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2007/09/09

Travel In Bangkok: How To Find The Right Transportation For Day Tour

Cherdkiat Taesookavat
Travel in Bangkok sometimes never easy for many of foreigner tourists as there are many kinds of public transportation available. Moreover you may find that if you want to go to some area that there is only one type of transportation could access to. Therefore, it is very essential for foreign tourists to study all of the details concern to transportation in Bangkok in order to save time of your travel and protect you from accidentally lost. The following article gives in-depth guide about public transport, which you can choose effectively to save your time and money. It is unlike kind of general guide that you can find anywhere else on the internet because this article was written by Thais who live in Bangkok for more than twenty years so you can rest assure that you will get information from an expert.

There are two types of the Mass Transit in Bangkok, the BTS SkyTrain service and the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Subway service so they have simple map that you can understand easily but these types as the following are more complicated than the Bangkok Mass Transit.

1.Tuk Tuk (three-wheeled taxi)
For some of you who have already visited Bangkok for few times may be familiar with this kind of transport. They are a kind of non-air condition taxi, which you can ask them to take you to anywhere in Bangkok area. The most distinct advantage of using Tuk Tuk is the price is really cheap and you can negotiate for the fare before you decide to take it. The first rule of thumb of using Tuk Tuk is you MUST negotiate to get cheaper price and this is possible. Normally you can negotiate for up to 50 - 100 Baht less that what the driver offer, if the driver refuses to discount, do not waste your time with him, and just go for another one. However, by taking Tuk Tuk, apart from you can get cheaper price, it is also allows you to see outside environment when you travel so they are quite suitable for some of you who love open-air transport and enjoy Bangkok sightseeing. There are some cautions that you have to consider when using Tuk Tuk, you must choose the car that in good condition and has valid yellow registration plate. It is also possible to ask to see driving license of the driver in case of emergency and while Tuk Tuk is running, you should be careful and hold the rail of a car tightly, especially if you have your child, you must hold them with your body for safety while Tuk Tuk is running too.

2. Bus
It is quite common for Bankokians to take bus, but for foreign travellers, especially first time travellers to get confused. This is because there are almost five hundred bus lines throughout Bangkok. However, bus is the cheapest transport in Bangkok. There is information about Bangkok bus line available in tourist information center around Bangkok area. The disadvantage of bus transport is you have to know the name of destination that you are going to visit, so it seems to be very difficult for first visit travellers. Therefore, if you intend to use bus as you major transport, make sure that you study about bus routes, number as well as the name of destinations that you are going to visit.

3. Air-conditioned taxi
This is probably the most convenient way of transport and it is also cost a lot too. Fare is varied depends on the distance of your travel. The distance and fare will be automatically calculated by electronic meter so you do not have to ask for fare quote or make negotiations. All you have to do is know the name of destination and tell the driver.
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/travel-in-bangkok-how-to-find-the-right-transportation-for-day-tour-183636.html

2007/09/07

What Is So Special About Thai Girls ?

Thai girls are more conservative than women in many other countries and observe different customs.

You will gain a lot of respect and avoid embarrassment in Thailand if you follow Thai social rules and customs.

Be careful not to embarrass your lady. Holding hands, hugging or kissing in public, for example, are not permitted. Never lose your temper or speak out of line in Thailand.

Always show respect for Buddhist monks, temples and statues of the Buddha. Never touch a child's head and never point at anything with your foot.

Just a few simple rules to remember. Thailand is called the land of smiles so smile a lot and enjoy the wonderfully positive atmosphere around you.

Thailand is in the tropical zone. It is quite hot there from April through October but from November to March the climate is very enjoyable.

Compared with city dwellers in western countries, city residents in Thailand dress conservatively. Casual dress is acceptable in resort areas but sandals and shorts are not allowed in the cities, temples and in some restaurants.

Always remove your shoes before entering a temple (wat) or someone's house.

When traveling around Thailand, it is a good idea to use private transport and ride in an air-conditioned vehicle. Such transport is very affordable and travel arrangements can be made through a travel agent or at your hotel.

