Thailand as a Tour Destination

Thinking of Thailand as a tour destination? Think exotic, oriental, majestic and more!

Thailand's boundaries stretch to neighboring regions of Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia, the Gulf of Thailand and the Indian Ocean. The exciting Eastern city of Thailand offers immense scope for sea, air and road travel, dependent on a tourist's budget. Its four main regions, namely North, Central Plain or the Chao Phraya River Basin, North East (Korat Plateau) and South Peninsula live up to the true meaning of 'thai,' literally meaning free and denoting the same in its multicultural diversity that happily coexists with its diverse inhabitants.

Agriculturally rich, with paddy fields dotted landscape that make room for heritage palaces and famous temples alike, modern Thailand comes as a pleasant surprise for the global traveler: natural beauty of many beaches and islands, innumerable shopping bargains and vibrant festivities of carnivals and shopping centers that offer wide variety in local foods and gourmet cuisine, exotic hill - tribe villages and ancient ruins all contribute to Thailand's cosmopolitan air as a tour destination.

Thailand as a tour destination: its many exciting activities and pleasures.
Buddhism is the main religion in Thailand with the King of Thailand revered as the supreme monarch and also the patron of all religions embraced by the people. Thus, Thailand has religious tolerance woven into its social fabric and respects people of all races. This multiculturalism makes Thailand a hot favorite as a tour destination for the global traveler with add-on visits to nearby cities like Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth and other major southern Thai towns being part of an avid tourist's list. Places of tourist interest in Thailand include Phuket, Koh Samui, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Chang and Koh Samet while provinces like Krabi, Koh Libong, Koh Hai provides great photographic memoirs of Thailand as a tour destination.

Manoj Gursahani is the Chairman of India's first ecommerce travel portal- TravelMartIndia. Visit the blog for more travel related issues, travel tips and destinations

By Manoj Gursahani

Thailand Travel - Hotels

If you are planning to travel to Thailand you have many choices in the way of hotels. Weather you want modern conveniences and state of the art technology, or do you want to stay somewhere with rich historical value, there is a place for you in Thailand.

There are many famous worldwide resorts and hotels in the area, as well as smaller mom and pop places. Each place will give your vacation a special feel. There are places on the beach and places in the forest, no matter what you want your surrounding to be Thailand can make it happen.

Some cities, such as the northern capital Bangkok, are known as party cities while others are more laid back and less crowded. Keep traffic and activities in mind when you book your stay. Some cities offers malls selling jeans while others have road side stands with handmade goods.

December is a hot time for travelers pouring in Thailand. Book your hotel outside of December to save money and miss some of the crowds at tourist attractions. Hotels also offer cheap rates in off seasons.

Many amenities are offered in the larger hotels; internet, on site workout area, and spas. If you stay in a small low cost place in one of the older less populated cities don't expect all the bells and whistles. Ask your travel agent about hotel amenities when booking to make sure you aren't in shock when you show up. You can also search for online photos of hotels and read user reviews.

Consider activities when booking your hotel and lodging. Make sure you are staying in an area that offers activities that interest you. Hike in the forests and view the waterfalls or stay on the beach and snorkel. Many water sports and activities are offered as well as tours. Keep travel times in mind when planning trips. There are also many zoos with exotic animals you can't see anywhere else.

Thailand is one of the rare places that offers something for everyone and has activities for every budget. Always do research before you book your hotel so that you know where you are staying, what is close by, and what your hotel offers.

Yukorn Chanmanee: http://www.thailandhotelsinfo.com

[http://www.thailandinfomation.com]

By Yukorn Chanmanee

Thailand Vacations - Etiquette While Traveling in the Kingdom

Thailand vacations can be exotic, beautiful, sunny, unique and very rewarding. To get the most out of your vacation, learn about the customs and traditions that are expected of visitors and tourists to Thailand. With these tips can help you become one of their beloved guests. Reading through this list will help you understand the proper ways to conduct yourself in frequent situations. This will help you show respect for the people and their country. These basic principles will also keep you from unintentionally offending your gracious hosts.

Thailand Vacations Can Be More Than Just a Party
Thailand can be a truly unique and rewarding cultural experience. And it can be a great party. With relatively cheap prices, warm weather and friendly people, some places in Thailand has become overwhelmed with partygoers. Our recommendation is to have fun, party some, but consider what you will be missing if that is all you do. Also consider that this is the ancient home of your hosts.

Greeting people in Thailand with the Wai
One very important custom that is used in Thailand is the Wai. This is the accepted way of greeting others throughout the country. The Wai is performed by placing your palms together and letting your fingers point upward (in a prayer position). When you do this you also bend your head at the neck, to show respect to the people that you are meeting. Thai natives will appreciate your using the Wai while visiting with them because it is their tradition and accepted way of greeting another person. Every person in Thailand is familiar with this type of greeting, and will immediately respond in kind to this gentle and polite gesture. They will also be happy and flattered that you are showing honor by using the Wai while in their country.

Graeng Jai ... The Polite Thai Art of Refusal
Graeng Jai is a somewhat difficult concept to understand, as there is no good word or phrase in English. One you think you have it translated, Graeng Jai comes up in different forms. Some attempts at translation are, "don't want to impose on others", "over-polite", "don't want to say what you are really thinking", and "fear of disrespecting authority," "high respect for authority, elders or parents." While frustrating at times, it has a very important role in the culture.

Throughout Thailand whenever you are invited to join someone for dinner at their baan (house), turning down the offer is a gesture of graeng jai. To do this signifies is that you are being considerate, and not rude. To refuse the gesture means that you are trying not to cause anyone any extra bother or inconvenience. This term is actually used quite commonly for any occasion where refusal of different invitations is seen as being respectful of others. It is an old Thai tradition and a means of saving face. While offering to share meals or money with another person is standard, there may not be anything much to share. When the person refuses there is no embarrassment to anyone on either side. If the person really wants to share something with you and it is not an imposition, the request will be emphatically repeated, at which time you can accept with a clear conscience and good manners.

Respect Thai Customs
Thailand does have a long list of "must do" and "don't dare" actions. The Thai people are very gracious and hospitable so they won't get mad if you do not observe all of their traditional rules and customs, but it is a good idea for any traveler to be familiar with as many of these as possible. You would appreciate visitors to your own country showing the same respect for your own customs.

Inappropriate Dress In Thailand
Improper attire is one thing that Thai people frown upon. However, because of their graciousness and Graeng Jai, they may not say anything to you. So it is up to you to learn about it before you go and observe what others are doing. Some of the younger citizens are not as strict about dress codes, but the older people are. A general rule is to not bare shoulders or go shirtless in Thailand public places. On the beach, of course, it is no problem. But elsewhere, more traditional clothing is appreciated. Just remember to follow the "not too" reminders when it comes to your dress choices. Not too small, not too tight, not too skimpy and not too revealing.

Thailand's Spiritual Leanings...Buddhism
Buddhism is a very important part of Thailand life and culture and you should also respect their religious and spiritual beliefs while you visit. This belief and faith is shown in many ways. In Thai families when a son reaches the age of around 20 he will actually spend a short time as a monk. This is because it is believed that this action will send the mother and father to a heavenly destination when they die. Becoming a monk for any amount of time is one of the ways that these young men are able to demonstrate their faith in their spiritual beliefs. The temples are very holy structures to Buddhist believers.

Always show respect to any statue depicting Buddha, which means no climbing on them, no sitting beside them for a photo-op, and never put a Buddha figure on the floor.

Temple Traditions and Etiquette
In a temple setting rules and tradition are very strict. Your clothing must be acceptable in order to enter the temple. Modest dress choices are your best bet. There are usually sarongs available at all temples that can be worn by both men and women if your clothing is not accepted or is questionable.

Shoes come off before ever entering a temple. Some times you may see a man at temple wearing a tank tee and shorts, but this is taboo for a woman at the temple. Whether kneeling or sitting in a temple you must not let the soles of your feet face toward the altar. Women are not to touch or hand any objects to a monk at any time. If you need to return something to a monk you should place it on a nearby table where he can then retrieve it. Some monks have a more liberal viewpoint on this and have no problem with touching a woman's wrist to tie a string around it or a gentle touch on the shoulder. But always follow the monks lead.

Be respectful of The King and the Royal Family
In addition to respecting the Buddhist customs, travelers should understand the respect Thai's have for King Phumipon Adunyadet and the Thai Royal family. Remember to not make any disparaging or sarcastic comment about the king and his family. Not only would Thai's be deeply offended and outraged, it is illegal and carries consequences. This might seem outrageous to people who come from countries where they are free to criticize their leaders, however, it is not wise to challenge it (at least within Thailand). For the most part, this law is well-accepted and welcomed by Thais themselves, which suggests the enormous respect they have for their King. Their King and Queen have helped the country prosper and have been instrumental in converting opium production to organic farming, they have gracefully brought Thailand into the modern age while maintaining much of the old tradition, and are generally considered benevolent.

Basic Etiquette in Everyday Situations
If you are entering a Thai home please remember to remove your shoes first, this is their tradition. You may even be asked to do this in public restaurants, shops and stores. It's fun to do and you may want to continue this at your own home. Pointing with fingers and hands is considered rude behavior by Thai people. If you are sitting or kneeling across from others do not let the soles of your feet face them, as this is also considered rude and insulting. Never point at anything or any person with your foot when you are in Thailand. This is considered extremely rude because they consider the feet to be the lowest part of the body. To use them to indicate something is insulting to them. Refrain from touching someone else's head, even if it is only to remove a leaf or smooth their hair. Thais consider the head to be the highest and most respected part of the body. It is considered to be very rude for someone else to touch their head. Public displays of any affection are also extremely rude. Refraining from public shows of kisses or hugs is much appreciated.

