Posts Tagged ‘Bangkok’

Top 5 Cities to see during a Holiday in Thailand


2010
03.11

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 its 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 citys 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 youll 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.

Getting To Pattaya In 23 Easy Steps


2010
02.09

Here is a step-by-step tip sheet on how to get to Pattaya.

1.Save your money all year for your vacation. Not counting airfare, budget for $150 US dollars per day.
2.Apply for and get your passport. Get a visa also if you are staying long term
3.Book your flight and hotel. You can do this online or with your favorite travel agent
4.Arrange for a ride to the airport. Get a buddy to take you or find a local airport taxi service.
5.Arrange for a taxi to pick you up in Bangkok. You can get recommendations from any Pattaya forum or bargain with the taxi mafia upon arrival.
6.Get to the airport three hours ahead of your flight. You dont want to be late for your holiday and you never know how long the lines will be.
7.Check in and get your seat assignment and boarding pass. Ask nicely and you may be able to get an exit row seat.
8.Do your last minute shopping at the duty free shop. Booze, cigarettes, and perfume are tax free.
9.Get a bite to eat and hang out near your departure gate. Airline food sucks so it is better to eat before you go.
10.Surf the Internet and check email before you take off. Do whatever to kill time. Wireless access can usually be found near the first class lounges.
11.Board the plane and settle in for the long flight. Hopefully you got a decent seat.
12.Get your book, headphones, pen, snacks, gum and laptop ready. Get everything you will need before you take off so you don’t have to dig through your carry-on.
13.Kill time at you layover airport with laptop and/or food. You can get another bite to eat or just walk around and stretch your legs. Hopefully the layover isnt too long.
14.Board the final leg of your flight. Try to control your adrenaline and relax. You are almost there.
15.Get in a short nap. You want to be refreshed when you arrive. You will be struggling to adjust your body clock and will be fighting jet lag.
16.Land and deplane. Go to the bathroom before the plane lands. Once the door opens, do everything in your power to get out of the plane. Make a beeline to immigration.
17.Go directly to Immigration and get your passport stamped. Find the shortest line and have your passport and boarding pass stub ready.
18.Find your carousel and grab your luggage. Check the sign right after Immigration and get your bags.
19.Meet your driver. Fight the gauntlet and look for a sign with your name on it. If you havent booked in advance, the clipboard toting, taxi mafia will find you.
20.Sit back and pray you make it from Bangkok to Pattaya in one piece. Prepare yourself for controlled chaos on the roads and pray to Buddha that you arrive alive.
21.Arrive at your hotel and check in. Have your passport ready and fill out the little form and you are there.
22.Shower, change clothes and hit the streets. You can unpack later. It is time to go out and have some fun.
23.You are now in the Pattaya paradise. Enjoy yourself, be safe, and have a great holiday.

Going to Thailand in December?


2010
01.26

December 5th is His Royal Highness, the King of Thailand’s birthday. His majesty will celebrate his 80th birthday in Royal Fashion. The people of Thailand have been asked to wear yellow shirts from December 1st through December 5th in honor of the King.
For the past year, Thais have worn yellow shirts every Monday to show respect to King Bhumibol Adulyadej. This started shortly after the 60th anniversary celebration of the King’s ascension to the throne last year.

There already have been some events to honor the King – but more are scheduled.

All the way from Russia is the Mariinsky Theatre performing for the Royal Family. On December 6th and 8th, there will be public performances – sell-outs for sure. And on December 7th, there will be a private show for the Royal Family.

And it isn’t a Royal Birthday without a Royal Parade –

On December 5, a procession with holy water will start from Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimol-mangklararm Rajwaramahavi-harn to the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall, where His Majesty will grant a public audience at 10.30am. From 6pm to 6.30pm, His Majesty will travel from the Amarin Winitchai Throne Hall to the Chitralada Royal Villa where well-wishers will light candles to honor him. The event will be televised.

Elections for new Prime Minister will be held on December 23rd. There may be some skirmishes in the streets of Bangkok so be advised to avoid government buildings as much as possible. The government has also declared December 24th as an official holiday. The reason for this is the Thais have to return to their home town to vote and this is to encourage more voters giving them time to get home and back.

Christmas and New Years will also be celebrated in most of the tourist venues. Decorations, presents and fireworks to ring in the New Year. A word of caution last year a handful of small bombs were set off on New Years eve (as I was packing to return home) so be aware of your surroundings.

Lastly rumor has it that Santa Claus will be at the Emporium on Sukhumvit and Soi 26. Alas, the reindeers couldnt make it visas expired.