Travel in Thai Northern

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009

2009-06-27T22:26:00.000-07:00

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009
Date : 1 June to 31 August 2009
Venue : Department stores, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attraction nationwide
Thailand’s annual “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale” got underway this month and continues to offer visitors great bargains right through to 31 August.
This year, as fuel prices escalate, both visitors and residents are looking for more value and bigger discounts when they are shopping. Thailand never disappoints.
Most mega stores and shopping malls are offering discounts of between 10 to 70%, so there are bargains galore for the shopper prepared to browse around the stores.
Fortunately, most of Bangkok’s major shopping malls and stores are located close to the city’s skytrain or metro transport systems, making it very convenient to hop from one store to the next.
Both the Skytrain and the Metro, offer day use stored-value cards for visitors to make it even more convenient to use the two systems.
Bangkok’s main shopping districts and streets are to be found along Ploenchit and Sukhumvit roads.
Many of the department stores have direct bridge linking them to Skytrain stations. Just a short walk from the Skytrain stations and visitors discover some pretty impressive department stores and shopping plazas namely Siam Discovery Centre, Siam Centre, Central World Plaza, Erawan Bangkok, Amarin Plaza, Gaysorn, Central Chidlom, Home Pro Plus, Robinson Department Store, The Emporium and The Mall Department Store.
Discounts are also available in King Power duty free shops, both at Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown locations. There are even discount deals on luxury treatments at spas, a round of golf at a selection of courses at all major tourist destinations, travel packages and even medical check-ups at world-class hospitals.
The three-month campaign also embraces a variety of destinations beyond Bangkok such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hua Hin, Cha-am, Pattaya, Nakhon Ratchasima, Udorn Thani, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai and Samui Island.
Grand Sale prizes are offered in conjunction with the campaign sponsor, Visa Card, and include bargain holiday packages to premier destinations such as Phuket and Samui.
Contact : Tourism Investment Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel : 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 2951

Songkran Festival in Bangkok

2009-04-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

Songkran Festival in Bangkok
Date : 10 - 15 April, 2009
Venue : At The 9 Sacred Places and Rattanakosin Square, Bangkok

Experience the demonstration of the Songkran Festival in 4 regions at Wat Pho as well as enjoy demonstrstions of Thai food and local desserts, feast your eyes on cultural performances.

Moreover, in the Songkran Festival, TAT would like to invite you to dress Thai attire, visit and participate in the event of "the 9 Sacred Places ". the 9 royal temples in the Rattanakosin Square. To experience the wonderful treasure and enjoy the Songkran Festival in authentic Thai syle.

Chiang Mai - Tour of the Country side

2009-03-13T10:41:00.001-07:00

June 2003 - We checked out the elephant camp and rode an elephant across a river, up a mountain and trekked through the rainforest before emerging again at the elephant training camp. Afterwards, we rode an ox cart and rafted down the river on a flimsy bamboo raft. The scenery was surreal. We then toured a hand craft factory, a paper umbrella plant, an orchid farm. Last but not least, we enjoyed the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (night market) - the largest night market in Thailand. ...

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Thailand Discovery

... sharing dishes which represent the history and culture of their country. ... Half day guided Chiang Mai city and temples tour. Half day handicraft village tour ...

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Elephant Safaris : Travel to Thailand, Asia : Travel adventure packages ...

Chaing Mai Elephant Safari/Tour (from Bangkok) Day 1 Bangkok - Chiang Mai (daily ... Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Thailand's countryside. ...

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Take a day trip to Myanmar /Spa Treatments in Chiang Mai ... of a galleon boat and tour the Dalmatian countryside, with its wineries and ...

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Elephant Art, Chiang Mai, Thailand

2009-03-13T10:35:00.001-07:00

Thai elephants painting pictures.

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chiang mai cooking school Adventure Trip - BootsnAll World Adventures

chiang mai cooking school Overland Adventure Travel Adventure Trip in Thailand ... elephant mahout experience. Best of Vietnam and Cambodia. iStyle Bangkok 5 ...

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Elephant Art on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

... saaame art drawing by an elephant in the camp i visited in Chiang-Mai...maybe it ... China, Korea, Thailand, Bhutan (Set) 0. Animals in Their Habitat (Set) ...

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chiang mai general information and famous place of buriram ... temple in Chian Mai; You will see the Thai Arts of exquisite woodcarvings and ...

http://www.thailandday.com/Northernthailand/Chiangmai.htm

Thailand: Chiang Rai provence

2009-03-13T09:42:00.001-07:00

On our way in Chiang Rai provence in the north of Thailand, we visit the white temple Wat Rong Khun. Further north, we see the Golden Triangle and cross the border to Laos

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Amazon.com: "Villa Royale": Key Phrase page

Frommer's Thailand (Frommer's Complete) by Charles Agar ... Key Phrases: Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Surat ...

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Bor Sang Umbrella and Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival

2009-01-15T23:00:00.000-08:00

Bor Sang Umbrella and Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival
Date : 16 to 18 January 2009
Venue : Bor Sang village, Chiang Mai
Bor Sang, on highway 1006 heading east from Chiang Mai, appears to be a typical sleepy rural village, the kind the tour bus speeds by giving you just a fleeting glimpse of its two-storey wooden houses. But hidden in the tiny lanes, villagers have perfected a craft that creates the country’s most famous umbrellas.
For more than 100 years, the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark. According to local history, a monk travelled to neighbouring Myanmar, where he came across Saa paper umbrellas that offered protection against both the sun and rain.
He returned with the production technique and introduced the umbrella to the elders of Bor Sang village, who added their own artistic skills to create a distinctive colourful, but very practical, umbrella. At first it was just a profitable hobby that supplemented the villagers’ earnings from the annual rice crop. However, with time production of the Saa paper umbrellas prospered, prompting villagers to establish a handicraft cooperative in 1941 that now organises the annual festival.
Using silk and cotton, weaved at neighbouring Sankampaeng, villagers eventually added a second line of umbrellas decorated with images of the north, its flowers and birds, all intricately hand-painted.
Today, Bor Sang village exports both Saa-paper and silk umbrellas. They are seen at trade shows in a variety of sizes, from giant parasols that offer a shady canopy from the sun, to miniscule variations that adorn popular cocktail drinks.
To celebrate success the village hosts a three-day festival every January. Streets are illuminated by lanterns, while hundreds of umbrellas are hung from the rafters and beams of houses and shops. Bands play, while villagers compete to design the year’s most attractive umbrella. Concerts, a food festival and beauty contest all compete for the attention of the audience, a mix of both tourists and residents, who gather here to celebrate Bor Sang’s innovative handicraft skills.
Throughout the year, tourists visit the village, a short 6 km drive from Chiang Mai, to buy umbrellas and study the process and skills that go into making a handicraft entirely from natural products. But nothing quite compares with the buzz that permeates the village during this colourful three-day handicraft festival, every January. It is a scene that represents village hospitality and charm at its very best.
For more information
TAT Chiang Mai Office, Tel. 66 (0) 5324 8604, 5324 8607, 5324 1466

Visiting Chiang Mai – Top 10 Attractions And Activities

2008-12-13T17:13:00.001-08:00

Visiting Chiang Mai – Top 10 Attractions And Activities is something with which most of us are aware of. What we are trying to do is to give another angle to what is known about Visiting Chiang Mai – Top 10 Attractions And Activities.
Article reading is something which is done to gain knowledge and information about a particular topic and if these means are not achieved then reading the article would be a waste of time. Now, when you are reading this article on Visiting Chiang Mai – Top 10 Attractions And Activities, how would you rate the time spent in reading it? By Andy Burrows

Visitors to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand come for the quaint, unhurried pace of life, the bargain shopping and the potential to break out on retreats into the mountains and jungle with a trekking trip. Whatever your reason for coming, Chiang Mai promises plenty of opportunities for excitement, relaxation and historic journeys into the city's past.

