Bridget Connors
When you brush a piece of Thai silk against your face, your senses will purr with the softness of this most unique and popular fabric. Some silk producers rely on heavy machinery and an assembly line to produce the silk products you see today. In Thailand, the tradition of silk production is marked by many years of hard-earned pride, skill and style. Hand woven silk products offer a quality that is much better and of a higher standard to items created through machines.
Silk: The Legend
Legend has it that the Empress Si Ling Chi of China was the first to discover silk. It is said that while she sipped a cup of tea underneath a mulberry tree, a cocoon fell from above and into her teacup. As she tried to extract the cocoon from her cup, a very fine thread began to unravel from the pod. Soon, silk was regarded as a status symbol and kept a secret for many years. It was also a crime to even pass on silkworm eggs or cocoons for fear that their treasured thread would be revealed. Although evidence supports silk cloth production during the ancient times of Thailand, it is still a little hazy on how it came to be.
Thai Silk
The most respected reputation in silk production has been earned by Thailand, which is known for producing the finest silk in the world. Although other countries, such as Italy and China also produce silk, Thai silk is rather distinct and highly impressive. The hand woven silk from Thailand feels fine to the touch, yet still retains an earthy quality. Throughout the years, Thais have perfected a number of weaving techniques and processes, which produce a variety of weights, patterns and designs.
Silk Production Process
The process of hand woven silk production is one that requires patience. A weaver usually has the capacity to create close to only four meters of material in one day of work. With that piece of information, you should definitely value your authentic silk products even more! First, the raw silk yarn is extracted from the silk cocoon. It is then prepared for a dye job. The yarn is then treated, boiled and eventually dyed. Once dying is complete, the silk yarn is then dried before it is spun on wooden spindles. The weaving of the silk yarn is the final step. Depending on where the silk was produced, you will encounter a wide-range of styles and colors, such as the iridescent variety from Korat or Surin.
The Many Uses For Thai Silk
Although silk is often connected to clothing, there are many different uses for Thai silk you probably weren’t even aware of. For starters, it is highly unlikely that you’ve ever tied the material to the clothing worn by astronauts. It is also used to produce carpets, sewing thread, typewriter ribbons, as well as fishing lines. Let’s not forget all of the wonderful places you will encounter silk on the home front. Silk table sheets for the dining room add softness to the room. Many bedrooms display a silk bed spread, blanket, sheets or matching pillows. Silk curtains and other home accessories can really add flair to any room in the home.
How to Care For Your Silk Products
When you want to ensure the life of your silk product, you should know how to properly take care of this type of material. To clean your silk products, they should be hand washed. For a colorful cloth, it is suggested to soak in salt water for the first cleaning. When ironing, the setting should be warm.
Interesting Facts About Silk Production
1) Did you know that the silkworm isn’t really a worm at all, but is actually a caterpillar?
2) Did you know that one cocoon holds a single fiber measuring 500 meters long?
3) Did you know that the natural color of the silk fiber from Thailand silkworms is gold?
Thai silk is something that can be enjoyed by all and if taken care of, it can last more than a hundred years. There's a reason why: its the only silk still hand pressed and its beauty and texture is recognized for this reason.
http://www.siamsensibilities.com/
Showing posts with label shopping. Show all posts
Showing posts with label shopping. Show all posts
2007/11/14
2007/09/10
Shopping for Thai handicrafts
Most visitors to Chiang Mai head straight to the temples and to the surrounding mountains to see the hill tribes. The culture in Northern Thailand may be defined by the excellent trekking and historic sites, but one of the greatest attractions for a growing number of people is the excellent shopping at the Baan Tawai craft centre located just to the south of the city. There are many good cultural souvenirs, handicrafts and home décor items to choose from here.
The famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is probably the most popular destination for visitors looking for handicrafts to take back home. It's common for most people to buy far more than they had planned, with a huge choice of goods from interesting art and sculptures through to beautiful silk clothes and lamp shades. What most of these people don't realise is that it's possible to find all of these products and at cheaper prices at Baan Tawai.
The area has long been an artisan centre, but with the growth in tourism over the last several years, Baan Tawai has expanded considerably. It now boasts a completely new wing and features several arcades of small shops and stalls. There are also larger shops found on the road leading to the centre which sell outdoor ceramics, furniture and antiques. A number of overseas buyers regularly visit the centre to purchase items in bulk for their outlets abroad.
