Thailand Travel

THE INTERNATIONAL HORTICULTURAL EXPOSITION ROYAL FLORA RATCHAPHRUEK 2011

2012-01-09T22:18:00.008+07:00

THE INTERNATIONAL HORTICULTURAL EXPOSITION ROYAL FLORA RATCHAPHRUEK 2011
14 December 2011 - 14 March 2012
A Tribute to The Royal Perseverance

Objectives

The International Horticultural Exposition is also

To commemorate three auspicious occasions.
- His Majesty the King’s 7th Cylcle Birthday Anniversary

- Her Majesty The Queen’s 80th Birthday Anniversary

- His Royal Highness the Crown Prince’s 60th Birthday Anniversary

2. To pay tribute to the perseverance of the Royal family royal initiatives and royal projects.

3. To provoke the realization of the global warming.

4. To demonstrate the potential in horticultural developments of Thailand.

5. To promote international cooperation.

6. To exchange horticultural knowledge and technologies among horticulturist both at the national and international levels.

7. To promote the economic cooperation, society, culture and tourism among the participating countries.

Mascots and their Name

Nong Khun (Ratchaphruek flower)

Grown, active, happy, energetic and confident represents the new generation environmentalist with new ideas and view points of earth and nature care.

Lom Bin (the wind)

Playful with full of energy and active. Represent the wind and electrical power.

Din Chum (the fertility soil)

Strong, kind and dependable. Represent the mineral required.

Num Sai (the clean water)

Gentle, kind and cheerful. Couple together with Din Chum will provide fertility to the soil and luxuriate the crop.

Ai Un (the sunlight)

Charm, warmth and leadership. Takes care of everyone. Brings sunshine to the world.

Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2011

Call Center Tel : 0 2610 2011 from 08.30 am -19.30 pm every day

Thailand Breaking Tourist Arrivals Records in 2011

2011-12-25T18:25:00.000+07:00

Tourism in Thailand has been steadily growing since the 1960's when a more stable political environment coupled with transformation of Bangkok airport into an international hub, began attracting foreign visitors from the west, keen to explore ever more exotic destinations. The Thai hotel and resort scene developed at a similarly fast pace in order to keep up with the huge demand for quality accommodation.

The tourist industry also greatly benefited from the US soldiers sent to the country for rest and recuperation during the Vietnam war, who later returned for family holidays. In the 1970's, the arrival of the iconic Boeing 747 championed cheap and fast long haul flights and Thailand became one of the major Asian holiday destinations. Despite fierce competition from Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam in the 1980's, Thailand remained popular and by 2007 ranked 18th in the 'Most Visited Country in the World' tourist rankings.

In the last few years, political unrest coupled with global economic turmoil has prompted a dip in tourist numbers, not only to Thailand but all over the world. The negative trend in Thailand looks set to be short lived however, with The Tourism Authority of Thailand (known as TAT) forecasting that international visitors to the country will exceed fifteen and maybe even reach as many as twenty million in 2011.

These record numbers are expected to net an estimated one trillion baht in tourism related revenue and many Thai hotels, resorts and businesses will reap the rewards. In fact, arrivals to Thailand are already up by 25% on last year, boosted by the stable Thai political scene and the exceptional value for money that a holiday in Thailand offers those seeking to tighten their financial belts. Thailand is now regarded as such a cost effective holiday destination, that it was actually voted second in 'Best Value Destinations 2010', just after Iceland. This dramatic reversal in fortune has been aided by several high profile campaigns and marketing activities coordinated by TAT, who are energetically targeting specialist markets such as female travellers, eco tourists and wellness visitors. Thailand is also being promoted as a centre for Buddhism in Asia, where tourists can explore stunning Thai temples and learn more about this gentle and fascinating religion.

It is interesting to observe that within the top ten visitors to Thailand by country (China, Korea, Russia, India, UK, Australia, US, Singapore and Germany) are many emerging market nations, directly reflecting the current changes in the world economy.

These days, an increasing number of foreign tourists to Thailand are so-called 'medical tourists', who flock to Bangkok's world class hospitals. The standard of medical care at Thai facilities has a well deserved reputation for excellence and is considerably less expensive than in countries such as the US. Medical tourism has become such a successful industry that many holiday companies are actively selling Thai holidays that combine an operation or hospital treatment. Only recently Oman Air joined forces with Piyavate Hospital in Bangkok to offer passengers flying from Oman substantial discounts on treatments at this state-of-the-art Bangkok hospital. And domestic tourism is also on the up in Thailand, as a more prosperous population begins to explore the unique cultural sights and breathtaking Thai beach resorts that foreign tourists have been admiring for decades. It seems likely that they will have to compete with record numbers of foreigners for the best Thai hotel rooms, for the foreseeable future!

Pierre-Yves Loriers, affectionately known as 'Ton' to his friends, family and colleagues, is the innovative and charismatic Managing Director of Ton Company Ltd, a leading architecture, property development and exclusive holiday villa company in Thailand.

Despite the success of his company, Ton prides himself on remaining very hands-on, taking an active role in all of Ton and Company's operations. Ton energetically participates in all aspects of each and every project, including management and production and his leadership is an inspiration to an 20 strong team of highly professional and dedicated staff.

Flowers And Culture In Thailand

2011-11-11T23:09:00.000+07:00

Perhaps the most impressive of all the images of New Year’s Eve in Thailand is the scene in Chiang Mai at this magical time of year. Thousands of visitors flock to the north’s city of culture, to enjoy cool weather and fantastic blossoms of orchids and other flowers that make this city so famous. The orchid is of course the most famous and celebrated flower of Chiang Mai, and Thailand, and quite rightly so for it is the most beautiful and exquisite flower and lines the roadsides and gardens of Chiang Mai with its impressive range of colours, shapes and sizes.

The winter is the best time to enjoy the orchids in this part of the world as they blossom from December to March, but they also enjoy a burst of colour during a secondary blooming season in August. Orchids growing in the wild often hang off rocks or tree branches and dangle their roots in the air, from which they absorb moisture and even nutrients. They are not, as some people think, parasites and do not feed off the trees they live on. Orchids have many hidden talents, for example many medicines are made from their petals, the pollen can be used to make face creams and even some foods use orchids – the flavour vanilla for example.

There are approximately one thousand species that are unique to Thailand, some very common and some extremely rare. The pure white orchids are the most rare and only a handful have ever been found in the wild, however the skilled gardeners of Chiang Mai have become very good at grafting these flowers and can now create whole blooms of beautiful, virgin white orchids. More common colours, such as the ones you will find growing wild, are red, purple, orange and yellow. If you take a flight on Thai Airways, you will probably be presented with a pink or purple orchid.

Thailand Tour For Remarkable Overseas Holidays

2011-10-25T22:38:00.000+07:00

Thailand in South East Asia is amazingly beautiful and is well known for its well organised attractions that are simply enjoyable. Each year millions of tourists from across the world come to this beautiful Thailand lovingly called Land of Smiles to enjoy vacations in a delightful and memorable way.

Thailand has several enigmatic attractions like the scintillating beaches with glistering sands, rich culture and traditions and above all enticing charm and splendor of the rich culture and traditions. Thailand is sheer wonder and here tourists can see and explore something or the other in a delightful and memorable way. So come and experience all of them at one go on Thailand tours and treasure remarkable vacations in a delightful and memorable way.

Some of the beguiling attractions of Thailand Attractions are:

Mu Ko Similan National Park
One of the famous attractions in Thailand, Mu Ko Similan National Park is rated first by the U.S publication as one of the top ten diving sites in the world. It is the heart of Andaman Sea; Similan Islands are home to many unparallel exotic beauties that never fail to fascinate tourists and visitors.

Kaeng Krachan National Park
One of the largest National Parks, Kaeng Krachan National Park occupying an area of 2915 square Kilometers is home to varied species of animals and birds. Today exotic species of animals take refuge in this national park like elephant, leopard and tiger. The park has reservoirs, which are the ideal places for sightseeing viewing as well as to see birds, butterflies and animals in their natural home.

Yala
Located 1084 kilometers away from Bangkok, this beautiful southernmost province of Yala is one of the major tourist’s attractions that is visited by great number of tourists from across the corner of the globe. Yala is divided into 8 districts which are further bisected into 56 communes and 341 villages that are worth to visit and explore on Thailand tours and travels. So if you want to explore all these sheer wonderments at one go, visit to Yala a perfect and ideal place in Thailand that hardly tourists can afford to miss out.

Thailand tour Packages also let the tourists to see and explore the modern beauty of this country which are simply enjoyable and feast to the eyes. Ayuthaya Historical Park, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Pathom, Koi Sumai, Meo Sot, Ko Si Chang, Bangkok, etc are some of the places of tourist’s interest that one will love visit and see their beauty which are simply enjoyable and pleasing to the heart. On top the throbbing nightlife, luscious delicacies and the world class accommodation facilities and the well linked of tourists places make Thailand tour more enjoyable and remarkable.

So are you looking for more? If yes book one from the many Thailand package tours and explore the beauty of this beautiful Thailand in a delightful and fashionable way.

Come to this beautiful Thailand the Land of Smiles and take back home remarkable experience to relish in for lifetime.

Yee Peng Festival

2011-10-17T19:52:00.003+07:00

Date :	November 8-11, 2011
Places :	Chang Klan Road, Chiang Mai Night Bazar, Muang District, Chiang Mai
	Province
Activities :	Enjoying traditional performance in lanna style and floating lantern (Yee
	Peng) contest, joining a demonstration of how to make krathongs and Yee Peng lanterns

TAT Chiang Mai Office Tel. 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607 , Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. 1672

Cheap Tickets To Thailand - What Makes Them So Popular

2011-10-04T19:33:00.001+07:00

Thailand is a majestic country that is renowned all over the world for its incredible scenic beauty, warm hospitality, wonderful historical architecture and a splendid heritage that goes back hundreds of years!

This remarkable Asian country has emerged as a top holiday destination beguiling all kinds of travellers to its shores. Be it solo backpackers, families on vacation or couples on honeymoon – Thailand is one holiday destination that has something to offer to everyone. And this is the exact reason that makes cheap tickets to Thailand such a prized commodity among holiday makers. Tickets to Thailand are indeed sought after by everyone who wishes to have a great time during vacations. Especially among the Europeans, Thailand remains a top tourist spot. Not surprisingly, a number of airlines offer London to Thailand flights!

On its turn, Thailand doesn’t disappoint its suitors too! The country brims with some mesmerising attractions that are sure to justify your booking tickets on Thailand flights. Take a look at the top places to visit in a country that is known as the ‘Land of Smiles’.

Bangkok
Bangkok is one of the most popular tourist destinations around the world. The city presents a wonderful mix of rich culture and splendid contemporary attractions that is sure to impress tourists on their sojourn to Thailand. Bangkok’s top attractions include Siam Ocean World, Lumphini Park, Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. There are various other tourist attractions in the city that warrant a visit. Bangkok is additionally a big commercial hub as number of banks and other financial institutions are based here. No wonder, business class seats on flights to Thailand are usually overbooked!

Phuket
Phuket is another top holiday destination in Thailand that is growing up by leaps and bounds. The city is gifted with incredible beaches, wonderful charm, verdant tropical forests and much more! Some of the city’s popular tourist spots are Phuket Museum, Phang Nga Bay and Wat Chalong. However, it has to be said that the city is more popular for its water sports and adventure activities. Phuket is additionally renowned all over the globe for its charming events and festivals.

Pattaya
Pattaya is a remarkable island destination that boasts of some incredible attractions that just cannot be missed by tourists on a tour to Thailand. Some of the region’s top tourist spots include Elephant Village, Ko Lan Island, Bottle Art Museum and Crocodile Farm. Pattaya also shows no dearth of world class resorts and hotels.

Best Time to Visit Thailand
The best time to visit Thailand is the period between November and March as the climate is cooler and rain is minimal. The period is ideal to spend time outdoors - lounging at the beaches or doing some sightseeing! The period between April to June is quite hot in the country and can prove to be a hindrance for outdoor excursions. September-October is the rainy season and is perhaps not the best time to plan holidays in Thailand. However, for those looking for cheap holidays to Thailand, this might be the ideal time to look for cheap airfares, cheap accommodation and overall cheap holidays.

Bangkok Airways -a Complete Service Airline Of Thailand

2011-08-26T21:51:00.000+07:00

More than the final couple of decades, Thailand has grow to be an increasingly well-liked destination, and Bangkok Airways is among the significant airlines that serves the transportation desires of travelers to this nation. Bangkok airlines provides leading quality service to Thailand and neighboring Asian Countries creating it simple to reach your destination in comfort. Beneath you are going to see some details about Bangkok Airways that are fairly interesting if you're planning a trip to these areas. Go to the trouble to locate out far more coming from Adam Horwitz and also local mobile monopoly about how precisely Airways market their selves to appeal to your interest a lot more.

Although Bangkok Airways has been running flights around Thailand since 1968 (though it didn't get its present name until 1989), it has really increased its efforts to provide top level service in recent years. This airline has been the recipient of several prestigious awards in recognition of its services. Skytrax, an independent organization that gives out many well known awards to airlines based on customer polls, has recognized Bangkok Airways as the Asia's Best Regional airline several times. As proof of the airline's environmental concerns, it's also been recognized with an EIA Monitoring Award. These impressive accomplishments are proof of this airline's willingness to go beyond the ordinary in making air travel comfortable and pleasant for travelers to Thailand and other destinations. In line with the airlines Boutique airline campaign, great attention is given to every detail, including the menu that's served on flights. Tasty and sophisticated meals are just one of the ways that Bangkok Airways makes the time pass more pleasantly for its passengers. The airline serves not only Thai and other Asian specialties, but also foods more familiar to Westerners. No matter where you're flying, you'll get to enjoy a meal that's more like restaurant than ordinary airline food. The airline is also able to provide you with specialized meals if necessary, such as vegetarian or kosher.

This airline flies internationally out of Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok as well as having three airports of their own. Bangkok is of course the Capital of Thailand making it quite convenient as far as destinations go for people arriving in Thailand. You will have the convenience of being able to get back from Bangkok to everywhere else you may need to get to in Thailand. The Public Transportation Center is a large space that gives you access to public buses, limousines, car rentals and taxis.

This is a Hub center which enables you to get anywhere in Thailand from Bangkok. So when your Bangkok Airways flight arrives, you can take a shuttle bus directly to the Public Transportation Center and get wherever you have to go. As we've seen in this article, Bangkok Airways is emerging as a popular and highly ranked Asian airline. Bangkok Airways is helping to meet the demand for top quality air service to Thailand and other Southeast Asian destinations as more and more people wish to travel to these regions. You should learn more about this airline and what it can do for you if you plan on visiting this region, no matter the reason for your trip.

Thailand - Tailor-Made of Honeymooners

2011-08-07T00:34:00.001+07:00

Thailand provides honeymooners with experience they cherish all their life. The place would leave the people thrilled and enchanted, they never feel like leaving the country. One of the favourite places of honeymooners, Thailand offers an unending line of attractions.

Thailand is a destination of enchanting sights. This beautiful land is favoured by honeymooners for its exotic landscapes, beaches, nature parks, temples, luxury hotels, restaurants etc. The country has its own unique culture and the rich history has endowed it with the monuments of significance. A place of unforgettable attractions, Thailand offers something for everyone, and for the honeymooners, it is just fantastic.

Some prominent Thai destinations are as under:

Bangkok: Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is the first destination of most homeymooners in the country. The city is perfect to begin your Thai experience. Some of the beautiful places in Bangkok are Dusit Zoo, Erawan Shrine, Ganesha Shrine, Temple of Dawn, Wat Phra Kaewa and Temple of Golden Buddha. Your Thailand trip is incomplete if you haven't visited these places.

Phuket: Phuket, known as 'pearl of the south' is among one of the most visited destinations in Thailand. The first thing which comes to one's mind while touring Phuket beaches. Patong, Karon and Kata are three most popular beaches in Phuket. The place is known for its fantastic nightlife, hair-raising adventures and fast-paced shopping.

Pattaya: Pattaya is considered as one of the best places in Thailand for honeymoon holidays. The place is acclaimed all across the world for its idyllic beaches, frenzied shopping, fun-filled nightlife and thrilling adventures. Some prominent Pattaya attractions are Crocodile Show, Exotic Plants, Strange Rocks, Pattaya Elephant Town, Sriracha Tiger Zoo etc.

Koh Samui: Koh Samui has a large number of beautiful beaches and luxurious hotels where the honeymooners can enjoy the amazing beauty of the white sand beaches along the coastlines. Travelers can play a range of watersports in Samui and interesting thing is that you won't find crowd. You can get good services over here at affordable rates.

Koh Chang: This is a marine national park which attracts thousands of visitors worldwide. Here, you can appreciate the pure gifts of nature. Koh Chang has everything nature has to offer and is tailor-made for families who want to have a quiet and peaceful holidays. At this particular place you can take a bunglow on rent in order to have a comfortable stay during your whole vacation.

Chiang Mai: Chiangmai is the place of temples. You can visit the oldest to the noblest ones, including the Wat Suan Dok, which holds the ashes of Chiang Mai's former Royal Family members. In another chapel lies one of Thailand's largest icons in metal, a 500-year old bronze Buddha. You can also visit the temple compound where the divine Lai Kham chapel is located.

Krabi: A tropical paradise, Krabi, is a must-visit for a visitor in Thailand. It is applauded for fantastically beautiful palm-fringed beaches, refreshing spas and strange looking limestone caves, studded with stalactites and stalagmites. There are several spa centers here providing refreshing, rejuvenating service.

Don't Retire To Thailand - 7 Very Good Reasons Why You Should Not Retire To Thailand

2011-07-16T00:10:00.001+07:00

Married to a Thai and longing to retire in Thailand for the spicy hot delicious food, white tropical beaches, sunshine and smiles? Before you rush in headlong, take a long look at these reasons for not retiring in Thailand.

1. Political Unrest In Thailand

Those who are considering retiring in Thailand need to take the current dire political situation into consideration. In 2006, a power struggle erupted between the Thai political parties. The "red shirts" and the "yellow shirts" are in bitter disagreement about the country's future. Accusations of corruption have inspired physical confrontation between the two sides. The current political protests in Thailand are funded and guided from overseas by Thaksin, a former police officer who built up a telecoms empire before turning to politics and becoming prime minister in 2001.

Currently governed by the highly revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, there is great concern lurking about the further great political unrest that is anticipated after his death. Now at age 82, and not in good health, there is concern about who will take over the throne after his death. The law that forbids anyone talking ill of the royal family and thereby protecting the dignity of a reigning sovereign King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand did not stop former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra speaking of a "shining" new age once the King's reign comes to an end. That does not bode well for the future of Thailand.

This political uncertainty could affect your future life in Thailand. It only takes a change in the laws in Thailand to make it a completely different place. Suppose they made the requirements for Thai visas more stringent, so that you found it difficult or impossible to get your non immigrant Thai visa? You could lose the right to live in Thailand and with it your retiring in Thailand plan.

2. The Difficulty Of Learning The Thai Language

On holiday in Thailand you maybe picked up a few Thai words and generally got by with very little knowledge of the Thai language. Of course, provided you stick to the main holiday areas and resorts, you don't need to know Thai because the Thai people you deal with will speak enough English for you to be able to get what you want.

But in retirement you maybe are not going to be living in the holiday resort areas - which are not only very expensive for everyday living but which are becoming increasingly dangerous. Instead, like us and many people like us, you may be retiring 'up country' in predominantly Thai populated areas. In these circumstances you may be buying fresh food at the local Thai market, eating out at the roadside stalls, jumping on the back of the local motorcycle taxis, and generally interacting with the indigenous Thais who are unlikely to speak English. This is where, without a good knowledge of the Thai language, life could be difficult or just uneasy for you.

3. You Will Have To Pay For Any Medical Care That You May Need

If you enjoy free medical care in your home country, remember that you will lose this privilege when you retire to Thailand and you will end up paying your own medical bills in future. Perhaps you may think that you are in good health and take the chance on that but think about the increasing treatments you may need as you get older or if you become seriously ill. As you become older your needs for medical care dramatically increase and whereas perhaps at present you are entitled to medical care paid for by the State in your homeland, when you retire to Thailand the costs will come from your own pocket.

4. Visa Restrictions

There is no such thing as a "get it and forget it" visa for retiring Thailand. While Thai retirement visas are available, there are still restrictions, and you will have to report to the immigration office in Thailand periodically. The Thai forums are thick with questions from foreigners asking about Thai visa laws or restrictions or reporting problems they have faced. I am one of those people because although I once obtained a multiple journey one-year Non Immigrant Category "O" visa for Thailand within a few minutes at the Royal Thai Consulate in Birmingham, U.K. I was later refused the same kind of Thai visa with exactly the same paperwork at the Royal Thai Embassy in London!

As a generalism, it seems that different offices and officials issuing Thai visas around the world all have different interpretations of the qualifications to be granted a Thai visa. Some people have reported being refused a visa for spurious reasons when all their paperwork was in perfect order. Consider what you would do if you were refused entry to the country where your retirement home and wife was!

5. High Taxation On Imported Goods

Those who have a visa to live in Thailand for greater than a year can also move household items to the country, but if the visa is granted for less, you must also take into account the import duty taxes and value added tax. These total 27% of the value of your items, not including the shipping costs. In theory, some entrants to Thailand are permitted to bring household effects into Thailand free of duty, but it doesn't work like that in practice even though I am Thai as I found out found out I tried to do it. Again, the Thai forums are filled with people who, according to Thai regulations were supposed to be able to import personal effects tax-free, still ended up paying a lot to the customs officers!

6. High Cost Of Maintaining Your Home

If you keep your current home in your own country, there are huge expenses with maintaining two homes, one in Thailand and the other far away across the ocean. When renting out your home in your own country, you run the risk of damage, non-paying tenants and having to hire an agency that will keep your property up. It is a good idea to keep your original home in case you ever go back home, so that you can have a familiar place to get home to, or your retiring in Thailand plan fails for any reason.

7. Culture Shock

It is one thing to have a great time in Thailand on holiday but living there permanently is completely different. While it may seem easy to adjust to the Thai culture, residents retiring in Thailand have to commit to setting aside long standing habits and it can be tiring. Unravelling a country's long standing culture can be a bit tedious for foreigners in the country.

Thailand Famous Tourist Attractions

2011-06-24T00:10:00.000+07:00

Thailand has become one of the most well known and popular sites for holiday makers around the world. It is just because of its charming nature, and many tourist attractions offered to holiday makers. Lots of tourist sites can be found throughout the country and each of them has got uniqueness for itself which also provides tourists with interesting knowledge about Thai culture.

In Thailand, there are a great number of Buddhist temples that tourists can visit to learn about the national religion of Thailand. For Bangkok, it is the capital city of the country where there are many important temples situated around the city. One of the most important temples is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where a Buddhist image made from a large Emerald is kept. All important issues about Royal family and country will be held within this temple. The temple of Dawn is also in Bangkok on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, where one can see a very beautiful ancient architectural art within the temple. There are many more temples throughout the country, which each of them has an amazing story and background.

For people interested in watching live sport, Bangkok is the home to the two largest Thai Boxing stadiums, or Muay Thai stadiums. Muay Thai has become a popular sport around the world and the best fighters in the world appear in Lumpini and Rajadamneorn stadiums. The stadiums hold weekly matches which most of famous and best fighters will be appeared in these two stadiums. There are many boxing schools teaching Muay Thai to interested people.

Another popular activity of tourist is water activities. Thailand is so well known for the home of many beautiful beaches throughout the country, where tourists can go swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, or sun bathing on nice white sandy beaches. At the same time, tourists can enjoy buying things from local venders who sell delicious fruit, local foods, and souvenirs on the beach. Samui, Phuket, Pattaya and Hua Hin are some of great tourist destinations for having beautiful beaches and relax atmosphere that tourists are looking for.

Moreover, Thailand is also a great place for nightlife. Most entertainment venues are closed very late. Some of them may be opened until dawn for parties. There are lots of famous DJs and high-quality musicians, and other entertainers that perform in the numerous nightclubs in the most popular tour sites throughout the country.

