A Brief Description of Thailand Food and Thailand Culture

Thailand food
It is beyond any doubt that food is a part of any gathering, thus, becoming the part of social occasions or itself the reason to celebrate. Normally, as per the western culture, a normal meal in any restaurant consists of starter, main course and then dessert. But in Thailand, the custom is a bit different with regard to Thailand food, as there is no single dish for a single person. As a general, all present in a gathering share the same dish together. So, it's better to have many guests together around the table than to enjoy with one or two as eating alone is considered a bad luck in the country.

One of the good things about Thai food is that they never dispose away the leftover food, as they consider it inauspicious and an enraging act to a female deity, 'God of rice'. Generally there are four seasonings in Thailand food- sweet, sour, salty and spicy. The food is satisfied only if it contains all the four tastes. Thai dinner mostly include meat, fish, noodles, vegetables and soup followed by desserts including fresh fruits and colorful rice cakes. Besides meals, there are snackers consisting of chicken or beef satay, spring rolls, salads, raw vegetable with spicy dips and sweets.

Thailand culture
Thailand culture is highly influenced by Buddhism in addition to some influence of Hinduism and other Southeast Asian neighbor. Thai art is the main item included in Thai Culture. Buddha image is the main constituent in different period having distinctive styles. At present, there is a fusion of traditional art with modern techniques. India has also laid much influence on Thailand literature. It includes the most notable work, Ramakien, the version of Indian epic, Ramayana. The poetry of Sunthorn Phu is also quite famous in Thailand.

Spoken drama is not given any importance in Thailand, but instead there is Thai dance, divided into three categories- Lakhon, Likay and Khon. A form of shadow pay, Nang Drama, is popular among southern Thailand. Folk music and classical music both are have their significance in addition to pop music.

Apart from it, one of the common customs included in Thailand is Wai, a common gesture that is similar to Indian Namaste. The hospitable and generous people of Thailand pay a lot of respect and homage to their elders, as it is the core of their faith and spiritual belief. Seeking blessings from the elders is considered important mark of respect.

Thailand - Do You Know These Facts?

Thailand was known as Siam until 1939. Thailand is situated within the tropics and cover over 511,770 square kilometers and has 76 provinces. The provinces are also known as Changwat.

Thailand has a population of 63 million people. Thais are made up of 75% ethnic Thais, 14% Chinese and 1% immigrants from neighboring countries such as Cambodia and Vietnam and hill tribe people.

The majority of the population is concentrated in the mostly rural, rice-growing areas in the Central, Northeast and Northern regions. As the industrialization of Thailand continues, the urban population grows as people migrate to the cities. Bangkok is where most of the other population growth is highest.

Thailand has started a family planning program has been quite successful in reducing the population growth from 3.1% to less than 1% today. The expected lifespan of Thais is 72 years. Today, it has been estimated that 1.4% of Thais are infected with AIDS and HIV.

Do you also know that tourism is the main industry Thailand? The biggest exports of Thailand computers and components, vehicles and vehicle parts, textiles and rubber.

Do you also know that Phasaa Thai is the national language of Thailand?

The national religion of Thailand is Theravada Buddhism and it is practiced by 85% of Thais. The next major religion is Islam which is the largest of the minorities. Spirit worship and animism and Hindu-Brahmic rituals are also widely practiced.

Do you know that since 1932, Thailand has been a constitutional monarchy? The King of Thailand, King Bhumibol, sometimes also known as Rama IX, is the 9th ruler of the Chakri dynasty. He has been on the throne since 1946. King Bhumibol still commands popular respect and moral authority among the Thais, which he has used on occasions to resolve political crises that have endangered national stability.

In 1932, a bloodless coup has resulted in transforming Thailand from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy. King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) accepted the change and said that the obligation of his ruling was to reign for the good of the whole people and not just for a select few.

In the Constitution, Thailand is led by a prime minister and 200 members of the Senate (Wuthisapha). The national elected assembly, also known as Rathasapha, has 500 members of parliament in the House of Representatives.

Although Thailand was a democracy after 1932, Thailand was ruled by a series of military governments and democracy.

Although the elections in Thailand ended in July 2011 and Ms Yingluck will become Thailand's first female prime minister. Ms Yingluckis the younger sister of Thaksin Shinawatra, ousted in a coup in 2006. The situation in Thailand is still volatile. It would be dangerous to be in Bangkok in times of protests. Tourists are encouraged to stay away.

People Of Thailand

Thailand has a population of about 60 million people of which about three fourths are ethnic Thais. There are many minorities living in Thailand and amongst them a percentage comprises of Chinese while the remaining are Vietnamese, Cambodian, Malays and hill tribes. In the early 19th and 20th century, Chinese immigrants came and settled down in Thailand. They married Thai women and changed their names from Chinese names to Thai ones. Most of them adopted Buddhism as their religion and learned to speak, read and write Thai. It was said that the Chinese immigrants were good at money making and they ended up becoming the best businessmen in Thailand.

Most people in Thailand are concentrated in rural areas and make money with farming and agriculture. However, industrialization is changing this trend and slowly people are migrating from villages to the capital city of Bangkok. The other reason being that due to bad farming practices, many villagers and farmers are not able to make money from their farms and end up coming to Bangkok in search of a livelihood. According to a recent survey, the urban population comprises of 37 percentage of the entire population of the country.

The government of Thailand is said to be successful in many aspects. The family planning is one of the most successful programs undertaken by the government of Thailand. It reduced percentage of birth rate from 3.1 percent to less than 1 percent. It is also successful in reducing the percentage of HIV patients. According to a recent census, there are approximately 60000 Thais affected with HIV / AIDS. A few years ago, it was estimated that by the end of 2006, thirty to fifty thousand Thais would die from HIV. In order to prevent this, the Thai government had undertaken annual public education campaigns and this has been successful to a certain extent by improving awareness and educating people on how to protect themselves from HIV.

Peak Season Holiday Tips for Thailand

Thailand is a popular tourist destination from December through to February and it can get very over crowded in the popular tourist destinations. Phuket, Pattaya and Bangkok are by far the most popular and busiest places in Thailand during peak season. People often try to avoid these places and go to the next popular places like Koh Samui, Krabi, and Chiang Mai but sometimes even these places can be hard to find accommodation and can also get very crowded.

Prices in these destinations also are up due to these places having a lot of tourists who spend big, so it might be better to try and find other destinations which will be cheaper, less crowded and more importantly also have just as good of a time or even better than the usual tourist hot spots.

Below are some of other great places to visit during the peak season in Thailand.

Trang, One of the most underrated places in Thailand, most tourists who come to Thailand have never even heard about this place, this is one fo the favorite places the local Thai people like to visit and it is very beautiful. If the locals are raving on about it then it has to be good. Trang is a few hours south of Phuket, cheaper, cleaner and a lot more friendly than Phuket.
Khao Sok, A place which is growing quickly as a great destination to visit. A holiday in a rainforest which is even more diverse and older than the amazon rainforest. The wild life and eco tourism in Khao Sok is definitaly the best in Thailand and perhaps Asia. This has been kept a secret for awhile and tourists and expats in Thailand are only now starting to see great this place is.
Hua Hin, is about 3 hours drive from Bangkok and is has only started to become popular over the last few years, the main beach is one of the cleanest I have seen in Thailand and usually only has a handful of people on it due to hotels being built right next to it, it makes the access for other people harder. The nightlife is also starting to get bigger with a number of new bars opening every month, it is a great place to go that is not too far from Bangkok.

There are other places in Thailand that are off the beaten track that are emerging, but the above are the best alternatives in peak season for now.

5 Top Backpacker Destinations in Thailand

Backpackers truly have the world at their feet. With a minimum amount of luggage, enough cash in the bank and a travel insurance policy to cover unforeseen emergencies, life could not be easier. Almost every country on earth is geared up to accept backpackers with open arms. In fact the whole backpacking industry has been growing steadily for the last 20 years and shows no sign of abating.

In fact, some countries are so geared up could be forgiven for thinking they are being excluded from the local community. Special backpacker accommodation, special backpacker buses, special back packer tours are just some of the elements of this growing industry designed to cater exclusively for predominantly young travellers with a pack on the back.

