A day at the Tiger Temple in Kanchanaburit, Thailand. That was amazing to see. It took us three hours from HuaHin to go up North West in the country. It was more up in the jungle we came too. The taxi driver had never been here before so we had to stop every now and then. The weather condition at the moment is rainy and heavy storms. So we came in to that kind of weather during our way up. It is hot and humidity outside and in the taxi we hade AC on. It was really cold. Funny but it is true. It felt cold when the thermometer showed +26 degrees in the cab. On our way up we stopped twice for toilet and we bought some snacks as well. At the entrance to the park a lady high lighted that I could not enter with a pink shirt. It was due to the danger to the tigers. It might annoy them. Then I had to buy a black tiger shirt. Maybe it was a sales trick but I did not dare to ask her. I believed the story she told me. After all I am in a foreigner country and prefer to stick to the rules.
We were in a group that walked up to the tigers cave. Arrangements were done for us. We walked in lines, had to stay quiet and were only allowed to approach the tigers from behind or side ways. One by one with a guide that took pictures with our cameras. A magic moment and I am feeling humbled to the experience. It was a huge park with other animals too. I think they were to be food for the tigers. I saw deer's, boars, goats and different birds. The monks could really handle the cats with love and respect. The young ones were playing and lying in their laps. Purring when they have got petted. They are very much a like our cats at home. Just little bit bigger. The only thing I did not like was that one big tiger were a photo shot model and he seemed to be little drugged. Maybe they have to do that to make him lay in the audiences laps. The money was to the park for taking care of the animals and I think that is fair. I also gave donations to them. It always feels good.
Once we greeted the animals and the monks by saying thank you and good bye it was time to go back. In to the air-conditioned car and three hours in front of us. It is easy to get in to deep thoughts about the park. In one hand is it right to keep the animals there and what are the options? Well first of all if they are orphan's or injured what do we do? Heal them and send them to a National Park in another country? The other alternative is to keep them here and give them as much care and pamper as possible. Yes they become a tourist attraction either way but at least here they are as free as they can get without the cages. The monks treat them well. Otherwise the animals were going amok and honestly they looked good and felt pretty happy too.
by MarieLouiseFalk
วันจันทร์ที่ 17 ธันวาคม พ.ศ. 2550
A day at the Tiger Temple.
วันพุธที่ 28 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2550
Living in Bangkok - It's Easy
Bangkok is probably the easiest city to live in Southeast Asia. I should know; I have been back in Thailand for the last 17 odd years. I was in the US before that.
First and foremost, Bangkok likes visitors from out-of-town. Here, the government truly promotes tourism in a big way; here, you have The Tourism Authority of Thailand. This means big budget for tourism activities.
You can start with the new airport, Suvarnabhumi; it can take on any other airport in the world. Some touch-ups are required, but for the most part, it’s fine.
Next, you can check out some of Bangkok’s finest accommodations, starting from the Oriental Hotel, one of the best in the world. They claim that the hotel staffs will recognize you by your first name after staying there for a few days. Then you have the Four Seasons, a super luxury hotel on Rachadamri Road; it’s not far from Lumpini Park. The room decor here is very comfortable; you need to book early.
For a few weeks or a few months stay, you want to park yourself with the top serviced apartments here, like the Centre Point group, Chin House and the Emporiums. These places could make you feel like home away from home.
For a stay longer than that, you would want to check out some apartments and condos. There are tons of them to choose from in Bangkok, from less than 20,000 baht to over 100,000 baht a month.
Next, we want to hit the Loft at Central Chidlom Department Store, my favorite eatery. There you have Italian food, Thai, Singaporean, Vietnamese, Chinese and some Mexicans. It is set up like a high class cafeteria; you are given a food credit card, you pick up what you like, set yourself down at a table, and a waiter will bring you your freshly cooked order. Once you’re done, you can check out the bill registered on the credit card. I just love their Caesar salad.
Some tourist attractions that you might be interested are Bhuddhist temples. There are many Bhuddhist temples in Bangkok; over 95% of the city dwellers are Bhuddhists. These temples have old Thai style architecture; they are very colorful. The temples are also places of worship, so you must have proper attire and manner while you are there.
Rock concert. That’s right, we have rock concert here from time to time. Over 10 years ago I got a chance to see Michael Jackson performs; just before the unfortunate scandal got serious. Michael and his troupe were great. I would never get to see him if I was in the US at the time.
Then last year, I went to see Eric Clapton performance at the Impact Muangtong Tani (something like Madison Square Garden in Manhattan). It was terrific too. At other times, we have the Bolshoi troupe performs at the Cultural Center at Rachadapisek Road. I have not attended that one, but heard rave reviews about it.
Getting around town is pretty easy when you use the SkyTrain or the subway. Using taxi is a little more difficult because of the language barrier, but doable. A hotel’s car service would be a good alternative. A tuk tuk (a tricycle novelty) is something unique when you feel adventurous; you can really feel the wind blowing through you hair when it really takes off.
by Suranart tanvejsilp
วันจันทร์ที่ 5 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2550
Pattaya Thailand
Pattaya is one of the largest cities for tourism that can be found in the country of Thailand. Physically, Pattaya is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is Southeast of the country's capital, Bangkok. With wonderful attractions offered, much of this city's economy consists of tourism. If you are interested in visiting Thailand, chances are that you may want to think about visiting the city of Pattaya. This city is known to have a lot to offer to its tourists, which is the reason that it has become such a popular tourist attraction recently. Here, we will take a much closer look at some of the main attractions that Pattaya has to offer to its tourists, in order to help you determine whether or not vacationing in this city may be a decision which you may want to make in the future.
Pattaya Beach is a favorite spot of many tourists, and it is also the most popular beach that Pattaya Thailand has to offer. Since it is located near shopping centers, bars, and hotels, it has become very popular among tourists. Unfortunately, it is often hard for many to get a spot on the sand, due to its popularity. Jomtien Beach is another one of the beaches which Pattaya Thailand has to offer. While it does offer some hotels and restaurants, Jomtien is mainly an area where people own summer homes. It is typically easier to find a spot on the sand at this beach than at Pattaya Beach. Jomtien Beach is especially loved by who enjoy taking part in water sports. It has a large entertainment center which offers water park attractions, a roller coaster, a monorail and fun attractions for children - which has helped with it become a popular area for people who are vacationing as families to want to visit. Of course, the beautiful beaches that Pattaya Thailand has to offer is not the only thing that this city has going for it.
