Where You Travel for Loy Krathong Festival 2007

Loy Krathong Festival is called "Festival of Lights". Loy Krathong. is popular festival in Thailand. Beginning on the first evening of the full moon, the festival has Buddhist origins and offers thanks to the Goddess of Water at the end of the rainy season.

The Place for Loy Krathong 2007

This year is provide on 24 November 2007. Many hotels and institutions hold special events as part of the festival and all are welcome to participate in the celebrations. All rivers and waterways nationwide. For specific events and venues contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand. In Bangkok, the Chao Phraya river will be alight with candles – most riverside hotels will be holding special events.

Enjoy your trip for Loy Krathong festival in Thailand 2007.

Naga Fireballs of Nong Khai on 26-27 October 2007

Naga Fireballs provided at Nong Khai Province on 26-27 October 2007. As the full moon crests the horizon, ruby orbs of light begin to rise out of the Mekong River. As if by magic, they float silently into the air and then evaporate in the inky blackness, a phenomenon that awes and delights observers privileged to have seen them.

For centuries, their existence was a closely-held secret among villagers living near the northeastern town of Nong Khai in Thailand. Then, the miraculous event was discovered by thousands of outsiders who now flock to the riverbanks each October full moon night.

Halal Food Hilal Town in South Thailand(27-31 July 2007)

Starting in the first year of 2005, the festival was seen as a massive success and saw a big crowd of Muslim population on the island itself and even the nearby provinces like Phang-Nga and Phuket. They had a good time getting together and showed off their charm and hositality.

The second year’s venue was relocated to the large Thalang Historical Memorial Site at Ban Riang in Theppkasartri area, on the north of the island as the PPAO is develoing it into a provincial historical site. This year’s third ‘Halal Food Hilal Town’ event will also be held at the same location during July 27 – 31 2007.
Featured at the 5 day festival will be a great selection of food prepared strictly under the Halal requirements.

Other interesting activities include cooking contests, bird singing contests, local arts and traditions like an ancient wedding, and folkore at the cultural ground.

There will also be an exhibition and sale of local products from all 14 southern provinces, as Alee Kumban an organizing committee member explained.

The highlight of the 5 day event is the light and sound show telling the tragic story of the legendary Princess Mahsuri and it is on every night.

[Source from; thaisnews.com]

Hua Hin Jazz Festival 2007

June is the time of the year when 'jazz on the beach' occurs at the annual Hua Hin Jazz Festival. The popular event attracts world class jazz musicians from Thailand and all over the world, including performers like Lazaro Valdes from Cuba and Bill Bruford from the UK. Stages are set up right on the beach and performances take place each evening.

There are also a variety of booths set up offering everything from a chance to get your hair braided to an opportunity to buy Thai handicrafts. Sponsors offer a variety of promotions, including the chance to win valuable gifts. This is an event that encompasses all of Hua Hin and provides and opportunity to have a good time and enjoy jazz on the beach.

[Source from; huahin.bangkok.com]

Bangkok Pride Festival 2007 ( November 3 - 11, 2007)

Bangkok Pride Festival is a number of community events held throughout the year and culminating with a parade and a community day. Bangkok Pride Festival strives to engender a sense of community among the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Trans gender(GLBT) population in Thailand, and to empower everyone with a stronger sense of pride.

Over the years, the Bangkok annual event has undergone organizational changes, resulting in a current focus on the long-held goal that the Bangkok events and parade be created by and for members of the Thai GLBT community, with support from gay and gay-friendly business and civil society sectors—Thai and foreigners alike.

History of Bangkok Pride Festival

Pride celebrations started in Thailand in the late 1990’s and were first organized by Khun Pakorn Pimton with the support of several Thai gay businesses. Under the name of Bangkok Gay Festival, they presented Thailand’s first gay pride parade in the Silom business district in 1999. This parade attracted representatives from Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and other Asian, as well as Western, countries and subsequently led several other countries to follow with their own events.

[Source from; pridefestival.org]

Ronan Keating Live in Bangkok

Ronan Keating–the man behind such worldwide smashes as “Life Is A Rollercoaster” and
“When You Say Nothing At All” – is returning to Thailand this May.

BEC-Tero Entertainment PLC and Nokia Nseries are proud to present Nokia Nseries presents Sharing Discoveries with RONAN KEATING Live in Bangkok on May 7, 2007 at the Royal Paragon Hall.

Ronan Keating will return to Thailand to celebrate his 10th year in the music industry. His hits include " Iris", "If Tomorrow Never Comes" and many more.

Ronan started off his career as a member of
British boy band Boyzone. He was not only the band's
lead singer but also played an important role in
the songwriting and the band's music production.