In Thailand, it is possible to go on a backpacking tour and never talk to a local! Whilst this may suit some people, including some locals, there are still plenty who are looking for an adventure and a taste of the local lifestyle. In this article we will look at the five top backpacker destinations in Thailand to help you plan your trip.

Ko Pha Ngan. Although the beach here is legendary there's much more to do than simply lie around on the sand. You can drift from beach to beach if you wish as there are over a dozen to choose from, but with a little more effort it's worthwhile exploring the interior jungle where you will find waterfalls and miles of hiking tracks. You can stay for a few days in luxurious accommodation or go a bit downmarket and stay for a couple of weeks.
Ko Tao. This is probably Thailand's top destination for scuba divers. The crystal clear water and the stunning coral reef make this one of the world's most popular places to obtain a scuba licence. It is also extremely cheap and you can have a really awesome holiday here whilst doing a little business on the side.
Sangkhlaburi. This fascinating Bordertown is the only place in Thailand where you will see such a diverse ethnic spectrum. Each of the Burmese, Non, Karen, Thai and Lao inhabitants insist on speaking their own language but if English is your native tongue it won't make much of a difference anyway. Although it is bereft of most of the tourist trappings you may become used to in other parts of Thailand, you can relax and watch the fishing boats on the lake and simply relax and immerse yourself into an unusual part of the country.
Khao Sok National Park. This unusual National Park is a welcome contrast to the sand and jungle that shrouds most of Thailand. You can walk alone through the thick rainforests and stand in awe of the waterfalls splashing over limestone cliffs. It is simply breathtaking.
Mae Hong Son Province. Located in the deep north west of Thailand, the province is mostly mountain and forest. It has been a hidden jewel until the last couple of years as more tourists, prominently backpackers, have become aware of this "off the beaten track" destination. Without saying any more, make yourself a promise and visit this remote part of Thailand.

Remember to organise your holiday insurance before arriving in Thailand and take the time out to visit at least one of these unusual destinations for the trip of a lifetime.

Thailand Famous Tourist Attractions

Thailand has become one of the most well known and popular sites for holiday makers around the world. It is just because of its charming nature, and many tourist attractions offered to holiday makers. Lots of tourist sites can be found throughout the country and each of them has got uniqueness for itself which also provides tourists with interesting knowledge about Thai culture.

In Thailand, there are a great number of Buddhist temples that tourists can visit to learn about the national religion of Thailand. For Bangkok, it is the capital city of the country where there are many important temples situated around the city. One of the most important temples is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where a Buddhist image made from a large Emerald is kept. All important issues about Royal family and country will be held within this temple. The temple of Dawn is also in Bangkok on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, where one can see a very beautiful ancient architectural art within the temple. There are many more temples throughout the country, which each of them has an amazing story and background.

For people interested in watching live sport, Bangkok is the home to the two largest Thai Boxing stadiums, or Muay Thai stadiums. Muay Thai has become a popular sport around the world and the best fighters in the world appear in Lumpini and Rajadamneorn stadiums. The stadiums hold weekly matches which most of famous and best fighters will be appeared in these two stadiums. There are many boxing schools teaching Muay Thai to interested people.

Another popular activity of tourist is water activities. Thailand is so well known for the home of many beautiful beaches throughout the country, where tourists can go swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, or sun bathing on nice white sandy beaches. At the same time, tourists can enjoy buying things from local venders who sell delicious fruit, local foods, and souvenirs on the beach. Samui, Phuket, Pattaya and Hua Hin are some of great tourist destinations for having beautiful beaches and relax atmosphere that tourists are looking for.

Moreover, Thailand is also a great place for nightlife. Most entertainment venues are closed very late. Some of them may be opened until dawn for parties. There are lots of famous DJs and high-quality musicians, and other entertainers that perform in the numerous nightclubs in the most popular tour sites throughout the country.

Thailand has got so many things to offer to tourists or holiday makers. It has become one of popular tourist destinations which are waiting for tourists to visit and discover the beauty of the country and its uniqueness. Thus, don't forget to visit Thailand "The Land of Smile" for the next time you are planning a vacation!

4 Most Beautiful Thailand Beaches

Thailand has one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. For those that have traveled there they know that the beauty of this untouched place makes for some of the best vacations in the world. This is coupled with the vast amount of historical culture that abounds the countryside and there is never a shortage of things to do in this country. Because much of this land is untouched by development you will find that relaxation and peaceful living is more than possible. The reaches of the mighty have not gotten this far and that means that you will get the very best in the vacation arena, especially when it comes to the Thailand beach areas.

Khao Lak is a wonderful Thailand beach. Just a short drive from the airport, this paradise offers a remote vacation area like no other. Thanks to the area being largely uninhabited, there is lush rain forest nearby along with a whole host of wildlife to be viewed. The water remains warm in the November through December months and the fishing and scuba diving is out of this world.

Phuket Thailand Beach is another great spot. Enjoy this resort November through March. There is more than enough to do. It is a bit more crowded than other beaches as this area thrives on the tourism dollars that it brings in. The scuba diving is top notch in this area and you will also find some of the warmest most clear water in the world. There are several nearby attractions to keep one busy for quite a few days.

Phi Phi Don Thailand beach is quite the turn around. Once a remote and nearly unknown place, this Thailand beach came to life when Hollywood came in and filmed a movie here. It is now considered to be one of the most popular beaches in the entire country and is frequented by many big names. This is a site that you will not want to miss, as the views are breathtaking and the water warm and inviting.

West Railiy Thailand beach is one of the undiscovered diamonds in the rough. There is very little that is expensive here and one can stay at the "resort" for over a week and barely tap the budget. The sands are milky white and the water clear. Scuba diving is very popular here as well as the fishing. This location is only accessible by long tail boat so plan for a bit of a long ride.

Top 10 Best Places and Interesting Destinations in Thailand For Vacationing Family With Children

Thailand is the best place to spend family vacations. The country has plenty of beautiful and attractive places which parents and their children will definitely love. There are top ten best places in Thailand where most families from around the world love to visit. Here is the list of the ten most recommended vacation destinations in Thailand:

1.    Pattaya, Thailand - located along the Thailand Gulf. It is the most popular ocean site resort in the Southeast Asia. Pattaya has 300 affordable hotels to choose from, which are perfect for vacationing families of any size. There are also a number of markets and shopping malls. Lots of affordable restaurants are also found in Pattaya serving the delicious Thai delicacies.

2.    Phuket - the most popular tourist destination in the country with its beautiful white sand beach coasts. Phuket is also known as the "pearl of the South". Here, one can find the best variety of restaurants offering the best of Thai cuisines.

3.    Koh Samui - perfect to spend family summer vacations. Koh Samui has a large number of beach hotels where one can enjoy the amazing beauty of the white sand beaches along the coastlines. Resorts offer good budget accommodations which will surely please families.

4.    Chiand Mai popular tourist destination mostly because of the best shopping experience it offers. Here, one can buy a lot with just a dollar. Tourists often swarm the market of Chiang Mai that opens from 5pm and opens until midnight daily. The night marketplace has many products that will surely suit and satisfy everyone. Goods such as clothes, baggage, souvenir items, shoes and a lot more can be found here. There are also clubs in several places which offers very affordable prices. This is definitely a place for any family vacation.

5.    Koh Chang Thailand - is a marine national park which attracted thousands of visitors worldwide. The island has a nick name of "the last untouched paradise in the Southeast Asia", because much of its place are not yet been discovered by modern explorations and haven't been built in with establishments and infrastructures. Here, one can fully appreciate the pure gifts of nature. Koh Chang has everything nature has to offer. Perfect getaway place for families who wants to have a quiet and peaceful vacation. Families can rent natively designed bungalows where they can feel at ease and comfortable all throughout their stay.

6.    Krabi, Thailand - an island territory of Thailand that has fine-looking coastline and offshore islands. This location was used in the movie "The Beach" starring Leonardo di Caprio. These beaches are truly pictures perfect panoramas, together with the coconut palm trees and the blue waters of the ocean. Krabi has been a favorite place for vacationers coming from different countries.

