Thailand’s Countdown 2006

Tourism Authority of Thailand organizes the 2005 Thailand’s Countdown at the night of 31 December, 2005 to 1 January, 2006. Varieties are the common theme for New Year Countdown celebrations throughout the Kingdom. Every place in Thailand the tourists can joy the celebration of the festival for sending off the past year and greeting the New Year with Thai local cultural style.

This year the festival is in a concept of “Happy New year…Happiness on Earth”, there are 6 locations in Thailand where are holding the countdown celebration. The traveler will be excited with colorful, sounds and a lot of amazing performances.

Bangkok Countdown 2006

Date: December 31, 2005– January 1, 2006

Bangkok Destination

• Countdown 2006 @ Ratchaprasong
• The National Stadium
• Sanam Luang
• Rama VIII Bridge

The New Year Countdown celebrations in various corners of the ‘City of Angels’ the activities is world music, folk and fireworks displays.

Festive celebrations at the Ratchaprasong Countdown and the National Stadium take on a contemporary note, while at the timeless historical site of Sanam Luang and the majestic Rama VIII Bridge, Thai touch prevails.

Bangkok Countdown 2006 @ Ratchaprasong

These areas celebrate at Central World Plaza, Ratchaprasong intersection (opposite the Erawan Shrine) on December 1, 2005 to January 6, 2006. The especially at Ratchaprasong area is “festive Season Lucky Draw”, when your purchases by the Visa credit card and try your luck. Spend 500 Baht more on a single sale slip on December 31, 2005 you’re entitled to a chance to win a grand prize.

Contact information:

Ratchaprasong Countdown, Bangkok
Tel: +66 (0) 2656 1279, (0) 2656 1929

Countdown to Thailand’s First Sunrise 2006

Date: December 31, 2005– January 1, 2006
Place: Pha Taem National Park, Khong Chiam district,
Ubon Ratchathani province

The New Year Countdown at Pha Taem National Park in Ubon Ratchathani province, east of Thailand. Ubon Ratchathni is the first province in the kingdom to greet the sunrise. The activities of tourists are watching the last sunset of this year in the cruise along the Melong River and at night drive your car to the top of Pha Taem cliff where the evening’s feast features the traditional I-san style set dinner known as Palaeng. The tourists will be entertained with folk music, cultural performances and wait for the time to countdown and greet Thailand’s first sunrise.

Contact information:

TAT Northeastern Office: Region 1
Tel: +66 (0) 4421 3666, (0) 4421 3030

Pattaya Countdown 2006

Date: December 31, 2005– January 1, 2006
Place: At the Pattaya City Pier, Chon Buri

Pattaya’s countdown party’s highlights are feature performances by some of Thailand’s popular bands, pop artists and celebrity performers. The line-up includes winners of the ‘Pattaya Best of Music 2005’ competition and artists from RS Promotions including Pink, The Mazz, The Noize, The Rock Stars, Kaleidoscope and the Sun.

Contact information:

TAT Central Region: Office 3
Tel: +66 (0) 3842 7667, (0) 3842 8750

Chiang MAi Countdown 2006

Date: December 31, 2005– January 1, 2006
Place: At the Chiang Mai Municipality Stadium, Chiang Mai
Time: 06.00 p.m. to 1.00 a.m.

Countdown with VIPs

Join His Excellency Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and tennis celebrities Maria Sharapova, Venus Williams and Tamarine Tanasugarn on the New Year vigil and countdown. Artists from Channel 7 and GMM Grammy, especially northern artists, provide entertainment throughout the evening.

Contact information:

TAT Northern Office: Region 1
Tel: +66 (0) 5324 8604, (0) 5324 8607, (0) 5324 1466
Website: www.tat.or.th/festival

I-San Countdown 2006 Happiness on Earth

Date: December 31, 2005– January 1, 2006
Place: At Boong Ta Lua Park, Nakhon Ratchasima
Time: 06.00 p.m. to 1.00 a.m.

Contact information:

TAT Northeastern Office: Region 1
Tel: +66 (0) 4421 3666, (0) 4421 3030

Happy New Year Thai-Laos two Countries Countdown 2006

Date: December 31, 2005– January 1, 2006
Place: Along the Mekong River and at the Indochina Market in Mukdahan

Celebrate a ‘Second Honeymoon’; camp out under the stars at Phu Pha Thoep on 30 December. Rock Art of Phu Pha Thoep is the natural sandstone sculptures which are chiseled and shaped by the erosive forces of sun, wind and water over the millennia. The next day, join the ‘Happiness Tour’ featuring a tour of three neighboring countries in just one day and exciting with fireworks display.

Contact information:

TAT Northeastern Office Region 4 (Nakhon Phanom)
Tel: +66 (0) 4251 3490-1
Fax: +66 (0) 4251 3492

Phuket Festival Countdown 2006

Date: December 31, 2005– January 1, 2006
Place: At Lan Phoo Ja, Central Festival Phuket, Phuket
Time: 06.00 p.m. to 1.00 a.m.

