Udon Thani is a northeastern province covering an area of 15,589 square kilometres. The provincial capital is 562 kilometres northeast of Bangkok. Udon Thani is probably best known for its archaeological wonders, paramount among them the hamlet of theBan Chiang where the world's first Bronze Age civilisation is believed to have flourished more than 5,000 years ago

Attracrtions In Udon Thani
Prachak Silpakhom Lake
Known locally as Nong Prachak, this vast stretch of water is named after the founder of Udon Thani, and is decorated with colourful flowerring plants that lend the area much of its pleasant atmosphere.
Huai Luang Reservoir
This scenic spot, 25 kilometres from the provincial capital along the Udon Thani-Nong Bua Lam Phu route unit km. 15, and a further 10 kilometres by road, is ideal for fishing, rafting and cruising .

Na Yoong Nam Som Forest Park

Located some 100 kilometres northwest of the provincial capital, beyond Phu Phar Bat Historical Park, in Amphoe Nam Som, this park is best known for the 40-metre high Yung Thong Waterfall which cascades down a steep cliff in verdant surrounding from the Phu-Pan and Phu Ya U ridges.
Historical sites & Museums
Ban Chiang National Museum  Ban Chiang

   Located some 56 kilometres east of the provincial capital along Highway No. 22 (until Km. 50 and then along Highway No. 2225), this museum is currently open to the general public every day. Ancient artifacts, including tools, utensils, pottery and jewellery, between 4000 and 7000 years old, were unearthed in the immedite vicinity. the distinctive pottery, with its fingerprint whorl decorations, is belived to be the world's oldest decorative earthenware. Nearby burial pit, left as they were after excavation, in the compound of Wat Po Si Nai, show how valuables, including earthenwere pots, were buried with the dead. Evidence of primitive bronze casting technology was discovered in the aera, and in 1992 Ban Chiang was decalred a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
Phra Buddha Bat Bua Bok
Phra Buddha Bat Bua Bok    This stupa, local point of of the historical park, and probably constructed during the 1920s, shelters a Buddha footprint (Phra Buddha Bat in Thai), not far from the shrine many interesing caves and rock formation. The cave are belived to have been the homes of Stone Age human being who left 3,000-year-old rock paintings of hands, human, animals and geometric designs. 

Prince Prachak Silpakhom Statue
   This monument in the heart of the city commemorates the military governor who founded Udon Thani in 1894 as part of what was then referred 'The Northeast Province'.
Pu-ya Shrine
   As the chinese God and Goddess of Mercy, Pu-yu Shrine revered by poor people and those encountering personal problems, believing they will be grandted favours they seek, Two lakeside is located near the railway on the east of the provincial capital. Out-of-city Attraction

Wat Pa Ban Tad
   This forest monastery is located 16 kilometres south of the provincial capital via highway No. 2 towards khon kaen for 7 kilometres and a rigth trun at the Ban Dong Khen crossroads for a further 9 kilometres. the complex is situated on a densely wooded hilly area surrounded by rice paddise. the monastery precincts are defined by a concrete wall which prevent easy encroachment by abundant forest wildlife. The monastery is ideal for meditation and contemplation. The monastery is under the strict guidance of a disciple of Phra Acharn Man Phurithatto, a widely respected northeastern Buddhist ecclesiastic.
Phu Phra Bat Historical Park

   Located some 68 kilometers northwest of the provincial capital, in Amphoe Ban Phu, via Highway no. 2021 and 2348, this extensive area lies at the Phu-Pan mountain range and contains caves, natural rock formations, rock terraces and has an 'other-worldly' atmosphere that hints at ancient civilisations.

Read More

Hua Hin - Asara Villa & Suite Hua Hin, the five-star Asian contemporary beachfront hotel in Hua Hin, pleases fans of jazz music with ‘Asara: In the Mood for Jazz’ package that lets jazz devotees relish the groovy performances at Hua Hin Jazz Festival 2008 and relish the relaxing ambience of Asara Villa & Suite Hua Hin for three days and two nights. The package is offered only for the period of June 13-15 at the starting price of Bt14,000++ for two persons.

          Package includes:
          Two-night stay at Holiday Suite
          Special! Free upgrade to Deluxe Suite for stay of three nights or more
          Welcome drink and chilled towel upon arrival
          Daily seasonal tropical fruit in your room
          Daily complimentary breakfast at Kampu by Design for two persons
          Complimentary gift voucher of Bt1,500 for spa treatment or food and beverages
          20% discount for spa treatment at Asara Spa
          10% discount for food and beverages at Asara’s three signature restaurants – Kampu by Design, Kampu by Choice, and Asara Thai Bistro (except alcoholic beverages)
          Free round-trip transfer to the Jazz Festival on June 13-14
          Daily complimentary afternoon tea with snack at The Library for two persons
          Free access to the Gym
          Free Wi-Fi Internet connection
          ***Upgrade to One-bedroom Pool Villa supplement at the price of Bt4,500 per villa/package***
          For reservation and queries, please contact number 
          +66 (0) 2661 6800 Ext. 301-307 or 
          +66 (0) 3254 7555, email: jan@asaravillaandsuite.com, or visit www.asaravillaandsuite.com. 
          ASARA VILLA & SUITE - SURROUND YOUSELF IN PLEASURE
          PRESS CONTACTS:
          Asara Villa & Suite Hua Hin JWT Public Relations
          Bangkok - Papan Jittranusit
          Senior Marketing & PR Executive 
          T: 0-2661-6800 #205, 086-577-2778
          Hua Hin - T: 032-547-555
          www.asaravillaandsuite.com Porntip Wiriyakitpattana
          T: 0-2204-8210, 086-813-1981
          Prasit Kritsadaariyachon
          T: 0-2204-8216, 081-586-2813
Source From http://www.thaipr.net

Read More

WITH the two coastlines stretching for hundreds of miles and some of the finest beaches to be found anywhere in Southeast Asia Thailand has become a major travel destination for lovers of all kinds of water sports. A number of excellent resorts offer a full range of equipment at reasonable rates for anyone who wants to spend a holiday exploring the pleasures of deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, water skiing , parasailine, scuba diving, or swimming in crystal-clear waters.
The earliest water-sport centre and still one of the most popular is Pattaya on the Gulf of Thailand. just two hours' drive from Bangkok which has a wide variety of ccommodations to meet almost any traveling budget. The main beach is located on a scenic bay. but facilities are available down the coastline for some 30 miles and there are also more than 30 picturesque off-shore islands with a wealth of coral and many types of tropical fish.

