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

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

Ayuthaya Vs Sukothai

Many people ask me which I prefer, Ayuthaya or Sukothai. Both are former capital cities and contain many ruins of temples dating from hundreds of years ago when the cities were in their prime. But it's hard to directly compare the two.

A lot of people visiting Thailand are often looking for a day trip out of Bangkok and often don't have a lot of time to spend travelling. In this case Ayuthaya is the clear favourite because it's within easy reach of Bangkok, about 1-2 hours depending on traffic. If you have more time to spare then I would recommend Sukothai every time, not that I dislike Ayuthaya, but Sukothai is just...well...better!

Firstly, Sukothai is a lot further north from Bangkok. It's around about a 6-8 hour drive, depending on your form of transportation and the traffic. Thus it will take a few days out of your schedule, but can be done as a stop off on the way to Chiang Mai. But because of it's slightly more remote location, it receives far less visitors than Ayuthaya, which is a very popular day trip location for tourists and locals. On any given day you're likely to find coach loads of the local school children milling around the temples of Ayuthaya.

This makes Sukothai a far more peaceful place to visit, and so it's easier to get clear photos. On my visit here, over half a day I guess I probably only encountered a hundred or so other visitors. The temples are set in a historical park in well kept and fairly expansive grounds. It is completely separate from the main modern-day town. Although you can drive in the park, because it's off the main roads there is no traffic noise or the associated dust and pollution. Sukothai has plenty of trees and so plenty of chances to get in the shade.

As I said earlier, a lot is going to depend on your circumstances and how much time you have to spare. Ayuthaya is great if you can only spare a day or two and are based out of Bangkok. It's easy to get to and there are numerous tours. If you can spare the time, or are en-route to Chiang Mai then go for Sukothai.

Check out my website, linked below for some photos.

Matthew's Travel Website, http://www.matthewt.co.uk
My blog, http://matthewted.blogspot.com

By Matthew Tedstone

The Bang Pa-In Palace

Among the line-up of well-known tourist spots in this ancient province is the Bang Pa-In Palace which has a history dating back to the 17th century. According to a chronicle of Ayutthaya, King Prasat Thong (1630-1655) ordered the construction of a palace on Bang Pa-In Island in the glorious Chao Phraya River. The King founded a monastery, Wat Chumphon Nikayaram, on the land belonging to his family estate on Bang Pa-In Island and then had a palace built to the south of that monastery and in the middle of the island where he could occasionally dwell. Wat Chumphon Nikayaram and the palace, encircled by a lake 400 meters long and 40 meters wide, are the remains of King Prasat Thong's construction work at Bang Pa-In.Historically speaking, the Bang Pa-In Palace served as a summer residence for royal members after King Prasat Thong. But when the new capital was instituted in Bangkok,

Bang Pa-In was no longer in use and left uninhabited for 80 years. It was demolished with the fall of Ayutthaya and was restored in the mid-19th century by King Rama IV, who was really fond of the place and periodically spent his summers there. Most of the buildings that can be seen today date from the reign of King Rama V (King Chulalongkorn). Today the palace is used occasionally by Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit as a residence and for organizing receptions and banquets. The palace is currently located just a few miles down the Chao Phraya River from Ayutthaya.

The palace structures give a picture of various architectural styles, set in a large park around ponds and waterways. The only royal residence open to the public is the Chinese-style Wehart Chamroon Palace that was built entirely of materials taken from China. Moreover, there is an Italian-style palace, a circular pavilion with steps leading down to a pool, the refined Thai-style Aisawan Tippaya Asana Pavilion in the middle of a lake and, across one of the waterways, a Buddhist chapel in the Neo-gothic style with stained-glass windows. Within the extensive gardens are European statues and monuments commanded to be erected by King Rama V in memory of members of his family, one of them a dearly loved Queen who drowned in a boating mishap.

Some sites of interest in the Bang Pa-in Palace include Phra Thinang Wehart Chamroon, Phra Thinang Utthayan Phumisathian, Wat Niwet Thammaprawat and Memorial to Queen Sunandakumariratana. Phra Phra Thinang Wehart Chamroon is the Chinese-style two-storey mansion constructed by the corresponding of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and bestowed to King Chulalongkorn in 1889. The ground floor consists of a Chinese-style throne; the upper storey houses an alter enshrining the name plates of King Mongkut and King Chulalongkorn with their respective queens. This Chinese-style mansion was the much preferred residence of King Vajiravudh or King Rama VI (1910-1925) when he visited Bang Pa-In Palace.

Phra Thinang Wehart Chamroon is so beautiful and astonishing that Prince Ookhtomsky, a personal escort of the Czarevitch, the future Czar Nicholas II of Russia, praised on a visit in 1890 that "It is really a palace of romance, with ornamented tiled floors, massive ebony furniture, gold, silver and porcelain freely used for decorative purposes and delicate fretwork on the columns and on the windows. Evidently we have before us the principal sight of Bang Pa-In. The Emperor of China himself can scarcely have a palace much finer than this!"