7.    Hua Hin - a place which combines pleasure and beach holidays and also a place for several sports. Golf has been the most famous sport here wherein visitors can play under the shade of the coconut trees.

8.    Chiang Rai - a located in the mountainous regions of Thailand, which are said to have retained much Thailand's culture. Popular attractions here include the White Temple, which is the only handcrafted temple in Thailand with striking botanical gardens. Visitors love to visit here and take a look at the Buddha statues built in Buddhist temples which truly spectacular.

9.    Cha-am Thailand - located 160 kilometers south of Bangkok, about two hours drive via car.  Cha-am beach resort is known as the longest white sand beach in Thailand. It is also a place for golfing which many of vacationers enjoy to play. Perfect for vacationing families.

10.    Bangkok - the main attractions in Bangkok are the magnificent temples and shrines along the city. These religious buildings were made with artistic architecture design which are truly captivating to the eyes.

Thailand Do's and Don'ts - Staying Out of Trouble in Thailand

Every country and region has their own cultural differences that make trips to foreign lands that much more exciting. Indeed while finding out about and enjoying the differences in other cultures can be one of the great experiences of traveling, there are some things about Thailand that you may like to know before you go, to avoid any unnecessary cultural goofs, or in the worst case, jail-time.

Respect the Royal Family.

This had got to be one of the most important rules in Thailand. The king in Thailand is highly respected and loved by all of the Thai people and any disrespect toward the king or any member of the royal family will not only deeply offend the Thais, it can also land you in jail. Lese Majeste is a crime that is still on the books in Thailand, and people still get prosecuted for it. Also many people do not know that the Lese Majeste laws in Thailand actually apply to all royal families around the world; so theoretically, you could get arrested for expressing disrespectful opinions about Queen Elizabeth II or Belgium's King Albert II. Thais can even find seemingly innocuous questions like "why is the king so revered in Thailand?" as offensive, so it is probably best not to talk about the royal family at all in Thailand.

Disrespecting the King is not confined to words. If you go to the movies in Thailand, the Royal anthem is played before every movie and all patrons must stand up during it. If you don't stand and quietly observe this show of respect, you will find yourself the target of the ire of other patrons and may even be reported to the police. Also, images of the king must also be respected. As the king's image appears on all Thai currency, be sure to treat this with respect. For example, if you drop a coin and it rolls away, do not stamp on it with your foot to stop it rolling any further, this is considered disrespectful as is folding paper money in a way as to make the king's face smile or frown, which I personally found out the hard way is not funny in Thailand.

Physicality

In Thailand the head is considered the highest part of the body, both figuratively and literally. You should never touch the head of other people, even children. If you do touch someone's head, even slightly, you should apologize. Conversely, the foot is the lowest part of the body and considered dirty. You should never use your foot to point out objects, or even worse, people, as this is considered very rude. Also take care never to step over other people, for example if they have their legs outstretched on the floor. It is better manners to walk around people than to step over them.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Thailand and most people will be embarrassed to witness people kissing or hugging in public.

Also, while the beautiful beaches may make you want to soak up as much sun as possible, topless sunbathing is looked down upon in Thailand and is not appropriate.

Buddhism

Nearly 95% of Thais are Buddhists and temples are an integral part of the quintessential Thailand sightseeing itinerary.

When planning on visiting a Buddhist temple, you should dress appropriately, meaning no open-toed shoes. Legs and shoulders should be covered, so no shorts or tank tops. Shoes are allowed on the grounds of the temple, but not inside where the Buddha image is kept. Also keep in mind the point made above about pointing with your feet. If you are sitting inside a temple, take care so that the soles of your feet never point towards the statue or image of Buddha.

Buddhist monks cannot come into physical contact with women or sit next to them on public transport. A woman cannot hand anything directly to a Buddhist monk. If a woman wishes to give something to a monk, the correct procedure is to hand it to a man who will hand it to the monk. However if the woman feels that she must give the item to the monk directly, he can spread out a piece of saffron robe or handkerchief, and she can place the item on top of this.

Respect

Thai culture places a lot of importance on respect for the aged. While dealing with older people, it is best to be as respectful as possible. This is a good thing to keep in mind if you are haggling with a merchant or speaking with a tuk tuk driver. Your respectful tone will not only save you "face", an important concept in Thailand, but it may even be rewarded in the price you finally agree upon.

A quick way to lose "face" and the respect of Thai people is to lose your temper in public, or worse yet, shout at someone in public. Thais a re very uncomfortable with public displays of anger and consider it very uncouth. Getting angry at someone in Thailand is very unlikely to help you get your way, and in fact merely hardens the other party's stance and any sympathy you may have had from surrounding people is likely to evaporate quickly. Best to keep your cool and a smile on your face.

Disciplining your children or arguing with your spouse in public are also included in this category of no-nos.

Scams

Be careful of overly friendly strangers who approach you in the street and offer to show you around town. A common scam is for a well dressed person to approach you as you are heading towards a temple and tell you that unfortunately the temple is closed that day and offer to show you to another one, or to show you a good gem store. Don't go with these people! The gem store ruse is also common among tuk tuk drivers. They often say that they can show you some good gem stores, and that they can receive coupons for gasoline for bringing you to the store. They will then say that they will not receive their coupons if you do not buy anything and try to guilt you into buying something. Any gem store that participates in such activity is highly unlikely to sell you genuine stones. Unsuspecting tourists are often told that they can resell the gems at a partner store in their home country for high profits, only to discover that the stones are practically worthless once they get back home. Don't be fooled by the lovely smiles on the beautiful young ladies in the stores!

Taxis

When hailing a taxi, hold your arm up with your palm facing downwards and make a beckoning motion with your fingers, kind of like a "shoo" go away" motion in reverse.

Also by law all taxis must turn on the meter when they carry a fare. Some drivers may sometimes try to strike a deal with you off the meter before you leave. This will never be in your favor, and as stated above is against the law. If the driver hasn't started the meter when you depart, kindly remind him by saying "metaa na kap" if you are a man and "metaa na kaa" if you are a woman.

Finally

Do try to learn some of the local language, even if it is just simple greetings and numbers. Your holiday will be that much more enjoyable when the locals see you putting in an effort to speak their language. You will receive a much warmer reception by the already famously friendly Thais that you will be very happy that you put in the effort to learn.

The Thai Hospitality

Thailand is known as "Land Of Smiles", an impression the Tourism Authority of Thailand happily use to promote the tourism by focusing on its people's hospitality. And if you spend any amount of time in most parts of Thailand, you will understand why this slogan has stuck for so long. Even in the buzzing capital city of Bangkok where people usually mind their own businesses, you can smile at a Thai and you can almost guarantee to get a smile back.

A lot of visitors consider this to be quite fascinating, considering the low incomes, polluted air, bad traffic and such, giving Thai people very little to smile about. Yet they still manage to be so happy-looking, friendly and willing to show you the true meaning of hospitality. Often, you don't understand a word they're saying to you but you will see a glow in their eyes and a willing smile as a sign of their friendliness.

It's not just for the stunning nature and historical richness that so many people come to love Thailand. It's often the hospitality, the friendly people, their fascinating culture and the contagious 'Thai smile' that makes visitors want to repeat their visit time and time again.

What Are Thailand's Main Tourist Attractions and Activities?

Bangkok

Most people spend a few days in the Thai capital, but many find the pollution, traffic congestion and chaotic street life extremely wearing. There's plenty to take you off the street, however, including the glittering Grand Palace compound and its beautiful gigantic Reclining Buddha; the comprehensively stocked National Museum; the massive Chatuchak weekend market; with over eight thousand different nightlife that suns the full range from cutting-edge clubs to depressing strip joints.

Beaches

Thailand's beaches are among the world's best. You'll find the most developed and expensive resorts, and some of the finest sands, on the islands of Ko Samui and Phuket, while backpakers tend to head for the more budget oriented Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Lanta and Ko Mook. Krabi's Railay beaches are nothing short of stunning, Ko Samet makes and easy and economical break from Bangkok and Ko Chang is handy for travelers heading in and out of Cambodia.