There are many other attractions which Pattaya has to offer that tourists all find to be quite appealing. Some of these attractions include golf courses, places for go-cart racing, the Sri Racha Tiger Zoo, Pattaya Beach Resort Water Park and Funny Land Amusement Park, a submarine, a crocodile farm, and various museums. There are also various shopping centers and stores which anyone may be interested in visiting while they are in Pattaya. Go go bars and strip clubs occupy the time of many tourists.
As you can see, there are so many different tourist attractions that Pattaya Thailand has to offer. Ranging from its beautiful beaches where you can spend the day relaxing, having fun in the sun, or taking part in water sports to its amusement parks and other entertaining activities that the city of Pattaya has to offer, there is no doubt that Pattaya has gained some much well deserved appeal from tourists. No matter what you are interested in doing while you are visiting Thailand, Pattaya has just about everything that you could possibly be interested in to offer. There is no doubt that Pattaya Thailand is a city which you may definitely want to think about visiting.
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by Robert Rystrom
Pattaya
Ko Lan
Ko Lan (Thai: เกาะล้าน) is a small island situated 7.5 km west of Pattaya. Ko Lan is accessible by speedboat and ferry. The ferry departs hourly, and is a 45-minute ride costing just 20 baht each way. Speedboats are more expensive, but can reach the island in less than 15 minutes. Ko Lan has several beaches, which are known for their cleanliness, relaxing atmosphere, soft white sand, and crystal-clear water.
[edit] Island groups
Off Pattaya there are two small island groups, the "Near Islands" (Ko Sak, Ko Krok) located close to the northern shores of Pattaya, very near Ko Lan, and the "Far Islands" (Ko Rin, Ko Man Wichai, Ko Hua Chang, and Ko Badan), located offshore directly west of Pattaya. These islands, especially the "Far Islands", are the primary scuba diving destinations in and around Pattaya.
[edit] Transportation
Pattaya is served through U-Tapao International Airport which is 45 minutes drive from the city. Also served by Sukhumvit Road and Motorway 7. Until recently the only transport within town were private songthaews. However, a public bus service has begun in 2006. Intercity transport is usually through one of two bus stations, one for Bangkok and one for other destinations, although busses commonly stop anywhere in Thailand.
Pattaya is only 1 and a half hours by road from the new Bangkok International Airport, Suvarnabhumi, which is the worlds 16th busiest airport, with over 42m passengers / annum.
[edit] Other attractions
Other activities include golfing at the area's many golf courses, and there are 21 golf courses within 1 hour of Pattaya, go-cart racing, visiting the construction site of an elaborate private wooden temple known as Sanctuary of Truth, and different theme parks and zoos such as Mini Siam, and Elephant Village.
The private Sri Racha Tiger Zoo features several hundred tigers and thousands of alligators as well as some other animals. It has often been criticized for the animals' living conditions, and a worker was killed by tigers in 2004[3]. There was a major bird flu outbreak at the zoo later that year[4].
The Vimantaitalay tourist submarine takes customers underwater to see corals and marine life just a few kilometers offshore. There are many boat trips from an hour to all day trips available, mostly leaving from Bali Hai Pier, near Walking Street.
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden is located some 15 kilometers east of Pattaya. The 500-acre site has well maintained botanical gardens and an orchid nursery. Moreover the facility has lively cultural shows in a Thai village setting. In addition trained chimpanzees and elephants are seen at the garden.
Other attractions in Pattaya: The Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm, Elephant Village, Pattaya Park Beach Resort Water Park and Funny Land Amusement Park, Siriporn Orchid Farm, Underwater World Pattaya (world class aquarium), Alankarn cultural show, Sriracha Tiger Zoo, Bottle Art Museum, Mini Siam, Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, and Walking Street.
Some tourists take daytrips to nearby Rayong for beautiful beaches, as well as Koh Samet island.
[edit] Shopping
In recent years, new shopping malls, outlet stores and jewelry stores have opened up, which has helped in increasing the length of stay of visitors to the city. Among the shopping malls are:
- Central Festival, Pattaya Second Road – Indoor mall anchored by a BigC; also has a SF Cinema City branch.
- Carrefour, Pattaya Central Road
- Mike Shopping Mall , Beach Road
- Royal Garden Plaza, Beach Road – Three-story indoor mall with a Ripley's Believe It or Not! museum and an SF Multiplex cinema. Also has a Sizzler restaurant, Au Bon Pain, KFC, McDonald's, Auntie * Anne's Pretzels, ZEN Japanese restaurant, Swensen's, Haagen Daz, Pizza Company, Delice de France, and a large food court. The Marriott Hotel is adjacent.
- The Avenue, Second Road (near Royal Garden) is in the midst of a soft opening with the following either open or their spaces being fitted out: a 22 lane Bowling Alley, Au Bon Pain, McDonalds,Thanachart Bank, 8 Major Cineplex theatres, Boots, McDonalds, California Wow! a major gym/fitness spa (open for subscriptions), Shenanigans, Iberry, Pizza Pizza, 20 Nails Spa, Starbucks, Kasikorn Bank, Bank of Ayudhaya, and a 24/7 Villa Market, which carries imported goods difficult to find in other supermarkets.
- Tesco Lotus, Pattaya North Road
- TukCom, Pattaya Tai (South) Road, boasts a large computer/IT complex offering reasonable prices.
- A major outlet mall is next to the tesco selling discount clothing from many european and american brands.
At least one other new large mall is under construction.
Pattaya has many large home improvement stores including Home Mart, HomeWorks, Home Pro, Kanyong and True Value.
The closest department store to Pattaya is Robinson's, located about 30 minutes away in Sri Racha.
There are several large nightly markets in different parts of town.
[edit] Nightlife
Pattaya is renowned for its nightlife. The city has some famous discos, including Tonys and the Marine disco, named after the US marines which still visit Pattaya for R and R. There is a new club called Hammer on walking street, which has live bands. Lucifer is also worth visiting. X-Zyte and Stardice are other places. There is also a hard rock cafe.