Thailand has got so many things to offer to tourists or holiday makers. It has become one of popular tourist destinations which are waiting for tourists to visit and discover the beauty of the country and its uniqueness. Thus, don't forget to visit Thailand "The Land of Smile" for the next time you are planning a vacation!

TAT presents Thailand Tourism Festival 2011

2011-06-08T20:49:00.001+07:00

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would like to invite Thai and foreign travelers to “Thailand tourism Festival 2011” where you will experience Thai tourism from 5 regions of Thailand, explore the latest tourist attractions, and get a chance to win prizes from TAT fun games and activities. The event will be held on June 8th-12th, 2011 at Challenger building 1-3, IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center, Mueng Thong Thani, Nonthaburi.

The opening ceremony is scheduled to be on June 8th at 16.00 o’clock. The event, which contains 3 main parts, runs until June 12th, 2011. The first part of the exhibition, “The Seventh Birthday Anniversary Celebration of His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej, provides best opportunity for people to pay homage and blessing to HM the King via online. The National Pottery Exhibition is also held in this part. The second part: “Informative Activities Promoting tourism Knowledge is separated into 7 zones; zone 1: TAT’s latest campaign “New Heart tourism for Sustainable Thailand” with photo exhibition “Thai tourism from Past to Present: Reflection of Pride”, zone 2: unique tourist attractions in 5 regions, zone 3: Sustainable tourism, zone 4: “77 places to dine, 77 places to shop”, zone 5, “Hands and Hearts: Embrace Thailand together”, zone 6: Contemporary Thai Cultural Show and Temple Fair, and zone 7: Academic Seminar on Thai tourism. The aim of the second part is to promote information of Thai tourism in each part of Thailand. The third part: “Supports on Thai products and services”. Products from all over the country will be available including handicrafts, local goods, OTOP products, and tour packages in comparatively low price. Moreover, there are highlights of the festival that can be found in TAT Digital Organization booth such as tour package auction; starting at 1 baht, advanced online tourism technology, “Smile Land” Thai first Social tourism online game, “Nong Sukjai Home”, “Gifts from the New Heart” activity, and an encounter with professional Formula BMW car racer, Mr. Pasin Laturas, who will come to share his experience as the first young ambassador of TAT.

There are more games and activities with attractive prizes awaiting for you to win at the festival. Let’s experience the excitement and knowledge together at Challenger building 1-3, IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center, Mueng Thong Thani, Nonthaburi from June 8th-12th, 2011.

Thailand - A Traveler's Paradise

2011-05-29T01:18:00.000+07:00

Thailand undoubtedly is one of the most exotic locations for travelers seeking tranquility and peace of mind. Every year thousands of people visit Thailand and the number keeps increasing. Muang Thai (as Thailand is locally known) presents it's visitors with experience they cannot forget. People love this place and look for a chance to revisit Thailand. What is it that people are so fond of in Thailand? May be the diversity this country has. Every aspect of Thailand, may it be geographical or cultural, is beautiful.

No matter which direction you chose to travel in Thailand, you will fell in love with the place. Northern part of Thailand is full of mountains and high terrains that are covered with fog and mist making it all the more adventurous. Contrastingly different is the central and the northeastern Thailand where the mountains disappear and you come across plain landscape. Eastern plains of Thailand are covered with forest and land that is good for agriculture. Southern Thailand on the other hand flaunts some of the most exotic beaches and islands you may ever come across. Apart from all these Thailand has metropolitan areas; Bangkok the country's capital being the most advanced and formidable one.

Thailand boasts its culture diversity to the same as extent as its geographical diversity. Unlike all the neighborhood countries, Thailand has never been colonized and has a history and culture that is not doped. The people of Thailand are mostly followers of Buddha and practice rituals that are unknown to many who visit the country and that adds to the country's appeal. Chinese influence in the north and Islamic dominance in the south adds to the diversity the country is already so rich of.

Another major aspect of Thailand travel is its night life. Night life with cabarets and luxurious pubs and bars also attract people. The restaurants and the cuisines they provide complete the list of things you will enjoy in a spectacular package this country offers.

Apart being from so simple and natural, Thailand is one of the most advanced countries in the world. Infrastructure, Transport, banking, and telecommunications are as modern and advanced as in the countries of Europe and America. This helps in visiting and spending your vacations in the remotest of villages in Thailand with ease and convenience. This aspect of Thailand draws lot of travelers. People for business visits, for leisure visits or training courses, all are entertained and satisfied by the diversity that Thailand provides.

As beautiful and tranquil as Thailand, are the people of Thailand. Rarely are occasions where you will find a Thai not smiling. People with lot of character and temperament inhibit Thailand and that adds to the country's beauty. Despite the mess and disarray the modern life has created, Thailand remains one of those places where people are placid and calm. Perhaps it is in the air of Thailand that all people who come here are pacified and go in a state of tranquility.

Colourful Festivals in Thailand

2011-05-16T00:11:00.004+07:00

Thai festivals you really can't miss....

In a country with a wealth of history and a diverse cultural spectrum Thailand has an array of religious, political and royal ceremonies to keep you celebrating year round. travelling to Thailand to experience one of these festivals will give you a real appreciation of Thai cultural, beliefs and you will see how the locals really celebrate life. The festivals climax late in the year with the majority of the most spectacular celebrations being held in October through to January so if you are thinking of planning a trip to Thailand why not check out our favourite places to be..

Tak Loy Krathong Sai festival: 17-21 Nov 2010

In the north of Thailand the Loy Krathong Sai festival of Lights is a beautiful night time event where Thai's float decorated Krathongs, (banana leaves folded into a circle, illuminated with candles, incense, and other decoration) - a real highlight of any Thailand holiday. The celebrations of Loy Krathong in Tak province is a celebration where the local custom is to thread coconut shell Krathongs together and float them in a candlelit chain down the Ping Riverin Amphoe Mueang Tak from the 200 year-old Rattanakosin Bridge. Stand by the riverside to watch this amazing sight and get a real feel for Thailand travel. The banana cup is intended to float away ill fortune as well as to express apologies to Khongkha or Ganga. Experience this amazing atmosphere which traditionally is performed on the full moon of the 12th lunar month.

Monkey Buffet festival: Last Sunday of November

This could be one of the strangest festivals you find in the world, where a feast of fresh fruit, nuts and desserts are laid on for one huge monkey buffet! It's a truly Thailand Travel experience and something that you won't forget in a hurry. Legend has it that the ancient hero Ramayana rewarded the Monkey King with the control of what is now Lopburi, and to this day the monkeys still rule the area around the two most sacred sites in the town.

Food will be offered to approximately 300 monkeys living in the area of the God of Death Shrine and Phra Prang Sam Yot. When the food is uncovered and the monkeys start to realise what is on offer and quickly take advantage of the amazing feast, gorging themselves with the all that they can get their hands on. Locals will also put out blocks of ice containing fruit which you can watch the monkeys licking furiously to get inside. It's definitely quirky and will certainly lend an eccentric tough to your Thailand trip.

As the monkeys are seen as a spiritual animal in the Buddhist religion, this offering is a great way to boost your karma and from the good health of these monkeys the local's karma must be at an all-time high. As the afternoon draws in you can see the monkey sitting around playing in a docile and content way often interacting with the passers-by. With the festival taking place just 2 hours north of Bangkok it is a great day out and a spectacle like none other you have ever seen. If you're travelling to Thailand in November, it's definitely something that you shouldn't miss.

Hat Yai Lantern festival: 1 Nov 2010 - 28 Feb 2011

In the deep south of the Thailand in Songkhla province the spectacular Hat Yai Lantern festival has become one of the most beautiful and diverse night time spectacles around, and is understandably popular with travellers to Thailand. This international festival lasts 4 months from 4pm till 9pm every night and the theme this year is the Seven Wonders of the World. The categories vary from animal planet, lanterns of the east, birds of paradise and many more. The lanterns are made from paper or cloth with bamboo frames and can be seen floating on the lake, hanging from structures, or flying in the sky. This year they also have an ice dome to display the frozen sculptures, but be sure to remember to wrap up as the dome reaches a chilly -9. This festival is held in the municipal park Hatyai Songkhla and so prebooking tickets in advance is advised. If you can't make it to the Lantern festival during your Thailand trip, you certainly won't regret it.

Trooping Of The Colour: 2nd December 2010

During your Thailand trip, you will find that the royal family are highly respected and honoured and so just before his Majesty King Rama IX birthday on the 5th of December the country celebrates his birth. This is celebrated with annual oath taking ceremony by the Royal Thai Army, the Royal Thai Navy, and the Royal Thai Air Force. This impressive ceremony was first organised in 1961 and has become one of the most colourful event is Thailand festival calendar. It is celebrated in the Royal Plaza in Bangkok on the 2nd of December. As the king appears, flares are lit and you will feel the fantastic atmosphere as the Thais cheer for their king.

Sunflower festival: Nov 2010 - Jan 2011

Throughout the months of November to January flower lover's and Thailand travellers alike flock to the northern providences of Phatthana Nikhom and Khok Samrong to celebrate this beautiful flower. During the months of November to February the locals cover the town in sunflowers making everything yellow! With 12,000 acres of this flower in this province taking the train ride that runs along this area is a must. The state also runs special day trains to Pasak dam, on public holidays and during the weekend, where the view over the fields is regarded as one of the best.

Previously this flower was grown as a decorative addition to brighten up a Thai house, but now the region of Lop Buri harvest the flower for its oil and the seed snack are regarded as a valuable cash crop.

In the past the former capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya, was regarded too close to the sea in the event of invasion and so Lop Buri was developed as the second capital and so boasts king Nari's palace and 3 pagodas which the king would reside in during the wetter months. We definitely recommend including Ayutthaya as part of your Thailand trip.

Chiang Thai National Elephant Day March, 13

In a country where the elephant has been such a huge historical contribution in agriculture, transport as well as used in war, it is not unexpected that this majestic beast is regarded with so much respect. Many Thais see the outline of Thailand as the shape of an elephants head, with the main head to the north, the ears flapping back towards the east and the trunk running down the peninsular to the far south.

This festival is held in the Maesa elephant camp just outside Chiang Mai in the north of the country, and would be a true Thailand travel experience. This camp was set up for elephants that have had a hard working life and can now retire in peace and comfort. The festival starts around 12 noon and the entrance to the park is free for locals and people on holiday in Thailand.

Previously to become a working elephant, they would start their training at the age of 3 years old where they would be sent to elephant school. As the logging industry is now in decline, and with the large number of tourists visiting the country, elephants are used largely in the tourist industry to take visitors for rides through the jungle. This Thai festival pays respect and honour to these beasts in the form of a Kantoke feast laid on for the elephants as well as blessings and an exhibition by the veterinary medicine faculty of the Chiang Mai university on baby elephants.

Songkran Thailand's Water festival April 13th
If you happen to be on holiday in Thailand on the 13th April then be prepared for a shower. No it's not the monsoon season but rather the famous Songkran water festival!

As soon as you step out side be prepared for a water balloons, water pistols, water bombs and the odd bucket of water as the Thais celebrate their new year. This festival can last from 3 to 10 days and so when you think it is all over, along comes another barrage of Thais wielding make shift water cannons.

April in Thailand is one of the hottest months of the year and so this could not be a more apt festival. Songkran signifies the sun's shift from one zodiac to another and the start of the solar year which is the most important time for Thai people.

The first day of the year represents a new start and so temples are cleaned, houses washed down, and Thais pray to their god Buddha as well as sprinkling scented water on their elders to show respect. Water is a symbol of cleansing the spirit, the mind and the body. Bad luck is washed away and so if you are saturated at the end of the day, then consider yourself lucky as you have been blessed and ready for a new year, hopefully full of magic Thailand travel experiences!

Planning Your Thailand Holidays

2011-05-06T20:26:00.003+07:00

Thailand Holidays can be customized to fit virtually any traveler's budget and personal tastes. Because tourism is such a vital part of the Thai economy (representing a larger percentage of Thailand's GDP than that of any other Asian nation), almost every part of the country is equipped with food and lodging catered toward foreign visitors. Furthermore, the nation's amazingly diverse geography offers a wide range of activities to choose from. No matter what it is that you'd like to do on your holiday, there are surely several, easily-accessible places in Thailand that offer it at a price that fits your budget.

Planning Your Thailand holiday .

For most of us, the first steps in planning any holiday include setting a budget, determining how long our holiday will last, and deciding when we can go. As you walk through these steps in planning your Thailand holiday, here are a few important points to consider:

The price of lodging in Thailand runs the gamut from as low as around £8 GBP per day (about $5 AUD/USD) for a bed in a hostel, all the way up to hundreds of pounds per night for five-star accommodations at world-class, international hotels

In my personal opinion (and this is shared by a great number of foreign travelers I've met over the years), you should plan on spending a minimum of 10-14 days in Thailand during your holiday if you want to visit the country's major attractions without being rushed. Because Thailand's tropical climate is hot, humid, and rainy for much of the year, the country's "high season" for tourism is during the comparatively drier, cooler months of November through February

Some additional thoughts on these points...

With regards to prices for food and lodging, while it is accurate to say that daily rates cover quite a wide spectrum, it is also true that you can find many incredible deals throughout the country if you know when and where to look. For example, in September 2010 I was able to book four nights at a legitimate, five-star luxury hotel in one of the most-popular sections of Bangkok (Thailand's most-expensive city) for just under £90 GBP per night (that's approximately $60 AUD/USD). In an upcoming article, I'll discuss some of the most-effective strategies for finding bargains that maximize your holiday budget.

When determining how much time to spend in Thailand, it's important to remember that, for those of us traveling from an English-speaking country, our holiday will include at least two very long airplane flights (on the way there, and the return trip), and adjusting our body clocks to a significant time difference. For me, this leads to a feeling that jetlag and travel always shortens my actual time in-country by two days. I'll pad the amount of time I expect to spend seeing the sights, or relaxing by two extra days for this reason.

As for choosing a time of year to visit, avoiding the hot, humid Thai summer and autumn monsoon is a valid consideration for many travelers. Temperatures often approach 40° C during those months which, coupled with the tropical humidity and almost-daily thunderstorms, can be a bit overwhelming for some visitors. The flipside of this equation is that airfares and lodging are dramatically cheaper during this so-called "Low Season". If you're on a tight budget, and don't mind a little heat and rain, you'll find that your hard-earned money stretches a lot further at this time of year.

The Five Regions of Thailand - Where Should I Go?

To see the remarkable amount of geographic and cultural diversity that exists within Thailand, all you have to do is compare the country's five unique regions: the Central, East, North, Northeast, and South. Depending on how much time you're able to spend in-country, you may be able to visit all five during one stay (personally, I wouldn't try this unless I had a whole month to spend on holiday). If your time is more limited, you should probably focus on no more than two or three areas, and leave the others for future Thai holidays.

Central

Because the vast majority of foreign tourists arrive, and depart, from Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, it's highly likely that your visit to Thailand will include a stay in the nation's capital. A bustling city of 11 million (most Bangkok residents will tell you that this official estimate is probably low by as much as 50%) and the heart of Central Thailand, Bangkok offers its visitors a fascinating cross-section of the nation's past, present and future. Here you'll find everything from the historic Royal Palace (dating back to the Kingdom of Siam), to ultra-modern shopping malls, vibrant entertainment districts, and a thriving business center that is quickly becoming the largest in Southeast Asia.

Central Thailand's other primary attractions include the historic city of Ayutthaya (Siam's ancient capital), and the western coast of the Gulf of Thailand. This part of the gulf coast is especially popular with Thai families and honeymooners thanks to its quiet, clean beaches, abundance of affordable hotels and resorts, gorgeous golf courses, and relative proximity to Bangkok (about two-and-a-half hours by car). If you're looking for a quiet beach getaway, that's close enough to Bangkok that you won't need an airplane or boat to get there, the gulf towns of Hua Hin and Phetchaburi are perfect for you.

East

The region generally considered as Eastern Thailand lies to the southeast of Bangkok, and is bordered by the Gulf of Thailand to the west, and Cambodia to the east. Home to the growing coastal city of Chonburi and the popular tourist destination of Pattaya, the main attraction of this area is the proximity of its beaches to Bangkok (less than a two-hour drive).

Whereas western gulf resorts like Hua Hin tend to primarily attract Thai nationals, the eastern gulf is a magnet for western tourists thanks to Pattaya's notoriety as one of the world's wildest party towns. This bawdy image has been slowly changing in recent years, however, as developers have opened a string of new family-oriented resorts and attractions along Pattaya Beach and its surrounding areas.

North

Northern Thailand is distinctly different from the rest of the country in terrain, climate, and culture. Bordering Myanmar (Burma) and Laos to its north, the region is mountainous, heavily-forested, and noticeably cooler than anywhere else in the country (particularly in the High Season). The Lana culture (a hybrid between Thai, Burmese and Laotian influences) prevails throughout the region, and can be seen in the décor, dress, and food offerings in cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

The principal city in the north, Chiang Mai, is Thailand's second-largest and an absolute must for any visitor to the country. The heart of Chiang Mai is still surrounded by a moat and 1,000-year-old fortifications that protect some of Southeast Asia's oldest, and most-important, temples, while the rest of the city is dotted with universities, art galleries, and enough lodging and entertainment options to satisfy any type of traveler.

Chiang Mai is also the jumping off point for backpackers to explore the area's famous mountain trails, as well as anyone who is looking for outdoor adventure activities like white water rafting, elephant safaris (i.e., riding an elephant off into the jungle for day or two), and otherwise getting up close to the region's wildlife (including monkeys and tigers). There are so many exhilarating things to do in this part of the country that you're guaranteed to enjoy yourself.

Northeast

Thailand's northeast (dominated by the province of Isaan) is a heavily agricultural region that borders both Laos and Cambodia along the Mekong River. Khmer culture (i.e., ethnic Cambodian) is the prevailing influence on Isaan's people and the majority speak the Khmer language, in addition to Thai and several other regional dialects. This influence is also seen in Isaan cuisine, which is distinct from traditional Thai food for its heavy use of sticky rice, and extremely spicy chilies.

While this relatively undeveloped part of the country has not been a traditional tourist destination, recent government projects (notably the restoration of numerous ancient, Khmer archaeological sites) and the rapid economic growth of Isaan's major cities Buriram and Khon Kaen have begun to draw more visitors over the past decade. The city of Khon Kaen is of particular interest to anyone interested in making a land crossing into Cambodia.

South

When talking about the south of Thailand, the first names that come to mind are Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi (better known to foreigners as the Phi Phi Islands). White, sandy beaches, sky-blue water, and idyllic settings that look like they're straight out of a Hollywood movie set (mostly because they are, but that's for a later article) are what define this region of the country. In short, it's your run-of-the-mill tropical paradise.

The south of Thailand is generally considered to be the thin peninsula that separates the Gulf of Thailand from the Andaman Sea, and extends all the way south to the border with Malaysia. This stretch of land, and the islands that skirt both of its coasts, are home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the world, as well as world-class facilities for every other water sport imaginable. That's all in addition to the incredible beaches, lagoons, and panoramas that the area is so famous for. With that said, I'm sure that it comes as no surprise that I highly recommend you include at least one of this region's fantastic resorts in your Thailand holiday.

The Hardest Part of Your Thailand Holiday - Getting There

Well, it may not be entirely accurate to say that the hardest part of your Thai holiday will be finding a way to get there. It's more likely to be forcing yourself to board the plane home at the end of your stay. I once heard it said that the only place in the Land of Smiles where you don't see happy people is the international departure lounge at the airport. More often than not, that seems to be true.

In all seriousness though, finding an affordable airfare has usually been the most difficult piece to put in place when I've planned my holidays to Thailand. With the price of jet fuel continuing to soar, this has become even more difficult over the last couple of years. In many cases, I find that I wind up spending as much on my airline ticket as I do on the entire rest of the holiday combined.

Nonetheless, there are a few helpful techniques I've acquired over the years that generally lead me to the lowest available prices at the time of my departure. They require a great deal of flexibility with regards to departure days and times (and you won't be getting any non-stop flights to Bangkok), but I do feel confident that they save me money in the end. I'll delve into this subject in detail in the near future.

As for now though, please peruse the rest of the site and be sure to leave any comments or suggestions you may have beneath the appropriate article. You can access the article directory by going to our main Holidays in Thailand page.

A Brief Description of Thailand Food and Thailand Culture

2011-04-23T00:23:00.003+07:00

Thailand food
It is beyond any doubt that food is a part of any gathering, thus, becoming the part of social occasions or itself the reason to celebrate. Normally, as per the western culture, a normal meal in any restaurant consists of starter, main course and then dessert. But in Thailand, the custom is a bit different with regard to Thailand food, as there is no single dish for a single person. As a general, all present in a gathering share the same dish together. So, it's better to have many guests together around the table than to enjoy with one or two as eating alone is considered a bad luck in the country.

One of the good things about Thai food is that they never dispose away the leftover food, as they consider it inauspicious and an enraging act to a female deity, 'God of rice'. Generally there are four seasonings in Thailand food- sweet, sour, salty and spicy. The food is satisfied only if it contains all the four tastes. Thai dinner mostly include meat, fish, noodles, vegetables and soup followed by desserts including fresh fruits and colorful rice cakes. Besides meals, there are snackers consisting of chicken or beef satay, spring rolls, salads, raw vegetable with spicy dips and sweets.

Thailand culture
Thailand culture is highly influenced by Buddhism in addition to some influence of Hinduism and other Southeast Asian neighbor. Thai art is the main item included in Thai Culture. Buddha image is the main constituent in different period having distinctive styles. At present, there is a fusion of traditional art with modern techniques. India has also laid much influence on Thailand literature. It includes the most notable work, Ramakien, the version of Indian epic, Ramayana. The poetry of Sunthorn Phu is also quite famous in Thailand.

Spoken drama is not given any importance in Thailand, but instead there is Thai dance, divided into three categories- Lakhon, Likay and Khon. A form of shadow pay, Nang Drama, is popular among southern Thailand. Folk music and classical music both are have their significance in addition to pop music.

Apart from it, one of the common customs included in Thailand is Wai, a common gesture that is similar to Indian Namaste. The hospitable and generous people of Thailand pay a lot of respect and homage to their elders, as it is the core of their faith and spiritual belief. Seeking blessings from the elders is considered important mark of respect.

Tag : Thailand,Thailand Food,Thailand Culiture,Food

Thailand Vacations - Etiquette While Traveling in the Kingdom

2011-04-10T22:18:00.003+07:00

Thailand vacations can be exotic, beautiful, sunny, unique and very rewarding. To get the most out of your vacation, learn about the customs and traditions that are expected of visitors and tourists to Thailand. With these tips can help you become one of their beloved guests. Reading through this list will help you understand the proper ways to conduct yourself in frequent situations. This will help you show respect for the people and their country. These basic principles will also keep you from unintentionally offending your gracious hosts.

Thailand Vacations Can Be More Than Just a Party
Thailand can be a truly unique and rewarding cultural experience. And it can be a great party. With relatively cheap prices, warm weather and friendly people, some places in Thailand has become overwhelmed with partygoers. Our recommendation is to have fun, party some, but consider what you will be missing if that is all you do. Also consider that this is the ancient home of your hosts.

Greeting people in Thailand with the Wai
One very important custom that is used in Thailand is the Wai. This is the accepted way of greeting others throughout the country. The Wai is performed by placing your palms together and letting your fingers point upward (in a prayer position). When you do this you also bend your head at the neck, to show respect to the people that you are meeting. Thai natives will appreciate your using the Wai while visiting with them because it is their tradition and accepted way of greeting another person. Every person in Thailand is familiar with this type of greeting, and will immediately respond in kind to this gentle and polite gesture. They will also be happy and flattered that you are showing honor by using the Wai while in their country.

Graeng Jai ... The Polite Thai Art of Refusal
Graeng Jai is a somewhat difficult concept to understand, as there is no good word or phrase in English. One you think you have it translated, Graeng Jai comes up in different forms. Some attempts at translation are, "don't want to impose on others", "over-polite", "don't want to say what you are really thinking", and "fear of disrespecting authority," "high respect for authority, elders or parents." While frustrating at times, it has a very important role in the culture.

