As the sun goes down, DJs start up the techno and trance music, bonfires are lit and the experience is accentuated by the beautiful setting. By midnight several thousands ravers are on the beach, and the scene has taken on the appearance of Mardi Grasmeets Mad Max via Baywatch. By dawn things calm down, but stay to watch the sun come over the water - the ultimate Thai beach experience.

What they said?

While in Thailand we had to go to the Full Moon party. It was by far the best Beach Party i have ever been to, I arrived back in the UK last week from being in Thailand for a month and i am already saving up as i would like to stay out there for 6 months.

ewan alexander, edinburgh 22/3/2006 My score: 10/10

When I first got on to the beach and saw all the candles and UV lights I got butterflies in my stomach. There are different types of music coming from all over the place and everything is lit up. The buckets of booze you can buy are designed to keep you up all night and well into next day - they work! I lost my mate after about an hour but everyone is your friend there - passing round drinks and helping you along. I tried to walk home at 9 in the morning but couldn't remember where I lived so fell asleep on the beach until 11. When I woke people were still dancing, a lot were just asleep on the beach. AMAZING.

benlo, Liverpool 11/1/2006 My score: 10/10

IT'S SO TRUE!! I had the best night of my life at the the full moon party and let me tell you I've had some BLOODY GOOD nights!! The buckets of vodka and Red Bull kicked me all over the beach till I finally collapsed in a heap from exhaustion only to have a bunch of strangers bring me to my feet again. I gave this a 9/10, however it would have been a 10 if not for the severe environmental problem these parties create. The beach transforms itself into a filthy sweaty stomping pit of madness and I loved evry second of it.

Camille, Whangarei NZ 20/12/2005 My score: 9/10

So what are you waiting for? Now, it's your turn! Welcome to thailand's The full moon party!

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As the sun goes down, DJs start up the techno and trance music, bonfires are lit and the experience is accentuated by the beautiful setting. By midnight several thousands ravers are on the beach, and the scene has taken on the appearance of Mardi Grasmeets Mad Max via Baywatch. By dawn things calm down, but stay to watch the sun come over the water - the ultimate Thai beach experience.

What they said?

While in Thailand we had to go to the Full Moon party. It was by far the best Beach Party i have ever been to, I arrived back in the UK last week from being in Thailand for a month and i am already saving up as i would like to stay out there for 6 months.

ewan alexander, edinburgh 22/3/2006 My score: 10/10

When I first got on to the beach and saw all the candles and UV lights I got butterflies in my stomach. There are different types of music coming from all over the place and everything is lit up. The buckets of booze you can buy are designed to keep you up all night and well into next day - they work! I lost my mate after about an hour but everyone is your friend there - passing round drinks and helping you along. I tried to walk home at 9 in the morning but couldn't remember where I lived so fell asleep on the beach until 11. When I woke people were still dancing, a lot were just asleep on the beach. AMAZING.

benlo, Liverpool 11/1/2006 My score: 10/10

IT'S SO TRUE!! I had the best night of my life at the the full moon party and let me tell you I've had some BLOODY GOOD nights!! The buckets of vodka and Red Bull kicked me all over the beach till I finally collapsed in a heap from exhaustion only to have a bunch of strangers bring me to my feet again. I gave this a 9/10, however it would have been a 10 if not for the severe environmental problem these parties create. The beach transforms itself into a filthy sweaty stomping pit of madness and I loved evry second of it.

Camille, Whangarei NZ 20/12/2005 My score: 9/10

So what are you waiting for? Now, it's your turn! Welcome to thailand's The full moon party!

Read More...

Ha long Bay is one of the world’s most attractive tourist destinations of Vietnam. Ha long Bay features more than one thousand awesome limestone karsts and islands of various sizes and shapes along the 120-km coastline of Bai Chay Beach. Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay listed as a UNESCO World Heritage spot has been ranked the 2nd among the 10 best boat journeys by the UK's Lonely Planet Travel Magazine.

Ha Long Bay is a popular travel destination in the Northern Province of Quang Ninh. Covering an area around 1,553 km, including 1,960 islets, most of which are limestone. The core of the bay has an area of 334 km2 with a high density of 775 islets. The limestone in this bay has gone through 500 million years of formation in different conditions and environments. The evolution of the karst in this bay has taken 20 million years under the impact of the tropical wet climate.

The tiny islands are dotted with beaches and grottoes created by wind and waves, and have sparsely forested slopes ringing with bird tunes. Kissing rock from Ha Long Bay Veitnam. More than 300 boats based at Bai Chay Tourist Wharf waiting to sweep you away to the World Heritage waters. Day tours last from four to eight hours, though (recommended) overnighters are also available. In 1994, Ha Long Bay was recognized as a UNESCO World attractive places Natural Heritage site. It has jumped to second place among the 28 finalists of an online voting for the world’s new seven wonders and helping to bring 5.3 million visitors to Quang Ninh in the first eight months of the year.

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The beautiful waterfall in Hua Hin is Pa-La-u waterfall which located at Kaengkrajan National Park, Prachuapkhirikhan. This water is not far from Hua Hin. The Eco-tourist likes to come here, where plentiful of animal and national forest, especially various kinds of butterflies and birds.

