RECOMMENDED LUXURIOUS 5 STARS HOTELS IN PHUKET

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JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa
231 Moo 3, Phuket, 83110, Mai Khao, Phuket 83110, Thailand

This Thailand luxurious resort and spa is out of the way from much of Phuket. The resort is your perfect relaxing place!

JW Marriott is on Mai Khao beach, Phuket. The water was fairly rough, so it isn’t great for swimming, but the seaview is really pretty. It is really great to get a beach towel and sit down on the beach for sunset.

There are 3 massage huts in front of the hotel on the beach. Massages are 400 Baht for an hour. When the huts filled up, some of the therapists move out onto the beach.

Luxurious hotel rooms are very comfortable and pillows in the bedroom are decent. However, the air-conditioner in this Phuket luxurious resort is a little hard to control and it is often a bit warm.

Rooms and bathrooms in this Phuket resort and spa are nice and decent sized.

Overall, service is very good. Everyone in this resort is friendly. You are always greeted with a smile and English is very common in the hotel.

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Holiday Inn Resort Phuket
52 Thaweewong Rd, Patong Beach, Patong, Phuket 83150, Thailand

This five stars Phuket resort is very nice, new and modern. The food especially the buffet breakfast is great, drinks are very cheap and service by the pool is rather prompt and friendly.

The pool in this luxurious resort is amazing great for both families and couples. Lots of seating around the pool too.

The deluxe beach view which is great. This five stars resort is receommend to both couples and families.

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Millennium Resort Patong Phuket

199, Rat-Uthit 200 Pee Road, Patong, Phuket 83150, Thailand

The resort is very near to Patong Beach, Phuket. This Patong Phuket resort provides all international good food such as Thai, Indian, Japanese and Continental.

Hotel Rooms are nice and clean. Many rooms is on lake side and is on the highest floor.

The Millennium Resort Patong Phuket is very near to the shopping mall, so you can do some purchasing nearby. Importantly, staff are nice and some know decent English. Checking in and out is free from difficulties.

RECOMMENDED PHUKET BEACH HOTELS & RESORTS BY TRAVELERS

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Pacific Club Resort

16 Soi24 Patak Road, Karon, Phuket 83100, Thailand

Pacific Club Resort is the most recommended resort at Karon beach, Phuket.

This luxurious Phuket hotel is very cosy and clean. Also, this resort has five star qualities in terms of ambience and food.

A double deluxe seaview room on the top floor of this Phuket resort is great. The beds are very comfortable and clean. Cabinets to store clothes and other stuff are very well.

Thai food in the restaurant of this seaview resort is a must try especially spicy lemon grass prawn soup or Tom-Yam-Kung. and many more!

The garden next to the hotel restaurant is lovely. You can have a breakfast there.

The jacuzzi is near the resort garden and you can also sunbathe in the

garden.

This wonderful Phuket resort is absolutely value for money and you would love to come back again.

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In On The Beach

9 / 23 - 24 Moo 1 Patak Road, Karon, Phuket 85100, Thailand

In On The Beach is a reasonably priced hotel in Phuket. This phuket resort is probably the best location on Karon Beach. You can stroll a few yards directly from the hotel to the beach.

The rooms are very clean and well equipped.

The staff in this hotel are friendly and helpful. Thai food in the hotel restaurant is good. There are a number of small beach side bars and restaurants within a few minutes walk.

Karon Beach is just 5 minute stroll with many shops, bars and restaurants.

This Phuket hotel is a lovely relaxed place.

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Marina Phuket Resort

47 Karon Road, Karon Beach, Karon, Phuket 83100, Thailand

Everything about this Phuket luxurious resort is great. The pool in Marina Phuket Resort is beautifully landscaped. The open air restaurants have excellent food

Hotel's location is perfect at the end of Karon Beach, many rooms have nice views of Phuket. The staff is very friendly.

RECOMMENDED KOH CHANG SPA & RESORTS BY TRAVELLERS

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The Spa Koh Chang Resort
15/4 Moo 4 Baan Salak kok, Koh Chang 23170, Thailand

A beautiful and tranquil spa and resort on Koh Chang. The Spa Koh Chang Resort sets in the most beautiful scenery of gardens. The landscape of this Koh Chang resort shows with the love lavished on the design of this property's gardens. Set slightly inland on a small lagoon, with a scattering of rooms up a hillside. The resort provides a great vegetarian restaurant, massage room, yoga roof, small pool, and even a little outdoor gym.

This place is a real garden of eden - very tranquil. You can't see the sea, but can hire kayaks to take yourself there through the mangroves. They lay on a minibus to the busier beaches 3 times a week. If you want to chill out in a beautiful environment, The Spa Koh Chang Resort is perfect. Not super-lux, but certainly comfortable.

