Shortcoming In The Healthcare System In Thailand

As Thailand is becoming a destination for medical tourism, attempts are being made to promote Thai health facilities quite actively. However, the average Thai is not deriving any benefits from the medical tourism as there are certain shortcomings in healthcare and hospital facilities which provide medical treatment to the locals.

Efforts are underway to improve the healthcare system in Thailand but a lot has to be done before we see some concrete results.

The first shortcoming in the healthcare system in Thailand is that there is no primary healthcare system. Most doctors in Thailand are generally specialists. So, it usually becomes difficult to find good general practitioner for minor ailments. If a person is suffering from common cold and cough, a visit to the general hospital means being examined by a doctor who is specialized in one of the medical fields and the doctor may not be able to handle such a small ailment.

However, critics beg to differ. They say they most private and university hospitals have general practitioners and one only needs to ask for them.

The other problem is that most doctors working in hospitals in Thailand do not do so full time. Most physicians and surgeons end up working in several hospitals across Bangkok. Besides this, these doctors also have their own private clinics. Therefore, post-operative care can be a nightmare if you doctor is communicating with the nursing staff on a mobile phone. Another grievance that a Thai patient might have is that he does not see his doctor as often as he would like during his stay in the hospital. And if he does, it is at unusual hours after the doctor finishes his clinics in various other places.

Thailand Travel

It's fun to travel through Thailand as it is a fascinating and exotic place to discover. This country is the most prevalent tourist destination in South East Asia, and for a good reason. There is so much to do, and even more to see. If you are planning a vacation to this area, don't be surprised if you end up extending your stay and find it hard to leave. The prices are great and the scenery is breathtaking.

No matter if you want to vacation at the beach on Phuket island, visit temples such as the Wat Chaiwatthanaram, or hike in the forests, you will have your pick of locations. Adventure options include exploring the mountainous jungle terrain on foot or by elephant back. You also have the option to go on a 4-wheel drive safaris or go mountain biking. See exotic plants and local animals in their amazing natural habitat at the Khao Sok National Park.

If you plan to enjoy the island's beaches on your stay there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Go diving, sailing, windsurfing, sea canoeing, swimming, or snorkeling. The Tarutao National Park ecevt offers snorkeling tours! There are instructors available for those who are new at these sports and tour guides who can help you make the most of your beach time. Take a tour on a glass bottom boat to see corals and local fish that you can't see anywhere else.

For the golfer in the family there is over 100 gold courses to choose from. The fees are reasonable and many are located near major tourist destinations. Send the family off to explore while you hit the green. The Panya Park Golf Course in Nongchok, Bangkok charges $42 per weekday plus a $6 caddy fee.

Those that come for the food will not be disappointed. The local Thai cuisine is recognized as some of the world's healthiest. There is lots of exotic local produce, fresh-caught fish, and seafood cooked to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. Enjoy your food fried in the wok, or have it grilled for a dish that is healthy yet stuffed with flavor.

Thailand is a mesmerizing and one of a kind. The area offers so much it's hard to decide what to do first. As an added bonus, the people are super friendly and vacation budgets can go farther than in many other countries.

Backpacking in Thailand - The Best Gear to Travel With

What is the best gear to travel with if you're planning to backpack through Thailand (or travel on a budget)? Well, it depends of course on where you're heading. If you go north, then pack for cool nights and mountain climbing. If you head south, then prepare for magnificent ocean adventures.

Firstly, if your plans include Chiang Mai or north then keep in mind it gets kind of chilly and you'll need warm gear and the right kit (ie. strong walk boots) for doing some trekking or exploring. However if you're going to hit the oceans on your Thai journey, then let's look at what you'll need.

OK, first up, the ever trusty waterproof 'sea' bag. These colorful little creatures will save your bacon in more ways than one, especially if you're a water baby and you love to be immersed in the sea all day. With your essential belongings safely enclosed in one of these you can explore ANY remote beach and still pull out a camera to capture the fun. An essential piece of ocean travel kit.

Next up is the go-anywhere sea sandals. You know the type - they embrace your feet and let you walk on sharp rocks and swim without worrying about what's down there. Then wear them down the street to get your Pad Thai. A good quality pair of these will last you forever and are essential for a good and safe Thailand adventure.

You'll need a quality jacket too, for the odd storm that steals in out of nowhere. Heaps of choices available, so get something that's lightweight and strong that'll cope with the wear and tear of being stuffed in your backpack and used frequently. It's Thailand, so it won't need to be too warm. In fact, the more breathable, the better.

Well, that's it in a nutshell. There's other gear that'll you want to bring but having those three pieces of kit will keep a smile on your face as you backpack through Thailand and have the adventure of your life!

The Best Time to Travel to Thailand

The best time to visit Thailand depends on the reason why the person wants to visit the country. The Thailand seasons are divided into three seasons - hot, cold and wet.

The hot season lasts from March to June. The hottest of all these months is April. If you love to be on the beach, this is the best time to visit the country. The sun is present for the whole day. Trekkers may find it hard to trek and they must beware of dehydration and sunstroke. Also, since this the peak tourist season in the country, hotels become expensive.

The wet season is from July to November. When there is a transition of climate from hot climate to wet climate, Thailand is the worst place to be in. As it is both hot and wet, the humidity is unbearable. You will feel like being in the shower all day long. After a month, the wet season starts and it rains daily, sometimes resulting in floods. If you are budget conscious, visit in the wet season as hotel accommodation will be inexpensive and the number of tourists will be less.

The cold season in Thailand starts in December and lasts till February. Thailand experiences snowfall in this season. Ice skating is a popular activity during this season. Bangkok's temperatures fall to 15 degrees Celsius in the nights. The weather is cooler in the northern part of Thailand, dropping to 2 degrees Celsius. It is not so cold in the southern part and you will be able to bear the cold weather with a light jumper or cardigan. This is the best time to visit Thailand.

So, if you want to visit Thailand, figure out the reason for visiting. It may be to trek or to get a tan or to shop. Thailand offers everything, but according to season. For instance, do not visit Thailand to trek in the mountains in the months of March to June as they will be bereft of snow.

Thailand Tourism

At least until recently, tourism has been the third most important sector of Thailand's economy, after agriculture and exports. Among 'industries,' tourism is listed in first place. The country is without doubt one of the world's favorite tourist destinations, in part because of its magnificent natural beauty (of many varieties, not just the famous islands), in part because of the natural friendliness of its people, in further part because of the relative ease and safety of traveling in Thailand, which is easily done on both high and low traveler personal economies.

This situation is now in considerable flux, and concerns about the viability of Thailand's major tourist industry are growing. Currency fluctuations and new economic policies have put a significant dent in exports as a source of GDP, and increasingly severe and unpredictable weather - primarily floods and droughts - throughout the country are an increasing concern to its agriculturalists.

Those changes make the viability of Thailand's tourist industry all the more important. While the country has so far survived threats to the industry such as SARS, bird flu, and the 2004 tsunami relatively intact, tourism officials and operators are only too aware that a more large-scale bird flu epidemic or another tsunami (in a region where earthquakes in Indonesia such as the one that caused the one in 2004 are increasingly frequent) could have a devastating effect on the industry.

Additionally, the relocating of the country's main airport, an expansive new facility called Suvarnaphumi planned by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to make Bangkok the 'hub of Southeast Asian travel' has been a only slightly mitigated disaster for the country and the source of considerable national shame. Hurried construction, corrupt construction practices, and overall bad planning have yielded a facility many find far inferior to the 95-year-old 'old' airport in Don Muang, for which longtime Thailand visitors had developed an affection, and which worked with seasoned efficiency. The new airport is daily news nationally, with alternating reports about its safety (primarily of the runways) and inconvenience. It is much farther out of the city, making it much more difficult for tourists to get to their Bangkok destinations and to others on their travel itineraries.

There are great fears among observers of Thailand's tourist scene that it will take just one more major problem such as the ones described above to drive tourists to seek other travel destinations in Asia and elsewhere. The effects on Thailand's economy would be devastating if tourism were to drop even a small amount.

Is It Safe to Travel to Thailand This Year?

Many people are once again starting to ask the question, just how safe is it to travel to Thailand? If you have plans to travel to Thailand this year or you oversee the travel of others then you need to know the real issues impacting travel this year to Thailand. Despite continued focus on the political activities there is a greater risk from issue such as motor vehicle accidents, health threats, crime and general travel delays. By reading this article you will be significantly more confident in your understanding of the real issues affecting travel to Thailand and empowered to act to maintain your travel plans, regardless of what happens.

