Thailand Travel Heaven

21st PHUKET KING'S CUP REGATTA

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 02:00:00 +0000

The Phuket King's Cup Regatta held in honour of His Majesty the King of Thailand to commemorate His Majesty's birthday on December 5th has become the biggest sailing event in Asia. With participants from all over the world converging on Phuket to race in Asia's most prestigious regatta, the event offers five days of great sailing off Phuket's West Coast.

The Phuket King's Cup Regatta, Asia's biggest and most popular regatta, is the jewel in the crown of the Asian Yachting Circuit, a circuit of the leading regattas in Asia including the Raja Muda International Regatta, the Singapore Straits Regatta and the China Sea Race. More than a regatta, the week long event consists of great parties, great sailing and lots of fun.

Inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the sixtieth birthday of His Majesty the King of Thailand, the event has been held during the first week of December every year since. With the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King, the Regatta is organized by the Phuket King's Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Province of Phuket.

The 2004 Phuket King's Cup Regatta attracted some 900 participants representing 96 teams. In 2006, the organizers are expecting the participation of representatives from at least 15 countries from around the world namely - from Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Russia as well as teams from Europe. Travel to Thailand is being sponsored by Thai Airways International, the national carrier. Approximately 1,000 visitors, including some highly experienced crews, are expected to travel to the tropical resort island of Phuket.

The Phuket King's Cup Regatta was inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the King and has been held annually every year since in honour of His Majesty who graciously agreed to be patron of the event.

The regatta has progressed from modest beginnings into an event that is now widely recognised as the largest regatta in Asia. The Phuket King's Cup Regatta has a unique combination of top standard racing, spectacular scenery and sailing conditions and outstanding social events. Each year, His Majesty the King sends a personal representative to present the King's Cup trophies on his behalf. This special Royal awards ceremony is the highlight of the event.

Racing takes place over a 6-day period in several classes of yacht, namely racing, cruising, ocean cruising, multi-hull, classic keel boats and Farr Platus. Competitors and their yachts come from all over the world, including strong contingents from Asia, Australia, New Zealand, America and Europe.

The 2000 event saw almost 100 boats entering over the 6 classes - a record. These ranged from some of the world's top racing yachts (with a fair number of world class sailors onboard) through to amateur racing, cruising and classic sailing yachts. Around 1,000 participants and partygoers enjoyed the splendid sailing and memorable social events. This year, the Phuket King's Cup Regatta will proceed as planned without changes to the programme or the level of participation. The island paradise is preparing to welcome a large fleet close to the 2000 record. The organizing committee expects that these figures will steadily increase as Phuket gains an ever-stronger reputation as a premier sailing destination in Asia.

Media interest in the event has grown alongside, and the 2000 event saw media representation, both print and broadcast, from Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan, as well as America, Belgium, Holland Italy, Germany and Britain. And, for the first time, a half-hour show was broadcast on television around the world, bringing the Phuket King's Cup Regatta into more than 250 million homes. This year, with a new involvement with CNN, the Phuket King's Cup Regatta will be seen in 450,000 million households.

Since its outset, the regatta has consisted of a number of organizations and people, public and private, commercial and volunteer. These include the organizing yacht clubs, the Royal Thai Navy, the Sports authority of Thailand, the Office of the Governor of Phuket, the Tourist Authority of Thailand, police, customs and immigration departments and sponsors, without whom the event would not be possible. This year, for added peace of mind, visible added security courtesy of the navy and police has been put into place for further reassurance.

For more information, please visit www.kingscup.com

RIVER KWAI BRIDGE WEEK

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 08:00:00 +0000

Each year in late November to early December, the world famous River Kwae Bridge built by Allied prisoners-of-war during World War II , becomes the focal point of celebrations. Event highlights include historical and archaeological exhibits, a carnival, folk and cultural performances, rides on World War II vintage trains, and a spectacular light and sound presentation re-enacting the bridge's World War II legacy.