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Koh Chang Cliff Beach Resort
38/4 Baan Klongphrao, Koh Chang 23170, Thailand

Koh Chang Cliff Beach Resort is a place you will be pleased with splendid seas and tropical breezes. If you do not want a swimming pool crammed full of loud noise, then stay at this resort, and take one of the extremely private cliff top houses. Enjoy sea-island-jungle views from a balcony, it is the romantic view completely satisfied for one who adores the olden days of Jim Thompson's Thailand.

The sheets, decor and even the bath fittings are of an unexpectedly high calibre. The food is however, sub par, compared to the excellent buffet breakfast one expects at four star hotels in Bangkok.

A giant hammock on the beach, sailing and paddling equipment for hire and a covered massage hut built on rocks overlooking the sea for the most relaxing rolling surf Thai massage you could ever want are waiting for you when you trek down from your own little house on the cliffside.

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Koh Chang Tropicana Resort & Spa
26/3 Moo 4 Klong Prao beach, Koh Chang 23170, Thailand

A recommended hotel at Koh Chang for Young singles, Girlfriend getaway, Older travelers, Families with young children. There is an excellent restaurant in Whitesands which is built in a tree. The food and atmosphere is great. But the hotel food in Koh Chang Tropicana Resort and Spa is expensive compared to Thai prices. There are good restaurants to eat at. Next door is the Blue Lagoon cookery school - this is excellent.

The room in this Koh Chang resort is lovely. Lots of trees and shrubs so you can feel private and a large amount of space with massive bed and lounge area, plus mini bar and huge shower and toilet.

The staff were very friendly and helpful, the place was spotlessly clean. Amazing location in a very quiet area, considering the current amount of development on Koh Chang.

RECOMMENDED PATTAYA HOTELS BY TRAVELLERS

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Rabbit Resort

318/84 Moo 12, Soi Dongtan Police Station

Dongtan Beach, Pattaya, Thailand

The hotel is composed of recently-built houses nestled in an area with many trees, plants and flowers. It feels almost like you're in a jungle, and it's very pretty and quiet. It also felt like you are staying in a guest house, not in a hotel, because the houses really look like houses, not hotel blocks, and because you have an entire floor of a two-story building as well as a big balcony on which you can eat meals when you ordered room service. The houses look classy on the outside and inside. The outside is of pretty brown hardwood, and inside there are some Thai textiles and artifacts for decorations. All the appliances worked fine.

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Royal Cliff Grand & Spa

353 Phra Tamnuk Road, Cholburi

(Part of the Royal Cliff Beach Resort), Pattaya 20150, Thailand

The Royal Cliff Grand has been one of all time favorite hotel for Pattaya travelers. Many travelers can still remember clearly the memories of coming to The Royal Cliff Grand and Spa. Anyhow, The Royal Cliff Grand is a part of the Royal Cliff Beach Resort complex, which comprised of 4 leading hotels all under the same brand - Royal Cliff. The Royal Cliff Grand is the second most expensive (Royal Wing- all suite is the most expensive) ..with room prices ranging from $165-$1,000

Overall it has been and always been a wonderful experience staying here.Travelers will always come back to this place whenever they visit Pattaya. This is the PERFECT hotel for those with small children and families. There's even glass elevators to take you down right on the beach. Not just for families, this Pattaya hotels is strongly recommend to all types of travelers.

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Le Prive Pattaya

436/11-13 M.9, Soi 1 Beach Rd., North Pattaya, Pattaya 20150

Nongprue, Banglamung, Pattaya 20260, Thailand

Its a delightful boutique hotel or resort in every sense. Absolutely charming staff and owners, with attention to detail that is way beyond the normal levels (unless staying in top 5 star hotels). Easy to get around, travelers can hire a motorbike from a place across the road to Mr. Macs hotel (very good condition and just 200 baht a day). Also the 10 baht buses run on the main road - just a 3 minute walk.

TIPPING AT SOAPY MASSAGE PARLOUR IN THAILAND

Although the fee at a soapy and body massage in Thailand may be all-inclusive, tipping for great service at massage parlour is the norm.

If you have a good time with your Thai lady at a massage parlour, a fair tip is 200-300 baht. Also, tipping your massage lady for 500 baht if you have really enjoyable time.

NOTICE :

In a few Thai body massage club, surcharges are applied for foreigner. The service rates can be increased about 500-1000 baht

THINGS YOU SHOULD DO WHEN GO TO SOAPY MASSAGE IN THAILAND

#1 Take Your Time

You should take your time when visiting Thai Soapy Massage Parlour. Just find a seat and cool-off in the air-conditioning room.

