Travel and Hotel information of Asia

Go to the Masters, Get Away From It All in Bali with Fivelements.

2011-06-06T11:51:00.000+07:00

Image courtesy of Fivelements International Advisory.

The day your humble guide decides to give up red meat and junk food is the day I sign up with Fivelements International Advisory LCC's new Masters Series (www.fivelements.org), a platform for conferences and talks led by distinguished global speakers held in Bali, Indonesia.

After presenting a successful speaking event with internationally recognized author and raw food guru David Wolfe (www.davidwolfe.com), Fivelements will roll out a new lineup of alternative health luminaries, with knowledge in healing foods, medicinal herbs, meditation, yoga, healing arts, renewable energy, natural environments, eco-design and socio-cultural integration - all from the Fivelements Puri Ahimsa, an exclusive retreat located near Ubud, Bali.

The Fivelements Puri Ahimsa opened in November 2010, and has since gained attention from international travelers for its eco-conscious accommodations, Balinese healing and beauty sanctuary, "sacred" arts programs, and refined vegan restaurant set between a lush bamboo forest and the island's famed Ayung River.

Which makes it such an ideal setting for the Masters Series, which fulfills the founders' commitment to share rarefied knowledge to a wider audience seeking healthier, more sustainable and "interconnected" lives.

Speaking events like the Masters Series adds yet another element to the Fivelements Puri Ahimsa's reputation as a "healing destination": the added dimension of a center for intellectual discussions targeted at individuals and corporate groups in search of experiences beyond that of exotic travel.

"We feel fortunate guests see us as both a leading healing destination and a beautiful place to rejuvenate, meditate, dine and participate in our events and ceremonies," says Chicco Tatriele, who co-founded Fivelements along with his wife Lahra and their Balinese and European partners. "We are committed to our mission to create a space for what we call 'life transformation.'"

More About the Masters Series & Retreat Programs

Upcoming Masters Series speakers include Dr. Gabriel Cousens, M.D., M.D.(H) (www.gabrielcousens.com), a world recognized author and figure in integrative holistic medicine. Dr. Cousens is a proponent of Ayurveda and an expert in live foods cuisine and Kundalini energy.

Dr. Cousens will speak on spiritual teachings, yoga and meditation and his Optimal Longevity Diet and the Culture of Life Diet. The program will run from December 10 to 13. To back up his talk, Dr. Cousens will lead a four-day retreat titled "Culture of Life".

Apart from the Masters Series, Fivelements features the Panca Mahabhuta Retreat and the detox-focused Pure Retreat programs, which are inspired by time-honored Balinese philosophies and their tradition of "living in harmony". All retreats incorporate holistic healing on physical, emotional and behavioral levels administered by a team of experts from a range of disciplines.

"Our integrative approach leads our guests toward opening their bodies and minds to newfound trust, freedom and joy, allowing for an organic healing process to naturally unfold. This begins by attuning to one's distinct 'authenticity' and honoring our highest potential," says co-founder Lahra Tatriele.

Retreat participants are accommodated in stylish riverside suites over the course of their stay, while participating in programs that range from three days to three weeks. Programs are offered year-round, and include Balinese healing rituals for purification, balancing and regeneration, healing cuisine, consultation, Balinese blessing ceremonies, daily meditation, Balinese energy and massage bodywork, water healing "dance," yoga and aikido sessions as well as body care at the retreat's beauty sanctuary.

Find out more about Fivelements and their ongoing work at www.fivelements.org.

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In Indonesia, Meeting Anak Krakatau.

2011-06-06T08:04:00.000+07:00

Just yesterday your guide was at an island off West Java, where history was made. Krakatau (commonly misspelled "Krakatoa") used to be a large island in the Sunda Strait off Java... until one fateful day in 1883.

On August 27, 1883, 10:02am, the island blew itself apart. The explosion killed upward of 40,000 people (if the tsunami didn't get them, the searing hot rain of volcanic ash did), and created the loudest sound in human history. In Krakatoa: the Day the World Exploded, (compare prices) author Simon Winchester records the moment for posterity:

An immense wave then leaves Krakatoa at almost exactly 10:00 A.M. - and then, two minutes later, according to all the instruments that record it, came the fourth and greatest explosion of them all, a detonation that was heard thousands of miles away and that is still said to be the most violent explosion ever recorded and experienced by modern man.? The cloud of gas and white-hot pumice, fire, and smoke is believed to have risen - been hurled, more probably, blasted as though from a gigantic cannon - as many as twenty-four miles into the air.

While Indonesia picked itself up after the eruption of Krakatau, the remnants of the larger volcanic island has gone on simmering in the sea. In the 1920s, after a quiescence of about fifty years, some activity was reported in the immediate vicinity of the eruption site. By the end of the 1920s, a new island had formed, pushing its way out of the water. The locals called it Anak Krakatau - "child of Krakatau".

Anak Krakatau is now quite grown up; some vegetation has colonized the eastern part of the island, where the periodic expulsions of hot ash and magma have been less likely to fall. On this side of the island, a small rest pavilion and an information billboard marks the start of a hiking trail up the volcano.

The volcano is still active; when we made our way up, the mountain made quite a show. The ground on the island is still largely volcanic ash; you step on a gray dirt that is not as compacted as you'd expect on regular soil.

One of the "locals", a monitor lizard we found near the beach. After Anak Krakatau formed, castaways colonized the island - rats have also been spotted, although there is no permanent human settlement yet.

Your guide found his way to Krakatau thanks to Club Bali - Hawaii Resort on Anyer. (clubbalihawaii.com|compare rates) Visitors can charter a boat from the Java towns of Carita or Anyer to take the hour-long boat ride to Krakatau. More on this in a future article on Krakatau. Stay tuned.

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Things I Learned in Jakarta, Indonesia: Ride, Don't Walk.

2011-06-06T04:46:00.000+07:00

Image of Jakarta, Indonesia taxi ? Claudio Vitor Vaz / Creative Commons.

Walking around is frowned upon in Jakarta, Indonesia. With good reason; what looks from Google Maps like a pleasant walk from point A to point B is actually a trip fraught with tension.

A Jakarta pedestrian has to avoid speeding cars, walk through dodgy-looking streets, and navigate unfamiliar landmarks in stifling heat before you get to your destination. I walked from my hotel, Ibis Mangga Dua (compare rates), to Fatahillah Square, so you might say I learned this the hard way. (It looks like this on Google Maps; from this vantage point you can't see the lack of convenient pedestrian crossings, near-absence of a sidewalk, and lack of signage that shows the way.)

Walking is absolutely unnecessary over middling-to-long distances. Jakarta taxis are abundant and relatively cheap, assuming you get the trustworthy taxis like Bluebird and Pusaka (both part of the Bluebird group - www.bluebirdgroup.com). These blue-painted taxis are everywhere, and are not likely to try to cheat you. You can also call them from almost anywhere in Jakarta, and central dispatch will radio a nearby cab to pick you up. (Number is +62 21 7917 1234.) After spending some time shooting Fatahillah Square, I did the smart thing and hailed a taxi to get back to the hotel.

By the way, this is not to knock Jakarta, which is still in the top three of my favorite Southeast Asia cities. But you have to understand that the top things to do in Jakarta are spread far apart, islands of coolness in a city that is still in many ways a work in progress.

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Thaipusam: A Gory Test of Faith this January 20.

2011-06-06T01:29:00.001+07:00

Image ? juliansong/Creative Commons

As painful as this Thaipusam kavadi bearer's burdens seem to be, most of them claim to feel little pain as they carry their sacrifices in honor of the Lord Murugan.

The devout Hindu Tamils who join the Thaipusam procession celebrate the birthday of Murugan on the full moon of the Tamil month of Thai (Thai + Pusam, a star at its apogee = Thaipusam), and those who feel they have received significant favors from Murugan will repay the gifts by bearing kavadis on this day.

What's a kavadi? Where does the Thaipusam procession pass? To find out more, read this article: Thaipusam Celebrations in Southeast Asia. Pro tip: you can visit Singapore or Batu Caves in Selangor, Malaysia on January 20 to see the festivities. If you can't visit, you can watch the procession live at Batu Caves on TrulyAsiaTV, at Thursday 12:00 noon GMT.

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Vang Vieng Tubing

2011-02-15T05:40:00.000+07:00

Vang Vieng tubing draws thousands of travelers a year to central Laos. Set amid a stunning natural backdrop of green mountains and wild countryside, tiny Vang Vieng has earned a reputation as a place to party, take a break from the road, and enjoy the best outdoor adventure that Laos has to offer.

Situated on the main highway between Vientiane and Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng is clustered around an old airstrip once used by the CIA to fly covert missions during the Vietnam War. Little did they know that decades later backpackers would be flocking here to float down the river with a BeerLao in hand!

Although Vang Vieng offers incredible mountain biking, caving, and hiking opportunities, the most popular activity here is to rent a large inner tube and float down the Nam Song River.

Vang Vieng tubing can be as relaxing or as hedonistic and adventurous as one desires. Bars have sprung up all along the river offering cheap beer, rope swings, zip lines, and large decks for socializing.

Tubing has become one big excuse to party in the river. Floating lazily from bar to bar with a drink in hand is a great way to escape the scorching afternoon sun.

Vang Vieng tubing only takes about three hours from start to finish, even less time during the monsoon season (May to October) when the river is flowing faster. Most people choose to make a day out of tubing by stopping frequently to socialize or to give one of the zip lines a try.The sun drops behind the mountains around 3 p.m. and the air cools down considerably. Be on the river no later than 11 a.m. to enjoy your day of tubing without being in a hurry.Your tube must be returned by 6 p.m. The tubing companies use tardiness as an opportunity to increase revenue by keeping your deposit!Read more about the weather in Laos.

TIP: Check the clock in the rental office, many times they are set 15 minutes fast in an effort to make more people “late”.

Two companies offer tubing in Vang Vieng about 100 meters from the river, both are easy to find. The price of a rental includes your transportation about 3 km up the river to the starting point from where you will drift down and then return your tube at the rental office.A tube rental will cost around $7 for the day and you will be expected to leave a $7 deposit which will be returned unless you come back late. More than a few backpackers loose track of time while partying and come back late to find that their deposit has been lost!Rental companies offer dry bags for about US $2 a day to protect your camera and belongings.The water is shallow near the finish point; local kids will come out to help drag your tube in. Although they are smiling and good-natured, helping you get home isn't done out of goodwill - a tip is expected.When stopping at the bars, keep an eye on your tube which will get stacked with all the others at the entrance. Some backpackers have been known to walk to the bars then grab a free tube back to town, robbing you of your deposit and way to get home!The Nam Song River has claimed more than its share of cameras. Some of the rental dry bags may leak; leave your camera at the guest house or bring your own dry bag for protection.The water may feel nice and cool but the Southeast Asian sun is still strong; wear sunscreen.Food in Vang Vieng is much cheaper and better than that found around the river.Rather than going alone, team up with some other travelers during the monsoon season when the river current is strong.Keep an eye above you when tubing past zip lines, rope swings, and popular diving spots around the bars.Although drugs are illegal – even punishable by death – in Laos, they are found everywhere in Vang Vieng. Undercover policemen work the town and river daily in search of bribes.Mixing alcohol, drugs, and strong currents on the river claims at least one life a year. It is wiser to enjoy a day of tubing and do the serious partying back in Vang Vieng.Read more about drugs in Southeast Asia.

Vang Vieng is easily reachable along Route 13 by bus from both Luang Prabang (around eight hours) and Vientiane (around four hours).

See Laos Travel Requirements.

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The Singapore Flyer

2011-02-15T02:23:00.000+07:00

What it is: Observation Wheel
Location: 30 Raffles Avenue Singapore 039803
Operating Hours: Opens daily from 8:30am to 10:30pm (Opening in March 2008)
Ride duration: 30 minutes
Ticket Prices: From $29.50 for one adult ride, to about $1,500 to rent a whole capsule
How to get there: Ride the MRT (North South Line), and get off at Marina Bay Station.

If you're a small island with a reputation for thinking big, every project has got to be bigger than anything else in the world. So it is with the Singapore Flyer, a 540-feet high observation wheel that offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Singapore's Marina Bay.

Don't make the mistake of calling the Flyer a "Ferris Wheel". The management absolutely refuses to "use the F-word" - the Flyer is more appropriately called an observation wheel, along the lines of the famous London Eye. (It also beats the London Eye in the size department by more than ninety feet!)

The Flyer is mounted with 28 air-conditioned capsules, each one the size of a bus and able to take on up to 28 riders. The Flyer's builders boast that every passenger will experience a vibration-free 30 minute ride, with an incredible unobstructed view of the surrounding island-state, as well as glimpses of neighboring countries Indonesia and Malaysia.

The wheel itself stands atop a three-storey retail terminal that promises over 82,000 square feet of retail space. The terminal will offer parking space for about thirty buses and almost 300 cars. Apart from restaurants and souvenir shops, the terminal will also house a rainforest-like central atrium and a concert space for live events.

To avoid long lines, the Flyer permits ticket-holders to roam throughout the retail terminal, requiring them only to show up at the gate about 30 minutes before the flight time on the ticket.

The Flyer is only a small part of Singapore's ambitious plans for the Marina Bay area. Also under construction are a casino-resort valued at about US$3.65 billion and a F1 racing circuit.

The casino is being built by Las Vegas Sands, and is scheduled to open in 2009 as part of the Marina Sands resort complex. The first F1 races will be held by September 2008, and will be expected to generate about US$66 million a year in ticket sales.

Several soft-launches were initiated on the run-up to the Flyer's official launch in April, including a Valentine's Day ride for couples. On its February 10 inaugural "flight", groups paid Singapore $8,888 for the honor of riding the wheel ("8" is a lucky number in Chinese folklore).

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Thailand Travel Information

2011-02-14T22:48:00.001+07:00

Flag of Thailand.

From CIA World Factbook. Public domain.

Before planning your trip, consult our Thailand Profile page for basic information about the country.

You’ll only be allowed into Thailand if your passport is valid for at least six months after arrival, with enough pages for embarkation stamp upon arrival, and must show proof of sufficient funds and onward or return passage.

American, Canadian, and UK citizens do not need to acquire a visa for stays not longer than 30 days. For more details, you can visit the Kingdom of Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs page on entry requirements.

For the extension of visa need to apply to one of the Thai Immigration Offices. For details, contact the Immigration Bureau Head Office: Soi Suan-Plu, South Sathorn Rd, Bangkok, Thailand Phone: 66(0)2 287 3101 until 287 3110; Fax: 66(0)2 287 1310, 66(0)2 287 1516

Customs.You may bring these items into Thailand without paying customs duty:

200 cigarettes, or no more than 500 grams of smoking tobacco One liter of spirits / wine / malt liquor. Up to 10,000 Baht worth of cosmetics, perfume, soaps, toothpaste, and other personal effects – assuming these are for personal use only Film: a reasonable amount for personal use

The official Thai Customs Department page can fill you in on what you can and can’t bring in.

Drug trafficking in Thailand carries the death penalty – under no circumstances should you ever get caught carrying any on your way in!

Airport Tax.You will be charged an airport tax of 500 Baht upon departure on any international flight. Passengers of domestic flights will be charged 40 Baht.

You’ll only be asked to show health certificates of vaccination against smallpox, cholera, and yellow fever if you’re coming from known infected areas. More information on Thailand-specific health issues are discussed at the CDC page on Thailand and at the MDTravelHealth webpage.

Thailand is largely safe for foreign visitors, although the country is located in a region with an elevated risk of terrorism. The Thai police have been largely effective in safeguarding the safety of their tourists.

Because of the ongoing crisis in Thailand’s southern provinces (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla), travelers are advised not to visit these areas, or travel overland through the Malaysian border with Thailand.

Violence against tourists is thankfully rare, but visitors may be vulnerable to pickpocketing, fraud, and confidence tricks. One common ruse involves fooling tourists into buying fake “smuggled Burmese jewels” at extremely low prices. Once the tourist discovers they’re fake, the vendors have usually skeltered away without a trace.

Sexual assaults on women have been known to occur, so female travelers should remain vigilant. Be careful about accepting drinks from strangers, keep an eye on your passports and credit cards, and don’t carry too much cash or jewelry.

Thai law shares the draconian attitude to drugs common in Southeast Asia. For more information, read: Drug Laws and Penalties in Southeast Asia - by Country.

The Thai unit of currency is called the Baht (THB), and it is divided into 100 satang. Notes come in 10-baht, 20-baht, 50-baht, 100-baht and 1,000-baht denominations. Click here to see the Baht’s exchange rate against the US dollar. Currency can be exchanged at the airport, banks, hotels and accredited moneychangers.

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are generally accepted, but not universally. Cheaper guesthouses and restaurants do not accept plastic.

ATMs are in most (if not all) cities and tourist areas, including Phuket, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Samui, Ko Tao, Ko Chang, and Ko Phi Phi. Depending on the bank, the withdrawal limit may range from 20,000B to 100,000B.

Tipping. Tipping isn’t standard practice in Thailand, so you’re not required to tip unless asked. All major hotels and restaurants exact a service charge of 10%. Taxi drivers don’t expect to be tipped, but won’t complain if you round the meter fare out to the next five or 10 baht.

Thailand is a tropical country with a warm and humid climate throughout the year. The country is at its warmest between March and May, with an average temperature of around 93?F (34?C). From November to February, the northeast monsoon quickly lowers temperatures down to 65?F-90?F (18?C-32?C)centigrade in Bangkok, and even lower in the northern areas of the country. The weather in Thailand is at its best from February to March; the weather is at its mildest and the beaches are at their best.

When/Where to Go. Thailand is best experienced between November and February, owing to the northeast monsoon’s cool, dry winds. Chilly nights – and sub-zero temperatures at high altitudes – are not unheard of.

From March to June, Thailand undergoes its hot, dry summers, with temperatures topping out at 104?F (40? C). Avoid Thailand during the summer – even the locals complain about the heat!

What to Wear. Wear light, cool, and casual clothing on most occasions. On formal occasions, jackets and ties on men are recommended, while women should wear dresses.

Don’t wear shorts and beachwear outside the beach, especially if you’re planning to call on a temple or other place of worship.

Women would be wise to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and legs covered.

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8 Things to Do in Ubud, Bali

2011-02-03T13:34:00.000+07:00

The influx of tourism in Ubud mixed with the proximity of so many artists has caused a great deal of unique boutiques and shops to open. Unlike the tacky, beach-tourist feeling of shopping in Kuta, Ubud provides a much more sophisticated experience.

Local shops are filled with unique and beautiful crafts, art work, carvings, jewelery, and gifts to take back home. The sprawling, indoor Ubud Market caters mostly to tourists in search of cheap souvenirs. Be sure to haggle prices - negotiation is expected - or you may end up paying triple what something is worth.

Be sure to check out the Ganesha Bookstore, considered the best second-hand bookstore in Bali, if not all of Indonesia.

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Laos Holidays

2011-02-03T10:02:00.000+07:00

Despite the Communist takeover in the mid-1970s, Laos remains a Buddhist country in everything but name. Patriotic holidays are still celebrated in this landlocked country, but only on Buddhist holidays do the Lao people let their hair down and celebrate.

Laos' holidays are movable feasts based on the Vietnamese and Thai lunar calendars, following local Buddhist tradition. Due to the variance between the Gregorian calendar and the traditional Lao calendar that determines local holidays, the dates indicated for each holiday listed here are best approximations, particularly the dates indicated without years.

This holiday takes place on the fourth lunar month, celebrating the birth of the Buddha reincarnated as the Prince Vessantara. Monks bring the Vessantara Story Cloth through town in a procession known as Phaa Phawet. Believers make merit by listening to a non-stop sermon on the birth of Vessantara, read from 14 sets of palm leaf manuscript.

Bun Pha Wet is set at different dates in different villages, so Lao townsfolk can celebrate the holiday at home and visit other loved ones at other villages for their respective celebrations. Bun Pha Wet is also a favored time for Lao males to enter the monkhood.

The most scenic celebrations of Bun Pha Wet take place at That Luang in Vientiane and Wat Phu in Champassak.

Vientiane's considerable Vietnamese and Chinese population celebrates Chinese New Year together; the best places to see the celebrations are in the cities of Vientiane, Pakse and Savannakhet.

Like Chinese New Year all around the region, the holiday's three days are marked with raucous parties, exploding firecrackers, and visits to temples and family reunions. Vietnamese and Chinese businesses will be closed at this time.

The Wat Phu Festival coincides with the full moon of the third month of the Lao lunar calendar. At this time, the ruins of Wat Phu come alive again, with traditional festivities including buffalo-fighting, elephant racing, and performances of Lao music and dance. Souvenirs are also easy to find here, as a trade fair for traditional products is also held at the same time, with goods coming in from Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

On the night of the full moon, Magha Puja commemorates a speech given by the Buddha to 1,250 monks who arrived spontaneously to hear him speak. Worshipers circle their temples bearing candles to make merit, and religious chanting fills the air. It's said the Buddha laid down the first monastic regulations in his speech, and also predicted his death. Magha Puja is best witnessed in Vientiane and at Wat Phu.

The Lao new year commences in mid-April, lasting three days. The whole country shuts down to worship and celebrate - Buddha images are washed, offerings made at the temples, and votive sand stupas are made in yards all over the country. Finally, Laotians spray water gleefully upon one another. As the temperatures are rising at this time of the year, the constant drenching can be a great relief from the heat. For the locals, the water festivities are their way of calling for rain from above.

The most picturesque celebrations of Bun Pi Mai happen in Luang Prabang. Cambodia, Burma, and Thailand celebrate this holiday as well - the Thai celebration is better known as Songkran.

On the sixth full moon of the lunar year, Buddhists worldwide celebrate the Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and passing away. Celebrations are held in local temples - worshipers hold candlelight processions there, and the day is marked with much chanting and religious instruction.

This noisy holiday traces its roots to pre-Buddhist rain ceremonies, and occurs together with Visakha Puja. Anarchy reigns on this day - the humorous performance art known as mor lam is performed in many places, and in some places, men wear blackface and women carry wooden penises.

The whole festival reaches a climax when townsfolk fire bamboo rockets skyward. The rockets are meant to bring rains from the heavens and irrigate the rice fields.

Khao Pansa marks the beginning of the Buddhist equivalent of Lent - a time of fasting and contemplation for monks, and the best time of the year to enter monkhood. Lao men traditionally enter the monkhood for a brief time before they marry - this time of year is marked with ordinations taking place everywhere.

The monks retreat during this period, settling down in monasteries and forgoing the usual practice of traveling from temple to temple. This begins at the full moon on July, and ends on the full moon in October on the day known as Kathin.

The Lao have immense respect for their dead kin, and they demonstrate it on Khao Padap Din. Lao families exhume their dead and cremate them, then present gifts to attending monks who have prayed on behalf of the dead. Devotees also make offerings at local temples. On the lighter side, this day is also marked by boat races on the Nam Khan River, as well as a trade fair in Luang Prabang.

The three-month Buddhist equivalent of Lent, begun on Khao Pansa, ends on Awk Pansa. On this day, monks roam free from their respective temples, and are presented with gifts from worshipful townsfolk. As evening falls on Laos, people release banana-leaf boats with candles and flowers on top, a ceremony known as Lai Hua Fai (similar to Loy Krathong in Thailand).

Riverside cities like Vientiane, Savannakhet, and Luang Prabang celebrate the day with Bun Nam boat races along the Mekong.

The stupa of That Luang in Vientiane plays host to this festival, as monks gather here to accept gifts and alms from worshipful townsfolk. For a whole week, the temple comes alive with fairs, contests, fireworks, and music, topped off with a "wien thien", or candlelight procession, around That Luang.

An international trade fair also takes place during Bun That Luang, promoting tourism around the countries in the Mekong sub-region.

While all Laos celebrates this festival at their local temples, the celebrations are obviously more vibrant in Vientiane.

On December 2, 1975, the proletariat finally prevailed over the monarchy. The government marks this day with parades, speeches by Lao politicians, and displays of the hammer and sickle everywhere. Poorer communities sometimes postpone their Awk Phansa celebrations to coincide with Lao National Day, saving themselves the considerable expense of celebrating two major holidays only a month apart.

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Intramuros Walking Tour

2011-02-03T06:19:00.000+07:00

A further five-minute walk down General Luna Street in the same direction; after two blocks, turn right and walk down Calle Real until you reach Puerta de Sta. Lucia.

Facing Malecon Drive, Puerta de Santa Lucia is one of several gates passing through the Intramuros walls. First built in 1603, Puerta de Santa Lucia leads directly to Malecon Drive, a popular promenade ground, through a restored cobblestone bridge.

Passersby get a close-up look at the thick stone walls and moats that skirt Intramuros' borders. Once upon a time, Intramuros was Manila - no one could enter but the Spanish, their servants, and mestizos (half-Spanish Filipinos). Outside Manila lived Filipinos and Chinese merchants. The latter were forced to live in a ghetto that was conveniently located within range of Intramuros' cannons, in case the Chinese revolted against Spanish rule.

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First World Hotel

2011-02-03T02:44:00.000+07:00

This garish Genting Highlands hotel claims to be the biggest in the world, but bigger doesn’t always mean better. Guests have to put up with tiny rooms, lackluster service, and an interminable check-in process – the guest rooms are really only sleeping areas for Genting Highlands visitors who come for the crisp mountain air and the First World Plaza downstairs.

You know the First World Hotel's a casino hotel the minute you see the building. Loud primary colors cover the hotel's two towers, and a bright neon assembly stands over the lobby entrance.

Check-in is unreasonably long - incoming guests are handed a ticket queuing them for two to five hours' wait to be checked in. Lost reservations and room mix-ups have been known to happen, and the surly attitude of the front desk people doesn't help the situation very much.

The First World Hotel is billed as the "world's largest hotel", and with 6,200 rooms it's definitely in contention. To get that many rooms out of one hotel, though, the designers had to make the rooms really small, with the smallest at 207 square feet in size.

Rooms below "superior deluxe" have no mini-bar, no hair dryer, and no room service. "Superior deluxe" rooms and "World Club" rooms, however, get the usual hotel accoutrements (a bigger TV, free coffee, and a room fridge). The rooms have no air-conditioning, as the Genting air is chilly enough.

All this is really nothing to grumble about, however, if one is there solely to enjoy Genting Highlands' gaming and entertainment diversions.

Guests can come down to the lobby level to enter the First World Plaza - a 500,000-square-foot shopping center and indoor theme park with restaurants, shops, skydiving simulator, bowling center, and a Ripley's Believe it or Not! Museum.