The Celebration on the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 07:39:00 +0000

Fireworks Performance “The Celebration on the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary 5th December, 2007”

The spectacular fireworks will be held 5 days from December 4 to 8, 2007 to honor His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday which will be the greatest event in memories.
The fireworks will be launched from different location as follows:

Day 1, on December 4 under the name “Dok Mai Fire Haeng Karm Jong Rak Pak Dee” or “Fireworks for loyalty to the King” at the Royal Sport Club sponsor by Seiko Holding Corporation and The Fireworks Association of Japan. There are 14 fireworks displays in 30 minutes designed by 12 Japanese Fireworks Artists. Khunying Tipavadee Meksawan will preside the opening ceremony at the Prince Palace Hotel.

Day 2, on December 5 under the name “Pung Pracha Tou Lah Tawai Pra Porn” or “People Well Wish His Majesty the King” at site on Chao Praya River between Rama IX Bridge and Industrial Ring Bridge. Well-wishes Candle lit will be presided by General Winai Pattriyakul,

Day 3, on December 6 under the name “Pra Bidorn Lon Krao Chao Thai” or “Our Beloved Father” at The Royal Athlete Society. Fireworks are designed and produced in Thailand under Japanese Management performing 3,000 shot of gorgeous displays.

Day 4, on December 7 under the name “Si Lao Terd Tai Ong Bhumiphol” or “Worship King Bhumiphol” at Lam Mae Pim beach, Kraeng district, Rayong. Fantasy Fireworks from China with computerized control will be launched from the sea. General Pichit Kullavanit will preside the well wishes ceremony.

Day 5, on December 8 under the name “Chalerm Pra Kiart Pra Baramee Greg Fah Kong Pattapee” or “Celebrating His Majesty the King’s Glorious 80th Birthday” at QSNCC. Splendid and Fantasy Fireworks Displays will be performed. General Montri Supaporn, Chairman of the glory fireworks performance committee, will preside the well wishes ceremony.

Find more details at www.gloryfireworks.com

Prachuap Khiri Khan : Hua Hin

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 12:10:00 +0000

The provincial capital is a fishing port with a superb location beside beautiful curving bays and amongst steep mountain outcrops. About 100 kilometres to the north of Prachuap Khiri Khan is Hua Hin, Thailand's first beach resort which is renowned for golf and spa. Between Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan are Pran Buri with many boutique resorts and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park with soaring peaks, numerous caves and exotic bird life. Hua Hin
281 kilometers south of Bangkok, Hua Hin, which literally means stone head in Thai, is the oldest beach resort of the country and is still very popular. Clean white sand, crystal clear water and a tranquil atmosphere has continued to attract tourists in search of peaceful and relaxing holidays.

The town was originally known as Ban Samoe Rieng, or Ban Laem Hin (Stony Point Village). The construction of a railway station in the city as part of the Southern Railroad in the reign of King Rama VI resulted in making Hua Hin stand out from many quite fishing villages. In addition, the construction of a Summer Palace of King Rama VII totally transformed the village into a high-society resort town for royalty. Even today, the Royal Family continues to reside at the Palace for part of the year.

Hua Hin's consequence came with the opening of the Railway Hotel (known today as the Sofitel Central Hotel), an elegant Victorian-style resort hotel, and also the countrys first standard golf course. A cluster of royal and high-society residences gradually became more visible resulting in the transformation of the whole village into the first seaside resort of the country, where visitors could enjoy swimming, fishing, and golfing in the country's first standard golf course.

Today, Hua Hin is a well-established beach destination with word-class facilities coupled with a true sense of Thai hospitality. Despite its expansive growth and development as a luxurious destination, the splendor of Hua Hin remains intact. Remaining content in itself, Thailand's oldest seaside resort has never sought international recognition. It has continued to provide a peaceful and relaxed sanctuary in a picturesque environment that comes with a true sense of historical identity.

Thank : Tourism Authority of Thailand

Plane Crash in Phuket, Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 12:16:00 +0000

PHUKET, Thailand — Authorities on Monday found the two flight data recorders from a plane that crashed and killed 89 people — mostly foreigners — on Thailand's resort island of Phuket, while an airline official said wind shear may have doomed the flight.

The budget One-Two-Go Airlines flight was carrying 123 passengers and seven crew from Bangkok to Phuket when it skidded off a runway Sunday while landing in driving wind and rain, catching fire and engulfing some passengers in flames as others kicked out windows to escape.

Deputy Transport Minister Sansern Wongcha-um told reporters that 89 people, including 53 foreigners, were killed in the crash, and 41 others were injured. The crash was Thailand's worst air accident in a decade.

