TRAVEL THAILAND TRIP -- Thailand Travel Tour Guide --

Ten Essential Things To Do When You Visit Thailand

2008-10-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

It's not hard to understand why Thailand has become such a hot name when tourism is the topic of discussion. After all, Thailand is very rich in terms of its culture as manifested by its various museums and temples. At the same time, Thailand has a lot to brag about with its natural resources. These are two large factors which bring tourists from all over the world into Thailand.

1.) Bangkok's Canals

Bangkok, Thailand is known for its open canals. This is used for various open water activities, and you can find floating houses here, which will certainly make you wonder how do these houses remain floating? At the same time, you can also shop in Thailand's open canals, indeed a very bright and original way to do your shopping.

2.) Tarutao Marine National Park

Thailand makes an effort to preserve its wildlife resources and its animal and plant species. While being ardent in protecting them, you can enjoy and relish their company through the Tarutao Marine National Park. You must not forget to visit here while you're in Thailand.

3.) Temple of Wat Arun in Bangkok, Thailand

There are 400 Buddhist temples in Bangkok, Thailand, but Wat Arun is one of those temples which are most notable. This is because of its modern architectural design, and at the same time, its unique distinction from others. A portion of the temple contains images of Buddha's life.

4.) Statue of Buddha in Ko Samui, Thailand

In the Island of Ko Samui, Thailand lays a world-famous statue of Buddha. This statue stands 12 m or 29 feet tall and is most notable for the bright colors with which it is portrayed. You must visit this religious place situated in an island not far from Thailand's capital.

5.) Grand Palace, Bangkok

A world famous site is the Grand Palace, Bangkok. The Grand Palace is a complex of royal buildings where royalty in Thailand lives; however, only one complex, the Wat Phra Kaeo, is open to tourists. The Grand Palace is a place you must visit in Thailand.

6.) Thai Boxing

As the people in Thai call the sport, "Muay Thai," it is something you definitely should not miss - whether by actual experience or by watching. Thai boxing is actually a very historic sport throughout the history of Thailand, even having royal and religious roots. Thai boxing in Thailand can never be the same as in other places.

7.) Thailand's Theater and Arts

There are a variety of unique theater experiences you can have in Thailand. Two such examples are Khon and Nang Yai. Khon is a dramatization of Thailand's myths and ancient tales, while Nang Yai, on the other hand, is portrayed through puppets of shadows.

8.) Suan Pakkad Palace

The palace is the perfect place for you to go if you want to have a look at traditional houses in Thailand. Also, in Suan Pakkad Palace, there are art collections which you might want to go to. This is a tourist destination that will suit an art lover's taste.

9.) Vimameck Mansion

This mansion-turned-museum is graced for being the largest teakwood mansion in the world. What Thailand did was to turn Vimameck Mansion into a museum as well. Because of this, you not only get to see the mansion but you also get to see artifacts exhibited in the museum.

10.) National Museum in Bangkok

A visit to Bangkok shall not be complete without going to the National Museum. Chronicled in the National Museum is practically the history of Bangkok presented through artifacts from before up to the modern pieces of contemporary art. You will surely get to have the feel of Thailand through the National Museum.

Author: Jonathan Williams

Thailand Hotels Booking

2008-10-30T10:36:00.000-07:00

Get an online accommodation in Thailand

Thailand, located on the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea is one of the major tourist spots of South East Asia attracting millions of tourists each year. The country is also famous for its renowned beaches, tropical climate, finger licking foods and intriguing culture. The luxuriant nature reserves and the woodlands followed by the rocky hills and amazing waterfalls will actually make your holidays an unforgettable experience.

You can conveniently find and book hotel rooms in Thailand that range from expensive five star hotels to low cost lodges. In fact, the hotels in Thailand are famous for their hospitality and world class services. Some of these hotels also feature a number of luxury facilities such as aromatherapy, herbal steam baths, body and head massage, acupuncture, yoga and other beauty treatments

However, booking hotels in Thailand prior to your visit is essential as it is often difficult to find an accommodation in the nick of time. With the advent of Internet, you can even surf for online Thailand hotels. You can use any of the major search engines to do a thorough research and you will come across a number of hotel booking sites. Select one of the best sites that offer authentic and detailed information about the Thailand hotels.

In fact, these hotel booking sites are best suited for people who prefer to gather information about each and every hotel before actually taking their decision. Apart for booking your hotel rooms, you can also compare the prices and facilities of similar hotel located in the same area through these sites. Moreover, these types of hotel booking sites have a team of experienced employees, who will help you out to get the best accommodation in Thailand depending upon your budget. Some of these sites also offer discount online booking services for hotels in Thailand so as to ensure that you get a good deal.

In case you are opting for online booking for hotels in Thailand, it is better to gather more information from some of the travel guides and agents. There are many people who write reviews on hotels after their vacations. Reading these reviews will also help you to get a clear idea about the services and the rates of the hotels as well as to find the best suited hotel for you in Thailand.

Another important factor that you need to keep in mind while booking hotels in Thailand is its location. Try to stay in the most well connected part of the city with proper public transportation links. This will help to reduce your conveyance cost.

Author: lexiemarine

"Songkarn" - The Most Famous Festival Of Thailand - The Experience That You Will Never Forget

2008-04-08T00:31:00.001-07:00

What does Songkarn means? How is it importance? You can find out the one of festival that you will never forget from this article.

Songkarn festival or water throwing festival is the long holiday for Thais and it is the one of the most important festival. The word "Songkarn" comes from Sanskrit language that means passing or approaching. This festival isn't only the funny celebrating but also the ceremony by Buddhism religion too. Family will seem to be appreciated in this period, especially the old people because their children will going back to their hometown and do greeting with their older relatives.

Songkarn period can separate into three days and each day has their own specific name and activities that are different. April 13th is called "Songkarn day", April 14th is called "Nao day" or the day on which the sun travels between Pieces and Arise marking the old Thai New Year's Eve and April 15th the last day of this festival is called "Thai New Year's Day".

For the Activities, there are many kind of playing. The one that is well-known in worldwide is water throwing activity, this is the funniest activity at all in my opinion, people will go to the downtown of their own city for playing throwing water and painting face by chalk powder to the others even they are stranger. This activity will make people knows each other, sometimes getting a couple in this activity is possible.

Another traditional activity that the one of Thai people will do by basically day, is doing the good thing or getting merit by offering food to the monk but it is different from the ordinary day because they will go to the temple and it will have many activities over there such as Pouring scented water over Buddha image, Building the sand pagodas and Playing some Thai traditional plays that won't be seen in ordinary day and there will have some free Thai food for share with people who comes join this ceremony.

This is just example of Songkarn festival activity, there will have more over that you couldn't imagine. You can looking for more information about Songkarn festival and the traditional places that so famous for Songkarn festival by searching in TAT website but it will make you more convenience if you choose some packages that was created by Thai-tourism agency that will serve suitable package for your life style.

what about your next vacation to Thailand, here is where you can enjoin your beautiful holiday with reasonable cost of travel packages, Hotel booking, Airfare and Limousine services throughout Thailand, visit: http://www.thaifly.com

Thailand - The Land of Smiles and Cheap Travel

2008-04-08T00:29:00.000-07:00

Thailand is known as the land of smiles, which is amazing considering the traffic jams in Bangkok. For budget travelers, Thailand simply can’t beat on price alone.

Thailand

Thailand is an odd mix of contrasts. It can be extremely stressful while trying to get around in Bangkok and gloriously relaxing while laying on practically any of the beaches that populate the coast of the country. Regardless of the situation, the Thais have a habit and custom or smiling regardless of what you ask or how you ask it.

Beaches

The beaches of Thailand need no introduction. Used as the setting for hundreds of movies, they come in a variety of styles. The beaches of Phuket and Phi Phi fall along the lines of traditional beach resort areas like you might find in a place such as Cancun, Mexico or Tamarindo, Costa Rica. On the other end of the scale, you can find more rustic beach areas in places like the island of Ko Chang where you’ll have a few beach bungalows, a couple of bars and one or two stores. If you’re looking for a little of both styles, just ask around.

