Thailand Travel

The Jewel in Chiang Mai's crown

2010-11-12T22:20:00.001-08:00

A recent visit to Chiang Mai's newest district, named in memory of the late Princess Galyani Vadhana, proved very worthwhile. Galyani Vadhana district is the 25th to be established in Chiang Mai province, and the 878th in the country. It was named after His Majesty the King's sister.

Chiang Mai's newest district has a great deal to offer visitors and residents, especially those who want to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of nature.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand's Chiang Mai office director Chalermsak Suranan explains that the agency has organised excursions to the newest district to promote it as a tourist destination. Galyani Vadhana district has a pleasant climate, interesting landscape, abundant wildlife and, being only 164km from Muang Chiang Mai through Mae Hong Son's Pai district, it is an ideal destination for those visiting Pai, just 64km away.

Not far from Galyani Vadhana district, Suan Doi Kaew farm is a chemical-free strawberry farm approved by the Royal Foundation Project, in Bo Kaew sub-district, Samoeng district. This strawberry farm, owned and operated by Wittaya Narata, the president of Bo Kaew Agriculturists' Association, with support from the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives, occupies 2,500 rai (400 hectares) of land, and is one of the country's largest strawberry producers. Visitors can take a tour around the fields and eat freshly picked strawberries (in season). It is also being developed as an agro-tourism destination. Resort chalets are being built and campsites are already available, welcoming Thais and foreigners who'd like to spend their days in a cool climate and beautifully clean environment.

In Galyani Vadhana district, Pornchai Pianpla, social development officer of Wat Chan Royal Project Foundation and Development Centre, explained that the centre helps locals increase their agricultural knowledge and other occupational skills. The centre was started by the King in 1979 to help improve the living conditions of hilltribe people in Wat Chan and nearby villages.

The centre has arable and livestock farms, an exhibition of hilltribe culture, souvenirs for sale, a cafeteria, and rooms and tents for visitors to spend the night in the forest.

Other attractions and activities include the pine forests with wild orchids; bird watching; cool weather fog watching at the border between Chiang Mai province and Mae Hong Son, the Huay Horm waterfall, from which the Mae Chaem and Pai rivers flow; Huay Reservoir, and Wat Chan, which dates back to the Lawa era, one of Chiang Mai valley's earliest periods.

Spending a cool night at the peaceful Musikee Eco Lodge, set in the middle of a forest and with food for visitors from its own farms, followed a warm welcome by the staff and members of the Pakayor, a hilltribe native to the district. Musikee is the name of the Mae Chaem River in the Pakayor language, and it reflects the way of life of this hilltribe. Hiking to the junction of the Chaem Noi and Chaem Luang rivers is a popular activity for visitors. The nearby forest offers a large variety of plant life and the local hilltribe villages offer a glimpse into their native culture and arts. You can often hear locals playing the tae na, a Pakayor instrument similar to the harp, and singing traditional songs. There is often a show with the traditional welcoming sword dance.

Finally there is the Ban Wat Chan Royal Project, which with the Forest Industry Organisation of Thailand, is in charge of preserving and restoring the forests in the area and promoting farming among the locals. It's set in the country's largest pine and dry dipterocarp forest, 960m above sea level, and is being developed as an eco-tourism destination for people who love adventure and cool weather. Camping, hiking and bike riding are among the many activities on offer at this verdant destination, which can accommodate up to 500 people.

A new district office is being built to replace the temporary office, and the completion of a new road to the district _ which will make travelling here much easier _ is expected within two years.

Article and picture source : www.bangkokpost.com

Thailand's silk road to global fame

2010-11-07T00:41:00.001-07:00

Sixty-five years ago, just two days after the end of the World War II, Jim Thompson, an architect from New York, arrived in Thailand as a part of his volunteer service to the US Army's Office of Strategic Service with nothing to suggest that his name would later become one of the world's most famous icons for Thai artistry.

With 10 restaurants in four international cities, Jim Thompson is also honouring the integrity of Siamese culinary art while celebrating the unique beauty of Thai weaving craft. PHOTO: ANUSORN SAKSEREE

Just like many westerners _ then and now _ who have been charmed by the beauty and friendliness of the Thai country, the Delaware-born Thompson decided to settle down and call Bangkok his home.

With his imaginative eyes and considerate mind, Thompson immediately became very interested in handwoven Thai silk.

He assembled a small collection of the fabric, and, with confidence that the quality of the Thai silk would have appeal outside Thailand, subsequently took it to show friends and potential buyers in New York. And that's when the Thai-silk road to the world fame began.

Jim Thompson's Thai Silk Company was registered in 1951 with the original purpose of reviving Thailand's craft weaving industry, which at that time was quickly fading due to competition from cheaper, machine-made fabrics. Nine years later, the Thai government awarded Thompson the Order of the White Elephant in recognition of his contribution to the country.

Today the company, with its 100 percent vertical operation _meaning all the products are manufactured here in Thailand under the care of the Thai Silk Co _ is the world's largest manufacturer of hand-woven fabrics, with more than 3,500 employees. That does not include some 1,000 silk artisans in northeastern villages whom the firm also works with.

Jim Thompson’s traditional Thai house in the middle of Bangkok is registered as a national museum.

The company's properties include Thompson's world-famous traditional Thai house in Bangkok's Pathumwan district, which has been registered as a national museum, two silk farms that cover more than 3,000 rai of land in Nakhon Ratchasima province, 38 retail shops in Asia, America and Europe, and 10 restaurants in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan.

''The restaurant business is a natural extension of Jim Thompson's passion in bringing the best of Thai culture to the world,'' said Eric Booth, the company's marketing director.

''Mr Thompson was famous not only for silk but also for his gracious hospitality. In the 50s and 60s, his Bangkok mansion often hosted dinner parties with musicians, writers, statesmen and Hollywood celebrities. Somerset Maugham, Anne Baxter and Robert Kennedy were also among his guests.''

The first Jim Thompson dining outlet, however, opened in 1996 on the second floor of its main retail shop on Surawong Road simply to offer a space where customers _ typically tourists _ could sit down, relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea together with a small variety of snacks and bakery items, which was made from the company's kitchen, before or after shopping or while waiting for the Bangkok traffic to ease.

The coffee and bakery corner had enjoyed a good feedback, so, later on, a number of Thai and western dishes were added to the menu.

Eric Booth, marketing director of Thai Silk Company.

"The menu was a good mix between authentic Thai food and classic western cuisine. We offered the two cuisines separately and never try to follow the fusion fashion," Booth noted.

The in-house cafe proved very popular, not only among tourist shoppers but also among people in the area who found the food and the design of the space enjoyable. With this success, the company decided to go for a standalone restaurant with the purpose of catering to local residents.

The Saladaeng Cafe restaurant, occupying an old house in Soi Sala Daeng, opened in 2000. This was followed by Thompson Bar & Restaurant in 2004 and Jim Thompson Cafe at Isetan department store in 2008.

After years of honing their skills at home, Jim Thompson's culinary and hospitality team was ready for the international challenge. In 2005, the company's first foreign restaurant, Mythai, opened in Kuala Lumpur.

"At that time, we had quite a lot of opportunities in several countries, but we decided to settle on a place near home," Booth explained.

"Running the restaurant business, you need to be close to what's happening. We felt more comfortable for our first overseas restaurant to be close by, so that we could travel easily and help them with the design, marketing, cooking and service."

Clusters of age-old northeastern-style and tribal-style houses, which can disappear overnight, are nicely displayed at the Jim Thompson Farm in Pak Thong Chai, Nakhon Ratchasima.

Three more dining outlets were opened in in Tokyo, and another in Singapore (see review on page 6).

"The Singapore branch, called Jim Thompson: A Thai Restaurant, is our flagship restaurant. We've spent so much time working with design and service. We've barely done any marketing or promotion but received great feedback from the locals. The business was built totally from word of mouth," the marketing director noted.

"Our company always looks for new, dynamic ways to promote Thai culture to the world. We've realised the worldwide sensation for Thai food. In the past, Thai food may have been regarded in the West as a budget meal on which people wouldn't spend more than 10 euros or $10 on.

"But now people would pay the same price as they do at a good French or Japanese restaurant to enjoy Thai food, perhaps with wine and champagne, on a special occasion. Thai restaurants are no longer seen as a place for cheap and good fast food but as gourmet dining destinations that offer a memorable experience."

The well-respected Jim Thompson style of Thai cuisine is in the devoted hands of - love it or hate it - an American chef-cum-Thai culinary enthusiast, Patrick Booth. Also the company's director of food and beverage department, Patrick Booth once trained under chef David Thompson of the Michelin-starred Nahm restaurant in London.

Some of Jim Thompson’s preserved farm products.

According to him, the cuisine offered at every Jim Thompson outlet is "absolute Thai, Thompson-style". This means that for each classic dish on offer, the experienced chefs have tested various recipes to refine what they believe to be the most delicious version.

Meanwhile, the menu and deco reflect an appealing mix of tradition and innovation inspired by Thompson's marvellous taste in art and design.

"Other than the cuisine itself, what we have tried to concentrate on in our restaurant business is the Thai lifestyle and design," Booth added. "When you enter a Jim Thompson restaurant, you'll see the place decorated with beautiful fabrics, in a dynamic fashion statement.

"Yes, it's a way to promote our products, but we are not trying to sell fabrics in our restaurants. The restaurant business completely stands on its own to celebrate mainly the integrity of Thai culinary art.

"Unlike our retail shops, which cater mainly to tourists, the restaurants make it easier for us to interact with locals, which we see as very interesting. Through that, we've seen there's still a lot of good opportunities for good Thai restaurants with honest Thai cuisine. We are now looking around the region to expand our restaurant, and we've set our eyes on Bali, Indonesia," Booth said.

Pumpkin is one of the most popular products at the Jim Thompson Farm.

Even though 90 percent of the Jim Thompson enterprise's approximately two-billion-baht yearly revenue comes from tourists, the company doesn't only help popularise Thai culture among foreigners. Undeniably, it also encourages Thais to understand more about our traditional ways of life that may be disappearing over night.

Thus, the Jim Thompson Farm in Nakhon Ratchasima's Pak Thong Chai district, which was originally a silk cultivation farm and weaving village, opened in 2000 to visitor interested in learning about the Thai silk production process as well as the regional culture of the northeast.

Other than the silk weaving quarter, the farm also features the 10-rai Isan Village and Korat Village comprised of eight clusters of age-old northeastern-style and tribal-style houses made from wood, bamboo and rattan. Some of the houses were built as long as 200 years ago. Within the villages, visitors will get to see the traditional Isan lifestyle and displays of handicrafts.

Hoping to give farm visitors a better understanding of art, environment, nature and ecological system, the farm has lately initiated the "Art Centre on Farm" project.

This pilot art project is where contemporary local artists are invited to work within the context of ecological agriculture and Isan architecture. With an aim to bridge art, life and nature, the participating artists work in close relation with nature and make use of local and recycled materials. Art pieces created under this project will be exhibited at various points in the farm.

All Jim Thompson’s silk fabrics are hand-woven by locals.

"The Jim Thompson Farm is not just a tourist destination, but a great educational hub," said Booth.

"You can learn about the silkworm cycle, local craftsmanship and Isan life. It's interesting that even Thais have less opportunity to see this cultures."

"In the past we had only foreign tourists. Today we are happy to say most of the farm's visitors are Thais. They are Thai students and families who come to to learn about Thai culture," said Booth.

For those who are interested in agricultural and gastronomic tourism, the farm is also a great place to visit. A spacious plot of land has been dedicated to organic fruit, vegetable and flower plantations.

Among the highlighted products are various types of pumpkins, cantaloupes and hydroponic salad greens, all of which are available at the farm's market.

This shop at the Raffles Hotel Singapore is among the company’s 38 outlets worldwide.

Ready-to-eat and preserved fruit products are also popular here. Expect to find a variety of jams, honey and tea. And if you're in for adventurous gastronomy, try Jim Thompson's best-selling crispy roasted silkworms.