#2 Watch Around

Order some beer or cool drink. You can watch around for a while and observe for your attractive ladies.

#3 Looking For Cheerful Ladies

You should select Thai ladies who are attractive and look cheerful behind the glass.

#4 Papasans / Mamasans Is Your Advisor

Papasans or mamasans can help you to pick the right girl, and their advice can be worth to listen. Most can speak english a little. You can explain what you like and don't forget to tell him/her that you are willing to tip if you are happy with the lady.

To be continued...

I'll tell you about TIPPING at a Thai Soapy Massage Parlour.

THE MOST RECOMMENED LUXURY PATTAYA RESORT & SPA

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Sheraton Pattaya Resort, Pattaya

The Pattaya resort with ancient Thai architecture and modern style. Sheraton Pattaya Resort in Pattaya attracts many tourists from across the world. You can easily reach the hotel from Bangkok and also from other parts of the city since it can be spotted close to the landmark of the Pattaya Exhibition and Conference Hall.

Sheraton Resort sets in beautiful gardens with 3 stunning swimming pools, with relaxing music gently soothing away the stress of modern life. There are 153 rooms including pavilion-fitted rooms and villas. Stand at the balcony attached with each of the rooms and savor the exotic panorama of the ocean and the greenery around from your room itself.

The restaurants of this luxury resort is known as one of the reputed restaurant in Thailand.

Enjoy your holiday or round up your business deals while staying at Sheraton Pattaya Resort in Pattaya with various resort facilities such as High Speed Internet Access and LCD projectors. You can also organize informal parties or theme parties in the ballroom.

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Sarita Chalet & Spa

Sarita Chalet and Spa is the luxury resort in Pattaya. There are 82 rooms equipped with a private balcony overlooking the sea-sand-sun.

The restaurant in this luxury resort serves up a variety of dishes, including a health meal. Enjoy with resort facilities such as Wi-Fi internet that runs throughout the hotel. This Pattaya resort provides you with a professionnal tour service or travel arrangements in and out of Pattaya.

Discover plenty of activities in Pattaya, including golf, diving, snorkeling, even bungee jumping. On the other hand, if a nice quiet day is your prefer, take a small stroll down to the white sands of Jomtien Beach.

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Pattaya Sea Sand Sun Resort & Spa

Pattaya Sea Sand Sun Resort and Spa is located at Chonburi Province, approximately 15 kilometres south of Pattaya and 163 kilometres from Bangkok. Traveling time by car services from Suwannaphumi International Airport is only 1:30 minutes.

This luxurious resort and spa is surrounded by the perfect scenery with 60 rooms in boutique-style. The resort facilities provide you with 27 oversized stand-alone private pool villas suite and garden suite with Jacuzzi.

Experience the touch of Thai massage and spoil yourself with a truly relax and refreshing with Sea Sand Sun aroma oils to balance the flow of energy and promote good healthy.

RECOMMENDED THAI RESTAURANT IN KOH CHANG : WHERE TO DINE IN KOH CHANG, THAILAND

Koh Chang has developed itself into a heaven for dinning. Here is some of the most recommended cuisines on the island.

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Koh Chang Grand Orchid Restaurant

Koh Chang Grand Orchid Restaurant is located in Klong Son village. It is in the same area of the resort named Koh Chang Grand Orchid. This Thai restaurant offers various Thai, international, and seafood cuisine.

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Ton Sai Restaurant

Ton Sai Restaurant is set on a top of The Banyan Tree Resort. It is located at White Sand Beach and serves fusion food. You can relax after dinner by sitting back at the nearby Sabay Bar. The bar is lively with the music from a Filipino band and fire-twirling shows by skillful performers.

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The White Sand Beach Restaurant

The White Sand Beach Restaurant is located right on the beach where guests can bask in the gentle sunshine or relax under the starry sky while dining. The restaurant serves Thai and European menus, as well as dishes individually prepared by the chef.

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Alina / Ban Thai / Banpu Koh Chang

Alina Restaurant, Ban Thai Restaurant and Banpu Koh Chang Restaurant are in-house restaurants for resorts of the same names on White Sand Beach. These restaurants serve delicious seafood, Thai and international dishes. All favorite food are only a step away from your accommodations.

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The Terrace Restaurant

The Terrace Restaurant in Chang Buri Resort and Spa on White Sand Beach is on a hillside terrace where tourists can enjoy food in a natural environment. The restaurant prepares both Thai and European cuisines. It is a perfect place for you to dine with the seaview scenenry.

RECOMMENDED SEAVIEW HOTELS IN PHUKET, THAILAND

Check out top three seaview hotels and resorts in Phuket offering great value, total luxury, best location, family facilities or special attractions.