The city has literally hundreds of beer bars, go go bars, and night clubs/discotheques. Many of these are venues are for meeting working men or women. The nature of commercial sex varies widely; the standard system of "bar fines" is the most common, but there are many exceptions. Most notably, discos and nightclubs are venues for freelancers, independent sex workers unaffiliated with a commercial establishment. There are also several large massage parlours.
Since the "social order" crackdown of 2004, there are very few sex shows (such as the ping pong shows) although they can sometimes still be found. Depending on the enforcement climate, go go dancers may be seen fully nude, topless or in bikinis on different days or weeks.
Muay Thai (Thai boxing) matches aimed at tourists can be seen at many of the open air beer bar complexes.
Another important, but understated aspect of Pattaya are the foreign restaurants. Often run by expats, most offer quality food at prices far below those found in Bangkok, Samui or Phuket.
The Boyztown, Sunee Plaza, and the Jomtien Complex areas are famous for their many gay nightclubs, cabarets and go-go clubs. Pattaya probably has the largest concentration of establishments catering to the gay community in Thailand. Many specialize in certain types of hosts (slim, muscular, effeminate), while others have a broad range of men available.
Pattaya is known for its cabaret revues featuring kathoeys (male-to-female transsexuals), with Alcazar and Tiffany's being the largest and most elaborate. There are a few kathoey bars around Walking St. and nearby (e.g. Jenny Star Bar)
[edit] Crime
Historically, Pattaya has had comparatively high levels of crime, sometimes attributed to organised crime in, and preying on, the sex industry as well as the easy availability of tourist cash in a country that had a per capita Gross National Income of US$2,750 in 2005. In recent years, Pattaya has served as a hideaway for foreigners with connections to organized crime in their home countries, and dozens of Thais have been murdered in gang-related disputes.[5] The authorities are also increasingly cracking down on under-age sex workers and their clients and a number of high profile arrests have been made in recent years. It is not unusual for tourists to be robbed, either by room breakins, snatch and runs, or by sex workers. In 1996, a six-member gang was arrested for repeatedly robbing tourists that had been drugged by prostitutes.
Visitors are more likely to encounter petty crime, usually limited to pickpocketing and confidence tricks, particularly in and around major tourist areas such as Jomtien and Pattaya Beaches and on the "baht buses". To help curb this problem, a special Tourist Police division has been established to aid foreign tourists (farang) who are victims of crime.
Pattaya, along with the rest of Thailand, is also known for its abundance of pirated DVD movies, music CDs and software. Such vendors can be found anywhere along main tourist areas, having their own booths or simply approaching customers in bars and restaurants and on the beaches.
[edit] Property
Property is big business in Pattaya, especially property development. Many new buildings have gone up in recent years, and some people think the market might be oversupplied.
Some buildings are put up with little respect for planning permission and a building was recently in dispute due to being too close to the shore line and too close to another condo block.
There is also a market in Villas but its growth is limited due to ownership restrictions on foreigners.
[edit] Health Care
Many foreign tourists come to Pattaya for dental and medical care, for first class treatment at reasonable prices. Large hospitals in the area include Bangkok Pattaya Hospital, Pattaya International Hospital, Banglamung Hospital, and Pattaya Memorial Hospital.
[edit] Expat Community
Due to the large number of foreign residents, Pattaya boasts several expat clubs which have regular monthly or weekly meetings.
Pattaya has its own masonic lodge, a rotary club, an international school, an english boarding school.
[edit] Media
Pattaya has several foreign language newspapers, most come out weekly. The English newspapers include Pattaya Mail, Pattaya Today, Pattaya People. Additionally, there are French, Norwegian, German, Russian and Japanese publications. There are several English language cable t.v. programs with news and video reports from Pattaya. There are also several tourist magazines, most of them come out monthly. One of the best known of these is the EYE Magazine.
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CHIANGRAI - THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE, NORTHERN THAILAND
The name evokes an impression that illicit drugs are the activity of this area. Yes, it was once a notorious place. However, with strict enforcement by various countries particularly the United States and Thailand playing an important role of eradicating the drug menace by educating the many hill-tribes to have a permanent settlement instead of the slash and burn to grow sustainable crops and the poppy plants. Schools were built to educate their children on the Thai curriculum and welfare. Chiangrai is 785 km north of Bangkok and is in the midst of mountains and hills. Across the great Mekong river is Myanmar and Laos, thus the name "Golden Triangle". All nationalities can cross over to these countries easily by road, boats or air with valid passports and visa. Being the first to establish into a city by King Mengrai of the Lanna Kingdom, it has many ancient ruins. There are many activities you can indulge like visiting the only handcrafted White Temple in Thailand; the ever changing flowers in the most beautiful botanical garden; Hill-tribes; Opium or the National museum; elephant riding; shopping for foodstuff; clothing; jewelries; handicrafts or ride on a long propeller boat on the Mekong river; explore the natural rock formation and caves with spectacular formations e.g. Big Cave, Fish Cave. Please visit www.homestaytravelchiangrai.com for more pictures and information.
Of course, if you are a nature lover freak, go to the mountains. Doi Tung - it has a sacred hilltop Buddhist shrine built in 911 AD and it is believed that the left collar bones of Lord Buddha is enshrined in the twin pagodas. On your way up, enjoy the panoramic view then drop in to visit the Akha and Lahu hill-tribe village famous for their hand woven textiles and silver jewelries. Not satisfied with one mountain? Venture to Thailand's little Switzerland, the Doi Mae Salong, incidentally "doi" means mountain. It sits on an elevation of 6000 feet above sea level. The air is cool and refreshing throughout the year. The settlers are ethnic Chinese descendants of the KMT nationalist army who took refuge in Thailand to escape from the Communist forces of Mainland China more than 50 years ago. The settlement has its own Christian churches, Buddhist temples, schools, locally produced oolong black tea, shops and restaurants.
You are welcome to experience first hand the local foods, way of life and customs of the Northern Thai through a village home stay.
To quote G.K. Chesterton - "The traveler sees what he sees. The tourist sees what he has come to see".
