Thailand Festivals - The Best Time to Visit Thailand And Enjoy Their Famous Festivals

Thailand is abundant with festivals and quite honestly there is no time of year when you cannot find a festival to enjoy, however here are some of the more popular festivals around Thailand throughout the year.

Beginning the year, the month of January offers the Chiang Mai Winter Fair in Chiang Mai and the River of Kings Festival in Bangkok. The Chiang Mai winter fair offers booths, music, competitions, and even beauty pageants, while the River of Kings festival is a bit more formal with a theatrical production describing the history of Thailand.

February continues the year by offering the Chiang Mai Flower Festival complete with flower covered parade floats and the Bangkok China Town Festival which celebrates the Chinese New Year.

As the peak season begins to wind down, March brings about the Asean Barred Ground Dove Festival where dove owners from around the country gather in Khwan Muang Park, in Yala Province to display their doves and compete for prizes.

April celebrates the Thai New year with the Pattaya Festival, followed by the Songkran Festival which also takes place nationwide but is particularly colorful in Khao San Road, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai.

May is a particularly celebratory month with the Royal Ploughing Ceremony in Bangkok which celebrates the beginning of the rice planning season and the Visakha Bucha, a religious celebration of Buddha celebrated nationwide and the Yasothon Rocket Festival which awards the most explosive rockets. It's an eye and ear opening festival sure to please both young and old alike.

July brings about the well known Candle Festival in Tung Sri Muang, Muang District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. Visitors will find tall, beautiful, candles displayed and presented to local temples.

August celebrates the nationwide Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.

September is the world famous Phuket Vegetarian Festival (famous for the gory displays of people impaled by a variety of objects and not for the faint of heart) and the significantly less gory Phichit Boat Races along the Nan River.

October celebrates the Wax Castle Festival celebrated nationwide but is particularly spectacular in Sakon Nakhon, the Chon Buri Buffalo Races, and the Illuminated Boat Procession Festival along the Mekong River.

November begins the peak travel season by being another celebratory month with the Loy Krathong celebrated Nationwide, the Surin Elephant Roundup, the River Kwai bridge week in Kanchanaburi, and the Phimai Festival.

December ends the year with a nationwide celebration of the King's birthday and the Phuket King's Cup Regatta.

Festivals in Thailand are planned on the lunar calendar. Check for the exact dates of each festival before you make your hotel reservations and travel plans.

Budget Travel in Thailand: Thailand in style as in default and without travel

Thailand was my first tourist destination outside Europe and North America. Based on the sage advice of my Thailand-experienced friends, I was sure that this paradise vacation would be carried out on ridiculous costs. However, back home, I have found out too late, that during my little Thailand adventure I have spent almost the same amount of money as one of my regular surges to Europe. If only I knew that carefully planning your trip to Thailand can manifest itself in huge savings. The following list includes some solid advice that can help those novice Thailand visitors to save significant amounts of cash and still enjoy their vacation:

1. Season choice. Traveling in Thailand Islands during the low season can save you up to 25% of the accommodation costs (up to 25$ per bungalow per night if you choose high standard - not luxury - accommodation). Similar to many other world locations that are based operate seasonally; there is a significant price fluctuation across seasons. Not less important is that fact that the weather in Thailand is quite pleasant even during the low season. The temperatures' difference between the "hot season" and the "peak season" is miniscule, and during the "wet season" one can experience only a mild occasional rain. Therefore, in Thailand one can lower accommodation costs by avoiding the peak season without paying the price of suffering from unbearable cold or coping with endless monsoon.

2. Transportation. Getting from Bangkok to your final destination in one of the Southern Islands by train or bus instead of by plane can save you up to 80$ each way. You can save a bundle if you arrive to Bangkok International Airport in the evening. In this case you save, besides the gap between relatively expensive airfare and train or bus ticket, the first night's accommodation cost as well (40$ - 100$ per bungalow per night in high standard - not luxury - accommodation).

3. Food. In Western style countries, the more you pay for your dinner the better it is, so everyone can make a personal decision about getting an appropriate cost - benefit balance. In Thailand, and especially in the Southern Islands it is much simpler: in most cases, the cheaper the better. Expensive restaurants in Thailand Islands usually specialize on Western food that is neither authentic nor of superior taste; a Standard Dinner costs $ 10 - $ 30 in a restaurant like this is a dinner alternative to a cheap restaurant with plastic chairs cost $ 3 - $ 8, and is usually so pleasant and genuine. My most disappointing Thai dinner was had in a posh restaurant in Bangkok and cost $ 120 for a pair, while my best dinner was served in a cheap family restaurant in Koh Phangan. The owner - a young mother named Mam - prepared the meal for us exactly as we wanted, it would have paid andus with measly 5-6$ per person.

4. Air Conditioning. The presence of air conditioning in your room can make a huge difference in accommodation rates. For example, the same room rates in the same resort can vary from 15$-30$ for a bungalow with a fan to 40$ - 100$ for an air-conditioned bungalow. Although choosing an air-conditioned room during the hot season (such as March - April) is crucial, if you visit Southern Thailand during the rainy season - a bungalow with a fan can both satisfy your needs and cut your expenses in more than a half.

5. Location choice. Similar to the principle held in most places in the world, the accommodation rates in Thailand Islands depend on your location choice. The bungalow in the central beach, close to the airport or seaport full of thriving nightlife will probably be twice as expensive as the same bungalow in a remote quiet beach. However, accessibility is an issue in the Thailand Islands, and the taxi fares and taxi boat fares operate under the same principal as the accommodation rates. So there is a rule you may adopt: if you are looking for social activities and busy nightlife- stay close to the airport or seaport; otherwise make a little effort and move after your arrival to a remote beach. You will save up to 60% on the accommodation rates this way.