Throughout Thailand whenever you are invited to join someone for dinner at their baan (house), turning down the offer is a gesture of graeng jai. To do this signifies is that you are being considerate, and not rude. To refuse the gesture means that you are trying not to cause anyone any extra bother or inconvenience. This term is actually used quite commonly for any occasion where refusal of different invitations is seen as being respectful of others. It is an old Thai tradition and a means of saving face. While offering to share meals or money with another person is standard, there may not be anything much to share. When the person refuses there is no embarrassment to anyone on either side. If the person really wants to share something with you and it is not an imposition, the request will be emphatically repeated, at which time you can accept with a clear conscience and good manners.

Respect Thai Customs
Thailand does have a long list of "must do" and "don't dare" actions. The Thai people are very gracious and hospitable so they won't get mad if you do not observe all of their traditional rules and customs, but it is a good idea for any traveler to be familiar with as many of these as possible. You would appreciate visitors to your own country showing the same respect for your own customs.

Inappropriate Dress In Thailand
Improper attire is one thing that Thai people frown upon. However, because of their graciousness and Graeng Jai, they may not say anything to you. So it is up to you to learn about it before you go and observe what others are doing. Some of the younger citizens are not as strict about dress codes, but the older people are. A general rule is to not bare shoulders or go shirtless in Thailand public places. On the beach, of course, it is no problem. But elsewhere, more traditional clothing is appreciated. Just remember to follow the "not too" reminders when it comes to your dress choices. Not too small, not too tight, not too skimpy and not too revealing.

Thailand's Spiritual Leanings...Buddhism
Buddhism is a very important part of Thailand life and culture and you should also respect their religious and spiritual beliefs while you visit. This belief and faith is shown in many ways. In Thai families when a son reaches the age of around 20 he will actually spend a short time as a monk. This is because it is believed that this action will send the mother and father to a heavenly destination when they die. Becoming a monk for any amount of time is one of the ways that these young men are able to demonstrate their faith in their spiritual beliefs. The temples are very holy structures to Buddhist believers.

Always show respect to any statue depicting Buddha, which means no climbing on them, no sitting beside them for a photo-op, and never put a Buddha figure on the floor.

Temple Traditions and Etiquette
In a temple setting rules and tradition are very strict. Your clothing must be acceptable in order to enter the temple. Modest dress choices are your best bet. There are usually sarongs available at all temples that can be worn by both men and women if your clothing is not accepted or is questionable.

Shoes come off before ever entering a temple. Some times you may see a man at temple wearing a tank tee and shorts, but this is taboo for a woman at the temple. Whether kneeling or sitting in a temple you must not let the soles of your feet face toward the altar. Women are not to touch or hand any objects to a monk at any time. If you need to return something to a monk you should place it on a nearby table where he can then retrieve it. Some monks have a more liberal viewpoint on this and have no problem with touching a woman's wrist to tie a string around it or a gentle touch on the shoulder. But always follow the monks lead.

Be respectful of The King and the Royal Family
In addition to respecting the Buddhist customs, travelers should understand the respect Thai's have for King Phumipon Adunyadet and the Thai Royal family. Remember to not make any disparaging or sarcastic comment about the king and his family. Not only would Thai's be deeply offended and outraged, it is illegal and carries consequences. This might seem outrageous to people who come from countries where they are free to criticize their leaders, however, it is not wise to challenge it (at least within Thailand). For the most part, this law is well-accepted and welcomed by Thais themselves, which suggests the enormous respect they have for their King. Their King and Queen have helped the country prosper and have been instrumental in converting opium production to organic farming, they have gracefully brought Thailand into the modern age while maintaining much of the old tradition, and are generally considered benevolent.

Basic Etiquette in Everyday Situations
If you are entering a Thai home please remember to remove your shoes first, this is their tradition. You may even be asked to do this in public restaurants, shops and stores. It's fun to do and you may want to continue this at your own home. Pointing with fingers and hands is considered rude behavior by Thai people. If you are sitting or kneeling across from others do not let the soles of your feet face them, as this is also considered rude and insulting. Never point at anything or any person with your foot when you are in Thailand. This is considered extremely rude because they consider the feet to be the lowest part of the body. To use them to indicate something is insulting to them. Refrain from touching someone else's head, even if it is only to remove a leaf or smooth their hair. Thais consider the head to be the highest and most respected part of the body. It is considered to be very rude for someone else to touch their head. Public displays of any affection are also extremely rude. Refraining from public shows of kisses or hugs is much appreciated.

Be Observant!
There are so many new sights, sounds and smells in Thailand. When arriving, you will probably be on sensory overload. But as you senses become more accustomed to your surroundings, observe what people are doing and how they are acting. As crazy as it sounds, try to fit in instead of stand out. Observe your body language, your voice volume levels, your group size, your presence. Then compare it with others around you - Thai and foreigners in your group. See if you can start to melt into the madness. Don't think of it as constricting - think of it as a gentle learning with Thailand as your teacher.

Tag : Thailand,Thailand Vacations,Traveling,Kingdom

Travel, Accommodation and Food in Thailand

2011-03-17T22:27:00.002+07:00

Visiting Thailand - Great to Visit

Thailand is a great country to visit because contrary to popular belief, getting to and around the country is very easy. You can get to Thailand by bus, air or rail from many different countries all over the world. There are even private chartered tours to Thailand and there is also the possibility of taking some sort of a package deal which covers your food, accommodation, travel and sometimes even activities when you get there.

Airlines

Thailand is great to visit because of how easy it is to get there. Thai Airlines flies to many of the cities in Thailand from departure points all over the world. Not only that, but many Asian airlines have flights to Thailand as well. If you're staying in another Asian country such as Japan or China, it's extremely easy to get to Thailand. Thailand in essence can serve as a great hub to explore the rest of Asia as it is located centrally.

Trains and buses

You can get to Thailand very easily from any of the neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh or India using very reliable train and bus services. Trains especially can be a lifelong experience because of all the different people you can have the potential to meet while traveling. Inside Thailand, trains and buses are also very reliable for getting around.

Where to stay

It's great to visit Thailand throughout the year. The weather is temperate, sub-tropical and tropical. Regardless of where you'd like to stay in Thailand, there is always accommodation available to meet all of your needs. You can stay in luxury hotels in some of the biggest cities as well as the tourist beaches such as Phuket. You can often rent serviced apartments, guesthouses and villas. Thailand also has an excellent homestay industry. You can through a package deal be set up with a family in a village. This is known as village tourism and Thailand is one of the leaders in the world using this form of sustainable tourism.

Finally, for the more adventurous, Thailand also has many cheap but good youth hostels as well as camping grounds. Furthermore, it's also possible to stay in health resorts and spas throughout Thailand as some of the best hot springs and thermal baths in the world can be found in this Asian country.

Gourmet cuisine

Another reason why Thailand is so great to visit is that the food is absolutely exquisite. In many places, food is available 24 hours a day, so it makes no difference when you get hungry there will always be something to eat. You can order food directly to your hotel room or eat at one of the fine restaurants in the downtown areas of the largest cities. You can also eat at some of the fantastic fast food places, which are nothing like Western fast food. They use only fresh vegetables, meat and rice and you can get amazing meals. Thai food can be sweet, spicy, savory or any mix of the above.

Tag : Thailand,Thai food,Thailand travel,accommodation,food

Holidays to Thailand - Breathtaking Beauty on a Budget

2011-03-11T20:22:00.003+07:00

Thailand is known all over the world as a great tourist destination. Not only is this country full of amazing and diverse tourism sites, there is such an enormous variety of tourism packages to Thailand that holidays to Thailand can be both affordable and unforgettable.

Packages are available to suit every budget, and there are so many site destinations, accommodations, and dining choices that everyone is sure to enjoy their Thai vacation. Honeymoons, scuba diving holidays, walking / hiking holidays, cycling holidays, wildlife tours, family tours, cultural tours, or beach holidays are just some of the many ways to enjoy the great natural beauty and cultural riches that Thailand has to offer.

Holidays to Thailand are a delight to the senses and rich in cultural experiences as well. Thailand is blessed with four major natural terrains: Northern Thailand's forests and mountains; Northeast Thailand's steppe farmlands; Thailand's Central Plains with their vast rice fields; and Thailand's southern peninsula's tropical islands.

Located in the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, Thailand has a population of more than 65 million. Of these, three-quarters are Thai, with Chinese making up 14% of the population. Nearly 95% of the population is Buddhist, making Thailand one of the most heavily Buddhist countries on earth, but many other faiths are represented here as well. Though English is widely understood in tourist destinations and major cities in Thailand, learning a few phrases in Thai is a good idea before leaving on holidays to Thailand.

Bankok, Thailand's capital, is many people's first choice in destinations for holidays to Thailand. It is one of the world's most exciting cities, with an amazing array of culture, history, extravagance, and nightlife, counterpoised with the serenity of the temples and floating markets. The Asian investment boom of the 1980s and 90s resulted in Bangkok's becoming a regional financial and business capital. It has also developed increasing influence in sectors as diverse as politics, fashion, and entertainment. Some 11 million international visitors experience Bangkok every year.

But there is far more to holidays to Thailand than the dizzying urban landscape of Bangkok. Beach resorts like Phuket and Krabi are as beautiful as ever, and have come far in recovering from the 2004 tsunami. One of the most beautiful places in Thailand is Koh Samui in the southern part of the country. It is a very popular holiday destination in Thailand. The provincial town of Songkhla in the far south is a well-kept secret.The beach is unkempt, with a natural, windswept quality. This is off the beaten path for most tourists, yet it is a very beautiful place to visit.

Chiang Mai City is a lively city with a rich history and numerous cultural festivals, as well as terrific local restaurants, Buddhist temples, and plenty of entertainment options. The so-called Golden Triangle is a great tour of Thailand, where you'll experience hillside tribal villages, the Mekong River, and much rustic natural scenery. The reason the area is called the Golden Triangle is because it is close with two other popular destinations for visitors: Burma and Laos. The tourism options in this region are abundant.

Most holidays to Thailand that come packaged include travel and transportation arrangements, accommodations, visits to special sites, and other perks to make traveling easy and to maximize enjoyment. The people and government in Thailand welcome tourists and go out of their way to make sure that visitors are well cared for.

Even visitors on strict budgets can have enjoyable holidays to Thailand, because there are unique packages available that let visitors spend days and nights at the homes of local families. These holidays are a unique opportunity for learning how the people of Thailand live their day-to-day lives, and are a great cultural education and chance for making friends. Such holidays can be specially tailored for those who would rather come and go at will rather than spending full time with local families.

Thailand and those who package holidays to Thailand are very flexible and willing to create the perfect packaged holiday for any taste or budget. Whether you want to stay close to the popular beaches, temple sites, and other tourist attractions, or do something different like ride elephants, experience local wildlife or tribal culture, or visit the River Kwai, holidays to Thailand offer enough options that anyone can make that trip of a lifetime to Thailand that they'll remember fondly forever.

Tag : Thailand,Holidays to Thailand,holiday,budget

Thailand Tour Packages

2011-03-03T01:09:00.000+07:00

Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia and surrounded to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Burma. Thailand is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy with King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth king of the House of Chakri, who has reigned since 1946, making him the world's longest-serving current head of state and the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history. Nowadays Thailand is experiencing fast economic growth because of Thailand tourism and famous tourist destinations such as Pattaya, Bangkok, and Phuket.

Thailand Tours are known for Thailand's breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, and the most excellent beaches of the world. Thailand is one of the finest, most reasonably priced tourist destinations for a seaside vacation. The beaches and islands of Thailand offer an amalgamation of excitement, exotic locales, recreation, entertainment and leisure that one wish to have during their Thailand tour packages. Thailand provides something for every kind of traveler on his /her vacation to Thailand, from Stupa-studded Mountains of Mae Hong Son to the limestone islands of the Andaman Sea, from dance clubs of Bangkok to the serene villages. Select some of Thailand's most exotic tourist destinations and experience those with our service on Thailand tour packages which are perfect and suitable for every pocket.

Thailand is frequently referred to as a golden land, not because of the availability of any precious metal buried underground but because the country gives off certain lustre, be it the fertile rice fields of the central plains, white sandy beaches or the warm hospitality of its public.

Ranked amongst the world's most fashionable vacation destinations, Thailand is a wonderful travel destination one should not miss. Whatever the age, infants to juniors, teens to adults, parents to seniors, the spectacular Thailand tour packages will leave everybody with a mind full of happy memories. In Thailand almost everything is available to make a Thailand tour package to please all tastes and lifestyles.

The cool season time in Thailand starts from November until the end of February. With its low humidity, comparatively low temperatures and clear skies, the cool season is the best time to go for a Thailand tour package, though regular days of high 20s and low 30s might make you wondering just who came up with the term 'cool'. It is also the peak tourist season time in Thailand, so expect lots of new friends at the more fashionable tourist places like the islands and major towns.

While Thailand's pleasant year round climate, impressive scenery and remarkable architecture are deservedly famous, its welcoming people and rich culture are equally fascinating. You will definitely get a priceless and educational insight into the wideness of Asian life as it produces the senses with a tremendous wealth of traditional customs, cuisine, music, dance and art. Far from a hassle, you will experience sight and sensations that most seasoned travelers only dream about touching. Drive off on a verdant tropical fairway at the various internationally designed golf courses, or be peacefully pampered within the ambient setting of a sumptuous spa. Submerge to the deep as you snorkel over colorful coral reefs swarming with vibrant sea life.

Tag : Thailand,Thailand Tour,Packages

Why Travel To Thailand?

2011-02-21T22:25:00.001+07:00

There are many countries to visit in the world and each offers its own unique attractions and reasons to be visited. So, why Thailand? What makes this country unique, worthwhile and simply a great place to visit?

With approximately 15 000 000 visitors per annum, and many return visitors from previous years, certainly confirm the popularity of the country, but you are unique and will you find what you are looking for?

Many people have indicated to me that, if you are going to be flying all the way to Thailand, I guess you have to be someone who likes the beach and the ocean.

This indicates the perception of people that Thailand is all about warm weather, islands, blue seas, white beaches and palm trees. While this is certainly part of the allure, it definitely is not all Thailand is about.

The first thing that comes to mind is the price tag for visiting and staying in hotels in Thailand. Whether you are a back packer, 5 star vacationer or somewhere in-between, Thailand remains one of the most affordable travel destinations in the world.

When elements like the quality of hotel establishments in Thailand (which rival the best in the world) the beautiful surroundings, family friendliness and warm tropical weather to name but a few, is also brought into the equation, accommodation in Thailand is an outright bargain.

To add to the attractive hotel accommodation prices in Thailand, this must also be one of the countries in the world, if not the country in the world, where hotels offer the most incredible special deals and money saving packages.

Where else would you find hotels offering deals like "stay 16 nights and pay only 8" or "stay 10 and pay only 5"? It is also not like there is just one or two offering such a deal once in a while. There are a plethora of them, ranging from 3 to 5 star all over Thailand, including destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and basically all the rest.

The next reason on my list is the extremes to which hotels and resorts in Thailand go to create the ultimate family friendly vacation destination.

To start with, it is a known fact that Thais are extremely fond of children, and as an expat Thailand resident, this became very apparent very quickly. Hotels and resorts all over Thailand acknowledges children as their future customers and as such the highly professional kids clubs with an array of educational and other fun and exiting kids activities, creates a haven for children to enjoy their own holiday. At the same time, this creates time for the parents to have time available to them selves.

Many hotels in all price categories also offer ideal family friendly accommodation. From two to five bedroom accommodation and themed children's rooms, small to large families will find suitable accommodation anywhere in Thailand.

Thailand is safe. Even for the single female traveler, this must be one of the safest tourist destinations in the world. It certainly cannot be argued that crime will never take place in Thailand. However, Thais are a non aggressive people and the probability of a tourist falling victim to crime, especially violent crime, remains very low. To maintain this status as a safe tourist destination, The Royal Thai Police have established the Tourist Police Division. These men and women are mostly English capable, unbiased and a tourist's first friend when arriving in the land of smiles.

Referring back to our first point in terms of Thailand not being all sand and surf, the diversity of the country's landscape, history and culture as a tourist attraction, needs special mention.

Thai civilization dates back to 3600 BC, though Thailand first announced independence around 1238 AD. Since then, the city of Sukhothai was taken from the Khmer Empire and placed under Thai rule, the Lanna Kingdom was founded, Ayutthaya was the first capital and later moved to more or less where Bangkok is today and cities and temples, of which the outer walls and ruins can still be visited today, was build. Hence, Thailand with all these heritage sites, palaces and museums, is a history lovers dream and will enrich your knowledge of a very old and very exciting culture. Then many historical and ancient places are actually a must for every tourist.

As said, Thailand's beautiful islands, warm azure oceans, crystal white beaches and warm tropical weather is the primary reasons for many, if not most who come here. However, getting off the beaten track can lead to a very exciting and fulfilling visit.

Venture up north to Places like Chiang Mai (a place they say perfected hospitality), Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son, to experience more typical Thai culture, the friendliness of the people and a jaw dropping landscape. Green forested hills, rivers and waterfalls define the beautiful environment, also rich with history and culture.

A plethora of national parks dot Thailand, especially in the north, criss crossed by hiking trails, waiting to be explored. This is a far cry from sipping cocktails under a palm tree on an island right?

And while you are there, visit the Northern Hill Tribes, descendants of Chinese, Burmese, Laotians & Vietnamese who migrated to Thailand over the centuries. Still dressing in traditional clothing and very much still living the way they always did, these friendly people is an experience not to be missed.

Another highlight of traveling through Thailand is the cost of transport. Certainly, if one is going to travel in private luxury all the time, things can be slightly more expensive, but generally, traveling in Thailand can be dirt cheap and the many colourful transport options make it as much fun as it is budget friendly.

Also, the more authentic and local your mode of transport, and thus also more fun, the cheaper it gets. Swap the fancy speedboat for a longtail boat for instance (not all longtail boats look like a canoe. Some are bigger boats carrying larger cargo, but they are basic). It is much slower, but you get to see so much more and it just feels great.

Take the train from Bangkok to Surat Thani if you are traveling to several islands in The Gulf of Thailand instead of flying. Even with a mini bus from Bangkok to Chumpon and from there by boat to islands in the Gulf will cost you less than 2000 Thai Baht for a 600 kilometer journey. All the while it will be a much bigger adventure and part of your entire vacation experience than just taking the fastest and most expensive option.

In summary, you want to visit Thailand because it is so different. Different to the west, but also different to most other eastern or Asian countries.

A big city like Bangkok aside, Thailand is still very much rural, and even in towns a little more developed like Hua Hin, Thailand still retains a very authentic Thai feel. Life is still simple in many ways with a relaxed, tomorrow will see to itself attitude.

Our advice is to book hotel accommodation in more than one region of Thailand. Spend a week on an island, but then also explore the inner and northern part of Thailand, be surprised and impressed at the same time and start making plans to return as soon as possible.

Tag : Thailand,Thailand Travel,Hotel Thailand,Thailand Spa,Thai Boxing

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Conradie

Hua Hin, Thailand: Leisure Indulgence By The Beach

2011-02-07T22:00:00.002+07:00

Are you on the lookout for a holiday by the beach? Do you want a holiday filled with leisure activities ranging from water sports to golf? Then Hua Hin in Thailand is the destination for you! Hua Hin is the elite beach town of Bangkok by the west coast of Gulf of Thailand.

Hua Hin has some of the finest and spectacular hotels and spas. Excitehotels.com offers the best deals on Hua Hin hotels and provides you the best deal possible. The cool climate and the peaceful atmosphere of Hua Hin attracts many a tourist to its beach, and the long stretch of pure white sand and clear blue seas offers them the most serene visage of Thailand. Most of the hotels are situated on the beach side and the beach is never too crowded for relaxing. It is also one of the favourite shopping destinations for traditional items.

Sights to See and Things to Do in Hua Nin

Hua Hin is traditionally influenced by both the Thai and European culture. There are stunning palaces, temples and magnificent monuments of historical importance situated there. One of the most famous and extravagant monuments is the Victorian-influenced “The Palace of Hope and Love”. A little out of the town is the Kaeng Kranchan Dam and The National Park. It is the largest park in Thailand which is home to many rare species like the Hornbills and Serpent Eagle.

There are many activities you can indulge in, such as horse and elephant rides, sea canoeing, wind surfing, scuba diving and karting. Golf is another important leisure sport played here and Hua Hin has six top quality state-of-the-art golf courses. Many tourists and golf enthusiasts come to Hua Hin only to enjoy the extensive golf facilities provided.

Hua Hin is famous for its glitzy festivals. The Hua Hin International Jazz Festival is a famous music festival held annually in June. International music artists perform on beachside stages, and there are various jazz products sold and workshops held. The Kite Festival is another famous festival which is aided by the offshore breezes. Opening myriad colours, kite flying skills demonstrations and competitions are held.

Over the years Hua Hin has developed from a traditional town to a place that displays luxury or entertainment available. With its unique leisure activities it has now become the best holiday seaside destination in Thailand.

Excite hotels offers a Myriad Hued Path to Hua Hin Hotels

Tag : Thailand,Thailand Travel,Hua Hin,Hotel Thailand

How To Get A Non Immigrant Category O Visa For Thailand

2011-02-01T23:42:00.000+07:00

The Thailand Visa Application Process

Why is an article like this needed to explain how to get a Non Immigrant Category O Visa for Thailand? Surely the requirements are available on the Thai Embassy and Consulate websites. Well, yes there is a lot of information on the requirements for obtaining a Non Immigrant Category O Visa for Thailand on the Thai Embassy and Consulate websites and also on various third party websites such as Thai legal websites and Thai forums. But those websites have a lot of information and about all types of visa.

This article is specifically about getting a Non Immigrant Category O Visa for Thailand and so the information is much clearer than the other websites. Additionally the language used on the Official' Thai websites is in semi-legal language and being translated from the Thai language it is not always clear what the meaning is. On the other hand, this article is written in clear easy-to-understand English. Also the requirements for a Non Immigrant Category O Visa for Thailand appear to be different according to which website you read and in my experience also according to where you go to get your visa!

All this will be explained in the article along with answers to questions like these:

Who Needs A Non Immigrant Category O Visa For Thailand?
What Is A Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand?
What is A Category "O" Non Immigrant Thai Visa?
How Long Does A Category "O" Non Immigrant Thai Visa Last?
What Is A Multiple Entry Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand?
What Do You Need To Get A Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand?
What Other Types Of Visas For Thailand Are There?
Where Is The Best Place To Get A Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand?

Who Needs A Non Immigrant Category O Visa For Thailand?

There are ten classifications on Non Immigration Visas for Thailand each for a specific purpose and only one called the Category "O" Visa, "O" standing for "Other". The Non Immigrant Category O Visa for Thailand, by definition is for people and reasons not falling into the other classifications. Typically it is for people who want to stay in Thailand for a longer period than they could with a standard tourist visa which may be valid for just a few weeks. Often people seeking a Non Immigrant Category O Visa for Thailand want to visit their Thai spouse, children, parents or for retirement. They are people who are not planning any type of work or business in Thailand. In addition, with a Non Immigrant Category O Visa you are able to apply to open a Thai Bank Account and to apply for a work permit in Thailand.

How Long Does A Category "O" Non Immigrant Thai Visa Last?

A normal Category "O" Non Immigrant Thai is valid for 90 days (three months) unless otherwise instructed by the Office of Immigration Bureau.

Extending The Period Of Validity

Qualified people can obtain an additional one year stay permit counting from the date of entry in Thailand at the discretion of the Immigration officer. The application has to be made either at the Thai consular mission aboard or at the Office of Immigration Bureau in Bangkok.

What Is A Multiple Entry Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand?

A multiple entry Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa for Thailand is exactly what it says. It is exactly the same as a normal Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa except that multiple entries are permitted. The maximum time you can stay in Thailand with a Thai multiple entry Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa is 90 days. Then you must leave Thailand and go to another country but you can re-enter Thailand the next day. (Or even perhaps the same day, but I have not tried that)

The multiple entry Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa is valid for one year. So you can effectively stay for one year in Thailand with this kind of visa provided that you leave the country every three months. Leaving and re-entering Thailand to authorise the next three month period on your multiple entry visa is not as onerous or expensive as it sounds. You can simply cross the border into Laos or Cambodia to the East to Malaysia to the South.