Trekking

Unlike the organized treks in the Himalayas, Thailand's "hill-tribe treks" focus on the ethnic-minority villages that you walk to, rather than on the walking itself or the scenery. The hill tribes live way out in the sticks, but their villages are connected by tracks, so the hiking is not difficult. Most treks last two to four days and feature nights in the villages, as well as an elephant ride and river rafting. The main trekking centres are the northern cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, but routes out of both are hugely over subscribed, so it's better to start from Mae Hing Sin, Pai, Kanchanaburi or Umphang instead, where trails are quieter and more rewarding.

The ruined former capitals of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya

Dating from the thirteen century, Sukhothai is a beautiful example og thoughtful city planning enlivened by lakes and elegant statues of the Buddha. The 300-year-old temples and palaces of Ayutthaya display a refined mix of Hindu and Buddhist sculpture and are fun to explore by bicycle. Both sets of ruins are now conserved as historical parks. There are plenty of sobering World War II sights in the town, as well as reasonable range of trekking, rafting and cycle options that make the most or the fine river scenery, plus some appealing rafthouse accommodation too.

Kanchanaburi

Sited on the banks of the River Kwai, the town is most famous for its role as a POW camp in World War II and for its bridge, whose destruction by the Allied Forces was immortalized in Davis Lean's movie. There are plenty of sobering World War II sights in the town, as well as a reasonable range of trekking, rafting and cycling options that make the most of the fine river scenery, plus some appealing rafthouse accommodation too

Khao Sok National Park

Here you can sleep in a tree house under limestone karst, wake to the sound ogf the hooting gibbons, and take an adventure tour via waterlogged caves and jungles trails to a lake

The ancient Khmer temple of Phanom Rung

This exquisite pink sandstone complex was built in the tenth century as a blueprint for the Angkor temples across the border in Cambodia

Thai massage

Enjoy a traditional massage at Bangkok's Wat Pho temple, then learn the techniques yourself at a course in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

Snorkelling and diving off the remote Similan Island

The turquoise water, powdery sands and banks of coral are regularly visited by sharks, rays and turtles

The Mae Hong Song loop

Hire a motor bike and spend as many days as you can spare on the circular 600-kilometre route through the glorious upland scenery of the remote northwest

Kayaking along the Krabi coastline

An exhilarating way of exploring the spectacularly craggy outcrops and remote uninhabited islands of the south west-coast

Sang Khom

It's great to just chill out in this idyllis tree-shaded little town on the Mekong river, where you can hire bicycles to visit traditional local villages and mess about on the water in inner tubes and dugout canoes

Pai

This laid back north-Thai town has a distinct New Age air and is the perfect place to take some courses in alternative therapies, browse the art shops and arrange a trek.

Full-moon beach party

Join the hordes for the monthly full-moon parties on Ko Pha Ngan, an infamous back-packers' beach rave attracts up to 30,000 clubbers.

Reasons Why Sex Tourism Is Booming In Pattaya And Phuket And The Consequences

When most people think of Thailand, they think of it as one of Asia's preferred destinations for tourism. Many who have visited know it for its white sand beaches, night life and, from as far back as the second world war, as a center for "rest and recreation." The phrase "rest and recreation" came to Thailand as American soldiers used to visit between their war missions. The normal locals who were poor and did not have many sources of income saw this as an opportunity for making money. On their recovery trips to Thailand, the soldiers would regularly look for female companionship. This increased the demand for the number of women working in the sex-business. This sex business was not limited only to women. The requirement for male sex workers was equally on the rise. Largely by the demand created by these US military tourists, the seed of the sex business grew into a service sector by the end of the war. The reputation of cities like Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket also grew as they became known for this flesh trade.

The sex industry grew and nothing was off limits. Heterosexual and gay sexual prostitution became common place and, quite unfortunately, even child prostitution has risen. Male and female sex tourism has are increasing by the year. It is estimated over 850,000 western women have traveled to engage in sex since the early 80's and many of them have visited multiple times.

The cities of Pattaya and Phuket are acknowledged hubs for sex tourism. Pattaya is considered by many as a shopping mall of the sexual trade in Thailand. Pattaya alone attracts over 2- 4 million tourists each year. It is estimated about 6000 bar girls, massage girls and freelance sex workers are servicing the appetites of sex tourists. These numbers are said to shoot as high as 15000-20000 during the U.S.Navy annual joint U.S/Thai Operation Cobra Gold military maneuvers. Pattaya, in particular, has been in the news for rampantly growing child sex tourism. Sadly, child prostitution is even said to be one of if not the major source of money generation all throughout Pattaya.

In comparison with Pattaya, Phuket is believed to be a more standard, adult tourist-prostitution destination. The sex workers there and other red light districts throughout Thailand are said to consider prostitution as more or less a job they perform in order to be able to afford the basic necessities and some of the lures of the western world like TV.

Phuket's Patong Beach, with its increased tourist population of bare-busted European women is adding to the sexual appetite and, some say, increasing business for the local Patong Beach prostitutes. This phenomenon is said to be leading to increased prostitution prices in the area and to the cost of living in Phuket.

The proliferation of the sex trade in Thailand underlies the fundamental issues of poverty, corruption, illiteracy and misguided social philosophy. Yet Thailand is growing as a highly preferred tourist destination for those visitors seeking sex. The billions of dollars generated by the sex trade in Thailand provide a living for many people, but are not helping Thai society in the big picture. Thailand's incidence of HIV/AIDS, although more controlled than many places, is still a problem. And issues such as organized crime, sexual slavery and child prostitution continue to plague Thai society.

Wat Pho Temple In Thailand

Wat Pho is also known as the temple of the Reclining Buddha and is located at Phra Nakhon district in Thailand. The temple was built as a restoration of an earlier temple in the exact same place. Actually, the temple construction started in 1788 and was restored in 1824. The Wat Pho was recently restored in 1982 to recapture the old magnificance and grandeur.

The Wat Pho is one of the largest temples in Thailand. It covers an area of 80,000 square feet. Wat Pho houses more than one thousand Buddha images and one of them is the image of the Reclining Buddha. This image is forty six metres long and fifteen metres in height. The body of the image is covered with gold plated sheet and the eyes are made from pearls. The feet of the Reclining Buddha are decorated with 108 auspicious scenes in Chinese and Indian styles.

Prior to the founding of the temple, the place was the center for traditional Thai medicine. There are still still images housed within the temple depicting various yoga positions. The temple is also known as the birth place of traditional Thai massage. In 1962 a school for traditional medicine and massage was also established within the precinct of the temple.

The temple is divided into two blocks by a road that runs from east to west. The first block is where one would find the Reclining Buddha and the second block serves as the residence for monks and it houses the school for the traditional Thai medicine and massage.

A Study Visa For Thailand

It is becoming increasingly hard to obtain a long term visa to travel in Thailand. Previously it was fairly straight forward to obtain a Non-Immigrant 'O' visa that allowed multiple entries to the country over a year, with the holder required to go outside of the country every three months. This visa is still available but with new requirements for its issue, including owning a condominium in Thailand or being married to a Thai national. Other options available are the tourist visa and the study visa. Tourist visa requirements differ between countries, but generally only offer a maximum of 6 months with a 90-day multiple re-entry rule. If you arrive in the country without a visa you will generally only be allowed to stay for 30 days (check on the specific rules for your country of origin).

The study visa, however, presents a great option for those looking to travel extensively in Thailand and the surrounding region for an extended period of time. A study visa can be obtained to learn to speak Thai and to undertake a TEFL course in Thailand. It can also be used to attend university, although different rules will apply, primarily the amount of study you need to commit to. Study visas do not require the holder to leave the country, only to sign in at a designated destination every 90 days. There is a fee of 1,900 Baht for each sign in.

Getting a study visa for Thailand avoids any worry of having to leave the country before your 90 days is up, which as many people find out every year, incurs a fee of 500 Baht for each day you overstay, and, depending on the circumstances, can warrant legal action.