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by erickok
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travel Condo in Pattaya
As you all know, Thailand is a country with wonderful beaches that are visited by people not only for sunbathing but they are used for diving as well. Besides in Thailand you can see gorgeous girls dancing traditional Thai dances, wearing colorful costumes and moving their hands and fingers in a fascinating way. Moreover, Thailand is the paradise of tropical fruit and the home of a multitude of mysteries related to the invisible world of the spirits. But nowadays, Thailand in general and Pattaya especially is an opportunity for those who want to purchase a condo. This is a great opportunity especially for foreigners who come to live in Pattaya, because one of the local laws concerning foreigners restricts the right for them to own a land in the area. On the other hand it is beneficial for local people too, to get a condo, because Pattaya is situated not far from Bangkok and people living in the capital can afford to purchase a condo in Pattaya as a weekend or holiday destination.
Pattaya condos are in general located on the beach, which is a great attraction for any solar human being who can imagine that in the morning instead of having a shower in the bathroom rushes into the sea and lets his or her body caressed by friendly or rough waves. Besides Pattaya beach condos are the dream of every surf addict who must not spend a lot of time in order to reach his or her hobby destination. To continue with, luxury condos in Pattaya are destined to people who spend a lot of time in the crowd and pollution of big cities, whom are businessmen, artists or politicians and who want to relax for a weekend far from the crowd. And what can be more comforting for any tired person than to watch the sea and to daydream of its colors and mysteries, listening to the waves' music and getting rid of stress.
Condos in Pattaya can be as well a source of business because you can purchase an old condo and you can invest in its renovation and then you can sell it at a higher price, therefore condos are as well a trading opportunity.
You can find advertisements for condos everywhere, in local newspapers or online and you can take advantages of our services as well, as our professionals can offer you the best advice concerning condo purchasing in Pattaya.
You all know that renovating a house or a condo can be big deal. But it can change into an interesting game if you ask help from our experts, who can offer you the latest information related to interior design, style and comfort.
We can let you know that the most luxurious condos are built according to the latest trends in architecture, using modern materials like glass and stainless steel, and combining them with lights and shadows and unique natural beauties. If you want a higher building you can have it and imagine that you live high up in the sky, but you have the opportunity to admire the sea and the reflection of the sunshine upon its waves. It is just wonderful!http://watcharap007blogspotcom.blogoshop.com/
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by Ken Edwards
Travel Wat Mahabut and the legend of Mae Nak
Wat Mahabut one of the 887 temples in Bangkok, is located in Phra Khanong to the east of the city center. In 1762, five years before the fall of Ayutthaya, a monk visited the villagers in Phra Khanong. As the village didn't have a temple, the villagers invited the monk to stay. They built a temple and named it after him. The monk's name was Phra Mahabut.
A ride on a long tailed canal boat from the pier under the Phra Khanong Bridge in Sukhumvit Road took me along the Phra Khanong Canal. We past tree lined banks with a mix of traditional houses, modern ones and the ever encroaching condominiums.
The area is quiet and laid back, with an idyllic rustic charm. You don't even feel like you're in Bangkok. Here people row boats to visit their neighbors. At Wat Mahabut, I got off at the temple pier.
Unlike the other temples in Bangkok, Wat Mahabut isn't renowned for its historical legacy or its ancient architecture. It's famous for a ghost, a female ghost, the legendary Mae Nak who has virtually become a household name in the community and beyond.
Even the other name for Wat Mahabut is Wat Mae Nak Phra Khanong, Temple of Mother Nak of Phra Khanong.
The legend of Mae Nak
When the legend started is uncertain. The period ranges from the mid 18th century Ayutthaya period to the 19th century Bangkok era. However, this has no bearing on the legend which goes like this.
Mae Nak, a native of Phra Khanong, marries the handsome Mak. When war breaks out, Mak is conscripted for military service and leaves his pregnant wife behind. In the war, Mak is severely wounded. Meanwhile, Mae Nak dies during childbirth with her unborn child and is buried by the neighbors. This is unusual as Buddhist custom calls for the cremation of their dead.
When Mak recovers from his injuries, he returns home to a poignant reunion with his loving wife and baby son, not realizing what has happened. Neighbors who try to warn him meet with a grisly end. Things remained this way until he discovers that he's actually living with the ghost of his wife!
He flees but she pursues him and the romance turns to horror. Mak seeks refuge in Wat Mahabut but Mae Nak follows him there. After several attempts by the terrified villagers, Mae Nak is finally exorcised to return to the other world and leaves Mak alone.
There are several various versions about how this was done. What is memorable is the tearful separation as the ghostly wife finally departs from her husband. The macabre tale ends in heart-rending sorrow.
Dramatizing Mae Nak
Several movies have been made of this legend since the 1950s to thrill the horror movie lovers. The latest remake is as recent as 2005. In the movie versions, the ghost is sometimes known as Nang Nak (Mrs Nak). There's also a TV drama series and even an opera on this legend.
The Mae Nak Shrine
Years ago when I first heard of this story, I thought it was just that, a story, the work of an imaginative writer with an added twist of Thai folklore. For sheer originality, the tragic tale of Nang Nak's unrequited love for a mortal surpasses the Hunchback of Notre Dame and the Phantom of the Opera.
I didn't realize then that the belief is so fervent that there's actually a shrine for Mae Nak on the grounds of Wat Mahabut where she finally departed from this world. What's more the community has accepted her as their benefactor. How this fearsome ghost became benevolent is difficult to explain.
The Mae Nak shrine is in a small wooden building by the canal. Her portrait hangs on the wall behind the altar. A draped statue of her pasted with gold leaves is on the altar that's filled with garlands and lit candles. Visitors pray at her shrine for her blessings of good fortune and safety.
Colorful lengths of cloth are coiled round the huge tree in the courtyard where a row of fortune tellers sit. The presence of lottery vendors gives an indication of what many are seeking.
The Phra Khanong community's heritage
The legend of Mae Nak has become a proud heritage of the Phra Khanong community. In 1997 a change in the municipal boundaries placed Wat Mahabut in the neighboring Suan Luang district. This has caused much unhappiness in Phra Khanong.
A municipal councilor is lobbying the Bangkok city authorities to realign the boundaries to bring the temple and the legend back to where they belong, in Phra Khanong.
