By: Stuart Cheese
In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, one of my jobs is to ensure every client has the best tour possible, so here are my top 5 suggestions for cities to visit in Thailand during your holiday.
1.Bangkok is a fascinating city which has managed to keep it’s ancient eastern traditions whilst embracing the modern progression of the western world. Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and offers a host of experiences which include floating markets, modern bars, top of the range shopping, gastronomical delights and ancient temples steeped in the city’s history.
The Chao Phraya River separates the city and has a series of canals. The new ‘Sky train’ railway is something which should be experienced whilst in the city should you fancy avoiding the bustling traffic.
One of the largest floating markets is on the outskirts of Bangkok and you’ll greeted by the aromatic smells and the age old tradition of the locals and their way of making a living along the busy canals.
There is an array of beautiful and ancient buildings not to be missed whilst in Thailand. Although I did not personally experience all of the nightlife, it was made obvious to me that all of my entertainment needs would be taken care of by all well informed taxi drivers wishing to proudly show off their culture.
2. Phuket is the biggest island attraction that Thailand has to offer. It is the perfect place to retreat to and enjoy a tropical paradise. Although the west coast of the island was almost destroyed by the tsunami of 2004, there is very little evidence remaining to show that it occurred.
Not to be missed are:
Old Phuket Town. Chinese immigrants from the 19th century, who were lured in the past by the tin mines, left behind them a host of amazing Sino-Portuguese mansions along Dibu and Thalang roads.
Thai Boxing. A personal favourite of mine, this national sport is violent and very fast paced. For regular matches the Saphan Him Stadium in Phuket City is the place to be.
3.Krabi. Krabi Province is in the middle southern part of Thailand. It is situated in the aquamarine water of the Andaman Sea. It is one of the most stunning places in all of Thailand.
Krabi Town is situated near the mouth of the Krabi River. The Mangrove forest is something to experience and is a must for avid bird watchers. Krabi Resort is set among a curtain of palm trees on the Ao-PhraNang beach. This is a delightful place to be if you are looking to soak up the natural beauty that surrounds you.
4. Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai is a city full of traditional heritage that shares its secrets with all who wish to discover them. It is a city with stunning natural beauty. It is amazing to see plants that we have to protect from the frost, growing in their scores, naturally along the roadside.
The people of Chiang Mai are a wonder in themselves with exceptional handicraft skills producing magical souvenirs for the endless throng of visitors. Chiang Mai houses the Inthanon Mountain, standing 8,448 feet above sea level making it the highest mountain Thailand.
5.Sukhothai. When visiting Sukhothai the main attractions for the area are Phra Mae Ya Shirne which is located in the Muang District. You will see a long haired figure made of stone that resembles an ancient queen. There is also a museum and National park as well as monuments of great interest inside the city walls.
Article Source: http://www.afreearticle.com
2007/10/30
Siam Chiang Mai
by Grant Wills
Siam Chiang Mai. The Rose of the North.
Chiang Mai is Thailand's 2nd largest city and the center of culture and arts in Thailand. Chiang Mai celebrated its 700th year anniversary about 7 or 8 years ago. Siam Chiang Mai is the Home of adventure Tourism in the far North of Thailand. Chiang Mai was the capital of Siam for many years, being serviced from the south by river barge on the Mai Ping River. The large morning markets are still situated by the Mai Ping. All the main Consulates are still in Chiang Mai, with the British Consulate taking up a large block. The British had considerable influence here in the 1800s and early 1900s, helping the Thai Government set up the mail, railway and transport infrastructure. Thailand means FREELAND. Thailand was never colonized as they had a very astute King who did his schooling in Europe, When the British and French started encroaching on Thailand he summoned the respective consoles to his Palace and put forth the proposition that went something like this, We have (the Kings personal army) 5000 battle trained elephants with full body armour, you have cannon. Your cannon will take out some of my elephants but the other 4000 will trample you to death, we also have a massive army of foot solders that will mop up any survivors. To the British consul he said as a peace offering I will give you all the land on the other side of the mountains bordering Burma. As for Thailand at this time of history it was very hard to service (because of the mountain range). To the French he said something along the same lines but offering them all the land on the other side of the Mekong river. Both Governments looked at the logistics of the situation and accepted the proposition. Thailand has always maintained large armed forces as it was surrounded by hostile Countries who over the last 1000 years or so have each at one time or another ruled the whole Area. During the cold war America supported Thailand to the hilt with planes, tanks, equipment and training. During the Vietnam War the Americans had many bases here, Airport bases at Uban Thani etc. Then came Air America (but that's a whole story on its own) with arms for drug deals, CIA backing of the Hill tribe Drug Lord Armies, as in the CIA's mind they were the bastion against Russian and Chinese communist forces. Many of the treaties put in place in the cold war with the Shan people etc of Burma are still in place today and ratified by each incoming Prime Minister.
Thailand was the launching pad for the secret War in Loa, Cambodia and of course Vietnam. That all said explains why the Thai's are such a happy care free people, they have never had there spirit broken and don't have the undercurrent of hate that you see in a lot of the old French and British colonies. Thailand is a sub Tropical paradise, with plenty of lush rain forests, rivers and lakes. The mountains of the north run down to the flatlands and ocean. Chiang Mai is 11 or so hours by train from Bangkok or 1 hour by plane, It has its own International Air port, so depending on were you are coming from you can fly straight into Chiang Mai. If you take the train from Bangkok the overnight sleeper is a good idea (book a bottom bunk) you get on the train, they serve dinner, make up the beds and you wake up in the morning for breakfast coming into Chiang Mai all for the price of dinner back home. Thailand is a safe pace to travel; I have travelled back and forth from New Zealand for many years making 20 or more return trips with out ever having any thing stolen or the like. Getting over 16,000,000 tourists a year, tourism is its no one $ earner surpassing the rice crop for export $s. From Chiang Mai you can book and plan small excursions into the unknown ha (Burma, Laos and China) with return air tickets from as little as $50 - $150 or you can book on a over land cross river execution to Laos. Traveling up to Chiang Kong and then across the river to Loa. http://Siam-ChiangMai.com
Siam Chiang Mai. The Rose of the North.
Chiang Mai is Thailand's 2nd largest city and the center of culture and arts in Thailand. Chiang Mai celebrated its 700th year anniversary about 7 or 8 years ago. Siam Chiang Mai is the Home of adventure Tourism in the far North of Thailand. Chiang Mai was the capital of Siam for many years, being serviced from the south by river barge on the Mai Ping River. The large morning markets are still situated by the Mai Ping. All the main Consulates are still in Chiang Mai, with the British Consulate taking up a large block. The British had considerable influence here in the 1800s and early 1900s, helping the Thai Government set up the mail, railway and transport infrastructure. Thailand means FREELAND. Thailand was never colonized as they had a very astute King who did his schooling in Europe, When the British and French started encroaching on Thailand he summoned the respective consoles to his Palace and put forth the proposition that went something like this, We have (the Kings personal army) 5000 battle trained elephants with full body armour, you have cannon. Your cannon will take out some of my elephants but the other 4000 will trample you to death, we also have a massive army of foot solders that will mop up any survivors. To the British consul he said as a peace offering I will give you all the land on the other side of the mountains bordering Burma. As for Thailand at this time of history it was very hard to service (because of the mountain range). To the French he said something along the same lines but offering them all the land on the other side of the Mekong river. Both Governments looked at the logistics of the situation and accepted the proposition. Thailand has always maintained large armed forces as it was surrounded by hostile Countries who over the last 1000 years or so have each at one time or another ruled the whole Area. During the cold war America supported Thailand to the hilt with planes, tanks, equipment and training. During the Vietnam War the Americans had many bases here, Airport bases at Uban Thani etc. Then came Air America (but that's a whole story on its own) with arms for drug deals, CIA backing of the Hill tribe Drug Lord Armies, as in the CIA's mind they were the bastion against Russian and Chinese communist forces. Many of the treaties put in place in the cold war with the Shan people etc of Burma are still in place today and ratified by each incoming Prime Minister.
Thailand was the launching pad for the secret War in Loa, Cambodia and of course Vietnam. That all said explains why the Thai's are such a happy care free people, they have never had there spirit broken and don't have the undercurrent of hate that you see in a lot of the old French and British colonies. Thailand is a sub Tropical paradise, with plenty of lush rain forests, rivers and lakes. The mountains of the north run down to the flatlands and ocean. Chiang Mai is 11 or so hours by train from Bangkok or 1 hour by plane, It has its own International Air port, so depending on were you are coming from you can fly straight into Chiang Mai. If you take the train from Bangkok the overnight sleeper is a good idea (book a bottom bunk) you get on the train, they serve dinner, make up the beds and you wake up in the morning for breakfast coming into Chiang Mai all for the price of dinner back home. Thailand is a safe pace to travel; I have travelled back and forth from New Zealand for many years making 20 or more return trips with out ever having any thing stolen or the like. Getting over 16,000,000 tourists a year, tourism is its no one $ earner surpassing the rice crop for export $s. From Chiang Mai you can book and plan small excursions into the unknown ha (Burma, Laos and China) with return air tickets from as little as $50 - $150 or you can book on a over land cross river execution to Laos. Traveling up to Chiang Kong and then across the river to Loa. http://Siam-ChiangMai.com
2007/10/29
Phuket Hotels Thailand Is An Island Conjured Dream
Think you already know what this subject is all about? Chances are that you don't, but by the end of this article you will!
The next expose presents the very newest information on Phuket Hotel. If you have a particular pursuit in Phuket Hotel, then this informative expose is necessary sense.
Truthfully, the only difference between you and Phuket Hotel skilleds is time. If you'll invest a little more time in appraisal, you'll be that deeply earlier to skilled type when it comes to Phuket Hotel.
Phuket Hotel in "Phuket Island" is one of the most charming seats in the Andaman Sea which is completely bedecked by brilliant character place. This Island have many Phuket hotel in this land for your span to place. Some Phuket hotel are height outlay but some Phuket hotel are reverse, its up to you for choose Phuket hotel up for booking all time.
Phuket Hotel in Phuket Island, Thailand is an island pretended from a trance; a complete balance of opalescent seas and intense cerulean skies, draped in a sheltered curtain of coconut palm fronds.
It will deal valuable insight into each site and deal an experience that will stay to be savored well after the stumble at Phuket hotel is done.
As we take the journey through the final part of this article, you can look back at the first part if you need any clarifications on what we have already learned.
Phuket Hotel in Phuket Island, Thailand is an island pretended from a delight; a exact mingle of opalescent seas and brilliant azure skies, draped in a sheltered curtain of coconut palm fronds.
It will impart cloying insight into each site and agreement an experience that will resume to be savored well after the slip at Phuket hotel is done.
We awfully look send to convivial you to Phuket hotel to reveal this brilliant shoreline and the breath-winning views of Bangtao coast hotel route spa.
At Phuket Hotel; You can trace its innate beauty which blessed by an calm cozy climate, blonde grimy shorees, rock acquit turquoise water. These Phuket Hotel attractions are early from the pivot of Island.
Bang tao coast is located on the west section of Phuket island, about 25 summary from Phuket International airport.
Bang tao bay is just north of Kamala coast, this 8 km. grimy coast with an 18-fleapit golf course is proper for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
The coast is lined with numerous smart choices called Laguna Phuket, most of which are part of an integrated choice logic.
When word gets around about your authority of Phuket Hotel evidence, others who want to know about Phuket Hotel will begin to actively obtain you out.
If you need help with this subject, or do not know how to begin, there are several free resources on related websites to give you a boost.
Article Source: http://www.articles4free.com
The next expose presents the very newest information on Phuket Hotel. If you have a particular pursuit in Phuket Hotel, then this informative expose is necessary sense.
Truthfully, the only difference between you and Phuket Hotel skilleds is time. If you'll invest a little more time in appraisal, you'll be that deeply earlier to skilled type when it comes to Phuket Hotel.
Phuket Hotel in "Phuket Island" is one of the most charming seats in the Andaman Sea which is completely bedecked by brilliant character place. This Island have many Phuket hotel in this land for your span to place. Some Phuket hotel are height outlay but some Phuket hotel are reverse, its up to you for choose Phuket hotel up for booking all time.
Phuket Hotel in Phuket Island, Thailand is an island pretended from a trance; a complete balance of opalescent seas and intense cerulean skies, draped in a sheltered curtain of coconut palm fronds.
It will deal valuable insight into each site and deal an experience that will stay to be savored well after the stumble at Phuket hotel is done.
As we take the journey through the final part of this article, you can look back at the first part if you need any clarifications on what we have already learned.
Phuket Hotel in Phuket Island, Thailand is an island pretended from a delight; a exact mingle of opalescent seas and brilliant azure skies, draped in a sheltered curtain of coconut palm fronds.
It will impart cloying insight into each site and agreement an experience that will resume to be savored well after the slip at Phuket hotel is done.
We awfully look send to convivial you to Phuket hotel to reveal this brilliant shoreline and the breath-winning views of Bangtao coast hotel route spa.
At Phuket Hotel; You can trace its innate beauty which blessed by an calm cozy climate, blonde grimy shorees, rock acquit turquoise water. These Phuket Hotel attractions are early from the pivot of Island.
Bang tao coast is located on the west section of Phuket island, about 25 summary from Phuket International airport.
Bang tao bay is just north of Kamala coast, this 8 km. grimy coast with an 18-fleapit golf course is proper for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
The coast is lined with numerous smart choices called Laguna Phuket, most of which are part of an integrated choice logic.
When word gets around about your authority of Phuket Hotel evidence, others who want to know about Phuket Hotel will begin to actively obtain you out.
If you need help with this subject, or do not know how to begin, there are several free resources on related websites to give you a boost.
Article Source: http://www.articles4free.com
2007/10/28
Pattaya - enjoying the city’s bar and restaurant scene
By: Andy Burrows
While in many of Thailand’s less commercially developed holiday centres visitors are happy to eat at the same places as the locals, Pattaya attracts holidaymakers who are often less ambitious and in search of some traces of familiarity where food and drink are concerned.
Fortunately, Pattaya has a wealth of venues that are tourist friendly including those owned by Thais keen to cash in on the steady influx of annual visitors and those owned by expats hoping to attract other expats and grab something of the tourist trade also.
Most hotels offer breakfast as part of the price of a room for the night and while they generally have facilities for providing lunch and dinner, many visitors are out and about during the daytime and will need to find somewhere on their travels that can satisfy their food needs.
There are plenty of venues open for lunch and visitors can choose from either Thai or western food. In the latter category, eateries that stand out include the Queen Victoria Inn on soi 6 with its fine selection of typically English fare and Pat’s restaurant on soi 3 offering similar grub. Between them, customers can expect to find fish and chips, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, shepherd's pie and ploughman's lunch up for grabs.
For fast food, Subway has a branch of its famous sandwich chain situated on Pattaya Klang road and offers its typical selection of Americanised fare, while the City Grill restaurant on Walking street covers all the usual bread and meat combinations such as hot dogs and hamburgers. For food of a similar ilk with that little bit extra, Bob's BBQ & Grill is sure to please with its ribs, burgers and steaks.
Dinner time sees a greater selection of eateries, with many restaurants restricting themselves to evening trade only. Thai food vendors begin to line the streets once the sun has set, dishing up cheap yet authentic Thai cuisine from their mobile food carts. It’s possible to eat for less than 50 baht at these places, although the roadside setting won’t win any awards for being romantic or serene.
To enjoy Thai food in a restaurant setting yet at a reasonable price, try Somsak on soi 1 or Baan Thai on Central road where traditional fare with an haute cuisine edge can be enjoyed at higher prices than the former. Dinner with entertainment can be found at Adam & Eve’s at Sabai Jai Village and PIC Kitchen on soi 5.
When it’s got to be something familiar or something that is not spicy, then its time to try one of Pattaya’s many international restaurants. Establishments in this category include those serving the cuisines of England, France, Belgium, Germany and Japan. For spicy food of a different nature, there are also Indian and Mexican eateries.
Italian food is popular in Pattaya, as anywhere else in the world, and Duilio's on Central road and Little Italy situated on the opposite side from Royal Garden Plaza are the among the best places to enjoy a plate of pasta or a pizza. For something from France, check out Au Bon Coin on soi 5 and Mon Ami Pierrot on Walking street; both delivering high quality, authentic French cuisine. Belgian food is best enjoyed at either Klein Vlaanderen on the Pattaya 2nd or Patrick's Belgian at the Diana Arcade.
Go Japanese at either Yamato on soi Yamato or at either of the city’s Daidomon branches (Big C and Royal Garden Plaza), with the former being the best option in terms of authenticity. For nan bread, samosas and milky curries, head to Sher E Punjab on Beach road or Ali Baba on Central road, while tacos and chili are sure to be found on the menus of Mexican establishments Blue Parrot on soi 2 and Tequila Reef on soi 7.
