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.

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.

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?

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.
     

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.

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.

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