In Chiang Mai if you are looking for souvenir shopping, then it is definitely worth your while spending some time here. The products on offer are the cheapest you will find in Thailand and include wall hangings, antique reproductions, silk, candles, incense, soap gift packs, bamboo products, frames, vases, ornaments and a whole lot more.
You can probably find some of the items for sale in the tourist areas in Phuket, Pattaya and Bangkok, but the prices are significantly higher and the choice much smaller. Many of the products at Baan Tawai are handmade from natural materials and are unique to this part of Thailand.
There are lots of skilled artisans at work in Chiang Mai, and one of their favourite materials to work with is wood. They produce some fine Buddhist art pieces, décor items, carved figurines and wall hangings. The range continues to grow according to demand, and some of the latest pieces feature striking contemporary designs.
Teak furniture is also very popular and can be found at several shops, which will happily make items to order. Don't be deterred by the task of trying to fit everything into your luggage, as there are professional packing and shipping companies who will take care of everything for you in Chiang Mai.
However, you don't have to buy anything to enjoy a visit here, as it's fun looking around and seeing the artisans practising their skills. They are very gifted and have considerable experience weaving rattan, painting, carving busts, colouring figurines and applying delicate lacquer work.
Something else worth looking out for at Baan Tawai is the beautiful tropical gardens that can be found in front of many of the shops. As is the case throughout Chiang Mai, the locals take pride in creating impressive displays, gardens, water features and small ponds.
A lot of visitors are also attracted by the Asian antiques, which are among the finest in the world. Chiang Mai has become established as a centre not only for original pieces, but also for impressive looking copies. When you consider how much you would pay for an original 18th century antique, you could furnish your entire apartment with some very authentic looking reproductions for the same price.
The market is growing in size as more people are opting for artworks that simply look old. Some of the customers include the country’s most expensive hotels in Phuket and Samui. The production process includes burying newly-made pieces soaked in acid to shorten the aging period. Among the fake antiques on offer are Buddha figurines, Burmese masks, bronze bowls and pewter items.
Thai handicrafts are beautifully crafted, excellent value for money and can be found wherever you go in the world. The distinctive styles show up in flea markets and decor shops in the most unexpected of places. You may not intend to do much shopping on your visit, but once you get here, you will probably find yourself buying extra luggage to carry your new possessions home!
http://www.amazines.com/article_detail.cfm/218273?articleid=218273
Visiting Bangkok in 10 easy steps
One Night in Bangkok…as the famous song goes, but there’s much more to this city, including fantastic culture, great value shopping, exciting entertainment and plenty of sights to point a camera at. With only a few days in the Thai capital, here are ten things you really must see or do.
Shopping Whether you hot-foot it around Bangkok’s latest glitzy addition to its long list of shopping malls – Siam Paragon, or you spend hours sifting through the bargains at Pratunam Market, shopaholics will not be disappointed with Bangkok’s offerings. Ranking as one of Asia’s top shopping hubs, it is no wonder that shopping is a favourite pastime of the Thais. With all of the main centres within walking distance of one another, you can start at Siam Discover Centre; pass through Siam Square on your way to MBK, then hit your final destination, the World Trade Centre. The biggest problem will not be finding what you want; it will be getting it back home.
Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew The royal residence known as the Grand Palace sits adjacent to Thailand’s most famous temple complex, Wat Phra Kaew. Home of the Emerald Buddha statue, made of jade contrary to what the name suggests; this is one of the most revered religious sites in Thailand and the location of many prestigious ceremonies. Make sure you wear appropriate clothing if you want to visit these must-see landmarks.
Wat Arun You can catch a glimpse of this important Buddhist temple on the back of a 10 baht coin if you want a taste of what to expect. Nestled between Chinese-style pavilions on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the highlight of Wat Arun is its Khmer-style tower. At the base of the tower is a sculpture of the Hindu god Indra and depictions of Chinese soldiers and animals, while the tower itself is intricately decorated with seashells and small pieces of porcelain. Once the home of the Emerald Buddha during the time of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, this temple remains one of the most important religious sites in the country.