Da North

Infatuated with the beach life, many people fail to head up country when in Thailand. This is a mistake as the north is the host to such locations as the city of Chang Mai, the Summer Palace of the King of Thailand and interesting little villages. For the outdoor enthusiasts, rafting, hiking and mountain biking are very popular and widely available.

Prices

If you’re on a budget, Thailand is a perfect travel destination. For some reason, flights to Thailand are particularly cheap with my recent flight on Korean Airlines running roughly $650 round trip. Once in country, your money will go a long, long way.

I think a note of caution is need at this point. Please beware. If you decide to take a trip to Thailand, you won’t want to come back to your native country. You will, however, definitely come back to Thailand!

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of travel journals. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com

Thailand, The Land of Smiles

2008-04-08T00:28:00.000-07:00

The Kingdom of Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia. Thailand borders Laos and Cambodia to the east, the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia to the south, and the Andaman Sea and Myanmar to the west. Vietnam is a close neighbor of Thailand. Thailand means “Free Land”.

Thailand was known as Siam until 1939. Thailand is also known as the land of white elephants. The White Elephant have always been important symbol of royal power in Thailand.

Thailand is also dubbed as “the Land of Smiles” after the perceived gentleness of its inhabitants. Thailand is truly the “Land of Smiles”. A smile seems to be a continuous part of life in Thailand.

Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Udon and Ubon are the main cities of Thailand. Patong, Karon beach in Phuket, Pattaya, Khao Lak, chiang mai and Sukhothai Historical Park are famous places in thailand.

Bangkok is the capital as well as the largest city of Thailand. Chiang Mai and the northern Thailand region are part of the infamous Golden Triangle. The Golden Triangle is the term used for the meeting point of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. Chiang Mai is located on the serene Mai Ping River in a beautiful mountain valley. Chiang Mai is a modern city surrounding the ancient walled & moated city.

Thailand is one of the hottest sex tourism destinations of the world. Tourism is one of the corner stones of Thai economy.

The flights to thailand are available from all over the globe. Bangkok International Airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport, Chiang Mai International Airport, Chiang Rai International Airport, Phuket International Airport are the major airports in Thailand.

Bangkok International Airport, also known, as Don Muang International Airport or Don Mueang is an airport in Bangkok, Thailand. It’s an important hub of Asia and the hub of Thai Airways International and it serves the most air traffic in Thailand.

Suvarnabhumi Airport, also New Bangkok International Airport or Second Bangkok International Airport is the new international airport of bangkok, Thailand. The airport is located in Racha Thewa in the Bang Phli district of Samut Prakan province, some 25 kilometers east of Bangkok.

Chiang Mai International Airport is the major gateway to the north of Thailand. Air Asia, Air Mandalay, Angel Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Lao Aviation, LTU International, Malaysia Airlines, Mandarin Airlines, Nok Air, PB Air, Phuket Air, Silkair and Thai Airways International serve Chiang Mai International Airport.

Chiang Rai International Airport is located in Chiang Rai in the north of Thailand. It is located about 8 kilometers from the city center. The airlines that serve the airport include Thai Airways International, Angel Airlines, Air Asia and One-Two-GO.

The Phuket International Airport, the airport in phuket, Thailand, is served by Air Asia, Air China, Asiana Airlines, Bangkok Airways, China Airlines, Bal Air, Britannia Airways, Britannia (Sweden), Condor Flugdienst, Far Eastern Air, Finnair, Dragonair, Lauda Air, LTU, Malaysia Airlines, Nova Airlines, Phuket Air, Premi Air, Silkair, Thai Airways International, Tiger Airways, Trans Asia Airways and Uni Airways.

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Where To Stay When Visiting Bangkok

2008-03-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

By: lar

It is the same as buying real estate. The three most important things to remember are location, location and location.

If you will only be over-nighting in Bangkok, you may just want to stay at a hotel near the airport. Traffic can be horrendous in Bangkok, and you don�t want to risk missing your flight.

If you are like me and want to get out during your stay in Bangkok, staying in the Sukhumvit Road area is the place to be.

I only stay in Bangkok when I absolutely have to but when I do I look for hotels in the Sukhumvit and Soi 4 area. There are a few reasons for doing this:

- It is right in the heart of the action. Bars are within walking distance and prices for the hotel are reasonable.

- There are numerous restaurants within a five minute walk. I can get Thai, American, Italian, and many more European and Asian dishes easily.

- If I do need to get a taxi, I can open the front door of the hotel and take about 3 steps and get a cab.

- When it is time for me to depart and head for the airport, I get a taxi and a short jaunt across Sukhumvit and we are on the tollway. You don�t want to get stuck in Bangkok traffic when you need to catch a flight.

- Even though I speak reasonable Thai, it is nice that most of the stores and shops in the area speak a little bit of English. It saves time and makes the shopping easier.

- Speaking of shopping, Sukhumvit is a mecca of street vendors. Sharpen your negotiating skills and get all of your souvenirs at dirt cheap prices.

- Free breakfast. I usually stay at the Majestic Suites Hotel on Sukhumvit between Soi 4 and Soi 6 (closer to Soi 4) and they have a basic free breakfast.

- I can book online. There are many places to book hotels in this area using online booking which saves me time and money.

- Relatively safe. There is a police box right on the corner of Sukhumvit and Soi 4 if you need help from the boys in brown.

- Quiet. Even though it is on a main road, and overlooks a bar complex, the hotels in the area are quiet

So you can see that for about $40 USD per night, you can get excellent value for your money. You can go upscale a couple of blocks away and stay at the JW Marriott but I prefer value for my Baht.

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First Night In Pattaya

2008-03-18T03:31:00.000-07:00

By: lar

You have saved up your money. You may have even worked some overtime to get some extra cash for your holiday. You have done all of your online research. Flight is booked and so is the hotel. You are ready to go.

Now, what do you do on the first night of your 2-week vacation?

Do you pace yourself or go hog wild? Does it matter that you arrived at 3 AM or noon or midnight? Do you take a shower or just go out? Decisions, decisions, decisions.

After your long flight to Bangkok and then the 1 � hour ride to Pattaya what the heck do you do.

I can tell you what I do.

I schedule my flight to arrive at 4 PM. My other choice is to arrive at midnight. This is a no-brainer. Arriving in Bangkok at 4 PM gets me to Pattaya by 7 PM.

I usually just toss my bags in the room, secure my valuables and maybe change my T-shirt. I am then ready to head out.

First stop will be to have a beer or two with the owner of the guest house. We will catch up with each other and what has happened over the past few months.

Then it is time to head out. I prefer the beer bars over the go-go bars, so I will walk down Soi Buakhao, heading north, and either stop for a quick bite with one of the many street vendors, or go straight to the bars. The bars are in a complex called Night Bazaar � right next to a night time shopping area.

A couple of beers later and I move out further north. I cross Second Road and make my way to Sois 7 & 8. It doesn�t matter which bar(s) I go to. I just look for some cute girls, good music, and a friendly atmosphere.

If I am still alone, I will next head out for the bars in the Soi 2 area. There are about 100 bars here and I will do my best to pick out the best ones.

One more beer bar area to check out on Beach Road called Best Friends. There are about 17 bars here and I will walk around and find one to my liking. The good thing here is you can sit in one and look over the other 16.

If nothing suits my fancy here, it is time to go to Walking Street. Not being a fan of the go-go bars, I will hit the hostess bars and some of the beer bars.

I have quite a few friends in this area that own or manage bars. So I make the rounds and say "Hi" to all of my buddies and see what is going on. I am treated well so it pays to make friends in this town.

If it is your first trip, all I can recommend is that you don�t fall in love in the first bar you enter. Take your time, relax, and soak in the ambiance. Pace yourself to an extent. You want to have fun, but you don�t want to kill yourself. Keep a cool heart and smile a lot and you will have a great holiday.

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Phuket Has Everything For A Perfect Holiday

2008-03-12T01:16:00.000-07:00

By: Wolfgang Jaegel

One of the largest islands in the Indian Ocean, Phuket is probably the most popular holiday resorts in Asia. Located about 850 kilometers south of Bangkok - the capital city, Phuket is a tropical paradise, in the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea.