Traveling in comfort is an easy way to see the country and it will give you time to get to know your Thai girl.

Let her be your guide and show you the sights. The locals are usually very helpful and you can make friends easily.

Thailand is a great country to visit so relax and enjoy the atmosphere, the food and, of course, the company of the beautiful Thai girls.
www.asian-girls-dating.com

2007/09/06

Luxury Holidays At Krabi, Thailand

Dan Wallace
Krabi is a province of astonishing beauty, with spectacular views over the Andaman Sea and the closest coastal access to the Koh Hong island group, and the more famous Koh Phi Phi island. The province is largely ignored however by vacationers on luxury holidays in Thailand as Phuket is a short distance away and more notorious for it's luxury villas and condos.

Luxury villas are operating in Krabi, with all the amenities and service a guest would expect from the more developed Phuket, but with greatly reduced prices to reflect the seclusion and access of many of them. For a guest seeking isolation and total relaxation Krabi is a perfect place to come for your luxury holiday in Thailand.

The accommodation that has been built along the coast of Krabi province and islands off the coast such as Koh Lanta all share the same characteristics: private, luxurious and self-contained. Most have direct access to the beach and with spas, pools, restaurants and even shops, there is no need for guests ever to leave the confines of the villa area. Many villas offer personal chefs and maids to attend to your needs throughout the day, and drivers to shuttle you around should you wish to explore.
All of which is perfect for people who want a quiet, luxury break or an escape from the usual holiday crowd. Those who prefer not to stay around the pool being pampered for two weeks should definitely consider hiring a car or motorbike to explore the rest of the region.

As all the Krabi villas are located directly on the shore, with only indirect public access, the beaches are effectively private, for the use only of the resorts' clients.

Krabi has something for everyone, whether you are an active sportsperson, or a lazy beach bum. Its stunning scenery provides adventure in the form of rock climbing and kayaking, as well as pure relaxation with island hopping tours and laidback beach life.

Underwater enthusiasts will love the diving and snorkeling in Krabi's warm coastal waters, while nature lovers can visit elephant camps and explore the diverse flora and fauna in the national parks. There are also plenty of outdoor sports available, including fishing, golf and mountain biking.

After all that action, you can be pampered in one of Krabi's many spas, where you can try out a Thai massage, or visit the natural outdoor Jacuzzis at the Klong Thom hot springs site.

Immerse yourself in local culture with Thai cookery lessons or a visit to the famous Tiger cave temple with its spectacular mountain-top shrine. All of these activities can be arranged by the impeccable service on offer at some of the most unique Asian villas available.

These stunning Villa rentals are on a par with anything in Asia, yet very few people have a chance to experience them as they head to the more famous villas in Phuket and Samui.

For the more adventurous, or for those who have experienced the best of Phuket and Samui, Luxury villas in Krabi can offer something new and exciting for guests on vacation in Thailand.

http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/luxury-holidays-at-krabi-thailand-198441.html

Phuket, A Haven For Speed Boats And Yachts

Dan Wallace
The biggest island of the Kingdom of Thailand, Phuket - acknowledged as the 'Pearl of the South' - is an exceptional tourist destination, surrounded by the Andaman Sea in the Indian Ocean. With its wonderful coves and bays, palm fringed sandy beaches, scintillating waterfalls, limestone formations, and beautiful landscapes and scenery, Phuket has to its credit an array of interesting as well as unique attractions, which among many others, are Butterfly Garden and Sea Aquarium, Chana Charoen Crocodile Farm, Phuket Orchid Garden and Thai village, Khao Rang, and Ko Si Re. For those who want to explore the wildlife of the place, excellent options such as Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary and Sirinat National Park are available.

Phuket is also much famed for its wonderful beaches, such as, Ao Bang Thao, Ao Chalong, Hat Kamala, Hat Kalim, Hat Patong, Hat Rawai, Hat Surin, Ko Kaeo, Laem Ka Yai, and Laem Phromthep. Further, the place's gastronomy is simply amazing, whose evidences are world-famous festivals like Seafood Festival and Vegetarian Festival.

