30.9.07

Top 5 Things To Do In Bangkok

Travel guide to planning a vacation or visit to Bangkok, including an overview of the top attractions, museums and historical sites.



Visitors are advised, however, that many of Bangkok’s most popular attractions are governed by a strict dress code reflecting the country’s religious practices and its ongoing censure of “Western” influence. Shorts, tank tops, tube tops, mini-skirts, flip-flops and T-shirts bearing vulgarities will result in denial of entry.

THE GRAND PALACE
This is one of the most photographed spots in the city…and with good reason. The palace was built over the course of 3 years at the end of the 18th century by King Rama I and is the official residence of the current monarchy. This is also where you will see the temple of Wat Pra Kaeo housing the 15th century Emerald Buddha whose robes are rotated three times a year by no less than the Thailand’s king himself. The king, in fact, is the only person who is allowed to touch the statue. When you visit this—and other places of worship throughout Bangkok—be sensitive and respectful of those who have come to pray. That means no photography, no laughing, no loud talking, and no interrupting services that are in progress. Both the palace and the temple are open year round to the public from 8:30 to 4:30, closing for lunch between the hours of 12 and 1.



WAT PHO
When we think of traditional statues of Buddha, the image that generally comes to mind is one in which he has assumed the lotus position. At Wat Pho, however, you can one in an uncharacteristic pose: lying down. The Reclining Buddha is covered in gold leaf and faces his viewers, propped up on one elbow with the back of his head resting on his hand and a blissful expression on his countenance. He measures a little over 150 feet long. And don’t forget to check out his soles, which are meticulously inlaid with mother of pearl representing the indisputable signs of a true spiritual leader.

Wat Pho is the largest and oldest temples in the city of Bangkok. It also has the distinction of being the country’s first university as well as the most popular place in the world to learn the art and techniques of Thai massage. For all the walking around you’re going to be doing on this trip, you may want to consider an hour of relaxing indulgence at the hands of an expert.

THE HOUSE OF JIM THOMPSON
In March of 1967, an American architect and CIA operative named Jim Thompson disappeared without a trace in the Cameroon region of Malaysia. His teak house, however, very much puts forth the suggestion that he has only stepped out for lunch and will be returning at any moment. Thompson’s claim to fame was his passion to reinvigorate the Thai silk industry and encourage merchants to beat a path to Bangkok’s door for hand-woven goods. The house itself is noteworthy in that it is actually a combination of six smaller dwellings that were transported from outside Bangkok and reassembled along one of its canals. Thompson’s reputation as an art connoisseur is reflected in an impressive collection of Asian art and sculpture throughout his former home and landscaped gardens. Tours are available from 9 until 4:30 every day.

BANGKOK NATIONAL MUSEUM
If you are interested in Thai art and archaeology, the city’s National Museum is a place you won’t want to miss. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 until 4, the museum offers a mix of artifacts from the private collections of early rulers as well as rotating regional exhibits. A large variety of rooms and separate pavilions in what is Southeast Asia’s largest museum complex will enhance your knowledge of Thailand’s social, religious and political structure. Of particular note is the museum’s collection of chariots still used to this day to transport deceased members of the royal family to the crematorium.

VIMANEK MANSION
Although it is no longer a royal residence, Vimanek Mansion continues to be used for state receptions and banquets. Entirely made from teak—one of Southeast Asia’s most precious exports— it is filled with photographs, artwork, furniture, and personal memorabilia hailing from the 19th century reign of one of its late kings. It also goes without saying that your kids probably won’t be the only ones to wonder if anyone was ever tempted to slide down that long teak banister! The building itself is open for tours from 8:30 to 4:30. A stroll on its grounds just before dusk is a photo memory you’ll want to carry home.

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Amazing Pattaya Sale 2007


Now – 31 October 2007
Venue: Pattaya City, Chon Buri Province (81 km east of Bangkok)

Amazing Pattaya Sale 2007 is scheduled to be held from Now to October aiming to promote sales and services in Pattaya City. During this period, shopping complexes, super stores, jewellery outlets, and a hospital are offering 10-70% discount to both Thais and foreigners.

The businesses that participate in this event are Central Festival Pattaya, Royal Garden Plaza, Mike Shopping Mall, Big C (North & South Pattaya branches), Carrefour, Index Living Mall, Homeworks, HomePro, World Gems Collection, Gem’s Gallery, Outlet Mall, and Bangkok Pattaya Hospital.

For more details, please contact The Tourism Authority of Thailand Central Office Region 3 on tel. +66 (0) 3842 7667 or 3842 8750


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29.9.07

Attractions in Samui

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park

Located 20 kilometers northwest of Ko Samui, the park is comprised of approximately 40 islands. Covering approximately 250 square kilometers, the park is full of fascinating beaches, caves and coral formations a sign of abundant marine resources. Many oddly shaped islands, sheer limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons can also be found here. The National Park does not allow over night visits. Individual tourists will have to join a group organized by a tour agency to visit the place.

Na Muang Waterfall 1

Located approximately 11 kilometers to the south of Na Thon Bay is the medium-sized waterfall that flows from a steep cliff, approximately 40 meters high and 20 meters wide. Activities such as elephant back riding are provided by nearby tour agents.