Lumpini Park Sit back and relax in the shade of palm trees or rent a peddle boat and explore the lake and its canals, Lumpini Park is a haven of tranquility, ideal for those in need of a rest from the urban jungle. Interesting features include the Thai Lanna and Chinese pavilions, while there is also a pretty Chinese-style clock tower. In addition to some impressive sculptures, there is a children’s play park and a new pavilion designed as a rest area. And if you miss the buzz of the city, the park is right in the heart.
Patpong The go-go bars and wild nightlife often overshadows Patpong’s other offerings, of which there are plenty of the tame variety. People-watch from one of the cafés, relax and listen to some live music, barter for some bargains at the night market or enjoy a tasty meal; however, if it is trouble that you are looking for, you won’t need to walk farther than a couple of meters before being approached by a tout promising a menu of sexual delights. While this can be annoying, there is no denying that this is a novelty for many and the reasonable percentage of non-sleazy venues makes it a friendly, non-intimidating place to browse.
Chatuchak Market If you want something specific but you’re not sure where to find it, this is the place. Chatuchak weekend market has vendors selling literally everything, from books to kittens. Busy all year round, expect to be pushed, shoved and pulled at as you wind your way through the narrow alleys. But don’t worry; there are plenty of places to stop for a rest and eat some delicious, inexpensive food. It’s a good idea to decide on a landmark before you begin to explore as the size and crowds here make it easy to loose your hopping companions. A bargain lover’s hunting ground; this is a shopping experience you will not want to miss.
Jim Thompson’s House Thompson was responsible for rebuilding the Thai silk industry, for which he gained recognition as making an outstanding contribution to Thailand. Before his mysterious disappearance in 1967 on a vacation to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia, Thompson built this impressive Thai-style teak house, which became the talk of the town. Now a museum, visitors can explore the building and gain insight into this colourful characters life.
Dreamworld Not all stomach-churning rides, this popular adventure theme park has dozens of attractions including gardens, miniature replicas of seven wonders of the world, live shows and performances, a cable car and even a snow field where you can sling snow balls at your friends. A lively alternative to Bangkok’s traditional sightseeing attractions, the park is easily accessible by train, bus or car.
Khao San Road If you don’t fancy staying in among hundreds of backpackers, this travellers’ mecca is still worth a look, if just for its cheap pirate CDs. Renowned as a party street, things are unusually quiet until street vendors set up shop in the afternoon. By nightfall, the street is unrecognisable as it fills with throngs of youngsters dining, drinking and watching football. A great place to meet people and make friends, this is also the spot to get cheap travel deals to onward destinations.
Muay Thai Boxing Only football inspires as much passion as boxing in Thailand, with the latter being considerably more violent. Even if you are a bit reluctant to spend your money on watching men sling punches and lethal kicks, it is surprising how the electric crowd can soon have you up there cheering with the rest of them. Fights are held almost nightly at Lumphini and Ratchadamnoen stadiums, with tickets sol in three tiers, depending on how close you want to be to the action.
http://www.1stopbangkok.com
Shopping Whether you hot-foot it around Bangkok’s latest glitzy addition to its long list of shopping malls – Siam Paragon, or you spend hours sifting through the bargains at Pratunam Market, shopaholics will not be disappointed with Bangkok’s offerings. Ranking as one of Asia’s top shopping hubs, it is no wonder that shopping is a favourite pastime of the Thais. With all of the main centres within walking distance of one another, you can start at Siam Discover Centre; pass through Siam Square on your way to MBK, then hit your final destination, the World Trade Centre. The biggest problem will not be finding what you want; it will be getting it back home.
Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew The royal residence known as the Grand Palace sits adjacent to Thailand’s most famous temple complex, Wat Phra Kaew. Home of the Emerald Buddha statue, made of jade contrary to what the name suggests; this is one of the most revered religious sites in Thailand and the location of many prestigious ceremonies. Make sure you wear appropriate clothing if you want to visit these must-see landmarks.
Wat Arun You can catch a glimpse of this important Buddhist temple on the back of a 10 baht coin if you want a taste of what to expect. Nestled between Chinese-style pavilions on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the highlight of Wat Arun is its Khmer-style tower. At the base of the tower is a sculpture of the Hindu god Indra and depictions of Chinese soldiers and animals, while the tower itself is intricately decorated with seashells and small pieces of porcelain. Once the home of the Emerald Buddha during the time of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, this temple remains one of the most important religious sites in the country.