Along with these attractions, Phuket renders opportunities to enjoy a range of recreational activities, of which perhaps most popular ones are yachting and riding in the speed boats, apart from snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and scuba diving. In other words, Phuket is considered a haven for speed boats and yachts, and is one of the premier yachting destinations in Asia, especially South East Asia. Phuket's marinas represent almost all types of yachts from every continent. One of the prime reasons why yachting is so popular in Phuket is perhaps due to Phuket King's Cup Regatta - the largest as well as the most popular yearly sailing event throughout Asia.

A fantastic highlight and anchorage for yacht charter in Phuket is Pang Nag Bay, which is noted for its superb limestone formations and scenic beauty. A tender or a dinghy can be used to explore the stunning caves and inland lakes of the bay. Similarly, take a cruise from Phuket to the spectacular island of Koh Phi Phi, and experience its splendid scenery, white sandy beaches, and secluded bays. Above all, your yacht charter vacation would be incomplete without taking a cruise to the spectacular island of Krabi, which is much famed for its appealing beaches, tropical greenery, steeped cliffs, and beautiful coral reefs.

Different types of yachts and speed boat charter services are available to suit every pocket and taste and preferences. For instance, for those who are not interested in hiring skipper or crew on board, one of the options would be to charter bareboat. Chartering bareboat is an arrangement to hire a boat or yacht, in which no provisions or crew is included. Mostly, bareboat is chartered with full tanks of fuel and water.

Another most popular category is chartering skippered yachts, which is a great way to explore the beauty of the Andaman Sea, with your friends, family, and colleagues. This type of yacht chartering is usually inclusive of team training, onboard catering, and corporate facilities. Also, available are itineraries. Likewise, for those who want to enjoy vacation with a blend of relaxation and privacy, the best choice is to charter a crewed yacht. Hiring a crewed yacht would give you an experience of staying in a luxury floating villa, and in most cases, it comes replete with gourmet meals and drinks, personal service, and finest accommodations.

Options are also available for those looking for sophistication, such as, luxury yachts, which features facilities including in-house theaters, Jacuzzis on deck, excellent cuisine, swimming pools, and fish fighting chairs. Classic yachts, catamarans, super yachts, and sail boat, are the other popular types of yacht charter.

In a snap shot, Phuket is a romantic as well as alluring destination for a yachting vacation. With salubrious climate all-year round, stunning environment, the service of delightful people, and delicious cuisine, Phuket forms a perfect base for riding in the speed boat and yachting in the Andaman Sea.

A myriad of yacht charter speed boats agencies are now here to provide you expert services. One can also lean on the services of boat brokers for an enjoyable yachting vacation. Many of them have their own sites on the web. This in turn enables the tourists to book a charter service within the comforts of their home or work place. Just inform your likes and dislikes and preferences to these charter services, and they make all arrangements to make your vacation really an enjoyable as well as a memorable experience. No matter you have booked yachting services for a week or a month, you will at last feel that it was not enough!

http://www.myasianvilla.com/frontend/searchresult.aspx

The Gay Guide to Pattaya by Night

Andy Burrows
Notorious for its thriving sex industry, Pattaya has long attracted those in search of a good time. We’ve all seen the t-shirts claiming ‘good guys go to heaven and bad guys go to Pattaya’, but what is it that attracts so many members of the gay community to this commercialised beach resort? The answer is, of course, Pattaya’s naughty nightlife.

Pattaya has cashed in on the gay scene in recent years with numerous bars catering to a gay clientele, not to mention the enormously popular cabaret shows performed by kathoey, transwomen who are also commonly referred to as ladyboys. These unique performances add a touch of Moulin Rouge to the otherwise largely unglamorous resort and make for a memorable spectacle for the many gay men who come here specifically for the ladyboys.