Be Observant!
There are so many new sights, sounds and smells in Thailand. When arriving, you will probably be on sensory overload. But as you senses become more accustomed to your surroundings, observe what people are doing and how they are acting. As crazy as it sounds, try to fit in instead of stand out. Observe your body language, your voice volume levels, your group size, your presence. Then compare it with others around you - Thai and foreigners in your group. See if you can start to melt into the madness. Don't think of it as constricting - think of it as a gentle learning with Thailand as your teacher.

Flight of the Gibbon Adventure Tour is a unique zip line canopy tour through pristine, 1500 year old rainforest outside of Chiang Mai, Thailand. 18 platforms, skybridges and lowering stations connect 2km of zip lines that take you through different layers of the rainforest canopy. Flight of the Gibbon, working with the local village, the forest service and Chiang Mai University have planted many trees in an ambitious, long-term forest restoration project near the tour site. In addition, they have initiated the Primate Habitat Restoration Project to help protect a group of macaques in the area whose numbers are dwindling. Flight of the Gibbon will also offset your carbon emissions footprint for your long-haul flight. Take your Thailand Vacations to the next level!
http://www.treetopasia.com/thailand-vacations/vacations-in-thailand

By Steve Suranant

Thailand - The Traveler's Paradise

Tourism is a major economic factor in Thailand, which in fact started when US soldiers started arriving there for rest and recuperation in 1960s, during the Vietnam War period. At the same period international mass tourism also sharply increased due to many reasons. Rise in the standard of living, increase in leisure time, improvement in science and technology which made travel possible and cheaper etc are some of the reasons. This new trend was virtually capitalized by Thailand. The peak period of tourism is during Christmas and New Year holidays, when tourists from western countries travel abroad to escape from the terrible cold climate.

Mostly Thailand is visited by Asian tourists for Bangkok and the historical, natural and cultural sights in its vicinity. Western tourists visit the country not only for Bangkok, but also for the southern beaches and islands. If you are interested in adventure travel it is better to travel North, with its ethnic minority groups and forested mountains. Those who are interested in trekking can enjoy a lot here. The government promotes tourism by setting up a separate tourism police with offices in the major tourist areas and its own emergency telephone number. It is to be noted that sex tourism is also prevalent in Thailand, though regulated by the government to control the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

In order to face the stiff competition offered by Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam; Thailand is targeting niche markets like golf holidays or holidays combined with medical treatment. Tourists from different countries reach here allured by these, though they are especially aimed at Japan and South Korea. 'Amazing Thailand' is the main marketing slogan for promoting Thailand internationally.

What ever a tourist desires for is available in Thailand. No wonder people throng there in large numbers. Diving sites, sandy beaches, tropical islands, varied night life, archaeological sites, museums, palaces, world heritage sites etc are the specialty of the country. The country is famous for various courses held for the tourists. Popular among them are classes in Thai cooking, Buddhism and Thai massage. People of Thailand are fun loving. Famous festivals are the 'Elephant Round-up' in Surin, the 'Rocket Festival', in Yasothon and the 'Phi Ta Khon Festival' in Dan Sai.

Thai cuisine is another attraction for the tourists. It is famous through out the world with its lavish use of fresh herbs and spices. Expensive as well as inexpensive foods are available in Thailand. Eating enthusiasts can taste Thai cuisine in the gourmet restaurants of Bangkok and others can opt for delicious Som tam at a simple street stall in the country side. Travelers cannot resist shopping in the renowned shopping malls of Bangkok. Central World, the biggest shopping mall in South-east Asia is in Bangkok, offering wide variety of international and local brands. The night markets in the Silom and on Khaosan Road are mainly tourist oriented. T-shirts, handicrafts, counterfeit watches and sun glasses are available here. The moderate climate of Thailand makes it really an amazing tourist destination.

If you are looking for more information then feel free to visit Thailand Travel [http://www.thailandinfomation.com] and Thailand Information [http://www.thailandinfomation.com].

By Jitesh Arora

Thailand's World

Thailand is a modern democratic Nation in Central South East Asia. '' Thai '' is the Tai word for '' free ''. The '' Thai '' identity was formed in the late 13 th C at Sukhothai and is not to be confused with '' Tai '' the name of the ethnic groups of people who migrated from Yunnan in the 12th & 13th Centuries. The character of the Thai Nation today and of its people can only be appreciated by exploring its 2000 years of recorded history and the cultures of the various peoples who live here. Thailand's natural landscape includes tropical wet evergreen forests in Southern Thailand to temperate deciduous forests in North Thailand and we explore these in the Thailand National Parks. Thailand art architecture and decorative objects need to be considered with regard to the influences of religion, mythological beliefs and regional artistic styles. Thailand is so large and diverse we detail all about Thailand in separate regions, North or Northern Thailand, South or Southern Thailand, Central Thailand and North East Thailand [ I 'san ].

North Thailand Travel & Places Of Interest

The Thailand Government defines North Thailand as consisting of both [ 1 ] the 84,000 square kilometres comprising 8 provinces of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Lampang, Lamphun, Phrae and Mae Hong Son, which area originally comprised the Lan Na principalities detailed in the North Thailand History link [ the Upper North ], and [ 2 ] the 86,000 square kilometres of the Lower North, comprising the provinces of Kamphaeng Phet, Tak, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Uthai Thani, Nakhon Sawan, Phichit Phitsanulok and Phetchabun, which area originally comprised the Kingdoms of Sukhothai and later the northern parts of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, Thon Buri and Bangkok Kingdoms.

The Differences Between The Upper North Thailand And The Lower North Thailand

One discernable difference between the Upper and Lower North Thailand is topography. Upper North Thailand is characterised by long valleys generally running north south. The climate has three seasons, hot [ April to May ] cool and rain [ July to September ]. Approximately 72% of the area is mountainous, 21% upland and 8% lowland. The lowland is cultivated by the Tai people to produce wet rice.

Lower North Thailand has 45% of its total land mass less than 150 metres above sea level and is thus similar to Thailand's Central region. However the two mountain extensions of the Upper North, [ 1 ] Thanon Thang Chai Range to the west and, [ 2 ] Petchabun Range to the east attract an extension of swidden hill tribe communities as in the Upper North, all part of the exodus from China of these ethnic minorities over the past hundreds of years. The geographic differences in topography need to be appreciated as the ethnic, sociological and cultural differences are essentially between lowlanders and highlanders [ Hill tribes ]. These classifications and detailed explanations are discussed in North Thailand People .

About Central Thailand

Central Thailand is situated on the central plains of the Chao Phraya River and the Meklong River valley. The first substantial civilisation here was that of the Mon people and during the 6th - 9th C its Buddhist Kingdom was referred to in chinese records and on silver coins as '' Dvaravati ''. Influences from India when merged with Mon characteristics formed the basis of religion, art, architecture and public administration.

About South Thailand

South Thailand comprises the Southern Peninsula with the Andaman Sea to the West and the Gulf of Siam to the East. It is a mountainous region and the Phuket Mountain Range is the most important on the West from Chumphon to Krabi and to the East is the Nakhon Si Thammarat Mountain Range from Surat Thani to Satun. Between these ranges are the plains and limestone hills and to the South the Sannkalakhiri Mountains which divide Malaysia and Thailand.

Thailand has in excess of 138 wildlife sanctuaries and National Parks. The major locations are listed in the opposite links and we detail 20 National Parks and eco tourism locations. Thailand is home to over 15,000 species of vascular plants and 16,000 species of animals

Thailand travel and tourism to Thailand places of interest is not a matter of a few choices as is the case with many Asia destinations. Thailand is large and diverse with a large selection of travel and holiday options. In 2005 over 14 million tourists visited Thailand and their range of interests varied.

James Andrew is of the writers at Thailand's World. To know more about Thailand, you can check out http://www.thailandsworld.com for more info.

By James L Andrew

Traveling to Thailand - 8 Places to Start Your Thailand Holiday

Bangkok the big mango

Bangkok is the ideal starting point for any Thai holiday and countless monstrous shopping centers and hundreds of clubs will keep you busy forever. The tourist's sights around the grand palace will be done in a weekend and if shopping is not your thing Bangkok have exit in all directions for very cheap prices by air, bus or train. It is also the home of Khosan Road the mysterious street that is the big starting point for every person who wants to be called a true backpacker in Asia. You will feel right at home with backpackers delight such as Star Bucks and Mac D that moved in a few years ago.

Pattaya the black pearl on the east coast of Thailand

Pattaya, discovered by the Americans during the south east Asia wars, built up by sun hungry men from the United Kingdom during the 1980s, invaded by Vikings in the 1990 and put to sleep until around 2000 when the Arab invasion started but was stopped by the Russian take over in 2006. People come to Pattaya to live, to play golf, to visit the many girl bars but they don't come to swim in the sea. Pattaya is not a ideal family holiday destination but Thai family's still flock her on big weekends to sit under huge parasols with their cloth while playing cards and eating sea food.

Issan the forgotten Kingdom

Not many tourists travel further north then Ayutthaya but more to the north east is the forgotten tourist destination if Issan (essan). Issan is what many people call the real Thailand and people from north east are the work horses behind all factories and rice farms in Thailand. On the big holidays you can see Bangkok shut down and the bus stations overfill with people trying to get back to the forgotten Kingdom. For people that want to travel where not many tourists have traveled before this is the perfect place to start your exploration of Thailand. Most backpackers skipped the north east of Thailand and headed straight for the northern parts so this is a hidden gem. You will not see many other white people besides the older settlers and their younger native wife's. Don't be surprised if some villages never seen a white person and that you will see Thai genuine smiles and hospitality. You can travel by bus but the best way to travel is by car or motorbike if you have the possibility.