The Starworld casino in the Plaza is a smaller version of the Casino de Genting nearby, open to Malaysian Chinese and foreign non-Muslim guests. Ethnic Malays are forbidden by law from gambling, although they're free to enjoy the other facilities in Genting.

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Weather in Singapore

2011-02-02T23:12:00.001+07:00

Singapore's weather is uniformly warm and humid, experiencing year-round showers. The country is situated only 1.5 degrees north of the Equator, meaning that Singapore experiences no distinct seasons, only noticeably more rainfall during November to January.

Average daytime temperature is approximately 86?F (30?C), falling to 74?F (23?C) in the evening.

Singapore's lack of wind and high temperature and humidity can come as a shock to visitors used to cooler climates. Unsurprisingly, air conditioners are commonplace throughout the island; Singapore's founder Lee Kuan Yew himself famously declared the air conditioner as one of mankind's greatest inventions. Do as the locals do, and avoid walking too long in the outdoors if you can - the air conditioners are there for a reason!

Click on a link below for the weather conditions in Singapore.

NOAA: current weather forecast for Singapore made by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, under the auspices of the U.S. government.

WWIS: current weather forecast for Singapore made by the World Meteorological Organization's World Weather Information Service, under the auspices of the United Nations.

Bring lightweight cotton clothing; this is worn any time of year. Bring plenty of rainwear, as rains can occur at any season.

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Philippines Fiestas

2011-01-24T06:00:00.000+07:00

Fiestas in the Philippines are held to celebrate a patron saint (the Philippines is the only majority-Christian country in Southeast Asia) or to mark the passage of the seasons, depending on which part of the country you're in. The sole exception is Christmas, where the whole country breaks out in celebrations that can begin long before December.

The roots of Philippine fiestas go back even further - back to before the Spanish conquistadores arrived in the 1500s. In the old animistic culture, regular ritual offerings were made to placate the gods, and these offerings evolved into the fiestas we know today. A wonderful fiesta season means good luck for the rest of the year.

For individual Filipinos, fiestas can be a way of supplicating the heavens or to make amends for past wrongs. In one place, penitents lash themselves with whips; in another, childless women dance on the streets hoping for the blessing of a child.

Every town and city in the Philippines has a fiesta of its own; whatever time of the year it is, there's sure to be a fiesta going on somewhere!

Feast of the Black Nazarene
Quiapo, Manila
January 9

The Black Nazarene is an antique hand-carved statue of Jesus Christ, which is brought out to the streets of Manila's Quiapo district to lead a huge procession of thousands of barefoot penitents, all massing around the rolling statue yelling "Viva Se?or!"

Penitents believe that touching the statue will grant one a miracle in one's life; stories have been heard of diseases healed and personal problems solved after touching the blackened statue.

The carving is black, legend says, because the ship that brought it caught fire along the way; despite its charred state, it is a prized icon for Manila's faithful.

Ati-Atihan Festival
Kalibo, Aklan
January 1-16

The Ati-Atihan Festival honors the "Santo Ni?o", or Christ Child, but draws its roots from much older traditions. Festival participants wear blackface and tribal clothing to imitate the aboriginal "Ati" tribespeople who welcomed a group of Malay datus fleeing Borneo in the 13th century.

The festival has evolved to become a Mardi Gras-like explosion of activity - three days of parades and general merrymaking that culminate in a large procession. Novena masses for the Christ Child give way to drumbeats and the streets throbbing with dancing townsfolk.

On the last day, different "tribes" played by townsfolk in blackface and elaborate costumes take to the streets, competing for prize money and year-long glory. The festival ends with a masquerade ball.

Other festivals in the Philippines, like the Sinulog in Cebu and Dinagyang in Iloilo, are directly inspired by the Ati-Atihan.

Sinulog Festival
Cebu City
January 6-21

Like the Ati-atihan, the Sinulog Festival is another Catholic festival honoring the Christ Child (Santo Ni?o), with deeper pagan roots. The feast draws its origin from an image of the Santo Ni?o gifted by Ferdinand Magellan to the recently-baptized queen of Cebu. The image was re-discovered by a Spanish soldier amidst the ashes of a burning settlement.

The feast begins with an early morning fluvial procession marking the arrival of the Spaniards and Catholicism. The procession follows after a Mass; "sinulog" refers to the dance performed by the participants in the big procession - two steps forward, one step back, it's said to resemble the movements of the river current.

Participants dance to the beat of drums, shouting "Pit Se?or! Viva Sto. Ni?o!" as they move the procession along.

Moriones Festival
Marinduque
April 18-24

The province of Marinduque celebrates Lent with a colorful festival commemorating the Roman soldiers who helped crucify Christ. The celebrations begin on Holy Monday, and end on Easter Sunday.

Townsfolk wear masks patterned after Roman soldiers, taking part in a masquerade dramatizing the search for a Roman centurion who converted after Christ's blood healed his blind eye.

The festivities coincide with the reading and dramatization of the Passion of Christ, re-enacted in different towns throughout Marinduque. Penitents can be seen whipping themselves in atonement for this year's sins.

Panagbenga (Baguio Flower Festival)
Baguio City
February 26

The mountain city of Baguio celebrates its flower season with - what else? - a flower fiesta! Every February, the city holds a parade with floral floats, tribal festivities, and street parties, with the scent of flowers creating a unique signature for this equally-unique celebration.

The word "panagbenga" is Kankana-ey for "blooming season". Baguio is the Philippines' foremost center for flowers, so it's only appropriate that the city's biggest festival centers around its chief export. Other festivities include a BAguio Flower beauty pageant, concerts at the local SM Mall, and other exhibits sponsored by the local government and foreign sponsors.

Maleldo Lenten Rites
San Pedro Cutud, San Fernando, Pampanga
April 17-24

Maleldo is best described as Extreme Lent: San Pedro Cutud village in Pampanga celebrates what is perhaps the bloodiest Good Friday spectacle in the world, as penitents flagellate themselves with burillo whips and have themselves literally nailed to crosses.

The tradition began in the 1960s, as locals volunteered to have themselves crucified to seek God's forgiveness or blessings. Many more followed, with hundreds making the "panata" (vow) over the years. Today, both men and women undergo the excruciating ritual.

In 2006, Scottish broadcaster Dominik Diamond volunteered to join the penitents, hoping to have his ordeal captured for UK television. Unfortunately, he chickened out just as it was his turn to be nailed up. ("God made me cancel my own crucifixion", Times Online.)

View the original article here

Chinese New Year in Singapore

2011-01-24T02:17:00.000+07:00

Chinese New Year in Singapore marks the debut of the Year of the Rabbit in style, with a fantastic celebration spanning the whole island. The celebrations begin on January 15 with the Street Light-up, with Chinese New Year proper beginning on the evening of February 2 and continuing till the Chinatown Yuan Xiao Jie on February 12.

Chinese New Year in Singapore kicks off in the ethnic enclave of Chinatown, particularly along Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road. Beginning on January 15, the Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations transform the island-state's traditional Chinese enclave into a riot of lanterns, street stalls, and performing arts, with celebrations extending as far as Marina Bay. (Find out more about Shopping in Chinatown, Singapore.)

Look forward to a few key events of the season: a Street Light-Up, a Festive Street Bazaar, Nightly Stage Shows, and Chinatown Yuan Xiao Jie. The festivities can be very easily reached by MRT, simply alight at Chinatown MRT Station (NE4/DT19).

Street Light-Up. Key streets in Chinatown - Eu Tong Sen Street, New Bridge Road, South Bridge Road, and Garden Bridge - will be lit up with traditional Chinese lanterns and colorful street lights while street performers and acrobats (not to mention the inevitable lion dancers) liven up the lanes. Local Singaporean celebrities will also show up to get the party going. The Light-Up Ceremony happens on January 15, 2011, from 6pm- 10pm.

Festive Street Bazaar. Chinatown will host more than five hundred stalls selling traditional foods, flowers, Chinese handicrafts, and customary New Year decorations. Have a go at barbecued sweetmeats, waxed duck, and cookies served fresh on the street, or pick up some traditional Chinese New Year decorations to remember the day by.

The 2011 Bazaar will last run from January 14 to February 2, covering Pagoda Street, Smith Street, Sago Street, Temple and Trengganu Streets, and People’s Park Complex.

Chinese New Year Countdown. Ring in the Chinese New Year in Singapore's Chinatown on February 2, as you join the locals and local celebrities alike with firecrackers and fireworks going off all through the evening. From 9:30pm to 12:30am, along Eu Tong Sen Street & New Bridge Road.

Chinatown Yuan Xiao Jie. The last day of Chinese New Year 2011 (February 12) serves as the high point of the celebrations. This day's celebrations will center around Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road, from 7pm to 10pm.

Nightly Stage Shows. Local and overseas cultural performance troupes take the stage, exhibiting traditional Chinese performances like martial arts, lion dances, and Chinese opera. Come to the Kreta Ayer Square, next to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, to see acts unfolding every night from January 15 to February 2, from 8pm to 10.30pm.

Moving on to the Singapore riverside, The Float @ Marina Bay hosts the yearly Singapore River Hong Bao carnival from February 1 to 13. The "Hong Bao" derives its name from the traditional red packets of money given by older Chinese to unmarried younger relatives during Chinese New Year.

Nightly cultural performances and traditional Chinese artwork can be enjoyed outdoors, and giant lanterns fashioned after popular Singapore landmarks loom larger-than-life. This year also features a Marina Barrage lantern made out of recycled plastic bottles.

Watch Chinese acrobats perform on the street. Have your name written in Chinese calligraphy. Get a Chinese zodiac reading of your birth date. If you want to get into the swing of Chinese culture for the duration of the festival, the Hong Bao is the place to be.

This year, a special Nanjing Pavilion will be set up for the Hong Bao - Nanjing will be the host city for the Youth Olympic Games last hosted by Singapore. Performers from Nanjing and speciality food and handicrafts from the city will share the spotlight in this year's Hong Bao.

Other Hong Bao highlights include concerts by the Singapore Chinese Orchestra, a calligraphy competition, and a local short film showcase.

"Chingay", in its Hokkien equivalent, translates to "costume and masquerade". The normally staid Singaporeans take Chingay to its more colorful and musical extreme every year during the Chingay Parade, a two-night street party and parade that marks the climax of the Chinese New Year celebration. The Chingay parade will be staged on Friday and Saturday, February 11 and 12, beginning at 8pm.

The parade is now proudly international, growing from its purely Chinese traditional roots to embrace more than 80 local organizations, 7,400 performers and 1,800 volunteers, with international performing groups from China, Denmark, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Taiwan.

The Chingay 2011 parade route takes place in front of the Pit Building against the backdrop of the Marina Bay. Parade participants will ride on floats, or walk in the procession, offering a riot of color and noise that few other Singapore festivals can equal.

Chingay tickets can be purchased from SISTIC (sistic.com.sg) beginning at SGD 25. Tickets are also available at Singapore Visitors Centre at Orchard Road and Singapore Pools Outlets. For more information, visit the Chingay website: chingay.org.sg.

Who said Singapore doesn't know how to party? Join Singapore’s biggest street dance party on February 12, beginning at 10:30pm at the Pit Building. Partygoers will find the Pit Building track transformed into an outdoor dance floor with space for 8,000 revellers, and dance to the rhythm of beats selected by international DJs.

View the original article here

Thailand Honeymoon

2011-01-23T23:00:00.000+07:00

Ancient temples, charming boutiques and vibrant street life make the city of Chiang Mai a great romantic break for history and culture lovers and foodies.

If the great outdoors is more your speed, the mountainous area surrounding Chiang Mai is lush and green and offers plenty of outdoor adventure, from elephant rides to river rafting. Visitors to the Chiang Mai region typically head out on multi-day hikes, which often involve roughing it, but there are also some exceptionally beautiful luxury resorts for those who want to indulge.

Where to Stay

Within the city of Chiang Mai there are more and more small boutique hotels and resorts opening every year. On the less-expensive end, 3 Sis Bed & Breakfast is an excellent choice. It's very pretty, very well maintained and is just around the corner from some of the city's most important temples. Tamarind Village, right in the center of Chiang Mai, is the only luxury resort in the old part of the city. Outside of the city, there are a few very romantic, very beautiful and very expensive resorts, including the Chiang Mai Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi and the Golden Triangle Anantara in Chiang Rai.

View the original article here

Weather in Malaysia

2011-01-17T08:08:00.000+07:00

Malaysia has a tropical climate, with very warm days and fairly cool nights. On average, temperature holds at 86?F (30?C), with cooler temperatures in the highlands. In Kuala Lumpur, average daytime temperature year-round is 82?F (27?C).

The east coast of Malaysia experiences humidity and heavy rains from November to February, brought by the southwestern monsoon; rainfall averages over 120 inches a year. The west coast experiences its heavy rains during August. Conditions may vary according to the prevailing monsoon winds at the time.

Choose a location below for the weather conditions in its vicinity.

West Malaysia

East Malaysia

Links labeled "NOAA" go to current weather forecasts made by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, under the auspices of the U.S. government.

Links labeled "WWIS" go to current weather forecasts made by the World Meteorological Organization's World Weather Information Service, under the auspices of the United Nations.

Bring lightweight cotton clothing; this is worn any time of year. Bring plenty of rainwear, as rains can occur at any season.

View the original article here

Vietnam Visa

2011-01-17T04:36:00.000+07:00

Visitors going to Vietnam must show a valid Vietnam visa before being allowed into the country. A visa may be requested from a Vietnamese embassy near you, or may be sourced through a reliable travel agency.

Compared to other Southeast Asian countries, Vietnam is a tougher nut to crack where visas are concerned. The rules and costs vary widely depending on the issuing embassy or consulate.

The Bangkok embassy, for example, can take your payment and process your visa on the very same day charging 1000 Baht (US$50 in its dollar equivalent; no other currency is accepted). The San Francisco consulate takes five days and $65 to do the same thing.

The information presented here may change without prior notice, so double-check with the nearest Vietnamese embassy before applying for your visa.

Most visitors to Vietnam will need a visa to enter the country, with a few exceptions. ("List of visa exemption agreements between Vietnam and foreign countries", Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs.) Citizens from ASEAN countries are permitted to enter without applying for a visa, and other countries have made similar arrangements for their citizens.

Citizens of the following countries may stay, visa-free, for no more than 30 days: Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore Citizens of the Philippines may stay, visa-free, for no more than 21 days. Citizens of the following countries may stay, visa-free, for no more than 15 days: Denmark, Finland, Japan, Norway, South Korea, Sweden

If you are not a citizen of any of these countries, you must apply for a visa at a nearby Vietnamese embassy.

In the United States, you may apply at the Vietnamese embassy in Washington, DC if you're on the East Coast, or at the Vietnamese consulate in San Francisco if you're on the West Coast. (For other embassies around the world, look here: select Vietnam embassies.)

Tourist visas are available for a maximum 30-day stay, with the option to extend your visa for another 30 days upon your arrival in Vietnam.

To get a Vietnam tourist visa from your nearest Vietnam embassy or consulate, download the visa form from the local embassy's website and fill it up.

At the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in the U.S., you'll be required to present:

Your original passport - valid for six months more after the planned trip, and with vacant pages for the full-page visa stamp One completed visa application form One 2"x2" passport-sized photo attached firmly to the space provided on the application form A money order or Cashier's check payable to the processing mission. The Embassy asks that you call them to ask for the current fees, although the rates are common knowledge among travelers (see the next page, the section titled "Fees for Vietnam Visas").

More details are available on their website: "Instructions on Visa Application to Vietnam", Consulate General of Vietnam in San Francisco.

Business visas are available for business visitors (if you're investing in a business in Vietnam, or if you're arriving for work). Vietnam business visas are valid for six months and allow multiple entries.

The requirements for a Vietnam business visa are identical to those for the tourist visa, with the addition of a Business Visa Approval Form from your sponsor in Vietnam. You cannot get this form from the Embassy or the Consulate - your sponsor must get it from officials in Vietnam.

Diplomatic and official visas are issued for visitors with government and diplomatic business. Holders of diplomatic and service passports will be granted these visas, which are free of charge.

The requirements for these visas are similar to those for the business visa, with the addition of a note verbale from the concerned agency, foreign mission, or international organization.

Jason D. of Vietnam Visa Center warns that the authorities in Vietnam are quite strict about overstaying tourists. “Overstaying your visa is a big problem here,” explains Jason. “Even overstaying your visa by a day will involve a costly fine.

“If someone overstays their visa and tries to exit the country overland, many travelers will be asked to go back to the airport and sort out the issue with the immigration authorities there,” warns Jason. “The immigration officers may be lenient but others may charge anywhere from US$30 - US$60 a day.”

If you’re not sure how long you’ll need to travel around Vietnam, Jason suggests that you get a longer-term visa to begin with. “Getting a three-month visa - multiple or single - would allow travelers plenty of time to get around Vietnam without worrying about overstaying,” he explains.

View the original article here

Weather in Vietnam

2011-01-17T00:53:00.001+07:00

Due to its unique geography, Vietnam has a climate with wide variation from north to south, delineated into two distinct climatic zones. Generally, Vietnam is best seen between September and April.

The North has a moderate subtropical climate, with a cool, damp winter occurring between November and April, and a hot summer with periods of heavy rain from May to October. Temperatures may swing dramatically from 41?F (5?C) in December to 98.6 ?F (37?C) in July. Winter in the North is cold compared to other parts of Southeast Asia - temperatures have been known to dip below 15?C in Hanoi, and snow has occasionally fallen in the highlands.

The South has a humid tropical climate with three distinct seasons: a cool season from November to January, a hot season from February to April, and a rainy season from May to November. The latter is brought by the southwestern monsoon that also brings regular typhoons in its wake. Humidity hits a peak from March to May. Average temperature shows little variation compared to the north, swinging between s in the southern plains (Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta) varies less, going between 70-82.5 ?F (21-28?C) in a year's time.

The central highlands have the same seasons as the South, only with much lower temperatures during the winter seasons.

Choose a location below for the weather conditions in its vicinity.

Links labeled "NOAA" go to current weather forecasts made by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, under the auspices of the U.S. government.

Links labeled "WWIS" go to current weather forecasts made by the World Meteorological Organization's World Weather Information Service, under the auspices of the United Nations.

You can wear loose cotton fabrics all year, but bring warmer clothing when going up to the highlands, or if you're wintering in north Vietnam. Bring rainwear and an umbrella if you're in town during the monsoons.

View the original article here

Koh Chang

2010-12-23T23:26:00.000+07:00

Koh Chang, Thailand’s second largest island, is just off the coast of Trat Province on the east side of the Gulf of Siam. Koh Chang has everything you’d want in a tropical island – white sandy beaches, plenty of palm trees, and warm, clear water. But for now at least it doesn’t have the big crowds you’ll find in more popular Phuket or Koh Samui. That's not to say it's entirely undeveloped. There are plenty of resorts and enough roads, restaurants and convenience stores, too (and more of each on the way).

Koh Chang is a big island, so unless you're staying on one beach, you'll need to figure out how to get from place to place.

Songthaews (covered pickup trucks with seating in the back) cover most of the island's perimeter and function like public buses. On a regular route expect to pay about 30 Baht.

Motorbikes are available for rent on Koh Chang for about 200 baht per day, but be warned that the road conditions can be very tough! Biking around Koh Chang is not for the inexperienced. There are plenty of accidents every year.

Rental Cars and Jeeps are available on Koh Chang if you need to have your own four wheels.

By plane: Take a direct flight from Bangkok to Trat then transfer to the pier in Laem Ngop.

By bus: Take a direct bus from Ekkamai or Mo Chit Bus Terminals in Bangkok to Trat. The trip is about 5 hours and there are also scores of private bus companies that make the trip.

By boat: Once in Laem Ngop, take the ferry to Koh Chang. The trip is just under an hour and boats leave frequently during daylight hours.

View the original article here

Thailand Honeymoon

2010-12-23T01:01:00.001+07:00

Secluded Krabi is a little less popular than Samui and Phuket but no less beautiful or romantic. The dramatic cliffs, clear water and relative peace and quiet make this mainland beach destination a great place for couples.

Krabi is also very close to Phuket and the other islands in the Andanman Bay (including Phi Phi) so it's a great place to use as a base if you want to explore the rest of the region. Railey Beach, which is only accessible by boat, might just be the perfect place for a romantic getaway.

Where to Stay

Railey Beach has two very nice but very different romantic places to stay. If you want something rustic, private and relaxed, the Raiei Beach Club rents houses on the beach. If your budget allows, the Rayavadee is the area's most luxurious resort and has only free-standing bungalows with sea views just a few minutes from the beach.

View the original article here

Philippines' Best Year-End Hotel Deals.

2010-12-15T00:27:00.002+07:00

Image ? Anlex Basilio, used with permission.

These Philippines hotels are giving out awesome year-end deals, with not a few spilling over to 2011. So if you've waited till now to visit Intramuros or explore the rest of the Philippines, now is a good time to book a room and embark on your Philippines adventure. These hotels are located in the cities of Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

List of Philippines hotels promotions after the jump.

Alta Cebu Resort, Cebu (3-star)
Book 7 nights and save 10% with Free Meal (buy direct)
Book/stay from now till December 31

A boutique resort, with Polynesian-influenced d?cor, set in a five-acre tropical garden with over 200 varieties of colorful plants and flowers on the premises. Free airport pickup available upon request; free Wi-Fi throughout the resort. Tugbungan Philipog, Cordova, Cebu, Philippines, 6017.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel And Casino, Cebu (4-star)
Book 3 nights and save 20% (buy direct)
Stay from January 24 to March 31, 2011
Book from January 4 to February 4, 2011

561 guestrooms. Restaurants on site include the Gourmet Walk offering international cuisine. Salinas Drive, Lahug, Cebu, Philippines, 6000.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Marco Polo Davao (4.5-star)
Book 4 Nights & Save 20% (buy direct)
Book/stay from now till December 31

Convenient location in Davao City's business and commercial district. 245 guestrooms and suites overlooking Mount Apo and Gulf of Davao. CM Recto Street, Davao, Philippines 8000.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao (4-star)
Early Bird - Book Now and Save 20% (buy direct)
Book/stay from now till June 30, 2011

159 guestrooms including 6 suites in a tropical garden setting next to the sea. Pool, fully equipped business center also available to guests. Lanang, Davao, Philippines 8000.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Discovery Suites Manila (4-star)
Stay 3 Pay 2 (buy direct)
Book/stay from now till December 30

Set in the Ortigas Business District, just walking distance from the Asian Development Bank and Ortigas Center's shopping and entertainment centers. Onsite dining available at Restaurant 5, Serendipity Lounge and 22 Prime. Terra Wellness Spa provides wellness treatments. 25 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Manila, Philippines 1600.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

The Linden Suites, Pasig City (4-star)
Book in advance and save 25% (buy direct)
Book/stay from now till December 30

168 guestrooms and suites. Amenities include gym, indoor swimming pool and outdoor dipping pool, and spa facilities. 37 San Miguel Ave., Pasig, Philippines.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

G Hotel by Waterfront, Manila (3-star)
Book 5 Days in advance and save 10% (buy direct)
Book/stay from now till December 31

A boutique hotel on Manila's historic Roxas Boulevard with 50 guestrooms. Caf? Noir onsite serves Asian Fusion cuisine. Pool bar on seventh floor. 2090 Roxas Boulevard, Malate, Manila, Philippines 1000.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

New World Makati City Manila Hotel (5-star)
Book 14 Days in advance and save 20% (buy direct)
Book/stay from now till December 31

Located in Ayala Center, Makati's upscale Greenbelt area. 598 guestrooms and suites. Amenities include private lounge, library, and fitness center. Esperanza St Corner Makati Ave, Manila, Philippines.

Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Waterfront Manila Pavilion Hotel Casino (4-star)
Book 5 days in advance and save 20% (buy direct)
Book/stay from now till December 31

538 guestrooms, five restaurants and bar on premises. United Nations Avenue corner Maria Orosa Street, Manila, Philippines, 1000.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Edsa Shangri-La Manila (5-star)
Stay 4 nights and Enjoy 4th night Free (buy direct)
Stay from now till March 31, 2011
Book from now till December 30

632 guestrooms. Amenities include lagoon-style swimming pool, all-weather tennis courts, putting green, gardens, shopping arcade, gym, sauna, and massage services. Onsite restaurants include Paparazzi bistro, Summer Palace Cantonese restaurant, and Senju Japanese restaurant. 1 Garden Way Ortigas Center, Manila, Philippines.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

View the original article here

Gawai Dayak - Thanksgiving for a Traditional Sarawak Community.

2010-11-21T23:44:00.000+07:00

Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

Every year in June, the Dayak communities in Sarawak come together to give thanks for the ample blessings showered upon them. Rice wine flows, delicacies made from rice flour circulate, and Dayak visit their dearest friends and family. Even the dead are remembered on Gawai Dayak - graves are cleaned and offerings made to the dearly departed.

Gawai Dayak is more than a day of thanksgiving - it's a celebration of what sustains the Dayak, who have remained strong in their traditions despite centuries of colonization and outside influence.

For more on this special celebration, read our article: Gawai Dayak.

View the original article here

Irresistible Year-End Singapore Hotel Deals.

2010-11-19T05:30:00.000+07:00

Image of Singapore Flyer ? Getty Images.

There's not much left to the year, but there's still plenty more stuff to do in Singapore in the months remaining to 2010. That's two months you can spend shopping in Singapore, exploring Singapore's family-friendly adventures, or biding your time till Christmas in Singapore arrives.

Whatever you do with the two months left to the year, make sure you make the most of your stay by taking advantage of these Singapore hotel specials - get up to 25% off your hotel stay by booking early at the fine establishments below!

See the list of participating hotels after the jump.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

Albert Court Village Hotel / formerly Albert Court Hotel (3-star)
Book 14 Days in Advance and Save 10% (buy direct)
from SGD 145.95
Offer valid till December 31

The eight-story boutique Albert Court Village Hotel recalls a Singapore long-gone, with 136 guestrooms set in meticulously preserved pre-war shophouses. All rooms are equipped with in-house movies, air-conditioning with individual control, alarm clock, ceiling fan, radio, hairdryer, private shower, IDD telephone with bathroom extension, personal safe, minibar, and coffee/tea-making.

The Albert Court Village Hotel is within walking distance from Little India, Bugis Village, and an MRT station. 180 Albert Street, Singapore 189971.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

Furama RiverFront Singapore (4-star)
Book now and save 10% (buy direct)
From SGD 160.57
Offer valid till December 31

The Furama Riverfront Singapore has 605 guestrooms with modern amenities, and a choice of views: the Singapore skyline, the garden, or the swimming pool. The hotel is at a convenient midpoint between Chinatown and Orchard Road.

