The 8th Hua Hin/Cha-Am Golf Festival 2009

The 8th Hua Hin/Cha-Am Golf Festival 2009
1 Aug 2009 – 30 Sep 2009
The festival for golf lovers at the heavenly seaside resorts of Hua Hin/Cha-am, Thailand

The Tourism Authority of Thailand Phetchaburi Office, together with the Phetchaburi- Prachuap KhiriKhan Golf Course Association, invites all golf lovers to join in the fun during the Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival throughout August and September 2009.

Promotional offers include:

An offer to play golf at the Springfield Village Golf and Spa throughout August for only 800 baht — the lowest green fees of the year.

Invitations to apply to compete in organised tournaments every Sunday for just Baht 1,200 (Fees include caddy and dinner), with lots of lucky prizes. The player achieving a hole-in-one at designated holes will win a car on the last day of the festival. Prizes presented for the 'longest drive' contests. An opportunity to browse and shop for a wide range of specially-discounted golf products with 10-30% reduction on Pro Shop products at all courses. After tournament you can relax at Huahin Beach or Cha-Am Beach.

Further information can be obtained from TAT Phetchaburi on +66 (0) 3247 1005 - 6 during office hours or from any of the following 7 participating golf courses.

For additional information, please contact:
TAT Phetchaburi OfficeTel: +66 (0) 3247 1005 - 6
Fax: +66 (0) 3247 1502
E-mail: tatphet@tat.or.th

IMPORTANT
Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.
Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated
information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.

Contact:
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Website: www.tat.or.th
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)

FOR EVENT INFORMATION,
please call 1672.

Address:
1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Rajatevee
Bangkok 10400
Thailand.

Source from: TourismThailand.org
http://58.147.84.34/learning/0012005/sec4/50010912814/tour.html

NORTHERN THAILAND CHIANG RAI

PICTURE : WAT PHRA SINGH


BLESSED ROUTE OF NINE SACRED STUPAS (PHRA THAT)

Many chedis or stupas contain holy relics, pieces of bone of the historical Buddha. In Northern and Northeastern Thailand, these chedis are called ‘phra that’.

In Thai culture, nine is considered to be an auspicious number. Residents of the ancient city of Wiang Yonnok Nakaphan in the ancient Lanna Thai kingdom of Northern Thailand and their descendants believe that a merit-making pilgrimage to the following nine sacred sites with the word ‘chom’ in their name will bring good luck. Individuals who complete the journey will be blessed with success in work, prosperity and a good life.

• Phra That Doi Chom Thong, Chiang Rai district
• Phra That Chom Mok Kaeow, Mae Lao district
• Phra That Chom Phor, Wiang Pa Pao district
• Phra That Chom Chaeng, Mae Ruay district
• Phra That Chom Wae, Paan district
• Phra That Chom Chor, Toeng district
• Phra That Chom Kitti, Chiang Saen district
• Phra That Chom Chan, Mae Chan district
• Phra That Chom Sak, Chiang Rai district

NINE SACRED TEMPLES OF CHIANG RAI

• Wat Klang Wiang temple
• Wat Ngam Muang
• Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong
• Wat Phra Kaeow
• Wat Phra Singh
• Wat Ming Muang
• Wat Moong Muang
• Wat Sriket
• Wat Sriboonruang

Contact information:
TAT Northern Office – Region 2
Areas of responsibility: the provinces of Chiang Rai, Phayao, Phrae, Nan
Tel: 053 717433, 7446745
Fax: 053 717434
E-mail: tatchrai@tat.or.th
Source from: TATNEWS.ORG
TOURISMTHAILAND.ORG

THE WONDERS OF WAT PHO

THE WONDERS OF WAT PHO
At Wat Pho – Temple of The Reclining Buddha
Koh Rattanakosin (Rattanakosin Island) Bangkok

Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimonmangklaraam Rajwaramahaviharn, a first grade royal monastery which was regarded as being the most important one during the reign of King Rama I of the illustrious Chakri dynasty, is more widely known to visitors as “Wat Pho”.

Phra Buddhasaiyas (Viharn Phranorn) or The Viharn of the Reclining Buddha

The Vihara (pronounced Viharn) of the Reclining Buddha houses the Reclining Buddha of the reign of King Rama III. This is the largest and one of the finest Buddha images to be found in the kingdom. The mother-of-pearl inlay at the feet of the image is of the Thai-Chinese style, as indicated by 108 auspicious signs portraying natural scenes of both Indian and Chinese influences.

Sala Rai or Satellite Pavilions
The North Pavilion is a library of inscriptions on Thai traditional massage.
Thirty-two drawings of massage techniques are depicted on the ceiling of the veranda. There are also inscriptions of the first Thai proverbs known as Supasit Phra Ruang, Thai literary works called Kritsana Sorn Nong, and a portrait of the Royal Kathin Procession.

Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn
This consists of a group of four huge pagodas surrounded by a white wall with sheltered gates built in the Thai-Chinese style and decorated with colour-glazed tiles and Chinese rockery guardians. The pagodas consist of Phra Maha Chedi Sri Sanpetdayarn, Phra Maha Chedi Dilok Dhammakaroknitarn, Phra Maha Chedi Muni Batborikharn, and Phra Maha Chedi Song Phra Srisuriyothai.

The Legend of Songkran
The Nang Songkran legend involves King Kabilaprom and Prince Thammaban. These characters are depicted on the inner walls of the porticos constructed during the reign of King Rama III.

The World Heritage Inscriptions
Wat Pho and the Fine Arts Department have worked in cooperation to establish a museum of Buddha images in the different art styles. The images are classified into three major categories including Buddhist Art, the Buddha's Marks and the Buddha's Attitudes.

Wat Pho has been included in the UNESCO Memory of the World (MOW) Programme for 2009. The temple was recognized for the historic inscriptions and hermit statues teaching traditional Thai yoga housed inside it.

Wat Pho Giants
The outer walls of the Phra Mondob feature a collection of famous Thai proverbs called Kloang Lokaniti and scenes from the legend about the fight between the giants of Wat Pho Giants and Wat Jaeng that resulted in the emergence of Tha Tien pier.

Sala Karn Parien
The Sala Karn Parien pavilion was built in the Ayutthaya period as the main chapel of Wat Phodharam and was later restored during the reign of King Rama III. The principal Buddha image of Wat Phodharam named "Phra Buddha Sassada" was once enshrined here.

Phra Buddha Deva Patimakorn
The main chapel was constructed during the reign of King Rama I in the Ayutthaya style. The principal Buddha image is Phra Buddha Deva Patimakorn in the gesture of a seated Buddha on a three-tiered pedestal called Phra Pang Smardhi.

Contorted Hermit Mount
The Contorted Hermit Mount was built during the reign of King Rama I. It was the centre of medical science and knowledge from the Ayutthaya period, reflected by statues of hermits or Rishi practicing physical exercises.
Wat Pho is also winner of the Award of Outstanding Performance in the 7th Thailand Tourism Awards 2008 in the Cultural Tourist Site – Central Region award category.

In ancient times, not only did Wat Pho serve as a centre of religious instruction, the royal monastery also served a centre of history, literature, art and culture, as well as medical science, physical therapy and other forms of traditional Thai healing. Considered to be the first open university providing education in traditional Thai medicine and traditional Thai massage, the temple is home to the Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage and Medical School, which offers traditional Thai massage. The service is available from 08.00 – 22.00 daily.
Pricing:

Traditional Thai Massage: 220 baht for 30 minutes or 360 baht per hour
Foot Massage: 360 baht for 45 minutes
Traditional Thai massage using steamed herbal poultices: 480 baht per hour

If you interest to study theory and practice Ascetic self-stretching (Rue-Si Datton) or Thai Massage You able to contact Watpo Thai traditional Medical School.To book a session, or for further details, please call:
Tel: +66 (0) 2221 2974 (press O), +66 (0) 2225 4771
Cellphone: 084 206 3580

Contact:
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Website: http://www.tourismthailand.org/
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)

FOR EVENT INFORMATION,
please call 1672.

Address:
1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Rajatevee
Bangkok 10400
Thailand
Source from:
Web site: http://www.tatnews.org/
http://www.watpho.com/en/home/index.php
http://www.watpomassage.com/2009/

Ayutthaya Songkran Festival (Old Capital's Songkran)

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Songkran Festival

Date
12 – 14 April, 2009

Venue
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bopit and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park.

Activities
13 April, 2009
- Offering alms to monks in front of Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit.
- Pouring water on the hands of elders to receive their blessing.
- Admire the beautiful procession from 16 districts.
- Water splashing with elephants.

12 – 14 April, 2009
Around Bang Ian Road (in front of the TOT Public Company Limited), Ko Mueang, Phra Nakhon Si

Ayutthaya province
- Enjoy the Thai Classical Music Competition and cultural Performances.
- Experience the atmosphere of the ancient city’s food avenue.
- Buy OTOP food products.

Wat Thong Bo, Tambon Sao Kradong, Amphoe Bang Pa-in
- Offering alms in accordance with the Mon tradition, and bathing the Buddha image by pouring water through a bamboo gutter.
- Admire the procession of traditional Mon flags.
- Dress in Mon costumes and try Mon traditional cuisine.

The Statue of King Naresuan the Great, Thung Phukhao Thong
- Pouring water on the hands of 800 elders to receive their blessing.
- Sand Pagoda Competition.
- Admire traditional plays and performances.
- Water splashing in the refreshing water curtain.


For more information
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Municipality Office
Tel. 0 3525 2168

TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Tel. 0 3524 6076-7, 0 3532 2730-1

Ayutthaya Tourist Centre
Tel: 0 3532 2730 - 1

Source from: Songkran.net

Chonburi Pattaya SONGKRAN Festival2009

CHON BURI PATTAYA BANG SAEN SONGKRAN SAND-STUPA BUILDING FESTIVAL
APRIL 16 - 17, 2009
On the beach in Bang Saen, Siracha district, Chon Buri province

Highlight on 16 April 2009.
Sand-stupa building contests

With no shortage of sand to build sand-stupas, the stupa building contest is a predominant element of the Songkran festivities in Chon Buri Province.

Residents of the each of the villages in the district gather together to take part in community Buddhist merit-making. Monks are invited to conduct merit-making ceremonies and rituals, whilst local residents present merit-making offerings and sprinkle scented lustral water on Buddha images in a Songkran Thai New Year bathing ritual. Families pay respect to elderly relatives and other respected individuals by pouring scented lustral water over the hands.

Festival highlights include the 'Kong Kao' religious ritual, rarely seen folk games and traditional Thai sports, cockfighting — a popular local sport, the Siracha Miss Songkran beauty pageant and Siracha Songkran Parade.