New Year festivities include an International Food Festival, Gift Festival, Music Festival and fireworks

Contact information:

TAT Southern Office: Region 4
Tel: +66 (0) 7621 1036, (0) 7621 2213

Hat Yai Night Paradise and Countdown 2006

Date: December 31, 2005– January 1, 2006
Place: Along Sanehanusorn Road and other main streets in the city centre

The New Year celebration and Countdown in Hat Yai includes a ‘Miss Night Paradise and Countdown 2006’ beauty contest, concerts and stage performances. Guest artists from Malaysia and Singapore join their Thai counterparts. Rise and shine early the next morning to enjoy the sunrise, participate in merit-making activities or run in a mini-marathon.

Contact information:

TAT Southern Office: Region 1
Tel: +66 (0) 7423 1055, (0) 7423 8518, (0) 7424 3747

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by Jour ~ Tuesday, November 29, 2005 0 comments

The Bridge over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi

The Bridge over the River Kwai is important in history of Thailand, located at Kanchanaburi province. Kanchanaburi is far from Bangkok about 130 Kilometers or about 2-hour for drive. Kanchanaburi have many famous attractions such as The Bridge over the River Kwai, Death Railway, The War Museum, The Jeath War Museum, Sai Yok waterfall, Erawan waterfall and three Pagodas Pass. In Kanchanaburi have good hotel and resort for tourist, you can relax and comfort in this place.

The Bridge over the River Kwai was built in World War 2 period by Japanese army which force all allied prisoners of war during World War II such as British, American, Australian and Dutch to build the 258 mile Death Railway. This project has to link the way between Thai and Myanmar railway and we use a hundred thousand conscripted Asian laborers and 16,000 prisoners. It is sorrowful that a hundred thousand laborers and prisoners of war died with this project. The Bridge over the River Kwai is far from Kanchanaburi province about 4 Kilometers, highway No. 323.

River Kwai Bridge Week

Every year, the Kanchanaburi Provincial Authority holds the annual event for commemorate the notorious establishment of the Death Railway and the Bridge over the River Kwai during War II. In this year the event starts from 25 November to 5 December, 2005 at the Bridge over the River Kwai. There are many activities in event include a historical and archaeological exhibition, folk shows, booths of governmental offices, products sale, entertainment, and a light and sound presentation. The tourist will excite with this event.

Timing of the show

- Monday to Thursday and Sunday, show once per day about 7.30 p.m.
- Friday, Saturn and Monday (5 December), show twice per day about 7.30 p.m. and 9.00 p.m.

Admission ticket

The tickets start from 100, 200 and 300 THB.
Pleas reserve the ticket in advance at TAT Kanchanaburi tel: 034-511778, 034-512399, 034-515208.
Website: http://www2.tat.or.th/central1

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by Jour ~ Monday, November 28, 2005 0 comments

Wat Pho Temple and Massage in Bangkok

Wat Pho Temple History

Bangkok is the capital of the Kingdom of Thailand; the tourists called Krung Thep, Siam or the City of Angels. The part ancient city of Bangkok is called Ko Rattanakosin area, historical and culture heritage was collected in this area.

Wat Pho or Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn, is the top grade royal monastery, during the reign of King Rama I of the Chakri Dynasty. Wat Pho was built at the same time with Grand Palace, an old monastery from the Ayutthaya period. The old name of Wat Pho is Wat Phodharam but people often to called Wat Pho.

Location Of Wat Pho

Wat Pho is located at the south of the Grand Palace, with Thai Wang road in the north, Sanam Chai road in the east, Setthakan road in the south and Maharat road in the west. It’s opened daily between 08:00 - 17:00 hrs, with an admission fee of 20 baht. Tourists must be in polite dress, no shorts, although trousers are permitted.

Bangkok Attractions Wat Pho

- Phra Uposatha: The main chapel was constructed in the reign of King Rama I in Ayudhya style is very beautiful Phra Uposatha.

- Phra Maha Stupa: The Outer side of balustrades around the main chapel is decorated with a series of 152 selected bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana as described by Thai verses.

- Phra Rabeng: is a double cloister surrounding the courtyard of the chapel.

- Phra Maha Chedi: a group of four Hugh pagodas surrounded by white wall with Thai-Chinese style sheltered gates decorated with color-glazed tiles and Chinese rockeries guardians.

- Sala Rai: Along the main chapel yard both inside and outside (separated by the monastery wall) stand many rectangular plat formed pavilions.

- Body Massage: Medical Science School and Body Massage.

Thai Massage

The Body Massage of Wat Pho is very famous about Thai traditional medical science. Wat Pho is regarded as the first University of Thailand traditional massage that offers free education Thai traditional medical science can be found throughout all of the Thai community, with certain cures from herbs and other ingredients.
There are 2 kinds of Thai traditional massage science: one is following the contorted hermit postures; and another is herbal massage.

Thai Traditional Medical Science School and body Massage

• Open daily during 08:00 - 17:00 hrs.
• Massage service fee 250 baht / hour.
• Herbal Massage service fee 350 baht / hour.
• Foot Massage Fee 250 baht / hour.
More information please contact (662) 221-2974, 221-3686, 622-3550-1

How to go

1. Bus Nos. 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 25, 32, 43, 44, 47, 48, 51, 53, 82, 103.
2. Air-conditioned bus Nos. 1, 6, 7, 8, 12, 44
3. Chao phraya Express boat. Get off at Tha Chang pier, Tha Tien Pier or Pak
Klong Talad Pier, then walk through Thai Wang Road entrance.