What Do You Need To Get A Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand?

The requirements to get a Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa is not always clear and it does depend upon where you are getting you visa from.

Royal Thai Embassy Website in London Requirements For A Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand

Below are the requirements as set out on the Royal Thai Embassy Website in London, U.K.

First these are the stated requirements for all categories of Non Immigrant Visa for Thailand:

Visa application form completely filled out
Passport or travel document with validity not less than 6 months and its copy
Two 4 x 6 cm full-faced, bareheaded photos taken within the past six months
Evidence of adequate finance (20,000 Baht per person and 40,000 Baht per family)
Letter of acceptance from the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (Alien Occupational Control Division, Department of Employment.

In addition to the above, the following are required for the Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa:

Birth Certificate
Certificate of Marriage or its equivalents
An official recommendation letter from organization perform voluntary job in Thailand

Note also that Additional documents (not specified) may be required.

Royal Thai Consulate, Birmingham (U.K.) Requirements For A Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand

According to the Royal Thai Consulate, Birmingham, U.K. Website some of the requirements listed above are not required if you apply for your Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa at the Consulate, but other requirements are listed.

The following for example, are not listed as being required:

Birth Certificate
Letter of acceptance from the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (Alien Occupational Control Division, Department of Employment.

In fact, my husband got his Multiple Entry Category "O" Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand from Royal Thai Consulate, Birmingham with just our Thai Marriage certificate plus of course his passport, Fee and the completed Form.

Other Types Of Non Immigrant Visas For Thailand There Are

In summary, because the descriptions on the official Thai websites are much longer, these are the different types of Non Immigrant Visas For Thailand there are:

(F) to perform official duties
(B) to do business or to work
(IM) to 'invest with the concurrence of Thai Ministries and Government Departments '
(IB) other investment
(ED) to study, attend seminars etc
(M) to work as a film-producer, journalist or reporter
(R ) to perform missionary work or other religious activities
(RS) to conduct scientific research or training or teaching
(EX) to undertake skilled work or to work as an expert or specialist
(O) other activities

Where To Get A Non Immigrant Visa For Thailand

You can obtain your Non Immigrant Visas For Thailand from either a Royal Thai Consulate Embassy or a Royal Thai Consulate. I have found that (in the U.K.) it is easier and faster to get your Non Immigrant Visas for Thailand from the Royal Thai Consulate in Birmingham rather that the Royal Thai Consulate Embassy in London.

Tag : Thailand,Visa for Thailand,Thailand Travel,Hotel Thailand,Thailand Spa

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kanyah_Brown

A Weekend In Chiang Mai

2011-01-18T22:41:00.002+07:00

While Chiang Mai might translate as 'new city' from Lanna (a dialect of northern Thailand) to English, this is a city packed with culture and history. It's a great place to stop over for a weekend while travelling through Thailand ? and as one of the country's major cities, it can serve as a great base for inbound or outbound flights to the UK and Europe.

When most of us travel to the Far East, Thailand is conceived as a never-ending run of white beaches, perfect blue clear water and stunning lush vegetation. Indeed, the southern coasts of the country, which bend around the Gulf of Thailand and boast famous destinations such as Koh Samui and Phuket.

Yet we have little idea that these tourist honey-pots form only a fraction of the country's land mass. Move further inland, up into the northern reaches of the country near the borders with Cambodia and Laos to the east and Burma to the north and north-west, and you will find that there is far more to Thailand than meets the eye.

Over 400 miles north of Bangkok, Chiang Mai is the capital of Chiang Mai province, located on the Ping river. Situated in the mountainous and extremely verdant northern region, to the west of the northern plateau, it was once a trade centre for numerous Thai products and crafts, including woodcarving, jewellery and silver.

It is an impressive area of the country, with a wealth of natural beauty, elephant parks and tea and coffee reservations. Doi Inthanon, the country's highest peak, is nearby and well worth a visit. You can climb to the peak for stunning views, of stay near the lower slopes and visit the Vachiratharn waterfalls.

On return from the mountains, be sure to explore the wonders within the city walls as well, including an array of Buddhist temples. Make sure you visit Wat Chiang Man, the city's oldest temple dating from the 13th century. A guide book is worth investing in as there are over 300 temples to visit, in a variety of stunning locations.

If you want the kind of neon lights of Bangkok on a small scale, you can find go-go bars and the like; but a different type of Chiang Mai night might take you into the night bazaar, and vast array of stalls selling all sorts of handicrafts and fabrics. You could even have a go at the four-years-young Chiang Mai night safari.

Tag : Thailand,Chiang Mai,Bangkok,Thailand Travel

Boh Sang umbrella and San Kampang handicraft festival

2011-01-11T00:29:00.001+07:00

Boh Sang umbrella and San Kampang handicraft festival

January 21, 2011 - January 23, 2011

Boh Sang umbrella and San Kampang handicraft festival
Date : January 21-23, 2011
Venue : Boh Sang handicraft communities, Ton pao locality, San Kampang district, Chiang Mai

Activities : Women riding “Kang Jong” bicycle parade, Arts and Cultural parade, arch decoration and contest, Miss Boh Sang Umbrellla contest and many entertainment activities

For more information :
Ton Pao district municipal office Tel. 0 5333 8048-9
Tourism Thailand, Chiang Mai office Tel. 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607

http://www.tourismthailand.org/see-do/events-festivals/info-page/cat/5/event/2660/

Journey To Chiang Mai, Thailand - The Culture Capital Of The Land Of Smiles

2010-12-30T23:56:00.002+07:00

Chiang Mai with its ancient traditions, customs and rich culture has become one of the hottest and happening tourist destinations in Thailand. Budgethotelsinchiangmai.com with their excellent discounts on a range of hotels in Chiang Mai is a great opportunity for visitors to discover city. Chiang Mai or sometimes written as Chiengmai by the locals offers visitors a variety of tourist activities for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience.

Chiang Mai is host to several Thai festivals all year round, and this is the best way for one to acquaint themselves on Thai customs, understand their traditions and enjoy the warmth of their hospitality. Loi Kratong or known as Yi Peng takes place on the full moon night on the 12th Month of the Thai lunar calendar. Decorated containers made of banana leaf with a candle lit inside are set afloat on the rivers to thank the Goddess of Water. Sky lanterns or also known as Khom-Fai are thrown into the air to ward off troubles and bad spirits. The Chiang Mai Flower festival which is held in the first week of February is an ideal time to visit Chiang Mai. Floats are decorated with flowers and set on the waterways, cultural dance performance and beauty contests are also held during this period as a part of the 3-day long festivities which would charm visitors staying in hotels in Chiang Mai.

Discover the Highest Mountain in Thailand

Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand and Doi in Thai means mountain. This 2565-meter tall mountain is part of the Himalayan mountain range with very scenic waterfalls, jagged cliffs and home to Nature parks. Do not forget to take warm clothing along with you as the temperature in certain parts drop below 10 C even during mid-day. Just before the summit is the Twin Chedi, and it is one of the must-see places for those who scale these mountains.

Chiang Mai also has several museums and visit to one of these would give visitors an insight into this great city’s historical past. Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center and Chiang Mai National Museum are the best places to see the cultural facets, historical artifacts and documents which are exhibited in these museums. The Tribal Museum highlights the history, culture and lifestyle of the local tribes who live in the mountains. Chiang Mai has a vibrant night life and most of the good entertainment spots are found around the Chiang Mai Land Road and Chang Klan Road, south of the night bazaar. Budgethotelsinchiangmai.com with their range of comfortable hotels and great discounts are ideal for travelers to embark on a voyage to the cultural capital of Thailand.

Tag : Thailand,Thailand travel,Chiang Mai,Hotel Thailand,Advanture Thailand

Krabi, Thailand: A Popular Holiday Destination

2010-12-24T00:32:00.002+07:00

Krabi is a beautiful town on the southern coast of Thailand evolving across the Andaman Sea. Krabi is one of the most famous holiday and tourist destinations of Thailand. Krabi is known as the country’s oldest continued settlement. Its history has its roots deeply buried with Thailand heritage and culture. Krabi is popularly known for its undisturbed and untouched islands.

Krabi is lined with beautiful beaches and several national parks. The Hat Noparat Thara is a scenic beach with its pristine waters washing along the white sands and covered with spectacular seashells. Ban Thong Agricultural Station is a pilot farm that breeds various varieties of rubber, tea and other plants. The cliffs near the Railway Beach are world renowned for the best rock climbing. Krabi’s islands with its breathtaking simplicity makes you lose track of time and disappear into a world of enchanting calm and peace.

Offering a Stunning Vacation

Phi Phi Islands, a part of the archipelago, are famous among the backpackers the world over as a travel paradise. The Viking Cave, the Maya Bay and the Bamboo Islands are some of the famous tourist attractions here. Ao Nang is a bay that stretches to the foot of a limestone range with its white powdery beaches. The bay features various facilities for the tourists like diving boats, sightseeing in canoe boats and various exciting activities. The various sightseeing places here include The Hat Rai Le and isles like Ko Poda and Ko Thap. If you are looking forward to experience the lifestyles of the local people, you can always wander through the streets and markets and venture into the lovely villages. It also includes some mangrove canals flowing right into the caves of Khao Khanab Nam and can be reached by boat.

Commuting within the town can be made easier using the local trishaws or tuk-tuks and taxis. Krabi is a foodie’s paradise and is known for its numerous eateries. The night markets in Krabi offer delicious seafood at very low prices and local vendors dish out great local native food. Krabi specializes in seafood including lobsters, crabs and various fish varieties. The nightlife of Krabi is quite happening with various Karaoke bars, resto bars, live music joints and pubs. Shopping in Krabi is accomplished best at the local beaches. With the vendors selling everything right from beach materials to snacks and beers, you get it all here, under one roof. Excitehotels.com offers exciting deals and various packages on hotels in Krabi to make your stay unforgettable in this serene island of Thailand.

Excite hotels Adds Spice to Vacations with Hotels in Krabi

Tag : Thailand,Krabi Thailand,Hotel Thailand,Thailand spa

AKHA HILLTRIBE LIGHT-AND-SOUND PERFORMANCE

2010-12-15T23:55:00.003+07:00

AKHA HILLTRIBE LIGHT-AND-SOUND PERFORMANCE
Every 2nd Saturday from December 2010 – March 2011
December 11, 2010
January 8, February 12, and March 12, 2011
At the Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 on Doi Mae Salong Road, Pa Sang Sub-district, Mae Chan district, Chiang Rai province

First launched in 1999, the Akha Hilltribe Light-and-Sound performance presents insights into the culture and daily life of the Aka hill tribes, resident in hilltop villages in Mae Chan District.

The performance presented by the Aka hill tribe villagers at the Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 reflects efforts being undertaken by local Akha village groups to help preserve Akha culture and traditions and their indigenous way of life and to strengthen ties between the various Akha villages in the province. The presentation features authentic renderings of their culture and lifestyle. Indigenous handicrafts on also on display.

The performance is staged once a month during the peak travel season from December to March.

Chiang Rai, Thailand's northernmost province, has a distinctive cultural identity based on a glorious past. The province is blessed with a great diversity of natural and cultural treasures, including the world-famous Golden Triangle which covers an area where the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge.

The Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 is situated along Doi Mae Salong Road in the sub-district of Pa Sang in Mae Chan district of Chiang Rai province.

The light and sound show is presented in both Thai and English, and runs from 1730 to 1930. Tickets cost Bt150 per person and the show with dinner is priced at Bt300 per person.

Private performances in English can also be arranged upon request. The rate is 12,000 baht per show.

Contact information:
TAT Chiang Rai Office
Tel. 66 (0) 5374 4674-5, 66 (0) 5371 7433

Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12
Tel. 66 (0) 5391 4471

The Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 is situated along the road leading up to Mae Salong.

Tag : Thailand,Thailand travel Chiang Rai Thailand,Hotel Thailand

http://www.tatnews.org/events/events/2010/dec/5157.asp

Christmas in Sakon Nakhon, the Star of David Festival

2010-12-10T23:43:00.003+07:00

December 24, 2010 - December 25, 2010

Celebrate Christmas's eve in the 100-year-old community of Catholic with the beautiful parade of the

Star of David and enjoy firework!

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Thailand International Balloon Festival

2010-12-03T23:07:00.001+07:00

December 2, 2010 - December 6, 2010

The balloon festival is a major activity in which everyone in the family can see and join. There are demonstrations of balloons lifting into the air in which visitors have the opportunity to travel in a balloon, buy local agricultural products, demonstrations of viticulture by Thai and foreign producers in which visitors can taste wine as well as have a barbecue. There are dancing performances, arts and crafts booths, food and beverage, souvenir shops, and various games and contests. This is a tourism event that is ongoing during the day and night.

Each balloon’s height is equal to a 7-storey building with various decorative designs. This spectacular event is definitely one that should not be missed, especially the light and sound with fireworks and musical presentatio.

Tag : thailand,thailand travel,hotel thailand,thailand spa

http://www.tourismthailand.org

The River Kwai Festival

2010-11-28T02:33:00.000+07:00

November 26, 2010 - December 5, 2010
(15.00 - 23.00)

Kanchanaburi province, in collaboration with Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Metropolitan Bank, the State Railway of Thailand, is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the River Kwai Bridge Festival and the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Enjoy learning the historical records through the new perspective and format of presentation that focuses on happiness, joy and impressive splendors, while also immensely honoring those who lost their lives and the families they left behind during WWII. The history illustration, combined with the stunning shows of contemporary arts of different forms, will be impressively presented under “The War is over…This is a time to Celebrate” theme. What will be featured in the festival includes:

The Light & Sound Show
Based on the avoidable tragedy that happened to mankind 65 years ago, the presentation concept is thoughtfully developed under "The War is over...This is a time to Celebrate" theme and it will be spectacularly illustrated through multi-media presentations. The first of its kind in Thailand, this show will be splendidly accompanied by the music orchestra performance in the middle of the mighty River Kwai.
Those who are interested in this show can book tickets (priced at 200, 300 and 500 THB) at:
1) Kanchanaburi Provincial Office: Tel.034-512-399
2) Kanchanaburi Tourism Promotion Society: Tel. 034-518-656
3) R.S.P. Jumbo Travel Centre: Tel. 081-5868228, 034-514906

“Street Show” Space
The setting and decorations of the surrounding area in vicinity of the Bridge are designed to be perfectly in line with the event theme. This space, for exhibits and displays, will ensure ultimate joys and inspirations you can get from the stunning performances such as Pantomime show by talented Babymine, impressive beat box by Police Lieutenant Koravik Chandaen and other shows from Kanchanaburi province.

“Art for living” Exhibition
The outdoor art exhibition on street features portrait sketching, painting exhibits and performing arts by contemporary Thai artists from all over the country from the 26th November – 5th December 2010.

For more information:
Kanchanaburi provincial Office Tel. 034-512-399, 034-515-208, 034-511-778
Or 081-702-6612 (Khun Som), 084-640-1114 (Khun Taai)

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Blooming Bua Tong (Mexican Sunflower) Festival on Mae Oo Kaw

2010-11-22T22:44:00.001+07:00

November 1, 2010 - December 13, 2010
(12.00 - 12.00)

Experience and feel the cool breeze of wintertime while appreciating the natural beauty of the Bua Tong flower field as well as enjoy camping.

http://www.tourismthailand.org/see-do/activities/search-result/destination/mae-hong-son/

Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival 2010

2010-11-15T19:41:00.000+07:00

Although the holiday of Loy Krathong is now celebrated throughout the kingdom, Loy Krathong originated in Sukhothai, the first Thai capital. While particularly popular with couples who head down to any nearby body of water to light the candles and incense on their floating Krathongs, visitors can best appreciate Loy Krathong by heading to the ancient capital of Sukhothai, where the holiday was first celebrated.

Highlights of the Sukhothai Loy Krathong celebration include displays of lighted candles and fireworks, folk dancing and a spectacular light & sound presentation.

At the Sukhothai Loy Krathong festival, visitors will be dazzled by the float procession of large krathong from 17 Northern provinces. The procession will consist of krathongs from government agencies, state enterprises, private sectors, and the general public. There are also a Krathong design contest, the Miss Noppamas Beauty Contest, and Sukhothai arts and culture performances.

By Bus

Air-conditioned buses depart from Bangkok's Mochit 2 Bus Terminal to Sukhothai daily between 9.45 a.m. and 10.20 p.m.,frequently during the morning. The journey takes 7 hours. Call 0 2936 2852-66 or visit www.transport.co.th for more information. Private bus companies which operate daily bus services to Sukhothai are such as Win Tour (Tel: 0 2936 3753 or 0 5561 1039), Phitsanulok Yan Yon (Tel: 0 2936 2924-5, 0 5525 8647) Sukhothai Bus Terminal (Tel: 0 5561 3296)

By Train

There are no trains going directly to Sukhothai. One may travel by train to Phitsanulok and then take a local bus to Sukhothai, about 59 kilometres away. Contact Bangkok Railway Station Tel. 1690, 02223 7010, 0 2223 7020 or visit www.railway.co.th for more information.

By Other

Bangkok Airways flies from Bangkok to Sukhothai daily for 1-hour journey. Sukhothai Airport is about 40 kilometres north of the town. For more information, call 0 2265 5678, 0 2265 5555 or 0 5564 7224-5 or visit www.bangkokair.com

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Loy Krathong

2010-11-06T21:34:00.001+07:00

November 19, 2010 - November 21, 2010
(12.00 - 12.00)

Bangkok celebrates Loy Krathong with a “Colours of the River, Loy Krathong Festival” 19 to 21 November 2010 at Suan Luang Rama VIII Park, on the Thonburi side of town.

This is not-to-be-missed experience reflects the atmosphere of a traditional Loy Krathong festival dating back to the historical, golden era known as Rattanakosin.

Held on the full moon night in November the festival is essentially a family affair celebrated nationally in every province.

In Bangkok, celebrations focus on cultural performances, traditional markets, and illuminated boat parades along the Chao Phya River from the Krungthep Bridge to Krung Thon Bridge.

But travellers to six other tourist destinations will be equally impressed by the traditional renderings of a festival that focuses on giving thanks for the gifts of water and life.

Places to be to celebrate Loy Krathong:

1. Sukhothai Loy Krathong and Candle Festival.

2. Loy Krathong Sai Festival, Tak, features 1,000 krathongs made from coconut shells that are floated on the River Ping near the bridge in Tak town. This festival also features a light-and-sound presentation displayed on a giant screen standing on a river raft. Other attractions include a beauty pageant and a bazaar of local handicrafts.

3. Yi Peng Festival, Chiang Mai combines two traditions -- Krathongs floated on the river and lanterns that are launched into the sky to worship Phrathat Chulamani. There are also street processions and cultural performances.

4. Loy Krathong Tam Pratheep Festival, Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Ayutthaya province.

5. Mae Klong Banana tree trunk Loy Krathong Festival, Amphawa district, Samut Songkhram province.

6. Southern Colourful Lanterns in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province.

Contact: Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: 0 2250 5500 ext. 3470-3, call centre 1672

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Phuket Film Festival

2010-06-05T00:15:00.000+07:00

Phuket Film Festival
Date: 4 - 13 June, 2010

The 2nd edition of the Phuket Film Festival which runs June 4 – 13 on the beautiful resort island of Phuket, Thailand is pleased to announce its Opening Film will be the Asian premiere of Indian director Paresh Mokashi's debut film, Harishchchandrachi Factory. Director Mokashi will attend.

Opening Film
Asian premiere of Harishchchandrachi Factory
Harishchchandrachi Factory was India's entry to the 2010 Oscars in the Foreign Language Film category.

The quirky, light hearted film depicts the struggle of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema, while making Raja Harishchandra in 1913, India's first feature film.

The movie is one of several Indian movies the Phuket Film Festival will play as it turns the Spotlight on Indian Films which have recently reached international box-office acclaim.

"We're honouring India not only as their cinema industry turns 100 years old but because of the close relationship between Indian filmmakers and Thailand," said Scott Rosenberg, managing director of AMW International Co. Ltd. organizers of the Phuket Film Festival.

In November '09 Thailand was presented with the top filming locations award at the Locations World Exhibition and Conference held in Mumbai while Indian location shoots and film production in Thailand have increased from 31 in 2003 to 104 in 2009 (end of November) outpacing the traditional number one Japanese filmmakers.

Film Festival movies will be shown at the Coliseum Cineplex in Phuket Town while a "Meet the Directors" series will be held at an open air theatre just now under construction at Cape Yamu.

Closing Film on June 13, 2010
YUTHLERT SIPPAPAK'S FRIDAY KILLER TO HAVE WORLD PREMIERE AT PHUKET FILM FESTIVAL

The Phuket Film Festival will screen acclaimed Thai director Yuthlert Sippapak's Friday Killer as its closing film, Sunday, June 13 2010. This will be a World Premier for director Sippapak's first movie in The Killers Trilogy.

Director, writer, and producer Yuthlert Sippapak has received international recognition for his daring visual style and unconventional screenwriting. His film credits include Killer Tattoo (2001), February (2003), and Buppah Rahtree (2003) which is one of Thailand’s highest grossing films, popular for its eccentric storyline and blend of horror with comedy.

Friday Killer is the story of “Pae Uzi” (comedian Suthep Pho-ngam) aka “The Eagle of Chantaburi”, a professional hit-man who was just set free from prison. After his release, he learns for the first time he has a daughter “Dao” (Ploy Jindachote – actress played lead role with William Hurt and Cary Elwes in the supernatural thriller 'Shadows'). The tables are turned on Pae when his daughter tries to kill him because she thinks that he killed the only father that she knew.

Cast and crew are expected to attend the closing movie and reception that will follow.

The Killers Trilogy is produced by Sippapak's Mahagan Pictures with financing from Phranakorn Film who is also handling international sales and domestic distribution.

The Phuket Film Festival runs June 4 – 13 on the beautiful international tourist destination of Phuket, Thailand. Movies will screen at the Coliseum Cineplex in Phuket Town while a Meet the Directors series of movies will run at The Yamu at Cape Yamu.

Award winning Hollywood directors Gus Van Sant (Milk) and Darnell Martin (Cadillac Records) are some of the directors participating in the Meet the Directors series.

Major supporters of the Phuket Film Festival include the Thai Ministry of Culture, Vijitt Resort, TwoVillas, Phuket Beer, Siam Winery, the Phuket Gazette, Global i Care and others.

For additional information contact:
E-mail: info@phuketfilmfestival.asia
Web site: www.phuketfilmfestival.asia

Koh Samui Spa - The Ultimate Relaxation

2009-10-05T20:11:00.003+07:00

Koh Samui has always attracted people looking for a place to unwind and relax. Even before spas came into existence, several new age centers were already established. In Thailand there are alternative venues which offer opportunities for meditation, but still the demand for sophisticated luxurious spa resorts are increasing day by day. However, this is the perfect place where you can explore all kinds of de-stressing body treatments, traditional massage, and Asian beauty secrets.

Spa treatments have become the ideal option to unwind and get rejuvenated. With the ever increasing work pressure and hectic schedules, people are now going on holidays for spa treatments. Koh Samui spa resorts that promise its guests a wide range of therapies and beauty treatments. You can pamper yourself with everything ranging from traditional Thai massage to different kinds of exotic treatments and massages with special scrubs and oils that are imported from many places across the globe.

Experience the spas of Koh Samui

While planning your holiday in Thailand, you can ask your travel agent to help you in getting the best spa holiday packages. All such packages generally include health management, detoxification of the body, rejuvenation, fasting and weight-loss programs. The spa resorts offer excellent massage services in a green and calm setting.

You will find that these resorts are affordable and the experience is worth the price that you pay for it. A majority of the spa resorts in Koh Samui are wooden, Thai-style houses at the water's edge, where you can pamper yourself with great massage treatments. Some of the spas are even equipped with salt floatation tanks for ensuring client satisfaction. The holistic spa approach consists of:

herbal steam massage
body masque
Ayurvedic aroma therapy
classic Thai massage
foot massage
aroma oil massage
facial massage
Jacuzzi

With so many options at hand, you'll certainly find yourself spoilt for choices. While on holiday, you can also indulge yourself in such exquisite pampering. There are various comprehensive one-day packages available and these combine massotherapy, hydrotherapy, aromatic skincare, beauty treatment, and body treatment. Apart from this, Koh Samui modern spas combine tradition and modern techniques like steam compresses, herbal remedies, and natural ingredients, thereby ensuring complete unmatched comfort and relaxation.