Pa-La-u in Karen language means bamboo forest; they called Pa-La-u because there are many bamboos in this area.

Interesting

- Waterfall
Waterfall has 15 tiered, the first to four tier a small waterfall, since five tiered up size of waterfall will bigger and higher. The best time to visit the fall is from November to April when the fall is its most beautiful.
- Butterflies, birds and animals
The best time to watch butterflies is from 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. in April to July. Because there are groups of butterflies in this time, they fly near salt earth, canal and waterfall.
In Pa-La- U waterfall you can see wild animal such as elephants, Gaurs, leopards and deers.

More information

The waterfall can be reached by local transportation from Hua Hin for a distance of 63 kilometers and open daily. For more information, call the Kaeng Krachan National Park at 032 459293.

The ticket

Thai
Child 10 Baht per person
Adult 20 Baht per person
Foreign
Child 10 Baht per person
Adult 200 Baht per person

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The beautiful waterfall in Hua Hin is Pa-La-u waterfall which located at Kaengkrajan National Park, Prachuapkhirikhan. This water is not far from Hua Hin. The Eco-tourist likes to come here, where plentiful of animal and national forest, especially various kinds of butterflies and birds.

Pa-La-u in Karen language means bamboo forest; they called Pa-La-u because there are many bamboos in this area.

Interesting

- Waterfall
Waterfall has 15 tiered, the first to four tier a small waterfall, since five tiered up size of waterfall will bigger and higher. The best time to visit the fall is from November to April when the fall is its most beautiful.
- Butterflies, birds and animals
The best time to watch butterflies is from 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. in April to July. Because there are groups of butterflies in this time, they fly near salt earth, canal and waterfall.
In Pa-La- U waterfall you can see wild animal such as elephants, Gaurs, leopards and deers.

More information

The waterfall can be reached by local transportation from Hua Hin for a distance of 63 kilometers and open daily. For more information, call the Kaeng Krachan National Park at 032 459293.

The ticket

Thai
Child 10 Baht per person
Adult 20 Baht per person
Foreign
Child 10 Baht per person
Adult 200 Baht per person

Read More...

The Oldest temple.
The Biggest temple with largest number of pagoda.
The Largest collection of Buddha image.

Wat Pho, or Wat Phra Chetuphon as it is generally known to the Thais, is mainly famous for the huge Reclining Buddha statue it houses. At 20 acres large, it is the largest Wat in Bangkok, and is technically the oldest too, as it was built around 200 years before Bangkok became Thailand's capital. However, today the Wat today bears virtually no resemblance to that originally constructed, as it was almost entirely rebuilt by Rama I when the capital was moved to Bangkok. It holds the dual honors of having both Thailand's largest reclining Buddha image and the most number of Buddha images in Thailand.

Massage - Wat Pho is also famous as Thailand's first university, and is center for traditional Thai masage - the rich, famous and powerful have all been known to come here. Inscribed on stone in the walls of Wat Pho are all that was known about Thai massage dating from the reign of King Rama III (most previous texts were lost when the Burmese destroyed Ayuthaya)
To get a traditional massage here costs 150B for 30 mins, 250B for an hour and herbal massages are available at 350B an hour. If you want to experience traditional Thai massage, this is probably the best place available and is highly recommended, though be aware that it's not exactly a gentle experience. A foot reflexology massage is also available at 250B for 45 minutes.
It is also possible to take courses to learn traditional Thai massage. These are for 30 hours and cost 4,500B. Courses can be spread over either 10 or 15 days. The massage center is situated at the back of the Wat, the opposite side from the entrance. To get a massage, simply turn up here and wait in line until a masseur is available - perhaps 10 or 20 minutes in the quieter periods in the early morning and late afternoon.

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Seventeen mammal species, including elephant, yellow-throated marten and masked palm civet, are confirmed as park dwellers. A significant number of others are possible residents. These include tiger, barking deer, wild dog, wild pig, languor and slow lorries. A 1987 study estimated that between five and 20 elephants survived in the park. The best places to see wildlife are on the park's meadows and, during the dry season, around ponds and salt licks.

Thailand Travel Thung Salaeng Luang in Phetchabun

there is a large salt lick at Pong Sai in the northwest and Pong Thung Phya in the southwest. More than 190 bird species have been confirmed, among them species of heron, eagle, partridge, pheasant, pigeon, owl, swift,, barbet, woodpecker, bulbul, babbler, warbler, flycatcher and flowerpecker.

Thailand Travel Thung Salaeng Luang in Phetchabun

A prominent resident is the Siamese fireback pheasant, a leading candidate for Thailand's national bird because it was once so common and frequently referred to in classical Thai literature. it also once helped to advertise the country. A pair was sent to Napoleon III of France in 1862 along with diplomatic envoys, eliciting interest in both the exotic animal and its place of origin. The sleek, handsome male has a red face, long, narrow tail, gray upper plumage and a black underside. the he is chestnut-reddish and lacks head and tail adamants.

