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	<title>Thailand Travel Information</title>
	
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	<description>Thailand Travel Information Resource and Travel Guide</description>
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		<title>Rare Seaside Condominium for Purchase in Thailand</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/seekingthailand/BKLr/~3/XLjl3Zsjyps/rare-seaside-condominium-for-purchase-in-thailand.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:15:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hua Hin Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Condominium]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Condominium Purchase]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Condominium Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Purchase]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Seaside]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[A definition of luxury lifestyle, what exactly is it? Some people may say, it&#8217;s all about the celebrity life. That would imply limo rides, high priced champagne, VIP Passes, jet sets and owning twenty motor vehicles or a lot more. Hua Hin Thailand Some say that not everyone can manage to pay for luxury living. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>A definition of luxury lifestyle, what exactly is it?</p>
<p></strong></p>
<div style="float: left;">
</div>
<p>Some people may say, it&#8217;s all about the celebrity life. That would imply limo rides, high priced champagne, VIP Passes, jet sets and owning twenty motor vehicles or a lot more.</p>
<h2>Hua Hin Thailand</h2>
<p>Some say that not everyone can manage to pay for luxury living. Some people would even go as far as to say that luxury is only for a handful of individuals within our society. Who states that you have to own a Fortune 500 company, or to be born with a golden spoon in your mouth for you to be given the right to live a luxurious life?</p>
<p>Luxury might also be translated into something else &#8211; real estate. Owning the most majestic mansions, wonderful estates, huge ranches, or maybe you could start small. Why not invest in a luxury condominium in Thailand?</p>
<p>Purchase a Condo in Cha Am &#8211; Hua Hin, Thailand</p>
<p>Exactly the same as if you want to make investments in business, location is probably the most essential factor. And when it involves buying in a condo for your future, finding and picking out the ideal location really ought to be a priority. Let&#8217;s assume that you can in fact shift to some other place, would you do it? Imagine you are given the opportunity to move to Hua Hin in Thailand, would you leap at the prospect?</p>
<p>Hua Hin is a renowned seaside resort town in Thailand, some a couple of hundred KM south of Bangkok. Locally, Hua Hin is associated with the Thai monarchy simply because the close by province of Prachuap Khiri Khan enjoys a lot of local attractions &#8211; prominent amongst them are national parks and ancient cities. In short, locating the ideal condo for sale in Hua Hin ought to be easy, it being a noted beach town. For that reason, for those who have the desire to retire to a luxury life style, you&#8217;ll find a variety of luxury condos for sale in Thailand, especially in Hu Hin.</p>
<p>A luxury condo for sale in Hua Hin will sell out quickly, predominately on account of the significant number of tourists and expatriots visiting and/or staying there. The reason for this is that Thailand&#8217;s royal family and in particular past kings were the first to put this locale on the map as the original seashore destination in Thailand. The 5 km beach itself is charming and the sea is relatively clean. Somewhere in this five kilometer stretch there is normally a luxury condominium for sale, you just need to know where to look for one.</p>
<p>You will discover loads of activities it is possible to do in Hua Hin. Apart from simply sunbathing, snorkeling and swimming, it&#8217;s a place providing attractions and things to do for example golf, spas, mountain peaks, waterfalls, shops, and nearby national parks. Popular hobbies in Hua Hin, aside from looking for luxury condominiums for sale in Hua Hin, cover fishing, eco-cruising, kite-boarding, fitness, martial arts, elephant camping, Thai massages, spas, cooking courses, trekking, pony riding and golf.</p>
<p>Aside from searching for luxury condos for sale in Thailand, you may well like to also try your hand at shopping for contemporary art handicrafts. Now, should you go straight to the seaside resort village and decide to search for luxurious condos for sale in Hua Hin, chances are you&#8217;ll also want to look into hand-woven printed cotton, silk fabric weaving, gemstones and/or attractive jewelry.</p>
<p>  Rare Seaside Condominium for Purchase in Thailand</p>
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		<title>Thailand Real Estate Transfer Tax and Temporary Tax Breaks</title>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:00:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Thailand Property]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Estate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Temporary]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Temporary Estate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Temporary Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Transfer]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[In order to boost the real estate property sales business and the real property development business the Thai government has extended the tax breaks for all real estate transactions for another year till 28th of March 2010. The renewal of the temporary reduction on the transfer fee rate from 2% to 0.01% has been announced [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>In order to boost the real estate property sales business and the real property development business the Thai government has extended the tax breaks for all real estate transactions for another year till 28th of March 2010.</p>