The best known centre for deep-sea fishing in the Pattaya area is Bang Saray from which it is possible to charter boats and go in search of marlin king mackerel, sharks and barracuda.
Scuha divers can organize daily trips from the resort to the off-shore islands of Ko Lan Ko Sak and Ko Krok all of which take only 45 minutes to reach; interesting coral formations and colorful fish are visible for up to 30 metres depending on the season in warm waters ranging in depth from 3 to 25 metres.
Many of Pattaya's diving schools have personnel trained by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) or by the National Association of Underwater Instructors (PADI), plus all kinds of equipment for hire. Among the languages spoken in these schools are English, German, Dutch, French and Japanese .
The other major water-sport centre is the southern island of Phuket on the Andaman Sea. Here on the west coast there are more than 14 magnificent white-sand beaches, all with warm clear waters as well as a Large number of nearby islands that hosts diving conditions to rival the best in the world. Most of the beaches have equipment for diving windsurfing, and other sports for rent.
The majority of diving destinations close to Phuket are located in Phang Nga Bay east of the island. The spectacular Phi Phi Islands near Phuket are also popular sites. True enthusiasts also hire larger boats excursions to the largely uninhabited Similan Islands. 80 kilometres northwest of Phuket. which has clear waters similar to those found in the Maldives. the Caribbean and the Great Barrier Reef of Australlia.
Contact TAT for a list of selected diving metres and schools.

Read More

  Synopsis
Thailand Tourism Festival 2008 aims to promote tourism in Thailand as well as to show the uniqueness of Thai arts, culture and tradition. The event consists of exhibitions, sales booths, activities and performances to reach out to every group of potential tourists.
Principle
Promoting the tourism industry in Thailand is an important mission for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) especially that of encouraging Thai people to travel domestically.
TAT puts an emphasis on domestic projects in order to achieve the balance in tourism in two dimensions. First, the societal dimension focusing on preservation of the environment and culture in travel destinations. Second, the economic dimension focusing on distributing tourism industry income to other parts of the country and creating money supply within the country.

In order to achieve this goal, TAT organizes the Thailand Tourism Festival 2007, which is another project our organization has been intent on supporting. Its aim is to express the cultures and traditions of each region, stimulate domestic tourism and present the progress of Thai tourism industry in the forms of various travel activities which are scenic and attractive. In addition, the festival brings together quality tourism products and services, which would inspire visitors to travel to these travel destinations.

Objectives
1. To show the unique culture and traditions of Thailand, to instill pride in the nation and to encourage tourism, a vital part of life and learning.
2. To show the potential of tourism in Thailand which is has always been progressing and has now reached an international standard.
3. To promote as well as increase tourist destinations in a larger circle, to reach both big and small cities. To encourage more money supply in the economic system and distribute income to every region.
4. To encourage the tourism industry to share their knowledge and create an understanding of the impact of tourism on Thailand, as well as to promote TAT’s campaigns and programs.

Target Groups
Every group of tourists, as well as government and private sectors.

Concept and Form of Event
This festival focuses on shows depicting Thai culture, traditions and uniqueness which demonstrate the progress of tourism in Thailand. This event includes products and services associated with tourism and also a variety of tourism activities such as Cultural and Community Life Tourism, Ecotourism, Adventure Tourism, Health Tourism and Tourism Along His Majesty The King’s Teachings. There is also a main stage for cultural performances from each region and from neighboring countries as well as exhibitions from the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s projects and associated government projects and an academic talk on tourism.
The venue is divided into:
1. Booths for tourism-related business owners and SMEs as well as government sectors and organizations associated to tourism. Products and services, travel agents, airlines, hotels, resorts, arts and crafts from everywhere in the country can also be found here as well.
2. TAT’s section for tourism activities
Cultural and Community Life Tourism divides its space into 3 parts:
- “Culture and Lifestyle In The Golden Land” comprising of exhibitions and folk lifestyles on show.
- “A Thousand and One Things Thai” comprising of products from each community which reflects their culture and lifestyle.
- “Markets of the 4 Regions” is a mock-up of Thai markets and floating markets
Adventure Tourism: Adventurous activities in Thailand on show
Ecotourism: Demonstrations and activities to show that ecotourism can help reduce greenhouse gases and preserve nature comprising of:
- Mock-ups of ecotourism destinations such as forests, waterfalls and rivers with the use of technology and multimedia.
- Award-winning business owners’ environmental projects.
Health Tourism with activities such as:
- Six Sense: Demonstrations of Thai massages in various styles
- Health Check-up: Offers check-up services from hospitals and modern treatments
- Wellness Package Promotion: Health tourism from the 4 regions
Products and Services: Demonstrations of products and services from award-winning communities
Crafts and Souvenirs: See and enjoy shopping for the best arts and crafts and also join in activities such as:
- Auction for award-winning crafts from all over Thailand
- An exhibition of the details of crafts and where they were made
- Crafts games and prizes
Tourism Seminar led by experienced speakers from TAT’s marketing division and famous lecturers with a variety of interesting topics.
Activities on the Main Stage
- A spectacular cultural parade from every region every day throughout the event from 10 am to 9 pm such as dances from the College of Dramatic Arts in every
region (13 schools in all), dances from China,Vietnam, Myanmar, fashion shows and games
- Thai classical mask performances
Exhibitions on a variety of topics
- An exhibition of old photographs depicting the history of TAT and TAT in each campaign in the past
- “48 Best Travel Destinations in Thailand” Exhibition
- “Travel the Thai Way: Reduce Global Warming” Exhibition
- Screenings of Thai travel films from every province, all day every day throughout the event
Communication Technology for Tourism
- Using online media to promote tourism
- Encourage online community participation to develop tourism in Thailand