Highlights Thung Salaeng Luang in Phetchabun

Thung Nang Phaya Three outstanding meadows are embedded within park boundaries.
Thailand Travel Thung Salaeng Luang is a 10 square kilometer sea of savanna grass in the southeast surrounded by forests and hills. Some of the meadow was turned into rice paddies by the Communist guerrillas. First-time visitors are often surprised to suddenly come upon such a great expanse of open space hemmed in by dense forests. the meadow's 800 meter elevation makes it comfortable for trekking even in the summer when temperatures average an agreeable 18 Celcius.

Thung Nang Phaya

But the ideal time for hiking to and exploring the meadows is during the early part of the cool season. Thailand Travel Thung Salaeng Luang is reached by two routes. there is 40 kilometer long trail running south from park headquarters to the meadow but it can only be negotiated by 4-Wheel drive vehicles and then only during the dry season. The other option is arriving via the Khao Kor-Phetchabun road which runs southeast of the park and turning off at Nong Mae Na. A gravel road leads to the park boundary and meadow.

Thung Nang Phaya

in the southwest, is a favorite camping site, known for its stunning combination of meadow and pine trees. It can most easily be reached from the Nong Mae Na entry to the park, with 4-Wheel drive cars recommended, especially during the rainy season. Thung Non son is situated on a plateau deep in the park's center, its more tan 11,000 hectares resplendent with large clusters of flowers which bloom September to November. this meadow is best explored with guides since reaching it requires a difficult effort by 4-Wheel drive vehicle and facilities are non-existent at the site.

Thung Nang Phaya

From park headquarters, drive along the same road as leads to Thung Salaeng Luang for 15 kilometers until reaching a turn-off to the right. From there it is an 18 kilometer trek along a mountain ridge to Thung Non son. Among the many lovely flowers found on the park's meadows is the “Bang meowing”, a small, frail orchid with sept-back petals which is literally translated as running horse orchid. Others are the “Phung Chomphu”, or pink garland, a purple flower with three large petals. Kradum Ngern, silver button, a white flower the size of the small finger, Yad Nam Khang, dripper of dew, a small, light brown flower which thrives on morning dew, and Mokhaw Mokaeng Ling, a greenish ground flower which loosely translates as monkey's pots and pans. Standard English names do not exist for a number of flowers found in Thailand.

Niagara Falls of Thailand

Dubbed the “Niagara Falls of Thailand,” Kaeng Sopha is one of the country's most beautiful. the three-tiered waterfall, shaped like a stairway, is found very near kilometer 68 of the Phitsanuloke-Lomsak Highway. Food stalls, rest rooms and a tourist information center are located at the waterfall. Three kilometers from the park office an 80 meter long cable stayed bridge spanning the Khek Yai River. the river banks are pleasant for picnics and the Khek Yai is ideal for dips in the dry season although dangerous during the rains when the current flows too rapidly.

Source : tripsthailand.com

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Don't be afraid to suffer a little for good food.

OK, at some street markets you can buy fried crickets, grasshoppers, worms and chicken heads. You are allowed to fear these delicacies.

In addition to bugs, Thailand offers every cuisine imaginable, much of it delicious. My stomach doesn't take to hot foods, but only the food in Chiang Mai seemed to be too spicy. Everywhere else, I ate well, perhaps too well. Three restaurants on the banks of the Ping River in Chiang Mai were hot, but standouts: The Gallery, the Good View and the Riverside. They all sit side by side on Charoen Rat Road, and they are always crowded.

Live music in the Riverside was mostly cover bands playing classic American pop, like The Doors. I had a ball. In Bangkok, lunch at the Oriental Hotel's patio overlooking the Chao Phraya River made me feel like James Bond. The New York Steak restaurant at the JW Marriott was a good break from pad Thai. And if you feel adventurous, drop into Galaxy (19 Rama 4 Road), a well-known "no-hands restaurant" in Bangkok. Young women and a mamasan feed you and wipe your mouth - it's like practice for being senile. Cabbages and Condoms (10 Sukhumvit Soi 12) is a racy name for a tame (inexpensive) and wonderful Thai restaurant that raises money for Thailand's family-planning nonprofit.

On Koh Samui, The Shack, (88 3 Moo1, Bophut), is an open-air steakhouse run by Larry Snyder, a self-proclaimed nervous, heart-attack-prone New Yorker. Poppies (Samui Ring Road) serves the best Thai food in Thailand on Chaweng Beach. And Prego, run by chef Marco Boscaini, also on Samui Ring Road, is one of the best Italian restaurants I've ever encountered. Need a hamburger fix? Chaweng's most popular bar, Tropical Murphy's Irish pub, serves a tasty one on Samui Ring Road.

source: The Denver Post

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Currency information:

Ringgit (MYR; symbol RM) = 100 sen. Notes are in denominations of RM100, 50, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 sen. The Ringgit is often referred to as the Malaysian Dollar.
Credit cards:

MasterCard, Visa and American Express are widely accepted. Diners Club is accepted at larger department stores and shopping centres and some upmarket restaurants and hotels. Credit cards are less widely accepted in rural areas – carry cash or travellers cheques as a back up.
ATM:

ATMs are found in all cities and most accept international cards from Visa, MasterCard and other major card issuers. Because of the high incidence of credit card fraud, banks may put an automatic block on your card unless you notify them first that you are travelling to Malaysia.
Travellers cheques:

Accepted by all banks, hotels and large department stores. Most major brands of travellers cheques are accepted, but travellers are advised to carry cheques in Pounds Sterling, US Dollars or Australian Dollars.
Banking hours:

Mon-Fri 0915-1630 (some branches close at 1600 on Friday and some open on Saturdays). Banks in Kelantan and Terengganu open Sun-Thurs 0915-1630 (till 1600 on Thursday).
Currency restriction:

The import and export of local currency is limited to RM1,000 cash. There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency, subject to declarations for amounts of US$10,000 or higher.
Currency exchange:

The best currency for exchange is the Pound Sterling, but US Dollars are also widely accepted. All commercial banks are authorised foreign exchange dealers; major hotels are only licensed to buy or accept foreign currency in the form of notes and traveller's cheques. It may be difficult to exchange foreign currencies outside the main tourist centres.

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Seventeen mammal species, including elephant, yellow-throated marten and masked palm civet, are confirmed as park dwellers. A significant number of others are possible residents. These include tiger, barking deer, wild dog, wild pig, languor and slow lorries. A 1987 study estimated that between five and 20 elephants survived in the park. The best places to see wildlife are on the park's meadows and, during the dry season, around ponds and salt licks.

Thailand Travel Thung Salaeng Luang in Phetchabun

there is a large salt lick at Pong Sai in the northwest and Pong Thung Phya in the southwest. More than 190 bird species have been confirmed, among them species of heron, eagle, partridge, pheasant, pigeon, owl, swift,, barbet, woodpecker, bulbul, babbler, warbler, flycatcher and flowerpecker.

Thailand Travel Thung Salaeng Luang in Phetchabun

A prominent resident is the Siamese fireback pheasant, a leading candidate for Thailand's national bird because it was once so common and frequently referred to in classical Thai literature. it also once helped to advertise the country. A pair was sent to Napoleon III of France in 1862 along with diplomatic envoys, eliciting interest in both the exotic animal and its place of origin. The sleek, handsome male has a red face, long, narrow tail, gray upper plumage and a black underside. the he is chestnut-reddish and lacks head and tail adamants.

Highlights Thung Salaeng Luang in Phetchabun

Thung Nang Phaya Three outstanding meadows are embedded within park boundaries.
Thailand Travel Thung Salaeng Luang is a 10 square kilometer sea of savanna grass in the southeast surrounded by forests and hills. Some of the meadow was turned into rice paddies by the Communist guerrillas. First-time visitors are often surprised to suddenly come upon such a great expanse of open space hemmed in by dense forests. the meadow's 800 meter elevation makes it comfortable for trekking even in the summer when temperatures average an agreeable 18 Celcius.

Thung Nang Phaya

But the ideal time for hiking to and exploring the meadows is during the early part of the cool season. Thailand Travel Thung Salaeng Luang is reached by two routes. there is 40 kilometer long trail running south from park headquarters to the meadow but it can only be negotiated by 4-Wheel drive vehicles and then only during the dry season. The other option is arriving via the Khao Kor-Phetchabun road which runs southeast of the park and turning off at Nong Mae Na. A gravel road leads to the park boundary and meadow.

Thung Nang Phaya

in the southwest, is a favorite camping site, known for its stunning combination of meadow and pine trees. It can most easily be reached from the Nong Mae Na entry to the park, with 4-Wheel drive cars recommended, especially during the rainy season. Thung Non son is situated on a plateau deep in the park's center, its more tan 11,000 hectares resplendent with large clusters of flowers which bloom September to November. this meadow is best explored with guides since reaching it requires a difficult effort by 4-Wheel drive vehicle and facilities are non-existent at the site.

Thung Nang Phaya

From park headquarters, drive along the same road as leads to Thung Salaeng Luang for 15 kilometers until reaching a turn-off to the right. From there it is an 18 kilometer trek along a mountain ridge to Thung Non son. Among the many lovely flowers found on the park's meadows is the “Bang meowing”, a small, frail orchid with sept-back petals which is literally translated as running horse orchid. Others are the “Phung Chomphu”, or pink garland, a purple flower with three large petals. Kradum Ngern, silver button, a white flower the size of the small finger, Yad Nam Khang, dripper of dew, a small, light brown flower which thrives on morning dew, and Mokhaw Mokaeng Ling, a greenish ground flower which loosely translates as monkey's pots and pans. Standard English names do not exist for a number of flowers found in Thailand.

Niagara Falls of Thailand

Dubbed the “Niagara Falls of Thailand,” Kaeng Sopha is one of the country's most beautiful. the three-tiered waterfall, shaped like a stairway, is found very near kilometer 68 of the Phitsanuloke-Lomsak Highway. Food stalls, rest rooms and a tourist information center are located at the waterfall. Three kilometers from the park office an 80 meter long cable stayed bridge spanning the Khek Yai River. the river banks are pleasant for picnics and the Khek Yai is ideal for dips in the dry season although dangerous during the rains when the current flows too rapidly.

Source : tripsthailand.com

Read More...