After that, he became a solo artist with hit albums
such as Ronan, Destination, Turn It Out, 10 Years
Of Hits and Bring You Home. He also proved his talents
by being the band manager of Westlife.

Ronan gave a concert in Thailand in 2003 at the Indoor Stadium, Hua Mak, Bangkapi. Tickets sold out very quickly. His mini-concert at the Met 107 Radio station's launch was also very well received by his fans.

Hi International Fashion Week 2007 Central World Thailand

Hi International Fashion Week 2007 at Zone Zen Central World square Thailand presented by Scott collagen-E. Frist in Thailand wish Fashion Week pleasing is brand popular Salvatore Ferragamo sexy Fashion from La perla to meet with Superstar Korean Lee Dong Wook form siries popular My Girl. From 28 -31 March 2007 at Zen Central World square Bangkok.

Royal Thai Air Force Summer Festival

1 March-31 May 2007
Venue: Ao Manao, Prachuap Khiri Khan (281 km south of Bangkok)

Royal Thai Air Force Summer Festival

The Royal Thai Air Force is scheduled to hold its Summer Festival at Ao Manao Bay, the 4th Air Division, Air Force Headquarters from 1 March to 31 May 2007

The highlight of this festival is a live concert at the bay on the last weekend of each month.

There are several interesting programmes as follows:

1. View the sunrise over 2 bays at Khao Lom Muak and visit the Historical Park of Wing 53

2. Go to the peak of Khao Lom Muak Mountain to see the scenery of Muang Narang

3. Visit Thong Phrai Cave and trek through the nature trail to study the ecosystem

4. Cross the sea to view the open-sea phenomenon

5. Take a small train to see the magnificent scenery of Ao Manao Bay and Prachuap Bay / Visit the historical street of Khao Chong Kachok War and pay respect to the City Pillar Shrine

6. Enjoy a boat trip to virgin beaches on many islands/ View the beautiful coral and sea-anemones

7. Play golf among beautiful beach views and natural features

Phuket is the Largest and Best Known of All the Islands in Thailand

Phuket is the largest and best known of all the islands in Thailand. Depending on your taste, Phuket offers either peaceful settings or wild times. This mixture of lifestyles attracts visitors from all over the world.

Phuket is Thailand's largest island

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and its best example of the benefits and problems of tourism. Huge promotions of Phuket by the TAT and travel agents since Thailand first start attracting international travellers on a large scale in the 1980s have brought in millions. Along with them has come unregulated development, severe environmental degradation, organised crime and a raft of other ugly annoyances.

Phuket Travel In Thailand

The so-called pearl of the south is today unrecognisable from just a few decades ago. As property prices soared, many locals sold up to national and international hotels and many of the most beautiful beaches are now host to scores of them, along with restaurants, bars, travel agents, massage parlours and the usual other suspects.

Phuket Travel In Thailand

For the budget traveller, the days of grass huts on the beach are largely gone and simple seafood feasts have been replaced by KFC, Starbucks and Pizza Hut. Phuket is an expensive place, with lodging, eating and transport all far costlier than elsewhere in Thailand. You can minimise this by eating on the street and drinking less (or diligently chasing happy hours) but if you really want to spend some time here, you'll need to adjust your budget. Dishes of pad thai for 100B are not unusual here.

Phuket Travel In Thailand

And you can't avoid the disgraceful public transport here, where the spineless authorities refuse to crackdown on the tuk tuk mafia, meaning public buses only run between Phuket town and the beaches, but not between beaches. This makes interbeach travel very expensive and a good reason to hire a motorbike or car. It's worth spending a night in historical Phuket town and then heading to one of the low-key beaches where budget spots can still be found. Once you're in the water, who really cares whether they're paying 500B or 50,000B for their bed? Phuket was hit by the Boxing Day Tsunami, with Kamala, Patong, Bang Tao and Naiya the worst hit. Reconstruction in most areas is progressing rapidly.

Location Phuket Travel In Thailand

Phuket is bordered in the north and the east by the province of Phang-nga while the Andaman Sea is to the south and the west. Despite being an island, it is still possible to drive here by using the Sarasin bridge, which links Phang-nga with Phuket.

Highlights Phuket Travel In Thailand

Had Patong: Located about fifteen kilometers from town is the nine-kilometer stretch of beach called Patong. The atmosphere here is similar to Pattaya, supplying all different types of entertainment, several ranges of accommodation, swimming, and just about any other activity you could dream of.

Had Kata

Had Kata: Had Kata is located about seventeen kilometers from town and is comprised of Ao Kata Yai and Ao Kata Noi. There are many different types
of coral and rock to be found here. Like Patong, there are several hotels, resorts and restaurants of all different price ranges.