<p></strong></p>
<div style="float: left;">
</div>
<p>The renewal of the temporary reduction on the transfer fee rate from 2% to 0.01% has been announced prior to the previous tax reduction between March 29 2008 and March 28 2009. The renewal of the temporary reduction of Specific Business Tax, from 3.3% to 0.11%, on gross sales which also expired on March 28 2009 has been announced after the previous expiration date and is again applied by the land offices since May 18 2009. Over real estate property transaction (land, house or condominium) between the previous expiration date March 28 and May 18 and over which the full 3,3 % Specific Business Tax rate has been paid a refund can be requested at the Revenue Department.</p>
<h2>Thailand Property</h2>
<p>The Thailand Revenue Department&#8217;s refund form must be prepared and submitted with the Revenue Department.</p>
<p>Thailand&#8217;s standard property transfer taxes (these will apply again after March 28 2010, unless the current tax reduction will be extended):</p>
<p>1 &#8211; A 2% transfer fee over the appraised or registered value of the property.</p>
<p>Appraised or registered value of land is an actual evaluation price of the land which calculated by the land office by reference to each area at which the land situated and some more criteria set out by the Land Department.</p>
<p>The appraised or registered value of a house by the Land Department depends on the floor area of the house, number of floors, materials used (e.g. wood or concrete).</p>
<p>Also condominium units have an a registered or appraised value based on calculation criteria set out by the Land Department.</p>
<p>2 &#8211; A Specific Business Tax of 3,3 % is calculated over the registered value or appraised value, whichever is higher. Specific Business tax shall be payable if the seller sells the property within five years of the purchase registration date. The transfer is not subject to business tax if the seller is an individual and has possessed the property for more than five years before the transfer. Companies with specific objectives are subject to Specific Business tax irrespective the period of ownership.</p>
<p>3 &#8211; Stamp Duty of 0,5 % over the registered value. If the seller is subject to Specific Business tax the seller is exempt from the payment of the Stamp Duty. However, if the stamp duty has been paid to the Land Department, the seller shall have the right to claim for a refund in full within 6 months after the payment.</p>
<p>4 Withholding Tax of 1 % over the registered value or appraised value (whichever is higher). Withholding Personal Income Tax depends if the immovable property is acquired by inheritance or gift or if the sale and purchase of the property has a trade or profit seeking purpose or not, usually the final Withholding Personal Income Tax income shall be calculated at progressive rate with a deduction depending on the number of years of possession.</p>
<p>In a real estate transaction in Thailand there is generally no fixed rule who has to pay which tax and at what percentage. Often transfer taxes are shared or the purchaser pays all or the seller pays all. This is part of the overall negotiation. In case of an official approved housing or condominium development there are fixed rules in the law who has to pay which tax.</p>
<p>It is in most cases worth while to have the sale agreement checked by a legal professional who is familiar with property transactions and transfer taxes. Often developers pass on taxes or request buyers to pay for certain taxes they are according to Thai law responsible for, or a buyer ends up with paying a larger amount at the Land Office than expected.</p>
<p>  Thailand Real Estate Transfer Tax and Temporary Tax Breaks</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Thailand – An Unforgettable Place</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/seekingthailand/BKLr/~3/UN5FGR6bc-A/thailand-an-unforgettable-place.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:45:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Thailand News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Unforgettable]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Unforgettable Thailand]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.seekingthailand.com/thailand-news/thailand-an-unforgettable-place.html</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you are interested to visit some place that will create unforgettable memories and you can enjoy your life on the trip, Thailand is a nice option to think over. Thailand is situated in Southeast Asian region. It attracts thousands of people from all over the globe every year. The best thing about Thailand is [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>If you are interested to visit some place that will create unforgettable memories and you can enjoy your life on the trip, Thailand is a nice option to think over.</p>
<p></strong></p>
<div style="float: left;">
</div>
<p>Thailand is situated in Southeast Asian region. It attracts thousands of people from all over the globe every year. The best thing about Thailand is that it is full of nature. Those who want to spend some time with nature,  peace and enjoy too, Thailand is the right option for you.</p>
<h2>Thailand News</h2>
<p>So far as Thai People are concerned they are very understanding, independent, fun loving and have flare to live their life. One of the reasons for such a nice attitude towards their life is the influence of &#8216;Buddhism&#8217; in Thailand.</p>
<p>Thai cuisine is rich in taste. You can find almost every type of food here. Thai food is generally sweet and spicy as well.</p>
<p>The tropical climate of Thailand makes it easy to attract people from all over the world.<br />
