Amazing Thailand

Showing posts with label Southeast Asia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Southeast Asia. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

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

Monday, June 7, 2010

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.

If you are interested in meeting free sexy indian girls at our thai bride service, then check us out.

By Oh Srichaphan

Sunday, June 6, 2010

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

Saturday, May 29, 2010

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

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Top 7 Budget Accommodation in Thailand

For any travel to Thailand, the choice of budget accommodation is very wide indeed. It is always better to plan your holiday in advance and make the necessary bookings before you arrive so as to avoid disappointment. Don't forget, all travel plans should include the best travel insurance you can afford, and this is especially the case when visiting Southeast Asia.

There are literally thousands of budget accommodation outlets right across Thailand and is impossible to give even an adequate cross selection to suit all tastes. So, in the interests of brevity, we will look at seven budget accommodation locations in various towns and cities across Thailand. To make this task easier will be looking at places where travellers have been able to provide comments on their experiences. This adds some validity to the assessment.

Bangkok. No list would be complete without at least some indication of accommodation in the capital city.

Ratchana Place. This hotel is located very close to Bangkok airport and is reputedly the most affordable accommodation in the district. The rooms are clean and secure and as at January 2010 were available from as little as $17 per night.

Chang Mai. One of the most popular destinations, originally made famous by the beautiful girls, there are plenty of choices when it comes to budget accommodation.

Baan Lamyai Guesthouse. Similarly priced, this comfortable guesthouse comes with double and triple bedrooms each with their own private washroom. A real feature is the beautiful dining room.

Ko Tao. A popular backpacker's choice, Ko Tao is probably best known as a diving destination.

Ban's Diving Resort, as backpackers as well as those seeking a little more comfort. It is situated on a prime piece of beachfront well located for some stunning diving experiences.

Ko Kut. A palm fringed tropical town located close to the sea make this an easy backpacking choice.

Klong Chao Resort. This resort consists of well made and designed timber structures, located not far from the sea along the river. Accommodation is cheap, clean and safe.

Ko Phi Phi Don. A popular destination this town has many to choose from but the best budget accommodation we can find is:

PP Twin Palms Bungalow. At less than $30 per night this beautiful hotel offers great value for money.

Mae Sot. This unusual destination has some fantastic bargain accommodation, none more so than:

Centara Mae Sot Hill Resort. This three star hotel offers clean and comfortable accommodation in a very safe environment.

Khao Lak. Located close to the Similan and Surin Islands, this is a great location for backpackers looking for a great scuba diving experience.

Briza Beach Resort costs around $55 per night but is still classified as four-star accommodation.

If you have the proper holiday insurance, travel within Thailand is a safe and rewarding destination and with so many budget accommodation options to choose from Thailand is a budget traveller's paradise.

Save money on your travel insurance today. For a free quote, visit Travel Insurance.

By Josh I Harrison

Monday, May 17, 2010

Where to Find Family Friendly Hotels in Bangkok

When traveling together as a family in Bangkok Thailand most parents are concerned about finding a hotel that is away from the notorious red light districts of Bangkok. That should never be a deterrent from visiting one of the fastest growing cities in Southeast Asia with a rich culture, huge variety of ethnic foods as well as plenty of family friendly hotels. And you can find these hotels in the popular neighborhoods of Siam and Pratunam.

Family Friendly Hotels in Siam

Siam is certainly one of the most well known address in Bangkok. It has the highest concentration of shopping malls for everyone in the family. For young teens they have the option of shopping to their hearts content at the hip boutiques in Siam Square and MBK mall, while the parents can explore the huge brand name stores at the Siam Paragon, the largest luxury super mall in Bangkok. For a real treat catch a movie at one of Siam Paragon's first class movie theaters with sofa style seating. Or go bowling inside on some of the best lanes. Both are extremely affordable and loads of fun.

A few of the best hotels in the area are the Pathumwam Princess hotel and Novotel Siam Square. These are 4 star hotels with easy access to the Sky Train so you can get to other parts of Bangkok easily.

