My Travel to Thailand - The Temple of the Emerald Buddha

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The Wat Phra Kaeo official name is Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram. The temple is located in the historic centre of the Bangkok. The district is named Phra Nakhon on Rattanakosin on the royal palace ground. The temple is considered to be Thailand's holiest shrine.
The build of the temple started in 1785 by king Rama 1. the capital of Siam moved from thonburi to Bangkok. No monks live in this temple as do in other temples. The temple of the Emerald Buddha is built along the same lines as the grand chapels from the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras.
The emerald Buddha image is 66cm tall, is made from jade and housed inside the temple. The image sits on top of a gilded ornate altar inside the royal chapel.
The image is usually dressed in different costumes based on the season. The image is dressed in jewels and a crown in the hot season, a golden shawl in winter and a gilt robe and headdress in the rainy season. Each time the costume of the emerald Buddha is changed the king presides over the ceremony.
The doors of the chapel have mother of pearl inlays showing scenes from the hindu epic Ramayana.
Inside the chapel the walls show murals of the Buddha's teaching and scenes from the jataka tales about Buddha's life.
When you visit the emerald Buddha you feel how important this statue is to Thailand. The Thai believe that when something happens to the emerald Buddha it is the end of Thailand. I must say I was very impressed. In my travels to Thailand I have seen many nice things and felt the warmth of the Thai people. I visited many temples. The one thing that impressed me the most is service of my local travel agent and my visit to the golden palace and the emerald Buddha. Your pictures will be of postcard quality. In fact I do not buy postcards, I print my picture and send them.
This is my first article and I will be writing more about my travels to Thailand.
If you want more advice, tips or information on the golden palace or the subject above please check out this website. http://www.thailandbestprice.com

Koh Samui Recommended Spas & Massage Parlour

In the last few years Koh Samui has become increasingly popular as a Spa destination, so much so that it is now deservedly recognised as a major spa centre in the region. With more spas opening every year a Samui Spa Association has been formed in order to maintain high standards and further enhance the islands growing reputation. What follows is just a selection of the world class spa facilities available on Samui, a visit to any one of which will leave you feeling relaxed rejuvenated and perhaps even a few years younger.

Swasana Spa

Whenever you feel the need to slow down, create space and find solitude to recharge, there are not many better places to do so than Swasana Spa, a true boutique spa. While not having the widest range of spa treatments, the ones it does offer are of the highest standard, and at very reasonable rates. Whether you opt for air conditioned comfort or prefer to be outside in the spa garden you are guaranteed a rewarding experience. You can even combine your treatment with an evening enjoying the finest spa cuisine at the highly acclaimed Tamarind restaurant.

Is Spa

"Discover Heaven's Secret" at Is Spa. The air conditioned treatment rooms, located amidst tropical flower gardens, each reflect a particular season through the use of different colours and décor. Their oil massage therapy offers a selection of 16 essential oils to choose from, and the therapists are highly knowledgeable in the benefits and characteristics of each. This fully equipped spa has all the facilities you would expect of a top spa with Jacuzzi, bathtubs and steam rooms. Perhaps their most notable treatment is the Hot Stone Massage where perfectly smooth hot stones are placed on various energy points on the body to stimulate and detoxify your system.

Peace Tropical Spa

Peace Tropical Spa naturally enough can be found at Peace Resort in Bophut. It is the perfect environment to relax and allow yourself to be pampered in a uniquely Thai style setting, using treatments and natural ingredients inspired by traditional herbal medicines. There is a full range of treatments available which can be selected individually or as part of a package. Why not try the Volcanic Clay Wrap which promises to help shed those extra pounds, and firm up those parts that need firming! Something we could all do with from time to time.

Tamarind Springs

Tamarind Springs is especially renowned for its extraordinary herbal steam room. Known locally as the "Dragon's Cave", it is set between two boulders whose rocky sides serve as walls, beside a waterfall-fed plunge pool. The names of the treatments alone sound inviting, with "Back to Bliss" and "Stoned on Samui" to mention but two. Whatever package you opt for will find the therapists are expertly trained and accommodating to your specific needs. Certain treatments require prior booking so be sure to check out their website to find out exactly what appeals to you. It is even possible to book accommodation at one of their eight luxurious tropical villas.

Prana Spa

Prana Spa is located in the quite beautiful Tongsai Bay Resort overlooking its own private bay. The three spa suites are located in their own individual cottage affording the utmost in privacy, each containing herbal steam room and open air floral bath as well as massage and treatment beds. The body treatments at Prana emphasize the use of local herbs and natural ingredients, such as coconut oil and flesh in the Samui Sun Soothe for sunburnt skin. Amongst the packages on offer is the "Return to Prana" for couples, which involves a series of exotic relaxing experiences including the application of Honey Bath Cream to one another!

HM THE K|NG’S BIRTHDAY

Honouring the king's birthday on 5 December, this public holiday hosts parades and merit-making events; it is also recognised as national father’s   day. Th Ratchadamnoe   Kiang in Bangkok  is decorated with lights an  regalia. Everyone  wears yellow shirts, the colour associated with  the king's birthday. Phuket also holds the  Kings Cup Regatta during the first week of the  Anmonth in honour of the monarch.

LOI KRATHONG EVENTS

One of Thailand's most beloved festivals, Loi Krathong is celebrated on the first full moon of the 12th lunar month. The festival thanks the river goddess for providing life to the fields and forests and asks for forgiveness for the polluting ways of humans. Small handmade boats (called kreithong or gra-tong) are sent adrift in the country’s waterways. The grci-tong are origami-like vessels made from banana leaves, they’re decorated with flowers, and incense, candles and coins are placed in them. Loi Krathong is a peculiarly Thai festival that probably originated in Sukhothai. In Chiang Mai the festival is also called Yi Peng .