6. Communication. It will probably not come as a complete shock, but the use of cellular phone from outside of Thailand could be extremely expensive. To save on communication costs you can either buy a local cellular phone with prepaid SIM card or use the Telephone & Internet centers services. Mind you that the cost of these services may vary. As usual, if you're calling overseas from your resort's office - it will be more expensive than using a call center in the town. The cheapest solution is probably giving your phone number to your friends or relatives overseas since every call center has a Phone numbers that can be used for a callback.

Seventh hearing of the award. In tourist resorts in Thailand is negotiating a necessity or a way of life. Similarly, in the less touristy islands and territories also accept price negotiation. Trial - in Thailand price negotiation is not considered an embarrassing behavior, so you have nothing to lose.

psychology 8. Even though Thailand is perceived in all cheaper than at homecountry, don't be fooled by the seemingly low prices and control your expenses. Buying an enormous amount of inexpensive things can really add up to a surprisingly large sum of money.

During my last visit to Thailand, I followed these guidelines with persistence and I was happy to disclose, that budget travel in Thailand can be more than just an economical issue, it can also be enjoyable. Interestingly enough, in Thailand, the less you spend - the closer you get to the local authentic experience.

Classical Dance Form Of Thailand

Thai people are extremely graceful in their movements and as a result their dances display elegance and fine movements. Traditional classical dancing is mixed with western culture nowadays but the old traditional elegance is still evident in Thai dances.

Thai classical dancing was a symbol which linked earth and god. It is said that they first acquired a dancing group in 1431. Later this dance form underwent a sea of changes and eventually formed a different dance style emerged with typical costumes and masks.

There are folk dances as well as regional dances. The two well known Thai classical dance forms are khon and lakon nai. In the beginning, these forms of dances were enacted specially for entertainment of the court and not for the common people. Later on a dance theater, Likay, another form of dance for the common people was developed which became extremely popular.

Khon and lakon nai are very stylist and strictly in the classical form. Where as the Likay dance form is not as elegant but depends on the common taste of the people and it is performed to humor them in a crude way.

Khon is a masked performance depicting the Thai version of the tales of Indian Ramayana, and lakon nai narrates different legendary stories. Earlier, khon dance was only performed by men and lakon nai was performed by women because of the vital distinction between the two styles. One form needed strength and quick movement and the other form required grace and restricted movement. Though, this rule is not maintained strictly in modern times.

Holidaying in Thailand

Thailand shares its borders with Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Malaysia. It presents ample opportunities to discover to the tourist. One can travel and explore the country by any means sea, air or road, whichever means suit the traveler's pocket. Thailand is divided into four key regions, namely North, Central Plain or the Chao Phraya River Basin, North East (Korat Plateau) and South or Southern Peninsula. Thailand holidays are synonymous with complete freedom to live, learn and enjoy. So in Thailand you actually enjoy like a free bird. When a person comes to this beautiful country for a vacation, he can expect to see plethora of breathtaking sights and spots to behold such as the country's beaches, culture, and heritage areas. Well-known for its out of this world natural beauty, stirring temples, and the finest beaches of the world, Thailand is one of the best, most economical places for a seaside vacation. Thailand's beaches and islands offer a mixture of thrill, unusual locales, recreation, entertainment and leisure that one longs for. From Stupa-studded Mountains of Mae Hong Son to the limestone islands of the Andaman Sea, from dance clubs of Bangkok to the tranquil villages, Thailand has enough to offer to every type of traveler.

A bountiful land replete with green rice paddy field, heritage palaces and well known temples, modern Thailand may come as a nice surprise for the international traveler. Thailand presents traditional architecture with a picturesque backdrop of beaches and islands. It has shop-till-you-drop kind of extravagant and budget malls and shopping centers. It offers amazing variety of local foods and gourmet cuisine. Exotic hills, tribe villages, age old ruins for the touch with history, it has everything what a traveler can ask for.

Air travel to Thailand is the chosen mode for most travelers with majority opting to arrive through Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport, connected by daily flights to almost all-major airlines. Trains links are also present between Singapore and Bangkok with intermediary stops at Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth and major southern Thai towns.

Phuket, Koh Samui, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Chang and Koh Samet are favorite stops in this rich and vibrant country. Accessible by boat, places such as Krabi, Koh Libong, Koh Hai offer beautiful landscape for photographic memoirs of Thailand as a tour destination. Pattaya and Bangkok are famous for local and international products like hand-embroidered/woven fabrics, decoration pieces, jewelry, house hold items, souvenirs, exotic foods etc.

Thailand Vacations - Etiquette While Traveling in the Kingdom

Thailand vacations can be exotic, beautiful, sunny, unique and very rewarding. To get the most out of your vacation, learn about the customs and traditions that are expected of visitors and tourists to Thailand. With these tips can help you become one of their beloved guests. Reading through this list will help you understand the proper ways to conduct yourself in frequent situations. This will help you show respect for the people and their country. These basic principles will also keep you from unintentionally offending your gracious hosts.

Thailand Vacations Can Be More Than Just a Party
Thailand can be a truly unique and rewarding cultural experience. And it can be a great party. With relatively cheap prices, warm weather and friendly people, some places in Thailand has become overwhelmed with partygoers. Our recommendation is to have fun, party some, but consider what you will be missing if that is all you do. Also consider that this is the ancient home of your hosts.

Greeting people in Thailand with the Wai
One very important custom that is used in Thailand is the Wai. This is the accepted way of greeting others throughout the country. The Wai is performed by placing your palms together and letting your fingers point upward (in a prayer position). When you do this you also bend your head at the neck, to show respect to the people that you are meeting. Thai natives will appreciate your using the Wai while visiting with them because it is their tradition and accepted way of greeting another person. Every person in Thailand is familiar with this type of greeting, and will immediately respond in kind to this gentle and polite gesture. They will also be happy and flattered that you are showing honor by using the Wai while in their country.

