuwait 22.Luxembourg : Grand Duchy of Luxembourg 23.Malaysia 24.Netherlands : Kingdom of the Netherlands 25.New Zeland 26.Norway : Kingdom of Norway 27.Oman :Sultanate of Oman 28.Peru : Republic of Peru
29.Philippines : Republic of the Philippines 30.Portugal : Republic of Portugal 31.Qatar : State of Qatar 32.Singapore : Republic of Singapore 33.Spain : Kingdom of Spain 34.South Africa : Republic of South Africa 35.Sweden : Kingdom of Sweden 36.Switzerland : Swiss confederation 37.Terkey : Republic of Terkey 38.United Arab Emirates 39. United kingdom: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland 40. United State of America 41.Vietnam : Socialist Republic of Vietnam

Visa Immigration Information

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:30:00 +0000

. According to the Interior Ministerial Office, the following is a list of countries, which have concluded an agreement on the exemption of visa requirement for holders of diplomatic or official passport or service/special passport with Thailand, and permitted to stay for 30 and 90 days. List of countries:
90 Days Argentina Austria Belgium Bhutan Brazil Chile Croatia Czech Republic Germany Hungary India Israel Italy Japan Luxembourg Malaysia Mexico Netherlands Nepal Philippines Poland Romania Russia Federation Singapore Slovak Republic South Africa Switzerland Tunisia Turkey 30 Days Mongolia China Vietnam Laos Myanmar Oman 2. The following is a list of countries which have concluded agreement on the Exemption of visa requirement for holders of diplomatic, official and ordinary passports with Thailand and permitted to stay for 90 days. Republic of Peru 3. The following is a list of countries which have exempted visa requirement for holders of diplomatic, and official passports and permitted to stay for exceeding 90 days. List of countries: Finland Denmark Sweden 4. The following is a list of countries which have concluded an agreement on the exemption of visa requirement for holders of national passport with Thailand and permitted to stay for 30 and 90 days. 90 Days Brazil Chile Republic of Korea 30 Days Hong Kong SAR/Macau SAR Socialist Republic of Vietnam Laos

International Airports and Airport Tax

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:30:00 +0000

Thailand currently has five international airports, at Bangkok ( Don Mueang Airport ), Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hat Yai and Phuket. Bangkok International Airport is located some 22 kilometres north of downtown Bangkok. There are two international terminals. Please be sure to check which terminal you will depart from when reconfirming your flight. ( Bangkok International Airport directory assistance, Tel: 0 2535 1111.) The domestic and cargo terminals are located nearby. Airport tax for international passengers is 500 baht per person.

Exchange Control

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:30:00 +0000

Any amount of foreign currency may be brought into the country. Visitors may take foreign currency out of Thailand,but no more than the amount stated in the customs declaration made on arrival. Travellers leaving Thailand may take out no more than 50,000 baht per person in Thai currency.

Export of Antiquities

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:29:00 +0000

Buddha images,Bodhisattva images or fragments,part of ancient monuments and prehistoric objects,are forbidden to be taken out of Thailand. Newly cast Buddha images in complete condition can be exported for worship,cultural exchange or educational purposes with licenses issued by the Fine Arts Department. Not more than 5 pieces per person shall be allowed. Reproductions of antiquities can also be exported with licenses. Objects together with photographs and applicant’s passport with photocopy (in case of export of Buddha images the photocopy of passport must be certified as true copy by the related Embassyor Consulate in Thailand) must be taken to any of the following places: the office of Archaeology and National Museums in Bangkok (Tel:0 2628 5032), Chiang Mai National Museum in Chiang Mai or Thalang National Museum in Phuket. A license issuing process lasts for 4 working days.

Export of Antiquities

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:29:00 +0000

Electricity

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:28:00 +0000

The electric current is 220 volt AC (50 cycles) throughout the country. There are many types of plugs and sockets in use. Traveller with electric shavers.tape recorders and other appliances should carry a plug-adapter kit. The larger hotels are likely to have 110 volt transfomers available.

Clothing

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:28:00 +0000

Light,loose cotton clothing is best. Nylon should be avoided. Sweaters are recommended for the evenings during the cool season or if visiting mountainous areas and remote national parks. Jackets and ties are required in certain restuarents.

Tipping

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:28:00 +0000

It is customary to tip porters and hotel personnel who have given good personal service. A 10 – 15% tip is appreciated in restuarents, particularly where service charges are waived. It is not necessary to tip cinema ushers.

Business Hours

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:27:00 +0000

Most commercial concerns in Bangkok operate five days a week. Government offices are generally open between 8.30 a.m. and 4.30p.m. with a 12.00 p.m. to 1 p.m. lunchbreak, Monday through Friday,except on public holidays. Private business maintain similar hours – 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. , with certain exception. Most shops are open 12 hours a day, seven days a week

Currency and Exchange Service

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:27:00 +0000

The Thai unit of currency is the baht. The baht is divided into 100 satang. Coins are valued at 25 satang, 1 baht, 5 baht and 10 baht. Banknotes are valued at 20, 50, 100, 500and 1,000 baht. Major currency bills and travelers cheques are cashed easily at hotels, tourist shops, all provincial banks, shopping centres and money changers. Travellers cheques are best changed in banks (you will need your passport). Rates of exchange at banks or authorised money changers are better than those at hotels and department stores. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Medical Services

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:26:00 +0000

All tourism destinations and provincial capitals have hospitals and clinics staffed by well-trained doctors and nurses. In the case of an emergency, an ambulance can be summoned from any private hospital.