Kajit Habnanonda, president of Orient-Thai Airlines, which owns One-Two-Go, said wind shear — the rapid change in wind speed which can impact takeoffs and landings — was a possible cause of the accident. Heavy rains could have contributed to the plane skidding off the runway, Kajit added.

At least four Americans were among the foreign tourists killed and one survived the crash, according to a U.S. Embassy spokesman in Bangkok who spoke on condition of anonymity citing protocol.

An Israel Embassy official who spoke on condition of anonymity for the same reason said there were 10 Israelis on the passenger list. Two were injured, the official said.

Passengers from France, Sweden, Iran and Australia also were killed, as were the plane's Indonesian pilot and Thai co-pilot, according to the airline's list of dead passengers, which was obtained by The Associated Press.

Survivors described how the McDonnell Douglas MD-82 was preparing to land in heavy rains when it suddenly lifted off again and then came crashing down on the runway. It rammed through a low retaining wall and split in two after it crashed.

"I think he realized the runway was too close or he was too fast or the wind had hit him," Robert Borland, a survivor who lives in Australia, told The Associated Press. "He accelerated and tried to pull out. I thought he is going around again and the next thought was everything went black and there was a big mess and we hit the ground."

Borland, 48, managed to drag himself to an exit where he was pulled by another survivor from the plane to safety.

"People were screaming. There was a fire in the cabin and my clothes caught fire," he said.

Parinwit Chusaeng, who was slightly burned, said some passengers were engulfed in flames.

"I stepped over them on the way out of the plane," Parinwit told The Nation TV channel. "I was afraid that the airplane was going to explode, so I ran away."

Parts of the twisted plane lay smoking at the side of the runway, while officials wearing masks carried bodies wrapped in white sheets to an airport storage building.

Transport Minister Theera Haocharoen said the plane's black boxes would be sent to the United States for analysis.

"Hopefully, we will learn in a few weeks the cause of accident," he said.

Many of the passengers had been planning to vacation at Phuket, a popular beach resort that was among the areas hit hardest by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which killed more than 8,000 people on the island.

The accident was likely to raise new questions about the safety of budget airlines in Southeast Asia, which have experienced rapid growth in recent years and often scramble to find qualified pilots. None of Thailand's budget airlines had previously suffered a major accident, but there have been several deadly crashes in Indonesia.

Many budget airlines use older planes that have been leased or purchased after years of use by other airlines. According to Thai and U.S. aviation registration data, the plane that crashed in Phuket was manufactured and put into use in 1983, and began flying in Thailand in March this year.

One-Two-Go Airlines began operations in December 2003 and is the domestic subsidiary of Orient-Thai Airlines, a regional charter carrier based in Thailand.

Kanchanaburi Tiger Temple, Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 07:41:00 +0000

Wat Pa Luangta Bua Yannasampanno Forest Monastery was established by the Abbot-Phra Acharn Phusit (Chan) Kanthitharo in 1994.

Since its opening Wat Pa Luangta Bua gained a reputation as a wildlife sanctuary. It started with an injured wild fowl given to the monk by the villagers, then peacocks came attracted by the calls of by then rather large colony of wild fowl. An injured wild boar stumbled in to the monastery and the monks cared for him until he could be released back into the forest. The next day he came back followed by his family group of about 10 animals. By now a countless number of boar find shelter in the monastery. Villagers also started to bring in unwanted pets: four species of deer moved in, followed by buffalo, cow, horses, wild goat and gibbons. All these animals are roaming the grounds of the monastery freely.

The first tiger cub arrived to the monastery in February 1999. It was a female cub of Indochinese subspecies (Tigris corbetti) and her condition was very poor. When she was only a few months old her mother was killed by poachers near the Thai-Burma border. The cub was sold to and the new owner ordered her stuffed. A local was hired to do the job, which fortunately he did not finish. Although he injected her in the neck with the preservative formalin the cub survived. When she arrived to the to the monastery she was frail and terrified of a slightest sound. She still has stitches in the cuts on her head. Her vision was impaired and her teeth were already worn, particularly the fangs, which appeared as if they have been filed down to the gum, blood oozing from the roots. Eating was a difficult task for her - she could hardly move her tongue, chew and swallow her food. Inspite of her condition she has never once attacked anyone. Under loving care of the monks the cub recovered, but in July 1999 she fell seriously ill with heart palpitations and died.