"In the past, Thais looked at Jim Thompson as a brand of luxury goods and almost nothing else. With our farm and restaurants, we now have more connections and interactions with the local people, which we're glad of. Because, at the end of the day, Jim Thompson is a Thai company and our only home is Thailand."

5 Bangkok streets you have to hit to really get a feel for the city

2010-11-01T05:26:00.001-07:00

Phra Athit Road sits right beside the Chao Phraya River. At the end of the street is the historical white Phra Sumen Fort, which looks over a popular riverside park.

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Visitors to Bangkok find it hard to see past the temples, nightlife and shopping. And those that live in the city often get stuck in a rut of another kind -- hopping from mega-mall to posh restaurant, seldom venturing out of their comfort zones.

So whether you’ve just finished touring a score of wats or spent yet another Sunday brunching on Thong Lor, check out the following streets to see Bangkok in a different light.

Trok Issaranuphap

Most visitors to Chinatown hang out on the main streets, such as Yaowarat, Charoen Krung or Sampaeng Lane, but the older generation knows Trok Issaranuphap is where you'll find the most interesting stuff going on.
At the top of this tiny alley is scenic Chinese temple Mangkon Kamalawat. Inside Trok Issaranuphap there's also a wet market -- not for the faint of heart -- and prepared food stalls.
Getting there: from the Hualumpong MRT station grab a taxi to Soi Charoen Krung Soi 16. Trok Issaranuphap is on the other side of the road.

Arab Street

When it comes to ethnic neighborhoods, Chinatown gets all the attention, followed closely by Pahurat, Bangkok's Little India. But the city is more culturally diverse than it seems at first glance.

Sukhumvit Soi 3/1, aka Arab Street, is a tiny city unto itself, with agarwood dealers, shisha pipe sellers, travel agents and Middle Eastern restaurants crammed into a tiny alley between Soi 3 and Soi 5.
To get there, take the BTS to Nana station and head for Soi 3.

Phra Athit Road

Khao San Road’s fairer step-sister has all the good stuff the travelers’ ghetto around the corner does but, so far at least, the backpackers haven’t smoked out the local residents or stomped out the charming Thainess of this quiet street along the Chao Phraya River.
Bangkok-based foodies should visit for the excellent fusion joints such as the tiny Mister Pas. (140 Phra Athit Road. Open daily, except Monday, 10:30a.m.-11p.m. Tel: +66 (0)2 629 3207)

Taxi drivers all know the way to Phra Athit but it's far more fun to take the Chao Phraya ferry from the Saphan Taksin BTS station and hop off at Phra Athit.

Khlong San Saeb

Ok it’s not really a street since you can’t walk on it, but you can take a long boat ride on this canal for a look at life on the water in the middle of the big city, where you’ll still see grannies hanging out clothes to dry and little kids swimming.
Khlong San Saeb runs parallel to Petchaburi Road and is surprisingly convenient to Siam Square, Chidlom, Pratunam and the Golden Mount.

For the full experience, we recommend hopping onboard the small but fast ferry at Panfa Pier, next to the Golden Mount, and ride all the way to Bang Kapi. You'll have to change boats at the Pratunam Pier.

For more on Khlong San Saeb check out our video of the staff who work on these fast-paced ferries and the passengers brave enough to ride them.

Nakhon Chaisi Road

Before Soi 35 was Bangkok’s street food doyenne, this wide, leafy avenue in the Dusit neighborhood was everyone’s favorite destination for excellent Thai dishes of all kinds.

During the day the street markets of Nakhon Chaisi Road bustle with local shoppers and bureaucrats from nearby government offices on their lunch breaks, and in addition to a scenic view and good food you’ll find traditional shops including a cobbler who’s been making shoes for the royal palace for decades.
For some restaurant recommendations, see our recent feature on Bangkok's Ratchawat neighborhood, which includes Nakhon Chai Si Road.

Article and Picture form : CNN.com

The Thai Dessert Museum in Samut Songkhram chronicles the history of traditional Thai khanom

2010-10-27T08:45:00.001-07:00

While wandering around the popular Amphawa Floating market in Samut Songkhram, you are sure to come across a variety of delicious Thai desserts. And if your curiosity goes beyond satisfying your sweet tooth, you need look no further than the Thai Dessert Museum adjacent to the evening weekend market. Museum manager Vichitar Sae-tiaw explained that it was built by the Thai Confection Industry Company (TCIC) in September 2008 with an initial investment of 2.2 million baht from the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion. Ms Vichitar said the purpose of the museum is to exhibit and chronicle the history of traditional Thai desserts.

Replicas of more than 100 types of traditional sweets are on display, and they look so real you can be excused for drooling.

"The replicas are made of resin, created by skilled followers of National Artist Chakrabhand Posayakrit," said Ms Vichitar, noting the great attention to detail in the shapes, colours and textures.

The Thai word for dessert is khanom, believed to have been derived from the words khao (rice) and nom (sweet). Many Thai desserts are still made from rice flour and sugar.

The museum's sweet history lesson goes back to the Sukhothai period, about 700 years ago.

One of the oldest desserts on display, khanom tom, which we still see today, is made by frying shredded coconut with sugar, wrapping it in a starchy batter and then steaming it. After cooking it is sprinkled with salted, shredded coconut.

It is said that the golden era of Thai sweets began during the reign of King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya in the 17th century, when the country began courting relations with European countries. During that time a new way of cooking Thai desserts was initiated by Maria Guyomar de Pinha, a woman of Portuguese ancestry who is better known here by her Thai name of Thao Thong Kib Ma.

She was married to Constantine Phaulkon (his Thai name was Chao Phraya Wichayen) a Greek adventurer who became first counsellor to King Narai.

Maria Guyomar became the chief palace cook for desserts. She mixed egg yolks and granulated sugar into local sweets and created various treats with yellowish colours which resembled gold (thong), such as thong yib, thong yod and foi thong.

For the most part the museum displays desserts according to the way they have been served historically. For example, khanom mo kaeng, a pudding made of palm sugar, eggs, coconut cream and flour, is in the clay pot section, although today it is much more likely to be cooked in a stainless steel tray.

There are khanom in big glass jars, as might have been seen 30 or so years past, such as khanom dok jok, khao tu and thua guan.

One of the highlights of the museum are the samples of desserts which were mentioned in a classic poem composed by King Rama II, who was also born in Amphawa.

"Some of the desserts are hard to find today, such as maskod and latiang," said Ms Vichitar. To round up the tour, the museum has a section where visitors can relax by sitting on a wooden boat, to give them a feeling of the life of a vendor in a floating market.

The Thai Desserts Museum very recently celebrated two years of operation and moved the facility from the first floor to the second floor of the Anake Prasong Building, in Amphawa Municipality Office.

The new space is 280 square metres, and has some new features, such as a boat where noodles are sold and another one offering coffee.

The expansion was supported by the Government Housing Bank.

The museum organises activities such as instruction in the cooking of desserts for group tours if requests are made in advance, and is grateful to accept old items related to traditional Thai desserts such as recipes or cooking tools.

At present the Thai Dessert Museum is open on Fridays from 1pm to 7pm and on weekends and holidays from 10am to 7pm and there is no entrance fee.

In the future, said Ms Vichitar, there are plans to open the museum every day of the week and sell tickets, so that it can stand on its own without the need for donations.

HOW TO GET THERE

From Bangkok, take Rama II Road (also called Thon Buri-Pak Tho or Highway No35) to Samut Songkhram and turn left onto Highway No325 in Amphawa district. The distance is about 70 kilometres. Parking is available near the entrance of the market or in Wat Amphawa. The Thai Dessert museum is in the office building of Amphawa Municipality, next to the ferry pier. For more details, call 03-475-1359

Making merit : Lent-ending 'krathin' religious rites seemingly moving away from tradition

2010-10-23T12:23:00.001-07:00

When the three-month-long Buddhist lent comes to an end on Oct 23, it will usher in the annual krathin season during which people visit temples and make merit by presenting robes to monks.

Performing krathin religious rites is actually quite convenient these days because you can buy the robes at shops, but it wasn't so easy in the old days when they had to be hand-made. Making them was part and parcel of an elaborate rite called chunla krathin that brought together entire communities a day before the end of the lent to make saffron robes from cotton planted specifically for this rite. In other words, it used to be a collective effort.

One place where this tradition is still very much in fashion - because the people regard it as one of the highest forms of merit-making - is Wat Yang Luang in Mae Chaem district of Chiang Mai famous for its Lanna architecture, and I was witness to it last year.

The ceremony began at dusk with harvest of cotton from a field behind the temple. The crop had been planted a few months earlier and the plot marked out by bamboo fencing.

Earlier that day villagers in the vicinity, mostly elderly people, had decorated the path from the temple's entrance leading to the viharn, the main chapel, with local handicrafts and figures of animals, including crocodile, made from coconut leaves.

The harvest began with young girls dressed like angels, in whites, collecting cotton bolls in baskets they carried. They were followed by others who took turns through the night doing their bits for the ceremony.

The bolls were put through a grinder to separate seeds from fibre, which was then beaten using a wooden contraption with elastic chords until it turned to white fluff. The fluff was scooped and rolled around cylindrical sticks about arm's length, spun spun into yarn and woven to form cloth.

"Each of us bring our own equipment," said Cheun, in her 80s, referring to eight weaving machines operating at full steam on the temple ground and, like her neighbours, felt kind of blessed to be able to contribute to this ceremony the temple hosts once every few years.

By now it was midnight and the elderly began retiring to quiet corners to grab some rest. They slept in the temple sala on its matted floor with blankets for cover from wind and insects.

But others continued to work, myself included and some visitors who had decided to join in the fun, weaving and stitching until we had the robe material, about two metres in length, at which point the women took leave. From now on it was all about dyeing, a men's job.

Near the stairway leading to the main chapel, elderly villagers tended a stove on which sat a huge vat filled with water and barks of jack fruit tree. When the water had taken on a saffron tinge the cloth, as yet still white, was immersed into the vat and after a while checked for colour. The process was repeated until colouring was uniform. Then it was rinsed and left to dry.

On the same stove they then cooked a traditional dessert called krayasart (crunchy caramelised rice cake with sesame seeds and peanuts). By now, it was two hours past midnight and the chefs knew they would better hurry. They stirred ingredients in the cooking pan constantly to speed up the process and make sure the dessert would be ready in time for the ceremony due to begin in the next few hours.

Shortly afterwards, the crowing of roosters announced the dawn of a new day and the village elders who had repaired to the sala earlier that night woke up with a start and set about preparing breakfast. About the same time the villagers began their march to the temple, many carrying snacks and savoury which they shared with visitors and invited them to a breakfast of sticky rice and nam prik , a chilly dip eaten with fresh vegetables.

The ceremony began at eight o'clock. The villagers arrived in a procession after walking the rough margins of green paddies. With them they carried alms and the robe. Walking the paddies proved difficult, particularly for women in traditional pha thung wrap-arounds and high-heeled shoes. And although some of them came caked in mud and dirt, it didn't dampen their spirits.

At the temple they were greeted by students performing classical dances. Entering the compound they were showered with petals, after which they marched in a circle around the main chapel three times before finally presenting the robe they had woven the previous night to the abbot.

Article Source : www.bangkokpost.com

Getting back to nature in a little-known corner of Chanthaburi

2010-10-22T06:24:00.001-07:00

Namtok Makok, or Makok waterfall, is one of the four main falls that spill down the sides of the Sa Bap (pond of sin) mountain range. As legend has it, hunters in the past described the range as a square, appearing the same from all sides, and surrounding a vast pond filled with lotus flowers and fallen trees.

As I followed the trail, I wondered if there would be a graceful kinnari (a mythical half-bird, half-woman creature) enjoying the water.

Namtok Makok is an ideal destination for trekkers and a pleasant reward for completing the 350-metre walk along the trail, which looks very much like a tarng darn (animal track). It is where a small brook, with its source somewhere uphill, cascades down the mountain.