A study visa, or non-immigrant ED visa as it is often referred to, is obtained by confirming a place at a particular language school or TEFL course school. You will need to fill out forms in your country of origin and provide your regional Thai embassy with your passport to be stamped, a fee, and honest details of your intentions. Many TEFL course schools pay the study visa fee for you as part of the course package, which could save you up to 5,000 Baht.

A non-immigrant ED visa means you can study, but remember, it's not a teaching visa and it does not permit working in Thailand in any way, shape or form. The non-immigrant ED visa requires you to prove you are studying, and should not be considered an easy pathway to a long lazy holiday. Once you stop studying your study visa will expire and you will only be permitted to remain in the country for as long as a standard tourist before being required to leave - usually 30 days depending on your country of origin.

Studying a TEFL course in Thailand is a great pathway into teaching and a long-term stay in the country without the need to leave every 90-days or sign in at a designated government office. Once you have your TEFL qualification you can teach with the issue of a work permit. For those studying the Thai language, you will be required to leave the country when your year's study visa expires, unless of course you sign up for a TEFL course, which in most cases still requires you to return to your home country first.

Koh Samui Thailand is a Wonderful Holiday Destination

Koh Samui is the 3rd biggest island situated in the Gulf of Thailand. It is one of the loveliest and most tranquil islands. This very beautiful island of Samui is situated in the middle of Thailand. It is rich in natural resources, friendly and rich culture, white peaceful sand beaches, tall coconut palms and lovely coral reefs.

Vacation in Koh samui

During the last some years, Koh Samui islands have become one of most preferred tourist spots in the world. If you are looking forward to taking a break from your schedule and fast life and taking a long, calming holiday then Koh Samui islands are your best bet due to their peace. The surroundings of these islands is the most peaceful one, with the noise of sea waves crashing against the shore being the only sound. If you only want to lie down and chill out with no disturbance, then Koh samui is a place you have to go to.

Natural phenomenon

The lovely Samui islands encircled by the azure deep blue waters and gentle white powdered sandy beaches give you the most calming and awesome experience. Here you will be left speechless by the atmosphere and loveliness of the area. If you love nature then you are sure to have a very good time enjoying the coconut trees and the dense and flourishing tropical plants. The lower inclines and the long shore are lined by coconut palms, thereby making Koh samui the leading provider of coconuts to Thailand.

Beach attractions

Besides these natural attractions,samui islands provide various other attractive places to see and wonderful entertaining activities. Ko samui islands are renowned for their beach attractions. Tourists throughout the world come to the island to experience the pristine deep blue waters and lovely views of the ocean. These breathtaking islands have numerous beautiful and stunning beaches that are very famous tourist attractions like the Lamai beach and the Chaweng beach. Besides these beaches, other more silent and peaceful beaches in Koh Samui are Mae Nam beach, Tong Yang beach, Cherng Mon beach and Nar Ton beach.

The stunning waterfalls in the region are a sight to see. These stunning waterfalls include names Nar Muang falls, Wa Norn waterfalls and Hin Lad waterfalls. Because of them, the samui islands have become one of the most preferred and highest rated diving areas in the world.

Due to these amazing wonders and a quiet serene environment, samui is a place that must be visited. A tour to the amazing Koh samui islands will be your most pleasant and the most unforgettable travel experience.

Dental Tourism in Thailand

Thailand has often been at the centre stage of the world for providing fantastic tourism to people from all over the world. Its beautiful locales, sandy beaches, and warm nature have often won the hearts of millions of people who have paid a visit to the country for business or leisure alike.

A new concept in Thailand is the dental tourism or the quality of dental services it offers to people who are residents or tourists alike. Thailand dental has been a progressive hub in the field of medical sciences by the day and the popularity it is gaining amongst the world is quiet staggering to believe.

Cosmetic dentistry in Thailand is almost dirt cheap if compared to that in Europe and the USA. And it is of equally good quality. Dental misalignment are taken good care of by experienced dentists all through out the country and especially in the capital city of Bangkok. The advancements in the field of cosmetic dentistry have scaled new heights by the time. But the problem most people face, especially those who live across Europe and USA are the sky high charges to avail facilities of this kind. That is when they resort to the concept of dental tourism. It is an increasingly popular phenomenon where by you can get your dental treatment taken care of at a comparatively lower cost and also take a vacation.

Special dentist insurance plans are available through out the Asian market to take care of your cosmetic surgery expenses. As cosmetic dentistry is a lengthy procedure, insurance covers in the USA can rocket up to a huge amount. But the same facility in Thailand can cost you almost 5 times less and that is why people are so aware and resorting to this concept. An orthodontic treatment in the lieu of cosmetic surgery is generally a lengthy procedure which may go up to 1-2 years to complete. It also depends upon the severity of the issue you have with your teeth though. But nowadays, there are packages available where you can consult your dentists every once a week to get treated and by that, the time period for the cosmetic treatment to conclude is shortened considerably.

Not always is dental tourism a fool proof concept. If the issue with your treatment indeed is severe, that may take a lot of sittings and you may not be able to afford such a prolonged vacation. So, in such a case, it's best to take the opinion of your dentist before embarking upon such a journey. Lastly, it sure is a progressive step in the medical world to treat people universally for a comparatively cheaper cost and at the same time maintain the quality of treatment as in Europe or UK. It will grow with time!

Thailand Travel - Tachileik-Mai Sai Markets Burma

Within the infamous Golden Triangle that boarders Thailand, Laos and Burma is Mai Sai, the north most district of Chiang Rai. Here travellers will find a bridge that divides two worlds, one is the rising Thailand and the other is the country hidden under an opium laced shadow, Burma. Burma, who's government renamed to Myanmar, is one of the world's most secluded countries, a mysterious and unexplored destination for western travellers, a country untouched by the momentum of development.

We stumble across a makeshift car park and give the attendant 10 Baht for care of our hire car, from here it's only a short walk to the Mai Sai border crossing. Being from Australia we've never walked into another country and the idea of walking into Burma made the 4 hour drive from Chiang Mai all the more worthwhile. At the boarder we are ushered into a small and unusually hot room where a man dressed in a military uniform sits behind his desk and asks of our intentions for visiting his country. His English is difficult to understand and before we can answer he tells us we are only visiting for the day to shop at the boarder markets. 500Baht is handed over and to our surprise passports are retained and will supposedly be returned when we attempt to return back into the Kingdom of Thailand. The heat already souring its all the more sweaty knowing we are walking into Burma without passports.

The markets are bursting with stalls and goods overflowing onto narrow paths made narrower by the men and boys shoving into us with baskets of pills for enhancement and DVD's of questionable content available at 'cheap cheap prices'. Remembering advice I received from a drunken expat the night before in a bar, I move my wallet into the front pocket of my jeans, this is not just a precaution, it is necessary. When the senses start to settle back down there are many bargains to be found if you have a good eye and time to sift through the junk. Everything is cheap here, cheaper than the popular night markets of Chiang Mai that now offer market goods at tourist prices. There is a copy, a fake, a 'real copy' or a look alike for almost any product you can think of. The watches look good until you realise they are twice as thick as the real deal however this is forgiven when you realise the designer watch offered at Tachileik will only set you back a couple of cappuccino's in your home town. I show interest in a table of designer pens and suddenly a young girl is handing me one and asking me to test the quality, surprisingly it writes very well and equally surprising is the girls English compared to her Thai sisters. Then another girl hands me another pen which also looks the part and is surprisingly usable. This continued until there were six girls at the table and I had tried 6 pens, after some intense negotiation we agreed upon 2 pens at 300Baht, approximately 8 US dollars.

Two hours of walking, negotiating and dodging the occasional motor-bikes speeding through the narrow market lanes, a couple of sneaky market photos and we decide we've had enough adventure for the day and will return to Thailand. Returning to Thailand is relieving as passports are returned and stamped with a minimum of fuss and the harassment from young boys desperate for loose change is left behind us.

Although not the real Burma it was an interesting and unique experience that resulted in some fascinating memories, a couple of covert pictures and a Myanmar Walk stamp in the passport. Visiting Burma was a choice we made lightly and upon learning more about the military controlled country it has become apparent the choice should be given more thought and consideration. More locally to Mai Sai is the depressing environment of illegal border crossings, drugs and human trafficking, all world issues that are too easily forgotten when on holiday.