Graeng Jai ... The Polite Thai Art of Refusal
Graeng Jai is a somewhat difficult concept to understand, as there is no good word or phrase in English. One you think you have it translated, Graeng Jai comes up in different forms. Some attempts at translation are, "don't want to impose on others", "over-polite", "don't want to say what you are really thinking", and "fear of disrespecting authority," "high respect for authority, elders or parents." While frustrating at times, it has a very important role in the culture.

Throughout Thailand whenever you are invited to join someone for dinner at their baan (house), turning down the offer is a gesture of graeng jai. To do this signifies is that you are being considerate, and not rude. To refuse the gesture means that you are trying not to cause anyone any extra bother or inconvenience. This term is actually used quite commonly for any occasion where refusal of different invitations is seen as being respectful of others. It is an old Thai tradition and a means of saving face. While offering to share meals or money with another person is standard, there may not be anything much to share. When the person refuses there is no embarrassment to anyone on either side. If the person really wants to share something with you and it is not an imposition, the request will be emphatically repeated, at which time you can accept with a clear conscience and good manners.

Respect Thai Customs
Thailand does have a long list of "must do" and "don't dare" actions. The Thai people are very gracious and hospitable so they won't get mad if you do not observe all of their traditional rules and customs, but it is a good idea for any traveler to be familiar with as many of these as possible. You would appreciate visitors to your own country showing the same respect for your own customs.

Inappropriate Dress In Thailand
Improper attire is one thing that Thai people frown upon. However, because of their graciousness and Graeng Jai, they may not say anything to you. So it is up to you to learn about it before you go and observe what others are doing. Some of the younger citizens are not as strict about dress codes, but the older people are. A general rule is to not bare shoulders or go shirtless in Thailand public places. On the beach, of course, it is no problem. But elsewhere, more traditional clothing is appreciated. Just remember to follow the "not too" reminders when it comes to your dress choices. Not too small, not too tight, not too skimpy and not too revealing.

Thailand's Spiritual Leanings...Buddhism
Buddhism is a very important part of Thailand life and culture and you should also respect their religious and spiritual beliefs while you visit. This belief and faith is shown in many ways. In Thai families when a son reaches the age of around 20 he will actually spend a short time as a monk. This is because it is believed that this action will send the mother and father to a heavenly destination when they die. Becoming a monk for any amount of time is one of the ways that these young men are able to demonstrate their faith in their spiritual beliefs. The temples are very holy structures to Buddhist believers.

Always show respect to any statue depicting Buddha, which means no climbing on them, no sitting beside them for a photo-op, and never put a Buddha figure on the floor.

Temple Traditions and Etiquette
In a temple setting rules and tradition are very strict. Your clothing must be acceptable in order to enter the temple. Modest dress choices are your best bet. There are usually sarongs available at all temples that can be worn by both men and women if your clothing is not accepted or is questionable.

Shoes come off before ever entering a temple. Some times you may see a man at temple wearing a tank tee and shorts, but this is taboo for a woman at the temple. Whether kneeling or sitting in a temple you must not let the soles of your feet face toward the altar. Women are not to touch or hand any objects to a monk at any time. If you need to return something to a monk you should place it on a nearby table where he can then retrieve it. Some monks have a more liberal viewpoint on this and have no problem with touching a woman's wrist to tie a string around it or a gentle touch on the shoulder. But always follow the monks lead.

Be respectful of The King and the Royal Family
In addition to respecting the Buddhist customs, travelers should understand the respect Thai's have for King Phumipon Adunyadet and the Thai Royal family. Remember to not make any disparaging or sarcastic comment about the king and his family. Not only would Thai's be deeply offended and outraged, it is illegal and carries consequences. This might seem outrageous to people who come from countries where they are free to criticize their leaders, however, it is not wise to challenge it (at least within Thailand). For the most part, this law is well-accepted and welcomed by Thais themselves, which suggests the enormous respect they have for their King. Their King and Queen have helped the country prosper and have been instrumental in converting opium production to organic farming, they have gracefully brought Thailand into the modern age while maintaining much of the old tradition, and are generally considered benevolent.

Basic Etiquette in Everyday Situations
If you are entering a Thai home please remember to remove your shoes first, this is their tradition. You may even be asked to do this in public restaurants, shops and stores. It's fun to do and you may want to continue this at your own home. Pointing with fingers and hands is considered rude behavior by Thai people. If you are sitting or kneeling across from others do not let the soles of your feet face them, as this is also considered rude and insulting. Never point at anything or any person with your foot when you are in Thailand. This is considered extremely rude because they consider the feet to be the lowest part of the body. To use them to indicate something is insulting to them. Refrain from touching someone else's head, even if it is only to remove a leaf or smooth their hair. Thais consider the head to be the highest and most respected part of the body. It is considered to be very rude for someone else to touch their head. Public displays of any affection are also extremely rude. Refraining from public shows of kisses or hugs is much appreciated.

Be Observant!
There are so many new sights, sounds and smells in Thailand. When arriving, you will probably be on sensory overload. But as you senses become more accustomed to your surroundings, observe what people are doing and how they are acting. As crazy as it sounds, try to fit in instead of stand out. Observe your body language, your voice volume levels, your group size, your presence. Then compare it with others around you - Thai and foreigners in your group. See if you can start to melt into the madness. Don't think of it as constricting - think of it as a gentle learning with Thailand as your teacher.

Bangsaen - A Great Place to Rent-Buy a Vacation Home in Thailand

To accommodate the increasing amounts of visitors, several new exclusive housing estates have been built in Bangsaen. Cutting edge interior design, landscaped gardens and swimming pools definitely put these properties in the luxury category. For the most part, they are located just a 5 or 10 minute walk from the beach - some are actually right on the beach-front.

The owners of these homes tend not to live in them for most of the year though, as they have jobs to do and responsibilities to uphold elsewhere. It is therefore common for them to rent out their property to tourists. This gives you an opportunity to stay in a luxury home during your stay in Thailand.

