Thailand Paradise

November 2008 Grand Events

2008-11-04T03:56:00.000-08:00

River Kwai Bridge Week
(November 2008: Kanchanaburi Province)

Each year in late November to early December, the world famous River Kwae Bridge built by Allied prisoners-of-war during World War II , becomes the focal point of celebrations.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sukhothai Loi Krathong 'Festival of Lights'
(November 7 - 12, 2008: At the Sukhothai Historical Park and Sukhothai Central Hall, Sukhothai Province)

As the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in mid-November) lights up the night sky, throughout the Thai kingdom, hundreds of thousands of ornately-decorated krathong or traditional banana leaf floats are set adrift in rivers and waterways in a spell-binding ritual called Loi Krathong - the 'festival of lights'.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Loi Krathong Sai Festival and a Thousand Floating Candles
(November 10 - 15, 2008: The Rattanakosin Bridge (Sapan Sompoch Krung Rattanakosin), Tak Province

As the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in mid-November) lights up the night sky, throughout the Thai kingdom, hundreds of thousands of ornately-decorated krathong or traditional banana leaf floats are set adrift in rivers and waterways in a spell-binding ritual called "Loi Krathong" - the 'festival of lights".

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Northern Lantern Festival & Yipeng Loi Krathong
(November 12, 2008: at Tha Phae Gate, banks of the Ping River, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Chiang Mai)

The unusual ritual of launching Lanna-style floating lanterns (khome loi or khome yipeng) is a unique aspect of the Chiang Mai Loi Krathong festival.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2008 Phuket King's Cup Regatta
(29th November - 6th December, 2008: )

The Phuket King's Cup Regatta, Asia's biggest and most popular regatta, is the jewel in the crown of the Asian Yachting Circuit, a circuit of the leading regattas in Asia including the Raja Muda International Regatta, the Singapore Straits Regatta and the China Sea Race.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Surin Elephant Roundup
(22 - 23 November, 2008: Si Narong Stadium, Mueang District, Surin)

Experience the lifestyle of the Kuai or Suai people, the locals whose lives are interwoven with the elephants from the past.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival
(11 - 13 November 2008: Chiang Mai Municipality Office, Chiang Mai)

Participate in the launching of lanterns to worship Phrathat Chulamani, and take in the competition of a Yi Peng procession, as well as Lanna cultural performances and various fowms of entertainment.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bang Sai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip Festival
(11 - 13 November 2008: Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Bang Sai district, Ayutthaya province)

Relive the glorious past of Ayutthaya on this atmospheric night.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Fourth Science Film Festival 2008
(18 - 28 November 2008: Goethe Institute Bangkok)

The Science Film Festival Thailand is held this year for the fourth time.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wimaya Nattakan
(November 29, 2008: At Phimai Historical Park)

Nakhon Ratchasima province, the largest province in Thailand and gateway to the other provinces in the Northeast, enjoys a long history of prosperity.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Nine Wonders of Wat Pho
(27 September 2008 - 6 April 2009: At Wat Pho)

Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimonmangklaraam Rajwaramahaviharn, a first grade royal monastery which was regarded as being the most important one during the reign of King Rama I of the illustrious Chakri dynasty, is more widely known to visitors as "Wat Pho".

Shopping In Thailand

2007-11-13T09:33:00.000-08:00

A wealth of shopping opportunities await visitors, and bargains abound throughout the Country in traditional handicrafts, textiles, gems, jewellery and antiques, as well as more contemporary items. But it isn’t only the variety of creatively designed and meticulously crafted products that so captivates the traveller. The shopping experience itself is a pleasure in its own right as one explores from upscale shopping malls and department stores to high streets and back streets and bustling markets. What’s more, frequent promotions involving definitively Thai variations on myriad product themes hold out the prospect of acquiring a better selection for a lower outlay. And to top it all, foreign visitors to Thailand can often look forward to receiving a further price reduction in the form of a healthy tax refund on department; the perfect way to round off a memorable stay.

