by Monice Dulcinea
No wonder people love to travel to Thailand these days. It's hot. It's fun. And it's cheap. Everything here is cheap -- hotels, food, shopping -- you name it. A coconut costs 20 baht (that's around 50 cents -US). A bowl of noodle costs from 30 to 70 baht (depending on how nice the restaurant is).
Hotels in Thailand are cheap. They have hotels to suit any budget you have. If you're a backpacker and want to stay in Bangkok, Kaosan road is your ideal destination. It's dirt cheap. If you have deeper pocket, you can stay in a small hotel for $40. But if you have $100 or $200, go for a nicer hotel. It's all worth it. You can be sure that the service is second to none. When you leave Bangkok for the beach, you have the choice of cheap bungalows or prettier resorts. You can book a room in advance or you can just walk in. Feel free to a look around and pick the resort you like once you get there.
You'll have a great time in Thailand. Bangkok is the capital. And you shouldn't miss it for the world. Dress politely and take a taxi to the Grand Palace, Wat Pra Kaew ("Wat" means temple in Thai) and Wat Po. If your hotel is by the Chao Phraya river (the main river in Bangkok), book the hotel's cruise for dinner. Also, remember to spend a weekend in Bangkok. Put on your summer outfit and take a taxi to Jatujak weekend market (open on Saturdays and Sundays). They have everything here. And when I say everything, I mean it -- from clothing, accessories, Thai handicrafts, to furniture. The place is huge. Be there around 11, have lunch there, and enjoy your shopping till late afternoon. Make sure you have a lot of cash with you -- you'll love to buy everything you see. Here you have to bargain, and they only take cash. Your travel to Bangkok can't be complete without going to Jatujak.
I often feel sorry for tourists who travel to Thailand with a tour group. They don't get to see much. Getting around Bangkok is especially easy. In fact, you don't need to take a tour. You can get around the city by skytrain, taxi or tuktuk. And if you want to get a little sun-tanned, just fly to the south -- to Phuket island, Samui island, Phi Phi island, or Similan island. You don't even need a tour guide once you are at the beach!
Thai people are incredibly friendly and helpful. All you have to do is ask. Just ask for help, and they'll help you as much as they can. They can speak a little English. You'll have no problem. If you approach someone who can't speak English, you'll still have no problem. Use your common sense. Use your hands. Speak in chunks, not sentences. Say the name of the place you want to go. If they walk away, that doesn't mean they don't want to help you. It simply means they can't speak English at all. And they're too embarrassed about that. So, don't take it personally. Don't give up. Ask the next person you see. They'll help you out -- I bet you a Pad Thai on that!
When you travel in Thailand, you should have no problem if you just learn to ask for help. You see, most tourists rely on maps (which are pretty useless when you're in Thailand). They just stand there clueless with their maps while Thai people walk past by (wondering deep down if they can help you out...You see, most Thais are shy. They won't walk up to you asking if you need help. You need to initiate the conversation.)
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=202038
2007/09/30
Phuket Thailand Smiles Once Again For Visitors
by Denise Hummel
When Fred Varnier, General Manager of the Amanpuri Resort and Spa in Phuket, Thailand did his rounds at about 9 a.m., the morning of December 26, 2004, he noticed a strange, large puddle beside the pool. The weather had been dry for days and guests had yet to swim in it that morning. While he was ruminating about it, he received a call from Richie, an Australian lifeguard down at Amanpuri's private beach. "I've never seen the tide this low," he said, "You'd better come take a look." Fred's curiosity was peaked so he made his way down to the beach where 50 guests were already taking in the sun and gazing at the pristine white sands and crystal waters of the bay. What he saw alarmed him. The tide was indeed so low and so far out that local long boats were resting oddly and precariously on their keel. He didn't know where all the water had gone, but he was certain of one thing. It would have to come back.
Calmly, but swiftly, he evacuated the beach. Had he made the observation one day prior, the evacuation would have been incrementally more difficult. On Christmas day the beach was considerably more crowded as the Amanpuri had orchestrated an elaborate party, focused on the hotel's younger guests, complete with Santa Claus and elephant entertainment. Guests were told to leave everything and to immediately make their way up the stairs to the hotel, situated elegantly and safely on a cliff overlooking the sea. Moments later, a wall of water surged forward, taking out every beach lounge chair and umbrella on the beach. Minutes after that a second wall from the opposite direction took out the ocean-side gym. Fifty Amanpuri guests owe their lives to a savvy, young lifeguard and a confused, but decisive General Manager. The puddle of water Fred had seen earlier that buttressed his decision to evacuate the beach had been the result of the earthquake, too far away for people to take notice, but strong enough to have moved a significant amount of water from the pool to the surrounding walkway.
For the weeks that followed, Amanpuri sent a convoy of their hotel trucks filled with employees to Khao Lak, formerly an up and coming beach town which had been a tourist departure point for boats to the Similians. It was one of the hardest hit communities, and while the town was spared, most resorts were destroyed and many tourists and Thais were lost to the ocean's fury. Amanpuri employees, many of whom were trained in first-aid and most of whom spoke other languages, were among the first to aid the survivors in their quest to find loved-ones and to seek medical attention and shelter in the days to come.
In visiting the Amanpuri on October 5th this year, one would hardly be able to guess that it had been so close to such destruction. The gym has been rebuilt, beach chairs and umbrella's replaced, and the coral reef which abuts its beach, although probably changed in an ecological and geological sense, remains as beautiful as it was on Christmas day. The spirit of the Thai people, and indeed all employees of every nationality was clear to me, although directed to more pleasant endeavors, that being spoiling their guests who were back to frequent their favorite hotel and spa so quickly and in such numbers that the hotel was at 93 percent occupancy at the time of my visit.
I have come at a unique time, at the beginning of Ramadan and of the Chinese Buddhist Vegetarian festival. The Vegetarian Festival has attracted people in record numbers, locals and tourists alike, and the town was filled with street vendors selling local vegetarian delicacies. There is an air of festivity, although the holiday is also quite intense spiritually in that locals who practice Chinese Buddhism attend temple every day, walking kilometers in procession from one temple to another, some in a deep state of trance, preparing to engage in what can only be described as the self-flagellation and even mutilation that marks this ten-day period. Body "piercing" without anesthesia are among the rituals performed.
Back up the hill at the Amanpuri, surrounded by a coconut grove and insulated from the rest of the world, including the holiday commotion below, guests prepare for their spa treatments, so relaxed that they look like they are in a trance of their own. The usual spa body scrubs and reflexology treatments exist, but this is no "usual" spa. It was created by Zecha as a world of holistic healing with the world-renown consult of Rosamond Freeman-Attwood. Everything flows here: harmonious service, massive treatment suites with the serene backdrop of the ocean, and a black granite steam-room which is bigger than my living room in Italy. A Thai fruit-facial and a 90-minute Thai massage that is a combination of European technique and Thai gymnastics that centers the body and the soul is something to be experienced at least once in a life-time.
The Aman resorts are probably the most famous in Asia and are noted for having repeat guests, "Aman-Junkies" as they are known, who like me, a mere Aman novice, but striving junkie, like to go around telling their "in-the-know" friends and colleagues just how special these properties are. Thus my reason for telling all of you! Apart from the usual consistency of service, this particular Aman location is situated on a spectacularly beautiful peace of property with breath-taking views from almost every area of the property. Ed Tuttle, American architect and designer, has created a hotel which is a series of pavilions and villas, made of Maka wood (similar to teak) infused with such exquisite Thai design that one hardly wants to leave the property.
However, like me, you like to take in the local scenery and culture, I highly recommend a boat trip to Phang Nga bay. By Amanpuri yacht or kayak, the startling limestone formations jutting up from the sea will leave you speechless and humbled at the immense beauty of mother earth. If paddling isn't your cup of tea, let the Amanpuri staff cater to your every need as you sit back and take in the scenery.
I asked Fred Varnier what message I could give to my family, friends and colleagues in the United States. "Just tell them to come back as soon as possible," he said, "While we have been spared destruction and loss of livelihood here at the hotel, others in the area who rely so heavily on tourism to support the local economy are dependent on tourists having faith that this environmental anomaly will not revisit us in these next centuries. Let them know that we have recovered and that we are more than capable of receiving them with warm smiles and open hearts."
I did visit Khao Lak, one of the areas hardest hit by the Tsunami. Boats washed from the sea kilometers inland and still leaning precariously against buildings or beside roadways signal the absurdity of focusing on zoning set-backs from the ocean or formulating emergency drills. We must accept this historic event as a once in a lifetime seismic event and move on. As I headed back to the hotel to prepare for my flight to beautiful Chiang Mai, I asked my driver. "I have heard that Chiang Mai is quite spectacular; which do you like better Phuket or Chiang Mai." The Thai culture figured prominently into his response, "Well," he answered, "Chiang Mai has the mountains --- but we are lucky. We have the sea."
Many rebuilt hotels in the area are offering discounts that we will not see again as consumers, perhaps ever. There is no better time to come to this great land, both for our own enjoyment, and to be a part of the process of healing. As the Thais say, "Yin-dee-ton rub-krub-ma" -- simply said, "welcome back."
http://www.imagine-communications.com
When Fred Varnier, General Manager of the Amanpuri Resort and Spa in Phuket, Thailand did his rounds at about 9 a.m., the morning of December 26, 2004, he noticed a strange, large puddle beside the pool. The weather had been dry for days and guests had yet to swim in it that morning. While he was ruminating about it, he received a call from Richie, an Australian lifeguard down at Amanpuri's private beach. "I've never seen the tide this low," he said, "You'd better come take a look." Fred's curiosity was peaked so he made his way down to the beach where 50 guests were already taking in the sun and gazing at the pristine white sands and crystal waters of the bay. What he saw alarmed him. The tide was indeed so low and so far out that local long boats were resting oddly and precariously on their keel. He didn't know where all the water had gone, but he was certain of one thing. It would have to come back.
Calmly, but swiftly, he evacuated the beach. Had he made the observation one day prior, the evacuation would have been incrementally more difficult. On Christmas day the beach was considerably more crowded as the Amanpuri had orchestrated an elaborate party, focused on the hotel's younger guests, complete with Santa Claus and elephant entertainment. Guests were told to leave everything and to immediately make their way up the stairs to the hotel, situated elegantly and safely on a cliff overlooking the sea. Moments later, a wall of water surged forward, taking out every beach lounge chair and umbrella on the beach. Minutes after that a second wall from the opposite direction took out the ocean-side gym. Fifty Amanpuri guests owe their lives to a savvy, young lifeguard and a confused, but decisive General Manager. The puddle of water Fred had seen earlier that buttressed his decision to evacuate the beach had been the result of the earthquake, too far away for people to take notice, but strong enough to have moved a significant amount of water from the pool to the surrounding walkway.
For the weeks that followed, Amanpuri sent a convoy of their hotel trucks filled with employees to Khao Lak, formerly an up and coming beach town which had been a tourist departure point for boats to the Similians. It was one of the hardest hit communities, and while the town was spared, most resorts were destroyed and many tourists and Thais were lost to the ocean's fury. Amanpuri employees, many of whom were trained in first-aid and most of whom spoke other languages, were among the first to aid the survivors in their quest to find loved-ones and to seek medical attention and shelter in the days to come.
In visiting the Amanpuri on October 5th this year, one would hardly be able to guess that it had been so close to such destruction. The gym has been rebuilt, beach chairs and umbrella's replaced, and the coral reef which abuts its beach, although probably changed in an ecological and geological sense, remains as beautiful as it was on Christmas day. The spirit of the Thai people, and indeed all employees of every nationality was clear to me, although directed to more pleasant endeavors, that being spoiling their guests who were back to frequent their favorite hotel and spa so quickly and in such numbers that the hotel was at 93 percent occupancy at the time of my visit.
I have come at a unique time, at the beginning of Ramadan and of the Chinese Buddhist Vegetarian festival. The Vegetarian Festival has attracted people in record numbers, locals and tourists alike, and the town was filled with street vendors selling local vegetarian delicacies. There is an air of festivity, although the holiday is also quite intense spiritually in that locals who practice Chinese Buddhism attend temple every day, walking kilometers in procession from one temple to another, some in a deep state of trance, preparing to engage in what can only be described as the self-flagellation and even mutilation that marks this ten-day period. Body "piercing" without anesthesia are among the rituals performed.
Back up the hill at the Amanpuri, surrounded by a coconut grove and insulated from the rest of the world, including the holiday commotion below, guests prepare for their spa treatments, so relaxed that they look like they are in a trance of their own. The usual spa body scrubs and reflexology treatments exist, but this is no "usual" spa. It was created by Zecha as a world of holistic healing with the world-renown consult of Rosamond Freeman-Attwood. Everything flows here: harmonious service, massive treatment suites with the serene backdrop of the ocean, and a black granite steam-room which is bigger than my living room in Italy. A Thai fruit-facial and a 90-minute Thai massage that is a combination of European technique and Thai gymnastics that centers the body and the soul is something to be experienced at least once in a life-time.
The Aman resorts are probably the most famous in Asia and are noted for having repeat guests, "Aman-Junkies" as they are known, who like me, a mere Aman novice, but striving junkie, like to go around telling their "in-the-know" friends and colleagues just how special these properties are. Thus my reason for telling all of you! Apart from the usual consistency of service, this particular Aman location is situated on a spectacularly beautiful peace of property with breath-taking views from almost every area of the property. Ed Tuttle, American architect and designer, has created a hotel which is a series of pavilions and villas, made of Maka wood (similar to teak) infused with such exquisite Thai design that one hardly wants to leave the property.
However, like me, you like to take in the local scenery and culture, I highly recommend a boat trip to Phang Nga bay. By Amanpuri yacht or kayak, the startling limestone formations jutting up from the sea will leave you speechless and humbled at the immense beauty of mother earth. If paddling isn't your cup of tea, let the Amanpuri staff cater to your every need as you sit back and take in the scenery.
I asked Fred Varnier what message I could give to my family, friends and colleagues in the United States. "Just tell them to come back as soon as possible," he said, "While we have been spared destruction and loss of livelihood here at the hotel, others in the area who rely so heavily on tourism to support the local economy are dependent on tourists having faith that this environmental anomaly will not revisit us in these next centuries. Let them know that we have recovered and that we are more than capable of receiving them with warm smiles and open hearts."
I did visit Khao Lak, one of the areas hardest hit by the Tsunami. Boats washed from the sea kilometers inland and still leaning precariously against buildings or beside roadways signal the absurdity of focusing on zoning set-backs from the ocean or formulating emergency drills. We must accept this historic event as a once in a lifetime seismic event and move on. As I headed back to the hotel to prepare for my flight to beautiful Chiang Mai, I asked my driver. "I have heard that Chiang Mai is quite spectacular; which do you like better Phuket or Chiang Mai." The Thai culture figured prominently into his response, "Well," he answered, "Chiang Mai has the mountains --- but we are lucky. We have the sea."
Many rebuilt hotels in the area are offering discounts that we will not see again as consumers, perhaps ever. There is no better time to come to this great land, both for our own enjoyment, and to be a part of the process of healing. As the Thais say, "Yin-dee-ton rub-krub-ma" -- simply said, "welcome back."
http://www.imagine-communications.com
2007/09/28
Bangkok. A brilliant place to visit in 2006.
by Matthew Lawson
Approximate flying times: From New York: 17 hrs. From Chicago: 22 hrs 30 mins. From LA: 19 hrs 25 mins.
If New York is the city that never sleeps, forget the alarm clock. Bangkok, Thailand's capital city, comes a very close second. The city was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri Dynasty. Today it's the country's spiritual, commercial and educational hub, home to approximately ten million people or more than 10% of the Thai population.
City of contrasts and confusion.
Bangkok (or Krung Thep in Thai which means "city of angels") is an exciting, high energy melting pot of east meets west. A dynamic city that has embraced technology and modern living with its busy expressways, bold skyscrapers and designer-filled shopping malls. Yet underneath it all, it remains a traditional haven of culture, history and time-honored customs, where elders are respected and family always comes first.
As you travel from the airport you'll see plenty of examples of modern architecture dotting the city scape and amongst them all, standing proud, are glittering Buddhist Wats (temples) such as Wat Phra Kaew and The Grand Palace. Snaking through the concrete jungle, you'll spy echoes of the "old Bangkok" below you - ancient canals and waterways that are well worth exploring on a boat trip. Every Thai household and building, even the most modern, has a traditional spirit house built outside for good fortune and to honor the spirit of the land.
Each day, small offerings of fruit and water are laid out, often with garlands of orchids. If you're an early riser, keen to make the most of your vacation time in Bangkok, don't be surprised when you see Buddhist monks in saffron robes making their morning "alms" rounds accepting food and donations from local people, young and old.
Some like it hot, but not all the time.
Thailand has a tropical climate with an annual average temperature of around 75 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit, so pack light clothing for your trip. Natural fibers are often more comfortable when you're walking and touring in hot weather. Practically everywhere you go in Bangkok you'll find you some relief from the heat, with blasts of icy cold air conditioning in shops and hotels.
From March to May it's the hottest time, with the highest temperatures and humidity. From June to October is monsoon season, so remember to take an umbrella. November to February is cooler and less humid. Bear in mind that the monsoon season varies throughout the country and can affect the weather you experience.
Bangkok Hotels to match every budget.
You'll find every type of accommodation - from lavish 5 star international names to smaller hostels, favored by back packers. Book online and see what special rates you can find. Web sites such as http://www.hotel.com.au/bangkok have over 100 hotels in Thailand, ranging from the natural peace and luxury of The Sukhothai on South Sathorn Road, to business hotels in busy downtown Bangkok to the Hard Rock Hotel on Pattaya Beach, Bangkok's favorite seaside resort.
Getting around is easier.
One of the first words you'll learn in Bangkok is "Rot tip" or "rot tit" which literally means "cars that stick", in other words traffic jam. But the everyday snarls and gridlock have been vastly improved by Bangkok's cosmopolitan transport system.
You can now ride the subway, the Hua Lamphong - Bang Sue line has 18 stations along the 12 mile route. It's fast, quiet and modern.
Jump on a BTS Sky Train. BTS sky trains ply along Sukhumvit, Silom and Phahonyothin roads. The routes connect Bangkok's leading hotels and major shopping areas such as Siam Square, Silom, Ratchaprasong and Chatuchak Weekend Market.