Lumpini Park Sit back and relax in the shade of palm trees or rent a peddle boat and explore the lake and its canals, Lumpini Park is a haven of tranquility, ideal for those in need of a rest from the urban jungle. Interesting features include the Thai Lanna and Chinese pavilions, while there is also a pretty Chinese-style clock tower. In addition to some impressive sculptures, there is a children’s play park and a new pavilion designed as a rest area. And if you miss the buzz of the city, the park is right in the heart.
Patpong The go-go bars and wild nightlife often overshadows Patpong’s other offerings, of which there are plenty of the tame variety. People-watch from one of the cafés, relax and listen to some live music, barter for some bargains at the night market or enjoy a tasty meal; however, if it is trouble that you are looking for, you won’t need to walk farther than a couple of meters before being approached by a tout promising a menu of sexual delights. While this can be annoying, there is no denying that this is a novelty for many and the reasonable percentage of non-sleazy venues makes it a friendly, non-intimidating place to browse.
Chatuchak Market If you want something specific but you’re not sure where to find it, this is the place. Chatuchak weekend market has vendors selling literally everything, from books to kittens. Busy all year round, expect to be pushed, shoved and pulled at as you wind your way through the narrow alleys. But don’t worry; there are plenty of places to stop for a rest and eat some delicious, inexpensive food. It’s a good idea to decide on a landmark before you begin to explore as the size and crowds here make it easy to loose your hopping companions. A bargain lover’s hunting ground; this is a shopping experience you will not want to miss.
Jim Thompson’s House Thompson was responsible for rebuilding the Thai silk industry, for which he gained recognition as making an outstanding contribution to Thailand. Before his mysterious disappearance in 1967 on a vacation to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia, Thompson built this impressive Thai-style teak house, which became the talk of the town. Now a museum, visitors can explore the building and gain insight into this colourful characters life.
Dreamworld Not all stomach-churning rides, this popular adventure theme park has dozens of attractions including gardens, miniature replicas of seven wonders of the world, live shows and performances, a cable car and even a snow field where you can sling snow balls at your friends. A lively alternative to Bangkok’s traditional sightseeing attractions, the park is easily accessible by train, bus or car.
Khao San Road If you don’t fancy staying in among hundreds of backpackers, this travellers’ mecca is still worth a look, if just for its cheap pirate CDs. Renowned as a party street, things are unusually quiet until street vendors set up shop in the afternoon. By nightfall, the street is unrecognisable as it fills with throngs of youngsters dining, drinking and watching football. A great place to meet people and make friends, this is also the spot to get cheap travel deals to onward destinations.
Muay Thai Boxing Only football inspires as much passion as boxing in Thailand, with the latter being considerably more violent. Even if you are a bit reluctant to spend your money on watching men sling punches and lethal kicks, it is surprising how the electric crowd can soon have you up there cheering with the rest of them. Fights are held almost nightly at Lumphini and Ratchadamnoen stadiums, with tickets sol in three tiers, depending on how close you want to be to the action.
http://www.1stopbangkok.com
2007/08/14
Spice up your holiday in Thailand - adventure activities abound
Looking to add some spice to your stay in Thailand? There's a lot more to do than just sun, sea and sand or visiting temples. More and more visitors combine their beach holiday and shopping tour with something more adrenalin pumping to really etch their stay into their long-term memory. Southern Thailand and the islands are famous for sea canoeing and game fishing, while the northern provinces abound with adventure choices, including trekking, caving, rafting, mountain biking and even hot air ballooning.
The longest running and best known soft adventure choice for visitors to Thailand is surely hill tribe trekking. Chiang Mai is the best base for this, with ever more tour agencies offering a plethora of organized treks to choose from. Treks range from one day to a week and typically include elephant riding and bamboo rafting. Overnight stays in hill tribe villages can provide for a wonderful cultural experience or be more like a trip to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, depending on the operator. Be prepared for some heavy walking and lots of spectacular nature.
River rafting has gained in popularity in recent years. The Nam Wa River near Nan sees lots of Thai tourists, as does the Mae Klong near Tak. The Pai River in Mae Hong Son Province is bordered by lush forests and widely untouched. The abundant birdlife and monkeys crossing the river are some of the attractions here. Nearer Chiang Mai is the Mae Cham River, popular for one-day rafting tours.