With elections planned in the early part of this year it has reinvigorated a number of political parties and lead to a spate of copy-cat demonstrations. It's just common practice now to demonstrate in and around Bangkok. The political issues and tensions over the past few years that have resulted in the turn over of leadership, demonstrations, violence and even the airport closures are still not resolved. The reality is though that it has minimal impact on travellers to Thailand. Many of the forecasts and predictions made by the media and political leaders are grossly inaccurate. Some of these predictions, such as rally attendee numbers, have been as much as 90% wrong. Even when there has been a strong showing, most of the demonstrators have been bussed in from elsewhere, paid a daily salary and typically only demonstrate around weekends, holidays and non-productive farming periods. Thailand is a big country. Thousands of people congregating anywhere is not a big deal. There is still ample room in the country and the city for everyone else and aside from some local traffic and diversion issues, presents little impact to travellers to Thailand. Follow the events, note the locations and avoid the immediate area.

Motor vehicle accidents continue to grow in Thailand. New attempts to reduce injury and fatalities around holiday periods and introduce helmet laws have been a positive step but still a long way from reducing the "pandemic" of dangerous driving, difficult driving conditions and lack of policing. Frequent use of sidewalks by motorcycles, over congested streets, unpredictable private transport vehicles and bad roads make this a real and persistent threat for travellers. Coupled with the inconsistent standard and response of emergency services, this can actually turn a "survivable" incident into a life threatening event. Use seat belts where possible, encourage your drive to drive with care, avoid the use of tuk-tuks and motorcycles, limit the use of mini-vans and you will have actively reduced the risk significantly.

Disease, illness, hygiene, weather, food and water all present health safety and security risks for travellers in Thailand. Increases in Malaria, Dengue fever and other tropical diseases result in many travellers, tourists and expatriates falling ill or even death. Poor food preparation or poor hygiene practices contribute to significant and consistent health issues for travellers. Not to mention the fact many Thai's are just not familiar with the ingredients and preparation of Western style food which can result in unintentional food related sickness. Clean drinking water is not consistently available throughout Thailand. This simple commodity in other parts of the world can have an immediate and negative impact on your health and travel activities. Pre-travel vaccinations, covering exposed areas in Malaria prone areas, specific medications, cautious consumption of foods, observing what many others are eating without impact and continuously ensuring you have clean safe drinking water will go a long way to ensure you holiday or business trip to Thailand is all the fun or productive things you want it to be without disruption from illness and sickness.

Crime does exist in Thailand. Many tourists are shocked to discover this. It is the "land of smiles" but there are local Thai criminals and gangs, along with foreign criminals too, that target foreigners and tourists. Scams, pickpocketing, theft, drink spiking, robbery, physical assaults and many typical petty crimes affect tourists on a daily basis. Be aware of the threat, keep your guard up, be aware of your surroundings and environment, have a plan, know how to seek help if needed and you have less chance of being a victim of crimes of opportunity or random acts of violence. Forget being a victim of terrorism, political violence, gang violence or such acts as the odds are low, not impossible, in Thailand.

Travel delays and disruptions abound in Thailand. Traffic, transport facilities, English speaking, transport hubs, congestion, tourists, overly bureaucratic processes, bad driving, "holiday feel", weather, all play a role in continuous travel disruptions in Thailand. You need to be aware of this persistent threat and take practical steps to reduce the impact. Factor in instructions/directions in Thai, ample time to travel to/from transport hubs such as airports, being patient at government processing areas, complying with the rules and guidelines, having alternate plans should you encounter delay and not trying to "over crowd" your itinerary will enhance your safety and enjoyment of your next trip to Thailand.

You should now be more aware and better positioned to reduce nearly 80% of the probable travel threats to Thailand. Continue to be aware, monitor events, consider the impact to your plans and plan around the disruptive issues. Now you can all but guarantee your safe and enjoyable travel to Thailand and not let a few media reports put you into a state of concern or panic. The year ahead will likely test your preparation and understanding of the issues but you have here the keys to a better journey. Put this to use, book/confirm that trip and have a safe, memorable and enjoyable trip to Thailand's fantastic cities and locations.

Yoga Travel Reviews - Agama Yoga in Thailand

Yoga Travel Destination: Agama - Thailand

Known for its friendly people, amazing food, and abundance of yoga centers, Thailand ranks high on our list for yoga travel destinations. The beautiful Thai island of Koh Phagnan hosts the flagship site of the international yoga school Agama Yoga. Basing its foundations on ancient lineages of Tantra Yoga, Agama created an authentic practice center in a tropical paradise, making it a popular destination for yoga travelers.

Koh Phagnan is a small island made famous for its legendary full moon parties. Once a month, on the full moon, Koh Phagnan erupts with an influx of party seekers. As the party-goers return back to the mainland, the island calms down to its natural, peaceful equilibrium.

Like everywhere in Thailand, the people are extremely friendly and conversational. Thailand is widely known as "The Land of Smiles."

The food is tasty and affordable, usually costing around $2-$4 per meal. Being an island, the restaurants and food vendors of Koh Phagnan have access to incredibly fresh seafood. The crab fried rice was delicious! Vegetarian fare is somewhat available in restaurants and through limited street vendors. Not so friendly for the yogic diet, Thai street vendors love to BBQ and fry their meat. One option is to purchase your own veggies at the Thongsala market, and cook it yourself.

To reach Koh Phagnan there are a couple of options. The large, neighboring island of Koh Samui is reachable by plane from Bangkok for a cheap price. Travellers would then take a short ferry ride over to Koh Phagnan. Alternately, one can take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, a port town in the south of Thailand. Then you would take a 3 hour ferry ride directly to Koh Phagnan.

Our impression of the Agama yoga style is that the practice boasted an extremely authentic and devotional energy. The asana practice was intensive in its physicality as mantras were repeated throughout. The school kindly offers a free class to first timers, so if you're on the island, give it a try. A description of Agama yoga from their website:

Agama is a unique international school offering its students the secret spiritual path of true Integral Yoga in a modern form. Based in the authentic, esoteric lineages of Indian and Tibetan Tantra Yoga, Agama provides an updated and upgraded self-development system whose theory includes comprehensive university-level teachings, combined with those of other sacred traditions from East and West (such as Taoism, Gnostic Christianity, Tibetan Buddhism, and Sufism).

Agama hosts many retreats and workshops throughout the year. Check their calendar and you will find that there are rotating classes of Tantra, meditation, Anusara yoga, detox programs, and yogic healing. My friend attended their detox program and said that it was difficult but "life changing." If you really enjoy the Agama style and want to take it to the next level, the school offers yoga teacher training programs.

Accommodations are not available though Agama, however there is a partner resort (Ananda Wellness) which gives discounts for Agama students. Guesthouses and bungalows are incredibly cheap in Thailand. Usually, your room will be cheaper than your meals, which is cheap! Depending on the quality, you can find something as low as $8/night, depending on the season and the proximity to the full moon party. Be sure to negotiate and let the owner know that you are staying for multiple days. There is a whole art to negotiation in Thailand which is beyond the scope of this article, however we must mention your best tactic will be to keep smiling.

If you decide to take a yoga travel adventure to Thailand, be sure to come back to tell us about how much you enjoyed it. I could talk Thailand all day!

Villa Bougainvillea - Koh Samui, Thailand

One of the best things about taking a vacation on a tropical island is a climate that allows you the freedom to enjoy tropical outdoor living. While there are some superb four and five star hotels on Koh Samui, in terms of space, freedom and privacy they fall pretty short, compared to enjoying your holiday in your own private villa.

Villa Bouganinvillea (Miskawaan) is located in the popular village of Maenam. Whilst Maenam does not have all the hustle and bustle of Chaweng, the most well known of the Samui Beaches, it has a lot to offer in terms of shopping, dining, water sports and a superb beach as well as waterfalls, rivers and exciting jungle trails that can be explored by foot, ATV, or mountain bike.

Villa Bouganinvillea has three bedrooms that can accommodate up to six guests and when you walk through the wooden double doors you are entering your own private tropical haven. The stoned courtyard has a colourful garden and ornamental ponds. There is a small seating area that is the perfect spot for reading and relaxation shaded from the sun. The central area has a private, chlorine-free, salt cleaned swimming pool and a sala with a Thai style roof and cooling ceiling fans. There is a music system with outdoor speakers that make entertaining more fun, as well as a portable gas BBQ where you can rustle up a feast with produce from the local markets or one of Samui's superstore markets such as Tesco Lotus, Big C or Macro. If you prefer indoor dining, or, find yourself in one of the brief tropical storms the villas has, a large indoor fully equipped kitchen as well as a back up generator that is a priceless feature during the islands power outs. The villa also boasts a large living area with sea views. All the bedrooms have their own private living area as well as ceiling fans and air con to keep you cool during the tropical days and nights and for your peace of mind there is also CCTV and an extensive security system.

The resident staff at Villa Bougainvillea do an excellent job of keeping it clean and tidy and your villa manager is always on hand to help you book tours and excursions, liaise with the on-site Chef and arrange other services, such as car hire and in house spa treatments and massage.