<br />Those who can not tolerate Thailand&#8217;s scorching heat during February to May can come here in November.</p>
<p>You can see the famous ruins of kingdoms here. The culture in Thailand is highly influenced by two countries, India and China. English is commonly spoken here so you will not find communication problem here.</p>
<p>One of the most famous places in Thailand is the capital of it and that is &#8216;Bangkok&#8217;.<br />
<br />It is a very beautiful place and centre of Thailand&#8217;s main trade.<br />
<br />The best time when you can plan to visit Thailand is during its winter season that is between November to March. The climate is very soothing this time.</p>
<p>  Thailand &#8211; An Unforgettable Place</p>
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		<title>Thai Food – Phad Ka Prao and Kaeng Liang Recipe</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/seekingthailand/BKLr/~3/krL4oteBHug/thai-food-phad-ka-prao-and-kaeng-liang-recipe.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 05 Feb 2012 11:30:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Thai Food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipe]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Phad Ka Prao Ingredients Thai Food Phad Ka Prao sauce 80 g Chicken fillet 80 g Steamed rice 250 g Cut in 0.5 cm Vegetable oil 20 g Water 5 g Sliced red spur chili 25 g Note: This portion is for 2 servings. How to cook 1. Stir-fry sliced chicken with oil until the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>Phad Ka Prao</p>
<p></strong></p>
<div style="float: left;">
</div>
<p>Ingredients</p>
<h2>Thai Food</h2>
<p>Phad Ka Prao sauce 80 g</p>
<p>Chicken fillet 80 g</p>
<p>Steamed rice 250 g Cut in 0.5 cm</p>
<p>Vegetable oil 20 g</p>
<p>Water 5 g</p>
<p>Sliced red spur chili 25 g</p>
<p>Note: This portion is for 2 servings.</p>
<p>How to cook</p>
<p>1. Stir-fry sliced chicken with oil until the meat is cooked.</p>
<p>2. Add spur chili, steamed rice and Phad Ka Prao sauce, mix thoroughly. Put basil, mix together before removing from the heat and it is ready to serve.</p>
<p>Phad Ka Prao sauce Ingredient</p>
<p>Ingredients</p>
<p>Basil 50 g Garlic 375 g</p>
<p>Galangal 50 g</p>
<p>Shrimp paste 15 g</p>
<p>Palm sugar 100 g</p>
<p>Vegetable oil 500 g</p>
<p>Hot chilies (green/red) 150 g</p>
<p>Shallots 125 g</p>
<p>Grounded pepper 2.5 g</p>
<p>Fish sauce 375 g</p>
<p>Salt 25 g</p>
<p>Water 1000 g</p>
<p>Note: This recipe makes 2.5 kg of Pad Ka Prao sauce</p>
<p>How to cook</p>
<p>1. Ground hot chilies, garlic, shallots, galangal, pepper and shrimp paste together. Add basil and roughly grind them.</p>
<p>2. Stir-fry Pad Ka Prao paste with oil until fragrant.</p>
<p>3. Add fish sauce, palm sugar and salt.</p>
<p>4. Pack in plastic bags, 80 gram per bag.</p>
<p>Strong point of Khao Phad Ka Prao: Lower calories and fat compared to Phad Thai. High phosphorus from chicken.</p>
<p>Medical Benefit</p>
<p>- Basil: Release tension, high blood pressure</p>
<p>- Red &amp; green hot chili: Digestive, laxative, expectorant, cold relief</p>
<p>- Shallot: Relief cold, catarrh</p>
<p>- Garlic: Reduce cholesterol, cancer, infection, antifungal</p>
<p>- Galangal: Carminative, expectorant</p>
<p>Kaeng Liang (Spicy herb vegetables soup) Main Ingredient</p>
<p>Ingredients</p>
<p>Kaeng Liaeng soup 500 g z</p>
<p>Peeled and sliced pumpkins 450 g</p>
<p>Peeled and sliced sponge gourd 300 g</p>
<p>Mushroom 250 g</p>
<p>Ivy gourd 150 g</p>
<p>Lemon basil 70 g</p>
<p>Note: This recipe is for 3 servings.</p>
<p>1. Add Kaeng Liaeng soup in a pot, bring to boil.</p>
<p>2. Add sliced pumpkins first and then add other vegetables such as sponge gourd, mushrooms and ivy gourd. Bring to boil. Remove from the heat and then sprinkle lemon basil.</p>
<p>3. Ready to serve.</p>
<p>Kaeng Liang Soup Ingredient</p>
<p>Ingredients</p>
<p>Grounded pepper 100 g</p>
<p>Shallot 750 g</p>
<p>Dried shrimps 600 g</p>
<p>Food seasoning (pork flavor) 270 g</p>
<p>Shrimp paste 260 g</p>
<p>Thai chilies 40 g</p>
<p>Water 13 kg</p>
<p>Note: These ingredients are for 13 kg.</p>
<p>How to cook</p>
<p>1. Pound dried shrimps finely. Add pepper, Thai chilies, shrimp paste and shallots in the mortar and pound finely.</p>
<p>2. Put Kaeng Liaeng paste and water in a pot. Add food seasoning and bring to boil.</p>
<p>Strong point of Kaeng Liang: Low fat and low calories. Fibers from vegetables.</p>
<p>Medical Benefit</p>
<p>Pepper: Peptic, carminative, cooling</p>
<p>Shallot: Relief cold, catarrh</p>
<p>Hot chili: Digestive, laxative, expectorant, cold relief</p>
<p>Sweet basil: Carminative</p>
<p>Gord gourd: Carminative, relief fever, nourish eyes</p>
<p>Sponge gourd: Nourish heart, laxative, cooling</p>
<p>Pumpkin: Nourish eyes</p>
<p>  Thai Food &#8211; Phad Ka Prao and Kaeng Liang Recipe</p>
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		<title>Thailand: Leading Asia In The Medical Tourism Market</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/seekingthailand/BKLr/~3/gyw9yZC2bjg/thailand-leading-asia-in-the-medical-tourism-market.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:15:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Thailand Travel Guide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leading]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Market]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Market Leading]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tourism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tourism Thailand]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.seekingthailand.com/thailand-travel-guide/thailand-leading-asia-in-the-medical-tourism-market.html</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Crossing borders for specialized and cost-effective medical treatments and procedures is fast catching up as a trend. More than a trend, it&#8217;s a great necessity that makes it possible for patients to gain their health back without having to break the bank. Pushing other nations down the list, Thailand