Of course, you can't go to Bangkok without a ride in a tuk-tuk. These zippy three-wheeled open-air motorized taxis are popular for short journeys. Fares must be bargained in advance, it's part of the fun.
Top 5 must-see highlights.
The Grand Palace: the number one attraction. Every visitor to Bangkok should see the magnificent buildings within the Grand Palace compound to get a feeling of the grandeur of the architecture. Since the founding of Bangkok as the Nations capital by King Rama I, The Grand Palace has been the major architectural symbol of The Thai Royal Family. The Royal Family actually resides at Chitralada Palace while The Grand Palace is used for ceremonial purposes.
Wat Pho: possibly the most interesting temple in Thailand. It combines history, medical science and is a center for meditation and traditional massage training. Have a massage while you're here, at a very fair price.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: with over 9,000 shops and stalls you'll be tempted over and over. Close to everything that is for sale in Bangkok is here, including antiques, Buddha amulets, handicrafts, clothes, flowers and furniture. (You'll notice that some maps spell it "Jatuchak". Many English words have multiple spellings, so if you're in doubt, ask the hotel concierge to write it in Thai for the taxi driver.)
Vimanmek Mansion Museum: the world's largest golden teak building located in the compound of the Dusit Palace on Ratchawithi Road. The three-storey royal mansion has 81 rooms, halls and ante-chambers containing unique memorabilia.
Jim Thompson's House: this exquisite Thai house and buildings stand as a museum to the man who revived the Thai silk industry after the Second World War. The company he founded, Jim Thompson Thai Silk, is recognized worldwide for its brilliant fabrics, home accessories and fashion items. The gardens are equally impressive with a lush tropical jungle imitating nature's haphazard beauty right in the center of the city.
Shopping till you drop!
Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two streets. You'll find dozens of malls, markets and luxury retail outlets throughout the city. The most popular are located around the Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong area, Sukhumvit Rd and Silom-Surawong-Patpong, including the fantastic Patpong night market where you can pick up your souvenirs, fashion and Thai handicrafts. Don't be shy to bargain in the market (nicely) as your dollar can go a long way.
Bangkok rocks.
Bangkok has no single area for nightlife - it has several. Bars are spread out all over town in places such as Patpong, Silom Soi 2 and 4, Soi Sarasin and Lang Suan, Royal City Avenue, Banglumpoo, Soi Cowboy and Sukhumvit Soi 33, among others.
One of the hottest new spots is called "Bed" is an extraordinary space-age designer lounge in fashionable Sukhumvit Soi 11. The Bed Supper Club is a "dining in bed" experience. Best described as a unique combination of upscale restaurant, club, art gallery, theater and stage merged into one.
Celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
If you need another good reason to visit "The Land of Smiles", here it is. This year marks the Diamond Jubilee of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty. The King has reigned for almost 60 yeas, making him not only the longest reigning Thai monarch, but the longest reigning King in the world today.
A once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
In true Thai style, the Bangkok celebrations promise to be a spectacular tribute to the Royal Family, full of color, pomp and ceremony. One of the main highlights is The Royal Barge Procession on June 12-13 2006. It will be an international event with twenty-eight monarchs from around the world in attendance. This is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity for visitors, as the Procession is only held to mark significant historical events such as His Majesty's ascension to the throne.
A river of splendor.
Bangkok's main river, the Chao Phraya will become the place to be. Imagine a royal armada stretching as far as your eyes can see. A flotilla of superbly carved royal barges slowly sail into view, manned by the Royal Thai Navy dressed in ancient ceremonial uniforms. Each sailor rowing in perfect unison, honed through months of intense practice.
If you plan to be in Bangkok in June, do leave the bargains for a few hours and be part of the adoring crowd - and bring your camera. Incidentally, two major dress rehearsals are planned for the June 6 and 9, so if you can't attend the real event, this is as close as you may get.
Thailand has a well deserved reputation as the "The Land of Smiles". You'll receive a warm welcome and feel the genuine friendliness of the locals. One thing's for sure, the memories of a vacation here will stay with you for a lifetime.
www.hotel.com.au in
Approximate flying times: From New York: 17 hrs. From Chicago: 22 hrs 30 mins. From LA: 19 hrs 25 mins.
If New York is the city that never sleeps, forget the alarm clock. Bangkok, Thailand's capital city, comes a very close second. The city was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri Dynasty. Today it's the country's spiritual, commercial and educational hub, home to approximately ten million people or more than 10% of the Thai population.
City of contrasts and confusion.
Bangkok (or Krung Thep in Thai which means "city of angels") is an exciting, high energy melting pot of east meets west. A dynamic city that has embraced technology and modern living with its busy expressways, bold skyscrapers and designer-filled shopping malls. Yet underneath it all, it remains a traditional haven of culture, history and time-honored customs, where elders are respected and family always comes first.
As you travel from the airport you'll see plenty of examples of modern architecture dotting the city scape and amongst them all, standing proud, are glittering Buddhist Wats (temples) such as Wat Phra Kaew and The Grand Palace. Snaking through the concrete jungle, you'll spy echoes of the "old Bangkok" below you - ancient canals and waterways that are well worth exploring on a boat trip. Every Thai household and building, even the most modern, has a traditional spirit house built outside for good fortune and to honor the spirit of the land.
Each day, small offerings of fruit and water are laid out, often with garlands of orchids. If you're an early riser, keen to make the most of your vacation time in Bangkok, don't be surprised when you see Buddhist monks in saffron robes making their morning "alms" rounds accepting food and donations from local people, young and old.
Some like it hot, but not all the time.
Thailand has a tropical climate with an annual average temperature of around 75 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit, so pack light clothing for your trip. Natural fibers are often more comfortable when you're walking and touring in hot weather. Practically everywhere you go in Bangkok you'll find you some relief from the heat, with blasts of icy cold air conditioning in shops and hotels.
From March to May it's the hottest time, with the highest temperatures and humidity. From June to October is monsoon season, so remember to take an umbrella. November to February is cooler and less humid. Bear in mind that the monsoon season varies throughout the country and can affect the weather you experience.
Bangkok Hotels to match every budget.
You'll find every type of accommodation - from lavish 5 star international names to smaller hostels, favored by back packers. Book online and see what special rates you can find. Web sites such as http://www.hotel.com.au/bangkok have over 100 hotels in Thailand, ranging from the natural peace and luxury of The Sukhothai on South Sathorn Road, to business hotels in busy downtown Bangkok to the Hard Rock Hotel on Pattaya Beach, Bangkok's favorite seaside resort.
Getting around is easier.
One of the first words you'll learn in Bangkok is "Rot tip" or "rot tit" which literally means "cars that stick", in other words traffic jam. But the everyday snarls and gridlock have been vastly improved by Bangkok's cosmopolitan transport system.
You can now ride the subway, the Hua Lamphong - Bang Sue line has 18 stations along the 12 mile route. It's fast, quiet and modern.
Jump on a BTS Sky Train. BTS sky trains ply along Sukhumvit, Silom and Phahonyothin roads. The routes connect Bangkok's leading hotels and major shopping areas such as Siam Square, Silom, Ratchaprasong and Chatuchak Weekend Market.
Of course, you can't go to Bangkok without a ride in a tuk-tuk. These zippy three-wheeled open-air motorized taxis are popular for short journeys. Fares must be bargained in advance, it's part of the fun.
Top 5 must-see highlights.
The Grand Palace: the number one attraction. Every visitor to Bangkok should see the magnificent buildings within the Grand Palace compound to get a feeling of the grandeur of the architecture. Since the founding of Bangkok as the Nations capital by King Rama I, The Grand Palace has been the major architectural symbol of The Thai Royal Family. The Royal Family actually resides at Chitralada Palace while The Grand Palace is used for ceremonial purposes.
Wat Pho: possibly the most interesting temple in Thailand. It combines history, medical science and is a center for meditation and traditional massage training. Have a massage while you're here, at a very fair price.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: with over 9,000 shops and stalls you'll be tempted over and over. Close to everything that is for sale in Bangkok is here, including antiques, Buddha amulets, handicrafts, clothes, flowers and furniture. (You'll notice that some maps spell it "Jatuchak". Many English words have multiple spellings, so if you're in doubt, ask the hotel concierge to write it in Thai for the taxi driver.)
Vimanmek Mansion Museum: the world's largest golden teak building located in the compound of the Dusit Palace on Ratchawithi Road. The three-storey royal mansion has 81 rooms, halls and ante-chambers containing unique memorabilia.
Jim Thompson's House: this exquisite Thai house and buildings stand as a museum to the man who revived the Thai silk industry after the Second World War. The company he founded, Jim Thompson Thai Silk, is recognized worldwide for its brilliant fabrics, home accessories and fashion items. The gardens are equally impressive with a lush tropical jungle imitating nature's haphazard beauty right in the center of the city.
Shopping till you drop!
Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two streets. You'll find dozens of malls, markets and luxury retail outlets throughout the city. The most popular are located around the Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong area, Sukhumvit Rd and Silom-Surawong-Patpong, including the fantastic Patpong night market where you can pick up your souvenirs, fashion and Thai handicrafts. Don't be shy to bargain in the market (nicely) as your dollar can go a long way.
Bangkok rocks.
Bangkok has no single area for nightlife - it has several. Bars are spread out all over town in places such as Patpong, Silom Soi 2 and 4, Soi Sarasin and Lang Suan, Royal City Avenue, Banglumpoo, Soi Cowboy and Sukhumvit Soi 33, among others.
One of the hottest new spots is called "Bed" is an extraordinary space-age designer lounge in fashionable Sukhumvit Soi 11. The Bed Supper Club is a "dining in bed" experience. Best described as a unique combination of upscale restaurant, club, art gallery, theater and stage merged into one.
Celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
If you need another good reason to visit "The Land of Smiles", here it is. This year marks the Diamond Jubilee of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty. The King has reigned for almost 60 yeas, making him not only the longest reigning Thai monarch, but the longest reigning King in the world today.
A once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
In true Thai style, the Bangkok celebrations promise to be a spectacular tribute to the Royal Family, full of color, pomp and ceremony. One of the main highlights is The Royal Barge Procession on June 12-13 2006. It will be an international event with twenty-eight monarchs from around the world in attendance. This is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity for visitors, as the Procession is only held to mark significant historical events such as His Majesty's ascension to the throne.
A river of splendor.
Bangkok's main river, the Chao Phraya will become the place to be. Imagine a royal armada stretching as far as your eyes can see. A flotilla of superbly carved royal barges slowly sail into view, manned by the Royal Thai Navy dressed in ancient ceremonial uniforms. Each sailor rowing in perfect unison, honed through months of intense practice.
If you plan to be in Bangkok in June, do leave the bargains for a few hours and be part of the adoring crowd - and bring your camera. Incidentally, two major dress rehearsals are planned for the June 6 and 9, so if you can't attend the real event, this is as close as you may get.
Thailand has a well deserved reputation as the "The Land of Smiles". You'll receive a warm welcome and feel the genuine friendliness of the locals. One thing's for sure, the memories of a vacation here will stay with you for a lifetime.
www.hotel.com.au in
2007/09/26
Balloon Flying in Thailand
by Gary Mortimer
Our trip to Thailand had been long awaited, originally planned for the winter of 94/95. My wife Karin had bought the maps and books and even packed; we were off. The balloon was ready at Thunder and Colt with a heavy duty basket tailor made for hard use overseas. And then they went bust. The delay meant that we missed the relatively short window available for flying in Thailand. So it was rainy old England for most of the winter and a rethink of the plan for us. I had been asked to go out there by Jon Nunns having previously worked for him in South Africa flying passenger ride balloons.
Jon's interest in Thailand comes from several commercial tours he's probably had the most experience of flying in Thailand. Sky balloons agent in Thailand managed to sell one of the first balloons to roll off the production line to a pair of business men who wanted to learn to fly and fly advertising banners in I come again, this time to train and point them the right way.
So after a fantastic summer passenger flying in England, it was off on a Quantas Jumbo from a snowy December Heathrow. We caught a connecting flight from Bangkok to Chaing Mai, a city in the North which was hosting the South East Asia Games, ( SEA games ) our first port of call. Jon, returning from SAGA, was there for three days to ease us into things.
Our hosts had managed to find sponsor's a cell phone company and we had a busy schedule ahead. The city was humming with activity related to the games and it was great fun to be there. We generally flew across the city in the mornings and over the main stadium in the evenings.
The stadium itself was about 10km from the centre of the city and lay under an east facing slope which of course moved into shade in the evening allowing us to fly over the stadium and away into open countryside, the mornings had the ability to take us up the slope and away to the west which was not a good idea as there was about 50km of forest and national park before the next road.
It was always fairly calm and finding places to land was not a problem. We were not alone in the air a Carlsburg balloon had been shipped in from Europe and a Cameron Gas airship from America. Strangely neither thought to visit or call the international airport 8km south of the stadium. This caused some amount of trouble as Thai's love complicated permissions to fly and neither had any. As we did have permission we were contactable and received some amount of flack from their CAA. We smoothed the path quite well for them, prison was mentioned on more than one occasion!
The airship did a fantastic job seemingly never out of the air and carrying a TV camera beaming live pictures from the stadium. During the evening we tethered next to the stadium and the airship still plodded around dropping leaflets.
Thai's are football fanatics and the Asian cup was also held during the games in the evening. Our tethers coincided with all the home team games. As Thailand progressed through the ranks tickets sold out and it started to get ugly at the gates. For the semi final the fans burnt down the ticket tents in protest and several thousand extra tried to get in causing an outbreak of police brutality.
We tethered high allowing us to see the matches and carried PR people, they tended to want to stay up a while as we had the best view in the house!
On the first and last day of the games we flew into the stadium itself, the first flight by Jon, with me on board and the last by myself. What a fantastic feeling when you drop over the edge of the stadium roof and come to a dead stop amid all that noise and then pile out again, really good fun, it comes highly recommended!
The flights over the city were also commendable. The airport required us to stay below 1000' and if we required to fly higher then we had to call them on VHF. It worked well and of course flying across temples at low level was fascinating. Chaing Mai old city lies within a square canel and contains some 300 temples in total. It was here that we aimed to overfly every day. The River Ping winds it's way to the east of the old city and was very handy for big direction changes. As a rule most wind directions could be found and staying over the city centre for an hour or so and then climbing and departing was fairly easy.
I have to say that Northern Thai's seemed more fun loving than their Southern countrymen. To this end they enjoy letting off fireworks and tissue balloons carrying balls of burning rag to keep them aloft. Not uncommon to see 10 or so cross the night sky glowing red when drinking a beer. They climb quite high as well I flew with some at 3000'. On a couple of occasions, on landing villagers let off tissue balloons in our honour. They also flew bigger ones with strings of fireworks blasting away underneath. All good stuff for balloonists to watch. The last night of the games saw the launch of in excess of 1000 of these balloons in about 10 minutes from all around the stadium, and as it was a calm night it was the prettiest balloon thing I've ever seen.
So once that was all over it was off to Bangkok eight hours South by road. Unbeknown to myself we had come to the notice of the Prime Ministers office and were sought out for a job!
The deputy Prime Minister, Thakasin Shinawat, had said on coming into office early in 1995, that by the middle of January 1996 (or 2539 as it is over there) he would sort out Bangkoks traffic problems. He has been pouring millions of Baht of his own money into what is basically an impossible task. He has also been doing all sorts of stunts to show the people that he is trying to remedy the situation.
We were asked to fly him over Bangkok to observe the traffic from the air, this being in their words, a low cost solution. Permissions obviously had to be sought. We were summoned for our first meeting with the CAA on Christmas Day, at 10 O'clock, everybody apparently finding it amusing that I was missing my Christmas day. On arriving it transpired that they didn't really want us to fly as it is a military state and they didn't want me to see anything I shouldn't. The Kings Palace is a no no to fly over as you should never have your head higher than his! However the civilian run Prime ministers office had put big pressure on and they felt they had to relent and by the way, what could we tell them about the other balloon and airship in Chaing Mai ( are you getting the picture that this is a warning). It transpired that we held the winning hand but they really had to tell us they did not like it first. There one and only request was that I didn't fly higher than 500'. Now what! a pleasure. Royal helicopters fly at 800' so that was that. I walked away on Christmas days with a piece of paper that ordered me to fly not above 500 AGL wherever I liked! A trip then to the tower at Bangkok International to let them know what was happening and pick up an air chart. They already knew all about us and wouldn't give me an air chart: military secrets and all that. If I'd known I could have brought them in England before we left!
Thus it came to pass that I was doing balloon traffic reports over the city of Bangkok with the deputy Prime Minister on board and a film crew and five TV crews following through the traffic. We flew two days doing four flights. The flights themselves were pretty exciting to the point that I wouldn't rush to do them again. The tallest building is getting on for 1000' and we flew right between a bunch of them of course stopping all the traffic as we went. For those that know we launched from just above Siam Square and flew across generally towards the Queen Siriket Convention centre and then over the river. The 500' level became a real pain in the afternoons as the OAT was some 37C and thermals were popping off all over the place I may or may not actually flown quite a bit higher at the beginning of these flights and came down when it cooled down, but perhaps I'd set the altimeter incorrectly!
So after all the fun and games it was off to train three people in total: our agent and the two business men. To start with we went off to Rayong a Province to the SE of Bangkok renowned for it's beach resort Pattaya. The guys for some reason where keen to train there. Unfortunately it proved too coastal and the sea breeze knocked out the evening flights and the land breeze in the mornings. Our permission was only for a 25 km square so we couldn't go any further inland.
Not a problem as one of the guys had relatives with a farm near Kanchanaburi, home of the bridge over the river Kwai in the west of the country. It was here that most of the training was done. It was an ideal area for ballooning, being generally flat with occasional 5-600 foot hills popping up like islands. The fields are mainly of Sugar Cane roughly three quarters and the rest are rice paddies. Everything went fine and after three return trips to Bangkok on business the guys where ready. They will be travelling to England to take their PPL's shortly.