Phra Thinang Utthayan Phumisathian is situated to the east, opposite the pond. It is a two-story ornately erected building, which is painted alternately in dark and light green. Its balcony is the same in design as that of a Swiss chalet. Before being devastated by fire during the restoration in 1938, the entire building was built from wood and adorned with mahogany furniture imported from Europe. It was the favorite residence of King Chulalongkorn when he resided at Bang Pa-In Palace. Prince Ookhtomsky extolled it was "furnished luxuriously and with refined taste and comfort." Unluckily, it was burnt down by chance in 1938. The new building which replaced it was constructed in 1996 at the expressed wishes of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. The water tank, disguised as a Neo-gothic tower, is only part of the original structure still existing.Built by King Rama V, Wat Niwet Thammaprawat looks more like a Gothic Christian church than a Thai monastery. Tourists can reach the temple by crossing the river in a small trolley-like cable car, which is free of charge. Meanwhile, the Memorial to Queen Sunandakumariratana is another place of high interest in the palace compound. In 1881, Queen Sunandakumariratana drowned when her boat sank in the Chao Phraya River while she was on her way to Bang Pa-In Palace. King Chulalongkorn was so grief-stricken and thus set up a marble obelisk as a cenotaph to her memory. The King also composed the dedication himself in both Thai and English.

The Bang Pa-In Palace is nestled in Tambon Baan Len, Amphur Bang Pa-In, which is 18 kilometers south of Ayutthaya. It lies 58 kilometers north of Bangkok by rail and 61 kilometers by road. To get to Bang Pa-In from Ayutthaya, one can go by Phahonyothin Road and make a right turn at Km. 35 for another distance of 7 kilometers to Bang Pa-In Palace. The palace is open to the public everyday from 08.00-16.00 hrs. The admission fee is 50 Baht.

http://www.iguidebangkok.com A gateway to Bangkok or the "City of Angels", iguidebangkok.com is an attractive portal website accentuating the outstanding concept "where to go & what to do in Bangkok" with clear guide map.

By Nattapol Bumsuntiea

Thailand Holidays - Attractions to See on Your Visit

The allure of a visit to Thailand is an intense one due to its varied enticing elements.

Thailand is unique with its mix of friendly smiling people, ancient culture and religious artifacts, lush landscapes, great beaches and modern metropolis. It is difficult to cull the list of fascinating destinations to see in Thailand to a mere handful but here is an attempt to offer some requirements during your visit.

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and one of the world's great cities. Bangkok is a modern city with world famous nightlife, world class restaurants and fabulous shopping. It also is the home to some of the most important Buddhist temples and relics in the world. These include Wat Phra Kaeo (Emerald Buddha Chapel), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Saket (Golden Mount), and Wat Benchannabophit (Marble Temple).

Chiang Mai is north of Bangkok and is in a green valley surrounded by mountains. It is well known for its Arts & Culture Center, many museums, beautiful Buddhist temples and two elephant sanctuaries. This is also a well known area to study Thailand's delicious cuisine through numerous cooking schools.

Ko Tao is an island in the Gulf of Thailand in the southern part of the country. It is a world famous scuba and snorkel destination where you can swim with turtles, stingray, barracuda and even whale sharks. Other beach destinations include Phuket, Hat Khao Lak, Ko Mak, Ko Kut, Ko Pha-Ngan and Hat Phra Nang.

Ayutthaya is the ancient capital of Thailand and is about 85 km north of Bangkok. It is a world heritage site known for its historic Buddhist temples, museums and parks. Important sites to see here include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Ancient Palace Chao Sam Phraya Museum and Phra Ram Park. Ban Chiang located in the northeaster part of Thailand and is another world heritage site and is considered to contain some of the world's oldest Bronze Age artifacts.

One of the best times to visit Thailand is during its cool season which runs from November to the end of February. The weather is warm, with temperatures averaging about 30 degrees Celsius 85 Fahrenheit but with low humidity and clear skies. This is Thailand's peak tourist period.

Some important national holidays are Magha Puja which is celebrated at the full moon in February. Monks and others bear flowers, incense and candles and circle the countries temples after sunset. The Songkran Festival is April 12 - 14. This is the Thai traditional New Year's festival and a great place to experience it is in Chiang Mai. Visaka Puja is the most holy day for Buddhists as it celebrates the birth of Buddha. It is celebrated in May at the full moon.

James is an ardent traveller who has explored many countries and cities worldwide. Before travelling to Thailand James likes to plan his trip using his favourite travel websites.