People who knew about the incident did not want to see another cub mistreated again. However it was not to be. The monastery is situated in Kanchanaburi province - an area lying adjacent to Burma. Large protected areas and national parks along the Thai-Burma border are believed to contain the largest surviving populations of tigers in Thailand. Unfortunately, while these areas are protected poaching still occurs. A Thai poacher can get up to US $5,800 for killing a tiger, several years' salary to a farmer. The profit is well worth the risk. And when the mother tiger is killed the cubs are taken as a bonus, or left to fend for themselves in the jungle.

Just a few weeks after the first cub has died two healthy male cubs, intercepted from the poachers, were brought to the monastery. They were tiny - just a week old. A few months later the local villagers presented another two male cubs. And soon after the border police patrol intercepted cubs held by poachers and contributed four female cubs, achieving tiger harmony.

The Abbot, Phra Acharn Chan, kindly welcomed the animals. And so the monks ended up looking after the orphaned cubs. None of them had any training in how to handle tigers. They had to learn on the job.

The monastery did its duty. It became a sanctuary and it upholds the sanctity of compassion and kindness to all living creatures.

More info about how to go & Trip in Kanchanaburi :

Kanchanaburi Tiger Temple, Thailand

THE SAKHON NAKHON WAX CASTLE...

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 07:14:00 +0000

THE SAKHON NAKHON WAX CASTLE PROCESSION & ROYAL TROPHY LONG-BOAT RACES

Date 20 Oct 2007 - 26 Oct 2007

Location At Wat Phra That Choeng Chum Temple, Sakon Nakhon

To mark the end of Buddhist Lent or ‘Ok Pansa’, communities in Northeastern Thailand or ‘I-San’ stage an annual celebration consisting of a grand procession of meticulously-carved wax castles, long-boat races and festive celebrations. On the final day of the festival, which falls on the end of the Buddhist Lent, local residents make a trip to the temples to make merit.

This ancient folk tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Over the centuries, the tradition has evolved. Originally, ornate wax trees carved out of poles of beeswax were presented to temples along with other merit-making ritual offerings. Contemporary offerings consist of elaborate designs and sophisticated shapes and forms. Beeswax is molded into miniature Buddhist temples and shrines or wax castles.

The significance of the merit-making ritual is based on the Buddhist concept of reincarnation - the belief that upon death, an individual passes on to another life. According to Buddhist teachings, it is believed that a person's destiny is determined by meritorious acts or good deeds performed in the present life. If individuals conscientiously observe and practice Buddhist principles by performing good deeds and by engaging in acts of Buddhist devotion, individuals earn and accumulate merit during their lifetime. Depending on the merit they have earned, in subsequent lives, individuals progress to the point where they attain spiritual enlightenment and reside in the upper tiers of heaven, or are re-born into a life that is worse than the last.

The practice also constitutes a form of ancestor worship. The wax castle itself is symbolises the ideal spiritual residence devout Buddhists aspire to in their future life.

Based on this belief, making merit by presenting offerings to monks evolved as a Buddhist ritual known as "tak baht". The "baht" being the bowl in which the alms and offerings presented to the monks are placed.

It is also believed that one earns more merit by taking part in communal merit-making. There is strength in numbers, especially when individuals blessed with merit come together and collectively join in the pursuit of good deeds. The annual wax castle procession is a special time for family reunions with relatives reunited in merit-making activities, sharing in goodwill as well as good times. Community resources are pooled and monks and community members join hands to craft these ornate wax castles as merit-making offerings and to stage a grand ceremony and festive celebrations – a notable expression of Buddhist devotion and one which strengthens the bond between the village temple and the community it serves.

These crafted models can be seen especially in Sakon Nakhon where an annual festival is held with a grand wax castle procession, competitive long-boat races as well as traditional northeastern cultural performances among many other festivities.

The Significance of ‘Ok Pansa’, the End of the Buddhist Lent

During his final incarnation and his seventh lent, in remembrance of his mother, Lord Buddha ascended to the heavens to deliver a sermon to his mother. There he resided throughout the entire period of the three-months Rains Retreat or the Buddhist Lent.

