TRAVEL GUIDE THAILAND

ARRIVAL IN THE KINGDOM OF THAILAND

By Air

Bangkok is one of Asia’s largest air hubs, so it is very well-connected to the rest of the world.

Besides Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, the airports in Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Koh Samui, Phuket and Pattaya are served by international flights directly.

Consult our luxury travel advisors or your local travel agent for routings, fares and availability on flights to Thailand.

By Land

Thailand shares borders with Myanmar to the north-west, Laos in the north-east, Cambodia to the east and Malaysia to the south.

From Laos:

The Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River between Vientiane and Nong Khai is the busiest crossing. The Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge now links Savannakhet with Mukdahan.

It is also possible to cross the borders at Houey Xai / Chiang Khong, Nakaxeng / Kaenthao, Pakxan / Bungkan, Thakhaek / Nakorn Phanom.

From Myanmar:

Visitors can cross into Thailand from Tachileik to Mae Sai (Chiangrai) and from Kawthoung into Ranong.

For the border checkpoints at Mae Sot / Myawaddy and Three Pagoda Pass at Sangkhlaburi / Payathonzu, foreigners can only access them from the Thai side, so it will be impossible to cross into Thailand from Myanmar at these points.

From Cambodia:

There are six border crossings linking Thailand and Cambodia. The highway linking Siem Reap and the Angkor temples leads to Aranyaprathet via Poipet and it is a popular crossing.

From Malaysia:

There are four crossings linking Thailand with Malaysia, namely Padang Besar and Sadao in Songkhla province, Betong in Yala province and Sungai Kolok in Narathiwat province.

Arrival Formalities

Upon arrival in Thailand, all visitors must complete an entry/exit form including a customs declaration.

It is important that your copy of this form is kept safe with your passport while in Thailand and is presented to the customs and immigration officials on departure.

In case you are obtaining your pre-arranged visa on arrival please proceed to the Visa counter and read the visa section below.

If you have booked a transfer from Luxury Thailand Travel we will provide you with information on where to meet your guide/driver as well as a 24-hour phone number to be used in case of difficulties.

Arrival Transfer from Luxury Travel Group

Clients that have booked a transfer will be met by an Luxury Travel representative holding an Luxury Thailand Travel signboard with the client's group or name clearly displayed.

Please note that Suvarnabhumi is a single terminal airport with THREE entrances from the secure area into the public arrivals hall. Domestic arrivals will enter through Gate A. International arrivals will enter through Gate B or C.

After clearing immigration, retrieving baggage and passing through Customs, please continue to the arrivals hall where your guide will be waiting with a sign with your name.

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CURRENCY AND CURRENCY EXCHANGE

The Thai unit of currency is the baht 1 baht is divided into 100 satang. Note are in denominations of 1,000 (brown), 500 (purple), 100 (red), 50 (blue), 20 (green) and 10 (brown) baht. Coins consist of 25 satang, 50 satang, 1 baht, 5 baht and 10 baht.

Major currency bills and travelers cheques are cashed easily at hotels, tourist shops, all provincial banks, shopping centers and money changers.

Travelers cheques are best changed in banks (you will need your passport). Rates of exchange at banks or authorized money changers are better than those at hotels and department stores.

Any amount of foreign currency may be brought into the country. Visitors may take foreign currency out of Thailand, but no more than the amount stated in the customs declaration made on arrival. Travelers leaving Thailand may take out no more than 50,000 baht per person in Thai currency.

Currency Notes

Paper baht comes in denominations of 10 (brown), 20 (green), 50 (blue), 100 (red), 500 (purple) and 1000 (beige).

Currency Coins

There are 100 satang in one baht; coins include 25-satang and 50-satang pieces and baht in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 10. Thai baht is in denominations of:

Credit Cards:

Credit cards are widely accepted. For lost cards :
American Express Tel : (662) 273 5100 or (662) 273 0022
Diners Club Tel : (662) 238 2920 or (662) 238 2680
Master Card Tel : (662) 256 7326-7
Visa Tel : (662) 256 7326-7

ATMs

ATMs for withdrawing Thai Baht are widely available in major airports, shopping malls, hotels and almost all provincial banks in Thailand.

For most banks there is a maximum withdrawal of 20,000 THB per transaction; however several withdrawals may be made in a single day.

Ask your tour guide for help when you need to locate an ATM.

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BUSINESS HOURS IN THAILAND

Most businesses are open from Monday to Friday. Government offices are open from 08:30 to 16:30 with some closing for lunch from noon to 13:00.

Many retailers and travel agencies are also open on Saturday and most shops are open on Sundays. Our Luxury Travel Offices Hours Open from 09 Am to 6 Pm daily and from 10 am to 4 pm on Sundays.

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WIFI AND INTERNET

Internet cafes are widely available everywhere and are easily found in major towns and cities. Prices are reasonable but may vary from 10 - 60 baht an hour.

