Rayong : East Coast of Thailand, Transfer to Koh Samet

     Besides Pattaya, on the East Coast such as Rayong, Chantaburi and Trat, are gaining popularity with visitors. Located some 180 km. southeast of Bangkok, Rayong is easily accessible from Pattaya. The 80 km. journey along Highway 36 takes approximately one hour.

     It is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty including its 100 km. stretch of coastline, a series of mountains interspersed by flat plains and forested land, and rubber and fruit plantations.

     Being on a seaside location, Rayong is famed for its seafood products and is also well known for its tropical fruits such as rambutan, mangosteen and durian.

     Rayong is known for its fishing villages that are far less developed than the coastal villages near Pattaya, it is truly a haven for visitors seeking rest and relaxation.

     Noteworthy seaside spots include Ban Kon Ao, Hat Sai Thong and Suan Wang Kaeo. Koh Samet, which boasts beautiful white sand beaches and coral reefs ideal for scuba diving is gaining popularity as a side-trip from Pattaya.

     As national parks go the island has very little vegetation. Most of the trees were cut down or burned, but over the last 10 years secondary growth has taken place giving the island shrubs and bushes and plenty of coconut trees along its coast to provide shelter.

The climate in Rayong is tropical, generally warm and humid with abundant rainfall, average temperature is around 28 degrees C. Best months to visit are from November through February.

Finding your way around Rayong
     Famous for its fruits and quiet beaches, the first stop is usually a visit to Koh Samet (Samet Island),  Rayong premier destination.
     Aside from its 100 km. coastline of prime beaches along the Gulf of Thailand and 10 islands with abundant marine resources, Rayong is also with both domestic and international tourists. There are almost as many fruit lovers in the province as those who seek the solace of quiet beaches.
     Popular among visitors from Southeast Asia, the largest island, Koh Samet is only a 40 minutes ferry ride from the mainland. It is often mentioned as the site of the mythical crystal island portrayed in classical Thai literature composed by famous poet, Sunthon Phu (1786 - 1855).

Transfer to Koh Samet
     Take a ferry from Ban Phe district, Rayong province on the mainland to landing points on popular beaches - Ao Klang, Ao Phrao, Ao Wong Duen, Ao Thian and Ao Wai. Ao Klang Pier is main disembarkation port where other services such as taxies converted from pick-up trucks, ATM, tours and restaurants are available. The other beaches have simple piers used for diving and boat excursions. On Koh Samet island, travelling around is made easy by a fleet of passenger pick-up vehicles called "Songtaew". An alternative is to walk between beaches.

     The most famous and largest beach of Koh Samet is Had Sai Kaew (Crystal Sand Beach), about 800 meter long and popular with sunbathers and water sport lovers. The options include jet skiing, circuits on banana boats, and windsurfing.

     The second largest beach of Koh Samet, Ao Wong Deun, is situated in the middle of the eastern side of Koh Samet. It attracts tourist groups and has good quality accommodation. There are also seafood restaurants with excellent sea views.
     For those who have tried the popular areas and want a more peaceful environment of Koh Samet, then Ao Hin Kok and Ao Thapthim, Ao Put Sa, and Ao Kiu Nok fit the bill.

     Besides Koh Samet, this renowned island, Rayong also proves that it has a big future in the competitive niche markets such as scuba diving. The scuba diving at nearby resorts is of good quality but there are also tour programmes that take divers to east coast sites to see marine life as well. Rates depend on the dive spots and accommodation.
     Rayong also has scenic locations such as waterfalls and sunset viewpoints at Khao Laem Ya an area covered in scrub forest. From the cape there are scenic views of Mae Ramphueng Beach and Koh Samet island.

     Each year during May, fruit orchards deliver an amazing harvest that makes Rayong province famous for its fruit festivals. The venue the main festival switches between Mueang and Klaeng districts of Rayong.
     Tourists can enjoy watching floats decorated with fruits, fruit contests, beauty contests, as well as a fruit and seafood fair.
     Seafood products such as shrimp paste, fish sauce and dried seafood are sold alongside tropical fruits such as rambutan, mangosteen and durian.

The Memories of Classic Romance "Hua-Hin"

If you get stuck with an idea where to start your trip down memory lane on hard-earned holiday, PlearnWan has much to recommend it.