How much you end up paying to temporarily rent a luxury home in Bangsaen depends on the type of property that you opt for. You will pay a fraction of the price for a beach-side property in Bangsaen compared to how much a similar property would cost in your home country. Prices start at around $100 a week for a modern 4 bedroom home, which is a great deal. The longer you stay, the cheaper the price becomes.

Try some Google image searches for 'Bangsaen' and 'Bangsaen Beach' and you will see from the results what a great opportunity this is. With Bangsaen, and Thailand as a whole, becoming more popular year on year, prices will not stay this affordable for long - now is the time to get involved. Consider making a down-payment on your own property there if you have any spare funds available. It would be a good long-term investment.

Whether looking to buy or rent a home, there are several Bangsaen real estate firms that can help you. Contact them, tell them what type of property you are looking for, and what your budget is, and they will show you a range of first class properties from their portfolio. Most of them have websites too, so you can browse all of their available properties at your leisure.

Fruits From Thailand

It is said that Thailand is a real paradise for fruit lovers and one can find an incredible variety of fruits all over Thailand. Thailand is abundant in fruits and it serves as one of the most important revenue generators for the country. A great number of fruits can be easily found at the numerous fruit shops, supermarkets and market places. The fruits that are available here are much cheaper when compared to other countries. Sometimes fruit sellers end up offering tourists fruits to taste for free. This practice is more prevalent on beaches where the tourists spend most of their holidays.

Traditionally, the Thais finish a meal with fruits. Sweeter Thai desserts are kept for snacking in between meals. A Thai breakfast normally comprises of variety of fresh fruits and traditional sweets. Besides being delicious and healthy, eating fresh fruits after a Thai meal is sure way of putting off the burning sensation in the mouth after eating spicy Thai food.

In Thailand, fruits are generally sweet including those which are suppose to be sour. One of the best fruit producing places in Thailand is Phuket Island. It is noted for its pineapple. Pineapples grown here are famous throughout Thailand and are particularly sweet and crunchy. They are also a major export product. Fruits like Rambutan, Bananas, Papaya, Durian, Guava and Mangoes are also grown in Thailand. Recently, several temperate fruits like Apples, Strawberries and Peaches are being grown successfully in the mountain areas of Thailand. The farmers always concentrate on growing more fruits using new methods of cultivation. This ensures that Thailand never faces a shortage of fruits in any season of the year.

Exotic and Amazing Golf in Thailand

Over 260 golf courses, white sand beaches, tropical weather and friendly people make for an ideal golf vacation. Thailand golf holidays also promise a great value, top playing conditions, fascinating culture and awesome service. This golf in Asia paradise is growing in popularity, particularly with golfers and couples looking for an exotic golf location. The green fees are inexpensive from a western perspective. There is a wide range of courses, accommodations, Destinations, tours and historical attractions. The currency is the Thai baht and there are golf courses in all major tourist destinations. Golfers will find top class golf courses in Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi (River Kwai) and Samui.

The golf courses ranging from the layout for the PGA Championship courses for the local Thai government and military leaders. Every golf club has a clubhouse that serves a variety of Thai andwestern food. Caddies are included at all golf courses in Thailand and this makes for a fun way to enjoy golfing in Thailand. For the more adventurous, golf side trips to Vietnam and Cambodia are easily arranged from Thailand and these make excellent get-away golf vacation destinations. The capital city of Bangkok Thailand has over 60 golf courses to choose from. This makes Bangkok the usual first stop on most Thailand golf tours. In addition to golfing, there are numerous sights, markets, entertainment, and spas. It is an exciting blend of modern golf in a major capital city. Nightclubs, entertainment and restaurants give the city its after golf vibrancy.

The most popular golf courses are Thai Country Club, Alpine Golf Club, Navatanee Golf Club, and Royal Gems Golf Resort. Suwan Golf Club is a new course that rivals the others mentioned. Beach golf resorts entice many visitors, particularly Phuket, Hua Hin, and Pattaya. They caters to the golf holidaymakers tourists with numerous championship golf courses, hotels of all standards, shopping outlets and nightlife. Pattaya is also famous for its numerous go go bars and therefore appeals mostly to single golfers. Phuket and Hua Hin are more scenic and tranquil, thus attracts golf visitors who prefer more luxurious golf holidays. Thailand golf holidays can also appeal to non-golfers. Golf resorts which have on site spa and massage centers make for good choices for mixed groups of golfers and non-golfers.

Also resorts with water sports are well liked by golfers. Other activities such as elephant trekking, scuba diving, rafting, and Thai cooking are all very popular. The largest island in Thailand is Phuket and it is a center for golfers from around the world. Phuket Town is the largest town and a great place to shop. There are market stalls, department stores, shopping malls and outlets for golf equipment, antiques, and crafts. As usual on Thailand golf holidays, there are some premier golf courses like Blue Canyon, Mission Hills, and Red Mountain on the island.

The Bridge Over The River Kwai In Thailand

One of the most famous tourist spots in Thailand is the Bridge over the river Kwai. This famous bridge is about four kilometers from Kanchanaburi, across the river Kwai. A great tragedy occurred during the construction of this famous bridge. It was constructed by prisoners of war who were captured by the Japanese during World War II. It is believed that during the construction of bridge, 16,000 war prisoners and 49,000 forcibly employed laborers died.

The construction started in October 1942. During the construction of the bridge, there were no sophisticated machines to aid the construction. The workers building the bridge used dynamite to break rocks and boulders leading to accidental deaths of many. Once the bridge was built, the railway played a major role in opening the area for cultivation. Before the bridge was constructed the area was a forest and people were afraid to enter it.

However, today the bridge is a famous tourist spot. There are many places to look around and enjoy a day around river Kwai. In Tambon Tha Sao, a place near river Kwai, visitors can hire a boat which can carry a maximum of 10 to 12 to visit the Lawa Cave and Sai Yok Yai Waterfall. The trip takes a total of 4 hours to go and return and is well worth the time spent traveling.