Where to Shop in Bangkok:

Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong
Silom-Surawong-Patpong
Silom-Mahesak-New road
Sukhumvit
Chinatown
Bang Lamphu

Thailand Foot Massage

2007-11-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

If only a gentle touch filled with love and care can make you feel relaxed, then imagine the ultimate effect that you will get from a professional massage.According to the book The Touch of Love, Thai Massage (written by Sombat Tapanya), massage is an art of healing originated some 5,000 years ago. It was mentioned in an ancient Chinese medical textbook in the reign of Emperor Wendi (179-157 B.C.) of the Han Dynasty and in an Indian Ayuraveda Book that "Massage is a self-healing method."

Hippocrates (460-380 B.C.), who received an honour as "the father of medical study", stated that "a physician needs to specialize in several things but being an expert in massage is a must."
There are several kinds of massage and each has its unique benefits (check out theother pages). As we will deal only with the area of foot reflexology massage.

*To know more, search which hotels & resorts that provide this foot message in thailand

Thailand Spa

2007-11-12T23:37:00.000-08:00

No trip to Thailand is completed until you have experienced a pampering Thai spa treatment . At present, Thai spas are very popular with travellers as is evidenced by the findings of the Spa Industry Surveys & Spa Consumer Surveys conducted by Intelligent Spa, Singapore, which show the following statistical data.

As Thailand has earned a reputation as the spa capital of Asia, I feel it might be interesting to learn some aspects of spas in Thailand.

Factors supporting Thailand as Spa Capital of Asia

Spas of Thailand are second to none because of the distinctive traditional Thai massage and the outstanding Thai hospitality presented through the well-trained therapists.

Most clients are impressed by their smiles and tender attention. Ubonrat Somprakit, Managing Director of Jasmine Spa, revealed that many of her clients had revisited the spa because of the overall hospitable service. She added that the relaxing atmosphere and the expert therapists who are service-oriented are also the key factors.

As for the government, it has been doing its utmost in promoting Thai spas. For example, Thailand is scheduled to hold "ISPA Asia Pacific Conference & Exhibitions" in 2006, which, according to Watchara Phannachet, Deputy Minister of Industry, will be beneficial to the economy in general. Moreover, the government has provided training to personnel in the spa industry to enhance the standards of Thai spas. The Thai Spa Association and the Thai Spa Operators Association were set up to bring together all those involved in the local spa industry to steer Thai spas in the same direction.

"Even though the number of spas has increased, it is delightful to learn that along with quantity has come quality", said Naphalai Areesorn, President of the Thai Spa Association. However, because of the intense competition, the trend of Thai spas will have to change. This means spa therapies have to be able to nourish the mind (by providing meditation programmes, for example) and to strengthen the physical body (by arranging workout programmes).Several day spas and hotel spas are scattered throughout Bangkok and other tourist destinations like Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Pattaya, Samui and Phuket. If you wish to experience this comfortable indulgence, go for one at a spa near you.

Spa Categories

According to International Spa Association, there are seven categories of spas:

Hotel and Resort Spa refers to any spas situated in

hotels or resorts serving both hotel guests and walk-in guests.

Destination Spa is a spa established in its own building which includes recreational areas. Most of its clients will stay overnight, participating in selectable activities like meditation programmes or yoga.

Medical Spa means a spa providing medical treatments and utilising medical instruments under specialised personnel's instructions. Generally, this kind of spa is located in hospitals or clinics.

Day Spa and City Spa refers to spa services that can be finished at any time during the day. It may take only 30 minutes or one hour. The locations are usually in cities or business centres.

Mineral Spring Spa is a spa service at a natural spring which has been developed to be a tourist attraction

Club Spa means a spa combined with a fitness centre

Cruise Ship Spa is a spa service on a cruise ship. This is operated together with useful diet for passengers during the voyage.

Why is it so good for you ?