Family Friendly Hotels in Pratunam

Pratunam is another neighborhood in central Bangkok far off from the red light districts. There are also lots of malls around this area too and some of them have down to earth prices and many malls for luxury items. Pratunam market for example has some of the best prices for all types of clothing because it's a wholesalers market. But if you're buying several pieces you should still bargain. While the Gaysorn department store is the complete opposite with it's heavy price tag on luxury goods.

Some of the best hotels in Pratunam is the Arnoma Hotel, located just across from the Big C department store. And directly opposite is the Centara Grand Hotel which is built right into another large mall called Central World.

One of the best hotels furthest away from Bangkok's red light districts is the Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa. This is a hotel that has something for everyone in the family to keep them occupied. There's a huge swimming pool for the young ones and a top notch spa and massage services for the parents. It's one huge massive resort filled with the best international and traditional Thai restaurants with a view of the mighty Chao Phraya river just right outside. Though the Marriott is located across the river there are two ways to get across. One is the ferry boat service and the other is a shuttle bus to the newly opened Sky Train station. Both are very quick and efficient means for getting to the sights and attractions in Bangkok.

Visit Best Family Friendly Hotels in Bangkok for a list and reviews of even more hotels safe for families traveling to Bangkok, Thailand.

Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who travels to Southeast Asia, specifically to Thailand for over 8 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business ventures and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.

By Edwin M Clark

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Thailand Has More to Offer Than You Think

It is hard to imagine anyone getting bored in Thailand; there is just no excuse for it. No matter what type of holiday you prefer you will find something in this land that was once called Siam. Most holiday makers make their way south to the island. If the idea of lounging around on tropical beaches is exactly what you expect from a holiday then this is where you will want to go. Thailand attracts many visitors, but it is still possible to find some stunning isolated beaches. On most of the islands you will also find accommodation to suit every budget.

Backpackers like to stay on islands like Koh Pan Ngan or Koh Lanta, because here you will find the cheapest accommodation. Koh Pan Ngan is the scene of the Full Moon Party and if dancing the night away is your idea of heaven then this will be the island to visit. If you have a bit more money to spend then you might like to visit Koh Samui or Phuket. Here you will find some real high class hotels, but you can also find reasonable deals as well. All of these places will have wonderful beaches where you will be able to work on your tan.

If you want to have the best possible night life in Thailand then goes to Pattaya; this is not called sin city for no reason. First timers to this part of Thailand can be quite shocked by full-throttle hedonism that exists in a place like this, but Pattaya is also increasingly becoming a place for family holidays as well. Some of the best resorts and hotels can be found in this area, and you will also get the best in western dining; there is no reason to ever get homesick in this city. Pattaya is the sort of place that you will either love or hate; many visitors love this part of Thailand so much that they would never consider going anywhere else.

If you would like more of an adventure holiday then you should head up north the Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. This is a great area for trekking and visiting the local hill tribes. If you love bookstores then you will love Chiang Mai. This is also a great city for doing courses like massage, Thai cooking, Thai language, or even yoga. This northern part of the country differs a lot from the south and tends to attract a different crowd. If you wish to travel up to the mountains then a real treat will be Pai; this has become a real backpacker's hangout.

Many visitors use Thailand as a base while they explore other parts of the region such as; Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, or Burma/Myanmar. It is the most modern country in the area and it offers a level of luxury that is just not possible in these other countries. Many visitors do a circular tour of South East Asia that starts and finishes in Thailand; this can be a great way of doing it but you will need at least few months if you want to see even some of what is on offer.

Ryan Fyfe is the owner of http://www.my-thailand.info/ - an information resource for all things related to Thailand including articles, news, movies and more.