By James T Pritchard

The Splash of Songkran

The Songkran festival has been known to be one of the most important and grandest events of Thailand. It is a time of Buddhist rituals, of family gatherings to pay gratitude to elders and of course of water splashing. Deriving from the Sanskrit word, "Songkran" means to pass or to move into. In this case, the meaning implies the movement of the sun, the moon and other planets into one of the zodiacal orbits. And the Grand Songkran Festival which falls on the Aries indicates the novel era of the traditional Thai New Year. In order to welcome the New Year, the celebration will comprise the fun-filled local entertainments which combine the mutual relationship between members of the family, the society and the surrounding.

Having the influence from India, the Songkran festival mirrors the traditional mode of life of the Thais which involves the cultural and agricultural aspects. Free from their regular routine task, the Thai citizens will find time to perform their yearly rites of showing respect to their elder relatives and departed ancestors. Moreover, there is a deep spiritual aspect to this grand festival nationwide. Even though Thailand has adhered to the international calendar since 1941, celebrations of the Songkran festival, presently set on April 13 and extending over the following two days, remain a more auspicious chance than January.

Historically speaking, the Songkran festival has its origin during the Sukhothai period. It was practiced both in the royal court palace and among the ordinary citizens. However, the dimension of the celebration had not been as boisterous as of today. In the old days, civil servants and other government officials would pay homage to the king and would drink the oath of allegiance to the government, while the king would bestow annual salary to all officials. Later on in the Ayutthaya period, the festival had been expanded by including the bathing of the Buddha images. Also, the celebration would comprise the forming of sand pagodas and colorful activities. In the Rattanakosin period, the festival had been performed in the same way as those during the Ayutthaya period.

The Songkran festival extends three important ritual days, from April 13-15. These days are called respectively: Wan Sangkan Long, Wan Nao and Wan Taleung Sok. It is customary that during the Songkran festival there is an announcement of the name of Nang Songkran of the year, her vehicle, her food preference and much more. To forecast the affluence of that year, it is worth knowing the amount of rainfalls and the number of Naga or legendary serpent which is responsible for the provision of water. The prediction for the New Year will be done in relation to that particular day of the Nang Songkran. This year, the Songkran's Day falls on April 14. This means that Nang Songkran for 2007 is "Kimitatevee", dressed in white with topaz ornament, preferred banana, dagger in the right hand, Indian vina in the left hand and buffalo as her vehicle.

Songkran is a festival that serves a multitude of social and religious functions. It typically involves merit making, releasing birds and fish into rivers, presenting food and other offerings to monks, listening to sermons, building sand pagodas, paying respect to elders and splashing of water. Traditionally, houses have been meticulously cleaned the day before to ensure no bad luck is brought into the New Year. Later on the day in private ceremonies away from the temple, parents, grandparents, older relatives and teachers are honored by younger generations in a sacred ritual. Young people will pour fragrant water onto the palms of the older persons and also give them new clothes to show their respect and gratitude. It is believed that this watering ceremony would bring the young excellent health, longevity and prosperity.

The Songkran festival is essentially related to water as Thai people believe that water splashing will bring abundant rainfalls in the incoming year. Water is also a symbol of fertility and is employed to clean up bad things. It is thus used widely in different ceremonies and rites of passage. Not surprisingly, one of the most vital parts of Songkran is the bathing of Buddha images. People will sprinkle water onto the images as a gesture of respect. A procession of Buddha images will be made prior to the bathing. After that people will also bathe the senior Buddhist monks by pouring water over them. The chief monk or abbot will then give a sermon and bless people who participate in these bathing rituals. And finally, people will enjoy splashing water at one another.

Like many other festivals in Thailand, Songkran is celebrated with a zest and passion for having a great time that is uniquely Thai. In Bangkok, some famous venues for the Songkran festival include Khao Sarn Road, Bang Lamphoo District, Sanarm Luang and Phra Arthit Road in the Rattanakosin Island. Other sites of interest and events are Krung Kao Ayutthaya Songkran Festival (Old Capital of Songkran), well-known Thai-Mon Songkran Festival in Samut Prakan, Nong Khai, Chiang Mai and Phuket. In addition, the neighboring countries such as Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos have organized this type of festival with high-spirited celebrations.

Highlights of the Songkran festival in these major cities include making merit to the monks, Buddha image procession, bathing Buddha images, setting free of birds and fish, erecting sand pagodas, blessing and being blessed by elders and senior government officers as well as enjoying water splashing. Additionally, tourists can watch traditional Thai performances as well as modern films and music, competition in the topic of the history of Songkran. There are also parades, carnivals, beauty contests (Miss Songkran and Miss Ladyboy Songkran) as well as the light and sound presentation relating to the legend of Songkran. The consumption of much local food, Thai dessert cooking, local sports and art exhibitions complete the festival.