Kata Noi Beach

Kata Noi Beach : This cosy bay is found at the end of a dead-end road, just a few minutes' drive over the hill from Kata beach. There's not much to do in Kata Noi, which is precisely the point of coming here. Relax, take a walk along the soft sands, snorkel or swim. It's long been a popular spot for surfers in the monsoon season of May-October, though swimming can be dangerous during this period. The popular Kata Viewpoint, offering a stunning vista across the three bays of Karon, Kata and Kata Noi, is only a 5-minute drive along a winding road towards Nai Harn.

Had Karon

Had Karon: Had Karon is located north of Had Kata and bordered by craggy hills. The beach is long and the many pine trees offer shade to keep you cool in the midday sun.

Had Rawai

Had Rawai: Located about seventeen kilometers from town, Had Rawai has beautiful seaside streets and is where many of the islanders live. From here, you can hire boats to Koh He.

Laem Phrom Thep

Laem Phrom Thep: Laem Phrom Thep is the best spot on the island to see the sunset. Located only two kilometers from Had Rawai, there are several souvenir shops where you can buy gifts for your loved ones.

Had Naihan

Had Naihan: Had Naihan is next to the Laem Phrom Thep, about eighteen kilometers from town. This is a peaceful area with un-crowded white-sand beaches.

Had Surin

Had Surin: Had Surin, located twenty-four kilometers from town, has beautiful beaches and scenery, but swimming is forbidden because of the dangerous rip tides. Many visitors rent boats from here to take them to nearby islands like Koh RachaYai, KohTaphao, and Koh Sire.

Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach : This well-enclosed bay and fishing village surrounded by forested hills is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket. Tranquil and calm, the pretty white sands of Kamala beckon most people by day, but if you're seeking more than sunbathing on a perfect beach, there are other options. Hire a long-tail boat and go snorkeling at the north end of the beach, explore the neighbouring beaches of Laem Sing or Surin, or take an island tour.Many Beach in Phuket.

Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo

When: March 23 - April 1, 2007 Where: IMPACT Arena, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok

Disney On Ice presents

The adventurous and fun-filled quest for Nemo returns as Disney On Ice, the world's favourite ice skating showcase, brings its adaptation of the much-loved animation to Bangkok, transforming the performance venue into a frozen under-sea paradise full of memorable characters from the film.

Disney On Ice presents

Join the ocean-sized adventure of the curious clownfish Nemo, his overprotective father Marlin and their absent-minded yet lovable pal Dory as Disney On Ice immerses you in a vibrant aquatic world in Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo. Follow alongside Marlin and Dory on a daring search of the big blue. Ride the current with 'super-dude' turtle Crush and make waves with Nemo's new friends - the Tank Gang - as they plot an escape from the dentist's aquarium in this whale of a tale full of laughter and fun! Exclusively for Thai audiences, this year's Disney On Ice also features a Thai performer for the very first time in the show's history. Phongtawan Suriyothai (Ohm) will be the first and only Thai skater to take part in this internationally-acclaimed series. Ohm, out of hundred other applicants, was chosen by the creator of Disney On Ice to participate in a skating course as well as training session with a world-class skating team. With a total of 19 performances, Disney On Ice: Finding Nemo is sure to delight everyone in the family. Tickets on weekdays are from 100 to 1,500 baht, and on weekends from 200 to 1,500 baht.

Paradee Speedboat Links Samed to Thai Gulf Resorts

New 660 HP, five-seat “Fountain” whizzes guests 9 km to the Ban Phe pier in a scorching 10 minutes, while cruises to Pattaya, Koh Chang and a 4.5-hour cruise to Hua Hin are also available.

Paradee on Samet island, has added a 660 HP five-seat Fountain speed boat to its fleet. The Fountain covers the 9-km distance from Ban Phe pier to the luxury resort's floating jetty in about 10 minutes.

The Fountain is available for guests who want, on request, to transfer quickly between Samed and Pattaya, Koh Chang and even across the Gulf of Thailand to Hua Hin, a journey of about 4.5 hours. The service is only offered in calm weather conditions.

The Paradee has also added the 12-metre four-seat, one-bedroom 280 HP Sea Ray luxury yacht cruiser to its fleet. The Sea Ray will be used for daytrips to islands in the Khao Laem Ya Mu Koh Samed marine national park.

Paradee General Manager, Ms Dymphna Brennan, said: "Paradee guests want to relax. But when they want to move, some want to move quickly. Adding the Fountain and the Sea Ray gives Paradee guests more day trip and transfer options."