PATTAYA-NA KLEUA SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
APRIL 18 - 20, 2009

‘WAN LAI’ SONGKRAN CUSTOMS IN PATTAYA, CHON BURI
Larn Po Park, Na Kleua sub-district in Pattaya

Except the building of sand stupas on the beach and the local landscape, Songkran Thai New Year rituals and celebrations in Pattaya are similar to those performed in other parts of the country.

Activities A procession of the Buddha image along the Pattaya beachfront road offering local residents and visitors an opportunity to participate in the ritual bathing of a revered Buddha image.

Buddhist merit-making and the ritual bathing of Buddha images at temples
Rot nam dam hua ceremony, Scented lustral water is poured over the hands of elders and individuals held in high esteem in a gesture of respect.
The observance of the ‘Kong khao’ ritual, The building of sand stupas and the performance of consecration rituals. Traditional folk games such as ‘sharp-shooting’ with elastic bands, and traditional folk sports played on the beach such as beach-tug-of-war, hoop takraw and muay talay boxing matches.
Cultural presentations and performances
Miss Songkran beauty contest
Songkran water-splashing by the beach



SI MAHARAJA SONGKRAN FESTIVAL IN CHON BURI PROVINCE
APRIL 19 - 21, 2009
At Koh Loi Park, Si Racha district, Chon Buri province

Highlights and Activities The observance of the ‘kong kao’ religious ritual and other customs related to the celebration of the Thai New Year
Procession of Buddha images and the ritual bathing of Buddha images
Procession of ‘kong kao’ floats
Sand-stupa building contest
Thai cultural performances and folk games
Sales of local food and desserts
Miss Songkran beauty contest
Water-splashing


KOH SI CHANG SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
APRIL 13 - 19, 2009
Koh Si Chang and Koh Khaam Yai Island

Highlights and Activities Buddhist merit-making and the ritual bathing of Buddha images at temples
Scented lustral water is poured over the hands of elders and individuals held in high esteem in a gesture of respect.
The building of sand stupas and the performance of consecration rituals Traditional folk games native to the island of Koh Si Chang such as the ‘Chinese-wok-boat’ races, boat-tug-of-war, and ‘tub jaak’ boxing, dart contests and hoop takraw competitions — a traditional Southeast Asian sport that is a cross between soccer and volleyball and is one of the most spectacular pastimes.
Witness a rarely seen traditional courtship tradition on the island of Koh Kaam Yai, approximately 1 km from the island of Koh Si Chang. The men of the village invite eligible young ladies to join them for water-splashing in the sea. If consent is granted, the man carries the young lady down the beach to the sea and then carries her back to shore again, after which the couples take part in the traditional ram wong circle dance.

Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Pattaya Office
Tel: +66 (0) 3842 3990, (0) 3842 7667, (0) 3842 8750
Fax: +66 (0) 3842 9113
E-mail: tatchon@tat.or.th


IMPORTANT
Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.
Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.
Contact:
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Website: www.tat.or.th
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)

FOR EVENT INFORMATION,
please call 1672.

Address:
1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Rajatevee
Bangkok 10400
Thailand

Source from: Tourism Authority of Thailand

Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony 2009

On Valentine's Festival, We invite you travel to trang province at Southen of Thailand and Welcome you to

Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony
Date : 13-15 February 2009
Venue : Ko Kradan, Sikao District, Trang

The brides and grooms parade through the city streets and attend lavish parties. The wedding ceremony will be held on the beach in a traditional Thai style while the registration procedure will take place underwater off Ko Kradan.

For more informations :
TAT Trang Office, Tel : 66 (0) 7521 5867, 7521 1058, 7521 1085
Trang Tourism Coordination Centre, Tel. 66 (0) 7521 5867-8
Trang Chamber of Commerce, Tel. 66 (0) 2545 3322
Website : www.underwaterwedding.com
Article Source: Tourismthailand.org

Snorkeling & Diving in Koh Chang, Thailand

Snorkeling & Diving in Koh Chang, Thailand

The best diving season is between October, November, and April. The best sites are on the west and the southern tip of the island, between Koh Chang and Koh Kood. There you can see soft corals, anemones, myriad reef fish, and sometimes eel. Hin Luk Bat and Hin Lap both have coral seamounts. Further south, white-tip reef sharks can be found near Hin Phrai Nam.

In addition, there are two wreck dive sites. The Koh Chang Wreck is a Thai warship sunk by the French navy in 1941. The wreck is only 15 metres deep in the Salakphet Bay on the southern tip of the island. The other wreck is the Pak One Wreck which sank after hitting a coral reef in August 1996 on its way to Vietnam. It resurfaced almost 8 years later. The 900-ton sunken tanker posed a danger to ships on international waters. The Royal Thai Navy drained off its 600 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas and resank it between Koh Chang and Koh Samet. It now lies horizontally in 35-meter deep waters.

There are a few diving centres on Koh Chang such as the Ploy Scuba Diving in Bang Bao. Following the standards of the sister centre in Koh Samet, this is the premier diving operator in Eastern Thailand.

The Dolphin Divers at the Amari Emerald Cove Resort offers free trial in the resort’s swimming pool. For those who prefer fun dives without a long boat trip Dolphin Divers operate speedboats from the resort’s beach to the nearest dive sites in only 15 minutes. Others include the Koh Chang Dive Centre on Kai Bae Beach, Paradise Scuba Divers at the Klong Prao Resort and Koh Chang Divers on Had Sai Khao (White Sand Beach).

The Dive Adventure Koh Chang has claimed to be the only PADI 5 star IDC center in Koh Chang with its multilingual instructors and divemasters. It is advantageously located at Bang Bao fishing village with it own resort.

A few dive centres operate out of Koh Mak. Boat trips to various dive sites range from 1,800 to 3,000 Baht depending on distances, and typically include two dives, full equipment, transportation, food, drinks and a divemaster.

Article Source: By: Nichapat
Articlesbase.com

Picture Source:
Kohchang.in.th

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2009

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2009
Date : 6 - 8 February 2009
Venue : Nong Buak Hat Park, Chiang Mai

If you are obsessed with beautiful flowers and decorative plants, this is the festival for you. Experience these beautiful flower-decorated floats and a magnificent tapestry of floral splendor that blankets the land. There are also agricultural exhibitions, floral contents, and product sales by local groups of housewives.

A highlight of the festival is the grand parade that attracts sponsoring companies and organisations that beautify floats with elaborate flower decorations, presenting an eco-tourism message or just simply stealing the hearts of spectators with their vivid colours and beauty.

The parade leads up to the annual beauty competition to crown the city’s flower queen, who represents the flower growers and exporters as an ambassador of good will.
Entertainment, an opportunity to dine on tasty northern snacks and view cultural performances are clearly features that draw both visitors and locals to this annual event. Home and garden lovers discover Chiang Mai is a February showcase for exotic orchids, flowering plants and blooms that thrive in the northern valley’s temperate cool season.Particularly during the cool season months, mid-November through to February, this northern provinces justifies its title “Rose of the North.” But for flower lovers, who flock to this annual festival, 6 to 8 February in the town’s Buak Hat Park, there is far more to the town’s garden reputation than the impressive display of elegant roses.

Since 1977 when the annual festival was inaugurated, it has earned a reputation on par with similar events such as Japan Sakura Flower Festival and the Netherlands’ flower parades. This was further enhanced by the successful flower expo in 2006.
Due variations of climate and its mountain landscapes, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival presents a diversity of blooms and flowers. Many of them, originally imported from temperate climes such as carnations,chrysanthemum, tulips, are displayed side-by-side with tropical flowers including exotic orchids.

Contact :
TAT Chiang Mai Office
Tel : 66 (0) 5324 8604, 5324 8607, 5324 1466
Chiang Mai Municipality Office
Tel : 66 5324 8604

Source from: Tourismthailand.org

Thailand International Balloon Festival 2008

Date : 3rd – 7th December 2008
Venue : Khao Yai (War Dog Battalion, Pak Chong), Nakhon Ratchasima

Welcome to TIBF2008
The event is expected to attract over 300,000 spectators to witness a colourful showcase of hot air balloons from all over the world, including the USA, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Japan and Malaysia.

The first Festival, held in 2007, attracted over 150,000 Thai and foreign spectators and received wide coverage in all media.

The Thailand International Balloon Festival builds international awareness of Thailand, showcasing the wonderful

weather conditions for balloon flying and the country’s unique and beautiful hinterland, proving that Thailand is more than a sunny beach!, Live Concerts; Farmers Fair; Fun Games/ Races; Fireworks; Wine Tasting; Food Tasting; Horse Shows; Dog Shows; Cowboy Shows; Archery; Marching Bands; and the Musical Balloon Glow & Festival Of Light & Fire.

Contact :
Earth Wind and Fire Company Limited
158/60 Moo 6 Cheungdoi, Doi Saket Chiang Mai, Thailand 50220
Tel : +66 53 - 292 - 224
Fax : +66 53 - 292 - 226
Website : www.thailandballoonfestival.com
Email : info@wind-and-fire.com

Source: Tourismthailand.org
Thailandballoonfestival

Loy Krathong and Candle Festival 2008

LOY KRATHONG AND CANDLE FESTIVAL
November 12, 2008
At the Sukhothai Historical Park


From morning until night on the radio, and with everyone humming it whilst making their krathongs. You will audible this song ( The Loy Krathong Song ) all day. Therefore you able to sing Loy Krathong.


The lyrics In Thai

Wan Pen Duan Sip Song
Nam Koh Nong Tem Taling
Rao Tanglai Chai Ying
Sanuk Ganjing Wan Loy Krathong
Loy Loy Krathong
Loy Loy Kratong,
Loy Krathong Gan Laew
Koh Chern Nong Kaew
Awk Ma Ram Wong
Ram Wong Wan Loy Krathong
Ram Wong Wan Loy Krathong
Boon Ja Song Hai Rao Suk Jai
Boon Ja Song Hai Rao Suk Jai

Translated into English:

The full moon of the twelfth month,
As water fills the banks,
We, all men and women,
Have really good fun on Loy Krathong day,
Float, float the krathongs,
Float, float the krathongs,
And after we have floated our krathongs,
I invite you my dear,
To come out and dance,
Ramwong [traditional dance] on Loy Krathong Day,
Ramwong on Loy Krathong Day,
Good merit brings us happiness,
Good merit brings us happiness.