Undoubtedly, quite a lot of people scratch their heads over what "PlearnWan" means. As the name suggests, it is the witty wordplay of "Play and Learn", which fuse into "Plearn", and "Wan", which is Thai word equivalent to "Yesterday". The mishmash comes with the accent on the enjoyment in turning back the clock to old-world charm.

Located in the middle of Hua Hin downtown, the 2-rai land plot in Soi 38 on Phetkasem road becomes a blast from the past where time stands still and your memory of Hua Hin in the glorious past evokes, from the traditional way of life to vintage goodies.

Reminiscent of golden olden days of the famed resort town, Plearnwan is the lively vintage village where you can enjoy life in the slow lane. The oldambience complex boasts scores of shophouses, souvenir shops and food stalls selling an assortment of time worn culinary delights, from famous traditional coffee to delectable desserts and ice cream. The retro dressmaker's shop and herb-infused spirits stall are rare elsewhere but common sight here.

Mostly made of wood, retro-styled shophouses inevitably make you feel as if you were sent back to the year 1956. Not surprisingly, Plearnwan is not only a wonderland where the old-charm world comes to life, but it also rekindles the nostalgic memories of your early days.

Currently, Plearnwan is partially open to tourists in Hua Hin. The highlight is the outdoor screening which stirs up long-forgotten nostalgia for temple fair washed away by a new wave of posh movie theaters. The screening is held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5pm to midnight. If you want to share the rekindled memories of classic romance with someone faraway, head to a postcard shop and send a lovely postcard to tell her or him how wonderful Plearnwan is.

Eco-friendly speaking, Plearnwan wins praise for its efforts to reduce carbon footprint. Take discarded milk cartons, they undergo recycling metamorphosis into practical furnishings scattered here and there. It is not an overstatement to say that Plearnwan is held up as a model recreational sanctuary where the creativity goes hand in hand with green mind.

If you plan to spend time in Hua Hin on holiday, do not forget to put Plearnwan on your itinerary for a nostalgic trip back to the good old days.

Museum of Siam

The National Discovery Museum Institute is the avant-garde museum and a source of inspiration for endless learning. At hear, the Account of Thailand retells the timeline of history through the major events that change politics, society, culture and way of thinking from the past to present.
Sprawling across over 3,000 square meters, the account of Thailand enables visitors to gain a greater insight into the history of the golden Land, or known as Suvarnabhumi in the olden times, its mystery behind the glorious heyday, the diplomatic relationships with the outside world. More importantly, visitors get a closer glimpse of the origin of the country named "Siam" before it reaches the zenith and undergo metamorphosis into Thailand in present days.

The 1st floor
The so-called old building chamber shows evidence of the origin of former Ministry of Commerce's building before it is restored and becomes the Museum of Siam in the present day.
Overture is the short-film screening house which the story of the museum is told stage by stage through interesting characters.
Genuine Thai is the cultural chamber to flaunt the characteristics of Thainess and its root in the past.

The 2nd floor
Diagram is the chamber for Thailand's maps in each period from the past to present.
Bangkok under the shade of Ayutthaya
Life outside Bangkok is the chamber for closer glimpse of the rural life and the history of rice cultivation.
Modernization of Siam is the chamber dedicated for a dramatic change of the country during the Kind Rama V reign and the history of Charoen Krung road.
The Birth of Democratic Thailand is the chamber for the Revolution of 1932 and democratic transition.
Western Impact is the chamber of the Westernization wave into Thailand.
Today's Thailand is the mirror tunnel with an assortment of screens all over the place.
Looking Forward is the chamber for visitors to have their say in the future of Thailand with the help of computer technology.

The 3rd floor
Insight into the legend of Suvarnabhumi is the chamber dedicated to the geography of the Land of Gold and the historic evidence through the archeological excavation.
Suvarnabhumi is the chamber where the way of life in Suvarnabhumi is put on show, including the diplomatic relations with the outside world and pieces of historic evidences.
Spiritual Intellect is the chamber for the learning on the Buddhism and its core principles. The Birth of Siam is the chamber for a closer look into the ancient kingdoms' origins and the legend of Krung Sri Ayutthaya, the Thailand's past capital.
Siam is the chamber for the society in Ayutthaya era, including the exhibition of model boats and royal barges.
Ancient Battle is the chamber devoted to the Ayutthaya warfare.