The Khao Sai Dao Waterfall Thailand Travel

The Khao Sai Dao Waterfall is best know as a wildlife sanctuary, but many people neglect the actual falls themselves. Those who do take the time to see them, leave with a feeling of awe for this spectacular natural area. The waterfall, in addition to the paristine fotest, make this natural park a have for the animals that call it home.

Location The Khao Sai Dao Waterfall

The Khao Sai Dao Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Amphoe Pong Nam Ron, Amphoe Makham and Amphoe Kaeng Hang Maeo. The two highest peaks in the ares are Khao Soi Dao Nua at 1675 meters. For tourist information, you should contact the Wildlife Sanctuary Office in Amphoe Pong Nam Ron

Highlights The Khao Sai Dao Waterfall Thailand Travel

Namtok Khao Soi Dao: is a fertile, sixteen-level waterfall that flows year round. From the
parking lot you can see the first level of the waterfall. However, if you want to see the
others, which is recommended, you will have to place up your shoes and walk.
The most notable levels are nine and ten. These are particularly stunning because
he water collects in pools at the base before falling to the levels below.

Namtok Khao Soi Dao

The best time to visit is during the rainy season, but beware of the leeches. That is one souvenir that is better left at the park.
While in Khao Soi Dao, you will have the opportunity to see many species of birds and butterflies. The best place to see the birds is in the area around the waterfall, while the butterflies prefer to settle in the many ponds scattered around the park.
On your trek, there is a two and a half-kilometer route where tourists can study the indigenous plants and animals by way of information markers. These signs serve not only to educate, but also to lead your way through the forest. As a result, guides are not need in this area of the forest.

How to Get there The Khao Sai Dao Waterfall

From Chanthaburi take Highway 317. After passing Amphoe Pong Nam Ron, turn at Kilometer Marker number 22. lf you find yourself at the Patong Marker, you have passed your turn off. Turn left at the Kilometer Marker and drive for approximately four kilometers until you reach the Wildlife Sanctuary. The entire trip is about seventy kilometers.

Pattaya Music Festival in Thailand 2007

Pattaya Music Festival 2007 ,16 Mar 2007 - 18 Mar 2007 Place Pattaya, Chon Buri Pattaya Music Festival Beach, Chonburi.Without a doubt the biggest musical event any year, the Pattaya Music Festival features every possible type of music and musicians and bands at the forefront of the Thai music industry. Jazz, rock, hip-hop – it’s all there! Not to be missed if you are a music fan.Meet and Greet many Thai and International artists, spend your weekend with the musical pleasure!

Songkran Water Festival in Thailand

Songkran Festival Thailand's most celebrated festival is the Songkran Festival. It starts April 13 and lasts between 3 and 10 days, depending on where you are in Thailand. The word Songkran is from the Sanskrit meaning the beginning of a new Solar Year, but nowadays Thailand celebrates the New Year on 31 December.

Songkran Festival 13 April 2007 to 15 April 2007

The Thai people celebrate this festival with water. Everyone gets soaking wet and since it is the hottest season of the year, the custom is quite refreshing. Songkran is a Public Spring Cleaning Day, supported by the religious belief that anything old and useless must be thrown away or it will bring bad luck to the owner.

Songkran Festival 13 April 2007 to 15 April 2007

During the afternoon of the 13th, Buddha images are bathed as part of the ceremony. Young people pour scented water into the hands of elders and parents as a mark of respect while seeking the blessing of the older people. In ancient days, old people were actually given a bath and clothed in new apparel presented by the young folks as a token of respect for the New Year.

Songkran Festival 13 April 2007 to 15 April 2007

Until recently Thailand was almost entirely an agricultural society and this has been a perfect time to take break from the business of earning a living. The rice harvest is in, and replanting has to await the coming of the rains.

Songkran Festival 13 April 2007 to 15 April 2007

It is an old belief that the Nagas or mythical serpents brought on rain by spouting water from the seas. The more they spouted, the more rain there would be. So, one might believe that the Songkran customs of throwing water is actually a rain-making idea, but it seems that the Thais don't really bother about way they celebrate Songkran - they just do it for having a great time!.Regardless, Songkran is an interesting festival to observe and is still the focus of a great deal of fun.

Full Moon Party Koh Phangan in Thailand

Koh Phangan is a very special place, there are few places in this world where you can live out your desert island dreams of palm trees and white sand beaches, and still have a blinding night out at a rocking party every month.

With the global notoriety that the Full Moon Party Koh Phangan Thailand has gained as being one of the biggest and best beach bashes in the world, we get more than our fair share of hedonists gracing our shores. Each year the scene here grows with the ever-increasing number of party faithful that return, bringing their mates and spreading the vibe.