Time and Venue
5-8 June 2007, Challenger Hall, Impact, Muangthong Thani

Organization Responsible
North Eastern Region Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand

Results
1. A money supply of more than 100 million baht in the festival.
2. A money supply of more than 150 million baht in the economic system, both directly and indirectly due to this festival.
3. At least 150,000 people participating at the festival
4. At least 250 business owners in Thailand, tourism-related businesses, clubs, associations and government organizations participating in the festival.

Read More

  Muay Thai or Thai Kick Boxing is a world famous martial art. It is considered by many to be the most violent and exciting sports. The Muay Thai boxer wears gloves and shorts, usually in red and blue, as international boxers do with additional armbands and a headband, which has been blessed by his teacher.
Compared with international boxing, Muay Thai has a distinctive feature. In Thai boxing, each part of the body such as fists, feet, knees, and elbows is allowed to be used as a weapon to overcome the competitor. Moreover, its combination of dancing and fighting is unique in style.

Before the match begins, each competitor will perform a dance, or what they call “Wai Kru”, accompanied by traditional Thai music. Reasons for doing the performance are to pay homage to gods and holy spirits for protecting, as well as to pay respect to their instructors and opponent. A bout of Thai boxing consists of 5 rounds, which lasts a total of 23 minutes. It takes 3 minutes to fight a round with a 2 minutes break between rounds.
Thai boxing is popular among Thais and foreigners, so the boxing stadiums, which are all over the country, are always crowded. The most well known stadiums, Lumpini and Ratchadamnoen, are in Bangkok. Similarly, Muay Thai training camps are also available throughout the country, especially in tourist-attracting cities like Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. Fees for training at a camp varies from $ 10-45 per day. For those who are interested in viewing Thai boxing at the stadium, generally prices are varied from 500-2,000 baht depending on the positions. The followings are some of the well-known training schools and stadiums:

 

 

Training schools:

• OneSongchai Institute of Muaythai, Bangkok, tel. +66 (0) 22618-5314 to 6
• Muay Thai Academy, Bangkok, tel. +66 (0) 2682-8469
• The Muay Thai Institute, Pathum Thani Province, tel. +66 (0) 2992-0096 to 9
• Pattaya International Muay Thai Training School, Pattaya, Chonburi, tel. +66 (0)   3841-0111
• Sityodthong/Payakarun Boxing Camp, Pattaya, Chonburi, tel. +66 (0) 3824-9018

Boxing Stadiums:

Lumpini Stadium:
Rama IV Road, Bangkok, tel. +66 (0) 2252-8765, 2251-430
Fight Times:
- Tuesdays and Fridays from 6.30 p.m.
- Saturday afternoons from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
- Saturday nights from 8.30 p.m.

Ratchadamnoen Stadium:

Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, tel. +66 (0) 2281-4205, 2280-1684 to 6
Fight Times:
- Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 6.30 p.m.
- Sundays from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
- Sundays from 8.30 p.m.-12.00 p.m.
Bangkok Boxing Stadium, Huaykwang, Bangkok,
tel. +66 (0) 22618-5314 to 6

Fight Times:
- Saturdays from 2 p.m.- 6 p.m.
Channel 7 Stadium, Bangkok, tel. +66 (0) 2272-0201
Rangsit Stadium, Pathum Thani, tel. +66 (0) 2992-0099
Samrong Stadium, Samut Prakan, tel. +66 (0) 2393-3592
Omnoi Stadium, Samut Sakhon, tel. +66 (0) 2420-4317
International Stadium, Chachoengsao, tel. +66 (0) 3882-1746 to 50
Patong Thai Boxing Stadium, Phuket, tel. +66 (0) 7634-5578
Source from www.thaiwaysmagazine.com

Read More

Khaosan Road of Banglamphu district is the world-renown backpacker's hub, where backpackers and those on low budgets from all over the world have found a rendezvous. With over 100 guesthouses and ideal central location, this area has become the starting point for travelling to other Southeast Asian destinations like Cambodia or Laos.

It is a bustling shopping area, popular among Thais and foreign tourists alike. Besides budget guesthouses and a great number of inexpensive restaurants and food stalls in this area, there are plenty of shops and stalls selling clothing, shoes and handbags, cosmetics, souvenirs, etc. at attractive prices. It is a centre of silver jewellery where silver ornaments are available in a large number and variety.

It is also an ideal place to enjoy nightlife which attracts an increasing number of Thai youngsters to frequent the restaurants, pubs and bars in the area.
As tour operators are abundant on Khaosan Road, here is a good place to purchase competitively priced air tickets and tour packages.
Another reason that makes this area a good location to stay in is its closeness to various attractions of old Bangkok such as the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, Wat Mahathat and the National Museum. It is also close to the river bank where you can catch a Chao Phraya River express boat or a ferry across the river at one of its several landings.
source from http://www.thaiwaysmagazine.com

Read More

Date 2 Apr 2008 - 4 Apr 2008
Place Prasat Phanom Rung,  Burirum ProvinceA splash of sunlight penetrating an ancient temple cloister signals a distinctive celebration at Prasat Phanom Rung.
Knowing the exact moment to witness a spectacular sunrise through the doorway of an ancient Hindu temple requires a detailed calculation.
The most auspicious day is 3 April; the time, 0602.32 at sunrise, as the amber sun is perfectly aligned in the centre of the main doorway to a temple standing on a former volcanic mountain in northeast Thailand.