You might have heard about it, or even seen it on TV—the furious punches, crushing elbow strikes, lethal kicks, powerful grappling and artful feints. But nothing compares to seeing them executed to loud cheers and heart-racing tune of an accompanying wind-and-percussion ensemble. Welcome to the exciting world of Muay Thai, a martial art like no others, and a proud heritage of a nation.
The history of Muay Thai is interwoven with the history of the Thai people. A gentle, peace-loving people, for centuries Thais had to defend themselves and their land from aggressive powers. They developed a form of close, hand-to-hand combat best suited for the kind of rough-terrain battle they were fighting. Over time it became a rite of passage for Thai men to take up training in this martial art. King Naresuan the Great (1555-1605), one of the country’s most celebrated warrior-heroes, is believed to have been an excellent boxer himself, and it was he who made Muay Thai a required part of military training. Another milestone in the history of Muay Thai was the triumph of Nai Khanom Tom over 10 Burmese boxers in 1774. Taken captive after the Thai capital fell in 1767, Nai Khanom Tom was picked to fight before the Burmese king. After defeating ten of them in a row, he was freed and returned home a hero.

Lumpini Stadium

It is located to the east of Lumpini Park on Rama IV Road, is Bangkok's second major boxing stadium. Bouts at Lumpini are held on Tuesdays and Fridays at 6.00 pm, and twice on Saturdays at 5.00 pm and 8.30 pm.
It's easy to tell when a fight is in progress by the hundreds of motorcycles parked outside on the road. Ticket prices are similar to those at Ratchadamnoen Stadium and vary according to the seating. Outer circle seats are around 250 baht while a ringside seat can cost from 500 to 1,000 baht depending on the card.

The Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium on Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue

It is near the TAT office holds bouts on Mondays at 5.00 and 9.00 pm, Wednesdays at 6.00 pm, Thursdays at 6.00 pm, and Sundays at 5.00 pm. The practice bouts held at 2.00 pm on Sundays are pretty much for the tourists.
Don't get ripped off by touts selling tickets on the street. Only buy tickets from the authorized sellers in the ticket windows at the stadium. Tickets vary in price depending on the seating. Outer circle seats cost around 1000 baht. The Middle seats cost 1500 baht. Ringside tickets cost 2000 baht. A boxing match includes eight fights with a maximum of five rounds each. For more information, call +66 2 281-4205.
The area in the immediate vicinity of Ratchadamnoen Stadium has some of the city's best Isaan (northeastern) food, with popular dishes such as 'som tam' (spicy papaya salad) and 'kai yang' (grilled chicken). Experience the excitement of a Thai boxing match and then find out why Isaan cuisine is so popular all over the country.

Samrong stadium

It is the smallest one in Samut Prakan province, just east of Bangna District, Bangkok. Bouts are held on Sundays and Fridays at 8.30 pm. Strangely, tickets for men cost 220 baht, women just 100 baht.

The cards here are generally smaller than the main stadiums at Ratchadamnoen and Lumpini.

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We’ve all heard the eventual wish, expressed under breaths in the midst of a tiring work day or after a monotonous task. “I wish I was on an island.” Islands are the crucial destination for fun, sun, and entertainment. There’s no reason why your next vacation trip can’t be an island, and there are dozens of options all over the world to roam around. Here you’ll find just a few of our favorites!

1. Bali

Situated in the Asian Pacific, the Island of Bali is an interesting oriental destination in Indonesia. It is here that you will discover yourself engrossed in genuine Indonesian culture, dance, and food.

2. Boracay

This Island too situated in the Asian Pacific in the Philippines. Perhaps one of the most breathtakingly gorgeous places in the world, Boracay is an extraordinarily admired tourist destination. The island is the ideal destination for both those in search of leisure and those in hunt of adventure.

3. Bora Bora

In the Australian Pacific you’ll discover the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. The island was on one occasion used as a deliberate landing point for the United States Military but was residence to hundreds of armed forces who resolute to return, or just hang about, after the war was over. Now known as a sizzling destination for tourists, residents of Bora Bora are devoted to revealing visitors to authentic Polynesian culture.

4. Maui

Maui, the second largest island in Hawaii, is recognized not only for its implausible gorgeousness however also for welcoming both romantic couples and families with open arms. Relax on your own or consider taking benefit of a curative massage. The good-looking weather and astonishing waters make Maui an most favorable destination for surfers.

5. Anguilla

In the heart of the northern Caribbean you’ll find out the tiny island of Anguilla. At present under British control, Anguilla is a melting pot of cultures merged with the beauty of the beaches and scenery of the island itself.

6. Jamaica

A wonderful climate, astonishing tropical plants and landscapes, sandy white beaches, and crystal clear blue waters – what more can you request as of an island vacation destination. The island is reasonable for anyone as you can decide to camp out or stay in a lavish hotel.

7. The Seychelles

The Seychelles is a cluster of 115 islands which is located in the region of Indian Ocean. The islands are aged, but are basically embryonic; making them an ideal destination for someone who desires to visit an island or group of islands that hasn’t been taken over by profitable resorts.

8. The Island of Hvar

The Island of Hvar located in the Mediterranean Sea in the midst of a countless of other islands. It takes a small piece of travel time to reach your destination at the Island of Hvar, but the landscape, way of life, food, and history makes the journey well worth the endeavor.