The advantages of holidaying in your own private Koh Samui luxury villa are many, not least of all being the space and privacy you need to get the rest and relaxation you need away from the hustle and bustle of the western world. It is an interesting point to note that when you share a private Samui holiday villa with family or friends you can make considerable savings on comparable hotel accommodation. Koh Samui has so much to offer especially when it can be enjoyed from the glorious, luxurious Villa Bougainvilla Miskawaan.

Cambodia Travel on a Budget

The most expensive part of travel to Cambodia and indeed any international destination is the price of the airplane ticket. This is particularly true for Cambodia which doesn't have a direct destination link with major airlines based out of the South East Asia catchment area. However the introduction of online airline booking systems has made the costs to travelers more competitive. It is now possible to receive price comparisons from over 100 different airlines in a matter of minutes. The arrival of budget airlines in the South East Asia area has also made the market more competitive and offered more assistance to the budget traveler.

With the cost of internal air travel in Cambodia expensive the budget traveler will be seeking out alternate forms of transport. Cambodia fortunately has very efficient bus services utilizing the country's modern highway system. Where is your favorite destination point in Cambodia? Is it Siem Reap in the north to view the majestic Angkor temples? Is it the coastal region to the south including the port and beaches of Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand? Or is it the lesser known town of Kratie on the Mekong River where you'll be able to sight the Irrawaddy dolphins? All these destinations are a 5 to 6 hour bus trip from the capital city; Phnom Penh.The International Airport at Phnom Penh is the busiest airport in Cambodia and is the first port of call for most travelers.

All long distance bus services in Cambodia operate during daylight hours. With buses setting out as early as 7 am travelers have enough time to enjoy the sights after reaching their travel destination without losing a entire day on traveling

In this part of South East Asia, Cambodia offers cheap accommodation. It is possible to stay in clean, guesthouse accommodation from as low as US$4 per night. US dollars as well as Cambodian riel's are the accepted currencies in this country. For the budget traveler these accommodation prices represent great value as generally accommodation is the most expensive cost after air travel.

The low local cost of living is reflected in the price of food. It is possible to get an excellent, nourishing meal for under $2 from street vendors. By simply following locals to where they go to eat, travelers will save money by not needing to pay expensive restaurant prices. There needs to be no excuse to put off traveling to Cambodia as it would qualify as one of the World's most affordable travel destinations amidst some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet.

Thailand Travel Insurance

You've booked your flight, made reservations at the hotel, got someone to bring in the mail and watch the dogs, what about the travel insurance? I know what you're thinking, "I'm only going for two weeks", "I'll be fine I'm in great shape", "other people get sick on vacation, not me", but what if you're wrong?

Thailand is known for being a bargain for westerners. Cheap clothes, food, hotels, entertainment, even the hospitals and clinics are cheap compared to the west and with some of the best doctors in the world. Contrary to what some people may believe Thailand has excellent health care. Even though Thailand is cheaper than the west in almost every category if you wind up in the hospital for a week or two it's still going to cost you and it will be more than you bargained for.

If you need some stitches or you pick up a bad case of pink eye then a clinic can patch you up easily and the cost will be minimal...around 700 Baht - 1200 Baht ($20-$30) and thats including all the medicine you'll need to take for whatever length of time. But if you have seriously problems and are admitted to a hospital then the bills start to rack up. Hospital room, medicine, diagnostics, and so on. Then you could be looking at 30,000 baht and up...you do the math.

Whereas travel insurance won't be much help for the minor ailments it will certainly be worth the cost if something major comes up. On average for a two week trip most travel insurance will cost you $20-$30 which isn't much in the grand scheme of things. That amount will usually cover major medical, flights to your home country if it's decided thats the best place for you, and most even have an added bonus that if you're hospitalized for a week or longer they will have a family member flown to you.

Travel insurance can also cover trip cancellations, lost luggage, and a change in travel plans depending on what options you choose. You may not have a great vacation if you get sick but if you have to pay for it out of pocket as well then it's sure to be a memorable trip and not for the right reasons.

I'm writing this because I came down with acute tonsillitis on my first trip to Thailand. Luckily a few trips to the clinic got me back into shape but it could have been bad and I wouldn't have been covered as I didn't even think about insurance.

The flight to Thailand is a long one if you live in the states (17 hours non stop from JFK International) Which will have you nice and dehydrated if you don't drink a lot of water. The temperature in Thailand is HOT which can and will dehydrate you further if you don't take care. Foreign food, foreign microbes, burning the candle at both ends, endless sight seeing, and a host of other things can and will come back to haunt you if you don't take care. Even if you do take care to prevent sickness there is always the unexpected and in Thailand that could be anything from an over amorous elephant, a motorcycle taxi running you over and a host of other things just waiting for you around the next corner.

You may have great insurance in your home country but in most cases they won't cover you overseas.

Find a good travel insurance and buy it for your trip no matter where you're going or for how long!

Using Thailand As Your Travel Hub in Southeast Asia

Sooner or later, you have to visit Southeast Asia if you enjoy seeing the world. There are simply too many unique landmarks and fascinating cultural aspect to not do so. When you go, you may find getting about a bit difficult, so focus on Thailand as your hub.

Asia is a fascinating area that has to be seen to be believed. From the spires of Angkor Wat to the lightening shows off the coast of Sihanoukville in Cambodia, there is something for everyone. To top the area off as a top destination, a currency problem in the late 1990s has resulted in Southeast Asia being a very cheap trip. Yes, even with the dollar being beaten up.

There is only one hang up when it comes to traveling in this area. Simply put, it is difficult to get from here to there. The quality, size and frequency of the transportation systems in the countries varies fairly dramatically. Consider the contrast between two countries sharing a long border - Thailand and Cambodia.

Thailand has its act together. There is plenty of bus, tram and train service in the bustling city of Bangkok. You can also take overnight trains from the city to most destinations in the country. If you have a few bucks to spare, you can usually fly from the city to larger destination in the country, such as Chang Mai, for $40 to $80. When you are ready to head to another country in the region, international flights out of Bangkok are also plentiful and cheap.

Cambodia is in sharp contrast to Thailand. For the most part, the use of the term "roads" is debatable. Things are rough. Much of the northern area of the country is very difficult to access. In fact, one of the more popular ways to get around the country when possible is by ferry. It is highly recommended that you use this mode of transportation when heading to Angkor Wat or your kidneys and back will be an absolute mess. Flying around Cambodia domestically is nearly impossible and international flights are infrequent and really expensive.

Lest you think I am unfairly criticizing Cambodia, it should be noted there is a distinct reason for the infrastructure problems in the country. The Khmer Rouge, of course. This group led by Pol Pot tried to revert the country to an agricultural society. Besides killing nearly a third of the population, the infrastructure took a beating.

This contrast may seem extreme, but it can be found in other countries. Laos is wonderful, but very rural. Indonesia is cheaper than even Cambodia and Thailand, but travel within the country can be physically tough. The contrast go on and on.

Should you travel to Southeast Asia, you are going to need a place to make your base. Thailand is an excellent choice based on my trips to the region. It is very inexpensive, yet the infrastructure is excellent. It simply makes a great place to launch any exploration of the region.

Fun Facts About Thailand

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Thailand is bigger than the United Kingdom, Iceland, Belgium and Austria combined.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand. Bangkok is one of the most beautiful places in Asia, a city where East meets West.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Her Majesty the Queen Sirikit was one of the most beautiful women in the 20th century.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Different from Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam,Thailand is not among the Asia´s poorest countries.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Thailand is famous for its hospitality, and the average visitor will have no difficulty in adapting to local customs.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Pornthip "Bui" Nakhirunkanok became the second Thai to win the Miss Universe title after Apasra Hongsakula in 1965. The year was 1988.The place was exotic Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Thailand has hosted the Asian Games four times in the past century: 1966, 1970, 1978 and 1998.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Miss Universe 1992 Pageant was held at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok, Thailand. Miss Namibia, Michelle McLean, was crowned Miss Universe 1992.The judges were: Khunying Sasima Srivikorn (businesswoman), Luis Enrique (singer), Miriam Makeba (singer and anti-AIDS activist), Ron Duguay (sportsman), Vijay Amritraj (sportsman), Kim Alexis (supermodel), Robin Leach (actor), Estelle Getty (actress)...

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

UNESCO has declared Historic City of Ayutthaya (1991), Historic Town of Sukhotahi and Associated Historic Towns (1991), Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Santuaries (1991), Ban Chiang Archaeological Site (1992), and Pong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex (1995) World Heritage Sites. Certainly, Thailand is a country of ancient culture, history and beautiful landscapes.It is a world in a country.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

In 1984, Pope John Paul visited Thailand.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Between 1970 and 1996, Thailand´s economy was one of the most dynamic in the world.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Thailand has great athletes:Paradorn Srichaphon (tennis), Kamsing Somluck (boxing), Wijan Ponlid (boxing), Manus Boonjumnong (boxing), Udomporn Polsak (weightlifting), and Pawina Thongsuk (weightlifting).

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Thai cuisine is famous all over world.There are many Thai restaurants in New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Tokyo, Rome and London.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Thai boxing is the national sport in Thailand.