Haad Rin is home to the Full Moon Party and also houses about 3-5000 rather mad people; it is the island's nightlife capital and has Koh Phangan's biggest concentration of beach clubs that collectively put on the ultimate travellers get together.

There are over 12 major sound systems running the length of Had Rin beach, catering for 8000 to 12,000 punters in low season, 15,000 to 20,000 in high season and up to 30,000 at New Year. Within this transient crowd of party animals some highly talented DJ's pass through, banging out their wares to the raging lunar explorers that have landed on planet party.

2007 Thailand Chinatown Festival

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is celebrated on the first day of the First Moon of the Chinese lunar calendar and this year it falls on February 18. It is regarded as the most important celebration in the Chinese calendar.

2007 Thailand Chinatown Festival

Chinese New Year, which signifies the turning over of a new leaf, is a time for family reunion and thanksgiving. The celebration is traditionally highlighted with a religious ceremony given in honor of Heaven and Earth, the gods of the household and the family ancestors. The sacrifice to the ancestors, the most vital ritual of all, unites the living family members with those who have passed away. All members of the family return home and join the important family meal, a most significant feast, on New Year's Eve. This is a time for the Chinese to congratulate each other on having passed through another year, a time to finish out the old, and to welcome in the New Year.

2007 Thailand Chinatown Festival

In Thailand, this festival is celebrated nationwide, not only among Chinese immigrants and their families, but by Thais, too. Major venues are in Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Pattaya, Hat Yai, Phuket and Chiang Mai.

2007 Thailand Chinatown Festival

On this joyous occasion of HM King Bhumibol’s 80th Birthday Anniversary in the year 2007, China will offer a pair of stone carved lions (2.5 metres high and weighting a total of 5 tons) as a gift to the government of Thailand and bring the famous troupes of Chinese Art and Culture from 8 cities and provinces; Beijing, Shandong, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Sichuan, Shanghai, Heilongjiang, and Inner Mongolia to join the celebration held at the Chinatown of Bangkok, Hat Yai, Phuket, and Nakhon Sawan

The 11th Anniversary of Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony

13-15 February 2007
Venue: Pak Meng Beach, Trang Province

The 11th Anniversary of Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony Thailand Travel

Trang, about 828 km. south of Bangkok, has become well known to the world because of its Group Underwater Wedding that has been held for 10 consecutive years.

The 11th Anniversary of Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony

This year, the event celebrates its eleventh year from 13 to 15 February 2007 at Pak Meng Beach – one of the province’s best-known sand beaches in a peaceful atmosphere and the aligned Ko Meng as its background.

The 11th Anniversary of Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony

The event is aimed to further promote the truly spectacular natural seaside and marine resources with the warm atmosphere of love giving to each other under the concept of “Romantic Destination”, as well as the beauty of a symbolic flower of the province named “Si-Trang”, whose pale violet blossoms in season are pleasantly ubiquitous everywhere.

The 5th Abseiling Wedding Ceremony in Thailand

13-14 February 2007
Venue: Ban Pha-Ngam Resort, Nadi County, Prachin Buri

Ban Pha-Ngam Resort Abseiling Wedding Ceremony

Prachin Buri Provice (135 km east of Bangkok) is another attractive place for a weekend holiday. Come and experience the sea of morning fog and the beautiful mountain scenery along the world heritage route. Apart from its magnificent landscape and famous adventurous activities, the province provides a unique wedding ceremony in which brides and grooms abseiling down from a cliff to exchange the wedding rings and get their marriage certificates.

Abseiling Wedding Ceremony

The Abseiling Wedding Ceremony will be held annually on Valentine’s Day at Ban Pha-Ngam Resort, Prachin Buri.

Abseiling Wedding Ceremony

On 13 February, which will be the first adventurous lesson for the bride and groom, who will get into the first and only giant swing in Thailand to show their true love. When the groom starts swinging, the bride will toss her wedding bouquet to a lucky person among the witness crowd.

Abseiling Wedding Ceremony

On 14 February, the couples will have their impressive moment of the wedding ceremony. They will tie the knot and abseil down the cliff of Weruwan waterfall, Thab Lan National Park. While descending, there will be a period of phototaking. The couples will stop to have a shoot of their memorable day of life. After that they will abseil down to the point where the County Chief is waiting for them with their marriage certificates.

A Cultural Exhibition At Saranrom Park

22 December 2006-14 April 2007
Venue: Saranrom Park, on the corner of Sanam Chai Road and Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok.