Samui island the rebel outpost

Samui was from the beginning a big farm for Coconuts but most of them have been cut down or died in a disease and nothing is done to save them. Now Samui in south Thailand is a place for backpackers that could not leave Thailand because they did not want to back their suite job. They also could not get enough of trance music that coming from the island of Koh-Phangan. The former backpackers' have set up spa, yoga centers, cologne centers, wellness centers and just feeling happy because I smoke to much weed centers. Samui has real unspoiled beaches and bungalows by the sea and in the wet season the whole center get flooded. You can compare it a bit to Christiania in Denmark since the motorbike gangs also found their way here, it just more sunny.

Phuket the Andaman Pearl

Phuket is the starting point of every island hopping tour in south Thailand and many low cost carriers fly here every day from around the world. It the home too many expat and you will find the most ridicules prices ever for a house on this Island. Phuket is a perfect holiday detention for everybody because it has the nightlife, the clean beaches and cheap hotels if you look for it. Phuket has never really recovered after the Tsunami 2004 and the many hotels are empty most of the low season and real bargains can be found.

Krabi the Island kingdom

Who can forget the old James Bond movie "Gold finger" and the hidden Island near Krabi in south Thailand? If you want beaches, underwater exploring and quiet nightlife then Krabi is the place to go. It is also the place people go for rock climbing. Krabi has many spectacular five star resorts where the beach really belongs to you and not many tourists bother to travel down here.

Chiang Mai the northern realm

It does not matter how you spell it Chiang Mai, Chiangmai, Cheng Mai or Cheang Mai it is still the capital of northern Thailand. Many artists and culture personalities from both Thailand abroad have built homes here and they create a unique atmosphere in this northern part of Thailand. If you want to travel further north and visit the hill tribes of Thailand Chiang Mai is your starting point. The town has lost some of its charm to traffic jams and forest burning but in the cold season Thai travel so they can try on the glows and winter clothing's they bought in Bangkok. If you want to buy cheap Thai style furniture imported from Burma this is the play to go.

Hua Hin the new charter Paradise

Thai people think of Hua hin like a high society place and like to travel there by car and stay in posh hotels and visits expansive spas. The sea side resort is most famous because it's where the King of Thailand like has his summer castle. The tourists that come here are mostly charter and Hua Hin is perfect for families even it's is a bit difficult to get there. The beach stretches forever and ever year they play elephant polo here.

Personal Thailand is a blog about living and travel Thailand. Personal Thailand also touch subjects like living with Thai girls and finding the right Thai girl. If you consider taking a holiday in Thailand or want to marry a Thai girl and live here you should read our blog.

By Melker Eriksson

Thailand News - Travel Situation Update

The tourism industry in Thailand truly took off when US soldiers started to arrive in the 1960s for Rest and Recuperation (R&R) during the Vietnam War period. Coinciding, international mass tourism sharply increased during the same period due to the rising standard of living, more people acquiring more free time and due to improvements in technology making it possible to travel further, faster, cheaper and in greater numbers, epitomized by the Boeing 747 which first flew commercially in 1970. Thailand was one of the major players in Asia to capitalize on this then-new trend.

Tourist numbers have grown from 336,000 foreign visitors and 54,000 R&R soldiers in 1967 to over 14 million international guests visiting Thailand in 2007. The average duration of their stay in 2007 was 9.19 days, generating an estimated 547,782 million Thai baht, around 11 billion Euros. In 2006, Thailand was the 18th most visited country in the World Tourism rankings with 13.9 million visitors. France, comparable to Thailand in size and population, led the list with over 79 million foreign tourists.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, 55% of the tourists in 2007 came from the Asia Pacific region, Japanese and Malaysians forming the two biggest groups. The largest groups of Western tourists come from Britain, Germany, Scandinavia and the United States. The number of tourists arriving from the Middle East and Russia is on the rise. Around 55% of Thailand's tourists are return visitors. The peak period is during the Christmas and New Year holidays when Western tourists flee the cold conditions back home.

No patience with Swine Flu in Thailand
Laboratory tests conducted on a 42-year-old Thai woman who was quarantined on Tuesday for possible swine-flu infection showed that she is free from the deadly virus, a hospital official said on Wednesday.

Two tests were made on samples from the woman. She was found to be suffering from ordinary human flu, Chulalongkorn Hospital virus specialist Dr Yong Pooworawan said at a press conference.

The woman was admitted to Chulalongkorn hospital on Tuesday after having developed a fever last Thursday on arriving back from Singapore. Her trip had earlier taken her to Mexico and the USA between April 3 and 19.

On Tuesday, the Public Health Ministry issued a warning that travelers should avoid going to Mexico or the US if possible.

Public Health Minister Witthaya Kaewparadai confirmed in parliament on Wednesday that the swine flu virus strain responsible for the global alert has not spread to Thailand.

He said he had ordered provincial health units throughout the country to stock medicines used to treat influenza and to be ready in case the deadly variant of the virus spreads to Asia.

Democrat MP Somboon Uthaiwienkul urged the government to register migrants coming to work in Thailand because they could easily become a burden on society whenever a disease spreads.

Health official's overseas treating people who have been infected with swine fever confirm that the generic antiviral drug oseltamivir, sold commercially as Tami flu, is effective against the virus.

CNN International today announced the results of its Online Consumer Survey (OCS) on Travel and Tourism which reveals that Thailand was chosen as representing the best value for money for travelers in the Asia Pacific region. The survey conducted across CNN English websites had more than 5,000 respondents globally. Thailand came out as the best value in Asia-Pacific for respondents over China in second place and India in third.

The comprehensive survey also revealed that although times are tough, the recession hasn't reduced people's desire to travel. On the contrary - people are trading down, not trading out - but not compromising their experience. In addition, more business leaders are likely to travel over the next 12 months than in the past year.

* Overall the survey indicated that more people would travel for holiday over the next 12 months than last year, but 1 in 5 would make fewer trips

* 46% of business travelers in Asia Pacific claim the economic environment has had no impact on their business travel plans.

* 79% of Asia-Pac respondents feel they are likely to take a vacation in the region within the next 12 months. And the economic downturn isn't affecting everyone's travel plans. Asia-Pacific holidaymakers spent an average of just over US$4,000 on their last vacation, - ahead of the global average of $3,700.

* 71% of CNN's audience of global travelers flies long-haul for leisure. Respondents take an average of 14 days vacation a year and holiday an average of three times a year.

Brand image and reputation also remains a critical factor for air travel, and survey respondents clearly feel that preferred, trusted airlines are able to command a premium. Respondents are also more likely to do fewer trips than look for cheaper hotels or discounted flights with budget airlines.

* 58% of Asia Pacific respondents are 'willing to pay more to travel with my preferred airline' (vs. 50% globally and just 41% of North American respondents)

* 61% of these Asia Pacific air travelers 'prefer to fly with a trusted brand regardless of cost'. Furthermore, in difficult financial times, there is value for advertisers in targeting premium audiences.

* 83% of business travelers influence the choice of airlines and hotels when it comes to corporate travel.

* 40% of those who travel for work fly business or first class, make an average of five business trips per year and are away for an average of 19 days per year.

William Hsu, VP Advertising Sales, CNN International added "These results send a strong message to tourism boards that smart destination branding is critical for country differentiation and return on investment."

The survey comes as the latest PAX research for the full year 2008 once again reconfirms CNN as the leading channel in its genre for reaching each of the 3 main PAX groups: Affluent Adults, Business Decision Makers and Top Management. Among the Top Management group CNN is the leading international channel regardless of genre, while CNN.com continues to generate substantially higher reach than all other measured media sites.

Travel Thailand guide and luxury accommodation company Thailand Holiday Homes. Luxury Villas in Thailand and best value for money.

By Chronus Banev

Adventure Travel In Thailand

If adrenaline is your thing then Thailand is a place where you can get your fix of adventure in graduated doses. Some would say that negotiating the Bangkok traffic on the way from the airport is adventure enough in itself, but if you want to put your experiences on a more organized footing there is no shortage of opportunity.

Most developed resort areas on the coast offer bungee jumping, para-gliding, Jet skiing and water skiing. So flinging yourself from great heights or being blasted in to the air or across water at great speed can be easily achieved.

Thailand also remains a veritable paradise for those who enjoy the world underwater, whether that's diving, snorkeling or even submarining in Phuket.

It is also a country rich in wilderness areas of mountains, forests and waterfalls which makes trekking big business in the north of the country. The best season for trekking is between November and February when the weather is cool and the air is clear. Many operators in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son and Pai offer trekking tours. Often these will be run from guest houses and it's worth asking around to find one that suits you. A trek usually lasts between three and five days and you will need good boots and a proper pack since the walking can be quite hard especially in the heat.

The guide will usually take you through ethnic villages of Lisu, Karen, Meo, Akha and Paduang. All these tribes are different in dress, language and culture and most migrated to the mountainous areas of Thailand, Laos and Vietnam within the last century from China. Also included in a trek will be some rafting and maybe some elephant riding.

If the gentle rafting on a trek is not adventurous enough for you, many operators offer the white water variety. Pai is the best place to go for this and the tours are run from mid June to January when the rainy season raises the height of the water levels.

When it comes to two wheeled travel Thailand offers some of the best touring and off road motorcycling in the world. The roads are excellent and pass through mountain scenery of breathtaking beauty. Infrastructure is good with plenty of guest houses and places to eat en route. You can either go on a tour or hire bikes on your own, Chiang Mai having by far the greatest variety on offer. It is important to be an experienced driver and this is doubly true for trail riding. Many operators run tours and to get the best from off-roading, or simply finding obscure routes, it is often better to go with a guide who knows the area.