After dinner, a cool alcoholic beverage is appealing and Pattaya has plenty of drinking venues on offer. Unfortunately, the main drinking zone, situated around Walking street, has a reputation as a haven for sex tourists and the kind of establishments that cater to them. If this is not your scene, there are still bars in the same area where visitors can drink and socialise without this kind of distraction.
Falling into the aforementioned category are venues such as the Bamboo Bar and Kilkenny’s Irish pub on Walking street; Hard Rock Café, Hopf Brew House and Rosie O'Grady's on Beach road; and Shenanigans and the Queen Victoria Inn in the Pattaya 2nd road area.
Of course, there are some visitors who will want to avoid any chance of wandering into seedy areas and for them the safety of hotel bars is perhaps the best option. The big hotels all have their own bars, many of them attractively furnished and offering quality wines and spirits as opposed to locally brewed beverages.
The Sheraton in Pattaya Hill, All Seasons on Pattaya 2nd road, Marriot on Beach road and Royal Orchid Resort in North Pattaya are just some of the establishments with bar facilities. Customers need not be guests of the hotel to drink at these bars. It’s also worth considering that these hotels all have excellent in-house restaurants which are open to guests and non-guests alike. The standard of food is exceptionally high and both Thai and international cuisine are available. Non-residents should consider booking ahead, especially in high season.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
While in many of Thailand’s less commercially developed holiday centres visitors are happy to eat at the same places as the locals, Pattaya attracts holidaymakers who are often less ambitious and in search of some traces of familiarity where food and drink are concerned.
Fortunately, Pattaya has a wealth of venues that are tourist friendly including those owned by Thais keen to cash in on the steady influx of annual visitors and those owned by expats hoping to attract other expats and grab something of the tourist trade also.
Most hotels offer breakfast as part of the price of a room for the night and while they generally have facilities for providing lunch and dinner, many visitors are out and about during the daytime and will need to find somewhere on their travels that can satisfy their food needs.
There are plenty of venues open for lunch and visitors can choose from either Thai or western food. In the latter category, eateries that stand out include the Queen Victoria Inn on soi 6 with its fine selection of typically English fare and Pat’s restaurant on soi 3 offering similar grub. Between them, customers can expect to find fish and chips, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, shepherd's pie and ploughman's lunch up for grabs.
For fast food, Subway has a branch of its famous sandwich chain situated on Pattaya Klang road and offers its typical selection of Americanised fare, while the City Grill restaurant on Walking street covers all the usual bread and meat combinations such as hot dogs and hamburgers. For food of a similar ilk with that little bit extra, Bob's BBQ & Grill is sure to please with its ribs, burgers and steaks.
Dinner time sees a greater selection of eateries, with many restaurants restricting themselves to evening trade only. Thai food vendors begin to line the streets once the sun has set, dishing up cheap yet authentic Thai cuisine from their mobile food carts. It’s possible to eat for less than 50 baht at these places, although the roadside setting won’t win any awards for being romantic or serene.
To enjoy Thai food in a restaurant setting yet at a reasonable price, try Somsak on soi 1 or Baan Thai on Central road where traditional fare with an haute cuisine edge can be enjoyed at higher prices than the former. Dinner with entertainment can be found at Adam & Eve’s at Sabai Jai Village and PIC Kitchen on soi 5.
When it’s got to be something familiar or something that is not spicy, then its time to try one of Pattaya’s many international restaurants. Establishments in this category include those serving the cuisines of England, France, Belgium, Germany and Japan. For spicy food of a different nature, there are also Indian and Mexican eateries.
Italian food is popular in Pattaya, as anywhere else in the world, and Duilio's on Central road and Little Italy situated on the opposite side from Royal Garden Plaza are the among the best places to enjoy a plate of pasta or a pizza. For something from France, check out Au Bon Coin on soi 5 and Mon Ami Pierrot on Walking street; both delivering high quality, authentic French cuisine. Belgian food is best enjoyed at either Klein Vlaanderen on the Pattaya 2nd or Patrick's Belgian at the Diana Arcade.
Go Japanese at either Yamato on soi Yamato or at either of the city’s Daidomon branches (Big C and Royal Garden Plaza), with the former being the best option in terms of authenticity. For nan bread, samosas and milky curries, head to Sher E Punjab on Beach road or Ali Baba on Central road, while tacos and chili are sure to be found on the menus of Mexican establishments Blue Parrot on soi 2 and Tequila Reef on soi 7.
After dinner, a cool alcoholic beverage is appealing and Pattaya has plenty of drinking venues on offer. Unfortunately, the main drinking zone, situated around Walking street, has a reputation as a haven for sex tourists and the kind of establishments that cater to them. If this is not your scene, there are still bars in the same area where visitors can drink and socialise without this kind of distraction.
Falling into the aforementioned category are venues such as the Bamboo Bar and Kilkenny’s Irish pub on Walking street; Hard Rock Café, Hopf Brew House and Rosie O'Grady's on Beach road; and Shenanigans and the Queen Victoria Inn in the Pattaya 2nd road area.
Of course, there are some visitors who will want to avoid any chance of wandering into seedy areas and for them the safety of hotel bars is perhaps the best option. The big hotels all have their own bars, many of them attractively furnished and offering quality wines and spirits as opposed to locally brewed beverages.
The Sheraton in Pattaya Hill, All Seasons on Pattaya 2nd road, Marriot on Beach road and Royal Orchid Resort in North Pattaya are just some of the establishments with bar facilities. Customers need not be guests of the hotel to drink at these bars. It’s also worth considering that these hotels all have excellent in-house restaurants which are open to guests and non-guests alike. The standard of food is exceptionally high and both Thai and international cuisine are available. Non-residents should consider booking ahead, especially in high season.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
2007/10/27
Thai-Yoga Massage - Rising Popularity of an Ancient Therapy
By Nina Schnipper
Now is an exciting time to give or receive relaxing, therapeutic Thai-Yoga massage. It is an especially exciting time for therapists and yogis who practice Thai-Yoga massage, as clients who seek natural health treatments are starting to discover its many benefits.
What is Thai-Yoga massage?
How is it different from other styles of massage, and from yoga? What are some of its health benefits? Why is it becoming popular recently?
Thai-Yoga massage is also known as Thai-Yoga or Thai massage. It is practiced in the Thai, or Siam, culture for well-being and prevention. It produces the therapeutic effects of yoga. However, it feels wonderfully relaxing as it is applied. You, the recipient, passively receive the treatment.
Essentially, Thai massage is like having yoga done to you. You, the recipient, are usually clothed and lying on a padded mat on the floor. Some therapists may perform the treatment on a therapy table. Others may incorporate some of the Thai stretches into their typical Swedish massages.
To alleviate some of the mystique, let's explore the yogic aspects of this therapy. When we practice yoga, we are stretching our body in dynamic ways. These stretches are also called postures, or asanas. We twist and move in many directions, and we stretch many muscles simultaneously. This is called dynamic.
One of yoga's therapeutic benefits is its end result. When we stretch dynamically, our exercise is more likely to enhance our everyday activities. Because everyday activities are dynamic. Healthy living requires us to use many muscles for each activity, and to move in many directions.
So, after we practice yoga, our muscles and joints feel loose. And our everyday activities feel easier.
When these stretches are applied to you, by another person, the benefits are multiplied! When your body is relaxed and passively stretched, your body will often release tension and inhibitions and allow greater stretching to occur.
Similarities and differences.
Thai-Yoga massage is like yoga because stretches are applied to a recipient. Thai-Yoga massage is unlike yoga because it is passively received. Thai-Yoga is like massage because it is a form of bodywork applied with a relaxing and therapeutic method. It is unlike most massage because the recipient is often clothed, and the treatments are often performed on a cushioned mat rather than on a massage table.
Although yoga and massage come in many varieties, they often have some similar benefits. They are both loosen stiff joints and relax tense muscles. They bring peaceful calm. They encourage participants to meditate and discover a deeper awareness about their bodies.
Yoga and massage are available for athletes, and for people severely injured or disabled, and everyone in between!
Claim to fame?
So, why has Thai massage become a hot trend in natural therapies? Yoga, and other ancient forms of Ayurvedic medicine, have become increasingly popular in the U.S.
An aging population has discovered the relaxing therapies of yoga and of massage. So, when a natural therapy combines the best of both therapies, it's bound to be a hit.
How do I get a Thai-Yoga massage therapy?
Some practitioners have massage schooling, while others are trained in yoga. Wellness spas often carry Thai-Yoga massage and other kinds of Ayurvedic medicine. If you do not have a multi-disciplinary wellness spa or office in your area, folks at your local yoga studio can usually find a therapist for you.
Your body will thank you.
Nina Schnipper specializes in pain relief and injury recovery, using fitness training and therapeutic massage including Thai-Yoga massage. She offers Vedic therapies at Higher Spa & Studio in Basalt, Colorado.
Her Thai-Yoga Massage mentor, Micheal Buck (Mukti), of the Vedic Conservatory in Florida, was recently inducted into the Massage Hall of Fame. (Yeehaw! Way to Go! Love & Light to Ya, Mukti!).
Nina is part of the Official Sports Massage team for Higher Spa & Studio, so she works with skiers, synchro-skiers, climbers, and other athletes throughout the Aspen valley and Colorado Rockies. Of course, she also treats people with pain from work, hobbies, and everyday stresses.
For more information about Nina's work, articles on pain relief and injury recovery, plus VIDEO, Go to http://www.HigherSpa.com For ongoing lifestyle support & coaching, Join their online Members' Zone!
Now is an exciting time to give or receive relaxing, therapeutic Thai-Yoga massage. It is an especially exciting time for therapists and yogis who practice Thai-Yoga massage, as clients who seek natural health treatments are starting to discover its many benefits.
What is Thai-Yoga massage?
How is it different from other styles of massage, and from yoga? What are some of its health benefits? Why is it becoming popular recently?
Thai-Yoga massage is also known as Thai-Yoga or Thai massage. It is practiced in the Thai, or Siam, culture for well-being and prevention. It produces the therapeutic effects of yoga. However, it feels wonderfully relaxing as it is applied. You, the recipient, passively receive the treatment.
Essentially, Thai massage is like having yoga done to you. You, the recipient, are usually clothed and lying on a padded mat on the floor. Some therapists may perform the treatment on a therapy table. Others may incorporate some of the Thai stretches into their typical Swedish massages.
To alleviate some of the mystique, let's explore the yogic aspects of this therapy. When we practice yoga, we are stretching our body in dynamic ways. These stretches are also called postures, or asanas. We twist and move in many directions, and we stretch many muscles simultaneously. This is called dynamic.
One of yoga's therapeutic benefits is its end result. When we stretch dynamically, our exercise is more likely to enhance our everyday activities. Because everyday activities are dynamic. Healthy living requires us to use many muscles for each activity, and to move in many directions.
So, after we practice yoga, our muscles and joints feel loose. And our everyday activities feel easier.
When these stretches are applied to you, by another person, the benefits are multiplied! When your body is relaxed and passively stretched, your body will often release tension and inhibitions and allow greater stretching to occur.
Similarities and differences.
Thai-Yoga massage is like yoga because stretches are applied to a recipient. Thai-Yoga massage is unlike yoga because it is passively received. Thai-Yoga is like massage because it is a form of bodywork applied with a relaxing and therapeutic method. It is unlike most massage because the recipient is often clothed, and the treatments are often performed on a cushioned mat rather than on a massage table.
Although yoga and massage come in many varieties, they often have some similar benefits. They are both loosen stiff joints and relax tense muscles. They bring peaceful calm. They encourage participants to meditate and discover a deeper awareness about their bodies.
Yoga and massage are available for athletes, and for people severely injured or disabled, and everyone in between!
Claim to fame?
So, why has Thai massage become a hot trend in natural therapies? Yoga, and other ancient forms of Ayurvedic medicine, have become increasingly popular in the U.S.
An aging population has discovered the relaxing therapies of yoga and of massage. So, when a natural therapy combines the best of both therapies, it's bound to be a hit.
How do I get a Thai-Yoga massage therapy?
Some practitioners have massage schooling, while others are trained in yoga. Wellness spas often carry Thai-Yoga massage and other kinds of Ayurvedic medicine. If you do not have a multi-disciplinary wellness spa or office in your area, folks at your local yoga studio can usually find a therapist for you.
Your body will thank you.
Nina Schnipper specializes in pain relief and injury recovery, using fitness training and therapeutic massage including Thai-Yoga massage. She offers Vedic therapies at Higher Spa & Studio in Basalt, Colorado.
Her Thai-Yoga Massage mentor, Micheal Buck (Mukti), of the Vedic Conservatory in Florida, was recently inducted into the Massage Hall of Fame. (Yeehaw! Way to Go! Love & Light to Ya, Mukti!).
Nina is part of the Official Sports Massage team for Higher Spa & Studio, so she works with skiers, synchro-skiers, climbers, and other athletes throughout the Aspen valley and Colorado Rockies. Of course, she also treats people with pain from work, hobbies, and everyday stresses.
For more information about Nina's work, articles on pain relief and injury recovery, plus VIDEO, Go to http://www.HigherSpa.com For ongoing lifestyle support & coaching, Join their online Members' Zone!
2007/10/26
Thailand Islands: The Five Costly Mistakes You don’t Want to make
The inexperienced Thailand traveler may be unconscious to the fact that a satisfying vacation in Southern Thailand Islands is not a surefire thing. This article will reveal the biggest mistakes you don’t want to make before and during your visit to the Thai Islands.
Southern Thailand islands also known as the "Paradise" Islands are among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. More than 12,000,000 tourists have visited Thailand in 2005, and the majority of them had left the Bangkok International Airport immediately after their arrival and headed straight to the Southern Islands. Some of the visitors were fascinated by the stories of people who were caught in the charms of the unforgettable ambience of the islands, some of them were taken by images they saw on the web, while others were convinced as per the words of their travel agent that the Thai Islands were indeed the ultimate tourist destination that fits every taste, age, budget and personality type. This can partly explain the massive flow of honeymooners, backpackers, families-on-vacation, partygoers, divers and many others to the Thai Islands every year.
However, the inexperienced Thailand traveler may be unconscious to the fact that a satisfying vacation is not a surefire thing even in a place nick named Island Paradise. In order to be successful, enjoyable and fulfilling, your vacation must be thoroughly planned. Unfamiliar destinations often hide little unknown secrets, which hold the enormous potential to make the desired positive change in your vacation.
This article will discuss the biggest mistakes you can make prior and during your visit to the Thai Islands. Adhering to or ignoring the five amendments below can literally make or break your vacation in the Southern Thailand Islands.
1. Mistake 1: choosing your vacation island spontaneously. Web pictures of tropical islands often make them look almost identical. The inexperienced traveler is likely to assume that no matter where you go in Southern Thailand Islands – you will bump into the same picturesque beach with white sands, turquoise water and a single coconut tree. Falling into the illusion of images while choosing your vacation island out of pure impulse can be a very disappointing experience in case the final destination island does not meet your needs, your personality or expectations at all. To avoid this mistake, define your preferences before hand, make a dedicated research prior to choosing your destination by gathering the relevant information using guidebooks in addition to using the Internet. As you choose the island that fits your needs, pay close attention to the following points:
a. The level of tourist development. Some travelers like their islands loaded with tourist facilities (i. e. Phuket, Koh Samui), whereas others prefer the classic touch "old school" isolated touch (i. e. Koh Phangan, Khao Lak).
b. Nightlife – Phuket, Koh Samui and at lesser extent Krabi offer a thriving nightlife, whereas Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao are quiet and drowsy.
c. Diving sites – Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao offer the best diving sites in Southern Thailand.
d. The prevalent level of accommodation. Phuket and Koh Phi Phi offer a immense variety of luxury hotels, while Koh Phangan and Koh Tao offer mostly basic (not necessary low standard) accommodation.
2. Mistake 2: Assuming that a great vacation can be carried out at a very low budget. Some travelers tend to wrongly assume, that Thailand being a country with developing economy will provide everything including a high standard hospitalization in ridiculously cheap prices. This is partially right, since the local tourism industry suggests an inexpensive travel opportunities to backpackers. However, the spoiled tourist who is used to savor on luxury westernized accommodation will find out the hard way that in order to meet his or her traveling expectations the expenses are appropriate to what is offered. To avoid this mistake and eliminate serious deviations from the planned budget – make your research to learn about price gaps in Southern Thailand Islands. For instance, one should know that staying in some islands (i. e. Koh Phi Phi) is expected to be more expensive, while staying in other islands (i. e. Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) can be significantly cheaper. To avoid any disappointments related to over expenses, I recommend adhering to the following guidelines:
a. Avoid planning a budget on the basis of someone else’s estimations, especially if that person visited the Thai Islands many years ago; spent the vacation in another island than the one you chose; much younger than yourself/ or prefers a different life standard.
b. Make an informed decision regarding the desired level of accommodation. The basic accommodation that includes a clean air-conditioned room and western style bathroom can be booked on relatively low, albeit not ridiculous, price. Contrary to that, a luxury accommodation (that kind of accommodation is quite common in Phuket and Koh Samui) may be almost as expensive as the hotels in your neighboring country.
c. Although checking the room rates is possible using the Internet – the prices of meals should be carefully checked as well. Don’t assume that no matter where you eat – the meal will be cheap. During my first visit to Thailand, I was very surprised to receive a check of the same value as in my home country. Now I know, that the Southern Thailand Islands offer a myriad of western style restaurants with western style prices. Therefore, before you enter a well-designed restaurant – check the menu and make clear budget estimation.