A trip to Mae Sa

A 30-minute drive to Mae Sa is a fun event for the entire family, as the area is packed with activities. Tourists venture out for the orchid nurseries; the well-known Elephant Camp where visitors can ride elephants and watch performances including a football match played by elephants; a snake farm and bungee jumping. Finally, the Mae Sa Waterfall offers a place to relax or perhaps go hiking.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai is well-known for its handicrafts, silk and large markets. This all comes to a focus at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a veritable shopper's dream. Stretching the entire length of Chang Klan road, this market has become more of a tourist's domain than it once was. Here you'll find an assortment of jewellery, clothing, antiques, silver, all manners of souvenirs and knock-off designer items. It's open every evening until midnight. This is where you’ll find many of Chiang Mai hotels.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Situated south of Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park is a unique wildlife preserve and often makes for a comfortable cool weather retreat after spending time in the city. It's the tallest mountain in Thailand at a grand height of 8,415 feet. Camping is permitted in the park and the natural surroundings make for an excellent getaway. This is one of the best places for trekking in Northern Thailand.

Wat Phratat Doi Suthep

Overlooking the Old City of Chiang Mai, the mountain of Doi Suthep holds one of Thailand's most sacred temples. The 300-stair climb leads you to the large chedi and golden spire. This large temple complex dates back to the 14th century and the view of the city achieved from the marble courtyard is worth the trip alone. No trip to Chiang Mai is complete without visiting Doi Suthep. Ask the concierge at the hotels for assistance getting up there, it’s one of the most important in Thailand.

Thai massage and spas

Places to get a massage can literally be found on almost every street of the Old City, and prices range depending on quality and accessibility. Thai massage is world-renown, and some of the most skilled masseurs can be found in the more upscale spas, which also offer body scrubs and detox and beautification treatments. Even at these high-end facilities, the money spent is still fantastic value when compared to the superb quality of the treatment.

Chiang Mai Zoo

Don't be surprised if a local asks you if you've visited the zoo yet—most likely, they're wondering if you've seen the pair of pandas which are on loan from China, an endless source of pride for locals. These are only two of the more than 6,000 animals on display at the zoo which sits at the base of Suthep Mountain, from where there are wonderful views of the city.

Courses and training

Chiang Mai overflows with all sorts of courses in which tourists can enrol for only a few days or weeks at a time. Due to the affordable prices and the comfortable atmosphere in Chiang Mai, visitors are tempted to dig in and stay a while. So whether you're looking to learn the art of Thai massage, perfect your Thai cooking skills or study Thai boxing, you'll find it here for every level and length of time. When in Thailand this is highly recommended.

The Old City

A tour of the Old City is easily done on foot or by bike, and is the best way to come face-to-face with Chiang Mai's legacy. Portions of the old wall were restored in the 19th century, and the 700-year-old moat that surrounds the city has been beautifully preserved. The city gates have also been restored, and each marks an important commercial avenue in or out of the city. Temples are spread across the entire Old City, and some of the more important include Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phrasingh and Wat Chiang Mai.

Adventure sports

Any number of adventure sports can be organised through travel agencies in Chiang Mai. Some of the more popular outings include white-water rafting on the Mae Tang River, which is 1 hour, 30 minute drive out of town; mountain biking on Doi Suthep with the added bonus of spending time at the temple if you make it all the way to the top, and rock climbing at Crazy Horse Buttress. There's also an outdoor climbing wall located to one side of the Night Bazaar. Trekking in Chiang Mai is perhaps the biggest drawcard

Trekking Northern Thailand

It's impossible to list the major attractions of Chiang Mai without mentioning trekking. Tour guide operators use the city as a springboard from which to organise trips into the surrounding mountainous jungles. Expeditions are packed with a variety of activities and range from daytrips to several night journeys that include hiking, elephant riding and bamboo rafting. Routes are planned around hill tribe villages, where overnight accommodation is provided. Trekking is the best way to see rural Northern Thailand.

Remember to book your Chiang Mai hotels early in the high season.

About the Author: Part time Chiang Mai resident Andy Burrows is a web travel writer and his favourites online are: http://www.1stopchiangmai.com http://hotels.1stopchiangmai.com/thailand/chiang-mai-district1.htm and http://www.1stopthailand.com

Article reading is something which is done to gain knowledge and information about a particular topic and if these means are not achieved then reading the article would be a waste of time. Now, when you are reading this article on Visiting Chiang Mai – Top 10 Attractions And Activities, how would you rate the time spent in reading it?

Tamil Tiger aircraft bomb Colombo power station

2008-10-29T02:10:00.000-07:00

Colombo (dpa) - Tamil rebel light aircraft bombed a power station in the Sri Lankan capital and a military camp in the country's north- west Tuesday night, a military spokesman said.

Rebels first dropped two bombs on the Thaladi camp in Mannar, 310 kilometres north of the capital and half an hour later dropped at least one bomb on the Kelanitissa power station, located close to the port, military spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said.

The military air defence was initiated but the rebel aircraft escaped.

Fire engines have been rushed to the power station, but details of damage or casualties were not known immediately.

Journalists barred from entering the power station said however there appeared to be no serious damage to the power station.

The attack marked the third time rebels had used aircraft to bomb the capital.

Earlier Tuesday, military officials said Tamil rebels attacked an office of a breakaway group, killing four persons in eastern Sri Lanka where the military regained control after nearly a year of fighting.

The office in Chenkalady, Batticaloa, 240 kilometres east of the capital, was manned by 10 members of the Tamil People's Liberation Tigers (TMVP) when it came under attack early Tuesday.

The attackers took automatic weapons, and six people who were in the office are reported missing, military officials said.

TMVP sources said they suspected the six missing people were moles of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), and may have helped to carry out the attack.

Source from Bangkokpost

Bangkok senator: PM lacks righteousness

2008-10-07T08:46:00.000-07:00

(BangkokPost.com) - Bangkok senator Rosana Tositrakul accused Prime Minister and Defence Minister Somchai Wongsawat for allowing the riot to break out in front of the parliament on Tuesday morning.

She criticised the premier of lacking righteousness after the police were ordered to fire tear gas at public members who joined the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD)’s anti-government demonstration in front of the parliament earlier Tuesday. She said the reconciliation policy of Mr Somchai is only a policy on paper.

The unrest event near the parliament would put the country in a crisis, she added.

During the joint session of parliament, Ms Rosana interrupted Prime Minister Somchai’s announcement of government policy and protested raucously. She accused the government for announcing biased policy, as there were people injured outside the parliament.

House Speaker Chai Chidchob then closed the microphone of Ms Rosana, who continued to shout angrily. He later asked her to leave the meeting.