Na Muang Waterfall 2

Located just 100 meters from Na Mueang 1, the waterfall is similar in size and beauty as its sister. The place is an ideal spot for trekking and elephant back riding, as it is surrounded by dense forest.

Na Thian Butterfly Garden

Located at the bottom of the hill to the south of the island, the Garden offers a unique opportunity to observe numerous species of butterflies on the island. Other interesting features are the beautifully decorated garden, the bee house, a Thai style house which allows visitors to observe the activities of bees. The insect museum, in which rare insects from Thailand and other countries are displayed, is also worth visiting.

Samui Aquarium

Located at Laem Set Bay, the Aquarium features a wide variety of tropical fish and marine fauna.

Samui Go Kart

Looking for fast-paced action? Visit this site in Bophut, on the ring road opposite the Samui Euphoria Resort, and enjoy circling the track at over 100 kilometers. Call 077 425097 for more information.

Samui Golf & Country Club

Ko Samui offers an absolutely overwhelming experience for golfers. This par 72 course was jointly designed by Edward Theile and Pirapon Namartra. The challenge is its relentless, tumbling diversity and its degree of difficulty. The par-3s range from 155 to 214 yards, highlighted by the shortest (the audacious 6th, with a vertical drop and waterfall). The 10 par-4s are whimsical and attenuated and querulous and lengthy. The par-5s start at 458 and end at the signature 17th with 622 yards of downhill travel. The fairways are tilted and the greens are uniformly gyroscopic.

Samui Nightlife


Its never ending. Koh Samui offers spectacular evening entertainment for all ages. This includes traditional beach bars (popular with families), western-style pubs, which feature music, videos and satellite television, and free to enter nightclubs, which are more active after midnight and usually continue through the pre-dawn hours. Bars, cabarets shows and discos are mainly located in Chaweng and Lamai. Green Mango, Raggae Pub, Full Circle and Bauhaus are the main discotheques, some open until sunrise.

The most vibrant nightlife activities can be found around the beaches of Chaweng and Lamai. Resorts also provide magnificent entertainment such as dinner cabarets, where professional singers and dancers display their talents in stylish surroundings.

Scuba Diving


There are many scuba diving schools located around Ko Samui, offering a wide range of dive facilities. There are also tours available for snorkeling, fishing and excursions. The area of Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Pha-ngan and Angthong Marine National Park are very famous dive places.

Spa experience at Samui


Samui now boasts many excellent, world-class spas set in a truly Samui ambience. From aromatic floral baths, steaming and body masque with Thai herbs, to face and body massage, reflexology, and other well-being therapy, Samui has everything that caters to your needs rejuvenating, pampering and relaxing in utmost luxury and comfort.

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27.9.07

Chaweng Beach

White Sand Beach & Colorful Night Life


Chaweng is the most famous, beautiful and longest beach i nKoh Samui, Thailand. This Beach, Chaweng is divided into 4 parts as Northern Chaweng, Middle Chaweng, Southern Chaweng and Little Chaweng.

Chaweng is a white sand beach in long-curved shape. Water level is not too deep, so it is suitable for swimming. Along Chaweng Beach, there are many tourists sunbathing. Also, tourists can enjoy many beach activities such as kayaking, sailing and beach volleyball.

The beautifulness of Chaweng Beach leads it to be a center of tourism in Samui undoubtedly.

Accommodations: Resort and guest house at Northern Chaweng are recommended. Reasonable prices & tidy rooms.

Tourist Attractions: Chaweng Beach is really colorful tourist spot in Samui because of many luxurious hotels, souvenir shops and diving centers. Chaweng Beach faces the east, so you can see sunrise from your hotel’s window. Furthermore, tourists who love diving will be enjoying with various corals and sea fish. The best period for diving is during May to October, the sea is calm.

Night Life: Tourists will hang out in many bars and nightclub along the road at Chaweng Beach. If you love the music, try the Reggae Pub one of famous pub in Samui. Also, tourists will be shopping in Chaweng’ souvenir shops or dinning with international and seafood restaurants.

Discover Chaweng Beach & You will love it!!


** Please tell me if you have any question about Chaweng Beach or Samui, I will try my best to provide more info.**

25.9.07

Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui is the third largest island in Thailand. It is just 21 kilometres at its widest point and 25 at its longest. Its hinterland consists of forests hills of limestone and granite, and the shoreline is made up of countless palm-fringed beaches and bays.

The recommended beaches are Chaweng and Lamai on the east coast, where you can find many accommodations, restaurants and nightspots to suit every taste.

On tha other hand, Bophut and Maenam, the north coast, are calmer. Both are facing Koh Pha-ngan, the popular tourist attraction offering a quieter, gentler holiday experience.

Samui's natural attractions include the coral beds at Laem Sed and Tong Takien, the Hin Lat and Na Muang waterfalls and the phallic rock formations at the southern end of Lamai bay.

When you get here, it's likely that your first sight of Samui will be unforgettable. You will love our traditional villages nestled in palm-fringed beaches and beautiful tropical airport.
At any event, you can be sure that from the moment you land, the beauty and relaxed atmosphere of this island will begin to catch you in its spell.