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The Aquamarine Resort & Villa

17/38 Moo 6, T. Kamala, A. KathuPhuket 83120, Thailand

This seaview luxury resort is situated on higher ground of beautiful Kamala beach in Phuket, Thailand. The Aquamarine Resort And Villa is the peace-of-mind Resort for your next visit to Phuket. This seaview resort will cater to your every need.

There are 186 luxury Thai Style Deluxe rooms and 20 Ocean Thai Villas at your disposal. Every room and villa have ocean view.

The open plan lobby is Thai sala style, featuring a high ceiling, a booking area and gift shop. The lobby commands sweeping view of the ocean and two adjacent swimming pools.

The Aquamarine Resort And Villa will serve you the finest Thai food available or your prefered international food. Alternatively, you can dine each evening at Phuket Seafood Garden right by the gentle waves of the Phuket Andaman Sea.

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The Seaview Patong Hotel
2 Taweewong Road Patong, KathuPhuket 83150, Thailand

The Seaview Patong Hotel is located at the quiet end of Patong beach. The hotel is only 40 minutes drive from Phuket Airport that recived flights from Bangkok and International Destinations as well.

You will experience 3 meters sea sand area across from the beach. All guest room facing the sea and Patong bay. Within a short walking distance of the shopping and evening area.

The distance from Phuket International airport 45 minutes and from Phuket town 25 minutes. Indulge in magnificent views of Patong Beach, picturesque scenery, and exciting recreation for the entire family.

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Andaman Seaview Hotel

1 Soi Karon Soi 4, Karon Road, MuangPhuket 83100, Thailand

The hotel is tastefully designed with some enchanting Sino-Portuguese influence. Every moment is truly memorable in any of our 161 air-conditioned guestrooms including superior and deluxe. All rooms are equipped with modern facilities: refrigerator, cable and satellite TV, hair dryer, safety box, telephone, mini bar coffee making facilities and in-house music.

INCREDIBLE NIGHTLIFE IN PATTAYA, THAILAND

The half-moon-shaped Pattaya Beach is 4 kilometers long with a road running parallel to the beach. From the mid-section to the southern end of the area, there is a vast array of restaurants, bars, department stores, souvenir stores, as well as other places of entertainment. To the north of the beach are various mini-resorts and hotels in a quieter atmosphere.

It’s actually free to stroll along the beaches, but operators will charge you for the services they provide, i.e. the beach chair. A price is roughly $0.5 per chair, though bargaining is rather customary in Thailand.

The variety of nighttime activities continuing until dawn is so diverse that every person would easily find diversions appealing to individual tastes and moods. Most likely any fantasy can be fulfilled, especially after sunset.

After dark, the extension of Beach road in Pattaya turns into a promenade (disallowed only for public transport), transformed into one of the hottest nightspot. A hunting ground beaming with neon lights and music, where fellow holiday-makers youths & aged alike, find an endless array of dining, shopping or entertainment establishments.

Worthy of notice is the disco in Pattaya. A disco is not just a dance palace, but more of a hi-tech extravaganza filled with flashing lights, trendy music, and fun loving crowds.

Pattaya is famous for its incredible nightlife activities, and is the jewel in its crown outshining the rest with an incredible array of things to see and do. One can enjoy Thai-boxing or some glaring erotic shows, a wide variety of fascinating shops, restaurants, bars, clubs, discos and other pleasurable establishments, side-by-side with all kinds of shopping. The only required skill is that of time management, so one can experience all the wonders and be on time for what is next.

Below is a list of recommended Pattaya bars:

Queen Victoria Inn: authentic traditional English pub, with excellent international menu and a good selection of imported beers on tap. Live music and carvery on Sundays. 437/137-8 Soi Yodsak (Soi 6), Pattaya, Chonburi 20260, Tel: 038 425 418, 38 362 523, Mobile: 086 060 6210, Fax: 038 424 941

Bamboo Bar: live music plays nightly in this busy bar and streetside lounge. Reasonably priced drinks. Near the seafront on South Pattaya Road. 410/35 Thappraya Road (near Jomtien Beach), Tel: 038 232 315, Fax: 038 232 315,

Hard Rock Café: DJ and house band spin discs and cover tracks in this popular international franchise bar with large cocktail menu. 429 Moo 9, Pattaya Beach Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150, Tel: 038 428 755, Fax: 038 421 673, Open: Mon-Sun 11.00 to 02.00.

Hopf Brew House: popular German beer hall hosting live music and fresh ale and a lively atmosphere. 219 Moo 10, Soi Yamato (Soi 17), Beach Road, Pattaya, Tel: 038 429 008.