Spas originated from mineral water bathing, which helps eliminate toxin out of the body and helps calm down the mind, making it fresh again. Soaking in a well of hot mineral water can bring a person happiness and peacefulness due to the warm vapour containing mineral salts.
This ancient spa concept has been carried on up to the present time but with a variety of choices for different clients. According to Khun Ubonrat Somprakit, Managing Director of Jasmine Spa, the frequency to receive treatment depends on clients' purposes. Those who aim to lose weight, need to go under treatment every other day, while those who would like to recharge can do so every two weeks.

Spa and physical senses

Spa treatments also emphasize on pampering the five senses of human beings, viz. sight, taste, smell, hearing and touch. All these are held significant to provide visitors with utmost satisfaction.

Sight refers to the decoration styles and the surroundings of a spa, which differently affect human being's emotions. That is why most spas use pale hues to create a peaceful atmosphere.
Taste means flavours of foods or beverages which people like or dislike and can affect people's emotions, too.
Smell comes from essential oils and herbal treatments. Different oils yield different medicinal properties.
Hearing derives from relaxing instrumental music.
Touch is obtained by relaxing massages

Best Hotels in Thailand by Special Hotels of the World

2007-11-12T21:17:00.000-08:00

The best Thailand hotels from Special Hotels of the World, a collection of luxury hotels with unique features offering the ultimate travel experience.

Burasari Patong, Phuket, Thailand

Shanghai Inn, Bangkok, Thailand

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Burasari Patong, Phuket, Thailand

Burasari Patong is a luxury hotel in Phuket - Special Hotels of the World gives you the best information, photographs and great rates. Reserve your room now with our easy to use form.

"...A secluded oasis of traditional Thai style..."

Luxury Hotel Facilities

Internet cafe

Thai traditional massage
Art gallery
Coffee corner
Tour desk
Swimming pool with cascading waterfalls
Car and bicycle rental
High-speed wi-fi connection
Bar

Room Options

The luxurious rooms – all furnished in Burasari’s unique modern Thai style – are situated in wings that surround a private central courtyard, elegant swimming pool and cascading waterfalls. The gourmet restaurant overlooks the garden and reflective pool and is perfect for a quiet and relaxing meal. Additional facilities include room service, internet café, and in-room traditional Thai massage.

Dining at Burasari Patong

The gourmet restaurant overlooks the garden and reflective pool and is perfect for a quiet and relaxing meal.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Shanghai Inn, Bangkok Thailand

Shanghai Inn is a luxury hotel in Bangkok - Special Hotels of the World gives you the best information, photographs and great rates. Book now with our easy to use form!

"...A refined luxury hotel in the heart of Bangkok's Chinatown district..."

Luxury Hotel Facilities

Shanghai Inn's own Ying-Yang Massage & Spa is the perfect place in which to relax after a hard day's sightseeing or working in Bangkok - located on the third floor it specialises in traditional Thai massages, as well as aromatherapy. Elsewhere in the hotel you'll find wireless internet access throughout, a tour agency for your booking needs, currency exchange and a variety of restaurants.

Room Options

In the 51 deluxe rooms and four junior suites, antique beds are laid with opulent fabrics and ancient Chinese art adorns the walls. Oriental design touches are everywhere: silk cushions scattered on carved day beds, and minibars are housed in traditional Chinese cabinets.

Dining at Shanghai Inn

An exclusive selection of renowned restaurants have been given space in the hotel building. These include Krua Jengor, serving an excellent selection of Thai and Chinese dishes, the Japanese restaurant Tohkai, and HED Hongtae, a modern Chinese restaurant with a focus on mushroom dishes. Enjoy a refreshing tea on the stunning Tea Room terrace and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful hotel, or head to Nam by Pasathan for coffee and delicious pastries.

Scuba Diving in Thailand

2007-11-12T20:25:00.000-08:00

Diving In Thailand

Scuba diving is Thailand's most popular water sport, and it's an experience you cannot forget. With magical apparatus allowing you to breathe underwater, a whole new universe opens up to you. Some of the most extravagantly beautiful creatures in creation await you in this weightless, watery world. Explore brilliantly-coloured coral reefs and be dazzled by fish of a thousand hues. Expect close encounters with giant barracuda, manta rays, sea cows and even sharks!

