travel

Thailand Travel Guide

2010-07-21T10:01:00.000-07:00

Thailand Travel Guide - Recommended Activities Not to Be Missed in Thailand by Bernie Chan
in Travel / Travel Tips (submitted 2010-03-16)

Due to a great number of interesting activities that Thailand has, it is hard to narrow those choices down to the best five options. However, if we really have to choose, this travel guide for Thailand will pick the following 5 not-to-be-missed activities instead. Yet, as mentioned, they are not all of the best attractions visitors can enjoy in Thailand.

1. Experiencing amazing underwater World

Experiencing the beautiful underwater nature is one of the most popular visiting activities located in the southern and eastern part of Thailand. A large part of the reef is still protected by Thai government in order to limit the impact from human activities so that there are still vast biodiversity under warm sparkling water existed in this country. Moreover, due to the accessibility from the tourists, the underwater world is a popular destination for travelers, especially for scuba diving and snorkeling. The well known places for this are such as Krabi, Trang, Phuket, Koh Samet, Koh Phangan, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tao etc. More information about diving in Thailand and great deals of accommodation nearby, please visit thailandcheckin.com.

2. Enjoying the World's famous beach party on Koh Phangan (Full Moon Party)

Koh Phangan is a famous destination for full moon party. 10,000 - 30,000 party lovers would come and enjoy the all-night beach party which will be held every month on the island. Besides the night time, this island still has some beautiful nature of clear sky, blue sea, white sand and coconut trees for visitors to enjoy. This is the place where the peace of nature and fun of the big live party come together.

3. Relaxing with a traditional Thai massage

One thing that any travel guide for Thailand can't be missed to mention about is traditional Thai massage or in Thai "Nuad Phan Thai". Thai massage is an art with long history. The massage is something unique involving stretching and deep massage that traveler should try once visiting Thailand to experience some peaceful relaxation during their trips. Visitors can choose to enjoy this kind of service from many places around the country from luxury spas in hotels to trusted traditional place for Thai massage as Wat Pho, the place close to the Grand Palace.

4. Shopping cheap but quality products back to your home

Thailand is one of the best shopping destination in Asia and popular for its bargaining markets. Best buy products include Thai silks and cottons, silver and gold, batiks, leather goods, beautiful pottery, precious stones such as rubies and sapphires, pearls, wood artifacts, bronze ware, designer items, tailor-made cloth, technology, etc. Travel guide for Thailand shopping places would include both shopping streets and malls such as Chatuchak, Suan Lum Night Bazaar, Silom area, Sukhumvit areas and shopping malls such as Central Plaza, The Mall, Paragon, Emporium, etc.

5. Cooking the delicious Thai cuisine with cooking classes

Thai food is one of the world's most famous and healthiest. Many dishes have become favorite dishes for people around the world such as Thai fried noodles (Pad Thai), hot and spicy soup with shrimp (Tom Yum Gung), coconut soup with chicken (Tom Kha Gai), etc. There are many Thai cooking classes now available for travelers around Thailand both in hotels and in institutions. So, here is the chance for visitors to learn how to make this finest cuisine back home.

These are the 5 activities that this travel guide for Thailand would recommend visitors to try and gain some experiences like no other. As said, these five are not all you can enjoy in this country. There are more to do such as visiting great diversity of the country's natural heritage for some adventure holidays, enjoying night life in Pattaya for some extra fun, riding on an elephant into the thick jungles for once-in-a-lifetime experience or traveling on a boat trip along Chaophaya river to touch on Thai way of living besides the river.

Last advice, before being able to enjoy those activities, advance booking for those activities and accommodation nearby is always a good idea. Travel guide for Thailand would highly recommend requesting for some promotional rates when booking as bargaining can often work in this country.

For more details about Thailand, you can visit thailandguideblog.com.

About the Author
Bernie was born in Thailand and attended in Mahidol University International College where she majored in Tourism and Hospitality Management. With a strong passion that she has in her graduated program, she then decided to start her carrier as a tour guide and continued working in tourism related positions for many years. She has traveled to every parts of Thailand and got many valuable experiences around the country that she would like to share.

Trang - Oasis Of Peace

2010-04-11T18:02:00.000-07:00

Trang Hotels- Oasis Of Peace
By: amit kumar pandey
Home | Travel-and-Leisure

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Trang, a gem of Thailand, is a land of pristine beauty, sun soaked beaches and lush greenery. Located 828 kilometers from Bangkok, this city of Thailand is renowned for its islands, parks and beaches. Embark on a trip to the Ko Kradan or explore the Khao Chong Wildlife and Nature Education Centre. You can lie back on the beaches, indulge yourself in the varied sport activities or soak yourself in the history and the culture of the land. To meet the needs of all types of travelers, there are many Trang Hotels.

Be it the hotels in the town or the hotels in the beach areas, all of them offer excellent accommodation facility to all. The Thumrin Thana Hotel located close to the airport, bus terminal and the train station is a good option of accommodation. Trang Plaza Hotel located opposite Praya Rasadanupradit Mouument Park offers 196 guest rooms that are well appointed. Thumrin Hotel is proud to be the first luxurious international first class hotel of Trang. Wattana Park Hotel where you can get style and comfort under the same roof offers international standard of services to all.

Apart from these there are a good number of resorts in beach areas. The Chang Lang Resort, the Lay Trang Resort, the Amari Trang Beach Resort and the Pak Meng Resort are some of them. The islands of Trang also feature a good number of accommodation option. Koh Mook Charlie Beach Resort in Koh Mook beach is a paradise for nature lovers. The traditional bungalow of Koh Ngai Villa which overlooks panoramic seas and gardens is worth mentioning. Most of the hotels and the resorts in Trang, Thailand are located in the midst of natural beauty. If you are a nature lover, then the beachfront Cottages are the best for you.

It is one of the prime destinations for honeymooners. To welcome you there are special honeymoon suites with a host of modern facilities that shower the much desired comfort. The hotels of Trang feature a number of well appointed rooms that assure you the comfort and the warmth of your home. Apart from the standard rooms, there are honeymoon suites for honeymooners, executive suites for business travelers and disabled rooms for physically challenged ones.

Trang hotels also offer excellent dining, business and recreational facilities. You can dine the regional dishes served in the restaurant or can sip a glass of your favorite drink in the bar. Most of the hotels of the city also offer a well equipped conference rooms for all its guests.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Book Your Room at Trang Hotels Now

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Trang, Thailand

2010-04-01T06:50:00.000-07:00

Trang, Thailand - Thailand best unknown secret. by Don Carswell
in Travel / Destinations (submitted 2010-03-16)

After hearing from many Thai's raving on about Trang and how the snorkeling was great, I thought I better go see what the fuss is all about and also heard great reviews ina few Thai forums. My wife and I went to a travel expo in Bangkok and booked a package which included 2 nights accommodation, including all meals and 2 days of snorkeling. After a 1 hour flight we landed in Trang, it is located south of Phuket. Our resort picked us up from the airport and took us to a pier for our ferry to our resort which was on a small island. At the pier I couldn't help but notice all the rubbish that was around, the place was filthy and I was starting to think this trip is not going to live up to the hype from my Thai friends. But after the ferry to our resort I was surprised that the rubbish had disappeared. Our bungalow was located about 10 meters from the beach which was nice. After we dropped our bags off we went to have diner, where we were greeted with 6 dishes of seafood. The amount of food would of feed a family. After dinner which we didn't come close to finishing we went back to the bungalow for some sleep to get ready for a full day of snorkeling. In the 2 days of snorkeling, we had an amazing time, there was so much fish and they would eat rice right out of our hands. We also went to a place called the emerald cave, its a small opening in the side of a mountain which we swam as a group into (with life jackets). The cave was really dark, but if you looked down the water was light blue and was giving us a little light from the reflection from the sun. After about 30 meters in it just went pitch black for about 50 meters. Once we got to the end of the cave, the water lit up as there was an opening at the end of the cave. Our guide told us there is a small beach surrounded by cliffs on the other side of the wall. But to get there we would have to swim under the wall for about 5 meters. I am a pretty strong swimmer and it was easy for me, but we had one guy who couldn't swim at all. We had to make him hold his breath and 2 of us swam and pushed him under and through to the other side. Once we all got through we were on a beach that was about 50 by 50 meters. It was a stunning place. I was told by our guide, that many years ago this is where pirates used to hide there valuables. Once we got back out we went to many other spots to snorkel before we went back to our resort.It was an exhausting day. After each tiring day we were greeted by a huge amount of seafood for dinner. I have to say this trip did live up to the hype. Trang is a beautiful place to visit, I would recommend it to anyone. If you like the sun, good food and snorkeling, then Trang is the place to go.

About the Author
Don Carswell is publisher on Thailand who you can ask about anything on Thailand. My website is Thailand Thai forum Thailand Classifieds

Amazing Thailand

2010-03-25T22:52:00.000-07:00

Amazing Thailand - Explore and be Amazed by Willium Taylor
in Travel / Destinations (submitted 2010-02-16)

Amazing Thailand is a traveller's paradise. Not only is Thailand crawling with sandy white beaches and islands, it's heaven for people who love food and shopping. Thailand cuisine is famous worldwide for its fresh herbs and spices. For food lovers, Thailand tourism does not restrict itself to restaurants of fame. Whether an outdoor stall in downtown Pattaya, or a classy restaurant in Bangkok - the tastes of Thailand come out in full glory. And if food isn't exactly what you're looking for, then Thailand also offers a rich shopping experience. Bangkok houses some of the biggest shopping malls in the world with almost everything under the sun on offer - be it international or local brands of household articles, electronics or fabrics.

What makes tourism in Thailand all the more amazing is its culture and festivals. The legendary Thai massage gets its own flow of tourists - some come for the massage and some come to take courses in Thai massage. National festivals in amazing Thailand include the fun-for-all water splashing 'Songkran', and the almost fairytale like quality of 'Loy Krathong'.

Popular tourist destinations in Thailand are:

Phuket, Ko Samui, and Hatyai in Southern Thailand; Bangkok, Pattaya, Kanchanaburi, and Ayutthaya in Central Thailand;Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, and Pai in Northern Thailand; and Khao Yai National Park and Phimai historical park in North-eastern Thailand.

Bangkok Bangkok was originally a small trading centre is one of the most visited tourist places in the world today. The city has innumerable tourist spots and attractions like the Siam Ocean World, The Grand Palace, Thonburi Snake farm, Dusit Zoo, Chao Phya river and its canals, Wat Pra Kaeo - the temple the emerald Buddha, Pat Pong night bazaar, and the Calypso Cabaret.

Pattaya Originally a fishing town, Pattaya also attracts as many tourists as Bangkok. The Sri Racha Tiger Zoo, the Vimantaitalay tourist submarine which offers trip underwater to see corals and deep sea life, The Million Years Stone Park, Pattaya Crocodile Farm, Pattaya Park Beach Resort Water Park, Funny Land Amusement Park, Siriporn Orchid Farm, Underwater World Pattaya, the Thai Alangkarn Theater Pattaya, Bottle Art Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum are amongst the hundreds of tourist attractions here.

What started off as Rest and Recuperation for American soldiers in Vietnam in the 1960s is today one of the most preferred tourist destinations. Amazing Thailand as it's popularly known has seen an exponential increase in tourism through five decades now, with predictions of even better future prospects.

About the Author
Visit amazing thailand for its beauty and explore bangkok thailand along with nightlife in pattaya thailand.

Krabi Thailand Travel

2010-03-19T23:23:00.000-07:00

Journey to the Aquatic Wonders of Krabi by Maddox G. Raphoya
in Travel / Hotels and Lodging

Your heart pounds in your ears as you slowly descend, breathing slowly, bubbles spiralling above your head. The temperature drops as you dip below the thermocline and near the soft sand of the ocean floor. Coral reef rises before you, a cacophony of tropical colour with gently swaying anemone and playful angelfish darting among the rocks. Suddenly, gliding into view below, a whale shark circles your group, curiously inspecting the new visitors to his ocean floor.

Krabi on the Andaman Sea offers some of the most fantastic and varied diving sites in the world, with exciting dives for both novices and experts. From wreck dives to cave explorations to glorious coral gardens, Krabi has something for every diver. Grab your fins and take advantage of these top five Krabi aquatic wonders, not to be missed!

5. King Cruiser Wreck: A metal mammoth of a wreck, the King Cruiser Ferry sunk in 1997 just beyond Krabi and Phuket (but don't worry, no one was hurt). The propellers rest at 32 metres depth while the shallower passenger decks rise all the way to 12 metres, making the site accessible to beginners, but still offering some interesting opportunities for penetration to advanced and technical divers. Look out for barracudas skirting among the wreckage!

4. Sra Kreow Cave: The islands around Trang and Krabi are known for their stunning cave systems. Emerald Cave of Koh Moot is a fun destination for an afternoon of swimming and exploration. But technical divers should explore the legendary Sra Keow Cave, the deepest cave system in Thailand. This natural wonder has two entry points at 60 metres and descends to a depth of 240 metres. Not yet fully explored, this cave system is only for divers with technical training and experience in cave diving.

3. Koh Rok Nok: An uninhabited island just offshore from Krabi, Koh Rok Nok offers some of Thailand's most pristine dive sites, absolutely bursting with wildlife. Among the rainbow of colourful tropical fish, keep your eyes peeled for nudibranchs, moray eels, octopus, sting rays and blacktip reef sharks. Near the eastern tip of the island, you can swim alongside some friendly green or hawksbill turtles. Shallow depths and high visibility make Koh Rok Nok and equally fulfilling spot for snorkellers.

2. PADI Dive Course: If you are new to diving, Krabi is the perfect place to earn your Open Water Diver certification at an affordable cost. Experienced divers should take advantage of Krabi by perfecting buoyancy or learning underwater photography. Some resorts even offer their own dive centres. One of the best is at Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa (South of Krabi)(sikao.anantara.com) in the quiet and beautiful area of Si Kao just south of Krabi. This kind of resort can be a great way to blend excellent diving with a relaxing holiday - adventure at sea, luxury on shore.

1. Shark Point: A dive site that earns its name, Shark Point is rocky pinnacle rising up out of the water and is home to a number of leopard and whale sharks. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean, beautifully graceful and docile, these plankton eaters can grow up to 12 metres and 20 tonnes. Bubbles scare them away, so breathe carefully and they may creep up close. Swimming beside these magnificent creatures is one of the most exhilarating diving experiences in the world!

About the Author
Maddox G. Raphoya is a travel writer based in Thailand and writing about luxury resorts, hotels and travel worldwide.

Thailand/US Visa

2010-03-05T03:31:00.000-08:00

US Tourist Visa: Thailand by Benjamin W. Hart, Esq.
in Law (submitted 2010-01-11)

Each year, American Citizens travel abroad and meet the love of their life. Unfortunately, it can be a time consuming process to take a loved one back to the United States of America. The following article looks at the United States Immigration issues connected with a US Tourist visa application submitted on behalf of a Citizen of the Kingdom of Thailand.

The United States Tourist Visa can be a difficult travel document to obtain for the wife, husband, fiance, girlfriend, boyfriend, or significant other of a United States Citizen. Many Americans become frustrated or disgruntled by the fact that US tourist visa applications are routinely turned down by the Consular Officers at the American Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand or the American Consulate-General in Chiang Mai, Thailand. In most cases, once the applicant (or the applicant's sponsor) is advised regarding the relevant law, the reason for application denial is almost self-evident.

The United States Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) sets forth clear rules about how Consular Officers should adjudicate visa applications. Pursuant to section 214(b) of the INA, a Consular Officer must presume that all applicants for non-immigrant visas are, in reality, intending immigrants. To be more specific, in the case of United States tourist visa applications the Consular Officers are required to presume that anyone applying for a Tourist visa is, in fact, an undisclosed immigrant. The officer must be fully convinced that an applicant is not an immigrant in order for the statutory presumption to be overcome. In cases where a Thai applicant has an American boyfriend, fiance, or husband the presumption of immigrant intent is not easily overcome which leads to a situation in which the tourist visa applicant will likely be denied.

In some cases, the American Citizen counterpart is resident in Thailand. In these situations, overcoming the presumption of immigrant intent may be easier as the Consular Officer may view the American's residence in Thailand as a strong factor that would compel the Thai applicant to return. However, these adjudications are based firmly upon the Officer's discretion as well as the unique facts in each case and therefore any theorizing about a Consular Officer's possible decisions would be an exercise in mere speculation.

For those interested in taking a Thai loved one back to the United States to reside, the US Tourist Visa is not the correct travel document for this purpose. Instead, Americans should look to either the K1 fiance visa, the K3 marriage visa, or the immigrant marriage visas as a lawful means of bringing a Thai loved one to the USA.

A word of caution: to those who would use dishonesty or subterfuge to obtain desired immigration benefits be warned that use of such tactics would likely result in unforeseen complications as the Consular Officers at US Embassies and Consulates abroad are highly skilled at detecting misrepresentations and a material misrepresentation of fact in a visa application could lead to a finding that the applicant is inadmissible to the United States. Also, it is becoming increasingly apparent that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers are on the lookout for those using US tourist visas for undisclosed immigration to the US. If a CBP officer finds that one is an undisclosed immigrant they can place the traveler in expedited removal proceedings. After removal, the traveler would be barred from reentering the USA for a statutorily prescribed period of time.

About the Author
Benjamin Hart is an American lawyer and Managing Director of Integrity Legal (Thailand) Co. Ltd. Contact Integrity at 1-877-231-7533, +66 (0)2-266-3698, or info@integrity-legal.com. See further information at K1 visa or US visa

Thailand in Pictures - Southern Region

2010-02-28T20:13:00.000-08:00

What To Do In Trang, Far South West Thailand by Martin Hurley
in Travel / Destinations (submitted 2009-10-26)

At first glance, you'd probably think the sleepy little town of Muang Trang, or Trang, in far south west Thailand, is just full of rubber trees and not much else. But you'd be mistaken, because there's a lot of magic in this little Thai town, as you're about to discover.

But just to clarify, Trang has got a few rubber plantations. Well, actually, more than a few. More like as far as the eye can see, along with millions of looming palm oil trees too. But that's a story for another day. Let's talk about why Trang is a quite possibly an undiscovered paradise.

Firstly, Trang is so off the radar that not many tourists or travelers get there. And if they do, usually they're just passing through on their way to get some island snorkeling in and catch some laid back beach sun. However this is possibly what makes this Portuguese/Chinese influenced town so different.

With no real 'tourist' stuff such as you might find in nearby Phuket, Trang is as normal a Thai city as you'd ever get. Peek outside around 6 am and you'd see breakfast time is bustling and busy, monks doing their daily walking rounds, and a whole lot of folks on their way back from milking the heck out of those endless rubber trees.

About 30 minutes outside the town you're confronted with rock scattered waterfalls winding their way down the mountains, huge underground caves that seem to go on forever, and the occasional fluorescent green rice field. Go the other way and it's all beach. Maybe not the perfect white sand beaches you'd imagine, but still swimmable and great for exploring.

So, although it looks smallish on the map, Trang has its share of delights and a few big secrets too. Of course, the best way to get a feel for it is to go there and stay for a week or two. That way you'll know exactly what I'm talking about!

About the Author
Martin has been writing articles for nearly 3 years. His latest website over at http://www.yourthailandflight.com will help you find cheap flights to Thailand as well as a no frills airline for your next Thailand vacation.

Koh Lanta Music

2010-01-25T06:56:00.001-08:00

Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking

2010-01-25T05:35:00.000-08:00

Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking - Exploring Mother Nature's Crowning Glory by Naveen Marasinghe
in Destinations

The Asian elephant population is fast diminishing and the Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking experience is a fun way to get to know these gentle giants and help preserve their upkeep. These elephants are looked after by a personal mahout, who treat them like family. Currently, the Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking experience has over 2000 elephants.
The Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking experience continues through a jungle and streams and ends at a different location according to the specific trekking route you wish go to along on. The first route ends at a rubber tree plantation, which will hold a demonstration of raw rubber production.

The elephant ride is one hour long and falls through the luscious tropical rainforest of Phra Ae Camp. The first route is family-oriented, allowing the tourists to participate in the elephant feeding and educating them on how and where elephants live, all supervised by an experienced guide. The second route includes a visit to the Mai Kaew Cave. The third route falls along a sea gypsy village known as Baan Sang Ga U and the tourist must stop here to enjoy lunch and beautiful views. From here, a walk to the waterfalls and a visit to Lanta National Park are scheduled.

Route number four includes a bit of adventure sports, arranging a kayaking trip (at an individual's preferred pace) through luscious mangrove forest filled with wildlife in their natural habitat. Finally, there's the route where you get to visit the Orchid and Butterfly Garden after the one-hour ride.

Koh Lanta is linked with Thailand's ultimate luxury tourism sector and when in Koh Lanta, it's absolutely essential to stay at a luxury vacation spa resort. Among them, the Krabi luxury villas are simply superb.

About the Author
Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing agency that offers integrated Internet marketing solutions and specializes in serving the online travel and hospitality industry. (http://www.emarketingeye.com/ )

Trang

2010-01-25T05:32:00.000-08:00

Trang (Koh Lanta & Krabi) , Thailand Scuba Diving Guide by MyTourPal
in Hobbies (submitted 2008-10-15)

pluggedThis is Thailand's latest and most exciting diving area. Trang is located in the south of Krabi and Lanta. Many of the dive sites here are world-class. Unlike the water around nearby Phi Phi Islands group, the water here is always crystal clear. On a normal day visibility is about 25 meters and it is not uncommon to have visibility of up to 40 meters. To know more about scuba diving in Phi Phi Islands group, please visit our Phi Phi's diving guide.

The dive sites in Trang is dived into four areas, Koh Ha, Koh Rok, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang. Among them, Hin Deang and Hin Muang are probably the most famous and frequently dived sites. Diving in this area is filled with great excitements. The health and number of reef inhabitants are exceptional. Large schools and different varieties of pelagics comes here to feed so often that they seem like residents of these water, thus encounters with pelagics is almost certain here.

The first few adventurers that came Trang to dive had been richly rewarded. Many divers that had set foot here had commented that the dives sites here are better than those found Koh Similan and Koh Surin Marine Park. For that, these must be the best diving sites found in Thailand.

To know more about scuba diving in Koh Similan National Marine Park, please visit our Koh Similan National Marine Park's diving guide.

To know more about scuba diving in Koh Surin National Marine Park, please visit our Koh Surin National Marine Park's diving guide.

Read the complete article here: Trang, MyTourPal Thailand Scuba Diving Guide

About the Author
I love to read and write about scuba diving. I have dived in Malaysia (Lang Tengah), Australia (Great Barrier Reef), Thailand (Phuket) and Maldives. I hope to dive in Egypt (Red Sea) in future. MyTourPal Hotels Reservation - Krabi Last Minute and Discounted Hotels

Beach Hua Hin : Thailand

2009-09-15T22:22:00.000-07:00

Hua Hin Thailand

2009-09-15T22:21:00.001-07:00

Hua Hin: Thailand's Beach Resort Paradise by Michael Allen

No visit to Thailand is complete without a trip to the beautiful resort beaches of Hua Hin. Located 200 miles south of Bangkok, Hua Hin is one of the oldest and most popular sandy destinations in the country.
While many of the other beach resorts in Thailand - including Phuket and Samui - have been over developed and overrun with tourist hotels and restaurants, Hua Hin has retained its traditional charm as both a resort and a working fishing village.

The beach is over five miles long and surrounded by some of the best, yet least expensive, golf courses in the entire world. The city itself was discovered more than 80 years ago by King Rama VII. He chose the place as his home away from home when he wanted to escape the heat and humidity of the capital city.

Once King Rama built his palace in what had up until that point been a fishing village, other Siam nobility were soon to follow - which fueled the growth and popularity of Hua Hin.

The king's palace - called Klai Kangwon, which means "Far From Worries" - remains an official royal residence and popular attraction to this day. Public tours are easy to arrange - even when members of the royal family are staying there!

Be careful outside the palace, however, because security is very tight and any type of public intoxication or other bad behavior near the palace is dealt with very strictly by the local police officers.

While the main tourist activity is to lie out on the sandy beach and have locals bring your drinks or provide massages, there are sites to see when you've decided you've had your fill of fun in the sun.

Most of the wealthiest families in Thailand have built their summer homes near the palace or on the beach, which means there is beautiful architecture to see as you stroll around and explore Hua Hin.

Khao Takiap is a large hill that is filled with beautiful Buddhist temples and offers the best overhead view of the city, the port and the ocean. It is a four-kilometer hike, so you may want to rent a bike or motorcycle to take you to the top.

The Hua Hin railway station is one of the oldest stations in Thailand and is so beautiful that it is considered one of the country's landmarks.

The Spirit Houses of Brassiere Beach has a really odd history. Legend has it that the daughter of a local fisherman was eaten by fish because she was too beautiful to live in the world. Today, men and women leave brasseries on the beach in order to ask the gods for good luck.

Namtok Pa Lau is an 11-tier waterfall located about 30 miles outside of town. It is easy to get to by bus, and is particularly popular on hot and humid days.

Wat Huay Mongkol was where famed monk Luang Phor Thuat lived his life. He was known for performing miracles and his former residence is now a large public park featuring a giant statue of him as its centerpiece.

At night Hua Hin comes alive with a large open-air market where you can buy nearly anything under the moon, and see what types of interesting fish and fruits the locals like to eat. You can also sample any of the many excellent seafood restaurants that surround the market.

If you want to sample local products, look for things made from Khommaphat, which is a type of cotton unique to the Hua Hin region. They use it to make everything from shirts to large decorative pieces of art.

The one downside of Hua Hin is that it does not have as active a nightlife culture as the other beach resort towns in Thailand. Your best bet is to hit the Soi Bintabaht and Soi Selakam areas where you can find local beer bars. By royal decree, there are no go-go bars in town.

Hua Hin has three important regional festivals, including:

* The Thailand's International Kite Festival is held from March through May in Hua Hin during even numbered years. It features stunt kites, big kites, little kites, high tech kites, traditional Thai kites, and displays of international kites.

* Hua Hin Jazz Festival is held through the month of June on the beach. It attracts world-class Jazz musicians and is considered one of the most popular events in Hua Hin.

* Hua Hin Vintage Car Rally. Sponsored by Vintage Car Club of Thailand and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the car rally is held every December. All of the cars in the rally are vintage from the 1920s, in celebration of when the King discovered the city.

Getting to Hua Hin is easy from nearly any part of Thailand. It is hooked up to most of the major rail lines and you can get a direct train from Bangkok. There are also several bus routes from both Bangkok and Malaysia.

Overall, the weather is temperate. There is a brief rainy season in the spring, but the showers tend to be very short and are often over in five minutes or less - so you can get right back to the sun and fun!

You will notice that there are many, many more Thai tourists in Hua Hin than in the other national beach resorts. While westerners do come to Hua Hin, there are far fewer of them here than in Phuket or any of the other beach towns.

This leads to a certain charm, because Hua Hin has yet to be completely corrupted by tourists - and you can feel like you are having a very authentic Thailand vacation experience!

So, next time you are in Thailand, hop on the train and check out the beautiful beaches, waterfalls and temples of Hua Hin. Consider it a royal experience!

You'll be glad you did! Visit http://www.thailandvisa.com for all the information you need about Thailand travel.

About the Author
Michael works as a freelance writer for http://www.thailandvisa.com

Koh Lanta Island

2009-09-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

Koh Lanta

2009-09-03T21:30:00.000-07:00

The Cultural Harmony in Laanta Lanta Festival… by Naveen Marasinghe

The Laanta Lanta Festival is usually held in March every year at the old community in a small provincial town called Lanta Old Town in Koh Lanta, Krabi Province in Thailand. The town is full of ancient Chinese style houses and the history of the town dates back to more that 100 years. This Lannta Lanta festival is a great exhibition of some of the cultural traditions of Thailand and many tourists come to this town at this time to witness this mega cultural extravaganza.
Authentic food and traditional entertainment are the main attractions in this festival. With variety of different meals and snack available throughout the three days of the festival, the travelers can enjoy some of the fantastic cuisine and exotic drinks at many food and beverage booths. Because the festival is spread on the whole locale, the visitors can also enjoy the vast natural beauty and local hospitality while traveling one point to another.

Performances of Rong-Ngan and the traditional music and dances such as Sea Gypsies can be witnessed and enjoyed. The modern music is also in the process of filling the blanks while groups from every nook and corner of Thailand are performing their music live for the visitors. In the beach side stage, reggae and jazz acts can be seen which surely will kindle the party atmosphere among the crowds.

Glimpse of the traditions of Thailand also can be seen in the rituals such as traditional boat floating ceremony which is conducted to caste away the bad spirits of the fesyval according to the Sea Gypsy believe. The cultural booths on the sides of the walk away display some of handicrafts of the locals such as traditional Muslim cloth weaving and crafts made of Toi leaves. The information about the special projects happening around the year in Koh Lanta region are also given to the visitors to invite them to make some contributions towards a good cause.

If some one interested in witnessing the Laanta Lanta Festival, the place to stay is the Langham Place Koh Lanta which is one of the best luxury vacation spa resorts equipped with luxuries and comforts of a supreme Krabi luxury villa.

About the Author
Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing company that offers integrated Internet marketing services and specializes in serving the online travel and hospitality industry.

Phuket Travel

2009-06-16T17:04:00.001-07:00

Tour and Travel

2009-06-16T16:59:00.000-07:00

Tour and Travel by MS Nath

Tour and Travel Finding French Museums in Paris France .the France has numerous different French museums dotted all over the country, yet there are an incredible amount of different types of museums in Paris itself that you can visit when on your family holiday. Rwanda, the land of one thousand hills and 'hundreds attractions' is an extraordinary place where serene scenery and placid people greet you at every juncture. Rwanda is safe and secure with an overwhelming renaissance of Rwandese national pride and cultural reconstruction. It is full of sights and delights, waiting to be explored. If Rwanda is on your travel list there is no better time to runaway to Rwanda...visit today you would want to stay!
Karon Resort in Phuket, Thailand! At Centara Karon Resort Phuket, we have so much to offer, you will simply want to come back again and again. Limousines are luxurious and it is a nice experience to hire a limousine as nowadays different limo providers are offering these cars at cheap rates. A limousine come with a nice ambience and using these cars for party and different social get-together has become a popular. Mauritius is an ideal place for vacations. Mauritius easily figures amongst the top 10 vacation places in the world. Holidays in Mauritius can as well be inexpensive leaving you the choice to use your money with freedom. You can spend your holidays in Mauritius at affordable prices if you plan to make the trip with a limited budget. A Guide To Choosing a place for a holiday : Choosing a place for a holiday has never been easy for avid travelers and vacationers. This is as true for a family vacation as is for a group vacation. Most of us want to make the most of our vacations because our free time is precious. 8-Tips for Packing and Traveling Lite : In this day and age of traveling echolalia, there are a few packing tactics to employ. To cut out an extra thirty to forty minutes at the arriving airport, start with packing small luggage. Since carry-ones can not exceed a linear dimension of 45 inches, you can escape the fiasco of the baggage terminal by simply packing and traveling light. Living Requirements in Bangkok : If you are relocating to Thailand -- or just thinking about it -- you can't afford to waste money on ineffective or nonproductive relocation and retirement ideas. Once you move to a foreign country, every dollar you spend has to do the work of ten. Hire Car Online For Australia Holidays : Discover Australia's beautiful landscapes with your private car. Hiring car is the ideal way to enjoy your whole journey with full freedom. For successful journey with car rental in Australia you should keep some tips and safety points in your mind. Enjoy your holidays with personal 4 wheels and full flexibilities. This article will detail some of the health concerns that travelers to Central America and Argentina should be aware of, and prepared for in advance. Devotion with Golden Temple Tour Package : In Golden Temple Tour Package you get the opportunity to visit different places of Punjab, Delhi. Golden temple is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in India. Considered as the ultimate place of the Sikh faith, the Golden temple of Amritsar attracts large number of devotees every year. Sikh devotees, for whom the Golden Temple is a symbol of freedom and spiritual independence, visit the Temple from all over the world to offer prayers.

See the Sensuous Sculpture: Khajuraho one of the ancient centre of the Chandela Dynasty in India. Khajuraho flourished from 950 to 1050 AD and is spectacular feat of architecture carved with the roughest of tools. Each temple has a large number of spires in ascending order representing man's aspirations towards spiritual goals. They are famous tourist draw because they have the most sublime, sensuous and erotic sculptures and are romantically situated miles from anywhere in the dry and hot plains of Madhya Pradesh.

We are providing discount coupons and promotional coupons .if, you want to purchase online tickets just before visit www.coupons4save.com you save a lot of money.

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About the Author
hi read my article

2009-05-22T01:41:00.000-07:00

2009-05-22T01:39:00.000-07:00

Ao Nang, Thailand's Best All-round Beach Destination by simon ramsden

Ao Nang, Thailand's best all-round beach destination

Due to its central location in the Andaman Sea and to its fabulous topography and sporting opportunities, Ao Nang is at the moment arguably Thailand's best all-round beach destination.

The development of Thai beaches, like those the world over, follows a standard cycle. First they get discovered by backpackers, for whom cheap beach-huts are erected. Islands such as Koh Muk and Koh Lao Liang are still at this stage, where the island is as pristine as anyone could wish for, but lacks the facilities which most of us don't want to do without.