The drive back to Chiang Mai down the mountain takes us into Chiang Rai and a stop at the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). White Temple is a modern temple designed and built by artist Chalomchai Khositphiphat around 10 years ago. The intricate details covering the large temple are an incredible vision and the entirely white design with silver edges glistening on dragons and other mythical creatures creates a surreal environment. The site also has a hall that exhibits paintings of Chalomchai Khositphiphat.

A few dodged cows and a little nervousness waiting for the first petrol station in Chiang Mai and we arrive safely after dark, ready to tell the story of our trip to Tachileik over a few Chaing's.

Thailand Communication and Culture - What to Do When You Meet Thai People

If you are going to visit Thailand or meet with Thai people, you may wonder what to do to make a good impression. Thailand communication technique should be used so that you can converse with them amicably. Here are some of the tips that you can use including:

1 Say Hello in Thai:

Thai people use Sawad Dee as greeting words. If you are male, put Krub at the end of your sentence. If you are a female, put Ka instead. So, you can practice saying Sawas Dee Krub or Sawad Dee Ka now. The people you say to will say back the same thing. When you say this, you can nod your head a little to make your gesture even friendlier.

2 Do the famous "Wai":

This gesture can be done by putting your palms together in a prayer-like manner and bow slightly. It is customary for the younger or lower in status to begin the greeting with the words Sawad Dee. When taking leave, the same words saying and procedure is repeated. If you are greeted with a Wai from someone, you should reply with the same gesture. You don't have to return a Wai to a small child. Think of a Wai as you would a handshake. You should initiate a Wai with a sincere pleasure at an introduction.

3 Men do not touch women:

Still, Thailand communication and culture is quite conservative when it comes to the treatment between the two sexes. People do not shake hands and they do not touch the opposite sex if it is not necessary. For male, don't be surprised if you offer a handshake to a lady and do not get one back. It is not you but the culture.

There are many things to learn regarding Thailand communication and culture. Some of them may be similar to the western culture but many of them aren't. To learn this take some time but you will be able to understand it in the end.

Luxury Alliances in Thailand - 5 Star Hotels in Bangkok

The simplest way to book a luxury hotel in Bangkok is selecting the official hotel websites of a particular hotel. Among the star rating hotels, 5 star hotels in Bangkok are the grand motels which are mostly preferred to stay by the luxury and elite class travelers. The guests of 5 star hotels in Bangkok include world famous celebrates, great politicians, famous wealthy businessmen, leaders, sportsman and great personalities.

The impeccable service of the five star hotels in Bangkok attracts its visitors endlessly. Choose one of the most unique, elegant and exquisite grand comfortable hotel in Bangkok. It will be worthy enough if you make a search of such hotels in search engines. However, the names of some 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok can be mentioned here.

The Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel which is located near the Chao Phraya River. You will definitely be pleased to see its elegantly decorated and well equipped rooms. Moreover, if you are business or leisure travelers then this resort have lots of facilities to offer to such visitors.

The room facilities include air-conditioning, telephone, minibar, room safe, satellite TV, voice mail, Tea & Coffee making facilities, room service, In-House Movies, Internet connection, hairdryer, Non- smoking rooms etc. Further, there are also deluxe room facilities, hotel facilities, leisure facilities, family facilities and many more. Above all, the hotel has a large swimming pool as well.

Bangkok the capital city of Thailand has large number of sumptuous motels. In fact, Thailand also offers lots of 5 star hotels to stay. For instance Anantara Hua Hin Resort and Spa is located on the western shores of the Gulf of Thailand.

Among 5 Star Hotels In Thailand this five star alliance is really beautiful abode to stay. The rooms of this hotel include fitness center, fine dining nearby, meeting space, fine dining on site, banquets & meetings, Spa facility, high speed internet, outdoor swimming pool, etc. During your stay in Anantara Hua Hin Resort and Spa, you can take part into various activities such as horse riding, jogging and running, biking, shopping, playing volleyball, boating and strolling along the beach. So book Thailand Hotels and enjoy the tour.

Chedi Of Wat Yai Chai Mongkon In Thailand

Chedi or Stupas are bell shaped towers which contain artifacts of Buddha or they may have the mortal remains of important monks or kings. Wat Yai Chai Mongkon is an example of such a bell shaped chedi. It can also be in the shape of pagoda.

The huge chedi of Wat Yai Chai Mongkon was built in 1592. Ayuttaya king, Nareusan the Great, built it. But this temple already existed during the time of King Ramathibodi in 1357 and it was used as the site for meditation by monks.

When the Burmese took over Ayutthaya, they destroyed the small chedis but Wat Yai Chai Mongkon was too big to be destroyed and survived the attack. A new Ubosot was built in the place of the old Ubosot, which was set on fire by the attackers.

Ubosot is a hall where important ceremonies take place. It may not be always open to the public. The ubosot should have an altar with one or more Buddha images.

The big chedi of Wat Yai Chai Mongkon now has modern images of Buddha lined up in the inner courtyard. There is wonderful view of Ayuthhaya landscape which you can see if you climb the base of bell shaped chedi.. There is a reclining Buddha, built by the King Nareusan, for purpose of meditation.

The temple has been now converted to a museum in the honor of King Nareusan. A modern wiharn is built behind the chedi. A wiharn is a place which houses Buddha images where people come to pray for peace.

Akha Tribe Of Thailand

Akha is a tribal group that originated from southwest China. Besides north Thailand, this tribe is also found in China, Laos and Burma. Today there are approximately 20,000 Akha living in northern Thailand in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai in the higher altitudes.

There are four main groups in this tribe namely the U Law, Law Mi, Pa Mi, and A Keu. All four groups speak the Akha language besides their own dialect. The dialect spoken by the U Law, the Law Mi and the Pa Mi is very similar; however, the A Keu speak a very distinctive dialect.

The Akha live in homes made from bamboo. They use cogon grass to build roofs of their homes. They built their homes on stilts. Akha villages are generally large in size comprising of thirty houses. Their houses are built on hill tops, as an attempt to avoid the diseases and outbreaks. The most important leader in an Akha village is the Spiritual Leader or the Shaman. Akha are animists and they live their lives according to their beliefs. If a member of the tribe becomes a non-believer, he / she usually leaves the village for good.

The Akha lifestyle is based on their agricultural system. They work very hard in the fields, spending more time there than with their families. They grow rice and a variety of vegetables on mountainsides. They also grow cash crops like chilies, soybeans, cabbages, and tomatoes. The Akha women are noted for their expertise in weaving. They sell cloth, clothes, decorative items made up of bamboo, wood and rattan to supplement to their meager income.

Tipping in Thailand

To tip or not to tip? As an American I was brought up in a tipping culture and therefore tip service wherever I go. Many people will tell you that Thailand is not a tipping culture or at least it wasn't until us Americans ruined the place leaving tips everywhere.

So, some people tip when they go to Thailand and some don't and the argument rages on.

I had the chance to eat in some small Thai restaurants on my last trip and I watched what the Thai people did and oddly enough most of them left a tip for their waitress, not much but a tip all the same. They all seemed to leave just the change from the bill...maybe 5 to 10 baht each.

One thing is for sure whether the Americans started it or not Thais in the service industry expect something. Believe me, I've heard the term cheap Charlie thrown around on quite a few occasions when a non tipper left the scene of the crime.

Not everyone expects a tip. The street cart vendors or baht bus drivers you don't tip. The taxi's I usually round up the meter charge as a tip but for the maids, waitresses, and bartenders I tip well. You don't have to give huge tips but what you give is appreciated and usually remembered. I usually leave the maid 20-50 baht a day tip and at the restaurant or bar leave a 20 - 50 baht tip sometimes more as the restaurant and bar staff usually pool their tips. If I want to make sure that the person I want to get the tip gets it I'll slip it to them on the sly. More times than not they'll split it with the others anyway.