Pig and Whistle: often packed English local with sports, quiz nights and a damn fine breakfast. 217/34 Moo10, Pattaya City, Chonburi 20260, Tel: 038 361 315, Fax: 038 361 272, open: 8.30 to 24.00.

Shamrock: fun and lively British-run ‘family’ bar, an oasis of sanity among the girlie bars of Pattayaland, South Pattaya, tel: +66 (0) 38 425 417.

Kum Pun: Thai country-and-western-style bar with nightly live music of the Thai folk, and soft rock variety. 380/5 Soi 2, Pattaya 2nd Road, Central Pattaya, Tel: 038 424 673

Mojo Club: relaxing jazz club where you can sing your blues away with the talented musicians. Jomtiem Complex Condotel, off Thanon Thep Prasit, Pattaya.

Green Bottle: cosy, well-run pub with a good reputation and central location. 216/3 M.10, 2nd Road, Pattaya, Tel: 038 429 870, Fax: 038 424 566, open: daily 11.00 to 02.00.

THE BEST PLACE TO GO FOR DENTAL HOLIDAY IN THAILAND

Cosmetic Surgery and Dental Holidays are more popular in Thailand as the word get out about the affordability, expertise and the wonderful care that is available to foreign clients.

Dental holiday packages in Thailand are becoming a favorite with the cost of dental being less than half, of similar treatments in America and Europe.

The hard part of your decision to go for dental care in Thailand is where to go. According to All About Me Holiday Makeovers, they chose The Bangkok Hospital Group particularly Pattaya and Phuket for the best places to go not only for your Cosmetic Surgery Holidays. But for, Dental, Medical and Reconstructive Surgeries as well. Not only do they have fully qualified and experienced surgeons, facilities and state-of-the-art equipment; their attention to clients needs has to be experienced to be believed.

~ HOSPITAL INFORMATION ~

Bangkok Hospital Pattaya

Pattaya city is a tourist resort known around the world. A huge number of international tourists visit this city each year. In addition, Pattaya is connected to the important industrial estates of the country on the Eastern Seaboard.

Bangkok Hospital Pattaya is trusted by 100,000 international patients each year (40 percent of total number of all our patients). The hospital provides interpreters covering more than 20 different languages to assist patients in all matters covering communication with the medical personnel, health insurance translations, and embassy liaison and also referral services.

The hospital also has a cultural and language training courses for the staff to make sure they understand the cultural differences and develop their language skills to provide the best service for the international patients. Of course, all patients are equally important for Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, with the same standards and medical technology.

Bangkok Hospital Phuket

The hospital opened on the 22nd of May 1995 for locals and tourists, whether Thai or from any of the 127 nationalities who have gone to make Phuket one of the premier tourist locations in the world.

Bangkok Hospital Phuket a member of the fastest growing Bangkok Hospital Network in Thailand, a high quality International hospital in South East Asian region. Bangkok Hospital Phuket is the forefront of hospital advances in comprehensive ranges of medical treatments and medical technology with a unique Thai-ness hospitality.

FAMILY FRIENDLY HOTELS IN PHUKET, THAILAND

Top three recommended family friendly hotels in Phuket, Thailand are as follows :

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ANDAMAN BEACH SUITES HOTELS

The Real Touch of Andaman's Pearl

Relax and enjoy your day outdoors in a large swimming pool with Jacuzzi, together with separate Children's pool for kids.

Taste various select cuisines in the Suites Restaurant and enjoy your favorite snacks and beverages at our The Poolside Snack Corner.

Spend your sporting time in our Fitness Center, 2 Tennis Courts and also a Sauna.

A Kids Room provides a place for children to relax and enjoy recreational activities. Our Library and Internet corner provides the place for keeping up-to-date with recent news and information. Feel at ease at our Lobby Bar with several beverages.

The hotel's spacious Lobby provides comfort and convenience with fully equipped communication devices.

Suitable for all kinds of meetings and parties, our Conference Room can serve for business meetings to private parties.

Learn Fruit Carving or enjoy our various educational activities with your friends and family with support by our friendly staff.

Thai Food Cooking Class: have fun creating your own Thai dishes instructed by our experienced chef and get your certificate after the class.

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ROYAL PHAWADEE VILLAGE

A tropical retreat in the heart of Patong

Hotel boutique resort Royal Phawadee Village is 100 meters from the beach and two minutes walk from the world famous nightlife and shopping of Patong beach.

Yet despite its proximity to everything you need in Patong, there is a stillness and quiet inside the resort that ensures a completely relaxed stay on your vacation.

Within a day of your arrival you will start to feel the benefit of our outstanding location and the entirely natural surroundings.