TAT announces tourism awards

2008-10-06T06:24:00.000-07:00

KARNJANA KARNJANATAWE
Alist of 98 winners have been announced for the Thailand Tourism Awards 2008.
The awards instituted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand in 1996 are accorded every two years in the fields of nature, culture, edutainment, ecotourism, agrotourism, health tourism, accommodation and resorts, tour programmes, media and to organisations that promote tourism. In every field there is one "best" and many "outstanding" winners picked on regional basis.
The best in nature category are Doi Phuka National Park in Nan (North), Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi (Central) and Phu Phan National Park in Sakon Nakhon (Northeast). Outstanding winners in the same category are Phuhin Rongkla in Phitsanulok (North), Pha Taem National Park in Ubon Ratchathani (Northeast) and Ko Hong of Than Bok Khorani National Park in Krabi (South).
The best in cultural tourism is Sirindhorn Museum in Kalasin (Northeast), while there are 18 outstanding winners in the category, among them Ramkhamhaeng National Museum in Sukhothai (North), Wat Pho in Bangkok (Central), and Phu Thai Khok-Kong Cultural Village in Kalasin (Northeast).
The best in edutainment is Rose Garden Riverside in Nakhon Pathom, while the outstanding winners are Phuket Fantasea, Siam Niramit and Siam Ocean World in Bangkok, Ripley's World Pattaya and Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden & Resort in Chon Buri, and Cha-Am ATV Park in Phetchaburi.
Li Let community in Surat Thani was best in the field of ecotourism, while the outstanding winners are Ta Pa Pao village in Lamphun, Ban Taelae Nok in Ranong and Phaoto Watershed Conservation & Management Centre in Chumphon.
In agrotourism, Chokchai Farm in Nakhon Ratchsima came best, while the outstanding winners are Mae Chan Winery in Chiang Rai, Somdej Phra Srinakarindra Park in Phetchaburi, Suphattra Land in Rayong, GranMonte Smart Vineyard and PB Valley Khao Yai Winery in Nakhon Ratchasima.
The best in health tourism were Lanna Oasis Spa in Chiang Mai, Paradee Spa in Rayong and Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok. Outstanding winners in category were Sukho Spa in Phuket, Tamarind Springs Spa in Surat Thani, Tao Garden Health Spa & Resort and Rarin Jinda Wellness Spa Resort in Chiang Mai, Krung Siam St.Carlos Medical Center in Pathum Thani, Khai Bangrachan Hospital in Sing Buri, Chao Phya Abhaibhubej Hospital in Pranchin Buri, BDC skin centre operated by Dr Orawan Kitchawengkul, and S Medical Spa in Bangkok. For more in formation, visit http://www.tourismthailand.org.
Ambush in China
Bargaining is part of the fun when travelling. In China, vendors seem particularly inclined to cut a deal with early-bird tourists for they believe that a day that starts well ends well.
Visiting Guilin in China, one fine morning a Thai tourist out window shopping on West Street in Yangshuo county was ambushed by a young female staff of a shop flogging fake Samsonite products. Passing the stall, a small red bag caught the Thai's attention and she asked its price. The vendor said 350 yuan (about 1,925 baht) and quickly gave her a discount of 100 yuan, offering to sell it for 250 yuan or 1,375 baht.
But the Thai had no intention to buy the bag. As she walked out the shop, the vendor grabbed her by the arm and asked how much she was prepared to pay for the bag. Trying to extricate herself, the Thai came up with a ridiculously low offer of 100 yuan, hoping the vendor would let go of her arm. But her hold only grew tighter.
"Please give me more. I want to sell my first bag of the day," cried the vendor.
But the Thai was in no mood of yielding. The vendor though proved equal to the task, gradually reducing the price to 180, 150 and finally down to 120 yuan without losening her grip.
Enough is enough, thought the tourist and looked the vendor in the eyes, at which point the latter said: "Okay, you can buy it for 100 yuan." The tourist was amazed and asked back if she was serious. "I want to seal this deal, sell my first bag of the day," came the reply.
It would be a shame, thought the tourist, if she left without buying and duly paid for the bag and walked out, speechless, while the vendor, happy, went tapping items in her shop with the bank note she had been paid with, hoping brisk business for rest of the day.
If you have any comments or news to share, mail them to karnjanak@bangkokpost.co.th.
Source: http://www.bangkokpost.com

THAILAND'sTop Destinations Vote: Candidate of the week: Rattanakosin Island

2008-10-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

The oldest part of Bangkok, Rattanakosin Island doesn't really look much like an island. Bordered on one side by the mighty Chao Phraya River, and by small canals on the other, it's where you will find the most historically important sites of the city.
Since the dawn of the Rattanakosin era when King Rama I named Bangkok as the nation's capital city, he commissioned the construction of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in 1782, which instantly became iconic landmarks for the Thai people.
Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha houses the kingdom's most sacred Buddha image, Phra Kaew Morakot (the Emerald Buddha), which was built in 15th AD. The temple is highlighted with dazzling gold architecture and adorned with 200-year-old murals depicting episodes from the Ramayana epic.
From the palace, visitors can easily reach other nearby temples like Wat Pho, which is one of the oldest temples in the city and known as the birthplace of Thai traditional massage. Across the river lies Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, where the first lights of day majestically reflect off its surface.
Other attractions in the area include Thammasat University, the National Museum, Siam Museum, the city pillar shrine known as Saan Lak Muang in Thai, the official centre of Bangkok from where all travelling distances are measured.
Right on the edge of the Saan Lak Muang grounds, and rising almost 30 metres into the sky is Sao Chingcha, or the Giant Swing. The actual swing is long gone, with only the main structure left today. This was used in the old days in a traditional Brahmin New Year ceremony called Triyampawai, one of 12 royal ceremonies held each month. Triyampawai was based on a hindu epic, which depicted the re-creation of the world. The pillars of the swing represented mountains while the circular base acted as the oceans and land.
For something entirely different, head down to Khao San Road. A central hub for backpackers who are visiting Bangkok from all corners of the globe, you'll find a diverse cast of characters around this colourful area. There are plenty of cheap restaurants, bars and accommodation in the area.Nearby is Phra Athit Road where you'll find bars and cafes with an artsy ambience, as well as the Phra Sumen Fort, one of the two still standing today from the fourteen that were originally built on or around Rattanakosin Island.
GETTING THERE
The most convenient way is to tek the BTS to Taksin Station and then a Chao Phraya River Express boat to Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier. You can walk from there the Grand Palace.
Logging in
http://www.bangkokpost.com/9destinations
CHIRAYU NA RANONG
IF WE'D KNOWN THAT REVEALING THE current leaders of the 'Invite Friends' contest would cause such a clicking frenzy, we'd have done it much earlier! The leading scores are rapidly increasing with the holders of the top three positions switching back and forth all week. The rankings, at time of going to press, were as follows: "jobi" in control of first place with 1,162 points; "devil - energy" surging out of nowhere to snatch second place with 741 points; "benjawanl" with 661 points; and previous second-place holder "kaminino" slipping out of the top trio with a score of 510. If these seemingly insurmountable totals make you feel discouraged, keep in mind that just over two weeks ago "jobi" only had 133 points! To refresh your memory: the prizes include a 12 megapixel Olympus digital camera for the winner; a stay at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort and Spa for the runner-up; and a buffet dinner for two at the Oriental Hotel for the user who comes in third. Less than a week remains, so it's time for you to make a run for it! Get clicking!
Congratulations to "beedut", who has won our online contest by coming closest to guessing the number of points the top three users in our 'Invite Friends' competition would accumulate last week. "Beedut" gets to spend a night at the Amari Orchid Resort in Pattaya.
BELATED CONGRATULATIONS ALSO TO "kittynuy" who won a two-night stay at the Kantary Hills Hotel last week (and very recently won a free stay in the Westin Grande Sukhumvit) for submitting the personal itinerary of places to go in Chiang Mai that we liked the most. Congrats, too, to "animini" for winning our photo competition and walking away with a free stay at Bangkok's luxurious Sukhothai Hotel.
AND DON'T FORGET THERE IS ANOTHER way to win prizes, with over 40,000 baht in cash up for grabs in our ongoing logo-design competition. Just log onto our web site for more details and remember that you can send in as many entries as you wish. The deadline is October 22.
THIS WEEK'S TOP NINE RANKINGS, AT time of going to press were as follows: Si Satchanalai National Park; Phu Soi Dao National Park; Sukhothai Historical Park; Phu Kum Khao Dinosaur Museum; Wat Phra That Lampang Luang; Doi Inthanon; Krabi (sea and islands); Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao; and, finally, Moo Ko Similan Marine National Park-with Tarutao Marine National Park lurking less than fifty clicks below that nonet.
Source: Bangkok Post