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by Jour ~ Friday, November 25, 2005 0 comments

Thailand, "The World’s Best Tourist country"

Thailand Wins Prestigious Norwegian Grand Travel Award for “The World’s Best Tourist country 2005”

The Norwegian travel trade has rated the Kingdom of Thailand “The World’s Best Tourist Country 2005”. This is the second year that Thailand wins this award again since last year. The “Grand Travel Award 2005” was presented at the annual award presentation organized by “Travel News” an independent Norwegian travel trade magazine held on January 10th in Oslo.

“We are particularly thankful for the award this year. On behalf of the Thai people I thank Norway for the support and help in this current situation”, said by Nattera Kachornserelikitkul, the director of Tourism Authority of Thailand in Stockholm.

The Grand Travel Awards was arranged for the tenth time and it is a result of a survey which polled over 300 travel industry members in Norway. The awards are presented in 17 categories with the scale 1-6, where 1 is the lowest score and 6 is the highest.

Thailand was the winner of category “the best tourist country” with the point 5.15 followed by Greece 4.74, Denmark 4.74, Spain 4.47 and Turkey 3.75.

The Nordic market (Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland) is the largest market in Europe for tourism Thailand. Every year, the number of tourists from Europe will increase the top destination such as Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nge, Phi Phi Island, Samui Island, Pattaya and Bangkok because Thailand have many attractions around the country example temples, river, beaches, Islands, animals, bar and hotel.

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by Jour ~ Tuesday, November 22, 2005 0 comments

Shopping At Art Market, Bangkok

In Bangkok there are many weekend markets such as Chatuchak weekend market, Sunday weekend market or krong san market. The new weekend market in Bangkok is specially weekend market but they sell only Art works, it is called “Art Market”.

Art Market is located in the National Gallery at the foot of Phra Pin Klao Bridge, opposite to the National Theater.

This place has space for unknown artists to show and sell their works of art; all spaces are free for them. The Art Market is their first stage and great opportunity to in become well-known artists in the future and it is a good way to encourage the public to pay more attraction in Art works.

Besides the Art market are display Art collections, special exhibitions and other activities such as debates on art topics and beautiful artistic items for sale. The Art market is an interested place for away tourists can go with their family.

More information

Address: 4 Chao-Fa Rd., Pra Nakorn Bangkok 10200

Tel: 0-2281-2224, 0-2282-0637, 0-2282-2639-4 ext 14

Web site:http://www.thailandmuseum.com

The National Gallery

Opening Hours
Wednesday - Sunday 9a.m. - 4 p.m.
Closed on Monday - Tuesday & National Holidays

Admission Fee
Citizen 10 Baht
Non-Citizen 30 Baht

Package Ticket
Citizen 30 Baht
Non-Citizen 80 Baht
Children, Students in uniform, Monks: Free

The Art Market

Opening Hours
Saturday - Monday 10 a.m.- 9p.m.

The Art market free admission fee

How to go

1. Bus No.30, 32, 43, 65, 160 and air - conditioned Bus No. 6, 30, 32
2. Private cars

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by Jour ~ Monday, November 21, 2005 0 comments

One Of The Four Eastern Suwannaphum Cities

Land Of Dvaravati Civilization

“The city of big papal, sweet bamboo, delicious fruit, and borderland” is the translated slogan for Prachinburi, reflecting the history and the charm of the province.

In the past, Prachinburi was a peaceful town hiding in the middle of nowhere. It used to be just a resting place for passerby. Now, it has became crucial for the tourist industry, as several tourist sites and accommodation were developed to support the growth promoted by the government.

The four eastern Sawannaphum cities are Nakhon Nayok, Sakaeo, Chachoengsao, and Prachinburi. The concept of these cities is “the land of green discovery and hub city” to attract adventurous and nature-friendly tourists. This area is also to became the hub city between the central and the northeastern regions.

The History

Prachinburi is an eastern border city just 135 Kilometers away from Bangkok. The area is of 4,762 square Kilometers. Prachinburi used to be very prosperous in the Dvarvati and Lopburi eras, which was 800 years ago. The evidence is the ruined town of “Mueang Si Mahosot” at Tambon Khokpip, Amphoe Mahosot.

At Ban Khok Kwang, Amphoe Si Mahosot east to Mueang Si Mohosot, there was an ancient community at the same period as Muang Si Mahosot. The area was once used for ritual ceremonies in which many artifacts like Buddha images, Hindu Gods images, earthenware, pottery and bronze tools were found.

Later on, the center of civilization was moved to the present Bang Pakong riverside. There were many administration changes, from town to Monthon, and Changwat (province) at present.

Prachinburi has 7 districts (Amphoe), namely Amphoe MMuaeng, Ban Sang, Prachantakham, Si Mahosot, Si Maha Phot, Kabin Buri, and Na Di.

How to get there

There are three ways to get to Prachinburi: by car, by train, and by bus. By car, there are many routes from Bangkok to Prachinburi. Using Phahonyothin Highway, to Rangsit, and keep left to use overpass to Highway No.305, parallel to Khlong Rangsit, pass Ongkarak of Nakhon Nayok. Then use Highway No.33 (Nakhon Nayok – Prachin Buri), turn right at Samyaek Nong Cha-om at Km.155 to Highway No.319 to Prachin Buri. Total distance is 136 Kilometers.