3. Mistake 3: choosing your vacation beach spontaneously. This is similar to mistake number one – but probably easier to correct, because checking other beaches on the destination is easier logistically and cheaper than checking other islands. However, the "wrong" beach choice can make you feel that you haven’t exploited the full potential of your vacation, or that you have wasted significant part of it. For instance, during my first visit in Koh Phangan I found out two days before the end of my vacation, that my "perfect" beach is located on the other side of the island. The following tips can help you avoid a similar situation:
a. The most developed and crowdie beaches on most islands are located in proximity to the airport (in case there is an airport in your island) or to one of the main seaports.
b. In case you prefer the above type of beaches – be aware of the fact that some of them, especially in Koh Samui and Phuket, are not family friendly.
c. The old school quiet and picturesque beaches are always on the other side of the island. If the "old school" beach is what you are looking for – don’t give up even if the way to Thailand was long and exhausting, and try to make a small effort to cross the island on your way to the opposite side; it will be well worth your while.
4. Mistake 4: insisting on Westernized food. Some of us tend to worry about experimenting with an unfamiliar food. The Thai tourist industry is aware of this fact; therefore the supply of Western style restaurants in Southern Thailand Islands is huge. Having said that, limiting yourself to these restaurants could be a huge mistake, since the prices for western cuisine are much higher compared to the ones in authentic local restaurants; and even worse– you miss out on one of the most important experiences of the Thai culture – the superior Thai cuisine, probably one of the best in the world. To avoid this mistake, don’t hesitate entering small restaurants with ridiculously neglected interior design, plastic maps and un-plastered walls. These restaurants’ owners are probably the worst marketers – but usually are superior cooks. Your meal in one of these restaurants will often be unbelievably cheap, tasty and mostly made of fresh sizzling ingredients. You will fantasize about these meals long after you have left the island.
5. Mistake 5: To take your big business suitcase to an island that could be only accessed by sea. A big suitcase is of course very convenient [in Europe]: using it, you can pack everything you need; it can be carried easily thanks to those little wheels; and it makes you look very representative. However, taking a big suitcase to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao is not something I would recommend. The platforms in the piers are extremely narrow and occasionally unstable. So if you’re really lucky – your big suitcase will be safe. If you’re a little bit less lucky – it can fall into the water. If you ran out of luck – you can fall into the water together with your suitcase. I seriously think a back bag would be your best bet. Just for the record, the huge suitcase that was taken by yours truly to her first trip to Koh Phangan was left somewhere in the jungle to frighten local monkeys.
So, on the next time the idea of heading the Thailand Islands crosses your mind, as tempting as it may be, try not to succumb to rumors and fascinating imagery. A thorough research and planning ahead may take some time and effort on your side, but it will be more than worth your while.
http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/7-24-2006-103323.asp
Southern Thailand islands also known as the "Paradise" Islands are among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. More than 12,000,000 tourists have visited Thailand in 2005, and the majority of them had left the Bangkok International Airport immediately after their arrival and headed straight to the Southern Islands. Some of the visitors were fascinated by the stories of people who were caught in the charms of the unforgettable ambience of the islands, some of them were taken by images they saw on the web, while others were convinced as per the words of their travel agent that the Thai Islands were indeed the ultimate tourist destination that fits every taste, age, budget and personality type. This can partly explain the massive flow of honeymooners, backpackers, families-on-vacation, partygoers, divers and many others to the Thai Islands every year.
However, the inexperienced Thailand traveler may be unconscious to the fact that a satisfying vacation is not a surefire thing even in a place nick named Island Paradise. In order to be successful, enjoyable and fulfilling, your vacation must be thoroughly planned. Unfamiliar destinations often hide little unknown secrets, which hold the enormous potential to make the desired positive change in your vacation.
This article will discuss the biggest mistakes you can make prior and during your visit to the Thai Islands. Adhering to or ignoring the five amendments below can literally make or break your vacation in the Southern Thailand Islands.
1. Mistake 1: choosing your vacation island spontaneously. Web pictures of tropical islands often make them look almost identical. The inexperienced traveler is likely to assume that no matter where you go in Southern Thailand Islands – you will bump into the same picturesque beach with white sands, turquoise water and a single coconut tree. Falling into the illusion of images while choosing your vacation island out of pure impulse can be a very disappointing experience in case the final destination island does not meet your needs, your personality or expectations at all. To avoid this mistake, define your preferences before hand, make a dedicated research prior to choosing your destination by gathering the relevant information using guidebooks in addition to using the Internet. As you choose the island that fits your needs, pay close attention to the following points:
a. The level of tourist development. Some travelers like their islands loaded with tourist facilities (i. e. Phuket, Koh Samui), whereas others prefer the classic touch "old school" isolated touch (i. e. Koh Phangan, Khao Lak).
b. Nightlife – Phuket, Koh Samui and at lesser extent Krabi offer a thriving nightlife, whereas Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao are quiet and drowsy.
c. Diving sites – Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao offer the best diving sites in Southern Thailand.
d. The prevalent level of accommodation. Phuket and Koh Phi Phi offer a immense variety of luxury hotels, while Koh Phangan and Koh Tao offer mostly basic (not necessary low standard) accommodation.
2. Mistake 2: Assuming that a great vacation can be carried out at a very low budget. Some travelers tend to wrongly assume, that Thailand being a country with developing economy will provide everything including a high standard hospitalization in ridiculously cheap prices. This is partially right, since the local tourism industry suggests an inexpensive travel opportunities to backpackers. However, the spoiled tourist who is used to savor on luxury westernized accommodation will find out the hard way that in order to meet his or her traveling expectations the expenses are appropriate to what is offered. To avoid this mistake and eliminate serious deviations from the planned budget – make your research to learn about price gaps in Southern Thailand Islands. For instance, one should know that staying in some islands (i. e. Koh Phi Phi) is expected to be more expensive, while staying in other islands (i. e. Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) can be significantly cheaper. To avoid any disappointments related to over expenses, I recommend adhering to the following guidelines:
a. Avoid planning a budget on the basis of someone else’s estimations, especially if that person visited the Thai Islands many years ago; spent the vacation in another island than the one you chose; much younger than yourself/ or prefers a different life standard.
b. Make an informed decision regarding the desired level of accommodation. The basic accommodation that includes a clean air-conditioned room and western style bathroom can be booked on relatively low, albeit not ridiculous, price. Contrary to that, a luxury accommodation (that kind of accommodation is quite common in Phuket and Koh Samui) may be almost as expensive as the hotels in your neighboring country.
c. Although checking the room rates is possible using the Internet – the prices of meals should be carefully checked as well. Don’t assume that no matter where you eat – the meal will be cheap. During my first visit to Thailand, I was very surprised to receive a check of the same value as in my home country. Now I know, that the Southern Thailand Islands offer a myriad of western style restaurants with western style prices. Therefore, before you enter a well-designed restaurant – check the menu and make clear budget estimation.
3. Mistake 3: choosing your vacation beach spontaneously. This is similar to mistake number one – but probably easier to correct, because checking other beaches on the destination is easier logistically and cheaper than checking other islands. However, the "wrong" beach choice can make you feel that you haven’t exploited the full potential of your vacation, or that you have wasted significant part of it. For instance, during my first visit in Koh Phangan I found out two days before the end of my vacation, that my "perfect" beach is located on the other side of the island. The following tips can help you avoid a similar situation:
a. The most developed and crowdie beaches on most islands are located in proximity to the airport (in case there is an airport in your island) or to one of the main seaports.
b. In case you prefer the above type of beaches – be aware of the fact that some of them, especially in Koh Samui and Phuket, are not family friendly.
c. The old school quiet and picturesque beaches are always on the other side of the island. If the "old school" beach is what you are looking for – don’t give up even if the way to Thailand was long and exhausting, and try to make a small effort to cross the island on your way to the opposite side; it will be well worth your while.
4. Mistake 4: insisting on Westernized food. Some of us tend to worry about experimenting with an unfamiliar food. The Thai tourist industry is aware of this fact; therefore the supply of Western style restaurants in Southern Thailand Islands is huge. Having said that, limiting yourself to these restaurants could be a huge mistake, since the prices for western cuisine are much higher compared to the ones in authentic local restaurants; and even worse– you miss out on one of the most important experiences of the Thai culture – the superior Thai cuisine, probably one of the best in the world. To avoid this mistake, don’t hesitate entering small restaurants with ridiculously neglected interior design, plastic maps and un-plastered walls. These restaurants’ owners are probably the worst marketers – but usually are superior cooks. Your meal in one of these restaurants will often be unbelievably cheap, tasty and mostly made of fresh sizzling ingredients. You will fantasize about these meals long after you have left the island.
5. Mistake 5: To take your big business suitcase to an island that could be only accessed by sea. A big suitcase is of course very convenient [in Europe]: using it, you can pack everything you need; it can be carried easily thanks to those little wheels; and it makes you look very representative. However, taking a big suitcase to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao is not something I would recommend. The platforms in the piers are extremely narrow and occasionally unstable. So if you’re really lucky – your big suitcase will be safe. If you’re a little bit less lucky – it can fall into the water. If you ran out of luck – you can fall into the water together with your suitcase. I seriously think a back bag would be your best bet. Just for the record, the huge suitcase that was taken by yours truly to her first trip to Koh Phangan was left somewhere in the jungle to frighten local monkeys.
So, on the next time the idea of heading the Thailand Islands crosses your mind, as tempting as it may be, try not to succumb to rumors and fascinating imagery. A thorough research and planning ahead may take some time and effort on your side, but it will be more than worth your while.
http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/7-24-2006-103323.asp
Thailand: Khao Sok National Park
Thailand'National Park makes a challenging jungle adventure for those who prefer to travel off the beaten s Khao Sok path.
Tired of glitzy resorts and over-hyped nature treks more tailored to tourists than adventurers? Look no further than Khao Sok, a jungle situated on the Thai/ Malay peninsula that showcases thick vegetation and close to 300 animal species. As you approach the entrance, awesome geological formations called karsts (limestone conglomerations) loom to welcome you to this humid yet lush green world of shrieking monkeys and treehouse lodgings.
The truly hardy swear by the daylong hike into the jungle near Cheow Lan Lake, a manmade body of water that you cross on a pleasant boat ride to Tone Teuy Creek. After wading through the creek, the going gets tougher, as you cross a leech-infested trail; the best way to fend off the bloodsuckers is to keep moving, as they gravitate to warm, still bodies. Once past their nastiness, however, you have the opportunity to see tigers, elephants, and pythons in their natural habitat. For many, though, the highlight of the day is swimming through Namtaloo Cave's deep and rocky waters to come out at the other side of the trail.
Just about anyone could use some rest and relaxation after a stay in the jungle, and the perfect spot to unwind is the Amanpuri Resort in Phuket, about two and a half hours from Khao Sok. This elegant hotel offers all the amenities that treehouses do not: hardwood floors, large teak beds, and modern bathtubs for washing away jungle grime. The staff even provides guests with their very own gazebos for dining on scrumptious Thai cuisine and gazing out over palm trees. After a few days at Khao Sok, a glitzy resort doesn't look so clichéd after all.
http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/12-22-2001-8333.asp
Tired of glitzy resorts and over-hyped nature treks more tailored to tourists than adventurers? Look no further than Khao Sok, a jungle situated on the Thai/ Malay peninsula that showcases thick vegetation and close to 300 animal species. As you approach the entrance, awesome geological formations called karsts (limestone conglomerations) loom to welcome you to this humid yet lush green world of shrieking monkeys and treehouse lodgings.
The truly hardy swear by the daylong hike into the jungle near Cheow Lan Lake, a manmade body of water that you cross on a pleasant boat ride to Tone Teuy Creek. After wading through the creek, the going gets tougher, as you cross a leech-infested trail; the best way to fend off the bloodsuckers is to keep moving, as they gravitate to warm, still bodies. Once past their nastiness, however, you have the opportunity to see tigers, elephants, and pythons in their natural habitat. For many, though, the highlight of the day is swimming through Namtaloo Cave's deep and rocky waters to come out at the other side of the trail.
Just about anyone could use some rest and relaxation after a stay in the jungle, and the perfect spot to unwind is the Amanpuri Resort in Phuket, about two and a half hours from Khao Sok. This elegant hotel offers all the amenities that treehouses do not: hardwood floors, large teak beds, and modern bathtubs for washing away jungle grime. The staff even provides guests with their very own gazebos for dining on scrumptious Thai cuisine and gazing out over palm trees. After a few days at Khao Sok, a glitzy resort doesn't look so clichéd after all.
http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/12-22-2001-8333.asp
Bangkok Tourist Attractions Information
by Alex Albert
Bangkok Tourist Attractions are one of the major reasons that attract legions of travelers to Bangkok every year. The city is packed with old temples, historical monuments, parks and museums. Bangkok tourist attractions have greatly influenced and promoted tourism in Bangkok. Whenever you come to this bustling city, keep some days aside to surf the various Bangkok attractions.
Wat Phra Kaew and the neighboring Grand Palace together make up perhaps the most impressive tourist attraction in Bangkok. Though, it is no longer the Royal residence that it was, it's still an incredible compound of glittering buildings, golden spires, mythical guardian figures and the revered Emerald Buddha.
Wat Pho, conveniently positioned right next to Wat Phra Kaew and is famous for housing Bangkok's gigantic Reclining Buddha which is 46 meters long and 15 meters in height. It's also Bangkok's largest temple complex. Wat Arun, otherwise known as the Temple of the Dawn, is a 100 meter high Khmer style prang with an excellent location on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Despite the name, it's best seen in the evening with the sun setting behind it. Ko Rattanakosin is the old royal city area and there are other attractions here amongst the famous temples listed above. Lak Meuang, the city shrine, is often full of worshippers and there's a resident dance troupe for hire. Nearby Wat Mahathat is one of Bangkok's most important temples, and in it's grounds is a large amulet market.
If you have an interest in Thai and Asian art, history and culture, this do visit the various museums in Bangkok. The city has an extensive National Museum, which is reportedly the largest in all of South East Asia. Another very important Bangkok attraction is Dusit, which is mainly an administrative district, and where the current royal palace is now located. There are other attractions around here to see like Bangkok's reasonable zoo, the impressive Vimanmek Teak Mansion and Wat Benjamabophit or the Marble Temple. The Chinatown district of Bangkok is yet another very important tourist attraction of Bangkok. It mainly consists of busy, narrow streets packed with cheap gold shops, markets, fabric shops, pharmacies selling the traditional Chinese medicines, street stalls and consistent traffic jams.
Some of the other Bangkok tourist attractions include Jim Thompson's House, the impressive home of the Thai silk entrepreneur, Suan Pakkard Palace, the Erawan Shrine, the prestigious Chulalongkorn University, a well run snake farm, Lumphini Park, Siam society and many more.
www.holidayshub.com
Bangkok Tourist Attractions are one of the major reasons that attract legions of travelers to Bangkok every year. The city is packed with old temples, historical monuments, parks and museums. Bangkok tourist attractions have greatly influenced and promoted tourism in Bangkok. Whenever you come to this bustling city, keep some days aside to surf the various Bangkok attractions.
Wat Phra Kaew and the neighboring Grand Palace together make up perhaps the most impressive tourist attraction in Bangkok. Though, it is no longer the Royal residence that it was, it's still an incredible compound of glittering buildings, golden spires, mythical guardian figures and the revered Emerald Buddha.
Wat Pho, conveniently positioned right next to Wat Phra Kaew and is famous for housing Bangkok's gigantic Reclining Buddha which is 46 meters long and 15 meters in height. It's also Bangkok's largest temple complex. Wat Arun, otherwise known as the Temple of the Dawn, is a 100 meter high Khmer style prang with an excellent location on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Despite the name, it's best seen in the evening with the sun setting behind it. Ko Rattanakosin is the old royal city area and there are other attractions here amongst the famous temples listed above. Lak Meuang, the city shrine, is often full of worshippers and there's a resident dance troupe for hire. Nearby Wat Mahathat is one of Bangkok's most important temples, and in it's grounds is a large amulet market.