There is also a war museum located near the river Kwai bridge. The museum houses a collection of weapons, tools, and utensils used by the prisoners of war and the Japanese army during The bridge and the second world war.

Teachers' Day in Thailand

Since 1957, Thailand has been celebrating the Teachers' Day to honor educators and facilitators of learning across the country. Every year on January 16, Teachers' Day is celebrated across Thailand.

In 1956, the Prime Minister of Thailand, Field Marshal P. Pibulsongkram, was also the Honorary Chairman of Board of Directors of the Teachers' Council. He addressed the teachers throughout the country, he said that the teachers play a dominant role in molding a student's life and therefore, students should love and respect their teachers. And he also suggested that the teachers should have a day of their own and it should be used as an opportunity by the students to pay respect and homage to their teachers.

It was Field Marshal P. Pibulsongkram who started the concept of Teachers' Day in Thailand. He felt that the Thai people celebrated many auspicious days to pay tribute to their living and dead relatives. However, there was no day set aside for teachers who were paid the same respect as parents.

After this speech, many teachers agreed with what Field Marshal P. Pibulsongkram had to say. They felt that a day should be set aside when they are remembered and honored for their role in building and making wise and responsible citizens. Thus, the same year, that is 1956, the Teachers' Council unanimously agreed to set up Teachers' Day and the cabinet passed a resolution announcing January 16 as Teachers' Day. The first Teachers' Day in Thailand was celebrated in 1957 and it was declared as a national holiday in Thailand. On this day students perform religious activities and wish happiness to their teachers for the rest of the year.

As per Buddhist traditions, teachers are as important as parents, if not more. Teachers' Day is used as an opportunity to reinforce this and show gratitude to teachers for their work and teachings.

Wat Pho Temple In Thailand

Wat Pho is also known as the temple of the Reclining Buddha and is located at Phra Nakhon district in Thailand. The temple was built as a restoration of an earlier temple in the exact same place. Actually, the temple construction started in 1788 and was restored in 1824. The Wat Pho was recently restored in 1982 to recapture the old magnificance and grandeur.

The Wat Pho is one of the largest temples in Thailand. It covers an area of 80,000 square feet. Wat Pho houses more than one thousand Buddha images and one of them is the image of the Reclining Buddha. This image is forty six metres long and fifteen metres in height. The body of the image is covered with gold plated sheet and the eyes are made from pearls. The feet of the Reclining Buddha are decorated with 108 auspicious scenes in Chinese and Indian styles.

Prior to the founding of the temple, the place was the center for traditional Thai medicine. There are still still images housed within the temple depicting various yoga positions. The temple is also known as the birth place of traditional Thai massage. In 1962 a school for traditional medicine and massage was also established within the precinct of the temple.

The temple is divided into two blocks by a road that runs from east to west. The first block is where one would find the Reclining Buddha and the second block serves as the residence for monks and it houses the school for the traditional Thai medicine and massage.

How Living in Thailand Can Help You Reduce the Stress of Everyday Life

Here's a really good reason you should travel or live in Thailand - it's a great place to help you reduce everyday stress and truly live life to the fullest! (Probably why so many folks take vacations there, right?) Let me explain...

Before I do though let me say that it's still very possible to get 'stressed out' in Thailand. After all, Thailand is such a different world to most other western countries, and sometimes the culture shock can be too much to handle. Nonetheless, if you're kind of stressed, it's a good place to feel better fast. Here's how.

One of the first things to do is get yourself a genuine Thai massage regularly. Honestly, one or two of these a day keeps your body relaxed and calms your mind. You'll feel much more alive and able to deal with challenges in a similar way that meditation works. Thai massage not just feels great, but gives you time to ponder and think about stuff too!

Another thing that'll help you feel more relaxed is to just immerse yourself in the Thai lifestyle. You'd be surprised to know how 'laid back' and relaxed the Thai people can be. It's not just a Thai smile thing - the whole 'lifestyle' has a relaxed feel that permutes it. You'll find your seriousness will soon evolve into something that's a lot more light hearted. And everything will still be OK!

And lastly, it's hard to be stressed out over money in Thailand, because the cost of living is so low! Having said that, it's human, and it does happen. But it costs you so little (compared to USA/UK etc) to buy food, drink and enjoy a great lifestyle that it's difficult to let this stress you out. So, see you in Thailand then?

Things you should know before going to Thailand

Thailand has three seasons basically:

November-February = Hot.

March -May = Hot and humid.

June-October = Hot and Wet (rain season)

Whenever you go it will be hot. Be sure to pack light weight cotton shirts, shorts and sandals if you wear them. Thailand can be mostly a casual affair but if you are going to temples or to the palace you need to dress appropriately. Men, no shorts and long sleeves are preferred. Ladies, no shorts, short skirts or halter tops. If you will be in Thailand for a few weeks you'll notice a need for a few showers a day (it can be that hot) Which means going through some clothes. Around every corner is a Thai Laundry which will take care of your clothes for you and at bargain prices. The hotels offer the same service but at much higher rates and usually they take them around the corner to the same shop! You'll also find many markets selling clothes cheaply so don't over pack...save the room for the trinkets you'll be bringing back.

As far as toiletries go you can find everything you need in Thailand cheaply. So, unless you have a favorite you can't live without you can get all your supplies at stores like 7/11, Carefour and or Tesco. No need to add all the extra weight and buy new toiletries for the trip when you can get it there and much cheaper.

Being a hot climate you'll find yourself drinking more water than usual probably. DO NOT drink the tap water. Brushing your teeth and rinsing is fine as well as ice cubes in shops and restaurants. Even the Thais drink bottled water for the most part and it can be had very cheaply, especially the Thai brands.