Thailand is the centre for scuba diving in Southeast Asia. Thousands of people learn to dive in Thailand every year and become avid divers for life. There are world-class locations for every level of expertise and scores of professional. Well-established dive shops are located all over the southern peninsula. Diving in Thailand is competitively priced, and once you have achieved your certification in Thailand, you can use it to go scuba diving all over the world.

Diving is available at all times of the year, although visibility changes according to the season. In the Andaman Sea the best time to dive is from October to April, and in the Gulf of Thailand from May to September — in other words, first-class diving all year round! All reputable dive shops are affiliated with PADI or other international dive bodies, and most hold courses in multiple languages. All over Thailand, you can expect modern amenities, international-standard boats and professional facilities

Phuket Scuba Diving

One of the major assets of Phuket as a flourishing vacation resort is its abundance of diving destinations, all offering a fantastic underwater world of tropical fishes and coral formations, so exotic and colourful. From Phuket, all sorts of diving tours are organized lasting from half a day to two weeks. The nearest are sites off the west coast where you can explore soft and hard coral reefs, with a large variety of tropical marine life.

Kah Samui Scuba Diving

Koh Samui diving is yet another reason to visit the tropical wonderland! With clear blue waters, warm temperatures and amazing marine life, it's no surprise that the area is an extremely popular destination for both experienced divers and those who want to take up the sport for the first time.

Short, accredited dive courses are readily available and the prices are very reasonable compared to other countries. A wide range of dive shops offering all levels of instruction can be found on Samui and nearby Koh Tao. And if you look around, it's not difficult to find courses conducted in the language of your choice (except Inuit).

In addition to the affordable prices, one of the obvious reasons dive courses are so popular here is the great locations from which they are conducted -- your instruction is usually straight off the beach in the shallow, calm waters off Chaweng, Coral Cove or several other places around the island.

Koh Tao Scuba Diving

Koh Samet Scuba Diving

Koh Samet Island only has one large scuba diving company called Ploy Scuba. Most of the diving takes place away from Koh Samet as it doesn't have any decent coral reefs of it's own. Below are some of the dive reviews for Koh Samet.

Thailand Massage

2007-11-12T19:41:00.000-08:00

Thailand Massage

Massage is the most natural & ancient disease curing with no poison residue and harmful side effect to the body. That's why it has been popular until today. Traditional Thai Massage assists the body's innate desire to return to optimum performance and optimum health, contributing to a sense of ease and well-being, One begins to sense the rightness of the inner Self, Being, and of Life.

The work displays an inherent knowledge of the inner workings of the body, a knowledge that developed over centuries of practice. There is something in the essence of this work that appeals to a wide range of people on a core level, something that satisfies their physical and emotional needs, and perhaps even assists in their spiritual needs. Chinese hot tea is served after the session

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa provides a variety kind of massage such as :

Aromatherapy massage, Volcanic Stone Massage and Thai Royal Massage.

Aromatherapy Massage : Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to heal, alleviate pain and regulate mood. Essential oils are a volatile, highly concentrated plant extracts, derived from leaves, bark, roots, seeds resins and flowers. Aromatherapy massage uses these essential oils, but they can also be used in hydrotherapy baths, facials and body treatments.

In aromatherapy massage, essential oils are usually mixed with a carrier oil like sweet almond, apricot kernel, or grapeseed oil. The therapist use up to five oils in a mixture, and chooses the oils based on what you need. A relaxing aromatherapy massage, for instance, might have lavender or bergamot, while a massage for sore muscles might include peppermint and eucalyptus.

Volcanic Stone Massage : is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated stones. They are often basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. It is a deeply soothing, relaxing form of massage. The heat helps tight muscles release.