has been steadily stepping up the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>Crossing borders for specialized and cost-effective medical treatments and procedures is fast catching up as a trend. More than a trend, it&#8217;s a great necessity that makes it possible for patients to gain their health back without having to break the bank. Pushing other nations down the list, Thailand has been steadily stepping up the ladder to become one of the top medical tourism centers in the world. The number of patients visiting Thailand has been increasing by each year since the year 2000. Apart from the low-cost of medical treatment in this country, there are several other factors like high quality treatments and great tourism infrastructure that ensure that Thailand keeps dominating this growing market. Patients from around the world book cheap flights to Thailand to avail the exception health care benefits offered by its health care systems.</p>
<p></strong></p>
<div style="float: left;">
</div>
<p>Thailand boasts of having close to 400 hospitals and health centers that treats thousands of international patients each year. Home to the first Asian hospital to receive JCI accreditation and ISO 9001 certification, this country has more than 14 hospitals today that are JCI-accredited. It&#8217;s the private hospitals that rule the roost in the country and attracts a major portion of the best trained surgeons and doctors by paying them about 70% more than the public hospitals. Some of the leading private sector hospitals in the country include Bangkok Hospital Group, Bumrungrad International Hospital and Samitivej Hospitals. These world class hospitals mostly cater to foreign patients as native people find them to be too expensive. However, the medical cost of treatments in the country is very cost effective for patients from the western world as the similar treatments are available in their native countries at exorbitant prices.</p>
<h2>Thailand Travel Guide</h2>
<p>Thailand offers a comprehensive list of medical treatments and surgeries for both international patients and the locals, including cosmetic surgeries, dental procedures, medical check-up programs, cardiac procedures orthopedic surgery, infertility treatment, bariatric surgery and ophthalmology and eye surgery. A comparison chart of the cost of these treatments and surgeries in Thailand and United States reiterates the reasons behind growing popularity of Thailand as one of the top medical tourism destination. Take heart bypass surgery as example. While this procedure is available in United States for 0,000, one just needs to shell out ,000 for the same treatment in Thailand. The price difference is huge and even patients who can&#8217;t afford the same in their own country can lead a healthy life after undergoing the surgery in Thailand. It&#8217;s no surprise that cheap flights to Thailand are forever in high demand, be it any season of the year!</p>
<p>  Thailand: Leading Asia In The Medical Tourism Market</p>
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		<title>Thai Massage, Reflexology, Sports Massage – Three Popular And Beneficial Therapies</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/seekingthailand/BKLr/~3/NtVPPHv-e5o/thai-massage-reflexology-sports-massage-three-popular-and-beneficial-therapies.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:00:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Thai Massage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beneficial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Massage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Massage Therapies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Popular]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Popular Therapies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reflexology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Therapies]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Sydney Australia is a hub for massage and physical therapies. For anyone looking for massage therapy, Sydney is an excellent place to be. A number of good massage centers and spas are available which provide massage modalities of many different kinds. These massages are good for relaxation and also as a therapy for various body [...]]]></description>
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<p>Sydney Australia is a hub for massage and physical therapies. For anyone looking for massage therapy, Sydney is an excellent place to be. A number of good massage centers and spas are available which provide massage modalities of many different kinds. These massages are good for relaxation and also as a therapy for various body conditions. Different parts of the world have different forms of massage techniques. Each one has a specific technique to it and is unique in its own way. Relief from stress, tension and certain kinds of ailments is something that many people hope to receive through massage. In this article I&#8217;ll write about three styles of massage therapy available in Sydney.</p>
<p></strong></p>
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<p>Reflexology is a massage therapy Sydney offers in many of its massage centers. The technique is so old that certain ancient civilizations even practiced it. It has been popularized in the west thanks to the efforts of a few modern physicians. In reflexology, certain reflex points and zones exist in the hands and feet that correspond to various organs and other parts of the body. Reflexology aims to treat ailments in the body through the placing of mild pressure on these regions. Through this technique, patients suffering from acute as well as chronic health conditions are able to get relief. Every session normally lasts for about 45 minutes and several sessions might be needed for treating certain health conditions.</p>
<h2>Thai Massage</h2>