Lohaprasada : One in the World

The name of Lohaprasada (Brazen Palace or Loha Prasat) is dated back as early as in India since Buddha's time. According to the definition by famed historian H.R.H. Prince Damrong Raganupab, it means"the structure with metal spires". Legend has it said that the first-ever multitiered square-shaped pagoda was built by Visakha, female Buddhist follower, in honour of the Buddha at Wat Bupharam in India. In B.E.328, King Tuttakamaneeapai ordered to have a second pagoda built in Sri Lanka. Today, the vestiges of two square-shaped pagodas still remain.

In Thailand, Loha Prasat is located at Wat Ratchanaddaram in Bangkok. The multi-tiered structure has a name for the cultural icon of Thailand as it is the third Loha Prasat in the world after two dilapidated predecessors. In modern days, Thailand's Loha Prasat is highly regarded as one of the world.

Located west of the ubosot (ordination hall), Loha Prasat was built in 1846 at the royal command of Kind Rama III. The structural design was in line with the description written in the Sri Lanka historical records. Somdet Chao Phraya Barommahapichaiyat (Tat Bunmak), who was earlier Phraya Sripipat Rattanaratkosa, was in charge of the construction. The construction workers were also sent to Sri Lanka for observation trip on its Loha Prasat. The imitation of the original pagoda was not the aim of the trip. Instead, the incorporation of the Thai craftsmanship into the design was greatly emphasized. Loha Prasat at Wat Ratchanaddaram is different from its two predecessors as it does not accommodate any monk. It is built to replace the old pagoda at the temple.

Loha Prasat has square-shaped pagoda blueprint in line with the Sri Lanka design, but the structural details are unlike. It is the seven-tiered with the third and fifth tier served as grottos and verandas. On the second, fourth, and sixth tier, there are porches with 12 metal spires when the Buddha relics are placed on the top. In total, the pagoda has 37 metal spires, which are indicative of 37 virtues of Buddhist principles toward the enlightenment.

The spiral staircase in the middle of the pagoda is the access to the top of Loha Prasat. The large log serves as a center pole for the staircase. Since the construction in the reign of King Rama III, it never neared completion until the King Rama IX when the first restoration was in 1963.

Neilson Hays Library in Bangkok, Thailand

What welcoming you once entering the compound of Neilson Hays Library is the shady ambience and the sweet scent of frangipani.

Step into the Neo Classic building and encounter the shelves full of books. They are so eager to tell you stories. The touching history behind this lovely library is that, it's the monument of love that the founder, Dr.Thomas Heyward Hays, built in memory of his beloved wife, Mrs.Jennie Heilson Hays. Mrs. Hays was the dedicating organizer of the Bangkok Library Association back then when she was the member of The Ladies' Bazaar Association. Upon her pass-away, this library was hence constructed to be a permanent library and renamed into the present name.

This library is already 86 years old, but doesn't look its age. Most members are expats who live in Thailand. However, many Thai visitors always pay a visit on a regular-basis.

In addition to the library section, 2 galleries are located in this Hays compound. The "Garden Gallery" is set by the garden near the cafe. Outdoor sitting lounge looks through the glass into displayed art pieces in "Rotunda Gallery". This dome-shape roof, high-ceiling hall was once the entry lounge. Only recently it was renovated into the art gallery.

We can't tell what's more relaxing, arts or books. If you can't decide, just go to Neilson Hays as it has both to offer!

See more details of Neilson Hays Library at www.neilsonhayslibrary.com
And Booking hotels & accommodations in Thailand at www.thairoomsbooking.com

Patong Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Patong is the most famous beach resort on Phuket, Thailand. With its wide variety of activities and nightlife, Patong is an ideal place to party and play. By night the town has a bustling nightlife, which includes literally hundreds of restaurants, chic lounge bars, beer bars and of course discos. Visitors hoping for a glimpse into the exotic East will likely not find it here among the McDonald's, KFC, Boots and Starbucks outlets, although the steaming hot streets, neon lights and chaotic atmosphere of Patong can be overwhelming for the new arrival. The key to full enjoyment is to pace yourself, drink lots of water and learn the meaning of "mai pen rai" - which translates roughly to "it doesn't matter" or "Don't worry, be happy".