Guests enjoy plenty of local color via the nearby wet market at the Tiong Bahru Estate, where hawker centers serve delicious Singaporean food, and the Chinatown shop houses that offer plenty of retail action. Services include a convenient (and free) shuttle bus service to Orchard Road and Chinatown. 405 Havelock Road, Singapore 169633.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

Swissotel Merchant Court (4-star)
Stay 3 nights and Save 15% (buy direct)
from SGD 199.99
Offer valid till December 16

The Swissotel Merchant Court offers 476 guestrooms with in-room movies, three telephones with IDD access, voicemail, separate fax/dataport, and well-stocked Resident's Bar. For more pampering, guests can visit the Amrita Spa's nine private treatment rooms, or dine at one of the hotel's two restaurants.

The hotel is located on the banks of the Singapore River, adjacent to the Clarke Quay MRT Station. Raffles Place is just a few minutes' walk away, as are Orchard Road, Chinatown, and Clarke Quay Festival Village. 20 Merchant Road, Singapore 058281.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

M Hotel Singapore
Book 14 days in advance, save 15% (buy direct)
from SGD 191.24
Offer valid till December 31

The M Hotel is a business hotel located in Singapore's financial district. The hotel's 413 guestrooms each provide a workstation with broadband internet access. Other room features include flat-screen TVs, voicemail, safes, desks, executive chairs, silk-clad pillows, and marble baths with separate tubs and showers.

The M Hotel is also an excellent venue for executive downtime, thanks to its Waterfloor hydrotherapy spa, rooftop pool, fitness center, and in-house restaurants. The hotel is a block away from an MRT station, two miles from Suntec City, and 12 miles from Singapore International Airport. 81 Anson Road, Business District, Singapore 079908.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

River View Hotel (4-star)
Book early and save 15% (buy direct)
From SGD 152.99
Offer valid till December 31

The River View Hotel's 476 guestrooms all have bay windows with a choice of panoramic views of the river or city. The hotel's poolside area boasts of an outdoor pool, gym, Jacuzzi, steam-room and pool-bar. Guests may take advantage of complimentary shuttle service between Chinatown, Orchard Road and Suntec City.

The River Garden coffee shop has an indoor dining area and an alfresco terrace overlooking the Singapore River. For more discriminating palates, the River Palace Chinese Restaurant offers fine Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine. And the Jade Lounge bar offers a great place to unwind after sundown. The building is located on the bank of the Singapore River itself. 382 Havelock Road, Singapore, Singapore, 169629

Child under 12 years old stay for free when sharing existing bed with parents. Maximum 1 Child per room. Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

Traders Hotel Singapore (4-star)
Book Three Nights, Save 20% (buy direct)
From SGD 214.98
Book from now till February 28, 2011
Stay from December 16, 2010 to February 28, 2011

Traders Hotel provides 546 guestrooms, along with access to four restaurants and bars on the premises, as well as an outdoor pool surrounded by manicured gardens. For reasonable rates, business travelers may use the hotel's business center's secretarial services and broadband internet access. The hotel's free shuttle buses connect guests to Orchard Road, Shangri-La Hotel Singapore, Suntec City, Shenton Way and selected business districts.

Traders Hotel Singapore is located on one end of the Orchard Road retail district. Guests have a direct connection to Tanglin Mall's shopping opportunities. 1A Cuscaden Road, Singapore 249716.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

Swissotel The Stamford (4-star)
Stay 2 nights and save 25% off hotel rates (buy direct)
From SGD 263.99
Offer valid till January 11, 2011

Swissotel The Stamford is built to stand out - it's renowned as one of Southeast Asia's tallest hotels, and is the foremost conference hotel in the region. This distinction is helped no doubt by its strategic location in the middle of Singapore's business district; the excellent accommodations and facilities do the rest.

Guests have the run of 1,261 guestrooms and luxury suites, 16 restaurants and bars, and the Equinox Complex, a sky-high dining and entertainment hub rising to 741 feet in the air. 2 Stamford Road, Singapore, Singapore, 178882.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

St Regis Singapore (5-star)
Weekend promotion: save 15% (buy direct)
From SGD 519.96
Offer valid till December 15

The St. Regis Singapore oozes prestige from every pore - 299 guestrooms and suites filled with designer fabrics, crystal chandeliers, and original art pieces welcome its guests. Point of fact: the St. Regis is home to one of Asia's finest private art collections.

The hotel offers its guests butler service that meets guests' individual needs around the clock. After business hours, guests can have a drink at Decanter, a refreshing meal at Yan Ting, or unwind at the Remede Spa. 29 Tanglin Road, Singapore Sg 247911, Singapore 247911.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

Marina Mandarin Singapore (5-star)
Stay 5 nights and save 15% (buy direct)
From SGD 187.00
Offer valid till December 31

The Marina Mandarin Singapore on Raffles Harbor offers views that only a waterfront hotel can provide - a choice of the harbor or the Singapore skyline. Its convenient location within the Marina Bay commercial and leisure area gives guests direct access to shopping malls, entertainment outlets, and the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

575 guestrooms and suites await our guests, as do the hotel's state of the art amenities: 24-hour business center, room service, Internet services, currency exchange, tour desk, handicapped access, and more. For female guests, Venus Rooms are available with special amenities. 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, Singapore, Singapore, 039594.

Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

Image courtesy of Zuji.com.sg

Fairmont Singapore (5-star)
Save 25% (buy direct)
From SGD 287.98
Offer valid till January 11, 2011

Fairmont Singapore's 769 guestrooms and suites are influenced by Singapore's unique confluence of cultures. Rich fabrics and d?cor mark the Fairmont Singapore experience, down to the luxurious beddings and the bathrooms with designer fittings and marble-lined bathtubs.

The Fairmont's concierge staff are famous for going beyond the call of duty to serve your needs - confirming flights, securing tickets to a performance at the Esplanade, and finding dance masters for a party are par for the course. 80 Bras Basah Road, Singapore.

Children below the age of 12 years old will not be allowed entry to the Executive Club Lounge. Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

View the original article here

Thailand's High Season is Coming

2010-11-19T01:58:00.001+07:00

And that means start making your travel plans now if you want to visit Thailand in December or January.

Thailand is an extraordinarily easy place to travel for most of the year. You could literally land at the airport with some cash and a vague idea of where you want to go and end up having an amazing vacation. That's because the country has comfortable, inexpensive and generally safe options for traveling inside the country, there is an oversupply of hotels in almost every part of the country, and people are generally just plain nice and helpful.

Things change a little during high season. People are still usually nice and helpful, but traveling inside the country gets a little tougher (especially if you want to take an overnight train) and hotels in some regions book up and/or raise prices, sometimes dramatically. The only way to make sure you get where you want to go and stay where you want to stay is to plan ahead.

How far ahead? two or three months at least. In fact I just checked a few of my favorite hotels in Phuket and they all have rooms available in late December and early January, but in some cases only the most expensive villas or suites.

View the original article here

The 9th Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival 2010

2010-08-22T09:06:00.004+07:00

The Tourism Authority of Thailand Phetchaburi Office, together with the Phetchaburi- Prachuap Khiri Khan Golf Course Association, invites all golf lovers to join in the fun during the Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival throughout August and September 2010.
The 9th Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival 2010
Promotional offers include:
An offer to play golf at a participating golf course in Hua Hin or Cha-am for only 800 baht* — the lowest green fees of the year (The 800-baht fee excludes caddy fees and rental of golf cart.)
Invitations to apply to compete in organised tournaments every Sunday for just Baht 1,400 (Fees include caddy and dinner), with a chance to win lucky draw prizes.
Prizes presented for the 'longest drive' contests
Special offers on accommodation ranging from 990 – 1,990 baht from over 40 participating hotels and resorts

Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival 2010 Hotel and Golf Club detail
The Imperial Lake View Hotel and Golf Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3245 6233 - 40
Fax: +66 (0) 3245 6241
E-mail: lakeview@imperialhotels.com
Golf Tournament on Sunday, August 1, 2010
Tournament fee 1,400 Baht
(Green Fee / Caddies + Dinner)
August & September: Green Fee 800 Baht

Palm Hills Golf Club and Residence
Tel: +66 (0) 3252 0801-5, (0) 2259 3726-7
Fax: +66 (0) 3244 2463
E-mail: info@palmhills-golf.com
Golf Tournament on Sunday, August 22, 2010
Tournament fee 1,400 Baht
(Green Fee / Caddies + Dinner)
August & September: Green Fee 800 Baht

Kaeng Krachan Country Club and Resort
Tel: +66 (0) 2618 7200-9
Fax: +66 (0) 2618 7403
E-mail: marketing@kaengkrachanresort.com
Golf Tournament on Sunday, September 12, 2010
Tournament fee 1,400 Baht
(Green Fee / Caddies + Dinner)
August & September: Green Fee 800 Baht

The Eagle Millford Golf Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3257 2444, (0) 848 938 380
Fax: +66 (0) 3257 2445
E-mail: theeaglegolf@gmail.com
Golf Tournament on Sunday, August 8, 2010
Tournament fee 1,400 Baht
(Green Fee / Caddies + Dinner)
August & September: Green Fee 800 Baht

Sawang Resort and Golf Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3256 2555 - 7
Fax: +66 (0) 3256 2558
E-mail: s_awangresortkhoyoi@yahoo.com
Golf Tournament on Sunday, August 29, 2010
Tournament fee 1,400 Baht
(Green Fee / Caddies + Dinner)
August & September: Green Fee 800 Baht

Royal Hua Hin Golf Golf Course
Tel: +66 (0) 3251 2475, (0) 3251 2479
Fax: +66 (0) 3251 3038
Golf Tournament on Sunday, September 19, 2010
Tournament fee 1,400 Baht
(Green Fee / Caddies + Dinner)
August & September: Green Fee 800 Baht

Link tourismthailand.org

Bangkok Countdown 2009

2008-12-09T16:23:00.005+07:00

Bangkok Countdown 2009
Date : 1st December 2008 - 15th January 2009
Venue : Ploenchit – Ratchaprasong – Pratumwan area, Bangkok

Activities :

Lighting Decoration : 1st December 2008 – 15th January 2009 at Ploenchit
– Ratchaprasong
– Pratumwan area, Bangkok

Countdown from 31st December 2008 – 1st January 2009 at Ratchaprasong area, Bangkok

Live concert and various entertainment activities/ Light and Sound show/ Countdown to the year 2009

Worship for luck with 9 temples
- Wat Kanlayanamit Woramahawihan
- Wat Chanasongkhram Ratchaworamahawihan
- Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkhalaram (Wat Pho)
- Wat Phrasirattanasatsadaram (Wat Phra Khao)
- Wat Rakhang Khositaramworamahawihan
- Wat Suthat Thepwararamworamahawihan
- Wat Arun Ratchawararamworamahawihan (Wat Chang)
- Wat Bawonniwetwihan
- Wat Saket Ratchaworamahawihan

Contact: - Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of ThailandTel : 0 2250 5500 Ext : 3465-7- TAT Call Centre 1672Website : http://www.tat.or.th/festival

Loi Krathong Festival: the Delightful Color of Streams : 8-12 November, 2008

2008-11-01T16:29:00.000+07:00

Loi Krathong Festival: the Delightful Color of Streams
Dates: 8-12 November, 2008
Venue: Banks of the Chao Phraya River (Krung Thep Bridge – Krung Thon Bridge), Bangkok
Highlights: Enjoy viewing the illuminated float procession to win the prize more than 1,500,000 Baht during 8-12 November, 2008, 19.30-22.00 hrs. along the banks of Chao Phraya River: Krung Thep Bridge – Krung Thon BridgeExperience an amazing atmosphere of the Loi Krathong Festival of the Rattanakosin style during 18:30 – 21:30 hrs. at Santi Chaiphrakan Fort, Bangkok. The illuminated float procession will be best viewed from this area. Also, you will be entertained by the country’s most unique cultural performances apart from experiencing the old market atmosphere, mouth watering array of food as well as participating in the event of the 9 Sacred Places.

For more informations : please visit: www.loikrathong.net , call 1672 or Events Planning Division, TAT Tel. 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext 3470-3474

International Mountain Bike Touring: Tour of Mekong 2008

2008-11-01T16:19:00.003+07:00

Itinerary International Mountain Bike Touring: Tour of Mekong 2008
(For the Opening Season of the Chiang Rai Tourism)
Chiang Saen - Chiang Khong - Huai Sai - Wiang Phuka - Luang Namtha - Muang La - Chiang Roong - Chiang Saen
26 October - 2 November, 2008
Thailand - Loas PDR - The People’s Republic of China

Date: Saturday 25 October, 2008
Location: Thailand : Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai Visit Chiang Saen : where the glorious of the Lanna civilization shined itself among the wonderful scenery of the Golden Triangle (Thailand – Loas – Myanmar) 07.00 – 15.00 hrs. - Registration, at leisure 18.00 hrs. - Indulge your evening with the “Kan Tok”: the Northern Style of dinner in the opening ceremony of Chulakathin making merit at Wat Phra That Pha - ngao - At leisure

Date: Sunday 26 October, 2008
Location / Route : Thailand : Chiang Saen – Chiang Khong Distance: 67 Km./Along the River Bank08.30 hrs. - The Opening Ceremony of the International Mountain Bike Touring: Tour of Mekong 2008 at Wat Phra That Pha-ngao and proceed to Amphoe Chiang Khong12.00 hrs. - Lunch14.00 hrs. - Take a deep breath while cycling along the Mekong River, head to Amphoe Chiang Khong. Enjoy the beautiful scenery that is filled with the numbers of orange as well as the tranquility of the Mekong River. Visit the Preservation and Breeding Pla Buek (The giant Catfish of the Mekong River) the only one office where take responsibility in breeding Pla Buek and experience the well-known hand woven, the masterpiece of “Tai Lue” Tribe at Ban hat Bai, Amphoe Chiang Khong 15.00 hrs. - Arrive Chiang Khong, spend your leisure among the embrace of nature.

Date: Monday 27 October, 2008
Location / Route: Start from Chiang Khong, Thailand to Loas PDR, visit Muang Huai Sai (Bo Kaeo Province), Muang Wiang Phuka (Luang Namtha Province) Distance: 120 km. /Hills06.00 hrs. - Time to say “Good Morning” and stop your fasting! Recharge your energy and be ready to warm up! (Dress Code: the fabulous project’s uniform) 08.00 hrs. - Immigration Procedure, cross the Mekong: the International River to the gateway to Laos PDR that is on the Northern Region of Thailand: Muang Huai Sai, where its city is located on the bank of the Mekong River. 08.30 hrs. - Riding on the Route No. R3 to Muang Wiang Phuka, that its age is around the corner of Chiang Saen, Thailand where the Lignite’s mine is located. 12.00 hrs. - Enjoy lunch along the way and among the natural touch. 18.00 hrs. - Arrive to Muang Wiang Phuka (stay overnight at Ruan Phak Thong Me Xai) and enjoy your first dinner in Laos.

Date: Tuesday 28 October 2008
Location / Route: Laos PDR, Wiang Phuka – Luang NamthaDistance: 60 km. /Hills07.00 hrs. - Good Morning Laos! Enjoy your breakfast and warm up! 08.00 hrs. - On your bike and Get set? Let’s go to Muang Luang Namtha, the northern most of Laos and the gateway to China and experience the various tribes that live together!13.00 hrs. - Arrive to Luang Namtha and stay overnight at Chok Chai Thon Resort.18.00 hrs. - Dinner and participate in the welcome ceremony of the Luang Namtha Province. The Troupe delivers some cloth, useful stuff to the Governor to provide to its people.

Date: Wednesday 29 October, 2008
Location / Route: Luang Namtha - Ban Nateoi – Bo Ten Border, China – Muang La Distance: 115 Km. / Flat road and hills 06.00 hrs. - Breakfast and warm up07.00 hrs. - Leaving Luang Namtha to Ban Nateoi, Bo Ten Border and proceed to Immigration procedure. (54 km.)13.00 hrs. - Lunch at Bo Ten 17.00 hrs. - Riding together as the caravan, enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. (Muang La is the special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China, located on the migration path of the Thai Lue tribe to Thailand), Stay overnight at Jin Xiu Hotel

Date: Thursday 30 October, 2008
Route / Location: Muang La – Chiang Klang Village, The People’s Republic of ChinaDistance: 77 km. /Hills06.00 hrs. - Enjoy the Tai Lue style breakfast and warm up07.00 hrs. - Ahead to the Forest Preservation Area, experience the wonderful scenery of the town on the hill top as well as challenge yourself with the riding up and free wheeling down hill 77 km., 1,200 meters above sea level. 12.00 hrs. - Rest and lunch along the way (at the top of the second hill.16.00 hrs. - Arrive to Chiang Klang Village, experience the way of life of the Tai Lue tribe, stay overnight in the wooden house, antique style in the ancient village of the Tai Lue among the Rubber and Banana field. 18.00 hrs. - Spend your wonderful moment of dinner with the Tai Lue’s style as well as feast your eyes on the cultural performances. (The troupe will donate some money for public use of the village.)

Date: Friday 31 October, 2008
Route / Location : Chiang Klang Village – Chiang Roong (Jinghong), The People’s Republic of ChinaDistance: 90 km. /Hills07.00 hrs. - Breakfast and warm up! (Dress Code: the fabulous uniform!)08.00 hrs. - Riding to Chiang Roong (Jing hong): the city of peacock, located in Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous prefecture province and has the long term and closely relationship with Thailand.12.00 hrs. - Enjoy lunch. 17.00 hrs. - Arrive to Chiang Roong (Jing hong), cross the bridge over the Mekong River and relax / at leisure.

Date: Saturday 1 November 2008 08.00 – 11.00 hrs.
Participate in the 1st Mountain Bike Competition at Jing hong Remarks: - The tour optional program is available for the riders if you don’t join the competition. - Visit the Tai Lue Temple as well as enjoy the Tai Lue Cultural Performances

Date: Sunday 2 November 2008
Route: Chiang Roong (Jinghong) Pier to Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai, Thailand (by boat)(10 hrs aprroximately)07.00 hrs. - Breakfast and be ready to cruise from Chiang Roong Pier.12.00 hrs. - Lunch on the boat18.00 hrs. - Arrive Chiang Saen Pier, Chiang Rai safely

The Siam Tulip Festival of Chaiyaphum (KRACHIAO FLOWER )

2008-06-30T13:37:00.003+07:00

Date : JUNE 1 - AUGUST 31, 2008
Venue : Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Ban Rai district Thep Sathit district and
Sai Thong National Park, Nong Bua Rawa district, Chaiyaphum Province.

The unique geographical landscape of Chaiyaphum Province in the northeast of Thailand gives rise to a range of natural attractions of exceptional beauty. Of these, the fields of pinkish-purple Siam Tulip, or "Dok Krachiao", come in to full bloom in the early part of the rainy season from June to August.

Also commonly called ’patumma’, ’bua sawan’ (heaven lotus), or ’bua bok’ (the land lotus), the Siam Tulip is a member of the ginger genera — Curcuma or Zingiberaceae.

For any futher information

Pa Hin Ngam National Park : Tel. 0-4489-0105 Sai Thong National Park : Tel. 08-282-3437, 08-1877-8485, Mon.-Fri. 09.00 - 16.00 hr.

Hua Hin Jazz Festival 2008

2008-06-05T13:26:00.000+07:00

Jazz lovers know exactly where they should be come mid-June. They will be catching an invigorating sea breeze and dining on fresh sea food at Hua Hin’s famous beachside restaurants.

But only when they are not soaking up the serious stuff – musical concerts delivering the very best in jazz, compliments of a variety of local and international bands.

Hua Hin shakes off its low season blues, 13 to 14 June, every year for its international jazz festival at sites on the beach and in the centre of this lively resort town that graces Thailand’s western coast of the Gulf of Thailand.

Hua Hin is approximately 220 km from Bangkok and is noted for being the country’s first beach resort discovered by royalty and nobility in the post in the 1930s when the only feasible way to reach its golden beaches was by steam train.

Today, it is a popular beach town with more than its far share of five-star hotels.

One of the main jazz festival stages is set up close to the Sofitel Central Resort, a heritage property dating back to early 1900s and Marriott Resort and Spa.

In all, there are three stages custom-built for the jazz festival on the beach and in the town near the historical railway station and another near Phone Kingpet complex.

Of course, the beach venue serves up a winning ambience, as thousands of jazz lovers sit on deck chairs or mats laid out on the sand and enjoy the very best selections of traditional and modern jazz.

The beach venue will feature world-class jazz artists such as the Kenny Garrett Quartet, Mike Stern, Dave Weckl and Chris Minh Doky. Thai singers join international celebrities such as Kop Songsit, T-Bone, Luk Pad Cholanan, Surachai Jantimatorn, Rudklao Amaraditra and Jirasak Panpoom.

In town at the railway and shopping complex stages Thai artists such as Viyada Komarakul na Nakhon, B Crescendo, Monotone Group, Calories Blah Blah, Lula, ETC, Doobadoo and Tewan Sapsanyakorn will perform.

All performances during the three-day festival are free and continue from 1530 until midnight.

No wonder this “Royal Town” is sometimes renamed “Jazz Town” when its streets are packed with music lovers of all ages, who gather to enjoy the best of jazz from both international and Asian musicians. Definitely, this is a festival that adds value for any holiday maker visiting Hua Hin during the 13 to 14 June weekend.

More Information :
TAT Central Region Office : Region 2
Tel : 0 3247 1005-6
Website : www.huahinjazzfestival.com

Thailand Tourism Festival 2008

2008-05-30T14:35:00.002+07:00

5-8 June 2007, Challenger Hall, Impact, Muangthong Thani
Thailand Tourism Festival 2008 aims to promote tourism in Thailand as well as to show the uniqueness of Thai arts, culture and tradition. The event consists of exhibitions, sales booths, activities and performances to reach out to every group of potential tourists.
Principle
Promoting the tourism industry in Thailand is an important mission for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) especially that of encouraging Thai people to travel domestically. TAT puts an emphasis on domestic projects in order to achieve the balance in tourism in two dimensions. First, the societal dimension focusing on preservation of the environment and culture in travel destinations. Second, the economic dimension focusing on distributing tourism industry income to other parts of the country and creating money supply within the country.In order to achieve this goal, TAT organizes the Thailand Tourism Festival 2007, which is another project our organization has been intent on supporting. Its aim is to express the cultures and traditions of each region, stimulate domestic tourism and present the progress of Thai tourism industry in the forms of various travel activities which are scenic and attractive. In addition, the festival brings together quality tourism products and services, which would inspire visitors to travel to these travel destinations.

Objectives

To show the unique culture and traditions of Thailand, to instill pride in the nation and to encourage tourism, a vital part of life and learning.
To show the potential of tourism in Thailand which is has always been progressing and has now reached an international standard.
To promote as well as increase tourist destinations in a larger circle, to reach both big and small cities. To encourage more money supply in the economic system and distribute income to every region.
To encourage the tourism industry to share their knowledge and create an understanding of the impact of tourism on Thailand, as well as to promote TAT’s campaigns and programs.

Target Groups
Every group of tourists, as well as government and private sectors.

Concept and Form of Event
This festival focuses on shows depicting Thai culture, traditions and uniqueness which demonstrate the progress of tourism in Thailand. This event includes products and services associated with tourism and also a variety of tourism activities such as Cultural and Community Life Tourism, Ecotourism, Adventure Tourism, Health Tourism and Tourism Along His Majesty The King’s Teachings. There is also a main stage for cultural performances from each region and from neighboring countries as well as exhibitions from the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s projects and associated government projects and an academic talk on tourism.

Link

72 Hours Amazing Thailand

2008-02-21T09:43:00.002+07:00

The Tourism Authority of Thailand together with MasterCard has launched “72 Hours Amazing Thailand” – a dedicated campaign presenting a host of exciting activities and special privileges exclusively for MasterCard cardholders visiting Thailand.

Mrs. Juthaporn Rerngronasa, Deputy Governor for International Marketing, Tourism Authority of Thailand, said, “72 Hours Amazing Thailand offers a new way for tourists to explore the beauty of Thailand within 72 hours. The campaign introduces customized travel routes and activities for MasterCard cardholders, as well as showcases a collection of Thailand’s newest and most stylish resorts and hotels, hip shopping destinations, luxurious pampering hideaways, chic dining outlets and top golf courses.”

“We are targeting the 72 Hours Amazing Thailand campaign at the mass affluent consumer, aged over 25 years old, who enjoys traveling and experiencing new places which are in vogue in Bangkok and its surrounding areas,” Mrs. Rerngronasa added. As part of the campaign, an English language guidebook - “72 Hours Amazing Thailand” - will be produced for tourists.

According to the latest MasterIndex of Travel (H2 2007) by MasterCard Worldwide, Thailand is among the most preferred personal travel destination for Singaporeans. Ms. Eileen Wee, Vice President and Country Manager for Thailand, MasterCard Worldwide said, “The 72 Hours Amazing Thailand campaign launched by Tourism Authority of Thailand enables visitors to fully enjoy and experience the natural beauty of Thailand, as well as the many attractive offerings and exceptional service that this tourism paradise has to offer to the sophisticated, style-conscious traveler of today. The campaign is an example of how Thailand constantly refreshes itself as a travel destination.”

Until the end of August 2008, customers making transactions with their MasterCard cards will receive up to 50% off their purchases at over 200 leading hotels and resorts, shopping centers, beauty and nail spas, fine dining restaurants, golf courses and retail outlets in Thailand, in addition to a range of other privileges.
MasterCard cardholders can also indulge in the best spa destinations such as S Medical Spa – one of only two medical spa retreats in the world with the Hydrotherapy 7 in 1 with Shirodhara – an integrated treatment that cares for the mind, body and soul. Services include purification programs, holistic massage and body work, hydrotherapy and full-day wellness programs. MasterCard cardholders also receive VIP treatment at the Banyan Tree Spa at the Banyan Tree Hotel Bangkok - an ideal sanctuary for physical and spiritual well-being.

Phuket International Blues Rock Festival 2008

2008-02-21T09:36:00.002+07:00

Now in its third year the Phuket International Blues Festival gets underway, 22 to 23 February, at the beachside Hilton Phuket Arcadia on the island’s west coast Karon Bay. It promises to be bigger than ever with at least 12 acts performing on stage during the two-night event. Now a firm fixture in Phuket’s annual entertainment calendar, the festival attracts top blues bands from around

Thailand

, while two popular bands from

Australia

and the

return once more. Bangkok’s popular blues bands take centre stage with performances from Cannonball,

Georgia

, Full House and Soi Dogs beating out the rhythm to a packed house of blues fans.