By Ryan Fyfe

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Chiang Mai Tailor - A Great Place to Start Your Search For High Quality at Low Prices

If you're going to be making a trip to Thailand, you probably already have in mind a few bargain of the century purchases you want to make while you're there, because let's face it, the Southeast Asian paradise is well known for our favorite goods at rock-bottom prices. And one of the common items that comes to mind is a nice fashionable suit.

Where you plan to travel will certainly figure the most in your purchasing decisions, but if you are going to make it up to the Northern mountain ranges, I highly suggest you hold off until then and buy a couple suits from a reputable Chiang Mai tailor.

Chiang Mai was once the cultural secret of Thailand, though how it ever stayed that way is a mystery since any local you talk to will tell you it is the number one place you have to see in Thailand. It's known to many as Thailand's cultural center, and though it is growing in popularity, it still lies off the beaten track.

While to most Thais, Chiang Mai is the epitome of everything the country stands for, to foreigners it is truly a shopper's paradise. The city came to be as a trading post where tribes from different regions of the mountain ranges came to sell their crafts and goods, and it maintains a reputation as a shopping mecca to this day.

With this history, Chiang Mai is also well known for very skilled craftsmen in about every kind of craft you can think of, and the great skills of the Chiang Mai tailor are no different. If you find the right shop, you will find some of the finest fabrics in the world at prices you could only find in Thailand and proud men who value their work like a Westerner can barely understand.

Take the time to stop in and get fitted, it is well worth it.

Not all Chiang Mai tailors are the same, however. One thing you will notice as soon as you step off the plane in Bangkok is that the country is over-flowing with tailors, just as with competitors in every industry. On Khao San Road, they swarm you in the street. "Suit, Sir? Suit, Sir?" the Indian men holler at every step, as if completely oblivious to the fact that you're wearing shorts and sandals while sporting a 3-day beard growth.

Things are a little mellower in the North, but you'll still find remnants of the same scene if you don't get off the tourist track. And you'll often find that if you buy a great-looking suit from these fly-by-night suit tailors who are just looking to make a quick buck that it will come apart within the first year if not within the first month.

But a Chiang Mai tailor worth their salt typically develops quite a following in the expat community, just like the tailors of old. Ask around. If you know some Thais who have the kind of money to wear suits, asking them for a referral is even better. Or, if you don't know where to start, get online and start Googling for some outside opinions.

The bottom line is do your research and unless you know suits well do not just walk in off the street. What if you don't have time to come to Thailand? You can still get high quality suits at rock bottom prices. Many Thai tailors develop such a loyal following in the expat community that word of their services drifts overseas to Europe, America, and Australia. So now, many make frequent trips abroad and visit cities to take measurements for groups of people.

All you have to do is let them know you want them to come to your city and how many people are interested, and they'll try to make arrangements for you. You may even get a free suit if you have enough people waiting when they get there.

Want to find out more about what constitutes a good Chiang Mai tailor? Do your research before you make your trip to Thailand or start looking into how you can get a solid professional tailor to come to your city and give you quality at a price the local businesses wouldn't dream of competing with. Go to http://www.ChiangMaiTailor.com to begin your search.

By James Druman

Moving to Thailand

Situated in the Southeast Asian region, Thailand boasts off its wonderful beaches that house an incredible marine life. Thailand is a great destination for retirement if you want to get away from the Western culture, because here you will experience total immersion of Thailand culture. Its climate is also one of the reasons why retirees would like to retire here, due to its likable sunny climate almost all year round; you will get to enjoy different types of outdoor activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling.

The people in Thailand are very friendly and warm, do not be afraid to converse with them because they would most likely try their best to understand and talk to you. English as a Second Language Teacher would be of a good profession for retirees if they plan to retire here. Due to Thailand's want of learning the English language, they are open for retirees to come to their land and teach them if possible. Retirees can be rest assured also of his safety because Thailand is known to be on of the safest place in the planet.

The cost of living in Thailand is low, so for retirees coming from the USA, Canada, and Europe their money will really go along way if they are to spend it in Thailand. It would be like living in luxury without spending a fortune. Thailand's healthcare is also outstanding, and private hospitals prioritize retirees and old people. Healthcare cost is also much lower compared to other modernized countries.