Thai Royal Massage :

The royal style differs from the gerneral one in some areas. Mainlythe royal practice aims to heal a specific part of body. The posturesare also more polite as it was serviced to the royal family beforethe western medicine coming to the kingdom. It was said that theroyal one is good for therapy and the general one is good forrecreational purpose. Both can be applied together to give bestresult to the people nowadays. There are also other primitive massagestyles such as bone setting etc

Phuket

2007-11-12T18:53:00.000-08:00

PHUKET

Phuket's spectacular scenery, stunning tropical sunsets and warm blue sea awaits at Asia's most popular beach destination. The island of fun provides an unbeatable combination of perfect silky soft beaches, superb hospitality and great value accommodation!

Whether it's world class diving in the Andaman Sea, golf at championship courses or exciting eco-adventures in tropical forest, Phuket is a place to extend your horizons. Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to surrounding islands, or a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay. Or simply enjoy Phuket's vibrant nightlife in Patong Beach.

Families will find Phuket offers lots of attractions for kids of all ages; from toddlers and teenagers to the young at heart. Go elephant trekking, grab a mask and snorkel and discover the undersea world or have a picnic on the beach. If you're just after a little papering or indulgence spend a few hours at one of Phuket's wonderful Spas. Unforgettable!

Hotels in Phuket ::

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa
Le Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club
Novotel Phuket Beach Resort
Sheraton Grand Laguna
Impiana Phuket Cabana
The Aspasia Phuket

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa is located at the centre of Patong Beach, Phuket Thailand and situated on 5 acres of land amid lush tropical gardens facing the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.

We are striving to provide our guests with an unforgettable stay while they are enjoying the highlights of Patong Beach and the natural beauty of Phuket Island.

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa offers 290 rooms ranging from Superior to Deluxe Pool Rooms and a variety of suites in contemporary Thai design and architecture, all with full amenities. Our resort features 3 large free-form swimming pools with swim-up bars to complete your holiday experience. Give yourself an extra treat at our 17 treatment rooms Spa with exotic therapies and massages, Fitness Center, Jacuzzis, steam and sauna rooms that will give you relaxation and relief from your everyday stress and bring total relaxation to your body and senses.
Banthai Beach Resort & Spa is the natural choice for resort when you desire high quality rooms and facilities, an exotic atmosphere, and easy access to everything Patong and Phuket Island.

Le Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club

Calm and serene, Le Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club is one of Thailand's premier resorts and provides an oasis of peace and tranquility. Nestled in a hillside overlooking beautiful Nai Harn Bay on the southern tip of Phuket Island, this secluded and romantic hideaway offers a perfect blend of location, superb service and understated style.

A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, with 110 oceanfront suites and bedrooms, superbly designed with a spacious private terrace overlooking the Andaman Sea, it offers a unique, luxurious and totally relaxing experience.

Chiang Mai

2007-11-12T04:33:00.001-08:00

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is classed as Thailand's second capital with about 260,000 people, but comparing it to the hussle and bussle on Bangkok would be a mistake. Life runs at a different pace here. People don't seem to hurry, and people are generally far more laid back. The last few years Chiang Mai has been developing at a fast rate, mostly due to tourism. Like most cities this does bring a few problems, like extra traffic and pollution, however, Chiang Mai has in most cases handled this well.

The oldest part of Chaing Mai is set within a square 1.5km moat, and fortunatly retained many of it's orginal features, including traditional wooden houses, and quiet gardens to name but a few. The main tourist attractions are the wonderful ornate temples, where you can mingle with the monks as they go about their daily business, and the shopping. Due to Chaing Mai's location, there is an abundance of Thai handicrafts produced locally from the villages surrounding Chiang Mai.

Many visitors to Chiang Mai are finding that it is also a good place to go back to school. Yes that's right. Different schools have sprung up offering cookery, massage, weight loss, training and treatment courses.

If that all seems to relaxing for you, a journey to the mountain of Doi Suthep. There you can find the sacred temple, and enjoy the views stretching over the Ping river into the distance. Treking or mountain bike riding is also very popular.