In many Internet cafés, you can buy pre-paid international phone cards to dial from a computer to a landline or mobile phone worldwide. Most Internet cafés are equipped with webcams, headsets and microphones.

Wi-Fi hotspots are becoming increasingly available all most in all hotels and public spaces in Bangkok.

Many hotels also have Business Centers with PCs connected to the Internet or in-room broadband access- please note that this service is not always free and the rates are usually cheaper at internet cafes.

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ELECTRICITY

Thailand uses 220V (50 cycles per second) but the plugs are not standardized. It is recommended to bring a universal plug adaptor.

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ENTERTAIMENT

There are plenty of entertainment options in Thailand and restaurants/bars and nightclubs open until late at night/early in the morning.

A wide variety of restaurants are on offer with everything from Thai, Chinese, Italian, French cuisine, etc. to fast food.

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TIME ZONE

Same in Vietnam, Thailand is GMT + 7 and does not operate on a daylight-savings system.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Photo developing labs are common in Bangkok and the rest of Thailand, providing normal print films as well as professional quality films (like slide films). Digital photos can easily be downloaded and loaded onto a CD-Rom in case you run out of memory.

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POST MAIL

Postcards are sold at all main tourist sites and stamps are available from post offices and some hotel reception desks. A postcard to Europe costs 15 baht to send and can take up to two weeks to reach the country of destination.

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TRANSPORTATION

Those possessing a valid International Driving License will be able to rent and drive a car. Road signs and maps are commonly displayed in the English language and international car hire companies such as Avis and Hertz also operate in major tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket and Samui Island. It is also easy to rent a car with a driver.

Getting around town there are several options. The ubiquitous three-wheeled Tuk Tuks are fun for short transfers while metered taxis offer a nice (and cheap) air-conditioned ride. In Bangkok, the public transportation includes a Skytrain and Underground Metro which are easy to use, reasonably priced and link most major tourist areas! A great way to avoid the city's infamous traffic jams.

Tipping : Tipping is not a usual practice in Thailand although it is becoming more common. Most hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. Taxi drivers do not require a tip, but the gesture is appreciated and 10-20 baht is acceptable for porters.

Bargaining : Fixed prices are the norm in department stores, but at most other places bargaining is to be expected. Generally, you can obtain a final figure of between 10-40% lower than the original asking price. Much depends on your skills and the shopkeeper's mood. But remember, Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humor. With patience and a broad smile, you will not only get a better price, you will also enjoy shopping as an art.

V.A.T. Refunds : Visitors entering the Kingdom on a tourist visa are entitled to refund of the 7% V.A.T. on goods purchased at registered retail outlets.

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THAI LANGUAGE AND USEFUL PHRASES LANGUAGE

The most widely spoken language in Thailand is Thai, a complicated language with a unique alphabet. Beside the numerous hill tribe dialects, other languages spoken include Lao, Khmer and Chinese. Most Thai people, especially in the major cities, speak English and tourists should have no troubles with communication in these areas.

The more important words and phrases listed below are all you might need to know for a short vacation in Thailand. There is really little need to be even remotely fluent as most of the time you will be understood in English.

Just remember to speak in a clear voice and ever so slower. Should you like to try a little Thai however, then please note that words or phrases take the suffix kha should the speaker be female and khrap should the speaker be male. Shall we begin with our first lesson!

• Sawaddee Kha (you as the female speaking) Hello or Goodbye
• Sawaddee Khrap ( you as the male speaking) Hello or Goodbye
• Khawp Khun Kha (you as the female speaking) Thank you
• Khawp Khun Khrap ( you as the male speaking) Thank you

Are you beginning to get the idea of how it works? Just follow the simple male /female speakings terms and after a few mistakes you will in time, master the correct pronunciations. I am still learning the Thai language all the time myself, so don't feel bad. Besides when you make a mistake, Thai's may be a little amused but they will give you 10 out of 10 for trying.

It will almost certainly open up a few new doors and avenues. You only need to ask and Thai's will gladly help put things right for you. Have some fun with it and enjoy the pleasantries that go with it. Just remember the Khrap and Kha part and you are half way there...well nearly.

You pronounce Kha as in Ka and Khrap as in Krup Okay! lets continue.

More of the Thai Language and Phrases

Chai = Yes / Mai = No

Sabai dee mai? = How are you?

Sabai dee = I'm fine

You nai...? = Where is...?

Yaak pai... = I want to go...

Hawng nam = Bathroom

Taw rai...? = How much...?