If you have an interest in Thai and Asian art, history and culture, this do visit the various museums in Bangkok. The city has an extensive National Museum, which is reportedly the largest in all of South East Asia. Another very important Bangkok attraction is Dusit, which is mainly an administrative district, and where the current royal palace is now located. There are other attractions around here to see like Bangkok's reasonable zoo, the impressive Vimanmek Teak Mansion and Wat Benjamabophit or the Marble Temple. The Chinatown district of Bangkok is yet another very important tourist attraction of Bangkok. It mainly consists of busy, narrow streets packed with cheap gold shops, markets, fabric shops, pharmacies selling the traditional Chinese medicines, street stalls and consistent traffic jams.
Some of the other Bangkok tourist attractions include Jim Thompson's House, the impressive home of the Thai silk entrepreneur, Suan Pakkard Palace, the Erawan Shrine, the prestigious Chulalongkorn University, a well run snake farm, Lumphini Park, Siam society and many more.
www.holidayshub.com
2007/10/25
Udonthani - Thailand's Jewel In The Northeast
By Pauline Go
Udonthani was founded in 1296 by King Mengrai. It became the capital of Lannathai Kingdom, and once the kingdom started to decline, the importance of Udonthani also started to diminish. The city was often occupied either by the invading Burmese troops or the Thais from Ayutthaya. King Taksin captured Udonthani from the Burmese in 1774 and ever since it has been a part of Thailand. Today, Udonthani is the second most important city in Thailand after Bangkok. Udonthani is 560 kilometers from Bangkok.
When to Go to Udonthani
If you are planning a visit to Udonthani, the best time is between November and March. During this time the weather is cool and temperatures are from 75°F to 89°F. During April and May, it is extremely hot and visitors usually avoid those months. You can also plan a visit to Udonthani during June, July and August. There is no doubt that during those months the weather is hot but it is bearable and prices in hotels and restaurants are lower than in peak tourist season.
Places to Visit in Udonthani
Udonthani has over 300 Buddhist temples to choose from. Doi Suthep is the most popular out of these. It was built in 1383 and gives an excellent view of the city. The other temples worth visiting are Chiang Man, which is the oldest temple in Udonthani, Phra Sila, which is popular for its marble Buddha, and Phra Satang Man for its crystal Buddha.
Besides temples, you can spend time with your family at the Udonthani Zoo, Doi Inthanon National Park, Dao Cave, the Night Bazaar, Sirikit Botanical Gardens and Phrathat Doi Suthep. Udonthani is also popular for its nightlife. If you are a cooking or dancing enthusiast, you can take a Thai cooking or Thai dancing course at the local bars and cafes.
Just 47 kilometers east of Udonthani is Thailand's premier Bronze Age excavation at Ban Chiang, which is a world renowned archaeological site.
http://www.thailandbuddy.com/
Udonthani was founded in 1296 by King Mengrai. It became the capital of Lannathai Kingdom, and once the kingdom started to decline, the importance of Udonthani also started to diminish. The city was often occupied either by the invading Burmese troops or the Thais from Ayutthaya. King Taksin captured Udonthani from the Burmese in 1774 and ever since it has been a part of Thailand. Today, Udonthani is the second most important city in Thailand after Bangkok. Udonthani is 560 kilometers from Bangkok.
When to Go to Udonthani
If you are planning a visit to Udonthani, the best time is between November and March. During this time the weather is cool and temperatures are from 75°F to 89°F. During April and May, it is extremely hot and visitors usually avoid those months. You can also plan a visit to Udonthani during June, July and August. There is no doubt that during those months the weather is hot but it is bearable and prices in hotels and restaurants are lower than in peak tourist season.
Places to Visit in Udonthani
Udonthani has over 300 Buddhist temples to choose from. Doi Suthep is the most popular out of these. It was built in 1383 and gives an excellent view of the city. The other temples worth visiting are Chiang Man, which is the oldest temple in Udonthani, Phra Sila, which is popular for its marble Buddha, and Phra Satang Man for its crystal Buddha.
Besides temples, you can spend time with your family at the Udonthani Zoo, Doi Inthanon National Park, Dao Cave, the Night Bazaar, Sirikit Botanical Gardens and Phrathat Doi Suthep. Udonthani is also popular for its nightlife. If you are a cooking or dancing enthusiast, you can take a Thai cooking or Thai dancing course at the local bars and cafes.
Just 47 kilometers east of Udonthani is Thailand's premier Bronze Age excavation at Ban Chiang, which is a world renowned archaeological site.
http://www.thailandbuddy.com/
Rivers Of Thailand
By Pauline Go
The major river of Thailand is the Chao Phraya. It has low alluvial soil which marks the plains of Thailand. Chao Phraya originates from the meeting point of two other rivers Ping and Nan. The main tributary to Nan River is the Yom River.
Wang River is another river which flows in northern Thailand and this is 335 miles long. It originates from Ping River.
The longest river in Thailand is the Chi River which is 765 km but the water flow is very low. It runs through the Yasothon province of Thailand.
Chao Phraya runs for 372 km from Bangkok to the Gulf of Thailand. It bifurcates into two in a place called Chainat. The main portion of the river, known as the Chin River, flows parallel to Chao Phraya and ends in the Gulf. It is called by many names. In Chainat, it is called Makhamthao river and when it passes through Suphanburi, it is called Suphan. It becomes Nakhon Chaisi river when it enters Nakhon Pathon and after that it is known as Tha Chin river when it reaches the mouth of Samut Sakhon. Many canals are diverted from Chin River and the water from the canals is used for irrigation.
Nonthaburi Uthai Thani, , Singburi, Nakhon Sawan, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya and Chainat Pathum Thani are the cities along the flowing river. Nakhon Sawan is the city where the two major rivers Nan and Ping meet. Ang Thong is an agricultural land and Chao Phraya and Noi River meet in this city.
http://www.ushouldvisit.com/Alpena-Vacation-Getaway.html
The major river of Thailand is the Chao Phraya. It has low alluvial soil which marks the plains of Thailand. Chao Phraya originates from the meeting point of two other rivers Ping and Nan. The main tributary to Nan River is the Yom River.
Wang River is another river which flows in northern Thailand and this is 335 miles long. It originates from Ping River.
The longest river in Thailand is the Chi River which is 765 km but the water flow is very low. It runs through the Yasothon province of Thailand.
Chao Phraya runs for 372 km from Bangkok to the Gulf of Thailand. It bifurcates into two in a place called Chainat. The main portion of the river, known as the Chin River, flows parallel to Chao Phraya and ends in the Gulf. It is called by many names. In Chainat, it is called Makhamthao river and when it passes through Suphanburi, it is called Suphan. It becomes Nakhon Chaisi river when it enters Nakhon Pathon and after that it is known as Tha Chin river when it reaches the mouth of Samut Sakhon. Many canals are diverted from Chin River and the water from the canals is used for irrigation.
Nonthaburi Uthai Thani, , Singburi, Nakhon Sawan, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya and Chainat Pathum Thani are the cities along the flowing river. Nakhon Sawan is the city where the two major rivers Nan and Ping meet. Ang Thong is an agricultural land and Chao Phraya and Noi River meet in this city.
http://www.ushouldvisit.com/Alpena-Vacation-Getaway.html
2007/10/24
Thailand Vacation Series - Pattaya Attractions
by Kai
Chon Buri The Nearest Seaside Retreat
Chonburi, Bangkok's nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometers from Bangkok. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local colors, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. This is a popular resort among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly schedules as Chon Buri has something for everyone. In addition, Chon Buri is the center of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.
Pattaya - A Travelers Paradise
Pattaya is nestled along a picturesque bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. From a fishing village in the 1960's, Pattaya has emerged as the favorite Southeast Asian vacation center. A fascinating escape where tourists, holiday makers and vacationers from around the world unfold an incomparable array of possibilities to unwind during an exotic holiday beach vacation.
Unlike other beach resorts, where natural surroundings are used as magnets to attract tourists, Pattaya makes an all-out attempt to provide the best of everything. Here, everything means everything a tourist can imagine while on holiday: recreation, entertainment, sports, sightseeing and fun. To put it simply, Pattaya is a paradise for everyone, as it has a variety of attractions suitable for all types of visitors. This is the place where you can fill your day, from dusk to dawn, with endless activities, or you may choose to do nothing at all and relax.
The Past
Pattaya's name was originated from the march of Phraya Tak (later known as King Taksin the Great) and his followers from Ayutthaya to Chanthaburi just before the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the Burmese invaders in 1767.
When Phraya Tak's army arrived in the vicinity of what is Pattaya today, he encountered the troops of Nai Klom who tried to intercept him. When the two leaders met face to face, Nai Klom was awed by Phraya Tak's dignified manner and his army's strict discipline, thereby surrendering without a fight. The place where the two armies confronted each other was later called Thap Phraya, which means the Army of the Phraya. This was later changed to Phatthaya, which happens to mean the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the beginning of the rainy season. Today the spelling of the name has been simplified to Pattaya.
For centuries, Pattaya was a small fishing village almost cut off from the outside world. But a big change occurred on 29 April 1961 when the first group of about 100 American servicemen who would join the Vietnam War arrived in Pattaya for relaxation. Soon, sleepy Pattaya became Thailand's premier and most successful beach resort, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of pleasure-seeking visitors. A full range of accommodations from super deluxe hotels to bungalows and mini-pocket guesthouses replaced fishermens huts along the beach. Fishing vessels were adapted to become tourist boats and swimmers and sunbathers from various parts of the world frequented the quiet powdery golden beaches. Places of nighttime entertainment have also sprung up and are popular among international tourists.
The Present
Pattaya currently integrates the delights of a 1st class beach resort, city-like dining, shopping and night entertainment facilities with more than 300 assorted hotels, thousands of shops, restaurants and bars. In addition, there are an array of sports and recreational activities including beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, go-kart, gyms for working out, weight lifting and Thai-boxing gear. Pattaya offers a broad range of things to do. During the day, one may enjoy riding elephants or driving humble automatic mini-bikes, monstrous motorcycles, or even monster multicolored convertible Jeeps. Others go for shooting firearms, scuba diving and surfing, deep-sea fishing, speed boats, scooters, water-skiing, parasailing, or aerial sports such as gliding ultra-lights and flying motor-propelled gliders. On the other hand, at night, there are restaurants, bars, theaters, cabaret shows, night clubs, bowling halls, billiard & snooker clubs, discos, sauna & massage parlors, not to cite its absolutely incredible shopping which is available non-stop both day-and-night.
Pattaya Facts
This exotic beach resort welcomes approximately 5 million visitor a year. The friendly and hospitable Thai nature boosts its promotion, frequently bringing back the repeat visitors and constantly increasing the number of newcomers.
Pattaya city is located on the eastern coast of the country at latitude 13 N and longitude 101 E in the area of Chon Buri province. It is 147 kilometers from Bangkok and lies parallel to Sukhumvit Road on its east and the coastline on its west. Pattaya occupies an area of 208.1 sq. km. that is divided into 53.44 sq. kilometers of land and 154.66 sq. kilometers of islands and sea. Its coastline is 15 kilometers long.
Pattaya has a plain on the coast with some high mountains to the south. The area on the east slopes down towards the sea on the west.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=656023
Chon Buri The Nearest Seaside Retreat
Chonburi, Bangkok's nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometers from Bangkok. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local colors, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. This is a popular resort among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly schedules as Chon Buri has something for everyone. In addition, Chon Buri is the center of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.
Pattaya - A Travelers Paradise
Pattaya is nestled along a picturesque bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. From a fishing village in the 1960's, Pattaya has emerged as the favorite Southeast Asian vacation center. A fascinating escape where tourists, holiday makers and vacationers from around the world unfold an incomparable array of possibilities to unwind during an exotic holiday beach vacation.
Unlike other beach resorts, where natural surroundings are used as magnets to attract tourists, Pattaya makes an all-out attempt to provide the best of everything. Here, everything means everything a tourist can imagine while on holiday: recreation, entertainment, sports, sightseeing and fun. To put it simply, Pattaya is a paradise for everyone, as it has a variety of attractions suitable for all types of visitors. This is the place where you can fill your day, from dusk to dawn, with endless activities, or you may choose to do nothing at all and relax.
The Past
Pattaya's name was originated from the march of Phraya Tak (later known as King Taksin the Great) and his followers from Ayutthaya to Chanthaburi just before the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the Burmese invaders in 1767.
When Phraya Tak's army arrived in the vicinity of what is Pattaya today, he encountered the troops of Nai Klom who tried to intercept him. When the two leaders met face to face, Nai Klom was awed by Phraya Tak's dignified manner and his army's strict discipline, thereby surrendering without a fight. The place where the two armies confronted each other was later called Thap Phraya, which means the Army of the Phraya. This was later changed to Phatthaya, which happens to mean the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the beginning of the rainy season. Today the spelling of the name has been simplified to Pattaya.
For centuries, Pattaya was a small fishing village almost cut off from the outside world. But a big change occurred on 29 April 1961 when the first group of about 100 American servicemen who would join the Vietnam War arrived in Pattaya for relaxation. Soon, sleepy Pattaya became Thailand's premier and most successful beach resort, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of pleasure-seeking visitors. A full range of accommodations from super deluxe hotels to bungalows and mini-pocket guesthouses replaced fishermens huts along the beach. Fishing vessels were adapted to become tourist boats and swimmers and sunbathers from various parts of the world frequented the quiet powdery golden beaches. Places of nighttime entertainment have also sprung up and are popular among international tourists.
The Present
Pattaya currently integrates the delights of a 1st class beach resort, city-like dining, shopping and night entertainment facilities with more than 300 assorted hotels, thousands of shops, restaurants and bars. In addition, there are an array of sports and recreational activities including beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, go-kart, gyms for working out, weight lifting and Thai-boxing gear. Pattaya offers a broad range of things to do. During the day, one may enjoy riding elephants or driving humble automatic mini-bikes, monstrous motorcycles, or even monster multicolored convertible Jeeps. Others go for shooting firearms, scuba diving and surfing, deep-sea fishing, speed boats, scooters, water-skiing, parasailing, or aerial sports such as gliding ultra-lights and flying motor-propelled gliders. On the other hand, at night, there are restaurants, bars, theaters, cabaret shows, night clubs, bowling halls, billiard & snooker clubs, discos, sauna & massage parlors, not to cite its absolutely incredible shopping which is available non-stop both day-and-night.
Pattaya Facts
This exotic beach resort welcomes approximately 5 million visitor a year. The friendly and hospitable Thai nature boosts its promotion, frequently bringing back the repeat visitors and constantly increasing the number of newcomers.
Pattaya city is located on the eastern coast of the country at latitude 13 N and longitude 101 E in the area of Chon Buri province. It is 147 kilometers from Bangkok and lies parallel to Sukhumvit Road on its east and the coastline on its west. Pattaya occupies an area of 208.1 sq. km. that is divided into 53.44 sq. kilometers of land and 154.66 sq. kilometers of islands and sea. Its coastline is 15 kilometers long.
Pattaya has a plain on the coast with some high mountains to the south. The area on the east slopes down towards the sea on the west.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=656023
2007/10/23
Life in a Thai Monastery (Part 1 of 7)
By E. Raymond Rock
Bangkok was teeming, as we disembarked from our long flight into a wall of heat and humidity, thick with filthy air and the wall-to-wall traffic that was 1981 Thailand. We were carried along helplessly by the crowd into a cluttered street where frantic cabbies vied for our attention, fighting over the scrap of paper held tightly in my fist with “train station” scribbled in Thai. The most aggressive grabbed my arm and dragged me into his tiny cab, and before we could say, “Where the hell are the seat belts?” we were catapulted into arguably the worst traffic nightmare in the world - it was New York City on steroids!
The old cab sputtered through the orange, murky air as the driver’s bloodshot eyes riveted themselves in some kind of supernatural concentration on the maze of shifting machinery that danced before us, one hand on the horn and the other flying between the shifter and the steering wheel. I glanced at Janet - her face was as white as a sheet.
I finally had to admit to myself that this nutty idea was probably a mistake. Janet trusted me implicitly, she always had. After all, I was her knight in shining armor, but now I was risking her life, not only in this insane, uncontrolled demolition derby, but with what I knew might lie ahead. My sheltered, middle-class yuppie concepts were being shattered in the naked reality that was Thailand, and the cold truth; that Janet could die here, hit me in the pit of my stomach. I promised myself that I would not let that happen.
We made a single vow to each other at our little informal Buddhist wedding ceremony a year ago — the only thing that kept me going at times - and already I knew that I would never back off from it, no matter what. So far, we had stumbled, blindly, across three of the Great Freedoms, as we called them, and this radically changed our wild lives, but we knew there were more. How many more, we weren’t sure of, but we would search until we found them all - that we agreed upon.
The driver was competent, apparently a veteran of the endless bedlam that only begins to describe this chaotic city, but the rural highways were even scarier. At least the congestion in Bangkok kept speeds down, but in the hinterlands the speed limit was only limited to how fast your bus, car, bicycle, or push cart could go. It was a no man’s land; accidents were frequent and horrendous — bodies lying all over the roadway until local villagers might (or might not) come by and drag them to the side. No ambulances in 1981 Thailand, and police . . . hah!