For those who spurn engines then mountain biking is now really popular and there are many operators who run trips.
Whether on the lakes and rivers of the north or the Andaman Sea in the south Kayaking is available in most tourist friendly places where there is water. Tours are even run down the Mekong River. In the south Krabi and Phang Nga provinces offer spectacular scenery with luminous seas dotted with soaring limestone outcrops.

For those who want to get airborne there are a number of ways you can do it. Ballooning is offered both in Chiang Mai and Pattaya between October and March. The views in the North are better than on the coast.
Perhaps, whether it's the sea, the mountains or the jungle, it is the wealth of natural beauty available in the national parks all over Thailand that make it so attractive to the outdoor enthusiast. From the heights of Doi Inthanon in the north to the maritime depths of Surin in the south there are 103 protected areas where you can enjoy an amazing variety of scenery and wildlife. Where ever you are in Thailand there is a wilderness of some sort near by.

Alex Smith maintains and manages the Cheap Thailand Travel website at http://www.cheapthaitravel.com

By Alex A. Smith

About Thailand

The Kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. With its alluring combination of natural beauty, inspiring temples, warm hospitality and infamous cuisine making Thailand a favorite for many visitors from all around the world.

The kingdom was established in the mid-14th century. Known as Siam until 1939 before the name was changed to Thailand which means Land Of The Free. Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country that has never been colonized by a European country. Divided into 6 regions, North, North-East, Central, East, West, and South and comprised 76 provinces with Bangkok (means City Of Angels) as its capital city. A bloodless revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy with His Majesty King Bhumibol or Rama IX, the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty as the present Head Of State. In 2006, Thailand is celebrating the 60th anniversary of HM King Bhumibol's accession to the Throne. HM King Bhumibol is the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history and has for some time been the world's longest-reigning incumbent monarch.

With its proud history, tropical climate, lush mountains and forests, long stretched beaches and islands, tranquil villages and exciting nightlife, Thailand offers something for every kind of travelers.

Thailand is also a very popular destination for Western men seeking pleasures of the flesh.

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By Oh Srichaphan

Backpacking in Thailand - How to Travel Super Cheaply

A great way to get amazing results from your backpacking or traveling-for-low-cost budget is by booking a ticket to Thailand and preparing to explore to your heart's content - cheaply of course. Don't think it can be done? Wait until you've read this article and you'll be ready to book your ticket and go!

Now most budget travelers or backpackers would know this anyway - but in case you don't, the simple fact is that when it comes to low cost travel, Thailand takes the cake, and allows you to eat it too. (By the way, Thailand's neighbors are even cheaper to travel through than Thailand!) So let's find out how to do it.

Firstly understand that you can basically catch trains, buses and vans (boats too, depending on where you're headed) to almost anywhere in Thailand. Pretty much wherever there's a road, there's transport. You'll also have a few choices about what style you want to travel in... You can go local style and pay the local fares, or you can go VIP and pay top dollar (for Thai standards).

As an example, a VIP 24 seater bus with air conditioning (think of it like a fridge on wheels) will cost you the top end of your traveling budget, but give you a very comfortable trip (albeit a cold one). Whereas you can also find a local bus or van doing a similar route and pay less than half the VIP price. You still get to where you're going though!

So, to do Thailand on a really cheap budget is more than possible. The trick is to catch the local buses and vans, and do what the local Thai people do. I've seen folks sit in low-cost seats all night to ride 12 hour train trips, rather than fork out the extra for a bunk bed to sleep in.

Actually you'd be amazed at how cheaply you can travel Thailand for. For under US$10 you can do a picturesque 5 hour journey to a whole new part of Thailand. OK, so the bus might be full, and the driver a maniac, but you still get to where you're going, right? So, go book that ticket right away!

Martin has been writing articles for nearly 3 years. His newest interest is in postcard marketing. So come visit his latest website that discusses everything about postcards such as postcard marketing and direct marketing postcards for your small business marketing adventures.

By Martin Hurley

Travel Thailand: 5 Top Destinations

With several sights to see and surprises to offer, Thailand could be one of the best locations you should not miss to visit. Culture, beaches, people, and heritage sites are some of the things you can expect when you travel to Thailand.

Bangkok - Traveling Thailand wound not be complete without visiting Bangkok. As the nation's capital with an estimated population of over 10 million (including the neighboring provinces), this city is by far the largest in the country. The city is divided into 50 districts or khet but for tourists and those who are new in the place, 6 divisions would be more useful. These are Ratchadaphisek in the northeast section of the city, Sukhamvit in the southeast, Silom in the south, Thonburi in the west, Rattanakosin in the central north, and Phahanyothin in the north. The whole Bangkok district would give you a diverse taste of culture, history, religion, modernity, and fast-phase life. You can actually witness how all these blend together to comprise the whole Bangkok package. Buddhist temples, historical museums, towering buildings, contemporary restaurants and hotels, shopping centers, canals and rivers, and food make Bangkok a one of a kind city in Southeast Asia.

Phuket - Down south, Phuket features magnificent beaches, tropical sunsets, white sands, blue seas, and breathtaking sceneries. No wonder it is the most popular vacation destination in Asia beating every beaches of the neighboring countries. It has several beaches like Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Patong Beach, Kamala Beach, and Surin Beach. The island showcases several water sports and activities including parasailing, jet-skiing, and scuba diving. By day, Phuket is alive with beachgoers and shoppers and by night, lights, sounds, and party people dominate the whole island.

Chiang Mai - The second largest city in Thailand with an estimated population of more than 200,000. This city located in the northern part of the country offers greener and quieter city. Chiang Mai's tourism is becoming more and more popular and permanently settling at this city is very common. When you travel Thailand and visit Chiang Mai, you surely would want to see museums such as Hilltribe Research Institute Museum and the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center. With religion and history enriching the city, you can see several Buddhist temples such as Wat Chiang Mun, Wat Chiang Mun, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Oo-Mong, Wat Phra Jao Mengrai, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, and Wat Chedi Luang. The oldest temple dates back in the 11th century. Chiang Mai features attractions such as Chiang Mai Flower Festival in February, Bo Sang Umbrella & Sankampang Handicrafts Festival in January, The 2nd Orchid Fair also in January, and the Loi Krathong Festival usually falls in November.

Pattaya - Located 150 km. north of Bangkok, Pattaya is one of the most popular tourist destinations, which offers great beaches, beer and go-go bars, and a wide array of sport activities. Visit Pattaya when you travel Thailand is a must. Although it is the most overdeveloped part of the country in terms of tourism, prices in Pattaya still remains with reach. In fact, prices of foods, accommodation, and transportations are very affordable.

Krabi - In a small province of Krabi lies a small town with the same name. Paying a visit Krabi town when you travel Thailand is worth the time. Located south of Bangkok near Phuket and Phi Phi island, the town features great beaches along with high end hotels and not so expensive hotel that cater tourists of different classes.

Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides Thailand travel resources on http://www.your-thailand-travel.info.

By Robert Thatcher

Travel Thailand: A Farang Fashion Faux Pas

I arrived in Bankok in April, knowing it would be hot, but was knocked out by the average 106° weather. After a chaotic trip to my guesthouse, through the most amazing traffic, I collapsed on the bed in nothing but my birthday suit. Prior to arriving in Thailand, I had researched what to pack. I wanted to bring comfortable clothing, but also pieces that would be appropriate for the various wats or temples I planned to visit.

To Thais, being sabai jai means having a contented heart, referring to a calm disposition. Foreigners or farang are thought to behave in a contradictory manner, being easily frustrated and exhibiting a quick temper or jai rawn.
I promised myself that I would blend in to my new surroundings and maintain an inward tranquility so prized in the Land of Smiles.

On my second day in Bankok I was headed to the former Thai capital Ayutthaya and the Royal summer palace, Bang Pa-In. Forgetting all of my carefully selected couture, I threw on the coolest pieces I had. Dressed in a sleeveless tank and black cotton skirt that hit above my knee, off I went. That was the end of my inner and outer tranquility.

As soon as I stepped on the bus, I became acutely aware that I had forgotten the dress code, but it was too late. My seatmate was an impeccably dressed British woman who looked appalled by my very presence. She avoided conversation and eye contact with me, and we rode to Ayutthaya in silence.

Unable to fully enjoy the Buddha statues and architecture that spanned centuries, I was consumed by the thought that I was offending past and present Thais. I was especially distracted when all my bare bits were in the company of monks. Overheated, sweaty and blotchy red, we headed to our next stop, Bang Pa-In the colonial-style summer digs for the Royal Family. We were told that clothing would be provided to cover knees and shoulders if we weren't dressed appropriately. I should have taken the offer. Instead I looked in my bag and grabbed a black sundress that I had stashed at the last minute. A frilly flamenco looking number, I looked ready for the stage than a stroll through a revered Thai attraction.

I was pleased with my find, and our Thai guide, always polite, said I looked fine. Off I went, and perhaps overly confident due to my modest attire, instead of opting for the covered golf carts, I joined the rest of the walking tour. I now understood how asphalt feels in the blistering sun. Trying to stay conscious, every so often I would sneak into a stream of water coming out of the sprinklers to keep the expertly manicure lawn looking green. How I envied that lawn.

Eventually I had to retreat from the walking tour and seek some shade. I looked up and saw two chic young Thai women in jeans and cardigans under a lovely umbrella. They were pointing and giggling. I must have looked a site, a large overheated, beet red woman in a formal black dress. I found out later that like Western culture, black is worn for funerals and can be considered bad luck. It was certainly bad luck for me.

