Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Visit Charming Koh Lanta at Krabi & Phi Phi Island

Koh Lanta lies on the west coast of Andaman Sea in between Krabi and Phi Phi Island. Large Size Island with 6 km wide and over 30 kms long, 9 beaches lie from north to south along the sunset coast. Stunning scenery, fantastic white sandy beaches, coastlines have more than 70 small islands and plenty with forest, coral reefs and under water life. The geography of the islan d is typically mangroves; coral rimmed beaches; and rugged tree covered hills.







credit:lantalanta

Friday, October 24, 2008

Amazing 3 Transporation in Thailand

- A three wheeled bicycle ideal for short trips around town. We call "Samlor"


- A River Taxy - A very famous mode of transportation along the Chao Phraya River and inner canals, the long-tailed boat traveled on established routes along the river or in the intricate canal system within the city. Charge fare depending on distance. There are boat piers that stop near major commercial districts such as Sukhumvit and all the way to the World Trade Center. Long-tailed boats could be hired for special river tours.

- Train


Thailand has a very effective rail system linking Bangkok to provinces around the country. The main train station is the Hua Lampong station on Rama IV Road. Fares depend on ticker class, which comprises of first, second and third class carriages.

credit:sawadee

What's you want to buy in Thailand?

What's you want to buy in Thailand? I recommend for the following :

:: Clothing
We're one of the world's leading manufacturers of ready-to-wear clothing. Fashion boutiques are found in every shopping mall, while cheaper clothing such as T-shirts and jeans are available at bargain prices from street vendors. Custom tailoring is also very affordable and tailors can produce or copy most styles in just a few days.

:: Silk
Probably the most famous of all our kingdom's handicrafts, silk is available in a range of colours, patterns and plys, and is sold by the yard, or as ready-made clothing and souvenir items. A unique style of Thai silk is Mat Mee, a tie-dye silk traditional to the North-east. The best known outlet for Thai silk is undoubtedly Jim Thompson's shop at the top of Surawong Road in Bangkok.

:: Cotton & Batik
Our Thai cottons have become increasingly popular and are a good deal. Particularly notable are the hilltribe cottons woven by the tribal people of the North, typically displaying bold designs and often lavish embroidery. Equally distinctive are original batiks crafted at several studios in Bangkok.

:: Pewterware
Pewter is fashioned with great skill by Thai craftsmen, and the smooth, silky finish of this attractive alloy is enhanced by delicate relief decoration. Pewter ware items include plates, boxes, vases and pocket flasks.

:: Gems
Bangkok is the coloured gemstone capital of the world. Rubies and sapphires are indigenous stones, but virtually all coloured gems, as well as diamonds, are available. Shoppers should exercise caution and buy from reputable dealers only.

:: Antiques
Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Khmer antiques are excellent buys. There is an export ban on certain pieces, particularly Buddha images. Other pieces may require an export license, but any reputable dealer will be able to advise on restrictions and any necessary documentation.

:: Ceramics
Both traditional and contemporary styles of pottery are available throughout our kingdom. Best known are the distinctive sea-green celadons from the Sukothai area, and the central provinces' colourful Benjarong (five color) porcelain, which are unique to our country.

:: Nielloware
Practiced in the South for hundreds of years, nielloware is the craft of decorating gold and silver objects with delicate etched designs filled with a metal ware. Nielloware trays, boxes, vases and other items are some of our best buys.

:: Lacquer ware
A specialty of Chiang-Mai and the north, this craft involves coating split bamboo or wood with lacquer, then adding intricate hand-painted designs typically gold-on-black lacquer or yellow and green on a red brown background. Look out for lacquer ware bowls, boxes, trays and other items for decoration or for souvenirs.

:: Thai Orchids
We're famous for our huge variety of orchids and their magnificent colours and durable beauty make them a popular purchase. Specially packaged flowers, complete with water supply, are easily transported and can be conveniently purchased at Bangkok International Airport.

:: Furniture
Rattan and rosewood furniture items are available in many designs and styles and can also be made to order. Shops in Bangkok and Chiang Mai have a wide selection and can arrange shipment overseas.

:: Hilltribe Crafts
The tribal groups who live in the hills of the north make a variety of beautifully embroidered textiles and silver jewelry. Chiang Mai is the centre for such goods.

credit:sawadee

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Bridge on the River Kwai & Spectacular Waterfalls at Kanchanaburi

The Bridge on the River Kwai" put Kanchanaburi, a hitherto sleepy town 150 km west of Bangkok, on the world map.The bridge was publicized worldwide in the film starring moviedom's great names, ironically from the nationalities involved in the saga: American William Holden, British Sir Alec Guinness and Japanese Sessue Hayakawa. After the film hit the screens around the world, tourists started their exodus to Kanchanaburi to see the bridge.
River Kwai


Kanchanaburi is a prosperous province with endless sugar cane plantations covering her vast plain and rich mines in the bills. The rugged countryside, the wild jungles and mou
ntain rivers are still there. However, a road system has succeeded in making most areas accessible, which gives rise to a growing number of jungle resorts for nature-lovers.