Queen Suriyothai Of Thailand

Suriyothai was the Queen of Thailand. She was the wife of King Maha Chakraphat of Ayutthaya who reigned from 1549 to 1569. Suriyothai is considered as a Heroine of Thailand, who sacrificed her life while trying to save her husband during a battle.

King Maha Chakraphat was famous for his white elephants. He had a number of them and according to Brahminic beliefs, a monarch who had one or more white elephant was a symbol of glory and success. It is believed that King Maha Chakraphat's reign was extremely successful.

The King ascended to the throne in 1549. After just six months, he was challenged by the King of Burma to a war. The King of Burma had a personal grudge towards the King and he wanted to capture the main city, Ayutthaya, which was the capital of Siam. During those days Thailand was called Siam.

The Siamese king could not let the challenge go and as the king, Maha Chakraphat led his army in defense of the capital. During those times women were not allowed to take part in wars. But Queen Suriyothai was concerned about her husband's well being and wanted to be at his side during the battle. However, the King would not hear of it so Suriyothai disguised herself as a man and she joined her husband in the battlefield. During the battle, King Maha Chakraphat's elephant was killed and taking advantage of this Burmese king tried to kill him. However, Queen Suriyothai intercepted the attack and died in the bargain. When the Burmese King found out that he had killed a woman, he was extremely ashamed and immediately withdrew from the battle; leaving Ayutthaya to Siam.

The queen was looked upon as a heroine for sacrificing her life to save her husband's and is still venerated and revered in Thailand for her bravery.

Classical Dance Form Of Thailand

Thai people are extremely graceful in their movements and as a result their dances display elegance and fine movements. Traditional classical dancing is mixed with western culture nowadays but the old traditional elegance is still evident in Thai dances.

Thai classical dancing was a symbol which linked earth and god. It is said that they first acquired a dancing group in 1431. Later this dance form underwent a sea of changes and eventually formed a different dance style emerged with typical costumes and masks.

There are folk dances as well as regional dances. The two well known Thai classical dance forms are khon and lakon nai. In the beginning, these forms of dances were enacted specially for entertainment of the court and not for the common people. Later on a dance theater, Likay, another form of dance for the common people was developed which became extremely popular.

Khon and lakon nai are very stylist and strictly in the classical form. Where as the Likay dance form is not as elegant but depends on the common taste of the people and it is performed to humor them in a crude way.

Khon is a masked performance depicting the Thai version of the tales of Indian Ramayana, and lakon nai narrates different legendary stories. Earlier, khon dance was only performed by men and lakon nai was performed by women because of the vital distinction between the two styles. One form needed strength and quick movement and the other form required grace and restricted movement. Though, this rule is not maintained strictly in modern times.

Train Trips in Thailand

Most people are familiar with the River Kwai Death Railway as being Thailand's scenic rail trip option. However it is really the infamy of the line that escalates this trip in the eyes of the visitor. Admittedly spectacular in parts and with beautiful scenery along the Kwai Noi River to Namtok at the end of the line, it is but a small segment of the SRT system and by no means the only memorable sector to be found.

The River Kwai services leave from Thonburi station with additional services from the main Hualom-phong station during the November festival time. The Thonburi station affords splendid views of the river and is close to the Royal Barge sheds as well as being an architectural wonder with its clock tower facade.

Whether you have an interest in railways or not, trains are still an immensely pleasurable way to view the Thai countryside and are also cheap. The rail fare to Nam Tok, at the end of the Kwai line is still only 60 baht for a one way ticket and the Wongwian Yai service can still be found at around 20 baht round trip.

On local trains and many of the long distance expresses, vendors still ply their wares at the various stops along the line and many will be already aware of the new Korean-manufactured sleeper carriages available on most routes. Sleeper fares are still a real deal and more comfortable than ever and all first class carriages now have a shower area at the end of each carriage.

The Korean rolling stock is but the latest progressive foreign intervention into the State Railway with Japanese Kawasaki train units and British Rail "Sprinter" trains having upgraded the quality of train services within the last 10 years. Of course, the whole system was German-built, being a dream of King Chulalungkorn to link the hinterland to Bangkok and create a united "Thai Land" as well as fortifying links to the weak border points. It has recently celebrated its operational centennial with services duplicating the original public service to Korat.

The climb to the Korat Plateau, after the lineside temple views at Ayutthaya and especially Lopburi, is another of the lesser-noticed scenic sectors of the system. Here the route skirts Khao Yai National Park and the slow ascent affords excellent views of the lush central plains disappearing into the distance to be replaced by the comparatively flat and bare Isaan rice bowl.

For scenic mountain ascents the Doi Khun Tan National Park has by far the best to offer. Most travellers will see it at its best if being an early riser (0600-0700) on the Express Sleeper from Bangkok to Chiangmai.

The morning light hits the deep forested valleys in an array of color that is difficult to find elsewhere in the region and the basically uninhabited area adds to the slow switchback trundle of the train up the mountain. The climax of the ride is the final ascent to Doi Khun Tan station through a 2km tunnel, finally arriving at, in this writer's opinion, the most beautiful, well kept station in the Kingdom. Basketed blossoms on the platform and green peaks in the backdrop give it a special feeling, especially when experienced in the atmosphere of Lanna's cool morning air. The tunnel itself claimed many lives during its construction over a century ago and a plaque in respect of those workers can be seen at the southern portal. Many will argue the point that Hua Hin, with its Royal waiting room, is the more pleasant (and certainly more photographed) station, but Doi Khun Tan, with its inaccessibility, is a credit to the people that created it and those who currently man it. It really is only visited by those hiking into the National Park and for that reason alone has far fewer visitors than the Hua Hin version.

Sprinter train travellers on the Chiangmai day service from Bangkok will see Doi Khun Tan in the evening twilight, which can be almost as rewarding. The Sprinter service has become popular since its introduction, allowing train travellers to see all of the countryside between the two major cities during daylight. A similar situation exists with the Surat Thani to Bangkok sprinter service where travellers are able to view the coastal section from the south in daylight, previously missed with only the overnight sleeper services available. Sprinter trains, with their large viewing windows and airline-style reclining seats are a comfortable and affordable way to view the countryside. There are no traffic jams and one isn't constantly watching for oncoming traffic!

The only criticism of the international express, and indeed all sleeper trains within the kingdom is the fact that first class sleepers have berths situated across the car. As trains tend to rock from side to side, actual sleep is only usually achieved in second class where berths are configured lengthways along side the carriage windows. The result in first class, despite the privacy of a double cabin, is one of being shunted up and down the bed in a traditional railroad manner. Check out the disembarking sleeper passengers when you are at journey's end. The upper class travelers always seem to have that extra jaded style to their morning arrival.

First class berths on the E & O Express are configured correctly i.e. lengthways and the luxury of this service far surpasses the SRT public trains and perhaps most other services in the world. The train is not a remnant of a bygone age, as are the sister trains in Europe, but a converted version of New Zealand's Silver Streak, Christchurch to Greymouth train of the 1980's. It blends well as a replica, but the minimum $1400 for the one way 2 night trip to and from Singapore is, to most, still expensive. Far easier to experience the train on the frequent Saturday night 5 hour dinner specials from both Bangkok and Singapore at $150 (6,450 baht) per head. Look out in the local press for departure dates.

For those looking for the alternative experience and not requiring E & O luxury, steam excursions ply the local Bangkok routes on the King's Birthday and Chulalungkorn Day as well as during the Kwai festival. The Ayutthaya specials usually cost around 100 baht for the round trip, a figure unheard of for European rail enthusiasts.

Thai Rail passes still exist but the complications of reserving seats and berths in advance can sometimes outweigh the good value from these visitor's special deals. No matter, as long as one observes the 60 day advance purchase regulation and recognizes the popularity of train travel at holiday times, it is a very rewarding and value for money means of seeing the kingdom. Not only that, the punctuality is what may be expected of an originally German built system, as with the new reliable Skytrain.

Trekking in Thailand - What to Take, What to Wear

You may trek wearing flip-flops with a t-shirt, but wearing them may not protect you from the branches in the jungle or from sun or protect your feet from getting hurt and sore. You have to follow some tips to trek safely in Thailand.

Footwear is very important for the trekkers. Get footwear which is strong. The terrain in Thailand will be wet and muddy. That is why the feet have to be protected. You can go with sturdy sandals, but see that the grip is good. While trekking in a jungle, you may land on the sharp objects. So, it is better to wear strong footwear. The climate is hot, humidity is unbearable and the weather is sticky. So, take a shower after trekking and change your clothes. Take clothes which are cotton and loose.

Binoculars are the must when trekking across Thailand. In case you forget to carry a pair, there is nothing to worry because you can get them in Phuket, Bangkok or Patong for reasonable rates before you start out. You can have a look at the Elephant Hills. The mountains are full of wildlife, hornbills and monkeys.