Sometimes referred to as 'Pearl of the South', or 'Pearl of the Andaman,' Phuket has all for a perfect as well as memorable vacation, boasting of glorious beaches, sparkling waters with diverse marine life, breathtaking natural beauty, magnificent coves and bays, dazzling waterfalls, lush forested areas, salubrious tropical climate, and Sino-Portuguese architecture. Phuket holds the distinction of being the only island in the country with the provincial status.

Sprawling over an area of about 540 square kilometers, Phuket is the largest island in the country. From ancient shrines and interesting museums and historical monuments to parks and gardens, Phuket presents a diverse range of attractions. Some of the not to miss attractions in the destination are:

Wat Chalong - This is a beautiful Buddhist temple situated on the outskirts of Phuket town. It enshrines statues of several prominent Buddhist saints such as Luang Por Cham, who in turn played a pivotal role in putting down the Angyee, otherwise known as the Chinese Coolie Rebellion.

Thalang National Museum - Exhibited here are arts and artifacts that throw light on the cultural as well as historical past of the town.

Phuket Sea Shell Museum - On display here are a valuable collection of sea shells that have been collected from different parts of the world. The museum is also attached with a section that sells seashell items.

Orchid Farm and Thai Village - This is a must visit destination for the lovers of traditional Thai culture. Everything from classical Thai performances and Thai boxing to sword fighting and elephant shows can be spectacled here. Alongside the village is a beautiful orchid garden, which is worth visiting.

Laem Phromthep or Phromthep Cape - This is a great place to enjoy the picturesque views of the sunset. A large number of tiny elephant statues can also be seen here.

Phuket Aquarium - The most prominent marine biological research station in the country, the aquarium is home to hundreds of fish species, both freshwater and saltwater.

Phuket Butterfly Aquarium - Among the specialties seen here is a large number of tropical species of butterflies and insects.

The Zoo - Situated south of Phuket town, the Zoo contains a large number of African and Asian animals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Included in the specialties are about 5000 crocodiles, more than 50 species of birds, and about 100 species of butterflies. Elephant, monkey, and crocodile shows are also conducted.

Khao Rang - Located on the southern part of the island, this is a hill in Phuket. Climb atop this hill to have a great view of Phuket town.

Phuket Fantasea - For those looking for a unique experience, then take a tour to Phuket Fantasea, where you can see cultural traditions blended with the latest in Las Vegas style technologies. Some of the highlights of Phuket Fantasea are magic elephants vanishing into the air, musical fountains, and gymnastics.

A tour to Phuket would not be complete without having a look at its incredible antique buildings, many of which are a fine example of beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture. Must visit attractions in Phuket also consist of Wat Phranang Sang, which is the oldest temple in Phuket; Wat Phra Thong, whose centerpiece is an ancient Buddha image.

The Two Heroines Monument, which is dedicated to two heroic sisters who led the army in order to defeat the Burmese invaders in the Battle of Thalang in 1785; The Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary, in Thalang District; and Sirinat National Park - the first marine park in the area. Further, people touring the place can indulge in an array of activities such as golf, cruising Phang Nga Bay by sea plane, taking traditional Thai cooking classes, and go-kart racing.

Despite any other attractions, perhaps the greatest of all attractions in Phuket are its beaches. Just few to mention are Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Kamala Beach, Laem Beach, Mai Kao Beach, Nai Yang Beach, Surin Beach, Rawai Beach, Patong Beach, and Pansea Beach. Majority of these beaches serve as a perfect base for enjoying a continuum of activities such as sailing, paragliding, parasailing, diving, cruising, and much more.

In short, There are also certain travelers, particularly westerners, who prefer to stay here for a long period, inspired by its incredible beauty as well as options. Apart from hotels and resorts, Phuket comes with such options as serviced apartments and villas, for those who interested in long stays.

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Take a Vacation to Thailand

2008-03-09T00:35:00.000-08:00

Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, strategically located in the heart of South-East Asia. Bordering Myanmar to the north and west, Combodia to the east, Laos to the north-east, and Malaysia to the south, this stupendous destination is well-known for its breathtaking islands, incredible beaches, ancient as well as historic Buddhist wats, interesting museums and art galleries, rich cultural heritage, lively nightlife, and above all, the presence of amicable Thai people. Thailand also holds the distinction of being the only nation in South-East Asia that has never been colonized.

Occupying an area of more than 500,000 square kilometers, Thailand has been geographically classified into four different regions such as the mountainous North, the fertile Central Plains, the semi-arid plateau of the Northeast, and the peninsula south. Likewise, by region wise, the country is divided into six distinct areas such as the Central Thailand, North Thailand, North East Thailand, South Thailand, South East Thailand, and West Thailand.

Each of these areas comes with a host of mind boggling attractions. Located on the central plains of the Chao Phraya River as well as the Meklong River Valley, Central Thailand is sometimes acknowledged as 'the Rice Bowl of the Country,' since it is the most fertile region in the country. As a tourist spot, this area contains a host of attractions that are of historical significance.

Central region of the country is dominated by Bangkok, with its mind blowing palaces, beautiful wats, hundreds of museums, and expansive shopping areas. Highlights of this region also cover Ayutthaya, which once served as the capital of the country, and now featuring attractions such as the Bang Sai Royal Arts and Crafts Center with traditional Thai handicraft items, Bang Pa In Summer Palace, and Ayutthaya Town; Saraburi, whose focal point is the Phra Buddha Bat Woramahavihan Temple with a rock that is believed to have the Buddha's footprint; Lopburi, which was an important settlement during the reign of the Khmer empire in the tenth century.

Suphanburi, boasting of one of the oldest national parks in the park, namely, the Khao Yai National Park; Nakorn Pathom, with attractions such as Phra Pathom Chedi - the largest of its kind in the world, and Floating Market; Kanchanaburi, which is home to Death Railway, Raft Trips and Houseboats, and Three Pagodas Pass; Petchaburi, with landmarks like Phra Nakorn Khiri, Khao Luang Caves, and Cha Am; Prachuap Khiri Khan, whose prime attractions are Hua Hin - a beachside resort, and Khao Sam Roi Yod National Park - one of the most enchanting parks in the nation.

North Thailand is regarded as the country's cultural heart. Among the points of interest in this area are Chiang Rai, with attractions such as Chiang Saen, a fourteenth century town, and Mai Sai, which is on the Burmese border; Kamphaeng Phet, whose centerpiece is the Old City that dates back to the time of the kingdom of Sukhothai during the 13th century; Lamphun, with a highly revered shrine, namely, Wat Phra That Hariphunchai; Sukhothai, which is homes to attractions such as Sukhothai Historical Park and Sri Satchanalai with an incredible elephant temple.

When comes to the Southern Thailand, this area is bestowed with some magnificent as well as excellent beach resorts of international standards. Perhaps the greatest of all beach resorts in the region is Phuket, with an international airport and more than half dozen beaches.

Popular destinations in Southern Thailand also include Samui Island, whose highlights, among many others, are Grandfather and Grandmother Stones and Angthong National Marine Park; Krabi, which is much favored for its breathtaking landscape consisting of dazzling white sandy beaches, magnificent coves and bays, and fantastic limestone cliffs; and Phi Phi Islands. Other places of interest in Southern Thailand are hot springs that are found nearby Ranong town, and Victoria Point, where you can spot a number of casino centers.

Above all, Thailand provides tourists visiting the country with a continuum of facilities in order to indulge in an array of activities such as hiking, trekking, sightseeing, swimming, rafting, deep sea fishing, and much more. In order to cater to the growing number of tourists in the country, Thailand comes with a number of accommodation options from upscale hotels to apartments and villas that are mostly replete with facilities that a world-class resort renders.

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Thailand - An Unforgettable Place

2008-02-13T05:31:00.000-08:00

If you are interested to visit some place that will create unforgettable memories and you can enjoy your life on the trip, Thailand is a nice option to think over.

Thailand is situated in Southeast Asian region. It attracts thousands of people from all over the globe every year. The best thing about Thailand is that it is full of nature. Those who want to spend some time with nature, peace and enjoy too, Thailand is the right option for you.