The next stage is when the developers move in and build bars, luxury hotels, restaurants and malls. Many beaches get ruined when over-development and over-population results in an unsupportable excess of pollutants. But somewhere along the way there is an optimal state, where there are enough facilities, but a still ecologically-sustainable tourist population. Ao Nang is now at this stage and represents, for many people, an ideal compromise between a pristine but boring resort and a fun but polluted one. The southern half of the beach is not yet bordered by a road, but the town has a wide enough range of facilities, for example 6 Italian restaurants, to keep most visitors happily occupied for at least a couple of weeks. Ao Nang is busy but hasn't lost that laid back, friendly small-town feel; it is developed but still retains much of its original beauty and charm.

Ao Nang is, along with Chiang Mai, one of Thailand's two most exciting adventure sports destinations. The home of two of the best beaches on the planet, Railay, which is also the best tropical climbing destination in the world, is fifteen minutes away by boat. The town's location on the eastern coast of Phang Nga bay puts it within easy reach of all the fishing, diving and kayaking sites in the bay. A day-trip to Koh Phi Phi is a better way to visit the place than staying there.

Further afield, a Similan Islands liveabord can be boarded only 3 hours away in Phuket or Khao Lak and the pristine islands of Trang province are only 3 hours to the south.

While not as scenic as neighbouring Railay (nowhere on the planet is), Ao Nang has a good range of accommodation, restaurants and all the other tourist facilities you may need.

For Ao more on Ao Nang, see my other articles on this site entitled 'Ao Nang, Thailand - Top Ten', 'Tiger Cave Temple, Krabi, Thailand' and 'Ao Nang, Thailand - Two of the Best'

There follows a comprehensive directory of all the best things to do in Ao Nang:

Children& Young People
Tex Outdoor Adventure Camp

Trekking
Hon Nah Karst
Phanon Bencha National Park
Railay Viewpoints and Lagoon

Sightseeing
Hot Springs & Waterfall plus Crystal Pool
Tiger Cave Temple
Elephant trekking

Beaches
Ao Nang Beach
Hat Nopparat Thara Beach
Phra Nang Beach
West Railay Beach
4-Island snorkelling tour
Phi Phi Island Kayaking & Snorkeling

Cultural
Shopping
Cooking
Snake show
Spa / massage / beauty / hair

Sports
Horse riding
Fishing Park
Sunset Fishing
Kayak Bor Thor
Kayak Ao Thalane
Sunset Kayaking
Climb Railay
Dive Aonang
White Water Rafting

Keeping it Extreme - andamanadventures.com

For more travel and adventure sports article on Thailand check out Adrenaline e-zine

About the Author
The best Thai climbing, diving and fishing trips. Best 2008/9 destinations: Koh Lao Liang, and Ao Nang

Songkran in Thailand

2009-03-28T18:54:00.000-07:00

2009-03-28T18:52:00.001-07:00

Festive Thailand by Richard Greaves
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Festivals in Thailand are either Buddhist, Chinese, animist, or associated with the monarchy. Buddhist and Chinese festivals are lunar and generally fall on a full moon, animist festivals such as Songkran or Loi Krathong can be solar or lunar, while royal holidays fall on special historical days such as the founding of the current Chakri dynasty or the birthdays of the reigning monarchs. The most deeply spiritual of the Thai holidays is Visakha Bucha held on a full moon night in May. It commemorates the date on which the Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and died. Visakha Bucha day is marked with sermons and alms-giving culminating in an evening candlelit procession known as wien thien in which celebrants circle the temple three times in honour of the triple gem of Buddhism - the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (community of monks). Songkran, the most vigorous of Thailand's festivals, was the official Thai New Year until 1941. Formerly tied to the movement of the sun, modern Songkran takes place from 13-15th April. Songkran began as a ceremonial bathing of Buddha images as part of a new year's spring cleaning ritual. However, it has degenerated over the years into a free-for-all water fight in which the streets are filled with revellers armed with water guns, jars and buckets. Though Songkran is celebrated nationwide, it's probably done with most gusto in Bangkokâ€™s tourist centre of Festivals in Thailand are either Buddhist, Chinese, animist, or associated with the monarchy. Buddhist and Chinese festivals are lunar and generally fall on a full moon, animist festivals such as Songkran or Loi Krathong can be solar or lunar, while royal holidays fall on special historical days such as the founding of the current Chakri dynasty or the birthdays of the reigning monarchs. The most deeply spiritual of the Thai holidays is Visakha Bucha held on a full moon night in May. It commemorates the date on which the Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and died. Visakha Bucha day is marked with sermons and alms-giving culminating in an evening candlelit procession known as wien thien in which celebrants circle the temple three times in honour of the triple gem of Buddhism - the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (community of monks). Songkran, the most vigorous of Thailand's festivals, was the official Thai New Year until 1941. Formerly tied to the movement of the sun, modern Songkran takes place from 13-15th April. Songkran began as a ceremonial bathing of Buddha images as part of a new year's spring cleaning ritual. However, it has degenerated over the years into a free-for-all water fight in which the streets are filled with revellers armed with water guns, jars and buckets. Though Songkran is celebrated nationwide, it's probably done with most gusto in Bangkokâ€™s tourist centre of Khaosan Road and in the northern capital of Chiangmai. The southern island of Phuket with its large Chinese population is the scene of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival held during the ninth lunar month each year. The event lasts ten days and other than participants observing a vegetarian diet, involves ceremonies at Chinese shrines and temples along with firewalking and other acts of self-mutilations carried out by devotees known as Ma Song. These Ma Song are in ecstatic trances and oblivious to pain as they clamber up ladders with bladed rungs, walk barefoot over hot coals, and plunge skewers through their cheeks. The event Phuket Vegetarian Festival dates back to 1825. At that time, many immigrant Chinese worked in Phuket's tin mines. A visiting Chinese opera troupe cured their sickness with a vegetarian diet. This much impressed the local population who started the vegetarian festival. The afternoon before the festival, celebrants raise a high pole (the Go Teng pole) at each temple. This is to invite the gods to descend. Then at midnight, they adorn the pole with nine lanterns to mark the opening of the festival. Over the next ten days, ceremonies such as invocation of the gods Lam Tao and Pak Tao, processions of images of the deities, and the feats of the Ma Song. The festival ends with merit making ceremonies at the temples and the send-off of the gods. Thailand is a land rich in culture and tradition and the best and most moving way to experience the delights of this eastern kingdom is to attend one of the many festivals and ceremonies that adorn the calendar.Khaosan Road and in the northern capital of Chiangmai. The southern island of Phuket with its large Chinese population is the scene of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival held during the ninth lunar month each year. The event lasts ten days and other than participants observing a vegetarian diet, involves ceremonies at Chinese shrines and temples along with firewalking and other acts of self-mutilations carried out by devotees known as Ma Song. These Ma Song are in ecstatic trances and oblivious to pain as they clamber up ladders with bladed rungs, walk barefoot over hot coals, and plunge skewers through their cheeks. The event Phuket Vegetarian Festival dates back to 1825. At that time, many immigrant Chinese worked in Phuket's tin mines. A visiting Chinese opera troupe cured their sickness with a vegetarian diet. This much impressed the local population who started the vegetarian festival. The afternoon before the festival, celebrants raise a high pole (the Go Teng pole) at each temple. This is to invite the gods to descend. Then at midnight, they adorn the pole with nine lanterns to mark the opening of the festival. Over the next ten days, ceremonies such as invocation of the gods Lam Tao and Pak Tao, processions of images of the deities, and the feats of the Ma Song. The festival ends with merit making ceremonies at the temples and the send-off of the gods. Thailand is a land rich in culture and tradition and the best and most moving way to experience the delights of this eastern kingdom is to attend one of the many festivals and ceremonies that adorn the calendar.
About the Author
Richard has over 20 years experience in the travel industry and writes for Cheaper than Hotels. Cheaper Than Hotels offers cheap Thailand hotels.

2009-03-26T18:41:00.001-07:00

Why Thailand is No. 1 Destination for 2009 by David John Martin

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pluggedWe are just halfway into January and already many travel and tour operators are proposing which destinations will be the most popular this summer. In a recent statement, Post Office suggested that Thailand will be the best value for British visitors and their travel money due to Sterling's continuing strength against the Thai baht and incentive-led discounts to tempt tourists back to Phuket and Hua Hin. So what do these destinations have to offer?
The island of Phuket is just off the west coast of Thailand whilst Phuket city is located in the south eastern corner. The island is 20 kilometres across and 50 kilometres north to south, and since the Asian Tsunami of 2004 has undergone near complete restoration. Moving into 2009, Phuket is reminding tourists of its many enduring qualities. Its beaches, such as Patong and Bang Tao are two prime examples: the former a popular two kilometre swimming beach, and the latter, a huge - far quieter - bay.

Away from the beaches and the golf courses of the coast are the equally scenic and arguably more culturally interesting places to visit. The pagodas and statues at the temples at Wat Chalong are inspirational in their design and grandeur, and open for visitors everyday. Thai national parks charge 200 baht for adults, but they are also worth the visit. The Khao Phra Thaeo National Park offer tropical rainforest treks and impressive waterfalls.

Hua Hin is located on the opposite coast 200 kilometres south of Bangkok. Known as Thailand's Royal Beach Resort, Hua Hin has been established as a popular resort for over 70 years and consequently has not suffered from such high-speed development. Famous for its old world charm, Hua Hin is also surrounded by national parks and other attractions. The Spirit Houses of Brassiere Beach were supposedly built in honour of the fate of a legendary fisherman and his tragic daughter whom he tore to pieces and threw into the sea because she was lusted after by so many men.

Hua Hin town itself includes a glorious three kilometre long beach upon which a Buddhist temple is built into its cliffs. The beach is popular with fisherman, as well as those who want to partake in such modern activities as kite-boarding. There is also a nightly street market where visitors can sample traditional Thai wares such as kommaphat, and at night there are many bars aimed at the custom of tourists and holidaymakers.

About the Author
Check foreign exchange rates and order your foreign currency and travel money at competitive rates from Post Office®; a simply, easy way and available for you to collect from your nearest branch or delivered direct to your door.

2009-03-17T07:46:00.001-07:00

2009-03-17T07:45:00.001-07:00

The Sea Gypsy Lifestyle in Koh Lanta by Naveen Marasinghe

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pluggedThe death of the Urak Lawoi, one of trinity old "sea gypsy" tribes that have wandered and survived along the coastlines and islands of SE Asia's Andaman Sea for the preceding five centuries, has been forecast since historians began registering their existence in the nineteenth century. Plainly the resilience of these docile and timid sea nomads has been underrated.
Now, after five hundred years of discreetly bundling up and drifting off to a fresh, marooned island or cove whenever their unequaled animistic opinions and (exceedingly uncommon) matriarchal society is queried, the Urak Lawoi might have at last run out of locations to hide out. But, they're not deterred and carry on to celebrate life in a variety of ways.

The Laanta Lanta Festival held each year at different locations around the island. It's an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to savor specific ethnic aspects still rife on this calm tropical islet today.

Bona fide food and conventional amusement is the mainstay of any Thai festivity and the fete doesn't drift from this winning technique. With an assortment of delectable meals and bites available throughout the complete three days, you are able to enjoy conventional local coffee and alien drinks while trying out the local culinary art at more than 50 food and beverage stalls.

Performances of Rong-Ngan, the orthodox music and saltation of the ancient Sea Gypsies, can be reveled on the primary stage, in addition to plays staged by groups from all over Thailand. A 2nd beachside stage boasts modern-day jazz and reggae performances every night, in an unwound party ambiance.

Security for a harmless and blessed event is attempted by the Sea Gypsy rite of shaking off unfit spirits out into the sea, at a traditional boat floating observance. Side-street cultural booths exhibit and present the fashioning of conventional arts and crafts including Pa-the, traditional Islamic fabric weaving and Toi-pa-nun, a handcraft made with Toi leaves. Additional stalls throughout the festival grounds boast organizations and individuals distributing information about particular projects on the island.

Koh Lanta is associated with Thailand's ultimate luxury travel destinations and when in Koh Lanta, it's a must to stay at a luxury vacation spa resort. Among them, the Krabi luxury villas are simply splendid.

About the Author
Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing agency that offers integrated Internet marketing solutions and specializes in serving the online travel and hospitality industry. (http://www.emarketingeye.com/ )

2009-03-17T05:36:00.001-07:00

2009-03-17T05:35:00.000-07:00

Thumbs up to Diving in Phi Phi, Thailand. by Jason Butler

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pluggedMatt Butcher is thirty three years old and hails from Essex, UK. After quitting his job at London's, Stansted International Airport, where he was employed as an operations controller for a handling company (a high stressed job with very little reward), Matt decided to leave England in search of a fresh challenge and to pursue his dream of becoming a diving instructor and it is in Thailand where he has been living and working for the last six years.
Matt first came on holiday to Thailand in 1993; he immediately fell in love with the country and its people vowing one day to return. Matt did return to Thailand in 2000, and it was on Phi Phi where he first leant to dive -Koh Phi Phi is situated in the Andaman Sea between Phuket and Koh Lanta. After discovering for himself the underwater delights that diving offered, he decided that he wanted to progress his dive skills and knowledge; and eventually after much studying became a full time Padi Open Water Diving Instructor.

Matt is one of the most famous Scuba divers in Thailand if not the whole of South East Asia, if only for his misfortune. Here in his very first interview; he tells us about living and working in Thailand, what it's like to dive with huge Mantas Rays and Whalesharks, life as a videographer and his true love for Moray eels.

Hi Mat, why did you choose Phi Phi Island as the place where you would learn to dive, there must be closer places to home than Thailand?

I chose Phi because it is a great place to dive as well as a great holiday destination. The water temp is always around 30 degrees; there are lots to see like Sharks, Turtles, and other interesting stuff. Phi Phi is also a nice place to live and work, it's has a small community where there is always something going on, it's also a great place to party. I did my open water and advanced courses on Phi Phi, then travelled to Koh Tao for my rescue and Divemaster courses. As far as the quality of diving goes Phi Phi wins hands down, there is just much to see.

Have you ever dived in the UK? If not, why not? No. The main reason, I guess, is that I'm not too keen on the idea of diving in cold water. I like coral reefs, colorful fish, good visibility, and being able to dive in just a pair of board shorts. I've never used a dry suit and don't really fancy it. Saying that, maybe one day I wouldn't mind trying some hardcore ice diving.

So, you really do not think you will be returning back to work in England any time soon then?

It's very unlikely. Two weeks a year in the UK is enough for me. Thailand's my home these days and I'm happy here; I live here with my Thai girlfriend and our young daughter.

What's it like working on a paradise Island like Phi Phi, is that the place where the filmed the movie The Beach?

A4: Working on Phi Phi is great, everything is close by and everyone knows everyone. Workers get discounts in bars and restaurants, and life is generally good. I like the fact there are no roads, cars, or motorbikes. The downside about staying on Phi Phi is that it is getting quite expensive, especially when it comes to renting rooms and bungalows. For the monthly rent you pay on Phi Phi for a basic room with a bed and a fan, you could easily get a two or three bedroom house in Phuket, and Phuket isn't exactly cheap. It was after The Beach was filmed that prices shot up, people just became too greedy.

Have you worked anywhere else in Thailand, if so where?

I am very lucky as my job takes me to the Similans islands and Phuket dive sites.

Phuket, wow, what's the diving like there? The diving is surprisingly good. I was pleasantly surprised when I first dived in Phuket after years on Phi Phi. The visibility is usually good, and we are always seeing cool stuff like Manta Rays at Racha Noi.

Have the recent problems at Bangkok airport affected tourism where you are?

Yes, it's pretty quite at moment. I just hope they can sort out the political problems soon. It seems that which ever side is elected the other side cannot accept it and they throw their toys out of their cots and start causing trouble. It has to stop. If some people cannot accept a democratically elected government, elected by a majority, maybe they should take the privilege away, though where that may lead to is a scary thought.

You mentioned the Similan Islands before, where exactly are they?

They are about six hours north of Phuket by boat. Or like many do, you can travel by bus to Khao Lak (a beautiful beach resort 50 minutes north of Phuket International airport) from there you go to Tab la mo port and the journey is a bout 2 hours in a speed boat.

Apparently these are some of the best dive sites in the world; can you elaborate on them please?

The great thing about the Similans is that it's a protected marine park. The visibility is usually excellent, and there are some pristine coral reefs which teem with fish. There's also a huge variety of dive sites to choose from, some gently sloping coral reefs, some with massive boulder formations.

What is your favorite dive site and why?

I like a lot of them. Elephant Head Rock is cool, it's easy to find Sharks there; well it is if you know where to look. Three Trees has some great corals and a lot of fish, but my favorite sites are just north of the Similans, like Koh Bon, I have had some wicked dives with Mantas Rays there, and Richelieu Rock (the most famous dive site in Thailand), as I've seen quite a few Whalesharks there.

So now you have become a videographer? You must have some amazing footage.

Yeah I've got a few external drives full of good stuff.

What is your favorite sea creature and why?

Probably Manta Rays, they always take my breath away when I see them gliding past they are just so graceful, the boat is always buzzing after a Manta sighting.

Everybody who comes to dive in Thailand wants to see a Whaleshark or Manta Ray how many have you seen?

I have seen more than 100 Manta Rays and seven or eight Whalesharks. I saw two Whalesharks on a single dive once at Hin Muang.

Is it true you once had a close encounter with a Moray Eel, what happened?

There used to be a famous Moray called Scarface at East of Eden in the Similans and a lot of instructors and dive guides would take food down for her, and feed her in front of their guests. I was careless one day, and wasn't paying attention when I was removing food from a plastic bag. Scarface came around behind me, could smell the food, and accidentally latched onto my thumb. I tried to prize her jaws open and get her off me but it was no good. Within seconds there was a sickening popping sound and my thumb was bitten clean off. She swam away and that was the last I saw of my thumb. It was my fault, firstly for feeding a wild animal, and secondly for being careless. My dive buddy Bex was holding my camera and managed to get some footage of it happening.

You mean you have video footage of it? Can you tell us about the operation?

After several months when the wound healed and the Doctors were happy that there was no infection, I flew up to one of the best hospitals in Bangkok; where a specialist hand micro surgeon amputated one of my second toes and attached it to my hand. In an operation which lasted over six hours, he connected all the nerves, blood vessels, and tendons. Now I have a new thumb, which is almost as good as the old one. I can feel it, and move it like a real thumb.

Did it not put you off diving?

Not at all, I was back in the water less that a month after having the operation. Why would it put me off? It was an accident.

How do other people react when you tell them the story?

These days I don't mention it, unless someone asks. They're usually quite amazed at how normal my toe / thumb looks.

I heard this story in a dive shop in Koh Tao (another Thai Island) how do you deal with the fame?

It's not something to be proud of really, and it's not really fame. Not many people know it was me, and I like to keep it that way.

Would you feed Moray Eels again or have you learnt your lesson?

Well, I used to love feeding her, but no, I wouldn't do it again. It's not really a good idea to feed marine life, it's not natural, and with animals like Morays and Sharks especially, they can start associating scuba divers with food. Accidents can happen. Q20: When and where will your next dive be? My next dives will be tomorrow at Koh Doc Mai and Anemone Reef near Phuket. I head up to the Similans in a few days for a week or so. Well good luck Matt, take care and Thank you for talking to us!

About the Author
Jason Butler is a free lance writer. He is currently residing in Thailand and enjoying life. Writing articles on Fishing and Steam engine models is a passion of his. He is also a scuba Diving Instructor with over ten years experience.

http://jason-stealinrubies.blogspot.com/

www.john-tom.com

www.scubadivingphuket.net

2009-03-14T17:43:00.001-07:00

2009-03-11T04:10:00.001-07:00

Trang Province
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Trang
ตรัง Statistics
Capital: Trang
Area: 4,917.519 km²
Ranked 44th
Inhabitants: 595,110 (2000)
Ranked 40th
Pop. density: 121 inh./km²
Ranked 36th
ISO 3166-2: TH-92
Governor: Somphong Anuyutthaphong
(since 2008)
Map

Trang (also Muang Thap Thiang, Thai: ตรัง) is the one of the southern provinces (changwat) of Thailand, at the western shore of the Malay Peninsula to the Andaman Sea. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung and Satun.

Trang used to be a port involved in foreign trade. It was the first city where rubber was planted. Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahison Phakdi brought rubber from Malaysia and planted it here before anywhere else in southern Thailand in 1899. Rubber is now considered an important commodity of Thailand. The important Trang River flows through the province from its origin in the Khao Luang mountain range and the Palian River from the Banthat mountain range. Trang province has an area of approximately 5,000 square km.

Contents [hide]
1 Geography
2 History
3 Symbols
4 Administrative divisions
5 Transportation
6 Tourism
6.1 Attractions
6.2 Activities
6.3 Local Products
6.4 Nightlife
7 Local Culture
7.1 Events and Festivals
7.2 Education
7.3 Art
7.4 Learn
7.5 Local Food
8 Medical Health Care
9 Media / Contact
10 External links

[edit] Geography

Ko Lao Liang Phi in Mu Ko Phetra National ParkThe province is located on the coast of the Andaman Sea, and contains 46 islands together with the mainland area. There are only few plains, and most of the area is hills. The Khao Luang and the Banthat mountain range are the sources of the two main rivers of the province, the Trang River and the Palian River.

It has along western coastline of about 119 kilometres. The province consists of an archipelago in the Andaman Sea with over 46 islands. Of these, 12 are in Amphoe Kantang, 13 in Amphoe Palian and 21 in Amphoe Sikao. The best time for sea travel is during October to May. Situated along the Andaman coast, Trang province is home to innumerable beautiful islands, while the mountainous eastern region is home to dramatic waterfalls, caves and pristine jungle. Between the mountains and the coast are extensive plantations of rubber.

The southern coast of the province is protected in the Mu Ko Phetra National Park. The estuary of the Trang River together with the Hat Chao Mai Marine National Park and Ko Libong Non-hunting Area are also a registered Ramsar wetland.

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Avg high °C
(°F) 32
(91) 34
(94) 35
(96) 34
(94) 32
(91) 31
(89) 31
(88) 31
(88) 31
(88) 31
(88) 30
(87) 31
(88) 32
(90)
Avg low temperature °C
(°F) 21
(70) 21
(71) 22
(72) 23
(74) 23
(75) 23
(74) 23
(74) 25
(77) 23
(74) 22
(73) 22
(72) 21
(71) 22
(73)
Precipitation centimeters
(inches) 5
(2.1) 2
(1.0) 6
(2.6) 19
(7.5) 24
(9.7) 24
(9.8) 25
(10.2) 29
(11.6) 32
(12.8) 32
(12.7) 24
(9.5) 11
(4.4) 238
(93.9)

source: Weatherbase

Trang City Hall
[edit] History
Trang was an important sea port of southern Thailand. According to legend the ships always arrived at morning, which lead to the name of the town - Trang derives from the Malay word for dawn. (terang) This province was formerly a part of the ancient kingdom Kedah Tua - A Kedahan-Malay kingdom

According to cultural records Trang used to be one of 12 satellite towns that came into existence 900 years ago, but it was only during the era of King Rama II that the place was recognized and the province got its first governor. The first Westerner to arrive in Trang was Captain James Low in 1838 to negotiate commercial benefits.

Actually, the town was located in the Khuanthani (now a tambon in district Kantang). In 1893, the then governor Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahison Phakdi, planning to make Trang an important seaport to the west, relocated the town to district Kantang which is at Trang River delta. It was moved again to its present location 26 km inland in 1916 by King Rama VI due to repeated floodings.

The Trang area was the first area of Thailand where rubber trees were planted, brought there by governor Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahison Phakdi from Malaysia in 1899.

[edit] Symbols
The seal of the province shows a lighthouse bridge.
The provincial symbolic flower and tree is the Green ebony (Jacaranda filicifolia). The plant was imported from Australia by the same governor who also imported the rubber tree, and it quickly got the name Sri-Trang by the citizens.

The provincial slogan เมืองพระยารัษฏา ชาวประชาใจกว้าง ถิ่นกำเนิดยางพารา เด่นสง่าดอกศรีตรัง ปะการังใต้ทะเล เสน่ห์หาดทรายงาม น้ำตกสวยตระการตา translates to Phraya Rasda’s town, generous people, delicious roast pork, The First city where Para rubber was planted , the Si Trang provincial flower, underwater coral reefs, scenic beaches and waterfalls.

[edit] Administrative divisions
Trang is subdivided into 10 districts (amphoe). These are further subdivided into 87 subdistricts (tambon) and 697 villages (muban).

Mueang Trang
Kantang
Yan Ta Khao
Palian
Sikao
Huai Yot
Wang Wiset
Na Yong
Ratsada
Hat Samran

[edit] Transportation
Air Trang has its own airport 7 km. away from Mueang district . Nok air and One-Two Go airline operate daily flight to Trang Airport.

Rail

Trang is one of the southern destinations offering a train routes to Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong central station starting from Thung Song Station in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, this south-western route passes Huay Yod station to Muang station and end at Kan Tang terminal in Trang.

Time table:
Train No.168 Kantang - Bangkok :12.40 pm. - 05.15 am.
Train No.167 Bangkok - kantang 18.20 pm. - 11.05 am.
Train No.84 Trang - Bangkok 17.20 pm. - 8.25 am.
Train No.83 Bangkok - Trang 17.05 pm. - 07.55 am.
Road Major road to and from Trang are:

Highway No. 4 (Bangkok-Chumphon) to Highway No. 41 (Surat Thani-Thung Song- Huai Yot-Trang), total distance of 828 kilometres.
Highway No. 4 (Bangkok-Chumphon) to Ranong-Phang-nga-Krabi-Trang, total distance of 1,020 kilometres.
Highway No. 404-416 (Satun-Palian-Trang), total distance of 140 kilometres.
Highway No. 4-407 (Hat Yai-Phatthalung-Trang), total distance of 148 kilometres.
Highway No. 4-402 (Phuket-Phang-nga-Krabi-Trang), total distance of 312 kilometres.
Passenger Vans

These vans ply between Trang and neighbouring provinces on a regular basis.

Tuk Tuk The most popular small vehicle in Trang city, this car have 3 wheels for carry passenger to around Trang city.

Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicles)

Songthaew are the most popular form of local public transportation around both the town and rural areas.

Bus

There are buses to and from Trang to Bangkok and main province (Phuket, HatYai, Nakornsrithammarat and Satun in the south.

Boats to islands

Trang has 4 main piers for boats to the islands, they are Pak Meng Pier, Ban Chao Mai Pier, Klong Son Pier and Kuan Thung Kuu Pier.

[edit] Tourism
Unlike its big sister provinces of Krabi, Pha-nga and Phuket, Trang’s tourism is on a much lower level with little in the way of major development. That is not to say however, that Trang has little appeal, as it certainly does – but the tourist crowds that Trang mostly pulls in are Thais and not foreigners.

[edit] Attractions
Ko Muk and Tham Morakot (เกาะมุก-ถ้ำมรกต) are the most prominent points in the Trang Sea. Ko Muk is mostly occupied by sea-facing towering cliffs to the west. Located on the eastern side of the island is a village of fishermen who have still maintained their ways of life as islanders. On the island to the west is Tham Morakot, a unique sea cave. With light from the outside, emerald water can be seen inside the cave; it is unusual and beautifully nature.
Hat Yong Ling and Hat San (หาดหยงหลิง-หาดสั้น) is on the way to Chao Mai Beach and a 2-kilometre road leads to Yong Lin Beach. This curved beach parallels a pine forest. At the beach’s end is a high mountain with holes and caves that can be passed through to a cliff with more caves and rocks similar to a fortress encircling sand dunes.
Ko Chueak - Ko Waen (เกาะเชือก-เกาะแหวน) are small islands between Ko Muk and Ko Kradan. They are teeming with shallow and deepwater corals and many types of fish.
Ko Kradan (เกาะกระดาน) is arguably the most beautiful island in the Trang. It has an area of 600 acres. Most of the island (5/6) is under the responsibility of Hat Chao Mai National Park. The rest are privately owned. The most striking feature of Ko Kradan is its powdery white beach and crystal-clear water that permits a decent view of the coral reef underneath that stretches from the beach’s northern end to the coast. A variety of colourful fish inhabit the shallow water corals. Ko Kradan is to the west of Ko Muk and Ko Libong.
Hat Pak Meng (หาดปากเมง) is at Tambon Mai Fat, 40 kilometres from the city. The 5-kilometre long beach is in the shape of a crescent moon. A pine forest fringes the beach. Assorted large and small islands dot the sea, looking like a person lying face up in the ocean. Trang locals and people from nearby provinces like to come here to relax and sample seafood in the restaurants.
Namtok Ton Te (น้ำตกโตนเต๊ะ) is 45 kilometres from the city. It is the tallest and most popular waterfall in Trang with water that drops down 320 metres of rocks. The source is in the Banthat Mountain Range. Assorted tropical floras cover the surrounding area.
Tham Le Khao Kop (ถ้ำเลเขากอบ) This cave is a popular natural wonder with a stream flowing through it. The cave itself looks like a high and steep cliff with layers of rocks. A canal from the Banthat Mountain Range divides into 3 waterways upon reaching Khao Kop, 2 going around the mountain and the other flowing through the cave under the mountain. Stalactites and stalagmites line the cave for about 4 kilometres. Currently the Khao Kop Tambon Administration Organization provides rowboats for visitors to view the cave and to be an eco-tourism and adventure activity by the locals.
Namtok Sai Rung (น้ำตกสายรุ้ง) This single-level waterfall falls from a high and huge cliff. The water turns into a rainbow as the sun shines through it.
Koh Lao Liang (เกาะเหลาเหลียง) These two islands, located in between Koh Libong and Koh Petra. The color of the sea around Koh Lao Liang is emerald green. The sea between these two islands is deep and swift. Both islands are big limestone mountains. There are highly sloped cliffs on both sides. The beach has white sand.
Koh Takiang (เกาะตะเกียง) is a small island on in the group of south Trang islands. It is the island with only 100 meter long beach. However, this beach is quite clean. The rest area is covered by rocks and hillocks. There is a lighthouse for chip in this region.

[edit] Activities
Trekking The province has plenty of forest, wildlife and more than 20 waterfalls, so making the province suitable for trekking. trails include:

Tontok Waterfall-Sakai Village-Klongtok Waterfall
Sairung Waterfall-Nanmuang-Khao Rutu
Tontok Waterfall-Bantra Ranger Center Huaysom-Sahaipakao Camp-Chedchan Waterfall
Tonte Waterfall to Khao Chedyod
Diving Trang offers divers coral reefs, clear water and colourful marine life. Unfortunately, most divers on coming to the south to dive fail to realize that Trang province offers diving sites on a par with neighbouring Krabi, Pha-nga and Phuket. So, Trang is appropriate for those who wish to get off the beaten track and away from the tourist crowds.

Chaomai National Park This area, 20km in length, is said to have one of the best diving sites in the world. Among the 40 islands in Trang, Koh Kradan is considered the best. Other popular islands for diving include Ko Chueak, Ko Ma and Ko Ngai.

Bird Watching For bird watching, Ko Libong is the well known place to go.

Golf For a game of golf, there is the Sri Trang Golf Club and Prayarassadanupradit Camp.

Spa

Spa service is available at some of the leading resorts. The most well known resorts with spa facilities are:

Sivara Spa at Amari Trang Beach Resort & Spa.
Rueansuanchan Massage& Spa
Spa at Koh Ngai Fantasy Resort & Spa.

[edit] Local Products
Trang has a few local products which are popular as souvenirs, they are Suea Toei or Suea Panan (mats woven from screw pine), Muk (container for small things), ray leather products; namely, bags and shoes, basketry made of cattail stems, carved-wood products from Thep Tharo wood, para rubber toys, and ‘Na Muen Si’ local woven cloth. Products of local food include Trang roast pork, Trang’s cake, ‘Khao Chong coffee, ‘Kapi’ or shrimp paste, etc.

[edit] Nightlife
Types of nightlife available in Trang include:

Discos in town are popular with the younger trendier crowd.
Live Music Joints play Thai Folk or classics.
Karaoke clubs can be found all around and customers can either sing to everyone or rent a private room.
Barbecues are large restaurants which play music and serve alcohol to the wee restaurants (unlike the other venues).
There are some bars on Pak Meng Beach.
Thai Pubs are not like Western ones, they are usually huge. Visitors enjoy live music.

[edit] Local Culture
Manora or Nora (มโนราห์หรือโนรา) is an art form native to southern Thailand. The performance has dance postures. The singer sings the lyrics ad-lib. Accompanying musical instruments include drums, cymbals, gongs, Java pipes, and castanets. Nowadays Nora has developed into incorporating modern instruments.
Shadow Play (หนังตะลุง) is a popular art of southern Thailand. Dried animal hide is carved into drama figures like a hermit, a lord, a lead actor, a lead actress, a giant, and a clown. The figures are held up behind a lighted screen to create shadows on it. Nai Nang or the puppeteer sings verses or narrate the performance. Musical instruments used are the same as for Nora, with perhaps So U and So Duang (stringed instruments) added in.
Li-kae Pa (ลิเกป่า) is also called Li-ke Bok or Li-ke Rammana. This type of performance is different from the usual Li-ke as the performers wear other kinds of costumes. Li-ke Pa is popular among Thai Muslims. Only 3 performers play in a single set the whole show. However, the set has a location name change to correspond to the story being played. Musical instruments used include 2-3 tambourines, cymbals, gongs, and pipes.