Bangkok

2007-11-12T04:33:00.000-08:00

The beautiful Grand Palace in Bangkok

Bangkok Thailand, either you will love it or hate it. East meets West in Bangkok. Beautiful temples, floating markets, traditional festivals, cultural events, Thai hospitality combined with an ultra modern transport system, top class hotels, fantastic restaurants (seafood) pumping nightlife, bars, and the best shopping I have ever seen, at prices far lower than you could ever dream about. Bangkok is a major international city, but you will find a week is more than enough time to see and do most things. It would be a good idea to mix time in Bangkok with a holiday on the beach or in the countryside of Chiang Mai, so you can experience more of what Thailand has to offer.

Bangkok Attractions

Chinatown

Chinatown of Bangkok was formally an area called "Sampeng", started when the Chinese merchants moved in 1780s after vacating the land where the Grand Palace now stands. In 1863, King Mongkut commanded the construction of New Road (or Charoen Krung Road) which runs over six kilometers from the Royal Palace till it drops straight into the Chao Phraya River, just south of Krung Thep Bridge now. The Chinatown expanded along Charoen Krung, Krung Kasem and the third road, the Yaowarat Road which was built between Charoen Krung and Sampeng.

Chatuchak Park

A large scale amusement park is located on Phaholyotin Road on the way to Domuang Airport. Within its beautifully decorated area, there are linked paths, pools, legendary castles and more than 30 funny toys.Opening time is from 10.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. on weekdays and 9.30 a.m.7.00 p.m. on weekends.

City Pillar ShrineLocated

across the street from the eastern wall of Wat Phra Kaeo to the southeast of Sanam Luang, this shrine contains a wooden pillar erected by King Rama I in 1782 to represent the founding of the capital. The spirit of the pillar is considered the city's guardian deity to whom hundreds of Thai worshippers daily come to pay homage and offer prayers. Thai classical dance performances are given many times daily from 08:30 until 15:30 (16:00 for Sunday).

Crocodile FarmHere

is the world's largest crocodile farm with over 60,000 crocs in stock. Visitors can also view a crocodile wrestling show and elephant shows which are presented several times daily.Besides, there is a modest sized zoo with some rare animals such as tigers, chimpanzees, lions, leopards, pythons, camels, etc

Location : Amphoe Muang, Samut Prakan, 25 km from Bangkok

Dream World

This amusement park is situated on km. 7 of Rangsit-Ong Kharak Road, a 10 minute drive from Don Muang Airport. It is a beautiful land designed in classic style and decorated with European style plaza, miniature land of the major world legend and exciting playing machines. Open daily from 10.00 am-5.00 pm. except on weekends from 10.00 am-7.00 pm.

Dusit Zoo

Located near Vimanmek Palace, Dusit Zoo is opened to the public everyday from 8.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. Tropical animals to be found include great grey kangaroos, Sumatran rhinoceros, Siamese crocodiles, gaurs, lesser mouse deer, American bisons, etc.

Floating Market

For those who want to be amid the peaceful atmosphere and observe the traditional ways of life by the water, Bangkok has quite a lot to offer. The easiest way is taking a Chao Phraya River express boat. There are also several canal routes by long-tail boat which offer more charming scenery with stops at old temples which are scattered along all canals.

Jim Thompson House

This remarkable Thai-style wooden house once belonged to the late Mr. Jim Thompson, an American silk entrepreneur. The house, now a museum, displays Mr. Thompson's splendid collection of Asian artefacts and antiques.

Ko Kret

Location : An islet in the middle of the Chao Phraya River a little way from Bangkok's northern edge.This islet, which is worth a one-day visit, is home of a Mon community that immigrated from their homeland in Burma more than 300 years ago. The islet is well known as a centre of earthenware production -- the Mons' inherited art, and a market of authentic Mon-style pottery.