Using Phahonyothin Highway (No.1) to Wang Noi of Ayutthaya, turn right at Km. 90 to Highway No.33 pass Wihan Daeng of Saraburi, and Nakhon Nayok, turn right at Samyeak Nong Cha-am at Km.155 to Highway No.319 to Prachin Buri. Total distance is 164 Kilometers.

Using Highway No.304 pass Chacherngsao, Phanom Sarakham, turn to Highway No.319 pass Si Mahosot, to Prachin Buri. Alternatively, people can go to Prachinburi by buses, leaving from Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal everyday or by train leaving from Hua Lam Pong Railway Station everyday.

The city for incentive

Prachinburi is presented as a tourist city by promoting the sites and activities such as “whitewater rafting at kaeng Hin Phoeng”.

Kaeng Hin Phieng is the name of the rapids in Na Di district. It is where people go whitewater rafting during the rainy season especially in June-October as the tide is high to a level that is perfect for rafting. Several tour agencies add this program to their lists and many companies usually offer this incentive activity to their employees, resulting in more income generated to the local economy.

There are many more tourist sites in Prachinburi such as the National park, Prachinburi National Museum, Heo Narok Waterfall, Chao Phraya Abhaibhubate Building, Si Mahosot Ancient city, etc.

In addition to the natural tourist sites there are also the agro-tourism sites, which are very popular at the moment. Having fertility, Prachinburi has various agricultural products. The Provincial Agricultural Department is the host for “the Agricultural and Prachin Buri Products Fair” in the summer every year about May to June. The fair is also added to the incentive activities by many tour agencies.

OTOP of Prachinburi

Prachinburi is famous for its local products or OTOP especially for agricultural product such as durian, rambutan, mangosteen, marian plum, and sweet bamboo shoot. There are also Chao Phraya Abhaibhubate’s herbs, bamboo furniture, grass broom, reed mat, and handicrafts made from weaving bamboo.

Hub City

More hotel and accommodations have been built in all seven districts of Prachinburi to support the increasing tourist number. The examples of hotels are Khao Yai Grand View, Taranee Resort, Sup Pailin, Dvarati Resort, and Saksupa Garden Resort. These accommodations are built not only for the hub city but also for the incentive, meeting and seminar activities.

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by Jour ~ Friday, November 18, 2005 0 comments

Easy Thai Language

Basic Thai Language for Travel

Greeting
Hello
sa-wad-dee

How are you?
Sa-bai-dee-rue?

I am fine
Sa-bai-dee

Goodbye
La-gon

What’s your name?
Khun-chue-arai

My name is………..
Chan chue………….

I understand
Kao-jai

I don’t understand
Mai-kao-jai

Nice to meet you
Yin-dee-tidai-ru-jug

See you again
Laew-phob-kan-mai

Emergencies and Health

Help!
Chuay-duay!

Can you help me?
Chuay-noi-dai-mai

I need a policeman
Tong-karn-pob-tum-ruat

Please call my Embassy
Ga-ru-na-torasab-pai-sa-tan-tood

Drugstore
Raan-kaai-yaa

Hospital
Rong-payabaan

Dentist
Mor-fun

Medicine
Yaa

I’m sick
Mai-sa-bai

I’m hurt
Jeb

I need a doctor
Tong-kran-mor

I have a fever
Pen-kai

Headache
Puad-hua

Stomachache
Puad-tong

Numbers

Soon, Nueng, Song, Sarm, Si, Ha, Hok, Jed, Paed, Gao, Sib, Sib-ed, Sib-song, Yi-sib, Nueng-roy, Nueng-pun, Nueng-muen

0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 20, 100, 1000, 10000


Restaurant

Restaurant
Raan-a-haan

Noodle shop
Raan-guay-dtiaw

Not spicy please
Kor-mai-ped

I would like to order……….
Chan-yak-sung

Fried rice
Khao-phad

Papaya Salad
Som-tam

Roast Chicken
Gai-yang

Thai-Fried-noodles
Pad-thai

Thai Omelette
Kai-Jiaw

Hot and Sour Prawn Soup
Tom-yum-kung

Vegetarian Food
a-harn-mang-sa-wirad

Shopping

Can we bargain?
Tor-ra-ka-dai-mai

Thai’s expensive
Paeng

That’s cheap
Toog

I like this
Chob-an-ni

I don’t like it
Mai-chob

How much?
Tao-rai

Discount
Lod-raka

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by Jour ~ Tuesday, November 15, 2005 0 comments

River Dinner Cruises - Bangkok

In the past Chao Phraya River (River of King) was a way-of-life, Cha Phraya was a water resource for those people who live near the bank of the River. They like to build a house near river because it was comfortable for transportation. Chao Phraya is one of the attractions that attract tourists coming to Bangkok to receive nice experienced by river dinner cruises. At nightlife while you dinning on cruise with someone special it is a very romantic atmosphere with great delicious Thai foods. Especially in November, TAT support Loi Krathong Festival; Chao Phraya color water, the cruise will voyage pass the whole area that hold festival such as temple (Wat Arun), old building house and other famous landmarks of Bangkok at night.

Cruises service

1. Loy Nava cruise
Overview
The Loy Nava cruise has been operating more than 30 years ago it has been famous from a luxury dinner cruise with Thai culture, delicious Thai foods and open-air cruise.