Paeng marg = Too expensive

Khun cheu arai khrap? = What is your name? (Male speaking)

Khun cheu arai kha? = What is your name? (Female speaking)

Leou khwa = Turn right

Leou sai = Turn left

Trong pai = Straight ahead

Yoot tee nee = Stop here

Wan nee = Today

Meua wan nee = Yesterday

Proong nee = Tomorrow

Rawng ram = Hotel

Raan ahaan = Restaurant

Sathanee tamruat = Police station

Prai-sannee = Post Office

Rong phaya-bahn = Hospital

Sanam bin = Airport / Kreung bin = Aeroplane

Sathanee rot fai = Train station / Sathanee rot meh = Bus station

Taksee = Taxi / Rot = Car / Reua = Boat

Hew nam = Thirsty

Nam = Water

Hew kao = Hungry

Ahaan = Food / Neua = Beef / Gai = Chicken / Moo = Pork / Plaa = Fish / Cafe = Coffee / Cha = Tea / Khao = Rice / Pahk = Vegetables / Kai = Egg / Pohlamai = Fruit

Pronunciation Guidelines

Please note that you pronounce syllables as if they form English words.

a as in ago

b as in hen

c as in thin

as in pet

o as in on

ah as in rather

ai as in Thai

air as in pair

ao as in maoism

ay as in day

er as in enter

ew as in few

oh as in go

oo as in boot

oy as in toy

g as in give

ng as in sing

This now concludes our lessons for the day. We shall start afresh tomorrow with a brand new lesson... no I'm just kidding! This is as far as I shall take you because I am not that great a teacher in the Thai language. Besides you probably haven't a clue as to what I have tried to teach you up till now, but I did give it my best shot. The rest I shall leave up to you as you go along. You know what they say... practice makes perfect Good luck to you all and have a fabulous time in Thailand.

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THE THAI CALENDAR

Thailand has adopted the western calendar to divide the year into days, weeks and months, using Thai names for these units. Years are numbered according to the Buddhist era (BE) which commenced 543 years before the Christian era. Therefore 2007 AD is BE 2550 and 2008 is BE 2551.

National public holidays Thailand's national public holidays are linked to religious or agricultural traditions and follow the lunar calendar, therefore the dates for some of the holidays change each year. For the precise dates of the lunar holidays and festival locations, check www.tourismthailand.org

The following are national public holidays in Thailand :

24 November
(Saturday) Loy Kratong
Not a national holiday, but an evening when Thais pay respect to the goddess of the waters by floating candlelit offerings on any and all waterways around the kingdom.

5 December
(Wednesday) King's Birthday
His Majesty the King's birthday is celebrated throughout the country and also serves as the nation's Fathers Day.
National Holiday

10 December
(Monday) Constitution Day
December 10th celebrates the date in 1932 when the country was granted its first constitution.
National Holiday

31 December
(Monday) New Years Eve
The day before the western new year day is always a national holiday.
National Holiday

1 January
(Tuesday) New Year's Day
The beginning of the western new year is a national holiday in Thaland, one of three "new year" holidays celebrated every year.
National Holiday

8 February
(Friday) Chinese New Year
The beginning of the Chinese lunar year is celebrated in the Chinatowns of every city throughout Thailand. Some businesses close for the day, but it is not a national holiday.

21 February
(Thursday) Makha Bucha
Makha Bucha celebrates the Buddha's first sermon in to his disciples.
National Holiday

6 April
(Sunday) Chakri Day
Chakri Day commeorates the founding of the current dynasty, Rama I.
National Holiday

7 April 2008
(Monday) Chakri Day (Substitution)
Some businesses may be closed.

13 April
(Sunday) Songkran
Songkran is the traditional Thai new year, generally celebrated as a water festival.
National Holiday

14 April
(Monday) Songkran
Second day of this three-day holiday.
National Holiday

15 April
(Tuesday) Songkran
Third of the three days of Songkran.
National Holiday

1 May
(Thursday) Labor Day
International labor day is celebrated as a national holiday, even though there isn't much ado about it
National Holiday

5 May
(Monday) Coronation Day
Celebrates the day in 1949 when the current king was crowned.
National Holiday

19 May
(Monday) Visakha Bucha
The holiest Buddhist holiday celebrates the birth, enlightenment and entry into nirvana of the Buddha.
National Holiday

12 August
(Tuesday) Queen's Birthday
Her Majesty the Queen's birthday is a national holiday, also serving as the country's Mothers Day as well.
National Holiday

16 August
(Saturday) Buddhist Lent
This day marks the beginning of the Buddhist 'lent' period, a time when monks are supposed to retreat to their temples while new life springs forth.
National Holiday

18 August
(Monday) Buddhist Lent (Substitution)
Some businesses may be closed.

23 October
(Thursday) Chulalongkorn Day
Celebrates the birthday of one of Thailand's most revered kings.
National Holiday

24 November
(Monday)
Loy Kratong
Not a national holiday, but an evening when Thais pay respect to the goddess of the waters by floating candlelit offerings on any and all waterways around the kingdom.