Six Senses Hideaway Samui

2008-09-19T07:18:00.001-07:00

Six Senses Hideaway Samui
Six Senses Hideaway Samui has been voted Best in the World, being crowned the 1st spot on the Readers' Travel Awards Top 100 by the renowned Cond? Nast Traveler magazine.
Bangkok, Thailand, September 9, 2008. A luxury hotel on the island of Samui Thailand--The Six Senses Hideaway Samui--wins this year's top spots in the Best Overseas Hotel (Asia & India Subcontinent) and the Top 100 Best in the World categories, in the 2008 survey by the prestigious Cond? Nast Traveler magazine. In addition, two of Thailand's islands are picked in the top 15 Island category, while the country is also home to five of the best hotels in Asia & India Subcontinent category. The awards were announced on September 1st, 2008.
Cond? Nast Traveler Reader's Travel Awards Top 100 is determined by votes from the magazine's readers, compiled among all categories into the ultimate "best of the best" Top 100 list. The categories include countries, islands, cities, hotels, resorts, destination spas, cruise lines, airlines, airports, tour operators, and villa-rental companies. Being named the best of the Top 100 is indeed a crowning achievement for any hotel or destination.
Announcing this year's top winner, Cond? Nast Traveler magazine states: "Six Senses Hideaway Samui on the Thai island of Koh Samui not only walked away with the award for the best hotel in Asia & The Indian Subcontinent, but scored so highly that it made the number one spot in our 'best of the best' Top 100." The hotel achieves a score of 96.45 in the overall ranking."
Further commenting on the scores achieved by the Six Senses Hideaway Samui, the magazine summarizes the winner's remarkable qualities: "Every one of you (the readers) who has stayed there raved about its sophisticated ambience/decor (93.75), environmental friendliness (97.50), lovely location (97) and extensive leisure facilities (96.25)."
Meanwhile, even though Thailand as a destination does not take the top spot on the Country category, it is comfortably voted 4th in the overall ranking. Achieving a score of 91.39, Thailand is ranked only after New Zealand (95.11), India (94.11) and Italy (91.44). In the Island category, the Thai island of Samui (Koh Samui) comes 5th, while Phuket island ranks on the 13th place. Evidently, Thailand is the only country in this category to have two locations rated in the top 15.
And despite being voted 4th in the Country category, the proverbial "land of smiles" still maintains its charms as a truly unique destination with deep-rooted cultures, traditions and charming heritage. The country achieves a "heartfelt" score of 97.68 for the people/hospitality category, again reaffirming the warm and welcoming quality of the Thai people. In its online version, Cond? Nast Traveler concludes that Thailand is where visitors are "guaranteed" to meet "the world's warmest welcome."
Last but not least, the top five best hotels in Asia & The Indian Subcontinent category include four hotels from Thailand, namely The Chedi Phuket (92.22, 2nd), Amanpuri Phuket (91.48, 4th), The Four Seasons Resort Chiangmai (90.29, 5th). In a competitive world of luxury hotels and resorts with myriad high-quality properties, the fact that Thailand has some of the world's best hotels and resorts is a strong testament that the country is a truly unique and favorite destination among international travelers.
To read more about the Cond? Nast Traveler Readers' Travel Award, please visit www.cntraveller.com/ReadersAwards/2008.
For more information about Thailand and its attractions, please visit www.tourismthailand.org.
For more information about The Six Senses Hideaway Samui, please contact:
Six Senses Resorts & Spas, Public Relations. Tel: +66-2-631-9777. www.sixsenses.com
Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com

HTC, Zoom expand into Chiang Mai

2008-08-27T09:30:00.000-07:00

CHIANG MAI : HTC opened its first "concept" shop in Chiang Mai to serve users in the province. The shop, a co-venture by HTC, Zoom Technology and SIS Distribution, is exclusively for HTC products and service.

According to HTC Thailand managing director Nattawat Woranopakul, the purchasing power in Chiang Mai was no different to Bangkok, and the PDA phone market here was growing, and Zoom was the company that provided after-sales service for HTC.

Chavalit Prasitphon, Zoom Technology's MD, noted that most PDA phones are bought by universities, especially by students. "The users are mostly medical and engineering students, as they use the e-book application for reading textbooks and it's more convenient to use a PDA phone instead of reading a thick medical textbook," he said, noting that apart from students, PDA phone users were working people and executives.

Zoom is the largest PDA phone shop in the province, and Chavalit said the company's sales revenues were around six million baht, of which 80 per cent was generated by HTC products.

Nattawat stated that there would be around 15 HTC PDA phone models this year, and five of them would be 3G.

"If the operator provides 3G service, it will encourage sales of 3G handsets to increase by 20 per cent, because users perceive its benefit. Today people buy 3G phones for their design and image, even though they don't need to use 3G," he said.

The PDA phone market today was still a small part of the total mobile phone market, around 350,000 units a year, and HTC was No. 1, Nattawat said. However, he said the Windows Mobile market was estimated to increase by 60 per cent this year.

He added that the design of PDA phones would become more fashionable as more users made decisions using their emotions, and the software on PDA phones would become more user-friendly. Applications such as GPS, GoogleEarth, personal data management, phone books and name lists would be a factor to boost market growth. Currently the average price of a PDA phone was 20,000 baht, and HTC delivered some 30,000 units a month, if the price comes down to around 13,000 baht, sales would increase to 40,000 to 50,000 units a month. "We have to provide a wide range of products to serve every group of customers," he said.
Source - Bangkok Post (Eng)
Wednesday, August 27, 2008 09:28

Northern fruit and art festivals

2008-08-11T06:59:00.000-07:00

Two northern towns Lamphun and Chiang Mai stage cultural events for August visitors.
Northern towns are noted for their culture, art and heritage linked to the ancient kingdom of Lanna, but they are equally recognised for a variety of fruits, sometimes difficult to find elsewhere in the country.

