Most travellers to Thailand will stay in Hotels Bangkok and overlook one of my most favorite places in Thailand, Koh Samui.  It’s the most idyllic island I have ever been to , its in southern Thailand a short flight from Bangkok and 20 miles or so  north of Surat Thani town. The [...]]]> Koh Samui

Most travellers to Thailand will stay in Hotels Bangkok and overlook one of my most favorite places in Thailand, Koh Samui.  It’s the most idyllic island I have ever been to , its in southern Thailand a short flight from Bangkok and 20 miles or so  north of Surat Thani town. The total island is only about 15 miles wide and is surrounded by the sixty or so other small islands, which compose the Ang Thong Marine National Park. It has Hotels to suit every budget and a vibe that is hard to find any where else.

For many years the original inhabitants of the island, known as ‘Chao Samui’ made a living farming coconuts but now mostly work in Koh Samui Hotels and other tourism related jobs.

This area in south of Thailand has a wonderful culture due mostly to the huge mix of Buddhists, Thai Chinese, Muslims and indigenous sea-faring gypsies. The island of Koh Samui does not suffer from the religious tensions experienced in some of the other areas of Thailand which leads to a glorious laid back easy going atmosphere which you can help fall in love with.

The Island has some of the best events and festivals anywhere in South East Asia including the Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting Festival which is held on special occasions such as New Year’s Day and Songkran. Unlike the more commonly known bull-fighting from Spain the fighting on Koh Samui is a little more laid back and completely harmless to the animals. The buffalo are wonderfully decorated with coloured ribbons and painted with gold leaves. Its hugely popular with the local Koh Samui people as well as other Thai’s coming in from Bangkok and beyond packing out all the Koh Samui Hotels and enjoying themselves into the early hours.

Other not to miss events include the Ten Stars Samui Art Party. Its a fantastic cultural Art event bringing together local Thai and many renown international artists showcasing new and highly original works. Normally every other month these events are hosted at different hotels resorts and other 5-star venues on the island. Every Koh Samui Guide worth their salt always list this as a “not to be missed” event. You can pick up some quality artwork and very affordable prices.

The men and ladies of Koh Samui take sport very seriously and other annual events include the National Bowling Championship ( held in May every year) , Avis Samui Tennis Open ( July ) , The Koh Samui Triathlon ( more than 500 competitors last year ) and the world famous Samui Regatta with boats coming from  Australia, Singapore, Japan and China.

For the more laid back and less sporty I always try to make time to visit Koh Samui’s five day Fisherman’s Village Festival with fun, inexpensive food and music to dance the days and nights away. Many of the local hotels have great offers on during this and all the festivals.

Bangkok is definitely a city worth visiting. It is home to several Buddhist temples, like the famous Golden Buddha Temple and the Emerald Buddha, and many markets where you can find [...]]]> Already thinking about your next trip? Here are 3 suggestions of cities to visit for a vacation you won’t soon forget.

Bangkok is definitely a city worth visiting. It is home to several Buddhist temples, like the famous Golden Buddha Temple and the Emerald Buddha, and many markets where you can find everything from authentic Thai foods to western watches and purses that are “same same but different” (fake). Elephant rides in Chiang Mai and pristine beaches in the islands (Ko Samui and Ko Phangan, where full moon parties take place every month, are two of the main islands) are not far away!

Go to Milan’s Santa Maria delle Grazie church to see Da Vinci’s Last Supper for yourself. There is something magical about witnessing the world-renowned Last Supper painting in its authenticity. However, tickets for the Last Supper are not unlimited and Dan Brown’s best-seller, The Da Vinci Code, has resulted in more and more desire for Last Supper tickets. It is best to book Last Supper tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

If you’ve never been to Rome, you’re missing out on one of the most beautiful, historically rich, influential cities in the world. Not only is Rome home to ancient buildings like Castel S. Angelo and the Colosseum, it is also very modernized. In one visit to Rome, you can uncover thousands of years of history on a crypts and catacombs tour and take a tour based on Dan Brown’s best-selling novel, Angels and Demons. Rome hop on hop off bus tours offer a comprehensive tour of Rome, giving you the chance to disembark the bus as you please at any of the over 15 stops.  One thing is for sure: Rome sightseeing is never boring and a hop on hop off Rome bus tour will show you all of Rome’s highlights.