At the end of the Rains Retreat which falls on the first day of the waning moon of the eleventh lunar month, Lord Buddha returned to earth after teaching his mother in Thavatimsa heaven, descending by the Celestial Stairway comprising of the Silver, Gold and Crystal stairs.

Delighted by the news of Buddha's return to earth once again, Buddha's disciples and followers prepared to receive him with offerings of food and other sacred items being presented. ‘Tak Baht Devo’, the Buddhist merit-making ritual performed on the final day of the festival signals the end of the Buddhist Lent, originates from the word "Devorohana" and refers to Buddhist celebrations marking the special occasion of the return of the Lord Buddha to earth, as mentioned in ancient Buddhist tales.

Most Famous Festival : Songkran festival in Chiang Mai

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 10:35:00 +0000

April 13 or Wan Sangkan Long

Wan Sangkan Long means the old year passes by (Sangkan derived from the word Songkran. Lanna people cannot pronounce double consonants. So Songkran is pronounced Sangkan; Pret is pronounced Pet; Krot is pronounced, Kot.) According to the belief of the northern people, there are Kun Sangkan (a male) and Nang Songkran (a female). On New Year’s day (Sankan Long) a prediction will be announced, similar to the Songkran announcement of the central region, for example,

“Sankan Long happens on Sunday with Kun Sangkan, riding on the Naga with a cloud in his hand, moving quickly from the west. Nang Songkran named Siri, holds a cannon, meaning there will be war. Insects will destroy the rice fields. Rain will be abundant. Cattle will fall ill. The wealthy will suffer. White Yang wood is the best quality wood. The spirit of rice lies in the bamboo. Those born on Tuesday will face problems. Those born on Saturday will have good fortune. Red objects and live beings will be costly. White objects will cost less.”

April 14 is called, Wan Nao or Wan Da (preparation day)
Wan Nao or Wan Da is an auspicious day when everyone must be cheerful, and must not curse or behave badly. In the morning, food and offerings for the monks are prepared and distributed to friends and relatives in the following morning. In the afternoon, sand is brought to the monastery compounds and sand stupas are created as a form of worship to the Lord Buddha. Finally the time comes for gently splashing water at one another with a word of blessing.

April 15 is called, Wan Phaya Wan
Wan Phaya Wan, which is the most important day of the New Year celebration or the Wan Taleung Sok of the central region. There may be also 4 additional days of celebration: April 15th (Wan Paak Pee), April 16th (Wan Paak Deuan), April 17th (Wan Paak Wan), April 18 (Wan Paak Yam)

Wan Songkran involves merit making, offering food to monks, listening to sermons, paying respect to elders, and having fun.

Recommended Guest house in Chiang Mai :

T-Room Guest House

Banilah Guest House

Loi Krathong Festival In Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 09:57:00 +0000

Loi Krathong, the tradition of setting banana-leaf boats with flickering candles adrift in rivers and waterways and aptly named the "Festival of Light", is now one of Thailand's most internationally known festivals. From its Brahmin roots, the ceremony has evolved over time and come to be part of a Buddhist ritual performed as an act of deep reverence and worship of the sacred relics and holy footprints of Lord Buddha.

In a revival of long lost customs of the ancient capital, the Bangkok Loi Krathong Festival sets out to promote and preserve the royal rituals of the early Rattanakosin period (19th century) in which several types of lanterns were set afloat in the Chao Phraya River and its waterways. The practice was subsequently adopted and adapted by common folk and has evolved into the "Loi Krathong" tradition we know of today. Krathongs are made from basic materials easily found around the village and typically take the shape of lotus in full bloom, swans, chedis (stupas), and Mount Meru from Buddhist mythology.

The lighting of fireworks is undertaken in the same spirit as when lighting candles in an act of worship. Therefore, fireworks displays become an integral element of the secular and religious rituals performed.

Thank : Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Loi Krathong Festival in Chiang Mai Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 03:41:00 +0000

Thai Lanna Festival

Nong Khai : long thin province running along

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 08:18:00 +0000

Nong Khai is a long thin province running along
the Mekong River, providing the main access to
Laos. Originally people went by boat from Tha Sadet, but the building of the Friendship Bridge across the Mekong has made Nong Khai a major centre for transport and trade with Laos.