Therefore if you are looking for a great spa holiday, then Koh Samui is the place to be. After a relaxing spa holiday, you will feel refreshed and more energetic when you get back to work.

Koh Samui Spa Resort - Karma Spa offers Thai therapies and wellness experiences that are luxurious, organic and authentic. Karma Spa is bountiful with incredible healing experiences.

Tag : thailand,thailand travel,thailand holiday,hotel thailand

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathleen_Chester

Chiangrai And The Golden Triangle In Thailand

2009-08-25T22:57:00.001+07:00

Any visitor to Chiangrai cannot fail to recognize the richness and obvious affluence that abound in this northern most province. Its proximity to the Golden Triangle has influenced the development of the land and only here does one see fenced-off properties, farmhouses, hedgerows and smooth four-lane highways never in need of repair. There is more to the province than this, of course, with some of the most challenging back roads in Thailand also being here. However, the overriding impression is one of almost a different country. This diversity should, perhaps, be the alternative travelers initial reason for visiting the Golden Far North.

The riches of Chiangrai province can be instantaneously compared when making an excursion into Myanmar at the border crossing of Mae Sai. The poverty on the Myanmar side is all too blatant and far more obvious than at other Myanmar crossings. The cross-border visit does not require a visa, nor is your passport stamped. All that you need are two photocopies of your passport details and a fee, usually five dollars.

From Mae Sai border excursions can be made to the Royal Mountain project at Doi Toong and eastwards to the opium museum at the Golden Triangle itself. Chiang Saen is a small distance beyond this. Westwards is mae Salong and Thaton with its Maekok River Lodge and onwards to Fang and mae Hong Son along some of the least used (you'll find out why) roads in Thailand. There is spectacular scenery all along the way.

Doi Toong is now a fully developed Royal project. Basically a whole mountain range overlooking Burmese territory, it now affords visitors not only grand vistas but also home-grown Thai coffee and tea, soft fruits and temperate vegetables. All have been introduced into hilltribe farming patterns and now contribute greatly to the economies of many villages as a substitute for the declining opium crop farming, which is all but eliminated from Thai soil now. Wat Doi Toong itself, perched like a nest on the final hilltop, is an important pilgrimage center for Thai people and there is day-long temple activity here.

If time allows, and you have a good map, the alternative route via Doi Pa Mi to Doi Toong should be taken from Mae Sai rather than the main highway headed towards Mae Chan. The road hugs the border and is one of the more spectacular routes in the north.

The Golden Triangle is, by now, quite well-frequented by tourists and there is little hope of avoiding crowds at the center point - a plaque depicting the meeting place of the three countries, Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. However, pleasant enough river trips on the mighty Mekong can be taken as well as meals at riverside restaurants (watch for more peaceful locations between the triangle and Chiang Saen). The Imperial Golden Triangle Hotel allows perhaps the best views, especially around breakfast time, with many early movements on the river. Long tailed boats flit from country to country in a flash, adding to the sense of intrigue that lingers at this infamous meeting place.

As well as the well-documented and informative Opium Museum, Chiang Saen, the old river capitol of Lanna, should be visited. Very pleasant afternoons can be spent on the terraced riverside after a market trip.

Further down river from Chiang Saen is the up and coming border point of Chiang Khong. From here, entry to Laos can be made with day river trips to Luang Prabang departing every morning. A longer (slow boat) trip can be made with an overnight stop en route at the village of Pakbeng. Traveling to Chiang Khong gives one a real feeling of being in the backwaters of the country and if that's what you are looking for then take the trip and use it as an entry to Laos. Accommodation, especially with air conditioning, is sparse at Chiang Khong and with boats leaving early, book in advance or leave Chiangrai at 5:30 am.

Travelling westwards from Tachilek (now itself an exit point for some internal Myanmar tours) along the Thai side and past Doi Toong, there are the back roads to Mae Salong. This area is like the Scottish Highlands, although without the weather and a little warmer. There are few signposts so take a good map when in Mae Sai or you may find yourself in a "delicate border zone."

If it's daylight, a side excursion to Ban Thoet Thai, formerly Ban Hin Taek, can be made. This is the former outpost home of Khun Sa, head of the Shan State Army. Since his retreat, integration into Thai society of the local Mae Salong valley people has progressed. Still known to Thais as Jiin Haw (galloping Chinese) the occupants of Mae Salong emigrated from China during the 1949 revolution and were part of the fleeing Kuomintang 93rd regiment. This alone makes Mae Salong very different from any other Thai town with its mixture of Akha, Lisu and Meo tribes and Tai Yai (Shan) people. With local corn whisky on sale as a substitute for the eliminated opium crop, other products found include Chinese herb remedies, Khanom Jiin curry and Chinese teas. There is actually a tea factory in the town. Although a paved road now runs to Basang on the main Mae Cahn-Thaton highway, other roads are little more than badly graded dirt tracks. Such is the price of anonymity.

For the real alternative traveler a four-day trek to Chiangrai is possible following hilltribe village trails en route. Here you will find the trekking that existed 20 years ago from a Chiangrai base.

At Thaton, on the Maekok River, stands the Maekok River Village, an upgrade of the former River Lodge. It is the pride and joy of Shane Beary, a 20-year resident of the area. The village is comprised of Thai style bungalows on the riverside with a swimming pool and restaurant, but more importantly, it boasts a field study center for both Thai and overseas students and a Thai cookery center. The knowledge of Shane, his family and staff make the Village an excellent base camp for excursions around the area. Mountain biking and trekking trips can be easily made from this focal point as well as river trips on the Maekok, a tributary of the Mekong.

From Thaton there is a public boat service plying the Maekok River for the 92 km trip to Chiangrai. It's a highly recommended excursion and costs as little as 150 baht.

Onwards to the Chiangrai provincial border are many hot springs and caves with the more well-known ones being at Fang and Ching Dao. The predominant limestone rock of the region gives way to many underground caverns all ubiquitously decorated with religious icons.

Although not within the Chiangrai area, the trip along the border to Pai Mae Rariang through Mae Hong Son is worth considering. The route is scenic and narrow but it has some of the most interesting spots in Thailand including the blind fish caves outside Mae Hong Son and the Padaung "long neck" village on the Pai River. The latter has become somewhat touristy but the long-necked Karen still hold a certain fascination no matter what the circumstances.

Lesser known and less obvious to the naked eye are the Lawa people of this area. In an area of about 500 square kilometers between Hot, Mae Sariang and Mae Hong Son, they still live a largely traditional life although even here the majority have adopted Buddhism and Thai style. It is certain that they have inhabited Thailand for some 800 years and they believe that they migrated from Cambodia, but some archaeologists think their origins lie in Micronesia, perhaps 2,000 years ago.

The women are most distinguishable with their hair tied in a turban and it is usual for them to smoke tobacco from a wooden pipe. Most Lawa speak Thai, but the Lawa language, related to that of the Wa tribe of Burma, is still spoken in many of the villages.

Altogether, Northern Thailand and especially Chiangrai province is distinct in many ways from the rest of the country. Traditionally called "Lan-na," it has for most of its history been a separate kingdom and holds that quality to this day.

Tag : thailand,thailand tour,hotels thailand,thailand spa

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/exotic-locations-articles/chiangrai-and-the-golden-triangle-in-thailand-801761.html

Wonders and General Aspects of Thailand Travel

2009-08-13T23:24:00.003+07:00

With contemporary and a touch of tradition, Thailand forms a spectacular travel destination. It paves good deal of opportunities for the visitors to gain a new experience. No surprise that Thailand is the world's most popular vacation destinations worldwide. It lets every traveler to immerse in a drapery of culture, heritage, and natural surroundings.

Thailand is exotic yet accessible, offering everything that any traveler might desire. There are lots of places for the visitors to discover in Thailand. This country is probably the best travel destination for most of the visitors. Relax yourself in the white sandy beaches, head on to the tropical forests and explore everything that is really appealing to you. People out there are often friendly and soft natured that pleases any visitor. Besides various recreational activities in Thailand, affordable hotel accommodations in this place are quite inviting thereby attracts a lot of visitors every year. There are so many attractions to be explored during Thailand Travel. Some of them are as follows.

• Cultural Heritage
• Temple of the Dawn
• Grand Palace
• Chao Phraya River
• Shopping Paradise
• Seaside Restaurants
• Thai Classical Dances
• Temple of Emerald Buddha
• Thai Boxing
• Excellent Accommodation

Unlike the subtle variations in other countries worldwide, the culture, tradition, food and people, and other recreational activities in Thailand are strikingly different. Often New comers to Thailand tend to overlook the country's geographical and cultural diversity. To be on the safer side and avoid unnecessary expenses, choose a Thailand Travel package that satisfies your budget. Explore every nook and corner of this wonderful place and get a new traveling experience. Thailand Travel is probably the most chosen travel destination.

Explore interesting features and facts about Thailand Travel and enjoy what this amazing country has to offer.

Tag : thailand,thailand travel,hotel thailand,thailand holidays

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janani_Jaan

Top 5 Cities to see during a Holiday in Thailand

2009-08-09T00:02:00.002+07:00

In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, one of my jobs is to ensure every client has the best tour possible, so here are my top 5 suggestions for cities to visit in Thailand during your holiday.

1.Bangkok is a fascinating city which has managed to keep it’s ancient eastern traditions whilst embracing the modern progression of the western world. Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and offers a host of experiences which include floating markets, modern bars, top of the range shopping, gastronomical delights and ancient temples steeped in the city’s history.

The Chao Phraya River separates the city and has a series of canals. The new ‘Sky train’ railway is something which should be experienced whilst in the city should you fancy avoiding the bustling traffic.

One of the largest floating markets is on the outskirts of Bangkok and you’ll greeted by the aromatic smells and the age old tradition of the locals and their way of making a living along the busy canals.

There is an array of beautiful and ancient buildings not to be missed whilst in Thailand. Although I did not personally experience all of the nightlife, it was made obvious to me that all of my entertainment needs would be taken care of by all well informed taxi drivers wishing to proudly show off their culture.

2. Phuket is the biggest island attraction that Thailand has to offer. It is the perfect place to retreat to and enjoy a tropical paradise. Although the west coast of the island was almost destroyed by the tsunami of 2004, there is very little evidence remaining to show that it occurred.

Not to be missed are:

Old Phuket Town. Chinese immigrants from the 19th century, who were lured in the past by the tin mines, left behind them a host of amazing Sino-Portuguese mansions along Dibu and Thalang roads.

Thai Boxing. A personal favourite of mine, this national sport is violent and very fast paced. For regular matches the Saphan Him Stadium in Phuket City is the place to be.

3.Krabi. Krabi Province is in the middle southern part of Thailand. It is situated in the aquamarine water of the Andaman Sea. It is one of the most stunning places in all of Thailand.

Krabi Town is situated near the mouth of the Krabi River. The Mangrove forest is something to experience and is a must for avid bird watchers. Krabi Resort is set among a curtain of palm trees on the Ao-PhraNang beach. This is a delightful place to be if you are looking to soak up the natural beauty that surrounds you.

4. Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai is a city full of traditional heritage that shares its secrets with all who wish to discover them. It is a city with stunning natural beauty. It is amazing to see plants that we have to protect from the frost, growing in their scores, naturally along the roadside.

The people of Chiang Mai are a wonder in themselves with exceptional handicraft skills producing magical souvenirs for the endless throng of visitors. Chiang Mai houses the Inthanon Mountain, standing 8,448 feet above sea level making it the highest mountain Thailand.

5.Sukhothai. When visiting Sukhothai the main attractions for the area are Phra Mae Ya Shirne which is located in the Muang District. You will see a long haired figure made of stone that resembles an ancient queen. There is also a museum and National park as well as monuments of great interest inside the city walls.

Tag : thailand,thailand holidays,thailand hotel,thailand resort

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Stuart-Cheese/14790

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009

2009-08-02T03:22:00.003+07:00

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009
Date : 1 June to 31 August 2009
Venue : Department stores, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attraction nationwide

Thailand’s annual “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale” got underway this month and continues to offer visitors great bargains right through to 31 August.

This year, as fuel prices escalate, both visitors and residents are looking for more value and bigger discounts when they are shopping. Thailand never disappoints.

Most mega stores and shopping malls are offering discounts of between 10 to 70%, so there are bargains galore for the shopper prepared to browse around the stores.

Fortunately, most of Bangkok’s major shopping malls and stores are located close to the city’s skytrain or metro transport systems, making it very convenient to hop from one store to the next.

Both the Skytrain and the Metro, offer day use stored-value cards for visitors to make it even more convenient to use the two systems.

Bangkok’s main shopping districts and streets are to be found along Ploenchit and Sukhumvit roads.

Many of the department stores have direct bridge linking them to Skytrain stations. Just a short walk from the Skytrain stations and visitors discover some pretty impressive department stores and shopping plazas namely Siam Discovery Centre, Siam Centre, Central World Plaza, Erawan Bangkok, Amarin Plaza, Gaysorn, Central Chidlom, Home Pro Plus, Robinson Department Store, The Emporium and The Mall Department Store.

Discounts are also available in King Power duty free shops, both at Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown locations. There are even discount deals on luxury treatments at spas, a round of golf at a selection of courses at all major tourist destinations, travel packages and even medical check-ups at world-class hospitals.

The three-month campaign also embraces a variety of destinations beyond Bangkok such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hua Hin, Cha-am, Pattaya, Nakhon Ratchasima, Udorn Thani, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai and Samui Island.

Grand Sale prizes are offered in conjunction with the campaign sponsor, Visa Card, and include bargain holiday packages to premier destinations such as Phuket and Samui.

Contact : Tourism Investment Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel : 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 2951 http://www.tourismthailand.org

Tag : thailand,thailand travel,thailand hotels,thailand resort

Hotel Thailand- Comfortable Beddings in Both Luxury and Budget Hotels

2009-07-27T22:40:00.001+07:00

Are you in search of a beautiful tourist’s destination, where you can relax for few days?

Are you in search of some land with pristine beauty?

If yes! Come to Southeast Asian country of Thailand as it is a wonderful place to offer an unforgettable experience. It is a home to some popular beaches, forests and some entertainment areas that attract large number of tourists every year. Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui are five main cities that are treated as best holiday destinations in Thailand. The place remains warm throughout the year with some climatic variations.

With regard to provision of accommodation, there is no problem of lodgings in Thailand. One can simply walk in any hotel thailand and get the accommodation, but this problem can be dwindled through online advance booking from several reservation sites. These sites can find some suitable hotel in Thailand as per your taste and budget and thus, in turn can avoid any hassle during your trip and can fill it with fun and excitement. They also offer you the list of excellent resorts and hotels that welcomes you to beachside destination. You can even go for hotels on the basis of their rating as the hotels are divided into three star, four star or five star, depending upon its features and facilities availed. Their price rate also depends upon their rating. Or the hotels can also be categorized into budget or luxury hotels.

No doubt that luxury or deluxe accommodation offers the best lodging. These hotels Thailand offer a wide range of world class facilities and services to cater to all your needs. Spacious rooms, comfortable beds, ceiling fans, private terraces or balconies, writing tables etc… are some of the main items included in it. These custom made facilities provided are to meet the demands of both leisure and business travelers. Room facilities in luxury hotels include air conditioning with temperature controlling method, private bathroom, showers, bathtub, satellite television, mini bars, coffee maker, hair dryer etc… Restaurants inside these hotels serve gourmet delicacies, thus giving excellent culinary experience.

Thailand delicacies are sure to satisfy their clients. The facilities and amenities at the luxury hotels cover recreational, business and leisure facilities. But there is nothing to be discouraged for budget conscious travelers, as there are many budget hotels taking care to the needs of such people. These budgets are no way inferior to luxury hotels, but they only provide the limited services or facilities at low cost. They provide all the required facilities and comfortable beddings at reduced rates.

Tag : thailand,hotels thailand,thailand travel,thailand holidays

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/hotel-thailand-comfortable-beddings-in-both-luxury-and-budget-hotels-765228.html

Shooting Fish While Scuba Diving In Thailand

2009-07-22T01:17:00.003+07:00

If you're checking to see if it's legal, and how you plan to punish me, please allow me to explain. I'm a PADI Master Instructor of Scuba Diving, and I spend my working days teaching scuba in Thailand. One of the most rewarding experiences for my diving students' is shooting great photographs of aquatic marine life.

Making underwater photographs in Thailand has many advantages for divers searching for that 'perfect shot';

Clear blue water

Warm water averaging 28 degrees centigrade

Pristine Coral Reef formations

Established Diving Centers and Scuba Equipment Shops

The most popular tourist areas for scuba diving in Thailand are Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui. These resorts offer great fun and excitement for beginners and certified divers. Whether it's vibrant fish life, colourful corals or sunken ship wrecks, the camera won't stop clicking while you're scuba diving in Thailand. I've captured pictures of Seahorses and giant Gorgonian Sea Fans in Phuket, Black tip reef Sharks in Koh Samui, and World War 11 ship wrecks in Pattaya.

Todays modern camera equipment has changed the way that scuba divers 'shoot' fish underwater. The traditional film camera is still used by many diving professionals, but digital underwater cameras have made underwater photography both accessible and affordable to the majority of scuba divers. Learning to Scuba Dive is not difficult for most people who are comfortable in the water, but snapping great photos under water takes novices some time to learn. One of the most important attributes is good buoyancy control. Apart from all the obvious advantages that neutral, relaxed buoyancy has for scuba diving, if you're trying to compose that image of the tiny yellow blob, commonly known as a Frogfish, being able to hover almost motionless just centimetres away from your subject is what sets you apart from the norm. Also, as recreational scuba divers descend, water absorbs colour. Starting with Red, Orange and then Yellow, and as you dive deeper, you'll lose Green and Blue. Strobe lights help to restore some of the colour that's lost, which is how the professionals obtain fantastic vibrant colours from their images.

I fully appreciate that not every diver has a passion for taking pictures of the new world that they've discovered. Many divers are more fascinated by ship wrecks, perhaps diving deep or making dives using nitrox (an increased amount of oxygen) but most of my scuba buddies have admitted that they are very keen to share the wonders on the underwater world by shooting pictures of fish and other marine life. With modern technology as a friend, it's now possible to store and share underwater images with your family, friends and even the general public via social sites and the internet. The dive may have been the most amazing experience that you've had, but it's so much more powerful to share the adventures with those for whom it may not be possibly to try scuba diving. PADI scuba courses teach student divers how to capture and share underwater photographs, and the Digital Underwater Photography course is now available to all scuba divers from the age of ten.

Private scuba lessons are becoming more popular now, especially in Thailand. Taking a dive course with you own private scuba instructor offers exclusivity, the personal touch, and usually more flexibility. So to enrol in the shooting fish course, otherwise known as the PADI DUP (digital underwater photography) course, you do need to be a certified diver of at least ten years old. But be prepared for some underwater fun that diving in Pattaya has to offer. The coral reefs are shallower here than other dive sites in Thailand, and the other advantage is that scuba diving in Pattaya is available year round because the Gulf of Thailand tends to be sheltered from the southwest monsoons that arrive in Phuket from June until October. Pattaya is not a famous diving destination, but beginners and experienced divers will be rewarded with some of the best wreck diving in Thailand. So, clean up the lens, replace the batteries and make sure that you have a watertight seal, because when you dive in Pattaya the camera never lies. You really can see Turtles, Seahorses and Sharks, and the wreck dives will leave you breathless (pardon the pun) as you drift along US Landing Crafts from the Second World War that were intentionally sunk by the Thai Navy for the local Thai divers and tourists on a scuba diving holiday in Pattaya.

Tag : thailand,scuba,scuba diving,pattaya,phuket,thailand hotels

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Thailand Hotels provide the service of the Swimming Pool and others

2009-07-19T03:17:00.002+07:00

Thailand, the beautiful nation of the hills, beaches, monuments, was one of the places preferred in the list of tourists in the whole world. The great number of the travelers visits the place of various corners of the world because the country maintained its identity among the list of the destinations of the beautiful tourists. It is not only that the country has something to offer to the tourists, but with regard to the supply of their convenience, there are several popular hotels of Thailand which the needs of these tourists.

One can easily find the hotels cheap and of luxury in any part for the country. Leave are to him Pattava, Cha AM, islands of phi of phi, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Bangkok, Samui, Khao Lak, Krabi, KOH Lanta etc. any comfortable housing of offer to remain. The cheap hotels help you while saving on your budget. Moreover, Thailand is ground of the spectacular beaches, an authentic Asian nation and friendly people. It welcomes millions of visitor every year.

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is one of the metropolitan cities in the world, offering the range of housing to its tourists. Some of the principal places of Bangkok like Silom, Sathorn, Don Muang, Sukhumvit, place of Siam, Ratchadapisek, Pratunam, Petchburi offer etc of the hotels of housing of class of the world. Moreover, there is no doubt with regard to equipment offered by the cheap hotel and of luxury of Thailand. There is less of many large motels of luxury like raising of priceses with the increase the level of housing, thus less number of people prefer to remain in such hotels. More than you spend money, more comfortable the hotel you can choose.

There are also some inns, resources and hotels in Thailand which are easily available to the accessible price. Some of the three star hotels even are luxuriously decorated in the Thai model. The majority of these hotels provide the service of the swimming pool and others such services recreational for suitability of the guests. Some of the resources also offer services such as the room of beauty, the services of stage, air-conditioning, OF excursion, the bar/living room, the telephone of IDD, laundry etc

The best hour to visit this country takes place as from November at February, because it have sunny days and less precipitations, so appreciating the fresh and pleasant atmosphere. There is also less moisture during this season. One can easily appreciate this beautiful destination during the brilliant days of this season.

It is not only in Bangkok, but there are many of other interesting cities in Thailand which brings the fate for the tourists. Phuket is one of the nice cities of beach in the country. Some of the well-known beaches to explore by the cities are beach of Karon, beach of Kata, beach of Patong etc

Tag : thailand,thailand travel,thailand holiday,hotels thailand

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The Best Koh Tao Hotel For Your Thailand Holiday

2009-07-15T20:47:00.001+07:00

Finding the best Koh Tao Hotel for your Thailand Holiday shouldn't be left to chance. Many people don't do enough research before booking a Thailand vacation, and they just pick a Thailand Hotel out of a brochure, and if they get it wrong, then they won't have a great Thailand vacation, and they might also find that the beautiful Thailand beach they were promised in the brochure isn't what it was cracked up to be.

It pays to do research, and it is worth discovering Koh Tao.

Koh Tao is a beautiful island off the coast of Thailand just north of Koh Samui. The best hotel on Koh Tao is the Charm Churee Villa which sits very close to Jansom Bay. This is one of Koh Tao's most beautiful and private beaches in the south west corner of the island.

The best way to get to Koh Tao is to fly into Koh Samui and get the catamaran over. Do pay extra and get seats in the VIP lounge. To get to the Charm Churee you'll be picked up by water taxi and taken to the small private beach.

You need to book a Sunset Villa at the Charm Churee. They are huge, even having a dressing room, and a very large bathroom. Two balconies look out at the sea, and very private too. The rooms don't have all the bits like TV's and DVD's but honestly, do you come to a place like Koh Tao for that anyway. There are no telephones in the rooms, but if you want reception you can just use your mobile phone.

It is not only the accommodation that makes this the best hotel on Koh Tao, it is the beach, the ambience, and very much the food in the restaurant, and down at the beach bar. Meals in the restaurant do take quite a long time to arrive, and everything will arrive at once, but it is well worth the wait. The lunch at the beach bar has an extensive reasonably priced menu, with excellent seafood, but it is only a short walk of less than a quarter of an hour into town, where this a good selection of very reasonably priced restaurants.