One more surprise lay in store. Seeing as the flying into the stadium in Chaing Mai had gone so well I was asked to fly into another with a football to start The Thai football league. Not such a big deal but the stadium as 500 metres from the sea with houses all the way to it. Luck was on our side once more and after two days of strong monsoon winds on the day in question it was calm. We inflated behind a five story building which was right next to the stadium and bang on for the wind direction. The signal for us to launch was a series of fireworks the ninth being our go. At the practices which we couldn't fly into because of the wind we made sure that the marching bands had left and we had a clear stage. You know whats coming next.1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9 Go, we rose from behind the building to see that everybody was still stood there,down between them all I came our official hopped out with the football and handed it to the President of Yamaha and we quickly deflated the balloon,! no way was I going to fly out of that one!
So thats briefly it, I haven't touched on the really infuriating stuff, the stuff thats supposed to add character afterwards. I'll let you find out all those bits for yourselves.
If you are interested in going out there then the man to contact In fact the head man of the brand new Balloon Club Of Thailand is:-
YUTAKIT WANICHANOND
125/135 CHANGWATANA ROAD
PAKRET
NONTABURI
11120
THAILAND
FAX 584 0042
www.airborneadventuresafrica.com
Our trip to Thailand had been long awaited, originally planned for the winter of 94/95. My wife Karin had bought the maps and books and even packed; we were off. The balloon was ready at Thunder and Colt with a heavy duty basket tailor made for hard use overseas. And then they went bust. The delay meant that we missed the relatively short window available for flying in Thailand. So it was rainy old England for most of the winter and a rethink of the plan for us. I had been asked to go out there by Jon Nunns having previously worked for him in South Africa flying passenger ride balloons.
Jon's interest in Thailand comes from several commercial tours he's probably had the most experience of flying in Thailand. Sky balloons agent in Thailand managed to sell one of the first balloons to roll off the production line to a pair of business men who wanted to learn to fly and fly advertising banners in I come again, this time to train and point them the right way.
So after a fantastic summer passenger flying in England, it was off on a Quantas Jumbo from a snowy December Heathrow. We caught a connecting flight from Bangkok to Chaing Mai, a city in the North which was hosting the South East Asia Games, ( SEA games ) our first port of call. Jon, returning from SAGA, was there for three days to ease us into things.
Our hosts had managed to find sponsor's a cell phone company and we had a busy schedule ahead. The city was humming with activity related to the games and it was great fun to be there. We generally flew across the city in the mornings and over the main stadium in the evenings.
The stadium itself was about 10km from the centre of the city and lay under an east facing slope which of course moved into shade in the evening allowing us to fly over the stadium and away into open countryside, the mornings had the ability to take us up the slope and away to the west which was not a good idea as there was about 50km of forest and national park before the next road.
It was always fairly calm and finding places to land was not a problem. We were not alone in the air a Carlsburg balloon had been shipped in from Europe and a Cameron Gas airship from America. Strangely neither thought to visit or call the international airport 8km south of the stadium. This caused some amount of trouble as Thai's love complicated permissions to fly and neither had any. As we did have permission we were contactable and received some amount of flack from their CAA. We smoothed the path quite well for them, prison was mentioned on more than one occasion!
The airship did a fantastic job seemingly never out of the air and carrying a TV camera beaming live pictures from the stadium. During the evening we tethered next to the stadium and the airship still plodded around dropping leaflets.
Thai's are football fanatics and the Asian cup was also held during the games in the evening. Our tethers coincided with all the home team games. As Thailand progressed through the ranks tickets sold out and it started to get ugly at the gates. For the semi final the fans burnt down the ticket tents in protest and several thousand extra tried to get in causing an outbreak of police brutality.
We tethered high allowing us to see the matches and carried PR people, they tended to want to stay up a while as we had the best view in the house!
On the first and last day of the games we flew into the stadium itself, the first flight by Jon, with me on board and the last by myself. What a fantastic feeling when you drop over the edge of the stadium roof and come to a dead stop amid all that noise and then pile out again, really good fun, it comes highly recommended!
The flights over the city were also commendable. The airport required us to stay below 1000' and if we required to fly higher then we had to call them on VHF. It worked well and of course flying across temples at low level was fascinating. Chaing Mai old city lies within a square canel and contains some 300 temples in total. It was here that we aimed to overfly every day. The River Ping winds it's way to the east of the old city and was very handy for big direction changes. As a rule most wind directions could be found and staying over the city centre for an hour or so and then climbing and departing was fairly easy.
I have to say that Northern Thai's seemed more fun loving than their Southern countrymen. To this end they enjoy letting off fireworks and tissue balloons carrying balls of burning rag to keep them aloft. Not uncommon to see 10 or so cross the night sky glowing red when drinking a beer. They climb quite high as well I flew with some at 3000'. On a couple of occasions, on landing villagers let off tissue balloons in our honour. They also flew bigger ones with strings of fireworks blasting away underneath. All good stuff for balloonists to watch. The last night of the games saw the launch of in excess of 1000 of these balloons in about 10 minutes from all around the stadium, and as it was a calm night it was the prettiest balloon thing I've ever seen.
So once that was all over it was off to Bangkok eight hours South by road. Unbeknown to myself we had come to the notice of the Prime Ministers office and were sought out for a job!
The deputy Prime Minister, Thakasin Shinawat, had said on coming into office early in 1995, that by the middle of January 1996 (or 2539 as it is over there) he would sort out Bangkoks traffic problems. He has been pouring millions of Baht of his own money into what is basically an impossible task. He has also been doing all sorts of stunts to show the people that he is trying to remedy the situation.
We were asked to fly him over Bangkok to observe the traffic from the air, this being in their words, a low cost solution. Permissions obviously had to be sought. We were summoned for our first meeting with the CAA on Christmas Day, at 10 O'clock, everybody apparently finding it amusing that I was missing my Christmas day. On arriving it transpired that they didn't really want us to fly as it is a military state and they didn't want me to see anything I shouldn't. The Kings Palace is a no no to fly over as you should never have your head higher than his! However the civilian run Prime ministers office had put big pressure on and they felt they had to relent and by the way, what could we tell them about the other balloon and airship in Chaing Mai ( are you getting the picture that this is a warning). It transpired that we held the winning hand but they really had to tell us they did not like it first. There one and only request was that I didn't fly higher than 500'. Now what! a pleasure. Royal helicopters fly at 800' so that was that. I walked away on Christmas days with a piece of paper that ordered me to fly not above 500 AGL wherever I liked! A trip then to the tower at Bangkok International to let them know what was happening and pick up an air chart. They already knew all about us and wouldn't give me an air chart: military secrets and all that. If I'd known I could have brought them in England before we left!
Thus it came to pass that I was doing balloon traffic reports over the city of Bangkok with the deputy Prime Minister on board and a film crew and five TV crews following through the traffic. We flew two days doing four flights. The flights themselves were pretty exciting to the point that I wouldn't rush to do them again. The tallest building is getting on for 1000' and we flew right between a bunch of them of course stopping all the traffic as we went. For those that know we launched from just above Siam Square and flew across generally towards the Queen Siriket Convention centre and then over the river. The 500' level became a real pain in the afternoons as the OAT was some 37C and thermals were popping off all over the place I may or may not actually flown quite a bit higher at the beginning of these flights and came down when it cooled down, but perhaps I'd set the altimeter incorrectly!
So after all the fun and games it was off to train three people in total: our agent and the two business men. To start with we went off to Rayong a Province to the SE of Bangkok renowned for it's beach resort Pattaya. The guys for some reason where keen to train there. Unfortunately it proved too coastal and the sea breeze knocked out the evening flights and the land breeze in the mornings. Our permission was only for a 25 km square so we couldn't go any further inland.
Not a problem as one of the guys had relatives with a farm near Kanchanaburi, home of the bridge over the river Kwai in the west of the country. It was here that most of the training was done. It was an ideal area for ballooning, being generally flat with occasional 5-600 foot hills popping up like islands. The fields are mainly of Sugar Cane roughly three quarters and the rest are rice paddies. Everything went fine and after three return trips to Bangkok on business the guys where ready. They will be travelling to England to take their PPL's shortly.
One more surprise lay in store. Seeing as the flying into the stadium in Chaing Mai had gone so well I was asked to fly into another with a football to start The Thai football league. Not such a big deal but the stadium as 500 metres from the sea with houses all the way to it. Luck was on our side once more and after two days of strong monsoon winds on the day in question it was calm. We inflated behind a five story building which was right next to the stadium and bang on for the wind direction. The signal for us to launch was a series of fireworks the ninth being our go. At the practices which we couldn't fly into because of the wind we made sure that the marching bands had left and we had a clear stage. You know whats coming next.1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9 Go, we rose from behind the building to see that everybody was still stood there,down between them all I came our official hopped out with the football and handed it to the President of Yamaha and we quickly deflated the balloon,! no way was I going to fly out of that one!
So thats briefly it, I haven't touched on the really infuriating stuff, the stuff thats supposed to add character afterwards. I'll let you find out all those bits for yourselves.
If you are interested in going out there then the man to contact In fact the head man of the brand new Balloon Club Of Thailand is:-
YUTAKIT WANICHANOND
125/135 CHANGWATANA ROAD
PAKRET
NONTABURI
11120
THAILAND
FAX 584 0042
www.airborneadventuresafrica.com
What you need to know about - thailand travel
by Mansi gupta
Thailand is one of those destinations, which is forever teeming with tourists. The country holds an exclusive position in the hearts of all vacationers for the place has much more to offer than anyone can expect. Thailand lies in the South East Asia region and can be taken to be the land of Buddha. Almost all the Buddha devotees desire to visit this country once in their lifetime. This is due to the fact that Thailand has some of the unique and exquisite Buddha temples where perfect tranquility prevails.
A Concise Review of a Seemingly Interminable Place
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is worth visiting spot. This sacred temple has Buddha statue that is 65 centimeter elevated and is entirely made of jasper quartz or jade. While the jade goes back to 15th century, the murals on the walls of the compound can be traced back to 18th century. The visitors can take a look at The Royal Thai Decorations and the Coin Pavilion. All in all the sanctity of the temple speaks through itself and the ambiance is enough to enchant the visitors.
Along with Temple of Emerald Buddha, several other grand Buddha temples can be seen once you move into the city of Bangkok. Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand has proved its worth across the globe. This metropolis has everything to offer to its visitors. From wonderful museums to thrilling nightlife, Bangkok has it all. The bustling city owns the largest South East Asian museum called The National Museum. National Museum has a gathering of various things like Thai art from old to contemporary, musical instruments, weapons, woodcarving, ceramics, clothing and sacred Buddha images.
Visitors that come to Bangkok never miss the opportunity to encounter Vinmanmek Teak Mansion that is supposed to be the largest teak building in the world. The Royal Elephant Museum and Dusuit Zoo are perfect places to have some learning with fun. The Wat Pho temple near the temple of Emerald Buddha in Bangkok is perhaps the oldest and the largest of all Buddha temples there. The Wat Pho temple is known for its 46 meter long statue of reclining Buddha and the largest collection of Buddhas in the country. A refreshing massage therapy is done at this place that too attracts a lot of people.
Finally when it comes to shopping, Bangkok has it all. There are ample of markets here that will serve you with all the things of your necessity. The Chatuchak Market or The Weekend Market (that is open on Saturdays and sundaes only), the Pak Khlong market and markets in Chinatown and Phahurat district are particularly quite famous.
The Thonburi region resting on the west bank of river Thonburi has always gathered attention due to different reasons. The Taksin Monument that has a statue of Thailand's eminent king Taksin which is a delight to watch. The Royal Barges Museum that has a fantastic collection of boats, the outstanding one being the king's personal barge -The Golden Swan is definitely a pull in Thonburi.
Buddhist stupas area centre of attraction at Ayuthaya, a city that lies to the north of Bangkok. The oldest and largest temple here is the Wat Phra Si Sanphet, another famous temple is Wat No Phra Meru that has a green stone Buddha statue inside. The Ayuthaya and the Chantharakasen are the two significant national museums. The Lopburi and the Kanchanaburi town in the Central Thailand region is a host to a lot many tourists every year.
In the Southeastern Thailand region is situated the Ko Chang National Park that is crammed by people due to the various activities like elephant riding, diving, snorkeling etc. and also to enjoy the wildlife in this area. The Rayong Province has a set of exotic beaches along with the Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park that has striking limestone mountains, caves, cliffs and waterfalls including impressive wildlife. Pattaya is another eventful beach spot located 150 kilometers away from Bangkok.
The Northern Thailand is bedecked by the Lamphun Province that has numerous historical temples, Doi Khun Tan National Park, the Lampang Province that grounds the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang temple which is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand and there is also the famous Thai Elephant Conservation Center which provides acre for sick elephants, animal shows and tourist exhibits from time to time. The Sukhothai Province is important for its Ramkhamhaeng National Park.
The Isan Region of Northeastern Thailand has the renowned Khao Yai National Park, which is a home for innumerable wild animals and the Phanom Rung Historical Park.
Few places at the Thailand's Southern Coasts like Phetchaburi city, the Southern Gulf Region (known for marine life and water sports) and the Andaman Coast are everlastingly meant for vacationing in Thailand.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=56215
Thailand is one of those destinations, which is forever teeming with tourists. The country holds an exclusive position in the hearts of all vacationers for the place has much more to offer than anyone can expect. Thailand lies in the South East Asia region and can be taken to be the land of Buddha. Almost all the Buddha devotees desire to visit this country once in their lifetime. This is due to the fact that Thailand has some of the unique and exquisite Buddha temples where perfect tranquility prevails.
A Concise Review of a Seemingly Interminable Place
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is worth visiting spot. This sacred temple has Buddha statue that is 65 centimeter elevated and is entirely made of jasper quartz or jade. While the jade goes back to 15th century, the murals on the walls of the compound can be traced back to 18th century. The visitors can take a look at The Royal Thai Decorations and the Coin Pavilion. All in all the sanctity of the temple speaks through itself and the ambiance is enough to enchant the visitors.
Along with Temple of Emerald Buddha, several other grand Buddha temples can be seen once you move into the city of Bangkok. Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand has proved its worth across the globe. This metropolis has everything to offer to its visitors. From wonderful museums to thrilling nightlife, Bangkok has it all. The bustling city owns the largest South East Asian museum called The National Museum. National Museum has a gathering of various things like Thai art from old to contemporary, musical instruments, weapons, woodcarving, ceramics, clothing and sacred Buddha images.
Visitors that come to Bangkok never miss the opportunity to encounter Vinmanmek Teak Mansion that is supposed to be the largest teak building in the world. The Royal Elephant Museum and Dusuit Zoo are perfect places to have some learning with fun. The Wat Pho temple near the temple of Emerald Buddha in Bangkok is perhaps the oldest and the largest of all Buddha temples there. The Wat Pho temple is known for its 46 meter long statue of reclining Buddha and the largest collection of Buddhas in the country. A refreshing massage therapy is done at this place that too attracts a lot of people.
Finally when it comes to shopping, Bangkok has it all. There are ample of markets here that will serve you with all the things of your necessity. The Chatuchak Market or The Weekend Market (that is open on Saturdays and sundaes only), the Pak Khlong market and markets in Chinatown and Phahurat district are particularly quite famous.
The Thonburi region resting on the west bank of river Thonburi has always gathered attention due to different reasons. The Taksin Monument that has a statue of Thailand's eminent king Taksin which is a delight to watch. The Royal Barges Museum that has a fantastic collection of boats, the outstanding one being the king's personal barge -The Golden Swan is definitely a pull in Thonburi.
Buddhist stupas area centre of attraction at Ayuthaya, a city that lies to the north of Bangkok. The oldest and largest temple here is the Wat Phra Si Sanphet, another famous temple is Wat No Phra Meru that has a green stone Buddha statue inside. The Ayuthaya and the Chantharakasen are the two significant national museums. The Lopburi and the Kanchanaburi town in the Central Thailand region is a host to a lot many tourists every year.
In the Southeastern Thailand region is situated the Ko Chang National Park that is crammed by people due to the various activities like elephant riding, diving, snorkeling etc. and also to enjoy the wildlife in this area. The Rayong Province has a set of exotic beaches along with the Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park that has striking limestone mountains, caves, cliffs and waterfalls including impressive wildlife. Pattaya is another eventful beach spot located 150 kilometers away from Bangkok.
The Northern Thailand is bedecked by the Lamphun Province that has numerous historical temples, Doi Khun Tan National Park, the Lampang Province that grounds the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang temple which is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand and there is also the famous Thai Elephant Conservation Center which provides acre for sick elephants, animal shows and tourist exhibits from time to time. The Sukhothai Province is important for its Ramkhamhaeng National Park.
The Isan Region of Northeastern Thailand has the renowned Khao Yai National Park, which is a home for innumerable wild animals and the Phanom Rung Historical Park.
Few places at the Thailand's Southern Coasts like Phetchaburi city, the Southern Gulf Region (known for marine life and water sports) and the Andaman Coast are everlastingly meant for vacationing in Thailand.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=56215
2007/09/25
Top 10 Things To Do In Bangkok Thailand
by Aimee C. Barnard
1.Get on a river taxi and see the beauty of the Chao Praya River.
A very different view of Bangkok I've got to say. If you're the adventurer, you can just jump on one at any of its terminals. Just be fast enough as the boats ( water taxis ) hardly stop. Otherwise, book a tour from one of the hotels by the river such as The Royal Orchid Sheraton, Shangri la or The Peninsula.
2.Rub elbows with the locals and tourists at the Weekend market, Chatuchak/Jatujak.
It can get very hot in here but it's an excellent place to see the wares of Thailand. You might even find a good buy along the way. Thai ( and not so Thai ) goods available from antique furniture to fake jeans.
3.See the wonders of the Grand Palace
All hail the Queen of England, but her Buckingham Palace is nothing compared to this glorious work of art in the middle of Bangkok.
4.Have a Thai massage in Wat Po and if you have the time, take the 10-day Thai Massage course
If you don't get a Thai massage in Thailand then you haven't been to Thailand at all. Experience this somewhat bone breaking yet de-stressing technique right from where it originated. Or if that's a bit too much, go for the foot massage instead.
5.Have A Relaxing Spa At The Banyan
A relaxing spa retreat right in the middle of the city. You can choose from a 1 hour facial treatment or if you have time to spare, have a 7 hour Banyan package and spoil yourself mad.
6.Visit the Floating Marekt
It may just be another commercial avenue for tourists to spend their dollars, but if you go to the floating market early in the morning when the "river-folk" are actually buying and selling goods mindless of the tourists, then it's a very good cultural experience.
