Travel to Thailand

If you're looking for a vacation spot with a little bit of everything, Koh Samui should be your port of call! This Thai island lies off the east of the Kra Isthmus and as Thailand's third largest island, it has enough to do to entertain even the most discerning tourist. With plenty of beach-front resorts that will have you living just meters away from the water, let this island show you some of the best of what Thailand has to offer.

If you re a nature lover, be sure to take advantage of the many day trips into mountainous jungle interior of the island. Keep an eye out for the waterfalls, especially for Na Muang and Na Muang II. The former is 18 meters high while the later stretches up a dizzying 80 meters. While the former can be accessed by vehicle, the later can only be reached via a 30 minute walk. If possible, see both of these natural wonders during your stay. If you are interested in some of the wildlife of Thailand, Koh Samui has a crocodile farm, a monkey theater, a butterfly garden and an renowned aquarium, and that's just for starters!

When you're tired of the wildlife, check out the nightlife! Koh Samui boasts many bars, discos and cabaret shows, especially in Lamai and Chaweng. Check out the Raggae Pub and the Bauhaus for dancing that can last until dawn. For live music, head down to the Beach Pub at Secret Garden. This stretch of beach has become an international gathering place for professional and semiprofessional musicians, and live sessions take place every Saturday afternoon, attracting large crowds of people, all ready for a party!

One of the best reasons to make Koh Samui your vacation destination is the water; the waters of this beautiful island are crystal clear, making for some of the snorkeling and scuba diving in the world. If you've never gone scuba diving before, there's not time to start like the present; you'll find plenty of schools scattered along the coastline that are willing to teach you.

If you ave an interest in physical sports, come to Koh Samui to take a look at the the Thai martial art, Muay Thai boxing. This martial art has become the known all over the world for it's intensely fast action and close combat fighting style; in Koh Samui, you can see matches that will show you what this form of boxing is truly capable of. Chaweng Stadium holds matches every Monday and Friday, while you can see fights every Saturday at the Lamai stadium.

To see what life may have been like more than a century a go, be sure to visit Koh Samui's oldest standing house in Ban Thale. This structure was made out of teakwood without the use of any nails. Constructed of teak planks and adorned to with traditional Thai woodcarvings, this house can show you some of the decorative motifs and styles that can still be seen in Thai design today.

Koh Samui has a lot to offer, so make sure that you plan a vacation there soon. Between the tranquil beaches and the lively bar scene, there really is something for everyone!

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With several sights to see and surprises to offer, Thailand could be one of the best locations you should not miss to visit. Culture, beaches, people, and heritage sites are some of the things you can expect when you travel to Thailand.

Bangkok - Traveling Thailand wound not be complete without visiting Bangkok. As the nation's capital with an estimated population of over 10 million (including the neighboring provinces), this city is by far the largest in the country. The city is divided into 50 districts or khet but for tourists and those who are new in the place, 6 divisions would be more useful. These are Ratchadaphisek in the northeast section of the city, Sukhamvit in the southeast, Silom in the south, Thonburi in the west, Rattanakosin in the central north, and Phahanyothin in the north. The whole Bangkok district would give you a diverse taste of culture, history, religion, modernity, and fast-phase life. You can actually witness how all these blend together to comprise the whole Bangkok package. Buddhist temples, historical museums, towering buildings, contemporary restaurants and hotels, shopping centers, canals and rivers, and food make Bangkok a one of a kind city in Southeast Asia.

Phuket - Down south, Phuket features magnificent beaches, tropical sunsets, white sands, blue seas, and breathtaking sceneries. No wonder it is the most popular vacation destination in Asia beating every beaches of the neighboring countries. It has several beaches like Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Patong Beach, Kamala Beach, and Surin Beach. The island showcases several water sports and activities including parasailing, jet-skiing, and scuba diving. By day, Phuket is alive with beachgoers and shoppers and by night, lights, sounds, and party people dominate the whole island.

Chiang Mai - The second largest city in Thailand with an estimated population of more than 200,000. This city located in the northern part of the country offers greener and quieter city. Chiang Mai's tourism is becoming more and more popular and permanently settling at this city is very common. When you travel Thailand and visit Chiang Mai, you surely would want to see museums such as Hilltribe Research Institute Museum and the Chiang Mai City Arts

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According to archaeological evidence, the area that is now called "Krabi" province had been a community since prehistoric period, yet there was no documentary evidence about this.

During King Rama V's reign (1868-1910), this land was called Pakasai sub-county under the direct jurisdiction of Nakhon Si Thammarat province. After the governor of the province sent his officials to catch elephants here, many more people from Nakhon Si Thammarat province immigrated to settle down in the area.