I am a mere spectator to this natural drama. As the white water emerges from a natural doorway, framed by two trees forming a V, the sound of the splashing water becomes a natural orchestral concert.

With its reputation overshadowed by easy-to-reach waterfalls such as Pliew and Trok Nong, Makok hardly gets a mention in tourist guidebooks. Perhaps this is why its natural surroundings are almost unspoiled by the encroachment of civilisation and why it still offers a wonderful opportunity to explore and enjoy the forest and wildlife at your own leisurely pace.

With lan hin (flat rocks) surrounding the area at the bottom of the falls, this is a perfect place for camping and picnicking. And it not only provides great photo opportunities, for artists, there is some marvellous scenery to sketch or paint.

The plunge pool at the foot of the waterfall is suitable for swimming, snorkelling and even diving to catch some fish. The gently sloping section of the upper part of the falls serves as a natural water slide and the azure water of the pool makes taking a slide even more tempting.

On my way down the trail, back to the real world I slowed my pace to enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature.

Towering trees line the path and comprise a scene that would tempt any photographer. Some of the trees at Makok are rarely seen outside forests such as this, which blends tropical rainforest and evergreen forest, and it is well-known for Aquilaria trees. Known in Thai as mai krisna, the extracted agarwood resin is used to produce perfume and is the world's most expensive essence.

There are gigantic tabaek trees (Lagerstroemia floribunda) that shade the trail, many draped with large spiralling vines that remind us of their great age. These sometimes block the trail and need cutting before you can pass.

Siam weed or bitter bush (Chromolacna odorata) is also abundant, so make sure you dress appropriately to avoid an itchy rash.

Red squirrels and vividly coloured butterflies are numerous in the forest, and can be spotted along the trail and around the waterfall.

However, I also saw some wild hog tracks, which made the hair on the back of my neck stand up, as I realised how ill-prepared I was if one charged at me.

I bade farewell to Namtok Makok in the hope that this lovely natural sanctuary will remain unspoiled so that later generations will have the opportunity to savour its natural beauty.

Kamphaeng Phet Sart Thai Tradition and Banana Festival

2010-10-15T07:36:00.001-07:00

Eat your hearts out FarmVille fans, this is the real deal, full bunches of bananas with real rosettes at a real farmers’ market, and a real one-crop festival.

Thailand’s Kamphaeng Phet Province holds their Sart Thai Buddhist Tradition and Banana Festival in September each year.

In 2009 it was during the second week of the month, and in 2010, it all revolves around the 23rd of the month and the full moon (Sart Thai is a Buddhist celebration that follows the full moon).

The Kluai Khai Fair is held to promote the species of banana for which the province is famous.

Over 200 million Baht value of bananas per year are exported from just this one province – roughly 4 million Pounds Sterling – which doesn’t sound a lot until you realise the local produce-market price for one of those full-length bunches is only 200 Baht … meaning roughly one million bunches are in the annual export figures. Each tree crops once a year, so you can imagine how intensively they’re planted and farmed.

Bananas are one of the world’s most important food crops. Aside from the common export banana (the Cavendish), there are about 1000 other varieties of bananas. Some bananas are blue, others are orange or red, some are round, and a few are as big as your arm. In the tropics, bananas aren’t only eaten fresh, they’re barbecued, they’re deep-fried, they’re sun-dried, their flowers are used in salads – instead of lettuce, they’re even made into beer and wine.

The local banana dessert, krayasart is a wonderful, sweet, sticky, granola-like concoction made with peanuts, sesame seeds, rice, etc. For some reason this is mostly made during the banana festival, which has competitions for the best krayasart there.

Thai bananas are far more tasty than those of most other countries, and you wouldn’t believe how many varieties there are, which is just as well, because the festival includes a banana-eating competition (race?). I can’t envision it as being a particularly captivating spectator sport … unless they have a women’s competition too

Aside from the eating and producer competitions, there are the cookery competitions for making of krayasat, as well as many entertainment performances provided by both traditional and modern performing arts. Of course, being Thailand, no festival is complete without a beauty competition and pageant. Kampaeng Phet is no exception and hosts the Miss Banana Queen pageant during the festival.

Being a rural province, the festival also brings to town a wealth of handicrafts and cottage industry products for exhibition and sales at OTOP markets, set up just for the festival. It’s said that every temple in Kamphaeng Phet province hosts events of some description during the Kluai Khai Fair & Sart Thai Festival, I haven’t tried to test that claim – it would be impossible.

Kampaeng Phet City is a very quiet, peaceful town in the lower part of Northern Thailand forming a border province between the northern and central regions of the country. It has a famous historical park, protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, comprising the ruins of an ancient city and temple complex.

In that respect it is similar to more famous sites at Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, and Phimai, but has a distinctiveness of its own, with the archaeology and temple styles having more in common with Chiang Mai and Wieng Kum Kam far to the north of it.

Very few tourists visit Kampaeng Phet, which is a shame because it’s a great little town, with a peaceful, and almost untrodden, vast archaeological site.

More about Bananas – they are always in season, providing a continuous, year-round, source of food in developing nations. More than 400 million people depend on them as a staple food source. In our rapidly changing world, both cultivated and wild bananas are highly threatened by climate change, deforestation, and a new banana-killing fungus. Some scientists predict that the banana industry will collapse within 5-20 years, and that many wild banana species are facing extinction

Kamphaeng Phet Sart Thai Tradition and Banana Festival

Article soure : www.gazlannathai.com

Talat Noi, a small community in Bangkok's Chinatown,

2010-10-09T19:55:00.001-07:00

Nestled by the Chao Phraya River, the Talat Noi community is a smaller and quieter part of Chinatown that dates back to the Ayutthaya period. It is a melting pot of various cultures _ the Portuguese, the Vietnamese and the Hokkien, Teochew and Hakka Chinese _ and where several of the country's leading figures lived
"The Talat Noi community in the early Bangkok period was mainly populated by the Portuguese, the Vietnamese and the Hokkien. The Portuguese established the Holy Rosary Church here. The Vietnamese were led here by Prince Nguyen Phuc Anh
[who had sought refuge in Siam during the First Reign before retaking his kingdom from traitors]. And the Hokkien had moved here from the Kudee Cheen area ... they outnumbered the Teochew in Sampheng and mostly produced iron pans and horseshoes," said Pimpraphai Bisalputra, a well known Chinese culture expert.
According to her, the Talat Noi community expanded along the banks of the Chao Phraya River where Chinese junks would anchor in the middle of the river so people could go there to shop. A wholesale session for traders would be held first, after which a gong would be sounded to signal to the public that they could then board the ships to buy goods. The boundaries of this "floating market" ranged approximately 3 to 4km from Talat Kao near the present-day Memorial Bridge to the Talat Noi area.
French bishop Jean-Baptiste Pallegoix wrote in his Description of the Kingdom of Siam 1854 that foreign trade during the early Bangkok period relied on Chinese junks and large ships owned by bureaucrats and major foreign traders only; and Chinese tycoons owned five to six junks each. Bangkok even had shipyards for the Chinese junks.
In winter, before Chinese New Year, many junks would arrive and dock in the middle of the Chao Phraya, from Ratchawong Pier (Kongsee Lor) to Pak Khlong San. Some 50 to 60 Chinese junks would anchor in front of Sampheng (Chinatown).
In the past, Talat Noi was also the home of several important people, including the Sols. This wealthy Thai-Hokkien family are the ancestors of several influential families such as the Chatikavanijs, Srivikorns and Posayajindas.
The Sols lived at the Sol Heng Tai Residence in Talat Noi and owned a huge plot of land ranging from the present-day Harbour Department to Odeon Circle. They later donated part of their land to the state for the construction of the early section of Charoen Krung Road near Yaowarat during the Fourth Reign.
"The Sols, the Sampatisiris and the Kalayanamitrs are the only three Chinese families known to have entered Siam during the late Ayutthaya period. The proof is in the wooden tablets bearing their ancestors' names," said Ms Pimpraphai, who has written several books on the Chinese in Siam, including Nai Mae (Mistress Mothers).
According to her, a wooden tablet on the Sol Heng Tai Residence's family altar says Siang Sae Sol entered Siam during the Ayutthaya period and had a son in 1776, during the Thon Buri period. His son was Tycoon Ked (1776 to 1841). His grandson was Tycoon Jard, or Phraya Aphaivanich (1813 to 1849), a junk trader-turned-bird's nest tariff collector. After the death of Tycoon Jard, the Sol Heng Tai Residence went to Tycoon Jard's wife, Yoo (1813 to 1893). From then until the 1930s, this house was always inherited by the family's female descendants.
"The Sol Heng Tai Residence is outstanding for being Thailand's only remaining pre-Bangkok Chinese house, and for housing a family altar dating back to the Ayutthaya period. There is historical evidence that the Sols served as translators for King Taksin the Great's last tribute [jimkong] to China," Ms Pimpraphai added.
According to Chinese culture expert Setthapong Jongsa-nguan's article titled Ban Nai Mae, a Chinese-language sign above the Sol Heng Tai Residence's front gate reads "Heng Tai", the name of the family businesses. This house is in Hokkien-Teochew architectural style, known as Sue He Yuan, a group of four houses surrounding a large courtyard. Original Sue He Yuan houses have only one level but Sol Heng Tai houses have two, which is an adaptation of Sue He Yuan and traditional Thai houses.
The structure of the house is mainly made of wood while the external walls and the entire first floor are made of brick. The wooden doors on the first floor are painted with images of Thai trees. The wooden walls on the second floor are an adaptation of Chinese and traditional Thai styles.
The beautifully carved wooden roofing is in Hokkien-Teochew fashion from the southern part of the Yangtze River. The roof of the central house looks like the tail of a swallow, whereas the other houses have saddle roofs. Duangtawan Posayajinda _ the 7th owner of the Sol Heng Tai Residence _ said that her house was built during the Thon Buri period using wood and stone from China. The main ceiling pillar carries a yin-yang symbol, while others are decorated with wooden inscriptions in Chinese. These wooden signs bear testament to the appreciation felt by admirers towards the Sol family for their honesty, gratefulness and love for the country.
The pillars and walls are also decorated with finely carved wooden and Chinese porcelain ornaments in the images of auspicious animals and flowers, which are Hokkien symbols; Lions for protection; goldfish for prosperity; and Mei Hua, pomegranates and Botan flowers for happiness. Its front doors are painted red and carry auspicious Chinese words.
The house's left wing was reserved for the family's male members while the right wing had rooms for the women. The first room in the right wing was the bedroom of the late Pook Posayajinda, owner, who died in 1932. Her room was sandwiched between two rooms: the Fruit Room and the Gold Room. This house also has a Rice Room, a Firewood Room and a Sugar Room.
"The Sols were very rich landlords and moneylenders. They kept their money in iron trunks which grew so heavy the floor sank," said Ms Duangtawan about the family's past glory.
But in the 1930s the family's 40 buckets of gold were stolen from the Gold Room by thieves who had dug a tunnel and damaged the room's seashell-constructed walls using the acidity of vinegar.
According to Ms Pimpraphai, the Sol Heng Tai Residence is also important for reflecting the power of women as it was long inherited by the daughters and not the sons, according to the Thai tradition for daughters to remain and take care of their parents, even after marriage.
Another important person who lived in the Talat Noi area was leading economist the late Puey Ungphakorn. He was born to Chinese parents in Talat Noi's Trok Rong Soob Nam in 1916. His parents worked hard in order to send him to study at the prestigious Assumption School. After he lost his father at the age of nine, his uncle supported his education. He graduated at the age of 18 and became a maths and French teacher at his old school. In 1937 he earned a bachelor's degree in law and politics from Thammasat University. With a government scholarship, he received a bachelor's degree in economics and finance with first class honours at the London School of Economics and Political Science. In 1949, he obtained a doctorate in economics from the same university. During World War II, Mr Puey served in the Free Thai Movement under the pseudonym Mr Khem Yenying. Back in Thailand, he progressed in his career until becoming governor of the Bank of Thailand and rector of Thammasat University.
"Mr Puey lived here in the Talat Noi community until assuming the central bank governor position," Ms Duangtawan recalled.
Chana Samarnruangsak, a Thai-Chinese man who knew Mr Puey and his family, said that Mr Puey had lived in a two-storey wooden house in Talat Noi throughout his childhood and early adulthood. And after moving out, he regularly returned here to visit his family.
"He was a nice person who never looked down on other people. However, he did not like to discuss religious and political issues with the neighbours," he added.
However, the home of the Ungphakorn family was later demolished, and in its place is an alley. Not far from there is Cho Su Kong Shrine, a Hokkien shrine, where many people come to worship the statue of the priest Cho Su Kong and pray for good health and blessings.
Other sites in Talat Noi include Siam Commercial Bank's first branch in Thailand (the bank's predecessor, a pilot after a project called Book Club, was in Ban Mo), a Hakka shrine called Hon Wong Kung, the Holy Rosary Church and a Gothic church established in 1767 by the Portuguese who fled the war in Ayutthaya to Bangkok. To explore this small yet precious multicultural community, strolling is the best choice and takes only half a day.
Article source : Bangkok Post

Celebrate the goddess of fertility and the passage of adolescence.