<p>Thai massage is another massage therapy Sydney has to offer its visitors. Certain places in Sydney provide traditional Thai massage. The fascinating thing about this kind of massage is that the Thai women are sometimes so small in stature but are still able to manipulate even people of great size through their massage. By the use of massaging on pressure points and stretching to relax the muscles, this eastern form of massage provides excellent relief from stress. The nervous system of the body is also strengthened by proper breathing techniques employed during the massage. The rejuvenating and soothing effect of the massage has made it a favorite among different parts of the world. It could however be a little difficult to spot a real traditional Thai massage center, as they do not always advertise their services like other commercial massage centers. Most of the advertising is through word of mouth. So you might need to ask locals to advice you on where to go for the best Thai massage.</p>
<p>Sports massage is another massage therapy Sydney provides its visitors. Sporting activities can cause a lot of strain and even injury in the joints and muscles of the body. Since sportsmen need to be in good shape for their sporting events, they need therapy to keep their bodies fit. Sports massage is a therapeutic form of massage to relax and heal the strained or injured muscles in the body. Apart from sportsmen, other people who lead an active and more adventurous form of lifestyle can also benefit from sports massage.</p>
<p>When you visit Sydney, look out for the various different types of massage facilities available in the city. The massage therapy Sydney provides its visitors is varied enough to suit every single person&#8217;s need.</p>
<p>  Thai Massage, Reflexology, Sports Massage &#8211; Three Popular And Beneficial Therapies</p>
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		<title>The Akha Hill Tribe People of the Hua-Fai Community – Chiang Mai, Thailand</title>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:45:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Chiang Mai Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chiang]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Community Chiang]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HuaFai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[People]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[People Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[They live along the banks of the canal in the hart of Chiang Mai, not far from the Night Bazaar. They are a hard working people that spend most of the day in work groups, Hand making all these fine cloths. Then at around 6pm they walk to the Night Bazaar to sell there wears. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>They live along the banks of the canal in the hart of Chiang Mai, not far from the Night Bazaar.  They are a hard working people that spend most of the day in work groups, Hand making all these fine cloths. Then at around 6pm they walk to the Night Bazaar to sell there wears. If they are lucky they will sell  or us of product. Many times I have seen them sell a belt or hat for cost or less just to make a sale to feed their family that night.</p>
<p></strong></p>
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<p>A lot of the Farangs (tourists) barter them down  buying as cheap as possible, You hear some arrogant woman saying to her boy friend, &#8220;what a rip off&#8221; for something that only costs 200 Bart (us). Sure it is fun bartering with the richer stall holders and it is a barter market but to push a poor lady down below cost is going too far. Most of these ladies have dependents too look after, Children, Parents and Grandparents. You see many old ladies looking after a grand child that has lost its parents.</p>
<h2>Chiang Mai Thailand</h2>
<p>There is no Social Welfare system in Thailand; some do get subsidized Health care if they were born in Thailand with a ID card or a work permit (that most of the aliens can not afford to buy).</p>
<p>The Akha people of Chiang Mai, Thailand</p>
<p>have fled the NEVER ENDING WAR of the far North<br />
<br />(raging since 1947).</p>
<p>The Golden Triangle covers a large area.</p>
<p>Traditionally where Thailand, Burma and Loa join is called the Golden Triangle. The &#8220;Gold&#8221; being the liquid Gold of raw opium.</p>
<p>The NEVER ENDING WAR rages on every year (dry season usually), it is a bullshit war designed to keep prying eyes out of the growing fields of Burma who produce a massive 3700 tons of raw opium each year for export. That is very conservative as the Shan State usually produces 300 &#8211; 500 tons of refined Heroin a year.</p>
<p>That said it is still a very real war for the people at the front line. It periodically spills over into Thailand who quickly quells the intrusion.  Many refugees end up in Thailand and work there way south.</p>
<p>Many have ended up in Chiang Mai. Akha, Karen, Thai Yai (Shan) There are 13 or so ethnic groups that have carved out there own states in Burma running down Thailand&#8217;s western border from the far north to well past Bangkok.</p>
<p>Most Akha people from Burma are devout Christians who turned to Christianity in the 1800s and last century when the British ruled Burma. They speak Akha, read, and write there language with English (A, B, Cs) British influence once again.</p>
<p>After the British, a banded them after the Second World War around 1947 there church went under ground as the never-ending war raged around them.<br />
<br />The Military Junta S.L.O.K. that sized power would not let out side contact in or out. Akha Hill, Akha hill tribe products is a community non profit business set up by Mrs. A-Noe Yu-Po, Sie to her friends. Their directive is to help lift the Akha people of the Hua-Fai Community and Chiang Mai out of poverty.</p>