Some people argue that they are already getting paid to do their job and should not get any more but for me I can't see things that way, especially in a country where the average Thai earns between three to six thousand baht a month ($100-$200). Yes, the cost of living is a lot cheaper in Thailand but that is easy for a foreigner to say when we are spending the equivalent of a Thai's yearly salary in a week or two on vacation.

The Thai people are very accommodating to begin with, taking care of the people taking care of you only makes for a better vacation and that is never a bad thing.

Aytthaya - Capital City Of Thailand

Ayutthaya is an ancient capital city of Thailand and it was founded by King Ramathibodi I in 1350. It stayed as the capital of Thailand for nearly 417 years. Ayutthaya was ruled by 33 kings of five dynasties. The city was named for Ayutthaya after the home of Rama from the Indian epic Ramayana, and it means the undefeatable.

During the first 180 years, Ayutthaya was a very peaceful city and did not get into wars with the neighboring countries. The main activity of the city was trading. However, after the death of King Ramathibodi I, for the first time, the city got involved in a war with Myanmar in 1529. Thereafter, the city ended up fighting many wars. Ayutthaya was first defeated by the Burmese in 1569. After fifteen years, the city was regained by the King Naresuan. The city continued to flourish for the next 118 years and after which it was invaded and destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767. The capital was later moved to Thonburi by King Tuskin who defeated the Burmese. After his reign, the capital was shifted to Bangkok by King Rama I.

The destroyed city was left untouched in the jungle for over a hundred years. Ayutthaya was 85 kilometers from north of Bangkok, where one can still find the ruins of this ancient city. The ruins indicate that Ayutthaya was one of the precious cities of Thailand. The city covered an area of 2,556 square kilometers.

In modern times, tourists can conveniently access it by road, river, and railways, and it is one of the famous sightseeing spots of Thailand.

Top 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Khao Sok National Park in Thailand is, quite simply, nature at
her best. Whether you're looking for a holiday full of
adventure or one with plenty of time for relaxation, this
stunning rainforest oasis will leave you with a lasting
impression and a desire to return time and time again to this
secret piece of paradise.

Here are just some of the reasons why you should consider Khao
Sok, Thailand as your next holiday destination:

1. Superb Jungle Trekking Trails

Khao Sok National Park is one of the oldest living rainforests
in the world. If you're looking for pristine hiking trails with
stunning views, great caves, waterfalls, flora and fauna to
explore, then Khao Sok, Thailand will not disappoint.

2. Chieow Laan Lake

Chieow Laan Lake, part of Khao Sok National Park, is 165 sq km
of breathtaking beauty and diversity of nature. A haven for
wildlife, including wild elephants, clouded leopards and even a
small number of tigers, the emerald green waters of the lake
reflect the imposing presence of the limestone karsts which
dominate this region of Thailand.

3. Floating Rafthouses

One of the best reasons to visit Khao Sok is to stay at one of
Chieow Laan Lake's floating rafthouses. Featured on several
travel shows, this unique style of accommodation will have you
spending the night floating on the gentle waters of the lake.
With just the sounds of the jungle to lull you to sleep, this is
one of the most amazing experiences you'll ever have.

4. Unique Flora & Fauna

Khao Sok National Park is an ancient rainforest full of unique
flora and fauna including the giant Rafflesia flower, which
blooms just once a year and grows to up to 80cm in diameter. In
addition, the park is home to barking deer, tapir, Asiatic black
bear and Malaysia sunbear.

5. Jungle Canopy Treehouse Accommodation

One of the most popular things to do in Khao Sok is to spend a
night or two high up in a jungle canopy treehouse. Visitors to
Khao Sok repeatedly comment on how magical this experience is
and rightly so. This is 'getting back to nature' in real style.

6. Adventure Galore

If it's adventure you're after, Khao Sok will not disappoint.
Choose from day or overnight lake tours, explore the caves of
the region, go elephant trekking, have fun canoeing down the
Klong Sok River, or take to one of the many jungle trails. If
your pace is a bit more leisurely, try a relaxing Thai massage,
a guided boat trip or a gentle paddle down the river in an inner
tube. Whatever your age, ability or interest, you'll find plenty
to keep you happy in Khao Sok.

7. Special Interest Groups

Bird watching, wildlife spotting, canoeing, fishing, caving and
more. Whatever your special interest, Khao Sok will keep you
captivated.

Tempted by a holiday in Khao Sok? Try it - you won't be
disappointed! Just make sure you pack your favourite camera or
video before you leave, so you can show off your stunning photos
to your friends and family back home.

Thailand Exchange Rate Crises In 1990

According to economists, there are five principal reasons for the East Asian currency Crisis or IMF of July 1997 that caused a period of economic unrest and turmoil in Southeast Asian financial markets. The countries that were mainly affected during the crisis included Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and South Korea. Inadequate foreign exchange reserves, improper handling of fund allocations and inadequately developed financial sectors in the developing Asian countries have been held as the prime reasons for the drop in the local currency exchange rates against the US dollar during the period.

The entire episode of economy crisis started due to inappropriate speculations. Speculators forecasted a decline in international market growth and started selling South East Asian currencies. With this, there was a currency depreciation and sudden drop in the value of Thai baht, Malaysian ringgit, Phillipine Peso and Indonesian rupiah. Due to this, all these markets had to sell their dollars to buy back their currencies. This caused a rapid decline in the foreign exchange reserves. In the second stage of the crisis, the lower value of the neighboring currencies affected other Southeast Asian currencies like Taiwan dollar, South Korean Won, Singaporean Dollar and Hong Kong Dollar. Governments raised the interest rates for the purpose of defending the local currency and inviting foreign capital. Due to the rapid decline in the economy, investors started removing their investments from the markets, thereby initiating a fall in the stock prices. IMF with the assistance of World Bank and Asian Development Bank arranged support packages of around $120 billion in order to rescue these markets.

Certain economists believe that the distorted macroeconomic policies and the fixed exchange rate of the currency as a major cause for the economic crisis in 1997.

Car Ownership in Thailand - The Expats Guide to Buying a Car

Owning a car in Thailand is not difficult, although coping with the way many Thai drivers operate their cars can be hazardous. In Thailand both new and used cars are available. You can also import a car, but the import duties are heavy and you could run into problems with parts and maintenance if it is a brand not readily found in Thailand.

Foreigners cannot obtain financing for a car in Thailand. Your options are to pay cash, use a credit card if you have enough credit available, or buy through a Thai citizen.

The car can be purchased in a foreigner's name. If you opt for financing through a Thai friend, you must be absolutely certain he is someone you can trust. If the person is not trustworthy, he could let you make all the payments and then make the final payment himself and take the car. The car is in his name and there would be no recourse for you. However if he is trustworthy, after making the final payment the ownership of the car can be converted to your own name.

Thailand is a right-hand drive country. If you are from a country that is a left-hand drive country, you will have to accustom yourself to right-hand driving. For some it is a difficult adjustment, especially if you are driving a stick shift. For others it is easy.

While buying a used car is available, it is probably best for most foreigners to buy a new car through a reputable dealership. In most cases the only cars on the lot will be display vehicles. You will most likely have to order the car and wait for delivery, which can take as long as two to three weeks, depending on your location.

If you wish to purchase options, in most cases you must pay up front for them.

Service is readily available throughout Thailand. If you buy a common brand, such as Honda, Mitsubishi, or Toyota, most cities have at least one dealership. Independent service shops are everywhere, even in some of the smallest towns. Maintenance is relatively inexpensive in Thailand. Parts and labor are also relatively inexpensive.

Service stations in Thailand are full service. If, for example, you come from the USA, then you are probably used to self service. In Thailand, however, the service stations do everything from pumping the fuel, to checking your tires, to washing your windows.

All fuel in Thailand is price regulated. All service stations sell fuel at the same price throughout the country. Car washes normally cost between 120 to 140 baht.

Car insurance is relatively inexpensive in Thailand. There are three classes of insurance. First class covers collision and personal injury protection. There is no deductible. Second class covers collision and personal injury, but will be covered only if an accident is determined not to be your fault. If the police hold you at fault, then there can be a large deductible or refusal to pay, in which case you would be responsible for damage to other involved vehicles and any injuries. Third class covers personal injury protection, but does not cover collision.