First-time gay and lesbian visitors are often overwhelmed by Pattaya nightlife and its large area devoted solely to gay entertainment - Pattayaland soi 3. Lined with male go-go bars and nightclubs packing in a largely western crowd, the neon-lit district attracts equal numbers of curious tourists and punters looking to pay for sexual services.

Each bar has a number of staff at the entrance whose job it is to attract customers. In addition, the streets are lined with ‘freelancers’ whose presence multiplies by the end of the evening. Men and women walking around Pattayaland at night, also known as Boyz Town, should be ready to encounter friendly yet persistent representatives of the gay venues.

As with girlie bars in Thailand, inside Pattaya gay bars foreigners are made to feel welcome by staff that readily spark up friendly conversation with customers. The male-oriented gay bars are run by mainly young Thai guys whose feminine and petite nature often appeal to western tastes. Customers at these bars are under no obligation to do anything more than have a drink, but if they do like the look of one of the boys working, it is easy enough to agree on a price for any additional services.

Popular favourite Pattaya gay bars on Pattayaland soi 3 are Boyz Boyz Boyz, attracting both foreigners and locals with its dance floor and nightly shows, and the Throb/Splash nightclub opposite Le CafĂ© Royal, a popular ‘gay’ hotel. For happy hour, head for Panorama, a large and lively gay bar in the heart of the Boyz Town district.

“I’m amazed at how relaxed the atmosphere is in many of Pattayland’s gay bars”, says Hank, a first-time gay visitor from the Netherlands. “Of course, you have your regular pick-up joints, but many of the bars here offer more than just friendly guys”, he adds.



Not all gay visitors to Pattaya come here from the sex industry mind you, with many enjoying the cabaret shows and go-go bar performances along with their partners. The popular cabaret shows in Pattaya such as Alcazar and Tiffany’s are a hit with all types of visitors and are highly rated for their ornately costumed and often bear-breasted kathoey dancers.

The lesbian scene is more discreet, with a lack of venues devoted to women looking for women. Nevertheless, most of the bars welcome lesbians and there are many prostitutes who are happy to service women. Just like men, lesbian women can enjoy the go-go bars though they should expect to be in the minority. Thai tom girls, or dee, mostly take on a male appearance and can also be found in many of the regular, heterosexual bars and clubs around town.

Megan, a 30-year-old lesbian from Brisbane says the lesbian scene in Pattaya is healthy enough. “Anyone can walk into any bar and watch one of the shows or enjoy the company of the pretty Thai girls”, she says. “Many of the girls at the bars prefer the company of a farang female”, she adds.

There is however inevitably a seedy side to Pattaya’s gay and lesbian scene, with many gay tourists rejecting the entertainment on offer here. Even worse, a fare share of tourists end up getting ripped off while enjoying the bar scene. The Pattaya authorities have tried to clean up and contain the entertainment areas in recent years with some success, but as with all sex industry hubs, Pattayaland has its downsides.

Despite its controversial nature, the raunchy nightlife scene on offer in Pattaya remains a melting pot for gay and lesbian visitors, and a good income earner for the many gay and straight Thais who work the scene.

http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-gay-guide-to-pattaya-by-night-185157.html

2007/09/05

Thai Food For Health

Reed Langdon

Natural health is about self discipline and responsibility for a better life. And with nutritional supplements, you will be able to achieve this level of healthy comfortable living .

It just takes that first step. A Thai Food balanced diet is a Topic I really enjoy telling people about fighting diet problems, weight control, heath in general, even allergy conditions like me. I will touch on this latter.

There are many products available in the field of natural health . Pick up a book, surf online, educate yourself about the right foods for your health. I did, and cut my stress level by 50%; reduced my blood pressure down to 120/70, when under stress it was 150/95.

Not bad for middle age. Natural health is about finding ways to be healthy. With natural health nutrition, like say, Thai Food , you get the extra benefit of giving your body all the best there is from nature, which is a great feeling, and reward when you experience the difference, and ask yourself, how come I did not do this along time ago. What an energy booster indeed.