Event Highlights:
~ The Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival begins with the Phra Mae Ya invocation ritual and a ritual to pay homage to King Ramkamhaeng The Great.
~ Cultural performances and Thai musical performances
~ A procession of giant krathong floats
~ Miss Noppamas beauty contest
~ Khome Loi (hoisted lanterns) Procession
~ Krathong floats and lantern contests
~ Traditional Thai fireworks display
~ Khantoke — a traditional Thai-style set dinner
~ The Kingdom of Sukhothai light-and-sound presentation
Traditional floating market, food fair, and folk games

As the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in mid-November) lights up the night sky, throughout the Thai kingdom, hundreds of thousands of ornately-decorated krathong or traditional banana leaf floats are set adrift in rivers and waterways in a spell-binding ritual called Loi Krathong - the 'festival of lights". This is one of the Kingdom's oldest and best-preserved traditions.

The Loi Krathong tradition we know of today has evolved from the royal rituals of the early Rattanakosin period in which several types of lanterns were set afloat in the Chao Phraya River and its waterways. The practice was subsequently adopted and adapted by common folk.

Krathong floats are made from basic materials easily found around the village and reflect the simplicity of life beyond the palace walls. They typically take the shape of lotus in full bloom, swans, chedis (stupas), and Mount Meru from Buddhist mythology. However krathong floats in the shape of lotus blossoms are most
popular.

The sight of thousands of tiny candlelit floats drifting downstream is nowhere more spectacular than in Sukhothai, the first Thai capital, where this annual tradition originated. Watch dazzling firework displays, cultural performances, folk dances and a dramatic light and sound presentation.

Other activities include a Khantoke Thai-style set dinner, merit-making rituals in which sacred offerings are presented to 109 Buddhist monks, Buddhist sermons, demonstrations of textile weaving and the production of silver ornaments, and a specially staged traditional floating market, complete with food fair and folk
games.

The Origins of Loi Krathong,there are various fascinating accounts about the origins of Loi Krathong. It is not known as to when the tradition first began but authorities speculate that it is of Indian origin and based on the "Deepavalee" ritual which is also accompanied by floating lights in an act of worship of the Brahmin gods - Brahma, Siva and Vishnu, or an act of remission to the Indian Ganga or Ganges. According to another school of thought, the ritual is said to be based on ancient Buddhist tales and is undertaken to pay respect to the sacred footprint of
the Lord Buddha on the bank of the mythical Nammadhammahantee river.

However, given the river-based culture that formed the foundation of the traditional Thai way of life, Loi Krathong evolved into a ritual in which offerings are made to Mae Khongkha – Mother of Waters, the Thai equivalent of the Hindu goddess of water, in an expression of gratitude for providing life-sustaining water throughout the year. It is also believed that the offering are made in an act of appeasement to beg her forgiveness for Man's carelessness in polluting the pristine water that ourishes all life. Over time the tradition spread throughout the country.

Some believe that by setting the krathong adrift, one symbolically casts away one's grief, misery and ill-fortunes to the extent that there are bizarre tales of the superstitious placing tufts of hair or clipped finger-nail into the krathong in the hope of ridding themselves of a spell of bad luck or misfortune. Coins are also
placed in the krathong as offerings.

For the romantic at heart and young couples, Loi Krathong is the time to make wishes for happiness together and success in love.

Loy Krathong 2008 in Soppong, Mae Hong Son, Thailand
a traditional celebration in a small village.
November 11-12, 2008

This year, the Loy Krathong festivities in Soppong (Pangmapha District. Mae Hong Son Province) fall on 11 and 12 November 2008, with the 12th being the full moon day of the twelfth lunar month, and the day when most of the festivities happen ("Loy Kathong Yai"). To many, Loy Krathong (sometimes called "yee ping" or the 'festival of lights') is the most beautiful festival and ceremony of the year in Thailand.

Being a small and relatively remote village, Soppong is a wonderful place to participate in the Loy Krathong festivities. You may have seen the grander celebrations in Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, or the villages closer to the big cities that are more accessible to tourists, but Soppong is still a very traditional and much quieter experience.

RESERVATIONS
KINGDOM OF SUKHOTHAI LIGHT-AND-SOUND PRESENTATION
Please contact the Sukhothai provincial office
Tel: +66 (0) 5561 1619

Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Sukhothai Office
Areas of responsibility: Kamphaengphet, Sukhothai
Tel: +66 (0) 5561 1196
Fax: +66 (0) 5561 1196

IMPORTANT
Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.
Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional

Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please
reconfirm details prior to travel.
Contact:
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Website: www.tat.or.th
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)

FOR EVENT INFORMATION,
please call 1672.

Address:
1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Rajatevee
Bangkok 10400
Thailand

Source from:
*Loy Krathong 2008 in Soppong, Mae Hong Son, Thailand
a traditional celebration in a small village
*Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival

Siam Cultural Park

Siam Cultural Park at Bangphae Ratchaburi.

When people think about tourism, most of the time they usually think of beaches, waterfalls, and mountains which are natural tourism. However other than those natural ones, Thailand also house many interest human-made tourist attractions.
Like recently in Ratchaburi province, a newly built attraction opened for the
public renowned Siam Cultural Park. Siam Cultural Park situates in Wangyen sub - district the district of Bangpae close to the famous Dumnurnsaduak Floating Market just a kilometer from Bangpae intersection on Petkasem road.

The park was originated with the aim to conserve Thai traditions, cultures, and arts along with the shady natural park . The Park is divided into six zones covering area more than 42-rai. The fist zone is housed to the Hall of Fame building which exhibits well-know important persons both Thai and foreign for example,
M.L. Pin Malakul, H.E. Professor Dr. Sanya Dhammasak, President Ho Chi Minh, and Mother Terasa. Just a few steps from the Hall of Fame building and right before entering into the second zone, there are amazing and difficult-to-find-one trees
in which a sugar palm tree surrounded by a bo tree, the tree the lord Buddha enlightened.

The second zone is called the Terrace of Buddha Image of Three Periods. The Buddha images reproduced from historical parks from three different periods, Ayutthaya , Sukhothai and Chiang Saen also known as Lanna. This zone gives an opportunity to explore three historical park in three different provinces in one place. The third zone is housed to a Jutaka Light and Sound Cave where the story of the Buddhist Saga
Vessantara Jutaka is told with the aim to show the result the endless greed of human beings. Next to the cave lies a Herbal Drink house where a tradition refreshment drinks like Chrysanthemum, Rosella, Bael fruit, Lemon Grass, and Longan and Thai tradition sweets are served. The forth zone is exhibited Buddhist Monastic Cells which divided into regional styles where each cell housed two famous monks from the
region. Crossing the bridge to the other side of the canal would bring visitors back to the past with the Thai traditional houses style in the fifth zone. This zone is also divided into regional styles where each styles has its uniqueness of architecture and design. Inside each house are artifacts to tell about the way of life of the people in the region. Crossing the second bridge would take visitors to the water-fall front for taking photos and enjoy coffee, tea, Thai sweets, ice-cream, and herbal drinks served by the Coffee House. After enjoy taking photos and the refreshments, walking along the footpath would finally take visitors to the footpath would finally take visitors to the last zone the Terrace of Avalokitasvara where the area is beautifully decorated with trees and flowers for the last shot before leaving the Park.

Siam Cultural Park is a very interesting tourist destination which shouldn’t miss in Ratchaburi province

Information:

The Inspiration for Siam Cultural Park

Siam Cultural Park was initiated by a group of people who specialized in making Buddha images and had exceptional backgrounds and strong experience in sculpture and molding works. The experience they gained in over 40 years of working in molding and sculpture inspired them to have the greater ambition to create realistic wax statues of monks and other important and successful people who are respected by the Thai
people. They also wanted to create a waxwork zone showing the lifestyle of Thai people in each region in the past. The Siam Cultural Park was established in 1997 out of the founders’ ambition to generate creative works and their dedication to do good things. Their faithfulness in other people and the encouragement they received from teachers, gurus, friends and family were the fundamental source of success of the Siam Cultural Park project. The park is intended to present creative artworks reflecting Thai culture and ways of life from the past until the present for the next generations to learn about the uniqueness of Thai culture.

Objectives

1. To be a recreational place of mind

2. To be an educational tourism destination

3. To help people understand and appreciate the traditional way of life

4. To promote knowledge of Buddhism
5. To maintain traditional Thai art and culture

Operating Hours
Monday -Friday : 9.00-16.30
Saturday -Sunday : 8.30-17.00
Annual holiday : 8.30-17.00

Ticket
Adult : 50 B
Child : 20 B

Source from: Tourismthailand.org
Siam Cultural Park
Picture from Siam Cultural Park

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Date : 29 September – 7 October 2008
Venue : Various Chinese shrines, Mueang District, Phuket

The Thai-Chinese in Phuket have long passed on the vegetarian festival to purify mind and soul by refraining from meat consumption and meditating. Symbolising the presence of the deities throughout the festival are 9 lanterns lit up and placed aloft on Ko Teng poles. On the 6th day of the festival, there will be religious processions and incredible displays of face-and-body piercing. On the last day, there will be a “Koi Han” ceremony to exorcize ill fortune and a farewell ceremony for the deities at night. You can check the Schedule Phuket Vegetarian and 10 Rules For the Vegetarian Festival from Phuket Vegetarian Festival.

Contact:
TAT Phuket, Tel : 66 (0) 7621 1036, 66 (0) 7621 2213

Source from : Thailand tourism
www.phuket.com

The Siam Tulip Festival of Chaiyaphum 2008

BLOOMING KRACHIAO FLOWER FESTIVAL
Date : JUNE - AUGUST 2008
Venue : Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Ban Rai district Thep Sathit district and
Sai Thong National Park, Nong Bua Rawa district, Chaiyaphum Province.

The unique geographical landscape of Chaiyaphum Province in the northeast of Thailand gives rise to a range of natural attractions of exceptional beauty. Of these, the fields of pinkish-purple Siam Tulip, or "Dok Krachiao", come in to full bloom in the early part of the rainy season from June to August.

Dok Krachiao Field in Pa Hin Ngam Thung Khlong Chang is a deciduous dipterocarp forest where Krachiao - curcuma - bulbs with pink and white blossoms grow on a rocky terrain together with various types of plants. There is also a large rock similar to an elephant.
From the end of June to mid-August, curcuma or Krachiao blossoms will bloom in the field in both pink and white colours. Dok Krachiao or Bua Sawan Field, Krachiao is a kind of curcuma - is an annual plant in the same species as ginger-galingale,
scattered generally from Lan Hin Ngam to the Sut Phaendin viewpoint.
Dok Krachiao Blooming Festival is held at the end of June to Mid August at Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Thep Sathit District.

It is during the rainy season when the blossoms of the wild Krachiao flowers in purplish pink are widely found in the area. Therefore, we call this area as Dok Krachiao Field. In the festival, there is a natural tour around the national park, local performances.

Also commonly called ’patumma’, ’bua sawan’ (heaven lotus), or ’bua bok’ (the land lotus), the Siam Tulip is a member of the ginger genera — Curcuma or Zingiberaceae.