7.Haggle at the night markets
Sure many goods are over-priced but if you know how to haggle and how much you're willing to pay for what you're buying, this can be very fun. If you go very early, just when the shops are opening, you might even get the prices real low ( first buyers luck!)
8.Shop Till You Drop
Shopping is the Thai's national past time and wherever you are in Bangkok, you will never run out of shops to explore. You'll find practically everything in this City Of Angels and at very reasonable prices to boot. For reasonable priced clothes, go to Pratunum Market; for little trinkets, go to Yaowarat in Chinatown; for bargain software, go to Panthip plaza, and for designer clothes, try Central Plaza or The Emporium Shopping Center.
9.Try Thai cuisine
You've had Thai food in your country and I'm sure it's good; but Thai food cooked in Thailand, is in my opinion, just heavenly! Just be sure to know the words, Mai Pet ( My Pet ). This means not spicy in Thai, but you'll probably be wondering how hot the spicy dishes are after you've bit into your first chilli!
10.See An Elephant Show
I know they should be in the wild and all that...but if I were an elephant, this humiliation of dancing in front of amused humans is much better than the alternative which is walking on the hot streets of Bangkok waiting for tourists to buy me a piece of sugar cane for food. And I have to say, this is one show I enjoy. Watch out for the baby elephants! They're a real treat!
www.tropical-island-vacation.net/index.html
1.Get on a river taxi and see the beauty of the Chao Praya River.
A very different view of Bangkok I've got to say. If you're the adventurer, you can just jump on one at any of its terminals. Just be fast enough as the boats ( water taxis ) hardly stop. Otherwise, book a tour from one of the hotels by the river such as The Royal Orchid Sheraton, Shangri la or The Peninsula.
2.Rub elbows with the locals and tourists at the Weekend market, Chatuchak/Jatujak.
It can get very hot in here but it's an excellent place to see the wares of Thailand. You might even find a good buy along the way. Thai ( and not so Thai ) goods available from antique furniture to fake jeans.
3.See the wonders of the Grand Palace
All hail the Queen of England, but her Buckingham Palace is nothing compared to this glorious work of art in the middle of Bangkok.
4.Have a Thai massage in Wat Po and if you have the time, take the 10-day Thai Massage course
If you don't get a Thai massage in Thailand then you haven't been to Thailand at all. Experience this somewhat bone breaking yet de-stressing technique right from where it originated. Or if that's a bit too much, go for the foot massage instead.
5.Have A Relaxing Spa At The Banyan
A relaxing spa retreat right in the middle of the city. You can choose from a 1 hour facial treatment or if you have time to spare, have a 7 hour Banyan package and spoil yourself mad.
6.Visit the Floating Marekt
It may just be another commercial avenue for tourists to spend their dollars, but if you go to the floating market early in the morning when the "river-folk" are actually buying and selling goods mindless of the tourists, then it's a very good cultural experience.
7.Haggle at the night markets
Sure many goods are over-priced but if you know how to haggle and how much you're willing to pay for what you're buying, this can be very fun. If you go very early, just when the shops are opening, you might even get the prices real low ( first buyers luck!)
8.Shop Till You Drop
Shopping is the Thai's national past time and wherever you are in Bangkok, you will never run out of shops to explore. You'll find practically everything in this City Of Angels and at very reasonable prices to boot. For reasonable priced clothes, go to Pratunum Market; for little trinkets, go to Yaowarat in Chinatown; for bargain software, go to Panthip plaza, and for designer clothes, try Central Plaza or The Emporium Shopping Center.
9.Try Thai cuisine
You've had Thai food in your country and I'm sure it's good; but Thai food cooked in Thailand, is in my opinion, just heavenly! Just be sure to know the words, Mai Pet ( My Pet ). This means not spicy in Thai, but you'll probably be wondering how hot the spicy dishes are after you've bit into your first chilli!
10.See An Elephant Show
I know they should be in the wild and all that...but if I were an elephant, this humiliation of dancing in front of amused humans is much better than the alternative which is walking on the hot streets of Bangkok waiting for tourists to buy me a piece of sugar cane for food. And I have to say, this is one show I enjoy. Watch out for the baby elephants! They're a real treat!
www.tropical-island-vacation.net/index.html
2007/09/24
Hotels in Silom - Bangkok hotels with a legacy of windmills
by Eric Lim
Hotels in Silom are the Bangkok hotels in the heart of the old Bangrak, a commercial and entertainment area with a long tradition of royal connections and a quaint history.
These Bangkok hotels are located with banks, commercial buildings, moneychangers, shopping centers, restaurants, street vendors, night markets and other entertainment that Silom Road a hive of activity for both tourists and Thais alike.
Silom, or windmill in Thai, used to be an area covered by orchards and yes, windmills to draw water from the canals to water the vast orchards. The area is in a very old part of Bangkok, the Bangrak district, named after a huge Rak tree trunk found in one of the canals.
There're other versions of the origins of this name. Owing to the many hospitals in the area, it's believed the name came from "raksa", as in healthcare. Whatever the reason, the roads in Silom have a long tradition of royal connections.
Silom Road was built by excavating a canal in the middle to allow for canal and land movement. Several of the roads in Silom similarly constructed and named after noblemen who were awarded royal titles for their contributions to road construction.
The Saladaeng area in Silom was originally royal land. Its name, red-roofed pavilion, was derived from the red roof of the train station built in the area by the Danish railway company. The site of a nobleman's mansion in Saladaeng is now the Dusit Thani Hotel, one of the prominent hotels in Silom.
Further on, the Swiss Lodge is nestled in Convent Road, named after the walled convent established by the Carmelite Order of Nuns.
Chao Phraya Surawongse Wattanasak gave his name to Surawongse Road, a road parallel to Silom Road, where the Montien Surawongse and Tawana Ramada are located.
Chao Phraya is also the highest title in ancient Thai nobility, similar to the Duke in British nobility. The title is no longer in use. The other titles in descending order, with their British equivalents in brackets, are Phraya, (Marquis) Phra, (Earl) Luang, (Viscount) and Khun (Baron).
Patpong, the night entertainment area between Silom and Surawongse Roads, was originally the family estate of Luang Patpong Panich, a title awarded to a rich Chinese immigrant. The raunchy activities in the area have somewhat eclipsed its regal origins.
For those who wish to have hotels in Silom within a staggering distance from their watering holes, the Silom Serene and Wall Street Inn would be ideal.
Decho Road, further down Silom Road, got its name from another nobleman, Phraya Siharaj Decho. The Bangkok hotels around this area are Narai Hotel, Silom City Inn, Sofitel Silom, Tower and Triple Two Silom.
The other hotels in Silom closer to the Chao Phraya River are Centre Point Silom, Holiday Inn Silom and Manohra The Lebua at State Tower Hotel (former Meritus Suites State Tower) stands above them all, towering over the Chao Phraya.
What's Silom like today?
Across the road from the Dusit Thani Hotel, a large tract of Saladaeng became Lumphini Park, a gift from King Rama VI to the people in 1925. Up-market high-rise apartments are sprouting up in Soi Saladaeng, the area behind the hotel.
The subway runs under Rama IV Road, which used to be a canal as well, stopping at the Silom Station below the busy Saladaeng junction, under the benign eye of the King Rama VI Monument.
The subway continues on passing under the Pan Pacific Bangkok and Mandarin Hotel Bangkok.
The red-roofed railway station that gave its name to Saladaeng is no longer there, its place taken by the Saladaeng skytrain station, less the red roof.
In the early 1960s, the canal along Silom Road was filled up for road expansion. So were the canals in the neighboring roads like Surawongse Road.
In Patpong, it's business as usual. The windmills, of course, are gone.
But the hotels in Silom, the commercial areas and the pavements in Silom Road are still bustling with life.
Hotels in Silom provide a historical background to the areas in which Bangkok Hotels are located. It is hoped that visitors to Bangkok will be acquainted with the rich history of some of the places they will be passing through.
http://www.tour-bangkok-legacies.com/
Hotels in Silom are the Bangkok hotels in the heart of the old Bangrak, a commercial and entertainment area with a long tradition of royal connections and a quaint history.
These Bangkok hotels are located with banks, commercial buildings, moneychangers, shopping centers, restaurants, street vendors, night markets and other entertainment that Silom Road a hive of activity for both tourists and Thais alike.
Silom, or windmill in Thai, used to be an area covered by orchards and yes, windmills to draw water from the canals to water the vast orchards. The area is in a very old part of Bangkok, the Bangrak district, named after a huge Rak tree trunk found in one of the canals.
There're other versions of the origins of this name. Owing to the many hospitals in the area, it's believed the name came from "raksa", as in healthcare. Whatever the reason, the roads in Silom have a long tradition of royal connections.
Silom Road was built by excavating a canal in the middle to allow for canal and land movement. Several of the roads in Silom similarly constructed and named after noblemen who were awarded royal titles for their contributions to road construction.
The Saladaeng area in Silom was originally royal land. Its name, red-roofed pavilion, was derived from the red roof of the train station built in the area by the Danish railway company. The site of a nobleman's mansion in Saladaeng is now the Dusit Thani Hotel, one of the prominent hotels in Silom.
Further on, the Swiss Lodge is nestled in Convent Road, named after the walled convent established by the Carmelite Order of Nuns.
Chao Phraya Surawongse Wattanasak gave his name to Surawongse Road, a road parallel to Silom Road, where the Montien Surawongse and Tawana Ramada are located.
Chao Phraya is also the highest title in ancient Thai nobility, similar to the Duke in British nobility. The title is no longer in use. The other titles in descending order, with their British equivalents in brackets, are Phraya, (Marquis) Phra, (Earl) Luang, (Viscount) and Khun (Baron).
Patpong, the night entertainment area between Silom and Surawongse Roads, was originally the family estate of Luang Patpong Panich, a title awarded to a rich Chinese immigrant. The raunchy activities in the area have somewhat eclipsed its regal origins.
For those who wish to have hotels in Silom within a staggering distance from their watering holes, the Silom Serene and Wall Street Inn would be ideal.
Decho Road, further down Silom Road, got its name from another nobleman, Phraya Siharaj Decho. The Bangkok hotels around this area are Narai Hotel, Silom City Inn, Sofitel Silom, Tower and Triple Two Silom.
The other hotels in Silom closer to the Chao Phraya River are Centre Point Silom, Holiday Inn Silom and Manohra The Lebua at State Tower Hotel (former Meritus Suites State Tower) stands above them all, towering over the Chao Phraya.
What's Silom like today?
Across the road from the Dusit Thani Hotel, a large tract of Saladaeng became Lumphini Park, a gift from King Rama VI to the people in 1925. Up-market high-rise apartments are sprouting up in Soi Saladaeng, the area behind the hotel.
The subway runs under Rama IV Road, which used to be a canal as well, stopping at the Silom Station below the busy Saladaeng junction, under the benign eye of the King Rama VI Monument.
The subway continues on passing under the Pan Pacific Bangkok and Mandarin Hotel Bangkok.
The red-roofed railway station that gave its name to Saladaeng is no longer there, its place taken by the Saladaeng skytrain station, less the red roof.
In the early 1960s, the canal along Silom Road was filled up for road expansion. So were the canals in the neighboring roads like Surawongse Road.
In Patpong, it's business as usual. The windmills, of course, are gone.
But the hotels in Silom, the commercial areas and the pavements in Silom Road are still bustling with life.
Hotels in Silom provide a historical background to the areas in which Bangkok Hotels are located. It is hoped that visitors to Bangkok will be acquainted with the rich history of some of the places they will be passing through.
http://www.tour-bangkok-legacies.com/
Bangkok on the Cheap
by Fred Tittle
Bangkok has always been a favorite destination for budget travelers, even today when the baht is doing so well against most currencies, especially the dollar. With Bangkok as a major Asia air travel hub, with a lot of cheap flights into the new Bangkok airport, this trend will continue into the foreseeable future. When it is time to leave Bangkok, there are lots of options for you to chose from to move towards your next destinations in Asia, with night trains running the length of Thailand heading towards Burma, Laos and Malaysia, overland buses to Laos and Cambodia, and commuter type cheap air flights being offered by Air Asia, and other regional carriers to Singapore, Vietnam & Cambodia.
Most folks that are trying to save money and have a great time in Bangkok start off at Koh Shan Rd, which gets you into one of the better neighborhoods for saving money. You can also get good information from fellow travelers on what is hot, and what the scams are to watch out for. The secret for hotels and guesthouses is staying as close to the river as you can. The budgets hotels and guesthouses off of Koh Shan Rd are around the same price as the strip, but they are much nicer usually. Off the strip expect to find larger rooms, with more amenities than you will get on the strip. An added benefit is that you get a way from all of the hustle and bustle of Koh Shan rd; however at night this is a highly recommended world class people watching location, with the nightly spectacle of thousands of backpackers and hippies milling in a kaleidoscope of fashions and colors not seen since the heyday of San Francisco's Height Asbury
When you are looking for places to eat, get off Koh Shan rd and head out into the neighborhoods. Head over towards the university, and you can find some real Thai places, that have real Thai prices, at the sidewalk restaurants. You will usually get larger portions and better quality food this way. Fresh fruit, Smoothies and Pad Thai are very cheap on the strip.
Getting around Bangkok
Getting around Bangkok from Koh Shan Rd on local buses can be a real frustrating excursion; the little bit extra to take a taxi to the sky train is worth it. Most people will tell you to steer clear of the tuk tuks, unless you want to see every scam jeweler and tailor in Bangkok. Most people love traveling down the river on boats, and there are all sorts of interesting things to see on the river, like alligator farms, floating markets and lots of Buddhist temples, and best of all it is cheap and fast. During the middle of the daily traffic jam, by taking the river taxis and the sky train, you can get to Suhkumvitt Rd or Patpong in under an hour. Another favorite thing is to go to the 5 star hotels just off the river and walk around them taking in the interior designs and exquisite artwork, some of the really luxury hotels have their own boats that travel on the river as well, a good rule of thumb the nicer the boat, the nicer the hotel.
www.CheapCharliesHotels.com
Bangkok has always been a favorite destination for budget travelers, even today when the baht is doing so well against most currencies, especially the dollar. With Bangkok as a major Asia air travel hub, with a lot of cheap flights into the new Bangkok airport, this trend will continue into the foreseeable future. When it is time to leave Bangkok, there are lots of options for you to chose from to move towards your next destinations in Asia, with night trains running the length of Thailand heading towards Burma, Laos and Malaysia, overland buses to Laos and Cambodia, and commuter type cheap air flights being offered by Air Asia, and other regional carriers to Singapore, Vietnam & Cambodia.
Most folks that are trying to save money and have a great time in Bangkok start off at Koh Shan Rd, which gets you into one of the better neighborhoods for saving money. You can also get good information from fellow travelers on what is hot, and what the scams are to watch out for. The secret for hotels and guesthouses is staying as close to the river as you can. The budgets hotels and guesthouses off of Koh Shan Rd are around the same price as the strip, but they are much nicer usually. Off the strip expect to find larger rooms, with more amenities than you will get on the strip. An added benefit is that you get a way from all of the hustle and bustle of Koh Shan rd; however at night this is a highly recommended world class people watching location, with the nightly spectacle of thousands of backpackers and hippies milling in a kaleidoscope of fashions and colors not seen since the heyday of San Francisco's Height Asbury
When you are looking for places to eat, get off Koh Shan rd and head out into the neighborhoods. Head over towards the university, and you can find some real Thai places, that have real Thai prices, at the sidewalk restaurants. You will usually get larger portions and better quality food this way. Fresh fruit, Smoothies and Pad Thai are very cheap on the strip.
Getting around Bangkok
Getting around Bangkok from Koh Shan Rd on local buses can be a real frustrating excursion; the little bit extra to take a taxi to the sky train is worth it. Most people will tell you to steer clear of the tuk tuks, unless you want to see every scam jeweler and tailor in Bangkok. Most people love traveling down the river on boats, and there are all sorts of interesting things to see on the river, like alligator farms, floating markets and lots of Buddhist temples, and best of all it is cheap and fast. During the middle of the daily traffic jam, by taking the river taxis and the sky train, you can get to Suhkumvitt Rd or Patpong in under an hour. Another favorite thing is to go to the 5 star hotels just off the river and walk around them taking in the interior designs and exquisite artwork, some of the really luxury hotels have their own boats that travel on the river as well, a good rule of thumb the nicer the boat, the nicer the hotel.
www.CheapCharliesHotels.com
2007/09/23
Leaving Thailand for Sweden
by MarieLouise
Now I am leaving the paradise to go back to the autumn and soon winter time in Sweden. After spending two weeks in Thailand it is time to go home. I read in a magazine that it is an out dying phenomenon to reflect upon things in life. I tend to agree. When do we take the time back home and reflect what we have done? Whom we met and what we have achieved. The time for reflection can be any where and any time. Of course it is easier when we are having a holiday. Be grateful to life and the people you have met. Be thankful for your health and every thing you have achieved. Live today as it was supposed to be the last day in your life. When I compare the people here to my own back home I realize that they take things much easier. It is no big fuzz if things do not get ready today it will always be a day tomorrow. People seem to be relaxed and happy.
Another thing I can be jealous about is the fresh fruit. I have had it every day. They seem to have more of a flavour to it then we do. It must be due to the transport. We have to import in when the fruit is still not ready to go. We put it in a fake sun place to harvest it later. How about the vegetables then? Wow, the tomatoes taste marvellous. Every day I have had fish, seafood and greens to it. I will miss that. Back home I have a different diet. My favourite ones come from this part of the earth. What else will I miss? The easy way of living. To be outdoors 24/7 if I like. To be able to walk out with less clothes the back home.
You have to keep in mind I love my country too. But the good thing with travelling is that you appreciate what you have at home and you are grateful to be able to travel abroad. Think back time when we did not and could not travel as much. I guess they were happy in their own environment because they knew nothing else. Sometimes I think we were in ease with more then today. Now days we want so much material in our houses. Look at the Thai people that do not seem to need so much. I have also noticed when I am abroad I do not use all the clothes I have brought. The more I travel the less I carry. That is so nice too.