Include
-Three standard menus as your choice (Traditional Thai dinner, Thai Seafood, Vegetarian menu)
-Tee, coffee
-Bottles of water is served by free of charge
-Transfer from central location
-Price 1,100 per person
-Time 6.00-8.00pm and 8.00-10.00pm

More information
-Trip Duration: 2 hours
-Boat capacity: 65-70 persons (17 tables maximum)
-Ferry Landing: Si Phraya Express Boat Landing
-Reservation hours: Daily 9.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. at the office, or (01) 480-7188 after 6.30 p.m.
-Website: http://www.loynava.com
-Tel: 66(0)2 437 4932, 66(0)2 437 7329

2. River Side Bangkok
Overview
River Side is the largest luxury cruise ship on the Chao Phraya River air-conditioned lower deck has a 400 seats capacity as does the open air rooftop terrace. This dinner cruise has its own kitchen so the foods can be ordered upon request.

Include
-Private VIP rooms
-Price: Boarding to the boat costs 70 Baht a person. Meal Prices are normal without extra charge.
-Time: Daily service from 07.00 p.m. to 11.45 p.m. (River Side Luxury Cruise 2) and 08.00 p.m. daily and 08.30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday (River Side Luxury Cruise 3)

More information
Location: River Side Bangkok Hotel, the northern side of Krungthon Bridge on Thonburi side
Website: http://www.riversidebangkok.com/riverside2.htm
Tel: 66 (0)2 424 8453-4

3. Yok Yor Marina and Restaurant
Overview
Yok Yor Marina and Restaurant, is in the group of Vijit and Yok Yor Restaurant fully willing to serve our customers on Thai, Chinese and International foods. They provide variety atmosphere delicious cuisine live band and cool climate but warm for service. The perfect dining place overlooking the Chao Praya River whether sitting in the open air terrace along the river side or air-conditioned room with live music every evening. They also provide dining cruises and sightseeing on the Chao Praya River.

Include
-Explanation guide along the river
-Price: Boarding to the boat costs 80 Baht per person. Meal Prices are normal without extra charge
-Time: 20:00-22:30 Sun-Thu and 20:30-23:00 Fri-Sat

More information
-Location: Soi Somdej Chaowpraya 17
-Loading Pier: Sathorn pier, The Chaopraya river Cultural Center pier and Yok Yor marina pier
-Website: http://yokyor.co.th/cruise/index.html
-Tel: 66(0)2 863-0565-6

4. Wan Fah; Famous Restaurant
Overview
Wan Fah has a buffet lunch between 12:00-14:00. A la carte can be ordered until 22:00. Dinner cruise leaves Ratchawongse pier at 18:00 or from Rivercity pier at 19:00 and comes back at 21:00.
Wan Fah Restaurant offer Grand Thai Style Cruises for 120 persons to allow you the sight of nature on both banks of Chao Phaya River. We are proud of perfectly offering you for as long as your impressive memory.

Include
-Self-service
-Thai music and classical dance
-Sea Food and Thai food Set Menu
-Price: Cost for Thai food set and seafood set are B680 and B730 respectively. Live ancient Thai music is performed on board.
-Time: 7 pm. to 9 pm. Daily

More information
-Location: The bank of Chao Phraya River at the northern end of Ratchawongse Pier
-Website: http://www.wanfah.com
-Tel: 66(0)2 222-8679, 223-8064, 622-7657-61

5. Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise
Overview
Chaophraya Cruise is one of the luxury cruises; it is convenient, glamorous and classy decorated with applied Thai style, which is refined, graceful, and unique. You will experience pleasant and warm Thai hospitality, full of friendliness and charm. When traveling with us, you will understand why we are known for “The truly exotic Thai cruise on the Chao Phraya River”.

Include
-Thai and International Buffet on board of Chaophraya Cruise.
-Welcome Drink.
-Live Music Band.
-Time: 7.00 p.m./9.00 p.m. (approx) daily

More information
-Trip Duration: 3 hours
-Ferry Landing: Bangkok Riverside

6. The Oriental, Bangkok
Overview
Step aboard our “Maeyanang” rice barge for an unforgettable evening filled with astonishing images of river life, Starlight temples and monuments. It all begins when cocktails are served, followed by a Thai buffet style dinner. The boat is constructed of golden teakwood, with traditional Northern Thai style wooden dining tables and chairs, and is the perfect romantic setting from which to experience the beauty of the River of Kings.

Include
-Price: Adult THB 1,600 net per person
-Children (3-10 years) THB 900 net per child
-Group rate (15 persons or more) at THB 1,300 net per person
-Corkage charge at THB 300 net per bottle
-Time: operates daily except Mondays
7pm Cocktails in the garden
7:30pm Boat leaves
10pm Boat returns

More information
-Website: http://www.mandarinoriental.com
-Tel: 66(2)659 9000

7. Chao Phraya Princess Cruise
Overview
A wonderful impression on Chao Phraya River will upon you first step on the Chao Phraya Princess, you will discover the wonder of the splendor of both oriental and occidental art decors on the boat. The atmosphere is comfortable and romantic with the sound of a saxophone solo off from the River City pier and passes a number of remarkable landmarks, such as the Temple of Dawn, the Temple of Emerald Buddha, Bang Khunprom Palace, Kanlayanamitr Temple, Krungthon Bridge, and the Oriental Hotel. You will be fascinated with all the adorning lights all the way until our cruise terminates at Shangri-la Hotel.