2010-08-25T08:24:00.001-07:00

Swinging into adulthood
The Akha, the tribal highlanders in Thailand's North, celebrate their annual Swing Ceremony from late August to early September. A thrilling albeit vanishing tradition, the Swing Ceremony celebrates the goddess of fertility and the passage from adolescence to adulthood. Visitors to the village can break bread, enjoy the tribal music and dance, and get a big dose of adrenaline on the giant swing. For more detail, call (053) 918 415.
Pedal power for the seriously fit
It's time to get your mountain bike strapped securely on the car and speed off to Bhumibol Dam in Tak province, one of the country's best cycling destinations, where over the weekend of August 28-29, the province once again plays host to the International Mountain Bike Competition, a 80-kilomtre race from downtown Tak to the reservoir. On Saturday, at the dam's reservoir there'll be plenty of family friendly races, including "Couple Bike" for spouses and other mates, "Groupie Bike" for threesomes and "Conqueror" for youngsters under 16. The event wraps up on Sunday with a showcase of vintage bicycles, a final race and some live entertainment in the evening. For more information, call (055) 514 341-3.
Wild, wild water
Prachin Buri's Na Di district is playing host to the Rafting Festival this weekend, marking the beginning of a four-month-long rafting season along the Hin Phlerng Rapids in Khao Yai national Park. From now to October, thrill-seekers and adventure travellers alike can bounce in rubber boats through a series of wild rapids that vary from Class III to IV. The rafting station is at Khao Yai National Park's 9th Base in Prachin Buri province. Call (037) 312 284 or visit http://www.tat8.com/.
Nakhon Nayok's flower power
Take a short trip to Khlong Sib Ha (Klong 15), Nakhon Nayok province, and come home with plants and flowers for your backyard. Today and tomorrow, Khlong Sib Ha is home to a glorious Flower and Garden Festival, boasting a flower showcase that's eight kilometres long. Expect a mix of design ideas, horticultural excellence, great shopping and glorious floral displays. Call (037) 391 295.

Samui for foodies

2010-08-12T09:52:00.001-07:00

If you too enjoy the taste of chillies, garlic, shallot, turmeric, shrimp paste, fish sauce and tamarind juice, you’re heading to the right place.
Q: We’re coming from New York and will be staying at the Muang Kulaypan Hotel on Chaweng Beach in Samui. Where should we go for authentic and not-too-expensive Thai food? Amy
A: I love food and food questions, and Samui is one of my favourite food places, especially for really spicy southern-style seafood. If you too enjoy the taste of chillies, garlic, shallot, turmeric, shrimp paste, fish sauce and tamarind juice, you’re heading to the right place.
Unfortunately, though, there aren’t many choices around Chaweng for authentic Thai food. So hire a car or motorbikes to get around " and I can guarantee you that your search will be more than fulfilled.
Sabiang Lae in Hin Ta Hin Yai in Lamai, a restaurant formerly known as Ao Thai, is famous for its fresh-seafood dishes, including oysters in a very Thai dip " with fried shallots " and tom yam in clear soup.
I also recommend Jitr Pochana near Nathon, Bang Por Seafood in Bang Por village, Tamrub Mui on the Chaweng-Lamai road, Big Jiew Seafood and Wan Tok in Bang Makham, Go Cheng in Mae Nam market and Tha Rua at the Chaweng viewpoint.
And for specific dishes, look for the fried fish with turmeric called pla tod kamin, the squid with shrimp paste known as muek PAD kati, and tamarind curry, or kaeng som.
For a lively street food, head to Nathon Pier and the night market, where food stalls sell everything from noodle soup to PAD thai and fried rice from 4pm to 10pm.
A truly authentic Samui lunch requires kanon jeen, the rice spaghetti topped with your choice of curry sauce and lots of fresh vegetables. There are stalls selling it all over the island.
Among the famous sources are Pa Maitri in Mae Nam Soi 4, Pa Ian (Ching) opposite the AomSin Bank in Na Thon Market, and Pi Kiew in Bang Por. They open at 7am, but certainly make sure you get there before noon, or they’ll be sold out.
Q: I want to buy lenses for my Nikon D90 when I’m in Thailand. Since the lenses are made there, can I expect the prices to be cheaper than in Britain? " Dave
A: You’re think anything made in Thailand would be cheaper here, but often this isn’t the case, especially with costly electronic goods. Nike shoes are made here, and they’re not always cheaper than in the West.
Also, the relative strength of the baht to many currencies is working against you. Many Thais who can afford to travel look for cheaper prices in the US.
I just checked the British prices of camera equipment on both Amazon.co.uk and Jessops.com, and they’re not much different than here.
Meanwhile, a Nikon AF 180 f/2.8 ED costs around Bt30,000 in a shop here, while local photography retailer www.Fotofile.net has it for Bt32,500.
Two more things to consider:
Count on the VAT refund receipt from the stores, which will get you a 7-per-cent refund at the airport.
And finally, buying overseas doesn’t give you the legal protection you enjoy at home. Buying at home gives you that peace of mind, plus the support of your local supplier.
Soure : nationmultimedia.com

Tom Kha Gai (Thai coconut chicken soup)

2010-08-06T10:50:00.001-07:00

dOne of the tastiest and easiest Thai foods to prepare, tom kha simply requires fresh lemongrass –dried galangal and packaged coconut milk will still produce a decent soup. While technically a soup, it is typically served with rice and eaten like a curry, ladled over the rice and then eaten.

Ingredients

Dried Galangal Slices 2-3 pcs
Lemon Grass (fresh) 2 pcs
Garlic 1 clove
Tamarind Paste 1 pinch
Fresh Chilies 3-4
Fish or Soy Sauce to taste
Chicken ½ lb
Coconut milk 13.5 oz can

Instructions
1. Boil 1 cup of water with galangal, lemon grass, garlic, and tamarind for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add chicken (pre-cut into 2” pieces) to boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes.
3. Add coconut milk and return to boil. Boil for 3 minutes.
4. Add fish sauce (1tbsp), soy sauce, and 2 slices of white onion. Boil for one minute.
5. Remove from heat and serve with rice.

A visit to Sing Buri can refresh the mind and the body as well

2010-08-06T08:07:00.001-07:00

Sing Buri, in the central region, is blessed with many Buddhist temples spread across 841 square metres of lush vegetation. One of the most revered is Wat Phikun Thong, where visitors can pay homage to both the Kingdom's largest sitting Buddha image, which is 23m wide and 42m tall, and the statue of Luang Pho Phae, a popular former abbot of the temple. It is housed in Tha Chang district's Tambon Wihan Khao, approximately 16km from Muang Sing Buri.

The huge Buddha image, which sits in the stance of giving a blessing, is called Luangpho Yai, and is made of concrete and decorated with a golden mosaic. Even before reaching our destination, I could see this huge statue from a distance. On our arrival, we first visited the Luangpho Phae Museum, inside the temple compound, which shows the history of this revered Buddhist monk and his eight requisites of leading a pious life.

Opposite is the Buddha image in the posture of giving a blessing. The large prayer hall at the front is circled by a gallery where Buddha images in different postures are housed. There is also a sprawling park with a small lake and huge images of Hindu and Chinese gods, where visitors can meditate close to nature. The tranquility and peaceful ambience is most befitting for visitors who wish to make a pilgrimage to this enchanting temple.

The grounds of Wat Phikun Thong are also a popular spot for festivals. When we visited, the seasonal tropical fruit event was in full swing. A number of local residents, dressed in traditional garb, put on a range of activities to showcase their cultural traditions and dances. There were also fruit eating contests, and of course the opportunity to buy fruit from nearby farms.

Our next temple stop was Phra Non Chaksi Worawihan, a royal temple, which is about a 9km drive. Inside the prayer hall is a beautiful Sukhothai-style reclining Buddha image, which is more than 45m long and facing north.

Visitors from all walks of life can be seen praying and offering garlands and incense to the Buddha image, which looks down at them with loving tenderness. Also in the vicinity are two Buddha images - Phra Kan, a stone image, and Phra Kaeo, which sits in a cross-legged posture. History has it that they were constructed during the reign of Rama V, who decreed the statues be used as chief images at a ceremony where civil servants swear an oath of allegiance to the king.

We then visited Wat Na Phrathat, a less visited but historic spot in a remote farming community thought to have once been the old town of Sing Buri. Sitting among a large number of ruins is the main attraction of the temple, a phra prang (corn-shaped pagoda) which has figures of demons holding batons and garudas over the relic chamber. According to archaeological findings, this temple is thought to have been built before 14 AD. Walking through the ruins, one gets the impression that religion played a pivotal role in people's lives in those days. The temple is on a high rectangular mound. As you walk further, you will notice the size of the spacious prayer hall, which gives you some idea of how the temple-goers in those days must have filled the prayer room with religious offerings. To the east of the tall corn-shaped pagoda is a hall where a Buddha image was once enshrined, and to the west lies the ordination hall encircled by a number of smaller, round pagodas, of which only the bases remain.

After being spiritually enlightened, we decided to visit the local Sing Buri fresh market before heading back to Bangkok. In addition to fruit and vegetables, there is also an abundance of fish at this market, as three rivers - the Chao Phraya, the Noi and the Lop Buri - meet at Sing Buri. As well from enjoying Sing Buri's local culinary delights, don't forget to take time out to speak with local vendors, who are always ready for a chat.