Food is everywhere and in the tourist areas you can get anything and everything, from Lasagna to Lobster Thermador and all the fast food you could possibly want. Then there is the overwhelming amount of different Thai foods and fruits. If you've come this far for the experience then don't let the Thai food pass you by as it is the best on earth bar none and it is good for you for the most part. Don't be afraid to try different things and don't worry that it might not sit well, you'll never know till you try. Not all Thai food is spicy but you can ask to have dishes prepared less spicy.

Toilets I've covered before in "The Art of Using a Thai Toilet" . If you are mainly in the tourist areas you probably will only run into western style toilets but be prepared for a few things. Number one the bathroom might not have toilet paper and you'll see a hose next to the toilet with a rinser on the end like you have on your kitchen sink. This is used to clean yourself and it works quite well. Might want to carry around some napkins or tissue until you get the lay of the land. You will often see signs when toilet paper is available stating not to flush the paper but instead deposit it in the pail or can provided. Please do as the sign says. Thailand's sewer system can't handle it and it can cause problems quickly. Besides if you use the rinsing hose then the paper is essentially clean anyway.

The outside world is easy to get in touch with as there are internet shops everywhere as well as phone shops to place overseas calls. Most hotels also offer these services but also charge much more for them. If you have a cell phone that uses a sim card you can get it unlocked at many different shops, then you can buy a Thai sim card and call home. Ask the person who unlocked it to set it up for you and the calls home will be cheap! When you get home swap out the sim card to your old one and you're set...and a perk is you're phone will now work on any network.

These are just a few things to consider if your are going on your first trip. Don't sweat the small things because in Thailand you will be able to find most of the things you can find at home, only cheaper.

I'll be adding a series of articles in this area. In the next few rounds of this type of article I'll let you know about getting around town, hotels, markets and nightlife. It would probably be a good idea to touch on the different tourist scams as well...forewarned is forearmed.

Water Sports Holidays In Thailand

You get treasures of ethnic, scenic, gastronomic, and oceanic pleasures in Siam. Thailand certainly is the fascinating and exotic land of lovely people known for their fantastic culture, cuisine, and overall lifestyle. The land, of course, is well known for its beautiful beaches and pelagic pleasures. It is a wonderful destination for water sports in Southeast Asia.

Thailand definitely is the best pick, if you are looking to have fun & adventure packed water sports holidays. You can really have great holiday, beaching, playing beach volleyball & other beach sports, and enjoying numerous water sports activities, such as swimming, rafting, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and scuba diving in Thailand. Some famous destinations for water sports destinations in Thailand are - Mae Hong Son, Hua Hin, Phuket, Chumpon, Ko Chang, and Koh Tao.

Mae Hong Son, located near the border of Myanmar along the banks of the river Pai, is a wonderful town in the North West Thailand. The town offers you a nice opportunity to enjoy rafting the Pai River. You can join one of the rafting expeditions that are commonly organized in the heart of Mae Hong Son. Mae Hong Son can be accessed by car or bus from Chiang Mai via the Mae Hong Son loop. The town is also served by the Mae Hong Son Airport.

Hua Hin, in the northern part of the Malay Peninsula, some 200 km south of Bangkok, is a celebrated beach resort town in Thailand. It is best known for kitesurfing. You can hire your kitesurfing equipment, have kitesurfing instructions from experts, and enjoy kitesurfing. You can also joint kitesurfing lessons & courses for beginners. You can also enjoy numerous other beach and water sport on the beach resort, with an area around 86.36 km². You can also enjoy swimming, windsurfing, wave surfing, and rowing.

Phuket, the largest island and the southern province of Thailand, is best known for its beaches. It is popular destinations for beach & water sports. You can enjoy numerous beach & water sports activities, such as swimming, kitesurfing, yachting, windsurfing, wave surfing, rowing, snorkeling, diving, scuba diving, etc. in Phuket. Famous Phuket beaches include Bang Tao, Surin Beach, Laem Singh Beach, Kamala Beach, Patong Beach, Karon Beach, Kata Yai Beach, Kata Noi Beach, Ao Chalong, and Rawai Beach.

Chumphon or Chumpon, the capital of the Chumphon Province at the shore of the Gulf of Thailand, is a fantastic town in southern Thailand. Located about 463 kilometers away from Bangkok, Chumpon is famous for kitesurfing or kiteboarding, and other water sports activities. You can enjoy numerous beach & water sports activities, such as swimming, windsurfing, wave surfing, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and rowing. The town can be accessed by bus or by ferries.

Ko Chang, located on the Thai east coast 310 km away from Bangkok near the border to Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand, is the second largest island of Thailand. It is famous for sailing and scuba diving. However, you can also enjoy several other beach & water sports activities, such as swimming, windsurfing, wave surfing, snorkeling, diving, and rowing in Ko Chang. The island can be accessed by ferries operating from Laem Ngop.

Ko Tao, an island located near the eastern shore of the Gulf of Thailand, is widely famous for scuba diving. Diving in Ko Tao is easy and full of fun. Often, you have encounters with turtles, stingrays, barracudas, lots of small fish, and reef sharks. The island is a great place for divers. It is a great place to learn diving, as there are hardly any currents. You can also enjoy several other water related activities, such as wake boarding, water skiing, sumo tube, wind surfing, and sailing. Ko Tao can be accessed catching ferries from Surat Thani, or Ko Samui, or Ko Pha Ngan.

Thailand - The Land Of Smiles

Thailand is the most well-liked tourist destination in South-East Asia and has been for decades. This is because the climate varies throughout the year from hot to cool and even cold, if you want to look for it; Thai food is world-famous; the assortment of wildlife is broad as is the flora; the diving is fantastic and the people are friendly and hospitable. Thailand is not called the Land of Smiles for no reason.

There are also a great deal of festivals, some of which are religious, which means Buddhist, and others are not. Thailand has been Buddhist ever since the country came into being in the Thirteen Century, but the people were Buddhist long before that. Or at least the majority of them were. There were also throw-backs to older religions the same as in the West.