After an eternity of white knuckled maneuvering, squealing brakes, and eye-popping acceleration, we lurched to a blessed halt in front of the cavernous Bangkok Train Station. I checked Janet . . . she was still breathing.
This whole thing began as a pick-up game, running on bad judgment and good karma, or maybe the other way around, but we knew where we were going, or at least we had an address. The ticket vendors studied the Thai inscription on the aerogram we fished out of our backpacks, and after an animated discussion (not sure if they were excited for us or incredulous about our destination), pointed to a line of people across the station. We were yet to discover that the ticket we were about to purchase was for the most destitute region of Thailand – the parched, northeast countryside bordering Cambodia.
At six foot two, I towered over the little Thais in line who looked up and smiled as if I were a god of some kind. Thais had a way of making us feel that we were special, and as if they were nothing; they still respected Americans back then, not long after the war. The fact is; we Americans can be downright arrogant at times, while the people of Thailand are for the most part genuinely generous, friendly, and self-effacing.
We purchased the ticket with little difficulty and in the process discovered how much a Thai “Bhat” was worth. I had overpaid the cab driver ten times! No wonder he smiled broadly and bowed twice. Oh well, I guess it was worth it; he saved our skin in that traffic. Anyway, I made a mental note to pay more attention to money exchanges in the future.
We had some time to kill so we drifted over to the Bangkok Snake Farm. What a great, snaky place, full of snake pens and exhibits. Why not get a good look at what might do us in out there in the brush? I figured if we could identify the critters that could easily punch our one-way ticket to an impromptu cremation, perhaps we could avoid them. This is how farang (westerners) foolishly think when they first arrive in Thailand, as if they still have some kind of control over life and death.
I asked the curator what species was particularly dangerous, prompting him to proudly hold up a scarred thumb and vividly recount his “oops” with a Banded Krait that landed him in the hospital for two weeks despite the immediate self-administration of anti-venom. The reality was that we would be far removed from any hospitals in the poverty-stricken areas we were headed for, and far removed from anti-venom for that matter. But of course, ignorance is bliss, and we didn’t know that yet. We naively believed that medical clinics were everywhere, just like at home in the good ol’ US of A!
We gawked at the snakes, and they gawked back, and for some reason I was mysteriously drawn to the large black and yellow rings of the Banded Kraits. A premonition perhaps? And as we studied the identifying characteristics of the Cobras, Russell Vipers, Pit Vipers, Scorpions, and other fierce characters, I never thought for a moment that we would actually ever come in close contact with any of them. . . . Right.
Planning to remain in Thailand forever, (the best laid plans), we passed on the recommended inoculations back home. They were not only expensive, but only effective for six months, so we figured we’d take our chances, after all, we had always been healthy, plus, we were full of youthful perceptions, such as the false self-confidence that results from basic stupidity and an ignorance of the real world.
We were smart enough not to eat in Bangkok, however, or at least we were careful of what we ate, thinking that once we arrived at our destination (a Buddhist monastery), we would be safe from disease. In hindsight, that was really fogged-over, to say the least.
So, with horror stories of dysentery, hepatitis, malaria, and typhoid fever dancing around in our childish brains, reinforced by open sewers and unregulated, smiling street vendors handling their skewered chickens and rice dishes with filthy hands, apparently unfamiliar with the word hygiene, we bought a huge stalk of tiny Thai bananas and some Cokes, which became our breakfast, lunch and dinner. . . . Delicious!
Returning to the train station after our exhilarating romp through Snakeland, we curled up on an empty wooden bench and awaited our train. When I happened to roll on my back and glance up, I noticed ants crawling all over the ceiling towering above us! No . . . wait! They couldn’t be ants that high up. My God! They were Thais, working feverishly on the massive, curved ceiling and barely hanging off scanty, lashed-together bamboo scaffolding that swayed dangerously back and forth. OSHA would not have been happy about this!
Watching the Thais work so devotedly in these hazardous conditions, I began to feel vulnerable, as if I had been pampered and privileged my entire life, and as if I was just beginning to wake up to reality. It was a haunting feeling — akin to that feeling I had playing football . . . just before the kickoff.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Life-in-a-Thai-Monastery-(Part-1-of-7)&id=757481
Bangkok was teeming, as we disembarked from our long flight into a wall of heat and humidity, thick with filthy air and the wall-to-wall traffic that was 1981 Thailand. We were carried along helplessly by the crowd into a cluttered street where frantic cabbies vied for our attention, fighting over the scrap of paper held tightly in my fist with “train station” scribbled in Thai. The most aggressive grabbed my arm and dragged me into his tiny cab, and before we could say, “Where the hell are the seat belts?” we were catapulted into arguably the worst traffic nightmare in the world - it was New York City on steroids!
The old cab sputtered through the orange, murky air as the driver’s bloodshot eyes riveted themselves in some kind of supernatural concentration on the maze of shifting machinery that danced before us, one hand on the horn and the other flying between the shifter and the steering wheel. I glanced at Janet - her face was as white as a sheet.
I finally had to admit to myself that this nutty idea was probably a mistake. Janet trusted me implicitly, she always had. After all, I was her knight in shining armor, but now I was risking her life, not only in this insane, uncontrolled demolition derby, but with what I knew might lie ahead. My sheltered, middle-class yuppie concepts were being shattered in the naked reality that was Thailand, and the cold truth; that Janet could die here, hit me in the pit of my stomach. I promised myself that I would not let that happen.
We made a single vow to each other at our little informal Buddhist wedding ceremony a year ago — the only thing that kept me going at times - and already I knew that I would never back off from it, no matter what. So far, we had stumbled, blindly, across three of the Great Freedoms, as we called them, and this radically changed our wild lives, but we knew there were more. How many more, we weren’t sure of, but we would search until we found them all - that we agreed upon.
The driver was competent, apparently a veteran of the endless bedlam that only begins to describe this chaotic city, but the rural highways were even scarier. At least the congestion in Bangkok kept speeds down, but in the hinterlands the speed limit was only limited to how fast your bus, car, bicycle, or push cart could go. It was a no man’s land; accidents were frequent and horrendous — bodies lying all over the roadway until local villagers might (or might not) come by and drag them to the side. No ambulances in 1981 Thailand, and police . . . hah!
After an eternity of white knuckled maneuvering, squealing brakes, and eye-popping acceleration, we lurched to a blessed halt in front of the cavernous Bangkok Train Station. I checked Janet . . . she was still breathing.
This whole thing began as a pick-up game, running on bad judgment and good karma, or maybe the other way around, but we knew where we were going, or at least we had an address. The ticket vendors studied the Thai inscription on the aerogram we fished out of our backpacks, and after an animated discussion (not sure if they were excited for us or incredulous about our destination), pointed to a line of people across the station. We were yet to discover that the ticket we were about to purchase was for the most destitute region of Thailand – the parched, northeast countryside bordering Cambodia.
At six foot two, I towered over the little Thais in line who looked up and smiled as if I were a god of some kind. Thais had a way of making us feel that we were special, and as if they were nothing; they still respected Americans back then, not long after the war. The fact is; we Americans can be downright arrogant at times, while the people of Thailand are for the most part genuinely generous, friendly, and self-effacing.
We purchased the ticket with little difficulty and in the process discovered how much a Thai “Bhat” was worth. I had overpaid the cab driver ten times! No wonder he smiled broadly and bowed twice. Oh well, I guess it was worth it; he saved our skin in that traffic. Anyway, I made a mental note to pay more attention to money exchanges in the future.
We had some time to kill so we drifted over to the Bangkok Snake Farm. What a great, snaky place, full of snake pens and exhibits. Why not get a good look at what might do us in out there in the brush? I figured if we could identify the critters that could easily punch our one-way ticket to an impromptu cremation, perhaps we could avoid them. This is how farang (westerners) foolishly think when they first arrive in Thailand, as if they still have some kind of control over life and death.
I asked the curator what species was particularly dangerous, prompting him to proudly hold up a scarred thumb and vividly recount his “oops” with a Banded Krait that landed him in the hospital for two weeks despite the immediate self-administration of anti-venom. The reality was that we would be far removed from any hospitals in the poverty-stricken areas we were headed for, and far removed from anti-venom for that matter. But of course, ignorance is bliss, and we didn’t know that yet. We naively believed that medical clinics were everywhere, just like at home in the good ol’ US of A!
We gawked at the snakes, and they gawked back, and for some reason I was mysteriously drawn to the large black and yellow rings of the Banded Kraits. A premonition perhaps? And as we studied the identifying characteristics of the Cobras, Russell Vipers, Pit Vipers, Scorpions, and other fierce characters, I never thought for a moment that we would actually ever come in close contact with any of them. . . . Right.
Planning to remain in Thailand forever, (the best laid plans), we passed on the recommended inoculations back home. They were not only expensive, but only effective for six months, so we figured we’d take our chances, after all, we had always been healthy, plus, we were full of youthful perceptions, such as the false self-confidence that results from basic stupidity and an ignorance of the real world.
We were smart enough not to eat in Bangkok, however, or at least we were careful of what we ate, thinking that once we arrived at our destination (a Buddhist monastery), we would be safe from disease. In hindsight, that was really fogged-over, to say the least.
So, with horror stories of dysentery, hepatitis, malaria, and typhoid fever dancing around in our childish brains, reinforced by open sewers and unregulated, smiling street vendors handling their skewered chickens and rice dishes with filthy hands, apparently unfamiliar with the word hygiene, we bought a huge stalk of tiny Thai bananas and some Cokes, which became our breakfast, lunch and dinner. . . . Delicious!
Returning to the train station after our exhilarating romp through Snakeland, we curled up on an empty wooden bench and awaited our train. When I happened to roll on my back and glance up, I noticed ants crawling all over the ceiling towering above us! No . . . wait! They couldn’t be ants that high up. My God! They were Thais, working feverishly on the massive, curved ceiling and barely hanging off scanty, lashed-together bamboo scaffolding that swayed dangerously back and forth. OSHA would not have been happy about this!
Watching the Thais work so devotedly in these hazardous conditions, I began to feel vulnerable, as if I had been pampered and privileged my entire life, and as if I was just beginning to wake up to reality. It was a haunting feeling — akin to that feeling I had playing football . . . just before the kickoff.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Life-in-a-Thai-Monastery-(Part-1-of-7)&id=757481
Where To Relex For Holiday In Pattaya Thailand
The following article covers a topic that has recently moved to center stage--at least it seems that way. If you've been thinking you need to know more about it, here's your opportunity.
What do you do after a few days in Bangkok to get away from the traffic, pollution, noise and crowds of people? Head for one of the many resorts of Thailand. They provide a haven for you to completely relax in and forget the troubles of the outside world.
In Pattaya, there are a number of resorts that probably do that, but one that we're sure about is the hotel Resort on Dongtan Beach, Jomtien Pattaya . Its large grounds provide wooded areas, a private beach and various recreational facilities so that there are plenty of options available for any visitor to relax and enjoy themselves. The site is large enough so that sounds from the outside world never make it inside the resort to distract one from the pursuit of peace and relaxation.
If your pattaya facts are out-of-date, how will that affect your actions and decisions? Make certain you don't let important pattaya information slip by you.
Our own stay, on a recent weekend, left us rejuvenated and ready to face the world again after indulging in as many of the resort's facilities as we could. After settling into our luxurious room on the main level of the hotel (which included a beautiful ocean view looking south down the beach) we first started with a workout in the fitness club.
This well-equipped club had everything we needed, including treadmills, exercise bikes, free weights and machines to get a good workout. This was followed by a visit to the steam room for some further cleansing of the body before we left the club. This is a great way to relieve tension and get in the frame of mind to enjoy the weekend and we heartily recommend it. We visited the health club each day we were at the resort so that our regular weekly exercise schedule didn't suffer a bit even though we weren't in the city. And, if you'd like to learn something new during your stay you can try one of the classes that are offered on a regular basis.
Of course, after a day of working out and swimming next to the clean ocean air of Pattaya, you'll develop a healthy appetite and you're in the right place for being hungry. There are three different dining outlets in the resort that offer three distinct dining experiences. For a more relaxed, casual type of meal try the Cascade Cafe which has recently been remodeled along with the main lobby. Here you'll find a great buffet breakfast along with an international, Thai and Chinese ala carte menu.
http://www.rabbitresort.com/
What do you do after a few days in Bangkok to get away from the traffic, pollution, noise and crowds of people? Head for one of the many resorts of Thailand. They provide a haven for you to completely relax in and forget the troubles of the outside world.
In Pattaya, there are a number of resorts that probably do that, but one that we're sure about is the hotel Resort on Dongtan Beach, Jomtien Pattaya . Its large grounds provide wooded areas, a private beach and various recreational facilities so that there are plenty of options available for any visitor to relax and enjoy themselves. The site is large enough so that sounds from the outside world never make it inside the resort to distract one from the pursuit of peace and relaxation.
If your pattaya facts are out-of-date, how will that affect your actions and decisions? Make certain you don't let important pattaya information slip by you.
Our own stay, on a recent weekend, left us rejuvenated and ready to face the world again after indulging in as many of the resort's facilities as we could. After settling into our luxurious room on the main level of the hotel (which included a beautiful ocean view looking south down the beach) we first started with a workout in the fitness club.
This well-equipped club had everything we needed, including treadmills, exercise bikes, free weights and machines to get a good workout. This was followed by a visit to the steam room for some further cleansing of the body before we left the club. This is a great way to relieve tension and get in the frame of mind to enjoy the weekend and we heartily recommend it. We visited the health club each day we were at the resort so that our regular weekly exercise schedule didn't suffer a bit even though we weren't in the city. And, if you'd like to learn something new during your stay you can try one of the classes that are offered on a regular basis.
Of course, after a day of working out and swimming next to the clean ocean air of Pattaya, you'll develop a healthy appetite and you're in the right place for being hungry. There are three different dining outlets in the resort that offer three distinct dining experiences. For a more relaxed, casual type of meal try the Cascade Cafe which has recently been remodeled along with the main lobby. Here you'll find a great buffet breakfast along with an international, Thai and Chinese ala carte menu.
http://www.rabbitresort.com/
Pattaya - enjoying the city's bar and restaurant scene
While in many of Thailand’s less commercially developed holiday centres visitors are happy to eat at the same places as the locals, Pattaya attracts holidaymakers who are often less ambitious and in search of some traces of familiarity where food and drink are concerned.
Fortunately, Pattaya has a wealth of venues that are tourist friendly including those owned by Thais keen to cash in on the steady influx of annual visitors and those owned by expats hoping to attract other expats and grab something of the tourist trade also.
Most hotels offer breakfast as part of the price of a room for the night and while they generally have facilities for providing lunch and dinner, many visitors are out and about during the daytime and will need to find somewhere on their travels that can satisfy their food needs.
There are plenty of venues open for lunch and visitors can choose from either Thai or western food. In the latter category, eateries that stand out include the Queen Victoria Inn on soi 6 with its fine selection of typically English fare and Pat’s restaurant on soi 3 offering similar grub. Guide to quality Pattaya restaurants Between them, customers can expect to find fish and chips, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, shepherd's pie and ploughman's lunch up for grabs.
For fast food, Subway has a branch of its famous sandwich chain situated on Pattaya Klang road and offers its typical selection of Americanised fare, while the City Grill restaurant on Walking street covers all the usual bread and meat combinations such as hot dogs and hamburgers. For food of a similar ilk with that little bit extra, Bob's BBQ & Grill is sure to please with its ribs, burgers and steaks.
Dinner time sees a greater selection of eateries, with many restaurants restricting themselves to evening trade only. Thai food vendors begin to line the streets once the sun has set, dishing up cheap yet authentic Thai cuisine from their mobile food carts. It’s possible to eat for less than 50 baht at these places, although the roadside setting won’t win any awards for being romantic or serene.
To enjoy Thai food in a restaurant setting yet at a reasonable price, try Somsak on soi 1 or Baan Thai on Central road where traditional fare with an haute cuisine edge can be enjoyed at higher prices than the former. Dinner with entertainment can be found at Adam & Eve’s at Sabai Jai Village and PIC Kitchen on soi 5.
When it’s got to be something familiar or something that is not spicy, then its time to try one of Pattaya’s many international restaurants. Establishments in this category include those serving the cuisines of England, France, Belgium, Germany and Japan. For spicy food of a different nature, there are also Indian and Mexican eateries.
Italian food is popular in Pattaya, as anywhere else in the world, and Duilio's on Central road and Little Italy situated on the opposite side from Royal Garden Plaza are the among the best places to enjoy a plate of pasta or a pizza. For something from France, check out Au Bon Coin on soi 5 and Mon Ami Pierrot on Walking street; both delivering high quality, authentic French cuisine. Belgian food is best enjoyed at either Klein Vlaanderen on the Pattaya 2nd or Patrick's Belgian at the Diana Arcade.