Around 1872, King Rama V elevated Pakasai sub-county to be Krabi province with the provincial administration office situated at Krabi-yai sub-county (in Muang district at present). But it was still subjected to Nakhon Si Thammarat's control. At present, the office is located near the estuary at Pak Nam sub-district. Its first governor was Laung Thep Sena. In 1875, Rama V had an order to separate Krabi from Nakhon Si Thammarat and to have it ruled by Bangkok.

There are two legends mentioning the meaning of "Krabi". The first had it that villagers presented a large ancient sword (krabi in Thai) they discovered by chance to the governor. They also did the same thing when a smaller one was found later. Regarded as sacred and auspicious, the governor would like to keep them in the province. But the provincial establishment was still in progress, so they were placed crossing each other in the cave named Khao Khanap Nam. This was the origin of the province's emblem.

The second legend had it that "Krabi" was derived from a name of local tree "Lumphi". The Malay and Chinese merchants made its pronunciation slightly corrupted and became "Ka-lu-bi" or "Kho-lo-bi", which finally turned to "Krabi" (sword).

With so many activities that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy, Krabi has framed itself as a laid-back resort destination where the emphasis falls on comfort and relaxation instead of on high-energy parties. The natural landscape is accentuated by limestone outcroppings known as karsts that pop up all over the countryside. With abundant plant life and beautiful coral reefs, there's plenty to explore while you're staying here.

Exploring the archipelago
One of the most remarkable ways to experience the limestone rock formations and spectacular beaches is to take a daytrip from one island to another. Many tour guides offer organised daytrips to the highlights of the archipelago, which are worth it and a chance to break away from the crowds of the mainland resort. For the more independent explorer, sea kayaks can be rented for trips out to some of the nearest small islands. A boat day trip to Phi Phi is a must too!

Than Bok Khoranie National Park
If you have a tent and would like a place to set up camp, consider heading out to Than Bok Khorani National Park, a secluded place with no concrete accommodation but an abundance of plant species culminating in a very picturesque pond surrounded by gardenias and apocynaceae. The park also boasts several limestone caves and some lovely mangrove forests. Many visit on a day trip from Phuket.

Rock climbing
Many rock climbing outfitters in Krabi also give lessons at various skill levels to help you improve your rock climbing abilities. The limestone cliffs and unique stone formations have helped Krabi carve out a global reputation among rock climbing circles. Ton Sai is the first stop for most climbers, as it’s the most frequented climbed spot in the area. Other climbing outings to more secluded areas are easily arranged with the help of climbing outfitters.

Koh Lanta Marine National Park
The sea gypsies, or Chai Leh, still live and work on the island of Koh Lanta—now a marine national park. For centuries they have practiced their own form of spirit worship and spoken their own distinct language. This island also has the region's standard fare of beautiful beaches, unique rock formations and stunning coral reefs for exploration. Some of the rainforest on this island is virtually untouched and remains protected. Visitors can rent bungalows and stay a while. It’s also connected to Phi Phi island by ferry.

Shell Fossil Cemetery
Thirty five million years ago, the site of Ban Laem Pho Cape was an enormous freshwater swamp that hosted millions of small snails. The remains of these creatures formed a fossilised composite that has grown almost 16 inches thick. This huge slab has become one of Krabi's most popular attractions and can be reached via a 10-mile drive from the town of Krabi.

Krabi nightlife
Ao Nang Beach resort area is the primary tourist hub of Krabi, with Krabi Town itself not offering a whole lot to out-of-towners except for a glimpse of everyday life for the locals. While not quite as exciting as Phuket, in the resort area you'll find bars and restaurants whose doors remain open past midnight, though you'll be hard-pressed to find any exhilarating parties or discotheques. Instead, this is a more family-oriented holiday spot with some nice restaurants and a relaxed, quiet atmosphere.

Scuba diving
The official diving season in Krabi is from November to Mach, though the conditions are hospitable all year round and divers are here at every time of the year. Snorkelling is also a great way to get a view of the coral reefs. Diving companies on the mainland can get you certified as a diver and will also arrange diving trips out to all of the best reefs in the surrounding area. The diving at Phi Phi is especially good.

Biking
Bikes can be rented in the Ao Nang resort area, and a cycling loop that heads out of town guides cyclist through the limestone rock formations that dot the landscape. The road curves through old villages and groves of coconut trees, and riders can stretch this spectacular route into as much as 15 or 20 miles of biking.