5 December
(Friday)
King's Birthday
His Majesty the King's birthday is celebrated throughout the country and also serves as the nation's Fathers Day.
National Holiday

10 December
(Wednesday)
Constitution Day
December 10th celebrates the date in 1932 when the country was granted its first constitution.
National Holiday

31 December
(Wednesday)
New Years Eve
The day before the western new year day is always a national holiday.
National Holiday

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MEDICAL SERVICES

All tourism destinations and provincial capitals have hospitals and clinics staffed by well-trained doctors and nurse. In the case of an emergency, an ambulance can be summoned from any private hospital.

Vaccinations : As in most other countries, visitors do not require vaccinations unless coming from or passing through a designated contaminated area

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FOREIGN EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES IN THAILAND

Most major embassies and consulates can be found within the city of Bangkok. So if you need to replace a lost passport, look no further

http://tourismthailand.org/travel-information/travel-information-79-1.html

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DO'S AND DON'T IN THAILAND

The Monarchy : Thai people have a deep, traditional reverence for the Royal Family, and a visitor should be careful to show respect for the King, the Queen and the Royal Children.

Religion : Visitors should dress neatly in all religious shrines. They should never go topless, or in shorts, hot pants or other unsuitable attireIt is acceptable to wear shoes when walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel where the principal Buddha image is kept.

Each Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as a sacred object. Never climb onto one to take a photograph or do anything which might indicate a lack of respect. Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman, or to accept anything from the hand of one. If a woman has to give anything to a monk, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it.

Social Norms : Thais don't normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press the palms together in a prayer-like gesture called a wai. Generally a younger person wais an elder, who returns it.

Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body, literally and figuratively. Therefore, avoid touching people on the head and try not to point your feet at people or an object. It is considered very rude. Shoes should be removed when entering a private Thai home.

Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon.

Special Advice :

• Beware of unauthorised people who offer their services as guides. For all tourist information, contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tel : 1672. For information about Bangkok, contact the Bangkok Metropolitan Tourist Bureau, Tel : 0 2225 7612-4.
• Observe all normal precautions as regards to personal safety, as well as the safety fof your belongings. Walking alone on quiet streets or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all your valuables-money, jewellery, and airline tickets are properly protected from loss. Visitors needing assistance relating to safety, unethical practices, or other matters, please call the Tourist Police at Tel: 1155.
• Drop your garbage into a waste container. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration id no strictly enforcing the law in an effort to keep the city clean and healthy. The fine will be imposed on a person who spits, discards cigarette stubs, or drops rubbish in public areas.
• Do not get yourself involved with drugs. Penalties for drug offences are very severe in Thailand.
• Do not support any manner of wild animal abuse. Never purchase any products or souvenirs made from wild animals including reptiles like snakes, monitor lizards, and also turtle shell and ivory. Avoid patronizing local restaurants that serve wild animal delicacies. It is against the law to slaughter wildlife for food in Thailand.

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THAI FOODS

Thai food is known for its enthusiastic use of fresh (rather than dried) herbs and spices as well as fish sauce.

Thai food is popular in many Western countries especially in Australia, New Zealand, some countries in Europe such as the United Kingdom, as well as the United States, and Canada.

Instead of a single main course with side dishes found in Western cuisine, a Thai full meal typically consists of either a single dish or rice khao with many complementary dishes served concurrently.

Rice is a staple component of Thai cuisine, as it is of most Asian cuisines. The highly prized, sweet-smelling jasmine rice is indigenous to Thailand. This naturally aromatic long-grained rice grows in abundance in the verdant patchwork of paddy fields that blanket Thailand's central plains. Its aroma bears no resemblance to the sweet smell of jasmine blossoms, but like jasmine flowers, this rice is precious and fragrant, a small everyday delight. Steamed rice is accompanied by highly aromatic curries, stir-frys and other dishes, incorporating sometimes large quantities of chillies, lime juice and lemon grass. Curries, stir-frys and others may be poured onto the rice creating a single dish called khao rad gang , a popular meal when time is limited. Sticky rice khao neow is a unique variety of rice that contains an unusual balance of the starches present in all rice, causing it to cook up to a pleasing sticky texture. It is the daily bread of Laos and substitutes ordinary rice in rural Northern and Northeastern Thai cuisine, where Lao cultural influence is strong.

Noodles, known throughout parts of Southeast Asia by the Chinese name kwaytiow, are popular as well but usually come as a single dish, like the stir-fried Pad Thai or noodle soups. Many Chinese cuisine are adapted to suit Thai taste, such as khuaytiow rue, a sour and spicy rice noodle soup.