[edit] Events and Festivals
Trang Tourism Festival (งานเปิดฟ้าเมืองตรัง) is an activity for the public relations of Trang tourism at the beginning of the tourism season. The event is held in the third week of January.

Trang Underwedding Ceremony (พิธีวิวาห์ใต้สมุทร) Activities in this unusual event include a welcoming ceremony for the brides and grooms (Thais and foreigners) at the Trang Airport, a bridal procession around town, and a dowry procession by long-tail boat to Ko Kradan. A wedding ceremony is performed on the beach by means of pouring blessed water from a conch shell onto the bridal palms and followed by underwater marriage registration at a depth of over 12 m. The event is held on 13-15 February.

Trang Food Festival (งานมหกรรมอาหารดี ศรีตรังบาน) is held to promote dishes of Trang province renowned as the city of food lovers. There are a myriad of food stalls of Trang restaurants offering dishes at discounted prices. Various kinds of food including Chinese, Thai and local meals, as well as seafood are available. Additional activities are an eating championship and diverse forms of entertainment. The fair is scheduled for 30 March – 3 April of every year at the Somdech Phra Srinagarindra Park 95 (Khao Pae Choi).

Trang Cake Festival (งานเทศกาลขนมเค้กจังหวัดตรัง) derives from the fact that Trang people are well known for making delicious cakes. This is particularly true for the villagers of Ban Lam Phu Ra where making cakes dates back generations. The cakes of Trang have no frosting and have several flavours like orange, coffee, three-flavoured, etc. The festival is scheduled for every August.

Trang Roast Pork Festival (งานเทศกาลหมูย่างจังหวัดตรัง) is a tourism promotion activity of Trang, held every September. The festival features Trang roast pork is of a special recipe. The pork skin is crispy, the meat is tender and it is delicious due to a process by which the pig is fermented with herbs then roasted whole on a specially made grill. Trang’s roast pork is sold daily and eaten with morning coffee or can be a banquet dish.

Moon Festival (งานประเพณีไหว้พระจันทร์) is a tradition long observed by the Chinese people of Tambon Thung Yao, Amphoe Palian, to commemorate the fight for the nation against the Mongols. A ceremony is held in late September or early October on the full moon day in the eighth month under the Chinese calendar.

Vegetarian Festival (งานประเพณีถือศีลกินเจ) is a traditional festival of the Chinese in Trang, held around October every year on a full-moon night. Thais of Chinese heritage would become a vegetarian (no consumption of meat and certain kinds of vegetables) and dress in white for 9 days and nights. This is to bring good fortune and make merit. Throughout the 9 days and nights, the spirit in the “medium” would go out and give blessing (some call it out touring) to households where there are offerings set out in front. The procession bearing the medium must light thousands of firecrackers, creating a deafening din. The medium would also perform supernatural feats to show that the spirit is in him.

The Buddha Image Procession and Trang Cultural Festival (ประเพณีลากพระและมหกรรมวัฒนธรรมสัมพันธ์จังหวัดตรัง) is aimed to preserve, revive, and pass down ancient customs and traditions which are local uniqueness. It is held during the first and third days of the waning moon in the eleventh lunar month (at the end of the Buddhist Lent). Activities include a contest of Buddha image boat floats, local sports competitions, Southern-style folk arts and cultural performances, concerts, entertainment, sales of Trang OTOP products, and merit-making for the Buddha image processions.

Four-wheel Drive Vehicle Competition (การแข่งขันรถยนต์ขับเคลื่อนสี่ล้อ) (The Nature Adventure of Southern Thailand – NAS Challenge) is an off-road circuit for members of off-road racing clubs in Thailand and from foreign countries, such as Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, etc., with more than 100 cars participating. It is scheduled for November of every year. The circuits in use are in Trang town and other districts of Trang.

Taphao Shell Festival (งานเทศกาลหอยตะเภา) is aimed at promoting the conservation of nature and the environment. The festival is held at Pak Meng Beach every November. There is a contest to gather Taphao shells.

Fishing Competition at the Trang Sea (การแข่งขันกีฬาตกปลา “เบิกฟ้าทะเลตรัง”) is organised around December of every year in the waters of Trang and Krabi provinces. More than ten categories of fishing are arranged for the game.

H.M. the King’s Birthday Celebrations and Red Cross Fair (งานเฉลิมพระชนมพรรษาและงานกาชาดจังหวัดตรัง) are an annual magnificent event of Trang, which has been continued since the reign of King Rama VII. It is scheduled for 5-15 December of every year at the Thung Chaeng Stadium in Amphoe Mueang Trang. Activities include exhibitions of agencies in the public and private sectors, sales of food and products, concerts, entertainment, naval Red Cross activities, etc.

2009-03-10T12:43:00.001-07:00

The Fantastic Chang Land Beach, Trang by Truman Tyler

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pluggedChang Land Beach Location: Moo4, Tambon Mai Fad, Amphoe Sikao
How to get there: from the city of Trang take the Highway no 4046-4612 to the junction that leads to the beachfront road and turn left into it, passing Pakmeng Beach for about 5 kilometers.

The gift of islands by the shore, each of which has differences in beauty and identity some with the nicest beach, some with an escrows and migrating birds, and some with the most beautiful diving spot. Though each island is differently beautiful, the beauty of Chang Lang Beach is not at all blocked.

Pakmeng Beach is regarded as center of the trips in the Trang Sea. At high season, in the morning as well as evening. Tour boats will actively transfer tourists at this pier. Pakmeng Beach is not only interesting as a paler, the picture of this beach that features the two mountains have become the landmark of Trang. Morever, the beach line that stretches not so far from Pakmeng Beach is one of the most beautiful in Thailand.

Sights: From Pakmeng Beach, center of the Trang Sea, going along the beachfront road. Ones can admire the beautiful scenery with a view of the Trang Sea in the shade of pine trees. Pakmeng Beach stretches to Chang Lang Beach if not by called by the other name, it is the same beach with similar features. Chang Lang Beach starts at Amari Trang Beach Resort and ends at the office of Had Chaomai National Park. The setting along the long beach line with white and clean sand onto the bridge across the Chang Lang canal is peaceful. Strange that the fresh water in the canal that flows to the sea at this beach does not bring the soil sediment to destroy the whiteness of it. The clear and clean water, as if it was distilled through the mangrove the color is emerald green, flows to the blue sea, looking like a junction of two different waters very beautiful there is a small fisherman village at the canal end this area is another nice viewpoint for sunset.

Skirting further by the beach, ones will enter Had Chaomai National Park. The beach that stretches along by the office is of bright silver and gradually steps down to the sea. At low tides, the stripes beautifully made on the sand by the waves appear, shady with pine trees a walk can be taken from here onto Khao Baena.

It is said that just taking a camp under the pine trees at Had Chaomai Nation Park, one can experience the nature that is worth it, at Khao Baena, there is some remaining of pre-historic mural paintings. At the foothill is the source of sea grasses the main food for sea cows. The beach by Khao Baena has a nice view an impressive viewpoint for the sunset.

Facilities: Peace lovers can choose to relax in the beachfront houses on Chaomai Beach, Or to stay in a tent under the pine trees also convenient, with food shops in the Nation Park, Had Chaomai National Park. Tel: 0 7521 3260

On Chang Lang Beach, good-class accommodations is available a resort beautifully built on the beach with complete facilities that is Amari Trang Beach Resort. Tel: 0 7527 4236-9, 0 7520 5888

On Pakmeng Beach, moderate accommodations are available for you choices with one-day package tours to the islands in the Trang Sea.

Lay Trang Resort Tel: 0 7527 4027-8, 0 7527 4227-8 Pakmeng Resort Tel: 0 7527 4111-2, 0 7522 3030-1

About the Author

2009-03-01T00:53:00.001-08:00

Hidden Destinations For Your Next Holiday in Thailand by Matthew Kepnes

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pluggedThailand is one of the greatest vacation spots in the world It is cheap, has pleasant people, amazing food, a rich culture and an amazing variety of sites to visit. You can relax on white sand beaches, hike large mountains, dive impressive coral reefs, visit ancient historical sites, explore great caves, and hang out in wild and fast paced cities. Most tourists come here for the beaches and, these tropical islands are the best reason to come to Thailand. However, Thailand has a plethora of tropical islands to choose from. Most tourists stick to a few popular Thai islands and with good reason. They wouldn't be popular if they weren't good. However, despite Thailand being firmly on the tourist trail, there are still some hidden islands in Thailand. Here are seven islands in Thailand that are relatively undeveloped:
Ko Lipe is a tiny island located in the southern Thai province of Satun and is situated in the Andaman Sea. The island is in the Tarutao National Marine Park. The name "Ko Lipe" means paper island in the local Sea Gypsy language. Though this destination is gradually becoming more discovered, it is still a relatively secluded place for now. There are coral reefs right off the island for diving, white sand beaches, cheap food, and a very friendly populace. Most places only have electricity until midnight, giving you a clear sky at night. Avoid the holiday season when the crowds peak.

Ko Tarutao National Marine Park consists of 51 islands located in the Andaman Sea. Ko Tarutao is the main island and is where the park headquarters is situated. There are no lodges, resorts, restaurants, or bars on the island. There is just the park's canteen and a small store that is only open until 8pm. Accommodation here is simply cheap bungalows or tents. For those looking for a cheap and secluded island in Thailand, this place is it.

The island of Ko Chang is a tropical marine national park. Situated in the east near the Cambodian border, it's Thailand's second largest island after Phuket. Recently, with the surge in development and popularity, Ko Chang is Thailand's new popular tourist destination. With its chain of white sandy coves and beaches, pristine rain forests, abundant wildlife, coral reefs, high mountain peaks, waterfalls, and great nightlife, Ko Chang is one of Thailand's most sought after holiday destinations. If you stick to the east side of the island, there is very little development and you can still enjoy a holiday away from the crowds.

Surin National Park is found some 60 km off the west coast of Phang Nga province. The excellent diving, snorkeling, hiking and game fishing are what most visitors come for, and those hoping to find a quiet refuge from the tourist traps will be delighted with the lack of "development." Surin Nuea is also home to a community of around 150 Moken, or "sea gypsies", who have settled there on a semi-permanent basis for several decades. The islands are protected and can only be visited by organized tours, which helps keep the diving good and the crowds thin.

The Similan Islands are composed of nine granite islands washed by a clear blue tropical ocean and blessed with some of the world's finest beaches. Despite a rough start, the Similians and all its reefs have recovered from earlier calamities and overuse. Boats entering the Similan Islands have to follow strict rules imposed and controlled by the national park officials, have to use the moorings prepared by the national park and use closed waste water systems to avoid any pollution.

Ko Lanta is popular with tourists seeking a holiday away from the parties. It's popular with a more relaxed crowd than nearby Ko Phi Phi: more walking on the beach and watching the sunset than drinking and dancing. And even when the island is at its fullest, there will be a quiet place for you to relax - the beaches are never full.

Ko Mak is one of Thailand's best kept treasures. It is an ideal destination for visitors who want a tranquil environment unspoiled by mass tourism. Amongst 10,000 palm trees, there's a temple, three fishing community villages, rubber plantations, and two uninhabited beaches. Hardly anyone comes here, except couples and divers. Koh Mak is the perfect place to relax, explore, calm your mind and soothe your senses.

Voyages to these great Thailand Islands will give you peace, quiet, clean beaches, crystal clear water, and few people. However, let's keep this secret between us though so it stays that way for as long as possible, otherwise these great islands will be ruined at a quick pace.

About the Author
Matt loves tropical beaches and has spent years in Thailand exploring the tropical beaches and island in the country. Check out these links for more information on tropical islands and the island of Ko Lipe.

2009-03-01T00:50:00.000-08:00

What are Thailand's main tourist attractions and activities? by Farazila Abu

1
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voteBangkok
Most people spend a few days in the Thai capital, but many find the pollution, traffic congestion and chaotic street life extremely wearing. There's plenty to take you off the street, however, including the glittering Grand Palace compound and its beautiful gigantic Reclining Buddha; the comprehensively stocked National Museum; the massive Chatuchak weekend market; with over eight thousand different nightlife that suns the full range from cutting-edge clubs to depressing strip joints.

View Photos of Bangkok

Beaches
Thailand's beaches are among the world's best. You'll find the most developed and expensive resorts, and some of the finest sands, on the islands of Ko Samui and Phuket, while backpakers tend to head for the more budget oriented Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Lanta and Ko Mook. Krabi's Railay beaches are nothing short of stunning, Ko Samet makes and easy and economical break from Bangkok and Ko Chang is handy for travelers headingin and out of Cambodia.

View Photos of Ko Samui, Phuket, Ko Tao and Krabi

Trekking
Unlike the organized treks in the Himalayas, Thailand's "hill-tribe treks" focus on the ethnic-minority villages that you walk to, rather than on the walking itself or the scenery. The hill tribes live way out in the sticks, but their villages are connected by tracks, so the hiking is not difficult. Most treks last two to four days and feature nights in the villages, as well as an elephant ride and river rafting. The main trekking centres are the northern cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, but routes out of both are hugely over subscribed, so it's better to start from Mae Hing Sin, Pai, Kanchanaburi or Umphang instead, where trails are quieter and more rewarding.

View Photos of Chiang Mai

The ruined former capitals of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya
Dating from the thirteen century, Sukhothai is a beautiful example og thoughtful city planning enlivened by lakes and elegant statues of the Buddha. The 300-year-old temples and palaces of Ayutthaya display a refined mix of Hindu and Buddhist sculpture and are fun to explore by bicycle. Both sets of ruins are now conserved as historical parks. There are plenty of sobering World War II sights in the town, as well as reasonable range of trekking, rafting and cycle options that make the most or the fine river scenery, plus some appealing rafthouse accommodation too.

View Photos of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya

Kanchanaburi
Sited on the banks of the River Kwai, the town is most famous for its role as a POW camp in World War II and for its bridge, whose destruction by the Allied Forces was immortalized in Davis Lean's movie. There are plenty of sobering World War II sights in the town, as well as a reasonable range of trekking, rafting and cycling options that make the most of the fine river scenery, plus some appealing rafthouse accommodation too

View Photos of Kanchanaburi

Khao Sok National Park
Here you can sleep in a tree house under limestone karst, wake to the sound ogf the hooting gibbons, and take an adventure tour via waterlogged caves and jungles trails to a lake

View Photos of Khao Sok National Park

The ancient Khmer temple of Phanom Rung
This exquisite pink sandstone complex was built in the tenth century as a blueprint for the Angkor temples across the border in Cambodia

View Photos of Phanom Rung

Thai massage
Enjoy a traditional massage at Bangkok's Wat Pho temple, then learn the techniques yourself at a course in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

Snorkelling and diving off the remote Similan Island
The turquoise water, powdery sands and banks of coral are regularly visited by sharks, rays and turtles

View Photos of Similan Island

The Mae Hong Song loop
Hire a motor bike and spend as many days as you can spare on the circular 600-kilometre route through the glorious upland scenery of the remote northwest

View Photos of Mae_Hong_Son

Kayaking along the Krabi coastline
An exhilarating way of exploring the spectacularly craggy outcrops and remote uninhabited islands of the south west-coast

View Photos of Krabi

Sang Khom
It's great to just chill out in this idyllis tree-shaded little town on the Mekong river, where you can hire bicycles to visit traditional local villages and mess about on the water in inner tubes and dugout canoes

Pai
This laid back north-Thai town has a distinct New Age air and is the perfect place to take some courses in alternative therapies, browse the art shops and arrange a trek.

Full-moon beach party
Join the hordes for the monthly full-moon parties on Ko Pha Ngan, an infamous back-packers' beach rave attracts up to 30,000 clubbers.

About the Author
www.letstravelplease.com is where you can get the best traveling deals, cheap flights and Cheap hotel deals. Have fun!!

2009-02-28T01:34:00.001-08:00

Inexpensive Travel Ideas to Thailand by Christopher Snyder

1
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pluggedThailand attracts millions of visitors every year. This is one of the most visited tourist destinations of Asia. Though Thailand is becoming increasingly popular as a tourist spot, still many consider Thailand as a mysterious land. Thailand has something special for everyone. Both young and the old love Thailand; those who love nature will find the breath taking scenic spots of Thailand almost addictive. It is an ideal spot for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. At the same time, Thailand has also a lot to offer those who love fun, excitement and adventure. Thailand is known for its notorious nightlife. For the shopping mongers, Thailand has plenty to offer. Overall, no one who visits Thailand will be disappointed.
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and it is also one of the busiest business centers of the country. Many people from round the world prefer Thailand vacations because it is one of the cheapest vacation destinations when compared to the other Asian tourist destinations. It is all the more cheaper when compared to other American and European tourist destinations. Though it is a cheaper vacation destination, it does not mean that it has any lesser excitements. Everyone who visits Thailand will love to return to Thailand at the first chance they get.

You will be able to find a number of affordable Thailand hotels and holiday packages. One of the most expensive parts of vacations is accommodation and when it comes to accommodation in Thailand, you will be able to find many cheap hotels with top class service. Therefore, Thailand becomes an ideal destination for budget vacations.

Thailand has breathtaking beaches and exciting places for sightseeing. In general, Thailand is a hot country and the temperature varies between 22º and 35º Celsius. Some interesting destinations that are known as action centers of Thailand include Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Samui.

Thailand is not only a budget vacation destination; it has a very friendly culture that welcomes tourists. You will find the Thai to be warm and cordial. The sacred temples of Thailand are one of the major attractions of the country. It is these temples that give the country a mystical dimension. When you are planning your budget vacation to Thailand, you must make sure to compare a number of hotel deals so that you will be able to lock on to the best deal. You will be able to save further by going for packages instead of making your hotel and flight booking separately. However, you should get the cost for both the options before you finalize your trip arrangements.

When you are planning your Thailand vacation, you should allot enough time at the Chao Praya River, which is one of the biggest attractions of Thailand. You will be able to enjoy your vacation the best when your trip is planned between July and November.

When you are in Thailand never, forget to try the famous Thai cuisine and you will surely love the mild flavors of the Thai recipes.

About the Author
All Rights Reserved. Christopher Snyder is the Founder and Managing Director of Asia Products LLC and currently is living in Bangkok, Thailand. He manages an e-commerce store buying products to sell on http://www.asiaproductsllc.com. He is documenting some of his more interesting travels in his Asia Travel Ideas website : http://www.apllc-connect.com.

2008-11-12T16:34:00.001-08:00

The Fantastic Chang Land Beach, Trang by Truman Tyler

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pluggedChang Land Beach Location: Moo4, Tambon Mai Fad, Amphoe Sikao
How to get there: from the city of Trang take the Highway no 4046-4612 to the junction that leads to the beachfront road and turn left into it, passing Pakmeng Beach for about 5 kilometers.

The gift of islands by the shore, each of which has differences in beauty and identity some with the nicest beach, some with an escrows and migrating birds, and some with the most beautiful diving spot. Though each island is differently beautiful, the beauty of Chang Lang Beach is not at all blocked.

Pakmeng Beach is regarded as center of the trips in the Trang Sea. At high season, in the morning as well as evening. Tour boats will actively transfer tourists at this pier. Pakmeng Beach is not only interesting as a paler, the picture of this beach that features the two mountains have become the landmark of Trang. Morever, the beach line that stretches not so far from Pakmeng Beach is one of the most beautiful in Thailand.

Sights: From Pakmeng Beach, center of the Trang Sea, going along the beachfront road. Ones can admire the beautiful scenery with a view of the Trang Sea in the shade of pine trees. Pakmeng Beach stretches to Chang Lang Beach if not by called by the other name, it is the same beach with similar features. Chang Lang Beach starts at Amari Trang Beach Resort and ends at the office of Had Chaomai National Park. The setting along the long beach line with white and clean sand onto the bridge across the Chang Lang canal is peaceful. Strange that the fresh water in the canal that flows to the sea at this beach does not bring the soil sediment to destroy the whiteness of it. The clear and clean water, as if it was distilled through the mangrove the color is emerald green, flows to the blue sea, looking like a junction of two different waters very beautiful there is a small fisherman village at the canal end this area is another nice viewpoint for sunset.

Skirting further by the beach, ones will enter Had Chaomai National Park. The beach that stretches along by the office is of bright silver and gradually steps down to the sea. At low tides, the stripes beautifully made on the sand by the waves appear, shady with pine trees a walk can be taken from here onto Khao Baena.

It is said that just taking a camp under the pine trees at Had Chaomai Nation Park, one can experience the nature that is worth it, at Khao Baena, there is some remaining of pre-historic mural paintings. At the foothill is the source of sea grasses the main food for sea cows. The beach by Khao Baena has a nice view an impressive viewpoint for the sunset.

Facilities: Peace lovers can choose to relax in the beachfront houses on Chaomai Beach, Or to stay in a tent under the pine trees also convenient, with food shops in the Nation Park, Had Chaomai National Park. Tel: 0 7521 3260

On Chang Lang Beach, good-class accommodations is available a resort beautifully built on the beach with complete facilities that is Amari Trang Beach Resort. Tel: 0 7527 4236-9, 0 7520 5888

On Pakmeng Beach, moderate accommodations are available for you choices with one-day package tours to the islands in the Trang Sea.

Lay Trang Resort Tel: 0 7527 4027-8, 0 7527 4227-8 Pakmeng Resort Tel: 0 7527 4111-2, 0 7522 3030-1

About the Author
Truman Tyler is the professional freelance writer. He's also the webmaster of Abnbooking.com

2008-11-12T16:32:00.001-08:00

Trang Hotels- Oasis of peace by akp

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pluggedTrang, a gem of Thailand, is a land of pristine beauty, sun soaked beaches and lush greenery. Located 828 kilometers from Bangkok, this city of Thailand is renowned for its islands, parks and beaches. Embark on a trip to the Ko Kradan or explore the Khao Chong Wildlife and Nature Education Centre. You can lie back on the beaches, indulge yourself in the varied sport activities or soak yourself in the history and the culture of the land. To meet the needs of all types of travelers, there are many Trang Hotels.
Be it the hotels in the town or the hotels in the beach areas, all of them offer excellent accommodation facility to all. The Thumrin Thana Hotel located close to the airport, bus terminal and the train station is a good option of accommodation. Trang Plaza Hotel located opposite Praya Rasadanupradit Mouument Park offers 196 guest rooms that are well appointed. Thumrin Hotel is proud to be the first luxurious international first class hotel of Trang. Wattana Park Hotel where you can get style and comfort under the same roof offers international standard of services to all.

Apart from these there are a good number of resorts in beach areas. The Chang Lang Resort, the Lay Trang Resort, the Amari Trang Beach Resort and the Pak Meng Resort are some of them. The islands of Trang also feature a good number of accommodation option. Koh Mook Charlie Beach Resort in Koh Mook beach is a paradise for nature lovers. The traditional bungalow of Koh Ngai Villa which overlooks panoramic seas and gardens is worth mentioning. Most of the hotels and the resorts in Trang, Thailand are located in the midst of natural beauty. If you are a nature lover, then the beachfront Cottages are the best for you.

It is one of the prime destinations for honeymooners. To welcome you there are special honeymoon suites with a host of modern facilities that shower the much desired comfort. The hotels of Trang feature a number of well appointed rooms that assure you the comfort and the warmth of your home. Apart from the standard rooms, there are honeymoon suites for honeymooners, executive suites for business travelers and disabled rooms for physically challenged ones.

Trang hotels also offer excellent dining, business and recreational facilities. You can dine the regional dishes served in the restaurant or can sip a glass of your favorite drink in the bar. Most of the hotels of the city also offer a well equipped conference rooms for all its guests.

About the Author
amit pandey Seo Specialist

2008-11-11T00:32:00.001-08:00

Trang (Koh Lanta & Krabi) , Thailand Scuba Diving Guide by MyTourPal

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pluggedThis is Thailand's latest and most exciting diving area. Trang is located in the south of Krabi and Lanta. Many of the dive sites here are world-class. Unlike the water around nearby Phi Phi Islands group, the water here is always crystal clear. On a normal day visibility is about 25 meters and it is not uncommon to have visibility of up to 40 meters. To know more about scuba diving in Phi Phi Islands group, please visit our Phi Phi's diving guide.

The dive sites in Trang is dived into four areas, Koh Ha, Koh Rok, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang. Among them, Hin Deang and Hin Muang are probably the most famous and frequently dived sites. Diving in this area is filled with great excitements. The health and number of reef inhabitants are exceptional. Large schools and different varieties of pelagics comes here to feed so often that they seem like residents of these water, thus encounters with pelagics is almost certain here.

The first few adventurers that came Trang to dive had been richly rewarded. Many divers that had set foot here had commented that the dives sites here are better than those found Koh Similan and Koh Surin Marine Park. For that, these must be the best diving sites found in Thailand.

To know more about scuba diving in Koh Similan National Marine Park, please visit our Koh Similan National Marine Park's diving guide.

To know more about scuba diving in Koh Surin National Marine Park, please visit our Koh Surin National Marine Park's diving guide.

Read the complete article here: Trang, MyTourPal Thailand Scuba Diving Guide

About the Author
I love to read and write about scuba diving. I have dived in Malaysia (Lang Tengah), Australia (Great Barrier Reef), Thailand (Phuket) and Maldives. I hope to dive in Egypt (Red Sea) in future. MyTourPal Hotels Reservation - Krabi Last Minute and Discounted Hotels

2008-11-11T00:30:00.000-08:00

Krabi - Perfect destination for holidayers by Alex Albert

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pluggedKrabi is a hub of white sandy beaches, coral reefs, mesmerizing Islands, and forests with caves and waterfalls. These astonishing attractions make you witness a different world which exists far away from a feverish atmosphere.Water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving can be enjoyed at its beaches. During night, the whole ambience changes and takes a glaring appearance. Furthermore, your stay is beautified by Krabi Hotels which offer elegant accommodations and modern services. Not only this, there style of hospitality also enamors the travelers.
Located on the west coast of Southern Thailand, Krabi is considered as one of the most favourable tourist destinations of the world. Krabi covers a 4708 sq km area and is blessed with the natural glory of white sandy beaches, coral reefs, mesmerizing Islands, and forests with caves and waterfalls. It makes you enter an exotic world which exists away from a noisy and hectic atmosphere. Taking out time from a busy schedule and spending precious moments with family at this amazing spot is definitely a great pleasure. Furthermore, your enjoyment is enhanced by Krabi Hotels which offer modern accommodations.

Amari Vogue Resort, Golden Beach Resort, Buri Tara Resort, Rawi Warin Resort Spa, and Sofitel Phokeethra are some of the leading hotels in Krabi. Budget travelers as well as visitors with great requirements can easily find an apposite hotel. Most of the hotels in Krabi are nested at beachfront locations. Also, they make available an entire set of amenities including restaurant, swimming pool, and Spa. Not only this, guests can also fully avail the services like laundry, parking, travel information, shuttle service, front desk, and many more.

Krabi offers various sightseeing places like Wat Tham Suea, Wat Sai Thai, Krabi Horticultural Centre, Hin Daeng, Tham Lot, Wat Khlong Thom Museum, Tham Chao Le, Tham Sadet, Koh Talu, Railay beach, Ao Nang beach, Koh Lanta Marine National Park, Fossil Shell beach, Koh Phi Phi Natural Park, Than Bokkharani National Park, Nopharat Thara Beach, and Shell Cemetery. These attractions portray the ongoing world of enchantment that never comes to a stand still.

Apart from this, Krabi beaches are very popular among adventurers for offering exciting activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and many more. Not only this, trekking and hiking are also available there. For leisure, you can just relax in the stilling zone at beach while feeling the warmth of sun. Meanwhile, gladsome moments can be cherished with friends or family. Around the beaches, Spa facilities are also available where you can take cool Thai massage treatments.

Well, dining and shopping have their own fun at the beaches. Various stores selling antiques, gems, clothings, furniture, neilloware, Orchids, pewter ware, and silk items, are set there. While, restaurants, bars, cafes, and bistros are lit during dusk which makes the whole atmosphere dazzling. Sala Thai, Ko Tung, Last Fisherman Bar, Seafood street, Lo Spuntino, The Irish Rover Pub, Night Market, Gecko House, and Crazy Pub are some of the spots where a vibrant nightlife can be enjoyed.

About the Author
Make a suitable hotel choice through AsiaRooms offering reservation of various Krabi Hotels at best prices.

2008-11-07T02:44:00.001-08:00

Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking - Exploring Mother Nature's Crowning Glory by Naveen Marasinghe

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pluggedThe Asian elephant population is fast diminishing and the Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking experience is a fun way to get to know these gentle giants and help preserve their upkeep. These elephants are looked after by a personal mahout, who treat them like family. Currently, the Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking experience has over 2000 elephants.
The Koh Lanta Elephant Trekking experience continues through a jungle and streams and ends at a different location according to the specific trekking route you wish go to along on. The first route ends at a rubber tree plantation, which will hold a demonstration of raw rubber production.

The elephant ride is one hour long and falls through the luscious tropical rainforest of Phra Ae Camp. The first route is family-oriented, allowing the tourists to participate in the elephant feeding and educating them on how and where elephants live, all supervised by an experienced guide. The second route includes a visit to the Mai Kaew Cave. The third route falls along a sea gypsy village known as Baan Sang Ga U and the tourist must stop here to enjoy lunch and beautiful views. From here, a walk to the waterfalls and a visit to Lanta National Park are scheduled.

Route number four includes a bit of adventure sports, arranging a kayaking trip (at an individual's preferred pace) through luscious mangrove forest filled with wildlife in their natural habitat. Finally, there's the route where you get to visit the Orchid and Butterfly Garden after the one-hour ride.

Koh Lanta is linked with Thailand's ultimate luxury tourism sector and when in Koh Lanta, it's absolutely essential to stay at a luxury vacation spa resort. Among them, the Krabi luxury villas are simply superb.

About the Author
Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing agency that offers integrated Internet marketing solutions and specializes in serving the online travel and hospitality industry. (http://www.emarketingeye.com/ )

2008-11-03T19:33:00.000-08:00

Lanta Island - Krabi Thailand so nice. by darksingha

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http://www.tourthaithai.blogspot.com/2007/06/lanta-island-krabi-thailand-so-nice.html
Ko Lanta lied on the west coast of Andaman Sea in between Krabi and Phi Phi Island . Large Size Island with 6 km wide and over 30 kms long, 9 beaches lie from north to south along the sunset coast. Stunning scenery, fantastic white sandy beaches, coastlines have more than 70 small islands and plenty with forest, coral reefs and under water life. Exposed to the Tsunami hit southern Thailand , Koh Lanta got very little physical affected. She has been quietly recovering with most hotels operating normally. Koh Lanta was very fortunate in that no damage occurred to the natural scenic beauty. All the beaches remain as beautiful as ever. All dive sites did not suffer in the disaster, rather the water is cleaner and clearer than ever.

How to get Ko Lanta

Ko Lanta is easy and inexpensive to reach from Phuket, Bangkok or Malaysia . The island is serviced by passenger ferries from both Krabi & Phi Phi and car ferries from the mainland.

Krabi is the most convenient gateway to Ko Lanta if coming from Bangkok, and if arriving from Phuket passage is via either Phi Phi or Krabi. Trang also serves as a regional transit point for those coming in from the south. Please bear in mind that if your arrival time is late in the day, the local minibus or public passenger ferries scheduled for Ko Lanta may not always be available.

Location of Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta yai ( big ) & Koh Lanta noi ( small ) are located in the

Andaman Sea of South-West-Thailand ( Malayan Peninsula ), about 45 km south of Krabi-town in the Krabi province.

~ 7' 28" north latitude, ~ 99' 4" east longitude.

The islands are only one km away from the mainland and accessible by ferry / car-ferry all year round.

The Koh Lanta district contains 53 islands which mainly are part of the Koh Lanta marine national park.

moutain of ko lanta island

Tourism in Koh Lanta

As mentioned in chapter Development, the develoment of tourism is ongoing for the last 20 years. The real ignition spark came about 6 years ago, when basic infrastructures arrived on the island. Every year since then, tens of new resorts, restaurants, shop etc. start their services along the west coast, right on the beach as well as at nearby mainstreets and hill sites.

Typical tourism "high season" is from November until May, with "paek season" from of December 20th until January 10th. Many businesses are opened all year round with very low prices during "low season", June until October. This time of the year is wonderful, too.

Tourist services of any style & for any budget are offered to the distinguished guest from around the world.

Well, so much information to display about Koh Lanta's tourism - too much for this web-site. Please refer to our Links to Ko Lanta for more details about accommodation, activities, transportation etc.

Here we would like to give you a brief overview of the "Tourist destination Ko Lanta".

The tourist center of Ko Lanta is " Ban Saladan " at the northern tip of Koh Lanta yai. Many shops, supermarkets, travel agents, dive-shops, restaurants and other facilities make it worth to spend some good time there. For most tourist guests on the island, this cosy village is the first and the last place to see, whilst being on the island.

Ferries to/from Krabi, Pee Pee and Phuket are departing and arriving at Ban Saladan pier, only.

All beaches on the west coast, in order from north to south : ( mentioned prices are estimated, average "high/low season" prices )

The first beach, "Klong Dow Beach", next to Ban Saladan, which is known to be the most beautiful beach, about 2 kilometer long, flat and white sanded. There are about 20 resorts on this beach. Prices from 400 - 4500 THB per night.

The second beach, " Phra Ae Beach or Long Beach ", about 5 kilometers long, nice and sandy. There are about 17 resorts on this beach. Prices from 250 - 4500 THB per night.