BANGKOK COUNTDOWN 2008 .

2007-12-11T16:39:00.001+07:00

31 December 2007 - 1 January 2008 : Central World Plaza, Bangkok

The tradition continues. Into its eighth year, the Bangkok Countdown continues to attract an ever-increasing number of local and international visitors each year.

Considered to be the Thailand New Year Countdown party to attend, highlights include an evening of concerts and live performances by Thailand's top artists from one of Thailand's leading music labels, actors and performers affiliated with Thai TV Channel 3. The Countdown culminates in a dazzling fireworks display to greet a new day and a bright new year.

Families and friends celebrating the New Year at home will be able to tune in to view the live nationwide telecast of the Bangkok Countdown via Thai TV Channel 3 from 22.30 - 01.00.

The Royal Rattanakosin Loi Krathong Festival

2007-11-05T09:02:00.001+07:00

November 21-24, 2007 Nationwide
During the early Rattanakosin period, the royal rituals of Jong Priang, Lote Choot, Loi Khome Long Nam, performed during the twelfth lunar month were based on Brahmin beliefs. These were the court versions of Loi Krathong performed as an act of worship in which the Devaraja or ‘God Kings’ made offerings of light to the Brahmin deities. Lit lanterns were hoisted on to poles for two weeks during the twelfth lunar month and then floated on the waterways as ritual offerings. From its Brahmin roots, the practice has evolved over time and has come to be part of a Buddhist ritual performed as an act of deep reverence and worship of the sacred relics and holy footprints of Lord Buddha.

The practice was subsequently adopted and adapted by common folk. Krathong floats are made from basic materials easily found around the village and reflect the simplicity of life beyond the palace walls. They typically take the shape of lotus in full bloom, swans, chedis (stupas), and Mount Meru from Buddhist mythology. However krathong floats in the shape of lotus blossoms are most popular.

At dusk, as the full moon begins to rise, the krathong is decorated with fresh flowers and the candles and incense sticks are placed in the krathong. The float is then taken to a waterway where the candle and incense sticks are lit and the krathong set adrift. The floats are carried downstream by the gentle current, candlelight flickering in the wind.

Soon after, attention turns to celebration. The evening's festivities consist of impressive firework displays, folk entertainment, stage dramas, song and dance. Scenes as described in ancient Thai literary accounts are still very much in existence today.

Krathong floats in the shape of lotus blossoms are most popular and are made from materials easily found in each locality. Loi Krathong customs and traditions reflect local beliefs and cultural evolution and interesting regional variations can be seen.

clean-up the reefs and beach to welcome "International Year of the Reef 2008"

2007-10-31T10:35:00.001+07:00

The 17th Patong Bay clean-up event will be held on 1st November 2007. This is an annual event in which all kinds of people – students, locals, divers and tourists can join together to clean-up the beach and coral reefs at Patong, Phuket Island.

Divers who wish to join the event should inform the organizer – Marine and Coastal Resources Conservation Center (Tel. 076 - 393567) or send an e-mail to Green Fins in order to arrange a diving team and equipment for the boat. Scuba tank, weight belt, weights and lunch pack will be provided free of charge. Own Dive equipment will be required.

Please come to the registration tent by 8.30am on Patong beach with your team for the reef or beach clean up. On return from the reef and beach clean up the garbage will be sorted and weighed with the best team of the day receiving a reward.

Longtail racing will be hosted with field activites taking place between 1 - 10pm including workshops, games, exhibitions and our Green Fins stand. Rajabhat University will be presenting a play on Environmental awareness during the day.

After the fun and activities during the day, there will also be time to enjoy the evening’s parade and entertainment.

The 20th Phuket carnival welcomes the beginning of the tourist season to Phuket. All activities will be held on Soi Bangla and Patong Beach in 10 different zones, with a guide map of the daily activities, complimentary coupons, activity-entry cards and souvenirs to be given to all

Beginning of Thailand's Spa.

2007-10-25T15:25:00.001+07:00

TURNING POINT

An important turning point for Thai spas came with the new millennium, almost a decade after the spa concept was first introduced to Thailand in the early 1990s. The seemingly insatiable demand for spa services attracted local and international investors. Success ignited the exponential growth of Thailand’s spa industry from 2000-2001. In just a few years, over 200 spa operators followed in the footsteps of the three pioneers: The Oriental Spa, Banyan Tree Spa and Chiva-Som International Health Resort, the country’s only destination spa. The rapid entry of new players hoping to gain a fair share of the lucrative spa pie triggered a spa boom.

With this significant increase in the number of spas around the country, the Thai Spa Association was founded. The registration of the association was approved in early 2003 and by the end of last year it consisted of 100 members representing the major players in the industry comprising spa operators, product suppliers, training schools and spa consultants. A study undertaken by Intelligent Spas reports a growth of 64 percent for the period 2000-2002. Statistics compiled by the Singapore based research company indicate that between June 2001 to June 2002 some 230 Thai spa operators attracted a total of 3.3 million spa users, out of which 2.5 million, or 79 percent of the country’s total spa clientele, were overseas spa patrons contributing a total of US$85 million to Thailand’s foreign exchange revenue.

Readership surveys and polls conducted by leading international travel, leisure and lifestyle publications also reflect a clear vote of confidence in Thai spas. Since 1999 spas in Thailand have managed to consistently secure a place in the world’s top overseas spas. In the 2003 survey conducted by Conde Nast Traveller of the UK- a leading travel and lifestyle magazine – Chiva-Som International Health Resort at Hua Hin was selected the number one overseas destination spa and Mandara Spa at JW Marriott in Phuket the best hotel spa in Asia. Other spas in Thailand that have consistently taken top spots in international surveys are Banyan Tree Spa, The Spa at Four Seasons Chiang Mai and Six Senses Spa.

The country’s reputation for outstanding service and superior spa hospitality are backed by equally solid operating results and economic performance that far exceed that of counterparts around the region. Thailand settles comfortably into its new status as the spa capital of Asia.

While the first wave of Thai spas was fuelled in part by the arrival of international operators and spa consultants who brought with them experience and expertise to establish and manage high quality spa operations, today Thai spas compete on an equal footing with international counterparts in the cosmopolitan centres and fashion capitals of the world. Quality has also attracted joint ventures and co-operative partnerships resulting in an exotic range of innovative spa products and services born of the marriage of the Thai traditional art of healing and contemporary Western spa treatments. The proliferation of spa operations found in a range of places beyond hotels, resorts, destination and medical spas prompted Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health to work towards the introduction of quality standards and a regulatory framework to ensure planned and sustainable growth.

To achieve this, the Ministry, which has assumed the role of custodian overseeing the growth and development of the spa sector, has been working in close co-operation with the Thai Spa Association and private sector operators to develop guidelines and specific standards for the Thai spa industry. The government realises that in order to inspire consumer confidence and trust in the range of products it needs to assure spa guests and visitors to Thailand that safety, hygiene, service quality and quality assurance are top priorities. The implementation of industry standards during the first quarter of 2004 will be supported by mechanisms and processes that promote the systematic improvement of these measures to ensure quality. Among the steps to be implemented are registration of all spas and the operators of the spas, as well as training for staff with tests leading to certification of therapists. The comprehensive plan also includes guidelines to ensure fair pricing.

These measures by the joint state-private sector committees ensure that future industry growth proceeds in the right direction with Thai spa operators aiming for higher standards and striving towards the achievement of global spa industry standards. Earning the official seal of approval denotes quality and constitutes added recognition and credibility every bit as important as the attainment of internationally recognised ISO service standards.

The government’s campaign to turn Thailand into the regional health-care centre focuses on three areas: hospitals for medical treatment, spas for health promotion and herbal products. Its spas have now earned a reputation for the country as the spa capital of Asia. Achieving world-class status is next on the national agenda.

THE ROYAL BARGES:The Subanahongsa

2007-10-22T14:08:00.000+07:00

The name 'Subanahongsa' or 'Golden Hamsa', a swan — like mythical steed of Brahma, forst appeared in chronicals of the Ayutthaya period. King Rama I commanded the Royal Barge Sri Subanahongsa to be built soon after his accession to the throne in 1782. The predecessor of the Subanahongsa was 36 metres in length, 2.88 metres at the beam and drew a draught of 67 centimetres. She was in constant use as the Principal Royal Barge until she became too old to be repaired. King Rama VI then commanded the building of her successor, the present Subanahongsa which was launched on November 13, 1911

The Subanahongsa is 46.15 metres in length, 3.17 metres at the beam with the depth of her her hull at 94 cms. Her full complement consists of 50 oarsmen, 2 steersmen, 2 officers fore and aft, 1 standard bearer, 1 signalman, I chanter and 7 Royal Insignia bearers. In state processions, she carries either a spired throne or a roofed pavillion surrounded by court officials.

The Subanahongsa is made out of a single trunk of teakwood. It is said that the master craftsman threw away all his tools after her completion and vowed never to work again. Whether this is true or not is immaterial for she is the most majestic of all Royal Barges. Her hamsa figurehead is raised in flight with protruding eyes, flared nostrils, fangs showing through her grimacing mouth. She holds a crystalline ball and tassle in her mouth, wears a garland and pendant around her neck. Her feathers, represented by gilded and mirrored Thai ornaments, seemingly flow in the wind all along the length of her body to her flame-like tail. She is presented in full flight aided by the stylized motion of the oarsmen. Their gilded paddles flash in sunlight suggesting the sedate movement of her wings.

Guide to THE ROYAL BARGES:NARAI SONG SUBAN

2007-10-22T13:42:00.000+07:00

NARAI SONG SUBAN
The Narai Song Suban Rama IX Royal Barge with Garuda figurehead is the first Royal Barge to be built during the present reign of the Chakri Dynasty, but the second Royal Barge to carry this name. The Narai Song Suban Royal Barge was built and presented to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej during the grand celebrations marking the Fiftieth Anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of His Majesty’s Accession to the Throne in 1996.

The bow of the Narai Song Suban is decorated with a figure of Vishnu mounted on Garuda. One of the gods in the Hindu trinity — Brahma, Siva and Vishnu, Vishnu is known as Phra Narai in Thai.

Brahma (Phra Phrom) is the Creator, Siva (Isuan) is God of Destruction and Rebirth, and Vishnu (Phra Narai), the Preserver and Protector.

According to ancient folk belief, Vishnu manifests himself on earth in a variety of incarnations, or avatars. Rama is one of the earthly incarnations of Vishnu (Narai).

One of the many roles assumed by Siamese kings through the centuries is that of ‘Devaraja’ — the ‘Divine King’. This ancient tradition continues to this very day. His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej is King Rama IX. Garuda — the mythical bird-man is Vishnu’s vehicle.

The Royal Barge Procession Full Dress Rehearsals

2007-10-17T14:57:00.001+07:00

October 26 and 29, 2007
Over three centuries have since passed, yet this breathtaking spectacle remains awe inspiring, not only in its majestic beauty but also the grace with which the fleet of 52 barges solemnly glides down the Chao Phraya River — the ‘River of Kings’.

When the gilded paddles of the principal barge, the swan-prowed Sri Suphannahongse, are raised in unison, it is as though a mythical bird is about to lift from the water.

The other 51 barges, arrayed across the river in what is traditionally termed a battle formation, create a panorama of rare regal splendour. The blare of conches and trumpets, the songs of the coxswains, and the stentorian chants of the paddlers provide the right cadence for the oar strokes, enhance the spectacle, and mesmerize spectators into respectful silence – much as these same rare sounds have done for hundreds of years.

The Royal Barge Procession is the ultimate reflection of the Thai fascination with water, the central element in Thailand’s rites of passage, festivals, and religion. An aerial view of Thailand’s northern and central plains reveals why. A vast silvery labyrinth of natural and hand-dug waterways slices through the lowland plains. Villages hug banks of rivers and canals and draw from them the life-sustaining water that nourishes lush crops and harbours fish, the two staples of the Thai diet. It is along these liquid highways that a variety of water processions have travelled over the centuries.

In descending order of importance, they include:

Coronations
It was only appropriate that a prince travel in the most exalted vessel available to the most important event in his life: his coronation. Although wheeled vehicles have replaced barges, records of their magnificence abound in ancient manuscripts.

A Water-borne Procession with a Buddha image
Since ancient times, barges have carried revered Buddha images. When King Naresuan the Great (1590-1605) rode to battle, the Suphannahongse royal barge bearing the Phra Chai Buddha (Victory Buddha) image containing relics of the Lord Buddha led the flotilla. In 1781, barges transported the Emerald Buddha from Ayutthaya to its final home in Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaeow. The famous image that now occupies the nave of Wat Suthat was transported from Sukhothai to Bangkok on a raft.

Royal River Tour of the Great Capital
In the former capital of Ayutthaya and also in Bangkok, kings embarked on royal river tours along the moats that embraced their stout city walls. It was for this reason, as well as defensive considerations, that until the late 19th century, no permanent bridges were erected over the moats, and the royal progress on these annual circuits went unimpeded.

The Royal Kathin Procession to Present Monastic Robes
The progenitor of the Royal Barge Procession as we know it today dates from the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai (1275-1316 AD). The Lanna Chronicles note that the King was conveyed by night in a fleet of barges to present robes to the monks to mark the end of the three-month Buddhist Rains Retreat, a ceremony known as the Kathin ritual. By the mid-Ayutthaya period a few hundred years later, these processions were conducted during the day.

Thailand Health & Beauty Show 2007

2007-10-01T16:39:00.001+07:00

November 7-9, 2007 ,Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok.

A record number of international exhibitors and key buyers are expected to attend “Thailand Health & Beauty Show 2007”, one of the most exciting international events on the calendar to be organized by the Department of Export Promotion (DEP), Ministry of Commerce.

The world-class fair, to be held at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, from November 7-11, 2007, is the perfect showcase for health and beauty products, as well as natural materials, spa merchandise and a diverse range of related services provided by world-class hospitals and specialist clinics. As in previous years, Thailand HBS 2007 will bring together buyers and sellers, as well as health and beauty professionals, from around the world – thus creating the perfect arena to complete business deals, hold trade negotiations with interested parties and, just as importantly, expand each exhibitor’s client base.

The DEP’s Director-General Mr. Rachane Potjanasuntorn revealed : “The DEP is confident that Thailand HBS 2007 will again attract quality exhibitors and a long list of keen buyers from the United States, Spain, Italy, Germany, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, China, Japan, Indonesia and Korea, to name just a few. We firmly believe that the fair will further strengthen the Kingdom’s reputation as the regional hub for international trade and trade discussions, allowing both local and international companies to eventually form a global network of crucial contacts.”

Based on last year’s show figures, international exhibitors will literally have a captive consumer audience, as this year more than 25,000 visitors will spend at least one entire day at the event. Another favorable factor is that recent consumer trends point to a continuous rise in products and services that promote wellness, beauty and inner health. Also gaining fast in popularity are herbal products, and natural health foods and food supplements. Meanwhile, the health and beauty industry has been linked increasingly to the travel industry, each supporting and contributing to the other’s growth.

On display at Thailand HBS 2007 will be a definitive range of the most popular health and beauty products, aromatherapy merchandise, health and herbal food and beverages, beauty therapy and medical equipment, as well as services offered by some of the world’s leading hospitals, specialist clinics and beauty training institutes. Several Thai manufacturers already have carved an enviable name for themselves on the regional and international spa scene, offering top-of-the-range spa products at highly competitive prices. And all trade visitors will soon realize that it is not by chance that Thailand – with its vast natural resources and ancient healing practices – is already known as the “Spa Capital of Asia”.

Thailand HBS 2007 will cover a total space of 20,000 square meters, accommodating approximately 850 exhibition booths. It will be open to trade visitors daily from 10.00 a.m.- 6.00 p.m., on November 7-9, 2007, and to the general public from 10.00 a.m.-9.00 p.m. on November 10-11, 2007.

Thailand Open 2007 final playing list announced

2007-09-21T15:03:00.001+07:00

Six of the world’s top 10 players headline the final playing list competing in the USD550,000 Thailand Open from September 22-30 at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani.

Tournament organizers BEC-Tero have unveiled the final list which is headlined by world.
#2 Rafael Nadal
#3 Novak Djokovic
#5 Andy Roddick
#8 David Ferrer
#9 Tomas Berdych
#10 Tommy Haas.

“We were absolutely delighted when we had half of the world’s top 10 confirmed,” said BEC-Tero Managing Director Brian L. Marcar. “But with David Ferrer’s amazing run to the semi-finals at the US Open last week, he now jumps into the top 10 as well. Our field is on par with some of the ATP’s Masters Series events.”

Other stars competing include Sweden’s Thomas Johansson, Joachim Johansson and Robin Soderling, Croatian giant Ivo Karlovic, Korea’s Hyung-Taik Lee, German Benjamin Becker and Russian Dmitry Tursunov.

Also confirmed are Americans Vince Spadea, Sam Querrey and Michael Russell, Spaniards Feliciano Lopez and Fernando Verdasco, Argentina’s Jose Acasuso, Diego Hartfield and Carlos Berlocq, Austrian Werner Eschauer, Michael Llodra and Nicolas Mahut from France, and Frank Dancevic from Canada.

Thailand’s Danai Udomchoke has received a wildcard into the tournament main draw. Recipients of the final two wildcards will be announced next week.

“With the race on for only eight places in the season-ending Masters Cup in Shanghai, the ranking points from the Thailand Open will be particularly important for Roddick, Ferrer, Berdych and Haas who are still trying to secure a place in the Shanghai field,” Mr. Marcar added. “They will be determined to perform well in Bangkok. It is going to be an amazing tournament.”

The draw ceremony for the main draw of the event will be held on Sunday September 23 at 2pm.

Tickets for the Qualifying Rounds are 300 baht, while tickets for first round and second round matches are 500 and 800 baht.

Tickets for quarter-finals, which will be held on September 28, semi-finals on September 29 and the finals on September 30 are 1,000 and 1,500 baht per session.

Finding Thai Cooking Schools

2007-08-29T10:59:00.001+07:00

Finding a cooking school in Bangkok or the major proinces is increasingly easy. Most of the major hotels that have their own in-house Thai restaurant will offer cooking classes, either as intensive hands-on sessions or as watch-and-eat events. In addition there are cooking schools that provide basic skills sufficient to prepare a Thai meal in your own home, or even training to professional standards.

The Thai Cooking School at The Oriental Hotel
c/o The Oriental Bangkok, Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok 10600
Tel : 0 2437 6211, 0 2437 2918
This legendary hotel on the bank of the Chao Phraya opened its own Thai cooking school on the other side of the river a few years back. The four-day cooking course, conducted in English, is mainly a “ watch and learn” experience, with emphasis on demonstration by the chef-lecturers followed by some hand-on participation by students. Classes start off with some background on Thai cooking, followed by different cooking techniques and fruit and vegetable carving. Recipes are a blend of the traditional and the imaginative. Menu preparation and selection is included in the course, as well as how to order at Thai restaurants. Classes take place from 9 in the morning to noon, followed by lunch. Tuition is charged per class.

Benjarong Cooking Class at the Dusit Thani
At the corner of Silom and Rama IV, Bangkok 10500
Tel : 0 2236 6400, 0 2236 7238
The Dusit Thani’s Benjarong Royal Thai Cuisine is one of the most sophisticated Thai restaurant in Bangkok. Its head chef runs the Benjarong cooking class every Saturday morning, from 9.30-12.30. Recipes are drawn from the restaurant’s menu and include snacks and appetisers, soup and salad, main dishes and desserts. Benjarong Cooking Class offers a very hand-on experience, and the instruction emphasizes practicality and inventiveness. The complete course comprises 12 classes, and graduates will receive a certificate as well as recipe book in English.

Nipa Restaurant at The Landmark Hotel
Between Sois 4&6, Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110
Tel : 0 2254 0404
The restaurant offers a 7-day course designed to teach beginners all the basics of Thai cooking and enable them to prepare curries, soups, salads and other dishes that make up a Thai meal. The restaurant’s chefs lecture on ingredients and recipes, and then let students participate in the cooking and tasting. Nipa is famous for its authentic food, which has not been toned down to suit milder palates, and the course offers plenty of hand-on experience. Students will receive a recipe book in English or Japanese. Fruit and vegetable carving sessions can be arranged separately.

UFM Baking & Cooking School
Sukhumvit 33 Road, Bangkok 10110
Tel : 0 2259 0620-3
UFM offers 10-day Thai cooking courses every other month. Classes take place from 8.30-noon daily, and recipes are mix of the simple and the sophisticated, regional specialties and national favourites. Students will receive a companion book in English. Five-day vegetable carving courses are available on alternate months.

Bhumibol Dam Invitation International Mountain Bike Championships

2007-08-24T10:16:00.001+07:00

MOUNTAIN BIKE CHAMPIONSHIP 2007 August 25– 26, 2007 At Bhumibol Dam, Tak Province

Bhumibol Dam in Tak province will be hosting the Bhumibol Dam Invitation International Mountain Bike Championships for the fourth consecutive year on August 25– 26, 2007. Noted for its scenic landscape, Bhumibol Dam provides an ideal setting for the mountain bike races.

The event is being jointly organized by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in cooperation with the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and Bhumibol Dam to promote ecotourism in tandem with outdoor sports at both a national and international level.

Local and international bikers are being invited to participate in this friendly event.

The mountain bike races feature three main classes consisting of Professional, Amateur and Family teams and five key categories consisting of:

Competition Bike races covering a distance of 40 km
Amateur Bike races covering a distance of 25 km
Family Bike races covering a distance of 24 km
Sweat Bike races covering a distance of 60 km
Funny Bike

Each category is divided into sub-categories according to sex and age as well as open races.

Registration and more information:
Events Promotion Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3496

Individuals participating in the competition are eligible for a 40 per cent discount on accommodation at Bhumibol Dam. A camping area will also be provided.

IMPORTANT
Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.
Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.

Shopping in Vietnam.

2007-08-07T11:55:00.001+07:00

Shopping in Vietnam is a fun and interesting experience, and guarantees good bargains to those who know what to look for. It is true to say that you can find nearly anything in Vietnam. Markets vary from high class shopping malls, supermarkets to bustling open market, galleries, boutiques and street stalls.

It is not recommended that you buy imported, famous branded products such as clothing, perfume or electronics in Vietnam as tax makes these items more costly than neighboring countries.

In terms of shopping for tourists, Vietnam is most famous for its handicrafts, war souvenirs, authentic clothing, art, antiques and gems.

Art and Antiques
Vietnam has very strict regulations about exporting real antiques. Most “antique” and art pieces sold to tourists are fake or copies of the original. Be careful and check your sources for certificates if they claim to sell you an original or antique piece.

Clothing
Clothing varies greatly from tourist T-shirts to beaded handbags and traditional ao dai (the traditional costume) made to fit your size. Items made from silk are a popular buy, with prices varying depending on the material and tailor. Pre-made traditional dresses are sold in many places. However, it is more recommended to have the dress made to fit your body, which takes more time and slightly more money.

Shoes, slippers and handbags made from traditional materials (silk and bamboo) can also become unique gifts and accessories.

The Vietnamese traditional conical hat, can be found everywhere throughout the country, but hats made in Hue are most famous as they have a poem embroided on the inside.

Gems and jewelry
Vietnam is rich in gemstones. The jewelry business is also increasing during current years, and sophisticated works are produced by both big businesses and traditional crafstmen. The quality of the gemstones sold is sometimes doubtable, so it is recommended that you buy gems at prestigious locations and be ware with cheap prices.

War souvenirs
Most war souvenirs sold today in Vietnam (for example, Zippo lighters engraved with platoon philosophy) are fake reproductions. Be careful while transporting these items as many airlines do not allow weapons, even fakes to be carried on their planes.

Handicrafts
Other popular handicrafts in Vietnam include lacquer ware, wood-block prints, and oil and watercolor paintings, blinds made from bamboo, reed mats, carpets, and leatherwork.

Where to buy
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An are the best destinations for shopping souvenirs.

It is popular in Vietnam and thus convenient for tourists, for a whole street or district to sell the same products. For example, Hanoi has whole streets selling only shoes, silk, or earrings! Thus, take your time strolling around these shopping places and compare the products and pricing!

Many villages in Vietnam are famous for producing a distinct kind of handicraft and it would also be interesting to visit these villages and buy the items at source with a good price. For example: Bat Trang pottery village, Van Phuc silk village.

Tips: Hoi An is the best place for having clothes/shoes made while Hue cannot be missed if you want an Ao Dai.

Ho Chi Minh City travel guide.

2007-08-03T13:50:00.001+07:00

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is Vietnam’s largest city and river port, sprawls asross an area of 2,095 sq.km on the banks of Sai Gon River. The city is divided into 19 urban and five rural districts with population 6,200,000 (at 1 October 2004).

With the anual average temperature is around 27ºC, heavy and long rains during rainy season from May and November, the best time to visit tropical climate zone – Ho Chi Minh city is in the dry season – from December to April.

Getting there

Flights: Most visitors will arrive at Tan Son Nhat International airport located about 4 miles from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) serving both international and domestic flights. And from the airport you could reach the downtown by taxis costing around 5 USD.

Train: The Thong Nhat Express train runs from Saigon to Hanoi serving nearly all of the major cities along the coast. The travel time from HCMC to Hanoi by train may take up to 30 hours, but many people prefer to stop along the way in Hue, Danang, Nha Trang, etc. There is also a tourist train from HCMC to Phan Thiet.

Bus: Ho Chi Minh city is a great starting and ending points for open tour buses that go up the coast towards Hanoi. The two main bus stations in HCMC includes: Cholon or Mien Tay.

Highlights

Reunification Hall

War Remnants Museum

Notre Dame Cathedral

Saigon River

Cu Chi tunnels

The Ho Chi Minh City Museum

From Ho Chi Minh, it is easy travel on to the nearby beaches of Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet (Mui Ne), Vung tau, or the mountainous resort town of Dalat.

The Southeast Asian Ceramics Museum (SEACM)

2007-08-01T15:46:00.001+07:00

The Southeast Asian Ceramics Museum (SEACM), Bangkok University, Rangsit Campus
The Southeast Asian Ceramics Museum (SEACM) was established in 2002 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Bangkok University. The museum, which houses more than 2,000 ancient and valuable ceramics donated by Mr. Surat Osathanugrah, the founder of Bangkok University, aims to instill an appreciation for ceramics in students, art lovers and art enthusiasts alike. It will also be a center for research and training on all aspects of historical ceramics.