The Spa in the Charm Churee is extremely good, better than you will find in any other Koh Tao hotel, in fact this may be the only spa on the island. It is built as little Thai Huts, and a couples massage can easily be arranged.

The Charm Churee Villa really only has one downside, and that is the number of steps, boulders and difficult paths. There can be over 50 steps to your villa, which doesn't matter if you are young and fit, but has to be considered if there are elderly, disabled or very young children coming to this Koh Tao accommodation.

It is worth noting that the cheaper rooms are a lot further up the hill!

The beach is great, and there are masses of fish. The hotel has snorkelling gear but you would be advised to take your own. There are two bamboo rafts anchored offshore to relax on. The sea is just like swimming in an aquarium.

If you are in Koh Tao for the scuba diving, a very strong recommendation is Dive Point. Take the hotel longboat out to Koh Nang Yuang where there is another great beach and very good for snorkelling.

You will find the hotel staff at Charm Churee very friendly, a number of them are from Burma.

There is little doubt that if you are on a Thailand Holiday you need to visit Koh Tao, and the best Koh Tao Hotel is the Charm Churee Villa.

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Thailand for you - Overview Weather of Thailand

2009-07-13T01:27:00.001+07:00

The best overall time for visiting most of Thailand climate-wise is between November and February when it is not too wet and not too hot. The south is best visited when the rest of Thailand is miserably hot (March to May), and the north is best from mid-November to early December or when it starts warming up again in February. If you're spending time in Bangkok, be prepared to roast in April and do some wading in October - probably most challenging two months, weather-wise, in the capital.

Climate-wise, the best time for visiting most of Thailand is between November and February when it is not too wet and not too hot. The south is best visited when the rest of Thailand is miserably hot (March to May). If you're spending time in Bangkok, be prepared to roast in April and do some wading in October - probably the most challenging two months, weather-wise, in the capital. When To Go Thailand's monsoons arrive around July and last into November (the 'rainy season'). They can be uncomfortably, unpredictably sticky. This is followed by a dry, cool period from November to mid-February, followed by much higher relative temperatures from March to June.

By far the best time to visit is between November and February when the weather is kind and the beaches are at their finest. This period is Thailand's main season for national and regional festivals.

The peak season is November to late March, with secondary peak months in July and August. If your main objective is to avoid crowds and to take advantage of discounted rooms and low-season rates, you should consider travelling during the least crowded months (April to June, September and October). On the other hand it's not difficult to leave the crowds behind, even during peak months, if you simply avoid the most popular destinations (eg, Chiang Mai and all islands and beaches). This is also the prime time for diving in terms of visibility and accessibility.

Thailand Traveler Information
The Kingdom of Thailand draws more visitors than any other country in southeast Asia with its irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms. Few countries are so well endowed.

From the stupa-studded mountains of Mae Hong Son and the verdant limestone islands of the Andaman Sea, to the pulse-pounding dance clubs of Bangkok and the tranquil villages moored along the Mekong River, Thailand offers something for every type of traveller.

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Tasty Thai Food

2009-07-10T02:06:00.000+07:00

Thailand’s cuisine is a unique combination of flavors and techniques that has, over the centuries, been heavily influenced by Asia and Europe. The Thais’ love of curries and spices comes from India, the method of stir-frying food in a wok comes from China and rather surprisingly, traders from Portugal first brought the chili to Thailand.

Food is the Thai nation’s favourite topic of conversation. Instead of enquiring after your health or commenting on the state of the weather, a Thai will greet another with a cheerful; ‘Have you eaten yet?’ If the answer is; ‘not eaten’, whether you are family, friend, neighbour or even the visiting repair man, you will be invited to eat. Hospitality and community are very important to Thai society and so the bonding formed whilst sharing food is central to every household. At anytime of the day, no matter where you look, someone will be eating, preparing or cooking food.

During a traditional meal, a cloth will be laid on the floor and everyone will gather around it, the women sitting with their legs to one side, the men cross-legged. The food is placed in the centre and the diners will help themselves and each other. The meal is eaten using a fork and spoon (with the fork being used to push food onto the spoon). The Thais only use chopsticks when eating noodles.

Along with the staple food of rice, the typical Thai meal will consist of a soup, a spicy hot curry or spiced salad, a dip with accompanying fish/meat and vegetables and sometimes a creamy sweet desert. Ideally, the meal will offer a delicious combination of sweet, salty and sour, with spicy hot and bitter as minor accents to the flavors. There must be a harmony of tastes with the spicy hot dish being balanced with other milder dishes.

Each of the four regions of Thailand has its own speciality. In the north, the food tends to be saltier, sweeter and spicier (hotter). Southern Thais have more curry dishes than the rest of Thailand and they prefer their food a little more sour.

There are no real food taboos in Thailand, in the rural Northeast eating insects is common and crickets, silkworms, mealworms and the giant water bug (mang da) are popular snacks. But eating cheese and milk products are considered strange and to some disgusting, especially by the Northern Thais (Isaan)

As well as Pad Thai, Red and Green curries and Thai fish cakes – dishes that regularly appear on Western menus, there are many more delicious taste sensations for you to explore.

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Scuba Diving Thailand: Especially in Phuket

2009-07-03T02:12:00.000+07:00

One of the most diverse aquatic habitats are present in Thailand with over 300 main reef groups around an area of more than 4500 sq. miles. From submerged rocks and pinnacles to sheer walls and coral gardens, scuba diving Thailand has a lot to offer to the scuba divers with all levels of expertise and experience. Due to this diverse marine and diving environment, Thailand has attracted diving lovers from throughout the world due to which it has become one of the most popular destinations for scuba diving. Located on its western coast is the wonderful island of Phuket, covering an area of 300 sq. miles.

For the last three decades, Phuket has been catering to a huge number of visitors from almost every part of the world out of which a large percent is of scuba divers looking out to dive in some of the finest diving sites in Asia. Today, scuba diving Thailand has become on of the biggest businesses and the island of Phuket offers many great diving centres and services from leisure dives to advanced courses in diving.

Scuba Diving destinations in Phuket:

One of the best diving sites in Phuket is the Racha Islands located off Thailand's southern coast. The small island of Racha Noi provides some overwhelming underwater scenic views and has been renowned for encounters with manta ray and whale shark. King Cruiser Wrecks and Shark Point also attract a large number of scuba diving enthusiasts to try their hands on.

The water around and in the Ao Phang-Nga has been notable for their marine life profusion offering access to diverse marine and coral life unrivalled anywhere else in Phuket. Diving in the destinations such as Mergui Archipelago, Burma Banks and Similan islands can be an awe-inspiring experience for the fans of scuba diving Thailand. Ko Phi Phi Lae and Ko Phi Phi Don are the regions characterised for stunning topography, amazing cliffs of limestone, many hard coral gardens and excellent soft corals, sea whips, black coral and orange sea fans.

Why and when scuba diving in Phuket:

While scuba diving, the divers can frequently see whale sharks, large pelagic fishes, manta rays and silver tip sharks. With its vast variety of tropical fishes variety, the place has impressed even the most seasoned divers. Scuba diving Thailand can be done all year through but the best time is during October to June when the waters are calm and you can have the ultimate scuba diving experience.

It will be impossible to talk about scuba diving Thailand without mentioning Phuket. Undoubtedly, diving in this area is of a high standard and the place is a host of many excellent diving sites. In fact, Phuket has managed to develop an entire tourism industry due to its scuba diving attractions and today, a large number of scuba divers visit the place every year. There are endless diving opportunities in Thailand and the place has been listed in the top ten scuba diving sites.

It is not surprising why a large number of people get attracted towards the place due to its world-class scuba diving Thailand sites, crystal clear water and white clean sandy beaches. It is just the ideal place for the adventure lovers.

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Thailand Buddhist Temples

2009-07-01T23:39:00.000+07:00

The vast majority of people in Thailand are Buddhists for whom the temple plays an important role in the spiritual wellbeing of individuals and the community. There are over 31,200 Buddhist temples spread around Thailand. In Thai they are called wat. They are grouped into two main groups: temples which are permitted to carry out religious functions and those which are used only for living quarters for monks.

Wherever you happen to find yourself in Thailand you’ll never be too far from a temple where you can go to offer your prayers and “make merit” even if you aren’t Buddhist. Although all Buddhist temples share similar beautiful characteristics, there are some that are architecturally more magnificent and historically significant.

Temples are classified into two main categories: Royal Temples and Common Temples. The Royal Temples were either built by royalty or came under their sponsorship. In Thailand, there are about 200 Royal Temples though there are only six of the highest grade.

With its beautiful temples, rich culture and history, great weather, fine food and world-renowned beaches, Thailand is visited by approximately seven million visitors each year. It is a country of approximately sixty million people, with a land area equivalent to that of France. It is undergoing a remarkable economic expansion, with growth rates of approximately 8%-10 % each year. That’s why Thailand continues to enter the sights of Thailand property investors looking for new opportunities away from the traditional European and Caribbean markets. The two key drivers behind the Thai property market are the domestic economic growth and tourism, and the expectation is that developments in both areas will contribute to a continuing upward trend in property prices. People buy property in Thailand for a number of reasons, from capital investments, to holiday rentals (with a long-term view of capital appreciation), to personal use as a holiday or retirement home.

Tourists and other foreigners should know some basic information before visiting Thailand and especially its temples. Thailand is a Buddhist country where Buddha images are held secret. Sacrilegious acts are punishable by imprisonment even if committed by foreign visitors. Visitors to temples should ensure that they are suitably dressed - no shorts or sing lets and ladies should also cover their arms. Shoes should be removed before entering any building and it would be polite to sit quietly when in the main temple buildings.

When visiting a temple it is polite to seek the permission of the Abbott before taking photographs or entering other than the main area. This can be done by approaching a monk or one of the many helpers found in the temple grounds. Normally permission is granted without seeing the Abbott, but your show of respect by asking, will be returned. If visiting popular temples, such as Wat Phra Kaeo in the Grand Palace grounds, there is no need to seek any permission, but you should look out for signs indicating where photography is forbidden.

Wat Phra Kaeo temple is situated in the capital city of Bangkok and is more commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha because it houses a small two foot jade statue of Buddha which rests upon a huge golden alter. The temple is very elaborately decorated with a rich array of colours that are sure to astonish and dazzle all visitors. This Buddhist temple is also significant in that it is the official royal chapel where the revered Thai royal family goes to perform their religious ceremonies. Phra Kaeo temple is situates inside the grounds of the Royal Palace and aside from the decorations of the actual building is home to some fascinating paintings and sculptures.

Wat Traimit, Temple of the Gold Buddha- the most amazing feature of this temple is the fact that the 3 meter tall Buddha image is made up of 5.5 tons of solid gold. It was made about 700 years ago in the Sukhothai period but the image was covered in plaster in fear of the invading Burmese. It was rediscovered about 40 years ago.

Besides these one should also visit the Wat Pho (Wat Phra Chetuphon or Temple of Reclining Buddha) Wat Suthat , Wat Ratchabophit, Wat Ratchanatdaram , Wat Thepthidaram , Wat Saket (The Golden Mount) , Wat Mahathat and the Wat Rakhangkositaram.

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Finding Cheap and Luxury Hotels in Thailand

2009-06-30T01:01:00.001+07:00

Cheap and luxury hotels in Thailand are scattered through out the entire country. Some famous destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Samui, Pattava, Hua Hin, Cha Am, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Krabi, Phi Phi Islands, Koh Lanta, Khao Lak, etc offer comfortable hotels to stay. Booking cheap hotels in Thailand help you to save huge amount on your budget for accommodations. Moreover, Thailand is a land of authentic Asian culture, spectacular beaches and friendly people. Thailand welcomes millions of visitors every year.

The capital city Bangkok is the home to many cheap and luxury hotels in Thailand. The places in Bangkok like Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam Square, Ploenchit, riverside, Sathorn, Pratunam, Suvarnabhumi Airport, Ratchadapisek, Petchburi, Banglumpu, Don Muang Airport, etc have some hotels which are of World Class accommodations.

No doubt about the facilities provides by the cheap hotels in Thailand. If you are looking for luxury grand motels then the sky is the limit. It means that according to the standard of the hotel the price also hikes. The more comfortable stay you want, more bucks you have to spend. Otherwise, there are motels, inns and resorts in Thailand, which are of cheap rates and easily affordable.

Woraburi Sukhumvit Hotel and Resort is located in Sukhumvit. This hotel is a three star hotel and the rooms of this hotel are luxuriously decorated in Thai style. Facilities at the hotel include outdoor swimming pool, ball room, underground car parking and complimentary tuk-tuk services aimed to provide convenience to guests in Thai style.

This resort of Bangkok offers the facilities and services like Air Conditioning, Bar/Lounge, Barber/Beauty Salon, Business Center, IDD Phone, Laundry, Limousine, Parking, Restaurant, Room Service, Satellite/Cable TV, Shopping Arcade, Swimming Pool, Tour Des, etc.

During your visit in Thailand apart from Bangkok City you must visit other interesting cities of Thailand. For instance, Phuket is a nice beach city. Travelers love to explore its well-known beaches like Patong Beach, Kata Beach, Karon Beach, and so on. This beach city also offers many inns and resorts to stay. Most of the cheap and luxury hotels in Thailand can be found be Phuket.

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Thailand Hotels: Perfect Haven for Tourists

2009-06-26T22:09:00.000+07:00

The scenic beauty, rich culture and heritage, historical places of interests, healthy cuisine and above all, traditional hospitality have made Thailand one of the well-known tourist destinations all over the world. This beautiful country draws millions of leisure as well as business travelers. There are abundant Thailand hotels to accommodate them,

Accommodation

Starting from the luxury Hotels in Thailand. there are numerous budget and discount accommodation as well. You will surely find suitable accommodation according to your taste, mood, and budget.

Most of the
Thailand hotels are conveniently located within proximity to the city center. You can enjoy well-accessible transport facilities from each of them. You can also opt for a visit to the eminent tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai or world-famous beaches like Koh Samui, Pattaya, Hua Hin and Jomtien.

Thailand hotels are known for their unrestrained hospitality and world class dining and business facilities. Most of the hotels in Thailand provide you several health and recreational facilities. Some of the finest luxury hotels in Thailand are Anantara Resort Hua Hin, Lebua at State Tower, Rasananda Phangan Island, and Shangri-La Bangkok.

The budget hotels in Thailand are more than comfortable to live in. You can always look forward to avail all the basic amenities and services in all these economy hotels. Some of the standard budget accommodations in Thailand include Baan Hanibah Bed and Breakfast in Chiang Mai, HQ Hostel and Sivalai Place in Bangkok and Tanamas House Nai Yang Beach Bungalow in Phuket.

Each of the Thailand hotels, offering a perfect combination of true Thai charm and wide-ranging facilities, is provided with a tranquil setting which tempts you to spend some more days here.

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A Beautiful, Amazing Must-see Place in Thailand -- Chiangmai

2009-06-23T22:09:00.000+07:00

Among the many places in Thailand, Chiangmai comes well recommended, and for very good reasons. Travelers point to the many amazing sights and things to do in this laidback city situated in the Himalayan foothills. For visitors exploring Thailand, Chiangmai never ceases to amaze. Small wonder luxury hotels (like Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai) near this destination are frequented by travelers who want to be near where the popular sights and activities are. With Buddhist temples and other historic sites to the majestic mountains, the handicrafts, the shopping finds, people, the food and bustling night life, Chiangmai offers no dull moment for the curious and adventuresome traveler.

While in Thailand, Chiangmai is the kind of place that will strike you as serene because most of the people are not rushing about as they do in other key cities around the world. It may as well be referred to as a pastoral paradise, the kind you are likely to read about in books. Imagine getting all cozy in a nice, well-appointed villa that looks out to hushed paddy-fields and lush hills and mountains beyond them. It's a perfect place to commune with nature and feel close to God.
Actually, for people who visit Northern Thailand, Chiangmai offers respite as a spiritual haven. Pilgrims visit one of the most revered temples of the Thais - the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. It is actually an awe-inspiring 14th century Buddhist architectural showcase. The temple was erected in 1386 by King Keuna the Great. Legend has it that the temple's site was chosen when an elephant carrying half of a holy relic ascended the mountains after several days and circled the temple spot before kneeling down and dying. A visit to Thailand, Chiangmai particularly, will not be complete without seeing the sacred temple.

There are other lovely temples in Chiangmai. You can explore the oldest to the noblest ones, including the Wat Suan Dok, which holds the ashes of Chiang Mai's former Royal Family members. In another chapel lies one of Thailand's largest icons in metal - a 500-year old bronze Buddha. You may also want to visit the temple compound where the divine Lai Kham chapel, with its remarkable murals and woodcarvings, is situated,

For a dose of history, there is another must-see while exploring Thailand. Chiang Mai National Museum will fascinate you no end with its collection of Lanna Thai artworks, ancient, war weaponry, and antique Buddha images.

Shopaholics are also bound to have a heyday at Thailand's night bazaars. For those who would rather watch artisans at work in the villages, a number of cottage industries and handicrafts ranging from parasols, silk weaving, jewelry, woodcarving, silverware, and lacquerware, to name a few, may suit you fine.

Are you raring for an anthropological adventure? Try a river cruise that travels down The Chang pier. This is where elephants used to haul logs from the river in the old days. The pier derived its name from the king's elephants, which used to bathe on that site. You will see some of Thailand's firsts - first bridge, first post office, and other interesting sites and get a whiff of the including lifestyles of the locals who dwelled on opposite sides of the river, plus some historic spots along the riverbanks. All these you can enjoy at a leisurely pace. Check out online travel resources for Thailand and you are bound to have a fantastic experience you will be able to delightfully recount to your family and friends.

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Thailand is one of the Most Popular Golf Holiday Destinations

2009-06-20T01:06:00.000+07:00

Thailand is acknowledged as the 'Golf Capital of Asia.' Due to many reasons golfing in Thailand is truly a great experience, which among many others, are exciting as well as challenging golf courses, exceptionally low playing fee, superb club house facilities, excellent course lay out, astounding atmosphere coupled with charming buddies, and much more.

Additionally, one of the fabulous things regarding golfing in the country is the amazing assortment of location as well as environment in which these golf courses are located. From the bustling capital city of Bangkok and Pattaya bestowed with enthralling scenery to the lush green hills of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai and Phuket, acknowledged as the island paradise, Thailand truly presents a veritable drapery of golf delight. In fact, Thailand is one of the best destinations for a relaxing golf holiday amid mind blowing scenery.

No matter how much remote is the area you are visiting in Thailand, it is absolute that there would be one or more golf courses in the area or nearby. Also, a specialty of this mystical tropical paradise is that one can play golf all year round. However, golf in Thailand is not a new sport. According to records, golf was one of the most popular recreational sports even before 100 years ago, the evidence for which is the sports reported at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club on a period as early as during the beginning of 20th century. Erected by a Scottish Engineer within the beach resort of Hua Hin regarded as the first recognized 18-hole golf course in Thailand. But now the country has one of the largest assortments of golf courses in Asia.

Majority of the world-class golf courses in Thailand were built during the great economic boom period. In order to guarantee the best facilities in these courses, many of the owners hired the services of such renowned golfers as Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, Robert Trend Jones, Gary Player, and Arnold Palmer to apply their expertise, values, and signatures. All these make each of the more than 150 golf courses in Thailand of international standard as well as one of its kinds.

Perhaps the greatest thing that set apart Thai golf courses is its highlights such as caddy system. Mostly, this function is undertaken by Thai ladies with polite nature as well as excellent knowledge and idea on golf courses in Thailand. In other words, these ladies are adept in almost all facets of golf and can help a golfer with a number of things such as how to choose a golf club, which is the most perfect to lay up, and info on the speed of green. Another great thing regarding playing golf in the country is its salubrious climate. Above all, an obvious benefit of playing golf in the country is that you can play it for an exceptionally low alluring price.

Options available within these golf facilities are truly stupendous, with many of them boasting of brilliantly designed individual holes coupled with almost all types of exciting hazards, from intimidating lakes and mighty bunkers to canyons. When comes to club house facilities, they are mostly well-constructed and are inclusive of almost all comforts including first-class restaurants, bars, specialized areas for post-tournament functions, and air-conditioned facilities for changing. For real golf freaks, even such facilities as accommodation choices and fitness and sauna facilities are available.

In addition, many of the golf courses are attached with excellent practice area, which is sometimes coupled with the services of pro to guide you in shaping your golfing skills. Also, many of the golf courses come with a well-stocked pro shop and provide options for golf cart rentals.

Alpine Golf and Sports Club and Dynasty Golf and Country Club in Bangkok, Rayong Green Valley Country Club and St. Andrews 2000 in Pattaya, and Dusit Polo Club in Hua Hin, are just few among many of the world class golf facilities in Thailand.

Apart from these, many of the top end hotels and resorts spread across the nation provide state of the art facilities for enjoying golf vacation in Thailand. Some of them even render superb value packages inclusive of three or four nights' accommodation in a highly sophisticated room, breakfast, seafood dinner, traditional massage treatments, and tee off two or three times, for an enjoyable golf holidays.

In short, playing golf in the country is undoubtedly a rewarding experience, with an assortment of superb golf courses set amid scenic backdrop and coupled with excellent clubhouses and services of courteous caddies as well as pro.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/thailand-is-one-of-the-most-popular-golf-holiday-destinations-348522.html

Scuba Diving in Thailand - the Secrets of One of the Worlds Most Popular Diving Destinations

2009-06-17T00:17:00.000+07:00

Thailand has one of the world’s most diverse marine habitats, with more than 300 major reef groups covering an area of over 4,500 square miles. From pinnacles and submerged rocks, through to stunning coral gardens and sheer walls, the scuba diving in Thailand has something to offer scuba divers of all levels of experience. It is this diversity in marine habitats and diving environments which attracts so many divers to the waters around Thailand every year, and today the region is one of the world’s most popular scuba diving destinations.

There are a number of major diving destinations in Thailand, all offering a wide selection of diverse dive sites. Throughout all of these major destinations is a network of well equipped, knowledgeable and experienced dive centres, offering a range of diving from leisure dives through to a selection of scuba diving courses.

It would be impossible to discuss Thailand, without looking at the scuba diving in Phuket and the surrounding areas. Without doubt, the diving in Phuket is of the highest standard, and the waters surrounding the ‘island’ host a number of excellent dive sites. However, the real underwater treasures of Phuket lie slightly further afield. Dive sites such as the Burma Banks, The Similan Islands and the Mergui Archipelago are often found high on the wish list of many discerning scuba diver and offer some of South East Asia’s finest dive sites.

The scuba diving on the Western Gulf of Thailand sees a different emphasis, and the small islands found here have become one of the world’s most popular areas to learn to scuba dive. In fact, the island of Koh Tao has developed a complete tourist industry from scuba diving, and today large numbers of would be scuba divers travel to Koh Tao every day to begin their diving education. Other islands within the Western Gulf of Thailand are also home to developed scuba diving industries, and destinations such as Koh Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan are both home to a large number of dive centres and excellent dive sites.

Throughout Thailand there are a number of exceptional dive sites, and sites such as the Richelieu Rock and Chumpon Pinnacle are widely acknowledged as being world class dive sites. However it is the sheer volume of excellent dive sites that makes Thailand such a popular destination. Destinations such as Pattaya, Krabi, Ko Chang and the Surin Islands are all home to a number of exceptional dive sites and dive centres.

Today, Thailand is one of the world’s most popular scuba diving destinations, and large numbers of scuba divers travel long distances to dive in the waters surrounding this stunning country. The sheer diversity of the diving on offer here ensures that there is something to cater for all tastes and levels of experience. From vertical wrecks, through to submerged pinnacles, from the largest sharks, through to the smallest nudibranches, the diving in Thailand has something for everyone.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/scuba-diving-in-thailand-the-secrets-of-one-of-the-worlds-most-popular-diving-destinations-416444.html

3 Places You Must Visit In Thailand

2009-06-16T00:32:00.000+07:00

For people seeking sun, sand and plenty of adventure, Thailand is amongst the top places in the world to visit. The beautiful scenery of the coastal islands compliments the rich culture and mountainous regions to the north, not to mention Bangkok, one of South East Asia’s most intriguing cities. There’s a multitude of places to visit and things to do in Thailand, and whether you’re a tourist or a backpacker, you’re almost sure to never get bored by the country’s rich offerings. Indeed, you could choose to spend a week bronzing yourself on a beach in the south, or spend months exploring the highlands to the north and the borders with Laos and Cambodia. If you’ve got a trip to Thailand in store for this year, then take a read of this article to find out about some of the top destinations.