I had become the traveler I vowed not to be, but now I knew better. The next day, wearing modest attire, I smugly hopped off the water taxi and headed for the gates of the Grand Palace complex. Unexpectedly, the clothing police directed me to a long line up of farang waiting to enter a small white building. On my turn a woman handed me a pair of socks. I put on the socks, slipped my sandals on and away I went. I walked toward the inner entrance of the Grand Palace but guards stopped me again, pointed at my feet, and gestured back the way I came. I wheeled around and was starting to get impatient, hot and frustrated. My jai rawn was showing up already, my second day in Thailand! As I trundled back in the hot sun, I watched smiling, perfectly poised Thai women dressed head to toe in warm looking clothing. I was so envious of their composure!

Back at the trailer, the attendants looked apologetic and handed me a pair of sport sandals. By the time I made it back to the entrance, I was sweating in the socks, long pants and modest shirt. After a few minutes I was again starting to overheat. I clicked a few photos and rushed towards the wrong exit. At first I thought I wouldn't be let out, but when I kept exclaiming "mai sabai" the guards knew I wasn't well and quickly let me pass. Embarrassed, I revived myself with ice cream and water.

Eventually, I began to adapt. Once I simply stopped to watch how Thais dealt with the heat, instead of trying to recall what I had read, I caught on to loose cotton clothing, and was much more savvy about sun exposure. In Thailand, the state of tranquility or sabai jai transcends physical appearances. It is intertwined with religion and philosophy, and to think I could attain something so intangible overnight was ridiculous. I needed to release the hold on what I thought I knew, in order to find my contented heart.

10 Ways to Beat the Heat in Thailand:

It's hot in Thailand all year round, but if you're affected by extreme heat here are some things to consider when visiting the Land of Smiles:

1. Although Songkran or Thai New Year is fun to experience, you may want to avoid Thailand in April. It's the warmest time of year, with little escape from the blistering sun. I had to miss certain attractions in Bangkok because I simply couldn't function in the extreme heat.

2. Keep hydrated. Buy lots of bottled water and be diligent about replenishing every hour.

3. Bring hydration packets with you. I met a woman from California who gave me this tip for my next trip to Thailand. You can pick up these packets at sports stores or drugstores and are usually used by athletes.

4. Make sure to bring loose, light colored clothing made from natural fibers like linen or cotton. Sport sandals are a must if you plan on visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, as well as a few modest pieces to cover shoulders and knees.

5. As soon as you arrive, buy an umbrella to keep the sun off. They're cheap and work well to keep you shaded. They look pretty too!

6. Stay near or on the water. The Chao Praya River in Bangkok, or escape to an island. It's much cooler.

7. Avoid too much sun and wear sun block. If you do get a sunburn, try a first aid vitamin E ointment. It worked wonders on my burned shoulders.

8. Wear a hat if you don't plan on using an umbrella.

9. Get up with the monks and do most of your sightseeing early in the morning.

10. Enjoy the spicy and delicious Thai food! The spice tends to make to salivate and perspire which cools you off and quenches your thirst.

Jane Arnold is a freelance writer and travel buff. She has spent time in Europe and North America, and most recently traveled to South East Asia. You can read more of her travel stories at [http://www.girlyside.com/girlyside.html] The website is a girl's guide to health, beauty, love and leisure. Sign up for the free newsletter at [http://www.girlyside.com/newsletter.html]

By Jane Arnold

Koh Samui is the Coconut Island Paradise

Koh Samui is one of the most famous island havens in Thailand. It lies approximately about 700 kms to the South of Bangkok. With Bangkok Airways you can get there within an hour. Koh Samui is also known as the coconut island due to infinite number of coconut trees, giving over 2 million coconuts every month.

It provides the tired traveler nearly endless golden beaches, shining blue waters, plenty of greenery and a peaceful atmosphere. There is wide variety of accommodation in the form of elegantly designed villas on the beachfront offering a clear view of the sea as well as private cottages for those looking for economical accommodation. Renting a villa or cottage for the period of your holiday in Koh Samui is very simple. They are available in two types: the resort villa or the private cottage. The resort villa can form a portion of a resort or hotel chain, equipped with standard facilities in every one, but you can avail of other resort amenities. But there are many who hire private furnished villas or cottages fitted with personal tastes and conventional Thai warmth. The owner/manager is then able to offer more individual attention to you. The villa also has a support staff for cooking, cleaning or providing guide facilities if required. They are more cost-effective for a big group or a family on a holiday. It's highly genuine and conventional feel of Thai warmth.

As a leading international tourist center, Koh Samui offers lots of other activities like spa amenities, checking waterfalls, elephant rides, paintball, sea sports, diving, fishing, golf, bungee jumping etc besides the tourist attractions. There are lots of hotels in Samui, but Park Samui Hotel is the best.

You are welcome to publish the article on the site along with the hyperlinked URL: Samui Hotel.

By Max Dan

Travel Overview of Northern Thailand - Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son

Northern Thailand is a mountainous part of the country which borders Myanmar and Laos, characterized by its rugged terrain and mix of peoples such as mainland Thais, Burmese, Shan and hilltribe groups (Karen,Hmong,Lahu,Lisu and Akha). These characteristics give Northern Thailand a culture and feel about it that is very different to the rest of Thailand.

The second biggest city in Thailand and the capital of the North, Chiang Mai attracts thousands of tourists every year. A city of old and new, where east meets west, it guarantees something for everybody. Some say Chiang Mai has everything Bangkok has to offer except on a much smaller and quieter scale. Most people allow a few days in Chiang Mai but one could easily spend a week soaking up the sights and sounds and falling for the allure of this city.

For those looking to explore more of Northern Thailand past the environs of Chiang Mai, there are two popular options. One is to head directly north to Chiang Rai or west to Mae Hong Son. Chiang Rai can be comfortably explored in 3 days covering destinations such as Fang, Thaton and Mae Salong. Most people set aside 3 days or less to discover Chiang Rai, although some make Chiang Rai a day trip- this is not recommended as most of the day is spent traveling as it is a good 4 hours drive from Chiang Mai.

With 3 days/2 nights a recommended route which covers both tourist and non tourist areas is; Chiang Mai - Chiang Dao - Doi Angkhang - Fang -Thaton - Mae Salong -Mae Sai- Golden Triangle - Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai. This route covers some beautiful natural scenery such as paddy fields, farmland growing a variety of crops, mountain backdrops and hilltribes. This route gets off the main tourist trail, the direct road from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai that many commercial tour operators take to visit tourist hot spots such as the Golden Triangle and Mae Sai border.

For those with 4 days or more on their hands Mae Hong Son province which lies west of Chiang Mai is highly recommended. Mae Hong Son has a more remote feel to it as more time is needed to navigate through this mountainous province it remains less chartered by tourists. Home to a mix of peoples such as the Burmese, Shan, hilltribes and Thais, another distinctive feature of Mae Hong Son is the Shan and Burmese influence not found anywhere else in Thailand. This can be seen through the architecture, where ornate Shan style temples are scattered throughout this province. This area is also famous for its mists, named the land of 3 mists due to the dewy mist in the winter, rainy mist in the wet season and mist from forest fires in the summer.

Mae Hong Son Province is best discovered by doing the Mae Hon Son Loop a famous 600km circuit which starts from Chiang Mai taking you through the towns of Pai, Mae Hong Son and Mae Sariang before ending back up at Chiang Mai. The circuit can be done in a clockwise direction stopping off at Mae Sariang first or anti-clockwise via Pai.

For the ultimate Northern Thailand experience with 10 days or more on your hands you could cover both Mae Hong Son and Chiang Rai. Starting off with the Mae Hong Son Loop then crossing over from Pai to Chiang Dao and up North to the Chiang Rai region.

Melissa Ah-Sing is the co-founder of Thailand Hilltribe Holidays a responsible tourism outfit in North West Thailand http://www.thailandhilltribeholidays.com/

By Melissa Ah-Sing

The Best of Phuket

There is perhaps nothing more romantic then planning a getaway for two in beautiful Phuket, Thailand. Blessed with beautiful beaches and small lively towns, Phuket is perfect for the ideal honeymoon or romantic date, as it offers many places to travel around in, and is often considered by many to be the paradise island. There are many tings to explore in Phuket that appeal to every kind of tourist, and many possible routes where a couple can spend some private time and still be able to enjoy the beautiful sights in store.

The numerous beaches around the island are perhaps Phuket's best draw. While many tourists often flock to these areas during the hot summer months, Phuket still remains relatively clean, unlike other destination spots. Despite thee rise of visitors in the area however, there are still many secluded beaches where a couple can spend time together with relatively little noises and disturbances. The Kata Yai beach, for example, is renowned as a surfing spot for some, but is considerably less crowded than nearby areas. For those who prefer exploring underwater by snorkeling or scuba diving, then the Laem Singh Beach is the perfect place to swim and watch the breathtaking sunsets. Kayaking is a popular recreation where couples can spend some time to themselves while a hired guide paddles them around. Other beaches include Bang Tao, Surin Beach, and Karon Beach, where restaurants and bars are frequent, but with lesser customers at any one time.

For couples who would like to take an active part in the island's nightlife though, there is always the ever-popular Patong beach, considered Phuket's party capital. There are many bars here that are actually aimed at couples looking to relax and have a great time, and rock joints and jazz clubs are frequent along most of the main roads. Shopping is also Phuket's national pastime, and cheap merchandise is found in both roadside stalls and air-conditioned shopping malls.

For couples who would like a more modern romantic getaway, the nearby Phuket town is the administrative capital of the island, and is easily the best place to go to view cultural landmarks such as the fascinating Phuket Culture Museum or the beautiful Wat Mongkol Nimit temple. Vendors and shopping malls are easily very common here at the most bargain prices. Despite having a thriving business climate, some of the cheapest and good quality hotels can be found here for the thrifty couple, such as the On On Hotel.