Ancient City in Thailand

Do you wish to discover Thailand, both historical and artistic aspect, in just 1 day? "Ancient City" can grant you that wish. It is the place where miniature archeological ruins and replicas are placed for educational and entertaining purpose. Everything started from the passion that Mr.Lek Viriyapan, the founder of the Ancient City, who would like to preserve the virtue of those places.

Ancient City is an outdoor museum on the area of 230 acres. The miniature sites are divided into 4 categories; the downscaled historical sites that still exist, the reconstructions of the ancient sites that are dilapidated or destroyed, the restoration of the old constructions that were in good condition then relocate into the Ancient City compound, and the sculpture that were built along the imagination and inspiration from myths, literatures and traditional beliefs.

The layout of the important historical sites is arranged on an area resemble the map of Thailand, with geographical and historical concerns. To make things more realistic, traditional lifestyle and communities from different regions of Thailand are also displayed along the distance.

Let's say, a tour at Ancient City is just like a journey to the past of Thailand. It is culturally and historically rich, and rarely found at present. Book yourself a ticket to the past, would you?

The Jim Thompson's House in Bangkok, Thailand

James H.W. Thompson, an American who lived and loved Thai life, especially Thai silk, initiated the restoration of Thai silks, and made it known globally. Today, he's gone. According to the record saying about his disappearance during the vacation in Malaysia in 1967, his cultural heritage, however, still lives through time. His Thai house right in the pulse of Bangkok has been turned to be a museum, so that the later generation can witness and appreciate the ancient arts via his Asian collections; be it Thai, Cambodian, Burmese, Indonesian and Chinese.

The museum is the gathering of 6 Thai houses. The exhibition sections are in the biggest one, divided into 8 rooms, and the small 2 houses at the backyard. In the middle of the compound, a shady garden is arranged with benches for visitors to relax. Don't worry if you wouldn't understand the explanation, as there are guides with 4 languages literacy (Thai, English, Japanese and French). Photography, however, is not allowed as some ancient artifacts are light sensitive and might be damages by flash light.

The way Jim Thompson's House arranges the artifacts is like a house decoration, where things are places as parts of the house as if the owner still lived there. Visit the bedroom, study room and living room and see the items closely. Only the fragile ones are displayed in the glass shelves in another room. The wall are ornamented by religious paintings coming from the Northern Thai temples. The items on show are Chinese chinaware, Thai 5-hued porcelains (Benjarong), Burmese wood statues (Nat), Indonesian Balong Lion statue and Chinese hamster cage, which was considered as high-end craft and games in the past.

You can ask as many questions as you want, as the friendly staff are willing to answer in details. You might wonder about that huge carved bench with mosaics, or animal shape spittoon that doesn't look like one. You can also ask the biography of Mr.Jim Thompson or the background of the museum, too. Whatever it is, they have the answers for you.

The oldest archeological artifact is the Dvaravati Buddha statue, which was made 2000 years ago. This Buddha is placed on the ground floor of the exhibition hall. Apart from the displayed items, the house itself also reflects the perspective and lifestyle of Thai people in the past. Take a closer look and you will notice that the walls and windows are reconstructed by reversing the exterior to be inside. That's because the owner wanted the visitor to see the beautiful carved details, which were originally outside. And like other architects, creativities of the owner were put into furniture as well, like the Thai traditional drum and Chinese vase were used as lamp stands. That accidentally added the cozy touch in a modern contemporary way.

Bophut Beach, Samui

Bophut Beach on the north coast of Kah Samui, Thailand is now the hippest place on the island to stay, hang out, and shop. The beach is filled with chic resorts & spas, trendy restaurants, shops, and retreat centers that have been converted from seafront shop houses, as well as a history museum, and a pier berthing speed boats to Koh Tao and Koh Pha-Ngan. Bophut Beach also has a well deserved reputation as a quiet, peaceful, relaxing destination - the perfect place for relaxing and recharging your energy.
Book Hotels & Accommodations in Samui

Pattaya, Hotspot

Naklua market: Thailand is home to some of the most dynamic markets in Asia. A trip to Naklua market in North Pattaya will give you a taste of local life; find a stunning array of seafood and other produce from the region. It's best to beat the heat and get there around 8am.

Thai submarine: Beatles fans have the chance of a lifetime in Pattaya - to tour its azure waters in a real yellow submarine. Vimantaitalay offers underwater excursions, taking in local coral reefs, sea life and wrecks.