It is recommended that foreigners carry the first class insurance. In most cases, provided there have been no claims during the year, depending on the make and model of your car you can expect first class insurance to cost between 18,000 baht to 25,000 baht annually. You must pay the full premium annually.

Most insurance policies do cover other drivers of your vehicle if, and only if, the other driver holds a valid Thai driver's license and is sober. If he is under the influence when an accident occurs, many insurance companies can refuse to pay.

You will be covered if you are sober and either hold a valid Thai driver's license or have both a valid driving license from your home country and an International Driving Permit. You must have both. Despite the fact that an International Driving Permit has a one year validity period, Thailand honors it only 90 days from the date of your entry into the country. Thai law requires you to have the license and your valid passport with you at all times when driving a car.

Talking on a mobile phone while driving is prohibited in Thailand. If you are caught talking on a mobile phone, the fine is 2000 baht.

You are required to display a valid insurance sticker and a valid road tax sticker on the left side of the car's windshield. The annual road tax depends on the make and model of your car. The tax is usually about 2500 baht. You can normally pay the road tax through your insurance company. If you prefer, many bank branches can handle it for you.

One consideration is dealing with the police. Quite often the police set up road blocks and flag down drivers if you have made a violation or if they wish to inspect your documentation. Thailand does not have probable cause rights, so the police are at liberty to stop you even without cause. For minor violations the fines are usually 200 baht to 500 baht. Quite often the police officer will allow you to pay him immediately, without having to find and go to a police station. If the police officer decides to send you to the police station, in most cases the police officer will confiscate your driving license and return it only when you bring a receipt proving that you paid the fine. If the police officer confiscates your license, make sure to ask where he can be found after you pay the fine. If you are driving in an unfamiliar locale and are sent to the police station, if the police officer does not accompany you, then in order to find the police station it may be necessary to hire a taxi lead you to the police station.

If there has been an accident that resulted in injury or death, even if you are clearly not at fault you still may be arrested and released on bail while a final determination of fault is taking place.

The vast majority of Thai drivers were licensed without any kind of driver education at all other than a 2 hour film they must watch at the time they apply for a first driving license. That can make driving quite hazardous and it is imperative that you drive cautiously at all times, making sure to be very observant. The sheer numbers of motorcycles on the roads can make driving all the more hazardous.

While becoming accustomed to driving in Thailand can often be unnerving, being able to drive a car makes shopping much easier, getting to and from wherever you wish to go in the rain much easier, and opens all of Thailand for exploring. You might also wish to get a GPS. You can find a good GPS easily in Thailand, loaded with highly detailed Thai maps, but all in the English language. Having a GPS makes finding your destination quite easy and it can be very reassuring. Driving from city to city with use of a road map is fairly simple, but once you arrive in an unfamiliar city having a GPS can be extremely helpful.

Fisherman's Village Walking Street: Koh Samui, Thailand

Fisherman's Village is a well-known, quaint, trendy and chic area of Bophut in Thailand's tropical island of Koh Samui. The village is located on Koh Samui's North Eastern coast and is an interesting mix of traditional and contemporary with antique, wooden townhouses mingling with modern bars, restaurants and apartments. The village itself comprises a beach road, about 1km long with a great choice of bars and restaurants serving international cuisine with stunning sea views towards Samui's neighbouring island of Koh Phan Ngan.

"Walking Street" is a weekly event, every Friday evening, in Fisherman's Village where locals set up stalls along the length of the beach road selling Thai and International food, drinks, clothes and souvenirs. Thai Food on offer is from all over Thailand and includes traditional Thai sausages, BBQ squid, satay, fried tempura prawns and Thai style kebabs. For the less adventurous, some international cuisine options like pizza, fried chicken and french fries are also available! Don't miss trying a Mojito from the cocktail stalls which are made with Tom Cruise "Cocktail" style flair.

The Village's bars and restaurants are all open for business and many set up their own stalls to sell some snacks to passing tourists. You are welcome to feast on your street snacks while enjoying a spot of people watching with a cool drink and fine sea views from the local bars.

Shopping opportunities are abound with market stalls and local boutiques selling clothing and locally made trinkets and souvenirs made from local materials such as bamboo, fruit tree woods and, of course, coconuts. Trinkets available to buy include lamps, wooden elephants and Buddha images, paintings, silk cushions and candles to name but a few. Prices can be a little inflated compared to other areas of the island, so don't be afraid to try for a discount.

Local Bophut school serves as a large car park and you can leave your car safely here for a small charge. Care should be taken when driving past the village and crossing the busy roads, especially with children, as they are poorly lit and few drivers slow down while passing this busy area.

Fisherman's Village Walking Street has been such a success that other areas of Koh Samui have followed suit, with Maenam, Lamai and Nathon now hosting their own Walking Street on different days throughout the week.

On your next visit to Koh Samui, don't miss Fisherman's Village Walking Street for a relaxed, satisfying and thoroughly enjoyable evening out.

The Bridge Over The River Kwai In Thailand

One of the most famous tourist spots in Thailand is the Bridge over the river Kwai. This famous bridge is about four kilometers from Kanchanaburi, across the river Kwai. A great tragedy occurred during the construction of this famous bridge. It was constructed by prisoners of war who were captured by the Japanese during World War II. It is believed that during the construction of bridge, 16,000 war prisoners and 49,000 forcibly employed laborers died.

The construction started in October 1942. During the construction of the bridge, there were no sophisticated machines to aid the construction. The workers building the bridge used dynamite to break rocks and boulders leading to accidental deaths of many. Once the bridge was built, the railway played a major role in opening the area for cultivation. Before the bridge was constructed the area was a forest and people were afraid to enter it.

However, today the bridge is a famous tourist spot. There are many places to look around and enjoy a day around river Kwai. In Tambon Tha Sao, a place near river Kwai, visitors can hire a boat which can carry a maximum of 10 to 12 to visit the Lawa Cave and Sai Yok Yai Waterfall. The trip takes a total of 4 hours to go and return and is well worth the time spent traveling.

There is also a war museum located near the river Kwai bridge. The museum houses a collection of weapons, tools, and utensils used by the prisoners of war and the Japanese army during the construction of the bridge and World War II.

Thailand Holidays

Think Thailand holidays and you will be smiling for months prior to departing on your hols. Thailand holidays are for everyone who loves to get away to someplace chic yet ordinary, culturally exciting yet with a touch of the everyday life and stupendously gorgeous yet with a glimpse here and there of things you would expect to see on holidays.

How can you resist this distant and yet so close temptation of Thailand holidays? You can't, it's just that simple and yet deliciously complex at the same time. You see, these holidays are ever so brilliant for a number of reasons. Being waited on hand and foot is perhaps one of the most delightful experiences you will have when on your Thailand holidays. Everything you even contemplate is possible including the mundane like child care, shopping and cleaning.

Yes, the everyday world does tend to intrude into the picture now and then, but honestly, it is easily banished as you gaze out over those cerulean blue waters and listen to the ever present music that permeates the air. Sniff the breezes as they waft by where you are sunning yourself, smell the freshness, the tangy blend of fruits, the exotic sun warmed flowers and the snappy, salty smell of the Gulf coast.

There isn't one place in Thailand that you will want to miss. Choose to visit Bangkok, Phuket on the western Andaman coast and the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan & Koh Tao on the eastern Gulf coast. Or, if the fancy strikes you, just go to one place and soak up the culture, indulge in the food and delight in the local ambiance.

Worried about where to stay on your Thailand holiday? Don't be, as Thailand is in the midst of developing a find array of private villas, splendid resorts, boutique hotels and apartments. Think it, and it is yours to luxuriate in for your Thailand holidays.

Give some pause to not going on your Thailand holidays during monsoon season. Although when one side of the island is being battered, the other side is not, which means you may escape the monsoons by packing up and going to the other side of the island. Phuket is usually hit from April to October, which is a very long season. On the other side where you will find Koh Sumui and Koh Tao, their monsoon season hits from late September through until about the middle of December.

With a little advance planning, you can have your cake and eat it too and arrange to be on the opposite side of the island when the weather is miserable.