Carry a mosquito spray to protect yourself from mosquitoes. These mosquitoes do not cause malaria, but they can be irritating and cause you discomfort in the night. If you have scratched yourself after a mosquito bite and it is not healing, then do not stay in the humid climate.

Torch is also important to carry especially when you are out in the wilderness. The nights are darkest in Khao Sok. So, torch will definitely come handy when you are out trekking and camping.

Medication is also important because you will have no access to a drugstore when you are in the wilderness. Carry all the necessary pills for headache, indigestion, and cough. Also, make sure that you are carrying some antiseptic ointment, bandages and band aids. Do not forget to carry a pocketknife. You never know when you may need it!

Make sure you carry all the above mentioned things when you are out trekking in Thailand. This will ensure that your trek goes of smoothly without any problems.

Golf In Thailand

Almost everyone is aware of Thailand's beautiful beaches, but it would surprise many to know that recreational tourists come flocking to Thailand because of golf.

Golf has become very popular in Thailand and as a result many world-class golf courses have come up in the country. These golf courses are challenging with full range of services and are set against breathtaking backdrops. Most golf courses in Thailand offer their patrons fine dining, luxurious accommodation, carts, caddies and full equipped pro-shops with knowledgeable pros. The courses are also equipped with saunas and massage centers. Most golf courses in Thailand are located quite close to beach resorts, making it a win-win situation for tourists who can play off golf and then go to the beach and relax.

The climate is conducive to golfing right round the year. One can even go for a golfing holiday during the rainy season as it seldom rains for more than a couple of hours at a time. In winter, northern part of Thailand does get a bit chilly and it is advisable to pack a sweater for your golfing holiday to Thailand. Many golf courses have installed floodlights so that golf enthusiasts can still be on the green even after the sun sets.

Green fees in Thailand are well below international standards and playing golf is not an expensive affair. Golf courses may charge a paltry amount of 250 baht on weekdays with the amount increasing marginally at weekends. Phuket has the highest green fees in Thailand, which is still lower than what one would pay in golf courses in other parts of the world.

Want Night Life in Bangkok? Here's the Top 5 Places to Have a Fun Night

Bangkok Thailand is known for the country's amazing beauty. Right from the country's beautiful and scenic nature, and its colorful culture and traditions, Bankok is really exceptional. What Bangkok is also known is the city's exciting night life offers.

o Guliver's Tavern - located on the main road of Sukhumvit in Bangkok. There are shops, restaurants and nightclubs located just walking distance from the hotel. Also within the area is the Nana sky train station, which connects the city to the business district and all the main shopping and entertainment areas in the Bangkok. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of Thai and Continental dishes. Gulliver's Tavern Hotel provides convenience and luxury to its every guests and a place to enjoy an amazing night life in Bangkok.

o Hard Rock Cafe, Bangkok - located in Siam Square, Bangkok Thailand. A foreign trip will never be complete without a visit to one of the many Hard Rock Cafés around the world. Bangkok's own Hard Rock Cafe comes complete with roll music and classic rock played all day, including live bands each night. The place is decorated with numerous music memorabilia and has a function room that can accommodate of up to forty people at the same time. The bar offers exotic cocktails and beer choices. In style with the other Hard Rock café's, they serve steaks, burgers and other Western-style cuisines too.

o Bed Supper Club - serves cool and delicious dishes. The club offers bubbly entertainment with live music and exciting atmosphere. Tourists love the place for the enjoyable and satisfying services Bed Supper Club offer to their costumers. It also has an impressive architecture making the club really attractive. An excellent place for an amazing night life most people are looking for.

o Booze - The name of the club describes the place itself, which is all about boozing out. Always filled with youths who want to have a good time with their friends and acquaintances, this is one of the places to be on Friday nights. The club has large screen TVs; dazzling sound system and outstanding live bands entertaining with all types of music, boozing has never this exciting. This place is a certain favorite for travelers who enjoy an exciting night life.

o Santika - fully renovated club, which made it more glamorous and lively. There are regular live bands playing here every night. Favored by many because it offers comfortable and fun services. Everyone who visits here will surely have a good time. Probably one of the best clubs anyone has ever been.

Southern Thailand: Dangerous?

As seen in Newspapers or on TV, some people around the globe think of Southern Thailand to be a pretty dangerous place because of the bombings and fighting that takes place on the southern border of Malaysia and Thailand. There's an ethnic separatist insurgency taking place 10 years, a decade. It has really erupted around 2004 and former Prime Minister of Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra granted the Army Commander with an extraordinary increase in executive powers to combat the unrest.

Some claim that the insurgency is based on historic causes including a 200 year "occupation", the 1960s resettlement of northeastern Thais and to Thai cultural and economic imperialism in Pattani, including allegations of police brutality, criminal activity, disrespect of Islam, the presence of culturally insensitive businesses such as bars, drug trafficking and corruption. However, there are counter-claims that drug trafficking is one source of insurgent money.

Many travelers avoid Thailand because they are not sure where all the violence is taking place. Most know Phuket, Trang, Krabi, Koh Samui and Khao Sok is in the south and are afraid of the violence from what they see on the news or read in newspapers.

The only place the violence happens is on the border, which is hours away from Phuket, Trang, Krabi, Koh Samui and Khao Sok. So if you are planning a trip to Southern Thailand it will be safe to travel to these tourist destinations.

So if you are either thinking about taking a trip or holiday to Khao Sok to see the magnificent rainforest or the beautiful beaches in Krabi but not sure about the violence, I can assure you that it will be safe. Their is no danger to from the insurgency in other parts of Southern Thailand.

Thailand Travel Tips and Customs

After living in Bangkok for over a year I have learned many things about the Thai People that I wanted to share with other foreigners living or vacationing here should know. The first thing you have to accept is that eastern culture is different. The people in the east are less emotional and more polite and while they know westerners are different, they often are uncomfortable when we stray from their norms. The things I found to be important are listed below in order of importance:

Be Polite - Thai people hold being polite above all else. Their very language has politeness built into it. If you follow what is considered "common courtesy" you will be fine.

Thai King - The Thai People Love their King, King Rama IX. Never show any type of disrespect to him or the Royal family. The Thai people have a deep traditional reverence for the Royal Family, and the visitor should also show respect for the King and the Queen, and the Royal Children. When attending a public events where a member of the Royal Family is present, the best guide on how to behave is to watch the crowd and do as it does.

Safety - Stealth crimes, such as pick pocketing, are the most common problem so it's worth keeping a close eye on your belongings at all times and being aware of the people around you. Unprovoked violence against tourists are very rare, but it pays to exercise common sense.

National Religion - Buddhism is Thailand's national Religion with nearly 95% of Thailand's population being Buddhist. All Buddha images are considered sacred and there are laws against removing these images for anything other that personal worship.

Buddhist Monks - Buddhist Monks are recognized quickly by their shaved heads, bear feet and bright orange robes. It is forbidden for women to touch Buddhist Monks, this includes a woman handing something to a Monk, The items should be first given to a man, who hands the item to the monk. Also, western men should never attempt to shake hands with a monk.

Buddhist Temple - Wearing shoes around a temple is acceptable but they should be removed when entering their church (the area where the Buddha image is kept).

Be Quiet - Loud people are considered impolite. Speak softly and do not laugh loudly. Of course there are the common places such as bars, celebrations and parks that being loud is appropriate and expected.

Greetings - Greetings in Thailand can be quite formal in appearance to the western eye. The basic gesture is to put hands together, fingers up, with a slight bow of the head. The words "saw dee (krup)" (or "kaw" for women) are spoken during fm bow. It is more complicated for Thai people, with three levels based on age and position but westerners attempting this greeting are not expected to understand. (levels: 1. Monk, thumbs touching forehead durin bow; 2. Same age or older, thumbs touching lips; and 3. Younger person, thumbs touching chin.)

Food - Food in Thailand is customarily HOT, spicy HOT. Most westerners can not handle the amount of chili spice that Thai people enjoy. For the westerner visiting foreigner, the best tip i can give them is how to ask to make the food less spicy. There are two phrases to be used based on you preference: 1) "mai ped" - not spicy and 2) "ped nit noi" - a little bit spicy. The food is awesome in Thailand and this tip should help you enjoy it even more. In the near future I will be publishing a description of my favorite foods. Stay tuned.

Street Food - There is an old Thai saying "a little bit of dirt makes the food a little bit more delicious (rough translation). For westerners, buying food on the street can impact your health with the possible contraction of various gastro digestive problems. While most street food vendors are clean, this only by local standards. I live by "rule of thumb" which has served well living in Bangkok. This rule is simple but you need to stick to it. It is "only eat from the street what is cooked in front of you". This ensures that the food is fully cooked one more time before you eat it. Unfortunately, this eliminates a lot of food served on the street but better safe than sorry for week.

Body Odor - Thai people almost never smell badly and they find it offensive if others do.