Included
-Welcome Drink
-Dinner on board
-Live music and Boat trip
-English announcement
-Transfer service from Hotel to Cruise and from Cruise to Hotel
-Time: 1st 17.45-19.00 hours; 1 hour and 15 minutes
-Board the boat at Suphakarn Building
2nd 19.45-21.45 hours; 2 hour
-Board the boat at River City

More Information
-Tel: (66) 0-2860-3700 (10 lines), (66) 0-24379667-8, (66) 0-2860-1026
-Website: http://www.thaicruise.com/royal/royal.htm

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by Jour ~ Sunday, November 13, 2005 0 comments

International Lantern Festival

"International Lanterns Festival – the colorful festival of the south"

Date: 15 - 30 November 2005
Venue: Hat Yai Municiple Public Park, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, Thailand
Entrance Free

History

In 1975, The Lantern International Festival begins at Chinese Garden, Singapore.
In the earliest stage Lantern Festival is a small festival has audience not over 1000 peoples. After that the government and private help to promote the festival until number of audience are increase. In 1986 the pattern of festival has change which is by zone.

International Lantern Festival in Thailand

The festival set for celebrate the 30th Year Thai- Chinese relationship. The visitor was exciting with beautiful lantern more than 1,200 pieces from Singapore, China and cultural show. Pattern of lanterns will start from big to bigger to biggest; attract the tourist from the gates to the land which full of beautiful lanterns. When you enter the park, every thing will impress the tourist with the many show from China, Singapore and Thailand; World of wings, the Great Migration, The World of Big Cats, and even the Dinosaur Land.

It’s very exciting, educational and fun. And the special of celebration is Traditional Thai Lanterns Shows; story of Thai culture and legend in Thai’s literature. It is very fantastic you can go with your family for fun and great experience.

Series of show

1. Safari Orchestra
You will see the specially performance by the grand band of the Safari Orchestra.

2. Arch of Wings
Enter this beautiful gateway of exotic birds to meet the other animals inside.

3. World of Wings
This is a showcase of different species of beautiful and vibrant birds that conquer the skies.

4. Musical Fairies
Be enchanted by the fairies playing their lovely instruments on both sides when you walk through the park.

5. The Great Migration
The tourist will excite with the migration of animals and the sound of hooves.

6. Thai Mythology
In this section it will present Thai culture and history integrates with legends of kickboxing in each poses.

7. Famous Animal Icons of Countries
You will see the famous animals from another country such as koala from Australia, kiwi from New Zealand, Bald Head Eagle from United States of America and bear from Russia etc.

8. The Big Cats
Do you belief it or not, lion come from the cat family.

9. Dinosaur Land
A dinosaur is one of the several kinds of prehistoric reptiles that lived during the Mesozoic Era.

10. The Red Dragon
This show will tell about the legend of dragon which is the symbol of China.

For More Information:

TAT Southtern 1(Songkhla) Tel. 0 7423 1055, 0 7423 8518

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by Jour ~ Thursday, November 10, 2005 0 comments

Pattaya Beach Buses

Pattaya is the top international seaside of Thailand located at east of Thailand. The tourists come to Pattaya over five million people per year. Pattaya is scenery town with beaches, nightlife entertainments, accommodations and activities. Recommended beach at Pattaya: Jomtien Beach, Wong Prachan Beach and the beach on Koh Larn, the small Island situated to the west of Pattaya. Nightlife at Pattaya such as Go Go Bar, Pub, Club and massage will attract at walking street.

Now tourists can get around Pattaya City easily, it has a new air-conditioned bus service along main streets of Pattaya, Naklua and Jomtien. The bus designated routes for helping tourists to get around the resort, hotel city and major supermarkets (Tesco Lotus, Carrefour, Big C). The Pattaya beach bus service composes of three routes which are Green, Red and Yellow.

The 30-seat buses with in air-conditioned is very comfortable, the next plans will include the facilities for wheelchairs, tourist maps with attractions nearby each bus stop marked and the establishment of open-deck tourist buses for sightseeing in 2006.

The bus stop and bus’s number are color of different route, it’s easy and convenient for passengers to know where to board and disembark from the bus. The bus will start from 6.00 am to 2.00 am the following day which is fixed clockwise and counter-clockwise, served by three buses per route.

ROUTES:

All routes start out from Big C supermarket and Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya.

Green Line: serviced in August 2005

Big C - South Pattaya Road - Pattaya 2 Road (reverse route = Beach Road) - Dolphin Roundabout - Naklua Road - Soi Potisan - Sukhumvit Road (back to Big C).

Yellow Line: will service in December 2005

Big C - Sukhumvit Road - Thepprasit Road - Thappraya Road over the hill - Pattaya 3 Road - North Pattaya Road - Dolphin Roundabout - North Pattaya Road - Sukhumvit Road (back to Big C)

Red Line: will service in December 2005

Big C - Sukhumvit Road - Soi Chaiyapruek - Jomtien Beach Road - Dongtan Corner - Thappraya Road over the hill - Pattaya 2 Road (reverse route = Beach Road) - Dolphin Roundabout - Naklua Road - Banglamung Police Station - Sukhumvit Road - Kratinglai intersection (u-turn) - Sukhumvit Road - Soi Chaiyapruek (u-turn) - Big C.