Actually, the sun rays pass straight through 15  perfectly aligned doorways of Prasat Phanom Rung, a revered and ancient Hindu monastery, just four times a year -– two  sets of sunrises, in April and September, and two sets of sunsets, in March and October.

 
These spectacular solar-related events, that also bear religious significance in the Hindu faithful, span just three days –- 2, 3 and 4 April. The second day is considered the most auspicious as the sun is visible dead centre of the outer doorway of this Khmer Hindu temple. Sun rays cast light through 15 aligned doorways that span 75 metres of the temple’s inner courtyard illuminating a revered lingam deep in the main sanctuary. On the other two days, the sun passes one of the corners of these doorways.

Located about 120 km east of Nakhon Ratchasima, the gateway to the northeast region, Prasat Phanom Rung presents a picturesque setting high above the surrounding countryside. A series of steps lead to this ancient monument that stands on the peak of an extinct volcano offering panoramic views of rice fields and hazy mountains on the border with Cambodia.

While photographers will not want to miss the opportunity to capture the  3 April sunrise perfectly aligned within the lintels of the doorways, most visitors will settle for the evening festivals and a colourful light and sound show organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand performing nightly from 2 to 4 April.

Officially known as the  “Ascent of the Mountain Annual Festival” or the “Festival Of The Thousand Year Miracle of the Phanom Rung Grand Shrine” the celebrations start with the religious significance of the sunrises, but continue with community festivities on each of the three days, well into the night.

The 80-minute light and sound show, that start at 20:00, highlights the history of Prasat Phanom Rung and explains the significance of the sunrise and its alignment with the temple’s courtyard doors.
The show is described as an “extravagant outdoor Son et Lumiere performances led by a large cast of actors, dancers and acrobats.”
This evening spectacular, held within the temple complex, compliments the daytime activities that start with the sunrise ceremonies and are followed by colourful festivities throughout the day. In the afternoon there is almost a carnival spirit as visitors enjoy the local food specialities sold at stalls, the folk music and dances as well as handicraft displays.  Many visitors are tempted to stay on to admire the floodlight sanctuary, or slumber through night under the stars to ensure they have a prime spot to participate in the sunrise ceremonies on the following morning.
source from www.tourismthailand.org

Read More

Songkran is a special time of the year in Chiangmai and one of the nicest parts of this festive holiday is the pouring of water. Traditionally, younger people pay respect to their elders by pouring water from silver bowls on the hands of older persons. This ceremony is known as "Rod Nahm Dum Hua." After the family pays respect the elders ask the younger ones to forgive them for speaking harshly during the past year and the elders give them a blessing and words of wisdom. This is much different from the fun-loving water throwing we see around Chiangmai at Songkran, and it is often accompanied by the tying of strings around the person's wrists. This activity is done in the home while the more vigorous water throwing is done outside.

Meanwhile, in the streets of Chiangmai throngs of people love to stand in rows, waiting with buckets and hoses to douse everyone going by. Whether you're on a motorbike or a bicycle, in a car or a truck or just walking, you cannot escape the fun of Songkran. The Chiangmai people always seem to find a way to make sure you have as much fun as they do.

 

Water throwing is one of the most humorous and enjoyable parts of the Songkran festival. It can happen anywhere, and while you're here during Songkran you can enjoy it as much as everyone else. If you're coming into Chiangmai by train you might want to dress appropriately; that is, you might want to dress for fun. The passenger, sitting comfortably in a railway car, can receive an accidental splash through the window from the frolicking festivities outside.     

    While all of this is going, on, lest we forget the moving water vehicles, be prepared for pickup trucks filled with splashers going by at every corner. This crowd tends to over do it and they don't quite seem to understand the concept of gravity ! That water can be very heavy coming down from above.

All of this is loads of fun, and as the Thais say, "It's Sanook-Dee", but there are cautions involved and one should be aware that accidents do happen during the Songkran Festival. Be aware, be smart, and have fun.

Source from http://www.chiangmai-chiangrai.com

Read More

Bangkok is without doubt one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Asia. It is a bustling, modern metropolis, a paradise for shoppers and a favourite destination for nighttime revelers, yet Bangkok still manages to retain its historic and cultural heart Bangkok, or Krung Thep as it is known to locals, is all things to all people. It offers great, shopping in the form of mega malls, trendy boutiques or traditional local markets tucked away down side streets. Bangkok is also known for it superb nightlife, risqué and otherwise, and is home to a host of great clubs, bars and live music venues, not forgetting hundreds of fantastic restaurants. Beneath the brash modern exterior and traffic-clogged streets lie pockets of calm and tranquility that reveal the more spiritual side of Thai people.

Bangkok has some truly wonderful temples and cultural sites. The city is a magnet for people from all over Thailand and at heart is still very much a series of communities - both safe and friendly. Much of the nightmarish pollution of the past has now been greatly improved. With the advent of the sky train and the underground the inner-city area is now a breeze to navigate. Bangkok is a city of many charms and even those who are not easily seduced end up falling for the Big Mango.

Attractions

Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace sit in a huge compound on Na Phra Lan Road and consist of several buildings that display all the splendour and colour of classic Thai architecture. Wat Phra Kaew is also commonly known in English as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and displays the greatly revered jade Buddha image.

Wat Pho is arguably the most impressive temple in Bangkok and is situated just across the road from the Grand Palace. It is thought to be one of the city’s oldest temples, dating back to the 16^th century, and houses a massive reclining Buddha covered with gold leaf. The image is 46 metres long and 15 metres high and the posture is that of Buddha passing on to nirvana. The soles of the feet are beautifully decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay. The temple is also famous for its massage school.