The museum is responsible for housing and preserving valuable collections of ancient ceramics, most of them made in Thailand or imported into Thailand in ancient times; collating data and information related to ceramic wares and potteries; identifying the various types of ceramics according to their origins and characteristics; documenting and safeguarding the collections; exhibiting the collections; organizing educational activities; and providing ancillary museum services and any other activities that will contribute to the uniqueness of the museum. The Southeast Asian Ceramics Museum Newsletter makes news from the museum and from regional sources available to ceramics enthusiasts.

How to get to SEACM

Public transportation: The following public transport is available: Regular bus Nos. 29, 39
Rangist-Pratunam Phra In bus
Air-con bus Nos. 29, 39, 510
Air-con van (Victory Monument-BU Rangsit Campus)
Taxi

Private transportation: Convenient and spacious parking is available at Parking lot No. 5, Bangkok University
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed on Sunday and Monday

GRAND CANDLE FESTIVAL AT Ubon Ratchathani

2007-07-17T16:32:00.001+07:00

As the seasonal monsoon rains descend over the kingdom, it marks the beginning of the Buddhist "rain retreat" and the Buddhist Lent, or "Phansa", during which all Buddhist monks retreat to the temples. This is also an auspicious time for Buddhist ordinations as it marks a period of spiritual renewal.

Known as "Khao Phansa", the Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October).

As Ubon Ratchathani province prepares for the Buddhist Lent, men folk, ordained as well as laymen, with artistic skills set about the task of moulding and sculpting Lenten candles. As these works of art are to be presented as Buddhist merit-making offerings, the artisans pour their heart and soul into their craft. Many of these are fine examples of Buddhist art and sculpture. The candle festival is unique to Ubon Ratchathani province and the customs and traditions related to this Buddhist festival have been diligently preserved by local communities.

Making Merit
Thai Buddhists engage in merit-making as an expression of respect and gratitude by making offerings to Lord Buddha, venerable monks, past and present kings, and to parents, grandparents and their ancestors.

Making merit relates strongly to the concept of rebirth. The accumulation of merit, or bun, is believed to exert a powerful influence on one's future life and, indeed, rebirths. According to Buddhist teachings, all actions performed in our daily lives affect our field of merit, but none more so than the support of Buddhism itself. When one offers material support to a Buddhist monk — be it alms in the form of food or donations, or voluntary work — one is helping to assure that Buddhist teachings live on. This accumulates merit not only for the giver by helping sustain Buddhism. It also provides the opportunity for future generations to make and accumulate merit. In addition to the monk's morning alms round, the presentation of the Lenten candles is also a merit-making act.

CANDLE EXHIBITION
An exhibition of Lenten Candles at Thung Sri Muang Park featuring crafted candles, moulded candles and ancient candles.
Mandapa-shaped Candles (Mondop)
A mondop or mandapa is a structural form with a square base and a spired or pyramidal roof. Mondop candles are used as a receptacle to hold sacred offerings which are brought to temples during the ‘kathin’ season when monk robes are presented as offerings. Mandapa-shaped candles are used only for worship; they are not lit.

Beeswax Candle Castle (Prasat Pueng)
The beeswax candle castle is one of the elements of Buddhist merit-making rituals. These are also used in ancestor worship rituals to dedicate merit to ancestors. The beeswax ‘castle’ is also sometimes featured in propitiation rituals. However the use of the trunk of a banana tree, parts of which are folded into triangular-shapes, is preferred. Taro, turnip or sweet potato are sometimes carved into the floral shapes and dipped into heated beeswax, left to dry and used to decorate the banana tree.

Cone-Shaped (Poom)
Smaller candles are bonded together to form a cone-shaped structure. They serve a decorative purpose and are used to adorn the main candle. These are then presented as merit-making offerings.

Candles that are tied together (Mat Ruam)
Smaller candles are simply tied together into a bunch before they are presented as merit-making offerings. The cone-shaped poom and mat ruam candles are similar. Both reflect the ingenuity of villagers in creating a variety of ways to adorn their candle offerings.

BANGKOK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2007

2007-07-12T15:57:00.001+07:00

BANGKOK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2007
Date : 19/07/2007 To 29/07/2007
Festival venues: Central World, SF World Cinema and Siam Paragon Hall

The Bangkok International Film Festival, now in its fifth year, has been held annually by the Tourism Authority of Thailand since 2003 and is one of the key highlights on Thailand’s annual festivals and event calendar.

Each year, the festival showcases more than a hundred feature and short films, representing some of the best and the brightest in the current international cinema through its various programme sections. The festival focuses on the works by emerging filmmakers throughout Asia, and in particular those of the Southeast Asian region.

The Golden Kinnaree Awards are judged in the three competition categories by a panel of international jury. Running concurrently with the festival are also a number of sidebar events such as panel discussions, workshops, master classes, exhibitions as well as the Bangkok Film Market.

The 2007 event will be the first ever organized by a core of Thai organizers, which include the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Central World, SF Cinema, and the Association of Thai Film Federations.

Official Venues for the Bangkok International Film Festival 2007

At SF World Cinema, 7th floor Central World Shopping Center on July 19-29, 2007

Central World
The new downtown shopping and lifestyle complex of Central World has been designated the official host venue for the 2007 Bangkok International Film Festival. The largest lifestyle-shopping complex in Southeast Asia, the complex also comprises a 550-room, 5-star hotel, and two office buildings. The range of offerings encompasses more than 500 stores, 50 restaurants, 21 cinemas, a bowling hall, 2 department stores: Zen and Isetan, and much more.

Situated right in the heart of one of Bangkok’s prime locations, Central World is on the city’s “shopping street”, Ratchadamri Road, and surrounded by several five-star hotels and office buildings within walking distance.

SF World Cinema
The theatres are situated on the 7th, 8th and 9th floors of the Central World. With an area of 13,500 sq.m, the theatres comprise 15 screens with over 4,000 seats, including a megascreen with 800 seats, first-class theatres with lounges and additional special theatres.

Bangkok Film Market
Royal Paragon Hall on July 23-25, 2007 The Bangkok Film Market, which is trade show for film buyers and sellers, will be held at nearby Siam Paragon Hall during July 23-25.

The 2007 version of the festival, held for the fifth consecutive year, will feature approximately 100 films from around the globe. There will be an increase in emphasis on Asian films to respond to their popularity both in Thailand and abroad. Asian movies regularly screen in theaters in major cities and they have generated large followings in certain genres like horror and romantic comedy. Some have even been made into major Hollywood productions.

The Bangkok Film Market held during the festival is expected to do brisk business in the acquisition of Asian films for theatrical release overseas, with many projects planning to recoup their investment with screening and DVD sales outside their original base. Negotiations are commencing for a number of celebrities and industry individuals to attend the festival.

The Bangkok International Film Festival will also feature several seminars and workshops aimed at educating the public and introducing new developments in movie making, as well as some retrospect on important pioneers and periods of local cinema.

The highlight of the glamour part of the festival is the Kinnaree Award presented to the best film in the festival as selected by a respected panel of international jurors. Two other awards will be the New Voices Award honoring first-time directors and the ASEAN Films Award given to the best film from the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Other Infomation

THE KTO JUNIOR CHALLENGE GOLF TOURNAMENT JUST GOT BETTER!-

2007-07-04T09:05:00.001+07:00

The KTO Junior Challenge Golf Tournament gets an upgrade to a 54-Hole Championship event, to be held on September 5-7, 2007 at Laguna Phuket Golf Club, in Phuket, Thailand.The international tournament has five age divisions, open to boys and girls 6 to17 years old from around the Asean region. The course will be shortened providing age-and gender-appropriate tees to maintain the pace of play and in doing so, younger players will have a better enjoyment of the game.

Kids-Tee-Off, the event organizers, are the designers and wholesalers of the KTO premium brand of apparel and accessories for young golfers aged 5 to 14.

Laguna Phuket Golf Club and the Tourism Authority of Thailand are the Official Partners and Asian Golf Monthly, the media partner.

Laguna Phuket Golf Club, the 18-hole scenic resort course makes for a perfect host venue. It is part of the Laguna Phuket Resort group, featuring five deluxe hotels linked by lagoons and tree lined avenues. The golf course has easy access from each hotel via a complimentary shuttle bus service that can deliver golfers to the course in less than ten minutes.

In addition to providing marketing and communication support through the national tourism organization's local and national offices, the Tourism Authority of Thailand will provide a taste of Thai culture for players and families during the afternoon Welcome Reception on September 4, 2007. Participates will also receive a souvenir booklet all about the island of Phuket.

The inaugural KTO Junior Challenge marks a first for the Singapore-based children’s golf apparel manufacturer Kids-Tee-Off. Some may ask why an apparel company would host a tournament. “Our goal is to support the growth of the game by organizing a tournament to encourage more player participation. This would also enable existing top players a chance to participate in a 54-hole championship, which they might not otherwise be exposed to,” responded Kids-Tee-Off Managing Director, Pamela Wigglesworth. “A fun event also helps in building brand awareness and brand loyalty.”

Mr. Tim Haddon, the Director of Golf at Laguna Phuket Golf Club added, “The advancement of Junior golf is a responsibility of all levels of the golfing industry and we at Laguna Phuket Golf Club feel that Kids-Tee-Off have, with this event, made a commitment to develop golf at the very level where future champions are influenced and nurtured. To have the chance to play competitive golf at the very early stages as a junior can not only give a young golfer a taste of competition but can be the very thing that shapes champions. The KTO Junior Challenge 2007 is a very clear step toward finding the next generation of talented young Asian golfers. Laguna Phuket Golf Club is proud to be the host venue of the KTO Junior Challenge 2007.”

With early morning tee times, players and families will have the afternoon to spend time at the beach or pool, go sightseeing, visit the driving range or go shopping. Optional activities have been arranged by Kids-Tee-Off such as golf clinics, Banyan Tree Spa specials and Thai Cooking classes. Additional information can be found on the website.

Registration forms are available on the tournament website at www.kids-tee-off.com/tour_home.htm. For parents or companies seeking more information about the KTO Junior Challenge please e-mail ktochallenge@kids-tee-off.com.

About Kids-Tee-Off
The designers and wholesalers of the KTO premium brand of apparel and accessories for young golfers aged 5 to 14, Kids-Tee-Off offer a ‘one-stop-shop’ concept for parents looking to outfit their child for the sport of golf. The KTO brand is sold at retail in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore and the United States.

PHI TA KHON FESTIVAL 2007

2007-06-18T16:51:00.001+07:00

June 23 - 24, 2007 Dan Sai District, Loei District and Province.

A HAPPY GATHERING OF FUN-LOVING SPIRITS

The Phi Ta Khon festival is unique to the Dan Sai district in Loei Province and reflects the local Isan belief in ghosts and spirits. Held once a year, it is part of a grand merit-making festival known as the "Boon Luang" festival. The origins of the Phi Ta Khon Festival can be found in the tale of Lord Buddha's last great incarnation before attaining Enlightenment. In Buddhist accounts, it is said that when Prince Vessandara, the Buddha's penultimate incarnation, returned to his city, it was such a joyous occasion that the village spirits came forth to join the welcoming parade. This very colourful and vibrant Phi Ta Khon procession is the central focus of the celebrations.

In a lively re-enactment of the tale, the young men of the community dress up
as "spirits" wearing long trailing costumes made from colourful strips of cloth
sewn together. The hideous-looking Phi Ta Khon mask which is made of dried sticky rice husk is painted in bright red, green or other colours, and features the characteristic long pointed nose. This completes the transformation. The clanging sound of the square cowbells worn around the waist announces the presence of the spirits who wield phallic-shaped long-handled swords decorated with red paint. The good-natured, fun-loving spirits mingle among the crowd, teasing and amusing all who take part in the procession. Spectators and visitors are welcome to join in the fun.

There are two types of "spirits" featured in the Phi Ta Khon procession namely the "Phi Ta Khon Yai" -- the supreme Phi Ta Khon, and the "Phi Ta Khon Lek", the ones that are commonly found. The making of the Phi Ta Khon Yai involves the performance of a sacred ritual to seek the blessings of the supreme powers before work on the Phi Ta Khon Yai masks can be initiated. It is also a task reserved exclusively for the descendants of families in which the tradition of making Phi Ta Khon masks has been practised for several generations. The Phi Ta Khon Yai is made of bamboo and is dressed in either male or female attire.

Contact information:

LOEI TOURISM CO-ORDINATOR CENTER
Tel: +66 (0) 4281 2812, (0) 4281 1405
Fax: +66 (0) 4281 1480

Medical Tourism in Thailand.

2007-06-07T15:06:00.001+07:00

While spas and meditation are designed to help prevent health problems, a huge business is being generated amongst those who already nave problems, and need treatment. Many Thai hospitals and medical centers, which have recently been listed on The Stock Exchange of Thailand to raise funds for investment in equipment and construction, see a formidable revenue stream in attracting clients for medical check-ups.

At present, the cost of getting a medical check-up in Thailand is a fraction of what it costs in more developed countries. Language problems notwithstanding, a number of major Thai hospitals have learned the ropes of the travel business and are marketing themselves to also regular participants at international trade shows, like ITB in Berlin and the Arabian Travel Mart.

At Thailand 's more than 400 private hospitals, standards are high and costs are extremely competitive. Little surprise then that large numbers of visitors decide to undergo surgery in the Kingdom as part of their stay.

Whether you are after plastic surgery, lasik eye treatment or major heart surgery, you can rely on round the-clock, quality service in Bangkok and the min provincial cities and tourist centers, Seeking care on holiday is a trouble-free experience.

Doctors and specialists can swiftly obtain patient records by satellite. Hospitals employ staff fluent in English and who have overseas training. Demand for their services from he middle East has also led to the hiring of Arabic-speaking personnel.

Some of Thailand’s best hospitals that cater for overseas patients are listed here.

Bangkok International Hospital

BNH Hospital

Bumrungrad Hospital

Samitivej Hospital

FULL MOON PARTY in Ban Tai Thailand.

2007-06-04T15:57:00.000+07:00

The Full Moon is far more than a party; it is Had Rin's dance music festival, with everything from drum and bass to full-on psy-trance. Paradise Bungalows, the site of the original Full Moon Party, consistently puts on the biggest show with inspired decor and a combination of superb resident and guest international DJs. Worth looking out for is DJ A, who also holds residency at the Backyard, possibly the most famous after party venue in the world, starting at 11am as Had Rin's beach shuts shop, licks its wounds and counts the casualties. The Backyard also puts on three cracking nights per week, each catering for the full spectrum of dance music heads in a totally refurbished, two floor club with mind bending fluoro sculptures.

The Drop In plays a more commercial set with a few classics thrown in, and still pulls in big crowds from when it launched way back in 1989, as does the Cactus with a similar policy. The Vinyl Club pumps out hard techno and psy-trance, also putting on pre Full Moon Party parties in Ban Tai, with an Israeli DJ massive keeping it banging.

The Big Boom Bar is a daytime favourite, especially with their volley ball contest a few days before the Full Moon Party. Their commitment to leaning away from trance, by playing progressive to hard house with a fair few anthems thrown in means that resident DJs Simon (UK) and locals Tony and Dai have the beach going ballistic every Full Moon Party.

If you want to rinse it out true DnB stylee, the Orchid headed by resident DJ Kay puts a smile on many a trance-tired face. For a real refuge, head out to the Outback Bar to enjoy superb Thai and European tucker, pool and live sports in a bar that looks as good as the paintings it sells!

What is going on?

Don't waste your time on the Fullmoon Party if you don't like to meet people from all over the world. There are thousands of happy guys and gals dancing to pumping beats on a "paradise" beach in the moonlight. Or sit in the sand at small tables with some friends and cheer a "Thai whiskey set" with local spririts like Meakong or Sang Som If you prefer beer, try a cold Thai beer such as Singha, Beer Chang, Kloster etc. There are often other beer brands such as Heineken, Tiger, Corona etc. available on many of the bars and restaurants and of course a number of non-alcoholic alternatives like fruit juices, fruit shakes and soft drinks. If you are into dancing, do not forget to drink enough water so you won't end up dehydrated. Delicious Thai traditional food as well as pasta, pizza, burgers, salads, soups etc. is found in the restaurants and at food stalls. Prices are often very reasonable. ATM machines, accepting most credit cards and debit cards as VISA, Mastercard (Maestro/Cirrus) etc. are available close to the beach. Also a few money exchange officies (mini banks) are found here, so if you use a card, you do not have to bring a lot of cash to the party. >

Approximated dates

June, 29 2007

July,31 2007

Aug,28 2007

Sept,26 2007

Oct,26 2007

Nov,24 2007

Bird-watching in Thailand.Activity of studying nature

2007-06-01T12:06:00.001+07:00

Bird watching is a popular activity of studying nature. visitors can not only enjoy watching beautiful birds, getting fresh air, and doing some exercises which maintain that person to be healthy, but also recognize and understand the relationship between bird and environment in which can lead visitors to be aware of its value, and to take heed in preserving both bird and environment.

When and where to go watch bird

In varied nature of Thailand, each place has different types of bird. Therefore, visitors traveling to different part of Thailand will find different types of bird as well, and, sometimes, new type of bird especially in migrating season. visitors should select the place for bird watching to suit that season, such as, to go watch bird in high mountain when the birds are migrating in winter in Doi Inthanon National Park and Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, or to go watch bird when the birds are migrating in mangrove area in Sam Roi Yot National Park, for examples. And in the rains, visitors should go to local forest for bird watching, such as, in Khao Yai National Park, Kang Khachan National Park, Khao Luang National Park, and Thale Ban National Park for examples.

Bird Watching Equipment

Bird watching is an easy activity. visitors have only some equipment can go to enjoy watching birds in the nature. The main bird watching equipments are.

Binocular is necessary equipment for watching bird in long distance clearly.

Bird Watching Manual is a book providing illustration and information of each bird in which bird watcher can sort out the type of bird found correctly.

Record Book is a book for collecting details of bird found for studying later.

Preparing

Well preparing will enable visitors to find birds easily. When going out to find birds, visitors should dress in outfit harmonious with nature, not easily observed by birds, and in which visitors can get closer to that bird, such as in brown, gray or brown color outfit. The outfit should be long-sleeves shirt, full-length trouser for protecting visitors from sunlight and prickle. Shoes should be comfort shoes with socks to prevent graze during walking. Moreover, if going bird watching on High Mountain, visitors should bring woolen coat in winter and raincoat in the rains.

Bird Watching Time

Bird watcher should start bird watching in early morning, which birds also start to find something to eat. This time, birds are very active, hardly ever hiding, so visitors can easily find them. When the temperature is hotter, the birds will go to rest in the trees in which visitors hardly find them. Until late afternoon, the birds will go out to find something to eat again. That is a suitable time for bird watching.

How to watch bird

Bird watchers should go in small groups, better about 2-3 persons, that will enable them to easier find birds than in a big group. When finding birds, bird watchers should take particular quiet, not make noise, avoid standing obviously, and watch the birds from hiding places such as behind a tree for example.

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2007.

2007-06-01T11:49:00.001+07:00

Just look for this sign at participating outlets to get a 10-70% discount and get a chance to win 10 tour packages during June 1 - August 31, 2007.

Duration: 1 June – 31 August, 2007 at leading department stores and shopping complexes in major tourism venues of Thailand; namely, Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Hat Yai.

How to Join the Activities

1. Contact your local travel agent or Thai Airways International Office or visit the website: www.thaiairways.com for specialized holidays and valuable saving on holiday package in Thailand

2. Get a chance to win 5 tour packages to travel in Thailand during the period of the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2007 in July-August, 2007 by making a registration through the website: www.tourismthailand.orgfrom 20 April to 31 May, 2007. Each prize comprises:
       - Round-trip economic class air tickets.
       - 3 days / 2 nights hotel accommodation in the Ratchaprasong area.
       - Visa debit card within the amount of 25,000 Baht.

The fair is organised by the N.C.C. Exhibition Organiser Company Limited, sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The event will take place during 21 - 24 June, 2007, at 10.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m., at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.

In the event, there will be a variety of quality products, services, and tourist attractions with 10-50% off, categorised into zones as follows:

- Grand Sale Zone, comprising clothes, accessories, leather products, and brand names for shopping admirers who prefer quality products at special prices.

- Grand Service Zone for travellers. A variety of accommodation, tourist attractions, airlines, as well as, both domestic and international tour packages is lined up to be chosen.

- Lifestyle and Leisure Zone with the highlight activities to create colourful travelling. It is to respond to the tourism lifestyles of the new generation who have their own unique travelling choices and styles.

- As a result of the “Celebrations on the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary 5th December 2007”, the “Follow the Royal Family’s Project” will be organised. It consists of exhibitions on a variety of royal projects which have created benefits in many aspects to the people of Thailand, as well as, the gracious duties, lifestyles and manners of H.M. the King which can be excellent examples for the Thai people. Moreover, there will be a sale of various products from the royal projects offered to the people participating in the event.

3.Bangkok International Fashion Fair and Bangkok International
Leather Fair 2007 (BIFF & BIL 2007 in Bangkok) is organized by the Department of Export Promotion. In the event, there will be Fashion Design: Trend Forum, Bangkok Fashion Society (BFS) & Designer Labels, as well as, Young & Talented Designers.

Classical Style Resort in Patong Beach.

2007-05-31T10:22:00.001+07:00

Baan Sukhothai Hotel located in the heart of Patong, in the tropical green oasis, Baan Sukhothai Hotel is world apart from others resorts. Combining ideal location-walking distance to the beach, shopping and entertainment district-with classical Thai architecture, Baan Sukhothai Hotel is unique on Phuket Island.

The steep sloping Thai roofs, wood panelling and floors, walkways over lotus ponds and waterway is no longer something of the past. Here at Baan Sukhothai Hotel the feeling of Thailand past is still strong.

The Sukhothai Spa

The Sukhothai Spa blends harmoniously with its surrounds. A two story structure, its distinct Thai-Style design is in keeping with its Classic Thai Architecture. The outside world is forgotten as you enter the alluring ambience; give yourself up to unique Thai rituals that refresh and rejuvenate. The hotel offers a number of dining options. Breakfast is served on the Garden Terrace under the shade of trees. The Balcony Restaurant serves Thai and International food either indoors or under the stars. Green House is a street-side bakery serving daily, fresh, homemade pastries and breads.

The Sukhothai Spa offering a complete range of massage and treatment services, the spa is spread over two floors and includes single and double private oil massage suites, Thai massage area, reflexology centre, steam and sauna rooms.The spa is set in the lush grounds of the hotel and is a serene oasis.

The Baan Sukhothai Hotel with the tropical beach front area will provide a relaxing atmosphere of the Lobby Lounge, Garden Terrace, with a large swimming pool and Pool Bar or the pleasure dining of Thai cuisine International cuisine and the finest seafood on the island at The Balcony Restaurant. Delicious Japanese Cuisines are awaiting for your experience at Miko Restaurant.

Rayong Fruit Festival2007.

2007-05-15T10:13:00.001+07:00

The Rayong fruit festival held on 27 April-3 May,2007at Tapong Agriculture & Fruit Market. Also you can join the fruit festival on Rayong main fruit areas such as Ampher Muang,Ampher Pluagdang,Ampher Wang Chan and Ampher Baan Kai during 27 April - 13 May, 2007.

Those fairs consist of the agriculture exhibition,fruit contest, fruit parade, beauty pageant and OTOP(One Thambon One Product) bazar.
During the fruit season (May-June) the orchard offer tourist activities. Visitor could also pick tropical fruit from the orchard and purchase product at resonable price.

The Rayong fruit festival held on 27 April-3 May,2007at Tapong Agriculture & Fruit Market
The Pineapple Festival held on 28-29 May,2007 at Pluagdang School Ampher Pluagdang.

The Fruit Street Fair held on 5-13 May,2007 at Km No 85-86th on Ban Bung-Klang Road No 344 Ampher Wang Chan. The Nong Tha Phan Fruit Fair held on 4-10 May,2007 at Nong Tha Phan Tourist Information Center Ampher Baan Kai. The Muangklang Fruit Fair held on 10-13 May,2007 at Porn Chai Market on Ban Bung-Klang Road Ampher Klang.

Golfing in Thailand.

2007-05-14T17:33:00.001+07:00

Golf is one of the most popular sports in Thailand. The game arrived in the county a century ago and was quickly taken up by the elite and the fashionable. Among the first sponsors of the game were the armed forces and government institutions, which built and continue to own some of the finest courses in the county.

About 350,000 visitors are believed to have played golf in Thailand in 2002, generating an expenditure of nearly 6.2 billion baht. The Tourism Authority of Thailand is planning to raise these figures to one million golfers, generating an estimated 18.45 billion baht by 2007. In 2004 alone, the plan is to attract 400,000 golfers. Who will generate an estimated 7.1 billion baht, an increase of 14.29% over 2002.

There are over 200 high standard golf courses nationwide, many of them championship standards. The world’s top designers have made a significant contribution. Jack Nicklaus, Roboert Trent Jones Jr, Pete De Gar Player and many others have perfected modern layouts, using the best grasses and latest techniques.

The result is some of the most attractive courses in Asia, with excellent facilities, memorable signature holes and regular maintenance to keep them in top-class condition. Every course has its caddies; it's mandatory to empoly one caddie for your round. They are Thailand’s secret weapon in making golf such good fun. These brightly clad ladies, in smart uniforms and straw hats, know lots about the course, smile almost all the time, and very good at reading putts.

There are at least a few courses in or within easy reach of all major cites. Most of the newer courses offer accommodation on site or nearby, plus recreational facilities for the whole family.

For the more adventurous, there are older, natural courses in remote areas around the courses in remote areas around the country owned by the Royal Irrigation Department, the Electricity Generation Authority of Thailand, all offering good value. So for golfers who not only appreciate a challenging course, but an exotically different one too, there is an extraordinary choice.

The best time to plan a golfing trip is the cool season, from November to March. From April to October it is hot and wet, but even in the rainy months the downfall usually comes in the afternoon, and for only a few minutes. Most courses have good drainage systems, and the rains should not interrupt your game for long. At some facilities you may need to book ahead, through your club or your hotel, and advance booking is recommended for weekends. Greens fees continue to be very reasonable, as are the fees for caddies.

THE GRAND CANDLE FESTIVAL.

2007-05-12T10:10:00.001+07:00

The festival features a great candle procession which reflects the devout belief in Buddhism, time-honoured traditions and rituals associated with "Khao Phansa" or the Buddhist Lent, as well as the beauty and uniqueness of the art and culture of the Northeastern region.