So no surprises that Lamphun, a town close to Chiang Mai with a heritage pedigree that goes back a thousand years, is celebrating the Longan fruit season with a festival that runs from 9 to 18 August. No festival would be complete without its beauty contest and, of course, Lamphun residents are proud to cast their vote for the local Miss Longan, while they enjoy the temple fair atmosphere of an event that continues to retain its character and links with the town’s proud history. Held at the Lamphun stadium, in the centre of town, this is an ideal opportunity to taste and buy Longan fruit at exceptionally reasonable prices. Not to be outdone by its neighbour, Chiang Mai hosts the annual Lanna Arts Festival, from 12 to 24 August, at Chiang Mai Royal Agricultural Centre that served originally as the venue for the highly successful Royal Flora show. Stages for cultural performances have been set out at the Mae Hia sub-district venue, promising visitors a colourful spectacle of Lanna cultural performances from eight northern provinces. Apart from traditional dance and music, visitors will enjoy handicraft demonstrations and a stroll through a traditional market to buy local products sourced in and around Chiang Mai.
Source from www.tourismthailand.org

Phu Soi Dao National Park

2008-06-21T23:52:00.001-07:00

Phu Soi-dao National Park is situated in an approximately area of 340.21 square kilometersi, covering the areas of Pa Nam-pad National Conserved Forest, Tambol Muang-jedton, Tambol Na-khum, Tambol Ban Koak, Ban Koak District, Huai Moon District, Nam-pad District of Uttaradit Province, and Tambol Bor-pak, Chattrakarn District of Pittsanulok Province. The topography of the National Park consist of beautiful virgin forests, which are the sources of streams and rivers. Major sightseeing spots include Phu Soi-dao Waterfall, a beautiful 5-step waterfall situated in an approximate area of 1,000 rai, which can be accessed by an asphaltic road to facilitate the travelling for recreational purpose.

The geographical features of the National Park consist of high mountains (500-1,800 meters above the sea level), extending northwards and being used as the boundary between Thailand and Laos. The areas of mountains and forests are approximately 85 percent of the total area of the National Park, meanwhile, the areas of flatlands are approximately 15 percent thereof
The weather here is very comfortable all year round. Its average highest temperature is about 35.0 degrees celsius and the lowest is about 13.0 degrees celsius or the mid-average is 27.0 degrees celsius. The average rainfall is 1,334.4 milimeters/year. Its raining season starts from May to October while the winter starts from November till February and summer starts from April to June.
The weather at the National Park is cool and breezy throughout the year and can be divided into 3 seasons including the rainy season (May-October), winter (November-February), and summer (April-June). The average highest temperature is 35.0ฐC and the lowest temperature is 13.0ฐC, meanwhile, the average temperature is 27.0ฐC; and the average rainfall is 1,344.4 mm/year.

Address And Localtion
Phu Soi Dao National Park
Huai Moui Sub-district, Amphur Nam Pad Uttaradit Thailand 53110
Tel. 0 5543 6001-2 E-mail phusoidao07@hotmail.com
source from www.dnp.go.th

Si Satchanalai National Park in Sukhothai

2008-06-13T07:28:00.001-07:00

In 1976, it was proclaimed as the historical park because of King Bhumiphon idea for heritage is Thailand outstanding cultural or natural heritage, it became Thailand’s heritage forever.
Si Satchanai National Park is the place of historical located in Thung Saliam district, Sukhothai province. Previously, it was called “Mueang Chaliang”. The park has many important historical sites, e.g. Wat Phra Si Mahathat Ratchaworawihan, Wat Nang Phaya, Kaeng Luang and Tao Thuriang which is a sit where Sukhothai celadon were made.

Later, the Royal Forest Department proclaimed a National Park on the 8th May 1981 as Thailand’s 26th National Park. The total area is about 213.2 sq.km. The park is comprised of rich forest that provide san important watershed for the surrounding agricultural area.
The general geography of this national park is the complicated mountains, lying along north-south direction, looking like a flank surrouding it, some part are the rock mountains and among the high moutians in the western part, the high cliff could be found, such as Doi Mae Wang Chang and Doi Mae Mok. The height of this area is about 300 -1200 meters above the average sea level. The steep slope of this area is an advangtage for protecting forest from being destroyed and occupied by local people. These mountains are the source of many streams such as Huai Sai Khao, Huai Mae Tha Phae, Huai Mae Son, Huai Pha Cho, Huai Ma Nao, etc. There are some plain areas along the shore of Huai Chang and Yom river.
This national park consists of the mixed deciduous forest covering about 93.40 percent of total national park area. This forest has mostly been found in the steep slope, hill slope and shore of stream. Most plants could be found here are Hydnocarpus wrayi King, Tectona grandis Linn.f., Nephelium hypoleucum Kurz, Eugemia aequea, Xylia kerrii, Afzelia xylocarpa, etc. The other forest is the drydipterocarp forest covering about 4.72 percent of total national park area. Most plants that could be found here are Shorea obtosa, Shorea siamensis, Pterocarpus macrocarpus, Lagerstroemia floribunda Jack, Schleichera oleosa Merr., etc. The less of area is the hill evergreen forest which we can find the following important plants : Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd., Dipterocarpus turbinatus, Helicia sp, etc.

Attraction In Si Satchanai National Park

Huai Sai Khao Waterfall
This beautiful waterfall originated from Sai Khao stream is composed of 7 cascades in the surroundings of lofty mountains and peaceful shading trees. It’s 3 km far from park headquarters.
Khang Khao
This is a very beautiful cave which thousands of bat living inside, located 20 km. away from park headquarters.
Maesan Waterfall
Pong Nam Dueat
This hot spring is located 500 meters away from Pa Kha Village. The water here is so clear and clean and looks like boiling water evaporated of rotten egg gas. Unfortunately, the beautiful scenery of this hot spring was damaged by mineral business, only warm water left in the winter.
Tat Dao Waterfall
Tat Dao Waterfall, sich is 50 meters high and located 4 kilometers from park headquarters.
Tat Duean Waterfall
It’s 10 meters height waterfall which the water flows windingly downward to the deep reservoir. It’s good for swimming and not far from the park office (500 meters).
Thara Wasan Cave
This cave is surrounded with abundant of flora and fauna; for instance, Dracaena Lourieri Gagnep., serow, etc. Inside the cave is beautiful with stalactites. It is just 1.5 km away from park headquarters.

Address and Information

How to go Here

There are two way to get to Si Satchanalai National Park.
Starts from Mueang District on national road no. 12 detouring the city about 15 kilometers then turns right to road no. 1113 to Sarachit Junction and turns left to road number 1294 to the national park, approximately 100 kilometers.
Starts from Mueang District on national road no. 101 about 68 kilometers to Sisatchanalai District, turns left pass Sisatchanalai Hospital to road no. 1035 about 11 kilonmeters and turn right to road number 1294 to the national park, approximately about 122 kilometers.