Ticket Fares:

30 Baht is one way ticket can to use on any the routes
90 Baht is one day passes
180 Baht is three day passes
900 Baht is one month passes

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by Jour ~ Wednesday, November 9, 2005 0 comments

Ko Samui – Thailand

Samui Island or Koh Samui is a popular seaside place for foreign tourists who travel Thailand; is located at Surat Thani province on gulf of Thailand. In 2004 more than 775,765 tourists have traveled to Samui Island. Net income from tourism of Samui Island is about 10,319 million Bahts, it made income for local people about thought. When add Thai tourists who come to Samui about 161,998 peoples, it made income about 996 million Bahts. In this year, anticipate Samui Island estimates a better economic to Surat Thani province total income at 11,315 Million Bahts.

After the Tsunami disaster on last 26th December 2004, thereafter numerous number of foreign tourist change destination to travel from Andaman seaside to gulf of Thailand. Especially ko Samui, ko Chang, Hua Hin and Cha am, so these places got a higher rating from the tourists.

The important factors that support tourism of Samui are;

- A lot of tourists were afraid of the earthquake that came together with tsunami so that they avoided travel to Andaman Seaside.

- Mutinously event of the Southward of Thailand caused effect to Malaysia and Singapore markets because they prefer to travel to Thailand by car.

- Sabotage at Bali on October 2004 caused the tourists avoid going to Bali so they change the destination to another beaches of Asia.

Economic growth of Samui Island, Thailand

- Accommodation’s business such as hotels and resorts more than 390 places which total rooms about 12,800. Noticeable increasing the number of luxury hotels and resorts in Samui Island were made for supporting upper market group of tourists.

- Souvenir’s service such as batik, product made of coconut shell, screened T-shirt and decorations will have value about 2,500 million Bahts.

- Restaurant and fast foods business will have value about 2,300 Million Bahts.

- Entertainment’s business such as spa, traditional massage and tourist attraction example crocodile farm, Samui zoo, snake farm, butterfly farm, Thai buffalo village and center of monkey show will have value about 1,700 million Bahts.

When to go travel Samui Island

The best time to travel to Samui Island is from January to May; in this period you can enjoy sport water in the calm sea with sunshine and no rain.

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by Jour ~ Tuesday, November 8, 2005 0 comments

Chiang Mai Zoo - Thailand

Chiang Mai zoo was open on 1995, founded by Mr.Harold M. Young, an American missionary. He kept some wild animals at the foothill of Suthep Mountain to be private zoo. Now Chiang Mai Zoo has 7,000 wild animals and covers the area of 531 rai (1 rai = 2/5 acre).
The old zoo in Thailand is Dusit Zoo open more than 65 years, located at Bangkok.

Interested on Chiang Mai Zoo

Popular Animals at Chiang Mai zoo is Elephant family, Hippopotamus, Zebra, Giraffe and Ostrich, more than 800 bird species, Cape fur seal, Humboldt penguin, Malayan tapir, white tigers and Indian rhinoceros. And new popular animal is panda from China; they lend us a couple of panda for 10 years from 2004 to 2014.

Open Zoo You will meet Spotted deer, Hog deer, Barking deer, Brow Antler deer, Alpaca, Lasser Flamingo ( Phoeniconaias minor ) and Peacock. There are more than 200 kinds of animal live with peaceful in the area of 40 acres. You can walk through the Open Zoo on the sky walkway to close up the animals.

Twilight Zoo Chiang Mai Zoo is opened for every visitor to come to see many kinds of animal in the day time. The interesting thing for the tourist is studying night life of animals. Chiang Mai Zoo has the opened area which consists of the plenty forest with a real natural environment and 30 kinds of night animal at least. The concept of visiting night life of animal; normally animal come to eat and hunt at night is an idea that they would like to attract the visitor to a new experience.

Now Chiang Mai has new projected to built night safari park which boosting up from Kenya government that agreeing to provide 135 African wild animals to Thailand under the MoU (Memorandum of Understanding). Thailand has a deal with MoU that we will turn back money worth 20 million baht to Kenya for join donating in elephant fund. This fund help Kenya solve the problem of rogue elephants.

Location:

Chiang Mai Zoo is situated on Suthep Road near by Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai the north of Thailand.

Facilities:

The facilities of Chiang Mai Zoo are;
- Car service
- Walk way
- Toilet
- Drink shop.
- Etc.

Zoo Entry Fee:

Adult 30 baht
Child 5 baht
Bus 60 baht
Car 50 baht
Motorcycle 10 baht

Ticket for Panda Show

Adult 100 baht
Child 50 baht

Animals Presentation / Service Car

Adult 20 baht
Child 10 baht

Office hours:

Zoo opening hours: 08:00 a.m.-06.00 p.m. daily
Twilight Zoo open: 06:30 p.m.-09.00 p.m. daily

More information:

Tel. (053) 221-179, (053) 210374, (053) 358116
Fax. (053) 222-283

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by Jour ~ Sunday, November 6, 2005 0 comments

Loi Krathong Great festival-Bangkok

“Colorful Water-Loi Krathong Great festival Bangkok, Thailand”

“Loi Krathong” is Thai Ancient tradition which traditionally performed on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month. It usually falls on some day in November for worship the River. What they use to float is a “Krathong” made of a banana leaf cup and embellish with flowers, incenses and candle. The Loi Krathong Festival is celebrated widespread in Thailand, especially where there are rivers, canals or sources of water, with different unique characteristics. Especially in Sukhothai province is original Loi Krathong festival of Thailand.
In Bangkok TAT arrange the Loi Krathong festival in the concept of “Colorful Water” to attract the travelers along Chao Phraya River throughout November with many interesting activities, for example:

Monthly activities of Loi Krathong Festival 2005

1st -5th day :Great luxury appearance of Thai’s ships.
6th -12th day: Several colorful Hotels and Restaurants along both side of Chao Phraya River.
13th -19th day: The exciting Loi krathong Festival.
20th -26th day: The beauty of Rama 8 Bridge, the highest bridge in Thailand.
27th -30th day: Worshipping to enhance luck in the night time.