There is uniquely Thai dish called nam prik which refers to a chile sauce or paste. Each region has its own special versions. It is prepared by crushing together chillies with various ingredients such as garlic and shrimp paste using a mortar and pestle. It is then often served with vegetables such as cucumbers, cabbage and yard-long beans, either raw or blanched. The vegetables are dipped into the sauce and eaten with rice. Nam prik may also be simply eaten alone with rice or, in a bit of Thai and Western fusion, spread on toast.

Thai food is generally eaten with a fork and a spoon. Chopsticks are used rarely, primarily for the consumption of noodle soups. The fork, held in the left hand, is used to shovel food into the spoon. However, it is common practice for Thais and hill tribe peoples in the North and Northeast to eat sticky rice with their right hands by making it into balls that are dipped into side dishes and eaten. Thai-Muslims also frequently eat meals with only their right hands.

Often thai food is served with a variety of spicy condiments to embolden the dish. This can range from dried chili pieces, sliced chili peppers in rice vinegar, to a spicy chili sauce such as the nam prik mentioned above.

Thailand Religion
Thailand is one of the most strongly Buddhist countries in the world. The national religion is Theravada Buddhism, a branch of Hinayana Buddhism, practiced by more than 90 % of all Thais.

The remainder of the population adheres to lslam, Christianity, Hinduism and other faiths
all of which are allowed full freedom of expression. Buddhism continues to cast strong influence on daily life. Senior monks are highly revered. Thus, in towns and villages, the temple (wat) is the heart of social and religious life. Meditation, one of the most popular aspects of Buddhism, is practiced regularly by numerous Thai as a means of promoting inner peace and happiness. Visitors, too, can learn the fundamentals of this practice at several centres in Bangkok and elsewhere in the country.

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THAILAND HISTORY

Throughout its 800-year history, Thailand can boast the distinction of being the only country in Southeast Asia never to have been colonized. Its history is divided into five major periods

Nanchao Period (650-1250 A.D.)
The Thai people founded their kingdom in the southern part of China, which is Yunnan, Kwangsi and Canton today. A great number of people migrated south as far as the Chao Phraya Basin and settled down over the Central Plain under the sovereignty of the Khmer Empire, whose culture they probably accepted. The Thai people founded their independent state of Sukhothai around 1238 A.D., which marks the beginning of the Sukhothai Period

Sukhothai Period (1238-1378 A.D.)
Thais began to emerge as a dominant force in the region in the13th century, gradually asserting independence from existing Khmer and Mon kingdoms. Called by its rulers "the dawn of happiness", this is often considered the golden era of Thai history, an ideal Thai state in a land of plenty governed by paternal and benevolent kings, the most famous of whom was King Ramkamhaeng the Great. However in 1350, the mightier state of Ayutthaya exerted its influence over Sukhothai.

Ayutthaya Period (1350-1767)
The Ayutthaya kings adopted Khmer cultural influences from the very beginning. No longer the paternal and accessible rulers that the kings of Sukhothai had been, Ayutthaya's sovereigns were absolute monarchs and assumed the title devaraja (god-king). The early part of this period saw Ayutthaya extend its sovereignty over neighboring Thai principalities and come into conflict with its neighbours, During the 17th century, Siam started diplomatic and commercial relations with western countries. In 1767, a Burmese invasion succeeded in capturing Ayutthaya. Despite their overwhelming victory, the Burmese did not retain control of Siam for long. A young general named Phya Taksin and his followers broke through the Burmese and escaped to Chantaburi. Seven months after the fall of Ayutthaya, he and his forces sailed back to the capital and expelled the Burmese occupation garrison.

Thon Buri Period (1767-1772)
General Taksin, as he is popularly known, decided to transfer the capital from Ayutthaya to a site nearer to the sea which would facilitate foreign trade, ensure the procurement of arms, and make defense and withdrawal easier in case of a renewed Burmese attack. He established his new capital at Thon Buri on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The rule of Taksin was not an easy one. The lack of central authority since the fall of Ayutthaya led to the rapid disintegration of the kingdom, and Taksin's reign was spent reuniting the provinces.

Rattanakosin Period (1782 - the Present)
After Taksin's death, General Chakri became the first king of the Chakri Dynasty, Rama I, ruling from 1782 to 1809. His first action as king was to transfer the royal capital across the river from Thon Buri to Bangkok and build the Grand Palace. Rama II (1809-1824) continued the restoration begun by his predecessor. King Nang Klao, Rama III (1824-1851) reopened relations with Western nations and developed trade with China. King Mongkut, Rama IV, (1851-1868) of "The King and I" concluded treaties with European countries, avoided colonialization and established modern Thailand. He made many social and economic reforms during his reign.

King Chulalongkorn, Rama V (1869-1910) continued his father's tradition of reform, abolishing slavery and improving the public welfare and administrative system. Compulsory education and other educational reforms were introduced by King Vajiravudh, Rama VI (1910-1925). During the reign of King Prajadhipok, (1925-1935), Thailand changed from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. The king abdicated in 1933 and was succeeded by his nephew, King Ananda Mahidol (1935-1946). The country's name was changed from Siam to Thailand with the advent of a democratic government in 1939. Our present monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is King Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty.