15o Km. far from Bangkok on an excellent, scenic highway. The way to Kanchanaburi also leads pass the historic town of Nakorn Pathom with the world's highest Buddhist monument. Kanchanaburi city, itself a popular resort town, is on the bank of the picturesque Mae Klong River at the meeting point of its two tributaries - Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai rivers. The city also serves, as overnight base for tourists to visit the province's many attractions, beside that bridge on the River Kwai.

There are spectacular waterfalls, river cruises and jungle tours for the nature lovers. For the foot-loose travelers, there is the thrilling 200 km drive through newly opened jungle areas to the Thai Myanmar border to visit ethnic Mon and Karen settlements. For the sporting types, Kanchanaburi provides the best freshwater fishing grounds in remote jungle backwater and streams. For the outdoor type, rafting in the wild river. And, for the golfers, more than a score of 18-hole world standard courses in pastoral countryside.
Kanchanaburi












KanchanaburiThe jungle, the rugged terrain, and wild rivers now combine to make Kanchanaburi the most rewarding tourist destination for nature lovers and sportsmen. A large jungle area of the province has been declared national wildlife sanctuary, called Thungyai National Park, which remains the most pristine area in the whole country. The sanctuary was recently listed as a world natural heritage by the United Nations.
If one chooses to stay overnight out in the wild, there are the float bungalows on rafts moored off the River Kwai bank in remote jungle areas. A night on a float hotel is an unforgettable experience. By nightfall, hushed stillness settles over the jungle, with only occasional night bird calls.

Credit:Sawadee

Monday, October 13, 2008

Rule of Thai Boxing or Muay Thai

A 'Muay Thai' match formally have no more than 5 rounds, each round take 3 minutes to last, with a two-minute rest period in between. No additional rounds is allowed.
Boxers must regularly wear gloves, each weighing not less than 6 ounces (172 gramm).
The gloves must not be squeezed, kneaded or crushed to change its original shape.



Rules on contestants' boxing costumes.

Contestants must wear only trunks (red or blue according to their corners) appropriately fit
their bodies.
Contestants must wear standard supporters or sturdy athletic cups to protect their groin,
Gum shield may be used.
Wear no shirts nor shoes, but ankle cap is permitted.
A sacred cord known as Mongkol can be worn around the head only during the pre-fight
ritual of paying homage to ancestral teachers of Muay Thai, to be removed before the start
of the fight.
Metal or other equipments that will be harmful to the opponent is prohibited.

credit:sawadee

Rule of Thai Boxing or Muay Thai

A 'Muay Thai' match formally have no more than 5 rounds, each round take 3 minutes to last, with a two-minute rest period in between. No additional rounds is allowed.
Boxers must regularly wear gloves, each weighing not less than 6 ounces (172 gramm).
The gloves must not be squeezed, kneaded or crushed to change its original shape.



Rules on contestants' boxing costumes.

Contestants must wear only trunks (red or blue according to their corners) appropriately fit
their bodies.
Contestants must wear standard supporters or sturdy athletic cups to protect their groin,
Gum shield may be used.
Wear no shirts nor shoes, but ankle cap is permitted.
A sacred cord known as Mongkol can be worn around the head only during the pre-fight
ritual of paying homage to ancestral teachers of Muay Thai, to be removed before the start
of the fight.
Metal or other equipments that will be harmful to the opponent is prohibited.

credit:sawadee

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Phanom Rung Historical Park at A. Chalerm Prakiat

was a very important place of worship in the Lop Buri period. About 1,000 years old, it is situated atop a mountain 1,320 feet above sea level. The sanctuary is in Tambon Ta Pek. To get to the sanctuary, go along Highway No.24 and turn right at Ban Tako and continue on for 12 km. (There are motor-cycle taxi from Ban Toko to Prasat Phanom Rung, the Fare is about 170 Bath for return) on an asphalt road which can be driven on in any weather.
Phanom Rung Historical Park is on the rim of an extinct volcano; lava is still scattered around the top. On the opposite side of the crater is an air force Radar Station. In former times the crater was a natural Baray or reservoir. Phanom Rung is a Hindu Shrine of the Sivaite sect with Shiva as the ruling god; the monument has been in continuous use from the 9th to the 12th C.A.D.
Phanom Rung Historical ParkThe first thing the visitor will see is a fabulous staircase which has three platforms leading to the first pavilion and then there is a stone path which has small posts along its sides leading to the Naga bridge with late rite pavilions. At the end of the Naga bridge there are five platforms to the Temple. There is another terrace at the end of Naga bridge which leads to the inner space of the monument and there is another Naga bridge between the monument and the principal Prang. The principal Prang has the same kind of Mandapa as Prasat Phimai. Entering the Prang one will see the great Shiva god in nataraja (dancing) style. The top of the fronton and the lower part of the lintel consist of the well-known reclining Vishnu relief.

credit:sawadee

Pha Koeng in in Wat Chaiyaphum Phithak


is a mountain that has a rock jutting out to the road and an awesome scenery. It is one popular viewing spot of Chaiyaphum. The 14-foot : high Chaiyaphum Phithak Buddha image stands atop the mountain. It is part of Phu Lankha and has a considerably wide area. Pha Koeng is in Wat Chaiyaphum Phithak. It is 36 km. from Amphoe Muang on Highway No. 2159 (Chaiyaphum : Nong Bua Daeng).