So far as Thai People are concerned they are very understanding, independent, fun loving and have flare to live their life. One of the reasons for such a nice attitude towards their life is the influence of ‘Buddhism’ in Thailand.

Thai cuisine is rich in taste. You can find almost every type of food here. Thai food is generally sweet and spicy as well.

The tropical climate of Thailand makes it easy to attract people from all over the world. Those who can not tolerate Thailand’s scorching heat during February to May can come here in November.

You can see the famous ruins of kingdoms here. The culture in Thailand is highly influenced by two countries, India and China. English is commonly spoken here so you will not find communication problem here.

One of the most famous places in Thailand is the capital of it and that is ‘Bangkok’. It is a very beautiful place and centre of Thailand’s main trade. The best time when you can plan to visit Thailand is during its winter season that is between November to March. The climate is very soothing this time.

Thailand Buddy -Thailand - An Unforgettable Place.

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Thailand Travel Information

2008-02-13T05:30:00.000-08:00

Million of people travel to Thailand every year. Many of them do not know what to expect, and they know very little about Thailand. However once they have been to Thailand, they will be sure to return. Thailand is an amazing country with marvelous excitement in every corner. There are four natural regions in Thailand. The northern region is full of mountains and forests. Chaing Mai is a very popular tourist destination of this region. The central plain is very fertile. It is very suitable for agriculture. Many farmers produce rice in this area. Thailand has often been named,

“Rice Bowl of Asia”. Bangkok is the center of this region. It is also the capital of Thailand. The southern region is full of beautiful beaches and landscape. There are many minerals and ores to be found in this area.

Thailand is a humid and hot tropical country. Many Thai people like to joke that it has three seasons, hot, hotter, and hottest. The average temperature is about 23 to 35 Celsius. Thai people have great love and respect for the king and the royal family. If you have a chance to visit Thailand, it is not wise t to disrespect the loyalty. Do no say anything bad about the monarchy. It is illegal, and you can be arrested.

Thailand is great place for vacation. Some of the very popular tourist cities are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Samui, and Pattaya.

It is a good idea to learn a little Thai, before you visit Thailand. Thai people admire people who can speak some Thai.

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Plan Your Thailand Vacation Based on Thai Holidays

2008-02-12T04:30:00.000-08:00

By: lar

Since it is already 2008, or 2551 on the Thai calendar, it is time to take a look at the Thai holidays so that you can plan your trip accordingly. Some people want to be in Thailand when there is a holiday and partake in the celebration and others want to avoid some holidays (i.e. Songkran) like the plague.

Traditional New Year has already come and gone (today is January 6, 2008) but there are many other days to celebrate in Thailand.

Here are a few words of caution for the unwary traveler. Many of the holidays involve celebrating with large quantities of alcohol and the traffic death toll increases dramatically. This is mainly during the celebrating of the various New Years. Many of the holidays are family-oriented requiring people to return back to the nest to celebrate with the rest of the family. Therefore, traffic on the roads can be horrendous.

Here are the main holidays for 2008. Use them as a guide for your travel plans.

Chinese New Year will be celebrated on February 8th. This is the start of the lunar year and is primarily celebrated in the various Chinatowns throughout Thailand. There will be some business closures but it is not a national holiday.

February 21st is Makha Bucha Day which celebrates the Buddha�s first sermon given to his disciples.

April 6th, 2008, is Chakri Day and this day commemorates the founding of the Chakri Dynasty. This dynasty is referred to as Rama I. Since this falls on a Sunday, businesses may be closed on Monday the 7th.

Songkran, Thai New Year, is celebrated from 13 � 15 April and even longer is some of the tourist spots, like Khaosan Road in Bangkok and Pattaya. This is a traditional water festival, so if you are in town, expect to get wet. This is also the time of year for most road deaths. Alcohol and wet roads don�t mix.

Labor Day is celebrated on the 1st of May and is a national holiday but most folks just look at it as a paid day off.

The 5th of May is a holiday to honor the day when the current King of Thailand was crowned. It is officially called Coronation Day.

Another Buddhist Holy day is observed on May 19th. This is Visakha Bucha and is the holiest Buddhist holiday celebrates Lord Buddha�s birth, enlightenment and entry into nirvana.

Buddhist Lent begins on July 18 and is celebrated as a national holiday. Monks retreat to their temples and celebrate a time of year when new life comes forth.

The Queen�s Birthday, or Mother�s Day, is celebrated on August 12th and is a highly honored, national holiday.

Chulalongkorn Day is observed on October 23 honoring one of Thailand�s most revered kings.

Loy Krathong will be celebrated on 13 November coinciding with the 12th lunar full moon. Thais celebrate by floating small rafts, called krathongs, in the river, lake or ocean. This is to pay respect to the goddess of the water � with candlelit offerings floating away the bad and bringing good luck to lovers. This is the best holiday to observe firsthand.

His Majesty the King will celebrate his 81st birthday on December 5th. This is a national holiday celebrated throughout the country and also doubles as Father�s Day.

The 10th of December marks the day in 1932 that the country was given its first Constitution. This is also a national holiday.

The last day of the month will celebrate the end of 2008 and the beginning of 2009. The Thais celebrate the traditional western New Years especially in Bangkok and other tourist areas.

That covers the main holidays but no specific elections. Elections can pop up at anytime so you have to keep current with Thai online news. They don�t have much effect other than the occasional bar closure. There you have it � plan your vacation accordingly.

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Larry Westfall is a frequent traveler to the Land of Smiles - Thailand - and books his Pattaya hotel rooms through Pattaya Beach Hotels
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Prepping To Buy Property In Thailand

2008-02-12T04:28:00.000-08:00

By: lar

The first thing I did in preparation for getting a house in Thailand was scour the Internet for all the information I could find on owning or leasing a house in Thailand. Most of the information I found was at Thai legal sites and forums. The legal sites had the nitty-gritty information and the forums had the personal stories and some mis-information.

I also purchased a book, actually an eBook, which was one man�s tale about building a house in Thailand. This was a great twenty-dollar investment as it was very detailed, came with an English-Thai dictionary, and was loaded with pictures with Thai language for all the parts of a house.

Armed with all that information, I next contacted an English speaking lawyer who works in the area. I asked him many questions via email and received very prompt replies. I will be meeting him when I get to Thailand to make my purchase.

Since foreigners cannot legally own land, and I am not too keen on the �create an imaginary business and incorporate yourself� loophole, I have chosen the usufruct route. This is basically where the Thai wife/girlfriend will own the land and I will have a �lease� on the house where it resides. When I die, it reverts to her. If she precedes me, the property goes to me.

My girlfriend has already done the preliminary house-hunting and we will both go and make a final decision. She has been scouting properties in the 1.5 million to 2 million Baht range. This is approximately $50,000 U.S. dollars.

Now, I just needed to find an extra 50 thousand dollars lying around. I checked with a buddy of mine to find out how he paid for his Pattaya property and he told me that he just got a home equity line of credit. I checked into this, easily qualified, but did not feel like paying the fees. So, it was time for some more research.

I work for the government, and we have a retirement plan similar to a 401K called a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). I found out that I can loan myself half of the money that is stashed away for my retirement and then be forced to pay myself back over 5 years with a payroll deduction. The loan rate is only 4% and I will be paying this back to myself, not some other lender.

The problem I had was that there was not enough in the TSP to cover the cost of my house. So, I had to transfer funds from an older 401(K) to my TSP so that when I took out half of the money, it would be enough to cover the cost.

Next, was to contact my bank to find out how to transfer the funds from Hawaii to Thailand. I checked my online account and found a very simple transfer form, but called the bank just to get it clear in my mind. It seems too easy.
All I need to do is open a bank account in Thailand and then fill out an online form at my current bank, pay a $40 fee, call them to verify all is well, and the money will be transferred. Then I will be able to complete the transaction in Thailand.

Buying property in a foreign country can be a trying experience. So far it has been smooth, but I am just getting started. I think doing my homework, contacting a lawyer in-country, and finding out about the financial part before going to Thailand will all work in my favor. This way I won�t be one of the horror stories that you read on the Internet.