Folklore and legends all over the world are based on what the people choose to believe. Wat Mahabut is irrevocably linked to the legend of Mae Nak and nothing can change that.
To visit this unusual temple, please see the map to Wat Mahabut.by Eric Lim
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Travel Ayutthaya (city)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Ayutthaya (full name Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thai: พระนครศรีอยุธยา; also spelled "Ayudhya") city is the capital of Ayutthaya province in Thailand. The city was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and became capital of his kingdom. The king came to escape smallpox outbreak in Lop Buri. Often referred to as the Ayutthaya kingdom or Siam. Ayutthaya was named after the city of Ayodhya in India, the birthplace of Rama in the Ramayana (Thai, Ramakien). In 1767 the city was destroyed by the Burmese army, and the ruins of the old city now form the Ayutthaya historical park, which is recognized internationally as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was refounded a few kilometers to the east.
Contents[hide] |
[edit] Ayutthaya Town Center
- Ayutthaya Historical Study Center
- Chan Kasem Palace
- Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
- St. Joseph's Church
- Wang Luang
- Wat Chai Watthanaram
- Wat Lokaya Sutharam
- Wat Mahathat
- Wat Na Phra Men
- Wat Phanan Choeng
- Wat Phra Ram
- Wat Phra Si Sanphet
- Wat Phutthaisawan
- Wat Ratchaburana
- Wat Suwan Dararam
- Wat Thammikarat
- Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
The city is located at the junction of the Chao Phraya, Lopburi and Pa Sak rivers, and on the main north-south railway linking Chiang Mai to Bangkok. The old city is on an island formed by a bend of the Chao Phraya on the west and south sides, the Pa Sak on the east side and, on the northern side, the Klong Maung canal.
Approximate centre of old city: 
 Sharp-pointed pinnacle atop bell-shape, called a chedi of Ceylonese influence. |  Sharp-pointed pinnacle atop square shape, known as a chedi, is a distinct Thai style. |
[edit] Media
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- Problems seeing the videos? See media help.
[edit] In popular culture
- A Thailand-themed town named "Ayothaya" appears in the PC MMORPG Ragnarok Online.
[edit] External links
 | This Ayutthaya Province location article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |
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Plan Your Cheap Holiday Underwater Vacation Travel
Planning a cheap holiday underwater vacation delight might just take you to Thailand, Phuket, to be exact. This is quickly becoming one of the most spectacular vacation destinations for people with a love of the underwater world. You can take a yacht out to see where they offer you the most adventurous underwater vacation you could ever imagine. Of course, you need some experience before you go to Thailand for an underwater vacation, but it will be well worth the training. You will experience something that is unknown to many.
The waters are considered virgins because there are not many people that explore the world of the unknown. The beautiful deep blue waters invite you jump in and meet the habitant of the underwater world. You will see an array of colors as well as many different species of plants and marine life that you have only seen in pictures. You can get up close and personal with many species, which makes this even more of a treasured cheap holiday vacation. The view around you as you set out on the deep blue water is just breathtaking. You can glaze for miles and see the beauty of the area.
Many of the hotels and airlines work together with the locals to provide some nice packages for underwater explorers. You will find that not only is the day adventurous, but your nights are filled music and dancing or just sitting back and enjoying the Thai culture. The hotels offer many amenities that you will find included in your cheap holiday package. This just adds to the beauty of the vacation.
You can plan your underwater vacation anytime of the year when the weather is just right for underwater exploring. Not many people request this type of vacation, therefore, you can rest assured you will be treated to a special time. View the world that only a few have seen and be the one to tell your friends how exciting the underwater world really is when you get to see the beauty of it. This is one cheap holiday vacation you will not want to pass up.http://watcharap007blogspotcom.blogoshop.com/
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by Michael Peterson
PHUKET VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL Travel
Date: 11 Oct 2007 - 19 Oct 2007 Phuket's Vegetarian festival (or jia chai in local Hokkien Chinese dialect) began in 1825, when the govenor of Thalang, Praya Jerm, moved the island's principal town from Ta Reua in Thalang District to Get-Hoe in Kathu District, where were tin mines and Chinese miners. Kathu was then still covered by jungle and fever was rife. It happened that a traveling opera company (called ngiu in Thai or pua-hee in Hokkien dialect) came from China to perform for the miners
When the whole company grew sick from an unnamed malady, they kept to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the emperor gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. The sickness afflicting the opera troupe then disappeared. This greatly interested the people of Kathu, who asked how it was done. The answer came that ritual vegetarianism with its attendant ceremonies had been the cause, with the result that people embraced the faith enthusiastically. Thus the festival began:starting the first evening of the ninth lunar month, it continued until the ninth evening; the aim was to bring good luck to individuals as well as to the community.
It later happened that one familiar with the festival volunteered to return to Kansai, in China, where he invited the sacred Hiao Ho-le or Hiao lan (incense smoke) and Lian Tui (name plaques), which have the status of gods, to come stay in Kathu. He also brought holy writings used in the ceremonies, returning to Phuket on the seventh night of the ninth month. The people, upon hearing of his arrival, went in procession to Bang Niao Pier to bring him and his sacred cargo back. This was the origin of the processions that figure so greatly in the festival.
The afternoon before the festival begins, a great pole at each temple is raised, called the Go Teng pole, with which the gods are invited to descend. At midnight the pole is hung with nine lanterns, signalizing the opening of the fest. Two important gods are also invited down at midnight to preside over ceremonies; these are Yok Ong Hong Tae and Kiew Ong Tai Tae.
Aside from this, there are other ceremonies throughout the fest, notably: invocation of the gods Lam Tao, who keeps track of the living, and Pak Tao, who keeps track of the dead; processions of the gods' images; and feats of the Ma Song-like bathing in hot oil, bladed ladder climbing and fire-walking. The festival ends with merit making ceremonies at each temple (sadoh kroh) and the send-off of the gods on the last night (when fireworks are at their most impressive).
Ma Song, or entranced horses, are devotees whom the gods enter during the fest. They manifest supernatural powers and perform self-tortures in order to shift evil from individuals onto themselves, and to bring the community good luck. Ma Song fall into two categories: those who, having had an intimation of impending doom, want to extend their lives; and people specially chosen by the gods for their moral qualities.