The third beach, " Klong Khong Beach ", 3 km long with sand and rocks. Great sunsets. There are about 22 resorts on this beach. Prices from 200 - 900 THB per night.

The forth beach, " Klong Tob Beach ", a short strip with sand and rocks. A very quiet beach with only a few bungalows around. Prices from 250 - 1000 THB per night.

The fifth beach, " Klong Nin Beach ", a beautiful 1,5 km long beach with about 10 bungalow resort. The famous "Otto Bar" just moved to there, formerly located at Klong Dow Beach. Prices from 250 - 4800 THB per night.

The sixth beach, " Klong Hin Beach ", with sandy and rocky parts - good for snorkeling. Klong Hin Beach is about 1 km long and has 3 resorts so far. Prices from 250 - 2600 THB per night.

The seventh beach, " Kan Thiang Beach or Bay ", a beautiful, curved sandy beach, 800 meter long. The only 4+ star Resort and Spa "Pimalai" and 3 other resorts are located there. Prices from 250 - 21000 (!) THB per night.

The eighth beach, " Klong Jark Beach, a small and quiet beach, surrounded by tropical jungle. There are 3 resorts on this beach. Prices from 300 - 900 THB per night.

The ninth beach, " Aow Mai Bai or Bamboo Bay " is the last beach outside the national marine park which is next to it. A quiet and private beach with only 2 bungalow resorts. Prices from 250 - 800 THB per night.

And last but not least the tenth and most southern beach, " Ta Noad Beach ", next to the old light-house, the landmark of Ko Lanta. The Lanta marine national park head-quarter is located right at this beach. No resorts or other commercial facilities there.

Ko Lanta is a diver's paradise for beginners and the experienced. There are very few places on the planet where divers can enjoy an underwater world so rich and diverse. And imagine learning to dive in water that's the same temperature as your bath water at home.

Nature in Koh Lanta Ko Lanta island offers tropical nature at it's best..

The tropical paradise off the south-west coast of Thailand has 25 km of beautiful beaches backed by verdant jungle & rain forest.

Here you still find real big trees, many animal species, including rare birds, mammals and reptiles. More then 80% of the island are covered with tropical rain forest, which is mostly protected national-park area.

The mangrove coast in south Thailand, covers sinking limestone ranges, millions of years old. On Koh lanta there are many mangroves, which you can admire while going on a canoe-trip. Mangroves and intertidal mudflats are of great conservation value in Thailand, helping sustain valuable inshore fisheries and protecting the coast from erosion.

If you arrive by car ferry, than watch out for monkeys, which are living here in the mangroves. They are crab-eating macaques and one of the numerous mammal species living in this environment.

Nature for a living, rubber tree and palm tree plantations: On Lanta are hundreds of rubber tree plantations, which are tapped every day before sunrise. The rubber then has to be dried, cleaned, and pressed, before being sold as 1,2 kg mats. Coconut palms and oil palms are common on Koh Lanta as in the whole south of Thailand and they provide a modest income for the local farmers.

Ko Lanta's rich waters offer sandy coves, coral reefs, limestone rock outcrops, rock reefs, seamounts and pinnacles, undersea caverns and tunnels and sunken ships. Water temperature ranges from 27 to 31 degrees - ideal for scuba-diving, corals and tropical fishes. More than 200 hard corals and 108 reef fish species have been catalogues in a study under way, but thousands more organisms around, too. The twin peaks of Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are rated in the worlds top 10 list of dive sites.

While tourism has grown quickly in the last few years, Ko Lanta has retained its traditional charm and great natural beauty.

References

Koh Lanta Investments. 2003. About Koh Lanta(ออนไลน์)สืบค้นจากhttp://www.lanta-thailand.com/ เมื่อ 20 มิ.ย.2550 Koh Lanta Island. 2006. Ko Lanta (Island), Krabi, Thailand. - Index Page of Koh Lanta.(ออนไลน์)สืบค้นจาก http://www.lantainfo.com/ เมื่อ 20 มิ.ย.2550

About the Author
thailand http://www.tourthaithai.blogspot.com/2007/06/lanta-island-krabi-thailand-so-nice.html

2008-07-15T20:15:00.001-07:00

Koh Lanta - Thailand's Hidden Island Paradise by Chris Mitchell

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Koh Lanta is one of Thailand's hidden gems. If you are looking for somewhere to go on holiday and get away from the crowds in Thailand, Koh Lanta has plenty of options. Some say it's like Phuket was 20 years ago - and while Koh Lanta has seen a boom in development in the last few years, it is still a very laid back, unspoilt island.

There's a choice of 5 different beaches each with their own distinct character, along with a big choice in accommodation, from luxury 5 star resorts that have won numerous awards for service and style to the classic bamboo Thai hut by the beach. There's also a wide range of beachfront restaurants and bars, with authentic Thai and also great Western cuisine available. But there's no McDonald's or Starbucks or any other big chains on the island - all of Lanta's culinary talent is homegrown and has its own distinct ambience. If you want to party, you can - there's several bar clubs like Opium and the Ozone that stay open late. If you want to get away from it all and have some peace and quiet, you can do that too.

Besides enjoying the superb beaches, Lanta has some great activities, like elephant riding, Thai cooking classes, island hopping daytrips and romantic sunset sailing on a beautiful yacht. Perhaps the most exciting of Lanta's activities is scuba diving - Koh Lanta is near to some of Thailand's best dive sites, and there are daytrips by speedboat or all-day big boat from which you can explore them. You can also learn to dive on Lanta, and the warm, clear waters around Koh Lanta provide the ideal venue to do so.

If you're planning a trip to Thailand and want to enjoy amazing, unspoilt beaches, beautiful sunsets, great food and superb scuba diving, Koh Lanta is certainly worth considering.

About the Author

Chris Mitchell is a British scuba diving journalist based in Bangkok, Thailand. He manages the Koh Lanta website AmazingLanta.com

2008-07-15T05:11:00.001-07:00

Lanta Old Town by Francisco Faulkner

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This old town of Lanta in the old days was like an Ampher Muang-prosperous with overseas freighters that usually stopped over at the pier in Tumbon Koh Lanta Yai making it the freighter - center between Phuket - Kantang of Trang and Koh Lanta's center point. Later after Petchakasem Road was cut, this pier was fallen in to disuse until 1997 the District Office and important governmental offices were moved to Koh Lanta Noi. Talad Saladan Pier built as the main port for all passenger boats to stop. Saladan market has become Koh Lanta's new center point.

Nevertheless, that was over 100 year ago, today Lanta Old Town in Tumbon Koh Lanta Yai has come back to life and become more attractive with its significance in history and culture that remains for tourists to experience one again.

Long - stay tourists are so fascinated with this small town, as they may choose to do any activities they like - eating, sleeping, going out to the sea fishing or driving to tour the city viewing government offices and old district office built in 1901. At present, the old building in blue made the Office of Sanitation District. Going out pay homage to the Statue of HRH Prince Chumpon Khet Udomsak and staying overnight at huge local wooden houses with things from oversea freighters are pleasurable.

Never to miss is diving for corals viewing at Koh Por and Koh Bu Bu or the "Blue Pearl of the Andaman" that can be done by local boats at the pier in Tumbon Koh Lanta Yai as a half - day or one - day tour including a visit to the islands of the Trang's Sea. Coming to Koh Lanta without a visit this Lanta Old Town is not worth the travel a long way...

Koh Lanta Yai

Koh Lanto Yai has two Districts - Saladan sub District and Koh Lanta Yai sub District. In the old days, Koh Lanta Yai sub District was the island's hinterland with important pier for overseas freighters to pass, making its economy prosperous.

In high season, it is not surprising why Koh Lanta Yai is so crowded with tourist, as it is easy to tour either by hiring motorcycle or by jeeps. If still enjoying, just drive to see the local life styles of the Lanta Old Town and further to the original sea gypsies at Ban Sang Ka - U, now that the island is done.

Koh Lanta Noi

In the old days, Koh Lanta Noi was just a pass way for travelers from Krabi and Trang on their way to Koh Lanta Yai by private cars or vans.

Koh Lanta Noi, with on resorts, luxurious restaurants and other facilities as good as Koh Lanta Yai, though, has one thing better that is the prosperity with a perfect nature and real islander life styles - rubber tearing rice growing and fishery.

If not satisfied yet, try another round of adventure by motorcycle in the next morning tour in the longest and most beautiful beach on Koh Lanta Noi -Long Sord Beach - and end it by taking a fisherman boat to see the abundant mangrove, this is almost what should be done at Koh Lanta Noi.

About the Author

Francisco Faulkner is the professional freelance writer. He's also the webmaster of Travelspotguide.com

2008-03-08T15:13:00.001-08:00

Khao Jed Yad, Trang Thailand by Simon

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Khao Jed Yad The Height from M.S.L. : 1,350 Meters
Location : Khao Jed Yad is one part of Ban Tad rang, which consists of thick forest and evergreen forest. Mountain range lay down from north to South and covers area of many provinces such as Trang, Satun, Song Khla, Pattalung, etc.
Among those southern mountains that serve traveling purpose, Khao Jed Yad just become familiar and popular lately. Especially nature education is very popular because Khao Jed Yad has many interesting species of trees.
The walking trip to khao Jed Yad starts at Ton Tae Waterfall. You have to walkm along the edge of a canal and pass through big forest for a while. The first day of walking trip end at Namtok Ton Teh Stream.
In the next morning, you will continue your trip by walking to split point of water and tum left Yeaw Shang Waterfall.
After lunch, you have to walk for another 3 hours to conquer Khao Jed Yad. All the way to Khao Jed Yed, you will find only purity of forest, which include varieties of trees, wild animals, and birds. Then there will be a resting area in the middle of valley that is surrounded by seven tops of mountain or Kho Jed Yad. All tops of mountain were covered by undersized forest that look like grassland. You will reach this point in the evening. There is a small camping area and source of water, which is a stream that located 100 meters away from camping area.
If the weather is clear, a far away view will appear to your sight, especially the seven tops of mountain. The highest one is stand distinguishably and covered by thick firest. The other tops are covered by undersized forest and there is an evergreen forest in the valley ditch.
Khao Jed Yed forest of Ban Tad rang is the natural consummate souce of wildlife and wild orchids. And also has a very splendid view.
The 3-day-2-night period is appropriate. More... Visit Phuket Thailand ==> http://phuket-thailands.blogspot.com/

About the Author
Visit Phuket & Discount All Hotels in Thailand ==> http://phuket-thailands.blogspot.com/

2008-03-08T15:08:00.001-08:00

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Phuket Hotel Thailand Is An Island Conjured Dream
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Phuket Hotel in Phuket Island, Thailand is an island pretended from a trance; a complete balance of opalescent seas and intense cerulean skies, draped in a sheltered curtain of coconut palm fronds.

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We terribly look onward to cozy you to Phuket hotel to portion this amazing coast and the breath-charming views of Bangtao coast hotel choice spa.

At Phuket Hotel; You can trace its innate beauty which blessed by an calm cozy climate, blonde grimy shorees, rock acquit turquoise water. These Phuket Hotel attractions are early from the pivot of Island.

Bang tao sand is located on the west trait of Phuket island, about 25 notes from Phuket International airport.

Bang tao bay is just north of Kamala shore, this 8 km. grimy sand with an 18-defect golf course is right for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.

The shoreline is lined with some posh routes called Laguna Phuket, most of which are part of an integrated route organism.

When word gets around about your authority of Phuket Hotel evidence, others who want to know about Phuket Hotel will begin to actively obtain you out.

From beginning to end, this article has helped you to learn more about this topic than you probably thought you would ever know.

About the Author
Maypopup M. is the Webmaster of Phuket Hotel Thailand Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Phuket Thailand With Coupon discont up 50% More at http://www.hotel2phuket.com/

Source: ArticleTrader.com

2008-03-08T15:06:00.001-08:00

Thailand Can Be A Retirees Paradise - By: Lee Dobbins,
If you are starting to wonder about where you could retire to, the chances are that Thailand has not been one of your first choices. However, the people who have retired to Thailand really do love the way of life there and it may well be worth thinking about it once you have done a little research.

What to Expect From Retiring in Thailand

Thailand is well known for its fantastic weather and it is certainly somewhere that you should consider if you want to experience a warm winter. Also, one of the main reasons why people do choose to retire to Thailand is the fact that there is not as much crime there as there is in some Western countries. In fact Thailand is known to be one of the safest countries in the world and attacks on strangers is extremely low and that allows you to feel safer than you would in a country such as the UK or in America.

If you are on a slight budget then there will always be something to suit your needs in Thailand. All you have to do is look away from the tourist driven places and you will find that the prices of accommodation and living is a lot lower than it is in built up areas.

Another good factor about the cost of living in Thailand is the medical care. The treatments and the facilities are extremely modern, yet they are also really inexpensive too. This means that you will easily be able to afford any health care which you may need and it is just as good as it would be back home.

If you are thinking of retiring to Thailand then one thing you will need to think about is what you would like to spend your time doing. There are a number of activities available to you and it basically depends upon how active you want to be. For example you can take part in scuba diving or if you would still like to feel like you are working then you can apply to become a volunteer teacher. You can also just relax and enjoy cultural activities if you would prefer.

Overall retiring in Thailand is definitely something you should consider. The cost of living there is extremely low and it is one of the safest places in the world. With no cold weather to worry even in winter, about what more could you possibly ask for?
Article Source:GoodInfoHome.com
Visit www.retirementviews.com for the latest on retirement including saving for retirement and choosing a retirement community as well as retiring in Thailand.

2008-03-08T15:03:00.000-08:00

Thailands Second City - By: Douglas Scott,
We all know that Chiang Mai is the city that travellers both Thai and foreign value highly for its charm, extraordinary sites, and people. Also, the reputation for craftsmanship has made Chiang Mai become the centre for exports in the North of Thailand. These are the reasons that visitors are impelled to come here again and again. Therefore, information is always the priority for tourists.

Chiang Mai, 700km northwest of Bangkok, is Thailands second city and the gateway to northern Thailand. There are over 300 temples and monasteries in Chiang Mai, almost as many Bangkok, and the city has a long tradition for arts and crafts.

Once described as one of the loveliest cities imaginable Chiang Mai still retains a certain flavour of the past with its moated old city, ancient wats and leafy back streets. Chiang Mais oldest temple is Wat Chiang Man which dates back to 1296 and is known for its two Buddha images, one made of the stone and the other made from crystal.

Almost as old, Wat Phra Singh in the centre of town contains a 1,500 year old Buddha image and another wat, Wat Chedi Luang, holds the ruins of a huge chedi or stupa that collapsed in an earthquake in 1545.

The Chiang Mai National Museum, just to the north of the city centre, houses an extensive collection of Buddha images and northern Thai handicrafts. Another museum that is worth a visit especially for those preparing to go trekking is the Tribal Museum which houses a good display of hill tribe textiles, jewellery, musical instruments, weapons and other artefacts

Around 15km east of Chiang Mai is Bo Sang, also known as the Umbrella Village, where handmade paper umbrellas and many other hill tribe handicrafts are sold. Another popular excursion from Chiang Mai is a visit to the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre where attractions include elephant rides, elephant bathing and an exhibition on the importance of the elephant in Thai history and culture.

Chiang Mai has a distinct international atmosphere with many foreign businesses and organizations locating in the city over the past decade due to her excellent infrastructure with international direct flight connections to all countries in the region including China, Singapore, Malaysia, Burma, Cambodia and Taiwan.

Shopping is great, be it for handicrafts, clothes or luxury items. Everything can be found at great prices in stores ranging from small family run shops to world class luxury outlets and shopping malls.
Article Source:GoodInfoHome.com
Douglas Scott works for The Rental Car Hire Specialist. and is a free lance writer for The Rental SiteChiang Mai

2008-03-08T03:36:00.001-08:00

Tips To Travel Cheap by Naithan

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When you go travelling the world, or just go on holiday you need to know basic tips. In this article you will learn some of the most important ones.

Travelling is wonderful, you get to see new places, cultures, people etc. I can go on forever about this topic but that will be another article and shall be written another time. This article will teach you the best tips so that you save money while you are travelling. They are not listed in importance because each one is just as important. So read and learn.

1. When you are travelling you need to take as enough food and drinks with you. One thing you will notice when you travel by plane, is that everything is expensive. Even when you arrive in country where normally everything is really cheap, the airport will be relatively expensive.

2. Learn how to barter with shopkeepers, online you will find tips how to do this effectively. In most countries it is very normal to barter and a lot of times you will save up to 50% on your product.

3. Gain information about your travelling destination via online discussion forums. For you it might be the first journey, but there are many people out there who have already walked that road.

4. When you have arrived at your destination, be sure to buy your own food instead of going to a restaurant every time. This might seem obvious but restaurants in Thailand are very cheap which will lure you in going to them over and over again. Don't forget they are making profit as well so the food that you buy on a market or grocery stores is even cheaper.

5. Look where locals go to buy their food and drinks. They live there, so they will know what places to go and get their groceries cheaply.

If you follow these tips you will save a lot on your travels. If you have experience travelling then you will know how important it is to be prepared. I hope with this article you will have great and cheap travels.

If you want to learn more cheap travel tips take a look at my other article.

About the Author

My name is Naithan Weigh, I'm currently staying in Koh Samui, Thailand and my only source of income is the internet. If you want to know how I make my money online than take a look at my blog.

2008-03-08T03:34:00.001-08:00

Pattaya - The Wonderful Thailand Spot Ever by Siripong T.

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Pattaya city is one of the most wonderful place in Thailand for tourists. It locates in Chonburi province which is in the eastern part of Thailand. With beautiful beaches and scenario, Thai girls and nightlife, activities and sports, millions of travelers travel to Pattaya each year to come and see what the real fantastic city is.

Getting to Pattaya is very easy. It is just 147 kilometers away from Bangkok and 160 kilometers away from Bangkok International Airport (Old Airport). It takes approximately 90 minutes by car. If you would like to drive by yourself, you can take Route 3 (Bangna-Trat) and go along until you find the junction telling you to turn right to Pattaya beach, or you can take Motor-Way which is more convenient. You can also take a flight operated by Bangkok Airways to/from Koh Samui at Sattaheep Airport.

About Pattaya's weather, Winter season starts in November through February. The temperature is between 20-30 degree Celsius and 50% humidity. Summer season starts in February through May. The temperature is between 30-40 degree Celsius and 75% humidity. Rainy season starts in June through October. The temperature is between 25-30 degree Celcius and 90% humidity.

Pattaya comprises 4 areas - North Pattaya, Central Pattaya, South Pattaya, and Jomtien beach. There are few tourists in North Pattaya if you compare with others. Travelers love to be there when they want to relax, swim in the sea or take a water sports or activities. In Central Pattaya along to South Pattaya, there are a lot of business and services including bars, restaurants, department stores, souvenir shops, and entertainment complexes.

Jomtien beach locates in the southern part of Pattaya. It is 4 kilometers away from Pattaya city. Many tourists love to go swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and other water activities there. Also, tourists can travel to near islands such as Lan island, Krok island, Phai islands by speed boat.

Besides having fun with water sports and activities, Pattaya has much more wonderful attractions which you can't miss such as Ripley's Believe It Or Not museum, Pattaya Water Park, Pattaya Crocodile Farm, Elephant Village, Sriracha Tiger Farm, and Nongnuch Garden.

I have details of some interesting places here.

Cabaret Show - Amazing and fabulous ladyboy show with fantastic costumes. - Tiffany Show - have three shows daily; 7pm, 8.30pm and 10pm and an additional show at 5.30pm on holidays. - Alcazar Show - have three shows daily; 6.30pm, 8pm, and 9.30pm and an additional show at 11pm on Saturdays.

Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum - located at Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya. There are more than 300 collections of unbelievable things from all over the world by an American Robert Ripley.

Mini Siam - located on Sukhumvit Rd. km 143th. It collects all amazing places over Thailand and the world in small size such as Dawn Temple, Rama 9 Bridge, Eiffel Tower and more.

Go-Kart - a small car racing field for people who love speed and excitement. It locates in Pattaya city. Some providers are Siam Carting Circuit and Pattaya Cart Speedway.

You can read more about Pattaya at my web blog; http://travel-pattaya-thailand.blogspot.com

About the Author

The author owns webblog about traveling in Thailand. Pattaya - http://travel-pattaya-thailand.blogspot.com, Phuket - http://phuketweather.blogspot.com, Krabi - http://travel-krabi.blogspot.com

2008-03-07T01:39:00.002-08:00

Phuket Thailand - The Worlds Premier Resort Destination by sas_jimmthsn

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The World's Most Popular Holiday Destination - Phuket

Phuket, Thailand Sand between your toes, stunning tropical sunsets, cold drink in your hand and warm blue inviting seas - this is picture perfect Phuket. This island is known for its silky soft beaches, superb oriental hospitality and great value accommodation. You can go diving in the Andaman Sea, golfing at championship courses or indulge in exciting eco-adventures in the tropical forest of Phuket. Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to surrounding islands or a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay, or simply enjoy Phuket's vibrant nightlife in Patong Beach.

Known as the Pearl of the Andaman, Phuket is a large island in the Indian Ocean. The surrounding waters contain much varied marine life and the town is known for its quaint Sino-Portuguese architecture. It is a very attractive island for sightseeing with lovely seashores and forested hillsides.

Property prices soared, many locals sold up to national and international hotels and many of the most beautiful beaches are now host to scores of them, along with restaurants, bars, travel agents, massage parlors and the usual other suspects.

For the budget traveler, the days of grass huts on the beach are largely gone and simple seafood feasts have been replaced by KFC, Starbucks and Pizza Hut. Phuket is an expensive place, with lodging, eating and transport all far costlier than elsewhere in Thailand. You can minimize this by eating on the street and drinking less (or diligently chasing happy hours) but if you really want to spend some time here, you'll need to adjust your budget. Dishes of pad thai for 100B are not unusual here.

And you can't avoid the disgraceful public transport here, where the spineless authorities refuse to crackdown on the tuk tuk mafia, meaning public buses only run between Phuket town and the beaches, but not between beaches. This makes interbeach travel very expensive and a good reason to hire a motorbike or car. Its worth spending a night in historical Phuket town and then heading to one of the low-key beaches where budget spots can still be found. Once you're in the water, who really cares whether they're paying 500B or 50,000B for their bed? Phuket was hit by the Boxing Day Tsunami, with Kamala, Patong, Bang Tao and Naiyang the worst hit. Reconstruction in most areas is progressing rapidly.

Greeting Thailand welcomes you to come visit to learn more about the wonders of Thailand at http://www.greetingthailand.com

About the Author

http://www.greetingthailand.com
Submitted by: Super Article Submitter

2008-03-07T01:39:00.001-08:00

Phuket - The WORLDS PREMIER resort destination by sas_jimmthsn

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The World's Most Popular Holiday Destination - Phuket

Phuket, Thailand Sand between your toes, stunning tropical sunsets, cold drink in your hand and warm blue inviting seas - this is picture perfect Phuket. This island is known for its silky soft beaches, superb oriental hospitality and great value accommodation. You can go diving in the Andaman Sea, golfing at championship courses or indulge in exciting eco-adventures in the tropical forest of Phuket. Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to surrounding islands or a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay, or simply enjoy Phuket's vibrant nightlife in Patong Beach.

Known as the Pearl of the Andaman, Phuket is a large island in the Indian Ocean. The surrounding waters contain much varied marine life and the town is known for its quaint Sino-Portuguese architecture. It is a very attractive island for sightseeing with lovely seashores and forested hillsides.

Property prices soared, many locals sold up to national and international hotels and many of the most beautiful beaches are now host to scores of them, along with restaurants, bars, travel agents, massage parlors and the usual other suspects.

For the budget traveler, the days of grass huts on the beach are largely gone and simple seafood feasts have been replaced by KFC, Starbucks and Pizza Hut. Phuket is an expensive place, with lodging, eating and transport all far costlier than elsewhere in Thailand. You can minimize this by eating on the street and drinking less (or diligently chasing happy hours) but if you really want to spend some time here, you'll need to adjust your budget. Dishes of pad thai for 100B are not unusual here.

And you can't avoid the disgraceful public transport here, where the spineless authorities refuse to crackdown on the tuk tuk mafia, meaning public buses only run between Phuket town and the beaches, but not between beaches. This makes interbeach travel very expensive and a good reason to hire a motorbike or car. Its worth spending a night in historical Phuket town and then heading to one of the low-key beaches where budget spots can still be found. Once you're in the water, who really cares whether they're paying 500B or 50,000B for their bed? Phuket was hit by the Boxing Day Tsunami, with Kamala, Patong, Bang Tao and Naiyang the worst hit. Reconstruction in most areas is progressing rapidly.

About the Author

http://www.greetingthailand.com
Submitted by: Super Article Submitter

2008-03-06T04:25:00.001-08:00

Visit Thailand - The Land Of Buddha by Barney Garcia

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Thailand is the perfect tourist destination for nature lovers, shopping lovers and for the followers of Buddhism. Thailand is all these teemed together and much more. Situated in the heart of South East Asia, Thailand has some of the best Buddhist temples, which offer peace, serenity and tranquility.

The Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha

The temples and monasteries of Thailand date back to a few hundred years. The Emerald Buddha Temple is one of the most sacred sites in Thailand and requires visitors to be properly dressed before they can enter the holy place. The Jade statue of the Lord, which is elevated off the ground is a visual treat for visitiors. This temple occupies just one corner of the court of the grand Palace.

Magnificent Bangkok

You must be out of your mind, if you visit Thailand and leave without visiting Bangkok. The capital of Thailand has everything that a tourist can dream of. Shopping plazas, Temples, Museums, Hotels offering exquisite Thai food, Islands, Beaches, Tall high-rises and a sprawling nightlife, Bangkok has it all. Be it the largest building in the world to be made of Teak wood, in Vinmanmek Teak Mansion, or the 46 meter long statue of reclining Buddha in the Wat Pho temple, you will never ceased to be stunned by the beauty of Thailand.

Shopping enthusiasts can head off to Siam Square, which is one of the most popular shopper's destinations in Thailand. Ma Boon Krong and Siam Center are two of the biggest shopping centers here. You can spend an entire day here and yet comeback unsatisfied. There are so many restaurants, theatres and shops to keep you busy. Thailand also has cheap roadside shopping opportunities for tourists who do not wish to blow away much money on shopping.

For Nature Lovers

Nature lovers can head straight to the Ko Chang national park that has many activities. Apart from the wildlife, tourists can also pursue diving, snorkeling or elephant riding over here. The place usually overflows with tourists all the time. Beach lovers can head off to Pataya, which is a pretty serene beach. It is located just 150 kms away from Bangkok.

Go discover Thailand!!

About the Author

Barney is an avid writer, he recommends Kenya Traveller Tips and The Travel Blog for more great tourist destination and travel tips

2008-03-06T04:21:00.001-08:00

What Makes Thailand The Most Visited Tourist Destination Of Southeast Asia? by Ashish Jain

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Apart from its overwhelming attractions in the form of breathtaking beauty of the nature, awe-inspiring stupas and temples, generous hospitality and ancient kingdoms, there is one more thing that makes Thailand the most visited tourist destinations of Southeast Asia.

Well, Thai Massage is one special attraction for the tourists. Having a Thai massage is a total invigorating experience that has indeed record boosted the medical tourism in the country. So you can say this for sure that the rise in the medical tourism to Thailand is mainly due to its scenic beauty and extraordinary ancient medical systems available to rejuvenate your skin and body.

In this system of massage, structural pressure, motion or vibration and tension are applied either manually or with mechanical aids. The soft tissues of the body, muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints and lymphatic vessels get the beneficial response.

If you believe that stress is one of the reasons for acne, here you are promised immediate stress relief after going through the elaborate process of this massage. The massage is good to heal injury, relieves psychological as well as physiological stress, body pain and improves blood circulation. This is also known as therapeutic massage thus.

This is also a very soothing way to treat acne. Outer expression of the inner impurities is believed to be the main cause of acne. Treating acne with superficial external medications, may suppress acne. It can not help to remove it from the roots. Thailand offers one of the best acne treatments. Their flagship acne product is the ' body massage! The principal involved is simple. Can any disease thrive on a strong and healthy body?

So, the therapeutic healing by massage is almost a guarantee in Thailand, and your best chance to get rid of the acne problem once for all.

This system, though vastly prevalent in Thailand, now, its origin is credited to Jhibala Kumarabhacca, a man of Indian origin who was a doctor friend and contemporary of Lord Buddha.

The fundamental of Thai massage is that there exist some 72000 energy lines running through the body. When all of them are collectively treated, you become a rejuvenated man. Thus, your medical tour to Thailand to cure acne is a success. Your body equipment is completely recharged now.

About the Author

For more information on acne visit http://www.acnetalks.com/pimple/magazine/edition/Acne-Skincare.htm and also visit the article pages: http://www.acnetalks.com/pimple/magazine/edition/Acne-Treatment.htm and http://www.acnetalks.com/pimple/magazine/edition/Acne-Medication.htm

2008-03-06T04:06:00.001-08:00

Travel Deals to Thailand by Dani Alonso

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Thailand is for many people one of the favorite destinations. And the reasons are pretty much obvious. Even if tourism has really grown during the recent years, Thailand still offers some pretty much unspoiled territories, precious beaches and an amazing cultural shock that you will probably prefer to miss your plane back home rather than coming back to your everyday's life.

Travel deals when it comes to flying there are many, as competence for Thailand is very high and in this case travel agencies are strongly fighting one with each other. This, in the end, lets us find some very good deals. The idea of the article is in a general way to encourage you to always look for this special offers, to never limit yourself to what you see on your first searches, but furthermore, and being aware that this is a limited time offer, I wanted to share with you for free one of my findings early this morning.

This offer is specially good for all Europeans, as departures are from London, and as I never get tired to say, you can reach London for 20 Euros the round trip with everything included with Ryanair. From there, with flights included and 14 nights in hotels in Thailand, you will get it for the price of 585 UK Pounds (813 Euros) I could kill myself for promoting offers like this for free, as I have no relationship with any travel agency at all, but certainly I am convinced that everybody should have the goal to help people, so here we are.

The way you can book in this case is not online, but online you will find the offer and a number in the UK that you can call to get more information. I haven't tried, but I imagine that you will be able to make the booking by telephone.

Together with this offer, this guys have other interesting things specially related with traveling to Asia, but also many other offers to other regions, as flights to Auckland for 934 Euros, which is by far the best offer I have ever seen in the market from Europe to New Zealand. Also you can find 21 days campervan plus the flights to Auckland for just 1152 Euros. Again, is the best offer I have ever seen to get to the region. All this offers are generally valid until the 15th of June 2008, but if you wait for the beginning of January, the new offers for the summer and the first September discounted vacations will begin to appear.

They are also offering many possibilities to discover Africa, including some Safari packages, for relatively low prices. Africa is not my area of expertise, so I won't promise they have the cheapest option, but the numbers look pretty good compared to what I have seen up till now.

In any case, just feel free to take a look at their page and you will find out which offer adapts best to your needs if you are planning to travel Asia, Africa or the South Pacific from Europe.

About the Author

You can write to me to know further details. My e-mail is in this web-page: Travel to Europe

To learn where I get 80% discounted hotels, you can check here: Free Hotels

For general information on traveling around the world: Travel Addicts

Dani Alonso

2008-03-06T04:02:00.001-08:00

Phuket Thailand - The Pearl of Andaman by Siripong T.

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Phuket, known as the pearl of Andaman Sea, is the biggest island of Thailand. It is a province located in the southern part of the country and has many fascinating attractions that lure people around the world to visit. Because of beautiful beaches and sea, wonderful nightlife and nice weather, Phuket becomes one of the top places in Thailand that travelers choose to go, and of course, when they once visit there, they cannot wait to be there again and again.

It is not hard to get to Phuket. If you choose to go there by car, there are almost 900 kilometers from Bangkok to Phuket to drive and may take 8-9 hours totally. However, most people choose to fly there which takes no more than 1 hour and a half from Bangkok and the air fare is not expensive. Thai Airways and other low-cost airlines can serve you with several flights a day from many destinations.

The Phuket airport is a bit far from the popular beaches and well-known hotels. After you reach the island by plane, you can find a lot of services which can take you to your hotel cheap and easily. These services include taxi cars, airport limousines, and service vans waiting you outside the airport. Hotels and other accommodations are not hard to find and mostly their prices are really cheap. You can find luxurious hotels along the popular beaches or some easy home-stays near the communities or department stores. As I mentioned, Phuket is one of the top tourist attractions in Thailand. Even though there are a very large number of hotels and lodgings in Phuket, I recommend you to book a hotel earlier if you go there in the festival time or public holiday period and you will not regret doing that definitely.

Some well-known beaches that you cannot miss are Patong beach, Karon beach and Kata beach. You cannot imagine how beautiful they are. Also, there are a lot of activities along the beaches, you may sunbathe or swim in the sea. If you like exciting activities, you can play parachute or rent a surfboard. You may book a boat tour to the near islands such as Khai islands, Phi Phi islands and Racha islands, and go diving. Tons of beautiful coral reefs and fish are waiting for you.

One of other activities that you canâ€™t definitely miss is watching sunset at Laem Prom Thep. This spot is named for the most beautiful sunset place in Thailand and you will believe it. If you like old buildings and nice architectures, you can also travel to the Phuket city which is located inside the island, a lot of good and tasty food is there. It is another good way for traveling in Phuket if you donâ€™t like crowded tourists.