Ubon Ratchathani is home to a great number of craftsmen in several fields who continue to produce exceptional work in contemporary art, local handicrafts, Buddhist art and architecture, particularly the ornate work that adorns the temples of Ubon Ratchathani. The magnificent wax candles highlighted during the Candle Festival shows how local artists express their artistic talent and religious faith.

During the festival, special displays, demonstrations and cultural presentations offer insight into local traditions, beliefs and way of life. For example, see how candles for religious worship are cast, learn about meditation techniques and traditional chanting.

Visit communities and temples where candles are made and crafted two or three days before the Royal Candle Procession. Learn about the techniques and methods used as well as the designs applied to the candles.

Merit-making
Another important aspect of the Buddhist Lent is to donate candles to the temples for religious worship. It is believed that this act bestows great blessings on the donor. Visitors are welcome to join in this auspicious ritual at all temples.

Thai Massage

2007-05-10T14:56:00.001+07:00

With the growing number of spas worldwide offering an extensive range of treatments, it is interesting to know that massage is still the most frequently requested spa therapy. Massage is primarily about touch, and touch in itself has healing qualities. Despite the many techniques and principles, the effects, psychological and physiological, remain the same. Massaging the muscles relaxes and stimulates the circulation so that blood flows freely, carrying oxygen and nutrients to where they are needed. By working on the circulation, regular massage can help normalise blood pressure, easing the pressure on overburdened arteries and veins. Massage stimulates the lymphatic system which is responsible for nourishing cells, carrying waste products out of the body and defending the body against infection. At the same time bodywork improves muscle and skin tone, stimulates the nervous system and improves overall body health. The treatment menu at a good spa will invariably include several types of massage. Many of the more popular ones including Thai Massage originated in the East. But whether Western or Eastern there are similarities in the techniques used, and often they consist of a combination of the different forms of bodywork.

Thai Massage

Nuad pan boran is the name for traditional Thai Massage which dates back at least 2,500 years. It is recognised as a practical application of the Buddhist concept of metta, or loving kindness. Thai Massage is a known healing technique that places emphasis on the mind and body connection and, with a skilled therapist, it is also used as a tool in the treatment of emotional and spiritual disorders. Thai Massage is based on the principle that invisible lines of force run through the body. The focus is on 10 lines called “sen”. The massage seeks to release blockages that may exist along the sen to allow the free flow of energy throughout the body. The client is clothed and lies on a floor mattress. The therapist applies pressure using the thumbs, fingertips, hands, feet, arms and legs. Compression using the therapists’ body weight is also applied to large areas of the body, such as the back and hips. Pressures combined with manipulations stretch the spine and pull on joints to leave the body feeling loose and relaxed, ultimately maintaining flexibility and relieving tension. The therapist works kneeling or sitting on the floor alongside the client, working from the feet up to the shoulders and neck, over the face and onto the scalp. Thai Massage is a deep-massage technique that can be very relaxing. However, it can go beyond pampering and relaxation and the more advanced practitioners are trained to treat ailments and diseases as well.

TUI NA
Tui Na is an Oriental bodywork therapy that has been used in China for 2,000 years. It uses the traditional Chinese medical theory of the flow of qi through the meridians as its basic therapeutic orientation. Tui Na is a varied technique that uses many different strokes such as rolling, pressing, kneading, plucking and vibrations that are applied to acupoints, channels and muscle groups. When done correctly there is an exchange of qi energy between the practitioner and the patient, resulting in ultimate
healing. Through the application of massage and manipulation techniques Tui Na focuses on the flow of qi through the system of channels, allowing the body to naturally heal itself. Tui Na methods include the use of hand techniques to massage the soft tissue of the body, acupressure techniques to directly affect the flow of qi and manipulation techniques. As with Shiatsu and Thai Massage, the client wears loose clothing and lies on a table or floor mat. Sessions last from 30 minutes to one hour. Tui Na is recommended for the treatment of specific musculo-skeletal disorders and chronic stress-related disorders of the digestive, respiratory and reproductive systems.

SHIATSU
Although its roots lie in China, Shiatsu was developed in modern-day Japan. Also known as acupressure, the term Shiatsu translates as “finger pressure” but similar to Thai Massage, in practice hands, knees, elbows or even feet are used by the practitioner to apply pressure to the body. Shiatsu is based on the principle that energy runs through the meridians which are said to govern the internal organs and our entire metabolism. The pressure is placed at precisely located points on the meridian lines of the body through which energy flows – there are 14 main meridians and there are approximately 600 Shiatsu points. Applying pressure on the points has the effect of balancing that energy to help maintain or restore the body’s natural vitality, working on the principle that depleted energy requires toning to give relief whereas excess energy needs sedating. In addition to localised pressure points, Shiatsu can also involve stretching and manipulations which also require the client’s participation in order to co-ordinate the breath with the manipulations. Shiatsu is performed with the client dressed in loose, comfortable clothing, on the floor on a mat or futon. Treatments can help the young or old, active or sedentary and the method is claimed to help conditions as varied as allergies, anxiety and depression, asthma, digestive disorders, insomnia, headache and migraine, menstrual problems and sinusitis. Shiatsu can be used as a complete system of health maintenance, or simply for stress reduction and relaxation.

6th KOH SAMUI REGATTA

2007-05-08T08:59:00.001+07:00

The Koh Samui Regatta, now in its sixth year, looks set to maintain its strong reputation as one of the highlights of the Asian sailing circuit at the 2007 event – being held between May 27th and June 2nd.

The week long sailing extravaganza, now officially recognised by the International Sailing Federation, brings together many of the world’s top sailors guaranteeing a week of fun filled racing action and passionate partying.

The Regatta is organised under the auspices of the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand. Racing takes place over five days comprising of a mixture of coastal passages and around the cans.

The event culminates in a VIP gala dinner and awards ceremony at the Central Samui Beach Resort. Evening cocktail parties are held at various locations throughout the Regatta.
The laid back luxury of island life, combined with exhilarating On-The-Water action offers a truly unique event.

“In six successful years the Koh Samui Regatta has made incredible progress and it is easy to see why it has
become one of the highlights of the Asian sailing circuit,” says Pornsiri Manoharn, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

“The Koh Samui Regatta can truly be called an international yachting event since it attracts boats from as far a field as Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong, as well as from all parts of Thailand, which make their way here solely to take part in this fun event.”

KOH SAMUI REGATTA 2007 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
• Saturday May 26th
    – Early Registration @ Central Samui Beach Resort
• Sunday May 27th
    – Registration Day @ Central Samui Beach Resort/ Opening Party @ Zico’s Brazilian Grill
       and Bar
• Monday May 28th
    – Race Day 1
• Tuesday May 29th
    – Race Day 2
• Wednesday May 30th
    – Race Day 3
• Thursday May 31st
    - Rest Day / Explore this beautiful Tropical Island with the Land Rover Tour
• Friday June 1st
    – Race Day 4 / Land Rover Party @ TBA
• Saturday June 2nd
    – Race Day 5 / VIP Gala Dinner @ Central Samui Beach Resort

Initial participant response indicates that over 30 yachts are expected to head to Koh Samui this May with an even mixture of keelboats and multihulls. Racing classes include: Racing; Cruising; Sports Boats; Multihulls and Firefly One Design.

"We firmly support this regatta,” said Daweesak Somabha , President of the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand . “Our commitment helps ensure the success of an event which brings so much credit to the lovely island of Samui and her people.”

The 2007 event is being managed by Image Asia Events Co., Ltd. , who will draw upon their vast experience running the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta the Evason Phuket Raceweek and the Phuket International Marine Expo (PIMEX), to ensure that the 6th Koh Samui Regatta 2007 maintains its reputation as a major player in the marine events arena. Its proven expertise in the industry will encourage the growth of the event, while remaining truthful to its origins – providing an excellent platform to showcase the region and the
regatta.

Commenting on the relationship with Image Asia Events Co., Ltd, Peter Plant, Secretary of the Koh Samui Regatta Organising Committee said, “The tie up with Image Asia Events presents a great opportunity for the Koh Samui Regatta to move forward and to strengthen its place as one of the highlights of the Asian sailing circuit.”

Koh Samui
Koh Samui is Thailand’s third largest island at 247 square kilometres. During the last decade the island has become one of South East Asia’s top five most visite d tourist destinations. The neighbouring islands of Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and the breathtaking Ang Thong National Marine Park offer visitors a wide range of activities such as sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling and adventure excursions.

Along with the island’s established infrastructure including international educational and medical facilities, a wide choice of high street shopping brands, exquisite dining venues, and beautiful white sandy beaches, Koh Samui stands out as one of the jewels in Thailand’s illustrious crown.

For Interviews / Images / Further Information
Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co., Ltd.
198 Tanou Road, Bovernives
Pranakorn, Bangkok, 10200
Thailand
Tel/Fax: +66 2622 0605 - 7

Paul Poole – Managing Director (English Speaking)
Tel: +66 8 6563 3196
E-mail: paulpoole@email.com
Thanthip Kaewsri – Personal Assistant (Thai/ English Speaking)
Tel: +66 8 1694 7412
E-mail: thanthip@email.com

EVASON PHUKET RACEWEEK 2007.

2007-04-27T16:03:00.001+07:00

The Evason Phuket Raceweek 2007, now in its fourth year, will take place on the beautiful waters off the Rawai Beach on the South Eastern side of Phuket Island.
With the promise of international-standard yachting and five-star parties, the Regatta will play host to over 40 boats and 300 participants. Evason Phuket Raceweek is the fastest-growing regatta in Asia; the event creates the perfect opportunity to relax, network and entertain.

This year’s Raceweek comprises a four-day regatta covering seven race classes. While the final composition will be determined shortly before the event, likely classes include Racing Sports Boat Class, IRC Class, Club Class, Multihull Racing Class, Multihull Performance Cruising Class, Firefly 850 One-design Class and Classic Class.

The lower sea view terrace of the Evason Phuket Resort and Six Senses Spa will operate as the Phuket Raceweek HQ. The resort is the sponsoring host venue for the fourth year running, and is set among 64 acres of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens. Meanwhile, all the look-out points on the South Eastern side of Phuket Island will provide spectacular vantage points for the action.

Evason Phuket Raceweek is held under the auspices of the Ao Chalong Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand. Organisers Image Asia Events Co., Ltd. will draw upon their vast experience with the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, and the Phuket International Marine Expo (PIMEX) to create an event that perfectly showcases the region, and the sport.

Image Asia Managing Director Grenville Fordham said: “We are really excited to be organising the 4th Evason
Phuket Raceweek. The 2007 event will undoubtedly be the best yet. It is rapidly becoming a big draw for spectators and participants alike, so such a prestigious event is very important for the local area and economy.”

English commercial sponsorship & partnership marketing opportunities executive summary attached. For a
Thai version, please contact Thanthip Kaewsri on +66 8 1694 7412 or thanthip@email.com

Full details can be found at: www.paulpoole.co.th/phuketraceweek and www.phuketraceweek.com and www.image-asia.com

PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL 2007.

2007-03-12T10:12:00.000+07:00

PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL 2007 March 16 - 18, 2007
At the Pattaya Sports Stadium, Chaiyaphruek Road, Pattaya city 18.00 - midnight

Highlights
Concerts by artists from Thailand's leading music labels such as RS Promotion and GMM Grammy, as well as MTV.

Every year in March thousands of people travel to Pattaya, Thailand's famous beach resort, to have fun at the Pattaya Music Festival. This year again, the Pattaya Music Festival 2007 will be held for 3 days from the 16th until the 18th of March.

The Pattaya Music Festival has proven to be very popular among locals as well as foreign travelers each year. This international flair is also reflected in the music events, bands and shows that can be seen on the festival. There is always a big mixture of local Thai as well as foreign music acts. The music itself doesn't follow any specific style. You will find music from all facets of modern music including Hip Hop, Pop, Rock and even electronic music. But also Jazz and easy-listening tunes can be heard on the Pattaya Music Festival. There are bands playing as well as many DJs spinning the newest tunes from all over the world.

With such a big music event coming to Pattaya, the food offerings are as well upgraded. A lot of food stalls are installed just for te event and you will have no problem fining many local delicacies for cheap prices. In 2006, a crafts market had many interesting handicrafts to sell and a fireworks show entertained all party dwellers. So expect similar happening at the Pattaya Music Festival 2007. As the information becomes available we will update this article again. Many top acts are not confirmed until shortly before the event so stay tuned for more.

The Pattaya Music Festival 2007 will not only be about live concerts and music. There are many other music related activities and performances that will be attractive to all people coming to Pattaya. In the big Pattaya walking street you will find different kinds of shops and booths from record companies selling music, music books, music magazines and many other things that is related the their artists and CDs they are selling.

Vietnam : Quan Lan Communal House Festival.

2006-11-07T10:34:00.000+07:00

Quan Lan Communal House Festival is the village-wide celebration for the inhabitants of the island community of Quan Lan in the central area of the ancient Van Don commercial port in northern Quang Ninh province.

The festivities are organized yearly on the 18th day of the sixth lunar month, but the celebration lasts from the 10th to the 20th day of month, which fall from July 5-15 this year.

The 10th day of the sixth lunar month features the ritual of "closing the village": the inhabitants cannot leave, but those who have moved away and other guests from any corner of the country are welcome.

Among the highlights of the festival is a boat race with the participation of local villagers.

The participants, divided into two groups, establish their particular training grounds on the 13th day of the month in order to prepare themselves.

The boats used for the competition are ordinary 5 to 6-ton fishing boats, with lowered sails and dragon - heads carved on the fronts.

The 16th day is reserved for receiving the genies. There is a procession for the funeral tablets of Tran Khanh Du from the temple to the village's communal house.

On the 18th day at about 3pm (every year at this time the tide reaches the temple's wharf), the boats start.

The "soldiers" on one side wear a white jacket and blue pants, while the other group wears gray or black clothing.

When the opposing generals meet each other at the communal house, the "soldiers" and spectators shout resoundingly; the noise echoes throughout the region.

The two generals make sword - tracings in the air, and the two troops meet each other three times: symbolizing the three victories during the Tran Dynasty. Following the third meeting, they assemble before the shrine and the rowing contest begins.

Quan Lan Communal House Festival bears characteristics of traditional village festivals, but is particularly grandiose, expressing the military spirit of the Vietnamese in the struggle against foreign invaders.

Ha Long Bay welcomes 500 foreign visitors by sea.

2006-11-07T10:10:00.000+07:00

The Saigon Tourist Corporation (Saigontourist) on November 4 received more than 500 foreign travellers to the Ha Long Bay in northern Quang Ninh province on board an Italian cruise ship.

The tourists on the Costa Allegra are mainly coming from China, Italy, Japan and the Republic of Korea.

This is the first time the cruise ship of the Costa Crociere S.p.A to dock at the Ha Long Bay and the fourth to Vietnam.

The ship will then arrive in the central city of Da Nang on November 5, taking the visitors to many destinations, including the ancient town of Hoi An and the former imperial city of Hue.

The Costa Allegra plans to make regular visits from Hong Kong to Ha Long Bay every five days.

Previously, the vessel brought some 3,650 international holidaymakers to Ho Chi Minh City in May and June. (VNA)

Colorful Water – Loi krathong Great Festival-

2006-11-02T11:03:00.000+07:00

“Loi Krathong” is traditionally performed on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, which usually falls on some day in November.

HighLight

Bangkok
Loi Krathong Festival
Date: 2-5 November 2006
Place: Banks of the Chao Phraya River (Taksin Bridge – Krungthon Bridge), Bangkok
Activitie: Electric decoration of ship procession to celebrate his majesty the king’s 60th year accession on the throne, Loi Krathong activities at several temples and other official departments, electric decoration along the building and ancient remains along both sides of Chaophraya River.

Remark: Enjoy Light Up and nightlife tour throughout the month.

Sukhothai
Loi Krathong and Candle Festival
Date: 1-5 November 2006
Place: Sukhothai Historical Park, Tambon Mueang Kao, Mueang District, Sukhothai
Activitie: Exciting with the great Krathong procession of 17 northern provinces and from other government departments. Feast of Lanterns, ancient firework shows, such as, rocket, circular wing rocket, sparking firework, turbine firework, floating lantern, etc., Miss Noppamat Contest, “The Dawn of Happiness” Light & Sound show, Sukhothai traditional and cultural shows, Kra Tong Contest and enjoy Loi Krathong in the full-moon night at the old city of Sukhothai.

Chiang Mai
Yi Peng Festival
Date: 4-6 November 2006
Place: Tha Phae Gate, banks of the Ping River, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Chiang Mai

Activitie: A dazzling procession of hanging lanterns, Krathongs, Phi Yi Peng, as well as light and sound presentation in the Ping River, activities of Loi Krathong in the past, Lanna Thai lifestyle, Lanna cultural performances, and sales of Lanna handicrafts.

Tak
Loi Krathong Sai Festival
Date: 3-8 November 2006
Place: The Sompot Krung Rattanakosin 200 Years Bridge, Tak

Activitie: Enjoy cheering in Krathong Procession (Kra Thong Sai) Contest for king’s cup, lanterns procession of the royal families, royal Kratong and lanterns procession, electric decoration, light & sound show, rocket, firework and “the Legend of Kra Thong Sai” water-screen show. The longest Krathong procession, native cultural show, native foods and OTOP fairs.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Loi Krathong Tam Prathip
Date: 3-5 November 2006
Place: Bangsai Royal Folks Arts and Crafts Centre, Bangsai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Activitie: Enjoy lantern Krathong of Sri Ayutthaya style, Kra Thong and hanging lanterns contest, Miss Noppamat Contest, light & sound and multimedia shows, native cultural show, products fairs and entertainments.

Gallery

10 RULES FOR THE VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL

2006-10-19T09:41:00.000+07:00

10 RULES FOR THE VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL

Cleanliness of bodies during the festival
Clean kitchen utensils and to use them seperately from other who do not join the festival
Wear white during the festival
Behave physically and mentally
No meat eating
No sex
No alcoholic drinks
People at mourning period should not attend the festival
Pragnant ladies should not watch any ritual
Ladies with period should not attend the ritual

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

2006-10-19T09:32:00.000+07:00

Date 22 Oct 2006 - 30 Oct 2006
Place At the shrines in Phuket Province.

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is an annual event held during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar. It is believed that the vegetarian festival and its accompanying sacred rituals bestow good fortune upon those who religiously observe this rite. During this time, local residents of Chinese ancestry strictly observe a 10-day vegetarian or vegan diet for the purposes of spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Sacred rituals are performed at various Chinese shrines and temples and aesthetic displays such as walking barefooted over hot coals and ascending ladders with bladed rungs are performed by entranced devotees known as "Ma Song". Place all the shrine in Phuket.

Activities
Phuket's Vegetarian festival (or jia chai in local Hokkien Chinese dialect) began in 1825, when the govenor of Thalang, Praya Jerm, moved the island's principal town from Ta Reua in Thalang District to Get-Hoe in Kathu District, where were tin mines and Chinese miners. Kathu was then still covered by jungle and fever was rife. It happened that a traveling opera company (called ngiu in Thai or pua-hee in Hokkien dialect) came from China to perform for the minersWhen the whole company grew sick from an unnamed malady, they kept to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the emperor gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. The sickness afflicting the opera troupe then disappeared. This greatly interested the people of Kathu, who asked how it was done. The answer came that ritual vegetarianism with its attendant ceremonies had been the cause, with the result that people embraced the faith enthusiastically. Thus the festival began:starting the first evening of the ninth lunar month, it continued until the ninth evening; the aim was to bring good luck to individuals as well as to the community.

It later happened that one familiar with the festival volunteered to return to Kansai, in China, where he invited the sacred Hiao Ho-le or Hiao lan (incense smoke) and Lian Tui (name plaques), which have the status of gods, to come stay in Kathu. He also brought holy writings used in the ceremonies, returning to Phuket on the seventh night of the ninth month. The people, upon hearing of his arrival, went in procession to Bang Niao Pier to bring him and his sacred cargo back. This was the origin of the processions that figure so greatly in the festival.

The afternoon before the festival begins, a great pole at each temple is raised, called the Go Teng pole, with which the gods are invited to descend. At midnight the pole is hung with nine lanterns, signalizing the opening of the fest. Two important gods are also invited down at midnight to preside over ceremonies; these are Yok Ong Hong Tae and Kiew Ong Tai Tae.

Aside from this, there are other ceremonies throughout the fest, notably: invocation of the gods Lam Tao, who keeps track of the living, and Pak Tao, who keeps track of the dead; processions of the gods' images; and feats of the Ma Song-like bathing in hot oil, bladed ladder climbing and fire-walking. The festival ends with merit making ceremonies at each temple (sadoh kroh) and the send-off of the gods on the last night (when fireworks are at their most impressive).

Ma Song, or entranced horses, are devotees whom the gods enter during the fest. They manifest supernatural powers and perform self-tortures in order to shift evil from individuals onto themselves, and to bring the community good luck. Ma Song fall into two categories: those who, having had an intimation of impending doom, want to extend their lives; and people specially chosen by the gods for their moral qualities.

Throughout the festival fireworks and drums are sounded, especially during ceremonies. It is held that the louder they are the better, because the noise drives away evil spirits.

Participants in the fest keep to a strict vegetarian diet for a varying number of days, usually no less than three. This they do to make themselves strong in mind and body; they refrain from all vice, eating animal flesh, and killing animals. The festival thus promotes good hygiene, brightness and inner peace.

Tickets/Admission Fees for Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006

2006-10-16T13:58:00.000+07:00

Tickets for Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 – International Horticultural Exposition for His Majesty the King are now on sale nationwide.

Please note that as the official opening ceremony will be held on 1 November 2006, access to certain areas of the exposition may be restricted. Security measures will also be intensified. The Organizing Committee sincerely apologizes for the inconvenience this may cause.

Ticket Pricing Table

Ticket Type		Price		Conditions for Use
		Special offer (50% savings)	Price at site
		Purchase in advance at ticket agents from now - Jan 31, 07	Purchase at ticket counter at Entrance to the site only
Single Entry Ticket	Adult	100	200	Entry date has to be printed.
Single Entry Ticket	Child/Students/ Disabled/ Elderly over 60 years	50	100	Entry date has to be printed.
Multiple Entry Ticket	Adult	400	800	The ticket is for unlimited visits for one person with the visitor's name printed on the ticket and verified by ID card on each visit.
Multiple Entry Ticket	Child/Students/ Disabled/ Elderly over 60 years	200	400
Group Visit 15-50 persons	Adult	70	150	1) A group ticket will be issued as one ticket . 2) Child and adult can be counted together. 3) Entry date has to be printed.
Group Visit 15-50 persons	Child/Students/ Disabled/ Elderly over 60 years	30	50

Remarks

Child = height between 100-140 cms. There is no admission fee for children under 100 cms height.
Elderly persons are those over 60 years as verified by ID card or other official document
Students are limited to undergraduates and lower only.
The Project Management Office reserves the right to verify documents in accordance with the conditions of ticket type.

Please click for details.

Experts call for action to save marine ecology around Phu Quoc

2006-10-16T13:49:00.000+07:00

A group of Vietnamese scientists has called for setting up a marine reserve in Phu Quoc island to save the coral and other creatures in the area from overexploitation for commercial purposes.

In a letter the scientists wrote to the Kien Giang province people’s committee – the government – they said a 10,000 hectare area covering 13 small and medium islands in An Thoi Bay should immediately be declared a protected area.

They suggested 8,000 ha of this could be turned into an economic development zone, mostly for ecotourism, under official control.

They warned that the illegal exploitation of coral by divers and fishermen to sell to tourists threatened to destroy the habitat.

The An Thoi archipelago has 124 ha of coral reefs, 250 ha of sea grass, and a variety of marine creatures including the endangered dugong and dolphins and sea turtles.

The petition also warned that if the authorities did not act, Phu Quoc would go the way of other coastal resorts like Nha Trang and Ca Na whose coral reefs have been decimated.

Vietnam is thought to have one of the world's most diverse marine ecologies.

Source: Tuoi Tre – Translated by Luu Thi Hong

Macao firms, Vietnam resort ink cooperation deal

2006-10-12T14:58:00.000+07:00

Vietnam’s central Furama Danang Resort & Spa signed memorandums of understanding (MoU) with Macao-based businesses from China on tourism and air service cooperation.

The signing ceremony took place Wednesday during the visit of the delegation of officials and businessmen of China’s Macao Special Administrative Region to Danang city.

The resort inked an MOU with Viva Macao Limited to launch a low-cost direct air service between Macao and Danang city in the first quarter next year.

Under the MOU, the Furama Danang will cooperate with Viva Macao for accommodation and aviation services when the company offers air service to the city to tap potential travelers on the route.

Also yesterday, the resort inked another MOU with Macao-based travel firm Gray Line Tours Ltd. over their cooperative tourism activities and promotions in both destinations.

The first event under the MOU, the city tourism sector is set to organize Vietnamese cultural week in Macao next month to introduce culture and tourism potentials of Danang.

The MOUs with two Macao companies were important to bringing a large volume of international travelers to not only Furama Resort but also the central coastal city, said Huynh Tan Vinh, deputy general manager of Furama.

Vinh, who is also chairman of the Danang Tourism Association, expected that more business and leisure travelers would come from Macao to Danang, especially for MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Convention and Exhibition).

Furama Danang can receive some 80,000 guests and commission a 2,500-sq.m conference hall able to accommodate 1,500 people at a time to meet the demand of MICE tourists.

The resort said room occupancy had exceeded 60 percent and that its operations had come back to normal after Typhoon Xangsane tore through central Vietnam earlier this month.

Danang’s rapid development has attracted the interest of foreign business people and airlines.

Thai Airways International Public Co. Ltd. has mulled over resuming air service between Bangkok and Danang next year.

Phuket Invitation Super Yacht Redzvous 2006

2006-10-11T10:34:00.000+07:00

The PHUKET INVITATIONAL is an exclusive annual Superyacht rendezvous held at the Amanpuri Resort, Phuket, Thailand
on the 19th & 20th of December every year.

The Phuket Invitational is a sponsored 'rendezvous' for the many superyachts which arrive to celebrate the festive season. A series of events are held over a two-day period, starting with a deepsea fishing tournament, skipper's briefing and cocktail party. The second day holds the 'main event', the Phuket Invitational yacht rally. A course of two to three miles is set offshore, affording spectators the chance to see beautiful superyachts up close.

More information at www.phuket-invitational.com

Hotels group introduces luxury brand to Vietnam metro

2006-10-10T12:12:00.000+07:00

InterContinental Hotels Group has signed an agreement to manage its first luxury-tier InterContinental branded property in Vietnam’s southern metro, Ho Chi Minh City.