Crowds - if you go to areas in Thailand during Thai holidays and celebrations, be prepared to encounter many people. To Western experience the volume of these areas can be incredible. Be prepared to be pushed and shoved and be aware that they mean no harm. There sence of personal space is quite different than westerners.

Watch where you walk - The sidewalks in Bangkok are uneven and full of obstacles, pay attention. Oh, also, the streets have many stray dogs; the dogs are not aggressive but do leave landmines on the sidewalks.

Taxi Drivers - Most taxi drivers are fine. Generally, it is always better to use the metered taxis. Tuktuks are always more expensive and with Bangkok traffic you could be breathing in a lot of smog on the way. If you are going a significant distance negotiate... Also, the Taxis marked "We love farang, we speak English", well most of them do not. They do have a radio that has a person that knows a little English.

Movie Theater - After the advertising and right before the movie a tribute to the Thai King Comes on and everyone stands in respect.

Driving in Thailand - If you are a brave one and decide that you want drive yourself around Thailand, don't be too worried, it really isn't that bad. There are just several things to understand. Drivers use the left side instead of the right, like in the US, and the roads tend to be narrower than in the US. So driving next to a bus or a truck can be a little intimidating.

Toilets - Eastern toilets can be quite intimidating to the western traveler as well. Be aware that eastern toilets are little more than holes in the ground surrounded by ceramic and involve water, not paper, for cleaning. To be honest, I still have not gotten used this type of facility to its full extent. Also, there are often women in the men's room, stationed there for cleaning. It can be quite unnerving when you first experience this but they are not there for any more than cleaning.

Following these tips will allow you to have better understanding of the Thai people and more fun in your stay in Bangkok, allowing the locals to be more comfortable with you and give you a better understanding of how things function in Thailand.

Amazing Bangkok - The Capital Of Thailand

Bangkok is the largest and most populated city in Thailand. It is also the capital of Thailand. It used to be known as Krung Thep in Thai. Bangkok is situated on the east bank of the river Chao Phraya.

The original name Krung Thep has been in use for more than two century. The name Bangkok is used for foreigners and visitors and is only restricted to a particular district of the city.

There are three royal palaces in Bangkok. There are many historical places around and in the city. It was the capital for two kingdoms, namely Krung Thep and, for a short while, Thorn Buri. The reclining Buddha, temple of the huge Golden Buddha, historical sculptures are situated along the banks of the river Chao Phraya.

Bangkok has always attracted tourists, and this is the reason a lot of foreigners are found to have settled in this beautiful city. Many of them have found jobs and then there are others you have started their own businesses to earn a livelihood. There are still others who have come from expensive western countries to spend out their retirement living a cheap, easy and comfortable life in this hospitable city.

The nightlife offers variety of entertainment for the people and is considered to be one of the key attractions of Bangkok. There are clubs and cafes for the wealthy, bars and pubs for those on a budget. A street in the Phra Nakhon district, known as Khao San Road, is considered to be the first international street where all kind of people from various part of the world can be seen.

Earlier Bangkok used to have a network of canals known as khlongs and these were used by people to transport them from one place to another. Now most canals have been converted into roads. However, there are still a few canals which can be seen but unfortunately most of them are not clean.

Kite Surfing Holidays to Thailand

Kite Surfing is a relatively new sport that is seeing the numbers of people getting interested in it rocketing. At the end of 1999 it was estimated that only 1,000 people actually participated in this extreme sport. By 2005 however there were 100,000 kite surfers around the globe.

Although founded in Hawaii and France Kite Surfers like wave surfers travel the world looking for better and more exciting places to surf with their kite. Thailand has been a favourite destination for yachtsmen and windsurfers for many years due to its prevailing winds at certain times of the year.

With average wind strengths of 15-20 knots during the northerly monsoon and 12-14 knots in the southerly monsoon Thailand is not a super windy place but it is a super place to have a holiday in. For many hard core kite surfers these 'light' winds would not be enough for them to travel to Thailand but for a family looking for a holiday to Thailand to enjoy some water activities then its ideal.

These light winds are ideal for gentle kite surfing so has been ideal for the beginners who can learn to control the kites in a more gentle breeze. This has lead to an explosion of Kite Surfing Schools in Thailand.

Unlike other water activities, like scuba diving, kite surfing sees a lot of Thai people getting involved in the sport. Many of the instructors that teach you kite surfing will be Thai nationals and the companies who rent you the gear will be owned by Thai people; this adds to your holiday and lets you get closer to the wonderful people of this country.

Best Places to Kite Surf in Thailand

You will find kite surfing Schools in all the major holiday destinations such as Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Phuket, Pattaya and Chumphon but it is the schools around Pattaya and Hua Hin that have the best beaches to teach from. This doesn't mean that the other places don't have wonderful white sand beaches fringe with tropical palm trees. What it means is that these locations have the best winds just off shore and the beaches here are not as busy in some locations.

Best Time To Holiday in Thailand for Kite Surfing

Koh Samui is best between November and the end of February, perfect for the beginner and intermediate.

Pattay and the surround coast is best between September and March again, perfect for the beginner and intermediate.

Hua Hin is a little more complicated; between November and January the north easterly monsoons provides the strongest winds in the morning. Between February and mid May its best to plan your kite surfing for the afternoons.

Phuket island has it easy when it comes to kite surfing seasons. From November to March the Northeasterly winds provide a gently breeze, then from March to October the wind is blowing from the West increases slightly.

Chumpon sees the best winds during the north easterly monsoons during November to January but like Hua Hin the winds remain strong enough in the afternoons from February to mid May.

From this you can easily see that a holiday to Thailand at any time of the year can be combined with kite surfing. Obviously any holiday between May and October will no doubt save you some money as this is the 'Green' season, but you do risk less than perfect weather during this time.

Yacht Charter in Thailand

The choice of yacht charter in Thailand is wide and includes; bareboat yacht charter, luxury crewed yacht charter, skippered yacht charter, monohull and catamaran charter and both sail and motor yacht charter.

Many of beautiful islands of Thailand are only accessible by sea and a yacht charter is a great way to explore this area. The main yacht charter area is amongst the islands of the Andaman Sea.

Different indigenous cultures have existed in Thailand since the time of the Baan Chiang culture. Due to its geographical location, Thai culture has always been greatly influenced by India and China as well as the neighbouring cultures of south east Asia. The first Thai state is traditionally considered to be the Buddhist kingdom of Sukhothai founded in 1238. A century later, the larger Siamese kingdom of Ayutthaya overshadowed Sukhothai's power. Ayuthaya fell in 1767 to Burmese forces. The current era of Thai history began in 1782 following the establishment of Bangkok as capital of the Chakri dynasty under King Rama I the Great.

European powers began travelling to Thailand in the 16th century. Despite European pressure, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonized by a European power. Despite this, Western influence led to many reforms in the 19th century and major concessions to British trading interests. This included the loss of the three southern provinces, which later became Malaysia's three northern states.

In 1932, a bloodless revolution resulted in a new constitutional monarchy. During the war, Thailand was allied with Japan. Yet after the war, it became an ally of the United States. Thailand then went through a series of coups d'état, but eventually progressed towards democracy in the 1980s

Thailand, Phuket and the Andaman Sea have gained a reputation for being a top yacht charter destination. There is an abundance of islands to visit, some developed but most not. Several national parks and reefs offer great opportunities for diving and fishing. Most of these picturesque islands of the Andaman Sea are accessible by boat alone and a yacht charter is one of the few ways to see them.

Yacht charter in Thailand is relatively easy and relaxing with well charted waters, small tidal ranges, an absence of strong currents, and an abundance of sheltered yacht anchorages with excellent holding ground. Sailing conditions are close to perfect all year round. Basic necessities like fuel, water, fresh produce and provisions are readily available and may be found on many of the islands. The waters are teeming with fish which you can catch yourself or which you can buy or barter for with fishermen. Most of the islands will also have inexpensive restaurants where you can enjoy Thailand's great cuisine.

Thai cuisine blends five fundamental tastes: sweet, spicy, sour, bitter and salty. Some common ingredients used in Thai cuisine include garlic, chillies, lime juice, lemon grass, and fish sauce. The staple food in Thailand is rice, particularly the jasmine variety rice, also known as Hom Mali rice, which is included in almost every meal.

Phuket has emerged as a leader in Thailand's thriving tourism industry. As the hub of the Andaman Sea and Thailand's largest island, Phuket is the perfect base for a yacht charter. There are beautiful remote islands and beaches, crystal clear waters, fascinating geography in addition to restaurants, nightlife and great shopping. From Phuket there is immediate access to sailing in stunning scenery and literally hundreds of isolated yacht anchorages from which to choose.

The Thai people are legendary for their welcome: Thailand is often called the " Land of Smiles". The cuisine of Thailand is probably one of the best in the world and eating out is so cheap that there is no temptation to cook on the yacht. Thailand is a romantic and alluring destination for any yacht charter holiday.