Go Japanese at either Yamato on soi Yamato or at either of the city’s Daidomon branches (Big C and Royal Garden Plaza), with the former being the best option in terms of authenticity. For nan bread, samosas and milky curries, head to Sher E Punjab on Beach road or Ali Baba on Central road, while tacos and chili are sure to be found on the menus of Mexican establishments Blue Parrot on soi 2 and Tequila Reef on soi 7.
After dinner, a cool alcoholic beverage is appealing and Pattaya has plenty of drinking venues on offer. Unfortunately, the main drinking zone, situated around Walking street, has a reputation as a haven for sex tourists and the kind of establishments that cater to them. If this is not your scene, there are still bars in the same area where visitors can drink and socialise without this kind of distraction.
Falling into the aforementioned category are venues such as the Bamboo Bar and Kilkenny’s Irish pub on Walking street; Hard Rock Café, Hopf Brew House and Rosie O'Grady's on Beach road; and Shenanigans and the Queen Victoria Inn in the Pattaya 2nd road area. Pattaya bar scene
Of course, there are some visitors who will want to avoid any chance of wandering into seedy areas and for them the safety of hotel bars is perhaps the best option. The big hotels all have their own bars, many of them attractively furnished and offering quality wines and spirits as opposed to locally brewed beverages.
The Sheraton in Pattaya Hill, All Seasons on Pattaya 2nd road, Marriot on Beach road and Royal Orchid Resort in North Pattaya are just some of the establishments with bar facilities. Customers need not be guests of the hotel to drink at these bars. It’s also worth considering that these hotels all have excellent in-house restaurants which are open to guests and non-guests alike. The standard of food is exceptionally high and both Thai and international cuisine are available. Non-residents should consider booking ahead, especially in high season.
http://www.amazines.com/article_detail.cfm/331197?articleid=331197
Fortunately, Pattaya has a wealth of venues that are tourist friendly including those owned by Thais keen to cash in on the steady influx of annual visitors and those owned by expats hoping to attract other expats and grab something of the tourist trade also.
Most hotels offer breakfast as part of the price of a room for the night and while they generally have facilities for providing lunch and dinner, many visitors are out and about during the daytime and will need to find somewhere on their travels that can satisfy their food needs.
There are plenty of venues open for lunch and visitors can choose from either Thai or western food. In the latter category, eateries that stand out include the Queen Victoria Inn on soi 6 with its fine selection of typically English fare and Pat’s restaurant on soi 3 offering similar grub. Guide to quality Pattaya restaurants Between them, customers can expect to find fish and chips, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, shepherd's pie and ploughman's lunch up for grabs.
For fast food, Subway has a branch of its famous sandwich chain situated on Pattaya Klang road and offers its typical selection of Americanised fare, while the City Grill restaurant on Walking street covers all the usual bread and meat combinations such as hot dogs and hamburgers. For food of a similar ilk with that little bit extra, Bob's BBQ & Grill is sure to please with its ribs, burgers and steaks.
Dinner time sees a greater selection of eateries, with many restaurants restricting themselves to evening trade only. Thai food vendors begin to line the streets once the sun has set, dishing up cheap yet authentic Thai cuisine from their mobile food carts. It’s possible to eat for less than 50 baht at these places, although the roadside setting won’t win any awards for being romantic or serene.
To enjoy Thai food in a restaurant setting yet at a reasonable price, try Somsak on soi 1 or Baan Thai on Central road where traditional fare with an haute cuisine edge can be enjoyed at higher prices than the former. Dinner with entertainment can be found at Adam & Eve’s at Sabai Jai Village and PIC Kitchen on soi 5.
When it’s got to be something familiar or something that is not spicy, then its time to try one of Pattaya’s many international restaurants. Establishments in this category include those serving the cuisines of England, France, Belgium, Germany and Japan. For spicy food of a different nature, there are also Indian and Mexican eateries.
Italian food is popular in Pattaya, as anywhere else in the world, and Duilio's on Central road and Little Italy situated on the opposite side from Royal Garden Plaza are the among the best places to enjoy a plate of pasta or a pizza. For something from France, check out Au Bon Coin on soi 5 and Mon Ami Pierrot on Walking street; both delivering high quality, authentic French cuisine. Belgian food is best enjoyed at either Klein Vlaanderen on the Pattaya 2nd or Patrick's Belgian at the Diana Arcade.
Go Japanese at either Yamato on soi Yamato or at either of the city’s Daidomon branches (Big C and Royal Garden Plaza), with the former being the best option in terms of authenticity. For nan bread, samosas and milky curries, head to Sher E Punjab on Beach road or Ali Baba on Central road, while tacos and chili are sure to be found on the menus of Mexican establishments Blue Parrot on soi 2 and Tequila Reef on soi 7.
After dinner, a cool alcoholic beverage is appealing and Pattaya has plenty of drinking venues on offer. Unfortunately, the main drinking zone, situated around Walking street, has a reputation as a haven for sex tourists and the kind of establishments that cater to them. If this is not your scene, there are still bars in the same area where visitors can drink and socialise without this kind of distraction.
Falling into the aforementioned category are venues such as the Bamboo Bar and Kilkenny’s Irish pub on Walking street; Hard Rock Café, Hopf Brew House and Rosie O'Grady's on Beach road; and Shenanigans and the Queen Victoria Inn in the Pattaya 2nd road area. Pattaya bar scene
Of course, there are some visitors who will want to avoid any chance of wandering into seedy areas and for them the safety of hotel bars is perhaps the best option. The big hotels all have their own bars, many of them attractively furnished and offering quality wines and spirits as opposed to locally brewed beverages.
The Sheraton in Pattaya Hill, All Seasons on Pattaya 2nd road, Marriot on Beach road and Royal Orchid Resort in North Pattaya are just some of the establishments with bar facilities. Customers need not be guests of the hotel to drink at these bars. It’s also worth considering that these hotels all have excellent in-house restaurants which are open to guests and non-guests alike. The standard of food is exceptionally high and both Thai and international cuisine are available. Non-residents should consider booking ahead, especially in high season.
http://www.amazines.com/article_detail.cfm/331197?articleid=331197
2007/10/14
Deciding Where To Live In Thailand
Suchai Wachirawarakarn
Deciding where to live The following are some for the decision points which, in addition to your budget, may determine where you live and the type of accommodation you choose:
- Who in the family will do the majority of the traveling?
- Distance from workplace/s?
- Do you have children? What are their ages?
- Do you prefer to have a garden or outdoor play area?
- Distance form pre-schools, schools and other children’s activities?
- What is the mix of tenants in a building? E.g. families, long-or short-tem tenants, nationalities.
- Distance form facilities such as clubs, gyms?
- Will you have a car and/or driver?
- Level of security in the apartment or housing complex?
- Level of access to shops and services?
- Access to expressway, sky train or subway?
- Traffic considerations, e.g. major intersections, and volume of traffic on weekdays and weekends.
- Does the soi have more than one point of exit/entry?
- Does any of the furniture need re-upholstery, replacement or repair? Does the apartment need re-painting or repair?
- Will the landlord fulfill special requests? E.g. installation of additional phone lines.
Tax structures allow for the division of rental into two components: rental of premises and rental of furnishing and fixtures, the latter being exempt form tax. This explains why most landlords prefer to provide furnished or semi-furnished accommodation. Landlords will remove unwanted items of free standing furniture; however, there is unlikely to be a reduction in the rent.
The usual lease is for one year, the rent payable on month in advance. There may also be a two or three month deposit. If possible, attempt to have a termination clause (know as a diplomatic clause) included in your lease agreement, in case of unexpected moves overseas. This allows early termination of a lease provided that at lease two month’s written notice is given.
http://www.rentthaihome.com
Deciding where to live The following are some for the decision points which, in addition to your budget, may determine where you live and the type of accommodation you choose:
- Who in the family will do the majority of the traveling?
- Distance from workplace/s?
- Do you have children? What are their ages?
- Do you prefer to have a garden or outdoor play area?
- Distance form pre-schools, schools and other children’s activities?
- What is the mix of tenants in a building? E.g. families, long-or short-tem tenants, nationalities.
- Distance form facilities such as clubs, gyms?
- Will you have a car and/or driver?
- Level of security in the apartment or housing complex?
- Level of access to shops and services?
- Access to expressway, sky train or subway?
- Traffic considerations, e.g. major intersections, and volume of traffic on weekdays and weekends.
- Does the soi have more than one point of exit/entry?
- Does any of the furniture need re-upholstery, replacement or repair? Does the apartment need re-painting or repair?
- Will the landlord fulfill special requests? E.g. installation of additional phone lines.
Tax structures allow for the division of rental into two components: rental of premises and rental of furnishing and fixtures, the latter being exempt form tax. This explains why most landlords prefer to provide furnished or semi-furnished accommodation. Landlords will remove unwanted items of free standing furniture; however, there is unlikely to be a reduction in the rent.
The usual lease is for one year, the rent payable on month in advance. There may also be a two or three month deposit. If possible, attempt to have a termination clause (know as a diplomatic clause) included in your lease agreement, in case of unexpected moves overseas. This allows early termination of a lease provided that at lease two month’s written notice is given.
http://www.rentthaihome.com
2007/10/12
Hotels In Pratunam - Bangkok's Watergate Hotels By The Saen Saab
By Eric Lim
Hotels in Pratunam are the Bangkok hotels located near the bustling Pratunam market, an old sluice gate and a canal, dug more than 150 years ago, giving the area a long and interesting history.
The area is called Pratunam (or watergate in Thai) after the sluice gate in the canal nearby, Klong Saen Saap or Saen Saap canal, which passes south of the Pratunam junction.
The Saen Saap canal has an important place in the history of the canals in Bangkok. During the reign of King Rama III (1824 – 1851), Chinese laborers dug the canal to transport troops to the east in anticipation of an impending war with Vietnam. Back then, it was faster to move troops by water than overland. The canal was completed but war didn't break out.
The Saen Saap canal starts from the Maharak Canal near the defensive rings of canals around the old Ratanakosin and extents all the way to the eastern province of Chachoengsao, 80 km away.
Today, Pratunam is a bustling market selling a wide a variety of electronic goods, fabrics and clothing and the pedestrian ways are cramped with street vendors and shoppers. The wholesale dealers are favorites with bargain hunters, both Thai and foreign.
The roads in the Pratunam area are virtually choked with traffic all day round. With the completion of the Platinum Shopping Complex and Condominium, the traffic situation in Pratunam could only get worse.
From the Bo Bae market pier, the Saen Saap canal runs eastwards just of south of Petchaburi Road. Just before Ramkhamhaeng Road, the canal branches off, one branch turns north-east along Ramkhamkaeng Road, pass Bang Kapi; the other turns south and south-east to Lat Krabang. The canal covers 50 km within Bangkok, almost the entire width of the city.
The Saen Saap canal boat service still serves as a convenient way for residents living along the canal to beat the traffic jams and get to school and work on time.
There are 17 Bangkok hotels at or near the Pratunam junction. Some of the hotels in Pratunam have adopted this well-known name, like Amari Watergate Hotel, Grand Diamond Pratunam Hotel and Pratunam Park Hotel. The 88-story Baiyoke Sky Hotel still holds the record as the tallest hotel in Thailand.
Hotels in Pratunam are generally inexpensive except for the Amari Watergate Hotel which is slightly over US$100. The rest like the Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Centerpoint Petchaburi, Century Park Hotel, Grand Diamond Pratunam and the Siam City Hotel are mid range, priced between US$50 – 90.
There are ample budget hotels in the area for the budget traveler, priced at US$30 or less. Some like the Pj Watergate have also cashed in on the "watergate" label. Others prefer names like Bangkok City Inn and White Palace Hotel to hide their humble origins. The Ibis Siam Hotel is part of the economy chain of the Accor international hotel group.
(Prices are correct as at the time of writing.)
The Saen Saab Canal is one of the few canals in Bangkok that has survived the tide of road expansion, unlike other canals in the city which have been filled up.
Today, this old canal continues to flow past the busy hotels in Pratunam and the busy market, carrying boatloads of commuters to work and school, a legacy of the efforts of the thousands of Chinese laborers, in the mid 1800s, who toiled to make it possible.
Hotels in Pratunam are some of the Bangkok Hotels you'll encounter in Tour Bangkok Legacies a historical travel site on people, places and events that left their mark in the landscape of Bangkok.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Lim
Hotels in Pratunam are the Bangkok hotels located near the bustling Pratunam market, an old sluice gate and a canal, dug more than 150 years ago, giving the area a long and interesting history.
The area is called Pratunam (or watergate in Thai) after the sluice gate in the canal nearby, Klong Saen Saap or Saen Saap canal, which passes south of the Pratunam junction.
The Saen Saap canal has an important place in the history of the canals in Bangkok. During the reign of King Rama III (1824 – 1851), Chinese laborers dug the canal to transport troops to the east in anticipation of an impending war with Vietnam. Back then, it was faster to move troops by water than overland. The canal was completed but war didn't break out.
The Saen Saap canal starts from the Maharak Canal near the defensive rings of canals around the old Ratanakosin and extents all the way to the eastern province of Chachoengsao, 80 km away.
Today, Pratunam is a bustling market selling a wide a variety of electronic goods, fabrics and clothing and the pedestrian ways are cramped with street vendors and shoppers. The wholesale dealers are favorites with bargain hunters, both Thai and foreign.
The roads in the Pratunam area are virtually choked with traffic all day round. With the completion of the Platinum Shopping Complex and Condominium, the traffic situation in Pratunam could only get worse.
From the Bo Bae market pier, the Saen Saap canal runs eastwards just of south of Petchaburi Road. Just before Ramkhamhaeng Road, the canal branches off, one branch turns north-east along Ramkhamkaeng Road, pass Bang Kapi; the other turns south and south-east to Lat Krabang. The canal covers 50 km within Bangkok, almost the entire width of the city.
The Saen Saap canal boat service still serves as a convenient way for residents living along the canal to beat the traffic jams and get to school and work on time.
There are 17 Bangkok hotels at or near the Pratunam junction. Some of the hotels in Pratunam have adopted this well-known name, like Amari Watergate Hotel, Grand Diamond Pratunam Hotel and Pratunam Park Hotel. The 88-story Baiyoke Sky Hotel still holds the record as the tallest hotel in Thailand.
Hotels in Pratunam are generally inexpensive except for the Amari Watergate Hotel which is slightly over US$100. The rest like the Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Centerpoint Petchaburi, Century Park Hotel, Grand Diamond Pratunam and the Siam City Hotel are mid range, priced between US$50 – 90.
There are ample budget hotels in the area for the budget traveler, priced at US$30 or less. Some like the Pj Watergate have also cashed in on the "watergate" label. Others prefer names like Bangkok City Inn and White Palace Hotel to hide their humble origins. The Ibis Siam Hotel is part of the economy chain of the Accor international hotel group.
(Prices are correct as at the time of writing.)
The Saen Saab Canal is one of the few canals in Bangkok that has survived the tide of road expansion, unlike other canals in the city which have been filled up.
Today, this old canal continues to flow past the busy hotels in Pratunam and the busy market, carrying boatloads of commuters to work and school, a legacy of the efforts of the thousands of Chinese laborers, in the mid 1800s, who toiled to make it possible.
Hotels in Pratunam are some of the Bangkok Hotels you'll encounter in Tour Bangkok Legacies a historical travel site on people, places and events that left their mark in the landscape of Bangkok.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Lim
The Legendary Oriental Bangkok - the Grand Dame on the Chao Phraya Turns 130
By Eric Lim
The Oriental Bangkok, the world-renowned luxury hotel, is the oldest hotel in Bangkok, has a legacy of famous writers and a long and famous history. She celebrates her 130th anniversary this year.
Two Danish sea captains founded the Oriental in 1865 during the reign of King Rama IV when Thailand opened up to trade as a result of the Bowring Treaty signed ten years earlier.
The founders saw the need for a hotel by the Chao Phraya to cater for the seafarers and traders who sailed upriver. They didn't realize then that the hotel they started would one day be a celebrated luxury hotel graced by the rich and famous.
Unfortunately the original building is no longer standing. The history of the Oriental Bangkok, the first hotel in the city, is taken from 1876 when the old wing was built. This building is still there.
The tradition of famous writers dates back to 1888, when Konrad Korzeniowski, a Polish merchant navy officer, sailed up the Chao Phraya and docked next to the Oriental Hotel. Nicknamed "Polish Joe" by his shipmates, he later became known to the literary world as Joseph Conrad.
Others were to follow in Conrad's footsteps. In 1923, Somerset Maugham, an English writer stayed at the Oriental Bangkok and wrote the children's tale, "Siamese Fairy Tale" while sitting in the river terrace gazing out at the Chao Phraya.