9. Galapagos Island

The South American Galapagos Island is well cherished by those attracted in nature’s scenery and botany. The group of islands is residence to more than a dozen islands, and hundreds of astonishing animal species, counting iguana, hawks, penguins, sea lions, and turtles.

10. Aruba

Aruba, bring into being off the coast of Venezuela, is yet another astonishing destination for individuals folks, couples, and families alike. Each and Everyone will for sure enjoy the beautiful and good looking white beaches, blue waters, relaxed fishing trips and lots more to fun about

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Traditionally, the rocket festival is the sixth Lunar month ceremony that Lao people have conducted for many generation(s). It is a very important event that we could not abandon since the early period of time. It is also the important symbol of unity and friendship used to fight against dry weather and to request rain.

Eventhough, belief in the rain god is less now than in former times, the Lao still respect this tradition and continue to prepare the rocket festival as one of the most significant activities that takes place before of the season of rice cultivation. In addition to the preparation of rockets, there are some Buddhist ceremonies such as waterblessing rituals that the senior monks perform at the same event.

The Rocket festival is the only annual chance the farmers have to request rain from the god called Phaya Thaen. Because of the strong belief held since ancient times, when the land was dry and farmers did not have enough water for rice production. So the rocket festival were instituted. It is the one means for human beings to communicate symbolically with the god to request rain.

The rocket launching itself is competitive, with prizes for the best explosion, greatest distance, etc. The secrets of rocket making have been passed down over the generations and refined into sophisticated, multi-chambered wonders of pre-scientific technology. Some of these things are four or five meters long, and fly a kilometer or more, or explode at their apogee into a spectacular and colorful fireball.

As if this wasn’t enough, there are countless other activities (as with any country fair) including live music, dancing and other contests.

Though countless villages observe the celebration, on various dates and the best organized is held in Yasothorn Province. This year the three-day blowout runs from May 10-12.

Read More...

Traditionally, the rocket festival is the sixth Lunar month ceremony that Lao people have conducted for many generation(s). It is a very important event that we could not abandon since the early period of time. It is also the important symbol of unity and friendship used to fight against dry weather and to request rain.

Eventhough, belief in the rain god is less now than in former times, the Lao still respect this tradition and continue to prepare the rocket festival as one of the most significant activities that takes place before of the season of rice cultivation. In addition to the preparation of rockets, there are some Buddhist ceremonies such as waterblessing rituals that the senior monks perform at the same event.

The Rocket festival is the only annual chance the farmers have to request rain from the god called Phaya Thaen. Because of the strong belief held since ancient times, when the land was dry and farmers did not have enough water for rice production. So the rocket festival were instituted. It is the one means for human beings to communicate symbolically with the god to request rain.

The rocket launching itself is competitive, with prizes for the best explosion, greatest distance, etc. The secrets of rocket making have been passed down over the generations and refined into sophisticated, multi-chambered wonders of pre-scientific technology. Some of these things are four or five meters long, and fly a kilometer or more, or explode at their apogee into a spectacular and colorful fireball.

As if this wasn’t enough, there are countless other activities (as with any country fair) including live music, dancing and other contests.

Though countless villages observe the celebration, on various dates and the best organized is held in Yasothorn Province. This year the three-day blowout runs from May 10-12.

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You might have heard about it, or even seen it on TV—the furious punches, crushing elbow strikes, lethal kicks, powerful grappling and artful feints. But nothing compares to seeing them executed to loud cheers and heart-racing tune of an accompanying wind-and-percussion ensemble. Welcome to the exciting world of Muay Thai, a martial art like no others, and a proud heritage of a nation.
The history of Muay Thai is interwoven with the history of the Thai people. A gentle, peace-loving people, for centuries Thais had to defend themselves and their land from aggressive powers. They developed a form of close, hand-to-hand combat best suited for the kind of rough-terrain battle they were fighting. Over time it became a rite of passage for Thai men to take up training in this martial art. King Naresuan the Great (1555-1605), one of the country’s most celebrated warrior-heroes, is believed to have been an excellent boxer himself, and it was he who made Muay Thai a required part of military training. Another milestone in the history of Muay Thai was the triumph of Nai Khanom Tom over 10 Burmese boxers in 1774. Taken captive after the Thai capital fell in 1767, Nai Khanom Tom was picked to fight before the Burmese king. After defeating ten of them in a row, he was freed and returned home a hero.

Lumpini Stadium

It is located to the east of Lumpini Park on Rama IV Road, is Bangkok's second major boxing stadium. Bouts at Lumpini are held on Tuesdays and Fridays at 6.00 pm, and twice on Saturdays at 5.00 pm and 8.30 pm.
It's easy to tell when a fight is in progress by the hundreds of motorcycles parked outside on the road. Ticket prices are similar to those at Ratchadamnoen Stadium and vary according to the seating. Outer circle seats are around 250 baht while a ringside seat can cost from 500 to 1,000 baht depending on the card.

The Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium on Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue

It is near the TAT office holds bouts on Mondays at 5.00 and 9.00 pm, Wednesdays at 6.00 pm, Thursdays at 6.00 pm, and Sundays at 5.00 pm. The practice bouts held at 2.00 pm on Sundays are pretty much for the tourists.
Don't get ripped off by touts selling tickets on the street. Only buy tickets from the authorized sellers in the ticket windows at the stadium. Tickets vary in price depending on the seating. Outer circle seats cost around 1000 baht. The Middle seats cost 1500 baht. Ringside tickets cost 2000 baht. A boxing match includes eight fights with a maximum of five rounds each. For more information, call +66 2 281-4205.
The area in the immediate vicinity of Ratchadamnoen Stadium has some of the city's best Isaan (northeastern) food, with popular dishes such as 'som tam' (spicy papaya salad) and 'kai yang' (grilled chicken). Experience the excitement of a Thai boxing match and then find out why Isaan cuisine is so popular all over the country.

Samrong stadium

It is the smallest one in Samut Prakan province, just east of Bangna District, Bangkok. Bouts are held on Sundays and Fridays at 8.30 pm. Strangely, tickets for men cost 220 baht, women just 100 baht.

The cards here are generally smaller than the main stadiums at Ratchadamnoen and Lumpini.

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Thailand and Bangkok have developed into one of the best and most popular shopping locations in Asia, and with good reason. Prices are low, quality generally high and the range and variety is pretty amazing - silks, gemstones, tailor-made clothes and traditional handicrafts are all highlights of Bangkok shopping. Most shops seem to be open 10.00am to 10.00pm everyday of the week, and nightmarkets carry on even after this time - all very convenient in being able to go shopping at basically any time you want.
BANGKOK is no slouch when it comes to shopping – or bargains. Whether you're looking for pricey brands or street-side kitsch, the Thai capital has it all. If you survive the smog and car exhaust – though things are decidedly improving – do remember that if it does not have a VAT tag (the tax), there will be no guarantee of quality. That's easy enough. If you don't care about this minor quibble, get your hands dirty and jump right in.

Malls

MBK Shopping Mall [Mah Boon Krong]

This is a very popular shopping mall for locals. Located just across from Siam Square, it is most popular with the younger set, lots of trendy school girls here every evening.
Plenty of restaurants and all manner of goods from cars to furniture. If you are looking for electronic goods such as Mini-Disc and CD walkmen, this is the place. All the goods of this nature are smuggled in and do not have VAT and local tax making MBK by far the cheapest place for Panasonic, Sony, Aiwa, etc.
A good selection of copied video CDs, DVDs, and the premier place for PlayStation game copies from below 40 Baht each.

The Siam Paragon

It is the largest development of its kind in Thailand, on a massive 21 acres of prime central Bangkok land.
The Paragon has moved the Emporium firmly into second place
The Paragon has car showrooms, an aquarium, high class food court (not the one on the ground floor!), fountains, in fact the whole concept has been designed to eclipse similar projects in neighbouring countries and make Thailand a shopping destination similar to Hong Kong or Singapore.
All the top name brands are there, along with a first class hotel, serviced apartments, cinemas, restaurants, aquarium, and a hall for grand events.

Weekend Market - Jattujak

A place you can bargain! Any serious Bangkok shopping binge, however, has to start at the sprawling and sweaty Jattujak (Kampaengpet Road) weekend market which hasn't slowed down at all. Wildly popular among locals and expats alike, the market is packed each weekend with everything you could possibly need (if you're patient enough). Jattujak is a riot and will assail the senses. Be prepared and bring along a bottle of water. You’ll need it.
Haggle your way through the warren of shops selling trinkets, funky lights, candles, lacquerware, statues, fake antiques, pillowcases, silk bedspreads, cushion-covers, chopsticks, dining plates and a lot more. Yes, you can buy roosters, cats, dogs and even pythons but this may raise eyebrows as cabin baggage. Set aside at least half a day, if not more, for this expedition. Fortunately, there are a few shops selling snacks, meals, ice-cream, soft drinks and mineral water.
Surprisingly, Jattujak’s “streets” are numbered, so note your route mentally and leave a breadcrumb trail as it’s easy to get lost in the press. The best time to drop in is 10-11am, on weekends. Take the BTS SkyTrain and hop off at the last station, Mochit. Or tube it underground by the new Metro. There’s a station for Jattujak. The exchange rate is roughly US$1=Bt40. On to more shops. Take a peek at the sexy but elegant G-strings (39 baht, US$0.9, per piece, or Bt100 for three) at No's Bra (Jattujak Section 24, Soi 1 tel: [66-1] 331-9823). Aspiring art collectors will find affordable acrylic paintings on canvas (Bt5,500, US$129) at Jakkrit Ridswaeng (Jattujak Section 2, tel: [66-2] 618-4080). This is a tiny gallery specializing in Buddha faces. Close by, in the same section, you'll spot an array of shops that sell everything from home decorations to hip ready-to-wear.