<p>Akha Hill&#8217;s Mission in conjunction with the local Christian church is buying land around Chiang Mai, building houses for the poor with no interest rent to buy plans. Giving them land paper for the land. At the moment they live on no mans land with no land paper. To give them meaningful work with a good return for that work. Akha.hill and 1st Baan of Silver selling world wide for them.</p>
<p>To get them off the streets and the young out of the bars and &#8220;karaoke&#8221; red light places.<br />
<br />To have them living and working together as a family in a extended family village environment.</p>
<p>With such abject poverty you see many young girls walking the Bars selling flowers at 2am, by young I mean as soon as they are old enough to walk and say &#8220;only 10 Bart Mr&#8221;.<br />
<br />Young Mothers of 15 or 16 with a baby on her back selling Hill Tribe Products late at night. Grandmothers with a young child walking the Night Bazaar selling to support her and the child because the Child&#8217;s parents have died from Aides or some other disease or accident.</p>
<p>To get the children into schools. Most Akha people have no education at all and can not read or write Akha, Thai or English.</p>
<p>The first resettlement will be out at Sansai.</p>
<p>With no land paper they have no why of ever getting out of the poverty that they live in. The Banks won&#8217;t loan against there houses, The mortality rate from sickness, disease, depression, drug abuse, alcohol etc is horrendous. While building Akha-Hill.com for Sie I have attended 4 funerals at the local Chiang Mai Presbyterian Akha Church of Akha people that I had met.</p>
<p>Sorry to have to update this but we are attending another funeral now. The &#8220;old&#8221; (52) lady died three days before Christmas and will be buried the day after on boxing day. One old lady in her late 40s died of ? old age. A young man in his twenties died of a drug overdose after his wife ran off with a rich Farang (European)</p>
<p>One Mother of 3 died in the August floods. The old ladies husband died three or for weeks after her, with no one to look after him he just gave up. The lady that died 3 days before Christmas is a sister of the wife who died before her husband. That family has lost four in the last year.</p>
<p>While building Akha-Hill I have been living with the Akha people. The lady that died in the August floods lived next to me for one month. After that I used to see her every night sitting on the footpath on the side of the road over the canal with her youngest boy begging. they found her 3 days after the flood further down the canal.</p>
<p>You can help the flood relief fund by clicking the Flooding button on Akha-Hill&#8217;s home page.</p>
<p>The Akha of Chiang Mai are working hard to wards building a traditional Akha village on 65 rai of land just 10 kilometers out of Chiang Mai at Sansai. This is in a rural setting with rice fields etc all around. With Tour groups coming out and staying over night. Hopefully this will help lift them out of the poverty cycle that they are in.</p>
<p>  The Akha Hill Tribe People of the Hua-Fai Community &#8211; Chiang Mai, Thailand</p>
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		<title>Great American Restaurant in Bangkok, Thailand</title>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:30:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Bangkok Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[American Bangkok]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bangkok]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bangkok American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurant]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Trying to find authentic American food in Bangkok isn&#8217;t always easy but there&#8217;s one place where you can count on it and that&#8217;s at Roadhouse Barbecue, located on the corner of Surawong and Rama IV Roads. This three-story restaurant/bar is home to great American food including barbecue specialties like barbecued ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, barbecued [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>Trying to find authentic American food in Bangkok isn&#8217;t always easy but there&#8217;s one place where you can count on it and that&#8217;s at Roadhouse Barbecue, located on the corner of Surawong and Rama IV Roads. This three-story restaurant/bar is home to great American food including barbecue specialties like barbecued ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, barbecued chicken and many more that represent true American barbecue at its best. There&#8217;s also a large selection of American favorites from burgers and steaks to soups and sandwiches.</p>
<p></strong></p>
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<p>But the real stars of the menu here are the barbecued specialties starting with ribs smoked with mesquite wood &#8211; imported from the U.S. &#8211; and including chicken smoked with hickory wood, pork for pulled pork sandwiches and even salmon smoked with apple wood. You can get a half or full rack of ribs or a chicken and ribs combo dish, all of which are served with potatoes and coleslaw made from an old North Carolina recipe.</p>
<h2>Bangkok Thailand</h2>
<p>And although the barbecue gets the most attention, they actually serve more burgers here than anything else. You can get yours with three different kinds of cheese as well as toppings like Grilled onions, smoked bacon, saute mushrooms and grilled peppers. Another big favorite is the Buffalo Wings which are on special every Monday night when you can get 20 wings for the price of 10 (170 baht).</p>
<p>As for more American food, the menu also contains sandwiches such as a Philly cheese steak, a &#8220;Texas-style&#8221; beef brisket sandwich, a chipotle pulled pork sandwich, a three-cheese grilled cheese and tomato, a BLT with apple-smoked bacon, a fish sandwich, a grilled sausage sandwich with pepper and onions. Well, you get the idea. They cover a lot of bases here.</p>