For couples who would like to experience something exciting and unique for their honeymoon trips or romantic getaways, then why not try a safari cruise? The Elephant Safari Hills camp, which is located at Khao Suk, offers a adventure-packed journey where visitors can travel on top of an elephant, spend the night underneath the stars in high quality tents served with topnotch meals and cocktails, and hours of exploration amidst the awe-inspiring tropical jungles found all over Phuket. Daytours to other travel packages that can last up to four days are available.

One can never get enough of the sea at Phuket, and romantic cruises are one of the selling points of the island. Couples can take a comfortable trip around Phuket, where the intimate atmosphere and stunning views of the seascape only adds to the romantic mood. Dinner cruises are available at the Banyan Tree, where couples can explore the area in a traditional Thai long boat, serenaded by musicians and first-class meals. For something to while away the hours a little longer, the Hong by Starlight tour provides stunning views of the sea and land, and offers fine dining and comfortable rooms to further the romantic atmosphere.

Thank you for reading my article. Please visit Salwar Kameez for more information on Kurtas

By Jes B

Ao Nang, One of Thailand's Premier Attractions

Ao Nang is steadily becoming one of Thailand's premier tourist attractions. Getting there is quite easy, by bus, car, minivan, or plane, but sadly not by train. The Thailand train from the Thai border with Malaysia stops at Hat Yai then goes East across country to Surit Thani thus missing Krabi altogether. Krabi is the main town in this area, and from here Ao Nang is easily accessible.

If you're not keen on a flight to Krabi, which is in fact an international airport, my advice is to take a minivan from the van terminal in Hat Yai which will only cost about 200 baht and takes about three to four hours.

If you're coming from Bangkok, then the train will get you to Surit Thani and from there again I advise a minivan. It's also about 200 baht and takes about the same time.

Once in Krabi a local opened backed bus will take you to Ao Nang for about 60 baht and takes about 30 minutes. The bus ride to Ao Nang takes you through some beautiful countryside and then just as the bus approaches the town you find yourself surrounded by towering limestone cliffs which are a feature of this area. It really is an amazing site. Ao Nang is a small, quaint, seaside town loaded with things to see and do.

There is just one main street that bananas from one side of town to the other. One side of the road is filled with shops and restaurants and the other side of the road is pure beach.

The beach here is excellent, great for swimming, lazing and walking. There is a colony of monkeys at one end that are always ready for a feed and a pose for some pictures. All along this beach you will find the long tailed boats that are ready to take tourists to the many islands and beaches that are easily accessible from here, fares are quite reasonable too.

There is plenty of accommodation here from 2 star upwards and a bargain can always be found. There are plenty of good eating places ranging from the humble street kitchen to top grade restaurants, you will also find the usual fast food outlets.

There are plenty of tour shops, chemists, 7/11's, massage parlors, and bike hire outlets. There are two good bar entertainment areas for those who want to stay up late.

Ao Nang is a great place to spend time on your travels, I did and I will return.

Hello, my name is Jim and I have a website designed to give honest and real advice to travelers going to Thailand, I have toured all over the country and I am happy to pass on my experiences which will hopefully improve your trip. http://www.thailand-cheap.com

By James D Jones

Football 7s Have Proved Very Popular in Thailand

Football fields can be found almost everywhere in Thailand making of football one of the most loved sport in the Kingdom. Thais mostly begin their training or friendly game after work in the evening when it is less hot. A few local events are organized beside the well-known International Football 7s held in Bangkok and Phuket.

The Phuket tournament is the most in demand as the province is the ideal place for a sport vacation merging leisure and sport. Football in a team of 7 players can be played over a week-end, with between games the opportunity for a swim in the sea, and in the evening, parties in selected entertainment places to enjoy the most vibrant nightlife of the country.

Bangkok is also a good place to participate in a tournament as there are many grass pitches of excellent quality. During the event, every participant can have a taste of this busy city, but also enjoy the evening in the many entertainment places available. The absence of the beach make it the second most preferred football destination in South East Asia.

These two friendly tournaments have no price money at stake but teams earn a trophy for each category and level: Masters Cup, Masters Plate, Masters Bowl, Open Cup, Open Plate and Open Bowl. Every of the 10 players in each team also earn a medallion they can proudly wear.

Teams are mostly made of foreigners from many different countries such as Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand and Hong-Kong in South-East Asia, but also from France, Australia or the United Kingdom. South East Asian teams are formed of mostly expatriates with a couple of locals as there are no purely local teams participating to these international events.

Contrary to the local football tournaments held on the dirt football field in Patong, the International Phuket Football 7s is held on top quality grass pitches where players can enjoy playing football safely. The playing venue, is changed every year and in the event an injury occurs, an ambulance is in standby with a doctor and nurses from an International class hospital of the province.

Bangkok has lots of grass fields and also many Thai clubs and expat leagues. In addition to well-maintained grass pitches from private sport facilities, football can be played in the few International schools, which have top quality fields. The International Bangkok Football 7s is usually held either in the Pattana International school, or the Arrow International school depending on the availability of the venue.

Another International football 7s took place in Pattaya a few years ago but it seems that despite the seaside and the nightlife, the city only makes it to the third position. Pattaya is conveniently situated at 2 hours from Bangkok by car and is a location that should get more expression of interest by foreign teams.

As a conclusion, Phuket, Thailand's famous traveler destination, is the football 7s favorite location in South East Asia with three tournaments taking place every year, before Bangkok, which is the second with one tournament.

Michel Gerard is a Travel author based in Asia. Visit the Phuket Football7s website to learn more about these Thailand International Football 7s tournaments in Phuket, Bangkok and Pattaya. => http://www.thai7s.com

By Michel Gerard

Tourist Attractions of Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a lovely Thai island and is one of the most popular travel spots in Thailand along with Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and Chiang Mai. Here you can do lots of things and see numerous places. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Samui.

Beaches

If you are fond of beaches then you are sure to have remarkable time in Koh Samui. Some of the best Thai beaches are situated on this island. Some beaches that you must see while holidaying here are Chaweng Beach, Big Buddha Beach and Lamai Beach.

Big Buddha Statue

The most famous attraction here is the Big Buddha statue. This golden statue is 12 meters in height and is next to a temple and many various Buddhist temples. You can access it by driving down the route 4171 and go towards to the airport.

Butterfly Garden

The butterfly garden is one of the most serene and virgin spots in Samui. This wonderful attraction has a large number of butterflies and is open every day from 08:30 to 17:30.

Aquarium and Tiger Zoo

If your kids are accompanying you, then you must certainly visit the aquarium and tiger zoo. There are various daily shows that comprise of shows involving birds, tigers and sharks. The Aquarium & Tiger Zoo is open all the days of the week from 09:00 to 18:00.

Snake Farm

If you want to see a snake show concerning King Cobras then a trip to the Samui snake farm is a must. Here you can see numerous types of poisonous snakes, hazardous centipedes and scorpions. The King Cobra shows are held daily at 11:00 and 14:00.

Waterfalls

There are many awesome waterfalls that you can see while holidaying. The most renowned waterfalls in Samui are Hin Lat and Na Muang, where you can go swimming.

You are welcome to publish the article along with the hyperlinked URL: Hotels Samui

By Jack Dan

Visiting Koh Samui

Koh Samui is 700 kms to the south of Bangkok in the Gulf of Thailand and 50 kms from Surat Thani. Regular flights are the most comfortable way to reach the island. For those looking to save money, trains, buses and boats can be used. If you have car or motorcycle, there are car ferries.

Via Air

Koh Samui's little open airport has both domestic and international flights from Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. There are hourly flights from Bangkok's Suvunarbhumi International Airport between 6 am to 9 pm for Koh Samui everyday. There are hourly Bangkok Airways flights and Thai airways has 2-3 flights per day. These flights cost 2200 - 3500 baht for Bangkok Airways and can go up to 7400 baht for Thai Airways. The duration of the flight is about 1.15 hours.

Bangkok Airways also conducts daily flights to Koh Samui from Phuket, Chiang Mai and Pattaya and twice a week flights between Krabi and Koh Samui. For economical flights, opt for Air Asia's flights from Bangkok, costing 600 - 900 baht. These flights take you to Surat Thani, from where you can take local shuttles or cabs to Donsak Pier or Samui Ferry Pier and then continue further to the island.

For international tourists, Bangkok Airways conducts direct flights from Hong Kong on Monday, Wednesday and Friday; Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and Singapore on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Berjaya Air has 2 flights per week on Thursday and Sunday from Kuala Lumpur.

Via Train and Ferry

You have to buy train & ferry tickets separately. So you have to take local transport from the train station to the dock, where you can buy ferry tickets. To prevent any delay, find out about ferry timings in advance. However avoid online booking of trains from Bangkok to Surat Thani by using your credit card to prevent addition of handling fees to the ticket costs. You may also have to face the risk of waiting for a boat to Koh Samui or being overcharged for local transport to the dock. So it advisable to buy a combined train/shuttle/ferry ticket from one of the numerous travel agencies in Bangkok. There are 2 trains departing from Bangkok's Hualamphong station everyday and arrive at Surat Thani in 8 hours. When you take a combined ticket, you are escorted and taken to the ferry, from where you can arrive at Koh Samui in 1.5 hours. The costs starts from just more than 1000 - 1700 baht, based on the type of train seat selected for the journey.