Nightlife in Thailand is very famous especially in Phuket. You can find clubs, bars and restaurants everywhere. These are just parts of what Phuket is and you need to experience them by yourselves. You may not want to go back to your country forever.

If you'd like to read more about Phuket, please visit my web blog.

About the Author

Visit author's web blog @ http://phuketweather.blogspot.com

2008-03-06T04:00:00.001-08:00

An eastern getaway - Thailand Holidays by Christine Da Silva

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My friend Anel and I were on our way to a 16-day Thailand holiday. This meant 16 days of absolute leisure, including shopping and spas, not to mention a cultural experience.

But first... We booked into our hotel. Everything in Bangkok seemed shiny, especially our hotel where yellow gold played an intricate part of the architecture. The room was spacious and every inch as beautiful as I expected, with striking views of the city.

After settling in at the hotel, we headed towards the Grand Palace. Luckily we read in a brochure about the Grand Palace that a certain dress code is expected when entering, including no shorts, no sleeveless tops and no flip flops. Being from a completely separate culture, we found this a little strange and hadnâ€™t really predicted this happening whilst being on holiday, but one of the perks of a holiday is to experience new cultures and practices.

We took the Chao Praya River express to the palace. It was a great idea, because as we moved towards the Grand Palace and Wat Pra Kaew, also known as The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, we had an overview of an unforgettable sight. The colours of the Grand Palace are in a striking contrast to the white wall that surrounds it. The gilded stupas and rooftops are tiled with bright, shiny orange and green tiles. There were mosaic encrusted into the walls and the colours seemed overwhelming.

A good time to shop... After our morning of cultural awareness, it was time for some shopping; after all, Thailand is well known for its markets. We took a shocking pink taxi (all colours in Bangkok are bright) to northern Bangkok where the Chatuchak Market is situated. Anel was the one to remind me to pack as little as possible since she knows of my addiction to shopping and I was so grateful to her for that! There were probably thousands of stalls. I was in shopping heaven! At some stage I was standing with about ten DVDâ€™s in my hands when Anel said to me that she had done enough shopping for the day, and that I was being a little overzealous with my spending. This is why we are great friends; we can tell each other things like this without being offended. Amongst the clothes I bought was a beautiful native designed top. The patterns are quite unique using beautiful colours like no other top I had ever seen.

Our trip continues... In the next few days we continued to Koh Pha Ngan, Satun, Penang, the Cameron Highlands, Kuala Lampur and Melaka.

Melaka, or Malacca, is the capital of the Sultanate of Malacca. The culture in Malacca is as diverse as South African, but with a difference of course. Itâ€™s a mixture between Chinese, Malaysian, Portuguese, Dutch and British. The Malaccans really know how to make good food. For lunch Anel and I went to a little restaurant in the town centre and had Nyonya-Baba cuisine. Itâ€™s a mixture of Chinese and Malay cooking, but with a bit of a spicy bite. Anel is used to eating spicy food, but as for me: not exactly. At first bite it was a bit of shock to my system. Anel laughed while I was almost in tears for the most part of my meal. Even if you donâ€™t enjoy spicy food, you have to try it once at least.

For our last day we continued to Singapore. Singapore can be described as a big beautiful concrete jungle. Anel and I booked into the outdoor Spa Botonica for our last day: Pure bliss! We had a pebble foot bath, followed by a Vichy rain shower and aromatherapy body booster. My favourite was the hour and half aromatherapy massage. I dozed off during my massage and felt a bit sheepish when Anel woke me up to tell me that lunch was already served. Afterwards we had an aromatherapy facial followed by a pedicure before heading back to the hotel.

During dinner we were discussing our favourite parts of the holiday. The cultural differences were the one thing that stood out the most. Some say the world is getting smaller and smaller everyday, but itâ€™s only when you travel that you really appreciate the fact that although this might be true, there are still indifferences that makes life just so much more exciting.

About the Author

CompuTravel specializes in providing Holiday packages for the South African market to places such as Bangkok, Singapore and Paris. Computravel serves as an online South African travel agent, boasting highly professional experts with years in the tourism and hospitality industries.

2008-03-05T01:08:00.000-08:00

Shopping in Bangkok by Naveen Marasinghe

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Bangkok is famous for its amazing shopping experiences. From bustling night markets to gigantic shopping malls, Bangkok has now become a thriving shopping destination in Asia. With the boost given from its thriving tourism industry, Bangkok shopping has reached new heights of its own. From cheap imitation goods to high quality jewelry and fashion accessories, Bangkok has it all. Its famous outdoor markets are a good place to be if you are a bargain hunter. These markets have it all, from low priced pirated goods to local snacks and dishes, these, markets are an intranasal part of Thailand's shopping experience. It's a common fact that Thailand is one of the biggest counterfeit product markets in the world. Here you can get your hands on to Rolex watches to latest Hollywood DVDs at a fraction of a cost of the original products. Though low in quality and highly unpredictable the imitated goods market in Bangkok is thriving and more and more tourists are attracted to it each year.

When shopping in the busy markets there are a few things that would come in handy. Bargaining is the key. You can always bargain your way down the original price and some times you might get more than what you've thought of getting. Knowing a few Thai numbers would also be helpful when sharpening your bargaining skills.

If you don't like mingling with busy crowds in hot outdoor markets in Bangkok, try the mega shopping malls and department stores. These mega establishment offer fixed prices and air-conditioned environment where you can shop in a more convenient way. The products featured are of good quality though prices may be higher than the outdoor markets.

Planning your shopping day is highly advisable. It's good to decide on what to buy and from where before you arrive at the markets. There are quite a few places you can look at. Mixing both types of shopping is advisable. Approaching the local outdoor markets in the morning or the evening is more recommended than in the afternoon, where the market gets busy and the heat is much higher. Allocate the afternoons for department stores and shopping malls where the interior is air-conditioned and much nicer.

A number of hotels and apartments in Bangkok offer various types of accommodation facilities. Compass Hospitality has a number of luxury 4 star apartments that offer a great leisure experience and Grand President is a great Bangkok Serviced Apartment that offer great luxury if you are planning a stay in Bangkok.

Thus overall, if you are planning to visit Bangkok, make sure to spend some of your time on the streets of Bangkok and have a great Bangkok shopping experience.

About the Author

Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing agency that offers integrated Internet marketing solutions and specializes in serving the online travel and hospitality industry. (http://www.emarketingeye.com/ )

2008-03-04T00:54:00.001-08:00

Life in Bangkok by Mike Stripe

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Bangkok is one the most popular places for international tourists. Why is to so popular? The questions can only be answered once you have visited the place yourself and have seen it first hand.

My personal analysis is that Thailand is one country, which provides all the five star services at affordable prices. Besides, it's night life has so much to offer4 for all age groups, depending if you are visiting with family or alone.

Thailand is an amazing country. If you are looking for a unique experience, Thailand won't disappoint you. It's true that as time has passed by, many old and ancient things have disappeared. But new and exciting things have always come along to replace them.

The city life with its hustle and bustle is more than evident in Bangkok and if you are looking for some peace and tranquility, you can head towards beach resorts like Pattays, Phuket or the exotic island of Koh Sumai which offers all the sea sports like para sailing, sky diving and scuba diving.

Thailand has a 800-year long history. Over a period of times, Thailand has fashioned its own unique identity and presented it to the world in its own distinctive ways: through culture and traditions, arts and architecture. Throughout its history, the country has shown its ability to absorb foreign influence without losing its identity. Proof of this can be seen in the countless historical sites spread throughout the kingdom. With two Unesco-listed historical World Heritage Sites and many more potential candidates, the country has made great contribution to international culture heritage.

Thailand has a rich royal heritage spanning several centuries. Many royal palaces in Bangkok and elsewhere in the country offer a fascinating glimpse of the majesty and splendour of the Thai monarchy. Some would say it is a country in transition. That's definitely true, as Thailand has admirably demonstrated its ability to adapt to the new world order. Traditionally, Thailand is an agricultural country but from the mid1980s the country rapidly transformed into an agro industrial economy. In the 1990s it continued to develop as per the demands of globalization.

Although Thailand is a modern international society, its people have succeeded in retaining their national identity in many ways. The two most important elements that bring uniqueness to Thailand are the people's undisputed adherence to the monarchy and their strong faith in Buddhism, Outsiders may find it difficult to comprehend such unbending faith, but it seems that almost all Thai people have inherited this in their blood, from generation to generation.

The bustling city of Bangkok is an eclectic mix of the old and the new. Yet it's cultural identity is as strong as ever.

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, lies close to the mouth of the Chao Phraya River at the century of a fertile alluvial plain. Bangkok ranks 68th in size out of the country's 76 provinces, but has the greatest population density of any province. Formerly known as the "Venice of the East", Bangkok is criss-crossed by a network of natural and manmade canals were the only means of transport in the past.

The Thais know Bangkok, from the original settlement of Ban Makok or "Village of Wild Olives", as Krung Thep, which means "City of Angels". The city is subject to a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons. The cool season, generally considered the best time to visit, lasts from November to February.

The present ruler of the country, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history with more than 50 years on the throne, is one of the most revered kings in modern times. The unprecedented outpouring of public pride and personal affection witnessed at celebrations for His Majesty's 72nd birth anniversary in 1999 were ample demonstration of the respect and adoration that the Thai people have for their king.

December 5, the birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is regarded as Thailand's National Day and is a public holiday. In Bangkok, the area around Sanam Luang is closed to traffic and turns into a huge festival, with food and drinks stalls, and thousands of celebrants jamming the streets. Firework displays are organized in many parts of Bangkok and nationwide.

Buddhism also played an important role when the country was plunged into economic recession in mid 1997. Many were able to draw strength and calmness from Buddhism in coping with hardships. The religion practiced by most people in Bangkok is Buddhism, a way of living based on the Tripitaka, an ancient Pali script of Lord Buddha's teachings. Religion, along with monarchy and nationhood, is regarded as one of the three strengths of the nation, and is represented on the Thai flag by the color white.

For any visitor wishing to get a quick feel of the Thai people and culture, there's no better place to go than a temple. The temple or monastery, colloquially known as "wat", is where much of Thailand's traditional culture originated.

The belief in the supernatural power of the unseen and unproven phenomena is in Thai blood. Even though most Thais are followers of Buddhism, Thai people also pay respect to icons and symbolic figures of holy spirits.

As a tourist, there are many sites, which you should not miss if you are visiting for the first time. The newest and most romantic ways of traveling include the joining of hands between BTS sky train through which you can miss the chaotic traffic with Bangkok's biggest public water transportation provider, called The Chao Pyhraya Tourist Boat. The boat takes you a quite a few of the main tourist sites by traveling on the Chao Phraya River.

The Chao Phraya River is regarded as the principal artery of the nation. Much of Thai history can be traced along the banks of this river. The most poplular tourist site is the Grand Palace, which is also known as the jewel in the crown of Bangkok. A trip to view the palace's gilded spires, majestic palaces and exotic pagodas is an unforgettable experience. It was built in 1782 at the same time as Wat Phra Kaeo to act as the official residence of the king.

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, located in a separate complex within the compund of the Grand palace, is Thailand's holiest shrine. Officialy named Wat Phra Si Rattanasatsadaram, the temple complex was modelled along the same lines as grand chapels form the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras. No monks reside within the temple.

The Emerald Buddha was first discovered at Wat Phra Kaeo in Chiang Rai province in the year 1434, when a bolt of lightning struck a pagods, revealing a small and seemingly insignificant stucco Buddha image. After many years, the plaster began to crumble away, revealing the beautiful green jade image beneath. When the king of Chiang Mai heard of the discovery, he sent an army of elephants to take the image. The elephant carrying the treasure refused to take the route back to Chiang Mai, instead headed south towards Lampang.

When you visit these palaces and temples the most noticeable aspect, which strikes you, is it's Thai architecture. Thai architectural style is unique and very memorable. But what is often simply referred to today as "traditional Thai architecture", has in actual fact taken over seven centuries to fully evolve and develop. Most noticeable in Thai architecture are the swooping multi-tiered rooflines, the distinctly ornamental decorations, the stunning interior murals; the vivid colors and the lovingly crafted and gold adorned Buddha images.

Traditional Thai architecture is the result of a combination of many different styles, methods and influences. At various stages down the years, the cultures of Burma, China, Khmer, India and Sri Lanka, can all be seen to have had an important and distinctive influence on architecture in Thailand. Most recently even western neoclassical styles and features have been adopted, following visits to Europe by early Thai kings and from the European expatriate's presence in Thailand. Nevertheless, overall the architectural style remains instantly identifiable and unquestionably Thai. As a first time tourist, one of the most captivating features which truly fascinated me were the floating markets in and around Bangkok which offer you a glimpse of the traditional Thai way of life. Small wooden boats laden with fruits, flowers, vegetables and other produce from nearby orchards and communities make a colorful and bustling scene at market time. The boats are inevitably paddled by Thai women in blue farmer's garb (mor hom) and flat-topped conical hats called "Muakngob" which are characteristic to all parts of Thailand.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, 80kms southwest of Bangkok in Ratchaburi province, is one of the largest and most popular floating markets among tourists. Also known as Klong Lat Phli Floating Market by the locals, the market is active in the mornings only, from 6am to 11am. You will see loads of women of all ages with their merchandise making their way in their boats.

If you are a first time traveler then you must visit the Rose Garden where you can enjoy Thai cultural shows including various types of Thai dances, Thai boxing, Thai wedding, and Buddhist processions. The dances include the Finger Nail Dance and Nothern Hill tribe dance etc.

Also mesmerizing and breathtakingly dangerous was the visit to a snake farm where we witnessed a fight between a cobra and a mongoose and were made to hold and feel huge cobras for good luck. The Snake Farm or Queen Sawoapha Memorial Institute, is set up to produce anti-venom serum for snake-bite victims nationwide. Venomous snakes including the king cobra, Siamese cobra, Russell's viper, banded krait, Malayan pit viper, green pit viper and Pope's pit viper are milked daily for their venom to make snake-bite antidote. Venommilking and snake handling shows are held daily.

To get a feel of the art and history of Thailand and Southeast Asia, the National Museum on Na Phra That Road is the best place to visit. The museum houses one of the largest collections in Southeast Asia with all periods and styles of Buddhist and Thai art represented. The museum buildings themselves are of historic interest; build as a palace for Prince Wang Na in 1782, the year of the founding of Bangkok. The palace was converted into Thailand's first museum around a century later, during the region of King Rama V.

Perhaps the most important artifact in the museum is the Phra Buddha Sihing, one the country's revered Buddha images. Though to be a Sukhothai or Chiang Saen period image, the gold-plated bronze statue was probably brought to Bangkok by King Rama I in 1795. The image, in the attitude of meditation, is housed in the 18th century Buddhaisawan Chapel, which displays classic Rattanakosin style architecture and some of the best surviving mural paintings from the period.

Last but not least, especially for the ladies, Bangkok is an affordable place for us to shop. Beautiful malls, colorful night markets and the elaborate weekend market, Beautiful bags, shoes, slippers, candles, jewelry, and clothes with and without designer labels are easily available.

And if you are a flower lover, it is worth visiting the enthrallingly beautiful flower market where you can buy a wide variety of orchids and bamboos, used by most Thais as a good luck symbol.

NTP

About the Author

None

2008-03-01T00:24:00.001-08:00

Thailand â€¦#34; A Cheap Travel Destination That Delivers by Rick Chapo

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Fuel prices are up and the economy is down this year. That makes getting the most bang out of your travel buck important. Thailand represents a fascinating and excellent travel destination that is also an incredible deal.

Known as the land of smiles, Thailand is one of those truly unique Southeast Asian countries that boogle the mind. From the warm beaches of the southern coast to the mountain palace of the King in Chang Mai in the north, there is a lot to see and do. Best of all, you can do it all for one of the lowest travel costs in the world.

In the late 1990s, the Asian economies were absolutely crushed over a one year period. Part and parcel to this disaster was the loss of currency value. Much like the dollar is falling now, the Thai â€œBahtâ€ suffered. Instead of a down period, however, it fell like a rock dropped from a plane and hasnâ€™t really come back.

Put simply, this currency issue has made Thailand a cheap, cheap place. Your biggest expense will be the flight. It can run $650 round trip at a minimum. It should also be noted that the flight is very long if you are coming from North America. A flight from Los Angeles can easily take 24 hours or more.

Once in Thailand, the good news is youâ€™ll be getting a lot for your dollar. Yes, even now. You can always go nuts in any location, but Iâ€™ll assume you are going to be reasonable. A good, fresh meal will set you back $2 to $5 and be a lot less if you avoid the touristy areas.

There is one meal item that is expensive â€¦#34; beer. You can expect to pay $2 to $3 per bottle. It isnâ€™t outrageous, but it seems like it after you are conditioned to the cheap food.

Getting around is also incredibly cheap. Trains are popular, but also packed. One of the secrets of Thailand is the domestic airline industry. Simply put, it is excellent and cheap. Iâ€™ve splurged on flights from Bangkok to Chang Mai in the north of the country and spend a whopping $38 for a one way ticket. Traveling on trains is great, but you also lose a lot of time. Cheap domestic flights are a good way to avoid this.

Thailand is definitely a great destination for those that want to maximize their experience on a minimum of expense. There are the usual high priced tourist areas, but even a small effort to avoid them can result in a trip that is cheaper than you could ever imagine.

About the Author

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of writing journals to record your travels in.

2008-03-01T00:21:00.001-08:00

A Few Things To Note About Flying In and Out of Thailand by Rick Chapo

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If you live in North America, finding a cheap destination is a big priority this year. Thailand represents a killer deal and it is very friendly towards Americans. If you are going for the first time, however, there is something you need to know about the flight.

To be honest, there are a couple of things you need to know about flying to Thailand. The first thing to grasp is the flight is long. Iâ€™m talking watch the grass grow long. Iâ€™ve flown internationally much of my life and the flight to Thailand feels like it is one of the longest. Depending on where you are coming from, it will clock in at 22 to 28 hours.

The second thing to know is that you really need to pay attention to the difference in time between your location and Thailand. From the west coast of the United States, the difference is such that you often fly into Bangkok at about one oâ€™clock. One as in the time the bars are closing! It is pretty much just you and your fellow travelers in the airport.

Before you mark Thailand off of your list of destinations, it is important to keep in mind that pretty much everything is open at this late hour. They Thais know the flights are coming in late and cater to them. You can get taxis, hotel rooms, change money and so on. It is not a situation where you walk out of the airport and a tumbleweed rolls down the road.

The third key thing to know has to do with your flight out of the country. You really need to call in and check for updates on the flight out a few days to a week ahead of time. Why? The flights change all the time. They usually leave on the same day, but may do so as many as six hours earlier than it reads on your ticket.

This leads to some fairly amusing situations. The Thais are mortally offended if you miss your flight. If there is any chance of getting on it or a flight to the same destination, they will drag you all over the airport to get there. Iâ€™ve often ended up on a different airline asking where the heck I am going. Despite the chaos, it always seems to work out.

About the Author

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of writing journals to record your travels in.

2008-02-27T00:53:00.000-08:00

Cheap Hotels In Thailand by Megha Poddar

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Thailand is one of the famous tourist countries and situated at the Southeast Asia. The tradition, culture and nightlife are main reasons which attract the tourist from entire world toward small nation Thailand. Bangkok (the capital city of Thialand) and Phuket are two major tourist destinations of Thailand. The Bangkok is a city of life where one can experience culture, shopping, nightlife, people-watching and heady fun for all. Some major attractions of Bangkok are Grand Palace (The), Erawan Shrine, Wat Pho, Ancient City, Jim Thompson's House and Museum, Lumpini Park, Victory Monument, Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Samut Prakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo. Then there is the famous evening entertainment, including the go go bars, lively pubs, plush restaurants and night markets. In this mini Bangkok guide we cover them all. The city offers wonderful nightlife by famous evening entertainment, those includes Go-Go bar, lively pubs, plush restaurants, and night market. Bangkok also offers quality accommodation in all possible ranges from luxury to cheap Bangkok hotels. cheap hotels in Bangkok (like Ambassador Hotel, Bangkok, Quality Suite Airport Hotel, the Davis Bangkok and Grande Ville Hotel) and luxury hotels (like Amari Watergate Hotel Bangkok, Ascott Bangkok Sathorn, Banyan Tree Hotel Bangkok, Conrad Hotel Bangkok etc) offer all possible facilities to their guests. Phuket, Thailand's largest island (930 sq km) is the jewel of the Andaman Sea. Phuket is famous for its beaches. Some popular attractions of the Phuket are Phang Nga Bay, Phuket FantaSea, Kata Beach, Patong Beach, Phuket Town, Coral Island and Siam Safari Natural Tour. Phuket is also famous for its hotels and hospitality. Andaman Beach Suites Phuket, Avantika Boutique Hotel Phuket, Ayara Hilltops Phuket, Banthai Beach Resort & Spa Phuket, Banyan Tree Resort Phuket, Burasari Resort Phuket andCape Panwa Hotel Phuket are some luxury hotels of Phuket. Some popular cheap Phuket hotels are Allamanda Laguna, Banthai Beach Resort, The Bay Hotel, Boat Lagoon Resort, Chedi Phuket, Crown Nai Yang Suite and Evason Phuket.

About the Author

For more information on cheap Bangkok hotels and cheap Phuket hotels, please visit our website for online booking of cheap hotels.

2008-02-26T01:00:00.001-08:00

Festive Thailand by Richard Greaves

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Festivals in Thailand are either Buddhist, Chinese, animist, or associated with the monarchy. Buddhist and Chinese festivals are lunar and generally fall on a full moon, animist festivals such as Songkran or Loi Krathong can be solar or lunar, while royal holidays fall on special historical days such as the founding of the current Chakri dynasty or the birthdays of the reigning monarchs.

The most deeply spiritual of the Thai holidays is Visakha Bucha held on a full moon night in May. It commemorates the date on which the Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and died.

Visakha Bucha day is marked with sermons and alms-giving culminating in an evening candlelit procession known as wien thien in which celebrants circle the temple three times in honour of the triple gem of Buddhism - the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (community of monks).

Songkran, the most vigorous of Thailand's festivals, was the official Thai New Year until 1941. Formerly tied to the movement of the sun, modern Songkran takes place from 13-15th April.

Songkran began as a ceremonial bathing of Buddha images as part of a new year's spring cleaning ritual. However, it has degenerated over the years into a free-for-all water fight in which the streets are filled with revellers armed with water guns, jars and buckets.

Though Songkran is celebrated nationwide, it's probably done with most gusto in Bangkokâ€™s tourist centre of Festivals in Thailand are either Buddhist, Chinese, animist, or associated with the monarchy. Buddhist and Chinese festivals are lunar and generally fall on a full moon, animist festivals such as Songkran or Loi Krathong can be solar or lunar, while royal holidays fall on special historical days such as the founding of the current Chakri dynasty or the birthdays of the reigning monarchs.

The most deeply spiritual of the Thai holidays is Visakha Bucha held on a full moon night in May. It commemorates the date on which the Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and died.

Visakha Bucha day is marked with sermons and alms-giving culminating in an evening candlelit procession known as wien thien in which celebrants circle the temple three times in honour of the triple gem of Buddhism - the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (community of monks).

Songkran, the most vigorous of Thailand's festivals, was the official Thai New Year until 1941. Formerly tied to the movement of the sun, modern Songkran takes place from 13-15th April.

Songkran began as a ceremonial bathing of Buddha images as part of a new year's spring cleaning ritual. However, it has degenerated over the years into a free-for-all water fight in which the streets are filled with revellers armed with water guns, jars and buckets.

Though Songkran is celebrated nationwide, it's probably done with most gusto in Bangkokâ€™s tourist centre of Khaosan Road and in the northern capital of Chiangmai.

The southern island of Phuket with its large Chinese population is the scene of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival held during the ninth lunar month each year. The event lasts ten days and other than participants observing a vegetarian diet, involves ceremonies at Chinese shrines and temples along with firewalking and other acts of self-mutilations carried out by devotees known as Ma Song. These Ma Song are in ecstatic trances and oblivious to pain as they clamber up ladders with bladed rungs, walk barefoot over hot coals, and plunge skewers through their cheeks.

The event Phuket Vegetarian Festival dates back to 1825. At that time, many immigrant Chinese worked in Phuket's tin mines. A visiting Chinese opera troupe cured their sickness with a vegetarian diet. This much impressed the local population who started the vegetarian festival.

The afternoon before the festival, celebrants raise a high pole (the Go Teng pole) at each temple. This is to invite the gods to descend. Then at midnight, they adorn the pole with nine lanterns to mark the opening of the festival.

Over the next ten days, ceremonies such as invocation of the gods Lam Tao and Pak Tao, processions of images of the deities, and the feats of the Ma Song. The festival ends with merit making ceremonies at the temples and the send-off of the gods.

Thailand is a land rich in culture and tradition and the best and most moving way to experience the delights of this eastern kingdom is to attend one of the many festivals and ceremonies that adorn the calendar.Khaosan Road and in the northern capital of Chiangmai.

The southern island of Phuket with its large Chinese population is the scene of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival held during the ninth lunar month each year. The event lasts ten days and other than participants observing a vegetarian diet, involves ceremonies at Chinese shrines and temples along with firewalking and other acts of self-mutilations carried out by devotees known as Ma Song. These Ma Song are in ecstatic trances and oblivious to pain as they clamber up ladders with bladed rungs, walk barefoot over hot coals, and plunge skewers through their cheeks.

The event Phuket Vegetarian Festival dates back to 1825. At that time, many immigrant Chinese worked in Phuket's tin mines. A visiting Chinese opera troupe cured their sickness with a vegetarian diet. This much impressed the local population who started the vegetarian festival.

The afternoon before the festival, celebrants raise a high pole (the Go Teng pole) at each temple. This is to invite the gods to descend. Then at midnight, they adorn the pole with nine lanterns to mark the opening of the festival.

Over the next ten days, ceremonies such as invocation of the gods Lam Tao and Pak Tao, processions of images of the deities, and the feats of the Ma Song. The festival ends with merit making ceremonies at the temples and the send-off of the gods.

Thailand is a land rich in culture and tradition and the best and most moving way to experience the delights of this eastern kingdom is to attend one of the many festivals and ceremonies that adorn the calendar.

About the Author

Richard has over 20 years experience in the travel industry and writes for Cheaper than Hotels. Cheaper Than Hotels offers cheap Thailand hotels.

2008-02-25T00:12:00.000-08:00

International Travel: Sights To See
By: seoprofessional
Some of the world's best places to see outside the USA are listed below.
First Australia is the global tourist’s favorite for its beautiful beaches, cosmopolitan cities, Great Barrier Reef, vast outback countryside, adventure sports and unique wildlife. Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide and Perth are Australia's largest cities, where most holiday makers arrive. In Australia, you can go scuba diving in the Indian or Pacific Oceans, watch cricket, play beach volleyball or go bungee jumping. Experience the wildlife of Australia like koalas and the ubiquitous kangaroo. On a trip to Australia you can learn about the native Aborigine people.

China is not be missed. Sights worth seeing are the historic palaces of the Forbidden City in Beijing, modern cities of Shanghai and Hong Kong, the sandy expanses of the Gobi Desert, the Terracotta Warriors of Xian and the Great Wall of China. Don’t miss the rare Giant Pandas in the forest, try delicious Chinese cuisine, and bargain for traditional Chinese silks, which were transported by camel caravan along the famous Silk Route from ancient India. Travel to Tibet, the rooftop of the world. [URL="http://www.etravelforum.com"]Travel Forum[/URL]

Thailand is one of the most visited tourist destinations in South Asia. Famous for its tropical beaches, pleasant climate, Buddhist pagodas, and friendly people, Thailand is a popular destination for honeymooners, surfers, and backpackers in search of an exotic holiday. The vibrant city of Bangkok, the beaches at Phuket, Pattaya and Ko Samui and the temples at Ayuthaya and Chiang Mai, are popular tourist destinations in Thailand. Thai Cuisine is another delicious attraction that draws tourists to this beach country.

Italy is famous for its art and architecture, its museums and historic cities, sunny Mediterranean climate and Italian food and wine. Italy has many attractions these include Vatican City; the Forum, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, churches, museums, cafes and restaurants in Rome; the canals and Piazza San Marco in Venice; the Renaissance art and architecture of Florence and Naples; the historic cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum; the fashion capital of Milan, and the scenic Amalfi coastline. Rome is a destination with many attractions for lovers of art, culture and beauty.

Argentina is a beautiful country in South America, with graceful colonial buildings, the rolling pampas grasslands, pleasant climate and warm people. Attractions of Argentina include the cobbled streets, restaurants and café's of Buenos Aires, the colonial architecture of Cordoba, the beaches at Mar del Plata, the expansive pampas grasslands and the stunning Iguazu Waterfall surrounded by tropical rainforest.

The spectacular scenery of New Zealand includes lovely beaches, thick forest, rolling hills, steep fiords, bubbling geysers and volcanic mountain peaks. New Zealand's unique wildlife such as the Kiwi, the native Maori culture and the opportunities for adventure sports makes New Zealand one of the world's best travel destinations.

Kenya is located in East Africa, at the base of the horn of Africa. Its capital is Nairobi. It is known as the birthplace of humanity, Kenya is famous for its magnificent wildlife sanctuaries, ancient Swahili culture, beaches and coral reefs. Amboseli, Masai Mara, Tsavo and Mt Kenya National Parks are worth seeing on your trip to Kenya. The busy city of Nairobi, the Rift Valley landscape and Lake Magadi are a must on your travel itinerary. http://www.etravelforum.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleJoe.com

2008-02-24T04:14:00.001-08:00

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whereby the original author's information and copyright must be included.
Phuket Villa Rentals: Simple Tips To Enjoy A Phuket Getaway More by Ann Richter

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The province of Phuket in Thailand has truly been one of the most visited and frequented tourist destinations in Asia. That is why the sector for tourist inns and properties has really enjoyed a rise. These days, there is a good and significant market for Phuket villa rentals. And as a vacationer, you would generate more savings if you would rent a place to stay in as you enjoy your Phuket getaway.

As a regular traveler, you surely have been well acquainted and familiarized with the services of hotels. You should be noticing that hotel accommodations all over the world are getting similar to each other that you could hardly distinguish the difference between staying in a US hotel and in an Asian hotel. In that way, Phuket villa rentals are more advisable if you want to know more about the culture of the area in your vacation.

Practical tips

It is important to note that there are simple and practical guidelines that would surely help you make villa rental in Phuket more noteworthy and advantageous. In the planning process, you should first weigh the pros and cons of taking Phuket villa rentals especially in consideration with your budget and other factors.

Take note that on the first glimpse, villa rentals are generally looking more costly than hotel accommodations. But what is good about Phuket villa rentals is that you would be able to generate greater savings especially if you re going in a group and if you intend to stay for a few weeks or even months.

Why villa rentals?

As mentioned, villa rentals in Phuket would help you get to know more and experience the culture not just of the province but also of the whole of Thailand. That is because villas are taking the traditional and genuine Thai home designs. Such structures and homes are also made of the usual and some native Thai home materials.

Villa rentals in Phuket are designed to cater more to vacationers who are in groups or who are intending to stay longer than usual. While hotels could be practical for staying in a just a few days, maybe a day or two, villas are more practical to lease if you are staying for weeks or months. It is just like renting a town home in the area.

When to go

You have the privilege to schedule your vacation as you please. If you are planning to go on a splendid getaway and you want to go to Phuket, you should plan to go there any month except for November to April. That is because in such months, there are practically more tourists going to the area as everyone seems to be going there on the Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays.

Phuket villa rentals would be costlier on such months. That is because as the demand rises up, surely, prices go along. And besides, it would be harder to book villa and even hotel accommodations. All other months are definitely good times to go and take a much needed break in Phuket's beaches.

About the Author

Get more out of your Tuscan vacation by staying in a Tuscany villa rental by visiting http://www.vacationhomerentalsguide.com, a popular vacation rental website that specializes in finding inexpensive Orlando, Florida condo rentals so you can enjoy your trip to Disney world.

2008-02-24T00:09:00.001-08:00

Phuket Resort Spa You Can Relax Peaceful And Convenient
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About the Author
Maypopup M. is the Owner of Phuket Resort Thailand Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Phuket Thailand With Coupon discont up 50% More at http://www.hotel2phuket.com/

Source: ArticleTrader.com

2008-02-23T02:23:00.001-08:00

One Night In Bangkok Definitely Makes A Hard Man Humble
By: lar

Murray Head captured Bangkok perfectly in his short song. He sings about the sights, sounds and smells of the largest city in Thailand. He also warns men to be aware of the ladies of the third gender.

If you have never been to Bangkok, you will definitely be humbled. As soon as you walk out of the baggage claim area at Suvarnabhumi you will be overwhelmed by the maddening crowd waiting outside the door.

A sea of yellow shirts (in honor of the King) will be blocking your way. Some will have signs with names on them trying to find a wayward traveler. Others will be armed with clipboards touting taxis at ridiculously high prices.

Fighting through this narrow gauntlet is even more difficult with two suitcases and a backpack. The taxi mafia will not take "No" for an answer – even if you say it ten times in 5 different languages.

They will persist and follow you, block your way, and annoy you so much that you will want to punch them. But, you relax and realize where you are and why you are there.

You are in Bangkok. It is the City of Angels in the Land of Smiles. You know from your research that a smile and a cool heart will go far in this beautiful country. So, you smile and make your way to the escalator and find yourself on the first floor.