For any futher information

Pa Hin Ngam National Park : Tel. 0-4489-0105
Sai Thong National Park : Tel. 08-282-3437, 08-1877-8485, Mon.-Fri. 09.00 - 16.00 hr.
TAT Northeastern Office : Region 1 : Tel.0-4421-3030, 0-4421-3666
Fax. 0-4421-3667 or call center 1

Source from:
Tourism Thailand.org

Wikipedia.org

Laguna Phuket International Marathon 2008

Laguna Phuket International Marathon 2008
15 June 2008

Experience the real challenge with the doable course for all participants due to the hill.

A scenic route along some of Phuket’s most spectacular west coast bays makes this an event that attracts runners ready to achieve a personal best.

Some marathons shine brighter than others in this highly competitive field of events. The Laguna Phuket International Marathon is one of them, due its incredibly scenic route along some of the island’s best beaches and on roads that wind through shady rubber plantations. Now in its third year, the marathon will attract as many a 1,500 runners from 40 countries, who will complete in a variety of events, 15 June, including the 42 km marathon, a half marathon, a 10.5 km and 5 km walk. Of course, the fun starts on the evening of the 14 June when runners meet for the traditional pasta party, a carbo loading exercise to prepare them for the demanding races on the following morning. Laguna Phuket’s chef conjures up a mammoth buffet at the hotel, the official headquarters for the event, while Thai musicians and dancers entertain participants.

From the participants’ point of view, June is an ideal month to compete in a marathon as monsoon clouds gather over the Andaman Sea providing cover from what would otherwise be a scorching hot day.

This is Phuket’s traditional low season, so the event is billed as a tourism booster that attracts not only the runners, but also family members who travel to Phuket to cheer their kin to victory, or perhaps a personal best.

Another factor that benefits runners is the scenic route that takes them initially inland on a country lane to Thalang district and then northwest to Nai Yang beach through rubber plantations. The final section of the marathon takes runners along Layan Beach and south to Laguna Phuket and across the finishing line. Celebrations begin as sponsors and organisers hand out the well deserved accolades and trophies to the winners in a variety of categories.

Runners who finish the marathon in less than four hours receive a certificate.Go Adventure Asia, a Bangkok based professional event organizer with a focus on running and multi-sport events, is organising the event. In addition to managing the Laguna Phuket International Marathon for three years, it is also manages the Laguna Phuket Triathlon.

The Laguna Phuket International Marathon has nominated HOPE worldwide (Thailand) as its official charity. HOPE worldwide (Thailand) is dedicated to helping needy children and underprivileged girls in Thailand.

Please Contact:
TAT Southern Office: Region 4
Tel. 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213

Go Adventure Asia
Tel. 0 2236 2931, 0 2237 3221
Source from:
tourismthailand.org
phuketmarathon2008

Fun in Phuket: Luxury Thailand Summer Trips

Fun in Phuket: Luxury Thailand Summer Trips
by Andrew Regan

Summer is low season in Thailand, but this means that it's a great time to visit the country if you're looking for special offers on hotels, including free nights and free upgrades (both on a hotel room and for a meal plan) and also no crowds.

Phuket, which has also been named "The Pearl of Thailand", is regularly voted as one of the world's top holiday destinations. Lying just off the southwest coast, and surrounded by the warm, blue, tropical waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is Thailand's largest island. It is home to around 200,000 people as well as a transient tourist population. Though tourism is now a major industry on the island, it was originally tin that brought the area to the attention of the world, and the
capital Phuket Town, is still a major port, exporting tin ore, rubber, timber and seafood to the rest of the world.

The rapid growth in tourism has led to the quick development of beach resorts, but tranquil spots are not hard to find, especially when there's always a boat waiting to take you to Phuket's offshore islets, where visitors often find themselves completely alone. In contrast to the many white sandy beaches, such as Mai Khao, Nai Yang and Pansea, the bustling night markets are well worthy of a visit; just make sure you get your haggling skills up to scratch so that you can bag yourself a bargain!

Thailand has a monsoon season which runs from May to October; when the climate is still hot there are frequent torrential downpours. Whilst the idea of rain may put some people off, others actually enjoy the tropical torrents which are unleashed from the skies. There's nothing quite like sitting under a veranda, as the heavy raindrops drum down on the roof, and enjoying the wonderful sounds and refreshing smells that the rainy season brings. And unlike rain in the UK, tropical storms don't last for long; it's never long before the sun comes out and the ground quickly dries off again.

With Phuket holidays, there are several great luxury resorts and hotels to stay in, for example Bayan Tree Phuket, a deluxe resort with a tranquil setting which is ideal for honeymooners, or those looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday. Cape Panwa, an excellent first class hotel, has good facilities and a peaceful location, and the Amanpuri resort offers azure waters and palm shaded gardens.

The fabulous resorts of Pattaya (just 1.5 hours drive from Bangkok) and Hua Hin on the Gulf of Siam are also recommended destinations if you'd like to see a different part of the country. So remember, summer is a great time to visit Thailand, and especially Phuket. If you're after a great value holiday, with fewer tourists
to compete with, if you want to dive, play golf, visit a spa, or just relax on one of the many beautiful beaches, you won't regret a trip to "The pearl of Thailand".

Source from: Goarticles.com/
Photo from: school.obec.go.th/karonschool

Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2008

Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2008
July 23-27, 2008

Programme

Four days of racing, no lay day. Five nights of parties.

The regatta HQ — registration, results, prizegivings and all regatta administration — will be operated from the lower sea view terrace (Into The Beach) of Evason Phuket & Six Senses Spa, adjacent to the jetty, which will also be the venue for the post-race Regatta Tavern and four of the five official regatta parties.

All race starts will take place at 10:00 hrs off the Evason Phuket Resort. There will be shuttle boats from the Evason for boats anchored in Ao Chalong, although past experience demonstrated that there is ample available anchorage right off the regatta venue.

RACING: Registration Wednesday 23 July. First race day will be Thursday 24 July. Last race day Sunday 27 July.

SOCIAL: Opening party Wednesday 23 July. Closing party and overall prizegiving, Sunday 27 July.

Upgrades to the programme in 2008 include full buffet parties (no more little 'cocktail' parties) each night and the Rodenstock Happy Hour with free flow of drinks for the first hour of each Evason-based party.

Online registration is now open for Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2008 — anticipated to be the best Raceweek yet — offering a reduced entry fee for early registrations. Phuket’s ‘Green Season’ regatta, now in its fifth year, sees a mixed fleet of yachts race in the southwest monsoon breezes off Phuket’s south coast every July, this year from 23-27 July. While retaining the same one-regatta-one-venue format, combining four days of competitive racing with five nights of grand waterside parties — a format that has met with unanimous approval from competitors — this year’s event brings a host of new dimensions.

Evason Phuket’s ‘Into the Beach’ venue, Asia’s favourite waterside regatta party spot, is undergoing an extensive upgrade. Returning to join the newcomers on the sponsorship front are avid supporters of Thailand’s regatta scene, Raimon Land, who are firm in their conviction that up-market property development and yachting are part of the same premium ‘lifestyle’ scene.

Media partners throughout Asia and Australia will take Raceweek news and views to a wide readership in the boating, business,

entertainment, travel, lifestyle, national and local Phuket press, while — a first for Raceweek — a special Raceweek programme,

commissioned by the organisers, will be televised worldwide on sporting and lifestyle channels such as CNN Mainsail, Eurosport, Star

Sports, the European Sailing Channel and many more — a total potential audience of 140 million households.

In an exciting move that’s a first for Thailand’s regatta scene, Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2008 will incorporate the inaugural ‘NRG Cup’, providing more party space for the ever-growing number of competitors, while Six Senses Title Sponsorship means a massive leap forward in catering, with copious 5-star full buffet spreads at every party.

On the racing scene, early indications are of a strong sport boat class, the eye-catching Firefly racing catamarans in greater numbers than ever,a solid club/cruising class and the mainstay of this region’s yacht racing, one or two highly competitive IRC classes. And, of course, the old ladies of the regatta, the striking classic boats competing for the Seraph Perpetual Trophy. While the Firefly skippers are wondering if Thailand’s newly-arrived Corsair trimarans will dare to mount a challenge in Firefly home waters, the faster monohull boys would welcome some competition from Malaysian yachtsmen who, according to Mata Hari skipper,

Vincent Chan, “… are at a disadvantage because of the lack of competitive practice…” With the usually consistent strong breezes off

Phuket in July, the ‘practice’ doesn’t get much more competitive... but beating the local boys is another matter altogether. Then, the

dark horse on the water this year — making its racing debut after breaking up in a 40-knot squall during the 2006 Koh Samui Regatta — is the super-fast F28 catamaran, rebuilt at Latitude 8’s Phuket boatyard. According to the owners, “Our primary objective at Raceweek is to take line honours in every race.”

Demonstrating that event sponsorship brings tangible benefits directly to participants, the first-time support from Rodenstock, Mont Clair Wines and Johnny Walker will fund a late afternoon Rodenstock Happy Hour and a free-flow open bar throughout all the official regatta parties. an event-within-an-event, where participants in the Oil & Gas Industry can compete for this brand new trophy against their colleagues and business associates from around the region, whilst still racing in the main event against all-comers. "Our industry is competitive,

fearless and spirited, and this first edition of the NRG Cup should be no different," said Benjamin Dupal, CEO of NRG Engineering, who conceived the idea for the NRG Cup. The NRG Cup is expected to attract at least 10 boats and crews that have never before competed in Phuket's ‘Green Season’ regatta. For more information, contact info@nrgcup2008.com

Attracted by excellent sailing in mostly reliable breezes of 15 knots upwards and a hard-to-beat social scene, entries are expected to top previous years, although organisers Image Asia are not yet predicting numbers.

“Experience has shown us that it is simply not possible to know in advance how many boats will take part,” said Image Asia MD, Grenville Fordham. “The racing community is notorious for leaving their registration until the last minute, so — while we’ll start to build a picture as Raceweek gets closer — we can’t be absolutely sure who’s coming until registration day,” he added, noting that that the early-bird registration incentive was aimed at tackling this problem. With formal backing from the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Sports Authority of Thailand and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2008 is solidly supported by Thai authorities, demonstrating their advancing commitment to yacht racing. The regatta is run under the auspices of the Ao Chalong Yacht Club.