Thailand’s capital and largest urban area of the country is the city of Bangkok, and is a popular destination among travellers. During the rule of the Siamese Ayutthaya Kingdom, the city was founded at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River where it was established as a trading post. From the [...]]]>

Thailand’s capital and largest urban area of the country is the city of Bangkok, and is a popular destination among travellers. During the rule of the Siamese Ayutthaya Kingdom, the city was founded at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River where it was established as a trading post. From the early beginnings of its history, almost as many people were living on the canals of Bangkok as could be found on the city streets. For this reason, Bangkok has long been referred to as the “Venice of the East.”

Great ways to see the city

Most major airlines are now offering flights to Bangkok, and at reasonable prices too. Once you arrive in the city and get settled into your hotel, you’ll probably be anxious to start seeing as much of the city as you can during your stay. When venturing out, you will quickly discover that there are plenty of ways to get around and see the city. Buses, motorcycles, taxis, and Tuk Tuks are seen everywhere in the bustling streets of Bangkok. Where travelling the streets is concerned, these are the preferred modes of travel in the city.

Travelling the canals and the river

The favourite method for cruising the waterways of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River is the long-tailed boat, or long-tailed taxis as they are more commonly called. A common sight as you travel through the waterways are the numerous stilt houses that line the canals and river, which were built in order to stand up to the Asian monsoon season.

Group tours are available for meandering through the city on the river, as well as numerous dinner cruises that are well worth the money. A popular favourite among both locals and tourists alike is the Bangkok Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise, but other notables are the Bangkok Grand Pearl, Loy Nava, and Manohra dinner cruises.

Must-See River Cruise Attractions and Landmarks

According to travellers, there is no better means of seeing the different Bangkok communities, grand palaces, historical monuments, and temples situated along the river banks than by taking one of the many river cruises currently available. The Chao Phraya River is one of Thailand’s longest rivers and measures 370 km in length. It starts roughly 200 km to the north, passes through the city, and empties into the Gulf of Thailand. Visitors taking part in the cruise can control how elaborate their river cruise is, by cutting out some of the frills and expenses – should they wish to do so.

The first recommended site to see along any Chao Phraya River cruise should be the Ratchawong Pier, the gateway to Thailand’s Chinatown (Yaowarat). This should be followed by the Memorial Bridge, a structure dedicated to Bangkok’s founder, King Rama I, whose depiction can be seen on a throne close to the bridge. The best time of the year to take a river cruise is during the festival of Loy Krathong, during which the river is transformed into a sea of lights filled with candlelit floral floats.

1. Golf

Thailand has many golf courses. The golf courses in Thailand has [...]]]> Bangkok is an urban metropolis in Thailand. Each year, millions of tourists from around the world visit Bangkok. It is famous for the bargain shopping and historical memorial places. It also offers spas and worldwide cuisines for customers.

1. Golf

Thailand has many golf courses. The golf courses in Thailand has the lowest rates in the world. Some of the golf courses in Thailand include Kantarat Golf Course, Royal Bangkok Sports Club and Royal Thai Army Sports Center.

2. Cinema

Thailand is known to have the best cinemas in the world. The cinemas in Thailand are ultra modern. The VIP cinemas offer snacks and beverages for customers; and have a seating of 20 – 40 people. The high quality seats in the cinemas are just like the seats in the Business Class airline. The seat can be adjusting into several reclining positions. Blanket and pillow will be provided. One of the best cinema in Thailand is the Nokia VIP cinema located in Siam Paragon.

3. Shopping

The shops in Thailand always offer 80% discount on their items. If you want high quality goods, you should visit the shopping centers. The Sukhumvit is famous for the pirated goods.

4. Snake Farm

The snake farm is also known as the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute. It is the  biggest manufacturer of anti venom serum in the asia region. While visiting the snake farm, tourists will receive explanation of the process of making the serum. The guided tour also include a brief overview of the difference of the snakes in the snake farm. The snake farm is located near the Suriowongse Road and Pan Pacific Hotel.

5. Crocodile Farm

The Crocodile farm is located approximately 30km from Bangkok. It is known as the largest crocodile center in the world. Tourists can watch the crocodile fighting with each other. There are plenty of shows performed by the keepers. For example, tourists will get to see the keepers inserting their heads in the mouth of crocodiles. Other activities which you can do at the crocodile farm include elephant show, elephant ride, camel ride, boat sightseeing and monkey playground. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The admission fee for the crocodile farm is 300 Baht per adult and 200 Baht for per child.

If you want to learn more about the tourist attractions in Bangkok, you can visit travel guide sites on the internet.