Address

Si Satchanalai National Park
P.O. Box 10, Ban Kang Sub-district, Amphur Si Satchanalai Sukhothai Thailand 64130
Tel. 0 5591 0002-3 ,08 1887 9897 E-mail sisatcha_14@hotmail.com

Thung Salaeng Luang National Park InPhitsanulok

2008-05-31T04:23:00.001-07:00

In 1959, 14 important forests were proposed for inclusion in national parks, among them the once vast and malarial Thung Salaeng Luang. Eventually, in 1972, 1,262 square kilometers were declared the Thung Salaeng Luang National Park.
But from the late 1960’s to the early 1980’s the forest was used as a major base area and infiltration route for guerrillas of the outlawed Communist Party of Thailand (CPT). It was sealed off by the Thai military from even the park officials. One of the climactic showdowns of the war with Communist insurgents took place at nearby Khao Kor, where government forces defeated the guerrillas in a series of tough battles in 1981 and 1982, Khao Kor is now the site of a resort and community–based development protects.
Guerrillas have not been the park’s only scourge. Other intruders were hilltribe people and squatters who made use of the Phitsanulok–Lomsak highway running through the park’s northern end to gain easy access to the area and stake claims to virgin terrian.

Composing the park are hills of limestone, slate and hardpan between altitudes of 300 to 1,028 meters. A long north-south stretch of limestone hills runs down the western section of the park. Thung Salaeng Luang, the origin of numerous streams, is inlaid with meadows, especially in its southern area. Mixed species deciduous forest predominates, with lowland scrub and tropical broadleaved evergreen covering smaller areas.

Information:
Thung Salaeng Luang National Park
P.O. Box 64 Amphur Muang Phitsanulok Phitsanulok Thailand 65000
Tel. 0 5526 8019 Fax 0 5526 8019 E-mail thung_s_l@hotmail.com
Source from http://www.dnp.go.th

Mon Phraya Chae Forest Park

2008-05-26T07:31:00.001-07:00

is in high mountain area so that you can view beautiful scenery of Lum Pang Province. There is also Pagoda on the mountain peak. Every year on 8th period of the waning moon (Thai system of counting the date-full moon is 15th period) in July, there is an annual festival at the pagoda. Huai Jo Reservoir in the area also provides a beautiful sight.
Mon Praya Chae Forest Park is located Pi Chai District, Muang Ampur, Lum Pang Province. Mon Praya is a forest park of 29.73 sq.km in Pa Mae Yang-Mae Aang Forest Reserve. It was gazetted as a Forest Park by Royal Forest Department on 21 October 1969

Topography
In the South and the East, forests occur on the two connected small mountains. Thus the area is sloped from the South and the East to the North and the West. Jo stream lied in the middle of the forest. A pond is found in the mid of the stream. In dry season, it is a pond of about 20 rais and submerged all year.
Mon Praya Chae Forest Park has three disctinct seasons. Rainy season starts from May-August. Winter is from September to January. Summer begins from February to April. In summer, the temperature is fairly hot but at night is comfortable cool.

Flora and Fauna
The main vegetation type here is Dry Mixed Deciduous forest. In dry season, trees shed their leaves. Most tree species found are small and medium sized. Large sized one is seldom found. Flora recorded here include Shorea obtuse, Shorea siamensis, Pterocarpus macrocarpus, Schleichera oleosa, Afzelia xylocarpa, Syzygium glaucum, Dalbergia oliveri, Vitex pinnata and Tiliaceae spp. Undergrowth found are Chromolaena odoratum, Bamboo spp. and Grass species. Wildlife spotted here most are small ones such as Squirrel, Treeshrew, Hare and various bird species.

Information
Mon Phraya Chae Forest Park
Pichai Sub-district, Amphur Muang Lampang Lampang Thailand 52000
Tel. 0 5422 6828 Fax 0 5422 6573 E-mail reserve@dnp.go.th
source from http://www.dnp.go.th

Long Boat Racing - Combining Sport And "Sanuk"

2008-05-24T23:10:00.001-07:00

FROM just looking at modern Bangkok, the sprawling metropolis that continues to grow outwards as well as upwards, it hardly seems possible that the traditional Thai community was centred around the country's water ways.

Rivers and canals were always at the heart of the Thai civilisation-they offered the main means of communication and transport, in addition to household resources for cleaning, bathing and even food.

Houses were built on stilts to cope with the ebb and flow of the tide. Floods were never a problem in those days. It is therefore not surprising that a large number of Thailand's traditions and festivals are connected with water, such as Loy Krathong, the Royal Barge Procession, and long-boat racing.

As many visitors are already aware, Loy Krathong is one of the country's most romantic festivals when candle lit banana leaf floats are presented as offerings to the river goddess.

Long-boat racing is a village-level sport that has been part of the Thai culture for centuries. There are varying theories on how this tradition began.

One school of thought has it that in former days, the country's naval defense units were made up of long boats manned by 30-50 oarsmen each. During times of peace, the oarsmen would need to practise their strokes and keep up their stamina, and as a result, the sport of long-boat racing was born.

Another theory is that it was a community-based effort to encourage unity through sports and fun during merit-making festivities. The boat are often colourfully decorated, and musical accompaniment adds to the festive atmosphere. Boat races are held in most regions of Thailand towards the end of the rainy season, many of which are now considered annual events of national significance, such as the Annual Long-Boat Race in Phichit province. Phichit oarsmen (and oarswomen) are renowned for their winning teamwork, and have proved themselves in many an international event as well as local competitions.

Khun Chae National Park

2008-05-21T07:00:00.001-07:00

Topography
Khun Chae national park, located 1 hour drive to the northeast of Chiang Mai, was declared a nation park in 1995 due to its important water resources, extensive forests, wildlife, beautiful waterfalls and scenic views. Deriving its name from Khun Chae waterfalls, the park covers 270 square kilometers.
Khun Chae national park is located in the area where the exposed base rock is of two different types: igneous and sedimentary. Most of the park is covered with granite, an igneous rock common in northern Thailand. Granite looks like large grains of shining salt and black pepper. The white part that looks like salt is really quartz and feldspar. The black part that looks like pepper is mica. Another igneous rock found in the park is called tuff which was expelled from a volcano as lava, but cooled relatively quickly into a gray, fine grained rock. This volcanic tuff can be found in parts of the eastern side of the park. The sedimentary rocks; sandstone, siltstone and shale are derived from sediments deposited in water and hardened into solid rock over a long period of time. The sandstone found in Khun Chae is gray, with small grains of sand mixed in a dense, hard rock. The shale is buff colored, soft and splits easily along parallel lines.
The landscape of Khun Chae is very steep with many creeks often dropping into a number of waterfalls. The steep terrain is caused primarily by the high volume of seasonal rain, and highly erodable soil.
The vegetation of Khun Chae national park is generally related to elevation. From 300 to 800 meters, the forest is composed of bamboo, deciduous and deciduous dipterocarp-oak associations; from 800 to 1,000 meters, the forest is mixed evergreen and pine. The stream bottoms are often surrounded by lush evergreen trees, wild bananas, ferns, mosses and herbaceous vegetation. These stream bottoms often form a rich oasis of vegetation in a forest that is routinely burned by villagers that hunt wildlife and graze cattle. The ridges and mountain tops are typically covered with grasses, pine, oaks and dipterocarps. Near the eastern boundary of the park, a dry dipterocarp forest dominates the landscape.