You head outside and find the legal taxi line-up and make your way to the makeshift tables and tell the cute girl where your hotel is. The fee for getting a legal taxi is all of 50 Baht – which is about $1.50 USD.

Your taxi driver will help you with your bags and usually ask you if you want to take the tollway. If you want to get to your hotel in less than one hour, agree. It will only cost you a little extra. Your cabbie may also want to negotiate a fee without using his meter. This is technically illegal, but it is up to you to work out a fair price, or use the meter. If he refuses to use the meter, ask for another driver. You definitely want to establish this before you get in the cab.

If you are arriving from America, you will notice that the steering wheel is on the "other" side of the car and that you are driving on the "wrong" side of the road. Relax, and get used to it. Just be careful when you are a pedestrian and crossing the street. Look both ways about ten times before crossing – even if you are crossing a one-way street.

You are probably experiencing sensory overload. Seeing all of the billboards along the tollway, the cars speeding in and out in some sort of controlled chaos, and the smells of the city, you may wonder what planet you are on. Every corner of Bangkok has a different aroma – some pleasing and some putrid.

Arriving at your hotel you check in and then have to decide whether to go out or catch up on the many time zones you have just crossed.

If you do decide to go out and experience the Bangkok nightlife, just remember what Murray Head sang; "One night in Bangkok, and the tough guys tumble! Can’t be too careful with your company. I can feel the devil walkin’ next to me." Be careful out there.

Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com

Larry Westfall is a frequent traveler to the Land of Smiles - Thailand - and books his Pattaya hotel rooms through Pattaya Beach Hotels
Submitted by: Article Submitter

2008-02-22T02:36:00.001-08:00

On Arrival At Bangkok You Must - By: Tim Ryan,
Even before you arrive in Bangkok you would be wise to check upon the visa requirements for your particular nationality. Most persons of western nationality however will be provided automatically with a 30 day tourist visa.

On expiration of this Visa you will usually be able to extend it at the Immigration centre on 'Suan Plu' Road in downtown Bangkok for a maximum of 14 days. After this period expires visitors would than have to leave the country or risk being fined. If you know you are going to stay for longer than this period consider applying for a visa in advance from your home country where double entry and triple entry visas maybe available for you. A double entry visa if extended in Suan Plu twice can get you up to 6 months on a tourst visa whilst only leaving the country once.

In the past tourists could simply leave the country every thirty days and return on the same day to reveive another new thity day visa. however the Thai government are seemingly tightening up on this practise and enforcing several other laws and procedures to make this practise less feasible on a continuous basis.

If you arriving via the International airport be aware that you will immediately be accosted by the usual army of touts offering you taxi services and so on. A metred taxi should cost around 300 baht to downtown area but you will most likely have to negotiate a fixed price for the journey as the Taxi drivers realise they have a captive market and will be unlikely to settle for the metred price.

One alternative is to use the bus shuttle service which runs to all the main tourist centres including Khao Sahn Road (Banglampoo area)for 150 baht. These buses tend to leave every half an hour with the trip downtown taking about the same time span again.

Many travellers arrive weary and are in no fit state to do the currency conversions in their head so it pays to have a bit of fore knowledge. $10 at the moment gets you roughly 300 baht and 10UK pound will get you in the region of 600 baht. One final tip when handing over 1000 baht notes say the amount out loud so they are aware that you know it is a thousand baht note and they don't give you change for the wrong amount. It can be suprisingly easily to be short changed when using unfamiliar notes, especially with jet lag!
Article Source:GoodInfoHome.com
More information about Asian travel and managing finances abroad is available at: Money Transfer Review.com.
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2008-02-21T18:03:00.001-08:00

Phuket Villa Rentals: Simple Tips To Enjoy A Phuket Getaway More by Ann Richter

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The province of Phuket in Thailand has truly been one of the most visited and frequented tourist destinations in Asia. That is why the sector for tourist inns and properties has really enjoyed a rise. These days, there is a good and significant market for Phuket villa rentals. And as a vacationer, you would generate more savings if you would rent a place to stay in as you enjoy your Phuket getaway.

As a regular traveler, you surely have been well acquainted and familiarized with the services of hotels. You should be noticing that hotel accommodations all over the world are getting similar to each other that you could hardly distinguish the difference between staying in a US hotel and in an Asian hotel. In that way, Phuket villa rentals are more advisable if you want to know more about the culture of the area in your vacation.

Practical tips

It is important to note that there are simple and practical guidelines that would surely help you make villa rental in Phuket more noteworthy and advantageous. In the planning process, you should first weigh the pros and cons of taking Phuket villa rentals especially in consideration with your budget and other factors.

Take note that on the first glimpse, villa rentals are generally looking more costly than hotel accommodations. But what is good about Phuket villa rentals is that you would be able to generate greater savings especially if you re going in a group and if you intend to stay for a few weeks or even months.

Why villa rentals?

As mentioned, villa rentals in Phuket would help you get to know more and experience the culture not just of the province but also of the whole of Thailand. That is because villas are taking the traditional and genuine Thai home designs. Such structures and homes are also made of the usual and some native Thai home materials.

Villa rentals in Phuket are designed to cater more to vacationers who are in groups or who are intending to stay longer than usual. While hotels could be practical for staying in a just a few days, maybe a day or two, villas are more practical to lease if you are staying for weeks or months. It is just like renting a town home in the area.

When to go

You have the privilege to schedule your vacation as you please. If you are planning to go on a splendid getaway and you want to go to Phuket, you should plan to go there any month except for November to April. That is because in such months, there are practically more tourists going to the area as everyone seems to be going there on the Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays.

Phuket villa rentals would be costlier on such months. That is because as the demand rises up, surely, prices go along. And besides, it would be harder to book villa and even hotel accommodations. All other months are definitely good times to go and take a much needed break in Phuket's beaches.

About the Author

Get more out of your Tuscan vacation by staying in a Tuscany villa rental by visiting http://www.vacationhomerentalsguide.com, a popular vacation rental website that specializes in finding inexpensive Orlando, Florida condo rentals so you can enjoy your trip to Disney world.

2008-02-20T01:23:00.000-08:00

Choosing Thailand As Vacation Destination - By: Dan Wallace,
Offering some of the world's finest luxury holiday accommodation, Thailand provides the ultimate getaway for you and your family. Luxury villas are fitted out to the highest standard. Aimed at the discerning traveller who needs flexibility of movement away from the holiday crowds, many property owners will help customers construct a holiday that allows them to move at their own pace. Exploring or relaxing, our clients are able to enjoy the delights of Asia.

Offering a staggering array of activities, Thailand is firmly established as the Asian destination of choice, the infrastructure is such that traveling the length and breadth of the country is easy, cheap fast and reliable. Vacationers' minds are put at ease with world class hospitals, extremely low crime and amenities to match any country in the world. From Bangkok, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to luxury villas for rent. Stunning locations are within hours of the capitol making weekend breaks very popular these days, High flying professionals can fly in from Hong Kong and be relaxing beside their private pool a their Thailand villa in no time, and enjoying the Thai pace of life.

Thailand Villas are attaining a global reputation for luxury, quality and value. Luxury villas in Phuket are on the same level or above of anything anywhere in the world, and regularly feature in magazines and newspapers as promoted as the peak of living. When choosing a luxury villa guests must decide whether they want solitude or a more hectic atmosphere with hustle and bustle of street markets and beach activities. Luxury villas on the east coast offer the kind of peace and quiet that is more akin to Samui or Krabi. There is a sense of remoteness here, with traditional Thai fishing villages, and quiet serene beaches dotted along the coast.

It is not just the luxury villas that people are drawn too. The Andaman coast is certainly one of the most striking areas, and Phuket is famous for its beauty and wealth of attractions. Southern Thailand stands apart from the rest of the country as being more tropical. It has the highest rainfall, giving a deeper green to the vegetation, while the geological make up of sheer limestone formations adds drama to the landscape.

Thailand also has a reputation as a golfing paradise with a wealth of world class courses that have attracted many of the best pros over the years - including American-Thai Tiger Woods. Thailand frequently stages the Johnnie Walker Super Tour and other Asian classics attracted by the excellent course facilities and clubroom accommodation found across the kingdom. These are all available to our customers and despite the top-notch conditions a first-class round of golf is possible for about US$60 to US$70.

The six provinces along the Western coast are characterized by the Andaman sea which has numerous excellent coral reefs making it a paradise for divers. The water is warm year round and so is always comfortable to swim in. The Similan islands are rated amongst the top dive destinations in the world as are the climbing sites in Krabi province meaning that vacationers will never be bored with what is on offer.
Article Source:GoodInfoHome.com
MyAsianVilla.com is a vacation site for real time rentals of luxurious vacation villas in Phuket and Ko Samui, Thailand. Plan your dream vacation in Thailand, faster and easier than ever through with My Asian Villas - Luxury villa rentals in Phuket

2008-02-18T03:19:00.000-08:00

Using Thailand As Your Travel Hub in Southeast Asia by John Grimes

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Sooner or later, you have to visit Southeast Asia if you enjoy seeing the world. There are simply too many unique landmarks and fascinating cultural aspect to not do so. When you go, you may find getting about a bit difficult, so focus on Thailand as your hub.

Asia is a fascinating area that has to be seen to be believed. From the spires of Angkor Wat to the lightening shows off the coast of Sihanoukville in Cambodia, there is something for everyone. To top the area off as a top destination, a currency problem in the late 1990s has resulted in Southeast Asia being a very cheap trip. Yes, even with the dollar being beaten up.

There is only one hang up when it comes to traveling in this area. Simply put, it is difficult to get from here to there. The quality, size and frequency of the transportation systems in the countries varies fairly dramatically. Consider the contrast between two countries sharing a long border - Thailand and Cambodia.

Thailand has its act together. There is plenty of bus, tram and train service in the bustling city of Bangkok. You can also take overnight trains from the city to most destinations in the country. If you have a few bucks to spare, you can usually fly from the city to larger destination in the country, such as Chang Mai, for $40 to $80. When you are ready to head to another country in the region, international flights out of Bangkok are also plentiful and cheap.

Cambodia is in sharp contrast to Thailand. For the most part, the use of the term "roads" is debatable. Things are rough. Much of the northern area of the country is very difficult to access. In fact, one of the more popular ways to get around the country when possible is by ferry. It is highly recommended that you use this mode of transportation when heading to Angkor Wat or your kidneys and back will be an absolute mess. Flying around Cambodia domestically is nearly impossible and international flights are infrequent and really expensive.

Lest you think I am unfairly criticizing Cambodia, it should be noted there is a distinct reason for the infrastructure problems in the country. The Khmer Rouge, of course. This group led by Pol Pot tried to revert the country to an agricultural society. Besides killing nearly a third of the population, the infrastructure took a beating.

This contrast may seem extreme, but it can be found in other countries. Laos is wonderful, but very rural. Indonesia is cheaper than even Cambodia and Thailand, but travel within the country can be physically tough. The contrast go on and on.

Should you travel to Southeast Asia, you are going to need a place to make your base. Thailand is an excellent choice based on my trips to the region. It is very inexpensive, yet the infrastructure is excellent. It simply makes a great place to launch any exploration of the region.

About the Author

John Grimes writes about travel topics for AllTerrainco.com - makers of natural products for traveling such as insect repellent to keep the mosquitoes off of you while in Southeast Asia.

2008-02-17T00:36:00.001-08:00

Diamond Cliff Resort Hotel Patong Beach Phuket
Submitted by maypopup

Would you like to find out what those-in-the-know have to say about Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa hotel Phuket? The information in the thing below comes even from well-educated experts with elite data about Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa hotel Phuket.

The Phuket Islands are known the world over for its picturesque beaches calm scenery and indigo glittering seas. The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket is one of Phuket's best hotels. The Resort boasts of a massive three hundred and thirty quarters and suites. All the quarters in Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket roomy and roomy, comfortable and have close concealed balconies. The resort is set amidst a rambling twenty acre patch and boasts of every resource that you may oblige during your postpone. The site of in Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket is very convenient for tourists as it is placid, and not too crowded, and yet close to the shopping and entertainment attractions of Patong city.

The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket suggests you a strain of abundance in quarters and suites. You can chose from four different kinds of suites like the Ocean suite Ocean Front suite, luxury Suite and Super luxury Suite.

The suites in the luxury Wings are set in low originate buildings surrounded by opulent patchs. The quarters in Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket suggest you every amenity and are equipped with friendly bathquarters with mineral floors. Key skin of the quarters embrace concealed balconies and loaf areas for relaxation, defense safes, satellite and record mist TVs, well-stocked small bars and extras such as fleece dryers and brunette/tea making tackle.

What an exciting way to begin this article, now let's take a look at what else we can learn about this topic!

The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket proposals you a make of picking in quarters and suites. You can chose from four different kinds of suites like the Ocean suite Ocean Front suite, sumptuous Suite and Super sumptuous Suite.

The suites in the exclusive Wings are set in low start buildings surrounded by leafy plots. The quarters in Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket propose you every amenity and are equipped with friendly bathquarters with mineral floors. Key skin of the quarters contain concealed balconies and sprawl areas for relaxation, wellbeing safes, satellite and cassette pictures TVs, well-stocked small bars and extras such as whiskers dryers and russet/tea making tackle.

The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket provides you a broad strain of cuisines and eateries. The resort has nine different kinds of restaurants and bars where you can try out a strain of cuisines and dishes. There is an abundance of light seafood at the Diamond Hut Restaurant, or easily try the sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki and other authentic Japanese foods.

The Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa in Phuket is one Phuket's finest resorts and you are frozen to have a greatly memorable experience here.

intended enough about Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa hotel Phuket to make genuine, educated spans cuts down on the concern reason. If you pertain what you've just scholarly about Diamond Cliff Resort And Spa hotel Phuket, you should have nothing to care about.

This article is the perfect way to gain the information that you need to fully appreciate the complexity of this subject.

About the Author
Maypopup M. is the Webmaster of Diamond Cliff Resort Phuket Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Phuket Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2phuket.com/

Source: ArticleTrader.com

2008-02-16T00:46:00.001-08:00

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (10): Farangs and Asians - Polarized Views." by Carl "J.C." Pantejo

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By Carl "J.C." Pantejo, Copyright February 2008

(Author "My Friend Yu - The Prosperity Mentor," Copyright August 2007. Pantejo - Y.N. Vurce Publishing.)

"Prosperity: The eternal flow of all that's good in life..."

*Below is the tenth episode in a series of real life events experienced by the author. The only deviations from the truth may be the names of people and places. These stories are also incorporated in "My Friend Yu - the Prosperity Mentor: Book II," Pantejo - Y.N. Vurce Publishing. Release Date: 2008.

Last week, a distraught Farang (Thai: foreigner) friend of mine called me. He had just broke-up with his "nth" girlfriend. He asked me over for a couple of beers. Confused, hurt, and angry, he didn't know why every relationship he's had in Thailand has ended up in shambles.

During the course of our conversation, I explained some important differences between Asian and Western cultures to him. After our "beer and bullshit" session, he realized that he'd been blind to the many differences I pointed out. He also saw that many of his relationship problems were the result of his cultural ignorance.

It was plain to see that he was still trying to live his life, especially in the relationship department, as though he were still in the West.

The following article outlines the points I raised during our discussion.

Please Note: Although the words "Thai" and "Thais" appear frequently, the cultural differences depicted in this article can be generalized (justifiably) to most other Asian countries (e.g., the Philippines, Malaysai, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, etc.).

- Invisible Comfort Zones -

"Personal Freedom and Independence" are very difficult concepts for Asian people to understand. In the West, avoiding unwarranted physical contact is the respectable and courteous thing to do.

Most Westerners have an invisible, 3' x 3' "comfort zone" of privacy around them. Others respect this zone and will enter only with the permission of its owner. Even when circumstances preclude maintaining this zone (e.g., subways, buses, and rock concerts, etc.), most Westerners still try to avoid any casual physical contact.

Physical contact (outside of the contact sport's arena) is reserved for close relatives, friends, and lovers. In fact, it's a supreme way of showing affection and regarded as a highly private action.

But unseen sectors of privacy do not exist in Asia.

From an early age, especially in big cities, Asians are sandwiched together (in a way that would be totally illegal in the West) in cars, buses, vans, jeepneys, taxis, trains, motorcycle taxis, etc.

It's not uncommon to see four or five people riding on tiny scooters.

- Claustrophobia? Not in Asia -

From the tiny apartments filled with a dozen people to the overloaded elevators and jam-packed supermarkets, Asians take hordes of people and physical contact between strangers as a normal part of life.

A Westerner not accustomed to this cultural fact can easily decide that all Asians are rude - disrespectful to persons and property. In fact, anyone who has been in Asia for any length of time will tell you to chill out when you inevitably find a stranger comfortably sitting on YOUR parked motorcycle and behaving like it's his!

That's just the way it is.

Accept it and move on (or fight it and attract misery).

- Affection or not, significant or not? -

Because of this fundamental difference in the core belief of privacy, interpersonal relationships can be fraught with miscommunication. For example, just because a woman is sitting close to a man (or in some kind of physical contact) does not automatically mean that they are romantic partners.

This becomes a difficult situation for a Western man dating an Asian woman. He seeks out and permits entrance into his "comfort zone." But what he believes as some strong signs of affection and interest may mean nothing at all to the woman.

Of course, getting the attention and immediate physical contact from a beautiful Asian woman is delightful and VERY significant to the Western man.

"This woman MUST really like me," the man thinks.

But the level of significance is usually NOT a mutual feeling, especially since physical contact (even among strangers) is considered so commonplace in Asia.

In fact, as radical as this may sound to Westerners, the "act of sex" can be as significant to an Asian woman as brushing her teeth or doing her nails - just something that "has to be done" and might be "semi-fun."

Also, as insensitive as it may sound to Westerners - because of the widespread poverty, lack of personal privacy, dissimilar sexual and social mores; and most importantly, the totally different view about money in Asia, etc. - an Asian woman will feel more "loved" by receiving some cash or an expensive gift instead of a satisfying romp in the sack!

Again, this goes against the grain of most Westerners. In their countries, those kinds of women would be considered "suspect" - gold digging mistresses or even cold-hearted prostitutes.

And if the Westerner does not accept these basic cultural differences in most core beliefs (i.e., privacy, money, and sex) AND decides to remain in Asia, he/she will be forever confused, disappointed, taken advantage of, or chronically paranoid and angry.

The differences are neither good nor bad. They just are.

- The Big Mistake -

The BIG MISTAKE that many Westerners make is this: In spite of their surroundings and personal interactions, they forget that Asia IS NOT the West. Sure, many Asian countries are becoming more and more "Westernized" every year; but ASIA IS STILL ASIA.

Asian countries have developed their cultures over thousands of years; an ingrained culture that is resistant to any quick, drastic changes.

Farangs who never forget that they are foreigners and that "ASIA IS ASIA, NOT THE WEST" do well. They are professionally successful and make many friends.

Farangs who stubbornly try to live their life in Asia as though it were the West suffer greatly. They are turned down for jobs and are quite alienated from the people around them (Asians and Farangs alike).

- Respect or Dependency? -

From an early age, Thais are taught to "fit" into a deeply ingrained system of cultural dependency.

Children depend on their parents well into adulthood. It's common for an adult Thai person (even in their mid-twenties or early thirties), especially unmarried adults, to remain in their parents' home; saving a lot of money by avoiding big rent bills and large appliance purchases.

But, whether the Thai adult is living with his parents or not, he/she will almost always give a portion of the monthly salary to the parents. The only exception to this rule is the minor percentage of affluent Thais who don't need the financial support of their children.

So, as soon as the child can earn money, Thai parents expect money from them. Parents setup their personal budgets assuming that their children will provide monthly financial support for them - in perpetuity.

If the money doesn't materialize, the parents throw in the "ultimate guilt factor" (something shunned in the West) and quickly remind the adult children of all the sacrifices made to raise them.

In this way, the familial bonds are further "strengthened."

- Family Bonds of Steel -

Over the millennia, Asians have survived overpopulation, poverty, and wars mainly by maintaining a culture that fosters firm familial bonds - bonds that are outrageously rigid and obligatory by Western standards.

In the West, as soon as children become adults, they are expected to provide for themselves. Unless they go to college, the children are no longer the responsibility of the parents. The parents are relieved of their parental duties and revel in their children's independence.

The adult children enter the workforce and begin to support themselves. THEY ARE NOT OBLIGED TO SUPPORT THEIR AGING PARENTS.

- Wise Advice to all Westerners -

Never get between an Asian woman and her family - YOU WILL LOSE.

"Saam Nuk Bun Khun" is an integral part of Thai culture. This is the unbreakable connection and respect for the parents. Because of conditioning and culture, children will go to great lengths to show their parents how much they love and respect them.

They will work at any job (including prostitution) until exhaustion to send money to their parents. They will live miserly - eating cheap food and living in a stifling, small apartment - to send money to their parents.

Furthermore, if a suitor is equipped to support her and her family, an Asian woman will tolerate an unfulfilling relationship (for years or even a lifetime) with someone they absolutely DO NOT LIKE OR LOVE.

In a less dramatic fashion, younger siblings are treated (and supported) the same way as parents are.

- "Significance" in a Nutshell -

1. Asians survive mainly through Family connections 2. Logically, if you are not considered "Family," you are not significant to their survival; therefore, not of any vital importance. 3. To be fully considered "Family," financial support is expected. 4. Money is not just "money" in Asia; it can mean EVERYTHING (life/death, love/hate, marriage/bachelorhood, happiness/sadness, etc.)

So don't be surprised when your Asian girlfriend expects you to "show your love" by supporting her, her parents, and her younger sister or brother. - Hope for Love? -

The combined effect of all the cultural differences proves insurmountable to most - leading to the quick, but common, demise of the Western/Asian relationship.

Stated bluntly, the vast majority (roughly 90%) of all Western/Asian relationships simply do not work out.

Regardless of the dismal statistics, thousands of people continue to enter into a Western/Asian relationship every year. To them, it (attempting a Western/Asian relationship) is not a hopeless venture.

Where there's a will, there's a way.

There truly is hope for my distraught Farang friend (or any other Westerner who has fallen in love with an Asian)...

- Continued in "Experiences from 'The Flow" (11) -

"Until next time, find 'The Flow' and jump in!"

Your Friend in this Intrepid Journey called Life,

Carl "J.C." Pantejo

Farang, Asia, Thai, culture, differences, core beliefs, money, sex, privacy, respect, crowds, mutual feeling.

Note: If you want to read more about Asian and Western cultural differences, finding unconditional love, exorcising past personal demons, and the Illusive Secret of Happiness, please read the following articles:

"Experiences from 'The Flow': From Heartbreak to Happiness"

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (2): Coincidence or Synchronicity: FROM RELAPSE TO MIRACLES..."

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (3): LOST AND FOUND - Kindred Spirits and Mistakes made in Haste."

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (4): LOST AND FOUND - Meant to Be?"

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (5): "The Stray"

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (6): "New Beginnings, Old Endings"

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (7) - Living Well? Farangs and Finance: The Myth"

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (8) Living Well? Farangs and Finance: The Reality, Stupidity, and Hard Knocks."

"Experiences from 'The Flow' (9): New Girlfriend, New Life."

"How Dare She! Out of Desperation I Learned How to Forgive"

"Remember Who You Are!"

"Need to Heal Your Broken Heart? Read on. Overcome Heartbreak and Learn the Illusive Secret of Happiness." (By Carl "J.C." Pantejo and published internet-wide, keyword: [title of article] or "Carl Pantejo")

Pantejo@ynvurcepublishing.com

About the Author

He is a retired U.S. Military veteran. Believing that school was too boring, he dropped out of High School early; only to earn an A.A., B.S., and MBA in less than 4 years much later in life - while working full-time as a Navy/Marine Corps Medic. In spite of a fear of heights and deep water, he free-fall parachuted out of airplanes and performed diving ops in very deep, open ocean water.

Pantejo@ynvurcepublishing.com http://www.ynvurcepublishing.com

2008-02-16T00:27:00.001-08:00

Travel to Krabi and Phi Phi Islands - Amazing Thailand attractions by Siripong T

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Krabi is a province of Thailand located in the southern area and has fantastic beaches along the shore plus many wonderful islands that you just canâ€™t imagine how beautiful they are. Phi Phi Islands is one of the very famous spots in Krabi that travelers canâ€™t miss.

About the weather in Krabi province, there are only two seasons in this region, which is different from other parts of Thailand. The summer season lasts from January to April, and the rainy season lasts from May to December. The temperature is between 16.9 and 37.3 degree Celsius throughout the year.

You can get to Krabi by car or by plane. If you drive there from Bangkok, you go along the highway number 4 through many provinces. The overall distance is approximately 946 kilometers. If you go to Krabi from Phuket, you can use highway number 402 connected to highway number 4 through Pangnga province and Krabi province. The total distance is approximately 185 kilometers. Also, the public transportation companies provide air-conditioned buses for people everyday from Bangkok and Phuket. If you decide to go there by plane from Bangkok airport, it takes about 1 hour and a half to Krabi province.

Diving at Krabi Sea is a very exciting activity that you canâ€™t miss. Scuba diving is very popular there. Many diving service companies provide the travelers boat services from Phuket and Phi Phi Don Island. Some famous diving spots are around Phi Phi Islands and King Cruiser shipwreck. Around Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le Islands, there are many diving spots such as Nui beach, Maya beach, and sea caves. You may rent a small boat called Rue Hang Yao from Phi Phi Don Island to these spots. Bidah Islands and Ha Islands (Ha means five) are also popular diving spots.

Phi Phi Islands is one of the famous islands in Thailand located in Krabi province. The word â€œPhi Phiâ€ comes from a tree named â€œPi-a-pee.â€ In 1983, the government of Thailand announced that Phi Phi Islands became a member of Nopparatthara - Phi Phi Islands national park. This park includes six islands which are Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Le, Bidah Nok, Bidah Nai, Yung and Phai Islands. The distance between Krabi beach and Phi Phi Islands is approximately 42 kilometers.

Lanta Islands is one of the most amazing spots in Krabi. It is located in the far south of the province. In the past, villagers called this islands â€œPoo-Lao-Sa-Takâ€ which means the islands with long beaches. Some famous islands are Lanta Yai Islands, Ngai Island, Rok Nai Island and Rok Nok Island. There are a lot of resorts and hotels on the islands. You can go to Lanta Islands from Krabi beach or Phi Phi Islands.

Ao Nang is a place that has wonderful scenario with beautiful beaches such as Rai Le Beach, Tam Pra Nang Beach and Nam Mao Beach. These three beaches cannot be reached by car because they are surrounded by mountains. You can go there by boat from Ao Nang.

You can read more about Krabi and Phi Phi Islands at my web blog @ http://travel-krabi.blogspot.com

About the Author

The author owns webblog about traveling in Thailand listed below. Pattaya - http://travel-pattaya-thailand.blogspot.com; Phuket - http://phuketweather.blogspot.com; Samui & Phangan - http://samui-pangan.blogspot.com

2008-02-04T00:27:00.001-08:00

Bangkok - Thailand Hot Spots
By: M. Matchev
BANGKOK - SOME FACTS

If you visit any destination in South East Asia, it may be imperative that you pass through Bangkok. Bangkok has a strange nature of evoking extreme sense of likes and dislikes amongst visitors. A few seem to loathe it while many others swear that it is the most wonderful, fascinating and exciting places on earth. Actually, Bangkok tends to be what a particular visitor wants it to be. Bangkok is a picture post-card haven with beautiful pagodas, pagodas and some of the world's finest hotels. Bangkok's renowned for it's nightlife in the Orient with an opportunity to savor some of world's most unique cuisines. Bangkok is a favorite and best shopping destination in South East Asia.

Bangkok inhabitants are known as Thais and their friendly ways would flatter the snootiest traveler. Bangkok is all in all, a load of fun and games and a great way to enjoy a civilized vacation. Thailand's history emerges from the Bronze Age, whereas Bangkok, the capital is a young city founded in 1782. With a population of around 6 million, 50% of them are under 30. Bangkok lies on the banks of the river "Chao Phraya", a wonderful working waterway full of sampans, wide variety of boats and rice barges.

Bangkok is a beautiful mix of the old and the new, the modern and the ancient evident from its skyline that comprises of Buddhist temples (wats), luxury hotels, high-rise office buildings and shopping malls making it a kaleidoscope. Under the thin veneer of new found Western influence you will find that the Thais are not devoid of traditional values. The sights of ubiquitous street food sellers, monks on morning begging rounds and women stringing jasmine blossoms on thread near wats will display the cultural heritage of Thailand that is not lost in the arc lights of modernity.

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS IN BANKOK

Bangkok is packed with more attractions per square mile than any other city in the world. Despite the crowds, the architecture and the attractions are worth the effort to travel and see. On the top of the list would be Wat Phra Khao and the Grand Palace for sightseeing for half a day. This can include the National Museum and the Wat Pho. Chinatown, Bangkok's major attractions has a unique traditional life untouched by modern civilization and could be fascinating. Historical sites like Rattanakosin Island (central point when Bangkok was founded) are also worth visiting. The main symbolic places of Bangkok are Wat Arun on the Chao Phraya River.

Cross the Chao Phraya to reach Thonburi and you can tour the klongs to appreciate the heritage and culture of the country of Thailand. The Vimanmek Palace, restored by Queen Sirikit, made of golden teak emphasizes the exquisite taste and oriental splendor of ancient Thai royal life.

TOURING AROUND BANKOK

The easier way to explore the country would be put up base in Bangkok and explore the region by using the interesting and unusual daytrips.

Ayutthaya & Bang Pa-In: This probably is the most popular day trip from Bangkok and takes you to visit the Ayutthaya (A-you-ta-ya), the previous and old capital of Thailand, about 50 miles north of Bangkok, the current capital. Ayutthaya has served as the second capital of the Kingdom of Siam for over 400 years. Travellers in the past have described the glittering palaces, temples and Buddhist images depicting it as one of the most beautiful cities on the planet. In an unfortunate event the Burmese burned the glories of this city in 1767. In Ayutthaya, you could hire a tuk tuk along with an English-speaking guide to take you around the celebrated temples (cost could be in the range of 250 bahts). You can also hire a long-tail boat for cruising the 12-mile Chao Phraya River trip that ends at the king's summer palace at Bang Pa-In (300 bahts).

Many such trips are available to be taken. Bangkok never ceases to amaze and so giving an approximate time frame of the trip becomes difficult. You could get there, relax, and see for yourself what Bangkok has to offer. May be you could go back when you have more time, or to see the rest of it. The magnetism of Bangkok is such that despite having been there many a time, travelers tend to come back.

To ensure your vacation recipe is complete, add in that special sprinkle of a Thailand vacation rental. Book Thailand Vacation Rentals matching your criteria. These vacation rentals are presented by their owners or managers.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleJoe.com

2008-02-03T02:31:00.001-08:00

Top ten five-stars hotels in Bangkok by aladin

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The following is a list of a top ten hotels in Bangkok that have a good reputation, good services, and also good facilities.

1) The Oriental Bangkok 48 Oriental Avenue, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66(0) 2 659 9000 more information: http://www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok/

2) The Peninsula Bangkok 333 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan, Bangkok 10600 Tel: +66(0) 2 861 2888 more information: http://bangkok.peninsula.com/

3) Shangri-La Hotel 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, New Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66(0) 2 236 7777 more information: http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/bangkok/shangrila

4) Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit 250 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66(0) 2 649 8888 more information: http://www.sheratongrandesukhumvit.com/

5) Dusit Thani Bangkok 946 Rama IV Road, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66(0) 2 200 9000 more information: http://www.dusit.com/

6) Conrad Bangkok 87 Wireless Road, All Seasons Place, Phatumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66(0) 2 690 9999 more information: http://conradhotels1.hilton.com/en/ch/hotels/index.do?ctyhocn=BKKCICI

7) Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok 155 Rajadamri Road, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66(0) 2 250 1000 more information: http://www.fourseasons.com/bangkok/

8) Royal Meridien Plaza Athenee Bangkok Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66(0) 2 650 8800 more information: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1846

9) Sukhothai Bangkok 13/3 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66(0) 2 344 8888 more information: http://www.sukhothaihotel.com/home_html.php

10) The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Hotel 259 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66(0) 2 207 8000 more information: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1446

About the Author

A little man in the world :)

2008-02-03T02:30:00.001-08:00

Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand by aladin

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The U.S. embassy 120/22 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2 205 4000

British Embassy 14 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2 305 8333

Embassy of France 35 Charoen Krung 36, Bangrak, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 (0) 2 657 5100

The Embassy of the Russian Federation 78 Sap Road, Surawongse, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 (0) 2 234 9824, +66 (0) 2 268 1169

Embassy of Japan 177 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2 207 8500

Embassy of the People's Republic of China 57 Ratchadapisek Road, Din Daeng, Bangkok 10310 Tel: +66 (0) 2 245 7032, Tel: +66 (0) 2 247 7554

Embassy of Belgium Sathorn City Tower - 17th floor, 175 South Sathorn Road, Tungmahamek, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66(0) 2 679 5454

More Embassy Coming Soon!!!

About the Author

A little man in the world :)

2008-02-03T02:28:00.001-08:00

Bangkok's facts (2) by aladin

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Continue from last time

Business Hours

Bank Hours 8:30-9:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Office Hours 8-9 am to 4-5 pm, Monday through Friday. Shop Hours

8-9 am to 9 pm or later throughout the week. Department stores are open 10 am to 8-9 pm all week.