The international airport on Phuket offers direct connections to many international destinations in addition to connecting flights from Bangkok. Thai is the official language and but English is spoken widely. The currency is the Thai. US Dollars are used extensively. Major credit cards may be accepted in hotels, restaurants and some shops.

Thailand has two distinct seasons. From November to April the weather is consistently sunny and dry with temperatures at around 30°C degrees. The predominantly light to moderate northeast winds are ideal for sailing. From May to October the southwest winds pick up and are sometimes quite strong with occasional squalls. Weather conditions during this period are generally good. Although you can expect rain showers but they tend to be short lived. Winds blow from 5-20 knots over the two seasons.

Phang Nga Bay is a typical Thai yacht anchorage with the stunning sea-mountains that rise vertically out of turquoise waters. Numerous safe anchorages are available in the sheltered bay. Use a tender or dinghy to explore the small coves, intriguing caves and inland lakes.

The waters around the islands off Krabi are crystal clear. Although Krabi can be crowded, its beaches are stunning. Phra Nang beach is particularly dramatic with its mountainous rock pillars that tower over creating one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

The Koh Dam Group is suitable for an overnight stop. Koh Dam Khwan has a beautiful sandy split beach that is only revealed at mid tide. This is a lovely spot to anchor off and enjoy a few secluded hours with nothing else around.

The Phi Phi Islands are among the most spectacular of Thailand with their magnificent scenery, secluded bays and white sandy beaches. Enjoy the restaurants and live entertainment offered on the island.

Langkawi with its 99 surrounding islands is a paradise that longs to be discovered. Tourism has is on the increase. Only 4 of these islands are inhabited. If you are looking for an idyllic isolated experience these are the perfect cruising grounds for you. A one way yacht charter from Phuket requires 10 days and crew.

Diving in Thailand is great. The waters of the Andaman Sea are filled with a wonderful diversity of marine life, including coral and some of old shipwrecks for diving enthusiasts to discover. Lots of boats equipped with scuba diving equipment and many diving centres around the Islands.

There are several well known sailing regattas in Thailand; Visit in December and join in the celebrations surrounding the annual Phuket King's Cup Regatta that attracts some of the best world's yachtsmen. With a range of yacht classes from racing yachts, sport boats, cruisers and classics. QBE Phang bay Regatta, held annually over Chinese New Year, is Phuket's newest Regatta. It is fast gaining a reputation as one of the most fun Regattas in Asia.

Discover the Top 10 Beautiful Beaches in Thailand

Thailand is known for the country's amazing beaches. One can find all the things they need in a beach trip in this beautiful country. Here is a list of the top ten most beautiful beaches in Thailand:

1. White Sand Beach, Ko Chang - Ko Chang, also known as the "Elephant Island," is the second largest island in Thailand and located around 180 miles east of Bangkok. Ko Chang's white sand beaches contain a lot of other beaches which are considered the best beaches in Thailand.

2. Hat Sai Kaeo, Ko Sametalso - also called the "Diamond Beach" or the "Crystal Sand Beach", is a very beautiful beach in Bangkok. Hat Sai Kaeo is about one-third of a mile long and is filled with plenty of activities to do such as swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing and riding with what the locals called banana boats which is a long, yellow inflated float that leap riders off if they did not hold on tightly enough; a really fun ride every visitor loves to try.

3. Ao Manao, Prachuap Khiri Khan - located around six miles from Myanmar's border. Also called the "lemon Beach" the place was once a battleground for the Thais and the Japanese forces. Today it's a quiet sanctuary, untouched by western tourists and one of Thailand's secret treasures. Here, visitors can find many miles of striking white sand beaches, some of them formed momentarily by sandbars during low tides. This is also the place where the best seafood cuisines are served.

4. Pharanang Bay, Krabi - Krabi is famously known for its unusual rock climbing services for both beginners and professional climbers. The bay is reached via boat rides and takes almost 20 minutes from Ao Nang Beach. After reaching Ao Nang beach there would be another 15-minute walk on a zigzag sidewalk along the base of a sea cliff. The exciting ride to the place will bring everyone to the elegant Phranang Bay. Visitors can swim under the suspended limestone karsts, or climb through the small cliffs into the profound emerald green waters of the Andaman Sea. The beach is perfect place for families, swimmers, snorkels, and nature explorers.

5. Ao Nang Beach, Krabi - is one of the most admired beaches in Thailand; a well developed beach that offers street shopping, and top western and Thai restaurants, and with definitely charming and affordable commodities. There is one particular stretch of the beach on the southern most point of the place that is just really wonderful which are adored by many and it will just take a short walk in its south along Ao Nang beach.

6. Tonsai Bay, Ko Phi Phi - the well-known Ko Phi Phi is covered with two islands which are the "Don";the larger island, and "Leh"; the smaller island located at the southern tip of Krabi town. It will take a two-hour ferry boat ride from Ao Nang beach to Tonsai and with just a very affordable fee. Tonsai bay or the Ao Tonsai is on the southern part of Ko Phi Phi Don. The beach is undeniably drop dead charming which one would surely love to see.

7. Noppharat Thara, Krabi - with just 400 Thai baht as entrance fee, one can enjoy the spectacular beauty of this national park. A perfect family beach, where one can sit below the shades of the coconut palm trees while eating picnics like the locals often do, or take a stroll during low tide seasons in the petty waters. Noppharat Thara is one mile in length and located west of Ao Nang in Krabi.

8. Tong Takien Bay, Ko Samui Island -located on the southeast part of Ko Samui, roughly veiled between Chaweng and Lamae, is an remote and secluded bay which is perfect place for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Some call it the "Silver Beach." This beach is very much family-friendly, clean, and has some bungalow-style lodgings where visitors can stay for as low as 500 Thai baht in the low seasons.

9. Sairee Beach, Ko Tao - Ko Tao is a place tourists choose to go for a peaceful trip on the nearby Ko Phangan and Ko Samui. The beach can be reached by ferry rides, that will take about two to three hours from Chumphon Ko Tao. The place is an affordable, quiet, and remote area, which is ideal for people who loves reading and relaxing all day on the veranda of the jungle bungalows. Sairee Beach is the most well-known place in Ko Tao and offers services such as massage, drinks, and other types of foods and services.

10. Surin Beach, Phuket - Surin Beach located north of Patong and Kamala beaches in Phuket. Surin is an ideal beach destination for guests who like to be pampered. One can just lay back and relax as different kinds of Thai cuisine are being served every other minute. Visitors can have exceptional Thai cuisines, as well as beverages of every sort. Swimming is also perfect in Surin and the place have a freshwater hoses where one can wash off the salt water and sand when they are ready to go back home, for the place does not offer over night stays.

Here you go! enjoy!

Introduction to Australian Visa in Thailand

Australia and Thailand maintains a healthy and diplomatic relationship that is further strengthened by the establishment of the Australian-Thailand Institute (ATI).

Australians are among Thailand's frequent visitors. Likewise, the number of Thais going to Australia continues to increase.

To obtain permission to enter Australia, Thais must first file a formal visa application at the embassy. It must be remembered though that a visa does not always guarantee entry. Its approval or denial lies within the discretion of the consular officers. A visa simply shows that the applicant has complied with all the documentary requirements.

There are different types of Australian visas in Thailand depending on the purpose of the travel.

Tourist visa

A popular Australian Visa in Thailand, the tourist visa is further subdivided into two categories: the subclass 676 and subclass 679.

Subclass 676 permits Thais to enter Australia for family and recreation visits. It is both a single and multiple-entry visa that can be utilized for a year. If granted, its holder may engage in volunteer work and can even take short courses for 3 months.

Meanwhile, subclass 679 shares similar purposes with 676. The only difference is that the entry of subclass 679 visa holders is supported by either their relatives or family members who are Australian nationals or permanent residents. To ensure higher success rates, the sponsor must take full responsibility for all the expenses incurred by the Thai visitor. The visa holders are neither permitted to work nor to extend their visas since it has a "No Further Stay" condition.

Prospective marriage visa (subclass 300)

This Australian Visa in Thailand is issued to Thai fiancés of Australians. Here, the couple is expected to get married within 9 months upon arrival in the country. This likewise serves as the gateway for Thai fiancés to obtain the partner permanent visa.

Upon the issuance of this visa, the Thai partner is allowed to either work or study, provided that the visa holder will not resort to government funds for support.

Partner permanent visa (subclass 100)

Evidently, this is the Australian counterpart of the US and UK spouse visa. Once the application is approved, the Thai spouse does not only receive residency rights. They are likewise permitted to work and gain access to social services. This visa likewise allows its holder to qualify for Australian citizenship.

Immigration lawyers

The process of securing an Australian Visa in Thailand demands familiarity in immigration laws. Securing the assistance of immigration lawyers is highly encouraged and recommended to avoid delays and minimize denial risks.