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Larry Westfall gets to Thailand whenever he can and is the author of Pattaya Crazy | Newbie"s Guide to Pattaya
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Shop Till You Drop in Bustling Bangkok

2008-01-30T22:43:00.000-08:00

By: Wolfgang Jaegel

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Bangkok is also the most fabulous shopping destination in Asia. In fact, shopping in Bangkok is truly fun as well as a great experience, with an array of shopping locations, ranging from glitzy modern shopping malls to traditional bustling street markets selling antiquities and designer and traditional jewelry.

In short, Bangkok is a mecca for shopping enthusiasts, and everything including electronic items, computer software and hardware, art and craft items, Chinese specialties, textiles, jewelry, and much more can be shopped here.

Perhaps most popular among the shopping highlights in Bangkok is the Siam Square, which is strategically positioned at Central Station on the BTS Sky Train route. This area is dotted with hundreds of high-end shopping malls, among which one of the most sought after is Siam Center and Siam Discovery Center, within which one can find a number of shops selling branded items.

There is also an elegant cinema complex on the top floor of Siam Discovery Center, with comfortable seats. This is a great place to relax after a day of tired shopping. Located just ten minutes walk from the Siam Square is another much famed shopping spot in Bangkok, namely, Mahboonkrong Shopping Center, dotted with a large number of shops selling quality clothing and electronic items at knock-down prices.

One can also find a couple of shopping malls and department stores, close to the Chit Lom BTS Sky Train station. Among which, perhaps the most significant is the eight-storied World Trade Center, attached with a number of duty free shops. Found on the top floor of the World Trade Center is an ice skating rink. The Central Group's flagship store, Central Chit Lom Department Store, is also located here. Such shopping centers as Gaysorn Plaza, Maneya Centre, Sogo, and Narayana Phand, a great spot to shop handicraft items, are also situated in this area.

For those who want to shop computer-related items and peripherals at cheap prices, a great way would be to head to Pantip Plaza on the Phetburi Road. This is a paradise for shopping computer items. Every floor within the plaza has a number of shops selling both original and pirated software and hardware items. One could buy copy of VCD movies for a price as low as 100 baht.

A good number of small as well as large shopping malls can also be found along the Ploenchit Road and Sukhumvit Road, such as, Robinson, Ploenchit Plaza, Times Square, Emporium, and Landmark.

Popular shopping areas in Bangkok also include Silom Road, located to the south of the Siam Square. Just few among the shopping malls in this area are Silom Center, Central department stores, Silom Plaza, Thaniya Plaza, Silom Village, and Holiday Inn Crown Plaza.

Shopping at Bangkok would not be complete without taking a tour to Chatuchak market, which becomes alive in the city every weekend. Located near the Mo Chit BTS Sky Train station, Chatuchak market is an incredible outdoor market, from where everything from handicraft items and livestock items could be shopped and that too at bargain prices. Further, you can also find a large number of food stalls in the market, selling delicious Thai food items such as fried noodles, noodle curry, and barbequed satays.

Other popular shopping areas in the city are Bangrak Market, a bustling area which is famed for its flower stalls, engage in selling enormous variety of cut flowers, jasmines, and orchids; China Town, with alleys packed with outlets dealing in almost all types of goods; Pratunam Market, which is a great place to relish hygiene as well as delicious food items; Woeng Nakhon Kasem - a popular spot to shop items such as brassware, old fashioned furniture, industrial items, antiques, and Chinese porcelains.

Above all, for a unique shopping experience, take a tour to some of the most fabulous night markets in the area. Most prominent among the night markets in the city are the Suan Luam Night Bazaar, whose specialty is stalls that sell products brought from every corner of the country.

Pratunam Market Complex, which is a great spot to shop fashion accessories such as handbags, purses, trendy apparels, and designer accessories; Patpong Night Market, which is not only popular for stalls selling designer good at cheap prices but also for night clubs and other establishments conducting sex shows; Buanglamphu Market, a descent place to shop clothing and food items; and the Memorial Bridge Night Market.

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The People of Bangkok

2008-01-20T23:09:00.000-08:00

The capital of Thailand is the city of Bangkok, one of the six provinces of the Bangkok Metropolitan Area.

Bangkok itself has a population of over 5,000,000 people, although some say it is actually nearer 10,000,000. Regardless, it is considered roughly 49 times larger than the population at the city of Chiang Mai.

Three major races comprise the entire populace of Bangkok and a large majority of its denizens are of Thai decent (80%). About 10% of the community is Chinese immigrants. A small 3% are of the Malay race, and the rest are composed of other minorities such as the Mons, Khmers, and Hill Tribes

Bangkok has always been considered as a migratory crossroads and this was particularly evident from the 19th Century until the 2nd World War. Due to scarcity of work in China, thousands of Chinese flocked to the city in earch for employment.

The number of Chinese residents in Bangkok was so great that even the street signs had to be written in Chinese calligraphy. Since the end of the World War II, the mass migration to Bangkok has ceased due to stricter immigration laws.

Despite this, many citizens from the countryside of Thailand still flock to Bangkok. This gradual relocation to the financial hub of the Thailand has resulted to the usual problems of overpopulation. Bangkok now faces issues on housing shortages, traffic jams, and unemployment, among others.

Surprisingly, most members of Bangkok’s the upper class, and most of the city’s poor are Thai nationals. The middle class, however, is composed of a mixture of foreigners and minority groups, although most business enterprises in Bangkok, especially those located in Sam Peng, just southeast of the Grand Palace, are run by ethnic Chinese.

The national language of Bangkok is Thai, and English, which is taught widely in schools, is considered their second language. Majority of Bangkok’s population practice Theravada Buddhism. About 5% of the population practice Muslim. Hindi and Christianity are practiced by a few in Bangkok.

Thais in Bangkok are characterized to be ego-oriented, meaning they put a high premium on their independence (being one’s self) and their self esteem. They have a deep sense of pride and dignity and, despite a seemingly cool and calm front, are prone to fights when provoked. They, however, value kindness and always strive to repay each kindness received similarly.

The people in Bangkok are generally non-assertive, friendly and polite. This trait is manifested in their appearance and manners. Despite the hustle and bustle in Bangkok, Thais in the city will always have a ready smile and would gladly offer a helping hand to anyone.
source : Sticky-Rice.com

The Exotic Cuisine of Thailand

2008-01-19T19:24:00.000-08:00

By: Wolfgang Jaegel

Thai cuisines are regarded as one of the best as well as delicious in the world. Since situated between the political and cultural destinations of China and India, Thailand's dishes have strong influence of cuisines of both these countries. A strong influence of Malaysian flavors is also prevalent in Thai cuisines.

In short, a Thai cuisine is an incredible blend of the Indian, Chinese, and Malaysian cuisines. Further, as many of the monarchs and royals were educated in European nations, they returned to their home place with western culture and western taste in cuisines. Perhaps for this reason Thai cuisines are sometimes influenced by western European flavors.

Above all, Thai cuisines reveal a great deal about the nation, from its political and trade history to its geography. Nowadays, the exotic cuisines of Thailand are much popular in such western countries as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

One of the unique features of Thai cuisines is that it is an assortment of four basic tastes: sour, salty, pungent, and sweet. Thai dishes are not only tasty but also healthy because of its low fat and high fiber as well as the nutritious elements of herbal ingredients. Typically, a Thai meal includes hot salad, a soup, a fried dish, a curry dish or a dip with fresh vegetables and fried fish.

However, rice dishes are the staple among the Thai cuisines. The highest quality, long grained Jasmine rice, otherwise known as fragrant rice, is mostly used for preparing traditional Thai rice dishes. Steamed rice dishes served with aromatic curries and mouth-watering stir fries would satisfy any palate.

Sometimes, curries, fries, and other ingredients are poured on to the rice to form a dish, namely, khao rad gang. Significant of the ingredients that can be found in most of the Thai dishes are nam pla, a kind of fish sauce; shrimp paste, which is a blend of shrimp and taste; Thai egg plants; Chinese ginger; coconut mil; chillies; and a variety of herbal leaves such as kaffir lime leaves and Thai basil.

The cuisines of Thailand are categorized according to the different tastes of the region, such as, central, southern, northern, and northeastern. In central Thai region, cuisines are mostly a blend of hot, salty, and greasy tastes. Among the specialties that are cooked in this area are steamed rice, fried items, soups, and side dishes including curries and shrimp paste dip with fresh vegetables.