Thai cuisine is a definite must try! Their food is one of the most famed in the world for its savory, uniqueness and mouthwatering concoction of dishes. Thai food is renowned for its spiciness and this can be found in the streets, such as the name "street food". You might get the wrong impression that it might be dirty food, but it is actually not, especially when it is prepared in front of you. And there are varieties of fresh foods that you can pick from.

Applying for a residency visa is easy if you have all the needed documents stipulated by the Thai Embassy in the application form. The application may take sometime but the wait will be all worth it, because once you are legal to live in Thailand, you will get to relax, enjoy and live the life you have always wanted to live. Bask in the sun like, play in the sand, discover an entirely different place, and explore the country like real traveler. Thailand offers some of the most unforgettable experiences in the world, so better get prepared for this once in a lifetime adventure, read as much information as you can so that you will know what to expect.

Mitch Bowler is an avid traveler, having lived the majority of his adult life overseas exploring different cultures and learning about the best that each has to offer the expats who live there.

Visit http://www.retiring-overseas.com/moving-to-thailand.html for more information on living abroad.

By Mitch Bowler

Bangkok Travel - Fun Family Activities in Bangkok

As a family exploring in Bangkok, temples and historic sights may not excite the fun factor for kids and teens. Even though Bangkok is a fascinating city with much to see, it is much more than trudging along an itinerary with a boring tour guide. There are plenty of things to do for families in Bangkok. The best thing of all is that it is much more affordable compared to back home.

Bangkok (Dusit) Zoo

Located in the old district of Bangkok, the zoo encompasses a large compound with plenty of rooms for animals from all over the world to roam around. Reptiles and mammals are abound ready to intrigue young kids. The zoo teaches locals and visitors alike about conservation and the necessity of protecting and preserving the animals we share the planet we live on. Live shows are scheduled throughout the day and it's best to visit Bangkok Zoo during the weekday to avoid the crowds.

Siam Ocean World

Touted as Southeast Asia's largest indoor aquarium and they're right. This massive compound is located beneath an equally impressive Siam Paragon shopping mall. Siam Ocean World has on display fish of all sizes from all over the world as well as other animals that live in aquatic environments such as penguins and beavers. For a spine tingling experience take a walk through the enclosed aquarium to get face to face with man eating sharks.

Catch a Movie in Bangkok

Local Thais love movies. Especially American movies whether it is action, horror and especially movies for families. Most movie theaters in Bangkok are found in large department stores such as Central World and the Siam Paragon. The seats are big and plush. For extra you can get a sofa style couch that seats 4 for a home theater feel. Tickets and snacks are very affordable for foreigners. Be sure to bring a light sweater or jacket as the temperature inside is frigid.

Go Bowling and Ice Skating

For a competitive family winning a game of bowling can provide serious bragging rights. Bangkok's high quality bowling lanes will surprise most. You can even rent your own private room with 2 lanes. To cool off head over to an ice skating rink. You can find bowling and ice skating easily in central Bangkok in large shopping centers such as Central World and Siam Paragon. As usual these activities are inexpensive for tourist that are use to high prices back home.

Bangkok is a remarkable cosmopolitan city with an easy sophisticated transportation system. It is a very tourist friendly city with plenty of English signs pointing in the right directions. Bangkok is especially a great place for families to visit and explore an exotic location without breaking the bank.

For further information on traveling and where to stay in Bangkok for families visit Family Friendly Hotels in Bangkok.

Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who works and travels to Southeast Asia for over 9 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business ventures and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.

By Edwin M Clark

Monday, April 26, 2010

Khao San Road - A Backpacker's Guide to Southeast Asia's Launch Pad

Ask any traveler who has been to southeast Asia before and nine times out of ten that person would have stayed on Khao San Road. It's a glorious launching point for travel into one of the worlds most popular backpacking destinations. It can all seem incredibly daunting the first time you put that backpack on and step off the plane into the thick wet heat that bangkok so proudly possesses, but as soon as that first cold beer hits your lips and you realise you're a world away from anything you've known before, it all becomes worth it.