Wat Arun or the Temple of the Golden Dawn is situated on the banks of the Chao Praya River and can be reached by boat. The 79 metre pagoda is decorated with fragments of porcelain plates and bowls. The temple is particularly beautiful at sunset or when viewed from the deck of an evening river cruise boat.

Chatuchak Weekend Market is simply huge and has over 8,000 stalls selling everything imaginable. The market is immensely popular with local people and is visited by up to 200,000 people every weekend, all in search of a bargain. Goods from all over Thailand are sold here and usually at better prices than found elsewhere. Chatuchak Market is easily reached by the underground train. Visitors should alight at Chatuchak Park or Kamphaeng Phet stations.

An excellent new night market in central Bangkok is Suan Lum Night Bazaar, close to Lumpini Park. The market sells a wide variety of goods and also has many restaurants and beer gardens.

Pak Khlong Talat is one of Thailand’s largest wholesale markets and a hive of activity in the early morning. This colourful market sells mainly fruits, vegetables and cut flowers and is a great spot to take photographs and observe a unique part of Bangkok life.

Bangkok’s China Town is a crowded and vibrant area spanning Yaowarat and Chareon Krung Road. Chinese traders settled on the site over 200 years ago. Today, China Town is known for selling a wide variety of cheap goods and its network of small side streets and markets are fun to explore. The Chinese food in the area is particularly good and varied. The Indian district of Phahurat is also close-by.

Jim Thompson's House is the stunningly beautiful former home of the late American silk trader. The house, which is now a museum, consists of several traditional teak houses brought together to make one splendid home. The rooms display the wide range of objects collected during his lifetime.

The Erawan Shrine is located on the corner of Ratchadamri Road and Ploenchit Road, next to the Grand Hyatt. The shrine is a colourful spot to see Thai people make offerings and asking for blessings. The large spirit house here is decorated with yellow flowers and small wooden elephants. Classical Thai dance performances also take place here as a merit-making gesture.

Activities and events

An excellent way to spend a day or evening is a cruise down the Chao Phraya River. The trip gives visitors an entirely different perspective of Bangkok. Rice barges converted in restaurants also offer evening dinner cruises down the river.

A day trip down the Chao Phraya River to the small island of Ko Kred makes an interesting excursion. The island is home to a Mon community who were originally potters from Myanmar. Some of the locals on the island still make pottery today and there is a very nice museum displaying old work. Bicycles can also be hired for a ride around the island.

Fans of Thai boxing can see bouts almost every night of the week at either Lumpini Stadium or Ratchadamnoen Stadium.

The Ploughing Ceremony is held every May at Sanam Luang, an open expanse of ground near the Grand Palace. The exact time for the ceremony is selected by fortune tellers and the colourful and historic event is thought to bring good fortune for the coming harvest.

Time to visit

Bangkok is a year-round destination. It is worth noting that during the Chinese New Year in February and the Thai New Year in April many businesses in the city close and there is a mass exodus to the provinces.

Source From www.thailandwonders.com

Read More

Date : 8 - 9  March, 2008
Venue : Rama VI camp, Cha - Am , Phetchaburi
Hi-light :
1. Thai Kites form 4 Regions, Kites from Rattanakosin Era
2. Chula and Pak - Pao Kites competition, The World Largest Chula Kite Show
3. Fast Kite Flying and exhibition workshop International Kite Show
4. Kite Show from more 16 countries with Giant 3D flying : Maple Kite train, Sexy
    Legs Kite, Giant Gecko Kite, Giant Octopus Kite, Free Willy Whale Kite, Smiling 
    Sun Kite, Teddy Bear Kite, Mermaid Kite, Banner Art Kite etc.
5. Night Kite Show

6. Stunt Kite Show, Activities and Workshop
7. THEOS Satellite Kite, Tetrahedron Kite Show, Science for Kids Activities by 
    Geo - Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency 
    (public Organization) (GISTDA)
8. Kite Stall Contest, Arts Activities, Kite Workshop, etc.
9. Parachuting Show
10. Remote-controlled Small Airplane show
11. Balloon Show
12. Visit the summer seaside palace of H.M. the King Rama VI
13. OTOP Fair, Food Fair
14. Safe Energy Global Warming Caravan

Programs
Friday 7 th March, 2008
16.00 - 17.00 hrs.  Kite Show for Press
Sunday 9 th March, 2008
10.00 - 11.00 hrs.  Parachuting Show
11.00 - 18.30 hrs.  International Kite Show, Stunt Kite Show with Music, Fast Kite Show, Thai Kite Show and Chula, Pak - Pao Show,Activities by Geo - I nformatics and SpaceTechnology Development Agency (GISTDA),Exhibition etc.
18.30 - 20.30 hrs.  Night Kite Show, Balloon Show
For any Further information :
TAT (Head Office) Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext. 3477
TAT Central Region 2 (Cha AM) Tel. 0 3247 1005 - 6
TAT Call Center : 1672
E - Mail : eprodiv@tat,or.th
www.tourismthailand.org  

Read More

Thailand's highly popular King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament returns to the hills in 2008. Event organiser Anantara Resorts announced that the 2008 tournament would take place from March 31 to April 6 in the northern-most region of the country known as the Golden Triangle.
This popular event, ranked as the 6th largest event on the Thai tourism calendar had taken place in the royal seaside town of Hua Hin for 5 years before moving to the natural home of elephants in 2006. The tournament was introduced to Thailand in 2001 and is a charitable event that raises money for the country's National Elephant Institute in Lampang, northern Thailand.