Article and picture source : www.bangkokpost.com

The old city of Ayutthaya recreates its ancient floating market with some thoroughly modern ideas

2010-08-03T04:01:00.001-07:00

If a few hours spent among the ruins of Ayutthaya Historical Park aren’t enough to whisk you back in time and imagination to sixteenth-century Siam, then head to the newly opened miniature of the old Ayothaya Floating Market for a taste of rural life in bygone days.
This new hip hangout for tourists and local residents, the Bt150 million market opened in May on a 32-rai plot bordered by a canal and sheltered by big trees and other lush vegetation. It’s divided into three parts and home to more than 200 wooden shophouses, street vendors plus a pavilion for cultural performances.
There are more than 20 zones, each of the named after the old fresh-food markets of Ayutthaya. Browse around and you’ll found stacks of you creative merchandises in just about all categories, ranging from magnificent handicrafts to wooden toys and handmade apparel to decorative items.
The main attractions are found along the long street that’s known as Ta Rua Market, home to quality OTOP items, wickerwork and colourful wooden toys made by skilled artisans. On offer are hats, baskets, wooden kitchenware, fish-shaped hanging mobiles made from palm leaves, coconut shell dolls, herbal products, silverware and more.
Foodies should head to Buachom Island, where 50 vendors sell a wide range of delectable local foods, desserts and drinks on boats. Enjoy a big bowl of hot and spicy kuay tiew rua from Jum Jim Rua Jaew, along with PAD Thai, khanom krok, som tam, khanom jeen, crispy vermicelli, rice and curry, ice cream, Thai iced coffee and herbal beverages.
For clothes, head to the main streets of Pa Chee, Maharat, Chao Phrom and Lad Bualunag markets, where local designers offer their latest collections of handmade apparel, accessories and home decor items. Most merchandise features smart graphic designs, cool messages and cute cartoons reflecting Thai culture.
You can find colourful skirts, pants and bags made from Thai sarongs, T-shirts with the Thai alphabet and messages, silk outfits, zinc dolls, birdcages, mailboxes, magnets, beautiful postcards and more.
If you’re weary of foot by now, spa treatments and massage await at Pak Hai market.
T learn more about Thai culture, take a seat and enjoy the dance performances put on by students and local artists. Among the regular shows on stage are classical dances from all four regions, Thai martial arts, elephant battles and mini light & sound performances about Ayutthaya city.
IF YOU GO
Ayothaya Floating Market is in the same area as the Elephant Village, next to Maheyong Temple and it’s open daily from 9am to 9pm. Admission is free. For more information, call (035) 881 678, (035) 881 733 or visit http://www.ayothayafloatingmarket.com/.

China Will Invest In Thai High-Speed Train, Better Rail Links

2010-08-02T06:07:00.001-07:00

BANGKOK, July 29 (Bernama) -- China has agreed to invest in Thailand's first high-speed railway and provide funding to the development of the Thai rail link system, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban told the Cabinet on Wednesday, Thai News Agency (TNA) reported.
The minister who visited China from July 16-23, said the negotiations between the two countries included development of rails at the Thai-Lao border of Thailand's Nong Khai province to Laos and to China.
The line is expected to also link to Sungai Kolok in Thailand's southern province of Narathiwat to Malaysia and will upgrade the quality of Thai rail links so that in future it could link via the north to Europe and in the south to Singapore, TNA reported.
The project will be built as a standard-gauge rail link and is expected to cover transport in all countries of the Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean).
Concerning the high-speed train, the deputy premier said China will cooperate with Thailand to build the country's first high-speed rail line from Bangkok to the eastern province of Rayong, which will also connect to Laos.
He said Thailand will be responsible for procuring land, while China will provide investment, technology and management.
The rail line would extend 240 kilometres from Bangkok's downtown Makkasan area to Rayong on the Eastern Seaboard. The travel time is expected at approximately one hour from an original three-hour drive.
Suthep said that Chinese technology for high-speed trains is highly advanced.
He said he rode a Chinese train from Beijing to Tian Xing which took only 29 minutes for over 200 kilometres. The train runs at 338km/hr and Suthep said it was the "best quality" compared to railways he had travelled on in other countries.
He suggested that a Thai committee be set up to discuss the matter in detail with China, adding that there might be an agreement when Thai prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva visits China in the near future.
China also said it would promote Thailand as a tourist destination among Chinese. It will also consider buying more rice from Thailand, and noted that the rail link development will provide convenience for people in the region to travel and enhance a better logistics and transport system.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Sophon Sarum said the ministry plans to expand the country's existing rail links, but the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) will have to research the issue and there might be an adjustment of the standard gauge rail link system to ensure that it can link to the rail system of Thailand's neighbouring countries.
Sophon said the joint venture between Thailand and China did not affect the government budget of Bt170 billion previously approved by the Cabinet to improve the Thai rail system, as the cooperation is a project offered by Chinese authorities to improve all Thai rail links from Nong Khai to China, and Nong Khai to Sungai Kolok.
-- BERNAMA
Source: http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsworld.php?id=517429

40 Thai foods we can’t live without

2010-07-28T09:34:00.001-07:00

Given that one of the first things Thais ask each other when they meet up is "Have you eaten yet?" it’s clear this is a nation that’s extremely passionate about its eats. You want to know how good a Thai restaurant is? Don’t look at the menu, the décor or even the prices. Look at the number of people inside. That’s your quality indicator.

In celebration of Bangkok’s fantastic cuisine and the restaurants that have perfected it, we’ve rounded up 40 of the Thai dishes we couldn’t imagine living without. Some are world famous, others are more obscure, but they're all worth trying, at least once. If you've got your own favorite that we missed, let us know in the comments box below.

1. Tom Yum Gung

This Thai masterpiece soup is teeming with shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes, lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime leaves. It can be ordered loaded with coconut milk (tom yum gung nam kohn) and cream or without (tom yum gung nam sai) for a slightly more sour and healthy version. This soup truly unifies a host of favorite Thai tastes: sour, salty, spicy and sweet, all in one bowl. This is an authentic Thai delicacy that many locals are passionate about and has spread around the world.
Banana Leaf Restaurant serves all around delicious food, including great tom yum gung. Silom Complex basement floor, Silom Road, Bangkok. BTS: Saladaen. Open daily from 11am to 9.30 pm. Tel: +66 (0)2 231 3124.

2. Gang Som Pak Ruam

The Thai fusion of sweet, sour and spicy are all combined into another ultra vibrant soup. This soup base can be packed with vegetables like carrots, cabbage and green beans (pak ruam) or it can be served with a deep fried omelet made from eggs and a stringy green vegetable leaf (Thai acacia leaf) called cha om (gang som cha om kai).

Tart and explosive gang som soup is served at Arhan Isan Rod Dej Restaurant, located at 3/5-6 Thanon Rangnam Road, Ratchawithi. Opposite from King Power complex. Open from 11am to 10pm. Tel: +66 (0)2 246 4579

3. Gang Keow Wan

One of the most famous and sought after Thai dishes is Thai green curry. Green curry paste, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, chicken, Thai basil, Thai eggplant and the ever present herbs and roots of Thai cuisine (lemongrass, galangal, lime leaves etc), make this curry an unforgettable blend of delights. It is usually prepared quite soupy so a plate of rice is necessary to sop up every intricate drop.

Poi-sien Restaurant serves a vibrant green curry filled with all kinds of herbs and flavors. Soi Ratchawithi 6, Boonme Building. Open from about 10am to 10pm. Tel: +66 (0)84 527 5521

4. Panang Gai

Red curry paste fried up with chicken and then doused with coconut cream creates a succulent and spicy red curry. The dish is then served with finely chopped kaffir lime leaves sprinkled on top. Panang gai is a dish that if made correctly should explode with dynamic flavors as soon as it touches the tip of your tongue.

Poi-sien Restaurant also serves a divine panang gai. The thick coconut cream sauce is crafted to perfection and the lime leaf garnish is always fresh. Soi Ratchawithi 6, Boonme Building. Open from about 10am to 10pm. Tel +66 (0)84 527 5521

5. Gang Massaman

Massaman is a sweet curry that originates from Southern Thailand as a Halal dish. The curry sauce is a mixture of curry paste, coconut milk, a strong flavor of peanuts, and a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. Massaman is usually pre-made with chicken and always a few chunks of potatoes that have delightfully soaked up the coconut milk like a sponge.

Baan Ajarn Restaurant, 107/7-8 Soi Rangnam Rd, Phaya Thai, Ratchawithi. Open from 11am to 11pm. Tel: +66 (0)2 245 2775

6. Gai Pad Pongali

Chicken, onions, tomatoes and peppers are brought alive with a delicate Thai yellow curry paste. What makes the dish spectacular is the egg that is cracked into the dish to curdle and thicken all the ingredients. A generous portion of parsley is added for extra flavor and its unique taste.

Kun Su Restaurant, located on Phaya Thai, Soi Rangnam, across the street from Century Mall, fries up a light, less oily, and delicious pad pongali. Best to eat here for lunch, but open from 11am to 9 pm. Tel: +66 (0)81 883 5487, 081 666 2901

7. Gang Jued

One of the more healthy Thai foods is a clear vegetable soup filled with a combination of carrots, cabbage, onions, minced pork, tofu, glass noodles, and garnished with fresh parsley. Gang jued is a colorful medley of garden vegetables that compliments a spread of other dishes and can easily make up for the greasier ones.

Poi-sien Restaurant creates a perfect gang jued. Soi Ratchawithi 6, Boonme Building. Open from about 10am to 10pm. Tel: +66 (0)84 527 5521

8. Jim Jum

A fantastic way to relax over dinner is to enjoy Jim Jum with a few friends. A small clay pot filled with an outstanding porky aromatic broth sits over a bed of charcoal. The host brings an assortment of raw morning glory, cabbage, meats (usually pork and liver), beat eggs, glass noodles, and the all important holy Thai basil. The vegetables and meats are thrown into the pot to slowly boil into a nourishing and hearty soup.
A herb filled jim jum is served at Larb Yasothorn Restaurant, 1/37 Ratchawithi Soi 2, Din Daeng Road, Samsaen Nai, Phaya Thai. Open from 4pm to 4am. Tel: +66 (0)84 709 9880

9. Kao Na Phet

Roasted duck is a specialty throughout Asia as the meat is fattier and has a more distinct flavor than chicken. The Thai Kao na phet is served on a plate of rice with a selection of duck parts cut and then drizzled with duck stock. A simple but exuberant duck soup is served along with the rice. It's easy to distinguish a duck and rice/noodles eatery as the ducks will be hung from their necks in a glass cabinet.

In Yaowarat (Chinatown) head to Hua Seng Hong Restaurant. 371-373 Yaowarat Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 220 635

10. Kai Jiew Moo Saap

A real Thai comfort food and something everyone can cook is the Thai style omelet. Eggs are beat up with a dash of fish sauce and soy sauce and then minced pork is added. The egg mixture is then quite literally deep fried into an omelet that pleases a palette of rice. It is best eaten with a squirt of chili sauce (sauce prik).
Every single restaurant in Bangkok that serves rice can provide a great omelet. Try Kun Su Restaurant, located on Phaya Thai, Soi Rangnam, across the street from Century Mall. Tel: +66 (0)81 883 5487, 081 666 2901

11. Kao Niew Moo Yang

Grilled pork skewers and sticky rice in little bags are available in all the nooks and crannies and at all hours in Bangkok. Quick, easy, delicious, available, and filling are all reasons to grab a sack while you're on the go. Kao niew moo yang are available everywhere you look and can't be missed. In Silom near the Sala Daeng BTS station, take a stroll on Soi Convent where a fantastic street stall grills up large skewers of juicy pork. Best to head there around lunch hour.

12. Moo Dad Diew

Small bites of deep fried pork are marinated in a dark sweet soy sauce and then deep fried to accentuate the flavors. The succulent pieces of pork are served with the all-important chili sauce (jim jao) full of green onions. Sticky rice is also a necessity.
Ta Bun Tum, at Pin Ngen Market block R28-R29 next to Major Pinklao, serves a mouthwatering moo dad diew. Open from 12 noon to 9pm. Tel: +66 (0)847 070 2950

13. Yam Khor Moo Yang

This prized meat salad consists of dripping and tender pork cutlets, grilled and sliced then mixed with lemon juice, parsley, sweet onions and a copious amount of fiery chilies. This salad is a real asset to any Isaan food feast and must be eaten with sticky rice, which you should dip into the dressing.
A delightful yam khor moo yang is assembled from a street cart right outside of Tesco Lotus Express Rangnam, 104/30-34 Rangnam Road, Phaya Thai, Ratchawithi. Open from 6pm to 11pm.

14. Gai Yang

Just like moo yang, grilled chicken is everywhere to be found. It's hard to walk a few meters without detecting the scent. Grilled chicken is best complimented with a pile of tangy som tam and a dollop of sticky rice. Like many other dishes, grilled chicken is all over Bangkok and often times the best is found on mobile stands attached to bikes or pushcarts. All Isaan restaurants serve gai yang.

Have a walk down Phahon Yothin Soi 1 Lue Cha for a great selection of gai yang.