Chinese dishes such as noodles and noodle soups are also much popular in this region. Thai cuisines in southern part are more or less influenced by Malay cuisines. One of the much favored dishes in the area is Khanom chin, which is mostly taken with hot spicy curries and vegetable items. Apart from rice dishes, sea food items are important in this region. Further, the dishes prepared here are a mix of sour and salty tastes.

When comes to north and northeastern regions, most popular cuisine here is steamed glutinous rice. Mostly, northern Thai cuisines are simple, and are especially known for its unique style of eating, namely, Khantok Dinner, which is an accompaniment of sticky rice, curries and nam phrik ong, prepared with ingredient like minced pork, tomatoes and chilies.

Each of these items is placed in a large wooden tray and guests sit around it to sit and eat with hand. Northeastern cuisines, or Isan, as it is fondly known, have stronger taste in contrast to that of other parts of the country. One of the main dishes that can be found with almost every meal is pla ra or fermented fish. Also, a prominent dish prepared here is Som Tam, or green papaya salad. Additionally, some of the dishes prepared here have the influence of Laos.

Some of the well-liked Thai dishes are Tom Yam Kung, which is a spicy soup with shrimp as the main ingredient; Kaeng Khiao Wan Kai, a sumptuous curry prepared with chicken; Phat Thai, a noodle items cooked in traditional Thai style; Phat Kaphrao, a meat dish cooked with sweet basils; Kaeng Phet Pet Yang, a curry made with roasted duck; and Phanaeng whose main ingredients are meat and coconut cream. Aside these, sea food specialties prepared with fresh supplies of crabs, oysters, lobsters, prawns, and other shellfishes are truly scrumptious.

Also, worth mentioning are delicious, multifarious Thai desserts, prepared with ingredients such as coconut cream, coconut flesh, rice flour, palm sugar and eggs. Thong Yip, Met Khanun, Mo Kaeng, Kluai Chueam, and Thapthim Krop are just few among the yummy Thai desserts. Above all, much famed are incredible Thai vegetable dishes.

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Celebrate Songkran in Thailand

2008-01-18T22:08:00.000-08:00

By: lar

Songkran will be celebrated from 13 � 15 April in 2008 (or 2551 on the Thai calendar) and usually runs for about a week unofficially in parts of Bangkok and Pattaya. Thai people know how to party and celebrate their own New Year, Chinese New Year and the Western New Year. Of the three, Songkran is the wildest.

Depending on who you ask, Songkran is the best or the worst time of year to be on vacation. The main reason � water. Traditionally, Songkran is a water festival and celebrated by �sprinkling� water on other people. In tourist areas of Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket, the sprinkling has escalated to fire hoses, water tube blasters, and super-soakers.

Drunken tourists and locals in Pattaya and on Khaosan Road in Bangkok take this festival as a time to get absolutely crazy and drench each other in water. Additionally, a white paste made from flour or talcum powder is smeared on unwitting people�s faces.

If you are in a tourist area or even in an upcountry village during Songkran, you can expect to get wet. The more touristy the area, the wetter you will get. Being soaked and then going into an air conditioned bar or restaurant can be very uncomfortable and could lead to a nasty cold. There is also the possibility of infection as the water is not always clean.

I am not trying to throw a damper on a New Year celebration; I am just trying to let people know that they can expect to see a lot of drunken tourists getting soaking wet during this festival. You can have a lot of fun, but you can see tourists at their absolute worst.

Getting back to the real meaning of Songkran, it is a time to go to the temple to pray and give food to the monks. It is also a time to cleanse the Buddha images at their household shrines and at the monasteries with water and a pleasant fragrance.

This is also a traditional time to make resolutions to do good deeds and refrain from evil and even a time to clean the house. Out with the old and in with the new.

Sadly, it is also the worst time of year for road accidents and deaths on the highway. Wet roads, alcohol, and helmetless motorcycle drivers are a deadly combination. Despite the government�s best efforts, the number of revelers who don�t get to the New Year is way too high each year. The annual Songkran don�t drink and drive campaign usually falls on deaf ears.

Many expats who live in Thailand leave the country or head north to quieter Songkran celebrations and leave the tourist areas to the tourists. Personally, I schedule my trips so that I am nowhere near Thailand during New Years.

As are most other things in Thailand, it is �up to you� whether you want to experience Songkran. I would recommend seeing it at least once and then you can determine for yourself if you want to go back to do it again.

If you go, be careful or the slick roads and drunk drivers, and make sure you bring plenty of zip-lock bags to keep your valuables dry.

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Do You Need a Visa to Visit Thailand?

2008-01-18T22:03:00.000-08:00

Visiting Thailand only requires a passport for visits that are 30 days or less. This pertains to U.S. citizens. Citizens from other countries need to check with their country�s embassy or consular section and see what the rules are.

For Americans, a current passport and a visa are required if you are planning on vacation of more than 30 days. You can pick up the visa at the nearest Thai consulate or embassy. Online forms and information are all over the place making it easy to get current information and prepare better.

The normal requirement is your passport, a filled out visa request form, and two pictures. There is a fee of approximately $50 but you should check and see what the current fees are. If your passport is going to expire within the next six months, you may be required to purchase a new one.

If there is no consulate near your home, you can pick up a visa upon arrival at the airport or visit the immigration office in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, or Chiang Mai. The easiest and recommend way is to get the visa before you go so you don�t have to worry about it when you are in Thailand.

There are other types of visa available for foreigners. You can get a work visa if you are going to be employed in Thailand. Check the rules and regulations for this. There are serious criminal penalties for working in Thailand without a work visa.

If you are planning on retiring in Thailand, you can get a one-year visa. You still have to check in with Thai immigration every 3 months, but the one year visa has been a godsend for most expats. It sure beats making quarterly visa runs to Laos or Cambodia. You have to be at least 50-years old to qualify for this visa. There are also some medical and financial requirements. Check for the latest as it seems that the rules for this visa change annually.

There has also been some mass confusion on some changes that were imposed in 2007 limiting the amount of days that a foreigner could spend in Thailand with visa extensions. Again, check for the latest updates and be prepared for additional changes. Hopefully, the new Prime Minister is favorable to foreigners.

Visiting Thailand can be a wonderful experience and can be enhanced by staying even long than the normal 2-week vacation. For most countries, acquiring a visa for an extended stay is a minor bureaucratic exercise and only requires one form, 2 pictures, and a little bit of money. With the cost of fuel and airline fares, I prefer to stay longer than shorter.

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Finding a good Thai Restaurant in Chiang Mai Thailand.

2008-01-16T22:29:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder why there are so many Thai restaurants and food stalls in Chiangmai? I did, and my Thai wife explains it like this. Why stay home and cook when you can get ready-to-eat food that is cheaper than cooking at home?

Most Thais do not cook at home unless they have a big family. By the time you go to the market for fresh ingredients, prepare and cook and eat the food, hours have been wasted. Most of the ingredients last only a day or so, so much gets thrown out. The price of cooking gas just to cook for two persons is not worth it. So Thais get their food from vendors to take home or go to a restaurant. If you look into a refrigerator in a Thai home you would probably find only water and drinks.

Many of our friends that visit us in Chiangmai from other countries arrive with stomach problems. Why? Because they ate from a food vendor in Bangkok that was either not clean or the food stayed out in the warm air too long. I would like to explain how to find and choose very good Thai restaurants so this doesn�t happen to you. Once you have been in Thailand a while, your body will adjust and you will be able to eat almost anything, anywhere. Even my Thai wife gets stomach problems from eating bad food at times and she admits she is not as picky as I when it comes to choosing a food vendor or restaurant but she�s learning.

When choosing a good Thai restaurant, the first thing we think about is taste. During the lunch hour or dinnertime, we look for a restaurant that is full of Thai people. If the food doesn�t taste good or people get sick, the restaurant won�t have any customers. If the restaurant is full of tourists and no Thai people, we know the food is prepared for the foreigner�s taste buds and not real Thai food.