For more information on Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2008
E-mail raceweek@image-asia.com
Web site: www.phuketraceweek.com

Find out more about Six Senses Resorts & Spas at www.sixsenses.com

Source from: Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2008/Image Asia release dated April 8, 2008
Website: phuketraceweek.com/
Tourism Authority of Thailand - Email: info@tat.or.th -
Website: tatnews.org/

SEVEN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AT BANGKOK

1. Jim Thompson's House
Soi Kasemsan 2

Jim Thompson was a New York architect who served in the OSS (Office of Strategic Services, now the CIA) in Thailand during World War II and afterward settled in Bangkok. Almost single-handedly he revived Thailand's silk industry, employing Thai Muslims as skilled silk weavers and building up a thriving industry. After expanding his sales to international markets, Mr. Thompson mysteriously disappeared in 1967 while vacationing in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia. Despite extensive investigations, his disappearance has never been resolved. (The most recent theory, for which some evidence apparently exists, is that he was accidentally struck by a truck and his body hidden to prevent repercussions.)

Thompson's legacy is substantial, as both an entrepreneur and a collector, and his Thai house contains a splendid collection of Khmer sculpture, Chinese porcelain, Burmese carving (especially a 17th-century teak Buddha), and antique Thai scroll paintings.

The house is comprised of six linked teak and theng (harder than teak) wood houses from central Thailand that were rebuilt according to Thai architectural principles, but with Western additions (such as a staircase and window screens). In some rooms the floor is made of Italian marble, but the wall panels are pegged teak. The house slopes toward the center to help stabilize the structure (the original houses were built on stilts without foundations). The busy nearby Klong San Sap and landscaped garden make a lovely spot, especially on a hot day. You can buy silk from the Jim Thompson Company retail shop at the intersection of Surawong and Rama IV roads.

2. Kamthieng House (The Siam Society)
131 Soi Asoke

The 19th-century Kamthieng House, on the grounds of the Siam Society Headquarters, is a rice farmer's teak house transplanted from the banks of Chiang Mai's Ping River. Its collection, organized with financial help from the Asia and Rockefeller foundations, is oriented toward ethnographic objects illustrating the culture of everyday life.

Many agricultural and domestic items, including woven fish baskets and terra-cotta pots, are on display, but we were drawn most to the exhibit about the Chao Vieng, or city dwellers from the northern Lanna Thai Kingdom. If you plan to trek through that area, you will particularly enjoy this small but informative collection. We also enjoyed walking through the grounds,which are landscaped like a northern Thai garden.

The Siam Society also supports an excellent library and gallery, with information on nearly every aspect of Thai society, concentrating on regional culture. They also publish scholarly texts on Thai culture, which can be purchased.

3. The Grand Palace

The number one destination in Bangkok is also the most touristy. However, you shouldn't let the large busloads keep you away -- it's a terrific sight to see, and, if you arrive at 8:30am when the gates first open, you can have the place to yourself. As this is sacred royal ground, visitors are required to wear long pants or skirts, and shirtsleeves that cover the upper arms. The rules are inconsistently
enforced, but many have been turned away for inappropriate dress. And remember -- it closes at 3:30pm so don't show up any later than 2:30pm!

One of King Rama I's earliest accomplishments was to move the capital from Thonburi to a more defensible site on the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya. He chose the center of the Chinese community, which was then moved south to Sampeng, the current Chinatown.

He intended to reproduce the destroyed capital of Ayutthaya. The construction of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo were the first phase of his grand goal, though both were added to and rebuilt in subsequent reigns.

The palace as it appears today was greatly influenced by Western architecture, including colonial and Victorian motifs. Anna -- tutor to the son of Rama IV and the central figure in the story The King and I -- lived here. The royal family moved to Chitralada Palace after the death of King Ananda in 1946, but it was here, in 1981, that General Chitpatima attempted to overthrow the government in an unsuccessful coup.

As you enter the palace gate, built in the 1780s, you'll see the Pavilion for Holy Water, where priests swore loyalty to the royal family and purified themselves with water from Thailand's four main rivers. Nearby is a lacquered-wood structure called the Arporn Phimok Prasad (Disrobing Pavilion), built so the king could conveniently mount his palanquin for royal elephant processions (Most of the time it served as a kind of elephant parking lot.)

Also nearby is the Chakri Maha Prasad, designed by Western architects as a royal residence for Rama IV to commemorate the centennial of the Chakri dynasty. The king's advisors urged him to use Thai motifs to demonstrate his independence from growing

Western influence: The Thai, temple-style roof rests physically and symbolically on top of an imperial Victorian building. This Thai-Victorian building contains the ashes of royal family members on the third floor, the throne room and reception hall on the main floor, and a collection of weapons on the ground floor.

The whitewashed stone building nearby now serves as the Funeral Hall, though it was originally the residence of Rama I and Rama II. The corpse of a deceased royal figure is kept in this building for a year before it is cremated in a nearby field. On each of the four corners of the roof is a garuda (the half-human, half-bird "steed" of Rama, an avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu), symbolizing the king,

who is considered a reincarnation of Rama. The palace garden was rebuilt under Rama IV in the 1860s, and the highlight here is a section that reproduces the landscape of a Thai mountain-and-woods fable. This structure was used as a ceremonial place for Thai princes to cut their topknot in a coming-of-age ritual. The Grand Palace also has a harem, the Forbidden Quarters (no one other than the king was allowed to enter), where the king's wives lived (King Bhumibol Adulyadej ended the age-old tradition of polygamy and has only one wife, Queen Sirikit). Close by is the Amarin Vinichai Prasad, or Coronation Hall, built by Rama I and added to by subsequent kings. Today, this building is used, like the palace in general, for royal coronations, weddings, and state events only, and it is here that the king makes his grandest appearances.


4. The National Museum

It's important to remember that the facility is closed on Monday and Tuesday, but the National Museum, just a short (15-min.) walk north of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is the country's central treasury of art and archaeology (32 branches are located throughout the provinces). Some of the buildings are themselves works of art.

The current museum -- the largest in Southeast Asia -- was built as part of the Grand Palace complex when the capital of Siam was moved from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1782. Originally the palace of Rama I's brother, the deputy king and appointed successor, it was called the Wang Na ("Palace at the Front"). The position of princely successor was eventually abolished, and Rama V had the palace converted into a museum in 1884. Thammasat University, the College of Dramatic Arts, and the National Theater were also built on the royal grounds, along with additional museum buildings.

To see the entire collection, which is highly recommended, plan to spend a few hours. Start with the Thai History and the Prehistoric Galleries in the first building. If you're rushed, go straight to the Red House behind it, a traditional 18th-century Thai building that was originally the living quarters of Princess Sri Sudarak, sister of King Rama I. It's furnished in period style, with many pieces originally owned by the princess.

Another essential stop is the Phuttaisawan (Buddhaisawan) Chapel, built in 1787 to house the Phra Phut Sihing, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images, brought here from its original home in Chiang Mai. The chapel is an exquisite example of Buddhist temple architecture. From the chapel, work your way back through the main building of the royal palace to see the gold jewelry, some from the royal
collections, and the Thai ceramics, including many pieces in the five-color bencharong style. The Old Transportation Room contains ivory carvings, elephant chairs, and royal palanquins. There are also rooms of royal emblems and insignia, stone carvings, wood carvings, costumes, textiles, musical instruments, and Buddhist religious artifacts. Fine art and sculpture are found in the newer galleries at the rear of the museum compound. Gallery after gallery is filled with both Thai and
pre-Thai sculpture (including some excellent Mon work) and Hindu and Buddhist images from the provinces.

5. The Royal Barges


If you've hired a long-tail boat on the Chao Phraya, stop by this unique museum housing the royal barges. These elaborately decorated sailing vessels, the largest over 46m (50 yd.) long and rowed by up to 60 men, are used by the royal family on state occasions or for high religious ceremonies. The king's barge, the Suphanahong, is decorated with red-and-gold carvings of fearsome mythological beasts, like the Garuda or the dragon on the bow and stern. (If you can't make it to the royal arges, there is a smaller display of barges at the National Museum.)

6. Vimanmek Mansion Museum
193/2 Ratchavitee Rd

Introduction to Vimanmek Palace

Upon his return from Europe in1897, King Rama V (1868-1910) used his personal money to purchase orchards and paddy fields between Padung Krungkasem Canal and Samsen Canal for the construction of a royal garden which he named “the DusitGarden”.

The first permanent residence in Dusit Garden was Vimanmek Mansion, built in 1900 by the royal command of King Rama V. The mansion was in fact his former Summer Palace, the Munthaturaltanaroj Residence of the Chuthathujrachathan at Koh Sri Chang, Chonburi, that was dismantled and rebuilt under the supervision of HRH Prince Narissaranuwaddhiwongse. The celebration for the completion of Vimanmek Mansion was held on March 27, 1901. King Rama V moved from the Grand Palace to reside in Vimanmek Mansion for 5 years until the completion of the Amporn Satarn Mansion in 1906 where he lived until his untimely death in 1910. As a result, Vimanmek Mansion become deserted and the royal family moved back to the Grand Palace.

In 1925, near the end of his reign, King Rama VI gave permission to for H.R.H. Indharasaksaji, his wife, to take up residence in a section of Vimanmek Mansion. After his death, she moved to the Residence in Suan Hong compound situated north of Vimanmek Mansion. Since then, the Vimanmek Mansion has not been used as a royal residence and has been used as a place of storage by the Bureau of the Royal Household for the past 50 years.

King Rama VII ordered a few renovations to the Mansion. For example, he ordered the installation of electrical wiring and repairs to the main pier at the man-made lake in the garden.

In 1982, on the auspicious occasion of the Royal Bicentennial Celebrations of Bangkok, Her Majesty the Queen asked for His Majesty’s permission to renovate the Mansion to be used as a museum to honour King Rama V by displaying his photographs, art and artefacts to commemorate royal visits to Europe as well as to exhibit Thai handicrafts to serve as a showcase of the national heritage for future generations.

Vimanmek Mansion

Vimanmek Mansion is the largest residence in Dusit Garden. Its elaborate architectural style reflects a western influence. The building has two right-angled wings. Each wing is 60 metres long and 20 metres high. It is a three-storey building except for the part where the King resided, which is octagonal and has four-storeys. The ground floor is brick and cement while the upper floors are built of
golden teakwood planks. There are altogether 31 exhibition rooms, some of which maintain the atmosphere of the past, especially the bedrooms, the Audience Chamber and the bathrooms. Some rooms house exhibitions of art works, for example, there is a silverware display room, a ceramic display room, a glassware display room and an ivory display room. Besides Vimanmek Mansion and the Amporn Satarn Mansion in the compound of Dusit Garden or Dusit Palace (as it was later renamed by King Rama V), King Rama V allocated plots of land for the construction of residences for his Queens, consorts, sisters, daughters, and his other wives. He also named gardens, canals, gates and roads after the names of ancient Chinese porcelain commonly called “Khrueng Kim Tung”, which were very popular at the time. For example, the residence that belonged to Her Majesty Queen Srisawarindhira was named Suan Hong Residence (Swan Garden Residence). Now these residences, which are no longer used
by the Royal Family and located north of Vimanmek Mansion, have been turned into museum buildings and a hall for royal coaches to be shown to the general public.