15. Kao Ka Moo

Pork boiled for hours in a sweet soy sauce base with hints of cinnamon and anise are the signature characteristics of kao ka moo. The fatty pork literally slides right off the bone and onto a plate of rice. This dish is usually quite visible with whole soy sauce stained pig legs sitting openly in large metal pans and steaming through the day.

Pa-Aou Restaurant serves sweet and salty kao ka moo. The fatty pork meat slides right off the bone and the sauce is brilliant with the rice. Located on Phahon Yothin Soi 1, 826 Soi Rucha, Phaya Thai. Tel: +66 (0)89 2010798

16. Kao Mok Gai

Kao mok gai, similar to biryani rice, is a Muslim dish of rice cooked with chicken stock and laced with saffron, turmeric, cardamom and bay leaves. The chicken is cooked with the rice and creates a recognizable yellow color. Don't forget the essential sprinkle of fried onions and cilantro on top plus the cucumber pickle garnish and the killer spicy sauce.
Head to Silom, Soi Convent for a street cart that sells wonderful kao mok gai. This dish is slightly more difficult to locate than many others. Look for a big pot of noticeable yellow rice. Open around lunch hours.

17. Kao Moo Dang

Another popular comfort food that is widely available is kao moo dang. A plate of rice is covered with Thai barbecued thinly sliced pork, a few slices of Thai sausage and half a hard-boiled egg. A thick red barbecue sauce or gravy is smothered all over the rice and pork and then sprinkled with cilantro and green onions. The result is an un-spicy but very sweet dish that is a great late night treat.

Ran Guay Jab Jaedang (nickname: Microphone), located on Ratchawithi Road, close to Soi 6, right by Siam Computer and Language School. The carts roll onto the street at about 5pm and stay open till around 2am.

18. Kao Man Gai

The chicken rice of Thailand may not be as famous as Singapore's, but it is still a popular comfort food. Boiled chicken is chopped onto a plate of rice made from the fatty chicken stock. The garlic chili vinaigrette to accompany is incredible and the dish is always served with a light chicken soup. It can often be ordered with fried chicken as well (kao man gai tod).
Kao Man Gai Ton Jaewa in the morning and at lunch is always packed with hungry guests. 465/7 Opposite Center One, Ratchawithi Road. Open from 7am to 7pm. Tel: +66 (0)2 640 9891

19. Nam Tok Moo

Nam tok in Thai literally means waterfall. Grilled tender juicy pork is mingled with generous portions of lemon juice, green onions, chili, mint sprigs, fish sauce and toasted rice, making the meat taste fresh. The blood from the meat along with the dressing inspired someone to name this brilliant food waterfall meat, and rightfully so.

You can't go wrong ordering from Tida Esarn Restaurant, 1/2-5 Rangnam Road, Phaya Thai, Ratchawithi. Open from noon to 10pm. Tel: +66 (0)2 247 2234

20. Larb Moo

A famous Isaan dish of minced pork and liver dressed with lime juice, fish sauce, mint leaves, onions, chilies and the essential toasted rice crunch. All the components of this fresh Thai meat salad are key for an astounding sticky rice dipping liquid.

For a vibrant larb, head straight to Tam Lai Restaurant, Pin Tong Plaza, located in the clothes market next to Major Pinklao. Open from 11:30am to 8:30pm. Tel: +66 (0)88 018 5700

Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair 2009

2009-11-03T08:43:00.001-08:00

Miss Chutathip Chareonlarp, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office said that, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, in cooperation with the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Administrative Organization, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Municipality, Fine Arts Department, TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office, and relevant public and private agencies, will arrange the “Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair 2009”, during 11-20 December, 2009, at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park to celebrate the occasion that the UN World Heritage Committee announced the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park as a Cultural World Heritage Site in 1991.
In this event, there will be many interesting activities. Firstly, the Lord Buddha relics at Chao Sam Phraya National Museum for the public to pay respect. Furthermore, there will be exhibitions and booths to sell OTOP products and well-known goods from 16 districts. Visitors can see an aqricultural exhibition, flowering and decorative plants, and attend a food fair. The Community and Village Leaders’ Thai Country Song Singing Contest, floating market activities, cultural performances, Thida Krungkao Contest, Red Cross booths, as well as buying a Red Cross lottery for donation, are also some other features of this event.
Vistors should NOT MISS to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient people’s way of life in the imitation marketplace of the Ayutthaya Period and use a replica of an ancient coin, Phot Duang, to exchange for food and desserts. Admire the light and sound performance, “Krung Si Ayutthaya : The Great Kings” (15 rounds; 10 days 10 nights). The opening ceremony will be arranged on Friday,11 December, 2009. The ticket costs 200 baht and 500 baht.
TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office would like to invite tourists to visit the “Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair 2008”. For further information, please contact TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office at Tel: 0 3524 6076-7 or the Provincial Administration Office (Chief of Finance and Accounting Group) at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya City Hall, 2nd Floor, Four-storeyed Building, Tel: 0 3533 6563.

Spa in Thailand

2009-09-13T06:39:00.001-07:00

1. Introduction

The word ‘spa’ probably comes from the name of the town Spa in Belgium.
East meets West, a spa is a place to go to treat and heal your mind, body and spirit using a variety of different techniques such as massage, scrubs, yoga, acupuncture, reike, reflexology, nutrition and body wraps etc.

Back ground / History of Spa in Thailand

Introduced in the early 1990s, spas in Thailand are a relatively new phenomenon – but one though, which has only very recently sky-rocketed in popularity. Not only are spas popular and fashionable with foreign tourists and expatriates, but the local Thais are also enjoying this new alternative therapy, one which is often ideal to ensure a smooth natural balance. A balance that has been rocked in Bangkok in particular by the unhealthy, serious life-styles and polluted environs. At first, spas were only to be found in 5-star hotels but they have now mushroomed everywhere.

Thailand: Asia’s Spa Capital

Thailand is a destination to indulge in this pastime therapy. The country prides itself in countless spas offering the highest world-class services at extremely reasonable rates. Much of the recent success of this therapy is due to the tremendous support given by the Thai Spa Operators Association. Not only have they assisted in the training of therapists to international standards, but they have also trained them in keeping methods traditionally and distinctively ‘Thai-style’. And it is this kind of service along with the one and only Thai Smile that are the key factors for so many visitors to revisit a Thai spa. Furthermore, most clients walk away from the spa with their head held high in the air with a feeling of rejuvenation and a well-being of mind, body and soul. Thai spas are not only quantity, but also quality. Spas can be found at all the major tourist destinations in Thailand such as: Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Ko Samui, Chiang Mai and Hua Hin.

Facts and Stats

During the years 2000-2002, the growth of the spa industry in Thailand rocketed by an exhilarating 64% and since 1999 Thailand has secured itself a top-5 world rating. In fact, Thailand is the second highest ranked spa destination of the world with an overall grade of 93%+ (just slightly behind Australia).
Chiva Som International Health Resort located in Hua Hin, is ranked number one in the world while the Regent Chiang Mai Resort and Spa is ninth.
During the period June 2001 – June 2002, 230 operators serviced 2.5 million international clients, creating revenue of $85 million. This amount well exceeds that of competitive countries, such as Singapore ($35 million) and Australia ($15 million). In total, 79% of all clients were foreigners.

Services and Hospitality

Thailand is a friendly country and a must-go for all those who enjoy nothing more than a rejuvenating spa. The country is famed for its world-class natural healing techniques and especially Thai massage. For those who appreciate the authentic Thai way of life, there are numerous home-stays, including those in the unique hill tribe villages of the north.
Thailand, home of Theravada Buddhism, is the ideal location to do a bit of spiritual soul-searching and reap the benefits of Vipassana meditation, a technique which has exploded in popularity in Western countries. Then, there is the sumptuous cuisine to wine and dine on, with cooking classes available too.

2. Reasons for Thailand’s spa popularity

Well, for one, they are rather different to the ones found in the West. The spas in Thailand are based on the deep-rooted harmony of Buddhist teaching, so creating an inner spiritual calm, complementing the equation of mind, spirit and body. Meditation is also used. Spas in Thailand have an altogether very Thai touch embodied upon a time-honoured healing tradition based on herbal and holistic remedies and generations of folk wisdom.
Thailand also offers award winning service at reasonable rates and makes a beautiful spot for a holiday vacation.

Reasons why most people go to a spa in Thailand

Thailand prides itself as having some of the finest spas in the world offering services at extremely competitive rates. Since Thailand has never been colonialized, the original culture has remained embedded within society and foreign visitors will find the Thais very hospitable and friendly.
Not only does Thailand, boast some of the most dazzling islands and beaches in the world, but also year-long sunshine; perfect for those who wish to get a lovely shiny suntan.
Thailand has an abundance of reasonably priced top quality accommodation where for the equivalent price of a completely basic home-stay in Europe, visitors to Thailand can enjoy the luxury of a four-star hotel. Then to top that off, they can soothe their aching minds with ancient Buddhist a meditation technique, qi gong, tai chi, solar bath and yoga.

3. Thailand’s Spas

There are numerous different types of spa services in Thailand which focus heavily on Thai massage. They are categorized as massage for health, massage for beauty and traditional massage.
The myriad variety of spas in Thailand is quite phenomenal and is found at almost every destination in Thailand. They are:
- Destination spa, Destination spa, the famous destination spa in Thailand is no doubt, the one and only Chiva Som which attracts floods of visitors from all around the world who come to Thailand specifically to be pampered there.
- Hotel spas / Resort spas / Retreat spas: Popular spas like there can be found at the top hotels in the major tourists destinations such as: Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Bangkok, Ko Samui and Chiang Mai.
Popular Hotel and Resort Spas are:

Bangkok - The Oriental, Imperial Queen’s Park, JW Marriott Hotel, Marriott Royal Garden Riverside, The Regent Bangkok, Peninsula Bangkok, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, Sofitel Central Plaza, Thavorn Beach Village, The Westin Banyan Tree
Phuket - Amanpuri Resort, Banyan Tree Phuket, Central Karon Village, Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa, Dusit Laguna Resort Hotel, The Evason Phuket, Pearl Village, Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket
Koh Samui - Central Samui Beach Resort, Central Samui Village, Health Oasis Resort, The Samui Dharma Healing Center, Santiburi Dusit Resort, The Spa Resort and Health Center, Tamarind Retreat
Pattaya - Central Wong Amat Beach Resort, Royal Cliff Beach Resort
Hua Hin - Chiva-Som, Melia Hua Hin, The Evason Hua Hin, Royal Garden Resort, Royal Garden Village, Sofitel Central Hua Hin Resort
Chiang Mai - The Regent Resort Chiang Mai (Lanna Spa)

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Things to Know Before Starting Hotel Business in Thailand