Noel Coward, another English writer, stayed at the Oriental Bangkok in 1929. Conrad, Maugham, Coward and the American, James Michener, four literary giants, became the founding fathers of the Authors' Wing.
The Oriental suffered damage, disrepair and looting during World War II, when it was taken over by the Japanese army. After the war, Allied officers waiting to return home made the hotel their living quarters.
In 1945, another legendary figure entered the scene. Jim Thompson, the American who later made his name in Thai silk, became one of the owners of the Oriental and a resident as well.
Thompson with five others, foreigners and Thai, pooled their funds in an attempt to revive the hotel. Owing to personal differences, Thompson left the group a year later.
The hotel went through a second major construction when the Garden Wing was completed and opened in 1958. In 1967 there was another change in ownership. It was then that Kurt Wachtveitl became General Manager.
The turning point came in 1974 when Jardine Matheson set up the Mandarin Hotels Group and bought a 49% stake in the Oriental Bangkok. This provided the impetus for a major expansion with the new 376-room wing, ballroom and multi- level car park.
The new River Wing opened in 1976, with suites honoring Barbara Cartland, John le Carre, Gore Vidal, Graham Greene and Norman Mailer. John le Carre was said to have finished "The Honourable Schoolboy" here.
In 2006, after another major facelift, the Oriental Bangkok celebrates its 130th anniversary with Kurt Wachtveitl still at the helm after 39 years, backed by his faithful and long-serving staff.
At a 130, the charming grand dame still holds court by the Chao Phraya. The tradition of famous writers lives on.
The Oriental Bangkok is an icon that evokes memories of authors like Conrad, Maugham and Michener.
http://tour-bangkok-legacies.com/
The Oriental Bangkok, the world-renowned luxury hotel, is the oldest hotel in Bangkok, has a legacy of famous writers and a long and famous history. She celebrates her 130th anniversary this year.
Two Danish sea captains founded the Oriental in 1865 during the reign of King Rama IV when Thailand opened up to trade as a result of the Bowring Treaty signed ten years earlier.
The founders saw the need for a hotel by the Chao Phraya to cater for the seafarers and traders who sailed upriver. They didn't realize then that the hotel they started would one day be a celebrated luxury hotel graced by the rich and famous.
Unfortunately the original building is no longer standing. The history of the Oriental Bangkok, the first hotel in the city, is taken from 1876 when the old wing was built. This building is still there.
The tradition of famous writers dates back to 1888, when Konrad Korzeniowski, a Polish merchant navy officer, sailed up the Chao Phraya and docked next to the Oriental Hotel. Nicknamed "Polish Joe" by his shipmates, he later became known to the literary world as Joseph Conrad.
Others were to follow in Conrad's footsteps. In 1923, Somerset Maugham, an English writer stayed at the Oriental Bangkok and wrote the children's tale, "Siamese Fairy Tale" while sitting in the river terrace gazing out at the Chao Phraya.
Noel Coward, another English writer, stayed at the Oriental Bangkok in 1929. Conrad, Maugham, Coward and the American, James Michener, four literary giants, became the founding fathers of the Authors' Wing.
The Oriental suffered damage, disrepair and looting during World War II, when it was taken over by the Japanese army. After the war, Allied officers waiting to return home made the hotel their living quarters.
In 1945, another legendary figure entered the scene. Jim Thompson, the American who later made his name in Thai silk, became one of the owners of the Oriental and a resident as well.
Thompson with five others, foreigners and Thai, pooled their funds in an attempt to revive the hotel. Owing to personal differences, Thompson left the group a year later.
The hotel went through a second major construction when the Garden Wing was completed and opened in 1958. In 1967 there was another change in ownership. It was then that Kurt Wachtveitl became General Manager.
The turning point came in 1974 when Jardine Matheson set up the Mandarin Hotels Group and bought a 49% stake in the Oriental Bangkok. This provided the impetus for a major expansion with the new 376-room wing, ballroom and multi- level car park.
The new River Wing opened in 1976, with suites honoring Barbara Cartland, John le Carre, Gore Vidal, Graham Greene and Norman Mailer. John le Carre was said to have finished "The Honourable Schoolboy" here.
In 2006, after another major facelift, the Oriental Bangkok celebrates its 130th anniversary with Kurt Wachtveitl still at the helm after 39 years, backed by his faithful and long-serving staff.
At a 130, the charming grand dame still holds court by the Chao Phraya. The tradition of famous writers lives on.
The Oriental Bangkok is an icon that evokes memories of authors like Conrad, Maugham and Michener.
http://tour-bangkok-legacies.com/
2007/10/10
Learning To Speak Thai
By Douglas Anderson
The main problem with learning to speak Thai is that the basis of the language is not European-based. English and the other Euro languages have Latin, Greek, Viking, etc., roots; Thai does not, so you have to memorize hundreds, if not thousands, of strange and unrelated sounds. This is difficult, unless you use some sort of memory trigger.
Speak Easy Thai is a low-cost (about US$25) CD-ROM that helps solve this problem by presenting a picture and a sound file; all words are spoken by a native Thai speaker, so you hear the correct tone.
If you see a Thai word printed in a book, such as a travel guide, chances are you will not remember the word because there is nothing to hang your hat on.
But when you see a picture of something and hear it spoken properly in Thai, your brain will find it much easier to remember the word because it seems to set up more associations (hypertext links, if you will) in your brain.
It’s a fact that most people learn better visually and aurally than they do by simply reading and trying to memorize. This is, in fact, how children learn. They hear the words spoken by adults and other children, and repeat them. Young children learn to speak a language well before they can read.
Thai uses its own alphabet, rather than pictograms like Chinese, which makes it much easier to learn than Chinese. You just have to get over the hump of reading the Thai characters. The alphabet contains the same letters as English, but they are drawn differently. For example, all the common consonants and vowels exist in Thai, but a Thai G (or P or M) does not look like an English G (or P or M).
But the best part of learning Thai is the grammar, believe it or not, because there is very little to learn. There are no, absolutely NO verb conjugations, which will please anyone who has ever tried to learn one of the Latin-based languages like French, Italian, and Spanish. Future tense is handled with "ja", meaning "will", or by adding an adverb of time, like "tomorrow". Past tense is handled by putting "already" at the end, or by adding an adverb of time, like "yesterday". For example, instead of saying, "I went to the market", you use the present tense ("go") but add "already" at the end, as in "I go market already". Easy peasy.
Also, adjectives do not change form, you don’t have to worry about the sex of a noun because all nouns are neuter. Adjectives always follow the noun, without exception; you say "house big" rather than "big house".
General plurals are done by doubling the noun: "house house" instead of "houses". Specific plurals use the same construction we use in English for groups, as in "The farmer has three head of cattle". You can’t say "I have three children" in Thai, you must say "I have child three person"; "child" is the noun, "person" is the group word, also known as a "classifier".
Adverbs are easy too, no variations. You can add emphasis by doubling the adverb: "He runs quickly quickly".
The most difficult part of learning Thai is that it is a tonal language. English uses tones on sentences. Compare these three statements:
"You’re going to the party."
"You’re going to the party?"
"You’re going to the party!"
They all use the same English words, but the tone (flat, rising, falling, respectively) gives an entirely different meaning to each sentence.
Thai uses tones on words, but not on sentences. For example, "seu-ah" spoken with a flat (mid-range) tone means "clothing"; "seu-ah" spoken with a rising tone means "tiger". So you must be careful to learn the correct tone for each word, otherwise you might be saying "my tiger is dirty" when what you meant is "my clothing is dirty". There is no doubt that this is the hardest part of learning Thai, and the only way to learn the correct tone is to listen to a native Thai speaker saying the word.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Douglas_Anderson
The main problem with learning to speak Thai is that the basis of the language is not European-based. English and the other Euro languages have Latin, Greek, Viking, etc., roots; Thai does not, so you have to memorize hundreds, if not thousands, of strange and unrelated sounds. This is difficult, unless you use some sort of memory trigger.
Speak Easy Thai is a low-cost (about US$25) CD-ROM that helps solve this problem by presenting a picture and a sound file; all words are spoken by a native Thai speaker, so you hear the correct tone.
If you see a Thai word printed in a book, such as a travel guide, chances are you will not remember the word because there is nothing to hang your hat on.
But when you see a picture of something and hear it spoken properly in Thai, your brain will find it much easier to remember the word because it seems to set up more associations (hypertext links, if you will) in your brain.
It’s a fact that most people learn better visually and aurally than they do by simply reading and trying to memorize. This is, in fact, how children learn. They hear the words spoken by adults and other children, and repeat them. Young children learn to speak a language well before they can read.
Thai uses its own alphabet, rather than pictograms like Chinese, which makes it much easier to learn than Chinese. You just have to get over the hump of reading the Thai characters. The alphabet contains the same letters as English, but they are drawn differently. For example, all the common consonants and vowels exist in Thai, but a Thai G (or P or M) does not look like an English G (or P or M).
But the best part of learning Thai is the grammar, believe it or not, because there is very little to learn. There are no, absolutely NO verb conjugations, which will please anyone who has ever tried to learn one of the Latin-based languages like French, Italian, and Spanish. Future tense is handled with "ja", meaning "will", or by adding an adverb of time, like "tomorrow". Past tense is handled by putting "already" at the end, or by adding an adverb of time, like "yesterday". For example, instead of saying, "I went to the market", you use the present tense ("go") but add "already" at the end, as in "I go market already". Easy peasy.
Also, adjectives do not change form, you don’t have to worry about the sex of a noun because all nouns are neuter. Adjectives always follow the noun, without exception; you say "house big" rather than "big house".
General plurals are done by doubling the noun: "house house" instead of "houses". Specific plurals use the same construction we use in English for groups, as in "The farmer has three head of cattle". You can’t say "I have three children" in Thai, you must say "I have child three person"; "child" is the noun, "person" is the group word, also known as a "classifier".
Adverbs are easy too, no variations. You can add emphasis by doubling the adverb: "He runs quickly quickly".
The most difficult part of learning Thai is that it is a tonal language. English uses tones on sentences. Compare these three statements:
"You’re going to the party."
"You’re going to the party?"
"You’re going to the party!"
They all use the same English words, but the tone (flat, rising, falling, respectively) gives an entirely different meaning to each sentence.
Thai uses tones on words, but not on sentences. For example, "seu-ah" spoken with a flat (mid-range) tone means "clothing"; "seu-ah" spoken with a rising tone means "tiger". So you must be careful to learn the correct tone for each word, otherwise you might be saying "my tiger is dirty" when what you meant is "my clothing is dirty". There is no doubt that this is the hardest part of learning Thai, and the only way to learn the correct tone is to listen to a native Thai speaker saying the word.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Douglas_Anderson
2007/10/08
Chao Wang Food And Thai Food Of Each Festival
by Manora
Chao Wang Food:
(Food Prepared for Royal or High-Class Families)
The food which is prepared for Royal family members or of the high-class people is different from that of the ordinary people. The Chao Wang food has its own delicate cooking; for example, Khieo Wan Kai must have only chicken meat without any bones, whereas the ordinary people's Khieo Wan Kai contains with chicken both of meat and bones. The Chao Wang Namprig has beautifully carved vegeytables, side by side, to take with.
Some Bits about Thai Food:
Thai food is a Thai national symbol. It reveals the characteristics of the Thai people: their delicate taste, discipline, rules of conduct, artistic taste and human relationship. Thai food has its unique name with précis meaning of feature, flavor or the methods of cooking, Tong Yip and Foi Thong are examples of Thai sweets in this case. To understand causes and effects of Thai food cooking is to achieve.
To preserve the Thai nationality, the learners of how to cook Thai food should both keep Thai national values of the past and also accept any new ones.
Thai Food of Each Festival:
Thai food is cooked in agreement with Thai festivals organized according to Thai religious customs.
The fifth Month (April):
The old Thai New Year is celebrated in this month of April (between April 13 and April 15). To relieve the hot weather in the summer month, the dainty Khao Chae, (-a luncheon dish which includes rice served in scented water with jasmine and rose petals, and with seven or eight side dishes-), is used to serve monks, relatives and friends in the merit-making occasion. Kaaraamae (a Thai caramel) is made as well as Khao Niew Dang (Sweetened red glutinous rice) to give among friends and relatives.
The Sixth, Seventh, Eighth Months:
The Eighth Month (July) is in the rainy season and the Buddhist Lent. Fruits are in abundance so they are preserved in many techniques of cooking: stirring, or cooking as well as soaking in thick syrup. Durian Guan, Kluai Guan, Kluai Taak, Sabparod Guan are examples. Fully ripe chillies are sundried for the needed time. Fully ripe and sour tamarind is pitted, sprinkled with salt, pasted and preserved for the coming days. Fishes which are also plentiful, are sundried or grilled, for the next days.
In these months, Thai people do their merit-making at the temple. They offer foods to the monks in the form called "Salaag Puut", that is, the monks are offered foods by drawing slots. The baskets offered to the monks, contain with both fresh and dried foods. The people, offering foods to the monks, are very exited to see who is going to get their basket by drawing lots.
The Eighth Month is also the time for young Thai males to enter the monkhood. Folks helps bringing foods and sweets to join the occasion. The foods are of various kinds with ingredients of vegetables, fishes, coconut or sugar. One example of these is Yam Kamoei cooked with any food stuff found at hand but delicious with its sauce made with crunched, red chillies, garlic, vinegar, fish soy, lime and sugar.
Main dishes are often many kinds of curries and lon (a kind of sauce served with raw vegetables). For the funeral, Plara Lon(a sauce made with fishes which are fermented by salted and roasted rice) and foods with noodle-ingredients are avoided because of Thai superstition of death prolongation.
The Ninth Month (August):
The Ninth Month is the most favorable month for wedding ceremony, new house merit making, and age meritorious performing. Favorite Thai sweets, symbolized fortunes and honors, Khanom Chaan (sweetened, light color pudding with many layers) and Khaaw Niew Kaew (sweetened, glassy glutinous rice) are favorably cooked.
The Tenth Month (September):
The Tenth Month (September) is the month for Sart Thai Festival.
Krajaa Sart (sweetened, forested, and popped rice mixed with peanuts and sesames ) and Khaaw Yaa Koo(a cake made of sugar boiled with water received from crunched young rice grains) are popular sweets.
The Eleventh, Twelfth Monts:
The Eleventh Month (October) and the Twelfth Month (November) are months of Krathin Ceremony (the offering of Krathin Cloths to the monks) and Oogpaansaa (the outing of the Buddihist Lent ). Khaaw Tom Paad (glutinous rice wrapped by banana or bamboo leaves cooked by steaming ) are offered to the monks in this festival. Other favorite foods are rice cooked and wrapped in lotus or banana leaves accompanied by fried food such as Paad Prig Khing, dried curries, Namprig Makaam Paad, Namprig Makaam Piak and Namprig Taa Dang including salted food as salted meat and salted eggs, along with vegetables plucked along the way.
The Fist Lunar Month (Dyan Aaai or January)
The Fist Lunar Month (Dyan Aaai or January) of the old days was full of shrimps in the canal. Tha main ingredients of food in this month, then, were shrimps.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=364209
Chao Wang Food:
(Food Prepared for Royal or High-Class Families)
The food which is prepared for Royal family members or of the high-class people is different from that of the ordinary people. The Chao Wang food has its own delicate cooking; for example, Khieo Wan Kai must have only chicken meat without any bones, whereas the ordinary people's Khieo Wan Kai contains with chicken both of meat and bones. The Chao Wang Namprig has beautifully carved vegeytables, side by side, to take with.
Some Bits about Thai Food:
Thai food is a Thai national symbol. It reveals the characteristics of the Thai people: their delicate taste, discipline, rules of conduct, artistic taste and human relationship. Thai food has its unique name with précis meaning of feature, flavor or the methods of cooking, Tong Yip and Foi Thong are examples of Thai sweets in this case. To understand causes and effects of Thai food cooking is to achieve.
To preserve the Thai nationality, the learners of how to cook Thai food should both keep Thai national values of the past and also accept any new ones.
Thai Food of Each Festival:
Thai food is cooked in agreement with Thai festivals organized according to Thai religious customs.
The fifth Month (April):
The old Thai New Year is celebrated in this month of April (between April 13 and April 15). To relieve the hot weather in the summer month, the dainty Khao Chae, (-a luncheon dish which includes rice served in scented water with jasmine and rose petals, and with seven or eight side dishes-), is used to serve monks, relatives and friends in the merit-making occasion. Kaaraamae (a Thai caramel) is made as well as Khao Niew Dang (Sweetened red glutinous rice) to give among friends and relatives.