A Cultural Exhibition At Saranrom Park

Saranrom Park is Bangkok’s first royal botanical garden. It was ordered to be established by King Rama IV (1851-1868), but was started and finished in the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910). The park is a picturesque European garden and well located in the heart of the city. At the main entrance on Charoen Krung Road stands the elegant cast iron gate from Europe with the graceful Roman-style fountain adjacent to it.

A Cultural Exhibition At Saranrom Park

On the auspicious occasion of HM King Bhumibol’s Accession to the Throne and his 80th Birthday Anniversary, Saranrom Park is now holding a cultural exhibition which opens to public for free. The aims of this exhibition are to perpetuate Thai Art and Culture, as well as to promote tourism. There is also an exhibition about our devoted King and his royal projects. Let’s take pleasure in viewing the exhibition to appreciate his kindness to our nation.

A Cultural Exhibition At Saranrom Park

Thai art and Thai music admirers cannot miss traditional dances and folk music from five regions, for example, Khon, Nang Talung, and Manora. The demonstrations of local wisdom products from communities in Bangkok are available daily from 15.00 to 17.30 and from 18.00 to 20.30. Interested persons are welcome to participate in practicing their skills.

A Cultural Exhibition At Saranrom Park

In addition, for those who are fond of Thai architecture, the park provides models of traditional Thai-style houses displaying Thais’ ways of life from every region. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 19.00 to 20.00, the amazing light and sound shows, performing arts, and a musical fountain showing our great respect and loyalty to the beloved King will be presented to you.

Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, Thailand

It would be no exaggeration to say that hardly any especially Bangkok doesn't know Chatuchak Market. This is The Worlds Biggest Weekend Market selling practically everything under the sun, from the smallest nails, to foods, trendy fashions, antiques intricate wooden carvings, masks from far-off lands, adorable fluffy dogs, colorful fish of every hue and singing birds. You can find all this and more at amazing Chatuchak market. There are almost 9,000 individual booths overflowing with every imaginable type of wares to catch your fancy. Once inside the market, you will be catch up in a world of bursting crowds and stalls stretching as far as the eye can see.

Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, Thailand

If you are thinking of decorating your home, searching for that perfect piece of furniture or decoration, be it antique, modern, Thai or Western? Or perhaps a lovinly created ethnic handicraft to brighten up your space? Ceramic products, whether they be tea cups, coffee mugs, pots, traditional Thai Benjarong or ceramic dolls. Well, come to Chatuchak Market and chances are you won't go home empty-handed.

Feeling a little hot and weary from your journey ?

A bit hoarse from all that bargaining ? Then its time to seek out some cool, refreshing drinks or something light and tasty to re-charge your batteries before another round of shopping. Chatuchak Market has and endless selection of food and drinks, ranging from small beverage stalls on almost every soi or corner , iced refreshments, noodles, rice and curries, rice with roast pork, chicken rice and Thai-style fast foods.

Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, Thailand

Apart from bringing together interesting products from all corners of Thailand. We want to tell you that Chatuchak Market is also a wonderful place to pick-up curious objects from far-off land, too.

Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, Thailand

Enjoy the unique salesmanship tactics employed by the different vendors, who rely on shouting, making odd noises, playing music and even wearing outlandish dress, to capture the attention of passing shoppers.

The Real Chaem Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, Thailand

The real charm of the Chatuchak Mattel lies in the fact that you can-and should-bargain with each stall you are interested in. Whether you will snare a bargain or not is a test of your own negotiating skills. So, don' t be surprised if the same goods bought by you and your friends from the same shop carry different prices.

Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2007

Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2007 (Chao Pho Chao Mae Pak Nam Pho Fair and Procession)

11-22 February 2007

Venue: Utthayan Sawan (Nong Sombun Park), Kosi Road and the bank of the Chao Phraya River

Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2007

The Chao Pho Chao Mae Pak Nam Pho Fair and Procession has been annually organized by Thais of Chinese ancestry in Nakhon Sawan Province during the Chinese New Year. It is held in honour of Chao Pho Chao Mae Pak Nam Pho (the god and goddess of Nakhon Sawan), the highly revered deities, hence the origin of the name.

This year, the night procession will be on 20 February starting from 19.00 hrs. and the Day Procession will be on 21 February starting from 8.00 hrs.

Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2007

This famous festival and grand celebration with the procession of the statue of the god and goddess, impressive displays of dragon and lion dances, cultural performances such as the Chinese opera and acrobatics, offers a colourful spectacle and is a popular attraction to Thais and foreigners alike.

Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2007

The dragon and the lion, both considered to be symbols of good luck and good fortune and prominently featured as the royal regalia in the imperial courts of ancient China, are deemed to be central elements of auspicious rituals and events. The practice vividly demonstrates the faith and unity of local people and long-established cultural ties. Besides providing an opportunity for shopping, the Chao Pho Chao Mae Pak Nam Pho Fair and Procession also offers insight into the local way of life.

Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2007

Nakhon Sawan, or Pak Nam Pho, is an important city where the Nan joins the Ping to form the Chao Phraya River and is the Gateway to the Northern Region. The province has many scenic attractions and is noted for its large marsh area "Bueng Boraphet", covering an area of 9,597.7 sq. km. Nakhon Sawan is located 240 km. north of Bangkok.

Second Thai-Laos bridge opens

More links planned to span the Mekong , opening more transportation options for the Southeast Asian corridor.

Thailand and Laos officially opened their second Friendship Bridge , while the two countries plan the construction of a third and fourth river crossing.

Second Thai-Laos bridge opens

The MOU between the two governments, as part of an agreement to expand the transportation network between the countries, was signed during an official visit by Lao Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh to Thailand . His mission was to strengthen ties between the neighbouring countries and meet with Thai Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont.

Second Thai-Laos bridge opens

Both country leaders are also scheduled to attend the opening of the second bridge across the Mekong , which connects Mukdahan province in Thailand , 642 km northeast of Bangkok , to Savannaket province in Laos .

Second Thai-Laos bridge opens

Construction of the second Thai-Laos Bridge began on 21 March 2004 . The two governments borrowed Bt2.588 billion from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation to finance the construction. Funds spent on erecting the bridge have amounted to Bt1.585 billion.

Second Thai-Laos bridge opens

The 1,600-metre bridge has two 12-metre-wide traffic lanes, and is part of the land transport development plan of the East-West economic corridor running through Vietnam , Laos , Thailand and Myanmar .

Second Thai-Laos bridge opens

The two bridges are the initial phases for the countries’ plan for a third bridge linking Nakhon Phanom in Thailand with Khammouane (Tha Khek), Laos and a fourth connecting Chiang Rai with Huay Xai, Laos.

Second Thai-Laos bridge opens

The first bridge connecting the countries across the Mekong at Nong Khai opened in 1994, and connects Thailand with the Lao capital Vientiane .

Chinese New Year in Bangkok, Thailand : February 18, 2007

Head down to Yaowarat, Bangkok's Chinatown, where old buildings of vintage-style architecture peep through neon ideograms. Take your senses for a stroll and behold the transition from the Year of the Dog to the Reign of the Pig. With as much as 14 present of Thailand's population claiming Chinese ancestry, celebrations in Bangkok are big news Firecrackers, colourful lanterns, wonderful eating experiences, and the traditional processions of the Golden Dragon and the masked Lion Dance are just some of the exhilarating surprises to encounter.

The Year of the Pig

Based on lunar calculations and ancient traditions, Chinese astrology is still followed by the Chinese community in Thailand, despite having taken on a slightly Thai character. To the oriental mind, the pig is a symbol of good fortune, fertility and virility. Thus, this year is a fantastic time to make babies, or riches, as best fits suit. Generally, the sign of the pig embodies generosity, loyalty, passion and opulence. Someone born under the sign is said to be intellectually curious, a lover of earthly pleasures, and most respectful of others' beliefs. In the Chinese legend, the pig was last of the creatures to cross the river, thus the sign presides over the end of cycles. This year also falls under the element of fire, adding a volatile streak to the brew, which could translate as either resilience or regeneration.

The origins of Chinese New Year

The legend tells of Nian, the demonic beast who liked to dine on humans on Chinese New Year's Eve. There are, however, three known things the unholy predator fears: the colour red, fire and loud noises. Contemporary practices are remnants of the ancient Chinese rituals of uniting the community against wild beasts to trick them out of their annual feast. The other story goes that various gods ascend to heaven on this night to pay tribute to the Jade Emperor - supreme among Taoist deities - and report on household affairs. Appropriate offerings are made to win favourable reports.

Preparations for the celebrations

The preparations begin days before, with the ceremonial sweeping of the grounds. To the Taoist mind, cosmic order is reflected in everyday living space. Knowledge of this principle lends symbolic gravity to every act. But the design of tradition is also to bring communities together and reunite families who live far apart. The focus is on beating out the bad spirits and luring in the good times - abundance, long life and prosperity. Elaborate preparations fill the days leading up to the auspicious occasion with excitement and trepidation.

Customs

Central to the celebration is the family reunion dinner on Chinese New Year's Eve. Offerings and prayers are performed at shrines to remember the ancestors, and to pass prosperity onto the family. Red paper scroll couplets inscribed with auspicious words (wishes) are hung on doorways to attract the desired attribute, be it money, luck or good family relations. Red envelopes containing money and pouches of mandarin oranges - gifts symbolic of gold - are exchanged between family members to spread the spirit of abundance. Firecrackers announce triumph over the night and scare off any potential bad spirits.