Now I have to wait for a whole month for my next trip. That will be to Salt Lake City in late October. My purpose there will be to attend an event for the company of Xango LTD. I am looking forward to that. I think it will be around 10.000 attendees from the whole world. I will be back on that trip to tell you. Now it is time for bed and tomorrow will be another story telling day. Good Night.
http://marielouisefalk.blogspot.com
Now I am leaving the paradise to go back to the autumn and soon winter time in Sweden. After spending two weeks in Thailand it is time to go home. I read in a magazine that it is an out dying phenomenon to reflect upon things in life. I tend to agree. When do we take the time back home and reflect what we have done? Whom we met and what we have achieved. The time for reflection can be any where and any time. Of course it is easier when we are having a holiday. Be grateful to life and the people you have met. Be thankful for your health and every thing you have achieved. Live today as it was supposed to be the last day in your life. When I compare the people here to my own back home I realize that they take things much easier. It is no big fuzz if things do not get ready today it will always be a day tomorrow. People seem to be relaxed and happy.
Another thing I can be jealous about is the fresh fruit. I have had it every day. They seem to have more of a flavour to it then we do. It must be due to the transport. We have to import in when the fruit is still not ready to go. We put it in a fake sun place to harvest it later. How about the vegetables then? Wow, the tomatoes taste marvellous. Every day I have had fish, seafood and greens to it. I will miss that. Back home I have a different diet. My favourite ones come from this part of the earth. What else will I miss? The easy way of living. To be outdoors 24/7 if I like. To be able to walk out with less clothes the back home.
You have to keep in mind I love my country too. But the good thing with travelling is that you appreciate what you have at home and you are grateful to be able to travel abroad. Think back time when we did not and could not travel as much. I guess they were happy in their own environment because they knew nothing else. Sometimes I think we were in ease with more then today. Now days we want so much material in our houses. Look at the Thai people that do not seem to need so much. I have also noticed when I am abroad I do not use all the clothes I have brought. The more I travel the less I carry. That is so nice too.
Now I have to wait for a whole month for my next trip. That will be to Salt Lake City in late October. My purpose there will be to attend an event for the company of Xango LTD. I am looking forward to that. I think it will be around 10.000 attendees from the whole world. I will be back on that trip to tell you. Now it is time for bed and tomorrow will be another story telling day. Good Night.
http://marielouisefalk.blogspot.com
2007/09/21
Kamthieng House - the Lanna legacy in Bangkok
by Eric Lim
Kamthieng House, a traditional Lanna home in the grounds of the Siam Society in Soi Asoke Bangkok, preserves the 700 hundred year old Lanna architecture and culture from Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand.
"A million rice fields"
The Lanna (a million rice fields) Kingdom is an old 13th century kingdom in northern Thailand, started by King Mengrai in 1259 who established his capital in Chiang Mai in 1291.
Captured by the Burmese in 1550s, retaken by King Taksin in 1774, Chiang Mai became a vassal of Thailand until the reign of King Rama V when it came under direct rule.
From this kingdom grew a society with a distinctive culture and language along with its own traditions and customs, rituals and festivals.
The family home on the Ping River
One such Lanna family steeped in these traditions was descendants of a prince from Yunnan in Southern China who migrated to northern Thailand. The matriarch Mae Nai Saed, a great granddaughter of the prince, built the original Kamthieng House in 1848 on the banks of the Ping River in Chiang Mai.
In a matriarchal society, the Lanna women are heads of households, own property and have rights of inheritance. The family home was owned by three generations of descendants, Mae Nai Thip, Mae Kamthieng and Mae Kim Haw who lived in the house till 1963.
Making of a museum
The timber house, with its characteristic "Kalae" or 'V' shaped wooden carving at the apex of the gable, is regarded as one of the rare examples of traditional Lanna architecture and art. To preserve Lanna culture for future generations, Mae Nai Haw donated the house to the Siam Society as an ethnological museum.
In memory of her mother Mae Kamthieng, the museum was named Kamthieng House.
It took two years to plan, dismantle and move the old house from Chiang Mai to be reassembled in the grounds of the Siam Society in Bangkok. The Asia Foundation and John D Rockefeller Foundation funded the project.
On 21 November 1966, His Majesty King Bhumipol Adulyadej officially opened Kamthieng House.
Lanna culture
A tour of Kamthieng House gives the visitor an insight to the Lanna lifestyle, rituals, beliefs, family life, culture, art and architecture.
Lanna society practices animism, a belief in the presence of spirits in natural objects and phenomena. Special rituals are performed to appease these spirits before any family or communal activity.
The Naga serpent is symbolic of water vital for rice cultivation, the rice goddess influences the rice crop, a staple food and the buffalo spirit affects the beast of burden working the fields.
Being an agricultural society there's a deep respect for nature and the need to be in harmony with the elements. Ancestral worship is also practiced as seen from the family ancestral altar in the guest hall of the main house.
Weaving, a traditional Lanna craft is evident from the beautifully embroidered fabrics in the bedroom, where elaborately carved wooden lintels are installed above the doors to protect the occupants. Talismans and amulets are also popular forms of protection for individuals and homes.
The exhibits displayed reflect family and community life, combining traditional displays with film clips to illustrate cultural activities and recorded ritual chants in the background to simulate realism.
Kamthieng House is a museum dedicated to preserving a lifestyle from a culture that's almost 800 years old, providing an interesting study in a traditional society that's fast disappearing.
Kamthieng House, Jim Thompson House and the Home of M R Kukrit Pramoj are some of the traditional Thai homes you'll discover in Tour Bangkok Legacies, a historical travel site on people, places and events that left their mark in the landscape of Bangkok.
http://tour-bangkok-legacies.com/
Kamthieng House, a traditional Lanna home in the grounds of the Siam Society in Soi Asoke Bangkok, preserves the 700 hundred year old Lanna architecture and culture from Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand.
"A million rice fields"
The Lanna (a million rice fields) Kingdom is an old 13th century kingdom in northern Thailand, started by King Mengrai in 1259 who established his capital in Chiang Mai in 1291.
Captured by the Burmese in 1550s, retaken by King Taksin in 1774, Chiang Mai became a vassal of Thailand until the reign of King Rama V when it came under direct rule.
From this kingdom grew a society with a distinctive culture and language along with its own traditions and customs, rituals and festivals.
The family home on the Ping River
One such Lanna family steeped in these traditions was descendants of a prince from Yunnan in Southern China who migrated to northern Thailand. The matriarch Mae Nai Saed, a great granddaughter of the prince, built the original Kamthieng House in 1848 on the banks of the Ping River in Chiang Mai.
In a matriarchal society, the Lanna women are heads of households, own property and have rights of inheritance. The family home was owned by three generations of descendants, Mae Nai Thip, Mae Kamthieng and Mae Kim Haw who lived in the house till 1963.
Making of a museum
The timber house, with its characteristic "Kalae" or 'V' shaped wooden carving at the apex of the gable, is regarded as one of the rare examples of traditional Lanna architecture and art. To preserve Lanna culture for future generations, Mae Nai Haw donated the house to the Siam Society as an ethnological museum.
In memory of her mother Mae Kamthieng, the museum was named Kamthieng House.
It took two years to plan, dismantle and move the old house from Chiang Mai to be reassembled in the grounds of the Siam Society in Bangkok. The Asia Foundation and John D Rockefeller Foundation funded the project.
On 21 November 1966, His Majesty King Bhumipol Adulyadej officially opened Kamthieng House.
Lanna culture
A tour of Kamthieng House gives the visitor an insight to the Lanna lifestyle, rituals, beliefs, family life, culture, art and architecture.
Lanna society practices animism, a belief in the presence of spirits in natural objects and phenomena. Special rituals are performed to appease these spirits before any family or communal activity.
The Naga serpent is symbolic of water vital for rice cultivation, the rice goddess influences the rice crop, a staple food and the buffalo spirit affects the beast of burden working the fields.
Being an agricultural society there's a deep respect for nature and the need to be in harmony with the elements. Ancestral worship is also practiced as seen from the family ancestral altar in the guest hall of the main house.
Weaving, a traditional Lanna craft is evident from the beautifully embroidered fabrics in the bedroom, where elaborately carved wooden lintels are installed above the doors to protect the occupants. Talismans and amulets are also popular forms of protection for individuals and homes.
The exhibits displayed reflect family and community life, combining traditional displays with film clips to illustrate cultural activities and recorded ritual chants in the background to simulate realism.
Kamthieng House is a museum dedicated to preserving a lifestyle from a culture that's almost 800 years old, providing an interesting study in a traditional society that's fast disappearing.
Kamthieng House, Jim Thompson House and the Home of M R Kukrit Pramoj are some of the traditional Thai homes you'll discover in Tour Bangkok Legacies, a historical travel site on people, places and events that left their mark in the landscape of Bangkok.
http://tour-bangkok-legacies.com/
Travel to Thailand: Wat Chediluang
by satansatan
Wat Chediluang is located at 103 pokglou R. Thumbon Prasing Amphur Muang Chiang Mai Province. This is one of most important temple in Chiang Mai since the past (Nakonping is the name of Chiang Mai in the past). The main pillar which calls "Indakhil" is located here. At the present Wat Chediluang is the monk administration center in Northern.
This temple is established in "Praya Sanmuangma" the seventh king of "Meng ray" dynasty reign about 600 years ago. There is no record about when it's established. In 1749 - 1751 "Praya Tilokkarasha" had developed this and calls "Wat Chediluang" because there is the Grand Pagoda in this temple.
Important building in "Wat Chediluang"
1. The Grand Pagoda ("Chediluang"). It's the highest pagoda in Lanna Territory. The base is square 60 x 60 meter and high 80 meter. This pagoda had been build about 600 years ago.
2. The main monastery ("Vihara"). It's build by "Prangan (Her Majesty) Tilokajita" in 1420. She also built Buddha figure which was name "Pra Attharasa" and the two main disciples figure ("Sariibutta" and "Moggallana") and place in the monastery. In year 1744 "Praya (The King) Tilokkarajha" had destroyed the old and rebuild the new one. In the later, year 1506 "Pra Muangkwaw" had destroyed the old and rebuilt the new one. This Vihara have been destroyed and rebuilt several time. The current Vihara is built by "kwawnavarut" the ninth governor of Chiang Mai in 1928.
3. The main Buddha figure "Pra Attharasa". This figure had been build by Her Majesty "Tilokajita" in 1420. This figure made from bronze and high 4.5 meter. In addition, there are several figures too. Those are place around the main figure.
4. "Indakhil" The main pillar of city. It's originally located at "Wat Sadumuang". In 1880 His Majesty "Gaviila" had moved it into here.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=580247
Wat Chediluang is located at 103 pokglou R. Thumbon Prasing Amphur Muang Chiang Mai Province. This is one of most important temple in Chiang Mai since the past (Nakonping is the name of Chiang Mai in the past). The main pillar which calls "Indakhil" is located here. At the present Wat Chediluang is the monk administration center in Northern.
This temple is established in "Praya Sanmuangma" the seventh king of "Meng ray" dynasty reign about 600 years ago. There is no record about when it's established. In 1749 - 1751 "Praya Tilokkarasha" had developed this and calls "Wat Chediluang" because there is the Grand Pagoda in this temple.
Important building in "Wat Chediluang"
1. The Grand Pagoda ("Chediluang"). It's the highest pagoda in Lanna Territory. The base is square 60 x 60 meter and high 80 meter. This pagoda had been build about 600 years ago.
2. The main monastery ("Vihara"). It's build by "Prangan (Her Majesty) Tilokajita" in 1420. She also built Buddha figure which was name "Pra Attharasa" and the two main disciples figure ("Sariibutta" and "Moggallana") and place in the monastery. In year 1744 "Praya (The King) Tilokkarajha" had destroyed the old and rebuild the new one. In the later, year 1506 "Pra Muangkwaw" had destroyed the old and rebuilt the new one. This Vihara have been destroyed and rebuilt several time. The current Vihara is built by "kwawnavarut" the ninth governor of Chiang Mai in 1928.
3. The main Buddha figure "Pra Attharasa". This figure had been build by Her Majesty "Tilokajita" in 1420. This figure made from bronze and high 4.5 meter. In addition, there are several figures too. Those are place around the main figure.
4. "Indakhil" The main pillar of city. It's originally located at "Wat Sadumuang". In 1880 His Majesty "Gaviila" had moved it into here.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=580247
2007/09/20
Get scuba diving qualified while holidaying in Thailand
by Andy Burrows
So, you've finally booked that exotic holiday to Thailand and now you're thinking about doing something really different? Why not get your PADI Open Water certification? It takes just a few days and will open up a whole new underwater world to you.
You'll find PADI is the most widely available certification with just a handful of shops offering NAUI and SSI certifications. There are dive shops all over Thailand, in places like Phuket, Khao Lak, Chumpon, Hua Hin, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Koh Phangnan, Koh Chang, Koh Samet, Pattaya, Phi Phi, Krabi and more.
Some dive shops are tied to resorts while many are their own businesses. You can do your PADI Open Water paperwork in your home country before you arrive and do your checkout dives in Thailand, or do the whole course in Thailand. You also have the choice of doing your checkout dives by daytrip or from a liveaboard vessel.
Where you go to take your course depends on what your preferences are. Each location has its own attractions and if you plan to spend more time above the water than below it, you might want to choose your destination for its other offerings. Likewise, not all dive shops or instructors are of the same quality.
You'll want to visit several dive shops where you are staying and meet the instructor that you would have if you did your Open Water course there. If English is not your native language, you may find a dive shop with an instructor speaking Dutch, French, Italian, etc. Dive shops in the more popular diving areas provide instruction and exams in several languages.
Equipment standards vary between shops as well. You'll want to make sure that the equipment is not too old and that it has been well maintained and stored, as well as cleaned properly. For instance, regulators go in your mouth and they should be well cleaned between users. Additionally, most people urinate in their wetsuits and these should be cleaned after each dive. All equipment must be cleaned of salt water or the crystallization can damage it.
Poorly maintained regulator, BCDs and dive computers can malfunction and cause a serious accident that may even lead to your death. Likewise, a poorly trained dive instructor or one who does not take his or her job seriously can get you killed too.
One of the most popular places to take PADI courses in Thailand is Koh Tao, known for its cheap diving and abundance of dive shops, and within easy reach of Samui. You'll have plenty of choices here and would be wise to take your time and visit as many shops as possible. Koh Tao is a good place to learn how to dive and to proceed through Advanced, Rescue Diver, Divemaster/Master Scuba Diver, and Instructor courses.
However, this island is not recommended for fun, recreational dives as the visibility and quality of the reefs is relatively poor. Koh Tao is most popular with young backpackers, although there are a few resorts for those who do not enjoy this scene. Phi Phi offers a similar scene on a smaller scale with better diving.
For quality diving, it's best to go to Phuket or Khao Lak, where you have easy access to the Similan Islands. These nine islands are part of Phang Nga province and located within a marine national park. They are pristine and rich with wildlife above and below the water. The beaches here are some of the most beautiful in the world and the dive spots are some of the best in the world. Colourful reefs and boulder formations are a plus, with a variety of coral and marine life. Visibility is also good, varying from 30 to 50m.
The best way to see the Similans is by liveaboard, and most dive operators will allow you to do your Open Water dives from the boat if you've completed the paper and pool work ashore beforehand, usually with diving courses on Phuket. Note that in mind that the Similans are closed during the low season due to unfavourable boating and diving conditions. Additionally, sites have depths well past the recreational limit of 40m and some may have currents. It's advisable that you take courses past Open Water to become a stronger diver and be permitted to dive to the limit.
There are diving courses on Samui as well, and plenty of dive operators offering all levels of diving courses on Phuket, even a few in Krabi. In fact you'll find scuba courses in Pattaya, Koh Chang and other places, but with less choice of date flexibility.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=503178
So, you've finally booked that exotic holiday to Thailand and now you're thinking about doing something really different? Why not get your PADI Open Water certification? It takes just a few days and will open up a whole new underwater world to you.
You'll find PADI is the most widely available certification with just a handful of shops offering NAUI and SSI certifications. There are dive shops all over Thailand, in places like Phuket, Khao Lak, Chumpon, Hua Hin, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Koh Phangnan, Koh Chang, Koh Samet, Pattaya, Phi Phi, Krabi and more.
Some dive shops are tied to resorts while many are their own businesses. You can do your PADI Open Water paperwork in your home country before you arrive and do your checkout dives in Thailand, or do the whole course in Thailand. You also have the choice of doing your checkout dives by daytrip or from a liveaboard vessel.
Where you go to take your course depends on what your preferences are. Each location has its own attractions and if you plan to spend more time above the water than below it, you might want to choose your destination for its other offerings. Likewise, not all dive shops or instructors are of the same quality.
You'll want to visit several dive shops where you are staying and meet the instructor that you would have if you did your Open Water course there. If English is not your native language, you may find a dive shop with an instructor speaking Dutch, French, Italian, etc. Dive shops in the more popular diving areas provide instruction and exams in several languages.
Equipment standards vary between shops as well. You'll want to make sure that the equipment is not too old and that it has been well maintained and stored, as well as cleaned properly. For instance, regulators go in your mouth and they should be well cleaned between users. Additionally, most people urinate in their wetsuits and these should be cleaned after each dive. All equipment must be cleaned of salt water or the crystallization can damage it.
Poorly maintained regulator, BCDs and dive computers can malfunction and cause a serious accident that may even lead to your death. Likewise, a poorly trained dive instructor or one who does not take his or her job seriously can get you killed too.
One of the most popular places to take PADI courses in Thailand is Koh Tao, known for its cheap diving and abundance of dive shops, and within easy reach of Samui. You'll have plenty of choices here and would be wise to take your time and visit as many shops as possible. Koh Tao is a good place to learn how to dive and to proceed through Advanced, Rescue Diver, Divemaster/Master Scuba Diver, and Instructor courses.
However, this island is not recommended for fun, recreational dives as the visibility and quality of the reefs is relatively poor. Koh Tao is most popular with young backpackers, although there are a few resorts for those who do not enjoy this scene. Phi Phi offers a similar scene on a smaller scale with better diving.
For quality diving, it's best to go to Phuket or Khao Lak, where you have easy access to the Similan Islands. These nine islands are part of Phang Nga province and located within a marine national park. They are pristine and rich with wildlife above and below the water. The beaches here are some of the most beautiful in the world and the dive spots are some of the best in the world. Colourful reefs and boulder formations are a plus, with a variety of coral and marine life. Visibility is also good, varying from 30 to 50m.