<p>They&#8217;re also very proud of their chili and they should be since it won an award in a stateside competition a while back sanctioned by the Chili Appreciation Society International. In addition to the chili pot here there are also a number of soup pots simmering all the time and they&#8217;re full of roasted red Pepper and tomato soup, black bean soup and a real New England seafood chowder.</p>
<p>There are a lot of other menu items here including steaks, seafood, some pastas and even a great grilled pork chop. It&#8217;s not all about food here, though. First, there&#8217;s Thailand&#8217;s largest selection of draft beers which also happen to be the coldest in Bangkok according to a magazine poll last year.</p>
<p>Next, there&#8217;s live entertainment almost every night downstairs after the dinner hour. On the second floor is another dining room that can be used for private functions or parties. And finally, on the third floor is Roadhouse&#8217;s version of a sports bar with plenty of TV screens and lots of games to play including foosball, video golf and soccer and pool on an authentic Brunswick championship table</p>
<p>  Great American Restaurant in Bangkok, Thailand</p>
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		<title>Krabi Beach – Top 7 Places You Must See And Do</title>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:15:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Krabi Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Places]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Krabi lies southwest of Andaman coast in Thailand. When people talk about Krabi, they often refer to the entire province. Krabi province area includes the Phi Phi islands, Ao Nang resort area, Railay Beach peninsula, Koh Lanta and Krabi town. There are many day tours and sea activities you can do. In order to save [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>Krabi lies southwest of  Andaman coast in Thailand. When people talk about Krabi, they often refer to the entire province. Krabi province area includes the Phi Phi islands, Ao Nang resort area, Railay Beach peninsula, Koh Lanta and Krabi town. There are many day tours and sea activities you can do. In order to save you time, here are the top seven activities or places you must see or do when you are in Krabi Thailand.</p>
<p></strong></p>
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<p>1) Krabi Hot Spring</p>
<h2>Krabi Thailand</h2>
<p>A visit to Krabi natural hot spring is a must. There are many hollowed-out &#8216;bathtubs&#8217; which are caused by the running water from the thermal springs. You can experience the warm water massaging your back as you relax into one of the natural &#8216;bathtubs&#8217;.</p>
<p>2) Emerald Pool</p>
<p>Krabi Emerald pool as its name suggest is also known as &#8216;Crystal Pool&#8217; or &#8216;Sra Morakot&#8217; in Thai. This is an rich-hued natural pool at the center of the forest, filled with glistening clear spring water. The radiant water turns greenish blue during the day and pale green in the evening. You will be utterly seduced by the intensity of the pool&#8217;s turquoise colored water and take a cool refreshing swim.</p>
</p>
<p>3) Elephant trekking</p>
<p>This will be one of the exciting activities you must experience.The elephant ride will take you through rubber plantations, muddy trails, little streams and the journey last for one hour. There is a specially made sedan secured on top of every elephant and you will be high up above the ground and swaying to the rhythm of the elephant&#8217;s foot steps. There are many tour operators that provide elephant trekking excursions and they treat their elephants well. You can easily find them in Ao Nang beach.</p>
<p>4) Krabi Crystal stream</p>
<p>Krabi Crystal stream is well known for its crystal clear water. Krabi crystal stream has a unique location where the seawater mix with freshwater during the high-tide period. The water is so clear that you can even see the bottom of the stream. You will definitely take a dip and have a cool, invigorating swim.</p>
<p>5) Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)</p>
<p>Wat Tham Sua temple resides on top of a 600 m high karst peak. Karst are vertical outcrops of limestone which can be as high as 800m. There is a steep climb up of 1237 steps to the view point but you will be rewarded with magnificent views of Krabi and a huge buddhist statue.</p>
<p>6) Krabi Hong Island Tour</p>
<p>Once you are in Ao Nang beach, you must take the Hong island day tour which consists of five island hopping. Hong island tour includes the tranquil Hong island lagoon where it is totally enclosed by majestic cliffs and thick mangrove trees. You can see the calm, translucent emerald water which is relatively shallow. Hong island is great for lazing around soft and white sandy beach and getting a nice tan. You can also hit the clear blue water for some swimming and snorkeling possibilities.</p>
<p>7) Krabi Sea Kayaking</p>
<p>Krabi provides the perfect environment for sea kayaking because Krabi&#8217;s coastline consist of small coves and fascinating cave systems. You will explore interior lagoons and mysterious limestone caves which can only be accessed at low tide through sea kayaking. You will also experience open sea kayaking and see magnificent Krabi canyons and glide into sea caves.</p>
<p>Words does not fully describe the beauty of Krabi Emerald pool and Hong island lagoon.</p>
<p>  Krabi Beach &#8211; Top 7 Places You Must See And Do</p>