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PATONG MERLIN HOTEL

Patong Merlin Hotel provides superb facilities and services. Enjoy, unwind and relax by experiencing an authentic Thai Massage or by visiting Merlin' Spa where you can rejuvenate and recharge yourself.

The Spa uses natural products prepared by well-trained staff which will sooth through your nerves giving you a relaxing feeling.

Kids between 5 to 12 are free to come in Kids Club. Activities are available twice a day, There are many interesting activities like making pictures with wool, drawing, funny sand activities, balloon marking, making pictures with dried and fresh flowers, mask making or playing jigsaw.

CHIANGMAI SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2009

The Songkran Festival lasts for several days and is a traditional celebration that welcomes in the Thai New Year. It is one of the biggest and brightest celebrations in Thailand making it a great time to visit the country to participate in this fun and friendly event.

On the first day it is traditional for Thais to clean their house in preparation for the year ahead. The following day is given over to the preparation of food and special meals to be consumed over the coming days. The third day is the start of the Thai New Year.

On the third day, it is marked by religious ceremonies which usually take place early in the morning. Come the afternoon, it's time for the water fights which rage through the streets during which everybody, including tourists, are targets. The day is celebrated all over the country with various special events and attractions.

A popular town with tourists, Chiang Mai is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of this unique festival. The whole town gets involved in the celebrations with beauty pageants, feasts, parades, ceremonies and, of course, a huge water fight.

For more information :

Tourism Authority of Thailand Northern Office (Tourist Info)
105/1 Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road

Amphoe Mueang

Chiang Mai 50000

Thailand

Tel +66 53 248 604.

Email : tatchmai@tat.or.th

SONGKRAN FESTIVAL : WHAT DOES IT MEAN ?

The Meaning of Songkran Festival in Thailand

Songkran is the Thai traditional New Year and an occasion for family reunion. At this time, people from the rural areas who are working in the city usually return home to celebrate the festival. Thus, when the time comes, Bangkok temporarily turns into a deserted city.

The festival falls on April 13 and the annual celebration is held throughout the kingdom. In fact, “Songkran” is a Thai word which means “move” or “change place” as it is the day when the sun changes its position in the zodiac. It is also known as the “Water Festival” as people believe that water will wash away bad luck.

This Thai traditional New Year begins with early morning merit-making offering food to Buddhist monks and releasing caged birds to fly freely into the sky. During this auspicious occasion, any animals kept will be set free. Paying homage to one’s ancestors is an important part of the day. People will pay their respects to the elders by pouring scented water over the palms of their hands. The elders in return wish the youngsters good luck and prosperity.

In the afternoon, after performing a bathing rite for Buddha images and the monks, the celebrants both young and old, joyfully splash water on each other.

The most-talked about celebration takes place in the northern province of Chiang Mai where Songkran is celebrated from April 13 to 15. During this period, people from all parts of the country flock there to enjoy the water festival, to watch the Miss Songkran Contest and the beautiful parades.

In Bangkok, the Buddha image “Buddhasihing” is brought out from the National Museum for people to sprinkle lustral water at Sanam Luang opposite the Grand Palace.

THAILAND GRAND SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2009

Songkran Festival is well known among tourists who visit Thailand in April, which is the hottest month. It is a must for everyone to join this festival. What they do during this long holiday is splashing clean water (sometime with a few drop of Thai perfume) to each other to reduce the heat of the summer air. For Thais, Songkran is more than the water splashing festival; it is Thailand’s former New Year day. So, we take this holiday as an opportunity to make merit at the temples and visit our respective relatives. Songkran Celebrations will be held throughout the country. If you’re ready to get wet, take a look on the following schedule and find the place to enjoy the festival.

BANGKOK GRAND SONGKRAN FESTIVAL



Date: 10-15 April 2009
Venue: The 9 Royal Temples and around the Rattanakosin Island

Songkran Celebrations of the 4 Regions

Bathing Buddha images from the 4 regions, local food and dessert making demonstrations, and cultural shows and various forms of entertainment, opening ceremony at Temple of the Reclining Buddha 10 April from 18.00-21.00 hrs

Paying worship at the 9 nine royal temples around the Rattanakosin Island

10-15 April 2009 (9.00-18.00 hrs)

Wat Phra Sri Rattanasasadaram (Wat Phra Kaeo), Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho), Wat Suthat, Wat Saket, Wat Bowonniwet, Wat Chanasongkram, Wat Rakang, Wat Arun (Wat Chaeng), and Wat Kalayanamitr

Water splashing in traditional Thai dress (Khao San Road)
4-15 April 2009 (17.00-18.00 hrs)