Attractions include Wat Pho Chai, renowned for its large seated Buddha believed to have been cast in Lan Chang, and Phra That Nong Khai, an old chedi that slipped into the river and can now only be seen completely in the dry season.

Sala Kaeo Ku is a bizarre sculpture garden packed with statres of Shiva, Vishnu and Buddha as well as many other figures from Hindu and Thai culture. Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary near the Mekong River contains a number of beautiful waterfalls.

Nong Khai is 615 kilometres from Bangkok and has an area of 7,739 square kilometres. It consists of the following districts: Mueang Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Phon Phisai, Tha Bo, Sangkhom, Seka, So Phisai, Si Chiang Mai, Phon Charoen, Pak Khat, Bueng Khong Long, Si Wilai, Bung Khla, Sa Khrai, Rattana Wapi, Fao Rai and Pho Tak.

:: How To Get There

Car

From Bangkok, take Highway No. 1 to Saraburi which connects with Highway No. 2 to Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani and Nong Khai. A total distance from Bangkok to Nong Khai is 615 kilometres.

Bus

The Transport Company Limited has a regular bus service both ordinary and air-conditioned to Nong Khai every day. For further information, contact the Mo Chit 2 (Chatuchak) Bus Terminal, Tel. 0 2936 2852-66, or visit the website www.transport.co.th . In ddition, there is a private bus service: 407 Phatthana, Tel. 0 2992 3475-8, 0 4241 1261; Chan Tour Limited, Tel. 0 2618 7418, 0 4241 2195; Barami Tour, Tel. 0 2537 8249, 0 4246 0345; and Cherdchai Tour, Tel. 0 2936 0253, 0 4246 1067.

Rail

Trains depart from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong and Bang Sue Railway Stations to Nong Khai every day. Call 1690, 0 2223 7010-20 or visit www.railway.co.th for more information.

Air

Visitors can fly from Bangkok to Udon Thani and continue the journey by car to Nong Khai, some 50 kilometres from Udon Thani. Call 1566, 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000 or visit www.thaiairways.com for more information.

Intra-provincial Transport

Visitors can use car rental services operated by many tour companies in town. They may choose a tricycle service called “Skylab” for visiting tourist spots in town and nearby areas, such as Tha Sadet Market, Wat Pho Chai, Sala Kaeo Ku, and Thai – Lao Friendship Bridge.
From the Nong Khai Bus Terminal, there is a bus service from Nong Khai to Loei, past Amphoe Tha Bo, Amphoe Si Chiang Mai and Amphoe Sangkhom in Nong Khai, and Amphoe Chiang Khan in Loei. The route runs along the Mekong River. In these districts, there are guesthouses available for visitors.

Inter-provincial Transport

Apart from a Nong Khai – Bangkok bus service, the Nong Khai Bus Terminal also provides its service on other routes: Nong Khai – Rayong (both ordinary and air-conditioned), and ordinary buses on the Nong Khai – Loei, Nong Khai – Nakhon Phanom, and Nong Khai – Udon Thani routes. Contact the Nong Khai Bus Terminal, Tel. 0 4241 1612.
Trains are available from Nong Khai to Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Bangkok three times a day. Contact the Nong Khai Railway Station,
Tel. 0 4241 1582.

Distances from Amphoe Mueang to Other Districts

Tha Bo

Phon Phisai

Si Chiang Mai
So Phisai
Pak Khat
Sangkhom
Bueng Kan
Phon Charoen
Seka 228 kilometres
Bueng Khong Long
Si Wilai
Bung Khla 181
Sa Khrai

136

182

228

238

163

181

kms.

Distances from Nong Khai to Neighbouring Provinces

Udon Thani
Loei 202
Sakon Nakhon
Nakhon Phanom

202

210

303

kms.

Thank : Tourism Authority of Thailand.

MAE HONG SON is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 07:42:00 +0000

MAE HONG SON is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world. Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, the name refers to the fact that is terrain is highly suitable for the training of elephants.

Former governors of Chiang Mai used to organise the rounding up of wild elephants which were then trained before being sent to the capital for work. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the dream destinations for visitors. Daily flights into its small airport bring growing numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous hilltribe communities and soft adventure opportunities.