Climate
The cold season lasts from November until July, the rainy season from July until November. During the hot dry season, February to July, the temperatures range from 22 to 33ºC. During the cold dry season, November to January, the temperature ranges from 2 to 29ºC. In the rainy season temperatures range from 19 to 29ºC.
Wildlife can be seen in several different habitats. The prime places to see wildlife are in the lush river valleys and moist forests near the higher parts of the park. Though many species of wildlife have disappeared, the following list of animals have been seen recently within its boundaries: several species of civet, wild pig, barking deer, hog badger, many species of flying arboreal and ground squirrels, bats, hare. Possible species in Khun Chae include Asiatic black bear, Slow Loris, White Handed Gibbon, Leopard Cat, Serow. Birds such as Ashy Drongo, Scarlet Minivet, Gray Headed Flycatcher, White Fronted Forktail, Brown Fish Owl, Crested Serpent Eagle, Shikra, Velvet Fronted-Nuthatch, Blue Throated Barbet, CopperSmith Barbet, Blue Winged Leafbird, Brown Cheeked Fulveta, Red Bungle Fowl still exist. Reptiles in the park include Green Tree Viper, King Cobra, Flying Lizards, Geckos, Skinks.
Tourist attractions
Maetow waterfall: It has seven levels, the highest of which is about 40 meters. From the park headquarters, the trailhead to Maetow waterfall is approximately 30 to 40 minutes by vehicle. From the trailhead, all seven levels of the fall can be reached in approximately two hours hiking.
Khun Chae waterfall: The 6 level fall is reached by 2 hours drive from the park's headquarters to the trail head and an hour hike from there. A picnic are is provided.
Doi Mot: The trail to Doi Mot passes through a spectacular wet evergreen forest. A lush, dense, multiple layered forest covers a clear cool pond, surrounded by a thick growth of ground plants including epiphytic and ground orchids, ferns, mosses and other plants that love shade and a wet environment. The top of the mountain, at 1700 meters, affords spectacular views of the forests and landscape of the surrounding area. Visitors can see Chiangmai province to the west, Chiang Rai province to the east, Doi Lahnga to the south and to the north, Doi Phangome.
Doi Lahnga: At just over 2,000 meters, majestic Doi Lahnga is Thailand's fifth highest peak. The trail to the top of Doi Lahnga enable visitors to see many spectacular views of Khun Chae national park and the surrounding area. Doi Lahnga and its many sister peaks are located on the extreme southern boundary of the park, adjacent to Jae Son national park and Mae Dahkry national park.
The Fascinating fig tree: One of the unique features of Khun Chae national park is an enormous, structurally unique, fig tree that grows near the park's headquarters. This tree is remarkable for its size, covering an area of approximately 1,660 square meters; the number and variety of plants (epiphytes) that live on it; and the fantastic structural support that its large branches get from several supporting stems.
Forest shrine: A small Buddhist shrine, located a short distance from the park's headquarters, features a garden with a statue of the Lord Buddha and a nature trail that follows a charming mountain stream. The outdoor temple is a peaceful spot along the Chiangmai - Chiang Rai highway for travel weary motorists as well as park visitors.
Mae Chang Khao reservoir: It is located near station 1. Picnickers ride out to the middle of the lake on a bamboo raft and enjoy their meal in the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of a freshwater lake.
Facilities
Khun Chae national park has two large guest houses, one with a capacity of 15, the other with a capacity of 20. Both guest houses are new, spacious, have two bathrooms with western style toilets, and large observation decks with beautiful views of the area near park's headquarters. The facilities at three substations are limited.

How to get there
The park is located adjacent to the main high way connecting Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. To get to the park from Chiang Mai, take high way no. 118 for 56 km northeast of Chiangmai. Between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai there are ordinary and air conditioned buses as well as pick up cars running this route.
Contact address
Khun Chae National Park
Mae Chae Dee Mai
Wiang Pa Pao District
Chiang Rai 57260

Source from http://www.trekthailand.net

Chiang Saen National Museum

2008-04-29T07:25:00.001-07:00

The ancient Thai capital of Chiang Saen is now a small but intriguing village scattered with silent, brooding ruins on the alluvial plain where the town's lowlands alternate with the hills. This place was once home to King Mengrai, who later founded the Kingdom of Lanna with Chiangmai ("New Walled City") as it's capital.

The remaining earthen ramparts still seen at Chiang Saen today are just a fraction of the defensive walls originally constructed. The Mae Khong River flows along the northern side and Chiang Saen Lake, 4 kms. south of the town, has been developed for recreation with swimming, boating and fishing.
One of the town's main attractions is its charming branch of the National Museum of Thailand. The Chiang Saen National Museum displays excavated artifacts dating back to the very earliest appearance of man in the district.

Chiang Saen's chronicles say that King Saen Phu of the Mengrai Dynasty founded the town, after which at least three princes of the Lanna Kingdom ruled the town before succeeding to the throne at Chiangmai. It was also an important Buddhist center until it was conquered in 1558 A.D. by the Burmese.
From the middle of the 16th century to the mid-18th century, Chiang Saen served as an important military outpost for the Kingdom of Ayuthaya during warfare with Burma. During the first reign of the Bangkok period, when the Burmese were being driven out of Siam, Chiang Saen became a battlefield and the town was burnt. Its people were removed to other towns in the north, or to Bangkok.

The town remained deserted until 1861, when King Rama I ordered a prince from Lamphun to lead people from Lamphun, Chiangmai and Lampang to resettle the town. This prince, Chao Inta, then became ruler of Chiang Saen and received the title Phraya Ratchawong in 1890. Later, the status accorded Chiang Saen suffered, and it has been merely a district of Chiangrai Province since 1907.
source from http://www.chiangmai-chiangrai.com

Travel In Pai Mae Hong Sorn Province

2008-04-20T00:36:00.001-07:00

Pai district is situated about halfway between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Sorn, the misty town on the Burmese border. At about 600 meters above sea level, surrounded by high mountains. Pai offers one of the most fertile and beautiful nature in the North of Thailand, clean air and no pollution. People from many different tribes live here peacefully together and still maintain their traditional way of living.

The serene Pai river runs from the northern border with Burma through Pai town and along virgin jungle to Mae Hong Sorn. Hardy adventurers use this route for exciting rafting.

How to get to Pai?
Start from the main tourist hub: From Chiang Mai on route 1095 towards Pai it is 132 kilometer. The bus from Chiang Mai Arcade bus station takes about 4 hours.
Buses from Chiang Mai to Pai:
7.00, 8.30, 10.30, 12.30, 16.00
Buses from Pai to Chiang Mai:
7.00, 8.30, 11.00, 12.30, 16.30
From Mae Hong Sorn town: Along this route pine trees and wild vegetation line both sides of the gently rising road passing nice scenery along the way. In Mae Hong Sorn are motorbikes and jeep available for rent.
Population of Pai
Mainly Thai Yai (from Burmas Shane state) and hill tribes (Lisu, Lahu, Karen). In town mainly Thai, Thai-Chinese, some Thai-Muslim and some foreign residents.
Occupation in Pai
Agriculture - mainly garlic, rice, fruits, lychee, cotton
Climate in Pai
Cool season: 12? C - 28? C from November - March
Hot season: 24? C - 35? C from April - June
Rainy season: 24? C - 32? C from July - September
Tourist Attractions in Pai and around
Old temples:
    * Wat Nam Hu
    * Wat Phra That Mae Yen (mountain temple)
    * Wat Klang and Wat Luang (temples where Thai Yai / Burmese architecture is preserved)
Wonders of nature:
    * Ta Pai hot spring
    * Pong Duad hot spring
    * Mo Paeng waterfall (near Lahu village)
    * Mae Yen waterfall
    * Lod caves (these are beautiful and ancient caves on a large area where graves of prehistoric civilization was found. The area is a national park with lots of different birds.