The best way to see the Similans is by liveaboard, and most dive operators will allow you to do your Open Water dives from the boat if you've completed the paper and pool work ashore beforehand, usually with diving courses on Phuket. Note that in mind that the Similans are closed during the low season due to unfavourable boating and diving conditions. Additionally, sites have depths well past the recreational limit of 40m and some may have currents. It's advisable that you take courses past Open Water to become a stronger diver and be permitted to dive to the limit.
There are diving courses on Samui as well, and plenty of dive operators offering all levels of diving courses on Phuket, even a few in Krabi. In fact you'll find scuba courses in Pattaya, Koh Chang and other places, but with less choice of date flexibility.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=503178
Massage in Chiang Mai - "a Must After you Arrive."
George Dowhan
When you come to Thailand do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a massage.
There are different types of massages to choose from. Before I explain the different types I would like to stress that anyone having muscle injuries, problems such as thrombosis, varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, skin disease, heart conditions, cancer, wounds, cuts, ulcers, diabetes or arthritis should consult with their physician first before getting a massage. Once you get the physicians blessing and you have decided on the practioner you should let them know of any conditions which you may have which they should be aware of. You don't want someone pulling on your fingers if you suffer from arthritis. Some of the more established massage salons will have you fill out a form before your massage so that they will know more about you and how best to massage your body.
Also before the massage remove body rings, watch, bracelets, or other items which might interfere with massage or restrict the circulation and movements. And the best time for the massage is when you are in a good frame of mind.
There are many types of massages but rather than detail each and every one we will concentrate on the more more popular types.
1) Swedish Massage:
Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, after applying massage lotion or oil on your body.
2) Aromatherapy Massage:
Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.
The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. One of the most common oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.
3) Deep Tissue Massage:
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.
4) Shiatsu:
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for for 2 to 8 seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.
People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.
5) Reflexology:
Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. This type of massage works the internal organs of the body through manipulation of pressure points on the soles of your feet, applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.
6) Thai Massage:
You will have to decide between Thai traditional massage or Thai oil massage. The Thai traditional massge will likly be a little bit more strenuous with stretches, and utilizing the fingers, thumbs, knees, elbows and feet of the person giving the massage. This type of massage may be performed on a mattress on the floor to give the masseur or masseuse the ability to move around your body to apply pressure where required. Note that when I have received this type of massage the pressure has been firm but not excessive. I suffer from bad circulation in my legs and after a long flight my legs are particularly sore and in need of exercise or massage. The Thai oil massage may be performed on a table and be a bit more gentle.
Massage can be done for the purpose of relaxation or for relieving the symptoms of certain ailments. So first of all decide if it is your body or the mind that needs the massage the most. If it is the body then your best choices are deep tissue, shiatsu, relexology or Thai traditional massage. If it is the mind that needs the massage then go with Swedish, aromatherapy or Thai oil massage. Then decide if you want all or a part of your body massaged. It is possible to obtain a masssge for just the feet, or neck, shoulders and back, or a facial massage
For full body massage and where lotions of oils are applied it is best to shower before and after the massage. Otherwise your clothes will have the scent of the oil or lotion.
Should you come across a massage table where there is a whole at one end of the table then that is the end for your head. Yes your head fits into the hole.
There are also what some term as "dirty massages". This is a massage salon which may offer more than a massage. Attendants may be selected from behind glass partitions and one of the offerings may be that of a "soapie massage". Here the masseuse gives you a bath first followed by a massage. These types of massages are often found in what are called men's clubs, or called health clubs. The premises may be considerably larger than that of a traditional Thai massage and much more decorative. The establishment may offer snooker, dining facilities, and karaoke besides massage services. You should understand that even though these establishments exist they should not be confused with the establishments which offer traditional Thai massage. For every large establishment that offers soapie massages there are probably another fifty that offer Thai traditional massage, oil massage, facial or foot massage.
The costs here in Thailand and downright cheap compared to most parts of the world. The hotel where you are staying may charge 50% to 200% of what the massage salon next door will charge. The surroundings may be a bit more opulent but other than that the massage may be identical. If you were here in Chiang Mai you could get a 2 hr. Thai traditional massage for only 400 baht or $10 US. So I would highly recommend that when you visit Thailand to find a good massage salon and treat yourself to a relaxing, comforting experience. The massage is very affordable, and the skills of the masseuses/masseurs is second to none.
Be sure to leave a tip for the person giving the massage if it met your expectations. The wages these people earn are very low and a decent tip can make someone's day. If you want to save a buck or two on your vacation do it by booking cheaper accommodations rather than not tipping someone who deserves it.
In reality there are many legitimate massage facilities in many countries around the world where the masseurs or masseuses are required to have adequate training and, in some cases, even licenses before they can practice. Thailand is no different. Many of the staff performing massage in Thailand have completed massage school where they have undergone the training required for this specialized field of endeavour. After your massage you should experience either relaxation throughout the body or tranquillity of the mind, depending on which type of massage you selected. Tensions and concerns will evaporate, tight muscles will relax, and sometimes you may even fall asleep during the massage. With relaxed muscles, the blood circulation is improved. The body will receive more oxygen and nutrients and the immune system will be more efficient in fending off disease agents, thus lessening the chances of becoming ill. Pleasant surroundings are crucial. The most important factors are cleanliness, privacy, minimum noise level, a comfortable temperature, and good ventilation.
When the massage has been completed you should not get up immediately and get involved in strenuous or serious activities, but rather rest quietly for a few minutes in order to fully absorb the effects of the massage and appreciate the feeling of well-being and tranquillity.
You only live once so as I said earlier, treat yourself to a relaxing experience, you deserve it.
Open daily 10 a.m to 10 p.m. and if you Telephone 053-895571
you can get one of the lovely ladies to pick you up and bring you to the spa by car "for Free".
Only a 5-7 min. walk from Central Mall (Huay Kaew Rd. location), 4 minute walk from H.S. Condotel 4 and 3 minute walk from Amari Rincome. So a great Spa and in a convenient location.
Included as part of our Chiang Mai Retirement services is a complimentary 1 1/2 hour massage at Doi View Massage & Spa. We want our clients whether they are male or female or couples to be relaxed after their long journey to Chiang Mai and how better to relax than with a soothing message
We selected Doi View Massage & Spa for three reasons.
1. The spa is set on the sixth and seventh floors in esquisite surroundings with a fantastic view.
2. For those people wanting entertainment or a meal before or after the spa there is a restaurant on the main floor and also the roofop Loft Pub & Restaurant which features fine dining with a panoramic inner city scene and the spectacular view of Doi Suthep at one glance.
3. And most importantly because of the attentive masseuses.
So if you visit beautiful Chiang Mai, Thailand and you are tired from your flight to Thailand call Doi View and book an appointment. Just say George sent me and get a 20% discount on your 1st Massage/Spa treatment. You deserve it.
www.retire-on-550-month.com
When you come to Thailand do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a massage.
There are different types of massages to choose from. Before I explain the different types I would like to stress that anyone having muscle injuries, problems such as thrombosis, varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, skin disease, heart conditions, cancer, wounds, cuts, ulcers, diabetes or arthritis should consult with their physician first before getting a massage. Once you get the physicians blessing and you have decided on the practioner you should let them know of any conditions which you may have which they should be aware of. You don't want someone pulling on your fingers if you suffer from arthritis. Some of the more established massage salons will have you fill out a form before your massage so that they will know more about you and how best to massage your body.
Also before the massage remove body rings, watch, bracelets, or other items which might interfere with massage or restrict the circulation and movements. And the best time for the massage is when you are in a good frame of mind.
There are many types of massages but rather than detail each and every one we will concentrate on the more more popular types.
1) Swedish Massage:
Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, after applying massage lotion or oil on your body.
2) Aromatherapy Massage:
Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.
The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. One of the most common oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.
3) Deep Tissue Massage:
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.
4) Shiatsu:
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for for 2 to 8 seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.
People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.
5) Reflexology:
Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. This type of massage works the internal organs of the body through manipulation of pressure points on the soles of your feet, applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.
6) Thai Massage:
You will have to decide between Thai traditional massage or Thai oil massage. The Thai traditional massge will likly be a little bit more strenuous with stretches, and utilizing the fingers, thumbs, knees, elbows and feet of the person giving the massage. This type of massage may be performed on a mattress on the floor to give the masseur or masseuse the ability to move around your body to apply pressure where required. Note that when I have received this type of massage the pressure has been firm but not excessive. I suffer from bad circulation in my legs and after a long flight my legs are particularly sore and in need of exercise or massage. The Thai oil massage may be performed on a table and be a bit more gentle.
Massage can be done for the purpose of relaxation or for relieving the symptoms of certain ailments. So first of all decide if it is your body or the mind that needs the massage the most. If it is the body then your best choices are deep tissue, shiatsu, relexology or Thai traditional massage. If it is the mind that needs the massage then go with Swedish, aromatherapy or Thai oil massage. Then decide if you want all or a part of your body massaged. It is possible to obtain a masssge for just the feet, or neck, shoulders and back, or a facial massage
For full body massage and where lotions of oils are applied it is best to shower before and after the massage. Otherwise your clothes will have the scent of the oil or lotion.
Should you come across a massage table where there is a whole at one end of the table then that is the end for your head. Yes your head fits into the hole.
There are also what some term as "dirty massages". This is a massage salon which may offer more than a massage. Attendants may be selected from behind glass partitions and one of the offerings may be that of a "soapie massage". Here the masseuse gives you a bath first followed by a massage. These types of massages are often found in what are called men's clubs, or called health clubs. The premises may be considerably larger than that of a traditional Thai massage and much more decorative. The establishment may offer snooker, dining facilities, and karaoke besides massage services. You should understand that even though these establishments exist they should not be confused with the establishments which offer traditional Thai massage. For every large establishment that offers soapie massages there are probably another fifty that offer Thai traditional massage, oil massage, facial or foot massage.
The costs here in Thailand and downright cheap compared to most parts of the world. The hotel where you are staying may charge 50% to 200% of what the massage salon next door will charge. The surroundings may be a bit more opulent but other than that the massage may be identical. If you were here in Chiang Mai you could get a 2 hr. Thai traditional massage for only 400 baht or $10 US. So I would highly recommend that when you visit Thailand to find a good massage salon and treat yourself to a relaxing, comforting experience. The massage is very affordable, and the skills of the masseuses/masseurs is second to none.
Be sure to leave a tip for the person giving the massage if it met your expectations. The wages these people earn are very low and a decent tip can make someone's day. If you want to save a buck or two on your vacation do it by booking cheaper accommodations rather than not tipping someone who deserves it.
In reality there are many legitimate massage facilities in many countries around the world where the masseurs or masseuses are required to have adequate training and, in some cases, even licenses before they can practice. Thailand is no different. Many of the staff performing massage in Thailand have completed massage school where they have undergone the training required for this specialized field of endeavour. After your massage you should experience either relaxation throughout the body or tranquillity of the mind, depending on which type of massage you selected. Tensions and concerns will evaporate, tight muscles will relax, and sometimes you may even fall asleep during the massage. With relaxed muscles, the blood circulation is improved. The body will receive more oxygen and nutrients and the immune system will be more efficient in fending off disease agents, thus lessening the chances of becoming ill. Pleasant surroundings are crucial. The most important factors are cleanliness, privacy, minimum noise level, a comfortable temperature, and good ventilation.
When the massage has been completed you should not get up immediately and get involved in strenuous or serious activities, but rather rest quietly for a few minutes in order to fully absorb the effects of the massage and appreciate the feeling of well-being and tranquillity.
You only live once so as I said earlier, treat yourself to a relaxing experience, you deserve it.
Open daily 10 a.m to 10 p.m. and if you Telephone 053-895571
you can get one of the lovely ladies to pick you up and bring you to the spa by car "for Free".
Only a 5-7 min. walk from Central Mall (Huay Kaew Rd. location), 4 minute walk from H.S. Condotel 4 and 3 minute walk from Amari Rincome. So a great Spa and in a convenient location.
Included as part of our Chiang Mai Retirement services is a complimentary 1 1/2 hour massage at Doi View Massage & Spa. We want our clients whether they are male or female or couples to be relaxed after their long journey to Chiang Mai and how better to relax than with a soothing message
We selected Doi View Massage & Spa for three reasons.
1. The spa is set on the sixth and seventh floors in esquisite surroundings with a fantastic view.
2. For those people wanting entertainment or a meal before or after the spa there is a restaurant on the main floor and also the roofop Loft Pub & Restaurant which features fine dining with a panoramic inner city scene and the spectacular view of Doi Suthep at one glance.
3. And most importantly because of the attentive masseuses.
So if you visit beautiful Chiang Mai, Thailand and you are tired from your flight to Thailand call Doi View and book an appointment. Just say George sent me and get a 20% discount on your 1st Massage/Spa treatment. You deserve it.
www.retire-on-550-month.com
2007/09/19
What you need to know about - thailand travel
Thailand is one of those destinations, which is forever teeming with tourists. The country holds an exclusive position in the hearts of all vacationers for the place has much more to offer than anyone can expect. Thailand lies in the South East Asia region and can be taken to be the land of Buddha. Almost all the Buddha devotees desire to visit this country once in their lifetime. This is due to the fact that Thailand has some of the unique and exquisite Buddha temples where perfect tranquility prevails.
A Concise Review of a Seemingly Interminable Place
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is worth visiting spot. This sacred temple has Buddha statue that is 65 centimeter elevated and is entirely made of jasper quartz or jade. While the jade goes back to 15th century, the murals on the walls of the compound can be traced back to 18th century. The visitors can take a look at The Royal Thai Decorations and the Coin Pavilion. All in all the sanctity of the temple speaks through itself and the ambiance is enough to enchant the visitors.
Along with Temple of Emerald Buddha, several other grand Buddha temples can be seen once you move into the city of Bangkok. Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand has proved its worth across the globe. This metropolis has everything to offer to its visitors. From wonderful museums to thrilling nightlife, Bangkok has it all. The bustling city owns the largest South East Asian museum called The National Museum. National Museum has a gathering of various things like Thai art from old to contemporary, musical instruments, weapons, woodcarving, ceramics, clothing and sacred Buddha images.
Visitors that come to Bangkok never miss the opportunity to encounter Vinmanmek Teak Mansion that is supposed to be the largest teak building in the world. The Royal Elephant Museum and Dusuit Zoo are perfect places to have some learning with fun. The Wat Pho temple near the temple of Emerald Buddha in Bangkok is perhaps the oldest and the largest of all Buddha temples there. The Wat Pho temple is known for its 46 meter long statue of reclining Buddha and the largest collection of Buddhas in the country. A refreshing massage therapy is done at this place that too attracts a lot of people.
Finally when it comes to shopping, Bangkok has it all. There are ample of markets here that will serve you with all the things of your necessity. The Chatuchak Market or The Weekend Market (that is open on Saturdays and sundaes only), the Pak Khlong market and markets in Chinatown and Phahurat district are particularly quite famous.
The Thonburi region resting on the west bank of river Thonburi has always gathered attention due to different reasons. The Taksin Monument that has a statue of Thailand's eminent king Taksin which is a delight to watch. The Royal Barges Museum that has a fantastic collection of boats, the outstanding one being the king's personal barge -The Golden Swan is definitely a pull in Thonburi.
Buddhist stupas area centre of attraction at Ayuthaya, a city that lies to the north of Bangkok. The oldest and largest temple here is the Wat Phra Si Sanphet, another famous temple is Wat No Phra Meru that has a green stone Buddha statue inside. The Ayuthaya and the Chantharakasen are the two significant national museums. The Lopburi and the Kanchanaburi town in the Central Thailand region is a host to a lot many tourists every year.
In the Southeastern Thailand region is situated the Ko Chang National Park that is crammed by people due to the various activities like elephant riding, diving, snorkeling etc. and also to enjoy the wildlife in this area. The Rayong Province has a set of exotic beaches along with the Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park that has striking limestone mountains, caves, cliffs and waterfalls including impressive wildlife. Pattaya is another eventful beach spot located 150 kilometers away from Bangkok.
The Northern Thailand is bedecked by the Lamphun Province that has numerous historical temples, Doi Khun Tan National Park, the Lampang Province that grounds the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang temple which is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand and there is also the famous Thai Elephant Conservation Center which provides acre for sick elephants, animal shows and tourist exhibits from time to time. The Sukhothai Province is important for its Ramkhamhaeng National Park.
The Isan Region of Northeastern Thailand has the renowned Khao Yai National Park, which is a home for innumerable wild animals and the Phanom Rung Historical Park.
Few places at the Thailand's Southern Coasts like Phetchaburi city, the Southern Gulf Region (known for marine life and water sports) and the Andaman Coast are everlastingly meant for vacationing in Thailand.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=56215
Exotic Bangkok Golf Vacation Mini Guide
by Reed Langdon
Thinking of places to enjoy a golfing vacation adventure and go somewhere exotic
Consider Thailand as a Golf Vacation destination and you will never forget your experience and the adventure.
In this article I will be talking to you about Bangkok Golf Vacations in particular, although there are hundreds of golf courses throughout Thailand.
First a little about Thailand from Wikipedia. Thailand is home to several distinct geographic regions, partly corresponding to the provincial groups.
The north of the country is mountainous, with the highest point being Doi Inthanon at 2,576 meters (8,451ft.).
The northeast consists of the Khorat Plateau, bordered to the east by the Mekong river. The centre of the country is dominated by the predominantly flat Chao Phraya River valley, which runs into the Gulf of Thailand.
The south consists of the narrow Kra Isthmus that widens into the Malay Peninsula.
The local climate is tropical and characterized by monsoons. There is a rainy, warm, and cloudy southwest monsoon from mid-May to September, as well as a dry, cool northeast monsoon from November to mid-March.
The southern isthmus is always hot and humid. Major cities beside the capital Bangkok include Nakhon Ratchasima, Udon Thani, Nakhon Sawan, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Phuket, and Hat Yai, in Songhla Province.
Bangkok, known in Thai as Krung Thep, is the capital and largest city of Thailand, with an official census population of over 10 million. Bangkok is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, near the Gulf of Thailand.
Its also in the World Book of Records for the longest named city, Krung Thep is abbreviated.
Bangkok is one of the fastest growing, most economically dynamic cities in Southeast Asia. It is emerging as a regional center to rival Singapore and Hong Kong.
The World Meteorological Organization has dubbed Bangkok the world's hottest large city. Moreover, it is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. Bangkok is also known for relatively low retail prices.