Across the country, most young Thai people celebrate the New Year by gently throwing water over one and all with a word of blessing. Scoops from a silver bowl are traditional, but these days more effective soakings come from plastic buckets, pump-action water guns and even oil drums with stirrup pumps mounted on trucks. It is, however, all good-natured with the Thai's communicable sense of fun. While the more traditional rites are best observed today in the villages and although Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai are known for the most exuberant celebrations, you will get wet and encounter Songkran wherever you are. It is the festival to give a lot of fun for all of us and welcome the traditional Thai New Year with a cool soaking of water in the most sweltering time of the year.

http://www.iguidebangkok.com A gateway to Bangkok or the "City of Angels", iguidebangkok.com is an attractive portal website accentuating the outstanding concept "where to go & what to do in Bangkok with clear guide map". Complete with all-inclusive information on Bangkok accommodation, spa & massage, health & beauty, shopping & dining, map directories and tourist information guide as well as other interesting stories and monthly features for target surfers, iguidebangkok.com ensures you every click the smartest life in the metropolis. Each section of the website is meticulously designed as your intimate attendant for convenient metro-living.

By Nattapol Bumsuntiea

Exploring Thailand

It seemed as if the earth smiles, Thailand is a Southeast Asian frontier, the Andaman Sea Gulf of Thailand, Burma south. Bangkok is also the largest city and capital. It is also the center of the country's political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities. This country is very popular with tourists from all over the world, its diversity. Their traditions are fascinating and diverse cultures. The country has a lot of historical attractions, including temples, palaces and museums. Country, nature, friendly people, exotic cuisine, relaxation and wellness.

Thailand has its own language. Thailand has spent nearly 75 million people. English is taught as a second language in this country and it is used for its residents. As in any other language in the world, Thailand is also known as a complex mixture of different sources. Some of these hubs, Sanskrit, Khmer, Malay, Chinese and English.

There are several opportunities throughout the country and "a simple and convenient. Land is also a modern transport system. You can take the plane, train, bus, elephant taxis, taxis and tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuk three wheels of vehicles for the transport over short distances in the journey of the country.

Thai food is known throughout the world. If you are not eating in Thailand? Each Thai dish, the principle remains the harmony, or was a hot chili or very mild. Thai cuisine is a combination of ancient Eastern and Western influences harmoniously combined with some very Thai. This kitchen offers a variety of ingredients, spices and complex flavors of a complex fragrance. Your favorite dishes Gay Mamuang Met Pad (Fried Chicken cashew nuts), Pia Tord (deep fried roll), Panaeng (spicy beef and coconut cream), Som Tam (spicy papaya salad), Moo-Te (Grilled with turmeric sticks), gay Tom Yam (spicy chicken soup), Tom Kha Kai (chicken coconut soup), Central and Eastern European Gay Kang Wan (Green Chicken Curry), Pad Thai (noodles chips) and Tom Yam Gung. (Spicy Shrimp)

Most popular destinations in Thailand, Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew Nang Yai (shadow puppet), Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Ayutthaya Jim Thompson House, Umphang and ecotourism, Sukhothai, Ao Phang-Nga Marine Park, Pattaya, and many others. Offices in Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a great night market. Weekend Market in Bangkok Chatuchuk shopping paradise with hundreds of rich antique items, clothing and animals .

See a list of discounted Pimsleur courses at PimsleurMethod.com Pimsleur languages courses are a great way to learn on the go. Are you ready to really learn a new language? Try Pimsleur.

Knowing Thailand

Bordered by Laos and Cambodia in the east, the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia in the South, and Andaman Sea and Myanmar to the west, lies the beautiful and scenic place, Thailand.
Originally, the country was known as Siam. If you have seen the famous movie, King and I, starring Yul Bryner as the king of Siam, you will be certainly having some idea about this beautiful place.
Thai means freedom and hence the name, Thailand. Thai also symbolizes the name of the city’s ethnic group. Thailand is well known for having the perfect blend of cultures of India and China. This influence has been possible due to its geographic location. The country is also proud of various indigenous cultures since the time of Ban Chiang culture.
Thailand has a rich historical background. Sukhothai, a buddhist kingdom was the first Thai state. It was established in 1238, after the fall of the Khmer empire. However, Sukhotai was soon overpowered by Ayutthaya, which was more powerful and larger than Sukhotai. It was founded in 1431. The next kingdom that rose to power after Ayutthaya was Thonburi, the capital of Thailand. It was the capital for only a short period of time.
Then came the era of Ratthanakosin leading later to the establishment of Bangkok as the capital of Thailand. Despite so many transitions, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian culture that was never affected or empowered by the European power. This was because Thailand had a series of efficient rulers during the period, 1800 who amply took advantage of the undercurrent or tension between British and the French.

Check Out More Articles:
Thailand Travel Information, Fun Things To Do For Your Boyfriend & Girlfriend , 10 Top Tourist Attractions

By Pauline Go