Day Tripping to Chanthaburi: Seized by French colonial forces in 1893 after the Paknam crisis, the town was returned to Thailand in 1905. Today, Chanthaburi is famous for fruit, sapphire mines, its Catholic cathedral, Buddhist temples and an abundance of great seafood restaurants on pristine beaches.

Pranburi Beach, Thailand : Silence is Beauty

Somewhere between Pranburi and Bang Saphan, a low-key beach destination is lying along the provincial capital Prachuap Khiri Khan that runs about 120 kilometers long on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. Too far a location for those who limit the Thai beach scene to the familiar places of Cha-Am or Hua Hin. Too near a destination with less clear-blue sea for those who are spellbound with Samui, Pha-ngan or Andaman. With the secluded and inconspicuous location, the nature on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand via the Pranburi - Bang Saphan route is left intact, clean and exudes a serene sense of tranquility. Off you go to feel the beauty of silence. Nature and community have an innate right to the sublime beauty that no one should ever violate.

What to do in ChiangKhan, Thailand

Paying Respect to City Sacred Place

There are many temples to visit in Chiang Khan such as Wat Sri Khun Muang where you can find Lanna and Lanchang antique styles temple, Wat Phrabat Phu Kwai Ngern where is the home of a sacred giant Buddha's foot print.

Take a walk at Chai Khong Street

Chai Khong Street, the street that lies along the river is the perfect place to sit back and relax or ride a bicycle is also a great idea. There are a lot of lovely guesthouses and many other oldie & trendy shops are here for people to get some souvenir for their friends.

There are chill out restaurants and food stalls here, recommended foods are grilled sticky rice, deep-fried dough stick and steamed stuff bun because they are absolutely delicious. In addition, watching exceptional view of sunset on the bank of Mae Khong River is a must.

Making Merit with Sticky Rice

People gather around in the early morning to make merit to the monks. What is unique about making merit here is that people make merit with sticky rice. The picutre of people making merit can perfectly reflect that local people and religion are very tight.

Watching Cloud Sea on Phu Tok
This sunrise watching spot is 7 kilometers away from Chiang Khan.

Enjoy the View at Kang Kood Koo

A wide area of rock cataract in Mae Khong River is 3 kilometers away from Chiang Khan. The best time to take the river cruise is during February until May.

Chiang Khan : Thailand

Chiang Khan, the Perfect Combination of Now and Then.]

Let's imagine the picture of a pleasant road with only a few cars pass by. People have smiles on their faces. Tiny little houses and lovely coffee shops are along the road. This imagination is real in Chiang Khan, Thailand

Despite being an old city, Chiang Khan has become popular among the youngsters during the past few years. There are buses that come directly to Chiang Khan from Bangkok. Besides, there are several budget guesthouses around the city. Also, foods are inexpensive.

Chiang Khan is the perfect combination between urban and countryside life. Many new generation people come along to seek the nostalgia sense that can not be found in the big city.

Wooden buildings and shops that are in vintage style can simply take us back to the good old days. Old school bicycles, tricycles and motorbikes can be found here as well. More and more visitors come to visit this charming city of Chiang Khan. However, this fact worries me so much that I ask myself if things will remain the same in the next few years. By that though, I'd rather keep this the picture of Chiang Khan in my heart for always.

Thai Massage

Thai traditional massage is now recognized the world over. It is especially famous at Wat Po, where many tourists head to experience genuine Thai massage. Some just want to relax themselves and some aim to use traditional Thai massage to cure their diseases. It is believed that Thai massage can relieve people from mental and muscular stress.

Therefore, there are many places providing Thai massage service in and around tourist areas. Of course, at nearly every beach mobile Thai massage service is available for either those who are sun bathing and anyone who feels tired.

Soothing Hands
     Spas in Thailand are aesthetically pleasing, with a Thai atmosphere that is instinctively appreciated. The welcome accorded by pleasant, smiling staff and therapists is always the first stage in the treatment, placing you in the role of an honored guest who is in soothing, caring hands. The world famous Thai massage and traditional healing techniques are the basis of the treatment.