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THAILAND DESTINATIONS

There are 26 provinces that make up Central and Eastern Thailand, and Bangkok is one of them. Geographically, this is Thailand’s heartland, extending from Lop Buri in the north and covering the rice bowl of the Central Plains around the Chao Phraya River. Further south, the area embraces the east and west coasts of the upper Gulf of Thailand.

This is Thailand’s most fertile farming area, a wide-ranging landscape of paddy fields, orchards and plantations. More than 1,000 years ago Thai settlers moved down from the north, gradually replacing Mon and Khmer influences and establishing communities at Lop CENTRAL & EAST COAST Buri then at Sukhothai, before founding a kingdom that lasted 417 years with Ayutthaya as its capital. When the Burmese destroyed Ayutthaya in 1767, the capital moved to Bangkok.

The Central region has a dramatic history, and its heritage of ancient temples, battlefields and ruins and two capitals, Ayutthaya and Bangkok, are a continuing fascination for visitors. The east and west sea coasts at the region’s southern end also draw huge numbers of visitors every year. Bangkok residents spend long weekends enjoying the relaxing seaside atmosphere, while holiday-makers from around the world to discover the delights of the tropical beach life.

On the eastern side, 400 kilometres of coastline extend from Chon Buri to Rayong with some of the finest beaches in Asia. Pattaya, with an enormous range of resorts, hotels and guesthouses, is its centre. If you are seeking a more relaxing experience, travel further down the coast to Rayong or Ko Samet, and the lovely islands of Ko Chang National Park near the Cambodian border.

On the west coast, the resorts of Cha-am and Hua Hin attract international travellers who prefer their more sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere.

Far from the sea in the northwest of the region is Kanchanaburi, whose forested mountains, waterfalls and caves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries on the border with Myanmar provide some of Thailand’s most enthralling scenery.

The 26 provinces of Central and East Coast are Ang Thong, Bangkok, Chachoengsao, Chai Nat, Chanthaburi, Chon Buri, Kanchanaburi, Lop Buri, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Phetchaburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Prachin Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ratchaburi, Rayong, Sa Kaeo, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Saraburi, Sing Buri, Suphan Buri and Trat.

THE NORTH

The North is the birthplace of the earliest Thai civilisation and has many sites of archaeological and cultural interest. Northern people are famous for their courtesy and hospitality, and the region is also noted for its variety of cultural traditions. Many tourists from the surrounding provinces converge on Chiang Mai for the annual Songkran Festival, and to Sukhothai for Loi Krathong.

The North falls into two distinct areas, the plains of the lower north from Nakhon Sawan to Sukhothai, and the mountainous upper north leading to borders of Myanmar and Laos. The mountain ranges along the borders are breathtaking, with waterfalls and fast-flowing rivers ideal for rafting. They are also the home of many ethnic hill people.

The region has three seasons, hot from March to May, wet from June to November and cool from December to February. High up in the mountains, though, “cool” may often mean extremely cold.

The Thai nation had its origins in the North, in city states that were gradually incorporated into the Lanna kingdom centred on Chiang Mai. Sukhothai became the first capital of Thailand, but the influence of the Lanna states of Laos and Myanmar can be clearly seen in the architecture and cuisine of the North.

The nomadic hill people of the region pursued their own course, moving back and forth across frontiers. There are six main tribal groups, Karen, Hmong, Lahu, Mien, Akha and Lisu, each with its own unique customs and clothing. Today, they are settled in villages on the mountainsides, a great attraction for travellers.

Most overseas visitors make for Chiang Mai, the northern capital, as a base for visiting ethnic tribes, soft adventure activities and shopping. Further north still, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son are centres for rafting, trekking and tours of tribal villages. To the south, the Historical Park at Sukhothai is an essential destination for all those wishing to discover more about the history and culture of Thailand.

The 17 provinces that comprise the North are Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Lampang, Lamphun, Mae Hong Son, Nakhon Sawan, Nan, Phayao, Phetchabun, Phichit, Uthai Thani, Phitsanulok, Phrae, Sukhothai, and Uttaradit.

THE NORTHEAST

The Northeast of Thailand, a vast plateau covering nearly one third of the country, is usually known as Isan. It extends northwards to the Mekong River which divides Thailand from Laos, and to the south and it ends at the Dong Rek mountain range along the border with Cambodia.

It is known to be an arid region with soil of poor quality, but for tourism, Isan is one of the country’s most intriguing destinations with many Stone Age and Bronze Age dwellings and artifacts, and several significant temples that are a legacy of the great Khmer empire.