Banglamphu Community Songkran Activities at Santi Chaiprakarn Park, Phra Athit Road
11-13 April 2009





For more information, please contact :


The Events Planning Division, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)


Tel. +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3470-3



TAT Call Centre 1672

THAILAND PROMOTIONAL TOUR PROGRAMMES BY TRAIN

Tour Programme : Family Visit to Nostalgic Ratchaburi
Dated : 28-29 Mar 09

This Thailand Travel Programme will lead you to Wat Khanon, whose Nang Yai Shadow Play recently won a UNESCO Award. Apart from this, Siam Cultural Park, Chet Samian Market, Wat Khlong Swannakhiri and Ban Khu Bua's Jipathaphan Museum are included in the programme.

Ticket Prices
Bt 2,700 each (Double room)
Bt 3,100 each (Single room)

Remark : inclusive of transfer, 1-night accommodation, 4 meals, snack, coordination fee, etc.

Those who are interested in booking seats can get the booking form from TAT Head Office on Phetchaburi Road, Bangkok, tel: 0 2250 5500 Ext. 2105, 2115-9 and reserve the seats directly. For further details, please contact: TAT Call Centre 1672.

The Story of Nang Yai
Shadow Puppet Drama at Wat Khanon, Ratchaburi, Thailand

Nang Yai Shadow Puppet Drama performances possibly already existed during the Sukhothai era. Certainly they were a leading form of entertainment during the Ayutthaya era. This typical Thai performing art remained popular throughout the early Rattanakosin era till at least the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

The Nang Yai Shadow Puppet Drama at Wat Khanon was first established during the reign of King Chulalongkorn. It now is the only important location for this form of entertainment in Thailand. However, the puppets are still meticulously maintained and produced, and the performers retain their high standards. The drama group from Wat Khanon performs throughout Thailand. The most popular drama performed is the Ramakien.

To perform a puppet drama, the essential constituents are : a suitable venue (transparent screen and lighting), puppet figures, a musical ensemble, narrators and recitors, and of course the puppeteers and the story line.

Creating the puppet figures is an artform all by itself. Most of the puppets are created from cowhide. The more important figures however require skin of other animals such as leopard skin, bear skin etc.

Wat Khanon in Ratchaburi province now also houses a nicely constructed Nang Yai Exhibition Hall. In an attractive way, quite a few puppets are on display.

Nang Yai Shadow Puppet Drama can be contacted at 03-223 3386, if you want to inquire about performances.

PRICE : MASSAGE SPA IN PATONG BEACH PHUKET, THAILAND

You can experience with unique and exotic spa treatments in Patong Beach at Phuket, Thailand. Massage and spa programs reflect the beauty, spirit and traditions of those ancient times and the soul and ritual of Thai culture.

The therapist performing a varied and truly relaxing holistic aroma massage for the body face and feet using essential oils followed with the body scrub using sea salt and almond. Finishing with a treatment Thai facial using Thai herbs and mud combined with a scalp massage to make you feel good. After your treatment time we serve you a ginger tea.

THAI SPA & MASSAGE EXAMPLED PRICE LIST :

Thai Oriental :

A Thai style massage for the whole body. Using sweet almond oil, the muscle tissue is warmed and relaxed ideal for a first time treatment.

60 minutes / 400 baht

120 minutes / 700 baht

Swedish :

A full body massage to relax aching muscles, stimulate circulation and assist in the removal of toxins. Pressure can be light or firm.

60 minutes / 700 baht

120 minutes / 1,200 baht

Aroma Massage :

A free-style therapeutic massage using an essential oil infused blend with a variety of massage techniques. Adapted to suit your body. A perfect treatment for the undecided.

60 minutes / 700 baht

120 minutes (including the face) / 1,200 baht

Foot Massage :

A pressure point massage applied to zones on the feet to stimulate the body own healing and balancing process, can relieve pain, reduce stress and improve circulation.

60 minutes / 400 baht

THAILAND SPA HOTEL IN Expedia's TOP TEN LIST

A Spa hotel in Thailand is picked by Expedia as the perfect location for rest and relaxation.

The Mangosteen Resort & Spa, Thailand

Overlooking beaches and islands, this boutique resort set in the tropical gardens of southern Phuket offers over 40 individually designed private villas (all with sea views), a huge infinity pool surrounded by 14 waterfalls, a day spa and a fitness centre.

The Mangosteen Resort & Spa is the most romantic Boutique Resort in Phuket, a perfect hideaway for a relaxing holiday. The unique secluded hillside location offers unparalleled views over 4 bays, Phuket town, mountains and many surrounding Islands! 41 Villa rooms and one Family Suite have been tastefully designed by our artist's team for ultimate comfort, relaxing atmosphere and privacy. Outside garden bathrooms with big rain showers, private Jacuzzis, comfortable terraces with hammock and plenty of romantic decorations will let you forget all the pressure of working life.