In just six years the King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament has gone from a small 2-day event with 6 teams into a week-long extravaganza, which in 2006 featured 12 teams from 3 continents encompassing 36 players from 15 countries.
Hosting the event in the far North ensures that the international spotlight is focused onto a very unique and special part of Thailand, showcasing the beauty of the natural landscape of the Golden Triangle region. Through its own Elephant Camp located within the grounds of the Anantara Resort Golden Triangle, the property's focus on the future of Thailand's pachyderm population which forms an integral part of the resort's experience offering. On an on-going basis, resident nature ranger, John Roberts, works closely with the Thai government's Elephant Conservation Centre in Lampang to develop Anantara's camp as an elephant sanctuary.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand supports the King's Cup Elephant Polo tournament and spectator entrance is free of charge.
To date the tournament has raised over US$140,000 for the National Elephant Institute, which provides medical care, sustenance, employment, welfare and mahout training to Thailand's elephant population. It is estimated that Thailand has around 2500 domesticated elephants and 1500 wild elephants. This is down from an elephant population of around 50,000 in 1950 and 100,000 in 1900.
The 2006 tournament featured the return of DHL Global Mail, led by Tom Claytor, a bush pilot who loves to play elephant polo, Margie McDougal, the most experienced female player in the world, Torquhil Ian Campbell, 13th Duke of Argyll, an experienced captain from ThisistheLife.com Scotland, All Blacks team headed by Justin Sampson (Sambo), Bernie Fraser, New Zealand's former world-ranking rugby player. The ultimate winners of the tournament were the ThisistheLife.com team - in what came to be a very close sudden-death shoot-out.
Anantara Resort Golden Triangle is located 60km north of Chiang Rai's international airport.
For enquiries and reservations, please call + 66 (0) 5378 4084 or + 66 (0) 2 477 0760 or email: infogt@anantara.com For more information, visit www.anantara.com
For all media enquiries, please contact:
Marion Walsh - Brand Director of Public Relations
Tel: + 66 (0) 2 725 6104
Email: mwalsh@anantara.com
Additional images are available upon request.
Source from www.thailandgrandfestival.com

Read More

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has announced that it will start commercial flights, for the first time, to the popular southern resort island of Samui.

THAI’s Boeing 737-400 aircraft, capable of carrying 149 passengers (12 on Royal Silk Class / 137 on Economy Class) commenced the twice daily service on 15 February, 2008. The schedule is as follows.

 Flight          Destination           Departure Time         Arrival Time
TG285        Bangkok – Samui           07:45                      08:55
TG286        Samui - Bangkok            09:35                     10:45 
TG287        Bangkok – Samui           16:00                      17:10 
TG288        Samui - Bangkok            17:50                     19:00

According to Mr. Pandit Chanapai, THAI’s Executive Vice President, Commercial Department, said the new route supports the Thai government’s policy to promote inbound and domestic tourism, particularly to the southern and outer island resorts. THAI expects up to 70 percent of passengers into Samui on its flights to be from overseas. It fits with our policy of “First Flight, Full Flight, Every Flight.

“This is a breakthrough for THAI. Samui is a premier destination. We aim to make the route very competitive by marketing it to tourists from major European cities currently served by THAI connecting through Suvanarbhumi Airport. In addition, THAI’s policy is to expand its network and connections in order to provide seamless travel and convenience for its passengers,” Mr Chanapai said.

Special Royal Orchid Holidays [ROH] packages, including a wide range of packages and products, will be offered to travelers. These include selection of twenty hotels in Samui and two hotels in Pha Ngan plus 11 optional tours to the popular Ang Thong Marine National Park and Koh Tao.

Read More

Within the temple area is Nakorn Tham, lite ally "the Land of Dhamma", founded in 1962 by Phra Rajthamjetiyacharn. It can be described as a centre of technology in the service of Buddhist studies, and it contains films detailing the history of Buddhism, Internet facilities, a high-tech library, a meeting room and a canteen.

Meditation Cave: This is man-made, modelled after the natural caves found in Thailand's forests and mountains. This forms an appropriate setting for he teaching of meditation.
Chedi: Phra Viriyamongkonmahachedi, is the tallest stupa in Thailand, 14 storeys high, and relics of the Lord Buddha brought from Bangladesh are kept there. It is a replica of Bodhgaya in India, and ornamented with diamonds. The nine-tier golden parasol at the top of the stupa is decorated with Thai motifs and 1,063 diamonds. The top of the parasol is made from 17 kg. of gold.

In the chedi are nuseums, libraries, and meditation rooms.
Buddhamongkolthamsrithai Pavilion: A three-storey glass structure whose third floor houses Phra Buddhamongkolthamsrithai and statue of the goddess Guanyin pictured above. The figure was sculpted by Paolo Viaggii from a massive jade boulder found in Canada. Address :
132 Punna 6 Lane Sukhumvit 101 Road Bangchak Sub-District Phrakanong District Bangkok 10260
Telephone: (662) 332-8226 7413552
Facimile: (662) 3113994 E-mail, Web site: www.thai@vision.com
Bus: 2 23 25 38 46 48 116 132
Air-con Bus: 502 507 508 511 513 Mb 6
Opening Hours: Temple: Daily 8 am-6 pm
Ubosot: Buddhist Sermon Day 12 am-3 pm
Wihan: Daily 8 am-6 pm Admission Fee: Free Admission
Activity, Festival: 10,000-Nun Initiation Ceremony (Jan 7-10)
Wat Thammongkon's Job Training Centre Will Power Institute
Will Power Meditation Course:

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 6 am-8:30 pm Course in Community Development:
Closed: Sat Sun 9 am-5 pm
Buddhist Sermon Day: Sermon
If you have any suggestions please let us know, by sending comments to info@bangkoktourist.com
Source from http://www.bangkoktourist.com

Read More

Now in its third year the Phuket International Blues Festival gets underway, 22 to 23 February, at the beachside Hilton Phuket Arcadia on the island’s west coast Karon Bay. It promises to be bigger than ever with at least 12 acts performing on stage during the two-night event. Now a firm fixture in Phuket’s annual entertainment calendar, the festival attracts top blues bands from around Thailand, while two popular bands from Australia and the US return once more. Bangkok’s popular blues bands take centre stage with performances from Cannonball, Georgia, Full House and Soi Dogs beating out the rhythm to a packed house of blues fans.