Highlight of Festival

The highlight of Colorful water-Loi Krathong Great festival, Bangkok is an activity between 13-16 November 2005 during 19.30-22.00 hours is to exciting view 3 patterns of electric lanterns decorative ship procession that is:
- Loi krathong ship procession
- Fantasy ship procession
- Amazing Thailand ship procession

Watching Area

- Rama I Bridge
- Santi Chai Prakarn Park
- Krungthon Bridge
- Bangkok Noi Railway Station
- Wat kanlayanamit
- Wat Arun Ratchawararam
- Wat Rakhang Khositaram

The Glorious Night on the Chao Phraya

13-16 November 2005 at 18.30-21.00 hours.
Loi Krathong Festival at the Royal Thai Navy Institute, enjoy with foods, Classical Thai Music, Dances and Experience the Electric Boat Processions.
Cost 1,200 Bahts per person reservation at Revenue Collection Section,
Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext 2116-2117

More information: TAT Call Center 1672

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by Jour ~ Friday, November 4, 2005 0 comments

Sunflower-Thailand

Sunflower in Thailand called “Thantawan”. Normally it’s well grown in tropical area about 18-25 Celsius degree. Thailand grows it in central, northern and northeastern part of Thailand such as Lop Buri, Saraburi, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Phyao, Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi and Nakhon Ratchasima but the famous sunflower fields which attract the tourist is Lop Buri, Saraburi and Chiang Rai.

Sunflower Cultivation

Today, sunflower cultivation in Thailand can consume only i n domestic and we still import its products and grains from abroad. So we started planting sunflowers as a commercial crop in 1988; with a total area of 12 sq. Kilometers. But domestic consuming in industry is about 100,000 tons per year that’s why we need to import sunflower oil about 60,000 tons per year. So the government support agriculturist grown it after they harvested their main crops.

In industry they used sunflower oil made soap, tan leather, coat fruit and wax such as candle and cosmetics.

Medical profession has analysis that the sunflower is main material for extract Lecithin which use for reduce cholesterol in patient.

Spa shop in Thailand often used sunflower oil for massage.

Sunflower seed can make many kind of food since snacks until bread and also can feeding birds.

Sunflower History

The sunflower legend based on Greek mythology, which legend tell, Clytie who was born and lived under the sea, she’s never up to the coast. She slept in a shell with the peace until she was growing as a young woman.
One day it had a big storm from above blew to her place and sweeps everything in her place up to the coast. Clytie is one of things that came up too. This is the first time that she saw the Sun; Apollo (the God of the sun) and she fell in love with him at first sight. So she swore that she will not go back under the sea anymore. Since she sitting and fixing her eyes only on her beloved sun from sunrise until sunset day after day.
There’s one god pity her so much because Apollo never looking at her even one time. So he made a miracle by changed her clothes to green color, changed her hair to yellow color around her face and put her leg to ground and gave her brown eyes for looking at the sun. So she can turn her face to the sun all the time. That’s why sunflower has the shape like today.

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by Jour ~ Thursday, November 3, 2005 0 comments

Sunflower Festival - Thailand

The largest sunflower field is situation in Tambon Chong Sarika, Phatthana Nikom District, Lob Buri, Thailand. Away from Bangkok 30 kilometers along Lop Buri-Saraburi Road, then turn left into Highway No.21 and travel further for 15 kilometers. The sunflower field is located approximately 45 kilometers from Lop Buri the town.

The sunflowers are full blossom from November to January; attract tourists to visit Lop Buri-Saraburi. Tourist will see the largest sunflower field along the road, romantic for lovers. The characteristic of sunflower normally are facing the sunlight with its bouquet and leaf. The sunflower seed is the popular snack which is very yummy.

The attractive places near sunflower field are Khuen Pa Sak Cholasit and bee farm. Bee farm’s location is at Soi 24 Sai Tri, Mo 9 Phatthana Nikhom District, Lop Buri, its center distributes information and knowledge on Bee cultivation in Thailand and they also sell honey. Afterwards Khuen Pa Sak Cholasit which is the biggest reservoir in Thailand. On November to January state railway of Thailand trip by train from Bangkok to Pa Sak Cholasit Dam every Saturday, Sunday and public holidays. It is one day trip, start from Bangkok about 06.00 a.m. to Lop Buri and pass Khuen Pa Sak Cholasit.

How to go there

You can go to Lop Buri by car, bus and train. Especially the train because the train will pass Khuen Pa Sak Cholasit and pass sunflower field, more information trip by train contact state railway of Thailand tel:1690 or 0-2225-6964, 0-2621-8701# 5217

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by Jour ~ Tuesday, November 1, 2005 0 comments