     Not many countries have such a decication to relaxation as Thailand. Thai massage has for centuries been enjoyed by people around the world, and visitors should never leave the country without having submitted to the incredible techniques of practitioners on their home soil.
     With such a proud history, it is little wonder that massage therapy in Thailand has evolved and the country can now boast luxurious spa resorts that will transport even the most stressed city dweller to a paradise of indulgent relaxation.
     Thailand's spas blend perfectly into their natural surroundings, with pools that seem to stretch out into the sea, and treatment rooms that are secreted away in lush tropecal jungle. All the latest treatments are available at spas up and down the country, whether you are in need of some intensive massage or just some time unwinding in The perfect way to totally slow down into your holiday is with an aromatic head massage, guaranteed to eliminate any stresses left over from home.
     After having your feet washed in a bowl of rose petals, you are taken to a treatment room lit with candles and orchids on your pillow to be massaged using the pressure point technique with aromatic hydrating oils of your choice. Some spas charge a pittance for one-hour treatment and you leave feeling wonderfully relaxed and pampered. For those wanting to be pummeled and without too much modesty, try having almost every inch of your body pounded with ground-up coffee beans.

     Smelling good enough to eat and wrapped in a sarong you are led into a herbal steam sauna which uses herbs including lemongrass, prai and tamarind. Enjoy jasmine tea during your steam and then wash off the coffee treatment to leave your skin feeling soft and smooth for days. In Thailand, traditional practices meet incomparable luxury in the most stunning tropical locations - a perfect recipe for relaxation in any language.
     

Beach Horses ; Hua Hin, Thailand

Beach Horses, they are actually not sea horses but normal land horses, which are available for tourists to take a ride along the beach. In Thailand, they are most commonly seen at Hua-Hin beach. The horses are a bit smaller than most horses used for horseback riding and their body shape somewhat resembles a donkey. This horse riding business provides good money for the local people as well as a great pleasure to the tourists who immensely enjoy riding around the beach inhaling pure air and appreciating the beach boys and girls.

Full Moon Party

Every full moon night at Pha-ngan Island in Thailand, tourists gather at the beach to enjoy the world renowned Full Moon Party. This activity draws a lot of attention from tourists and brings in more income to the locality. On the other hand, some say this party is somehow unacceptable in Thai culture and for the original islanders because Pha-ngan island used to be a small and peaceful island. The question has been raised whether it is suitable or not to let that party, which always ends with sex and drugs, to take place on the beautiful island.

Koh Tao, Thailand : in-depth exploration

Koh Tao (Tao Island) is a little island in the gulf of Thailand, situated to the north of the famous Samui and Pha-gnan islands. Koh Tao has a very good reputation of clear water and beautiful coral reefs, very suitable for both snorkeling and scuba diving. There are plenty of Thai and foreign owned diving schools and resorts around Koh Tao island. Most of the schools are under the supervision of internationally acclaimed diving associations such as PADI and NAUI.

Koh Tao went through a lot of different phases before becoming famous among tourists. The best way to get there is to catch a speed ferry from Chumporn province to Koh Tao island, or you can even catch a ferry from Pha-gnan island if you plan a long trip including Samui, Pha-ngan and Koh Tao. The ferry from Chumporn should take around two to two and a half hours depending on the weather. November to March is actually not a good time to visit because it is usually monsoon season, but most of the locals and tourists say it can be visited all year round.

Attraction in Koh Tao (Tao Island)
1. Beach : all beaches in Koh Tao are beautiful, privacy and accessible, except the northern one where is accessed by boat only. There are abundance of coral reef that snorkeling is available almost around Koh Tao island.

Sai Dang (Red Sand) Beach on the south of Koh Tao island is peaceful and privacy. There is a bungalow namely New Heaven, where is suitable for those who love nature.

Chalok Baan Kao Beach, another clean and peaceful beach where is also a magnificent viewpoint.

Thien-Aok Bay, locating on the south of Koh Tao island, it is no less beautiful than others.

2. Scuba diving spot : Being the most beautiful deep coral site in the Gulf of Thailand. They are around Koh Tao island such as Ao Luk, Kong Sai Dang, Candle cape, Kong Hern Wong, Muang Bay, etc. Boat and scuba devices for hire are available at scuba shops on every beaches.

3. John-Suwan Sceneric Viewpoint, presenting a panoramic view of Thien-Aok Bay (left) and Chalok Baan Kao Bay (right) with a sandy band in between, look like Phi Phi don island at Krabi Province. Getting there by Chalok Baan Kao Road until end of the road. Thien-Aok Bay is on the left and Ta Toh Yai is an the right. Hiking up for 200 meters.