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		<title>How Can a Foreigner Finance a Property in Thailand?</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:00:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>seeking</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Thailand Property]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Finance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Foreigner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Foreigner Finance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Finance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Foreigners generally cannot obtain a mortgage from local Thai banks to finance the purchase of their Thailand property investment. Most of the financial institutions in Thailand provide loans for real estate purchases to Thais and Thai Companies. In recent years Bangkok Bank (Singapore) has had a loan program for foreigners with qualification being very similar [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>
<p>Foreigners generally cannot obtain a mortgage from local Thai banks to finance the purchase of their Thailand property investment. Most of the financial institutions in Thailand provide loans for real estate purchases to Thais and Thai Companies.</p>
<p></strong></p>
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<p>In recent years Bangkok Bank (Singapore) has had a loan program for foreigners with qualification being very similar to that in the west. You complete an application, submit proof of income, tax returns and other documentation. With this program, buyers can finance up to 70% of the purchase price of the home. The problem with this program is that it has not been consistently offered, and as of this writing the program has been suspended.</p>
<h2>Thailand Property</h2>
<p>In some resort areas such as Pattaya, local banks have begun to design loan programs for foreigners who live and work in Thailand. Kasikorn Bank, for example, allows foreigners who possess a work permit for 2 or more years to obtain mortgage financing for up to 50% of the value of the subject property. This program was just launched early 2010.</p>
<p>With the current global financial situation you are best to explore your options directly with Kasikorn Bank, Bangkok Bank (Singapore) and other lending institutions to determine the existing status of any loan programs which may be available for foreigners.</p>
<p>If you cannot get a Thailand mortgage to buy your dream property in Thailand, don&#8217;t worry. Several options are available to you.</p>
<p>Developer Financing </p>
<p>Developer financing has become more prevalent in Thailand over the past two years. Deals ranging from 2-year to 10-year financing are available to buyers of new Thailand houses and condos. These financing deals are available directly from the developers. As a result, the structure of each deal varies.</p>
<p>An example of such a program is The Meadows, a housing project in Pattaya. The developer offers 50% 3-year financing at 8% per annum. Although the loan term for this and other programs is not as long as conventional mortgages in the US and Europe, such programs are useful.</p>
<p>Be leery of offers for &#8220;free financing&#8221; or &#8220;0% interest&#8221;. Obviously the purchase price under these scenarios has been inflated to cover the cost of capital to the developer. It&#8217;s best to negotiate the best possible purchase price then negotiate the financing deal separate from the price. Make sure you have a clear indication of the market and market prices before agreeing to a financing arrangement.</p>
<p>Seller Financing </p>
<p>Individual property owners have recently become more open to extending financing to buyers of Thailand houses and condos as a means to stimulate interest in their resale property. Under such an arrangement, the buyer and seller sign both a purchase and sale agreement and a promissory note.</p>
<p>If you are working with a real estate agent, let them know you require financing. They will likely have some inventory of properties where sellers are extending payment terms. If you are negotiating directly with the seller, simply ask them if they are willing to accept payment terms for a defined period and rate of interest.</p>
<p>As with developer financing, negotiate the purchase price separate from the terms and conditions of the loan. Important to note is the fact that the seller will continue to hold the title deed (Chanote) to the property until the loan repayment is made in full. Make sure your lawyer reviews your deal and ensures that all documents are updated and properly safeguarded to protect your investment.</p>
<p>Other Options </p>
<p>There are generally two other options available to foreigners to finance their Thailand house or condo purchase. Historically, many foreign buyers had taken a mortgage against their property in their home countries. This is more difficult than ever given the economic crisis, yet still an option for some. Again, check with your local bank to determine what programs are available to you.</p>
<p>In some instances, the Thai spouse of a foreign national may qualify for a mortgage. In such event, the sale and purchase agreement (and promissory note) would be executed by the Thai spouse. If the foreign national is funding a substantial portion of the cost, the foreign national should register a long-term lease in his/her own name (with the Thai spouse as the &#8220;lessor&#8221; and the foreign national as the &#8220;lessee&#8221;). Consult with your attorney to minimize the tax implications of such an investment structure.</p>
<p>You may also use a lease structure to make your desired property affordable. Available structures include lease with the option to buy and long-term leases. Any lease for a term of more than three years can be registered on the title deed at the land office, thereby creating a property right in addition to a contractual right to occupy the house or condominium. Most local Thai lawyers can handle this transaction on your behalf for a small fee.</p>
<p>So don&#8217;t worry if you cannot obtain a Thailand mortgage for the purchase of your property. There are options available to you. Work with a real estate professional to help find the best property and financing structure for you.</p>
<p>  How Can a Foreigner Finance a Property in Thailand?</p>
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