You will also find good nutrition leads to good health. I would get the typical once a year cold, like most people. Now I might get a cold, over 2 year periods . That should say something for good healthy nutrition. I do not believe there is a magic pill or fix all solution, but this certainly made a great change for me, and established a constant platform for my overall health.

You will experience the new you and will be proud of the achievements you will have from taking care of yourself. Now, no promises, but my weight is stable at 180lbs, exactly the same as when I was 18 years, when body building. I was usually around 200lbs., under hi stress working conditions. I am not outlining a diet plan, in fact the things I am mentioning worked for me regarding health overall.

The drop in weight actually happened as a result of better eating habits, an adjustment to things that helped, like the natural supplements, and Thai food in general, and reduction in obvious things that do not help. I knew with a stressful job, lots of traveling, something had to be adjusted, or shifted a bit. I even cut coffee down to 2 cups a day, I did not need 6, come on that is crazy, what was I thinking ?

So one noticeable thing I really enjoy, is the boost in energy for my age. It did take more than that, and I am going to give you a super important tip. Like anything, take small steps, and you will meet your goals. So here is the super tip that worked for me; simply get off the Dairy Products.

I have traveled to so many countries; with all types of foods, and certainly the western foods are spreading everywhere. So from experience alone, think about my tips to you.

Tip number two, not only do I use natural supplements for many reasons, here is a tip that really jump started me : go try Thai food, at a local restaurant.

This is an experience that will jump start your health in general. The reason I say Thai food, is simply there are so many types, you will find something you like, that is why Thai restaurants are so popular everywhere, world wide. And they have unique spices, and sauces that seem to please many people, offering new flavors, less saturated fats.

I did move to Thailand, so an expert in the foods section, and I have tried them all country wide. Believe me, you may have heard, how spicy Thai Food is, but actually there are in fact so many things to choose from, you will find something healthy, natural, and satisfying in all aspects.

That was tip no two, go out and try it, you will be surprised. Typically you will not find cheese in Asian dishes, however you may find coconut, or sweet milk, and similar things to sort out when you order food.

A third , but important tip, something I do every morning, and what an energy booster, I drink 12 oz. of grape juice per day. It beats coffee, but I still like my morning cup, but the juice really gives me a morning boost in my diet. Ok, that is tip no. three, simply try different things that work for you, that you enjoy, and watch out for the pizzas. Cutback on cheese, milk, ice cream. Select your food in moderate quantities.

I hope you found this as valuable information, based on my own personal experiences. Being middle age, time and health become more sensitive in life, and if you are truly out to improve you health, just take a few tips for starters. A slight shift in your nutrition can really improve your overall health. Get started today, its never to late!
http://www.FOOD-FACTS-4Life.INFO

2007/09/04

Guide to Thai Cuisine

Tourist restaurants will often serve up a spineless, tasteless version of what should be a full flavour feast, and without anyone to tell you the food is less than genuine; a visitor’s introduction to Thai food is often tainted by these ‘farang-ised’ Thai dishes. Once you have had enough of yet another overly sweet, messy slop of phad thai, it is time to explore the never-ending possibilities of Thai cuisine.

When asked what they like most about Thailand, visitors often answer ‘the food’. The creation of Siam servings is a masterful mix of salty, sweet, sour, spicy and bitter. The spice factor, often too much for most westerners, is used for medicinal purposes, combined with the use of market fresh vegetables and the choicest local herbs for bursting flavours and prevention of common ailments. The food is low in fat and high in fibre and most dishes, considering they taste so good, are surprisingly nutritious.

But it is not only the unique and pleasantly pungent tastes that visitors love, the cost of eating in Thailand is as satisfying as the pleasure experienced by the palate. One of Thailand’s major industries is agriculture. Grains, meats, vegetables and most importantly rice are all locally produced at minimal cost. The country also has rich waters filled with fresh and sea water creatures, which are shipped across the land, making seafood and fish dishes some of the most popular choices. Add to this the natural innovation and long standing techniques used by Thais in food preparation and there are few who visit who cannot be satisfied.