7. Wang Suan Pakkard
352 Si Ayutthaya Rd

Brief Description :
Wang Suan Pakkard ("Palace of the Lettuce Garden") is one of Bangkok's most delightful retreats. This peaceful oasis was the home of Princess Chumbhot of Nakhon Sawan.

SUAN PAKKARD PALACE

Five 19th-century teak houses were moved from Chiang Mai in 1952 and rebuilt in a beautifully landscaped garden on a private klong (canal), separated by a high wall from the tumult of Bangkok's streets. The Lacquer Pavilion (actually an Ayutthaya house, moved here in 1958) was a birthday present from the prince to the princess.
Princess Chumbnot was an avid art collector and one of the country's most dedicated archaeologists-credited with having partly financed the excavations at Ban Chiang I in 1967. There is an entire room of objects from that site, including pottery and jewelry,surpassed only by the prehistoric findings exhibited at the National Museum. The balance of the collection is diverse, with Khmer sculpture, ivory boxes, perfume bottles, nielloware, marvelous prints by European artists depicting their image of Siamese people before the country opened to the Western world, a superb Buddha head from Ayutthaya, and a royal barge. Do not miss the pavilion housing the princess's exquisite collection of Thai and Chinese ceramics! The gift shop at Wang Suan Pakkard offers ceramics, some genuine and some reproductions at reasonable prices.

Fast facts:

Tour departure:
Daily from Bangkok hotels

Duration (approximate):
09:00 – 12:00 hrs & 13:00 – 16:00 hrs.

Source from: Siamleisure.com
Travel.msn.com
Palaces of The King
Content Source: Excerpted from Frommer's Thailand, 8th Edition, © 2008. Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons Inc. and TripAdvisor.

Chonburi & Pattaya Songkran Festival(Wan Lai Fair)

Chonburi Songkran Festival

Date: 18 – 19 April 2008

Venue: Pho Na Kleua Public Park, Chon Buri

Activities:
Procession of the Buddha image for the people to bathe, along the Pattaya beach, local games, various arts and
cultural performances, piling rice tradition, paying homage to the elderly, Miss Songkran Beauty Contest and enjoy splashing water along the beach of Pattaya.

Hi-Light: 19 April 2008
08.00 hrs. Procession of the Buddha image for the people to bathe and enjoying splashing water along the Pattaya beach.

Further InformationPattaya City, Tel. 0 3837 1116-9,
TAT Central Region Office : Region 3 (Chonburi), Tel. 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Traditional Pattaya Wan Lai Festival

Date: 18 – 19 April 2008

Venue: Bangsaen Beach, Meuang District, Chon Buri

Activities:
Giving alms to monks, paying homage to the elderly, local games competitions, sand Chedi building, and enjoying splashing water along the clean and white Bangsaen Beach.

Hi-Light:
16 April 2008 : Sand Chedi building contest


Further InformationSaen Suk Municipality. Tel. 0 3838 5353-5,
TAT Central Region Office : Region 3 (Chonburi), Tel. 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Si Racha Songkran Festival and Piling Rice Ceremony

Date: 19 – 21 April 2008

Venue: Ko Loi Public Park, Si Racha District, Chon Buri
Activities:See a piling rice ceremony, a procession of bathing the Buddha image, procession and decoration of the piling rice vehicles, Thai arts and cultural show, demonstrations of various local sports and games, sand Chedi building contest, as well as splashing of water.

Hi-Light: A Procession and decoration of the piling rice vehicles.

Further InformationSi Racha Municipality.Tel. 0 3878 7947,
TAT Central Region Office : Region 3 (Chonburi), Tel. 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ko Si Chang Songkran Festival

Date: 13 – 19 April 2008

Venue: Ko Si Chang and Ko Kham Yai, Chon Buri

Activities:
Giving alms to monks, bathing the Buddha image, a piling rice ceremony, paying homage to the elderly, sand Chedi building contest, local games, takraw competition, music performances.

Hi-Light:
Girl dunking tradition ( By asking permission from lady to carry her into the sea and carry her back afterward and then will be a Thai Classical dance for all couple to join and have fun with., being held at Ko Kam Yai, 1 k.m approximately distant from Ko Si Chang) .

Further InformationTAT Central Region Office : Region 3 (Chonburi), Tel. 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750

Source from : http://www.songkran.net/en/hilight_12.php

Things to Do in Pattaya, Thailand

Visitors to Pattaya in Thailand often think immediately of the beach (and well they should with so much going on there) or the nightlife (with its infamous reputation), but don’t overlook the following when spending time in this great city:

Water Sports
The number of water sports available in Pattaya is mind-boggling. Try your hand at sailing, wind-surfing, jet skiing, para-sailing, kayaking or
banana-boating. Plus, if you feel like it, mix a boat ride to the outlying islands with some fishing or snorkeling.

Eating out
All along both Jomtien and Pattaya beaches you will find some great restaurants offering a mixture of Thai and Western cuisine. Make sure
you try the seafood and look for the restaurants that Thais are eating at, as they will be the ones with the freshest ingredients!

Amusement parks
In and around Pattaya, there are a couple of parks that should form part of any visit, especially for families with children. Underwater World boasts a fantastic aquarium with many activities for visitors. For something a little more adventurous, try Funnyland Amusement Park, with
its carnival rides. Alternatively, Pattaya Water Park offers similar fun, of a watery kind.

Shopping
Pattaya has a number of modern shopping centres, together with a couple of great factory outlet malls offering brand names at fantastic
prices. Just make sure you have enough space in your suitcases. Remember too that tourists can claim back on the VAT.

Museums
with a twistNearby, Mini Siam offers a glimpse into Thailand’s past, with mini being the operative word, since everything this reconstruction boasts
scaled down miniatures of historic buildings. Otherwise, check out Ripley’s Believe It or Not for a museum visit with a difference.

Other Sports
Pattaya has some gorgeous golf courses (no need to bring your own gear if you are struggling with luggage already), as well as a number of great go-karting courses. You can also try out paintball or laser tag.

Wildlife Parks
If you are more interested in seeing some of Thailand’s more exotic wildlife, there are a number of parks that offer a taste of nature. Sriracha Tiger Zoo offers a close (very close) look at these magnificent wild cats. The Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm mixes plant and animal life in its beautiful grounds. Alternatively, visit Nong Nooch Tropical Garden for a glimpse into Thailand’s amazing flora. And of course no visit to Thailand is complete without experiencing the elephants who have their own Elephant Village in Pattaya. With all of the above (and more) on offer, it is easy to spend 2 weeks in Pattaya and still not see it all.

Source from: ArticlesBase.com
Author: Antony Chapman

THE ROYAL TROPHY 2008

THE ROYAL TROPHY 2008

EUROPE VS ASIA GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

At Amata Spring Country ClubBangkok, Thailand

January 11 – 13, 2008


The Royal Trophy – Europe vs Asia Golf Championship returns to the Amata Spring Country Club in Bangkok, Thailand, January 11-13, 2008.

The first edition of the competition, also held at Amata Spring Country Club in Bangkok in January 2006, was billed as a ‘history making event’.
The Royal Trophy – Europe vs Asia Golf Championship is a unique, emotionally-charged and passionate competition played between the continents of Europe and Asia in a team match-play format.
The Royal Trophy features eight-player teams from Europe and Asia respectively, each led by a non-playing Captain. The two continental teams compete for stewardship over the Royal Trophy — graciously donated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand. The three-day competition features a total of sixteen matches including foursomes, four-ball matches and singles. The legendary Seve Ballesteros has been confirmed as Captain of the European Team for this third edition of the Royal Trophy - Europe vs Asia Golf Championship to be played at the highly exclusive Amata Spring Country Club in Bangkok, Thailand on January 11-13, 2008.
Naomichi ‘Joe’ Ozaki, a member of Asia's greatest golfing dynasty, will lead Asia’s campaign to wrest the Royal Trophy from European hands for the second time. The ‘Japanese golfing great’, one of Asia's most successful players will captain the Asian Team to take on the Seve Ballesteros-led Europeans.
Perceived by many as the greatest European golfer in history, Ballesteros is the winner of five Major titles - three Opens and two Masters, the winner of 87 professional career tournaments, played in three winning Ryder Cup teams and captained one of the most famous to victory in 1997 at Valderrama — the first time in history the Ryder Cup was held outside of the United States and the British Isles.
Ballesteros captained the European Team in the Royal Trophy in 2006 and 2007 and came out victorious in both occasions. "The European Team had great players and great champions in both 2006 and 2007. Our players played fantastic golf. But the Asian Team was also very strong and in 2006 we prevailed by only one match difference. Asian golf continues to improve very quickly and we must be prepared for very strong competition from the Asian Team," said the man who has captivated and inspired millions of fans during his career.
"We have had two fantastic years at the Royal Trophy. We have all enjoyed top-level golf, great weather, large fan galleries and an excellent golf course. I am very much looking forward to leading the European Team at the Royal Trophy 2008," added the great ambassador of the sport.
"Asia is a great continent and golf is growing fast in this very large and significant part of the world", the European Team Captain and golfing legend noted.
“The Royal Trophy is becoming the greatest force for the further development of golf in Asia, in the same manner that the Ryder Cup played such a role for the European Continent in the 1980s and 1990s,” Ballesteros commented.
The Ozaki name is synonymous with Asian golf due to the immense impact the Ozaki brothers have made in the sport including topping the Japanese Order of Merit over ten times and winning well over one hundred tournament titles.
Naomichi ‘Joe’ Ozaki, the youngest of the three brothers, is one of Asia’s most valuable golfing assets. Joe Ozaki has finished at the top of the Japanese Order of Merit two times and has won 35 career titles. He is third on the all-time list of Japan's career prize money winners having earned over USD 15 million.
"I am truly honoured to have been selected to captain the Asian Team in the Royal Trophy for the second time. I am very much looking forward to the competition. This is a very exciting opportunity but also a great responsibility,” said Ozaki.
“I have been under great pressure as a golfer in tournaments all around the world. But this is very different. As Asian Team Captain in the previous edition of the Royal Trophy, I learned a lot. It is very different leading a team, making the player selections, representing a fantastic group of players from many different countries and leading a team which is representative of our Continent to playing in a tournament yourself. The weight on one’s shoulder is very heavy but the reward of leading Asia into its first ever win would be just tremendous,” added the Japanese golfing giant.
"We will be representing all of Asia, which includes so many major nations and a massive population of over three billion people. That adds up to a lot of support - and a lot of expectation!", Ozaki added.
"Representing your country is already a huge responsibility. Representing your Continent is truly special and I am looking forward to leading the Asian Team once again.”
The second edition of the Royal Trophy saw massive galleries of avid golf enthusiasts flock to the pristine Amata Spring Country Club over three days of the competition, beautiful weather, unprecedented media coverage, a display of the highest standard of team golf, excellent live television broadcast in Thailand and throughout the world and a great show of sportsmanship by the Captains, Players and the fans.
The Royal Trophy features a powerful group of blue-chip Sponsors including the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Heineken and the Siam Commercial Bank.
The third edition of the Royal Trophy (January 11-13, 2008) is being promoted by Entertainment Group Limited and Amen Corner.