Mid-June to end of January is the best time, when water levels are not too low or too high. August and September see the most water and some rivers are too dangerous to negotiate at this time. Make sure the tour operator provides basic safety equipment such as helmets and life vests. A plunge overboard is a common occurrence while rafting.
If you want to keep your feet dry, try some mountain biking among the verdant peaks of northern Thailand. Plenty of tour operators organize trips from Chiang Mai with bikes, overnight accommodation, food and even back-up cars transporting supplies and luggage. You can also rent a bike and set off on your own. This is particularly easy for short, one-day trips.
Northern Thailand boasts some of the most spectacular cave systems in Asia, with many caves having already been developed, while others take more of an effort to explore. Possibly the best choice of caves is in Pang Mapha district between Pai and Mae Hong Son.
Here the famous Cave Lodge offers a prime base for exploring the vast network of pristine caves, many of which were first discovered by the lodge's Australian owner. If you decide to set off on your own just armed with a map and supplies, be sure to notify someone as to your destination and intended itinerary.
Down south, many caves can be explored by means of sea canoe. Krabi, Koh Samui and Phuket are particularly popular with boating fans. Here you can easily book guided tours lasting from one to several days. Hidden lagoons, only accessible by canoe or kayak, make for prime camping spots.
Another option is game fishing for those who want to test their hunting skills. Phuket is the preferred base, with many operators offering tours including all equipment. A strict catch-and -release policy is enforced, so dinner will have to be in a restaurant. Adventure seekers are spoilt for choice no matter where they go in the Land of Smiles.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=505712
The longest running and best known soft adventure choice for visitors to Thailand is surely hill tribe trekking. Chiang Mai is the best base for this, with ever more tour agencies offering a plethora of organized treks to choose from. Treks range from one day to a week and typically include elephant riding and bamboo rafting. Overnight stays in hill tribe villages can provide for a wonderful cultural experience or be more like a trip to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, depending on the operator. Be prepared for some heavy walking and lots of spectacular nature.
River rafting has gained in popularity in recent years. The Nam Wa River near Nan sees lots of Thai tourists, as does the Mae Klong near Tak. The Pai River in Mae Hong Son Province is bordered by lush forests and widely untouched. The abundant birdlife and monkeys crossing the river are some of the attractions here. Nearer Chiang Mai is the Mae Cham River, popular for one-day rafting tours.
Mid-June to end of January is the best time, when water levels are not too low or too high. August and September see the most water and some rivers are too dangerous to negotiate at this time. Make sure the tour operator provides basic safety equipment such as helmets and life vests. A plunge overboard is a common occurrence while rafting.
If you want to keep your feet dry, try some mountain biking among the verdant peaks of northern Thailand. Plenty of tour operators organize trips from Chiang Mai with bikes, overnight accommodation, food and even back-up cars transporting supplies and luggage. You can also rent a bike and set off on your own. This is particularly easy for short, one-day trips.
Northern Thailand boasts some of the most spectacular cave systems in Asia, with many caves having already been developed, while others take more of an effort to explore. Possibly the best choice of caves is in Pang Mapha district between Pai and Mae Hong Son.
Here the famous Cave Lodge offers a prime base for exploring the vast network of pristine caves, many of which were first discovered by the lodge's Australian owner. If you decide to set off on your own just armed with a map and supplies, be sure to notify someone as to your destination and intended itinerary.
Down south, many caves can be explored by means of sea canoe. Krabi, Koh Samui and Phuket are particularly popular with boating fans. Here you can easily book guided tours lasting from one to several days. Hidden lagoons, only accessible by canoe or kayak, make for prime camping spots.
Another option is game fishing for those who want to test their hunting skills. Phuket is the preferred base, with many operators offering tours including all equipment. A strict catch-and -release policy is enforced, so dinner will have to be in a restaurant. Adventure seekers are spoilt for choice no matter where they go in the Land of Smiles.
http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=505712
2007/08/12
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Every evening, the centre of Chiang Mai comes alive with a massive Night Bazaar, and few people visit the city without picking up a few bargains here. In fact, the stalls that are squeezed on to the pavement and in the purpose-built arcades are one of Chiang Mai's biggest attractions.