Songkhran In Thailand

Due to the influence of the western culture, almost all nations celebrate January 1 as New Year's day, but each country has its own day of welcoming its New Year. Songkhran is a traditional New Year celebrated by the people of Thailand. Songkhran is celebrated from April 13 to 15 each year. People celebrate this day as a day of fun by throwing water on each other.

Songkhran is a festival of three days and celebrated on April 13, 14 and 15 . However, the Thai consider 15th as the most auspicious day and they celebrate it as New Year. The festival commences on April 13 with fireworks. People believe that burning firecrackers will help them drive away evil forces. They give utmost importance to cleaning on this particular day. They clean their houses, clothes, and all their belongings. People also take care of their personal appearances by having a head bath.

April 14 is considered as a day between old year and New Year, as this day does not belong to any year they consider it as an odd day. On this day people will not perform any sort rituals. They also advise their children not to quarrel with others.

On the 15th, people visit temples early in the morning. Later, they offer food to Buddhists monks. On this day all family members try to be together. The younger members of the family visit homes of elders to seek their blessings. The younger members also ask for forgiveness for the mistakes they have done. The elders forgive them by giving them their blessings and offer words of guidance. After this, people enjoy themselves by throwing water on each other. They also mix some color in the water and splash it on each other.

Hmong of Thailand

Hmong are one of the hill tribes that live in Thailand. There are two major sub groups in Thailand namely the White and Blue. These people are found mainly in China, Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. The Hmong have supposed to have migrated to Thailand from China and Laos. They settled in the hills of Thailand and carried out their traditional shift cultivation in relative peace and isolation. There are approximately 60,000 Hmong living in the northeast Thailand. In addition, there are another 50,000 living as refugees in Thailand. They came in small groups, crossing the Mekong River. Later they moved to the northern province of Phetchabun and joined their relatives in Ban Huay Nam Khao.

They live in houses that sit on earth not on stilts like other hill tribes. Their main occupation is cultivating opium poppy. After a government initiative, the Hmong have gradually changed their ways and have started to sell needlework, which is exquisitely designed.

The Hmong people are experts in needlework. They make clothes for themselves as well as sell them. Their clothes are decorated with rich embroidery work and silver. Each sub group has its own way of dressing. The Blue Hmong women wear rich embroidered clothes with attractive colors, while the White Hmong women wear black baggy pants and simple jackets. The Hmong men produce musical instruments and items of wood. They are also skilled as blacksmiths and gunsmiths.

The Hmong people are animists and are strong believers in spirits. The Hmong shamans perform many unknown rituals to invoke spirits.

Cultural Activities in Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand is known for being one of the friendliest Asian countries in the world today. Also known as the land of smiles, Thailand is usually a "must go" for most people who want to visit Asia. Most frequently visited for its mix of modern and tradition would be Thailand's beautiful capital, Bangkok.

Bangkok is a real gem if you spend enough time exploring it thoroughly. Exploring the city through its rivers can be a great way to start the visit. The Chao Praya River, or "the river of kings" is probably the most famous river in all of Bangkok. A lot of Thailand's history can be found on the shores of the Chao Praya River, which makes it an even better way to get to know Bangkok. Unlike the modern city, the river gives you a glimpse of how the people here still stick to their old ways and traditions. Canals, or "Klongs", show the wooden houses on stilts with Sampans and floating kitchens nearby.

Further down the river, you can see the famous floating markets which sell all sorts of knickknacks and Thai craft, popular to tourists but yet as much a part of everyday life as it has been for the locals for decades. And if you're not sea-sick by the time you get through the crowded narrow canals, head for the Royal Barges Museum. Beautiful barges which are a distinct trait of Thailand line the area, reminding you of movies like the King and I.

Back on land there is as much to see as there is to do. One thing most tourists who've frequented Bangkok come back time and time again for is the Erawan Shrine. Adorned by hundreds of locals and tourists everyday, this shrine located at the corner of Ploenchit and Ratchadamri Road is one to not miss out. Though it isn't a temple (Wat), its one of the most famous sights in the bustling streets of Bangkok. Many pay their respects and give offerings in hope that their wishes would come true.

For those looking to see a totally different side of Bangkok and something totally unique to Thailand, head down during the Songkran ( Thai New Year ) or also known as the water festival. Held on the hottest days of the year, the streets of Bangkok suddenly line up with people carrying water guns and water balloons, preparing to aim for anyone and everyone. This festival has been part of even the oldest traditions combined with the Thai's spirit of showing people how to have a good time just like they do.

10 Unknown Facts About Thailand

1. Rainmaker King
Some years ago the rice farmers of Thailand experienced a severe drought period. The king, who since many years had been involved in helping the rural population of Thailand invented a method to make rain, for which he also filed an international patent. Airplanes are used to shoot silver iodide chemicals into the clouds in specific ways, so that they are stimulated to rain. This method did proof successful.

2. Mysterious Fireballs
At a certain time of the year, a strange phenomenon occurs that hasn't been scientifically explained yet. Well, there were scientific theories, however, scientists in are still baffled by this phenomenon and unable to explain it properly. It's in the north-eastern part of Thailand, and the locals there have their own explanation for the mysterious fireballs that emerge from the Mekong river: they say these are fireballs from the legendary Naga serpent.

One time a TV team tried to uncover "the hoax" and said that the phenomenon was simply Cambodian soldiers shooting into the air. However, they quickly got proven wrong. There are records of this phenomenon occurring for hundreds of years, and It's kind of Thailand's version of the "Loch Ness"

3. Thai Bonsai
Most people are aware with the Japanese bonsai trees. But Thailand also has it's own tradition of miniature trees, which is called mai dat. Historic evidence shows that this tradition has been around already since the 13th century. Mai dat have their own style - there are not as tiny as the Japanese bonsai, but rather often bigger. Also, while with Japanese bonsai the aim is usually to make the small tree look at natural as possible, mai dat are supposed to look particularly well-trimmed. It is the aim of the mai dat artist to create a tree which is made according to human shapes. Thailand is a country which used to be covered almost completely in forest and swampland - it was a tropical wilderness. Only in recent decades have the forests been cleared and turned into farms and cities. Thus, imitating nature is not what Thais consider beautiful.

4. Demigod-King
It is a traditional Thai believe that the King is a human reincarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu. All kings of the present dynasty, since the 18th century, have been called "Rama" - the current King being Rama XI. Rama was the name of a halfgod from the Indian epic Ramayana, which has it's own Thai version, the Ramakien.

5. Can't Touch This (Monk)
It is forbidden for woman to touch a Buddhist monk. Some women feel offended by this or think that this is because woman are considered unworthy, but this is not the case. It's simply about avoiding to stirr up feelings that wouldn't be appropriate for monks, feelings like sexual desire.

6. Bangkok Tram
There once was a tram in Bangkok. Nowadays, Bangkok is known for chronic traffic-jammeritis, and pretty much the only way to avoid being stuck in traffic is the ultra-modern skytrain (BTS) or the even newer subway (MRT). However, once upon a time, there was a tram running through Bangkok. The Tram network in Bangkok was established in 1894 and got closed down in 1968. Actually, even as early as 1888 there was a guy called Alfred John Loftus (Phraya Nithetcholthee) who operated a tramway line in Bangkok - drawn by horses! However, after a couple of changes of ownership, the horse-drawn wagons where replaced with electric wagons. New routes were opened and built, until in 1968 the last tramway in Bangkok was stoped.

You can still see some of the railways in the area of Thanon Charoenkrung Soi 39.

7. Thai-Tomboys
While almost everybody knows about the ladyboys in Thailand (and quiet a few men can tell stories of surprise when they found that the "woman" they were hitting on all night was actually not a woman at all), not so many people know that there are also a lot of tomboys: woman or girls who dress, act and look like men. Whole books have been written on Thai gender roles, and while some ladyboys and tomboys and gay feel that they are not treated equally, they are treated much more tolerantly than in probably any other country in the world. For example, I know of the case of a 15 year old boy who decided to be a ladyboy - and indeed dressed, talks and behaves like a woman now. However, schoolmates never made fun, teased or bullied him about it. This being a remote village and not modern Bangkok, it speaks a lot of the tolerance of Thai people towards people who decide to "be different".

9. Long-nailed Fingernails of Men
This might be odd: but many (completely straight) men grow long fingernails. Most commonly is the nail of the small finger. Part of this is because in rural Thailand, long fingernails where indeed a sign of a certain social status: a farmer can't grow long fingernails, because they will simply break during the hard work on the fields. In fact, in Isaan (North-East Thailand) it is even believed that a long nail at the small finger is lucky. Apart of that, many men also told me upon my question why they had a long fingernail that it is useful: it's easy to scratch yourself with a long fingernail, and sometimes just useful to open something.

10. White Is Beautiful
While in the Northern hemisphere, many people would like a stronger tan and use every opportunity to lay in the sun and make their skin darker and more exotic, for Thai's, white and bright skin is beautiful. In fact, Thai's spend about 50 million US-Dollar a year on skin whitening products.