THAI YAI CULTURE

The Thai Yai can be seen along the northern border with Myanmar. They may at one time have been the most numerous of the ethnic Thai tribes that stretch across Southeast Asia. A large group settled in Mae Hong Son.

The Thai Yai culture has had a strong influence on the province, as can be seen in its architecture. Although a part of the Lanna region, the indigenous Thai Yai people living in Mae Hong Son are faced with very cold weather during winter and extremely hot weather in the summer, with mist or fog practically throughout the whole year. Not surprisingly they have had to adapt to the environment.

As a result, their architectural style has developed into something different from other Lanna communities. Their living quarters are usually built with tall floors and low roofs, the sizes differing according to ones social status and position. Homes of the ordinary folks are usually with one single level of roof, while those of the local aristocrats have two or more levels forming a castle-like shape. The space thus provided is believed to help air circulation. An interesting feature of the Thai Yai style is the perforated designs along the eaves which are an architectural identity of the area.

Travel from Bangkok

By Car

Mae Hong Son is located 924 kilometres from Bangkok. Drive from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and then choose the following routes to Mae Hong Son:

Chiang Mai Hot Mae Sariang Khun Yuam Mae Hong Son (Route 108) with 1864 curves, a distance of 349 kilometres.

Chiang Mai Mae Malai Pai Mae Hong Son (Route 1095), a distance of 245 kilometres.

By Bus

Muang Nuea Yan Yon Tour (Tel: (0 2936 3587-8) operates an air-conditioned bus which runs directly from Bangkok to Mae Hong Son every day. The bus departs from Chatuchak (Mochit 2) Bus Terminal at 6 p.m. The trip takes about 17 hours.

By Rail

One can travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by rail and then continue to Mae Hong Son by bus. For more information, call 1699, 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020 or visit www.railway.co.th

By Air

Thai Airways flies Bangkok-Chiang Mai-Mae Hong Son daily. Reservation should be made in advance at Tel: 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000 or call 1566 or visit www.thaiairways.com for current schedule.

SGA offers flights to Pai. Call 0 2664 6099 or visit: www.sga.co.th

Travel from Chiang Mai

By Car

Mae Hong Son can be reached from Chiang Mai either by Highway No. 108 via Hot, Mae Sariang, or Highway No. 1095 via Pai.

By Bus

Chiang Mai-Mae Hong Son buses operated by Prem Pracha Transport (Tel: 0 5324 4737, 0 5324 2767) departing from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal every day. The buses which run along Highway No.108 leave Chiang Mai frequently from 6.30 a.m. 9 p.m. The journey takes 8 hours. The buses which run along Highway No. 1095 leave Chiang Mai from 7 a.m.-12.30 p.m. The journey takes 6 hours.

By Air

There are 4 daily flights from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son. Tourists are advised to book tickets at least 2 days before departure. Contact Thai Airways Tel: 0 5321 0043-5, 0 5321 1044-7 (Chiang Mai), or 0 5361 1297, 0 5361 1194 (Mae Hong Son).

Distances from Mae Hong Son town (Amphoe Mueang) to the other districts:

Pang Mapha
Khun Yuam
Pai
Mae La Noi
Mae Sariang
Sop Moei

64
67
111
134
164
192

km.
km.
km.
km.
km.
km.

Thank : Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Bangkok : City of Angel

noreply@blogger.com (The Traveller) — Mon, 27 Nov 2006 09:40:00 +0000

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.

:: Festivals
Bangkok Songkran Festival
April 12-14
The traditional Thai New Year is an occasion for merriment all over the city, but most notably at Sanam Luang, near the Grand Palace, where the revered Phra Phuttha Sihing image is displayed and bathed by devotees. In the Wisutkasat area, a Miss Songkran beauty contest is held and accompanied by merit-making and entertainment. Khao San Road, Bang Lamphu area is also one of the high-spots in the city to experience the water-throwing activities between locals and tourists. Bangkok Songkran Festival

H.M. The Kings Birthday Celebrations
December 5
H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest reigning monarch is well beloved and deeply respected by all Thais old and young. The occasion of his royal birthday provides his loyal subjects the opportunity to express their reverence for him. All over the country, buildings and homes are elaborated and the area around the Grand Palace is spectacularly illuminated.