Here you can pick up everything from antiques to fake Rolex watches, choose from an astonishing variety of handicraft souvenirs, sample the smoothness of the colourful silk on sale everywhere, have a suit measured up, ready for your collection the following evening, browse exquisite Asian silver jewellery or stock up on cheap DVDs.
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is considered legendary and certainly one the cheapest places for tourists to shop in Thailand, due its close proximity to the source of products and the lower cost of living in Chiang Mai. It is situated along a three block stretch of Chan Klan road in the heart of the city, within walking distance of most hotels. Clustered around it are many restaurants and other useful services, such as camera shops, travel agents, internet cafés and more. One popular activity is to have your portrait done all dressed up in traditional Thai costume.
The actual Vieng Ping Night Bazaar is the main locus of trade and comprises a two-storey mezzanine arcade where quality antiques, clothing and crafts can be found. Across the road is the Kalare Centre where you can settle your appetite after all the bargaining and haggling. There is an international selection of food to be enjoyed in an open-seated area with entertainment provided by traditional Thai dancers and music - an enchanting experience.
Wandering along the crowded pavements, admiring the beautifully-made handicrafts and seeking out bargains on more contemporary consumer goods is the best way to enjoy the market. Take your time and be patient, but most of all, learn how to bargain! Thai market traders expect it and their opening gambit will always be about twice what you ought to pay. The longer you persist with a 'friendly' argument, the better your final price. However, be aware that these goods are already ridiculously cheap and the vendors earn modest incomes.
The many goods on sale include: colourful Thai fabric, silk, clothing, t-shirts (souvenir and fake name brands), copied sunglasses and watches, luggage, music and DVDs, cheap shoes, handicrafts, silverware, interior décor, wood carved products, gems, antiques, toys, accessories and travel convenience goods.
http://www.1stopchiangmai.com/shopping/night_market/
Here you can pick up everything from antiques to fake Rolex watches, choose from an astonishing variety of handicraft souvenirs, sample the smoothness of the colourful silk on sale everywhere, have a suit measured up, ready for your collection the following evening, browse exquisite Asian silver jewellery or stock up on cheap DVDs.
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is considered legendary and certainly one the cheapest places for tourists to shop in Thailand, due its close proximity to the source of products and the lower cost of living in Chiang Mai. It is situated along a three block stretch of Chan Klan road in the heart of the city, within walking distance of most hotels. Clustered around it are many restaurants and other useful services, such as camera shops, travel agents, internet cafés and more. One popular activity is to have your portrait done all dressed up in traditional Thai costume.
The actual Vieng Ping Night Bazaar is the main locus of trade and comprises a two-storey mezzanine arcade where quality antiques, clothing and crafts can be found. Across the road is the Kalare Centre where you can settle your appetite after all the bargaining and haggling. There is an international selection of food to be enjoyed in an open-seated area with entertainment provided by traditional Thai dancers and music - an enchanting experience.
Wandering along the crowded pavements, admiring the beautifully-made handicrafts and seeking out bargains on more contemporary consumer goods is the best way to enjoy the market. Take your time and be patient, but most of all, learn how to bargain! Thai market traders expect it and their opening gambit will always be about twice what you ought to pay. The longer you persist with a 'friendly' argument, the better your final price. However, be aware that these goods are already ridiculously cheap and the vendors earn modest incomes.
The many goods on sale include: colourful Thai fabric, silk, clothing, t-shirts (souvenir and fake name brands), copied sunglasses and watches, luggage, music and DVDs, cheap shoes, handicrafts, silverware, interior décor, wood carved products, gems, antiques, toys, accessories and travel convenience goods.
http://www.1stopchiangmai.com/shopping/night_market/
2007/08/06
Thailand Diving Tour
by: Tara Alton
Are you ready to take the plunge? Receive your professional PADI dive certificate while staying at one of the most beautiful and unspoiled stretches of whitesand beach in all of southern Thailand. We are offering a package on the dates of June 10 through 20, 2005 that will include:
2 nights in Bangkok at a cozy, centrally located guesthouse with pickup from airport if desired
5 nights at beachside resort including meals, accommodation, 4 day dive course certificate, and transport to and from with guide.