Via Bus (or coach) and Ferry

For cost conscious, bus and ferry trip is the best option. Air-conditioned overnight buses depart from Bangkok's southern bus station everyday. These buses leave at late afternoon and early evening. On reaching Surat Thani, buses are transported to Koh Samui. Bus fares start from 300 to 400 baht based on the class of service selected and travel time is about 14 hours. Ferry fares lie below 50 baht. Private companies operate coaches and pick up people from numerous spots in Bangkok. They usually let travelers buy a combined coach/ferry tickets from local travel agencies. This journey takes around 13 hours. The cost lies between 350 - 650 baht based on the type of the service. There are daily bus services from Hat Yai, Phuket and Krabi. However this trip is meant for the toughest travelers. Unscheduled local buses halt at any spot to pick up anybody looking to board the bus. The trip may take longer than the overnight buses and coaches

Via boat

Express catamaran service to Koh Samui departs from adjacent Koh Tao and mainland ports of Chumphon and Surat Thani. There are also usual ferry service and smaller boat services available. Long-tail boat service operates planned trips to and from Koh Phangan.

Via car or motorcycle

There is a ferry service departing every hour from 06:00 - 18:00 from both Donsak Pier and Samui Ferry Pier. The time taken is about 1.5 hours.

You are welcome to publish the article along with the hyperlinked URL: Samui Hotel

By Jack Dan

Beautiful Island - Koh Samui

Koh Samui or plainly called as Samui is the 2nd biggest island of the nation of islands also called as Thailand. Thailand comprises of numerous big and small islands. Amongst these islands, the most famous one is Koh Samui. Situated in the region of Surat Thani in Thailand, Koh Samui is the highly preferred and chosen holiday spot in the entire Thailand. Ardent holiday lovers from all around the globe visit this island in order to chill and spend some memorable time of love and proximity with their loved ones.

There are many aspects of this island that entice the tourists. But the best ones include its stunning beauty, peaceful atmosphere, views of lovely seas, water sports, white sandy beaches, warmth of the native Thai people, easy yet luxurious accommodation and the vibrant, throbbing night life in Koh Samui.

During your trip to Koh Samui, you will not experience any trouble in getting an accommodation due to abundance of Samui villas, resorts, hotels and bungalows. The travelers who visit this island, take time out from their hectic schedule and enjoy themselves fully here. The beaches on this island are the best aspect of the island that entice tourists the most. They love the white sand on the beaches and spend time lying lazily on the beach, enjoying the warmth of the sun with a drink in hand or having a body massage. You can spend a lot of time staring at the beauty of the infinite expanse of sea water. The water sports are also highly adventurous, as they contain numerous thrilling games. You can find much more details about this exotic island on the net.

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By Jack Dan

Koh Samui is a Beautiful Tropical Island in Thailand

Koh Samui is the 3rd biggest island in Thailand that is located in the Gulf of Thailand, around 90 km east of Surat Thani and approximately 750 km south of Bangkok. In fact, it is really an Amphoe (district) of Surat Thani and is divided into 7 sub districts (tambon): Angthong, Bophut, Lipa Noi, Maenam, Maret, Namuang, and Taling Nam. It is also called as the Coconut Island, as it grows over 2 million coconuts each month.

The area is a tropical paradise due to its lovely white sandy beaches, azure-blue sea, vibrant green forested hills, distinct limestone and scenic coves and bays. There is hardly any traffic and the locals are warm and friendly. Due to this, the place has become a hotspot for tourism.

The island is renowned for its glorious shoreline, lined with a long arc of palm lined white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Chaweng Beach is one of the busiest and most famous beaches here. It has a large number of beachside cafes, disco bars, and cocktail bars. Another famous beach here is Lamai Beach, which is full of an assortment of restaurants and amusement centers. It is not very crowded, and so a walk on this beach is actually relaxing and peaceful.

If you want peace and privacy, then head over to Maenam Beach, which is a suitable venue for backpackers and elite. This beach houses few of the excellent deluxe resorts and hotels in the area. Bophut is another lovely beach here and has a quiet fisherman's village, full of tranquil eateries, hip boutiques, and old wooden houses.

Other famous beaches on the island include are Big Buddha Beach, Choeng Mon Beach, and Lipa Noi Beach. Every beach on the island has facilities to let you experience a wide range of activities like diving, snorkeling, swimming, and sea canoeing.

Besides this, there are infinite number of things to see and do in Koh Samui. For nature lovers, a trip to Na Tian Butterfly Garden to see a wide array of different types of brightly colored lepidopterans is a must. It also has a bee house and an insect museum, containing few rare breed of insects.

For animal lovers, there is a Crocodile Farm that contains crocodile species like Caimans and saltwater crocodiles; Samui Aquarium and Zoo containing scores of fish species and specialties such as Asian tigers, sea hawks, and parrots; and Snake Farm housing few rare and most hazardous snakes in Asia.

If you want to go sightseeing, then Koh Samui offers many enchanting attractions. One of them is Big Buddha, the most famous symbol of the island. It is a 12 m tall golden idol of Lord Buddha in sitting pose, which is visible from a distance,

Hin Ta Hin Yai, are spectacular rocks also called as Grandfather and Grandmother rocks and are regarded as the forefather of the Mui race. Magic Statue Garden is an astonishing garden situated at the heart of the forest and accessed by traveling through precipitous cliffs and forested rivers and hills and Overlap Stone, is quite tough to arrive at these remarkable boulders.

Other must-see attractions in Koh Samui comprise of temples like Hainan Temple, Hin Lad Waterfall Temple, Laem Sor Pagoda, and Pagoda Khao Chedi. Other things to see here also include Buffalo fighting, Monkey Show, and conventional Thai Boxing.

Koh Samui is well-connected by sea, land, and air and has excellent accommodation alternatives.

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By Jack Dan

Koh Samui is a Luxury Destination in Thailand

Koh Samui, or Samui, is one of Thailand's most scenic islands, situated in the Gulf of Thailand. Located around 85 km east of Surat Thani and around 700 km south of Bangkok, Koh Samui is the biggest island in the Gulf of Siam and 3rd biggest island in Thailand. It is also called as Coconut Island due to its infinite number of coconut trees, giving over 2 million coconuts a month.

Koh Samui's main attraction is its peaceful atmosphere rich in mountainous forest grounds, lush tropical ferns, swaying coconut trees, long section of pure white sandy beaches, granite stones, clear blue water, excellent waterfalls, and luminous ponds. Due to this, many tourists from Europe come here all the year round.

Wua Ta Lap, a dramatic cave is one of the most famous Koh Samui attractions. The most famous attraction of Koh Samui is Pra Yai or the Big Buddha. It is a 12 mt tall golden idol, located at the northern part of the island. This awesome idol can be seen even from afar. Situated at the southern region of the island, lies Na Thian Butterfly Garden. It is one more renowned attraction, containing various types of butterflies. There is a well-kept garden, bee house, and a Thai type home connected to the garden.

There are few attractive places in the area, like Hin Ta Hin Yai, 2 famous granite stones that show up among many other rock structures along the shore. These 2 rocks, mean Grandfather and Grandmother and are regarded as the starting point of the Mui people. Attractions also comprise of the Samui Aquarium having various tropical fish and nautical fauna. Other must-see attractions include Thale Nai, surrounded by mountains; the statue Garden showcasing a collection of Buddhist and Hindu Statues; and Tham Bua Bok.

Besides Samui is famous for its lovely beaches like Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, and Maenam Beach. Every one of them has facilities where you can participate in activities like fishing, boat chartering, and sailing. Also Samui has some dramatic water falls like Namuang. Koh Samui also has some of the excellent diving sites in Thailand, with many stunning islets like Koh Mad Lang, Koh Som, and Koh Taopun.

But Koh Samui's wide range of activities comprises other things besides diving and fishing. It offers great alternatives for bowling, with over 10 pin bowling. If you love shooting, there are excellent facilities available to practice your shooting skills at the Shooting Gallery, which has many guns with actual ammunition.

There are some excellent alternatives available for adventurers. They include Bungy Jumping in Chaweng. Samui's nightlife is vibrant, and there s a wide variety of hot beach bars, cabaret bars, rocking, and pubs. If you want something different while on your trip, then go for Muay Thai (Thai boxing) match or participate in a Thai cooking lesson, conducted by some famous Thai cooks. You can also go on an elephant trekking for a memorable experience.

There are many other alternatives available like Treasure Island Adventure Golf Course and a tennis court as well as go kart amenities. If you are looking to rejuvenate yourself, there are numerous spa facilities to soothe and pamper yourself. Most of the deluxe resorts and hotels provide various massages and herbal treatments.

Samui is rich in accommodation alternatives, ranging from stylish bungalows to sea view villas to beachfront resorts to luxurious hotels. Most of them offer luxurious amenities like air-conditioned rooms combined with en-suite bathrooms, lounge, kitchen, and dining room.

Amenities include barbeque section, baby sitting facility, and car rental. Moreover, most of the villas and apartments provide maid service, besides amenities like excellent swimming pools and free airport transfers. Also, there are few excellent alternatives available for low cost travelers. In particular, many of them give some type of rebates for reserving rooms beforehand.

These attractions and innumerable options available make Koh Samui an undoubted luxury place in Thailand!

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By Jack Dan

Thailand is a Traveller's Paradise

For ardent travel lovers, a trip to Thailand is the most eagerly awaited trip. The primary reason for this is the stunning natural beauty and the peacefulness of the country. Due to this travelers from around the world flock here to spend their holidays. The country is encircled by water from all the sides. This has made this island nation all the more beautiful. Holidays to Thailand are undoubtedly very popular and so the tourists come to this island all the year round.

Thailand is one of the Asian nations that is ardently loved by travel lovers. This is due to lovely view of the blue waters, water sports, lush greenery, coconut farms and the hospitality of the local Thais. These are prime attractions that bring people to this country. However Thailand is a land of contrasts that surprises the travelers. While it is very serene and holy, it is also equally thrilling. Its night life must be particularly mentioned, since it is very thrilling and vibrant.