For further Tournament information, please call +662 651 9499.

For further details, please visit: THE ROYAL TROPHY 2008

Sources: THE ROYAL TROPHY 2008

IMPORTANTEvent dates and programme details may be subject to change.Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.

Contact: Tourism Authority of Thailand

Email: info@tat.or.th

Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines) Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)

FOR EVENT INFORMATION,

please call 1672.
Address: 1600 Petchaburi Road,

Makkasan, Rajatevee,

Bangkok 10400,
Thailand.

4th THAILAND OCEAN-TO-OCEAN RELAY RUNNING

" Welcome To Running Thailand " Ocean to Ocean (Sunrise to Sunset) – Relay Running 4th, From Songkhla on the Gulf of Thailand to Satun on the Andaman Coast,Southern Thailand on
6 January 2008.

Following the popularity and success of events held in previous years, the 4th Thailand Ocean to Ocean Relay Running is being staged for the fourth consecutive year on 6 January 2008. The 136.6-kilometre relay race starts from a beach behind Haad Kaew Resort in Songkhla — a coastal town on the Gulf of Thailand, facing east towards the Pacific Ocean — to Pak Bara Pier in Satun, a town on the Andaman Coast, facing west towards the Indian Ocean. The relay route will lead participants through the scenic rural countryside of Southern Thailand, dotted with orchards, rubber and palm plantations.

Course

Start off from the beach behind Haad Kaew Resort in the Singha Nakhon district in Songkhla. Proceed along the road to Highway 408. Turn left at the Highway 2068 intersection, then proceed across the bridge at Songkhla Lake (Thale Saap Songkhla) and along Highway 4111 heading for the district of Amphoe Khuan Niang. Proceed past the district of Rattapoom (Amphoe Rattapoom) toward Highway 406. Turn right at the Highway 4137 intersection and head for Khuan Kalong district (Amphoe Khuan Kalong). Proceed along Highway 416, going past the district of Amphoe La-ngu. Turn left into Highway 4052 and proceed to the finishing line at Pak Bara Pier.

Categories

Open, Mixed (not exceeding 6 males and not less than 2 females), Women (8 runners with no age restrictions) and youth (8 runners, either sex, age 8-15 years)


For details, please visit the following web sites.:
http://www.runningthailand.net/
http://www.songkhlatourism.org/
http://www.tat.or.th/


Contact information:
TAT Southern Office – Region 1 Areas of responsibility: Songkhla, Satun Tel: +66 (0) 7423 1055, (0) 7423 8518, (0) 7424 3747 Fax: +66 (0) 7424 5986 E-mail: tatsgkhl@tat.or.th


*IMPORTANT Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.

Pattaya City and Top 5 Cities in Thailand

Welcome to Thailand

Pattaya City

Pattaya is a city in Thailand, located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand , about 165 km southeast of Bangkok located within but not part of Amphoe Bang Lamung in the province of Cholburi.

Meaning the “south-west monsoon wind" and correctly pronounced "Patti-yah" not "Patt-eye-yah" this lively destination located roughly 150 kilometres from Bangkok ranks as one of the most successful beach resorts in the world, with some 5.4 million visitors arriving in 2005. Although frequently criticised for its spicy nightlife, it satisfies the needs of leisure travellers in a way that few other destinations can match, anywhere.

Unlike Bangkok, Pattaya has no magical mystery hidden in aesthetic corners, and it makes no pretence of being anything more than what it is: - an unbeatable combination of essential, thoroughly satisfying holiday ingredients.

To illustrate this, some years ago a leading travel trade magazine conducted a poll of several hundred clients of different nationalities staying at a first class hotel, where the guests were predominantly couples or families. The results showed just how extraordinarily successful Pattaya is. Over 97% of respondents said they were "very satisfied", would return again, and would recommend Pattaya to friends.

Looking closer, it is not hard to see why. Pattaya is comfortably accessible from Bangkok in just over 2 hours on an excellent highway, thus avoiding the added expense of air connections. Even so, it has its own airport at Utapao, formerly built to handle B52's during the Vietnam War, can accept wide-bodied long haul charter aircraft such as 747's with ease. It enjoys year-round sunshine, and suffers few of the extreme weather conditions that can ruin holidays elsewhere. The cost of comparable accommodation in Pattaya is generally reasonable, which makes it excellent value for money. Furthermore, it features almost every water and land-based sporting activity you can think of, boasts excellent restaurants, good entertainment, and countless leisure pursuits. The bottom line is that nobody can possibly be bored in Pattaya.

Pattaya receives a large number of repeat visitors - professional people, families, and retired couples - many of whom have made it their preferred choice after spending holidays in various other resorts around the globe. If you ask them why Pattaya wins over other more exotic or fashionable places, they point to its long list of assets: climate, accessibility, location, affordability, top class accommodation, fine restaurants, plus the huge choice of sporting, leisure and entertainment choices - arguably far and away the best in any Asian beach destination.

The city of Pattaya is a self governing special municipal area which covers the whole tambon Nong Prue and Na Kluea and parts of Huai Yai and Nong Pla Lai. It is located in the heavily industrial Eastern Seaboard zone, along with Si Racha, Laem Chabang, and Chon Buri. However, it remains mostly a tourist city, with very light industry.

Many tourists that visit Pattaya are male, in groups or on their own, due to the town's world-famous sex industry, in which ladies and men are available as companions.. The town also offers many luxury hotels, beautiful (though somewhat polluted) beaches, friendly people, excellent shopping, reasonable prices and a wide variety of nearby tourist attractions.

However, Pattaya is second only to Bangkok in high rise buildings, as many condos for foreign residents are built, and has a modest skyline. The city's economy benefits from its relative proximity to Bangkok, as opposed to other tourist destinations.


Climate
Pattaya enjoys a tropical wet and dry climate, which is divided into the following seasons: warm and dry (November to February), hot and humid (March to May), and hot and rainy (June to October). The most comfortable time of year coincides with the peak tourist season, which is over the Christmas and New Year period.

Beaches

Pattaya Beach

Thais enjoying Pattaya Beach at sunsetPattaya Beach is situated along the central city in close proximity to shopping, hotels and bars. The over-abundance of jet-skis and speedboats has contributed to the pollution of the water along the beach, as has the practice of dumping sewage in the ocean. The section of beach from Central Road (Pattaya Klang) south to the harbor is adjacent to the core of Pattaya's abundant nightlife area, hence it is less family-oriented than the North Pattaya, Na Klua and Jomtien beaches.

Most sections of the beach are covered by rented deckchairs run by local beverage vendors during daylight hours so finding an available spot of sand is rather difficult and also unadvisable due to the poor condition of the beach. (Visitors are advised to avoid the beach after dark. Although the Beach Road itself is busy and brightly lit, some criminal elements find the unlit beach useful as a cover for their activities and the local police target this area in various ongoing clampdowns.)


Jomtien Beach

Pattaya Park TowerJomtien Beach is divided from the main part of Pattaya by Pratumnak Hill, just south of the city. In contrast to Pattaya Beach, Jomtien is a popular spot for family vacationers and watersports enthusiasts. Jomtien is essentially a residential area with beachside hotels, bungalow complexes, condominiums and restaurants. A wide array of watersport activities can be found, including jet-skis, para-sailing and small sail boat (Hobie Cat) rental. Dongtan Beach, just past the Avalon Beach Resort in Jomtien, is known as the gay beach, and is busy every day of the year.

Jomtien's most visible landmark is the 56-story Pattaya Park tower, part of the Pattaya Park entertainment complex which also features a water park, roller coaster, monorail and children's activities. This may soon be overshadowed by the proposed 91-floor Ocean 1 ("O1") Tower. With an overall height of 367 meters, it would be the tallest building in Thailand and one of the tallest residential buildings in the world. The Jomtien district is already home to one of the largest resorts in Asia, the 4000+ room Ambassador City Jomtien.
Other attractions

Large Buddha statue, Wat Khao Phra Bat
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical GardenOther activities include golfing at the area's many golf courses, and there are 21 golf courses within 1 hour of Pattaya, go-cart racing, visiting the construction site of an elaborate private wooden temple known as Sanctuary of Truth, and different theme parks and zoos such as Mini Siam, and Elephant Village.

The private Sri Racha Tiger Zoo features several hundred tigers and thousands of alligators as well as some other animals. It has often been criticized for the animals' living conditions, and a worker was killed by tigers in 2004. There was a major bird flu outbreak at the zoo later that year.

The Vimantaitalay tourist submarine takes customers underwater to see corals and marine life just a few kilometers offshore. There are many boat trips from an hour to all day trips available, mostly leaving from Bali Hai Pier, near Walking Street.

Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden is located some 15 kilometers east of Pattaya. The 500-acre site has well maintained botanical gardens and an orchid nursery. Moreover the facility has lively cultural shows in a Thai village setting. In addition trained chimpanzees and elephants are seen at the garden.

Other attractions in Pattaya: The Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm, Elephant Village, Pattaya Park Beach Resort Water Park and Funny Land Amusement Park, Siriporn Orchid Farm, Underwater World Pattaya (world class aquarium), Alankarn cultural show, Sriracha Tiger Zoo, Bottle Art Museum, Mini Siam, Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, and Walking Street.

Some tourists take daytrips to nearby Rayong for beautiful beaches, as well as Koh Samet island.