Ko Samui
Thailand’s third largest island is situated in the Gulf of Thailand, while being a particularly popular option with backpackers in search of booze and sun. So the legend has it, the island was little more than a tiny self sufficient tourist community until 1979, when two tourists arrived via a coconut boat. What they arrived at was a series of beautiful beaches on bright blue waters, and since then tourism has boomed. Ko Samui is now a particularly popular choice with the suitcase brigade as well as the more hippy inclined backpacker set. It can offer the comforts of home on its beautiful beaches, and gives a welcome boozy respite for those who have ventured off the beaten path and want a return to civilisation.

Ko Chang
An island for those who want a little more than the offerings of the more tourist centric islands, Ko Chang is a rock that soars out of the sea, complete with jungle, rugged terrain and of course, many of its very own beaches. Located to the East of the Gulf Thailand near Cambodia, you won’t find the regular sellers of knock off Ray-Bans and DVDs in a hurry, and the tourist hubbub is replaced by a more natural tranquillity. The island is home to an array of stunning wildlife that inhabits the scenery. Sea eagles, Andaman kites and hornbills all nest here, while you may even see a reticulated python if you venture inland! When visiting make sure you take on of the dirt pathways for a nature adventure.

Krabi Province
Most travellers choose to breeze through Krabi town, as people are keen to move on to the paradises of Ko Phi Phi and Railay. These two gems of the Andaman Sea boast some of the most stunning scenery in the whole of Thailand, which is a spectacular feat if you consider the extent of beautiful coastland and mountains in the country. Railay is located behind a layer of impenetrable cliffs, and it is only possible to get there by boat. Surreal limestone formations make it a fantastic place for rock climbing, while the beach is possibly the revered in the country. Ko Phi Phi don, meanwhile, is an island 30km to the South West of the mainland of Krabi. As the backlot for The Beach, staring Leonardo Di Caprio, it’s not difficult to see why the place is thought of as one of the world’s top island paradises.

By: Roberto Raffa

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Thailand Weather – When Should You Go?

2009-06-13T00:59:00.000+07:00

Most probably the one question most often asked by holidaymakers wanting to go to Thailand is: “When is the best time for a holiday?”. Not as easy to answer as you could think, without knowing more about what your friends want to do in Thailand.

There are three standard seasons that make up the Thailand weather cycle: Hot Season, Wet Season and Dry Season. But within the country the weather varies a lot from the cool north to the hot and sunny south.

Lets have a look at what the Thailand weather is like:

Hot Season:

March to June: The hottest months of all. April is particularly hot, nearly too hot, even for the locals. Step foot outside and you will be melting within minutes, sweat dripping from your body. Hot season is beach season. Swim in the blue ocean and bask the shade of the palm trees. Trekkers may find it too hot to really enjoy.

Wet Season:

July to November: The wet season is the worst time to spend time in the Thailand weather, regardless what you are looking to do. Its humid, wet and it rains several times a day. Not just a few drippings, but real monsoon style, where the vault of heaven seem to open. But the hotels are plentiful and cheap. A good choice for backpackers on a budget.

Dry Season:

December to February: The best season to visit Thailand. The Thailand weather is almost normal here, the sky is clear of clouds and its hot, but not too hot. If you can try to go at this time.

By: Jack Powers

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Health Tourism in Thailand

2009-06-09T21:38:00.000+07:00

Private healthcare in the West is notoriously expensive, for some, prohibitively so. Commonplace medical items like dentistry or health check ups are high-priced, while surgery and major operations can completely bankrupt many individuals. Thus, the rapidly-growing practice of traveling across international borders to obtain healthcare.

Many have found their solutions in Thailand, spurring a trend in "health tourism" within the country. Why Thailand? Because the Thai medical profession is one of the most advanced in the region. Thailand's hospitals and clinics are world class. Investments in equipment and management standards are so high that major hospitals are "internationally accredited".

The following are some "ball park" cost comparisons. The cost of surgery can be one-tenth of what it is in the United States or Western Europe, and sometimes even less. A heart-valve replacement that would cost $200,000 or more in the US, for example, goes for $10,000 and that includes round-trip airfare and a brief vacation package. Similarly, a metal-free dental bridge worth $5,500 in the US costs around $500. A knee replacement in Thailand with six days of physical therapy costs about one-fifth of what it would in the US. Lasik eye surgery worth $3,700 in the US is available for around $730. In the US cataract surgery for one eye runs around $8,000, but at a prestigious International hospital in Thailand cataract surgery can be performed on both eyes for around $2,500. Cosmetic surgery savings are even greater: A full facelift that would cost $20,000 in the US runs about $1,200. A thorough dental cleaning and checkup runs around $10.00.

Tourists are drawn to Thailand for many reasons - tropical beauty, splendid beaches, and a fascinating culture. Now however, health is yet another reason that lures visitors to the kingdom. Thailand has become the spa capital of Asia. The country abounds in health clubs and spas, and offers an incredible amount of sporting activities, everything from golfing to scuba diving, and from biking to cave exploring.

Thai Airlines features what is known as Royal Orchid Holidays. Medical checkups, has become so important, Royal Orchid Holidays has added medical checkups to its package tours. It's an unusual theme for a package tour, perhaps, but a very practical one, giving travelers the opportunity to have a comprehensive medical checkup while they are in Thailand for business or pleasure. Quality healthcare combined with a tourism holiday at a low price attracts patients from all over the world.

On the medical side, an Internet search of the International hospitals in Bangkok will provide all the information necessary regarding medical procedures available and the related costs. While the list is long, to start, your search should include the popular Bumrungrad Hospital, Bangkok Hospital,Samitivej Hospital, and Bangkok Nursing Home Hospital. They are all internationally accredited hospitals.

On the tourism side, Thailand is known as The Land of Smiles. It is often referred to as the most exotic country in Southeast Asia. In Bangkok a visit to the Grand Palace is a must see. Trips to a floating market or to the Bridge on the River Kwai, or other popular destinations, are easily arranged and inexpensive, even with a personal driver. A short flight or overnight train trip and you can be enjoying the pristine beaches in the Southern Islands or the Northern mountains with its waterfalls, elephants bathing in mountain streams, and Hill Tribe villages.

Consider Health Tourism in Thailand. You will readily see that you can have a medical procedure, and a wonderful holiday, all at less cost that you would have paid for the medical procedure alone in the West.

About the Author

Brian Bees has lived and worked in Asia for 28 years.

A "must read" overview on Thailand and other Asian countries is the Retire to Asia! E-Book. 67 pages of text and stunning photographs. Visit me at http://www.retiretoasia.net

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Stress Buster Holiday In Thailand

2009-06-06T20:59:00.000+07:00

If you desire for a memorable and unforgettable holiday, it will be very wise of you to land in Thailand, a place of serene environment with natural beauties. The beautiful waters and the magnificent view will make you forget all your sorrows till you are in this very place. People from all across the globe come here leaving behind all their stress and worldly tensions to watch the blue waters starting from their foot step and escaping into the long lost horizon. The place that attracts maximum visitors is Koh Samui, a beautiful island in Surat Thani, which is the largest province in southern Thailand. People visiting Koh Samui cannot help falling in love with its picturesque view.

Koh Samui is well equipped with both water and air transport facilities. If you want an adventurous start for your perfect holiday, you can always choose ferry transportation from Surat Thani and reach to the white sandy beaches of Koh Samui crossing the waving and rippling waters.

Tourists visiting Koh Samui don’t have to face any accommodation problem, thanks to a number of luxurious and affordable hotels and bungalows in the beautiful island. To add to the facilities of the tourists all the hotels and luxury bungalows are not very far from the most popular beaches like Bophut beach, Choeng Mon beach, Chaweng beach, Bang Rak beach and Mae Nam beach. Some of the notable hotels are Lamai Buri resort, Grand sea view resort, X2 Samui, Matlang resort, Serene Hill resort and many more. As these hotels are very close to the beaches you can take a quick walk to the beaches no matter which hotel you check in. You can enjoy watching the sun rising and setting. Any tourist wishing to live life in Thailand to the fullest can always go for the luxurious Ko Samui bungalows.

A coastal road encircles the palm-fringed paradise or the Koh Samui Island. The other attractions besides the lovely beaches are the coral beds, the coconut plantations as well as forested hills. The Lamai beach is very attractive for its magnificent view along with luxury accommodations. However if you wish, you can always try the adventure sports like aqua diving and aqua biking in the beaches like Chaweng and Bophut. Nathon is the capital of Koh Samui which is situated on the southwest coast of the island. The other primary tourist attractions include the Namtok Hin Lat water fall, buttery fly garden, Ban Lipa Yai village, Thong Takhian and the snake farm of Laem Set.

By: Suchi Thomson

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How To Successfuly Go Trekking In Northern Thailand

2009-06-05T01:47:00.000+07:00

Trekking throughout Northern Thailand has become a very fashionable extension to the standard sight-seeing tours that have operated in this area for many years. For thousands of tourists each year, along with the history & charm of Chiang Mai & its people, trekking has become a major drawer for the region.

The aim of this article is to provide hands on "how to" information to ensure that you get the very best from your particular trek.

Trekking in Northern Thailand provides its visitors with memories that will stay with them forever, it really is an unforgettable experience, I actually have a couple of friends who after trekking around Northern Thailand for a couple of weeks promptly went home, sold everything up and now live up in the mountains north of Chiang Rai, and confided to me recently that they had never been happier, it’s that life changing !.

Chiang Mai as the major city in the region, is also the “hub” for all the trekking orientated activities. The mountainous ranges that surround the city, offer lush un-spoilt tropical jungles & wilderness containing numerous wild plants & flowers, including hundreds of varieties of wild flowering Orchids.

This area is also home to several groups of Hill Tribes People ,who migrated to Northern Thailand from Myanmar & China up to around 200 years ago.These trekking adventures provide the perfect opportunity to view first-hand the traditional lifestyles of the major groups of different ethnic hill tribes including the Lisu, Karen, Long Necks, Akha, Lahu, & Hmong hill tribes. Many of the treks are actually built around the hill tribe villages & people all which adds up to a fantastic adventure for both the visitors & the locals.

A good trekking guide will help explain the traditions, the unique tribal and spiritual beliefs and their rituals.

While the increasing popularity of trekking has seen some commercialisation of these ethnic groups, this does not need to detract from experiencing their unique culture and gaining an understanding of the hill tribes’ history, traditions,culture & values.

Providing that you are reasonably fit, not heavily pregnant, or a child under 6 years of age, and that you don't mind 'roughing it' a bit, then Thailand trekking is just right for you.

The treks undertaken are completely safe and the trekking is generally well organised, with registered guides leading you along well worn routes.

Chiang Mai as the trekking centre, is the place I suggest you use to book your trek, DON’T book anything on the internet, DON’T book anything until you arrive !, there are MANY different tour companies / shops offering EVERY type of tour & timescale imaginable.

Many of the guesthouses also double up as trekking tour specialists. Several of the trekking companies also have smaller satellite offices located around the main tourist areas of the Night Bazaar, Thapae Road & the eastern areas of the old city. Please check out both the Google Map for the centre of Chiang Mai & the rather fabulous Interactive Photographic Map of Chiang mai centre !!

You need to take time visiting several of the different tour companies to ensure you get EXACTLY the mix of activities that you want, don’t take notice of taxi drivers, tuk-tuk drivers, songthaew drivers or anyone else that is likely to be making money from their recommendations !!.

The main areas that the trekking tours operate in are Mae Hong Son (12hrs), Pai(6hrs) & Chiang Dao(3hrs) all north-west of Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai(6hrs) (hrs in brackets denotes travelling time from Chiang Mai) north of Chiang Mai.

Pai is also a good alternative as a base, as it is located between Mae Hong Son & Chiang Dao and offers quite a substantial range of various treks from this small town located on a plateau with mountains all around, this is quite a popular alternative to the bustle of Chiang Mai.

Pai really is an enchanting place, with a lovely winding river running through it, and lots of Homestay properties that follow the course of the river.

A few suggestions & tips to ensure you get the best of your trek:

1. What is the right size of trekking group ?: – it should always be less than 10 people, ideally 6-8 is a nicely balanced group size.

2. Who is the leader ?:- trekking alone in the mountains around Northern Thailand is NOT advised, use the services of a registered guide, all registered guides have to undertake a month’s training at the University of Chiang Mai before receiving certification. Make sure your tour operator confirms that they are also registered with T.A.T.(Tourism Authority of Thailand) before handing any money over. The T.A.T. has strict guidelines the agencies must follow to insure the trekker receives the best service with good reliable guides. You could also ask to see recommendation letters from previous satisfied “trekkies”, this is common practice and they are used to it.

3. How long are the treks?:- its really up to you, the shortest ones are just a few hours, the longest ones can be a couple of weeks, the most popular are the one & two day treks, the one day treks are typically for the people that don’t want “too much culture” ie staying out overnight, sleeping on a mat, covered by a mozzy net, eating “local” food !!. The two day treks are definitely for the hardier types who have more of the “explorer” instincts. But again it really depends on what you want from your trek you can include white-water rafting, riding elephants, bamboo rafting, jungle trekking, kayaking etc, etc.

4. Where will we stay?:- accommodation & food on ALL overnight treks is “basic”, thats half the fun, beds typically are mats made of straw with just blankets & a mosquito net to cover you, food is typically rice (with everything), fish & vegetables. It is a good idea to take chocolates, snacks & fizzy drinks with you as you will be burning a lot of energy, and some people will not take to the local food as well as others.

5. What will I need to take with me?:- Things to bring
(you can get all of these things cheaply in Chiang Mai)
- Small backpack / rucksack
- Warm, weatherproof clothing (particularly from Nov. to Feb)
- Sun block
- Lightweight raincoat / plastic poncho
- Sandals (Teva or Teva-style is good for walking through the river - as long as you don't need ankle support these are good for the whole trek for most of the year.)
- Sturdy weatherproof footwear with good grips (not essential if you are happy walking in Tevas).
- Socks (for the evenings)
- Long trousers / pants are good for parts of the trek (the ones where you can unzip the legs are ideal)
- Torch / Flashlight (+ extra batteries)
- Towel
- Hat
- Insect Repellant
- Some people like to bring along a cotton sheet / cotton sleeping bag liner for sleeping in / under.
- Money for soft drinks / beers / handicrafts / tips (small notes can be useful)

6. What is the best time of year to go?:- Chiang Mai area generally has excellent weather throughout the year, however avoid June – October as that is the rainy season, outside of that period is fine, if you choose December or January make sure you take plenty of spare clothes, it can get very chilly during the winter nights !!.

7. How to choose which trek?:- you need to first of all decide what you want included, also do you want "rigorous" trekking, or something "easier" more like a ramble. Ensure you get exactly what you want, don’t be hurried or pushed by the agents, there are plenty to choose from. Don’t just go for the cheapest trek, weigh everything up carefully, if its too cheap corners are cut which will usually result in a disappointing result.

8. What will it cost?:- costs vary tremendously as you would expect, but purely to be used as a guide(based upon 6-8 people):
1x full day tour - typically 2,500/3,000thb/person
2x full day trek - typically 2,000thb/person/day
3x full day trek - typically 1,500/2,000thb/person/day

But remember, its not about getting the cheapest price, its ALL about finding the right ingredients within the trek that you want, along with the "demands" of the trek to meet your own fitness levels.

By just following this simple guide, it will ensure that you too have memories of your time in Northern Thailand for many years to come.

By: Kevin Butters

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Beach Resorts in Thailand

2009-06-03T20:22:00.000+07:00

A country home to breathtaking beaches, Thailand attracts beach lovers in droves from all around the world. If all you were looking for was an idyllic beach holiday, Thailand is the best place to be in this summer! The most beautiful beaches of Thailand are found in Pattaya, Phuket, Bangkok and Koh Samui. The ideally located beach resorts in Thailand give you easy access to the exciting beach activities.

Phuket Island in Thailand is home to the finest range of beaches. It is one of the favorite destinations for tourists seeking an ultimate tropical holiday! Beach lovers and adventure enthusiasts visiting Phuket from all across the world will get no dearth of beach resorts. Phuket hotels are available in a variety of categories and prices. Accommodation in Phuket varies from luxury hotels to cheap hotels, guest houses to family hotels. The lovely beaches of Phuket such as the Kata Beach, Patong Beach, Karon Beach, Bangtao Beach and Kamala Beach are some of the quiet retreats for the harried traveler! These serene beaches are also home to some of the finest beach resorts in Thailand. Whether you want to spend a relaxing holiday or want to indulge in a great variety of adventure activities, Thailand beach hotels and resorts are conveniently located for your full satisfaction! Lamai Apartment, Chada Guest House, Blue Sky Residence Patong, Lamai Guesthouse, The Bird Cage Patong Guesthouse Phuket, Phuttasa Residence Patong, Toy Beach Residence Patong and Seven Seas Hotel Patong are some of the finest names amongst beach resorts in Thailand.

You will get the best bargains and discounts on some of the beach hotels and resorts services. You have to consult discount hotel booking services to get the lowest rates on your hotel. You can compare rates of the best Thailand beach resorts from hotel booking worldwide before you reserve your hotel.

Bangkok is not home to beaches. But the neighboring islands of Bangkok have some of the beautiful beaches of Thailand. You can arrive at the Suvarnabhumi Airport at Bangkok and get to the nearest beach spots within a few hours. Jomtien Beach, Pattaya, Bang Saen, Koh samet Island, Cha Am, Pranburi and Hua Hin are some of the most popular beaches close to Bangkok. The nearby beaches of Jomtien, Hua Hin and Cha Am offer you both luxury beach hotels and cheap hotels. You can avail accommodations in and around Bangkok to access your beachfront destination conveniently. You can find out more about Bangkok hotels from online hotel booking sites. If you want to grab the best discounts on the hotel amenities, you can consult discount hotel booking sites.

If you are looking for a relaxing beachfront experience near Bangkok, you can visit the beautiful islands near Bangkok. A beachfront experience on the Koh Chang, Koh Tao and Koh Samet Islands, near Bangkok is a must for beach-lovers visiting Thailand. If you want to have some fun diving, the Koh Tao Island is the best place for you. You will get some of the best beachfront accommodations at the on Koh Chang Island, Koh Samet Island and Koh Tao in Thailand.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/beach-resorts-in-thailand-870820.html

Budget Travel In Thailand: How To Travel In Thailand With Style And Without Bankruptcy

2009-05-30T01:50:00.000+07:00

Thailand was my first tourist destination outside Europe and North America. Based on the sage advice of my Thailand-experienced friends, I was sure that this paradise vacation would be carried out on ridiculous costs. However, back home, I have found out too late, that during my little Thailand adventure I have spent almost the same amount of money as one of my regular surges to Europe. If only I knew that carefully planning your trip to Thailand can manifest itself in huge savings. The following list includes some solid advice that can help those novice Thailand visitors to save significant amounts of cash and still enjoy their vacation:

1. Season choice. Traveling in Thailand Islands during the low season can save you up to 25% of the accommodation costs (up to 25$ per bungalow per night if you choose high standard – not luxury - accommodation). Similar to many other world locations that are based operate seasonally; there is a significant price fluctuation across seasons. Not less important is that fact that the weather in Thailand is quite pleasant even during the low season. The temperatures’ difference between the “hot season” and the “peak season” is miniscule, and during the “wet season” one can experience only a mild occasional rain. Therefore, in Thailand one can lower accommodation costs by avoiding the peak season without paying the price of suffering from unbearable cold or coping with endless monsoon.

2. Transportation. Getting from Bangkok to your final destination in one of the Southern Islands by train or bus instead of by plane can save you up to 80$ each way. You can save a bundle if you arrive to Bangkok International Airport in the evening. In this case you save, besides the gap between relatively expensive airfare and train or bus ticket, the first night’s accommodation cost as well (40$ - 100$ per bungalow per night in high standard – not luxury - accommodation).

3. Food. In Western style countries, the more you pay for your dinner the better it is, so everyone can make a personal decision about getting an appropriate cost – benefit balance. In Thailand, and especially in the Southern Islands it is much simpler: in most cases, the cheaper the better. Expensive restaurants in Thailand Islands usually specialize on Western food that is neither authentic nor of superior taste; a standard dinner will cost you 10$ - 30$ in a restaurant of this kind. Alternatively, the dinner in a cheap restaurant with plastic chairs will cost you 3$ - 8$ and it is usually both tasty and authentic. My most disappointing Thai dinner was served in a fancy restaurant in Bangkok and had cost 120$ for a couple, whereas my best dinner was served in a cheap family restaurant in Koh Phangan. The owner - young mom named Mam – prepared the meal for us exactly as we wished it would be and charged us with measly 5-6$ per person.

4. Air Conditioning. The presence of air conditioning in your room can make a huge difference in accommodation rates. For example, the same room rates in the same resort can vary from 15$-30$ for a bungalow with a fan to 40$ - 100$ for an air-conditioned bungalow. Although choosing an air-conditioned room during the hot season (such as March – April) is crucial, if you visit Southern Thailand during the rainy season – a bungalow with a fan can both satisfy your needs and cut your expenses in more than a half.

5. Location choice. Similar to the principle held in most places in the world, the accommodation rates in Thailand Islands depend on your location choice. The bungalow in the central beach, close to the airport or seaport full of thriving nightlife will probably be twice as expensive as the same bungalow in a remote quiet beach. However, accessibility is an issue in the Thailand Islands, and the taxi fares and taxi boat fares operate under the same principal as the accommodation rates. So there is a rule you may adopt: if you are looking for social activities and busy nightlife– stay close to the airport or seaport; otherwise make a little effort and move after your arrival to a remote beach. You will save up to 60% on the accommodation rates this way.

6. Communication. It will probably not come as a complete shock, but the use of cellular phone from outside of Thailand could be extremely expensive. To save on communication costs you can either buy a local cellular phone with prepaid SIM card or use the Telephone & Internet centers services. Mind you that the cost of these services may vary. As usual, if you’re calling overseas from your resort’s office – it will be more expensive than using a call center in the town. The cheapest solution is probably giving your phone number to your friends or relatives overseas since every call center has a phone number that can be used for calling back.

7. Price negotiation. In tourist locations in Thailand negotiation is a necessity or a way of life. Likewise, in the less touristy islands and areas price bargaining is accepted as well. Just try it – in Thailand price negotiation isn’t considered an embarrassing behavior, so you have nothing to lose.

8. Psychology. Although, in Thailand everything is perceived to be cheaper than in your home country, don’t be fooled by the seemingly low prices and control your expenses. Buying an enormous amount of inexpensive things can really add up to a surprisingly large sum of money.

During my last visit to Thailand, I followed these guidelines with persistence and I was happy to disclose, that budget travel in Thailand can be more than just an economical issue, it can also be enjoyable. Interestingly enough, in Thailand, the less you spend – the closer you get to the local authentic experience.

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Beaches in Thailand

2009-05-27T23:47:00.000+07:00

The endless beaches of Thailand are a major attraction amongst beach lovers from around the world. The golden white sandy beaches and clear blue waters make for a picturesque view. Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Hua Hin and Krabi are home to the most pristine beaches in Thailand. You find a lot of things to do on the beaches in Thailand. You won’t find a dearth of activities to keep you busy all day. Reaching the lovely Thailand beaches won’t be a problem for you. A range of accommodations-from luxury to cheap hotels and excellent beach resorts have come up near the popular beaches to cater to the requirements of the beach lover. Most of the Thailand hotels and resorts, located near the beaches are designed to offer you a perfect beachfront experience. You can go through hotel booking worldwide online to know about the best hotels in Thailand. Explore the various beaches in Thailand below and consult the online hotel booking services to reserve a hotel of your choice. If you are looking for the best discounts, you can go through discount hotel booking online.