Public Health:

Check with your local clinic about vaccination requirements. Drink only bottled or boiled water.

Dress: Light clothing for the summer months and a sweater for the cooler months. Suits are appropriate for business occasions. Shorts and T-shirts are frowned upon in government offices. It is more respectable to wear modest dress in temples.

Weather:

As a tropical city, Bangkok enjoys warm to hot temperatures throughout the year. The May-June summer temperatures range from 35C to 40C (95F to 104F) while winter temperatures range from 30C to 34C (56F to 93F).

Districts:

Since Bangkok have an area about 1,500 sq.km., They have been divided in to 50 districts.

1. Bang Kapi 26. Lak Si 2. Bang Koknoi 27. Min Buri 3. Bang Kokyai 28. Nong Chok 4. Bang Khuntien 29. Nong Khaem 5. Bang Khen 30. Pathumwan 6. Bang Kholaem 31. Prawet 7. Bang Khae 32. Pomprap Satruphai 8. Bang Sue 33. Phaya Thai 9. Bang Na 34. Phra Nakhon 10. Bang Bon 35. Phra Khanong 11. Bang Phlat 36. Phasi Charoen 12. Bang Rak 37. Ratchathewi 13. Bueng Kum 38. Rat Burana 14. Chatuchak 39. Saphan Sung 15. Chom thong 40. Sathorn 16. Don Muang 41. Sai Mai 17. Din Daeng 42. Samphanthawong 18. Dusit 43. Suan Luang 19. Huai Kwang 44. Taling Chan 20. Kanna Yao 45. Thawi Watthana 21. Khlong Sarn 46. Thung Khru 22. Khlong Toei 47. Thon Buri 23. Khlong Samwa 48. Wang Thonglang 24. Lad Krabung 49. Watthana 25. Lad Phrao 50. Yan Nawa

About the Author

A little man in the world :)

2008-02-01T00:49:00.001-08:00

Enjoying The Thailand Full Moon Party by Asia Hotel

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The full moon provides a rare spectacle. A moon lit night has a peculiar attraction to it, and the Thai's definitely know how to make the most of the night that only comes around once a month. On the Koh Phangan's Haad Rin beach, once a month when the moon rises with all its beauty, crowds gather to view a most enthralling view of the moon. Almost 10,000 people gather on the beach at various venues that host the party like the Backyard Club, Beach House Club, Drop Inn, Cactus Bar, Paradise, Orchid and The Rock to name a few. There are many hotels in Thailand near these locations.

The party starts at dusk and the tables are laid out along the beach, lamps are lit and soon enough the moon light takes over and creates the perfect setting for a night out with singing and dancing. There is food and drinks to keep the partiers going through the night. With the perfect warm waters through out the year, the party becomes even more special with many taking a plunge and enjoying the party from the water as well. Anyone and everyone is welcome to join the party as there is no entry fee to the beach and you can enjoy the atmosphere till your hearts content. The only thing you pay for is the food and drinks you enjoy during the night.

You can surely plan your next vacation to Thailand and enjoy this special party as well as the dates for the event are already set, once a month from January to December and also on Christmas Day and New Years Eve.

A few things to keep in mind always, when you are planning to go to a crowded place are to make sure you leave any valuables, or travel documents, back at your hotel.Keep your wallet and money in front pockets or in places where you will know if someone tries to relieve you of them. You can always find pick pockets at crowded places, be careful and alert to them. Keep your shoes on as there is always a chance of stepping on some broken glass.

Be weary of accepting any drinks from strangers. Party drugs are not uncommon here and the drug related penalties are far more stringent than many other places and often times the consulates can't provide much help in such matters.

All in all, stay safe and enjoy a great beach party that you will get a chance to be a part of.

About the Author

Book hotels in Asia and learn about hundreds of destinations Asia-wide. More information on the Thailand full moon festival on our Asia travel blog.

2008-01-29T00:53:00.001-08:00

Let's Have Fun - Bangkok Clubs by Larry Willis

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Bangkok clubs are know world round for their food and music, which helps to make Thailand a hot spot for tourists. Bangkok alone draws millions of visitors from around the world each year. Exotic beaches and hotels are another reason Thailand is famous for vacationing. As far are partying is concerned, Bangkok is truly one of the most popular.

Planes are scheduled regularly for Bangkok from most of the globe's large cities. It is a destination for nearly all the major capitals and their industries. Once, Bangkok was known and visited as a mecca for inexpensive purchasing and for its delicious Thai cuisine; but now it is seen as one of the world's trendiest, most exciting locales.

The greatest part of coming to Bangkok is that the cost of living is very low when compared to other large tourist cities. Those who enjoy partying will love all of the bars and discos that are spread throughout the city of Bangkok.

You can find hundreds of pubs and discotheques in Bangkok. Unlike other cities, a visit to Bangkok would not cost you much. You can get vodka, tequila, whiskey and all other types of liquor at cheap rates at the pubs and bars of Bangkok. There are innumerable dance bars in Bangkok too which arrange for live 'belly-dance' shows every night.

If you're going in as a pair, most nightclubs and discos will let you in at no charge. On the other hand, a single has to pay to enter. Bangkok clubs have tantalizing offerings. You will be delighted by their exciting music and their delicious cuisine.

Most of the discotheques in Bangkok have huge dance floors which can accommodate thousands of people at the same time. Moreover, you can look forward to witnessing some world-famous "DJ" (read disc jockeys) playing hip-shaking numbers. Most of the "Bangkok clubs" start operating in the evening. However, if you want to have some 'real' fun, then you should visit the "Bangkok nightclubs" after 8 in the evening.

About the Author

Although Thailand has many lovely cities, if you are a social night owl, you must check out the bangkok clubs. Since there are so many nightclubs in Bangkok, a Bangkok club guide can be helpful.

2008-01-28T02:49:00.001-08:00

Bangkok Nightlife - Do's & Dont's by Larry Willis

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Thailand is a beautiful country to visit with a notoriously wild night life. Many people think of the city of Bangkok and bangkok bars and assume that it is a place where 'anything goes'. However, that is actually not completely true. When visiting a foreign country, it is always good to read up on laws and regulations before you go.

When traveling in a foreign country, you should not carry certain documents with you unless you know in advance that you will need them. You will almost certainly need your original travel documents when you want to board an international airplane flight. Otherwise, you should make a photocopy of documents such as your driver's license, passport, and birth certificate and store the originals in a hotel safe.

Because bangkok bars are popular tourist attractions, they are also common places for pick pockets, thieves, and others who would like to cheat the unknowing tourist out of their money and/or personal possessions. Always make sure, especially when consuming alcohol (or other drugs that are legal in bangkok) that you keep track of your personal belongings at all times.

Additionally because of the increased popularity for everyone, Thailand's government and bar owners have worked to pass laws that will make tourists feel safer and be better able to enjoy themselves. For example, identification is now required at the entrance before anyone can enter a bar. To guarantee your own entry, you might want to call ahead and ask if your passport will suffice to allow you entry into the place you want to visit.

Much like the United States, second hand smoke has become a major issue in Thailand. Because of this, there are new laws about if and when patrons at bangkok bars are allowed to smoke. The laws are constantly changing and depend on the time of day, day of the week, and the particular club. It is always best to check ahead if being able to smoke is important to you.

One of the most popular types of bangkok bars in the late evening hours are the strip clubs. These clubs have a many more lax rules than the strip clubs of the Unite States due to the different laws in Thailand. One common term you may hear at a bangkok bar is "katoeys". This is Thai for "transvestite". This is just one more way that knowing a little about the country you are visiting can save you a little trouble and/or embarrassment.

About the Author

Although Thailand has many lovely cities, if you are a social night owl, you must check out the bangkok bars. Since there are so many nightclubs in Bangkok, a guide toBangkok bars can be helpful.

2008-01-26T01:44:00.001-08:00

Bangkok Nightlife Guide - The Best Of Thailand by Larry Willis

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Over the last few decades, Thailand has emerged as one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. Millions of people from all over visit Thailand every year to enjoy its vibrant nightlife, which in turn has resulted in the growth of new clubs hotels and bars.

There are many striking and beautiful cities throughout Thailand. But if it is the nightlife that you are looking for, than look no further than Bangkok. Bangkok is not just another shopping destination. Bangkok is full of bars, nightclubs, pubs, and discos. Not only is the nightlife affordable, but they are good places to go and relax.

If you're a person who loves the nightlife, then you'll love visiting Bangkok. Here's your guide to Bangkok nightlife. While you're there, check out the stylish interiors of the clubs and hang out with the exciting crowds. You can also hit the floor with some of Bangkok's great dancers!

At the many night spots throughout Bangkok, you'll see some very sensual dance performances. The nightclubs, taverns and discos offer customers all sorts of alcoholic beverages. The ones that most people order are beer, champagne, tequila and vodka. A very lively section for nightlife is Patpong; and in addition to that neighborhood, you might also enjoy visiting the interesting Nana Plaza.

It is great news to find out that most of the clubs in the city of Bangkok are very reasonable. Hip-hop is a very popular music at a lot of the Bangkok clubs. A lot of the dance clubs will open around 9 pm. If you want to really enjoy yourself you should stay into the later hours of the night.

When you do an internet search for "Bangkok" you will uncover hundreds of articles full of advice and tips for the typical tourist. Narrow your search to "nightlife" and you can research all of the great places for partying. No matter how you learn about Bangkok's hot spots, you will definitely be impressed with all they have to offer.

About the Author

There are many striking and beautiful cities throughout Thailand. But if it is the nightlife that you are looking for, then look no further than Bangkok. Bangkok is full of bars, nightclubs, pubs, and discos. If you're a person who loves the nightlife, then you'll love visiting Bangkok. Patpong is one of the most popular party areas in Bangkok.

2008-01-25T01:12:00.001-08:00

Resident of Krabi - Yellow Tiger-Tail Seahorse by KrabiDivers.com

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Ringing in good tidings for the new year, a newly immigrated resident to Krabi was spotted by one of our KrabiDivers.com instructors on New Year's Day. At 4-cm long, he appears pregnant. Yes, "he" was pregnant as the male in this species are the ones to get pregnant and productive!

Krabi, south of Thailand, is the gateway to the famous Andaman Sea where scuba divers and snorkellors from all over the world convene as winter approaches in the western world. Famous for its incredible waters, great visibility and huge variety of dive terrain, Krabi is a must-stop for all nature and water lovers on vacation in Asia. KrabiDivers.com operates the premier scuba-diving and eco-tourism center in the heart of Aonang, the sea-side town of Krabi. Here, you can launch off to the amazing Similans, Richelieu Rock, Phi Phi islands, Phuket and Lanta. And lets not forget the relatively unexplored local Krabi waters where the caves and caverns provide a great underwater adventure. And here is where we found our Tiger-Tailed Seahorse on New Year's Day!

Seahorses are amazing creatures. The seahorse is one of four families in the syngnathiform family which also includes pipefish, flag-tail pipefish and seadragons. They swim in an upright position with their tails down and their heads up using their dorsal to move forward and pectoral fins for steering control. Also unique for their prehensile tail (able to twist & grasp),tube-like mouth (with no teeth), and small gill openings. Seahorses (like chameleons) can even move their two eyes independently of each other. Ranging in size from the tiny 10mm to 35cm, the largest is the Pacific Seahorse. Seahorses eat small crustaceans which they catch by staying still and lying in wait till their prey comes near, and they snap them up. Then their tube-like mouth creates a vacuum that sucks the prey in and they swallow their food whole.

Sea horses are unusual in a couple of ways. One is that they are monogamous and have long courtship periods when mating. Monogamy is unusual in all animals but particularly among fish. The longer a couple of seahorses stick together, the better they are at producing babies. It is the males of seahorses that carry their eggs in a pouch on his belly, after the eggs have been deposited there by the female. The eggs are fertilised in the pouch and incubated between 10 days to 4 weeks before they hatch. At hatching, the male gives birth to fully developed but tiny little seahorses. The natural lifespan of seahorses is not known, but believed to be from one year for small species to five years for the larger species. Highly elusive and difficult to spot in moving water, finding a seahorse is every diver's dream come true.

So, you can imagine our absolute euphoria when we spotted the little yellow Tiger-Tail. Being creatures of habit, once settled into a location, they tend not to move too much. Hence, we can find it again and would love to show it to you.

Come dive with KrabiDivers.com and let us take you out to the amazing underwater world of Krabi, Phi Phi, Phuket and Lanta. Or join one of our liveaboards for the Similans Islands. We run fun dive trips daily. Our group of international instructors are available to conduct all scuba-diving courses in English, Italia, Spanish, German, French, Japanese and Chinese. Centrally located at the Sea of Love Plaza (opposite McDonalds) in heart of Aonang, Krabi in Thailand, come visit us if you are planning a trip to Krabi. Or email us for more information info@krabidivers.com. Also check out our website www.krabidivers.com where you will find lots more in store about our adventures.

About the Author

This article was contributed by one of the staff members at www.KrabiDivers.com, the premier dive centre at Krabi Thailand. At our dive centre, all our instructors, guides and crew faithfully follow diving safety standards. We also conduct all levels of dive courses and have the philosophy of small-groups for instruction, to ensure our customers are given our full attention. To find out more, visit us at www.krabidivers.com.

2008-01-25T01:09:00.001-08:00

Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand by ALADIN

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The U.S. embassy 120/22 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2 205 4000

British Embassy 14 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2 305 8333

Embassy of France 35 Charoen Krung 36, Bangrak, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 (0) 2 657 5100

The Embassy of the Russian Federation 78 Sap Road, Surawongse, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 (0) 2 234 9824, +66 (0) 2 268 1169

Embassy of Japan 177 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2 207 8500

Embassy of the People's Republic of China 57 Ratchadapisek Road, Din Daeng, Bangkok 10310 Tel: +66 (0) 2 245 7032, Tel: +66 (0) 2 247 7554

Embassy of Belgium Sathorn City Tower - 17th floor, 175 South Sathorn Road, Tungmahamek, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66(0) 2 679 5454

More Embassy Coming Soon!!!

About the Author

ALADIN is the name that I use whan I play internet:)

2008-01-25T01:08:00.000-08:00

Hospital In Bangkok by ALADIN

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The following is a lists of hospital in Bangkok. They're included both public and private hospital.

Let's check a lists of them.

King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital 1873 Rama IV Rd., Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2 252 8181-9

Siriraj Hospital 2 Prannok Rd., Siriraj, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok 10700 Tel: +66 (0) 2 411 0241-9 , +66 (0) 2 411 4230-9

Ramathibodi Hospital 270 Rama VI Rd., Thung Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400 Tel: +66 (0) 2 354 7182-257

Bumrungrad International Hospital 33 Sukhumvit 3 (Soi Nana Nua), Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 (0) 2 667 1000

Bangkok Hospital Medical Center 2 Soi Soonvijai 7, New Petchburi Rd., Bangkok 10310 Tel: +66 (0) 2 310 3102

Vibhavadi Hospital 51/3 Ngamwongwan Rd., Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Tel: +66 (0) 2 941 2800

Vichaiyut Hospital 114/4 Setasiri Rd., Sam sen nai, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400 Tel: +66 (0) 2 265 7777, Tel: +66 (0) 2 618 6200-20

More hospital coming soon!!!

About the Author

ALADIN is the name that I use when I play internet:)

2008-01-24T01:21:00.000-08:00

Phuket Beach by Jack

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Phuket Beach is interspersed by a chain of mountains and valleys running mainly from a north-south range down the west coast. Phuket Beach is the most exciting and thrilling beach that offers multiple activities and entertainment. Allamanda Laguna Phuket beach is also not affected. It is not a bathing beach, but Phuket Beach is more of a restaurants/bar/souvenir shops row. Phuket Beach is what Seaside Heights is compared to Karon Beach (where our hotel was).

Welcome to Sunwing Phuket hotel at Phuket location as Bangtao beach hotel. Don't know which Phuket Hotel to book. Bang tao Beach, Phuket hotel, Phuket spa resort, Best Western Bangtao Phuket hotel Th. Kata Noi Beach - Phuket Hotel Reviews. Before you book check out the latest Phuket Hotel Reviews. Old Phuket Hotel, Karon Beach, 35 $, incl. Phuket hotel reservation discounts. Phuket Hotel Discounter. Phuket Hotel directory and guide. Featured Phuket Hotel. Old Phuket Hotel. Phuket Hotel Spa - Provide Accommodation reservation Service. Book your Phuket hotel. Mei Zhou Phuket Hotel, Luangpohwatchalong Road. To make a Kata Noi Beach Phuket hotel reservation with Hotel. PHUKET HOTEL. Karon Hotels, Phuket hotel Thailand. Old Phuket Hotel Karon Beach Old Phuket Hotel. Metropole Phuket hotel reviews, Metropole Phuket Phuket: Overall is very good. Phuket Hotel Last Minute Phuket Beach Hotels, Phuket Island hotels and resorts on Phuket Island, and Phuket Luxury Resorts. Phuket Hotel. Phuket Hotel Overview. Cheap rate for Phuket hotel, cheap place to stay on Phuket. For more information about a specific Phuket hotel, click on the hotel name. Sawasdee Village Resort Phuket Hotel Phuket hotels, hotels in Phuket, hotels in Phuket Thailand.

Kasalong Phuket Resort is located on tranquil beach of Nai Yang. A detailed Phuket resort and hotel review with spas and funky escapes. JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Mai Khao Beach From USD 176. Woraburi Phuket Resort and Spa. Evason Phuket Resort And Spa Phuket. Katathani Phuket Resort 14 Kata Noi Road, Karon, Muang, Phuket, 83100 Thailand. Evason Phuket Resort & Six Senses Spa. Phuket Resort - Thavorn Palm Beach Resort. Marina Phuket Resort. Siam Phuket Resort.

http://www.thehotel.mwebblog.com

About the Author

Mr.nice

2008-01-22T03:12:00.001-08:00

Hotels of Thailand by exkursia

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Hotels which on world classification we would carry to two-stars, in Thailand exist and correspond to a category named budget, i.e. "Cheap". Numbers in such hotels can have the fan instead of the conditioner, most likely, there will be no also a restaurant.

And at last the cheapest in Bangkok - family hotels. As a matter of fact, it something like small board which contains and copes one family. Here offer pure and cosy rooms on one-two persons. Conveniences, the truth minimum, even sometimes bring hot water in vessels. However many foreigners here stop. Involves probably not only unusual cheapness - $2 a day, but also special, typically Thai, atmosphere of these dwellings. Before an input in them by tradition leave footwear at doors. Owners of these hotels, out of respect for another's traditions and stomachs, feed clients with quite international breakfast. In Bangkok such hotels are rather safe. To remove number is the most easier directly having glanced in such hotel.

Hotels - skyscrapers grow in Bangkok as mushrooms. The difference between first three categories consists not so much in comfort and services, how many available additional luxury. Hotel, undoubtedly remarkable place where it is possible and to look at people and to show. However Thailand is the country of imperial rest. Rich tourists from the West, coming in Thailand to relax, rent smart two-storeyed country houses in a resort zone. In them usually there are some bedrooms with separate bathrooms. The personal cook, the parlourmaid, garage, pool, a children's playground, protection - yes practically all that will wish. The country house is rented for a month, but it is possible and on two weeks - under the arrangement.

At hotels 3 stars of clients always wait for a taxi. Some hotels of a high class give to the visitors limousines - free of charge. In many hotels there are own minibuses which some times in day go on city and tourist routes.

The additional information:

As a rule, all hotels do discounts for the period since February to April, since. This most hot season, and less big discounts in rains, and during the winter period, especially on the eve of New Year, quite probably, that the most convenient hotels will be hammered to the full. During the winter period in Bangkok, Pattaya and to the south the most good weather (not too hot, humidity there is less), but the best period if to save - July/September: the discount in hotels, there are not enough tourists (all are afraid of a season of rains).

It is possible to reserve room in hotel through the Internet (if go and you have a credit card - even is better to make reservation through the Internet!). For this purpose there are or sites of hotels, or groups of hotels (if you are assured where stop), or a commercial site where many hotels of various level with the detailed description are simultaneously presented. At the order through the Internet receive the discount, often enough considerable (especially at promotion of any hotel).

Concepts of "four-" or "five-stars" hotels of Thailand practically are not present ( Sofitel Silom Hotel Bangkok ). Stars mean nothing, the hotel is important: sometimes stars give for certain to the abstract requirements which are not strongly influencing for a life there (speed of the lift, quantity of restaurants or night clubs in and about hotel, etc.) And so in Bangkok actually there are historical, business and entertaining city centres, about them and hotels are grouped. In Pattaya it is better to choose hotel in city centre. In the south frequently it is better to remove a bungalow. Your choice should To depend only from that, what for you go to Thailand. Then already look at a category which it concerns.

About the Author

Search travel Portal EXKURSIA.org

2008-01-20T01:50:00.001-08:00

Up close and personal with tigers in Thailand by Stuart Cheese

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In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, I have the good fortune to experience many weird and wonderful things in order to ensure every client has the best tour possible. Here is my experience of the tiger temple in Thailand. Firstly I should explain a little about the Tiger temple and the wonderful job that the monks and their volunteers do to create a safe haven for a wide range of animals to live in harmony in their beautiful surroundings. This Buddhist monastery was established in the forest in the Saiyok district of Thailand in 1999 by the Abbot Phra Acharn Phusit Khantitharo.

This Abbots passion for animals soon saw him taking in injured animals or unwanted pets. It all began with an injured wild boar and some wild peacocks. It wasnâ€™t long before a variety of other animals began seeking refuge at the monastery and animals such as water buffalo, horses, cattle and different species of deer began roaming the area. Early on in 1999 the very first tigers turned up, 2 healthy male cubs, that needed some compassion as there mother had been slaughtered by some poachers. Shortly after some local villagers took 2 more orphaned male cubs looking for sanctuary to the monastery. Local border police added 4 female cubs to the collection that they had intercepted from poachers that were holding them. This made a happy balance for the young cubs.

The Abbot and the monks of the temple had had no previous experience of how to handle these exotic creatures and learned all that they know as they went along. It would appear that the monks learned well and was perfect for the animals as this is greatly reflected in how healthy and happy the big cats appear. It is also reflected in the fact that when these beautiful creatures matured they produced five new litters between them.

The Abbot soon realised that with so many tigers his few monks would not cope without the help of some local staff and volunteers. As word of the monastery spread across the world it has drawn much attention to the plight and suffering of these unique and beautiful animals and has helped to promote the cause of nature conservation.

The temple is also unique in the way that it encourages, well supervised human interaction with the tigers. After making sure that a few basic rules are adhered to you are escorted to a sleeping and hopefully well-fed tiger. You are then instructed to sit on the floor with the magnificent creature and the staff rest its massive sleepy head onto your lap. In supporting this heavy head, my thumb slipped between the folds of its mouth and rested on one of the tigersâ€™ teeth. I remember the thrill of feeling the tigers tooth on my thumb and the honour of having tiger saliva in my hand!

The staff took some photographs and led me to another couple of tigers that were laying on some rocks and took some more pictures. Behind me were even more tigers frolicking in the cool water pool I wanted some video footage of them but was told whilst I could not just walk up to them a staff member would get the film I wanted instead. I can honestly say that I was not in the least bit apprehensive about being amongst these incredible beasts and the whole atmosphere seemed very calm and peaceful. On one occasion one of the animals roared as it play fought with its mate and started to run towards the area that everyone was sitting. Two members of staff stood before it and crossed their long wooden sticks in front of it and this motion was enough to deter its frolicking and send it back into the water. I felt very privileged to be so close to these spectacular creatures.

Much to the Abbots sadness the tigers still have to be caged for most of the time until they can be given more freedom. There are 12 acres of natural forest land in the temple grounds that have been designated for the re-homing of the tigers and this is currently in the process of being made a reality.

Anyone can take part in helping this dream to become a reality by making a donation to this worthwhile cause. I do wonder if eventually these animals will no longer have the same public interaction with the tigers when they have their proper â€œislandâ€ in the grounds as proposed. If this is the case and the population of these awesome animals continues to decrease in the wild then I am truly lucky to have had this amazing experience.

About the Author

Stuart Cheese is the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours and, having visited over 110 countries, has a wealth of travel experience. One World Tours / The Holidays in Thailand Specialists

2008-01-19T00:32:00.001-08:00

Travel In Krabi (Thailand) by Mark_Bate

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Landed in Ao Nang on the 9th from Phi Phi, where we made our way over to Krabi town and checked into the Grand Tower Hotel. That it certainly is! It's about six storeys high with views over the uglier parts of the town. We went straight for tea on the infamous night market. The food was rather splendid and incredibly cheap; and also rather satisfying that the locals ate there as well. http://thailand-travel-krabi2.blogspot.com/2008/01/travel-krabi.html

The next day saw us hit Railay Beach, via a 45minute longtail boat ride. This place is best described in pictures. The red hot sun beat down on the lush tropical green waters and perfect sand. We spent all day there and got an incredible tan for our efforts.

The 11th saw us hit Ao Nang beach - for about 20 minutes. It was busy, full of shops and surprisingly low on quality beach! Row after row of boats meant that we couldn't really swim, so we headed for the 30minute moped journey back home, before we head to Phuket Town in preparation for our venture in Malaysia.http://thailand-travel-krabi2.blogspot.com

About the Author

http://thailand-travel-krabi2.blogspot.com/2008/01/travel-krabi.html

2008-01-18T01:02:00.001-08:00

Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai Hotel by Maypopup M.

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We have numerous other articles written on this very subject. Each one tackles a different aspect of this complex topic.

Chiang Mai, the minute principal city in Thailand, and notably known as the "gateway to the North", is a treasure house of usual beauty. Unparalleled picture-accurate deluxe green plains, cradled in the arms of regal mountains surrounding it, Chiang Mai is a main tourist destination. People from all over the world are steadily discovering this city, and are launch here for a pleasure tumble. Chiang Mai, in its fork, has set up a large sort of hotels and other accommodation for the promote of these international visitors. One such luxury hotel is the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai.

The official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai is one of the most comfortable and lush accommodations one can find in Chiang Mai. The official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai is what one can call a skin-away, tucked inside a 60 acre peaceful and private likely landscape. Named after the "Star idol", according to a Sanskrit tenure, the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai is the standard of romanticism, charm and imitation picturesque value.

The 123 majestic suites at the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai tender the valued guests with northern Thai-tailor d�cor and antique furnishings in the 144 guestrooms, and 77 suites. Located just about 11 kms from the airport, making it fairly simply accessible, yet considerably aloof from civilization, the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai is the principle place for superstar looking to run away, far from the annoying crowd, and into the arms of kind.

With a number of facilities that are fringe to make the reside of a guest pleasurable and really satisfactory, the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai aims at bountiful the best to its visitors. The main services that one can reward of in the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai contain the 3,100 genuine indicator Dheva Spa, a aptness and recreation centre, a sort of elegant restaurants, the Oriental cooking Academy, the Lanna Kids bludgeon and Kad Dhara, a traditional Thai shopping village. All these and more cartel to give the guests an out-of-the world experience while resideing at the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai.

Ask yourself a few simple questions to determine if you fully understand the concepts that we have went over so far.

With a number of facilities that are fringe to make the reside of a guest pleasurable and really satisfactory, the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai aims at bountiful the best to its visitors. The main services that one can reward of in the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai contain the 3,100 genuine indicator Dheva Spa, a aptness and recreation centre, a sort of elegant restaurants, the Oriental cooking Academy, the Lanna Kids bludgeon and Kad Dhara, a traditional Thai shopping village. All these and more cartel to give the guests an out-of-the world experience while resideing at the official Oriental Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai.

This article is the perfect way to gain the information that you need to fully appreciate the complexity of this subject.

About the Author

Maypopup M. is the Owner of Chiang Mai Resort Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Chiang Mai Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2chiangmai.com/

2008-01-17T02:35:00.001-08:00

Amanpuri Resort Phuket Thailand by Maypopup M.

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After reading our article, you can impress your friends with the amazing amount of knowledge you have gained on this subject.

Amanpuri hotel in Phuket has a sincere background and a calm surrounding. Amanpuri hotel is located near the Pansea coastline in Phuket. This hotel is situated in the sultry plot part of Phuket, which is lovely and captivating. As a luxury resort, it is sole and unparalleled. It is because of the vanguard maintenance and extraordinary army, Amanpuri hotel in Phuket has been rated as a five star resort.

Amanpuri hotel in Phuket won prestigious awards for its military. Among them, the Conde Nast medal and trek and Leisure medal are the predominant ones.

The site of Amanpuri hotel in Phuket is very significant. It takes just 25 notes to make the Phuket Island. The Phuket airport too is very close. It is from the Amanpuri hotel, that you can like the best outlook of the Andaman Sea. The long stretched sandes, with superb coconut plants operation across, are the marvels of the spot.

So far as the extent army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket are troubled, the hotel does not bequeath any loophole in its army. The quarters are well furnished. Every luxury costume is bejeweled with a emperor bulk bed and other services. The bathquarters too are very fashionable, with secede hand shower and pour bathtubs. Dining at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket is also a lovely and elaborate business. There are continental restaurants preparing Italian and traditional Thai food. The coastline restaurants and bars are also there to assist you sensational dishes of the peak lesson.

Among other services and army, there are children's squares, children's swimming lake, coastline clubs, gym, store, luxury boutique and many more. For more information browse through the part condition and Recreation at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket .

For the rest of this article, we will discuss the meaning behind what we have learned about this subject so far.

So far as the extent army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket are troubled, the hotel does not bequeath any loophole in its army. The quarters are well furnished. Every luxury costume is bejeweled with a emperor bulk bed and other services. The bathquarters too are very fashionable, with secede hand shower and pour bathtubs. Dining at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket is also a lovely and elaborate business. There are continental restaurants preparing Italian and traditional Thai food. The coastline restaurants and bars are also there to assist you sensational dishes of the peak lesson.

Among other services and military, there are children's squares, children's swimming merge, coast clubs, gym, annals, luxury boutique and many more. For more information browse through the portion aptness and Recreation at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket .

Amanpuri hotel in Phuket also prepares health and recreation programs. There are expressly maintained spas and knead centers. Other inside and outside playoffs will also help you in your health and recreation programs. The Other services and army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket contain a car square, disabled facilities and move and tourism guidance.

Amanpuri hotel in Phuket will hence be an paradigm destination both for the leisure tourists and marriage couples. It is a place where people come to people and overcome the enchanting beauty of type.

If you need help with this subject, or do not know how to begin, there are several free resources on related websites to give you a boost.

About the Author

Maypopup M. is the Owner of Phuket Hotels Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Phuket Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2phuket.com/

2008-01-01T05:07:00.001-08:00

Effective Pattaya Travel Guide by [KengIsm]

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Thailand is the place where many people would love to go to. Due to its warm climate and beautiful natural resource, such as mountaineer geography in the north, and coastal beach in the east and the south. We are going to look at the eastern region, which Pattaya city is located. You may have heard a bit or have been there before if you had a chance to visit Thailand. It is the place where a lot of tourist would like to visit and it has millions of visitors each year. This is due to its beautiful beach and night life which give people endless enjoyable activities.

However, for someone who want to visit Thailand or Pattaya at the first time, they may want to visit some information resource that provide info about Pattaya travel guide and there are a lot of websites provide comprehensive information such as the website of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) or you may want to visit lonelyplanet.com can also be used as a information reference.

Even though Pattaya gain it reputations from its beach and night life but there are also many tourist attractions that tourist could have activity with. For example, there has been an fish aquarium that recently opened and this aquarium is the largest in Southeast Asia region. Apart from that, you can enjoy activities like rock climbing, hiking or even just ordinary relaxing on the beach.

Hotel accommodation in Pattaya also offers excellent service. You can find wide range of hotel types available for all of budget availability. Top luxurious hotels provide very private environment and services so you can be sure that your holiday will not be disturbed. Massage and beauty service in Pattaya are also gain reputation, particularly traditional Thai massage and facial therapy massage in Thai ancient style, which you will experience of using traditional Thai herbs to cure disease through elaborated massage method.

Pattaya is divided into three different parts; North Pattaya, Central Pattaya and South Pattaya. Each area has unique characteristics such as beach and travel attraction. North Pattaya is close to other attractions near by such as Sila Village where produce mortars or if you would like to enjoy city life and beautiful beaches, you have to visit Central Pattaya.

People and environment in Pattaya are also very pleasant. Even though it is a place that has more urban area than suburb area but there still be a good environment and very less of pollution. People are also very friendly and always willing to help all of the tourists.

Even though there are a lot of travel guide for Pattaya available on the internet, some in Thai and some in English language, but you have to compare all the detail with two or three different websites and choose the most update and reliable one. Otherwise you may get the wrong or out of date information. And as a result you may get lost or miss some important information that may lead you to trouble during the visit and you will find that you have to return to this place once again.

About the Author

http://www.pattayahotelbooking.com

2008-01-01T05:05:00.001-08:00

Pattaya Hotels: Amaze To Be Discovered by KengIsm

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If you are the person who has visited Thailand, now you may have heard about Pattaya City. It is the major city of Chonburi province. It is one of the most popular destination of eastern part of Thailand. Each year, Pattaya gain quite number of tourist and it is considered as the tourism hub of eastern region. The very beautiful cosy beach and variesty of nightlife and activities bring very enjoyable activities. According to this reason, the hotel industry in Pattaya is also become popular and it is the most profitable business in the city.