Thailand is a nation of islands. Of all the islands, the most visited one is Koh Samui. It is the 2nd biggest island in the country. Vacation to Koh Samui is quite famous as the area offers a great view of the infinite waters of the sea. The water sports are the highlight of the holidays in Koh Samui. The visitors enjoy simply lazing around on the white sandy beaches below the sun and have a relaxing massage. Getting a view of the sunrise and sunset is very easy from this island, as the area is surrounded by the water bodies. The attractions of Koh Samui leave an indelible mark on the visitors to the island.

You are welcome to publish the article along with the hyperlinked URL: Hotels Koh Samui

By Jack Dan

Discover Pattaya - Investing in Pattaya Has Never Been So Rewarding

Pattaya is a city in Thailand that lies on the east coast of the Thailand Gulf. It is deemed to be one of the largest cities of tourism in the world. Known for its beautiful and wonderful attractions, Pattaya draws more than six million visitors every year.

Pattaya is known for its attractive surroundings. The sparkling white sandy beaches, the breath-taking panoramic view of the city from a place up hill, the pulsating night attractions is not just a perfect place for vacations but a perfect place to invest as well.

Pattaya can give you all the fun you can think of. From simple sightseeing to an exhilarating bungee jumping experience, from the traditional horse-back riding to the latest motor sports racing, name it, Pattaya got it all.

A visit to Pattaya is ideal for couple who wants a romantic and luxurious honeymoon, sports enthusiasts who are looking for extreme sports adventure, businessmen who find investing in Pattaya promising, and to anyone of all ages who are seeking for a peaceful break or an exciting getaway.

If you are looking forward for an ultimate beach experience, Pattaya is the best place to be. With its long and beautiful beaches, fun-filled water sports, non-stop entertainment and an unrivaled oriental beauty, Pattaya has everything a traveler could ask for. The bright beaches in Pattaya provide you not only relaxation but also intense water activities such as wind surfing, snorkeling, sailing, deep sea fishing, water skiing, parasailing, gliding, etc.

Shopping is also one of the activities the visitors don't want to miss. You can buy Thailand's best buys such as jewelry, clothing, handicrafts, and many more from the shopping centers and malls of Pattaya.

If you want to stay fit while on a vacation, the well-equipped fitness centers offer you perspiring activities such as thai boxing and weight lifting. Sports such as tennis, wall climbing, bowling, shooting, snooker, and a lot more is also famous in Pattaya. Among these sports, golf is the most popular. With more than eighteen golf courses around, most of these courses have international standard with 18 to 27 holes, Pattaya's golf courses is the best place to play golf around the world.

If you are looking for something more thrilling, you can also enjoy some adrenaline-pumping activities that Pattaya has to offer you such as bungee jumping and leisure flying. With many recreational parks, amusement parks, zoos, marine aquariums, botanical gardens, and cultural show theatres abound, Pattaya will never cease to astound you.

After visiting and enjoying the spectacular place of Pattaya, reward yourself by dining at Pattaya's wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bistros. Whether you prefer Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, French or their very own Thai cuisine, the mouth-watering food they offer will surely fill your stomach without hurting your pockets

Activities in Pattaya are endless. Wherever you go, everywhere you look, there's always an activity that's waiting for you. Such activities can be tiring and exhausting. The best way to end the day is to pamper yourself at Pattaya's spas and best massage parlors that offer Thai massage, foot massage, or reflexology massage. The fun doesn't end when the day ends. At sun down night attractions come to life. You can visit night clubs, discotheques and open-air bars that provide food, drinks, music, and world class entertainment.

Pattaya offers you a variety of accommodation options to suit every pocket. Wherever you decide to retire, whether in an economy class or a luxurious five-star hotel, you will find yourself home away from home with the best amenities and excellent services they offer.

With the growing number of visitors, the number of developing businesses, investing in Pattaya can never be a mistake - as long as you know where to start and you know what to do.

The opening of International airport not far away from Pattaya played a significant role in drawing more tourists and attracting more businesses. The number of tourists has increased significantly. More and more infrastructures are developing rapidly, which is therefore contributing to the notable progress of the city. Five-star hotels, world class golf courses, exciting night attractions are pulling in big spenders in the city from all over the world.

Better schools, more health and medical facilities, new infrastructures have drawn more residents and foreign expatriates worldwide. More and more employees are drastically coming in the city as the Board of Investment of Thailand is regularly approving new businesses and new projects just within the city. Pattaya is now considered a true city teemed with local and foreign residents, local and international business owners, and workers from home and abroad.

With the rapid development of resorts and businesses, the extensive development of properties such as real estates and condominiums, the rising standards in hotel accommodation, the newly built airports and other transportation stations that make the place an easy access, Pattaya is redefining itself to draw more and more visitors which is significantly very beneficial to the community.

The rising prices of land and properties such as real estate, condominiums, business establishments and the like gave a major contribution to the rapid and stable growth of Pattaya's economy. Therefore, it has driven a lot of people to go investing in Pattaya.

If you're one of those who consider investing in Pattaya, here are a few tips in purchasing a property might help you ensure a smooth sailing transaction:

1. If you're not sure and needs help in purchasing a property, look for reputable and credible sales agent or any Pattaya property company that can give you advice and assist you when purchasing a property.

2. It is essential to have a good lawyer when buying a property. If you want to purchase a property in Pattaya, you might want to get a lawyer who knows your language. They will help you understand all the terms, conditions and legalities in purchasing a property.

3. Investing on a condo unit is the most popular to first time investors. Before deciding to invest a condominium unit, you must first decide whether the unit will be your own residence or for third party rental purposes. This will help you decide where your condominium must be located. If you are going to have the condominium rented by third parties, you should look for a condo that is located near establishments or job companies and should be easily accessible to public transportations.

4. Real estate business in Pattaya is swarming with scammers who try to fool people, especially first time investors who do not have any experience in real estate. Always be aware of scams, have someone experienced who can be trusted to guide you in your investments. Double check and verify all the necessary information before purchasing an investment.

Investing can be tough and really expensive. You don't want your time, effort and hard-earned money go to drain because of failed investments. But by investing in real estate especially in Pattaya, you can be certain that you are making the right decision. Investing in Pattaya is a great way to raise your net worth.

Robert Tracey Loves Real Estate and loves Thailand and Loves talking about it he takes investors to Thailand to look for property for investment and life style he will show you everything you need to know about investing in Thailand find out more by going to http://buyrealestateat.com/

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By Robert William Tracey

The Land of Smiles - Natural Wonder and Impressive Culture

Throughout her long history, Thailand has absorbed immigrants. Many were skilled as writers, painters, sculptors, dancers, musicians, and architects. These immigrants helped to enrich Thailand's indigenous culture.

Minorities of Thailand include the Chinese, Thai Malays, and the Laotian. Anything between 9% - 15% of Thailand's population is thought to be Sino-Thai (depending on how Chinese is defined). In the early 19th and 20th Century, Chinese immigrants came and settled down here. They married Thai women, took Thai names, most of them adopted Buddhism (although they were not required to renounce their ancestor worship) and learnt Thai. As elsewhere in the region, these Chinese immigrants proved to be remarkably adept at money making and today control a disproportionate slice of businesses.This is an exotic land that is surprisingly convenient and accessible. First introductions are made in Bangkok, a modern behemoth of screaming traffic, gleaming shopping centres and international sensibilities interwoven with devout Buddhism. Even the most cosmopolitan Thais wouldn't dare choose a marriage date without consulting a monk or astrologer. And notice the protective amulets that all Thais - from the humble noodle vendor to the privileged aristocrat - wear around their necks: this is holy fashion.

Sitting upon the crown of the kingdom are misty mountains and Chiang Mai, the country's bohemian centre, where the unique and precise elements of Thai culture become a classroom, for cooking courses and language lessons, for curious visitors. Climbing into the mountain rang are the stupa-studded peaks of Mae Hong Son and villages of post-Stone Age cultures. Sliding down the coastal tail are evergreen limestone islands filled with tall palms that angle over pearlescent sand. Thailand's beaches are stunning, hedonistic and mythic among residents of northern latitudes. But few visitors trudge into the northeast, a region better suited for home stays and teaching gigs than quick souvenir snapshots. In this scrappy region you can dive deep into the Thai psyche, emerging with a tolerance for sparingly spicy food and a mastery of this strange tonal language.

A unified Thai kingdom was established in the mid-14th century. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been taken over by a European power. A bloodless revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy. In alliance with Japan during World War II, Thailand became a US treaty ally following the conflict. A military coup in September 2006 ousted then Prime Minister Thaksin. The interim government held elections in December 2007 that saw the former pro-THAKSIN People's Power Party (PPP) emerge at the head of a coalition government. The anti-THAKSIN People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) in May 2008 began street demonstrations against the new government, eventually occupying the prime minister's office in August. Clashes in October 2008 between PAD protesters blocking parliament and police resulted in the death of at least two people. The PAD occupied Bangkok's international airports briefly, ending their protests in early December 2008 following a court ruling that dissolved the ruling PPP and two other coalition parties for election violations. The Democrat Party then formed a new coalition government with the support of some of THAKSIN's former political allies, and Abhisit Wetchachiwa became prime minister. Since January 2004, thousands have been killed as separatists in Thailand's southern ethnic Malay-Muslim provinces increased the violence associated with their cause.

Thailand, the land of a 1,000 smiles, is one place where you can be sure of the warmest welcome. The friendly Thai people certainly have lots to smile about, from the tropical beaches of the south, to historic cities and jungle-clad mountains. On a holiday here, you can spend time in the lively capital, explore the country's varied culture and wildlife, then take your pick of beautiful beaches.

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By Chronus Banev