Bangkok is the place to visit for breathtakingly beautiful temples, magnificent palaces, Thai dancers, Thai kickboxing, museums, and island hopping, with 6 international airports , destinations all within one hour or so flights within Thailand. You will also find great bargains while shopping country wide. Thailand's new airport is a work of art which stands alone and sets a new international standard for travelers, with all the latest hi-tech equipment , and visitor friendly features no where else to be found, just now opening in July through September. So, besides the enjoyment of your golfing vacation, you will also be able to enjoy the visit to Bangkok, Thailand in many other ways, not the least of, which is the fantastic Bangkok nightlife and world-class hotels at rates you won't believe.
All in all, a golf vacation to Thailand is more than just an average golfing vacation, it's an adventure to remember.
Lets talk about some of the particular Golf Clubs and Golf Courses in Bangkok.
Windmill Park Golf & Country Club: Designed by Nick Faldo, this 18-Hole, Par 72, golf course is very challenging from the back tees. It features a lot of water for most of the entire course and the Par 5 holes are all doglegs. The last hole is probably the biggest challenge where you have to hit onto an island where the clubhouse is also located.
Bangpoo Country Club: This 18 hole course was designed by Arnold Palmer and is one of the most popular golf vacation destinations. It is located about 60 miles southeast of Bangkok. You will not contend with as much water as you will on the Windmill course but wind will be a factor in your golf game at Bangpoo. Wide Fairways make the course a little easier for the average golfer.
Vintage Golf Clubs: There is a lot more here than just golf. It features a glamorous clubhouse with tennis courts, a swimming pool, and even a fitness center. This 18 hole, Par 72 golf course was designed by Arthur Hills and is a rather flat course. However the greens, fairways, and water hazards are well placed. The Par 5 holes will give any golfer the challenge they are looking for and the 18th hole is especially challenging with a narrow green sporting water on two sides.
Bangpakong Riverside Country Club: Built by the Bangpakong River, this 18 hole course presents unique challenges for golfers at any skill level. The river intertwines through the golf course and into some of the greens themselves. It sports thick rough areas even though the fairways are wide. Golfers will also have to contend with strong winds in addition to the obvious water hazards.
Thana City Golf & Country Club: This Golf Club is located along the Bangna-Trad Highway. A beautiful course designed by Greg Norman gives golfers a chance to play holes of varying skill levels. There are Par 4, 300 yard holes up to Par 4, 440 yard holes. Very fast greens make this golf course a real challenge.
Dynasty Golf & Country Club: Designed by Dennis Griffiths, Dynasty is an 18-hole golf course about an hour-and-a-half drive from Bangkok. The greens are well placed and the course is fairly flat. There are creeks that provide good water hazards and the trees and flowers that surround this beautiful golf course are something to be admired.
Subhapruek Golf Club: (Formerly Bangna Country Club). The name, Subhapruek, was given to the golf course by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in 1995 and means Beautiful Plants. This golf course is one of the most beautiful courses in Thailand. Every single one of the 18 holes was designed by Pete Dye as a signature hole. The course presents physical and mental challenges that rival the best golf courses in the world.
Natural Park Ramindra Golf Course: (Formerly Winsan Golf Club until taken over by the Natural Group in 1992) Designed by Jack Niclaus, this 18-hole golf course features holes with sandy wastes, water hazards, and bunkers. Like any golf course designed by Jack Niclaus, it presents challenges golfers at all skill levels can enjoy. It is located near Safari World, about and hour drive from Bangkok.
These are only a few of the golf courses in and around Bangkok, Thailand. You will enjoy exploring to find other courses such as those I will recommend below. A trip to Thailand for a golf vacation is one you will never forget. Other recommended Golf courses you can search for online before booking your Bangkok, Thailand golf vacation.
Green Valley Golf Club, Rose Garden Golf Club, Kiarti Thanee Country Club, Royal Gems Golf & Sports Club, Krisda City Golf Club, President Golf & Country Club, Krung Kavee Golf Club, Pinehurst Golf & Country Club, Lakewood Golf & Country Club, Panya Indra Golf Club, Lum Luk Ka Golf Club, and Navatanee Golf Club. Note from the author: Although there are many excellent choices, my personal favorite is Pinehurst Golf & Country Club, minutes from Don Mueng International Airport, great accommodations in a country setting , excellent service with a smile, and moderately priced to fit within your budget.
www.golfvacationonline.info
Thinking of places to enjoy a golfing vacation adventure and go somewhere exotic
Consider Thailand as a Golf Vacation destination and you will never forget your experience and the adventure.
In this article I will be talking to you about Bangkok Golf Vacations in particular, although there are hundreds of golf courses throughout Thailand.
First a little about Thailand from Wikipedia. Thailand is home to several distinct geographic regions, partly corresponding to the provincial groups.
The north of the country is mountainous, with the highest point being Doi Inthanon at 2,576 meters (8,451ft.).
The northeast consists of the Khorat Plateau, bordered to the east by the Mekong river. The centre of the country is dominated by the predominantly flat Chao Phraya River valley, which runs into the Gulf of Thailand.
The south consists of the narrow Kra Isthmus that widens into the Malay Peninsula.
The local climate is tropical and characterized by monsoons. There is a rainy, warm, and cloudy southwest monsoon from mid-May to September, as well as a dry, cool northeast monsoon from November to mid-March.
The southern isthmus is always hot and humid. Major cities beside the capital Bangkok include Nakhon Ratchasima, Udon Thani, Nakhon Sawan, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Phuket, and Hat Yai, in Songhla Province.
Bangkok, known in Thai as Krung Thep, is the capital and largest city of Thailand, with an official census population of over 10 million. Bangkok is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, near the Gulf of Thailand.
Its also in the World Book of Records for the longest named city, Krung Thep is abbreviated.
Bangkok is one of the fastest growing, most economically dynamic cities in Southeast Asia. It is emerging as a regional center to rival Singapore and Hong Kong.
The World Meteorological Organization has dubbed Bangkok the world's hottest large city. Moreover, it is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. Bangkok is also known for relatively low retail prices.
Bangkok is the place to visit for breathtakingly beautiful temples, magnificent palaces, Thai dancers, Thai kickboxing, museums, and island hopping, with 6 international airports , destinations all within one hour or so flights within Thailand. You will also find great bargains while shopping country wide. Thailand's new airport is a work of art which stands alone and sets a new international standard for travelers, with all the latest hi-tech equipment , and visitor friendly features no where else to be found, just now opening in July through September. So, besides the enjoyment of your golfing vacation, you will also be able to enjoy the visit to Bangkok, Thailand in many other ways, not the least of, which is the fantastic Bangkok nightlife and world-class hotels at rates you won't believe.
All in all, a golf vacation to Thailand is more than just an average golfing vacation, it's an adventure to remember.
Lets talk about some of the particular Golf Clubs and Golf Courses in Bangkok.
Windmill Park Golf & Country Club: Designed by Nick Faldo, this 18-Hole, Par 72, golf course is very challenging from the back tees. It features a lot of water for most of the entire course and the Par 5 holes are all doglegs. The last hole is probably the biggest challenge where you have to hit onto an island where the clubhouse is also located.
Bangpoo Country Club: This 18 hole course was designed by Arnold Palmer and is one of the most popular golf vacation destinations. It is located about 60 miles southeast of Bangkok. You will not contend with as much water as you will on the Windmill course but wind will be a factor in your golf game at Bangpoo. Wide Fairways make the course a little easier for the average golfer.
Vintage Golf Clubs: There is a lot more here than just golf. It features a glamorous clubhouse with tennis courts, a swimming pool, and even a fitness center. This 18 hole, Par 72 golf course was designed by Arthur Hills and is a rather flat course. However the greens, fairways, and water hazards are well placed. The Par 5 holes will give any golfer the challenge they are looking for and the 18th hole is especially challenging with a narrow green sporting water on two sides.
Bangpakong Riverside Country Club: Built by the Bangpakong River, this 18 hole course presents unique challenges for golfers at any skill level. The river intertwines through the golf course and into some of the greens themselves. It sports thick rough areas even though the fairways are wide. Golfers will also have to contend with strong winds in addition to the obvious water hazards.
Thana City Golf & Country Club: This Golf Club is located along the Bangna-Trad Highway. A beautiful course designed by Greg Norman gives golfers a chance to play holes of varying skill levels. There are Par 4, 300 yard holes up to Par 4, 440 yard holes. Very fast greens make this golf course a real challenge.
Dynasty Golf & Country Club: Designed by Dennis Griffiths, Dynasty is an 18-hole golf course about an hour-and-a-half drive from Bangkok. The greens are well placed and the course is fairly flat. There are creeks that provide good water hazards and the trees and flowers that surround this beautiful golf course are something to be admired.
Subhapruek Golf Club: (Formerly Bangna Country Club). The name, Subhapruek, was given to the golf course by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in 1995 and means Beautiful Plants. This golf course is one of the most beautiful courses in Thailand. Every single one of the 18 holes was designed by Pete Dye as a signature hole. The course presents physical and mental challenges that rival the best golf courses in the world.
Natural Park Ramindra Golf Course: (Formerly Winsan Golf Club until taken over by the Natural Group in 1992) Designed by Jack Niclaus, this 18-hole golf course features holes with sandy wastes, water hazards, and bunkers. Like any golf course designed by Jack Niclaus, it presents challenges golfers at all skill levels can enjoy. It is located near Safari World, about and hour drive from Bangkok.
These are only a few of the golf courses in and around Bangkok, Thailand. You will enjoy exploring to find other courses such as those I will recommend below. A trip to Thailand for a golf vacation is one you will never forget. Other recommended Golf courses you can search for online before booking your Bangkok, Thailand golf vacation.
Green Valley Golf Club, Rose Garden Golf Club, Kiarti Thanee Country Club, Royal Gems Golf & Sports Club, Krisda City Golf Club, President Golf & Country Club, Krung Kavee Golf Club, Pinehurst Golf & Country Club, Lakewood Golf & Country Club, Panya Indra Golf Club, Lum Luk Ka Golf Club, and Navatanee Golf Club. Note from the author: Although there are many excellent choices, my personal favorite is Pinehurst Golf & Country Club, minutes from Don Mueng International Airport, great accommodations in a country setting , excellent service with a smile, and moderately priced to fit within your budget.
www.golfvacationonline.info
2007/09/18
White Sand Beach Resort - White Sand Beach, Koh Chang, Trat, Thailand
by Anna
White Sand Beach Resort - White Sand Beach, Koh Chang, Trat, Thailand
Category: Travel / Hotels & Resorts / Thailand / Trat / Koh Chang
Country: Thailand
Province: Trat
Location: White Sand Beach, Koh Chang
Address: 1/1 Moo 3, White Sand Beach (Had Sai Khao), Koh Chang, Trat, Thailand
White Sand Beach Resort is located on White Sand Beach (Had Sai Khao). This resort is the last resort at the toppermost end of the famous White Sand Beach. Rightly named, and truely original, White Sand Beach Resort was actually the first resort ever built on the White Sand Beach and probably even the whole of Koh Chang.
White Sand Beach is amazingly alluring location. Fronted by the wide, white and fine sandy beach with a crystal clear sea, it has its back adjoining a hill of rainforest and to its northernmost end is a cape, both of which are designated part of the protected Marine National Park. Crossing over the cape and about 2 kilometers away is a rock cave which has a pebble beach entrance. The cape itself is a favourite fishing spot. Avid local anglers return time and again to enjoy their catches.
From White Sand Beach Resort you can see the sun sets daily and the wide beachfront welcomes a cool and pleasant breeze that is nice and gentle especially when the sun is steaming hot. Yearly from October to December a stream passes through a wooden bridge built on a section of White Sand Beach Resort. The stream is part of the waterfall from the hill behind White Sand Beach Resort.
The bungalows are built in 3 rows right on the wide sandy beach, crystal clear waters, and natural surrounding. Most of bungalows are on seafront, the last row has the least bungalows. All of bungalows are built alternately so that every bungalow behind has a fair share of sea view. The bungalows sit on stilts with a few steps of ladder to its balcony. Coconut trees forms part of the environment. The bungalows have air-conditioned, refrigerator, television, bathroom with hot water.
White Sand Beach Resort has a restaurant on the beach. Besides the sheltered area, tables are set in the open-air on the beach. BBQ stoves are ready for some succulent seafood grills or other meaty delicacies. The cook can prepare sumptuous Thai food as well as International cuisines. Barbeque on the beach by night under the starlight is a norm.
Undoubtedly, White Sand Beach Resort where your bungalow is situated is already an activity by itself. Here is the best place to play on the beach, swim in the water and watch the sun sets. Many guests find themselves glued to the beach for days.
However, for those who wish to explore a bit further, one of the popular past time is fishing at the cape which is just a walking-distance away. The more adventurous may take to boating, snorkelling or scuba diving. Cyling, motorbiking, jogging, trekking are also interesting alternatives. Others may prefer to visit local villages, spectacular waterfalls or venture into the rainforest in search of some wild-life sights and sounds.
As the last resort at the northernmost end of White Sand Beach it is a peaceful getaway for many. Behind the main reception is where the long-serving staff and their families live. Here, life is authentically countryside. Fowls are raised and you can see them roaming among the lush green surrounding, at the foot of the hill. Coconut trees abound and your bungalow is part of their family. If you are lucky you may find some monkeys descending from the forest looking for some food or just monkeying around. Here is a real retreat, away from it all, where tranquility rules.
More information on "Koh Chang" or "Ko Chang" or "Elephant Island" - Thailand's second biggest island after Phuket island. Koh Chang is situated to the east of Thailand in the province of Trat (around 315 kilometers from Bangkok) on the border of Cambodia.
Koh Chang is about 30 kilometers long, almost 14 kilometers wide, and 217 square kilometers. Around 80 percent of Koh Chang, along with an archipelago of 52 islands, is part of the Koh Chang Marine National Park. Koh Chang is the largest island in the Marine Natural Park. The Marine National Park has a total area of 650 square meters and 70% is marine. Clear waters of various blue shades surround the island while a terrain of high mountains and steep cliffs provide magnificent scenic points.
www.ikohchang.com/whitesandbeach.htm
White Sand Beach Resort - White Sand Beach, Koh Chang, Trat, Thailand
Category: Travel / Hotels & Resorts / Thailand / Trat / Koh Chang
Country: Thailand
Province: Trat
Location: White Sand Beach, Koh Chang
Address: 1/1 Moo 3, White Sand Beach (Had Sai Khao), Koh Chang, Trat, Thailand
White Sand Beach Resort is located on White Sand Beach (Had Sai Khao). This resort is the last resort at the toppermost end of the famous White Sand Beach. Rightly named, and truely original, White Sand Beach Resort was actually the first resort ever built on the White Sand Beach and probably even the whole of Koh Chang.
White Sand Beach is amazingly alluring location. Fronted by the wide, white and fine sandy beach with a crystal clear sea, it has its back adjoining a hill of rainforest and to its northernmost end is a cape, both of which are designated part of the protected Marine National Park. Crossing over the cape and about 2 kilometers away is a rock cave which has a pebble beach entrance. The cape itself is a favourite fishing spot. Avid local anglers return time and again to enjoy their catches.
From White Sand Beach Resort you can see the sun sets daily and the wide beachfront welcomes a cool and pleasant breeze that is nice and gentle especially when the sun is steaming hot. Yearly from October to December a stream passes through a wooden bridge built on a section of White Sand Beach Resort. The stream is part of the waterfall from the hill behind White Sand Beach Resort.
The bungalows are built in 3 rows right on the wide sandy beach, crystal clear waters, and natural surrounding. Most of bungalows are on seafront, the last row has the least bungalows. All of bungalows are built alternately so that every bungalow behind has a fair share of sea view. The bungalows sit on stilts with a few steps of ladder to its balcony. Coconut trees forms part of the environment. The bungalows have air-conditioned, refrigerator, television, bathroom with hot water.
White Sand Beach Resort has a restaurant on the beach. Besides the sheltered area, tables are set in the open-air on the beach. BBQ stoves are ready for some succulent seafood grills or other meaty delicacies. The cook can prepare sumptuous Thai food as well as International cuisines. Barbeque on the beach by night under the starlight is a norm.
Undoubtedly, White Sand Beach Resort where your bungalow is situated is already an activity by itself. Here is the best place to play on the beach, swim in the water and watch the sun sets. Many guests find themselves glued to the beach for days.
However, for those who wish to explore a bit further, one of the popular past time is fishing at the cape which is just a walking-distance away. The more adventurous may take to boating, snorkelling or scuba diving. Cyling, motorbiking, jogging, trekking are also interesting alternatives. Others may prefer to visit local villages, spectacular waterfalls or venture into the rainforest in search of some wild-life sights and sounds.
As the last resort at the northernmost end of White Sand Beach it is a peaceful getaway for many. Behind the main reception is where the long-serving staff and their families live. Here, life is authentically countryside. Fowls are raised and you can see them roaming among the lush green surrounding, at the foot of the hill. Coconut trees abound and your bungalow is part of their family. If you are lucky you may find some monkeys descending from the forest looking for some food or just monkeying around. Here is a real retreat, away from it all, where tranquility rules.
More information on "Koh Chang" or "Ko Chang" or "Elephant Island" - Thailand's second biggest island after Phuket island. Koh Chang is situated to the east of Thailand in the province of Trat (around 315 kilometers from Bangkok) on the border of Cambodia.
Koh Chang is about 30 kilometers long, almost 14 kilometers wide, and 217 square kilometers. Around 80 percent of Koh Chang, along with an archipelago of 52 islands, is part of the Koh Chang Marine National Park. Koh Chang is the largest island in the Marine Natural Park. The Marine National Park has a total area of 650 square meters and 70% is marine. Clear waters of various blue shades surround the island while a terrain of high mountains and steep cliffs provide magnificent scenic points.
www.ikohchang.com/whitesandbeach.htm
Health Oasis Resort, Koh Samui, A Better Place to Be
by alisterbredee
Koh Samui lies some fifty miles out in the Gulf of Thailand from the coastal town of Surat Thani. It's on the small Thai island of Koh Samui that you will find "The Health Oasis Resort". It is tucked away on the quiet north east coast, opening onto the idyllic Bang Po beach which affords a stunning view across to the neighbouring island of Koh Pha Ngan lying 20 kilometres to the north. The 'Health Oasis' comprises 36 bungalows, plus a two and three bedroom house. Some clustered around the swimming pool and none more than fifty metres from the sea. All rooms have fans and many have air conditioning. The proximity to the sea, however, ensures that the property enjoys cooling sea breezes the year round. The garden boasts frangipani and tall coconut palms, which gives it an authentic tropical paradise feel.