In the West Christmas and Easter were moved to mask out pagan festivals, but in Thailand they just have the old festivals too. One of the biggest festivals is Loy Krathong in November (the first full moon in the twelfth lunar month). Loy Krathong is a delightful festival to appease the goddess or water, Ganga, for using and abusing (polluting) her.

Nowadays, people still remember the old meaning of Loy Krathong ('Floating Boats'), but it has been taken adopted by lovers too. People float symbolic boats out onto the water and ask the goddess to pardon them and to grant a wish. Lovers send their boats out together and numerous people believe that if the boats, krathong, float out side-by-side then they will have a trouble-free year together.

Numerous women don traditional Thai costumes for the evening, especially if they are going out for a meal or to a party. Some men do too, but not so many.

Also in November is the world-famous Elephant roundup in Surin. The elephant roundup is also well-liked with foreigners and Thais alike. The city of Surin is full on this weekend so if you would like to go it is worth booking your hotel with your travel ticket otherwise you might be stranded. Not that it is cold or likely to rain.

Bridge Over the River Kwae week is in November. The bridge is a moving reminder of the horror that prisoners of war from all around the world underwent at the hands of the Japanese overlords at the time. More Thais died than foreigners although Thailand was considered 'friendly' by the occupying Japanese.

In December it is the King's birthday and Fathers' Day on the 5th. The king is very extremely well esteemed in Thailand and many people will light candles in their garden on the roadside to the king in the early evening. This is a very pretty sight, especially in the villages where street lighting is normally negligible. Constitution Day is on the 10th and is a bank holiday, which usually means a party.

Christmas is celebrated in the cities by tourists, ex-pats and young Thais although it has no real religious significance outside the Christian churches in the larger cities.

New Year's Day is huge. There are parties that will last all night, dancing, feasting and fireworks.

Thailand is a wonderful place to come to in November and December and although it is thought of as high season, I am sure that you will find it cheaper to come on vacation to Thailand - The Land of Smiles - than it is to stay at home in the cold.

Thailand Travel - 2010 Monthly Events June Through October

Each month in Thailand is celebrated with fun events and activities. No matter which month you decide to take your vacation, you will have lots of fun stuff to choose from. This area is great for families, couples, and even singles.

The entire month of June is celebrated with the Thailand Tourism Festival, known as TTF. This event is free to everyone and is the country's biggest travel and tourism event. This celebration includes a enormous range of activities to encourage the upholding of Thai culture, traditions and native way of life.

June 12th through 14th Hua Hin Annual jazz festival. Music lovers can hear some of the top bands from around the country. June 25th to 27th is the Phi Ta Khon Festival, a fun time about the local Isan belief in ghosts and spirits. Sounds spooky but it's lots of fun for everyone! There are reenactments, costumes, and more!

July is the Hua Hin Regatta for the water sport lovers, the Exotic Orchid Show for the nature lovers, and the Pattaya International Marathon. July is a busy month packed full of sport options.

August will be the host of the 12th Annual Watch Fair, the Seventh Annual Bhumibol Dam International Mountain Bike Championship, and will kick of the Amazing Grand Sale. The Amazing Grand Sale extends into August and is the place to go for those who love to shop.

Movie lovers can experience the 8th Annual Bangkok Film Festival in September, as well as the International Swan Boat Races. You should note that the Watch Fair also extends into this month.

October is a busy month with Buffalo Racing. Many people don't realize that buffalo can sprint and are quite surprises! October also hosts the Tak Bat Devo Festival that holds a Buddhist atmosphere, and the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. At the Phuket Vegetarian Festival you can experience cuisine like you have never tasted before!

Just as any time of the year, June through October is packed full of celebrations, parties, and festivities. There will be events for the entire family to enjoy, and also for those travel on their own.

Thailand - A paradise on earth to do

Destinations demonstrate experience only a few are so different and refreshing Thailand can do. Thailand is a tropical paradise in every definition and voted one of the performance of tourist destinations in the world. Visit Thailand to experience the best of both rural and urban areas can offer. Phuket is Thailand's most popular tourist destination, Paradise Beach is full of tourists all year round. Visitors can indulge invarious activities such as beach diving, snorkeling, parasailing and boating. Life in the sapphire blue waters of Phuket looks like a colorful eco-system is a visual delight for tourists.

This is an amazing experience swimming with schools of small fish. In addition to aquatic life interesting, you can also take a boat to slow down the water, rock formations sail across the calm waters in between. The monsoon season brings to the beaches of Phuket, most exciting waves that hit its shores usually quiet, this is the season for surfing and fun in the sand. Asian surf competitions are now very popular here, as well as the annual music festival.

Therapeutic Spa Entrapment Tom Yum Soup

The smartest and most popular attraction in the tourism sector is the Thai Spa Thai. Thai massages are now famous for its calming and therapeutic. While on vacation inThailand, Thai massage is lacking experience, you should rely. Known in Thailand as "Nuat Phaeno Boran" This is a branch of traditional Thai medicine. Take a series of facial treatments from a full treatment of the body next to the quiet nature landscape of Thailand. Thailand is also a place of ancient architectural wonders. The levels of these islands are ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples covered. These sites were characterized by high magnificence ofWorld Heritage Site, is hosting the accuracy and the skill of ancient sculptors.

the best aspects of a visit to Thailand, the experience of Thai cuisine. Sparkling seductive flavors you would expect the language on a silver platter the taste lingers on the tongue for life. The best hotels in Thailand are known for their restaurants, exquisite experience, apart from the hospitality. The kitchen is known for its mix of flavors ranging from spicy to sweet and the knownstrong taste of coconut. Most popular dishes are their sauce, pasta, rice, soups, Thai Tom Yam the most popular and a number of basic concepts of fish. Most Thai dishes are cooked in a mixture of herbs and sauces. exotic fruit desserts are prepared with locally available such as mangosteen, jackfruit, durian and chestnuts.