We have now added California blues diva Shari Puorto to the great line-up of the 2008 festival. Described as "Janis Joplin meets Bonnie Raitt", Shari and her excellent band will give you a night to remember!

This year the festival will be huge - no less than twelve acts will take to the stage during the two nights. Thailand's finest - Cannonball, Georgia, Full House and Soi Dogs from Bangkok; The Blues Machine from Pattaya; The Fabulous Hepcats from Koh Samui; Boy Blues Band from Chiang Mai as well as Phuket's Groove Doctors w/Jimmy Fame and Bonnie Anderson - together with one of Australia's top blues bands, Salty Dog, will rock the stage until Rich Harper closes the show Friday night and Shari Puorto on Saturday. Please see Schedules page for details and get ready for some smokin, hot Blues, R&B and Rock AND Roll!

The internationally renowned Rich Harper Band from Los Angeles which has gathered strong following in Thailand over the past two years will return in 2008, to headline Friday night with their usual fiery style, helping to make this year’s festival a blues/rock extravaganza.

For more information: 
Hotline: 086-682 2639
International: +66 86682 2639
e-mail: info@phuketbluesfestival.com
phuketmusic@yahoo.com

www.phuketbluesfestival.com

Read More

Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival
Date : 11 – 13 March 2008
Venue : Phaya Thaen Park, Mueang District, Yasothon
Annual ritual to ensure that the seasonal rains fall at the appropriate time in the planting cycle. In the process, Buddhist merit-making traditions are also observed and reinforced. The festival, which is held over a period of three days, strengthens community spirit. The first day known as “Wan Suk |Dip” features a ritual to play homage to Chao Pu, the spirit of the city pillar. The second day is the rocket procession day. Each is escorted by a colourful dance troupe. The rocket are finally launched on the third day in which various rockets and beauty contests are held. It is also a day for the ordination of novices with festive celebrations following merit-making rituals.

 

 

 

For this annual festival, villagers of the Northern fashion rockets of all kinds, some of them several metres long, the launching of which is believed to ensure plentiful rains in the coming rice-planting season. High-spirited revelry accompanies the event, with beauty parades, folk dancing, and stage shows.
Contact : TAT Northeastern Office : Region 2
Tel : 0 4524 3770-1
Yasothon Municipality Office
Tel : 0 4571 1397 Ext. : 112
Website : www.tat.or.th/festival

Read More

1st – 3rd February 2008
Passport to Chiang Mai” PCM FAIR 2008

“Uniting all tourist NEEDS; Dinning, Traveling, Staying, Shopping and Spa”

The first collaboration of travel entrepreneurs

and exporters aims to provide a privilege for you with sincerity in the

Passport to Chiang Mai (PCM) Fair 2008

Between 1st – 3rd February 2008 at JJ Market Chiang Mai 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

For more information please call 053 808770, 081 530 5185
source from http://www.jjchiangmai.com

Read More

New Zealand is asking Thai authorities to explain why it has refused to let a group of Kayan "long-necked" refugees from Burma to leave Thailand to start new lives.

New Zealand agreed two years ago to accept two families of Kayan people - whose women traditionally wear a number of brass rings around their unnaturally long necks - as refugees, but Thai authorities will not give them exit visas.

According to a BBC report from the area in Mae Hong Son province on Wednesday, it is suspected that the families are being kept in Thailand because of the central role they play in the local tourism industry.

The BBC said three Kayan villages close to the Burmese border were a major lure for foreign tourists and quoted a spokeswoman for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees as saying, "It's absolutely a human zoo."

Kitty McKinsey said some 20,000 other Burmese refugees had recently been allowed to move to third countries, but Thailand was not letting a group of 20 Kayans who had been accepted as refugees by New Zealand and Finland leave.

"We don't understand why these 20 are not allowed to start new lives," she told the BBC. "The Thai authorities are treating them in a special way."

The BBC quoted a 23-year-old woman called Zember as saying the UNHCR told her family in 2005 that they had been accepted by New Zealand.

"I was so happy," she said. "They tell me a house is already waiting for us in New Zealand."

The New Zealand foreign ministry spokeswoman told Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa: "we have raised our concerns with the Thai foreign ministry. We are waiting for a response." (dpa)
Source from bangkokpost.net

Read More

Over the past eight years, Bumrungrad International has showcased some of Thailand’s best restaurants through its Great Chefs programme. For 2008, Bumrungrad International, in cooperation with the Royal Project Foundation, launched “Gourmets of the Garden”, a special promotion.

Participating chefs have been asked to design menus featuring healthy vegetables from The Royal Project Foundation in northern Thailand, source of the famous “The Royal Project” brand. These vegetables are nutritious and hygienic. They receive special care to retain their fresh flavor from farm to kitchen.

Under the Great Chefs programme, each restaurant works with hospital’s kitchen to design or adapt a healthy menu, which is then featured for a month. The special menus are available at no extra charge to patients, giving them the opportunity to sample dishes from some of Thailand’s best restaurants.

The Great Chefs programme is highlighted prominently throughout the hospital. It has also attracted local and international media attention. “This year we are privileged to have 12 premium hotels offering delicious and healthy dishes using healthy vegetables from The Royal Project to our patients and their guests. It is part of our commitment to serve our patients while promoting their health,” said Mr. Mack Banner, Bumrungrad International’s CEO.

