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.

some Phuket Photos

Phuket is Thailand's largest island lounging on the Indian Ocean well below the latitudes of destructive tropical storms. Phuket's balmy tropical climate is tempered by cool NE breezes from November to March, and by fresh on shore winds in the summer months. Enchanted with magnificent coves and bays, palm fringed powdery white beaches, crystal clear seas with picturesque landscapes, sincere and hospitable people, diverse accommodations, superb seafood, waterfalls, parks, and island getaways, Phuket's elements have created a captivating ambiance perfectly suited for total relaxation. Economy-class hotels are countless throughout Phuket islands, while first-class resort hotels with spectacular views, provide the tourist who desires a 5 star package the perfect luxury accommodation. Littered across Phuket's most popular beaches and into the coastal hills, perch cabin and bungalow complexes, and other "native-style" housing built of bamboo, rattan and nipa palm thatch, offering cosy and relatively inexpensive accommodation. Secluded caves lie hidden among densely forested cliffs tumbling into white beaches. Tailored towards every age group, the tourist mecca of Phuket provides the visitor with an island of charisma and character, as a truly unique destination.

Koh Larn, Pattaya - Thailand

Koh Larn (Lan Island), this island is 7.5 km. from south Pattaya, about 45 minutes by ferry or 15 minutes by speedboat. Tourists prefer a swim and enjoy water-sports along several beaches. Most fine beaches with white sand and clear water are on the western side of the Koh Larn. Thongland beach and Ta Waen beach are popular beaches for its bustling atmosphere, squatic sport gear, souvenir shops, and restaurants while Tien beach and Samae beach offer a more restful atmosphere.

Visitors can choose glass-bottom boats or skin-diving to view coral reefs in front of Tien beach.

At the southend of Koh Larn is Nuan beach, Samae beach, Tawaen beach, and Thian beach where a hotel is situated. It is another spot for viewing corals.

Lazy Day On Koh Larn
     There are a few places in the world where life rarely comes to a complete standstill. And just a couple of hours away from busy Bangkok is an outpost that seems locked in delightful isolation, yet very accessible any day during the week.
     Imagine coral reefs and endless skies. Clear blue waters and white sand beaches. Mountainous terrain and rocky outcrops. No, it is not a dream. For these are among the sights on Koh Larn, the biggest island off the coast of Pattaya on the Gulf of Thailand. Sparsely populated and still generally unspoiled, it is about four kilometers long and two kilometers wide, and is just the right place for that quick getaway.
     Besides getting a tan and plain beachcombing, visitors to Koh Larn can engage in several fun activities, like snorkeling, parasailing and jet skiing. They can also ride a banana boat for a fast spin along the coast, or view corals and other natural formations aboard a glass-bottomed boat built specifically for this purpose.
     In Koh Larn, there is also the option of firing a few rounds at a shooting range. Traverse well-marked trails for a few hours of hiking or get on a mountain bike and explore the jungle. For those wanting something less stressful, just take a few steps and click away from a few selected spots to get stunning views of the sea and tracts of wilderness.
     But for the intrepid adventurer, there is always the diving. Among the recommended dive sites are Koh Larn Vac, an excellent site where several species of fish and other marine creatures abound, Shark Point, where small sharks are quite common, and Laem Thong, known for a deep drop-off measuring more than 50 meters.
     The beaches worth visiting are Ta Waen on the northern part of Koh Larn, with its long stretch of fine sand, Laemtien and Samae on the southwest of Koh Larn, both perfect for those wanting solitude, Ta Pan on the west of Koh Larn where one can put up a tent and be lulled by the sound of the waves rushing back and forth, and Nuan on the south of Koh Larn where a huge hotel is the preferred destination of tourists.
     Accommodation facilities may vary on any part of Koh Larn but will always suit any budget. While most residents live in the village of Naban, there are restaurants at nearly every beach. All are known for fresh seafood served anytime during the day.

Getting Koh Larn
     From downtown Pattaya, take a mini bus to South Pattaya pier for the ferry. You can also ride a boat to Koh Larn from the wharf on Pattaya Beach Road for the 45 minute trip. Upon arrival on Koh Larn, take a songtaew to your chosen beach. Make sure to know what time the boat leaves for the return trip. Most shops sell food, refreshments, beach gear and souvenirs.

Getting Around in Pattaya, Thailand

Pattaya is a very easy city to get around although the busy traffic causes frequent hold-ups at peak times, particularly on the major roads. Unusually, for Thailand, there are no tuk-tuks in Pattaya, so everyone usually gets around on the baht-buses or on motorbike taxis. There are literally hundreds of both all over Pattaya.

Motorbike Taxis ;
Motorbike taxis are a way of life in Pattaya. They are your best bet of getting around if you want to get somewhere quickly or conveniently, particularly at busy times. On every corner in Pattaya, no matter how small street, you will find a gathering of motorbike taxis. They are operate 24 hours a day 7 days per week and provide a very convenient service. However, this option is not for the faint-hearted and can be dangerous. These guys, and the occasional lady will take you anywhere but agree on a price first.

Phuket, Thailand

Often dubbed as the pearl of the Andaman sea, Phuket is Thailand's largest, wealthiest, busiest, most popular and most visited island. This tourist's paradise has over 20 white powdery beaches stretching along the Andaman sea, the place where many of the world's best diving sites are located, together with natural resources rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, tropical inland forests, distinctive architecture, and fantastic food. In addition, it is a place that hosts spetacular annual events and festivals such as Phuket Vegetarian Festival, Laguna Phuket Triathlon, and Phuket's King's Cup Regetta.

Top Attractions
The island's renowned beaches such as Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach
Phuket's Art and Cultural Center and old Sino-Portuguese style buildings found along the roads in the town center
Phromthep's Cape at dusk
Phuket Seashell Museum, one of the world's best collections.

Shopping Spots
Patong Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Phuket City

Nightlife
Phuket Fantasea, Patong Beach

Hotels & Accomodations
There are a lot of hotels and accommodations available in Phuket from cheap to luxury

Chiang Mai, Thailand : Fast Info

Being one of Thailand's most popular destinations, Chiang Mai has experienced explosive growth and has nearly become a metropolis. Nevertheless, what really attracts many tourists to visit Chiang Mai are not its convenience and modern lifestyle, but the charm of local people, the traditional heritage, the unique culture, and the striking nature. For tourists, the city also has various kinds of activities to offer, ranging from soft activities like city tours and shopping to adventure activities like trekking, water rafting, and mountain biking.

Getting Chiang Mai
There are several daily flights, buses, and trains operating between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Express and rapid trains leave for Chiang Mai from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station.

Song Taew or red mini-bus is the most common means of transportation in town adn the fare is negotiable. Other choices of transportation are metered taxis, rental cars, and bicycles.

Top Attractions
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep on top of Doi Suthep Mountain, overlooking the panoramic views of the city and Mae Ping River
Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai's most visited Buddhist temple
Wat Chedi Luang, a huge temple complex, which includes a large Lanna style chedi that was partically destroyed.
Doi Inthanon National Park, the 1,005 square-km park covering Thailand's highest mountain (2,565 meters above sea level).
Elephant Safari

Shopping Spots
Night Bazaar, Weekend Market, Baan Tawai (Chiang Mai's Thai antique and wood carving center), Wualai Walking Street, Bor Sang Village.

Nightlife
Along Mae Ping River and Nimmanheimin Road

Currency : Baht
Time Zone : GMT/UTC +7