'The Health Oasis' came about as a result of a dream on the part of owner Manta Darnswat. This was to create an "informal and friendly environment free of stress for those who wanted to connect better with themselves and to grow healthier using the therapies and treatments promoted by Health Oasis." The reverie became an actuality in December 1997 and "The Resort" will this year celebrate its tenth anniversary.
The place has a village feel. Although not luxurious it is comfortable and affordable prices and effectiveness of treatment make up any lack in the 'opulence' department. The residents forgather in the beachside vegetarian restaurant, where the Italian 'chef-patron' provides delicious vegetarian meals. The 'Resort' is small and everybody soon gets to know everybody else whether it is in the restaurant, beside the pool or on the adjacent beach and yet large enough to get lost in some of the nooks and crannies such as the library.
It offers many treatments as well as classes and trainings. The emphasis lies, however on de-tox These 'treatments and trainings', include Thai massage and cookery, yoga, meditation, Reiki, EFT and Meridian Energy Techniques, hypnotherapy, nutrition ,diet and activities especially for children. Ss far as Koh Samui goes the 'Health Oasis Resort' is recognised as a traditional medicine hospital by the Thai Department of Health'. 'De-tox' and the popular candida cure are carried out by supervised colonic cleansing, weight loss and fasting. This programme under the direction of Australian naturopath Graham Rowe, undoes the damage of a stressed life style further exacerbated by poor eating habits and other toxins such as alcohol and smoking.
On arrival the guests are given a personal introduction to the 'Resort' and the facilities available as well as a thorough briefing on the details of the 'de-tox programme' they have embarked upon. There is a nine day, eight night programme and a shorter 4-day and three night version. There is menu of special herbs; supplements and juices as well as a daily yoga session in the attractive wooden 'sala' located feet away from the beach. Later in the day guests return to the same venue for a Thai massage that helps shed toxins and eases the strain of tired muscles. Later in the day the steam room opens and 'fasters' embrace another opportunity to rid themselves of even more poisons that have been allowed to build up as a result of lifestyle choices. The colonics take place in the privacy of your own room. Although they sound uncomfortable most visitors quickly accustom themselves to the effective procedure. Weight usually rolls away, the skin begins to glow with renewed good health and quickly a new energy catches up with the guest. I think it can be truly said that most residents are literally transformed after a few days.
The Resort boasts a team of professional therapists from around the world. The Manager, Graham advises on the programme as well as diet and nutrition. There is emotional back-up for those who want to shed emotional baggage or encounter difficulties during their fast on Koh Samui. All this and the setting itself make treatment at Healing Oasis much easier to undertake.
Of course you can simply visit the 'Resort' and forego all treatments if that is your wish. The accommodation beside the sea makes 'Health Oasis' a very nice place to stay in order to enjoy the beach, the swimming pool and Koh Samui itself. Vegetarians, too, are not always well catered for in traditional holiday venues. But here is a location where that is simply not the case. Whatever your choice 'Health Oasis Resort' on the fabled island of Koh Samui is somewhere to visit, be charmed by and return like so many guests year after year.
www.healthambit.com
Koh Samui lies some fifty miles out in the Gulf of Thailand from the coastal town of Surat Thani. It's on the small Thai island of Koh Samui that you will find "The Health Oasis Resort". It is tucked away on the quiet north east coast, opening onto the idyllic Bang Po beach which affords a stunning view across to the neighbouring island of Koh Pha Ngan lying 20 kilometres to the north. The 'Health Oasis' comprises 36 bungalows, plus a two and three bedroom house. Some clustered around the swimming pool and none more than fifty metres from the sea. All rooms have fans and many have air conditioning. The proximity to the sea, however, ensures that the property enjoys cooling sea breezes the year round. The garden boasts frangipani and tall coconut palms, which gives it an authentic tropical paradise feel.
'The Health Oasis' came about as a result of a dream on the part of owner Manta Darnswat. This was to create an "informal and friendly environment free of stress for those who wanted to connect better with themselves and to grow healthier using the therapies and treatments promoted by Health Oasis." The reverie became an actuality in December 1997 and "The Resort" will this year celebrate its tenth anniversary.
The place has a village feel. Although not luxurious it is comfortable and affordable prices and effectiveness of treatment make up any lack in the 'opulence' department. The residents forgather in the beachside vegetarian restaurant, where the Italian 'chef-patron' provides delicious vegetarian meals. The 'Resort' is small and everybody soon gets to know everybody else whether it is in the restaurant, beside the pool or on the adjacent beach and yet large enough to get lost in some of the nooks and crannies such as the library.
It offers many treatments as well as classes and trainings. The emphasis lies, however on de-tox These 'treatments and trainings', include Thai massage and cookery, yoga, meditation, Reiki, EFT and Meridian Energy Techniques, hypnotherapy, nutrition ,diet and activities especially for children. Ss far as Koh Samui goes the 'Health Oasis Resort' is recognised as a traditional medicine hospital by the Thai Department of Health'. 'De-tox' and the popular candida cure are carried out by supervised colonic cleansing, weight loss and fasting. This programme under the direction of Australian naturopath Graham Rowe, undoes the damage of a stressed life style further exacerbated by poor eating habits and other toxins such as alcohol and smoking.
On arrival the guests are given a personal introduction to the 'Resort' and the facilities available as well as a thorough briefing on the details of the 'de-tox programme' they have embarked upon. There is a nine day, eight night programme and a shorter 4-day and three night version. There is menu of special herbs; supplements and juices as well as a daily yoga session in the attractive wooden 'sala' located feet away from the beach. Later in the day guests return to the same venue for a Thai massage that helps shed toxins and eases the strain of tired muscles. Later in the day the steam room opens and 'fasters' embrace another opportunity to rid themselves of even more poisons that have been allowed to build up as a result of lifestyle choices. The colonics take place in the privacy of your own room. Although they sound uncomfortable most visitors quickly accustom themselves to the effective procedure. Weight usually rolls away, the skin begins to glow with renewed good health and quickly a new energy catches up with the guest. I think it can be truly said that most residents are literally transformed after a few days.
The Resort boasts a team of professional therapists from around the world. The Manager, Graham advises on the programme as well as diet and nutrition. There is emotional back-up for those who want to shed emotional baggage or encounter difficulties during their fast on Koh Samui. All this and the setting itself make treatment at Healing Oasis much easier to undertake.
Of course you can simply visit the 'Resort' and forego all treatments if that is your wish. The accommodation beside the sea makes 'Health Oasis' a very nice place to stay in order to enjoy the beach, the swimming pool and Koh Samui itself. Vegetarians, too, are not always well catered for in traditional holiday venues. But here is a location where that is simply not the case. Whatever your choice 'Health Oasis Resort' on the fabled island of Koh Samui is somewhere to visit, be charmed by and return like so many guests year after year.
www.healthambit.com
Bangkok Hotel Booking - Top 14 Tips
by Lawrence Westfall
1. Location, location, location. Just like in real estate - find out where you are going to be and what is available around you. Is the bus, train, highway near? Where are the shopping malls? How far is it to that temple you want to visit? Remember when reading through the hotel write-ups - not every hotel is "centrally" located. Avoid Khaosan Road unless you like backpackers.
2. Don't be fooled by a name. Most of the hotels in Bangkok use the words "Grand", "Boutique", "Royal", "Luxury", "Executive" in the name of the hotel - so just because you booked a room at the Royal Grand Executive Luxury Boutique Service Apartments doesn't mean the place will be royal, grand or any of the other words.
3. Ask your friends. If they have gone to Bangkok before, ask them where they stayed and get a recommendation. This doesn't mean you have to stay there - but it should give you some ideas.
4. Shop around. The Internet is a wonderful place. Pop in the name of the hotel you want information on in Google, and you will see a myriad of info and a range of prices. Take good notes. Read actual reviews keeping in mind most people are more willing to write a negative report as opposed to a positive one.
5. Find a forum. There are many forums available on Thailand in general and Bangkok specifically. Most will let you read the info without registering but if you want to post a question you will have to register. A good place to get very current information.
6. Is it near the "action"? Bangkok is infamous for its nightlife and you may or may not want to be close. Most nightlife is centered on Patpong Road (between Silom and Surawongse roads), Nana Entertainment Plaza (Sukhumvit and Soi 4), and Soi Cowboy (near Soi Asoke). So these are the areas to either avoid or make your reservations.
7. Sukhumvit is a very long road. Your friend recommends a hotel on Sukhumvit road but can't remember which Soi (small street or alley) it is on. So, based on her recommendation, you book a room on Sukhumvit and Soi 103 only to realize it is a gazillion miles from anything. If you want to be centrally located - find a place off Sukhumvit between Sois 1 and 23.
8. What else is included? Free breakfast? Free Wireless? Transportation to and from the airport? Cable, Satellite, DVD, International Direct Dial (IDD) phone? Check to see what is and what is not included.
9. Is there a joiner fee? For the single guys who may bring back a guest for the evening, some hotels charge ridiculous amounts of Baht for having a guest. Best to ask first, and then avoid. You may be able to beat this if you book a double - but it isn't worth the hassle.
10. You get what you pay for. Don't expect Marriott service at a flea bag. We all want value for our money - but if you go cheap - don't expect much. Look for a mid-range priced hotel - around USD $50 per night and you should be satisfied. Bangkok, and all of Thailand, has different prices for different times of the year - high and low season. Check the listed prices carefully.
11. Have fun and smile. Remember - you are in a foreign country and they may not do things like they do back home. Keep your cool, avoid arguing and smile. If you have a problem, ask for the manager and explain it with calm words and a pleasant tone. Yelling and screaming will get you nowhere in the Land of Smiles.
12. Online consolidators can often beat the price of a direct booking.
13. You don't land at Don Muang Airport any more. Bangkok has a relatively new airport - Suvarnabhumi - about 50 kilometers further south than Don Muang. Plan your airport hotel accordingly.
14. Don't expect the hotel staff to be fluent in your language. Most will speak English to a degree. Get a dictionary and learn a bit of Thai.
http://www.bangkok-accomodations.com/
1. Location, location, location. Just like in real estate - find out where you are going to be and what is available around you. Is the bus, train, highway near? Where are the shopping malls? How far is it to that temple you want to visit? Remember when reading through the hotel write-ups - not every hotel is "centrally" located. Avoid Khaosan Road unless you like backpackers.
2. Don't be fooled by a name. Most of the hotels in Bangkok use the words "Grand", "Boutique", "Royal", "Luxury", "Executive" in the name of the hotel - so just because you booked a room at the Royal Grand Executive Luxury Boutique Service Apartments doesn't mean the place will be royal, grand or any of the other words.
3. Ask your friends. If they have gone to Bangkok before, ask them where they stayed and get a recommendation. This doesn't mean you have to stay there - but it should give you some ideas.
4. Shop around. The Internet is a wonderful place. Pop in the name of the hotel you want information on in Google, and you will see a myriad of info and a range of prices. Take good notes. Read actual reviews keeping in mind most people are more willing to write a negative report as opposed to a positive one.
5. Find a forum. There are many forums available on Thailand in general and Bangkok specifically. Most will let you read the info without registering but if you want to post a question you will have to register. A good place to get very current information.
6. Is it near the "action"? Bangkok is infamous for its nightlife and you may or may not want to be close. Most nightlife is centered on Patpong Road (between Silom and Surawongse roads), Nana Entertainment Plaza (Sukhumvit and Soi 4), and Soi Cowboy (near Soi Asoke). So these are the areas to either avoid or make your reservations.
7. Sukhumvit is a very long road. Your friend recommends a hotel on Sukhumvit road but can't remember which Soi (small street or alley) it is on. So, based on her recommendation, you book a room on Sukhumvit and Soi 103 only to realize it is a gazillion miles from anything. If you want to be centrally located - find a place off Sukhumvit between Sois 1 and 23.
8. What else is included? Free breakfast? Free Wireless? Transportation to and from the airport? Cable, Satellite, DVD, International Direct Dial (IDD) phone? Check to see what is and what is not included.
9. Is there a joiner fee? For the single guys who may bring back a guest for the evening, some hotels charge ridiculous amounts of Baht for having a guest. Best to ask first, and then avoid. You may be able to beat this if you book a double - but it isn't worth the hassle.
10. You get what you pay for. Don't expect Marriott service at a flea bag. We all want value for our money - but if you go cheap - don't expect much. Look for a mid-range priced hotel - around USD $50 per night and you should be satisfied. Bangkok, and all of Thailand, has different prices for different times of the year - high and low season. Check the listed prices carefully.
11. Have fun and smile. Remember - you are in a foreign country and they may not do things like they do back home. Keep your cool, avoid arguing and smile. If you have a problem, ask for the manager and explain it with calm words and a pleasant tone. Yelling and screaming will get you nowhere in the Land of Smiles.
12. Online consolidators can often beat the price of a direct booking.
13. You don't land at Don Muang Airport any more. Bangkok has a relatively new airport - Suvarnabhumi - about 50 kilometers further south than Don Muang. Plan your airport hotel accordingly.
14. Don't expect the hotel staff to be fluent in your language. Most will speak English to a degree. Get a dictionary and learn a bit of Thai.
http://www.bangkok-accomodations.com/
2007/09/17
Jim Thompson's House
by Malinda Wood
The Jim Thompson House is the former home of James H.W. Thompson who came to Thailand as an officer in the US Forces during World War II. The American entrepreneur is the founder of the world renowned Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company. The house consists of a group of six traditional Thai-style teak houses that were purchased from different owners from various parts of Thailand and put together at the present location - the construction was completed in 1959. It showcases one of the best-preserved traditional Thai houses in the capital.
It has a wide collection of antiques and artworks from Thailand and other countries in Southeast Asian region. Outstanding items include blue and white Ming porcelain, the 19th century Vessantara Jataka paintings and the 6th century Dvaravati Buddha image in the garden - believed to be one of the oldest surviving Buddha statues in the world. Thompson disappeared under mysterious circumstances while on a walk in the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia in 1967 and left behind his flourishing business, including this house of historical value as his memorial in Thailand. Set amidst a lush green garden of tropical plants, Jim Thompson's House is located alongside Saen Saeb Canal near the famous shopping district of Siam Square. Opening hours are 9.00 am to 4.30 pm daily except Sundays.
The admission fee is 100 Baht and guides are available.
www.circleofasia.com
The Jim Thompson House is the former home of James H.W. Thompson who came to Thailand as an officer in the US Forces during World War II. The American entrepreneur is the founder of the world renowned Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company. The house consists of a group of six traditional Thai-style teak houses that were purchased from different owners from various parts of Thailand and put together at the present location - the construction was completed in 1959. It showcases one of the best-preserved traditional Thai houses in the capital.
It has a wide collection of antiques and artworks from Thailand and other countries in Southeast Asian region. Outstanding items include blue and white Ming porcelain, the 19th century Vessantara Jataka paintings and the 6th century Dvaravati Buddha image in the garden - believed to be one of the oldest surviving Buddha statues in the world. Thompson disappeared under mysterious circumstances while on a walk in the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia in 1967 and left behind his flourishing business, including this house of historical value as his memorial in Thailand. Set amidst a lush green garden of tropical plants, Jim Thompson's House is located alongside Saen Saeb Canal near the famous shopping district of Siam Square. Opening hours are 9.00 am to 4.30 pm daily except Sundays.
The admission fee is 100 Baht and guides are available.
www.circleofasia.com
Phuket Resort Spa You Can Relax Peaceful And Convenient
by Maypopup M
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Those who only know one or two reality about Phuket Resort can be mystified by misleading information. The best way to help those who are misled is to gently exact them with the truths you're wisdom here.
The complexities of the subject matter within this article strive to give you a better look at what this subject is all about.
www.hotel2phuket.com/
If knowledge is power, then after you have finished this article, you will be feel like Mighty Man when this subject is brought up in casual conversation.
If you're badly interested in intended about Phuket Resort, you necessity to think afar the basics. This informative piece takes a faster look at clothes you necessity to know about Phuket Resort.
The best time to learn about Phuket Resort is before you're in the thick of gear. clever readers will keep analysis to earn some expensive Phuket Resort experience while it's still liberated.
Phuket Resort ; You can relax, peaceful and convenient, here, at Phuket Resort spa. Phuket Resort, you and your family can doze the day away unwinding, relaxing and sunbathing in a thriving sultry environment.
Phuket Resorts is planned in traditional Thai shape under a covering of coconut palms. The restaurant, bungalows and swimming stake, sultry gardens, complementing and walkways to guarantee that you will never find manually in excluding than handsome surroundings.
It present sweet insight into each part and proffer experience that will prolong to be savored well after the tumble at Phuket Resort is done.
If you feel that you haven�t learned anything new thus far, there is a whole new realm of information in the rest of this article.
Phuket Resorts is intended in traditional Thai smartness under a covering of coconut palms. The restaurant, bungalows and swimming team, steamy gardens, complementing and walkways to guarantee that you will never find manually in excluding than scenic surroundings.
It bargain ironic insight into each region and bargain experience that will maintain to be savored well after the slip at Phuket Resort is done.
convivial you to Phuket Resort to portion this great coastline and the breath-charming views of Bangtao seashore and Phuket Resort and Spa.
We awfully look redirect to convivial you to Phuket resort to segment this fantastic coast and the breath-winning views of Bangtao shoreline lodge resorts spa.
At Phuket resort; You can converge its actual beauty which bminused by an composed fiery climate, blonde dirty coastlinees, gemstone apparent turquoise water. These Phuket resort attractions are early from the pivot of Island.
Indulge in a kneading with lukewarm necessary oils. remain by the oversized hydro spa team. gentle accent lighting, blemished-schooner windows, pallid murals and the sounds of lenient tune produce a lukewarm, peaceful greeting as you succeed at the newest coastline front spa resort in Phuket.
Those who only know one or two reality about Phuket Resort can be mystified by misleading information. The best way to help those who are misled is to gently exact them with the truths you're wisdom here.
The complexities of the subject matter within this article strive to give you a better look at what this subject is all about.
www.hotel2phuket.com/
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