Participants in the Great Chefs Programme

1. JW Marriott Bangkok - Executive Chef Dieter Ruckenbauer
2. Swissotel Le Concorde Bangkok - Chef Willment Leong
3. Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok - Chef Sarawut Im-sup
4. Banyan Tree Bangkok - Chef Vipawan Udomthanapipat
5. Grand Mercure Park Avenue - Chef Sakkajonh Thang-on
6. Sofitel Centara Grand Bangkok Hotel and Convention Centre (BCC) - Chef Jasvir Sanghera
7. Millennium Hilton Bangkok - Chef Supoj Suwanwong
8. Amari Boulevard - Chef Silvano Amolini
9. Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok - Executive Chef Sombat Lerkratanaphaisan
10. The Dusit Thani - Chef Thaneht Naovarat
11. InterContinental Bangkok - Chef Seksan Kerdyoo
12. Grand Sukhumvit by Sofitel - Executive Sous Chef Nitipat Panyajiravisit

The Royal Project Foundation
The Royal Hill-Tribes Development Programme, at present called The Royal Project, was inaugurated in 1969, following His Majesty the King's expressed desire to initiate the benefits of sedentary agricultural practice to the Hill-Tribes community with introduction of substituted cash crops that, in some cases, may fetch higher market prices than opium. During the early stages of the project, His Majesty encouraged the grafting of temperate climate peach scions to the stocks of local species of peach trees. The grafted trees bore fruits that were improved in texture and taste and were hardy enough to withstand long transportation journey to the markets. Other temperate climate fruit scions were also experimented with at different elevations at the Royal Project's Highland Agricultural Research Stations in various villages in Chiang Mai Province, Phui Village, Mae Chaem District, Khum Village, Fang District, Khun Wang Village, San Pa Tong District, Sam Mun Village, Chiang Dao District, and Mae Tho Village, Hot District.

Bumrungrad International
Bumrungrad International is Southeast Asia’s premier private hospital and a regional referral center for advanced care, offering 554 beds, 30 specialty centers, 940 medical specialists and over 800 nurses. It is Asia’s first JCI accredited hospital and serves more than one million patients yearly from 190 different countries.

Contact Information:
Bumrungrad International
Tel: +66 (0) 2667 1000
Fax: +66 (0) 2667 2525
E-mail: info@bumrungrad.com
Web site: www.bumrungrad.com

Source: Bumrungrad International release dated January 10, 2008

Read More

Bor Sang, on highway 1006 heading east from Chiang Mai, appears to be a typical sleepy rural village, the kind the tour bus speeds by giving you just a fleeting glimpse of its two-storey wooden houses.  But hidden in the tiny lanes, villagers have perfected a craft that creates the country’s most famous umbrellas.

For more than 100 years, the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark.  According to local history, a monk travelled to neighbouring Myanmar, where he came across Saa paper umbrellas that offered protection against both the sun and rain. 

He returned with the production technique and introduced the umbrella to the elders of Bor Sang village, who added their own artistic skills to create a distinctive colourful, but very practical, umbrella. At first it was just a profitable hobby that supplemented the villagers’ earnings from the annual rice crop. However, with time production of the Saa paper umbrellas prospered, prompting villagers to establish a handicraft cooperative in 1941 that now organises the annual festival.

Using silk and cotton, weaved at neighbouring Sankampaeng, villagers eventually added a second line of umbrellas decorated with images of the north, its flowers and birds, all intricately hand-painted.
Today, Bor Sang village exports both Saa-paper and silk umbrellas.  They are seen at trade shows in a variety of sizes, from giant parasols that offer a shady canopy from the sun, to miniscule variations that adorn popular cocktail drinks.

 

To celebrate success the village hosts a three-day festival every January. Streets are illuminated by lanterns, while hundreds of umbrellas are hung from the rafters and beams of houses and shops.  Bands play, while villagers compete to design the year’s most attractive umbrella.  Concerts, a food festival and beauty contest all compete for the attention of the audience, a  mix of both tourists and residents, who gather here to celebrate Bor Sang’s innovative handicraft skills.

Throughout the year, tourists visit the village, a short 6 km drive from Chiang Mai, to buy umbrellas and study the process and skills that go into making a handicraft entirely from natural products.  But nothing quite compares with the buzz that permeates the village during this colourful three-day handicraft festival, every January. It is a scene that represents village hospitality and charm at its very best.
source from http://www.tourismthailand.org/

Read More

About Hands Bangkok Countdown 2008

Bidding farewell to the old year while greeting New Year is a festive practice  significantly embraced by people around the world as it’s the last biggest event of the year that leads to a fresh beginning. Hands Bangkok Countdown 2008 is designed to be an international symbol of the celebrations for Thais and visitors. Bangkok is a center of tourism in Southeast Asia, full of lively attractions and facilities for tourists.

Hands Bangkok Countdown 2008 is a brainchild of joint-cooperation between public and private organizations which have seen the potential of Thailand’s Bangkok to serve as a significant destination for tourists during the festive season. Business operations with different backgrounds joined forces to initiate the largest countdown event for residents in Bangkok before it has been expanded to become an international event that targets tourists in ASEAN region: Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Myanmar. The visitors will be invited to experience a new cultural celebration by joining hands together with the countdown in the Hands By Heart Moment. 

 

The event’s venue is located in the heart of Bangkok’s downtown and shopping streets surrounded by leading department stores and convenient transportation systems and facilities set to serve mass population to join the event.

Landmark of the event is a gigantic structure, “The Greeting Ball Tower”, which serves as the symbol of celebrations. The tower will be installed in December every year. It’s equipped with special effects to create spectacular moments. Activities by arts and entertainment studios are prepared on a large-scale stage, making it a truly feast of celebrations to support tourism spending for the year-end.
More information : http://www.handsbangkokcountdown.com
Source from http://www.tourismthailand.org

Read More