Is the food prepared fresh or is it sitting out like a buffet? Is meat hanging in a glass box or in a covered heated pot? This is where most people get stomach problems. The food looks great sitting out, but how long has it been there? If the food has been prepared an hour or more ahead of time, you can get very ill. If it is not prepared fresh, stay away from it.

Next I look at the tables and floor - are they clean with no flies? Are paper napkins thrown all over the floor? I have gone to lunch with Thai friends that eat at these types of places and I refuse to order anything except a soft drink. Two hours later my friends are having stomach problems. Not me.

There are many fabulous restaurants and excellent food vendors in Chiangmai. If you are new to Thailand, be picky where you eat. A 3-day stomach virus is no fun. One important thing to remember is that ice that is round with a hole in it is OK. Stay away from shaved or block ice.

source : all-thailand-exp.com

Shopping in Chiang Mai Thailand

2008-01-16T22:16:00.000-08:00

Shopping in Thailand can be fun or a nightmare. There are a few things to remember before spending your hard-earned cash. Here are a few guidelines and recommendations to make your shopping experience enjoyable, purchasing high quality products at great prices.

Shopping is one of the great pleasures here in Chiangmai. We have the famous night bazaar, Baan Tawai wood carving village, Bosang Sa paper and umbrella village and Sankampang with its many handicraft factories.

When friends visit, they always ask - what should I purchase and where? Here are some guidelines that I give them that may help you.

The night bazaar has some excellent bargains but be careful. The night bazaar is great for t-shirts, fake designer clothes and watches but not handicrafts. Lacquerware and wood products purchased here will split and crack after a year or so. It is not real lacquerware but only painted with a couple coats of sprayed-on lacquer paint. Wood products are not treated correctly unless you are from a hot and humid climate like Thailand.

This is also a big problem when purchasing wood products from Baan Tawai. These products are made for Thailand and should be purchased by those living here only. The problem is the wood should be dried outside in the weather for two years then heat treated in an oven. This way if you take the wood home to a cooler and drier climate or keep it an air-conditioned home it won’t crack or split. The wood products at Baan Tawai and the night bazaar are not treated properly.

For wood and lacquerware, go to the factories in Sankhampang. I recommend Sudaluck for wood products and Lai Thai for lacquerware. Here the wood is treated properly and the lacquerware is treated with real gum lacquer with seven coats. Every coat is dried and polished.

We have all heard about the gem scams Thailand is famous for. Make purchases of jewelry and gems from a reputable dealer or shop such as Princess Jewelry or Gems Gallery. The prices are a lot cheaper than western countries and the quality excellent. Remember, if the price seems too cheap to believe, then don’t believe the gems or jewelry are real.

Silk is another great bargain here in Chiangmai and much cheaper than, say, Jim Thompson’s in Bangkok. Here again be careful, if you don’t know much about silk then make purchases from a reputable shop such as Jollie Femme. Most of the silk at the night bazaar is partially polyester or made by machine in Chinese factories. Real Thai silk is handmade so the weave is very tight and will stay together after many years of wear and hand washing. Much longer than Chinese machine made silk.

Tailor made suits and clothes are also perfectly made here if you go to the right tailor. Be careful of these one coat, two pants, tie and shirt deals for $99 USD. The material is very low quality and one sleeve may be longer than the other. The biggest complaint is the pockets are way too shallow. Niramit Tailors in Chiangmai is probably one of the best in Thailand.

I hope this will help you avoid problems when it comes to shopping in Thailand, enjoy.

source : all-thailand-exp.com

Phuket Remains One of the Favourite Holiday Desitnations in Asia

2008-01-14T17:46:00.000-08:00

By: Wolfgang Jaegel

Taking a vacation is a great way to enhance your mental health, rekindle your relationships, and gain self confidence. But, you could enjoy the full benefits of a vacation only if the location you have chosen for your vacation is mesmerizing.

Location for taking a vacation usually depends upon the personal interest of the travelers. Some may find pleasure in vacationing in hi-fi destinations packed with modern attractions as well as cityscapes while some may prefer to spend their vacation in a tranquil destination. There are also vacationers who would like to tour a destination which are a blend of both modern and old.

Phuket would be perhaps the first location that comes into your mind when you think of a memorable as well as an enjoyable vacation amid serene settings filled with magnificent beaches and action-packed adventures. Dubbed as 'the Pearl of the Andaman' or 'the Pearl of the South,' Phuket has become a favorite spot among holiday makers from across the world. Bounded by the sparkling blue waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is the largest island in Thailand, and is located about 850 kilometers from the capital city, Bangkok.

With an incredible variety of beaches, the island is truly a haven for beach lovers. Every beach in the island has its own uniqueness. When some are noted for its stunning and serene caves, others may be favored for excellent facilities that they provide to enjoy a range of activities. Most popular among the beaches in the area are Patong, which becomes lively during night, Kamala, Surin, Nai Yang, and Karon and Kata beaches.

All of these together form a paradise for ocean lovers. You just think any of the water sport activities, it would be readily available in the island. Phuket has been rated among the top ten scuba diving destinations in the world. A host of other activities can also be enjoyed here, which among many others, are boating, fishing, deep sea fishing, jet skiing, sailing, sea canoeing, water skiing, para sailing, and swimming.

Apart from these, Phuket is also a popular destination among golf lovers, with a variety of superb golf courses including Phuket Country Club, Banyan Tree Club in Bangtao Beach, Blue Canyon Country Club, and Loch Pam Golf Club, each of them set within the backdrop of lush green mountains and scenic vistas.

Options are also available for travelers who want to experience the indigenous art forms of the region such as Muay Thai or Thai kickboxing, which were once used by warriors to protect the kingdom from external powers. Similarly, if you are weary after a full-day activity in any of the fabulous beaches of the area, then take a refreshing spa massage to rejuvenate your mind and body.

Further, Phuket is a kid friendly destination, with a myriad of options for children such as nature parks and yoga sessions exclusively designed for kids. Above all, Phuket is a shoppers' paradise, with a myriad of shops selling antique and handicraft items, pearls, gems, jewelry, and apparels. In short, Phuket has something for everyone!

A visit to Phuket would be incomplete without taking a tour to its unbelievable temples and shrines, among which perhaps the most famed is the Wat Chalong, a Buddhist temple with an expansive prayer hall enshrining three statues of most revered monks such as Luang Por Chaem, Luang Por Chuang, and Luang Por Gluam. Also, popular are shrines such as Wat Phranangsang, dedicated to two heroines who defeated Burmese attackers during the Thalang Battle, and Wat Phra Thong, enshrining an enormous half buried image of the Lord Buddha.

Apart from these, make a visit to old Phuket town, which is home to a range of attractions such as Heroine's Monument and several Sino-Portuguese colonial mansions. To take a peep into the historical past of the region, a great way would be to visit the museums here such as Phuket Sea Shell Museum and Thalang National Museum. Also, while your stay at Phuket take a tour to Khao Phra Thaeo National Park with diverse flora and fauna, Marine Biological Research Centre, Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, with thousands of butterflies, and Promthep Cape.

With these umpteen attractions, the tourism industry in Phuket is steady as well as stable. The destination boasts of accommodation choices to suit every budget and taste. For those who can spend extravagantly for their Phuket vacation, some excellent options are available in the form of hotels attached with high-end facilities and amenities. For those seeking solace and privacy, one of the best options would be to go for accommodation choices such as rental villas inclusive of superb accommodation, transportation facilities, dining options, and maid servants.

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Things To See And Do In Phuket Are Truly Endless

2008-01-14T17:45:00.000-08:00

By: Wolfgang Jaegel

Phuket is perhaps the most populous as well as the most visited destinations in Thailand. Phuket is not only the largest island in the country but also the only island province in the country. Awe-inspiring scenery, breathtaking tropical sunsets, palm-lined white sandy beaches, limestone cliffs, serene broad bays, lush green forested areas, mesmerizing blue lagoons, superb mansions and buildings reflecting Sino-Portuguese architecture, outstanding hospitality, and fantastic accommodations - all sum up the island of Phuket. Hence, it is not a wonder why Phuket has been bestowed with the titles 'the Pearl of the South,' and 'the Pearl of the Andaman.'