Shopping

Royal Garden Plaza
In front of Royal Garden Plaza, PattayaIn recent years, new shopping malls, outlet stores and jewelry stores have opened up, which has helped in increasing the length of stay of visitors to the city. Among the shopping malls are:

Central Festival, Pattaya Second Road – Indoor mall anchored by a BigC; also has a SF Cinema City branch.
Carrefour, Pattaya Central Road
Mike Shopping Mall , Beach Road
Royal Garden Plaza, Beach Road – Three-story indoor mall with a Ripley's Believe It or Not! museum and an SF Multiplex cinema. Also has a Sizzler restaurant, Au Bon Pain, KFC, McDonald's, Auntie * Anne's Pretzels, ZEN Japanese restaurant, Swensen's, Haagen Daz, Pizza Company, Delice de France, and a large food court. The Marriott Hotel is adjacent.
The Avenue, Second Road (near Royal Garden) is in the midst of a soft opening with the following either open or their spaces being fitted out: a 22 lane Bowling Alley, Au Bon Pain, McDonalds,Thanachart Bank, 8 Major Cineplex theatres, Boots, McDonalds, California Wow! a major gym/fitness spa (open for subscriptions), Shenanigans, Iberry, Pizza Pizza, 20 Nails Spa, Starbucks, Kasikorn Bank, Bank of Ayudhaya, and a 24/7 Villa Market, which carries imported goods difficult to find in other supermarkets.
Tesco Lotus, Pattaya North Road

TukCom, Pattaya Tai (South) Road, boasts a large computer/IT complex offering reasonable prices.
A major outlet mall is next to the tesco selling discount clothing from many european and american brands.
At least one other new large mall is under construction.

Pattaya has many large home improvement stores including Home Mart, HomeWorks, Home Pro, Kanyong and True Value.

The closest department store to Pattaya is Robinson's, located about 30 minutes away in Sri Racha.

There are several large nightly markets in different parts of town.


Nightlife
Pattaya is renowned for its nightlife. The city has some famous discos, including Tonys and the Marine disco, named after the US marines which still visit Pattaya for R and R. There is a new club called Hammer on walking street, which has live bands. Lucifer is also worth visiting. X-Zyte and Stardice are other places. There is also a hard rock cafe.

The city has literally hundreds of beer bars, go go bars, and night clubs/discotheques. Many of these are venues are for meeting working men or women. The nature of commercial sex varies widely; the standard system of "bar fines" is the most common, but there are many exceptions. Most notably, discos and nightclubs are venues for freelancers, independent sex workers unaffiliated with a commercial establishment. There are also several large massage parlours.

Since the "social order" crackdown of 2004, there are very few sex shows (such as the ping pong shows) although they can sometimes still be found. Depending on the enforcement climate, go go dancers may be seen fully nude, topless or in bikinis on different days or weeks.

Muay Thai (Thai boxing) matches aimed at tourists can be seen at many of the open air beer bar complexes.

Another important, but understated aspect of Pattaya are the foreign restaurants. Often run by expats, most offer quality food at prices far below those found in Bangkok, Samui or Phuket.

The Boyztown, Sunee Plaza, and the Jomtien Complex areas are famous for their many gay nightclubs, cabarets and go-go clubs. Pattaya probably has the largest concentration of establishments catering to the gay community in Thailand. Many specialize in certain types of hosts (slim, muscular, effeminate), while others have a broad range of men available.

Pattaya is known for its cabaret revues featuring kathoeys (male-to-female transsexuals), with Alcazar and Tiffany's being the largest and most elaborate. There are a few kathoey bars around Walking St. and nearby (e.g. Jenny Star Bar)

References
Pattaya Official Website
Pattaya Travel Pages Information and Pictures
Map of Pattaya City - from ethailandmap.com
Pattaya travel guide from Wikitravel
Pattaya at the Open Directory Project.


My country has everything that you want when you arrives at Suvannabhumi Airport or Donmuang Airport at Bangkok , you can stay at hotel or guesthouse or Resort for comfortable and delicious foods with Thai Restaurant or International Restaurant. I introduce you can travel many places such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Rayong,Chiangmai, Sa-mui Island, Phuket and etc..also delicious foods and somebody like to adventure you can shoot the rapids at Kanchanaburi and other place such as Chiang Rai, In the Southern have scuba dive in Krabi, Pang-nga etc..

So that I have an Article Source from: http://www.superfeature.com/
Top 5 Cities to see during a Holiday in Thailand
By: Stuart Cheese

In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, one of my jobs is to ensure every client has the best tour possible, so here are my top 5 suggestions for cities to visit in Thailand during your holiday.

1.Bangkok is a fascinating city which has managed to keep it’s ancient eastern traditions whilst embracing the modern progression of the western world. Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and offers a host of experiences which include floating markets, modern bars, top of the range shopping, gastronomical delights and ancient temples steeped in the city’s history.
The Chao Phraya River separates the city and has a series of canals. The new ‘Sky train’ railway is something which should be experienced whilst in the city should you fancy avoiding the bustling traffic.
One of the largest floating markets is on the outskirts of Bangkok and you’ll greeted by the aromatic smells and the age old tradition of the locals and their way of making a living along the busy canals.
There is an array of beautiful and ancient buildings not to be missed whilst in Thailand. Although I did not personally experience all of the nightlife, it was made obvious to me that all of my entertainment needs would be taken care of by all well informed taxi drivers wishing to proudly show off their culture.

2. Phuket is the biggest island attraction that Thailand has to offer. It is the perfect place to retreat to and enjoy a tropical paradise. Although the west coast of the island was almost destroyed by the tsunami of 2004, there is very little evidence remaining to show that it occurred.
Not to be missed are:
Old Phuket Town. Chinese immigrants from the 19th century, who were lured in the past by the tin mines, left behind them a host of amazing Sino-Portuguese mansions along Dibu and Thalang roads.

Thai Boxing. A personal favourite of mine, this national sport is violent and very fast paced. For regular matches the Saphan Him Stadium in Phuket City is the place to be.

3.Krabi. Krabi Province is in the middle southern part of Thailand. It is situated in the aquamarine water of the Andaman Sea. It is one of the most stunning places in all of Thailand.
Krabi Town is situated near the mouth of the Krabi River. The Mangrove forest is something to experience and is a must for avid bird watchers. Krabi Resort is set among a curtain of palm trees on the Ao-PhraNang beach. This is a delightful place to be if you are looking to soak up the natural beauty that surrounds you.

4. Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai is a city full of traditional heritage that shares its secrets with all who wish to discover them. It is a city with stunning natural beauty. It is amazing to see plants that we have to protect from the frost, growing in their scores, naturally along the roadside.
The people of Chiang Mai are a wonder in themselves with exceptional handicraft skills producing magical souvenirs for the endless throng of visitors. Chiang Mai houses the Inthanon Mountain, standing 8,448 feet above sea level making it the highest mountain Thailand.

5.Sukhothai. When visiting Sukhothai the main attractions for the area are Phra Mae Ya Shirne which is located in the Muang District. You will see a long haired figure made of stone that resembles an ancient queen. There is also a museum and National park as well as monuments of great interest inside the city walls.
You would be happy Holiday in Thailand. I invite you to Thailand as soon as possible. you will found Paradise in Thailand. Next time I would be introduce you various place for holiday in Thailand.

Hotels In Bangkok, Thailand
By: Lawrence Westfall –

You have decided to visit Asia for your next vacation and have decided to go to Bangkok, Thailand. Your flight is booked but you are still looking for a hotel. But, how do you decide which hotel to stay at?

Your decision should be based on what you plan to do while you are “Krung Thep”. Will you be spending most of your time sightseeing, shopping or enjoying the nightlife? You don’t want to waste valuable time in a Bangkok taxi inching along Sukhumvit Road.

Siam Square area is a good place to stay if you want to have some fun shopping. There are hundreds of small shops at street level and the Siam Center and the Siam Discovery shopping centers have many up-market brand label shops. On the top floor of Siam Discovery Center there is a cinema complex with some of the most comfortable seats to be found in the world. After a hard days shopping, relax and lie down as you watch a movie!

Another great shopping mall nearby is Mahboonkrong (MBK). It will take only 10 minutes to walk there from Siam Square and you will find literally hundreds of smaller shops and stalls, selling many goods at bargain prices. Electronics and clothes are the specialties here. Both of these areas are on the Skytrain routes and are easily accessible.

If you plan on seeing other parts of the country, taking ½ and full day trips, I suggest you book your hotel near the Bangkok Airport. Make sure that you stay near the new Bangkok Airport – Suvarnabhumi and not at Don Muang. Only stay in this area if you do plan to go to Bangkok proper. Bangkok Airport hotels are conveniently located and easy to get to from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

If soaking up the Bangkok nightlife is your reason for visiting, there are a few different areas you can stay. If Patpong Road is your destination, stay either on Silom or Suriwongse Road. The Nana Entertainment Plaza is on Sukhumvit and Soi 4 (or Soi Nana) and there are a variety of hotels – everything from the JW Marriott to the Majestic Suites or the Dynasty. In the Soi Cowboy area, you can stay anywhere near Soi Asoke, Soi 22 or anywhere along Sukhumvit Road and just catch the Skytrain.

Probably, your hardest decision will be selecting your hotel since there are so many 4 and 5 start hotels in Bangkok. For the budget traveler, there are also cheap hotels in Bangkok. Some hotels that I recommend are: Windsor Suite Hotel Bangkok, Viengtai Hotel Bangkok, Radisson Hotel Bangkok, or the Amari Airport Hotel Bangkok. Another solution is to do a search for Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit in any search engine. Or visit my Thailand Link Directory.

Do your research, and look for a discount Bangkok hotel, and enjoy your stay in the Land of Smiles.
Refer: Article Source from: http://http//www.submityournewarticle.com/
Larry Westfall

Goodluck and come back to Thailand again. See you next time.


PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA 2007
Mayor of Pattaya city plans to organize Pattaya International Balloon Fiesta 2007 to promote tourism before year-end.

Mr. Niran Watanasartsathorn, Mayor of Pattaya city revealed to reporters on 27 November 2007, at 03.30PM, about “Pattaya International Balloon Fiesta 2007” which will be organized during 8 – 12 December 2007, at Thammasart University, Pattaya campus, Chonburi.

The event is one of many activities to celebrate the 80th birthday of His Majesty the King on 5th December. Ballooning is a sport that should be promoted as it is a kind of relaxing activity and also helps promoting the tourism of Pattaya. Moreover, it will support the good image of Pattaya both in sport and recreation. It is a good opportunity to organize the International Balloon Fiesta and to carry forward the event for annual activity of Pattaya city.

The idea of Pattaya International Balloon Fiesta 2007 will be in all day activities including colourful ballooning in various kinds of shapes, as in Cake, Elephant and Cartoon figures from European and Asian countries such as: France, England, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Belgian and Dubai, all coming for competition and performing the show on ground.


Many more activities will be hovering, parachute, electronic airplane and motocross competition including a jazz band from Australia. At night, watching a spectacular show of Balloon Night Glow with light and sound, fireworks and lanterns. Besides, there will be shops and gifts for sell at the event as well.

The special event of "Pattaya International Balloon Fiesta 2007" will be from 8 – 12 December 2007 at Thammasart University, Pattaya campus, Chonburi. Admittance is free of charge.


For more information: Tel. 02-682-9880
Refer source: http://pattayaballoonfiesta.com/home.html