Hotel business in Pattaya is never enough, even though there are increasing in number of tourists, but number of hotels in this city is never enough. There is variety of hotels size and style available in Pattaya, from very cheap guest house to very expensive and luxurious hotel, which you have to consider carefully.

However, there are some basic guidelines for you in case you have to choose different types of hotels. As because the price is not only the key indicator to decide whether which hotel is good or not. You have to consider other factor like location, service or other facility etc.

About the location In case if you want to stay at only simple and cheap guesthouse, you may not have to worry too much about the location of the hotel because in Pattaya, there are small guesthouse every where from near the beach coast to central market. The price ranges are only from 10-20 USD per night. However, you have to be a little bit careful if you want to stay in guest house. Some guesthouse located in the area that quite not easy to access like deep small street so you will have difficulty on taking public transportation.

If you are considering to stay in five stars luxurious hotel, it is really important to decide about the hotel's location. This is because when you have to pay for such an expensive room so you naturally expecting the great service and comfortable. Pay for high room rate for five stars hotel located in city central is may not worth your money. Try to look for the hotel that locate on beach side or if they have private beach will be really perfect.

However, no matter which type of the hotel you are looking for, you have to be sure that you can get the best deals of the hotel price. This is because there are so many travel agents who are offering best deal of the price. Even though there are millions of the websites that you can find cheap price on the internet but just try to search for Pattaya local travel agents first. Because from my experience, there are a lot of them that can offer the price much cheaper than internet rate.

Finally, just enjoy your stay and your trip. The more information you get from research the more enjoyable your trip. Particularly for Pattaya, the city that never sleep with superb clam beach and environment.

About the Author

http://www.pattayahotelbooking.co

2007-12-31T03:02:00.001-08:00

Thailand Scuba Diving Vacation by Chris Chew

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Thailand is sandwiched between The Gulf of Thailand on its eastern coastline and the vast expanse of the Andaman Sea on its western coast. It is in these body of waters that scuba divers can explore the marine life of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean without having to cross continents.

The waters in Thailand have one of the richest and diverse marine life in the world because conditions here for coral growth is almost perfect with an average temperature of 28C all year round and fantastic underwater visibility.

Because of these almost ideal scuba diving conditions and attractions, the scuba diving industry in Thailand is thriving robustly with the proliferation of first class scuba diving facilities, services and diving schools.

When you throw in what the tourist industry has to offer in Thailand such as fantastic entertainment, a spread of accommodations, hotels and resorts for every budget and Thailand's renowned delightful cuisines, you can be assured of an enjoyable scuba diving vacation.

The Gulf of Thailand has hundreds of islands on its 1,840km (1,143 miles) long coast. The gulf is a shallow bowl shaped body of water separated from the South China Sea by a pair of underwater ridges that extend from Vietnam on one side and Malaysia to the other.

The sea bed bottom here is mostly mud mixed with sand and shells. Corals are usually found around the fringes of the gulf islands. There are several rivers in the north bringing enough sediment and freshwater to inhibit coral growth until to the south or the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand.

The underwater scenery in the gulf is perhaps not as visually appealing as those of the Andaman Sea as it has slightly less variety of marine life. Marine parks such as the Ang Thong Marine Park include spectacularly formed limestone islands with lush rainforest covering them and many of these islands are actually uninhabited.

World famous resorts of Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui offer excellent scuba diving facilities as well as other reacreations and entertaiment.

The Andaman Sea was already thriving thousands of years ago with Chinese, European, Thai and Indian trading vessels plying its waters. Today, the Andaman Sea is more of a playground for dive boats and sailing yachts rather than for trading vessels.

One of the better known playgrounds for divers in the Andaman and is often rated amongst the top scuba diving destinations in the world are the Similan Islands. Divers can explore Similan, the Surin Islands and the Mergui Archipelago in liveaboard diving cruises.

Thailand's Andaman Sea stretches 870km (541 miles) from Tarutao National Park on the border of Malaysia to the Surin Islands on the border of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). It is part of the Indian Ocean and is separated from the Bay of Bengal by the Andaman-Nicobar Ridge. Quaint formations of granite outcrops can be senn in the Surin and Similan Islands.

Other island groups such as Koh Phi Phi are shaped by massive limestone and calcium carbonates since prehistoric time.

The only problem when you travel to Thailand for scuba diving is where to start your diving vacation since there are so many excellent dive spots to choose from and you will be spoilt for choice.

About the Author

Chris Chew runs a travel information website at El Nido Vacation Resorts and Koh Samui Beach Resorts

2007-12-29T15:25:00.001-08:00

Chiva Som International Health Resort Hotels Hua Hin by Maypopup M.

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We hope that you finish this article having learned at least a little bit of new information. If so, then we have done our job.

Hua Hin is an enchanting island in Thailand. The island is remarkable for its gorgeous silver beaches, gemstone release sea water and magnificent mountains. People from different corners of the world come to vacation this island of kaleidoscopic beauty. The Chiva-Som International strength Resort in Hua Hin provides brilliant accommodation to the guests and is counted among admired hotels in Hua Hin in Thailand.

spot of Chiva-Som International strength Resort in Hua Hin

Chiva-Som International wellbeing Resort in Hua Hin is located at a coldness of 10 km from the seat of the city and so you can certainly access all significant chairs of the city from the hotel. The Bangkok Airport is situated at three hours powerful coldness from the hotel. There are ample taxis and buses free at the airport to take you to the hotel. Among the foremost tourist chairs, you can explore many spectacular birth wonders like hills and beaches along with man made wonders like historic monuments and famous palaces located near the hotel.

scope Facilities at Chiva-Som International strength Resort in Hua Hin

The hotel offers comfortable accommodation among other hotels in Thailand. There are 57 quarters which are stunningly bejeweled and enclose all recent services. The quarters are air conditioned and are immaculate and contain recent equipments like refrigerator, hairdryer, cocktail maker, television, receiver and high zoom Internet access. Guests can at once feel cared for even when they are away from their homes.

Before we go an further, lets take a moment to review what we have learned so far about this amazing subject.

area Facilities at Chiva-Som International shape Resort in Hua Hin

The hotel offers comfortable accommodation among other hotels in Thailand. There are 57 quarters which are handsomely bedecked and repress all advanced services. The quarters are air conditioned and are immaculate and contain advanced equipments like refrigerator, hairdryer, infusion maker, television, phone and high hustle Internet access. Guests can at once feel cared for even when they are away from their homes.

Hotel services and navy at Chiva-Som International shape Resort in Hua Hin

Travelers at Chiva-Som International strength Resort in Hua Hin are provided with a large number of well-liked services and facilities. The question travelers will find this place a exact venue to take out their question meetings. The guests can relax at the swimming band of the hotel or treat themselves at sauna and memo axis of the hotel. The vigor conscious people can take on their aptness regime at the aptness axis of the hotel. The hotel also provides other facilities like parking, laundry, baby session, porterage, currency swap, security deposit boxes are provided at the unloading and all types of praise cards are accepted. So come and like staying at Chiva-Som International strength Resort in Hua Hin.

If you have found our database of information on this subject useful, read some of our other topics as well.

About the Author

Maypopup M. is the Owner of HuaHin Hotels Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Hua Hin Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2huahin.com/

2007-12-26T01:10:00.000-08:00

Cheap Hotel In Pattaya by Alannis Atweeke

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Pattaya Budget Hotels and accommodation in Pattaya. Pattaya Last Minute Hotel reservations and places to stay at the Last Minute in Pattaya. Compare prices and make huge savings on a Hotels at Cheap Accommodation. Free reservation service for over 12 hotels in Khaosan. Pattaya hostels and cheap accommodation in central Pattaya. Online booking system OrangeSmile Tours- 35 000 hotels all over the world, the first place to look for cheap Pattaya Hotel deals at the last minute.

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offers fantastic savings on Pattaya hotels. Pattaya accommodation- fast and secure reservation from Accommodation Line Pattaya. Pattaya Budget & Cheap hotels-A good starting point for budget conscious travelers seeking inexpensive, low cost Pattaya hotels. Pattaya Hotels Thailand, Pattaya Hotels Discount, Cheap Hotels Pattaya, Accommodation in Pattaya, Hotels in Thailand, Pattaya Hotel Reviews: Discount Hotel. Pattaya Cheap Hotels Budget Guesthouses in Thailand Hostels and Accommadations. Cheap Charlies Hotels, Pattaya Cheap Hotels.

The Champ Pattaya Hotel is positioned in South Pattaya, about 10 minutes walk from the. Cheap Bangkok hotel rates, Pattaya hotels, Phuket hotels, Krabi hotels, Koh Samui hotels resorts online booking. Pattaya hotels- fast and secure reservation service provided by HotelClub Pattaya. Cheap hotel pattaya, The Queen Victoria Inn in Soi 6. Book Budget Hotels in Pattaya, Thailand securely online through Travellerspoint. Cheap Charlies reviews cheap hotels for budget travelers in Asia Oceania. Budget Bangkok hotels,Budget hotels in pattaya, Thailand.Cheap accommodations Lodgings,Guesthouse. Cheap Hotels Pattaya, Thailand Discount Hotels Pattaya Budget Hotels Pattaya Hotel Finder Pattaya.

About the Author

If you are looking for information about Pattaya Thailand, please visit PattayaWOW.com

2007-12-24T00:56:00.001-08:00

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotels Bangkok by Maypopup M.

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Before we begin, let's discuss what we hope you will learn through this article. Then we can begin to piece it together for you.

Sheraton large Sukhumvit in Bangkok is one of the best accommodations in Thailand. Contemporary sophistication impeccably coalesces with affluent forest, Thai silks and bright limestone to breed the stylish setting of this Luxury Collection estate.

The hotel serrated the label of the Best company lodge in Thailand by company Asia in the year 2004 and clinched a good rank among the World's 500 Best lodges rated by voyage and Leireliable. The accolades came its way logically as the hotel has a amazing custom highlight which residue open twenty four hours a day. Equipped with hi tech gadgets and wireless internet overhaul the Sheraton large Sukhumvit lodge in Bangkok has been recognized as one of the best custom hotels of the realm.

The site of the hotel is very strategic. some foremost tourist attractions, shopping axiss and the concern area of the city are near the hotel. A skylink link connects the lobby of the hotel to the Asok Skytrain and the Sukhumvit subway stations.

The Sheraton majestic Sukhumvit lodge in Bangkok has 420 exclusively bedecked and fresh guestspaces. Each space has a LCD television and a DVD player. The amble in closets and the smooth bathspaces are very lavish. There are 35 majestic suites which give a spectacular deem of the Lake Ratchada and the Thai styled suites with a delicate plot are considered to be the greatest in luxury.

The extent tune is untaken for twenty four hours a day. The in- house Spa of the Sheraton majestic Sukhumvit lodge in Bangkok is regarded to be as one of the best in the country. The numerous therapies done here with their likely harvest makes you can spoil manually with.

If you liked the first section of this article, stay tuned because we have more to follow in the next section!

The Sheraton majestic Sukhumvit lodge in Bangkok has 420 exclusively bedecked and buoyant guestextents. Each extent has a LCD television and a DVD player. The saunter in closets and the covered bathextents are very comfy. There are 35 majestic suites which give a spectacular behold of the Lake Ratchada and the Thai styled suites with a private patch are considered to be the decisive in luxury.

The extent tune is untaken for twenty four hours a day. The in- house Spa of the Sheraton majestic Sukhumvit lodge in Bangkok is regarded to be as one of the best in the country. The numerous therapies done here with their likely harvest makes you can spoil manually with.

The swimming puddle of the hotel set amidst a picturesque patch is said to be the best in Asia. The crowd of amazing eateries at the hotel quota entrance watering Italian and Thai cuisines is solid to win your sympathy.

Knowing the ins and outs of this topic will help you to fully understand the importance of this entire subject.

About the Author

Maypopup M. is the Owner of Bangkok Hotel Thailand Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Bangkok Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2bangkok.com/

2007-12-22T00:50:00.001-08:00

Golden Hill Hotels Krabi Thailand by Maypopup M.

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Like a child who has discovered a new toy, this information will open up a whole new world of awe and wonder for you.

fair mount in Krabi is among the celebrated lodges in Krabi in Thailand that promises to offers a relaxed and comfortable reside to the tourists from across the world. The desirable position of fair mount in Krabi inside the city itself would be liked by both affair and pleasure travelers. The unusedful accommodation, slender dining choice and world category affair capacity that fair mount in Krabi offers will give it an added side over the other lodges in Thailand. The turgid and unusedful fair mount in Krabi is accepted to the tourists for their helpful and stupendous navy.

scene of blond mound in Krabi

The locality of blond mound in Krabi is such that it is simply reached from all the parts of the city. It is a 20 summary hustle from the international airharbor at Krabi. The Bus situation is also close to blond mound in Krabi. The sea harbor is purely 10 summary from the spot of the hotel. The Chao Fa jetty is 3 summary from the hotel. blond mound in Krabi is also close to the chief tour attraction like the Thara commons and the trade axis of the Krabi township. There are banks , pillar staff and also a watch situation located at a rapid void from the locality of the hotel.

scope Facilities at blonde mount in Krabi

blond mound in Krabi brags of providing a luxurious deferment at any one of the 40 open and spotless guest quarters. The quarters have a panache d�cor and are facilitated with a circle that offers great charming views the city. All the travelers would appreciate the reality that the quarters are well appointed with castey and panache furniture. have advanced and prime conveniences provided in each quarters of blond mound in Krabi which comprise:

In the introduction, we saw how this subject can be beneficial to anyone. We will continue by explaining the basics of this topic.

area Facilities at yellow knoll in Krabi

blond mound in Krabi brags of providing a luxurious deferment at any one of the 40 open and spotless guest quarters. The quarters have a panache d�cor and are facilitated with a circle that offers great charming views the city. All the travelers would appreciate the reality that the quarters are well appointed with castey and panache furniture. have advanced and prime conveniences provided in each quarters of blond mound in Krabi which comprise:

- 20" shade TV

- minuscule Bar

- 48-channels

- Large cane settee

lodge overhauls and navy at fair mount in Krabi

enjoy a lavish dine or feast with your family or links at the Thunyada Restaurant of the hotel. The restaurant specializes in helping authentic Thai and international cuisines to the valued guests. The hotel also offers a BBQ bang to the boarders during specials occasions at the open air sala of the hotel.

The well equipped encounter and conference space is the value place for the planment of corporate encounters of high profile. The venture executives would well appreciate the detail that the encounter and conference space has a distraction liberated environment which would help them to include in with their encounters lacking greatly hassle.

Take a few laps at the outside swimming share of the hotel and de-stress manually of the total day's weakness. The large pleasing patch of the hotel is the apt place to relax all by you or with your family or links. Here one can also plan their own secretive parties.

distant from gift lavish accommodation and conveniences yellow knoll in Krabi also provides some common army like 24 hours front counter benefit, car letting, front counter cautious deposit box, parking capacity and laundry vacuuming benefit to its treasured guests.

So don't barren your time! Just haversack your bags and get prepare to search into the city of Krabi as you deferment at the hotel.

If you would like to learn more about this subject, take a look at our wide selection of articles to see if any interest you.

About the Author

Maypopup M. is the Webmaster of Krabi Hotels Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Krabi Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2krabi.com/

2007-12-20T17:12:00.001-08:00

Bangkok Hotels by Nancy Eben

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Bangkok is not only the capital city of Thailand but also its largest city and the most prominent destination in the region of Southeastern Asia. Very well acclaimed for its awe inspiring Buddhist architecture and bewitching culture, Bangkok attracts hordes of tourists and visitors throughout the year. Bangkok is also known as Krung Thep and boasts of many exciting places of interest, chic restaurants, electrifying nightlife and world class accommodation. Bangkok Hotels is a haven for every visitors and tourists in the city. Well equipped with state of the art facilities and praiseworthy service the city hotels of Bangkok are a class apart. Factually, Bangkok is segregated into 50 districts that makes it easier for the visitors to travel around the city with ease. One of the highlights of Thailand tourism is the Thai food that is well renowned throughout the world. Absolutely delicious and lip smacking it is a bet that you will be left licking your fingers. Not just delicious, but you would realize that Thai food are as within your means as they are wide ranging. And not to miss the saffron robe clad monks in the market places, on the streets and most generally everywhere in the city.

The peak tourist season to visit Bangkok begins from December to August. During this period, city weather is neither too muggy nor too scorching. From November to February rain and high temperature are relatively less frequent than during the months from July to October.

Some of the places to visit in Bangkok are:

Royal Barges National Museum

A colossally beautiful museum that exhibits striking ornamented royal boats. Among the collection you will find Suphannahong which is deemed as the most important of all barges. Made out of a single log of wood, Suphannahong which means 'golden swan' is the world's largest dugout barge. The largest barge in the collection stretches to 50 meter long and entails combined efforts of a 50 men crew to row it in the water. A fantastic museum that is unique and popular. The best time to watch the spectacular fleet of these boats in a procession is during the Royal Kathï¿½n Ceremony.

Siam Ocean World

An excellent spot to watch the sea life in Bangkok is this aquarium. Here, you may indulge in one of the most challenging tasks on earth and that is to dive among the deadliest of all sharks. Now ain't that an opportunity of a lifetime. Among the many varieties of sharks you will find Leopard sharks, Southern stingrays, Grey Nurse sharks, Eagle rays and Blacktip sharks among others.

Thewet Flower Market

A beautiful market that is one of its own kinds, the Thewet Flower Market is a place that would without a doubt mesmerize your senses. Vivid and exotic flowers like orchids, pansies, tulips etc. the market is sited at Th Samsen is a market full of exuberance and life. National Gallery

One of the most prominent art galleries of the city, the National Gallery is a fully government supported museum that exhibits the finest of all collection in contemporary and traditional art works. Among the best attraction of the Gallery are the works of art done by Rama VI and Rama IX.

Accommodation in Bangkok is easy to find. Bangkok Hotels are available in all price brackets, ranging from luxurious and indulging five star hotels to easy on pockets and economical cheap hotels in Bangkok

About the Author

For more info about Bangkok Hotels, Cheap hotels in Bangkok, Five Star Hotels in Bangkok please visit:- http://www.a1bangkokhotels.com/

2007-12-19T02:27:00.001-08:00

Montien Riverside Hotels Bangkok by Maypopup M.

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This article will take a beginners look at this interesting subject. It will give you the information that you need to know most.

The Montien canalside Hotel in Bangkok is a fresh international height hotel that offers polite navy to its guests. Belonging to the Montien Hotels group in Thailand, this hotel offers distinguished navy and national of the art facilities and checks that are appeal glance out. convivial every trekker with a grin, it has nowadays become one of the most apparent hotels in Thailand.

setting of Montien canalside Hotel in Bangkok

The Montien streamside Hotel in Bangkok is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya stream. Due to this spot, the trekkers can get a exonerate viewpoint of Asia's chief suspension viaduct from the quarters of the hotel. It takes about 30 notes to get to the Bangkok International Airport from the spot of the hotel. The hotel's strategic place on Rama highway makes it very close to the chief entertainment and shopping axiss of the city.

some shopping cores are close to the locality of the hotel and therefore very convenient for the leisure trekkers. Some of the top tourist attractions of the city that can be simply accessed from its locality enter canal City Shopping spotlight and the Patpong Night advertise.

extent Facilities at Montien canalside Hotel in Bangkok

We hope that the first part of this article as brought you a lot of much needed information on the subject at hand.

numerous shopping axiss are close to the spot of the hotel and therefore very convenient for the leisure trekkers. Some of the top tourist attractions of the city that can be simply accessed from its spot enter stream City Shopping core and the Patpong Night bazaar.

space Facilities at Montien canalside Hotel in Bangkok

There are 462 guestquarters in the Montien brookside Hotel in Bangkok. The quarters are sweet big and areay and are also brightly illuminated. The second you stride inside the quarters you will feel a substance of calm and harmony prevail your substances. The humid and familiar atmosphere reminds you of your home.

The area facilities at Montien brookside Hotel in Bangkok comprises tiny bar, secret protected, tea and russet makers, individually controlled air conditioning approach, shade television, radio, secret balconies and sprinklers. They have en-suite bathquarters with a split shower cubicle.

Hotel rituals and military at Montien canalside Hotel in Bangkok

The Montien canalside Hotel in Bangkok has a well-planned concern core with fax, photocopying and internet facilities. Conference quarters and feast halls perform as a venue for a good number of shared gatherings and corporate measures. To make you feel wholly relaxed the hotel offers facilities and navy like airport assign, laundry navy, currency barter answer, area check, 24-hours front counter, parking gift and wash navy.

There is a playgroup for children. To keep up your ability regime there is a ability interior. Other recreation facilities existing comprise sauna, swimming team and a steam scope. There are numerous world-rank restaurants where you can have gourmand delights.

The hotels in Bangkok in Thailand are of international values and the token of a sophisticated lifestyle. The Montien brookside Hotel in Bangkok with its effective navy and large ranging rituals is a apparent resistant of this actuality.

What you have learned while reading this informative article, is knowledge that you can keep with you for a lifetime.

About the Author

Maypopup M. is the Owner of Bangkok Thailand Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Bangkok Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2bangkok.com/

2007-12-16T18:50:00.001-08:00

Exclusive Luxury Resort In Thailand At Pran Buri by Peter R Stewart

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If you are searching for an Exclusive Luxury Resort in Thailand that would be just right as a Honeymoon resort, or could be suitable as a family vacation resort, and you don't want to be with masses of other people then you should take a close look at the area of Pran Buri close to Hua Hin, and particularly at the Aleenta Resort & Spa

The Aleenta is a small and intimate hotel with a variety of accommodation, from the Pool Suites which means a romantic bungalow by the sea with your own plunge pool, ideal for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon. There is the beachfront splendour of the Beach House, ideal for a party of four, or the Ocean Suites with indoor and outdoor living space. If you really want it special, then there is the Penthouse, totally romantic for honeymooners.

The Grand Villa with all the comforts of home, with the trappings of an exclusive luxury resort which is Aleena Resort & Spa.

For families there is the Frangipani Wing with a large inviting pool by the sea, and the beach is but a few steps away, so ideal as a family vacation resort. The New Frangipani Wing has its own infinity pool, with a poolside bar serving snacks day and night

The Aleenta Resort and Spa is a simple and unfussy place which whilst laid back well deserves its burgeoning reputation as one of Thailand's leading luxury resorts. It is the small details which matter.

The wireless broadband connection throughout. The Aleenta Spa offering the full range of treatments to pamper and unwind you, and there is even an area set aside for Yoga, complete with instruction.

Thai and Fusion Cuisine are served in the restaurant which helps you to eat healthily with the right healthy lifestyle choices. Having said that, the breakfasts are just out of this world!!

There is a Sandwich Bar for all day snacks and a lounge and open air bar overlooking the sea.

To this you can add inevitably excellent room service, a library, a CD library, a Boutique, a Wedding Centre on the beach, a Business Centre, and extremely efficient Concierge service and security.

Whilst you might expect to find similar facilities at most luxury exclusive resorts, but some of the things that sets the Aleena Resort and Spa apart from others is the situation. Pran Buri has not yet been spoiled as have other areas of Thailand, so what you have to enjoy is a deserted beach, a no television policy, organic food with the vegetables from the hotel's own garden.

The staff of the Aleena resort just smile all the time, and nothing is too much trouble.

Apart from the deserted beach Pranburi is very peaceful which will suit some but not others. If nightlife is a necessary part of your vacation, then this probably isn't the place for you, but if you want to eat out then there are a couple of good restaurant shacks a ride away.

An important point is that the Aleenta resort and Spa is right on the beach, whereas the resorts in northern Pranburi have a small road in between, but you'll not find that fact widely available on their websites.

Go to Pranburi soon before it becomes spoilt, and you must stay at the Aleenta Resort and Spa, one of Thailand's best exclusive luxury resorts.

For other Resort Hotels in Thailand go to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/Far-East-Hotels/Thailand/

About the Author

Peter Stewart writes about in Kenya Safaris as well as Worldwide Vacation Spots He also recommends Travel Tennis a great Game to play on Holiday.

2007-12-12T01:25:00.001-08:00

For Quality accommodation: Phi Phi Island hotels by Nancy Eben

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Tourists are left awe struck on a visit to the Phi Phi Island Thailand for its amazing and distinct landscape with pristine beaches, imposing cliffs, clear water and charming marine life. The island is one of the leading destinations in Thailand among the tourists located close to the more popular islands of Phuket and Krabi. Phi Phi Island consists of two islands Phi Phi Don, which is a larger of the two and inhabited. The second island Phi Phi Lei is a small island, which became famous after the movie 'The Beach' was shot here. These two islands without any doubt are among Thailand's most beautiful and captivating destinations. After the increasing popularity and development, the islands have lost most of its earlier tranquility, but still the regions natural beauty and crystal clear waters overwhelm its visitors. Set at the heart of a national park, the islands remain one of the country's most popular holiday destinations.

The country's foremost holiday destination Phi Phi Island is set in the heart of the national park and it does not disappoint anybody. However, the two islands are not as big but offer many opportunities for an exciting to a relaxing holiday. One gets excellent opportunities and facilities for diving and snorkeling, which top the list of exciting ways to spend time here. Then the crystal clear waters perfect for checking out the rich marine life. From cliff diving, sunbathing, reading, exercising, hiking, to rock climbing there are a whole lot of possibilities to explore. With droves of visitor's flocking the island, it has accommodation for all kinds of travelers. There is an array of accommodation available from Phi Phi Island hotel, bungalows, to hostels. Phi Phi Island has something for every budget, specially very kind to budget-minded backpackers, with rooms of one-star (or less) rating scale outnumbering the up market resorts. For those who want to experience a paradise, there are a few luxury hotels. Phi Phi's beauty is the biggest attraction for the visitor's here. The place is certainly love at first sight for the tourists. It is the most popular destination on the Andaman Coast after Phuket, serving as the convenient escape from the hustle-and-bustle. Moreover, the place is affordable. The islands excellent resort-style accommodation, top quality restaurants, shops and a lively nightlife all make it a perfect place. Whether one stays just a few nights or a week, the island is an amazing destination to relax, go diving, swimming, and snorkeling.

About the Author

Nancy Eben is an associate editor of http://www.stayresthailand.com/. The website offers exclusive information of thailand and Phi Phi Island. We also provide online hotel reservation of Phi Phi Island Thailand.

2007-12-11T01:43:00.001-08:00

Online booking hotels Thailand is as easy as it gets by Nancy Eben

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Located on the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea is the country of Thailand that boasts of lip-smacking food, renowned beaches intriguing culture and tropical climate. Throughout the region of South East Asia, Thailand attracts millions of tourists each year. Accommodation in Thailand is very easy to find. Ranging from expensive five star hotels low cost lodges... you will find it all in Thailand. As you surf the internet for online booking hotels Thailand you would realize that there are umpteen hotels well facilitated with all the necessary amenities to make ones stay in Thailand easy and comfortable.

Bangkok Being the most urban city of Thailand, Bangkok is the commercial, cultural, political and financial hub of nation. The city of Bangkok is extremely modern in outlook and traditional in its ways.

Ko Si Chang Sited on the Gulf of Thailand is the region of Ko Si Chang that is virtually isolated and is a very enticing and bewitching land to walk around. Among the many out of the ordinary activities to indulge in are beaches where you may go about enjoying surfing, canoeing, water skiing, snorkeling and of course sun bathing, ancient caves and fascinating Chinese shrines.

Chiang Mai One of the most happening places to visit in Thailand, Chiang Mai is an excellent holiday destination in Thailand. Dotted with around 300 shrines and temples, Chiang Mai also boasts of a gorgeous environ. Although the city is very ultra modern in its façade the people are every traditional in their ways and outlook. It is the old-world appeal of the city that makes it all the more attractive. From cheap accommodation to excellent shopping experience this city compares to nothing... Simply a class apart.

Wat Traimit Also known as Temple of the Golden Buddha, this religious shrine that houses the well famed golden idol of Buddha. The statue is 3-m tall and weighs 5.5tonne. This impressive shrine attracts hordes of tourists every year and is an ideal place to find some peace of mind.

Accommodation in Thailand Hotels in Thailand are well known for their hospitality and world class service. These hotels have been long serving tourists and visitors for ages now. Thailand offers excellent balmy weather and the accommodation can be found at much cheaper rates. Beautiful pristine beaches, verdant nature reserves and woodland, craggy hills and amazing waterfalls makes ones stay in Thailand as memorable and exciting as it gets. Thailand hotels are ace at what they offer. Excellent ambience coupled with world class service and facilities... hotels in Thailand leave no stone unturned to make your holiday as interesting as it gets. Among the many luxury facilities available herbal steam baths, yoga, aromatherapy, renowned and time-honored body and head massage, arts of healing, aromatherapy, acupuncture and other beauty treatments are most common. Since the country attracts tourists all through the year it might be difficult to find an accommodation at the eleventh hour. And therefore booking hotels Thailand is firmly recommended so as to avoid last minute hassles.

Enjoy your trip to Thailand.

About the Author

Nancy Eben is an associate editor of http://www.stayresthailand.com/. The website offers exclusive information of thailand and booking hotels Thailand. We also provide online hotel reservation of booking hotels Thailand.

2007-12-08T01:53:00.001-08:00

Travel Deals to Thailand by Dani Alonso

Thailand is for many people one of the favorite destinations. And the reasons are pretty much obvious. Even if tourism has really grown during the recent years, Thailand still offers some pretty much unspoiled territories, precious beaches and an amazing cultural shock that you will probably prefer to miss your plane back home rather than coming back to your everyday's life.

Travel deals when it comes to flying there are many, as competence for Thailand is very high and in this case travel agencies are strongly fighting one with each other. This, in the end, lets us find some very good deals. The idea of the article is in a general way to encourage you to always look for this special offers, to never limit yourself to what you see on your first searches, but furthermore, and being aware that this is a limited time offer, I wanted to share with you for free one of my findings early this morning.

This offer is specially good for all Europeans, as departures are from London, and as I never get tired to say, you can reach London for 20 Euros the round trip with everything included with Ryanair. From there, with flights included and 14 nights in hotels in Thailand, you will get it for the price of 585 UK Pounds (813 Euros) I could kill myself for promoting offers like this for free, as I have no relationship with any travel agency at all, but certainly I am convinced that everybody should have the goal to help people, so here we are.

The way you can book in this case is not online, but online you will find the offer and a number in the UK that you can call to get more information. I haven't tried, but I imagine that you will be able to make the booking by telephone.

Together with this offer, this guys have other interesting things specially related with traveling to Asia, but also many other offers to other regions, as flights to Auckland for 934 Euros, which is by far the best offer I have ever seen in the market from Europe to New Zealand. Also you can find 21 days campervan plus the flights to Auckland for just 1152 Euros. Again, is the best offer I have ever seen to get to the region. All this offers are generally valid until the 15th of June 2008, but if you wait for the beginning of January, the new offers for the summer and the first September discounted vacations will begin to appear.

They are also offering many possibilities to discover Africa, including some Safari packages, for relatively low prices. Africa is not my area of expertise, so I won't promise they have the cheapest option, but the numbers look pretty good compared to what I have seen up till now.

In any case, just feel free to take a look at their page and you will find out which offer adapts best to your needs if you are planning to travel Asia, Africa or the South Pacific from Europe.
About the Author

You can write to me to know further details. My e-mail is in this web-page: Travel to Europe

To learn where I get 80% discounted hotels, you can check here: Free Hotels

For general information on traveling around the world: Travel Addicts

Dani Alonso

2007-12-06T00:21:00.001-08:00

Visit Thailand - The Land Of Buddha by Barney Garcia

Thailand is the perfect tourist destination for nature lovers, shopping lovers and for the followers of Buddhism. Thailand is all these teemed together and much more. Situated in the heart of South East Asia, Thailand has some of the best Buddhist temples, which offer peace, serenity and tranquility.

The Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha

The temples and monasteries of Thailand date back to a few hundred years. The Emerald Buddha Temple is one of the most sacred sites in Thailand and requires visitors to be properly dressed before they can enter the holy place. The Jade statue of the Lord, which is elevated off the ground is a visual treat for visitiors. This temple occupies just one corner of the court of the grand Palace.

Magnificent Bangkok

You must be out of your mind, if you visit Thailand and leave without visiting Bangkok. The capital of Thailand has everything that a tourist can dream of. Shopping plazas, Temples, Museums, Hotels offering exquisite Thai food, Islands, Beaches, Tall high-rises and a sprawling nightlife, Bangkok has it all. Be it the largest building in the world to be made of Teak wood, in Vinmanmek Teak Mansion, or the 46 meter long statue of reclining Buddha in the Wat Pho temple, you will never ceased to be stunned by the beauty of Thailand.

Shopping enthusiasts can head off to Siam Square, which is one of the most popular shopper's destinations in Thailand. Ma Boon Krong and Siam Center are two of the biggest shopping centers here. You can spend an entire day here and yet comeback unsatisfied. There are so many restaurants, theatres and shops to keep you busy. Thailand also has cheap roadside shopping opportunities for tourists who do not wish to blow away much money on shopping.

For Nature Lovers

Nature lovers can head straight to the Ko Chang national park that has many activities. Apart from the wildlife, tourists can also pursue diving, snorkeling or elephant riding over here. The place usually overflows with tourists all the time. Beach lovers can head off to Pataya, which is a pretty serene beach. It is located just 150 kms away from Bangkok.

Go discover Thailand!!

About the Author

Barney is an avid writer, he recommends Kenya Traveller Tips and The Travel Blog for more great tourist destination and travel tips