2009-08-05T10:27:00.001-07:00

Things to Know Before Starting Hotel Business in Thailand
Realizing the obstacles that hotel business owners are facing due to the closer relationship between environmental management and hotel business development, the Senate Sub-Commission on the Study of Laws which are Obstacles to Tourism Industry would like to provide advice to persons who have engaged or wish to engage in hotel business in Thailand as follows:
If you are interested in opening a hotel, but do not wish to face with problems such as…
•Tremendous amount invested but stuck with EIA!
•Sea in front is strictly conserved due to endangered animals and corals!
•Construction of a small pier caused the hotel beach to collapse!
•Hotel development is stuck due to land use restrictions!
•If known about Green Hotels earlier, the hotel could have attracted a lot more guests!
•Sea turtle egg laying zone, no night parties allowed on the beach!
An environmental study can help solve these problems.
It should be undeniable to say that hotel business mainly depends on environmental resources. Good locations are not only difficult to find but are also strictly controlled by laws, rules and regulations, such as those of building control, town planning, environment and public health. Even with the absence of such restrictions, business owners would not wish to destroy the beautiful surrounding natures with their innocent mistakes anyway, since doing so is comparable to destroying their own gold mines.
The Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIA Report) is what the environmental law requires a project owner to conduct if the owner wishes to construct a hotel with 80 or more rooms. Under the EIA Report process, the project owner must hire a juristic person authorized by the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) to conduct the report. As a benefit, the project that has undergone an environmental impact assessment study will be able to respond to all relating environmental issues. Then, the project owner can utilize the suggestions received after the report submission to help develop the project.
As for hotel projects with less than 80 rooms, even though the EIA Report is not required, but however, if the owner wants to ensure that there will be no environmental problems occurred later on, for instance, collapse of beach or destruction of sea animal’s habitat nearby (whose existence helps attract tourists) due to the hotel development, an advice of a competent environmental consultant is recommended to be sought. Being non-governmental professionals, the environmental consultants do not only conduct the EIA Report, but they are also able to provide environmental consultations to project owners in every aspect. Since before the project initiation, the consultants can answer questions such as: What are the laws, rules, and regulations to be considered for running the project in a certain areaω Are there any natural resources to be utilized to attract customersω The consultant can also help the owner plan the construction by advising methods to best conserve the surrounding natural resources both while constructing and running the hotel, since to the owner, surrounding natural resources are like breadbaskets.
As for the EIA Report process, hotel project owners are recommended to have environmental consultants involved since the location selection period. Later on during construction design, the consultant can recommend the architect on important environmental restrictions while studying the environmental impact at the same time to ensure that the project goes according to the environmental standard and to also clarify and speed up the EIA Report.
To seek for a competent environmental consultant is not a difficult task. Project owners are welcomed to see the list of registered environmental consultants at the Environmental Impact Evaluation Bureau (EIEB), Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) 60/1 Soi Pibunwattana 7, Param 6 Road, Bangkok 10400, Tel. 0-2265-6500 or through the website http://www.onep.go.th/eia.
BY COMMITTEE ON TOURISM, THE SENATE

TAT AND THAI AIRWAYS INVITE FRENCH COUPLES TO GET MARRIED IN CHIANG MAI

2009-07-09T13:08:00.001-07:00

Fifteen couples from France and the Benelux countries have tied the knot in a traditional Lanna Thai ceremony held in Northern Thailand as part of a partially sponsored event organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thai Airways International.
The invitations to get married in Thailand were part of a campaign undertaken in France to attract the weddings and honeymoon market. The ceremonies took place at the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi in Chiang Mai during 18-20 June 2009.
More than 300,000 couples tie the knot in France every year, with many of them choosing a foreign destination for the wedding ceremony and/or honeymoon. The average budget is estimated at 2,100 Euro per person (100,000 baht per person).
Known as the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai was chosen for this campaign because it is the cultural and tourism centre of Northern Thailand. Although it has undergone considerable economic development, it still retains its historic heritage of hill tribes, wood-carving factories and the country’s largest village of traditional handicrafts, as well as the famous umbrella-painters. It is also becoming increasingly well-known as a center of traditional Thai massage, meditation, spas, health and wellness.
In 2007, it attracted 5.35 million visitors, of whom 3.6 million were Thais and 1.7 million foreigners.
The TAT Paris office invited couples to get married in Thailand through its French-language website www.tourismethaifr.com. Interested couples who flew Thai Airways International for their wedding would be provided with sponsored accommodation, transportation, Thai cultural & traditional activities, and a wedding party in Lanna style.
The TAT invited along some French celebrities, such as top super model, Ms. Melanie Rodriguez, winner of Top Model France 2009, Mrs. Celia Jourdheuil, first runner up of Miss France 1999, and Mrs. Soledad Franco, presenter of French Cable TV.
Also in the group were representatives of major travel agents such as Kuoni Emotion, Privilege Voyages, Directouris, Voyagerous du Monde, Best Tour and Voyage Associate, as well as fashion and tourism magazines such as OUI Magazine, Milles Mariages Magazine, www.elleadore.com, le Journal des Grandes Ecoles.
The couples arrived at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel on 18 June and were given a detailed briefing of the programme and various arrangements. The wedding ceremony took place the following day. On 20 June, the newly-weds enjoyed visits to the renowned Thai elephant sanctuary “Mae Tang River Camp.”
The couples also experienced the Thai Orchid school, participated in a Thai cooking class, visited prominent Chiang Mai tourist spots such as Doi Suthep, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and enjoyed an Aromatherapy Hot Oil Massage.
After the wedding ceremony, TAT invited two celebrity couples to honeymoon in Samui, together with some of the accompanying media.
In recent years, Thailand has become one of the world's most popular travel destinations for weddings and honeymoons. Many couples choose Thailand because they wish to tie the knot in a land renowned for its sense of grace and style, following customs and ceremonies with rich roots in Buddhist culture. The secluded, all-inclusive resorts are perfect for honeymoons.
Wedding planners — either independent or affiliated with tourist hotels and resorts — offer highly personalised services in choosing and arranging the most appropriate activities and events for each client's taste and budget, such as traditional Thai wedding costumes and ceremonies or more contemporary, custom-designed events.
France is now the fourth biggest source of visitor arrivals from Europe, after Germany, UK and Sweden. In 2008, visitor arrivals from France totalled 396,388, up 6.24 over 2007.
In 2009, TAT expects to welcome about 408,000 (+ 3%) French visitors. French citizens get visa-free entry to Thailand. Recent trends indicate strong growth in female visitors, repeat visitors, independent travellers, business travellers, convention delegates, senior citizens and young people.

Phi Ta Khon Festival

2009-05-27T14:54:00.001-07:00

Phi Ta Khon Festival
A HAPPY GATHERING OF FUN-LOVING SPIRITS
The Phi Ta Khon festival is unique to the Dan Sai district in Loei Province and reflects the local Isan belief in ghosts and spirits. Held once a year, it is part of a grand merit-making festival known as the "Boon Luang" festival.
The origins of the Phi Ta Khon Festival can be found in the tale of Lord Buddha's last great incarnation before attaining Enlightenment. In Buddhist accounts, it is said that when Prince Vessandara, the Buddha's penultimate incarnation, returned to his city, it was such a joyous occasion that the village spirits came forth to join the welcoming parade. This very colourful and vibrant Phi Ta Khon procession is the central focus of the celebrations.
In a lively re-enactment of the tale, the young men of the community dress up as "spirits" wearing long trailing costumes made from colourful strips of cloth sewn together.
The hideous-looking Phi Ta Khon mask which is made of dried sticky rice husk is painted in bright red, green or other colours, and features the characteristic long pointed nose. This completes the transformation. The clanging sound of the square cowbells worn around the waist announces the presence of the spirits who wield phallic-shaped long-handled swords decorated with red paint. The good-natured, fun-loving spirits mingle among the crowd, teasing and amusing all who take part in the procession. Spectators and visitors are welcome to join in the fun.
There are two types of "spirits" featured in the Phi Ta Khon procession namely the "Phi Ta Khon Yai" — the supreme Phi Ta Khon, and the "Phi Ta Khon Lek", the ones that are commonly found. The making of the Phi Ta Khon Yai involves the performance of a sacred ritual to seek the blessings of the supreme powers before work on the Phi Ta Khon Yai masks can be initiated. It is also a task reserved exclusively for the descendants of families in which the tradition of making Phi Ta Khon masks has been practised for several generations. The Phi Ta Khon Yai is made of bamboo and is dressed in either male or female attire.
Contact information:
Accommodation in Dan Sai District
- Phu Pha Nam Resort Tel: 042 078078-9
- Rang Yen Resort Tel: 042 809511 – 3, 042 809514
- Lay Leelawadee Resort Tel: 042 801277
- SB Resort Tel: 042 891918
- Na Thum Nam Taeng Homestay Tel: 042 892339,891583, 042 086 8624812
Accommodation in Phu Ruea District
- Phu Dara Resort Tel: 042 801138-9
- Phu Ruea Busba Tel: 042 899330, 042 899229
- Phu Ruea Resort Tel: 042 899048, 042 899042
- Baan Thongchai Resort Tel: 042 899116
Contact information: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Loei Office
Tel: +66 (0) 4281 2812
Fax: +66 (0) 4281 1480
E-mail: tatloei@tat.or.th
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS - QUICK REFERENCE
Loei is a border town adjacent to present-day Laos, formerly known as the Lan Xang Kingdom in the past. Many of the temples and archaeological sites in Loei thus reflect the influence of the Lan Xang artistic style, particularly the sloping roof covered with wooden tiles commonly found in Loei. Other distinctive features can be seen in the Ubosot or ordination hall and the Viharn, the assembly hall.
* PHRA THAT SI SONG RAK STUPA
The temple which was built in 1560 is of special significance as it symbolizes the fraternal relationship between two kings, namely Somdet Phra Maha Chakkaphat of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and Phra Chao Chaiya Chetthathirat of the Lan Xang Kingdom, who took a pledge of peace at the stupa that neither would encroach on the other's territory, and to unify their forces against the invading army.
The Lan-Xang style stupa is located on a hill by the Man River and marks the borderline between the two kingdoms. The stupa is a 30-metres high brick-and-concrete structure in the shape of a "cubical lotus", similar to the Phra That Phanom stupa in Nakhon Phanom Province, Phrat That Luang in Vientianne and other such stupas found along the banks of the Mekong River.
* WAT PHO CHAI TEMPLE
The temple was built in the late Ayutthaya period and has served as the town's sanctuary and moral refuge for generations.
Assumed to be of the Chiang Saen period, the temple houses a magnificent statue depicting the meditating Buddha with an elongated face and a flamboyant top-knot. The mural paintings in the Viharn or assembly hall depict the Jataka, the ten previous lives of the Lord Buddha. An inscription on the northern wall suggests that the mural paintings were completed in 1852 during the reign of King Rama IV. Mural paintings on the outer walls of the viharn were completed in 1916.
* PHRA THAT SATCHA STUPA
Phra That Satcha literally means the temple of truthful pledge.
One year following the collapse of the Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom, considered to be the most revered Buddhist stupa in Northeastern Thailand, this 33-metre high stupa was constructed on a large rocky foundation.
Modelled after the original Phra That Phanom, the Phra That Satcha was constructed to continue the religious symbolism represented by the original stupa in Nakhon Phanom. This helped to heal the sense of loss following the tragic collapse of the original stupa and re-proclaimed the pledge to preserve Buddhism in the region.
Relics of the Lord Buddha and his followers and soil from the original Phra That Phanom were consecrated within the new stupa. A gilded Buddha's footprint is housed within the stupa.

Thailand TourismFestival 2009

2009-05-27T14:45:00.001-07:00

Thailand TourismFestival 2009
June 3 - 7, 2009
At Challenger Hall 1-2, Impact Muang Thong Thani Exhibition Centre
Pakkred District, Nonthaburi
Admission is free.

At 40,000 square metres, the Thailand Tourism Festival (TTF) is billed as the country’s largest travel and tourism showcase event that includes a vast range of activities to promote the preservation of Thai culture, traditions and local way of life.

Spectacular stage performances and live demonstrations of local arts and crafts add a colourful festive feel to the event as hundreds of professional travel and tourism operators and service providers from all regions of Thailand offer quality tourism products and services and travel specialists help individual travellers and families to plan their trips.

For first-time visitors to Thailand, TTF provides an excellent introduction to the Thai kingdom. A visit to TTF is also a quick and convenient way to get the latest updates on new tourism products and services, as well as to compare prices and shop for the best bargains and attractive deals — all in one stop.

Given the popularity of the event with Thai travellers, especially families, travel and tourism operators and service providers, particularly small and medium enterprise (SMEs) which are noted for their unique one-of-a-kind niche product offerings, turn up in strength.

The domestic travel fair is divided into 3 key zones:
- Exhibition zone
- Tourism Activities zone
- Regional Cuisines zone

TRAVEL AND TOURISM OPERATORS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
The 2009 Thailand Tourism Festival will feature the following exhibition categories: Tour operators, airlines, hotels and resorts, car rental and Thai crafts. Travel or tourism-related state agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will also be located in this zone.