Throughout the festival fireworks and drums are sounded, especially during ceremonies. It is held that the louder they are the better, because the noise drives away evil spirits.
Participants in the fest keep to a strict vegetarian diet for a varying number of days, usually no less than three. This they do to make themselves strong in mind and body; they refrain from all vice, eating animal flesh, and killing animals. The festival thus promotes good hygiene, brightness and inner peace.
Labels: Phuket, PHUKET VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL
posted by Sukson Solution @ 1:05 PMThe most important Phuket festival that is held each year must certainly be the Vegetarian festival.
The Vegetarian festival in Phuket takes place during the first 9 days of the 9th lunar month of the traditional Chinese calendar. The Vegetarian festival normally falls in the last week of September of within the first week of October.
The Phuket vegetarian festival is organized each year to celebrate the start of the Taoist lent. Due to the large number of Phuket residents with Chinese roots, the Taoist lent is celebrated among a large group of the population of Phuket and is a major Phuket activity
The vegetarian festival starts of by devout Chinese religious believers completely abstaining from all dairy and meat products.
The festivities in Phuket that are held during the vegetarian festival can be found at one of the five main Chinese temples on Phuket.
The best Chinese temples to visit are the Bang Niaw Chinese Temple and the Jui Tui Chinese Temple.
The vegetarian festival involves more then only the abstinence of dairy and meat products. Other parts of the Phuket vegetarian festival includes the temple offerings to the Monks, offering of gifts to the nine emperor gods which awake during the vegetarian festival, fireworks and cultural shows but to name a few.
A number of participants to the vegetarian festival on Phuket act as mediums between the 9 deities to earth. These mediums try to achieve a special state of trance. Once this state of trance is reached, their cheeks are pierced by numerous sharp objects such as spears and knifes.
Afterwards these special vegetarian festival mediums all join a large procession which takes them by many shops which have places altars along the street with special offerings.
These mediums pick up the fruits which are offered to them by the shop keepers and they add the offerings to the sharp items which are sticking out of their cheeks. If there is no space available the mediums will give the offerings to bystanders.
It is said to be a sign of good luck and a true blessing if one is to receive a gift from one of the mediums during the vegetarian festival procession.
The atmosphere of the vegetarian festival is certainly unique and should be experienced by every traveler who is staying in Phuket during the event.
If one was to describe the whole event in a few words then the festival could be described as a religious frenzy. Where ever you look you will see spectacular ritual dancing, loud fireworks, blood stained shirt worn by the mediums and ancient religious worshipping activities.
If you ask the Phuket residents with Chinese roots as to the origin of the vegetarian festival then they will tell you a tragic story. They say that a Chinese theatre troupe visited Phuket around one and a half century ago.
The Chinese theatre troupe was struck by tragedy when all members of the Chinese theatre troupe turned seriously ill. The story goes that they had turned ill because they had neglected to offer respects to the nine emperor gods of Taoism.
The only way in which the Chinese troupe members could cure themselves was with a 9 day lent which included solely vegetarian foods, long periods of meditations and acts of self piercing.
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About the Author
James has a passion for Phuket and all its old customs and stories. Read more about Phuket in his Phuket Guide.
Chiang Mai travel&resort
- This article is about the city Chiang Mai. For other uses, see Chiang Mai (disambiguation).
Chiang Mai (in Thai เชียงใหม่ ), also sometimes written as "Chiengmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located at
In recent years, Chiang Mai has become an increasingly modern city, although it lacks the cosmopolitan gloss of Bangkok. It has many attractions for the thousands of foreign visitors who come each year. Chiang Mai's historic importance is derived from its important strategic location on an ancient trade route. Long before the modern influx of foreign visitors, the city served as an important centre for handcrafted goods, umbrellas, jewelry (particularly silver) and woodcarving.
While officially the city (thesaban nakhon) of Chiang Mai only covers most parts of the Mueang Chiang Mai district with a population of 150,000, the urban sprawl of the city now extends into several neighboring districts. This Chiang Mai Metropolitan Area has a population of almost 700,000 people, nearly half the total of Chiang Mai Province. The city itself is subdivided into 4 wards: Nakhon Ping, Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila. The first three wards are on the west bank, while Kavila is located on the east back of Ping River. Nakhon Ping ward covers the north side of the city. Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila cover the west, south, and east side respectively. The central part(old town) is covered mostly by Srivijaya ward and partly by Nakhon Ping and Mengrai wards. See the map of Chiangmai City wards
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From Wikipedia
Chiang Mai travel
- This article is about the city Chiang Mai. For other uses, see Chiang Mai (disambiguation).
Chiang Mai (in Thai เชียงใหม่ ), also sometimes written as "Chiengmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located at
In recent years, Chiang Mai has become an increasingly modern city, although it lacks the cosmopolitan gloss of Bangkok. It has many attractions for the thousands of foreign visitors who come each year. Chiang Mai's historic importance is derived from its important strategic location on an ancient trade route. Long before the modern influx of foreign visitors, the city served as an important centre for handcrafted goods, umbrellas, jewelry (particularly silver) and woodcarving.
While officially the city (thesaban nakhon) of Chiang Mai only covers most parts of the Mueang Chiang Mai district with a population of 150,000, the urban sprawl of the city now extends into several neighboring districts. This Chiang Mai Metropolitan Area has a population of almost 700,000 people, nearly half the total of Chiang Mai Province. The city itself is subdivided into 4 wards: Nakhon Ping, Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila. The first three wards are on the west bank, while Kavila is located on the east back of Ping River. Nakhon Ping ward covers the north side of the city. Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila cover the west, south, and east side respectively. The central part(old town) is covered mostly by Srivijaya ward and partly by Nakhon Ping and Mengrai wards. See the map of Chiangmai City wards
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From Wikipedia
Travel Lanta Island - Krabi Thailand so nice.
http://www.tourthaithai.blogspot.com/2007/06/lanta-island-krabi-thailand-so-nice.html
Ko Lanta lied on the west coast of Andaman Sea in between Krabi and Phi Phi Island . Large Size Island with 6 km wide and over 30 kms long, 9 beaches lie from north to south along the sunset coast. Stunning scenery, fantastic white sandy beaches, coastlines have more than 70 small islands and plenty with forest, coral reefs and under water life. Exposed to the Tsunami hit southern Thailand , Koh Lanta got very little physical affected. She has been quietly recovering with most hotels operating normally. Koh Lanta was very fortunate in that no damage occurred to the natural scenic beauty. All the beaches remain as beautiful as ever. All dive sites did not suffer in the disaster, rather the water is cleaner and clearer than ever.