National Museum

Established in 1926 in the reign of King Rama VII, it is located within walking distance of the Grand Palace next to Thammasat University, this is the largest and most comprehensive museum in Southeast Asia. It contains an 18th century palace and a group of well-designed buildings, housing Thailand's artistic treasures from prehistoric to contemporary.Tours conducted at 9.30 a.m. daily -- in English (on Wed and Thur), French (Wed and Thur), German (Thur) and Japanese (Wed). For more information, call 0 2224 1333.

The Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium

The Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium on Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue near the TAT office holds bouts on Mondays at 5.00 and 9.00 pm, Wednesdays at 6.00 pm, Thursdays at 6.00 pm, and Sundays at 5.00 pm. The practice bouts held at 2.00 pm on Sundays are pretty much for the tourists. Don't get ripped off by touts selling tickets on the street. Only buy tickets from the authorized sellers in the ticket windows at the stadium. Tickets vary in price depending on the seating. Outer circle seats cost around 250 baht. Ringside tickets cost 500 baht on up to 1000 baht depending on the card. A boxing match includes eight fights with a maximum of five rounds each.

Rose Garden

Location : 30 km southwest of Bangkok on Phetkasem HighwayCovering an area of over 20 hectares, it is a beautiful flower garden resort, noted for its scenic riverside landscape. At the resort, there are a Thai cultural village and a restaurant. It also stages cultural shows, folk dances and martial arts at 14.30 every day.

Royal Barges Museum

The museum can be reached by boat from Tha Chang Pier near the Grand Palace. It houses several royal barges used in Royal ceremonial processions on the river.The most beautiful and important barge is the Suphannahong, the king's personal barge, which was built in 1911 in the reign of King Rama VI. It is 44.7 metres long and 3.1 metres wide, being the largest and most elaborate dugout in the world. The name, meaning "golden hongsa", came from the bow of the barge carved into the shape of the head of a mythical bird called hongsa.

Sanam Luang

This huge public ground in front of the Grand Palace used to be the place where the Weekend Market now moved to Suan Chatuchak on Phahonyothin Road was held. Special activities or ceremonies such as the Royal Ploughing Ceremony in May and the New Year Festival also take place here. At the northern part of Sanam Luang opposite the Royal Hotel is a small statue placed in small white pavillion. The Goddess of the Earth was built during King Chulalongkorn's reign (1868-1910)t o provide public drinking water.

Pasteur Institute (Snake Farm)

This interesting spot is located at the corner of Henri Dunant Road and Rama IV Road west of Chulalongkorn Hospital. It is a section of the Thai Red Cross where one can have cholera smallpox and typhoid inoculations as well as rabies treatment. The institute has become a popular tourist attraction because of its large collection of live poisonous snakes. The Snake Farm is open to the public every day between 8.30 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. on weekdays and 8.30 a.m.- 12.00 p.m. on public holidays. The extraction of venom from the snakes is demonstrated daily at 10.30 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. on weekdays and at 10.30 a.m. on public holidays.

Safari World

It is located at 99 Ramindra 1, Min Buri, covers an area of some 430 rai and is divided into 2 parts. The first, the Safari Park, houses a large variety of animals like zebra, deers, giraffe, birds, tigers, lion, bears, etc.in natural habitat. Visitors can drive their own cars or have a good look from one of the Safari World's air-conditioned coaches . The second, the Marine Park, exhibits marine and some rare animals. Visitors can enjoy performances by trained animals like dolphins, birds, seals, and monkeys Restaurants and game shops are also scattered within the area and tram service is provided for those wishing to have a look around. Safari World is open daily between 9.00 a.m.

Siam Water Park (Suan Siam)

Siam Water Park is merely a 60-minute drive from the Lat Phrao flyover, and is located in suburban Amphoe Minburi. The park features an extensive man-made sea with artificial surf, whirlpools, fountains and fountains and waterfalls, and towering water slides amid carefully landscaped gardens. Satellite attractions include children's playgrounds, aviaries, an open zoo and botanical gardens. The complex is open daily from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. (weekdays) and 9.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. (weekends).