THE TOURISM ACTIVITIES ZONE
Highlights
- Cultural and Community-based Tourism
Exhibits, cultural presentations and live demonstrations in this zone offer insight into local customs and traditions. Activities undertaken reflect the local way of life. In addition to live demonstrations of traditional village crafts, enjoy the lively scenes presented by the traditional markets and floating markets.

- Ecotourism and Adventure Travel
For nature lovers, Thailand offers a tremendous diversity of natural habitats that includes land-based eco-systems, forests and mountainous landscape, waterfalls and streams, mangrove forests as well as marine eco-systems. Learn about environmentally-friendly travel and ecotourism options that will help to minimize our carbon footprint and help reverse the effects of global warming. Also make the most of this rare opportunity to learn about environmentally-friendly initiatives spearheaded by a selection of award-winning organizations. For adventure seekers, Thailand’s military camps are offering innovative Green Adventure activity programmes.
- Health Tourism
This special activity zone promotes a better understanding of health tourism. Visitors will be able to witness (or experience) a live demonstration of traditional Thai massage and the regional variations of this ancient healing technique. Leading hospitals participating in the fair will be offering visitors a basic health check-up on site. Wellness promotional packages will also be available on offer. In addition to live demonstrations of food for health and yoga for health, health and wellness professionals will also be on-hand to provide health tips and advice.
- Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs
Thai artisans are noted for their tradition of artistic excellence and superb craftsmanship. Enjoy live demonstrations of a range of village crafts from various award-winning communities throughout Thailand and shop for some of the finest hand-crafted items brought together under one roof at the Thailand Tourism Festival.
For more information please call 1672

Article Source : www.tourismthailand.org

Thailand Travel - LOI KRATHONG – FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

2009-05-27T00:03:00.000-07:00

Loi Krathong Highlights and Event venues

As the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in mid-November) lights up the night sky, throughout the Thai kingdom, hundreds of thousands of ornately-decorated krathong or traditional banana leaf floats are set adrift in rivers and waterways in a spell-binding ritual called "Loi Krathong" - the 'festival of lights". This is one of the Kingdom's oldest and best-preserved traditions.
The Loi Krathong tradition we know of today has evolved from the royal rituals of the early Rattanakosin period in which several types of lanterns were set afloat in the Chao Phraya River and its waterways.

The Royal Rattanakosin Loi Krathong Festival

During the early Rattanakosin period, the royal rituals of Jong Priang, Lote Choot, Loi Khome Long Nam, performed during the twelfth lunar month were based on Brahmin beliefs. These were the court versions of Loi Krathong performed as an act of worship in which the Devaraja or ‘God Kings’ made offerings of light to the Brahmin deities. Lit lanterns were hoisted on to poles for two weeks during the twelfth lunar month and then floated on the waterways as ritual offerings. From its Brahmin roots, the practice has evolved over time and has 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.

The practice was subsequently adopted and adapted by common folk. Krathong floats are made from basic materials easily found around the village and reflect the simplicity of life beyond the palace walls. They typically take the shape of lotus in full bloom, swans, chedis (stupas), and Mount Meru from Buddhist mythology. However krathong floats in the shape of lotus blossoms are most popular.
At dusk, as the full moon begins to rise, the krathong is decorated with fresh flowers and the candles and incense sticks are placed in the krathong. The float is then taken to a waterway where the candle and incense sticks are lit and the krathong set adrift. The floats are carried downstream by the gentle current, candlelight flickering in the wind.

Soon after, attention turns to celebration. The evening's festivities consist of impressive firework displays, folk entertainment, stage dramas, song and dance. Scenes as described in ancient Thai literary accounts are still very much in existence today.

Krathong floats in the shape of lotus blossoms are most popular and are made from materials easily found in each locality. Loi Krathong customs and traditions reflect local beliefs and cultural evolution and interesting regional variations can be seen.

Artical Source : www.tat.or.th

Tags: Thailand travel, bangkok Thailand, hotel thailand, tourism, Thailand Tours,Thailand Festival

Thailand Travel - Shopping & Department Stores

2009-05-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

A wealth of shopping opportunities await visitors, and bargains abound throughout the Country in traditional handicrafts, textiles, gems, jewellery and antiques, as well as more contemporary items. But it isn’t only the variety of creatively designed and meticulously crafted products that so captivates the traveller. The shopping experience itself is a pleasure in its own right as one explores from upscale shopping malls and department stores to high streets and back streets and bustling markets.

What’s more, frequent promotions involving definitively Thai variations on myriad product themes hold out the prospect of acquiring a better selection for a lower outlay. And to top it all, foreign visitors to Thailand can often look forward to receiving a further price reduction in the form of a healthy tax refund on department; the perfect way to round off a memorable stay

Shopping street
As part of the year-end shopping celebrations, TAT, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and members of the private sector representing hotels, department stores, shopping malls and other business interests around Bangkok’s famous Ratchaprasong Intersection have joined hands to make the area a colourful shopping street with bright, fresh and fun look decorations.
The harsh lines of the buildings are softened with trees, plants, landscaping, and a touch of Thai to make the area aesthetically appealing. All electrical wiring is buried underground. Street furniture and new lighting are installed and sidewalks smoothly paved with all the shopping malls in and around the intersection linked by covered elevated walkways.
There are shopping discounts, special offers and festive celebrations as well as leisure and entertainment extravaganza held throughout the period. The highlight is the “Bangkok Countdown” held in front of the Central World Plaza on New Year’s Eve in which Thai and foreign visitors gather and join the rest of the world in welcoming the New Year.

Chatuchak (or Jatujak; Thai: จตุจักร) weekend market in Bangkok is the largest market in Thailand, and largest of the world. Frequently called J.J., it covers over 35 acres (1.13 km²) and contains upwards of 15,000 stalls. It is estimated that the market receives between 200,000 and 300,000 visitors each day. Most stalls only open on Saturdays and Sundays. The market offers a wide variety of products including household items, clothing, Thai handicrafts, religious artifacts, collectibles, foods, and live animals for your shopping style at Thailand..

Tags: Thailand travel, bangkok Thailand, hotel thailand, tourism, Thailand Tours

Phuket Film Festival

2009-04-16T05:41:00.001-07:00

Phuket Film Festival to Turn the Spotlight on Taiwanese Film

Bangkok, Thailand March 17, 2009: The Phuket Film Festival is proud to announce a Spotlight on Taiwanese Film will take place during the 2nd edition of the Festival which will run June 4 - 11 2009 at the Coliseum Theaters in Phuket Town, on the beautiful international resort destination of Phuket, Thailand.

The 2009 edition of the Festival will screen over 40 award winning movies from 17 countries.

Supporting the Academy Award nominated and other award winning Taiwanese films will be directors, producers, actors and actresses traveling to the Festival from Taiwan. They will join other Festival VIPs on a special tour of the island to raise awareness of Phuket as a world-class film location providing a comprehensive range of international class production services.

Attending will be:

Keeping Watch – Fen Fen Cheng
The Most Distant Course – Liin Jing-Jie
Island Etude – En Chen
Sumimasen Love - Lin Yu-Hsien
Step by Step – Kuo Chen – ti

Producers Patrick Mao Huang and James Liu will also attend the Festival.

A number of "stars" from Taiwan will also attend the Festival in support of the "Spotlight". Talent are still being confirmed however the Festival has learned Joseph Chang and Jani Tsai will probably attend as well as Asian superstar Chie Tanaka who will be awarded the Festival's Asian Talent of the Year Award. Huai-Jhong Wu has also been confirmed to attend.

The Spotlight on Taiwanese Film is being held in line with the Festival's goal to "diversify cultural activities "on Phuket and to mark the growth of the Taiwanese film industry for film lovers around the world.

The "Spotlight" also supports the recent Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) "Two Islands, One Culture" promotional campaign held to stimulate travel between the two islands of Taiwan and Phuket.

A gala reception will be hosted by the Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Thailand on Friday June 5, 2009

For additional information contact Press Division: prdivision@gmail.com http://www.phuketfilmfestival.asia

Article Source : http://www.tourismthailand.org

Holidays Diving in Thailand

2009-01-31T20:24:00.001-08:00

1. Diving in Thailand Introduction Without a doubt Thailand is home to some of the finest and most beautiful beaches and islands in the world, surrounded by crystal clear water and stunning coral. And that is the main reason why the number of divers coming to Thailand has escalated over the past decade or so.
Even though the best time of the year to dive in Thailand is between October and June, it is still perfectly possible to dive virtually any day of the year. As diving in Thailand is considered one of the safest destinations for diving and snorkeling in the world, it is perfect for first-timers wanting to try these pastimes out.
The sea visibility in some places of Thailand is almost unbelievable; which means talking about distances of up to 30 meters – unheard of in most parts of the world. One can enjoy splendid sights of underwater mountains, coral gardens, undersea rock formations, hard and soft coral, whale sharks, silver tip sharks, manta rays and even sunken battleships.
History of Diving in Thailand Diving in Thailand is a recently new phenomenon beginning with the American Navy SEALs during the Vietnam War. Thailand’s first ever diving store was opened in Pattaya in just 1977 and shortly after that very year, the popularity of diving for both Thais and foreigners in Thailand exploded.
After Pattaya, the next destination to see divers arriving by the busload was Phuket and they were soon heading out to dive in the gorgeous Similan Islands and the rest of the stunning Andaman Sea. In the fact, the Similan islands have been ranked as one of the top ten diving sites in the entire world. Today, diving is popular all over the Andaman Sea, including the virtually unseen Tarutao and Surin islands.
Over on the other side of Thailand in the Gulf of China, Ko Tao (Turtle Island) has recently emerged as the biggest diving destination in Thailand with over 20 major centers located on the island.
It is believed that Thailand is now the most popular destination for diving in the whole of Asia.

Why Dive in Thailand? So, how come diving in Thailand has turned into a phenomenal success?
- Superb locations for every diver of every skill
- High standard of diving centers
- Diving is possible all year round

- Reasonable cost of diving
- Main centers are affiliated with PADI or other recognizable dive bodies
- Courses are held in a variety of different languages
- Latest amenities and excellent boats
- Huge range of sites – something for everyone
- Thailand has two unique distinct oceanic zones
Statistical Facts The Similan Islands are a prime example of encouraging divers, while at the same time maintaining ecological stability and preserving biological diversity of flora and fauna. From 1999 to 2003 the Similans attained a five fold increase in the amount of visitors, which was just 10,000 increased to 50,000 and most of them were divers. The income grew in that time from 22,000USD to a staggering 460,000USD with foreign divers each spending an average of roughly 1,200USD.
2. Diving Destinations and Diving Sites in Thailand Thailand has 2 uniquely different diving zones consisting of The Andaman Sea on the west and The Gulf of Thailand on the east.

The Andaman Sea
Introduction: The best time of the year to dive in the Andaman is from October to April. The visibility in the Andaman is similar to that of the Gulf of Thailand but the area has more extensive coral reefs. Due to the influence of the southwest monsoon, most of the reefs surrounding the offshore islands occur on the east side of the islands.
List of Destinations
Phuket
Phuket Island has some decent dive sites and the largest diving center in Thailand. The reefs around the area are in a healthy condition with both solid and colorfully soft corals. There is also an abundance of marine life. Most of the dive locations are suitable for all levels of divers but there are also some that are quite deep.
The most well-known dive site in the Phuket area is Racha Yai with its sloping rocky reefs and its plentitude of solid coral forests. There is also Ter Bay where there is an exciting wreck in the depths of 25-35 meters. The area south Racha Yai, Racha Noi, is a haven for experienced divers as the depths are greater and the currents stronger. The overall topography is strikingly different from Racha Yai with huge granite boulders and the chance to see Manta Rays and Whale Sharks. The diving in Racha Noi compared to Racha Yai is definitely more challenging but the rewards are far greater.
Just off Phuket, is the limestone island of Koh Doc Mai which soars vertically from the sea-bed. It is home to a diversity of fish and offers the opportunity to view leopard sharks, moray eels, octopus and turtles.