The Cha-Am Beach in Cha-Am (Phetchaburi) in Thailand is a must see on Thailand beach tours. It is regarded as the best beach in Phetchaburi. Cha-am shot to fame Hua Hin, its neighboring island, was recognized as a royal resort destination. Travelers come from Bangkok to visit the peaceful beachfront experience on weekends. For an authentic Thai beach resort experience, the Cha-Am Beach is the best place to be in. You can glam up your dining experience with exquisite dishes and drinks at the numerous restaurants and bars dotting the Cha-Am Beach stretch. Here you will get a chance to enjoy a beachfront dining experience on a deck chair under an umbrella. You can go on a donkey ride or hire bicycles on rent to go around the region. There are lots of food stalls with scrumptious snacks on offer.

The Chao Samran Beach is another popular name in Cha-Am (Phetchaburi) in Thailand. It is the nearest beach from Phetburi. This peaceful beach has earned much popularity amongst the locals and tourists in recent years. You will find a few modern amenities at the beach including a police station, a beach wat and a number of supermarkets. The stretch between Haad Chao Samran and Haad Puk Tian is a bird watcher’s paradise. The Puk Tien Beach, located Cha-Am (Phetchaburi) attracts those who love quiet and peaceful beaches.

Close to in Cha-Am (Phetchaburi), Hua Hin also boasts of some of the finest beaches in Thailand. The Bang Saphan Beach Hua Hin (Prachuab Khiri Khan) is a well-known name in Hua Hin. Located at a distance of 380 kilometers from Bangkok, the Bang Saphan Beach brings in a lot of travelers on day trips. Koh Talu along the Bang Saphan Beach is home to major attractions. You don’t have to worry about accommodations. A long list of beach resorts, hotels, guesthouses, bungalows and resorts are located along Bangsaphan in Hua Hin. From the Bang Saphan Beach, you can visit the Hua Hin Beach. It is all about activity and fun. If you are looking for absolute exclusivity, the Pranburi beach in Hua Hin is an ideal destination to be in. Koh Samui beaches including Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai are some of the best beaches in Thailand. Other renowned beaches are Bangsaen Beach, Jomtien Beach and Naklua Beach in Pattaya and Patong Beach, Rawai Beach, Surin Beach, Kamala Beach and Karon Beach in Phuket.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/vacation-rentals-articles/beaches-in-thailand-870867.html

Thailand Shopping Festival

2009-05-25T21:57:00.000+07:00

The beautiful country of Thailand boasts of historical, cultural attractions, unique shopping destinations, scenic beaches and luxurious spa experiences. For those who feel weak in their knees with a mention of shopping, Thailand is a must visit. One of the principal attractions of Thailand, the shopping festival attracts millions of shoppers from around the world. Thailand takes up a colorful and vibrant look during the shopping festival. Celebrated with grandeur and splendor in the major cities of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai, Songkla and Pattaya, the Thailand Shopping Festival is an important landmark on the cultural landmark of Thailand. If you are looking for the most suitable accommodation to cater to your needs and requirements, you will not get a dearth of options. Both luxury and cheap Thailand hotels are available to meet your requirement.

As dates can often change, you must refer to the hotel booking worldwide sites for detailed information on the program. The online hotel booking sites not only provide you information on the various categories of hotels in Thailand, but also their location and attractions nearby. You must be well informed about the updated information, before you book your travel tickets.

Go through the various online hotel booking sites, compare rates and reserve your hotel right now. Make sure that your hotel enjoys close access to the major venues of the Thailand shopping festival. The Thailand shopping festival or the Thailand Grand Sale as it is popularly known takes place over 2 months. This 2-month period is all about reveling in fun, frolic, excitement and unending shopping. Hosted during the period between June and August, the Thailand shopping festival offers you a world-class shopping experience. You will get a colorful range of products here and that too at unbeatable discount rates. The discounts range from a minimum 50% to a maximum of 50 per cent. The various department stores, retail centers and shopping units take this opportunity to make promotional offers. Amongst the popular venues of the Thailand Shopping Festival, the Shopping Streets' in Bangkok deserve a mention. Apart from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket and Hat Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima is an important venue for this festival.

The 'Shopping Streets' in Bangkok is transformed into a bargainer’s paradise during this time. It provides a perfect platform to purchase the best buys. Beautiful craft items and cottage industry goods, featuring skillfully made decorative items are some of the best buys here. These are available in both traditional as well as contemporary style.

Check out for the discount rates at the various shopping outlets. Avail a jaw dropping discount of about 50 per cent on your favorite product! You can also look for free gift coupons and ,lucky draw prizes here. Bangkok’s shopping street extends from the Siam Discovery Center intersection to the Emporium along Sukhumvit Road. You will get world-famous shopping outlets including Siam Center, Central World Plaza, Siam Discovery Center, Gaysorn, Erawan Bangkok and Amarin Plaza here.

Avail of the huge discounts on luxury goods and items and enjoy a memorable shopping experience. Apart from discounts on shopping, you can avail discounts on your accommodation as well. You need to book a discount hotel in advance from the various discount hotel booking sites online.

By: Mark1

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Dive by Day, Stay in Luxury at Night in Thailand

2009-05-23T02:27:00.000+07:00

Thailand is one of the world's foremost dive sites, second only to natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef. The weather is warm, the sea is coolly inviting, and the fish life is rich and varied, due to a largely unpolluted underwater environment. There are some famous dive sites in Thailand, very popular with tourists, and some not so famous ones that are equally worthwhile (as well as much quieter!).

By the same token, there are some famous accommodation in Thailand available, and some 'off the beaten track' luxury villas in Thailand that are even better. If you're planning a diving holiday to Thailand, you'll bne looking at staying in either Phuket, Khao Lak, or Krabi, for Ao Nang Beach. These offer the best combination of resort atmosphere and facilities, and spectacular diving.

If you are looking for a party at night time, Phuket is the ideal diving spot and the best place to look for luxury Thai accommodation. The Andaman sea has some very individual cobinations of wildlife, and if the fish are your passion, you'll want to stay at Khao Lak. Krabi coastline is legendary for its beauty, so if quiet and majestic surrounds are what you want, you'll be diving here at Ao Nang Beach.

If you are looking at diving in the Andaman Sea, go between November and April. Whale sharks can be seen in the Andaman Sea from around February to May, and there are plenty of manta rays all year round.

However, there can be heavy rains in the Andaman Sea in October, and these reduce visibility by around 30% in the dive sites that are still open. Between August and May is when the Andaman sea is at its lowest, and you can see small animals and plenty of varied reef life. Good for diving beginners. If the Andaman sea is your dive location of choice, then Phuket will be where your luxury villa in Thailand will be. For an authentic Thai experience, trying living in a traditional Thai style home, only in the lap of luxury, at a villa like Anathura in Patong.

This vacation villa in Thailand sleeps 4 people, and its high ceilings, gorgeous teak floors and 50m outdoor swimming pool make for nights that are peaceful, with plenty of room to stretch.

Ao Nang Beach in Krabi is one of Thailand's most colourful dive spots, with at least 60 species of corals, a large population of gorgonian seafans, and shrimps and crabs galore. Schools of barracuda and groups of squid and leopard sharks make for some adrenaline pumping large additions! Krabi is a peaceful area of Thailand, and the luxury villa rentals in Thailand in the Krabi area match the mood of their environment. The enormous Pimalai pool villas in Thailand give you the opportunity to stretch out the kinks after a hard day's dive, soothing and refreshing yourself in privacy and luxury.

This Thailand accommodation has a master bedroom facing the bay, and can sleep 3 people. The decor is natural and sparse, with an innate quality and elegance. The rain shower and window panel for the bathtub complete the experience of connecting with nature in this luxury villa in Thailand.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/dive-by-day-stay-in-luxury-at-night-in-thailand-601390.html

Luxury Hotels in Thailand: Living in Luxury in Thailand

2009-05-18T23:20:00.001+07:00

Welcome to Thailand which is one of the well-known tourist destinations of South-East Asia. Thailand shares borders with Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. Tourists come to Thailand for its great beaches, fascinating culture, delicious cuisines and a truly a tropical climate. To offer quality accommodation to travelers, there are numerous luxury hotels in Thailand.

Accommodation

The luxury hotels in Thailand are concentrated in major cities and tourist areas.

The luxury hotels in Thailand are concentrated in places like Bangkok, Pattaya, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Surat Thani, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

The beaches in Thailand also houses luxury hotels to accommodate the tourist. During your tour to Ko Chang island which is about 330 kilometers from Bangkok you can choose from various luxury hotels of the area. Some of the noted luxury hotels are Alina Grande Resort, Koh Chang Kacha Resort & Spa, Amari Emerald Cove Resort, Garden Resort and Gajapuri Resort and Spa.

Phuket, one of the largest islands also shelters several luxury hotels of Thailand like Adamas Resort Spa, Amora Resort, Avantika Boutique Hotel, Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa and Laguna Beach Resort. You will also find several luxury hotels in Thailand’s islands and beaches like Krabi, Ko Samui, Ko Lanta and Ko Pha Ngan.

If you are planning to visit Bangkok you can plan to stay in the luxurious hotels to enjoy luxury at its best. Khao San Road and Rattanakosin area of Bangkok has several luxury hotels. Luxury hotels like Amari Watergate Hotel, Shangri - La Hotel Bangkok, JW Marriott Hotel and Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Hotel offers easy reach to Suvarnabhumi Airport and tourist spots like Wat Arun, The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho.

The luxury hotels in Thailand are the epitome of optimum comfort and luxury. Thailand luxury hotels are known for their royal hospitality and international standards facilities and services. The luxury hotels in Bangkok have restaurant, swimming pool, spa, sauna, fitness center and business center equipped with modern state-of-art-equipments. Most of the luxury hotels also offer currency exchange facilities for its international guests.

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History of US Consulate in Chiang Mai

2009-05-17T01:13:00.000+07:00

The U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai is a one of a quickly diminishing number of historic properties serving as diplomatic posts for the United States government overseas. In an era of non-descript office blocks, the Consulate evokes an earlier time of pergolas draped in riotous explosions of bougainvillea, the subtle scent of frangipani, and the gentle breeze of a slowly turning ceiling fan. Once the royal residence of the last prince of Northern Thailand, Chao Kaew Nawarat, the history of the Consulate allows its staff to justifiably say they work in a very special place.

Previously known as the Chedi Ngarm, or Beautiful Pagoda Palace, the Consulate grounds have a number of distinct historic buildings, some over 100 years old. The first royal notable to take up residence was Chao Dara Rasmi, Princess Consort of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn, Rama V. In 1914, four years after the death of Rama V, Princess Dara Rasmi returned to her family home of Chiang Mai and resided in a teak house located within the compound. She later moved to another residence in the nearby village of Mae Rim and her brother Major General Chao Kaew Nawarat, the ninth and last Prince of the Northern Thai Lanna Chuen Jet Ton dynasty, moved into the royal compound. Prince Kaew Nawarat built a house on the grounds of the royal compound in 1923 as a wedding gift to his daughter Chao Siriprakai Na Chiengmai. In 1926 Princess Siriprakai's home would host the visit of the ill-fated Majesty King Prapoklao, who was later deposed in 1934, and Queen Ram Pai Panni. Consulate staff and the sections of the consulate's communications center presently occupy that residence.

The happiness of the King and Queen's visit would be soon forgotten in 1933 because of the death of Princess Dara Rasmi. Her coffin lay in state at the Chedi Ngarm Palace from December 1933 to April 1934. Later that same year, Prince Kaew Nawarat would replace the old teak residence with a new home, now the Consul General's residence. The house, designed by an Italian architect, was built in the then popular Anglo-Burmese style. A Chinese-style sala, or pavilion was also built. The sala now serves as the waiting room and offices of the Consular section. Prince Kaew Nawarat was not able to enjoy his new home for long as he died in June 1939. His body lay in state in the sala from June to July 1939, in the same place that today's applicants for visas and citizen services wait.

The death of Prince Kaew Nawarat closed a chapter on the history of the royal residence. The government of Siam no longer recognized the semi-autonomous principality of northern Thailand, once part of the great kingdom of Lanna that had been founded in 1296 by King Mengrai. The central government established direct control from Bangkok and the Chedi Ngam property was sold to the Office of the Royal Crown Properties.

In September 1, 1950, a new chapter of the history began with the signing by U.S. Ambassador Edwin F. Stanton and Thai Deputy Minister of Finance Sawet Piamphongsarn of a lease for Chedi Ngarm Palace and grounds. The Consulate still maintains its lease with the Office of Royal Crown Properties.

Through the diligent efforts of Consul Harlen Y.M. Lee (in office from 1982-1985), the Consulate became a Consulate General in 1986 and it continued its close association with Thai royalty. In January 2003, the Consulate had the privilege to host the visit of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn.

With Foreign Service life requiring constant moving from post to post and the growing homogeneity of the mission buildings, few Foreign Service officers gain any sense of attachment to or appreciation for the offices in which they work. At the U.S. Consulate General in Chiang Mai, the beauty and history of the classic teak buildings serve as a reminder of how fortunate the Consulate staff is to work in a former royal residence.

About The Author:
Larry Westfall is a frequent Thailand visitor and owner of Resort Krabi
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Thailand Property | Property In Phuket | Property Phuket

2009-05-16T04:09:00.000+07:00

Kingdom of Thailand is a constitutional monarchy and is unique among Southeast Asian nations whose traditions are rooted in centuries of freedom. It is highly regarded as a cost effective and geographically ideal regional base for international employees working all around Asia. Beautiful mountains, dense forests and mile after mile of white sandy beaches and turquoise seas lapping at the shore, a tropical climate draw visitors back each year. Thailand has good schools, an efficient health care system, world class infrastructure and facilities which make it a very attractive retirement destination, Retirees and others looking to invest in thailand property are keeping the south-east Asian country of Thailand top for second homes.

The Thailand property market has moved with recent economic and political conditions to provide worthwhile opportunities for shrewd investors. The key drivers behind the thailand property market are economic growth and increase in tourism (Thailand is considered as one of the most popular Asian tourist destination for phuket hotel resorts, phuket islands, phuket villas, private islands) will result into further thailand property development. With annual capital growth of between ten and 15 per cent, the market offers profitable investment opportunities and is subsequently seeing an influx of buyers looking for attractive property in phuket investment opportunities. Swift economic growth underpins this property boom and is likely to have an accumulative effect as property growth leads to increased tourism. According to international property analysts, Thailand's property outlook remains healthy, especially within the residential and the office building sectors.

The average price of a medium–sized thailand homes is under USD $40,000. Since property prices are now at an opportunistic low, discerning real estate companies phuket, are taking advantage of the low prices, particularly now, in times of global economic crisis and temporary political unrest in Thailand. They will sit back and observe the value of their properties increase gradually over time and enjoy the fruit. The country has attracted the interest of developers in real estate phuket, airlines and holidaymakers and that those looking to purchase homes abroad should also consider the location. There is ample scope for buyers looking for different types of thailand homes and investment opportunities. People are looking for investment, for holiday homes, people looking to use a property for a couple of months’ for work; it's a whole mixture for all sorts of market. Most popular areas to invest in include Bangkok, Koh Samui and Phuket.

These destinations offer some of the world's most luxurious properties. New flights to Phuket and Koh Samui are providing alternatives for property investors considering making a purchase in Thailand. The property market in Bangkok has a large unsold inventory of condos that offer very low prices, adding that demand for these properties is likely to increase when investors discover the selection of cheap investment opportunities that are available. property in phuket development is expanding to four small nearby islands because of the demand .The government in Thailand has unveiled a new financial aid package that could benefit helping homeowners and property investors in the country as it is not immune from current economic crisis. Increased political stability will help its popularity further and stave off competition from other Asian countries.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/thailand-property-property-in-phuket-property-phuket-887658.html

Take a Vacation to Thailand

2009-05-14T01:28:00.000+07:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/take-a-vacation-to-thailand-349604.html

Do You Want to Try Some of the Luxury Hotels Thailand Has to Offer?

2009-05-10T17:45:00.000+07:00

If exploring exotic locations around the world, visiting an elephant nature park and exploring ancient temples are your cup of tea, Thailand is the destination for you. Before you take in the sights and bask in the warmth of Thai hospitality, though, you may want to get settled first in one of the country's most recommended luxury hotels. Thailand boasts of many nice and lovely hotels that offer incredible value for money.

To make your selection a breeze, you can browse the Internet for an overview of some of the best luxury hotels Thailand has to offer. There are hotels that are a stone's throw from the mega shopping centers, or just a few steps away from a beach. If you are hankering for a quiet locale, Thailand offers awesome options in oceanside villas or luxury hotels. Thailand will long stay in your heart with the exquisite service, topnotch amenities, and spectacular provided by great accommodations.

Take for instance the Six Senses Hideaway Samui, which is quite a sight for harried souls in search for a haven. A magnificent getaway overlooking the Gulf, 66 split-level villas strewn across 20 acres of lush island property will just leave you breathless. It is acclaimed for its spa services, great food that can be enjoyed in a scenic and eco-friendly spot, and other exciting attractions or activities like champagne cruises in a private speedboat. Located on Samui Island's northern tip. You can check out Thailand hotel deals including bonus nights or honeymoon offers on the web in such an idyllic destination.

Or maybe you'd want to see for yourself how the Phuket's Royal Phuket Yacht Club Hotel was named "World's Best Leisure Hotel" by an internationally renowned tourism publication Originally known as the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the premier luxury hotel to rise in Phuket, it is the perfect spot for relaxation before embarking on a sightseeing trip. While in this hotel, among those that may be found on web listings of special Thailand hotel deals, you can savor a sumptuous lobster meal with the freshest ingredients or enjoy the afternoon teas while imagining that some of the most famous writers, royalty, and celebrities once stayed there. While at the Royal Phuket Yacht Club, you may take the opportunity to indulge in the hotel's well-known spa, where you can enjoy soothing Thai body remedies fused with western spa treatments.

There are many other luxury hotels Thailand is raring to offer you. At the mesmerizing Anantara Resort Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai overlooking the Mekong River, the many wonders of a nature retreat are at your fingertips. Plush amenities characterize the Anantara Suites and nearby, an elephant camp for great trekking adventure beckons.

You can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Thailand by selecting from the largest selection Thailand hotel deals and discount prices you can find on the Internet. There are smart Thailand hotel deals that even those who are planning a brief business stay in the land of smiles. Check out exclusive Thailand hotel deals that enable you to stay for two nights and get the third night free. Among the five-star luxury hotels Thailand has in store for you, you will surely be delighted with Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai, quite near some of the city's popular night bazaars and a few minutes' drive away from the international airport.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/do-you-want-to-try-some-of-the-luxury-hotels-thailand-has-to-offer-798359.html

Thailand Hotels: Setting Standards

2009-05-08T21:51:00.000+07:00

Thailand is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world. With its breath-taking natural beauty, ancient temples, mouth-watering cuisine and comfortable accommodation options, Thailand has truly become a traveler’s paradise. The kingdom of Thailand has lovely hotels and resorts to provide visitors world-class hospitality. The Thailand hotels are successfully catering to the needs of even the most discerning traveler. They are creating standards for themselves. The Thailand accommodation options are well known for their warm hospitality and friendly services.

One of the world-class hotels in Thailand is the Nirvana Place Hotel. The hotel is situated between Jomtien and Pattaya, overlooking the clear azure waters of the Gulf of Siam. This 5-star Nirvana Place Hotel has cozy rooms, with a wide array of facilities and services. Travelers can choose from the decorated one and two bedroom luxury boutique suites to stay in style and elegance. The dining and recreational facilities in this hotel are satisfying.

Anantara Resort & Spa Golden Triangle, located in Chiang Rai is one of the finest accommodation options in Thailand. This resort offers privacy, luxury, comfort and tranquility to all its guests. The rooms are elegantly decorated and come with a wide range of in-room amenities. This Anantara Resort & Spa Golden Triangle is a perfect hillside retreat, away from regular hustle-bustle of city life.

In Bangkok, tourists will get the Amari Boulevard Hotel to reside in. This luxury hotel of Thailand is set on the Sukhumvit Road area, which is one of the city’s most lovely destinations. The hotel is comfortable, convenient and is well-known for its personalized services and friendly behavior. The Amari Boulevard Hotel features varied and modern amenities to make you feel comfortable and nice.

Among the famous Thailand hotels, one can stay in Best Western Ban Ao Nang Resort. The resort is located in Krabi in southern Thailand. The location of this Best Western Ban Ao Nang Resort is simply great, with Ao Nang Bay and beach within a walking distance. This resort offers convenience to leisure and business travelers alike.

The Serene Hill Boutique Health Resort and Spa is situated in Koh Samui, one of the popular tourist destinations in Thailand. With its central location, the resort is within easy reach from major tourist attractions and business centers in Koh Samui. The resort is known for its tranquil settings and cordial services.

There are also many budget hotels for the budget-conscious travelers. One of the nice budget hotels in Thailand is the Club Coconut Resort Hotel in Phuket. Club Coconut Resort Hotel offers peaceful accommodation coupled with word-class hospitality and friendly services.

Another good budget hotel is Anyavee Railay Resort Hotel, located in Krabi. The resort is located at a short distance from the famous Railay East beach in Krabi. The property offers peace and tranquility and user-friendly services. Travelers can easily reach this hotel from the Krabi airport.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/thailand-hotels-setting-standards-420024.html

Places Of Interest On Your Holidays in Thailand

2009-05-05T22:18:00.000+07:00

Thailand has some great holiday home accommodation that holiday makers can rent while staying in Thailand on their vacations. Some holiday makers rent luxurious villas with swimming pools on one of Thailand's many clean beautiful beaches. Some holiday makers stay in self catering holiday apartments in Thailand.

A rich and colourful country, Thailand is a land of exotic monuments, splendid beaches, temples, shrines, waterfalls and lush green landscapes. Thailand is flanked by Myanmar, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos and the Gulf of Thailand. The country's tradition, culture and heritage attract many tourists from around the world. Visitors can get an up and close view of the Thailand and its people with boat rides and rice-barge cruises. Thailand is a blend of both traditional and modern.

Bangkok, the capital city is a popular destination for tourists. The city is the business centre and the hub of economic and political affairs. It is referred to as Krung Thep. Many holiday makers stay in a holiday apartment in Bangkok and experience the night life to the full of this capital city of Thailand.

The river Chao Phraya flows through the city. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo, the temple complex which is home to the Emerald Buddha, are also found in Bangkok. The city has drastically changed and become a slick, prosperous and modern place. The city is also home to around 300 Buddhist temples and shrines. The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is the most famous temple in the city. The floating market, modern night clubs, and many historically important buildings make this city such a popular tourist destination.

Chiang Mai is the second-largest city in Thailand and has many interesting views to offer in the form of ancient and beautiful temples, teak forests, elephants, caves, waterfalls and a visit to the hill tribes. Doi Suthep temple and elephant trekking are very popular with tourists staying here. Doi Suthep another famous temple in Thailand that is located on a hilltop. Elephant trekking allows the tourists to get a closer look at the natural splendour and wonderful places of the city.

Kanchanaburi province is filled with jungle clad hills and waterways. The town is the original site of the popular and historically famous Bridge over the River Kwai where allied prisoners of war and Thai labourers were killed by the Japanese. Train trips are arranged for a visit across the post war bridge and this is a very moving and emotional experience.

The Phang Nga Bey is located near to Phuket. The bay shot to international fame after the area featured in the James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. Around 3500 islands are scattered in this bay. The islands are home to fauna and flora. For many decades the islands were considered impenetrable but now canoe trips are arranged for the tourists and the locals through the tunnels and the cracks in the rocks. There are some stunning holiday villas in this part of Thailand.

Ko Phi Phi Islands are yet another place to visit on your holidays in Thailand. The twin islands are full of natural splendour. The largest of the two, Ko Phi Phi Don, is dumbbell shaped and has a coastline that is full of white beaches and further inland tropical rainforest.

It does not matter if you want to stay at the hill tribe villages, go elephant trekking, adventurous boat rides or admiring the stunning seascapes and landscapes, Thailand can provide them all. Many holiday makers choose to rent a holiday villa or stay in a self catering apartment during their holiday in Thailand and use them as a base to explore this stunning country.

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