Visit to elephant sanctuary within a national park
1 night in Hua Hin
2 additional nights in Bangkok
Our stay in the south cannot be rivaled in terms of comfort, quality and beauty. We will have the white sands and crystal blue waters virtually to ourselves. When not diving, options abound such as enjoying a relaxing Thai massage, swimming laps in the Olympic sized pool, playing beach volleyball, going on a firefly or squid boat tour in the evening or simply enjoying a good book under the palms. First rate accommodations include air conditioning, hot water and cable TV in every room.
For nature lovers, the grounds at the resort host the most exotic and beautiful flora in Thailand. In addition, fruits and vegetables are grown organically and eggs are raised naturally to supply the restaurant. The resort also utilizes a water reclamation system to irrigate the grounds, makes compost using kitchen scraps to fertilize the garden and uses energy efficient air conditioning in its newer rooms. In the ‘Play + Learn’ garden (Plearn) you can learn about the sustainable agriculture practiced here.
Our trip will also include a stop at an elephant sanctuary in a National Park. This is a rare opportunity to get off the beaten track and observe elephants, an esteemed national symbol, in their natural habitats. With a one night stop in Hua Hin, known for outstanding food and shopping, our package includes it all. While in Bangkok, your guide will navigate you through the sights, sounds and smells of this great city. Temples, restaurants, shopping and more!! We’ll show you the way.
This paradise has so much to offer, we invite you to come with us!
Itinerary
June 10
Available pickup from airport and drop off at Bangkok guesthouse.
June 11
Breakfast included today. Bangkok tour day, visit temples via river boat, China town and other highlights of the city.
June 12
Breakfast included. Travel day; down to resort.
June 13-16
PADI dive course at resort. Meals and accommodation included.
June 17
Stay in Hua Hin tonight via elephant sanctuary visit.
June 18
Travel day; back to Bangkok
June 19
Bangkok day; What would you like to do? Museums, shopping, nightlife…we’ll get you there! Breakfast included today.
June 20
Trip commences, breakfast included. Optional airport drop off if desired
articlecity
Are you ready to take the plunge? Receive your professional PADI dive certificate while staying at one of the most beautiful and unspoiled stretches of whitesand beach in all of southern Thailand. We are offering a package on the dates of June 10 through 20, 2005 that will include:
2 nights in Bangkok at a cozy, centrally located guesthouse with pickup from airport if desired
5 nights at beachside resort including meals, accommodation, 4 day dive course certificate, and transport to and from with guide.
Visit to elephant sanctuary within a national park
1 night in Hua Hin
2 additional nights in Bangkok
Our stay in the south cannot be rivaled in terms of comfort, quality and beauty. We will have the white sands and crystal blue waters virtually to ourselves. When not diving, options abound such as enjoying a relaxing Thai massage, swimming laps in the Olympic sized pool, playing beach volleyball, going on a firefly or squid boat tour in the evening or simply enjoying a good book under the palms. First rate accommodations include air conditioning, hot water and cable TV in every room.
For nature lovers, the grounds at the resort host the most exotic and beautiful flora in Thailand. In addition, fruits and vegetables are grown organically and eggs are raised naturally to supply the restaurant. The resort also utilizes a water reclamation system to irrigate the grounds, makes compost using kitchen scraps to fertilize the garden and uses energy efficient air conditioning in its newer rooms. In the ‘Play + Learn’ garden (Plearn) you can learn about the sustainable agriculture practiced here.
Our trip will also include a stop at an elephant sanctuary in a National Park. This is a rare opportunity to get off the beaten track and observe elephants, an esteemed national symbol, in their natural habitats. With a one night stop in Hua Hin, known for outstanding food and shopping, our package includes it all. While in Bangkok, your guide will navigate you through the sights, sounds and smells of this great city. Temples, restaurants, shopping and more!! We’ll show you the way.
This paradise has so much to offer, we invite you to come with us!
Itinerary
June 10
Available pickup from airport and drop off at Bangkok guesthouse.
June 11
Breakfast included today. Bangkok tour day, visit temples via river boat, China town and other highlights of the city.
June 12
Breakfast included. Travel day; down to resort.
June 13-16
PADI dive course at resort. Meals and accommodation included.
June 17
Stay in Hua Hin tonight via elephant sanctuary visit.
June 18
Travel day; back to Bangkok
June 19
Bangkok day; What would you like to do? Museums, shopping, nightlife…we’ll get you there! Breakfast included today.
June 20
Trip commences, breakfast included. Optional airport drop off if desired
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