Community Market in Thailand : Good Old Days of Trading

While the mainstream of consumerist Thai society is getting excited about fashionable air-conditioned shopping complexes, there still exist, in another corner of the civilization, old marketplaces of antiquated wooden buildings offering a treasure trove of rare local products, wisdom, and colorful life.

The magnificence of markets is not only about the exchange of money and goods, but the appearance of the place, created by the artistry of the builders who designed these making-a-living centers. The physical structures are significant because they give each market its distinctive look.

At the old wooden markets located in many big cities like Bangkok, Suphanburi, or the former capital Ayuthaya, there is always much commercial activity. The landlords provide space for rent, so people can buy and sell things without depending on the modern convenience stores or department stores that have sprung up all over like wild flowers.

These wooden-building markets are still running every day. No matter how many seasons have passed, many shops still depend on one another. In the markets, there are not too many shops, so the merchants know their customers very well. A coffee seller opens his shop early in the morning to welcome conversation makers. Every morning, both of his hands are incessantly busy with the tools of his trade - a can of condensed milk, hot water and an old coffee bag - in order to prepare cups of coffee for waiting customers. The coffee shops in wooden markets usually serve the purpose of providing hot or cold beverages to serve to customers who want to sit in groups to chat about politics, local gossip, or other interesting news of the day.

Bangkok, Thailand : Way of Life

Chao Phraya River, the most important river in Bangkok, has played a major role in Bangkokians' lives throughout the history. In fact it is the "vein" of the city.

In the past, the river was the border between the old city of Bangkok and Thonburi before both provinces unified later in 1971. There are several attractive sites along the river bank.

Yannawa Temple is a third class royal temple. It was established in Rama III's reign. It was built to contain relics and to remind the Thai people of the sailing ships that had brought much prosperity to the country.

Prayurawongsawas Temple is a second class royal temple. It was established by Phraya Maha Prayoon in Rama III's reign in 1828. People can come here to pay respect to Phra Buddha Wichetsardsada image and to visit Buddha exhibition. Not far from here, Santa Cruz Church, a Catholic Church stands graciously in Thai-Portuguese community. By walking along the river, we find an elaborate Chinese shrine of Kian An Keng. Kanlayanamith Temple that houses Phra Buddha Trirattananayok, the biggest Buddha image in Bangkok, is located nearby. The temple was established by Chao Phraya Nikorn Bodin to dedicate to Rama III in 1825.

On the opposite side of the river, it is the location of the biggest flower market called "Pakklong Talad". The market is located near Phra Buddha Yodfha Bridge.

This one day trip will take you to discover the authentic way of life in a new dimension.

Diving at Samui Island, Thailand

In just over 10 years, Samui has developed dramatically from a small town surrounded with coconut

plantations on an island off south-eastern Thailand to a lively city that is ranked as one of the world's top

seaside destinations. The island has something for everyone; beautiful, palm-fringed beaches lined

with luxurious to budget accommodation, a laid-back atmosphere, interesting lifestyle of local islanders,

wild and vivid nightlife, and many opportunities for adventure. Besides all the attractions on the island itself,

Samui is also the perfect starting point to explore other nearby islands like Ang Thong Islands National

Marine Park, Koh Pha-ngan, and Koh Tao

Diving Information

There are several dive sites in Koh Samui. Most of them are suitable for beginners as they are in shallow

waters of protected bays. You can find dive centers on Samui's famous beaches like Chaweng, Lamai,

and Bophut. All of the centers provide modern amenities, professional facilities, and boats to the nearby

dive sites in the Samui archipelago, including Ang Thong Islands Natonal Marine Park.

Hua Hin, the seaside town in Thailand

Hua Hin, the seaside town in Thailand, offers a myriad of possibilities to explore, eating, sightseeing, and of course, shopping.

The most beautiful railway station : Hua Hin was discovered as the railway line from Bangkok (capital of Thailand) began its expansion to this seaside city 100 years ago when trains were the main mode of transportation. Hua Hin railway station is like a time machine which takes us back to the past. Old style buildings in striking colors are eye-catching. Do not miss out the chance to capture photo with the station sign "Hua Hin"

How to go when you are in Hua Hin : from the intersection in the center of Hua Hin (Hua Hin Municipality Office), turn right and go straight down the Damnoen-kasem road.