H.M. The Queens Birthday Celebration
August 12
To display their loyalty and to honour Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on the occasion of her royal birthday, the Thai people decorate their houses and public buildings. Around Bangkok, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, the area around the Grand Palace and other well-known locations are bedecked with coloured lights and magnificent adornments.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony

May
An ancient Brahman ritual, conducted at Sanam Luang, in which farmers is believe to be able to forecast the abundance of the next rice crop. The event is a result of a series of ceremonies that are conducted by Phraya Raek Na, portrayed by a high-ranking official from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives who wears colourful traditional costumes. This ceremony was re-introduced in 1960 by H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej and is considered the official commencement of the rice-growing season.

Trooping of the Colours
December
Their majesties the King and Queen preside over this impressive annual event, held in the Royal Plaza near the equestrian statue of King Chulalongkorn. Dressed in colourful uniforms, amid much pomp and ceremony, members of the elite Royal Guards swear allegiance to the King and march past members of the Royal Family.

:: Attractions

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 Thuesday, 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 http://www.thaiticketmaster.com/ for reservation. For more information about the performance and Sala Challermkrung visit http://www.salachalermkrung.com/

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

Maenam Chao Phraya
The Chao Phraya River is the most important waterway in Thailand. Boats of all sizes ply this river ranging from huge container ships that berth at Klong Toey Port to small dugouts. Its most recognized water transporters are the rice barges and the long-tail boats. Then there are cross river ferries and the river express boats serving as water-born buses bringing commuters to the city from as far up-river as Nonthaburi.

A cruise on the Chao Phraya River gives you a new perspective on Bangkok as you pass by the imposing Prangs of Wat Arun, the majestic Grand Palace and the Temple of The Emerald Buddha.

You'll see a different side of commerce as huge lines of rice barges are towed by a small tugboat and other barges carrying cargo as diverse as sand and gravel, even soft drinks and beer.

There are a number of ways you can experience life on the river. You can take a voyage on a luxuriously converted rice barge leaving from Bangkok on a leisurely journey all the way up to the ancient capital at Ayutthaya. There are also purpose-built luxury cruisers making the same trip. Or you can see the river life the same way the locals do by catching a river express boat.

There are converted rice barges and Chinese junks that offer lunch and dinner cruises. The evening dinner cruise can be particularly romantic, sipping fine wine at a candle-lit table.

For those who want a more budget-priced journey, there are small river boats that are available for hire by the hour

Wat Bowon Niwet
This temple is located on Phra Sumen Road in the Bang Lamphu area. Built in 1829, it is the shrine-hall of Phra Phutthachinnasi, a very beautiful Buddha image which was molded in about 1357. This is one of the most important temples of Bangkok, whose one-time chief abbot was King Rama IV before he ascended the throne. King Rama IV and King Rama VII, as well as His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej had resided here during their monkshood.

Open : Daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Admission : Free

Tel : 022812831-3

Wat Pho

This is possibly the most interesting temple in Thailand as it combines history, medical science and is a center for meditaion and traditional massage training. Its official name is Wat Phrachetuphon Vimon Mangkararam Ratchaworamahawihan, although it is commonly called Wat Po.

Founded during the 16th century, Wat Pho is most famous for the golden reclining Buddha that measues 46 metres and has feet inlaid with mother-of pearl. This is the main attraction that draws visitors to the temple. In more modern times, Wat Pho has gained international recognition as a meditation centre and for the traditional Thai massage that is both practiced and taught here.

Traditionally, temples were the schools as there was no formal education system, with monks providing basic lesson in both spiritual and secular subjects. King Rama III turned Wat Po into a major centre for learning in botany, geography and history.

Bas reliefs around one of the main buildings depict the story of the Ramakian which is the Thai adaption of the Indian Ramayana.

For those interested in traditional Thai medicine, there is a pavilion that serves to both impart knowledge and provide treatment. The walls have marble tablets describing basic anatomy and treatments. In the late afternoon, traditional medicine practitioners are there to dispense herbal mixtures. Nearby, there is a cloister where you can have a traditional Thai massage for a very small payment.

How to get there: Bus routes 1,3,12,25,47,53,60,82,91,501,508

Open daily : 8.30 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

Admission : 20baht

Tel : 022221969 ; Thai Massage School : 022213686 http://www.watpho.com/

Thank you for Tourism Authority of Thailand.

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