Teachers Day in Thailand '

Since 1957, Thailand celebrates Teachers' Day in honor of the country's educators and facilitators of learning about. Each year, the 16 'Day is celebrated teacher in Thailand in January.

In 1956, Prime Minister of Thailand, Field Marshal P. Pibulsongkram was also the honorary chairman of the Board of Directors of the Teachers' Council. He turned to teachers around the country, said that teachers play a dominant role in the formation of astudent life and, therefore, students should love and respect their teachers. It also suggested that teachers should be one day have their own and should be used as an opportunity for students to pay respect and homage to their teachers.

It was Marshall P. Pibulsongkram Thailand that started the concept of Teachers' Day in felt that the Thai people celebrated many happy days of their dead relatives living and to pay honor. However, there has never been a daySet aside the teachers who have the same respect as their parents were paid.

After this speech, many teachers agree with what he had to say to Marshal P. Pibulsongkram. They believe that, apart from a day on which they are remembered and honored for their role in the development and manufacture of intelligent and responsible citizens. Thus, in the same year, in 1956, the Teachers' Council unanimously approved Teachers' Day and the Cabinet adopted a resolution announcing the 16th January as Teachers Day '. The firstTeachers' Day was celebrated in Thailand in 1957 and was declared a national holiday in this day, students perform religious activities and good luck with their teachers for the rest of the year.

How to Buddhist tradition, teachers are as important as the parents, if not more. Teachers' Day used as an opportunity to strengthen this and show appreciation to teachers for their work and teaching.

Cheap accommodation in Pattaya, Thailand

When is the best time has come to Pattaya on holiday?

Pattaya offers something for everyone at anytime of the year. Most of the people from the West, Europe and North America tend to stay in Pattaya will make the months of November to end February March (high season). The weather is usually cool and sunny. The beaches are full as are the bars and everyone is a good time with hoteliers and property of tenants.

If you come on holiday in Pattaya, let's face it.This is a vacation cheap compared to those living and the weather warm and welcoming people.

But you have to observe the holiday would be cheaper if you come in low season? More than you have fun?

Consider for a moment, which is cheaper and the savings can be done. The cost of the flight of at least 15% less in low season.

Hotel accommodation. Other major savings to be made. In low season it is not uncommon for hotels, the rooms overlook40% below the rate of high season.

The apartment owners to reduce rents in Pattaya there is too much compared to rental rates in high season. An example: View Talay In the fifth season, the average rent among the 19,000 baht to 35,000 baht so high for a studio 48sqm. There are a lot of money! In low season you can rent in View Talay 5 of 14,000 baht with sea views. I do not say the% of savings, as I sure you can see, am.

Second point of view Talay HighRental Season: 15000-28000 baht for a studio room 37sqm.

Low season, 8000-14000 baht in abundance between these prices

Another thing! When renting a lot more for your apartment or villa you want. Unlike the high season. If you have not booked your holiday home by the end of August, you also have problems, what you want and pay the price you're looking for.

So when Thailand is the best time to go on holiday to Pattaya?

NowDates are worth considering. April. Ok it's hot, but you have to cool the water Songkran Festival for you. If you have never Songkran in Pattaya before has any experience, you must come, even if only once in a lifetime. Oops! I am very, very wet! The prices may remain high this month, as everyone tries to take advantage before the season is right.

May, June and July, some are too hot for someone on holiday in Pattaya. In mid-July to late October is good. Time isnot so hot. In fact, his neighbor in the same season. Yes, it will rain, as in this time of year is the monsoon season in Thailand. MA. Pattaya is not like the rest of Thailand. There is no rain for weeks can every other day for a few hours, things cool down. Then it can take weeks to get any rain. Remember, it can be to mix in high season!

If you go on holiday in Pattaya between the months of July to the end of Octoberfind the following.

Low cost air fairs.

A crowded quiet beaches.

People are happy to see you.

Discounted prices on all forms of entertainment.

Cheaper hotel room in Pattaya.

Cheap apartments in Pattaya.

A better selection of everything on offer and at a price cheaper than the high season.

So if you want to save money and still should be considered a dream vacation then come to Pattaya in low season.

The top 5 ways to holiday in Thailand!

Thailand is gradually becoming a tourist port. Some of the most important ways of vacation in Thailand:

1) Phuket: one is the best spot tourist attractions in Thailand. Phuket Phuket offers beautiful tropical place with a culture and a variety of impressive. You will be able to enjoy the various activities that make your life a ski holiday in the best No matter how long you have planned forTheir tour vacation, you are strongly advised to visit Iceland Phuket.

2) Bangkok: A visit to Bangkok is a must to enjoy the holiday at his best for the tour. The market capital of Thailand is known as one of the best Asian shops. You'll see everything here while you shop amulet market. There are many shopping malls in Thailand now, offers everything for the traveler who seeks to be like them.

3) Sukhothai: Sukhothai is athe most popular places for travelers and explorers. Sukhothai is a historical city which offers a high level of Thai history as the first was the capital of Thailand for about eight centuries. Sukhothai Historical Park is a place for visitors from around the world.

4) CRABIERES: CRABIERES are the big attraction of the limestone cliffs, the shell cemetery, beautiful beaches and a variety of water sports like snorkeling, diving, scuba diving and paragliding. EachCRABIERES part of the province is special and can explore much about their culture and society of Thailand, while enjoying the picturesque surroundings convenient for tourists.

5) Chiang Mai: A holiday in Thailand is not complete without a visit to Chiang Mai travelers, so much to offer for '. You can enjoy walking in the jungle on elephant back. It will be an incredible and unforgettable. There are many temples and historical monuments, the increaseAttraction of Chiang Mai. Some of the temple are seven centuries. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and markets, healthy and tasty food, goods and opportunities to enjoy social events.