Covering an area of about 540 square kilometers and located about 850 km south of Bangkok, Phuket is nestled in the tropical region off the west coastline of the southern part of the country in the Indian Ocean and the Andaman Sea. With more than 35 small islands, Phuket has the mystical Phang-nga to the north, which is connected by two bridges, namely, Sarasin and Thep Krasattri. The other three sides of the island have been bounded by the Andaman Sea.

While your stay at Phuket, you can spend a day here by engaging in more than 100 activities. No matter you want to enjoy golf in golf courses of international standards, enjoy world-class scuba diving in the Andaman Sea, or just want to explore the scenic vistas of tropical forests and surroundings, Phuket has superb choices for all. In other words, you just name an activity; it would be readily available in the island.

For beach bums and water sports lovers, Phuket provides a feast of attractions, with an array of fabulous beaches such as Patong Beach, one of the busiest areas with largest assortment of bars and restaurants; Kamala Beach, a quaint area suitable for a relaxing vacation; Karon Beaches, one of the longest of its kind in the island; Kata Beach, consisting of two beaches such as Kata Yai and Kata Noi; Nai Harn Beach, whose area is dominated by the Samnak Song Nai Harn Monastery; and Surin Beach, which is one of the great places in the island to savor sumptuous seafood dishes.

The Andaman Sea is regarded as one of the world's most magnificent bodies of water, and visiting Phuket would be probably the most excellent way to enjoy its crystal-like clear waters. A variety of water sport activities can be enjoyed here such as sport fishing, sea canoeing, kayaking, parasailing, dinner cruises, and much more. Even superb options are available for learning scuba diving.

Beyond wonderful beaches and clear, sparkling seas, Phuket offers much more to people touring the destination. For those interested in traditional sight seeing options, then Phuket offers a continuum of museums such as the Phuket Sea Shell Museum, which has on display a large variety of sea shells collected from across the world, apart from ancient fossils and unique golden pearl collections; and the Talang National Museum, which provides deep insight into the interesting history of the region.

Options available for sightseers also include a myriad of temples and monasteries, among which one of the most popular is Wat Chalong, dedicated to two highly revered monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang. Your Phuket sightseeing would not be complete without taking a tour to Old Phuket town lined with Sino-Portuguese mansions and funky boutiques.

If you are an animal lover, then you should definitely visit destinations like Phuket Aquarium, with more than 30 tanks of saltwater as well as freshwater specialties; Phuket Monkey School, where you can spectacle monkey shows; Snake Farm near the Simon Cabaret; the Phuket Zoo, which is home to a variety of animal and bird species; and Phuket Butterfly Farm. Likewise, for flower and plant lovers, a visit to the Phuket Orchid Garden and Thai Village would be a great experience. Further, if your choice is different and looking for something unique, then head to destinations such as Phuket FantaSea, which is a great choice for fun lovers, and Simon Cabaret Shows.

Attractions in Phuket also cover Chalong Big Buddha, Khao Praew Thaew National Park, Sirinath National Park, Khao Rang, and Phromthep offering magnificent views of the sunset. Above all, fabulous is the nightlife in Phuket, with a range of nightclubs, karaokes, and restaurants and bars in some of the hotspots of the island.

With these scores of attractions, Phuket has something for everyone. In other words, no matter you are honeymooner, newly weds, parent vacation with your children, or 95-year-olds, Phuket caters to every taste, budget, and age.

Article Source: http://www.article.e-booksdownload.com

How to get to Thailand

2008-01-13T23:23:00.000-08:00

By Air

Bangkok is Thailand's major gateway. Most visitors arrive through Bangkok's Don Muang International Airport which is connected by daily flights to Europe, North America, Asia and Australasia aboard the world's major airlines.

Further international flights, mostly from

Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Hong

Kong, land on a less regular basis at the southern airports of Phuket and Hat Yai and Chiang Mai in northern Thailand.

Charter flights from Europe and the Orient sometimes land in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and at U-Taphao for Pattaya.

By Rail

Regular rail services link Singapore and Bangkok. Intermediary stops include Kuala
Lumpur, Butterworth and major southern Thai towns.

By Road

Overland entrance to Thailand is restricted to three road crossings on the Thai-Malaysian border in Songkhla, Yala and Narathiwat.

By Sea

There are no regular steamship connections with Thailand. Cargo ships calling at Bangkok's Klong Toey port sometimes have passenger cabin facilities. Cruise ships, such as Cunard's Queen Elizabeth 11, Royal Viking, or Pearl of Scandinavia periodically visit Pattaya.
Travel within Thailand

source : thailandtravelguide.com

EXPANSION OF KUNG KRABEN MARINE SANCTUARY PROJECT – TRAVEL PROMOTION

2008-01-13T05:18:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the opening of a new aquarium at the Kung Kraben marine sanctuary, in Chanthaburi, Faasai Resort and Spa is offering a month-long special package with two nights’ accommodation and a half-day trip to the sanctuary, including kayaking through the mangroves, a visit to the aquarium and a walk along the mangrove boardwalk.

The marine sanctuary is a royal conservation project and to celebrate the 80th birthday of His Majesty the King, a second wing of its aquarium will be opened on November 1.

The new aquarium will feature fish from all parts of Thailand including deep sea and freshwater species. It will complement the existing aquarium which highlights local marine life from the surrounding area and includes stingrays, puffer-fish, seahorses and many varieties of coral. There will be five days of celebrations to mark the occasion from November 1 until November 5, with free seafood markets, OTOP crafts and music and dancing from local students.

Faasai’s nature and sea celebration package includes two nights’ accommodation including breakfast in an air-conditioned bungalow and a half day trip to the Kung Kraben marine sanctuary for Baht 2900. A family package for four in a twin-room villa is available for Baht 6100 for two nights. Faasai Resort is a nature resort near the small fishing village of Kung Wiman which overlooks Kung Kraben Bay.

For more information
Tel: 039 417 404 (Thai)
Tel: 086 889 2595 (English)
E -mail: info@faasai.com
Web site: www.faasai.com

Source: Faasai Resort and Spa release dated 29 Octob
source : http://www.tatnews.org/tourism_news/3542.asp

Bor Sang Umbrella and Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival

2008-01-13T05:03:00.000-08:00

Bor Sang, on highway 1006 heading east from Chiang Mai, appears to be a typical sleepy rural village, the kind the tour bus speeds by giving you just a fleeting glimpse of its two-storey wooden houses. But hidden in the tiny lanes, villagers have perfected a craft that creates the country’s most famous umbrellas.

For more than 100 years, the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark. According to local history, a monk travelled to neighbouring Myanmar, where he came across Saa paper umbrellas that offered protection against both the sun and rain.
He returned with the production technique and introduced the umbrella to the elders of Bor Sang village, who added their own artistic skills to create a distinctive colourful, but very practical, umbrella. At first it was just a profitable hobby that supplemented the villagers’ earnings from the annual rice crop. However, with time production of the Saa paper umbrellas prospered, prompting villagers to establish a handicraft cooperative in 1941 that now organises the annual festival.

Using silk and cotton, weaved at neighbouring Sankampaeng, villagers eventually added a second line of umbrellas decorated with images of the north, its flowers and birds, all intricately hand-painted.
Today, Bor Sang village exports both Saa-paper and silk umbrellas. They are seen at trade shows in a variety of sizes, from giant parasols that offer a shady canopy from the sun, to miniscule variations that adorn popular cocktail drinks.

To celebrate success the village hosts a three-day festival every January. Streets are illuminated by lanterns, while hundreds of umbrellas are hung from the rafters and beams of houses and shops. Bands play, while villagers compete to design the year’s most attractive umbrella. Concerts, a food festival and beauty contest all compete for the attention of the audience, a mix of both tourists and residents, who gather here to celebrate Bor Sang’s innovative handicraft skills.

Throughout the year, tourists visit the village, a short 6 km drive from Chiang Mai, to buy umbrellas and study the process and skills that go into making a handicraft entirely from natural products. But nothing quite compares with the buzz that permeates the village during this colourful three-day handicraft festival, every January. It is a scene that represents village hospitality and charm at its very best.

source : http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/grand-content-2643.html