Railay Beach
Railay Beach may be the region's most unique coastal area, with its crescent shaped coastline that's cut off from the mainland by huge outcroppings of rock. Only accessible by boat, you can charter a vessel to drop you off for a daytrip to Phra Nang, a sacred enshrined cave, or for an overnight stay in one of the resorts that lay claim to these peaceful beaches. Even the beaches at Phuket don’t even compete!

Daytrip to Wat Tham Seua
Wat Tham Seua is the largest temple in Krabi, and its name means Tiger Cave Temple. It's literally tucked into the limestone cliffs of Ao Luk Thanu mountain range, and the Buddhist monks that live and worship here do so in the caves themselves. The highlight of this temple is 'Buddha's footprint', located at the summit of a 1,272-step climb, a point that affords wonderful views of the countryside spreading in every direction.

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The city meets this demand admirably with a plethora of venues dedicated to satisfying the needs of the hungry and thirsty. A large number of establishments are aimed specifically at tourists, while others continue to provide the same fare to the same Thai clientele that they always have.

For lunch, fast food lovers will find the City Grill restaurant on Walking street a good call, with its excellent selection of burgers, hot dogs and similar fare, while Bob's BBQ & Grill makes some pretty awesome Wagon Wheel burgers and tasty barbecued ribs. In addition, a branch of the famous chain Subway is located on Pattaya Klang road and sells the usual impressive selection of hearty sandwich creations.

For a lunch with a distinctly English flavour, Pat’s restaurant on soi 3 is well -known for its fish and chips, pie and chips and Sunday roasts, while the Queen Victoria Inn on soi 6 has favourites like shepherd's pie, ploughman's lunch and Cumberland sausage with mash.

Come sunset, hunger will be creeping up on you again and it’ll be time to find an evening dining destination. The selection in this category is a good deal wider than that of lunchtime venues, with many establishments only opening their doors for evening business including many Thai eateries of the roadside variety.

The stalls of Thai food vendors are ideal places at which to find cheap and authentic local cuisine. As long as you don’t mind the absence of competent English speakers and the grit and grime of the roadside setting, these stalls are great places to enjoy an evening meal.

If you still want Thai food but in a more pleasant environment, then Somsak on soi 1 offer authentic cuisine at affordable prices, while Baan Thai on Central road presents a nouvelle cuisine approach to Thai food (and its prices reflect this). For dining alongside live performances, head for PIC Kitchen on soi 5 or Adam & Eve’s at Sabai Jai Village, Sukumvit road.

International options in Pattaya are plentiful and include French, Belgian, German, English, Italian, Mexican, Japanese and Indian. While international establishments are invariably run by Thai staff, the proprietors are generally foreign and on hand to oversee operations.

Pattaya has a good selection of French eateries among which is Mon Ami Pierrot on Walking street and Au Bon Coin on soi 5 (the latter having the better reputation of the two). At Klein Vlaanderen on the Pattaya 2nd road customers can enjoy authentic Belgian cuisine, as they can at Patrick's Belgian situated at the Diana Arcade. Italian food is best enjoyed at either Duilio's on Central road or at Little Italy situated opposite the Royal Garden Plaza. Pattaya’s finest restaurants

For a good curry of the Indian variety, Ali Baba on Central road or Sher E Punjab on Beach road should fit the bill, while Yamato on soi Yamato is a safe bet for Japanese cuisine. Daidomon at Big C and the Royal Garden Plaza also offer Japanese food although they have a chain-restaurant feel. Finally, if it’s tacos and chili you are after try out the Mexican cuisine at either the Tequila Reef on soi 7 or the Blue Parrot on soi 2.

After dinner, the appeal of an ice cold beer or wine cooler at one of Pattaya’s watering holes may well encourage you to set off in search of the best spot at which to enjoy a pleasant drink. Depending on the kind of character you are after, you may want to take advantage of the city’s abundant girly-bar selection, a booming scene which dominates the main drinking area known as Walking street.

It is however possible to avoid the venues associated with this scene. Kilkenny's Irish Pub, for example, is a great little place to enjoy a drink with likeminded individuals, as is the Bamboo Bar on Walking street. On Beach road, the Hard Rock Café, Hopf Brew House and Rosie O'Grady's offer pleasant ambiences with no skin trade associations. For a pub with a traditional English atmosphere and beverages to match, try the Queen Victoria Inn on soi 6 of the Pattaya 2nd road, while Shenanigans, located on the same road, is a cheery Irish style venue.