The therapists at the exclusive spa will pamper you with various rejuvenating treatments and massage therapies combining Asian with Western techniques. A short ride with free shuttle will bring you to Nai Harn Beach, Phuket’s best beach in a National Park.


The extra large pool with its beautiful sea views is filled with specially treated healthy water.


The Mangosteen Restaurant with its well tempered underground Wine Cellar, serves a fine blend of Asian and Western cuisine. Mediterranean food with Asian tastes and original Thai specialties with lots of fresh herbs from our gardens.


The meeting room is unique in Phuket with beautiful views and all high tech facilities for up to 60 people. Weddings, parties or seminars can be hosted in total privacy.



Expedia’s pick of the Top Ten Spa Hotels around the world
The official site of The Mangosteen Resort & Spa

THAI MASSAGE TRAINING AT WAT PHO IN BANGKOK, THAILAND

The Wat Pho Massage School is one of many schools that train people in the art of Thai massage. This school is probably the best known around Thailand as well as outside the country, but the thing that attracted me to this school was the flexible schedule of class offerings. There are three classes offered for massage, Traditional Thai Massage, Foot Massage, and Therapeutic Acupressure Massage (a.k.a. Advanced Thai Medical Massage Therapy).

The teachers at Wat Pho are conditioned to foreigners. Unfortunately, there are many foreigners who come to this school simply to spend some time and money to earn the certificate, but don't take the instruction seriously. Nevertheless, the teachers are extremely eager to train the students who are serious about learning massage.

Here are some helpful tips to get good training at Wat Pho Massage School:

* REMEMBER: The certificate you receive at the successful completion of a class does not replace the training required in your country

* Come early to register on the day you wish to start the course (around 8 - 8:30 a.m.)

* Bring cash (8500 Baht for General Thai Massage)

* Finish the course in as short of time as possible (full time studying). This will help you get matched with a serious partner.

* Come showered and sober.

* Bring a pen or pencil to take notes on the materials they give you. Good notes are critical to remembering the methods when you have returned home.

General Thai Massage Course

To teach the right position of massager, ethics, client's position, caution and rule of massaging. Say to relieve fatique, muscular cramping and nervous tension. To make muscle and joints supple. To stimulate the blood and lymph circulation for physical fitness improvement. To improve body immunity, for antiaging, and longevity. This course takes 30 hours.

GETTING A MASSAGE IN PHUKET

Getting a massage should be a thing to do when travelling Phuket. Massage in Phuket is a great way to relax after a long day of diving, touring or sailing.

Massage is an ancient and traditional form of healing derived from Ayurvedic medicine and a Thai massage in Phuket is incredibly inexpensive compared to the west. Also, it is an ancient Thai art created to make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

Massage shops in Phuket are found all over the island but are more concentrated in the tourist areas such as Patong and Kata. The Nai Harn area also has a large number of massage places, many of which also have saunas on site.

In Phuket Town, relaxing with massage is more concentrated at the larger spas. These tend to be more expensive but the cost of a massage usually includes a spa and herbal sauna as well. All of Phuket’s beaches are dotted with small beachfront massage stalls. There is something special about receiving a therapeutic Thai massage while staring out at the white sands and deep blue Andaman Sea.

A massage in Phuket usually costs about 200 baht per hour at one of the smaller, out of the way shops and can go as high as 1000 baht for the full royal treatment at one of the upmarket health spas. On the beach, expect to pay 300-350 baht an hour – there are plenty of ladies wandering up and down the beachfront offering these under the shade of the trees.

Some of the favourite massage parlours in Phuket are:

Gae’s Massage and Sauna: located on Saiyuan Road, Nai Harn, this place is popular with locals and offers massages and saunas in a charmingly rustic location.

Phuket Royal Spa and Massage: is an upmarket establishment in the Sam Kong area of Phuket City. Massage services are excellent and include an herbal sauna. 367/63-64 Yaowarat Rd. Tel: 076 236663

Hutavat Thai Massage: is one of the least dodgy massage parlors in Patong and has a quiet, clean and professional atmosphere. 45/12 Phrabaramee Rd.

Phuket Herbal Sauna: offers a good value for the money and is one of the better herbals saunas on the island. 2/3 moo 8, Chalong Road. Tel: 076 280910

Boo’s Original Thai Massage: is one of the oldest traditional Thai massage parlors on Phuket. 78/12 Moo 3 Kamala Main Rd. Tel: 076 385821