The sandstone shrines are popular tourist attractions, particularly the superbly restored sites at the historical parks of Phimai in Nakhon Ratchasima and Phanom Rung in Buri Ram. The great temple complex at Khao Phra Viharn in Si Sa Ket on the border with Cambodian is now accessible to visitors after a long period of isolation.

The Bronze Age settlements at Ban Chiang in the province of Udon Thani provide fascinating evidence of the work of the local potters some 5,000 years ago. The red and white pottery with characteristic “fingerprint” designs are thought to be the first earthenware vessels known to man.

Two of Thailand’s best-loved national parks, Khao Yai, Phu Kradung and Phu Rua in Loei, are in Isan. Other major attractions include the villages in Khorat and Khon Kaen where the beautiful local silk is woven by hand.

Isan is a comparatively poor region whose main income is from agriculture, and many of the younger people in the villages migrate to the city. But Isan folk have a distinctive character and dialect and a vigorous culture, with their old traditions still reflected in the many festivals unique to the region.

With its strategic position bordering Laos and Cambodia, Isan has in recent years risen to become a useful starting point for adventurous journeys to destinations along the mighty Mekong River. There have been important developments in infrastructure to accommodate what is expected to be a boom in tourism.

Travel in the region has been improved by domestic airlines with regular flights to regional airports; and it is no longer impossible to find luxury accommodation, especially in large provinces of Khon Kaen, Udon Thani Nakhon, Ratchasima and Ubon Ratchathani.

The Northeast consists of 19 provinces: Amnat Charoen, Buri Ram, Chaiyaphum, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Loei, Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nong Bua Lamphu, Nong Khai, Roi Et, Sakon Nakhon, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani and Yasothon.

THE SOUTH

This region extends southward along a narrow peninsula lying between the Andaman Sea its west side and the South China Sea on the east. It is a rich land in terms of the abundance of its natural resources, the fertility of its soil, the diversity of its people and its commercial viability.

The South is made up of 14 provinces from Chumphon in the north down to the Malaysian border 1,200 kilometres from Bangkok. It has a long coastline on either side with sandy beaches and offshore islands on both, and a rugged central hinterland of mountains and forests.

The east coast on the Gulf of Thailand always seems to be more relaxed, with long, wide bays and calm seas; the Andaman Sea coast tends to be more rugged and exhilarating, with its strange limestone rock formations and cliffs.

The occurrence of two seasonal monsoons means that the climate differs from the rest of Thailand. The southwest monsoon sweeps the west coast and the Andaman Sea from May to October, while the northeast monsoon moves across the Gulf of Thailand form November to February. The peninsula forms a barrier so that rain rarely falls on both coastlines simultaneously.

The area was once part of the Buddhist Srivijaya Empire but later came under the rule of Ayutthaya and then Bangkok. Chinese and Malaysian influences have played a large part in the cultural makeup of the region; the further south, the stronger the Malaysian influence, with a dialect akin to Malay, a predominance of Muslim communities and mosques. Rice fields give way to rubber plantations, and Chinese tin mining operations become evidence.

The coastline attracts most tourists, though Samui island in the Gulf of Thailand is growing in popularity as a laid-back holiday spot with first class diving opportunities nearby on Tao and Pha-ngan islands.

The Andaman Sea coast offers more sophisticated choices in the island province of Phuket, Thailand’s premier holiday resort. However, the fascinating rock formations and offshore islands at Phang-nga, Krabi and Trang are extremely popular for the diving and sailing opportunities they offer.

The mountains, rivers and forests in the national parks in the interior of the peninsula are also gaining popularity with eco-tourists, as can be seen with the growing numbers of safari expeditions on foot, by elephant and in canoes.

The South of Thailand consists of 14 provinces: Chumphon, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Pattani, Phang-nga, Phatthalung, Phuket, Ranong, Satun, Songkhla, Surat Thani, Trang and Yala.

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THAILAND BEACH DESTINATIONS

• Phuket Beach Guide
• Pattaya Beach Guide
• Hua Hin Beach Guide
• Ko Samui Beach Guide
• Krabi Beach Guide
• Phi Phi Beach

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GOLF IN THAILAND

Whether you looking for Luxury Thailand Golf Tours, Golf Clubs or just Golf Holidays, Thailand has some of the worlds top international courses, designed by some of the world's top international golfers. You will find golf courses in most cities with the best being in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket, and others in Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Khao Yai. Many Thai golfers believe that the best and most convenient golfing can be found in Hua Hin, and being the fabulous holiday beach resort that it is, who can blame them.

The biggest problem that it may not always be convenient to play if your tour is not reserved beforehand, so just arriving and expecting to play may not be as easy as you might have expected. Green fee can range from 500 to 1,000 baht per round over the weekend.