Set to open in 2009, the InterContinental Asiana Saigon will be well-positioned to make a landmark contribution to the city’s rapid growth as a tourism hub.

Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s District One, the InterContinental Asiana Saigon will be part of Kumho Asiana Plaza, an extensive mixed-use development.

The hotel will have a prime address along Le Duan Boulevard, within close proximity to embassies, shopping and tourist attractions.

The mega project, which will occupy more than 147,000 square metres, is being developed by Kumho Asiana Plaza Saigon Co. Ltd. The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of public listed Kumho Industrial Co Ltd, part of the Kumho Asiana Group of Korea.

Jan Smits, chief operating officer, Southern Asia, InterContinental Hotels Group Asia Pacific, said: “We are delighted to be able to bring the InterContinental Hotels and Resorts brand to Ho Chi Minh City, which is a key market in our overall development strategy.”

“Vietnam has demonstrated remarkable growth in both the leisure and business travel segments. We see further opportunities to enhance our presence as Vietnam continues to promote itself in the international arena as an attractive place to visit.”

With more than 300 rooms and close to 270 residences for long-staying guests, the InterContinental Asiana Saigon will be designed to reflect the unique culture of Vietnam.

The hotel will offer extensive conference and meeting facilities, a range of food and beverage outlets as well as a Club InterContinental lounge. Other facilities include a health club, spa and a swimming pool.

Source: Hospitality Net

Hilton Hanoi Opera wins Vietnam’s Best Hotel Award

2006-10-10T12:08:00.000+07:00

Hilton Hanoi Opera has been awarded Vietnam’s Best Hotel Award at the 2006 World Travel Awards. This is the third time the hotel has won this prestigious award.

Hilton Hanoi Opera was built on the backdrop of the magnificent Hanoi Opera House. The 7-storey landmark is complete with 269 attractively furnished bedrooms to comfortably accommodate both leisure and business travelers.

The hotel also features a 500 guest capacity Ballroom as well as 6 other spacious meeting rooms and a business centre. These rooms are all fitted with the latest state-of-the-art audio-visual and lighting equipment, ideal for functions, conferences and exhibitions

“If there was a city that still embraces its Asian way of life, yet at the same time offers the dynamism of a richly textured metropolis with something for everybody, it’s got to be Hanoi,” said a delighted Jerome Auvity, General Manager of Hilton Hanoi Opera.

“It is indeed great to know that, with winning this prestigious award, we have once again put Hanoi in the international spotlight.”

Pattaya Attractions

2006-09-25T15:13:00.000+07:00

Suvarnabhumi Airport ,Open on 28/9/2006

2006-09-25T15:08:00.000+07:00

Place : Bangplee, Samut Prakarn
Suvarnabhumi Airport, a new international airport located 24 kilometres east of Bangkok, was due to be open on September 28, 2006. It replaces the old overloaded airport at Don Muang and accommodates all international and domestic flights to Bangkok.

The official opening of Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok’s new international airport, on 28 September 2006, gives new impetus to the country’s quest to make Bangkok and Thailand the aviation hub of the region.

Named 'Suvarnabhumi' (meaning 'Golden Land') by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand (Rama IX), the development of Suvarnabhumi Airport as the aviation hub of the region is of strategic importance to Thailand’s future and is a priority on the ‘national agenda’.

During the initial phase of operation, the north section of the airport will accommodate 45 million passengers per year, 76 flights per hour and 3 million tons of cargo handling per year. After the final phase, this will rise to 100 million passengers a year.

At 563,000 square metres, the passenger terminal is currently the largest in the world. The airport also features the world's longest runway, 75.3 metres by 4,000 metres long and the world’s tallest control tower, 132.2 metres high, providing the best visual coverage of overall airside.

When in full operation, the airport will help boost Thailand’s economic, social, communication, and tourism development, and advance the government policy of making Thailand an aviation hub in Southeast Asia.

Suvarnabhumi Airport is located at Km. 15 (15th kilometre milestone) on the east-bound Bangna-Trat Highway in Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan province, east of Bangkok. The airport is approximately 25 kms from the Bangkok metropolis.

As of 28 September 2006, Suvarnabhumi Airport replaces Don Muang airport as Bangkok's primary airport for all commercial airline flights.

More details about Suvarnabhumi Airport, please click.

Source: The Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT)

2006-09-23T16:10:00.000+07:00

Thailand's coup leaders order soldiers to smile
BANGKOK, Thailand Thailand is often called the 'Land of Smiles,' and the military's coup leaders apparently don't want to ruin that image. So, soldiers have been ordered to smile.
Army radio broadcasts are reminding soldiers to be friendly and courteous, especially to children and anyone who wants to take pictures with them.
Since Tuesday's overthrow of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, tanks and soldiers have been stationed at strategic points around Bangkok, instantly becoming a must-have photograph for many Thais and tourists.
"People have shown overwhelming support for the soldiers," the army radio station said Saturday. "People take their children to see the tanks and take pictures with the tanks and soldiers."
"The soldiers should promote a positive image and continue smiling, and be polite," the army radio said.
It's unclear if soldiers were also ordered to let civilians hold their M-16s, which some Thais and foreigners did as they posed for photographs that were published in local newspapers Saturday.
Many Thais have described this as the friendliest coup this country has ever seen. Thailand has a history of violent military coups, and the last one in 1991 ended with at least 50 pro-democracy demonstrators gunned down in Bangkok.

The Associated Press
Published: September 23, 2006

Thailand Coup do the job right ?

2006-09-21T13:16:00.000+07:00

Thailand coup by Thai army chief General Sonthi Boonyaratglin.

Thailand's latest coup d'etat, staged by the military to oust caretaker prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra on Tuesday night, turned out to be the mildest and most peaceful operation in the history of Thai political revolutions. No gunshots were fired. There were no clashes or bloodbaths. And many people, instead of being scared away by the tanks and troops that roamed the city, felt safe enough to approach and even give the soldiers bunches of roses.

The Council for Democratic Reform, for the first time in history, opted for a female anchor to make announcements, alternately with a male colleague.

''The soldiers had yellow ribbons [yellow is the symbolic colour of His Majesty the King] tied on their weapons or clothes and many were smiling.

survey by the Bangkok Post found most people interviewed in Bangkok and selected provinces across the country supported the coup.

A survey conducted by Suan Dusit Poll yesterday among 2,019 people from various occupations nationwide found that 83.9% were for the takeover by the Council for Democratic Reform.

Surprisingly, more people in the provinces supported the coup _ 86.3 % of the respondents, compared to their counterparts in Bangkok at 81.6 %.

Meanwhile, 75% believed the coup would improve the political situation, 20.2 thought the situation would remain the same, while 4.7% said the coup would make matters worse.

Preview Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 at Thailand (update Picture)

2006-09-20T00:29:00.000+07:00

Venue:Royal Agricultural Research Center, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Duration: 1 November 2006 – 31 January 2007
Area: 80 hectares/ 7200 m-walking track
See Other Infomation
Zones:

Gardens for the King
Thai Tropical Garden
World of Tropical Plants & Flowers
Expo Plaza

“Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006”
Thailand’s First International Horticultural Exposition Receiving AIPH Recognition

“Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006” is the first ever International Horticultural Exposition receiving recognition from The Association of International Horticulture Producers (AIPH) to be held in Thailand.

Agriculture has been the backbone of the country for centuries. Thailand’s horticultural technology has advanced tremendously while Thai horticultural products -- deemed to be one of the highest-quality products in the world -- are much sought after. Several varieties of Thai plants and flowers like tropical fruits, Thai-bred orchids, native ornamental plants and other produce – all unique marvels of horticulture, are among the most valuable. Surprisingly enough, many Thais who now live abroad now return to their motherland at least once a year to buy and indulge themselves in the extraordinary tastes of Thai fruits, spices and herbs. Yet, there has not been a platform of the same scale as the “Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006” to showcase the horticultural excellence Thailand has in store for the world. The Thai government believes that this is the right platform for the country to show that she is ready to become the “Kitchen of the World” for people of all races.

Back In Nature’s Embrace

This presents a welcome opportunity for many Thais to re-discover nature’s magnificent gifts and to be back in tune with nature again.

Thais have long been immersed in a ‘concrete jungle’. Many have forgotten the intertwining relationships with Mother Nature who has given us life, food, shelter, and peace of mind.

Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006’s theme -- “To Express the Love for Humanity” -- is well-worth pondering. City dwellers do not think enough about trees and flowers; many of us have often forgotten to sufficiently care for nature. “Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006” will sharpen our awareness and rekindle our appreciation of nature and the sense of well-being that emanates from nature’s gifts of life.

Nature will be back in our conscience and we will be back in tune with Mother Nature – one who offers refuge to us when we need it most.

The Ancient Northern Capital of Chiang Mai – ‘Rose of the North’

Chiang Mai is one of the most beautiful and charming cities in the world. Each year, millions of tourists from all over the world who visit Chiang Mai find themselves entranced by the breathtaking scenery and captivating culture.

“Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006” will be bringing in many more visitors from all parts of the world to experience the city and an exposition they will never forget. It will also be an opportunity for Thais to be proud hosts showing the city they love to visitors from around the world.

Update picture

Kick-boxing and elephants in a rose garden

2006-09-16T17:45:00.000+07:00

Rose Garden Riverside sounds like a destination for flower lovers, but there's a whole lot more to it than that.

Kick-boxing, sword-fighting, singing, music and dancing by 150 performers - including seven elephants - are among a full day's activities, set over 28.35 hectares at Sampran in Nakorn Pathom province, on the Ta Chine river,

It's one of two attractions, each about 35km from central Bangkok, where visitors can both be entertained and learn much about Thailand's colourful history and the evolution of its culture.

The other is The Ancient City (Muang Boran in the Thai language), where the country's story is told through a series of reconstructed palaces, temples, traditional houses and statues set out over 129.5 hectares.

There is indeed a rose garden (and others for orchids, more flowers and herbs) at Rose Garden Riverside, but visitors also stroll through a traditional village and each afternoon the action's on in a cultural extravaganza.

The 50-minute show comprises a year's events in the lives of villagers from Thailand's four main regions: the north, south, central plains and northeastern plateau.

It starts with a mother singing a lullaby to her baby at dawn, a ceremony for a man's entry into the Buddhist monkhood and farmers planting rice and other crops.

The latter involves a 1,000-year-old dance involving a water spirit and male and female serpents.

Another dance celebrates the harvest after which young men beat "victory drums" while others train for various forms of self-defence: kick-boxing, sword-fighting and pole-fighting.

The vigorous action stops for a Thai wedding ceremony, with a young couple exchanging vows before their families and friends, followed by dances from the Thailand's four regions.

Finally, all performers join in a flag dance - with the Australian flag prominent.

Elsewhere in the Rose Garden, visitors watch elephants perform, walk through the flower and vegetable gardens, see a demonstration of Thai cooking and craftsmen working on handicrafts, carving and painting.

Not to be missed is Thailand's tallest pagoda, the 120m-high Phra Pathom Chedi, which contains some remains of the Lord Buddha.

Cruises by rice barge are available along the Ta Chine river.

The Rose Garden also offers accommodation including six Thai antique houses, conference facilities, a spa, golf course, seven restaurants and cafes, and souvenir stands.

An hour's drive away, the Ancient City at Bangpoo in the province of Samut Prakan, is likened to "an open book of history and an open door to the real Thailand".

A guide lists 116 places of interest, among them gardens and buildings from religious and royal sites around the nation together with old one-room homes on stilts, and scores of Buddhas and other statues.

Muang Boran has reproductions of important buildings, mostly on a smaller scale, from Thai history - influenced by Burmese, Cambodian and other invaders over past centuries.

The magnificent Sanphet Prasat Palace reproduces, half-size, that destroyed by the Burmese in 1767 when they captured the old Siamese capital of Ayutthaya. It is notable for its murals and ornamental decorations.

Queen Elizabeth II (in 1972) is one of the many notable past international visitors to the palace.

Many life-size sculptures illustrate old Siamese legends.

Another, believed to have been taken from Indonesian literature, is of a man and woman who triumphed over many obstacles to their love affair and eventually "lived happily ever after".

The Folk Museum at Muang Boran, including some major anthropological finds from all over Thailand, is one of the country's largest with every kind of artefact from farm tools to porcelain, fishing traps and musical instruments.

The Ancient City also has restaurants, snack bars and souvenir stands - even an old-fashioned barber's shop.

IF YOU GO:

Rose Garden Riverside is open daily from 8am to 6pm with the cultural show scheduled for 2.45pm.

Details: visit http://www.rosegardenriverside.com. Admission including the cultural show is about $A9.

The Ancient City is open daily from 8.30am to 6pm. Admission is less than $A2 and it's another $A2 if you bring your car.

Both the Rose Garden and the Ancient City are included in day trips from Bangkok available through hotel tour desks and travel stores.

* The writer was a guest of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (02-9247-7549), flying to Bangkok by Thai Airways International.

Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2006

2006-09-15T13:27:00.000+07:00

Laguna Phuket Triathlon is held in each December. The triathlon (a 1,000-metre swim, a 5-kilometre bike race and a 12-kilometre run) attracts world-class athletes from all over the world.

The swim course comprises 2 bodies of water with a 100 m sprint between them and starts on the beach at the Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket Hotel. The bike course takes competitors out of Laguna Phuket onto narrow, winding roads and will be will be similar to the 2002 course with some steep hilly sections. The run course is flat and will also be similar to the 2002 course.

1.8 k swim - 55 k bike - 12 k run

When
The 2006 Laguna Phuket Triathlon will be held on Sunday, 3 December beginning at 8.00am.
Where
The upscale Laguna Phuket resort occupies 600 acres of tropical beachfront parkland on the northwest coast of Phuket island in southern Thailand.

Entry Conditions Participating fees:

Registration will be available online only from May 2006. The 1,800 Baht for Thai Nationals, $120USD for Non-Thais Team Relay: 8,000 Baht for teams with at least 1 Thai National, $320USD for Non-Thai teams.
Entry fee includes the pre-race Pasta Party, Competitor's T-shirt and Race Kit. Entry fee does NOT include tickets to the Awards Party. These will be sold separately during online registration and are limited to two tickets per individual athlete and three tickets per relay team. Any remaining tickets to the Awards party will be sold at registration on 2 December. Closing date for entries is 10 November 2006, unless registration reaches capacity in which case it will close prior to that date.

Any entries received after closing date will be charged US$135. Entry fees include VAT. Entry fee is non-refundable after 15 October 2006. Entry cancellations received prior to 15 October are refundable less a US$20 surcharge. Entry is non-transferable and you may not sell your entry to another competitor.

Race Registration
Registration will be held on Saturday, 2 December 2006 from 9.00am to 3.00pm in the Andaman Ballroom at the Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket. Athlete attendance is compulsory. Bring identification to claim your race kit with timing chip, race number, swim cap, T-shirt, etc. A mandatory course briefing in English, Thai and Japanese will follow at 5.00pm, also in the Andaman Ballroom.

Ref: http://www.thailandmarathon.org

Asia Travel - Malaysian Cities, Truly Spectacular

2006-09-13T22:25:00.000+07:00

Tourism Board promotes the country as Truly Asia. The fascinating fusions of tradition and modernity, Malaysian cities' have unique multi-cultural heritage, cuisine, arts and architecture make them ideal cosmopolitan getaways. The mix background of Chinese, Malay, Indian and colonial heritages constantly amaze western travelers with the cultural richness and harmony, knitting a truly Asian spectrum of variety on sights and sounds.

Kuala Lumpur City Center

Travel to Kuala Lumpur city and you will be awestruck by the ultra-modern Petronas Twin Towers at the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). The Petronas Twin Towers are 452 meters tall, contain 88 stories, & are the world's tallest twin structures. Situated on the previous site of the Royal Turf Club in the heart of the capital city, the Kuala Lumpur City Centre is truly a spectacular Architectural sight. Here, the 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest twin structures, soars to a dizzying height of 452 metres. Cesar_Pelli was the Architect of this masterpiece. Inspired by the Five Pillars of Islam, this gleaming mega-structure was designed by the Argentinian-American architect in earlies 90s. Below the towers, lies a beautifully landscaped fountain park designed by prominent Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx. KLCC is also home to the world-class Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Suria Shopping Centre and Petronas Philharmonic Hall.

Kuala Lumpur Railway station

Take a short taxi ride from KLCC and let yourself be charmed by the classic Moorish-style of the old Railway station. Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is located at Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It is a very beautiful building. It has a Moorish-style which was designed by architect A.B Hubbock. Built in 1910, the building is about 80 years old. I am sure it is built long before you and me were here. In 1986, the station went under extensive renovations, upgraded to have air-conditioned waiting hall, snack kiosks, tourism information booth and many more. In the past, it used be very quiet but since the city commuter service started, it is a very busy station now. All the Intercity train services do not stop here anymore because there is a new railway station opened called KL Sentral, less than 1KM away from the old railway station.

Shopping Extravaganza

Shop in some of world's most luxurious malls at Kuala Lumpur shopping precincts like Bukit Bintang, Damansara Utama, Ampang, Mid valley, Subang Jaya, Sunway City, etc.

Every year, Malaysia has six weeks of great shopping promotions, bargains and discounts of up to 70% on a wide range of products and services at all major shopping precincts, malls and retail outlets nationwide. Check on www.tourism.gov.my for the yearly Malaysia Megasale calendar periods.

Be part of the festivities when you drop-in at your favorite malls and enjoy fantastic prizes as you take part in the fun contests and activities lined-up for you and your family. Get instant redemption and gifts when you charge with Master Card and be in the running to win your dream holiday at Malaysia’s premier resort destination, The Four Seasons, Langkawi.

Know that your shopping experience doesn’t stop at the malls. Do check out the countless bargains and offers from hotels, travel agents, entertainment outlets, spas and restaurants around town. With the whole of Malaysia celebrating this major sale event, you and your family can shop to your hearts' content and have a great fun time chilling out too.

Malaysian Nightlife

Experience a bargain with a trader in a bustling night market. Whether you sample a succulent stick of satay at a roadside hawker stall or spicy chilli crab at a Chinese restaurant, you will revel in the many alluring attractions. The Night Market is a nice place to visit as the atmosphere at nightfall always makes for a different experience. Here, you will get a chance to dine al fresco under the stars and moon. There are food stalls set up near the main bus terminal. These stalls are open from 6pm onwards till about midnight, serving up some truly delicious dishes. This is your chance to enjoy good Malaysian food, the Malaysian way!

More articles on Asia Travel experiences at www.1asiatravel.com

www.tropicalcaribbeantravel.com

Subert Kiing

This article was produced by http://www.1asiatravel.com

Singapore - The New Travel Destination In Asia

2006-09-12T11:36:00.000+07:00

Singapore is a small island with the area of 699 km2. Although it is one of the most densely-populated countries in the world, Singapore is famous for its clean and green environment. There are four official languages in Singapore: Singapore - Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and English. The population is made up by a mix of Chinese, Malays, Indians and a small proportion of other nationalities. In spite of its small area, Singapore is a new industrial country with one of the busiest ports of the world.

An island country with 58 smaller islands around the main land. The most famous island of Singapore is Sentosa, the country's most visited attraction. This island is aimed mostly at tourism with many aquariums, museums, beaches, sports centres, camping sites and a lot of hostels and luxury hotels.

Located in the tropical area of the world, Singapore's climate is hot and humid all year round. The temperature during the day is up to 34oC and falls to about 22oC at night. Although it is said that the rainy season is from November to January, a small amount of rain can occur all around the year.

Besides many skyscrapers in the urban areas, which occupy more than 50% of the land, Singapore also has many parks, botanic gardens, zoos and waterfalls. Although most of them are artificial, even the sand for the beaches is imported, they are very lively and attract millions of tourists every year.

Singapore is also famous for its shopping centres. You can find almost everything there from clothes and electronic goods to herbal medicine. The most famous road for this activity is the Orchard. Orchard road is ideal for all shopping addicts. The newest and most fashionable shoes and clothes can be found in this area and you will wander there all day without any boredom. This area is also called the "dining centre" which has many big restaurants serving food from all over the world. Besides big and modern shopping centres, other destinations for shopping are Chinatown, Little India and the Arab street. There are many unique and inexpensive things here which you can buy as souvenirs and gifts for your friends and family members.

Other places you shouldn't miss when visiting Singapore are the Holland Village, Changi Village and the Jurong town. Jurong town is a big industrial centre of Singapore. The Jurong Park has the world's highest man-made waterfall, which stands at 30 meters.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Asia

Vietnam’s northern bay bustling with tourist ships:Ha Long Bay

2006-09-11T10:27:00.000+07:00

International travel vessels are making their way into northern Quang Ninh province’s Ha Long Bay with regular tours that began early this month.

The Super Star Gemini, the luxury cruise liner of Star Cruises, the largest Asian shipping company is set to bring some 500 Hong Kong and Australia tourists to Ha Long on Friday.

The 5-star floating hotel is 64m long, 23m wide with 8 floors, 344 cabins and capacity for 688 passengers.

The vessel is the 11th opulent ship owned by Star Cruises, and began its trip to Vietnam on Sept 1 in cooperation with SaigonTourist.

The Costa Allegra, an Italian vessel is scheduled to call at Ha Long for 5 day tours beginning in November.

Earlier, the Italian vessel moored in Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and three times in Danang.

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO recognized world heritage site made famous by its outstanding rock formations, located in the north of Vietnam in the famous Tonkin Gulf.

Source: Thanh Nien – Translated by Luu Thi Hong

FOOD FESTIVAL & "YAWARAJ HIGHLIGHTS" CONTEST

2006-09-09T16:52:00.000+07:00

The "Chinatown - Yawaraj Clean Food. Good Taste" food festival and "Yawaraj Highlights" being held on September 29, 2003 is designed to rekindle the interest of both local and international visitors in this old quarter of Bangkok.

The oldest, most established and largest ethnic Chinese community in Thailand, Yawaraj has a rich historical past. During the establishment of the city of Rattanakosin during the reign of King Phra Phuttha Yotfa Chulaloke (King Rama I), founder of the Chakri dynasty, with the blessing of His Majesty the King, early Chinese immigrants to the kingdom settled in a district at the heart of Yawaraj called "Sampeng". By the Fourth and Fifth Reign, through active trade with overseas nations, Sampeng had evolved into a prosperous centre of international trade.

Within Bangkok's "Chinatown", ancient customs and traditions have been preserved by members of the community, particularly ancient Chinese culinary art and the celebration of traditional festivals on the Chinese calendar.

"Yawaraj Highlights", jointly organised by the Ministry of Public Health, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Tourism Authority of Thailand with the cooperation of the Sampantawong community of Bangkok, represents a coordinated effort to highlight the many facets of Yawaraj's rich traditional heritage and draws attention to the best that "Chinatown" has to offer.

A haven for connoisseurs, locals generally frequent Yawaraj for its gourmet dishes prepared according to authentic recipes. The area is also famous for its traditional gold shops, and shopping bargains. Hundreds of shop-houses and quaint-looking specialty stores line the streets and alleys offering a range of merchandise such as household goods, gift items, stationary, toys, clothes, Chinese foodstuff generally at wholesale prices. Today, Yawaraj remains a bustling centre of trade however along its streets and alleys, pockets of traditional architecture can still be seen.

Granting special importance to the preservation of Yawaraj's traditional heritage, His Excellency Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will preside at the Opening Ceremony which will be held in the area of the "Gateway To Yawaraj". A traditional lion and dragon dance will be performed.

As part of the "Clean Food. Good Taste" food festival, judges and participants will be voting on the 'Best of Yawaraj's Delicacies" in a culinary and gourmet competition. The five entries being featured are traditional Chinese dumplings, "kui chap" steamed rice-noodles with assorted topping, a cold mutton salad, glutinous rice dumplings in ginger syrup, and "tow teung", a dessert made of an assortment of barley, lotus seeds, red beans and other ingredients in a longan tea.

There will also be a variety of stalls offering other popular dishes for which Yawaraj is famous including glutinous rice with filling, double-boiled clear soups, "rad na" rice noodles, "kui teow lod" steamed rice-noodle rolls with various filling and old-fashioned coffee.

Unlike gold jewellery or ornaments sold in most fine jewellers, hand-crafted Yawaraj gold, one of the highlights, has a rich and distinct appearance. New designs in Yawaraj gold featuring The Golden Dragon, Apparel in handwoven gold, a pair of Golden Kilin, a Betel Nut Set, Golden Vase and Golden Elephant, will also be presented.

Chinatown presents another perspective of 'old' Bangkok worth exploring. For connoisseurs, collectors and bargain hunters, the culinary diversity, the cultural treasures and remarkable contrasts offered by Bangkok's Chinatown are guaranteed not to disappoint.

Source: www.tatnews.org

Hotel Promotion&Discount

Siam Hotel
177 New Petchburi Road, Bangkok 10310 Thailand.

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : now to 31-Oct-06
Single/Twin Room 3,400 ++

All the ++ Prices are subject to 10% Service charge and 7% Tax.
All Rates are in Thai Baht.

Hotel entrance facing New Petchburi Road, WHERE THE ACTION IS...Only a few steps to find friendly faces from all walks of life, exotic chinese food or the cheapeast meal in the world.

Grand China Princess Hotel
215 Yaowaraj Road, Samphantawong, Bangkok 10100 Thailand

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : now to 31-Dec-06

Room Type            SGL              TWN          Extra Bed
Superior Room       2,000.-          2,200.-         720.-
Deluxe Room         2,300.-         2 ,500.-          720.-
Deluxe Triple                     3,000.-                    720.-
Suite One Bed room          4,500.-                    720.-
Family Suite                       5,200.-                    720.-
Princess Suite                   10,000.-                    720.-
Bady Cot Free of Charge

Nett Raes are inclusive of Service charge and Value Added Tax.

All Rates are in Thai Baht.

Above rate are inclusive ABF

Daily Newspaper

Fruit Basket,Welcome Drink

Free use of Fitness Center,Sauna and Jacuzzi Room

Child below 12 years sharing adults'room with existing bed free of charge (Maximum 1 child per room)

Child meal at 50%off (below 12 years)

late check till to 04:00 p.m. Free of charge

Coffee & Tea making facilities

Perils fail to deter Thai bride boom

2006-09-06T23:06:00.000+07:00

Perils fail to deter Thai bride boom
By Jonathan Head
BBC News, Bangkok

The case of Toby Charnaud, the Briton murdered on the orders of his Thai ex-wife, has highlighted the growing number of British men travelling to Thailand to find wives, often arranged over the internet.

The British Embassy in Bangkok is one of the busiest anywhere in the world.

More than 660,000 people from Britain came to Thailand last year, and the Embassy finds itself dealing with those who get into trouble.