How to get Ko Lanta
Ko Lanta is easy and inexpensive to reach from Phuket, Bangkok or Malaysia . The island is serviced by passenger ferries from both Krabi & Phi Phi and car ferries from the mainland.
Krabi is the most convenient gateway to Ko Lanta if coming from Bangkok, and if arriving from Phuket passage is via either Phi Phi or Krabi. Trang also serves as a regional transit point for those coming in from the south. Please bear in mind that if your arrival time is late in the day, the local minibus or public passenger ferries scheduled for Ko Lanta may not always be available.
Location of Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta yai ( big ) & Koh Lanta noi ( small ) are located in the
Andaman Sea of South-West-Thailand ( Malayan Peninsula ), about 45 km south of Krabi-town in the Krabi province.
~ 7' 28" north latitude, ~ 99' 4" east longitude.
The islands are only one km away from the mainland and accessible by ferry / car-ferry all year round.
The Koh Lanta district contains 53 islands which mainly are part of the Koh Lanta marine national park.
moutain of ko lanta island
Tourism in Koh Lanta
As mentioned in chapter Development, the develoment of tourism is ongoing for the last 20 years. The real ignition spark came about 6 years ago, when basic infrastructures arrived on the island. Every year since then, tens of new resorts, restaurants, shop etc. start their services along the west coast, right on the beach as well as at nearby mainstreets and hill sites.
Typical tourism "high season" is from November until May, with "paek season" from of December 20th until January 10th. Many businesses are opened all year round with very low prices during "low season", June until October. This time of the year is wonderful, too.
Tourist services of any style & for any budget are offered to the distinguished guest from around the world.
Well, so much information to display about Koh Lanta's tourism - too much for this web-site. Please refer to our Links to Ko Lanta for more details about accommodation, activities, transportation etc.
Here we would like to give you a brief overview of the "Tourist destination Ko Lanta".
The tourist center of Ko Lanta is " Ban Saladan " at the northern tip of Koh Lanta yai. Many shops, supermarkets, travel agents, dive-shops, restaurants and other facilities make it worth to spend some good time there. For most tourist guests on the island, this cosy village is the first and the last place to see, whilst being on the island.
Ferries to/from Krabi, Pee Pee and Phuket are departing and arriving at Ban Saladan pier, only.
All beaches on the west coast, in order from north to south : ( mentioned prices are estimated, average "high/low season" prices )
The first beach, "Klong Dow Beach", next to Ban Saladan, which is known to be the most beautiful beach, about 2 kilometer long, flat and white sanded. There are about 20 resorts on this beach. Prices from 400 - 4500 THB per night.
The second beach, " Phra Ae Beach or Long Beach ", about 5 kilometers long, nice and sandy. There are about 17 resorts on this beach. Prices from 250 - 4500 THB per night.
The third beach, " Klong Khong Beach ", 3 km long with sand and rocks. Great sunsets. There are about 22 resorts on this beach. Prices from 200 - 900 THB per night.
The forth beach, " Klong Tob Beach ", a short strip with sand and rocks. A very quiet beach with only a few bungalows around. Prices from 250 - 1000 THB per night.
The fifth beach, " Klong Nin Beach ", a beautiful 1,5 km long beach with about 10 bungalow resort. The famous "Otto Bar" just moved to there, formerly located at Klong Dow Beach. Prices from 250 - 4800 THB per night.
The sixth beach, " Klong Hin Beach ", with sandy and rocky parts - good for snorkeling. Klong Hin Beach is about 1 km long and has 3 resorts so far. Prices from 250 - 2600 THB per night.
The seventh beach, " Kan Thiang Beach or Bay ", a beautiful, curved sandy beach, 800 meter long. The only 4+ star Resort and Spa "Pimalai" and 3 other resorts are located there. Prices from 250 - 21000 (!) THB per night.
The eighth beach, " Klong Jark Beach, a small and quiet beach, surrounded by tropical jungle. There are 3 resorts on this beach. Prices from 300 - 900 THB per night.
The ninth beach, " Aow Mai Bai or Bamboo Bay " is the last beach outside the national marine park which is next to it. A quiet and private beach with only 2 bungalow resorts. Prices from 250 - 800 THB per night.
And last but not least the tenth and most southern beach, " Ta Noad Beach ", next to the old light-house, the landmark of Ko Lanta. The Lanta marine national park head-quarter is located right at this beach. No resorts or other commercial facilities there.
Ko Lanta is a diver's paradise for beginners and the experienced. There are very few places on the planet where divers can enjoy an underwater world so rich and diverse. And imagine learning to dive in water that's the same temperature as your bath water at home.
Nature in Koh Lanta Ko Lanta island offers tropical nature at it's best..
The tropical paradise off the south-west coast of Thailand has 25 km of beautiful beaches backed by verdant jungle & rain forest.
Here you still find real big trees, many animal species, including rare birds, mammals and reptiles. More then 80% of the island are covered with tropical rain forest, which is mostly protected national-park area.
The mangrove coast in south Thailand, covers sinking limestone ranges, millions of years old. On Koh lanta there are many mangroves, which you can admire while going on a canoe-trip. Mangroves and intertidal mudflats are of great conservation value in Thailand, helping sustain valuable inshore fisheries and protecting the coast from erosion.
If you arrive by car ferry, than watch out for monkeys, which are living here in the mangroves. They are crab-eating macaques and one of the numerous mammal species living in this environment.
Nature for a living, rubber tree and palm tree plantations: On Lanta are hundreds of rubber tree plantations, which are tapped every day before sunrise. The rubber then has to be dried, cleaned, and pressed, before being sold as 1,2 kg mats. Coconut palms and oil palms are common on Koh Lanta as in the whole south of Thailand and they provide a modest income for the local farmers.