If you are a keen golfer and play in Thailand often, why not apply for a THAIGOLFER CARD, formally known as the THAIGOLFER PRIVILEGE CARD. This is Thailand's premier golf discount card, offering all sorts of benifits as well as some great valuable free gifts. The card will allow you access to some 50 golf courses around Thailand. You can contact me for more information on this.

Golfing in Bangkok

Bangkok in Thailand is one of the world’s top tourist destinations and not only is this vibrant city a shopping paradise and a tourist treasure with more than meets the eye with it's eclectic markets, stunning temples, hotels and accommodations of every kind and size as well as some fine Thai cuisine restaurants and food stalls to choose from. Most tourists who come to this cosmopolitan city do not come home without enjoying a motorized “tuk-tuk” ride, Muay Thai kickboxing, Thai massage, Island hopping or a relaxing round of golf on any number of the top golf courses around the country.

Golfing in Pattaya

Otherwise known as the “Extreme City”, Pattaya is also well documented for its exotic, legendary nightlife, which sets the tone for this city. The “Best Kept Secrets” of Pattaya are the numerous excellent golf courses and Thailand golf packages, which offer an experience that would rival any top European or American destination, and all within a 50 minute drive.

Golfing in Chiang Mai

The City of Chiang Mai offers a wealth of sightseeing attractions and activities from white water rafting to city temple tours to trips to see traditional hill tribes. Along with all this, a wide variety of accommodations and outstanding array of beautiful and challenging Chiang Mai golf courses, that makes it one of Thailand’s prime golfing and tourist destinations.

Golfing in Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and it's glory is in it's magnificent coastline from white sandy beaches to rocky headlands with quiet coves. Phuket is also probably Thailand’s best warm weather golf destination with the number of well maintained golf courses here growing and being constantly upgraded.

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7 WONDERS OF THAILAND

Thainess/ 2. Treasures/ 3. Beaches/ 4. Nature / 5. Wellness/ 6. Trends/ 7. Festivities

1. Thainess: Experience The Art of Grace and Thai Living.
   
   Thainess refers to the traditionally Thai which includes the Thai lifestyle and Thai hospitality serve by the Thai Heart and Thai Smile. Experience the art of Thai living through the types of accommodations, tours, packages and the traditional food at several places in Thailand such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and many more.
   
2. Treasures: The historical gem of Thailand, centuries of heritage and beauties
   
   The historical and the heritage sites are the golden treasure of Thailand. This is the silent speech of the country's background. The sites, activities, food and accommodation based on the old Thailand called "Siam" will be brought to you once you approach its treasure at the places such as Ayutthaya, Sukhothai and Bangkok.
   
3. Beaches: The word’s best beaches for sun, fun, surf and serenity
   
   Thailand is blessed with the natural beauty where it beaches and islands are amongst the most scenic and beautiful in the world. You should not miss the simply stunning - clean sand, clear water, and wonderful scenery of Thai beaches. Imagine the experience of the morning sunrise and the evening sunset along the beach accommodations, tours & packages and attractions at the vaious destinations such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Hua Hin and Pattaya.
   
4. Nature: Encounter The Sheer Beauty of Thai Nature
   
   Nature referring to the encounter of the Sheer Beauty of Thai Nature, amazes you with the greenish beauty of the national parks, the adventure of mountains and the white aqua warming environment of waterfalls. Discover the natural Thailand according to your wish either to be smooth and easy or adventurous through the various types of accommodation, tours & packages and attractions at the places such as Kanchanaburi, Mae Hong Son, Khao Yai, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and many more.
   
5. Wellness: Thailand’s Preventive and Curative Therapy Culture
   
   Thailand considered as the Land of Healthy Smile, introduces you to the miracles of medical procedures and the holistic treatment of mind and soul. The exposure of Health & Wellness includes a wide variety of world renowned day spas, medical spas, clinics and hospitals to choose from. Health and Wellness based accommodation, spa treatment, medical treatment and food will help you to get in touch with inner you at the places such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hua Hin, Koh Samui and Krabi.
   
6. Trends: Excite Yourself With A Myriad of Thai Trends
   
   To excite you with the Myriad Thai Trends, the campaign provides you the choice of the new and trendy boutique hotels, shopping centres, restaurants, nightlife and entertainment because exciting new trends are never in short at Thailand. To provide you with the respective accommodation, tours & packages and attractions, the places such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Hua Hin and many more will suit the best.
   
7. Festivities: Enchant Yourself with International Festivities
   
   With so many reasons year round to celebrate in Thailand, you'll have nothing short of an amazing time at the Kingdom's festivals and special events. Don't miss the Loi Krathong Festival in November, when you can witness small, lit-up, flower-shaped vessels gliding personal blessings across the water under a full moon. December brings an overall festive spirit, with extravagant light displays all over the city as people get ready to countdown to the New Year, followed by the annual Royal Trophy Europe VS Asia Golf Championship for golf lovers all over in early January.

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