To be entirely sure of avoiding the riff-raff and not having to be accosted by flirtatious young Thai ladies, visitors are advised to seek out the bars at the city’s respectable hotels such as the All Seasons on Pattaya 2nd road, Sheraton in Pattaya Hill, Royal Orchid Resort in North Pattaya and Marriot on Beach road. Best Pattaya bars While these venues are unlikely to raise the roof, they do offer quiet and upmarket settings where drinks may be pricey but the atmosphere is anything but cheap.

These hotels and others of a similar rating all have their own restaurants and it’s worthwhile considering enjoying a high quality meal of either Thai or international food in one of their dining suites before retiring for a relaxing drink in the bar.

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One of the largest islands in the Indian Ocean, Phuket is probably the most popular holiday resorts in Asia. Located about 850 kilometers south of Bangkok - the capital city, Phuket is a tropical paradise, in the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea.

Sometimes referred to as 'Pearl of the South', or 'Pearl of the Andaman,' Phuket has all for a perfect as well as memorable vacation, boasting of glorious beaches, sparkling waters with diverse marine life, breathtaking natural beauty, magnificent coves and bays, dazzling waterfalls, lush forested areas, salubrious tropical climate, and Sino-Portuguese architecture. Phuket holds the distinction of being the only island in the country with the provincial status.

Sprawling over an area of about 540 square kilometers, Phuket is the largest island in the country. From ancient shrines and interesting museums and historical monuments to parks and gardens, Phuket presents a diverse range of attractions. Some of the not to miss attractions in the destination are:

Wat Chalong - This is a beautiful Buddhist temple situated on the outskirts of Phuket town. It enshrines statues of several prominent Buddhist saints such as Luang Por Cham, who in turn played a pivotal role in putting down the Angyee, otherwise known as the Chinese Coolie Rebellion.

Thalang National Museum - Exhibited here are arts and artifacts that throw light on the cultural as well as historical past of the town.

Phuket Sea Shell Museum - On display here are a valuable collection of sea shells that have been collected from different parts of the world. The museum is also attached with a section that sells seashell items.

Orchid Farm and Thai Village - This is a must visit destination for the lovers of traditional Thai culture. Everything from classical Thai performances and Thai boxing to sword fighting and elephant shows can be spectacled here. Alongside the village is a beautiful orchid garden, which is worth visiting.

Laem Phromthep or Phromthep Cape - This is a great place to enjoy the picturesque views of the sunset. A large number of tiny elephant statues can also be seen here.

Phuket Aquarium - The most prominent marine biological research station in the country, the aquarium is home to hundreds of fish species, both freshwater and saltwater.

Phuket Butterfly Aquarium - Among the specialties seen here is a large number of tropical species of butterflies and insects.

The Zoo - Situated south of Phuket town, the Zoo contains a large number of African and Asian animals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Included in the specialties are about 5000 crocodiles, more than 50 species of birds, and about 100 species of butterflies. Elephant, monkey, and crocodile shows are also conducted.

Khao Rang - Located on the southern part of the island, this is a hill in Phuket. Climb atop this hill to have a great view of Phuket town.

Phuket Fantasea - For those looking for a unique experience, then take a tour to Phuket Fantasea, where you can see cultural traditions blended with the latest in Las Vegas style technologies. Some of the highlights of Phuket Fantasea are magic elephants vanishing into the air, musical fountains, and gymnastics.

A tour to Phuket would not be complete without having a look at its incredible antique buildings, many of which are a fine example of beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture. Must visit attractions in Phuket also consist of Wat Phranang Sang, which is the oldest temple in Phuket; Wat Phra Thong, whose centerpiece is an ancient Buddha image.

The Two Heroines Monument, which is dedicated to two heroic sisters who led the army in order to defeat the Burmese invaders in the Battle of Thalang in 1785; The Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary, in Thalang District; and Sirinat National Park - the first marine park in the area. Further, people touring the place can indulge in an array of activities such as golf, cruising Phang Nga Bay by sea plane, taking traditional Thai cooking classes, and go-kart racing.

Despite any other attractions, perhaps the greatest of all attractions in Phuket are its beaches. Just few to mention are Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Kamala Beach, Laem Beach, Mai Kao Beach, Nai Yang Beach, Surin Beach, Rawai Beach, Patong Beach, and Pansea Beach. Majority of these beaches serve as a perfect base for enjoying a continuum of activities such as sailing, paragliding, parasailing, diving, cruising, and much more.

In short, There are also certain travelers, particularly westerners, who prefer to stay here for a long period, inspired by its incredible beauty as well as options. Apart from hotels and resorts, Phuket comes with such options as serviced apartments and villas, for those who interested in long stays.

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