Activities in Pai
    * padelling rubber boat along Pai river
    * adventure rafting and canoe along Pai river
    * explore caves or go mountain trekking
    * elephant riding through jungle
    * mountain bike cycling or motorbike-trekking (Nop's bike shop offers 2 - 3 - 4 days motorbike trekking with 250 ccm trail bikes around northern part of Mae Hong Sorn province. Guide available or on your own. Also available Honda Dream, good maps and other information.)
    * jungle-treks: Pai is well known as a base camp for trekks to hill tribes. Walk through green jungle and spend the night in a hill tribe village to experience their traditional way of life. In Pai there are local or hill tribe guides and porters available.
    * Herbal Sauna and Thai Traditional Massage as well as herbal medicine or Burmese Massage
    * Reading (Nop's book shop)
    * Thai cooking course at Peter's and Wandee's Hut in Mae Yen

Culture in Pai
Both local Thais and hilltribes still keep their traditions alive by their traditional dressing, house style, food and entertainment.
Here are some of the highlight festivals:
    * Loy Kratong (full moon night in November)
    * fireworks competition at Wat Luang (beginning of November)
    * Kin Wo (hill tribes New Year, February)
    * Thai New Year (13 - 15 April)
    * bamboo throwing festival (to ask for rain, May)

Facilities in Pai
Pai is a small town but can offer enough facilities such as a post office, hospital, long distance call and fax service. Accommodations and food are good and cheap. Most of the guest houses are in town and the scenic most beautiful ones are along the river. Local restaurants and western style restaurants are available (e. g. Chez Swan Restaurant, Thai Yai Restaurant) with home made brown bread.

More Information About Pai Please visit to Thailand Online

Chiang Mai Songkran Festival

2008-03-30T04:59:00.001-07:00

Date About 11-19 April 2008

Venue
All around in Chiangmai city, Chiangmai province

Activities
A procession and bathing of the Phra Phuttasihing, paying homage to elderly, local traditional shows and local artistic game demonstration , splashing water around the city ditch, walking street and all international food.
Hi-Light

12 April 2008

07.00 hrs.
Royal Flora Garden (Ratchaphruek), there is a piling rice to 99 monks and grand opening Songkran festival by the Minister of Tourism and Sport Ministry.

13 April 2008

14.00 hrs.
a procession and bathing of the Phra Phuttasihing and Miss Songkran parade from Naowarat bridge to Wat Phra Sing.

14 April 2008

16.00 hrs.
a parade of sand-carrying back to temple & Mai Kham Sari from Saphan Lek (Iron bridge) to the temple on Tha Phae Street.

15 April 2008

13.30 hrs.
a parade of paying homage for Chiang Mai Governor from Three Kings monument to the Governor’s Office.

Further Information
Municipality
Tel: 0 5325 9000
TAT Northern Region Office, Region 1 (Chiang Mai)
Tel: 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607
More Information please visit to Songkran.net

Songkran in Chiang Mai

2008-03-24T07:45:00.001-07:00

During Songkran, in the North and Northeast, there are water throwing everywhere. It is common that they stop working for up to 7 days, in some places. The most famous and most fun Songkran celebration is held in Chiang Mai. People of Chiang Mai would do as described here ;

April 13th, called Wan Sungkarnlong, is the day to clean up their houses.

April 14th, called Wan Nao, people will bring food for monks and relatives. This day is the beginning day of the new year. They must not do anything bad, not to speak rude words to others.

April 15th is Wan Paya Wan, regarded as the best day, merit-makings are main activity. There is an organized parade to bathe monks, elderly people and wish for blessing.

The eminence of Chiang Mai, which attracts people to come to play Songkran in Chaing Mai, is that it has a canal surrounding its inner ancient city. People from everywhere gather at the canal around the city, throwing water to people with fun. The other important activity is that Wat (temples) bring their own sacred Buddha images into a remarkable long parade such as a parade of Pra Singha, parade of the white crystal Buddha. These Buddha images are between 700-1000 years old. The parade goes through the center of the city and people can take part in bathing those Buddha images with scented water. Every year, during Songkran, the city of Chiang Mai is packed with people. It can be said that the city is closed for Songkran for the whole 3 days.

King's Cup Elephant Polo 2008

2008-03-22T10:47:00.001-07:00

Date 31 March - 6 April 2008
Place : Anantara Resort Golden Triangle

Thailand's highly popular King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament returns to the hills in 2008. Event organiser Anantara Resorts announced that the 2008 tournament would take place from March 31 to April 6 in the northern-most region of the country known as the Golden Triangle.

This popular event, ranked as the 6th largest event on the Thai tourism calendar had taken place in the royal seaside town of Hua Hin for 5 years before moving to the natural home of elephants in 2006. The tournament was introduced to Thailand in 2001 and is a charitable event that raises money for the country's National Elephant Institute in Lampang, northern Thailand.
In just six years the King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament has gone from a small 2-day event with 6 teams into a week-long extravaganza, which in 2006 featured 12 teams from 3 continents encompassing 36 players from 15 countries.
Hosting the event in the far North ensures that the international spotlight is focused onto a very unique and special part of Thailand, showcasing the beauty of the natural landscape of the Golden Triangle region. Through its own Elephant Camp located within the grounds of the Anantara Resort Golden Triangle, the property's focus on the future of Thailand's pachyderm population which forms an integral part of the resort's experience offering. On an on-going basis, resident nature ranger, John Roberts, works closely with the Thai government's Elephant Conservation Centre in Lampang to develop Anantara's camp as an elephant sanctuary.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand supports the King's Cup Elephant Polo tournament and spectator entrance is free of charge.
To date the tournament has raised over US$140,000 for the National Elephant Institute, which provides medical care, sustenance, employment, welfare and mahout training to Thailand's elephant population. It is estimated that Thailand has around 2500 domesticated elephants and 1500 wild elephants. This is down from an elephant population of around 50,000 in 1950 and 100,000 in 1900.
The 2006 tournament featured the return of DHL Global Mail, led by Tom Claytor, a bush pilot who loves to play elephant polo, Margie McDougal, the most experienced female player in the world, Torquhil Ian Campbell, 13th Duke of Argyll, an experienced captain from ThisistheLife.com Scotland, All Blacks team headed by Justin Sampson (Sambo), Bernie Fraser, New Zealand's former world-ranking rugby player. The ultimate winners of the tournament were the ThisistheLife.com team - in what came to be a very close sudden-death shoot-out.
Anantara Resort Golden Triangle is located 60km north of Chiang Rai's international airport.
For enquiries and reservations, please call + 66 (0) 5378 4084 or + 66 (0) 2 477 0760 or email: infogt@anantara.com For more information, visit www.anantara.com
For all media enquiries, please contact:
Marion Walsh - Brand Director of Public Relations
Tel: + 66 (0) 2 725 6104
Email: mwalsh@anantara.com
Additional images are available upon request.