Passing through different regions of Thailand, you may notice that the dialect and sound of the language changes abruptly. When you think you have learned how to say sawdee kha in exactly the right tone, you move to another place and find that they have a completely different method of utterance. The same goes for the food. There are four main regions offering cuisine adventurers a unique experience.

Food in the northeast is influenced by neighbouring Laos. Dishes are highly seasoned and among the most popular specialities are larb, a spicy, seasoned salad made with pork or chicken; somtam, spicy papaya salad, and gai yang, barbequed chicken. All are served with glutinous rice, a northern favourite widely known as sticky rice, or khao neow.

Burmese influences have bearings on the dishes of the central northern regions. Northern cooks generally are less heavy handed with the chilli and the use of ginger, tamarind and turmeric is common. Khao soi, a curry with egg noodles and pickled cabbage, is only found in the north and should be number one on any visitor’s list of dishes to try. Tourists to the north should not miss the opportunity to dine at a traditional Khantoke dinner, combining the best of northern specialities and traditional performances in a reconstructed wooden palace.

Throughout the central plains of Thailand, the food combines mixes from all regions, and many Chinese-Thai fusions are common characteristics. The south is the place to get down to spicy treats. Chilli-filled soups and curries are common dishes and fresh seafood is abundant. Influences are also found in dishes taken from Indonesia, such as chicken kebabs with peanut sauce (gai sate), an international favourite, and rich curries such as kaeng masaman from Malaysia.

Eating in Thailand is very much a family affair. It is often thought of as odd to see someone eating alone and most Thais will wait to the point of starvation until they find a dining partner. A typical meal will include a soup, fried fish, spicy salad known as yam, a curry dish and a dip with vegetables. Each member of the party will be served a bowl of rice and can take a bite from the main dishes in the centre of the table. Meals are eaten with a spoon and fork, while chopsticks are generally only used for noodle soups or Chinese food.

Thai ‘fast food’ is known as such, not because of its enticing greasiness or fat content as with the western equivalent, but instead as a range of dishes that can be cooked up in a matter of minutes. These dishes such as phad thai, or fried noodles, khao phad, or fried rice, or phad khrapao, or fried basil with pork or chicken, are commonly ordered as a quick lunch, breakfast or evening meal, and often served with a fried egg plonked on top.

There are few countries that can offer such a range of fruits like Thailand. Its tropical climate and heavy rains in monsoon season mean that fruit is everywhere. The diversity of delicious fruity sweetness to be found is so vast and the cost so little, some health conscientious rebels decide to diet solely on fruit as an internal body cleansing exercise. From the vibrant pinks of the dragon fruit to the prickly looking shells of the rambutan, photo opportunities are an added bonus to the already particular delight of fruit shopping in Thailand.

Thai desserts, in general, use five base ingredients: coconut cream, coconut flesh, rice flour, palm sugar and eggs. Among the favourites are thong yip, a sweet egg yolk cup; foi thong, shredded, sweetened egg yolk, and tako, a jelly served with creamy coconut.

Those interested in more than just sampling the food fare on offer while travelling in Thailand will be pleased to know that in any mildly touristy area you are sure to find a local cooking school. Courses include trips to local markets, ingredient preparation, cooking and best of all, an eating party after all the hard work.

Top 10 Thai dishes among tourists

Tom yam goong: a spicy shrimp soup made with coconut milk, lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal and shallots.

Kaeng khio wan gai: green chicken curry made from green curry paste and coconut milk.

Phad thai: noodles fried with tofu, spring onions, bean sprouts and ground peanuts.

Phad khrapao: chicken, pork or prawns stir-fried with basil.

Kaeng phet pet yang: roast duck curry.

Tom kha gai: chicken in coconut soup with galangal and lemongrass.

Khao phad: boiled rice fried with meat, egg, onion, cilantro, garlic and tomatoes.

Moo/gai sate: pork/chicken kebabs served with peanut sauce.

Gai phad met mamuang: stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts.

http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/guide-to-thai-cuisine-185162.html