The Sixth, Seventh, Eighth Months:
The Eighth Month (July) is in the rainy season and the Buddhist Lent. Fruits are in abundance so they are preserved in many techniques of cooking: stirring, or cooking as well as soaking in thick syrup. Durian Guan, Kluai Guan, Kluai Taak, Sabparod Guan are examples. Fully ripe chillies are sundried for the needed time. Fully ripe and sour tamarind is pitted, sprinkled with salt, pasted and preserved for the coming days. Fishes which are also plentiful, are sundried or grilled, for the next days.
In these months, Thai people do their merit-making at the temple. They offer foods to the monks in the form called "Salaag Puut", that is, the monks are offered foods by drawing slots. The baskets offered to the monks, contain with both fresh and dried foods. The people, offering foods to the monks, are very exited to see who is going to get their basket by drawing lots.
The Eighth Month is also the time for young Thai males to enter the monkhood. Folks helps bringing foods and sweets to join the occasion. The foods are of various kinds with ingredients of vegetables, fishes, coconut or sugar. One example of these is Yam Kamoei cooked with any food stuff found at hand but delicious with its sauce made with crunched, red chillies, garlic, vinegar, fish soy, lime and sugar.
Main dishes are often many kinds of curries and lon (a kind of sauce served with raw vegetables). For the funeral, Plara Lon(a sauce made with fishes which are fermented by salted and roasted rice) and foods with noodle-ingredients are avoided because of Thai superstition of death prolongation.
The Ninth Month (August):
The Ninth Month is the most favorable month for wedding ceremony, new house merit making, and age meritorious performing. Favorite Thai sweets, symbolized fortunes and honors, Khanom Chaan (sweetened, light color pudding with many layers) and Khaaw Niew Kaew (sweetened, glassy glutinous rice) are favorably cooked.
The Tenth Month (September):
The Tenth Month (September) is the month for Sart Thai Festival.
Krajaa Sart (sweetened, forested, and popped rice mixed with peanuts and sesames ) and Khaaw Yaa Koo(a cake made of sugar boiled with water received from crunched young rice grains) are popular sweets.
The Eleventh, Twelfth Monts:
The Eleventh Month (October) and the Twelfth Month (November) are months of Krathin Ceremony (the offering of Krathin Cloths to the monks) and Oogpaansaa (the outing of the Buddihist Lent ). Khaaw Tom Paad (glutinous rice wrapped by banana or bamboo leaves cooked by steaming ) are offered to the monks in this festival. Other favorite foods are rice cooked and wrapped in lotus or banana leaves accompanied by fried food such as Paad Prig Khing, dried curries, Namprig Makaam Paad, Namprig Makaam Piak and Namprig Taa Dang including salted food as salted meat and salted eggs, along with vegetables plucked along the way.
The Fist Lunar Month (Dyan Aaai or January)
The Fist Lunar Month (Dyan Aaai or January) of the old days was full of shrimps in the canal. Tha main ingredients of food in this month, then, were shrimps.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=364209
Top Ten Favourite Thai Food
by Paisan M.
Everybody is well known about Thai food because many Thai restaurants has established around the world. The unique flavour of Thai food is blended of fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Thai food is cooked with basic ingredients such as garlic, chilies, pepper, lime juice, lemon grass and coriander leave. The main food in Thailand is rice. Although rice is the main food of Thais, but we aren't eat rice alone. We must have some dishes (soup, curries or fried vegetable) to eat with rice.
In July 1999, the Office of the National Culture Commission in Ministry of Culture announced the top ten Thai dishes best liked by foreigners. The Office had conducted a survey of Thai restaurants all over the world to find out ten favourite Thai dishes of foreigners. In the survey 1,500 Thai restaurant in America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa were asked to fill in a questionnaire. However, only 500 restaurants which have Thai chefs and offer the authentic Thai food were qualified for being taken into consideration. The results were the top ten Thai dishes which are listed below in order of their percentages of popularity:
1. Tom Yam Kung (spicy shrimp soup) 99% 2. Kaeng Keow Wan Kai (green curry with chicken) 82% 3. Pad Thai (Thai fried noodles) 70% 4. Pad Kaphrao (stir fried basil with chicken) 52% 5. Kaeng Phet Pet Yang (roast duck curry) 50% 6. Tom Kha Kai (chicken in coconut soup) 47% 7. Yam Nua Yang (spicy roast beef salad) 45% 8. Pork Satay (roast pork coated with turmeric) 43% 9. Kai Phat Met Mamuang Himmaphan (fried chicken with cashew nut) 42% 10. Phanaeng Kai (chicken in coconut cream) 39%
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=386738
Everybody is well known about Thai food because many Thai restaurants has established around the world. The unique flavour of Thai food is blended of fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Thai food is cooked with basic ingredients such as garlic, chilies, pepper, lime juice, lemon grass and coriander leave. The main food in Thailand is rice. Although rice is the main food of Thais, but we aren't eat rice alone. We must have some dishes (soup, curries or fried vegetable) to eat with rice.
In July 1999, the Office of the National Culture Commission in Ministry of Culture announced the top ten Thai dishes best liked by foreigners. The Office had conducted a survey of Thai restaurants all over the world to find out ten favourite Thai dishes of foreigners. In the survey 1,500 Thai restaurant in America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa were asked to fill in a questionnaire. However, only 500 restaurants which have Thai chefs and offer the authentic Thai food were qualified for being taken into consideration. The results were the top ten Thai dishes which are listed below in order of their percentages of popularity:
1. Tom Yam Kung (spicy shrimp soup) 99% 2. Kaeng Keow Wan Kai (green curry with chicken) 82% 3. Pad Thai (Thai fried noodles) 70% 4. Pad Kaphrao (stir fried basil with chicken) 52% 5. Kaeng Phet Pet Yang (roast duck curry) 50% 6. Tom Kha Kai (chicken in coconut soup) 47% 7. Yam Nua Yang (spicy roast beef salad) 45% 8. Pork Satay (roast pork coated with turmeric) 43% 9. Kai Phat Met Mamuang Himmaphan (fried chicken with cashew nut) 42% 10. Phanaeng Kai (chicken in coconut cream) 39%
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=386738
2007/10/05
Thai Girls And Thailand Travel In 5 Easy Steps
by Martin Hurley
If you've hit an age where meeting attractive younger (than you) girls or women seems to be a wicked challenge, maybe it's time to consider opening your mind to new horizons. Yes I'm talking about Thai girls and Thai women here. And doing it from a guy who has lived in Thailand for the best part of four years.
But before we meet the perfect Thai girl, why Thailand? Maybe it's the attention. It's hard not to be taken by people who seem to be always smiling, welcoming and friendly. And with a great 'not too serious about anything much' attitude and the Thai Buddhist qualities, well, it's all quite compelling.
Anyway, Thailand is a world in itself, so be prepared to be amazed and have all your normal 'logical' thinking replaced with ongoing illogical and strange behavior. In other words, Thailand is a completely weird place. Just remember that when you travel to a foreign country, after you get there, you become the foreigner...
Amongst all its differences, the pleasures are true and fascinating. There's no doubt Thailand is a crazy world. But strangely enough, it seems to hang together well. And the proof is in the pudding... having thrown myself into this lifestyle, I now feel somewhat 'apprehensive' about having to travel to a Western country and meet Western people. Why would I feel that way?
Maybe because I've been immersed in smiling, polite Thai people who always welcomed me and wanted to know about me. Maybe because I've been surrounded by Thai food that is always so important everywhere you go. Food that... "shows how we delicately care about feelings of people." And then there's the Thai girls...
Let's talk about Thai girls and the Thai world through these 5 simple steps:
Step one: Go to http://yourthaigirl.com and read the downloadable ebook, (and while you're there sign up to the Thai Girl, Thai Life newsletter). In this ebook you'll learn all about Thai culture, lifestyle, and of course, Thai girls.
You get savvy on what to do, what not to do, when to do it, and where to go and do it. You'll know what it all means, and the ebook will give you the 'inside picture' to the world of Thailand.
Step two: Book your ticket to Thailand as soon as you can. When you arrive, prepare for the slam... the heat... an invisible hammer that hits you with its mighty force... rushes to greet you with the power of a thousand simmering angels...
And yet, before you know it, you'll be slipping down the long passageways inside the cool air conditioned airport. Get your bags, your bearings, your Thai girl book and prepare for your biggest journey. (Hey, Thailand is not as hot as you think :-)
Step three: Get out and meet and greet people. Prepare your name card, your few words of Thai, a nice hotel or resort with a funny name, and your best clothes. In this country, it pays to look good. Thai's like to be clean, fresh, and attractive. No kidding.
Step four: Just be you. Expect lots of questions. The Thai's want to learn English... speak English with you. You'll have a great, precious, remarkable time. Be adventurous. Be a tourist. Learn new things. Travel on the sky train.
Step five: That's it, all done. Remember though to keep light-hearted. The Thai's like to have fun, not be 'too serious' and will appreciate it if you show respect to the things that are important to them. The key word is enjoyment. Have fun.
Actually, there's really nothing to it. It's so easy (once you're here!) The main thing is to keep your calm, appreciate the beauty of Thai girls, seek out quality relationships, and let me know how it all goes, okay.
http://yourthaigirl.com/datingsecrets.html
If you've hit an age where meeting attractive younger (than you) girls or women seems to be a wicked challenge, maybe it's time to consider opening your mind to new horizons. Yes I'm talking about Thai girls and Thai women here. And doing it from a guy who has lived in Thailand for the best part of four years.
But before we meet the perfect Thai girl, why Thailand? Maybe it's the attention. It's hard not to be taken by people who seem to be always smiling, welcoming and friendly. And with a great 'not too serious about anything much' attitude and the Thai Buddhist qualities, well, it's all quite compelling.
Anyway, Thailand is a world in itself, so be prepared to be amazed and have all your normal 'logical' thinking replaced with ongoing illogical and strange behavior. In other words, Thailand is a completely weird place. Just remember that when you travel to a foreign country, after you get there, you become the foreigner...
Amongst all its differences, the pleasures are true and fascinating. There's no doubt Thailand is a crazy world. But strangely enough, it seems to hang together well. And the proof is in the pudding... having thrown myself into this lifestyle, I now feel somewhat 'apprehensive' about having to travel to a Western country and meet Western people. Why would I feel that way?
Maybe because I've been immersed in smiling, polite Thai people who always welcomed me and wanted to know about me. Maybe because I've been surrounded by Thai food that is always so important everywhere you go. Food that... "shows how we delicately care about feelings of people." And then there's the Thai girls...
Let's talk about Thai girls and the Thai world through these 5 simple steps:
Step one: Go to http://yourthaigirl.com and read the downloadable ebook, (and while you're there sign up to the Thai Girl, Thai Life newsletter). In this ebook you'll learn all about Thai culture, lifestyle, and of course, Thai girls.
You get savvy on what to do, what not to do, when to do it, and where to go and do it. You'll know what it all means, and the ebook will give you the 'inside picture' to the world of Thailand.
Step two: Book your ticket to Thailand as soon as you can. When you arrive, prepare for the slam... the heat... an invisible hammer that hits you with its mighty force... rushes to greet you with the power of a thousand simmering angels...
And yet, before you know it, you'll be slipping down the long passageways inside the cool air conditioned airport. Get your bags, your bearings, your Thai girl book and prepare for your biggest journey. (Hey, Thailand is not as hot as you think :-)
Step three: Get out and meet and greet people. Prepare your name card, your few words of Thai, a nice hotel or resort with a funny name, and your best clothes. In this country, it pays to look good. Thai's like to be clean, fresh, and attractive. No kidding.
Step four: Just be you. Expect lots of questions. The Thai's want to learn English... speak English with you. You'll have a great, precious, remarkable time. Be adventurous. Be a tourist. Learn new things. Travel on the sky train.
Step five: That's it, all done. Remember though to keep light-hearted. The Thai's like to have fun, not be 'too serious' and will appreciate it if you show respect to the things that are important to them. The key word is enjoyment. Have fun.
Actually, there's really nothing to it. It's so easy (once you're here!) The main thing is to keep your calm, appreciate the beauty of Thai girls, seek out quality relationships, and let me know how it all goes, okay.
http://yourthaigirl.com/datingsecrets.html
2007/10/02
Is Thailand a Good Place to Have a Holiday Home?
Neil Simmons
Is Thailand a good place to have a holiday home?
Yes, apart from the fact that foreigners aren’t allowed to own land, which means that the only real viable option is to purchase on a long term lease. The longest lease allowable in Thailand is 30 years. Of course, it is possible to write an option into the lease giving the lessee the option to renew for a further 60 years. For most, 60 years is long enough. However, there is the risk that the lessee cannot renew the lease after 30 years, because they have snuffed it, or the lessor has snuffed it, or some other reason like the government decides not restrict the lease term to foreigners to, say, 10 years.
Thailand has a huge potential for growth in the retirement and holiday home industry. Massive. But of course, with xenophobia or just plain arrogance running so deep in the veins of the rich and powerful in Thailand, they don’t want to accept the fact that Thailand might be a better place with foreign influence.
Let’s not get carried away, most Thais would welcome a new law allowing foreigners to purchase land. It wouldn’t have to be the whole of Thailand after all, there could be zoning laws brought in the help boost development in certain areas and allow foreigners to purchase land in those specific areas only. Most Thais would see that there would be a new flow of money brought into their local economy, and that they would prosper from it. What is the government afraid of anyway by not allowing foreigners to purchase land. They can still control the use of the land, by restricting use to residential purposes only. Or simply allow foreigners with a retirement visa in Thailand or over a specific age to buy their dream house. Are they really afraid that a foreigner will own a house in Thailand??
What’s more, this increased development and cash flow into the local economy will result in new shops, restaurants and therefore jobs for the local Thais. The value of the land will increase in these ‘zoned areas’ which will also increase the value of the Thai owned land (all though let’s face it, if the government brought in a zoning law like this then the leading politicians would have bought up all the land themselves just prior!!).
One of my staff in Thailand comes from Rayong, and her aunt has a very old unused run down house in Rayong on a 1 rai piece of land. The house is about 500m from the beach, very near to Poi Pet the port going to Kho Samed Island. Overlooking green hills and fields, she only wants 2,000,000 Baht for the house and land. This is very affordable to a lot of people (some other houses for sale can be found at www.property-bangkok.com).
And why don’t banks lend to foreigners to buy property. Surely they can seize the property if the mortgage is not being paid. They have collateral already. Why, please can someone tell me why, can a Thai national with no money, no job, and no salary, get a mortgage in their name if they have a foreigner acting as guarantor, but the foreigner him/herself cannot get a mortgage??
http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/is-thailand-a-good-place-to-have-a-holiday-home-124931.html
Is Thailand a good place to have a holiday home?
Yes, apart from the fact that foreigners aren’t allowed to own land, which means that the only real viable option is to purchase on a long term lease. The longest lease allowable in Thailand is 30 years. Of course, it is possible to write an option into the lease giving the lessee the option to renew for a further 60 years. For most, 60 years is long enough. However, there is the risk that the lessee cannot renew the lease after 30 years, because they have snuffed it, or the lessor has snuffed it, or some other reason like the government decides not restrict the lease term to foreigners to, say, 10 years.
Thailand has a huge potential for growth in the retirement and holiday home industry. Massive. But of course, with xenophobia or just plain arrogance running so deep in the veins of the rich and powerful in Thailand, they don’t want to accept the fact that Thailand might be a better place with foreign influence.
Let’s not get carried away, most Thais would welcome a new law allowing foreigners to purchase land. It wouldn’t have to be the whole of Thailand after all, there could be zoning laws brought in the help boost development in certain areas and allow foreigners to purchase land in those specific areas only. Most Thais would see that there would be a new flow of money brought into their local economy, and that they would prosper from it. What is the government afraid of anyway by not allowing foreigners to purchase land. They can still control the use of the land, by restricting use to residential purposes only. Or simply allow foreigners with a retirement visa in Thailand or over a specific age to buy their dream house. Are they really afraid that a foreigner will own a house in Thailand??
What’s more, this increased development and cash flow into the local economy will result in new shops, restaurants and therefore jobs for the local Thais. The value of the land will increase in these ‘zoned areas’ which will also increase the value of the Thai owned land (all though let’s face it, if the government brought in a zoning law like this then the leading politicians would have bought up all the land themselves just prior!!).
One of my staff in Thailand comes from Rayong, and her aunt has a very old unused run down house in Rayong on a 1 rai piece of land. The house is about 500m from the beach, very near to Poi Pet the port going to Kho Samed Island. Overlooking green hills and fields, she only wants 2,000,000 Baht for the house and land. This is very affordable to a lot of people (some other houses for sale can be found at www.property-bangkok.com).
And why don’t banks lend to foreigners to buy property. Surely they can seize the property if the mortgage is not being paid. They have collateral already. Why, please can someone tell me why, can a Thai national with no money, no job, and no salary, get a mortgage in their name if they have a foreigner acting as guarantor, but the foreigner him/herself cannot get a mortgage??
http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/is-thailand-a-good-place-to-have-a-holiday-home-124931.html
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