Setting the scene

The Procession of the Golden Dragon is probably among the most iconic images of Chinese culture. The performance represents the Dragon King descending to the earthly realm to bestow blessings upon the worthy. Thousands rush to greet the apparition, as it is considered a good omen if the dragon passes your way, and fortunate indeed for the owner if the trail sweeps past your shop.

The Lion Dance is a masked dance akin to an acrobatic feat. Usually there are two players, the 'lion' and the fan bearer, the latter being the God of Smiles. While fascinating, entertaining and richly photogenic, this ritual demonstrates how one should approach the ineffable - with good humour and, it would seem, dexterity!

Eating experiences

Symbolically, whole foods are eaten to ensure long life, endless streams of money and keeping the family name intact. Whole chickens are prepared, and the head portions given as offerings to the ancestors. Whole fish are served too, but, in this case, some must remain left over to symbolise surplus. Mandarin oranges symbolise gold, are blessed and then eaten. As is often the case, wealth is foremost on the mind.

All that been said, ultimately, for most Thai-Chinese, New Year's is about reaffirming the continuity of tradition, however far it might have roamed from its origins. As the Chinese diaspora morphs each into its unique setting, a trip to Bangkok's Chinatown can enlighten even the most jaded world-traveller.

Souce : Bangkok.com

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2007 in Thailand Travel

2 - 4 February 2007
Venue: In the provincial town of Chiang Mai at Nong Buak Had Park, Thailand,

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2007

Chiang Mai is famous for its variety of valley flowers. Most of them bloom early in the year from January to February, which is regarded as the most beautiful period of Chiang Mai. The celebratory atmosphere and the tradition of the locals who have enjoyed floral beauty since ancient times are why the grand Flower Festival is organised here annually.

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2007

The most interesting highlight of the Festival is the part of many flower floats decorated with a beautiful array of floral species. Each flower, with its shade of colour is carefully selected and positioned on the float to form fine patterns, words and pictures. The beauty of the flowers combined with the creative ingenuity of their arrangement make each float a work of art requiring time-consuming attention from its creators. All floats will start at Chiang Mai Train Station.

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2007

A second highlight of the Flower Festival is the beauty of the contestants that sit atop the flower floats. Each contestant wears a different local Northern costume, giving visitors and locals alike rare opportunities to witness the traditional local dresses.

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2007

Besides the parade, the Flower Festival also features a display of agricultural products, an exhibition and a contest of several species of flowers such as roses, orchids, carnations, lilies, China asters etc., a flower arrangement exhibition and competition, decorative plants, and mini garden landscapings. In addition, for all those with green fingers, there is a large variety of gardening equipment as well as various kinds of flowering and decorative plants for sale at more than economical prices.

Source : thaiwaysmagazine.com

Thailand Bangkok Spa Experiences

Thailand is a haven for relaxation, rejuvenation and regeneration. Ancient healing knowledge passed down over generations, exotic and tropical surroundings, lots of sunshine and legendary hospitality provide the ideal setting for the continuous pursuit of inner and outer beauty.

Bangkok Spa Experiences

Nowadays, many high-end hotels and luxury serviced apartment residences in Bangkok take pride in their own lavish in-house spas, often celebrated brands like Mandara or Aspara. Private spas are just as abundant and luxurious. Set in plush and tastefully designed environments, spas offer anything from a choice of different style massages, to body scrubs and wraps, facial and cosmetic treatments, herbal baths and aromatherapy.

Thailand's spas

Thailand's spas not only give magnificent pampering sessions, they offer a perfect way of recreating the balance of body, mind and spirit that is often lost in our frantic, modern-day lifestyles. Blending Western and ancient Asian techniques, a session at a spa will help you release stress, regain inner balance and rejuvenate your spirit.

Thailand's spas

Make sure you complete your perfect holiday, or business trip, with an exotic and indulgent experience at one of Bangkok's heavenly spas, a blissful and pleasurable experience that promises to give you a new lease on life. Retreat from the city's hustle and bustle and seek the tranquillity in any of

the following hotel or private spa retreats:

Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok (Chi Spa)

Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa (Mandara Spa

President Solitaire (Ananda Spa)

Plaza Athenee Bangkok (Spa Athene)

Banyan Tree Hotel (Banayn Tree Spa)

Dusit Thani Hotel (Devarana Spa)

Swissotel Nai Lert Park (Amrita Fitness and Spa)

The Westin Grande Sukhumvit (The Vareena Spa)

Pathumwan Princess Hotel (Tantara Health Spa)