Ko Lanta's rich waters offer sandy coves, coral reefs, limestone rock outcrops, rock reefs, seamounts and pinnacles, undersea caverns and tunnels and sunken ships. Water temperature ranges from 27 to 31 degrees - ideal for scuba-diving, corals and tropical fishes. More than 200 hard corals and 108 reef fish species have been catalogues in a study under way, but thousands more organisms around, too. The twin peaks of Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are rated in the worlds top 10 list of dive sites.
While tourism has grown quickly in the last few years, Ko Lanta has retained its traditional charm and great natural beauty.
References
Koh Lanta Investments. 2003. About Koh Lanta(ออนไลน์)สืบค้นจากhttp://www.lanta-thailand.com/ เมื่อ 20 มิ.ย.2550 Koh Lanta Island. 2006. Ko Lanta (Island), Krabi, Thailand. - Index Page of Koh Lanta.(ออนไลน์)สืบค้นจาก http://www.lantainfo.com/ เมื่อ 20 มิ.ย.2550
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by darksingha
Chiang Rai resort&travel
- Chiang Rai is both a city and a province in Thailand. For the province, see Chiang Rai Province.
- Pratu Nang Ing (ประตูนางอิง)
- Pratu Chiang Mai (ประตูเชียงใหม่)
- Pratu Wai (ประตูหวาย)
- Pratu Pa Daeng (ประตูป่าแดง)
- Pratu Pi (ประตูผี)
- Pratu Kha Tam (ประตูขะต๊ำ)
- Pratu Tha Nak (ประตูท่านาค)
- Pratu Tha Sai (ประตูท่าทราย)
- Pratu Tho (ประตูท่อ)
- Pratu Yang Soeng (ประตูยางเสิ้ง)
- Pratu Jao Chai (ประตูเจ้าชาย)
- Pratu Sri (ประตูสรี)
Mueang Chiang Rai (Thai: เชียงราย; locally (Kham Muang) Ciang Hai; (Lao) also Xieng Hai) is a city in Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai Province in northern Thailand.
Contents[hide] |
[edit] Geography
Geographical location
The Mae Kok River runs along its north side, flowing from west to east and eventually merging with the Mekong River.
[edit] Demographics
Population 62,000.
12.5% of the population belong to the hill tribes, a collective term for the minority ethnic groups in the North of Thailand such as the Karen, Akha, Lisu, Meo and Muser. Many Chinese, particularly from Yunnan Province, have migrated to the area and assimilated with the Thai population to such extent that well over half of the large businesses in northern Thailand are owned by people of Chinese heritage.[citation needed]
[edit] Government
Chiang Rai is the capital of Chiang Rai Province.
The Salaklang Changwat
The Municipal Offices are in the Thesaban
[edit] History
The city was founded by King Mengrai in 1262 and became the first capital of the Lannathai kingdom. However, it lost this status soon after to a new city built by Mengrai at Chiang Mai. Subsequently, Chiang Rai was conquered by Burma and remained under Burmese rule for several hundred years. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became Thai territory. It was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.
In 1432 the Phra Kaeo, or Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most revered Buddha figure, was discovered in Chiang Rai when an earthquake split the Chedi at Wat Phra Kaeo. The beautiful jade figure was then seen concealed within.
In 1992 (B.E. 2535) the City Pillar was moved from Wat Klang Wiang to Doi Chom Thong, where it is known as Sadu Meuang (TH: สะดือเมือง), the Navel or Omphalos of the City.
[edit] Buddhist temples
- Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong,
- Wat Phra Kaew, Chiang Rai,
- Wat Phra Sing, Chiang Rai,
- Wat Doi Khao Khwai,
- Wat Rong Khun,
[edit] Tourist attractions
- Princess Mother Hall and Doi Mae Salong Located about 70 km northwest of Chiang Rai accessed by a scenic, and sometimes quite steep, road from Mae Chan. In Mae Salong there is a museum of the Kuo Min Tang and their plight after exiled from China by Mao Tse Tung, and subsequently forced to leave Burma from where they entered Thailand, helping at times to fight the Communists.
- Doi Tung Royal Villa is the final residence of the mother of the King of Thailand, known as the Princess Mother. It is located at kilometre 12 on highway 1149, to the west of highway 1. This magnificent villa was built on the mountain overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys in a unique mix of Swiss and Lanna architectural styles. Adjacent to the villa is a large flower-filled garden, and a memorial hall commemorating the Princess Mother.
- Doi Tung Zoo
- Phucheefah
- The Gate of Siam is a location on the border with Laos where one can stand high up on a mountain with Laos directly in front and the mighty Mekong River flowing beneath.
[edit] Education
[edit] Colleges and universities
- Mae Fah Luang University
- Chiang Rai Rajabhat University
- Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Chiang Rai Campus
[edit] High Schools
[edit] Primary Schools
- Bansonkong School
- Piti Suksa Montessori School
- [ http://www.amecschool.net ]
[edit] Hospitals
- Overbrook Hospital (Semi-Private)
- Sriburin Hospital (Private, and comparatively better quality)[citation needed]
- Chiang Rai Prachanukhro Hospital (Public)
[edit] Transportation
Route 1 runs from Bangkok through Chiang Rai to Mae Sai on the Myanmar border. Chiang Rai is 839 kilometers from Bangkok, about 14 hours by car or by bus. According to official bus schedules, the bus ride to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai takes approximately an hour and 30 minutes, however the 175 km trip most often takes at least two and a half hours.
Several flights are available to and from Bangkok daily. Chiang Rai International Airport flight time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
There is scheduled boat service between Chiang Rai and Thaton in Chiang Mai province daily.
There are currently no rail services to Chiang Rai as the railway line from Bangkok ends at Chiang Mai. There have been talks of extending the rail line to Chiang Rai in the near future,[citation needed] but this is unlikely to happen as the population is well below 1 million and there isn't as many international tourists visiting Chiang Rai as Chiang Mai.[citation needed]
[edit] Sister Cities
- Union City, California, United States.
[edit] External links
Coordinates:
Categories: All articles with unsourced statements | Articles with unsourced statements since February 2007 | 1262 establishments | Chiang Rai Province | Cities in Thailand
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