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Thailand and Bangkok have developed into one of the best and most popular shopping locations in Asia, and with good reason. Prices are low, quality generally high and the range and variety is pretty amazing - silks, gemstones, tailor-made clothes and traditional handicrafts are all highlights of Bangkok shopping. Most shops seem to be open 10.00am to 10.00pm everyday of the week, and nightmarkets carry on even after this time - all very convenient in being able to go shopping at basically any time you want.
BANGKOK is no slouch when it comes to shopping – or bargains. Whether you're looking for pricey brands or street-side kitsch, the Thai capital has it all. If you survive the smog and car exhaust – though things are decidedly improving – do remember that if it does not have a VAT tag (the tax), there will be no guarantee of quality. That's easy enough. If you don't care about this minor quibble, get your hands dirty and jump right in.

Malls

MBK Shopping Mall [Mah Boon Krong]

This is a very popular shopping mall for locals. Located just across from Siam Square, it is most popular with the younger set, lots of trendy school girls here every evening.
Plenty of restaurants and all manner of goods from cars to furniture. If you are looking for electronic goods such as Mini-Disc and CD walkmen, this is the place. All the goods of this nature are smuggled in and do not have VAT and local tax making MBK by far the cheapest place for Panasonic, Sony, Aiwa, etc.
A good selection of copied video CDs, DVDs, and the premier place for PlayStation game copies from below 40 Baht each.

The Siam Paragon

It is the largest development of its kind in Thailand, on a massive 21 acres of prime central Bangkok land.
The Paragon has moved the Emporium firmly into second place
The Paragon has car showrooms, an aquarium, high class food court (not the one on the ground floor!), fountains, in fact the whole concept has been designed to eclipse similar projects in neighbouring countries and make Thailand a shopping destination similar to Hong Kong or Singapore.
All the top name brands are there, along with a first class hotel, serviced apartments, cinemas, restaurants, aquarium, and a hall for grand events.

Weekend Market - Jattujak

A place you can bargain! Any serious Bangkok shopping binge, however, has to start at the sprawling and sweaty Jattujak (Kampaengpet Road) weekend market which hasn't slowed down at all. Wildly popular among locals and expats alike, the market is packed each weekend with everything you could possibly need (if you're patient enough). Jattujak is a riot and will assail the senses. Be prepared and bring along a bottle of water. You’ll need it.
Haggle your way through the warren of shops selling trinkets, funky lights, candles, lacquerware, statues, fake antiques, pillowcases, silk bedspreads, cushion-covers, chopsticks, dining plates and a lot more. Yes, you can buy roosters, cats, dogs and even pythons but this may raise eyebrows as cabin baggage. Set aside at least half a day, if not more, for this expedition. Fortunately, there are a few shops selling snacks, meals, ice-cream, soft drinks and mineral water.
Surprisingly, Jattujak’s “streets” are numbered, so note your route mentally and leave a breadcrumb trail as it’s easy to get lost in the press. The best time to drop in is 10-11am, on weekends. Take the BTS SkyTrain and hop off at the last station, Mochit. Or tube it underground by the new Metro. There’s a station for Jattujak. The exchange rate is roughly US$1=Bt40. On to more shops. Take a peek at the sexy but elegant G-strings (39 baht, US$0.9, per piece, or Bt100 for three) at No's Bra (Jattujak Section 24, Soi 1 tel: [66-1] 331-9823). Aspiring art collectors will find affordable acrylic paintings on canvas (Bt5,500, US$129) at Jakkrit Ridswaeng (Jattujak Section 2, tel: [66-2] 618-4080). This is a tiny gallery specializing in Buddha faces. Close by, in the same section, you'll spot an array of shops that sell everything from home decorations to hip ready-to-wear.

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Don't be afraid to suffer a little for good food.

OK, at some street markets you can buy fried crickets, grasshoppers, worms and chicken heads. You are allowed to fear these delicacies.

In addition to bugs, Thailand offers every cuisine imaginable, much of it delicious. My stomach doesn't take to hot foods, but only the food in Chiang Mai seemed to be too spicy. Everywhere else, I ate well, perhaps too well. Three restaurants on the banks of the Ping River in Chiang Mai were hot, but standouts: The Gallery, the Good View and the Riverside. They all sit side by side on Charoen Rat Road, and they are always crowded.

Live music in the Riverside was mostly cover bands playing classic American pop, like The Doors. I had a ball. In Bangkok, lunch at the Oriental Hotel's patio overlooking the Chao Phraya River made me feel like James Bond. The New York Steak restaurant at the JW Marriott was a good break from pad Thai. And if you feel adventurous, drop into Galaxy (19 Rama 4 Road), a well-known "no-hands restaurant" in Bangkok. Young women and a mamasan feed you and wipe your mouth - it's like practice for being senile. Cabbages and Condoms (10 Sukhumvit Soi 12) is a racy name for a tame (inexpensive) and wonderful Thai restaurant that raises money for Thailand's family-planning nonprofit.

On Koh Samui, The Shack, (88 3 Moo1, Bophut), is an open-air steakhouse run by Larry Snyder, a self-proclaimed nervous, heart-attack-prone New Yorker. Poppies (Samui Ring Road) serves the best Thai food in Thailand on Chaweng Beach. And Prego, run by chef Marco Boscaini, also on Samui Ring Road, is one of the best Italian restaurants I've ever encountered. Need a hamburger fix? Chaweng's most popular bar, Tropical Murphy's Irish pub, serves a tasty one on Samui Ring Road.

source: The Denver Post

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