Khao San Road (KSR) is infamous in Bangkok. It's by no means the cheapest place to stay, nor the most beautiful, but if you want to stay in the heart of backpackers central, KSR if for you. The wide streets occupy bars, cheap hotels, clothes markets, travel agents and endless food stalls. You can expect to pay around $1 for a bowl of fresh noodles cooked in front of you or slightly less for a plate of sweet, sticky rice served with delicious mango. The taste buds are truly stimulated here in Bangkok, from the cheapest food stalls to high class hotel restaurants.

Most Hotels on KSR don't accept advanced booking and this can be pretty scary if it's your first time, but even though hotels fill up fast, you'll always find somewhere to stay. A typical air con single room will range from $10 - 30 per night, breakfast included, but if you're willing to brave the heat and opt for a fan room, the cost can get ridiculously cheap. KSR gets pretty lively at night, street entertainment comes out, loud music pumps into the street from the many clothes stalls around, and the healthy population of gap year students and budget travelers head to the wide array of bars that surround KSR. The nighttime buzz is truly memorable.

You're out there to have the time of your life, so keep it that way by following a few basic rules.

1) Keep your main cash and passport in the hotel safe, don't hide it under the mattress or on you in person.

2) Never travel alone at night. As safe as it might seem, stick with friends or a crowd of people you know. Opt for the taxi instead of late night walk. Act the same way you would back home.

3) Drink responsibly. Some of the Thai whiskey that is put into drinks can go down like fruit juice but is very strong. Take a careful note of what you've drank and how much and if needs be, carry a bottle of water with you.

But most of all, suck in the experience, Thailand is a beautiful country with amazing people and what a better gateway into that experience than by visiting Khao San Road

By Zack Mellors

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Excellent Thailand Travel Info For Your First Step in Thailand

If you want to travel to Southeast Asia, consider the journey to Thailand. Thailand is one of the best in Asia, and millions of tourists visit Thailand every year. This article contains information about travel to Thailand to anyone interested in this beautiful country.

The first time you visit. Favorite visit Thailand in November to March. It is not only the country is pleasantly warm, but this season festivals in Thailand. You have fun participating in the Loi Krathong celebrations and New Year

However, if it is expired, this period, or longer, until April 13 to 15 can be a bit more fun, a special water festival Songkran try in every country. Little trick that if you expect to enjoy Songkran Festival in Pattaya, it feels a bit "more Pattaya Songkran is only 17 to 19 April of each year.

This time is also a major tourist season in Thailand. Therefore, if you want crowds Rooms and Rates page, choose to avoid the month, at least for many people from April to June or September-October .

Although the rainy season is not a very pleasant time to visit the country, you should not dismiss this season entirely. The temperature is much cooler and tourists are fewer and the landscape is green and lush. The most important thing, there are great deals of accommodation and other services during this time.

Once in Thailand, many people go to Bangkok at the first exit, which is the main international airport on Suvanabhumi when people are in this country. Bangkok is a city should not be forgotten during the trip. You'll be amazed at the endless glory of the city. There are many shopping centers to meet business needs.

On the other hand, Bangkok is a place where tradition and modernity are mixed together. You can find a typical Siamese village, if you leave the hotel, is world class. You can buy famous brand shopping centers in the clouds, and the outdoor market. You can eat the popularity of Thai food, the elegant restaurant or a flea market.

Tension in the town alive. There are many centers that are open all night, when the foot if you can not sleep. You'll never be bored during your stay in Bangkok. I hope that the information about travel to Thailand to assist you in planning the first step in that country, and wish you a happy successful journey to Thailand .

For more information about Thailand, you can visit http://www.thailandguideblog.com.