It also deals with those who want to get married - it records around 70 couples a week coming in to get marriage documents processed, nearly all of them older British men marrying younger Thai women.

Never mind that the Thai "mail-order bride" has become a subject of ridicule in the UK, parodied in TV comedies like Little Britain and mocked in the tabloid press; never mind a number of recent cases of foreigners in Thailand who were murdered after their marriages to Thai women went wrong.

The number of Thai-British marriages keeps growing, many of them arranged through internet websites, which post pictures and videos of hundreds of would-be Thai brides, from which prospective British husbands can choose a potential partner.

Matt Lucas as Ting Tong and David Walliams as Dudley in Little Britain
In the UK, Thai mail order brides have become a subject of ridicule

Some of these sites have a dubious reputation but Lawrence Lynch, a British man from Kidderminster, in Worcestershire, is proud of the service he offers through a company called Thai Professional Introductions.

I met him in his office in Bangkok on a Sunday morning - his busiest time, he explained, because the women who want to put their faces on the website are free to come in then.

There were several waiting nervously in his lobby, all young.

They took turns to make themselves up, helped by Mr Lynch's Thai wife Tapanee, and then posed in front of a wall-length photograph of an idyllic Thai beach, complete with plastic palm tree.

We've arranged around 750 marriages over nine years, and I can count the number that have gone wrong on two hands
Lawrence Lynch

"The girls pay just 400 baht ( ?6; US$10) to join," he said, "but that's a lot of money to some of them."

His foreign clients pay a lot more - ?1,650 (US$3,000) - but for that he offers 12 months membership, unlimited introductions to the women on the site, translation (crucial this, as many of the women speak little English) and help arranging hotels, travel, visas and marriage documents.

He showed me another wall plastered with photographs of satisfied customers and their smiling brides.

"We've arranged around 750 marriages over nine years and I can count the number that have gone wrong on two hands," Mr Lynch told me.

Culture differences

But there are yawning disparities that have to be bridged, in age, language and culture.

Most of the men know little about Thailand, perhaps only what they have experienced on a short holiday.

They are drawn by the prospect of a short and easy courtship with much younger and often strikingly attractive women.

The women seem drawn to the agency by a desire for financial stability and what they believe is a more caring attitude among Western men.

Nui, a 22 year-old hairdresser, was typical of the customers in Mr Lynch's office.

"I think Western men are more kind-hearted." she told me. "I don't want a relationship with a Thai man. They are not responsible in helping with children and they are not faithful."

John, a 43-year-old businessman from East Anglia, told me why he had flown out to Bangkok.

He wanted to meet a woman who was serious about marriage, he said, which is why he was using the agency.

He had been married before and described a number of unhappy relationships back in Britain.

"There's this 'lad' culture with the ladies in UK these days. I don't want to be messed about any more. What I'm looking for is how it used to be in Britain in the 40s and 50s, where the family unit supported each other."

Mr Lynch says he screens the women to make sure none has a background in bar work or prostitution.

The men he has less control over, although he believes most of his clients are sincere.

"Any guy can come out here and meet a girl in a go-go bar, because let's face it, a lot of the men who come to Thailand are sex tourists. But those are the marriages that end in disaster."

Some of the couples end up living in Thailand, like Jim, 58, from Nuneaton, and his wife Prapaporn, 30.

Was the age gap a problem, I asked?

"Not to me it isn't and it doesn't seem to be for her either. The only people who have a problem with it are those who aren't in the same boat."

Toby Charnaud
Toby Charnaud's Thai ex-wife is serving life in jail for his murder

Most of the couples, though, will end up living in Britain, where, warns Bangkok-based writer Christopher Moore, author of a book about emotional expression in Thailand, the culture and language gap could put severe strains on the relationship.

"All the building blocks of relationships - the idea of family, friends, love, work - are viewed in a very different way in Thailand. So one of the things the man is going to have to deal with is the importance of family to his Thai wife. It may be she will need to come back to Thailand three or four times a year."

John has spent two weeks meeting women on Lawrence Lynch's books but he is taking his time. He has gone back to Britain and plans to return later this year to renew his meetings with the women he liked, to decide if any would make a suitable wife.

Nui is now registered with the agency and must take her chances with the 1,600 other Thai women there looking for husbands. She says she would prefer an age gap of no more than 10 years but may in the end settle for a much older man.

BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | Perils fail to deter Thai bride boom.

ANANTARA RESORT & SPA GOLDEN TRIANGLE ,Chiang Rai Thailand

2006-09-05T11:27:00.000+07:00

Anantara Resort & SPA Golden Triangle
229 Moo 1, Chieng Saen, Chiang Rai 57150 Thailand
Chiang Rai 0-5378-4084 Bangkok 0-2477-0760

At the edge of the northernmost borders of Siam, Anantara poises beside the Golden Triangle. The Thai "Kalae" style roods line up stately. The mosquito curtains that drape the daybeds feel like a bed of king. The northern Thai antiques of all our luxurious rooms invite you to enjoy the majesty and charm of our resort. From the balcony you can see the three counties divided by the Kong and Luak Rivers.
Who would believe the Northern borders would posses a charm you will never forget.

Room Rate Superior           5,500++ Baht
                  Deluxe               6,500++ Baht
                  Anantara Suite 13,800++ Baht

Website: www.anantara.com

GOLDEN PINE RESORT & SPA
291 Moo 4, Baan Muangkam, Nanglae, Muang Chiang Rai Thailand

Amidst the golden field of Lanna, little cottages in natural resort-style are built in a row encircling a clear emerald-colored pool in a blue sky day. There is also a pleasant spa to lessen your stress. In winter breeze and with urban cultures, the story of this resort would be brilliantly recounted. Who would believe the resort amidst a rice field is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

Phone : 0-5370-6270-9
Room Rate : 2500 Baht

Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006

2006-09-04T10:15:00.000+07:00

Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006
Chiang Mai ,November 1, 2006 to January 31, 2007

In 2006, the Thai nation comes together to celebrate the most auspicious occasions of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 60^th Anniversary or the Diamond Jubilee of His Majesty’s Accession to the Throne together with His Majesty’s 80^th Birthday Anniversary.

Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006, one of the world’s finest tropical flower, fruit and plant expositions befitting the name, Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 – International Horticultural Exposition for His Majesty the King, will be hosted in the city of Chiang Mai from November 1, 2006 to January 31, 2007

Thailand will be joined by her international friends – nations with whom Thailand has shared historical, cultural, diplomatic and trade ties, many spanning centuries. Over 30 countries are expected to participate in ‘Gardens for the King’. The International Gardens will feature unique or innovative landscaping and horticultural highlights from the participant’s homeland.

Participating Countries
To date, 32 nations have confirmed participation in the International Garden section of Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006. They are Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Indonesia, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, China, Brunei, Turkey, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, Bulgaria, Mauritania, Kenya, Nigeria, Gabon, Sudan, Morocco, Tunisia, South Africa, Burundi, Qatar, Iran, Yemen, Trinidad & Tobago, Canada.

Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 is the first ever international horticultural exposition with A1 status recognized by The Association of International Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and the International Exhibitions Bureau (BIE) to be held in Thailand.

To be awarded A1 status, host countries must meet the stringent standards and guidelines established by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and must be sanctioned by the BIE. Endorsement of Thailand’s bid is based on an assessment of capabilities and readiness to host a BIE-recognized international horticultural exposition.

HIGHLIGHTS

Gardens for the King
The outdoor landscape exhibition area consists of 30 international gardens and 80 domestic gardens. Each garden has a site area of 500sqm.

Foreign and national exhibitors are invited to express respect for HM the King or highlight historic links between His Majesty’s royal activities through demonstration of the arts of garden, blooms and blossoms, literature, tradition and cultural performances.

Thai Tropical Garden
World of Tropical Plants & Flowers

Designed by Thailand’s famous landscaper, this is a state-of-the-art garden showcase of Thailand’s plants and flowers. It is supposed to be the most comprehensive collection of tropical horticultural species, fruit plants, flowers, orchids, herbs and greenery.

The Royal Pavilion (Haw Kham in Thai), and grand amphitheatre are located in this zone.

ORCHID PAVILION

This spectacular and unprecedented display of orchids from around the world will showcase Thailand's potential as a global orchid centre. Over 50,000 orchid plants representing nearly 10,000 different native species, hybrid varieties, new as well as rare orchids will be on display.
This will be also be the largest and, at 92 days, the longest-running orchid exhibition and competition ever held in Thailand.

The Orchids of the World expo at the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 International Horticultural Exposition is designed to demonstrate Thailand’s potential for being the orchid capital of the world, to promote the growth and development of the orchid industry; promote greater awareness of technological advances in orchid cultivation and production; and highlight Thailand’s success in Research and Development initiatives related to Orchid cultivation and production.

The Orchid Pavilion is being built on an area of 6,400 square metres to house a special exhibition of orchids, presented under the ‘Orchids of the World’ theme.

The Orchid Pavilion at the International Horticultural Exposition sets out to be a comprehensive world-class knowledge center for Orchid Cultivation.

Doi Luang Chiang Dao

2006-09-01T11:07:00.000+07:00

Doi Luang Chiang Dao is a limestone mountain in the Chiang Dao Wildlife Reserve area, Amphoe Chiang Dao. This cone-shaped mountain is 2,195 metres from sea level, which makes it the third highest mountain in Thailand after Doi Inthanon and Doi Pha Hom Pok. Narrow plains on top of the mountain overlook spectacular views that include a sea of fog on the Amphoe Chiang Dao side, Doi Sam Phi Nong, the Chiang Dao mountain range, and the far end of Doi Inthanon. The peak is cool and windy. It is full of rare highland flowers, birds, and butterflies. Visiting Doi Chiang Dao needs an approval letter from the Director of Wildlife Reserve Division, Royal Forest Department. Travel must be arranged at least 2 weeks in advance. Contact tel. 0 2561 2947 for more information.

How to get there: The peak is accessible on foot. At Chiang Dao cave, guides, porters, and chartered transfers to the starting point of the trail are available. Rented local truck costs around 900 baht and, a porter is 300 baht per person. There are no tourist facilities on Chiang Dao Mountain. Visitors must bring their own sleeping bags, food, and water.

Descending the mountain is possible on the trail near Ban Tham, which is located near Chiang Dao cave. The trail is rather steep; nevertheless, it could shorten the walking distance upon descending. It is quite difficult to climb up.

2006-09-01T01:59:00.000+07:00

Best Hotel is Bangkok
The Amari Airport Hotel Bangkok
333 Chert Wudthakas Road, Bangkok 10210. Thailand
SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : Now - 31 October 06
Superior Room SGL : 8,856.++ TWN : 9,430.++
Deluxe Room SGL : 9,963.++ TWN : 10,537.++

All the ++ Prices are subject to 10% Service charge and 7% Tax.
All Rates are in Baht. Booking

Baiyok Sky Hotel
222 Rajprarop Road, Rajthevee, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : now to 31-Oct-06
Standard Room SGL : 2,400 TWN: 2,600

-Nett Raes are inclusive of Service charge and Value Added Tax.
-All Rates are in Thai Baht.
The Bangkok Palace Hotel is a short drive from The Central World Plaza, Queen Sirikit National Convention & Exhibition Centre and Siam Square. Conveniently located close to the Pratunam Market. A 10 minute walk away is the Ploen Chit Skytrain Station. Rooms are furnished with modern comforts and good facilities. Formerly known as The Mercure Hotel Bangkok.
Booking

Bangkok Palace Hotel
1091/336 New Petchburi Road, City Square, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : 1 Agust 2005 - 31 October 2006
Single Room 1,766.-
Twin Room 2,001.-
-Above rate are inclusive ABF
-Nett Raes are inclusive of Service charge and Value Added Tax.
-All Rates are in Thai Baht.
The Bangkok Palace Hotel is a short drive from The Central World Plaza, Queen Sirikit National Convention & Exhibition Centre and Siam Square. Conveniently located close to the Pratunam Market. A 10 minute walk away is the Ploen Chit Skytrain Station. Rooms are furnished with modern comforts and good facilities. Formerly known as The Mercure Hotel Bangkok. Booking

Ambassador Hotel Bangkok
171 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110 Thailand

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : Now - 31 October 2006

Superior Room SGL : 2,000 TWN : 2,200
Deluxe Room SGL : 2,400 TWN: 2,600
Extra Bed : 600
-Nett Raes are inclusive of Service charge and Value Added Tax.
-All Rates are in Thai Baht.
Ambassador Hotel Bangkok A dazzling haven amongst the bustling city that is Bangkok, The Ambassador Hotel is renowned for pampering guests with unparalleled service and hospitality. From the moment your step into our majestic grand lobby, you'll be inundated by the luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere that defines the Ambassador Hotel.

2006-08-28T17:37:00.000+07:00

Prasat Phanom Wan

An interesting Khmer sanctuary, Prasat Phanom Wan is believed to have been built in the 10th century. During the 13th and 14th centuries, a stone building was built over it. From inscriptions found at the site, it is known that the sanctuary was used in the Hindu religion and later became a Buddhist site. Although most of it is in ruins, the layout of the structure that is still clearly visible includes a square main pagoda facing east and a tiered pagoda in front, as well as a path linking the two structures.

To the southwest of the main pagoda is a building of red sandstone called Prang Noi. Inside is a large stone Buddha image. A roofed sandstone walkway and a laterite wall surround the sanctuary. A Gopura (a sanctuary doorway or porch) in the form of a tall tower is situated in all 4 directions. Around 230 meters east of the sanctuary are traces of a moat and an earth hill that was the site of another Khmer building called Noen Oraphim.

Other Khmer ruins within Nakhon Ratchasima include Prasat Hin Nang Ram, Prang Ban Ku and Prang Sida all of which are similar to Phimai ruins but somewhat smaller.

This sanctuary is located in Ban Makha, Tambon Pho, around 15 kilometers from the city on the Nakhon Ratchasima-Khon Kaen Road. A sign on the right provides visitors with additional directions.

Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo

Covering an area of 545 rai (218 acres), the zoo is one of the most modern in Asia. The enclosures are large and landscaped by section to match the habitat of each animal most of which have come from Africa. The most popular animals are penguins, seals, African elephants, rhinoceros, cheetahs, lions, zebras, and giraffes. There is also a reptile building and a hornbill garden. In addition to being an ideal place to study biology, the zoo is a great place for relaxation as the grounds are decorated with lovely flowers. Other than the shuttle services that are provided to transport visitors around the zoo, there are bicycles available for rent. The zoo is open daily between 8.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. The fee is 10 baht for children, 30 baht for adults, and 30 baht for four-wheel vehicles. For information, call 0 4435 7355, 0 4421 6251-3 or visit http://www.zoothailand.org/.

The Zoo is located approximately 18 kilometers south of the city on Highway No. 304 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Pak Thong Chai), however, it is also accessible via Highway No. 2310 (approximately 1 kilometer drive). Visitors traveling by bus from the city can take air-conditioned bus No. 1415.

2006-08-25T13:00:00.000+07:00

ILLUMINATED BOAT PROCESSION

Date :02/10/2006 - 08/10/2006

Province : Nakhon Phanom,Thailand

Against the darkness of the moonlit night, the sight of flickering light from candles and lanterns on magnificent ‘fire boats’ drifting downstream on the Mekong River, is both mesmerising and awe-inspiring. It is this enchanting spectacle that has given the water-borne procession its very name -- ‘Lai Reua Fai', which literally means to set afloat a ‘fire boat’.

The illuminated boat procession is celebrated in I-San, the northeastern region of Thailand on the 15th day of the waxing moon to the first day of the waning moon in the 11th lunar month of the Buddhist calendar, usually a month earlier than the corresponding month in the conventional calendar. This dazzling event marks the end of the Buddhist Lent or ‘Ok pansa’ and is accompanied by a colourful street procession and cultural performances which add to the highlights of the event which is held annually.

Illuminated boats vary in shape and form and reflect cultural identity, artistic and cultural splendour, indigenous culture and beliefs, folk knowledge and skills. Designs inspired by Buddhist motifs, The Royal Barges, mythical characters in I-san and Brahmin legend and folklore are depicted. Naga – the Serpent King, Hong – the swan, the sacred steeds of the Brahmin gods – Hamsa, the sacred goose and mount of Brahma, Garuda – the mount of Phra Narai (Vishnu), Erawan – the mount of Indra and Ganesh – the elephant-headed son of Shiva are commonly featured.

Origins of the Illuminated Boat Procession

The Illuminated Boat Procession reflects Buddhist origins as well as animistic beliefs and the worship of the forces of nature.

According to some scholars, the ritual is based on ancient Buddhist tales and is undertaken to pay respect to the sacred footprint of the Lord Buddha on the bank of the mythical Nammadhammahantee river and in honour of the Buddhist trinity – Phra Buddha, Lord Buddha; Phra Dhamma – his teachings and Phra Sangkha – disciples of the Lord Buddha.

In his seventh lent, in remembrance of his mother, Buddha ascended to the heavens to deliver a sermon to his mother. There he resided throughout the entire period of the three-months Rains Retreat or the Buddhist Lent. At the end of the Rains Retreat which falls on the first day of the waning moon of the eleventh lunar month, Lord Buddha returned to earth, descending by the Celestial Stairway comprising of the Silver, Gold and Crystal stairs.

Delighted by the news of Buddha's return to earth once again, Buddha's disciples and followers prepared to receive him with offerings of food and other sacred items being presented. ‘Tak Bat Devo’, the Buddhist merit-making ritual performed on the final day of the festival signals the end of the Buddhist Lent, originates from the word "Devorohana" and refers to Buddhist celebrations marking the special occasion of the return of the Lord Buddha to earth, as mentioned in ancient Buddhist tales.

In traditional river-based communities which rely on the river as a source of food, harvesting fish and other marine life from the river and planting crops on the banks of the river in the dry season when the water level recedes, water is the essence of life. In riparian cultures, ritual offerings are made to Mae Khongkha - Mother of Waters in an act of appeasement to beg for her forgiveness for Man's carelessness in polluting pristine waters - the source of all life; The Naga – the mythical Serpent God associated with water that dwells in three realms: beneath the earth where it guards minerals and gems, in bodies of still and flowing water, and in the skies where it creates the rain which nourishes crops; and other celestial powers responsible for the gift of life revered by the I-San people. By setting the ‘fireboats’ adrift, one also symbolically casts away one's grief, misery and ill-fortunes.

2006-08-16T15:52:00.000+07:00

UNSEEN CHIANG MAI
Wiang Kum Kam, the Underground ancient City In 1984, just outside the modern Chiang Mai metropolitan area, archaeologists uncovered the remains of an ancient city. Research concluded that this was the city of Wiang Kum Kam, one of many fortified cities built by King Mengrai as he consolidated his hold on the north. In fact, it appears that Mengrai may have lived at Wiang Kum Kam for a few years before Chiang Mai was constructed.
Nearly 20 temple sites have been uncovered in the area, which lies between the Ping river and the Lamphun highway. The buildings were buried underground by years of flooding, which apparently is the reason Mengrai eventually moved his capital to Chiang Mai. In fact, the
Ping river originally flowed along the north side of the town, but at some point during the Burmese occupation from the sixteenth to eighteenth centuries, the river changed course and now flows along the west side of the site. The change of course was apparently the final straw which caused the city to be largely abandoned for 300 years. The site is too large to cover on foot. The best way to see it is to start at the still working temple of Wat Chedi Liam, and tour the site by bicycle, tram or pony carriage. The nine main sites taken in on a typical tour are not greatly interesting compared to many of Thailand's ancient sites. What does make the trip worthwhile is the gentle pace and scenery of the countryside viewed from the back of a carriage or on a bicycle.
Although most of the sites are not much more than platforms and ruined chedis, there are two working temples in the area that date from the city's heyday at the end of the thirteenth century. One is your logical starting point, Wat Chedi Liam. The other, more vibrant temple is Wat Khan Tom (also known as Wat Chang Kum), where in fact the spirit of King Mengrai is said to still reside.
Wiang Kum Kam is situated in Tha Wang Tan, Sarapee District, outside Chiang Mai city about the 3-4 km on Chiang Mai – Lamphun Rd.
Open everyday 08.00-17.00
Tel: 0 5332 1523 / 5328 3981

2006-08-15T16:46:00.000+07:00

Phuket

Located approximately 862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand's largest island, which is often dubbed as the pearl of the Andaman, or the pearl of the south. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South's wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Phuket borders on Phang-nga Province to the north. The other 3 sides are encircled by the Andaman Sea the place where many of the best diving sites are located. The island is connected to Phang-nga Province by Sarasin Bridge and Thep Krasattri Bridge.
Staying on the island is easy, as there are only two seasons in a year - the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). Visitors are not recommended to travel to Phuket between September and October as they are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average temperatures ranges between 23°C and 33°C.

2006-08-11T09:45:00.000+07:00

Anantara Golden Triangle Chaing Rai To Host Elephant Polo 2006

September 4 - 10, 2006

Chiang Saen Secondary School

Golden Triangle,Chiang Rai, Thailand

Thailand's highly popular King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament heads for the hills in 2006. Event organiser Anantara Resorts announcced that the 2006 tournament would take place from 4-10 September in the northern-most region of the country popularly known as the Golden Triangle

This annual event, ranked as the 6th largest event on theThai tourism calendar has, for the past five years, taken place in the royal saeside town of Hua Hin, situated 220km south of the Thai capital Bangkok. The tournament was introducted to Thailand in 2001 by Anantara Vice-President, Chistopher Stafford and is a charitable event that raises money for the country's National Elephant Institute in Lampang , northern Thailand.
In just five years the King's Cup elephant Polo Tournament has gine from a small 2-day event with 6 teams into a week-long extravaganza, which in 2005 featured 16 teams from 3 continents encompassing 55 players from 15 countries. The event now attracts corporate sponrs, which include such global brands as American Express, Birtish Airways, Chivas Regal, Mercedes Benz and PricewaterhouseCoopers. In addition to the world's top horse polo players, the 2005 tournament saw the return oh Bernie fraser, New Zealand' s former world-ranking , All Blacks rugby players plus newcomers , Nick Farr Jones and Peter fitzsimmons from Australia's wallabies team.
"The growing interest each year is enormous,"Staford commented. "When we started it was more of a weeked knock-round than a tournament. Last years we had a waiting list of teams wanting to take part!"

Anantara Resort and Spa: 1-800-525-4800; http://www.anantara.com. Thai tourism authority: 1-800-842-45263; http://www.tourismthailand.org.
Thai Elephant Conservation Centre: http://www.changthai.com.

2006-08-09T13:54:00.000+07:00

Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao

The numerous islands along the coast makes Surat Thani (often known as Surat in short) a perfect hideaway for vacationers from around the world. The ideal destination for many is the Penang-sized Ko Samui, Thailand's third largest island, and its neighbour Ko Pha-ngan a celebrated island that hosts the biggest beach full moon party. North of Ko Pha-ngan is Ko Tao, renowned for its excellent coral reefs. To top it all is the dazzling 250-square-kilometer Ang Thong Marine National Park, where a stunning archipelago awaits to greet visitors with their charming palm-fringed beaches, crystal clear water and colorful coral reefs. The best time to enjoy one of these islands to the fullest is from April November.

Aloha Resort
128 Moo 3 Maret, Lamai Beach, Koh Samui
Suratthani 84310 Thailand

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : Now to 31 October 2006
Single Room 3,000.-
Twin Room 3,000.-

-Above rate are inclusive ABF
-Nett Raes are inclusive of Service charge and Value Added Tax.
-All Rates are in Thai Baht.

Amari Palm Reef Resort
14/3 Moo 2 Chaweng Beach Road, Boput Koh Samui
, Suratthani 84320, Thailand

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : Now to 31 October 2006

Superior Suite SGL: 4,920.++ TWN: 5,330.++

All the ++ Prices are subject to 10% Service charge and 7% Tax.
All Rates are in Baht.

2006-08-03T13:57:00.000+07:00

Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand is about 785 kilometers north of Bangkok. Situated on the Kok River basin, Chiang Rai covers an area of approximately 11,678 square meters with an average elevation of 580 meters above sea level. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China.

Lychee Fair Festivals
Lychee Fair This is held annually in May. Celebrating the provinces tastiest fruit, this fair features agricultural displays and exhibitions, local handicrafts, folk entertainment and beauty contests.

Songkran Festival Traditional Thai New year celebrations are best seen at Chiang Saen where 4 nations (Thailand, Laos, China and Myanmar) compete in boat races on the Mekong River. Beauty contests and cultural shows are added attractions. The festival is annually held from April 16-18.

2006-07-29T13:38:00.000+07:00

Special Promotion Phuket Hotel & Resort

Amari Coral Beach Resort : Patong Beach / Phuket Thailand
2 Muen-ngern Road, Patong, KathuPhuket 83150, Thailand

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : 16 Apr 06 to 31 Oct 06

Room Type SGL TWN
Superior Suite 3,075.++ 3,280.++
Deluxe Room 4,510.++ 4,510.++

All the ++ Prices are subject to 10% Service charge and 7% Tax.
All Rates are in Baht.

BURASARI RESOR :Phuket / Thailand
32/1 Ruamjai Road, Tambon Patong,
Amphur KathuPhuket 83150, Thailand
Fax : (662) 2150574
SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : Now to 31 October 2006

Room Type SGL TWN
Superior room 2,600.- 2,600.-

Nett Raes are inclusive of Service charge and Value Added Tax.
Above rate are inclusive ABF
All Rates are in Thai Baht.
Visit Here

Sunset Beach Resort : Patong/Thailand
316/2 Phrabaramee Road, Tambon Patong, ]
Amphoe Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Fax : (662) 2150574

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : 16 Apr 06 to 31 Oct 06

Room Type Rate
Single Room 1,500.-
Twin Room 1,500.-

Above rate are inclusive ABF
Nett Raes are inclusive of Service charge and Value Added Tax.
All Rates are in Thai Baht

2006-07-28T17:18:00.000+07:00

Pattaya Discout Promotion
A-One The Royal Cruise Hotel:Pattaya City /Thailand
499 North Pattaya Beach Rd., Pattaya City,Thailand
Fax : (662) 2150574

SPECIAL RATES FOR INTERNET USERS
Valid : Now to 31 October 2006

Room Type SGL/TWN Extra Bed
Superior 2,500.- N/A
Deluxe 3,000.- N/A

All the ++ Prices are subject to 10% Service charge and 7% Tax.
All Rates are in Thai Baht.

2006-07-28T15:27:00.000+07:00

Chon Buri The Nearest Seaside Retreat
Chonburi, Bangkoks 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.