Pha KoengPha Koeng

credit:sawadee

Pa Hin Ngam National Park

Pa Hin Ngam National Park
is a forest which has some strange rocks of many shapes scattered over the 200 rai area. Assorted small trees and orchids also cover the area. Some rocks are shaped like nails. While other are like the heads of Naga, a mythical serpent, and still others are like ancient castles. In the rainy season during June - July. The Krachiao flower which is a jungle flower pink and purple in color grows all over the ground, adding beautiful color grows all over the ground, adding beautiful color to the forest. In winter during December-January, yellow orchids and wild flowers appear from rock crevasses.

Large and small waterfalls abound here such as Thep Phana and Thep Prathan. A steep cliff 665 metres above sea level called Sut Phaen Din Khop Thi Rap Sung (the farthest point of the plateau) hPa Hin Ngam National Parkas lovely rock formations. The forest is in Tambon Ban Rai.

To get to the forest from Chaiyaphum, take Highway No.201 (Chaiyaphum-Si Khiu) to Nong Bua Khok intersection and turn right onto Highway No.205 past the town hall for 1 km. Then turn right at the police Kiosk for 29 km. And turn left for 14 km. To the forest. The distance from Amphoe Muang is 130 km.


credit:sawadee

Phimai Boat Races at Nakhon Ratchasima



These popular races take place on the Moon River near the old Khmer city of Phimai during the second week of November. Besides the regatta there will be competitions of boats decorated to resemble the famous Royal Barges, entertainments, and stalls selling local products.

credit:sawadee

Khao Tao Lacated in the south of Hua Hin





is 1 3 kilometers south of Hua Hin, and can be reached by the Hua Hin-Pranburi bus, disembarking at the Khao Tao intersection. Motorcycle services to Hat Khao Tao are also available. Next to the hill is two quiet beaches called Hat Sai Noi and Hat Sai Yai, which are the locations for some bungalows and fishing villages.

credit:sawadee

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park



This park is located 63 km south of Hua Hin. It occupies an area of 98 square kilometers with undulating ranges of limestone mountains, mangrove swamps, and beaches. It is also home to various kinds of local and migrating birds, which are plentiful from November to February.
With a large number of ridges, Khao Sam Roi Yot (or the mountain of 300 peaks) stands as a landmark for seamen and also provides a good shelter for ships during a storm.
To get to the park, follow the direction signs marking the remaining distances of 38 and 15 km. at Km. 256 and Km.286.5, respectively.





credit:sawadee

Have You Experience with Thai Massage?

Traditional Thai massage is a proven physical therapy that dates back to ancient India sometime before the lifetime of Buddha. It has been practiced here for centuries, and many swear by it as effective cure for common ailments such as aches and pains, fevers and nervous strains.

Traditional massage reached the peak of popularity in the early 18th century. King Rama III, great-grandfather of the present monarch, had all available knowledge on the subject gathered and inscribed on stone slabs. These now stand on a corner of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), along with stone figures of rishis demonstrating various massage postures. You can try this ancient therapy in its original form at the temple; masseuses trained at Wat Pho massage school offer their service seven days a week at very reasonable prices.

credit:sawadee

Khao Kheow Open Zoo


credit:sawadee

Dusit Zoo - The Largest Zoo in bangkok

Dusit Zoo was formerly a part of the Royal Dusit Garden Palace, called Khao Din Wana, which was set up by King Rama V as his private botanical garden. In 1938, the Royal Thai government under Field Marshal P. Pibunsongkhram, then prime minister, asked the King for the land to set up the zoo for the public. King Rama VIII granted the land and the government appointed the Bangkok Municipality to the build the zoo in March 1938. The zoo was turned over to the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand in 1954.
Roles of Dusit Zoo

1. Bring people in contact with animals for educational and recreational purposes.

2. Reasonability in the welfare, caring and breeding of animals to prevent extinction.

3. Ensure the animals' quarters are as comfortable as their natural habitat.

4. Produce a zoo environment which serves truly as place of recreation and relaxation.



Fast Facts

Location : Bangkok


Animals : 1598 lives
Size : 118 rai Mammals : 288 lives
Established : 1938 Reptiles : 292 lives
Visitors : 2,500,000/year Birds : 1018 lives
Hours : 9:00 - 18:00

Adult Fee : 30 Baht

Child Fee : 5 Baht



(At present, I suppose the fee have been change since it's not enough to buy food for all animal but it's a bit difference)
credit:sawadee