SURIN ELEPHANT ROUND-UP EVENTS

Held on the third weekend of November, Thailand's biggest elephant show celebrates this northeastern province’s most famous residents. The event in Surin begins with a colourful elephant parade culminating in a fruit buffet for the pachyderms. Reenactments ofThai battles showcase ma-houts and elephants wearing royal military garb.

ORK PHANSAA events

The end of the Buddhist lent (three lunar months after Khao Phansaa) is marked by the ga-tin ceremony, in which new robes are given to the monks by merit-makers. The peculiar natural phenomenon known as the 'naga fireba1ls' coincides with Ork Phansaa.

VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL

A holiday from meat is taken for nine days (during the ninth lunar month) in adherence with Chinese Buddhist beliefs of mind and body purification. Cities with large Thai-Chinese populations, such as Bangkok , Trang and Krabi ,are festooned with yellow banners heralding vegetarian vendors, and merit-makers dressed in white shuffle off for meditation retreats. In Phuket the festival gets extreme, with entranced marchers turning themselves into human shish kebabs

HM THE QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY

The Queen's Birthday (12 August) is a public

holiday and national mother's day. In Bangkok,
the day is marked vvith cultural displays at Sanarn
Luang as well as festive lights lining the
royal avenue of Th Ratchadamnoen Klang.

Luxury Phuket Villa - Your Dream Destination in Thailand

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Phuket the destination
Phuket is the biggest island of Thailand. It lies on the southern part of Thailand, on the west-facing Andaman Sea shore, on the southern point of Phang Nga Province.
Tourists love Phuket for the diverse range of attractions it offers. Some of them include the Phuket Aquarium, Crocodile Farm, FantaSea, Butterfly Farm, Chalong Temple, and the waterfalls. You will never run out of places to explore and new experiences to try in Phuket.
Phuket accommodation
For the tourist especially, accommodation is one of the main concerns on every vacation or trip. The question always arises: where to stay? If you're the type that wants to splurge, villas are the in thing now. Luxury villas in Phuket are increasingly becoming more and more popular as a favored option as opposed to the extravagant holiday accommodation offered by resorts and hotels.
Phuket villas
Phuket luxury villas are available for rent or for sale; you choose. Either way, booking is easy and can be done online. However, be aware the villas are booked out in no time especially during peak season, so do your reservations beforehand.
Long term villa rental
Villas is a perfect abode for those who opt to stay in Phuket for a relatively long period of time. It's always nice to have a place to go home to after your day of travel, business or even schooling. For those planning on having a permanent vacation house each time you visit, there are villas for sale in a wide range of locations with a wide range of prices. If, on the other hand, you're merely on a momentary holiday and have no definite plans of going back, you can always rent the villa of your choice.
Summary
In Phuket, you can always have a dose of nature and fresh air in the perfect holiday location in the villa of your choice. There are a multitude of locations varying from seafront, hillsides with spectacular views of beaches and bays and quiet areas inland.
If you're planning to spend your next holiday in Phuket, better book your villa before others beat you to it. With Phuket luxury villas, your holiday and vacation experience is a splendid guarantee.

10 Great Things to Do in Pattaya - Who Says Pattaya is Only For Sex Tourism?

Want to try something new? Pattaya is a great place for the adventurous traveler to explore. Get close to nature with an elephant ride at the elephant village, or spend time at the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden. Inexpensive water sports include windsurfing, sailing, water-skiing, parasailing, game fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving.
On land, visitors can choose from tennis, go-carting, motorbike racing, squash, badminton, bowling, jogging and bungee jumping or jumping off the highest seaside rooftop tower at Pattaya Park! The avid golfer can play a round at one of the world-class golf courses. Of course nothing beats swimming in the ocean or tanning on the beach.
1. Pattaya Water Park
This large resort and hotel complex is located in Jomtien, and features a tall, 240-meter tower with three revolving restaurants on different floors. There are three options available for visitors to choose how they would like to get back on the ground: Sky Shutter, Speed Shutter, or Tower Jump - determined by how much of an adrenalin rush you prefer.
At Funny Land Amusement Park, there is a roller coaster, or you can choose an even faster mode of transport in the Tower Shot. A monorail also runs through the resort. Massive water slides, Jacuzzi, whirlpools and a large pool for children provide heaps of fun, minutes from the beach.
2. Pattaya Elephant Village
Experience rural Thai life at this inspiring village and learn about the ways of old while reveling in the presence of exotic fauna. Take a scenic ride on a specially trained elephant and observe the slow pace of country life not found in the bustling city of Pattaya.
Watch as silkworms are harvested for their precious threads, check out old style Thai cooking rituals, trek through the jungle, and if you're lucky visit with a rambunctious tame Gibbon. This is a necessary experience for nature lovers and those who seek a change of pace from the hectic pace of city.
3. Fun Stuff
For a more elevated experience CMT Flying Club offers ultra-light flights and light airplane cruises over the Pattaya countryside. Weekends 8-6pm. Note: Ultra-light flights are dependent on wind conditions so try to reserve in advance.
If you prefer to watch combat, you can check out Muay Thai Boxing where the Beach Road meets the Walking Street. You will see why Muay Thai is considered the king of Martial Arts.
The perfect place for those with an adventurous spirit, try paint ball with a group of friends at Jomtien Paintball World. A hundred balls and face paint for 500 baht, and you're ready to cause havoc! Looking for something more exciting? Make your way to the hi-tech version of paintball at Ripley's Laser Trek.
If you like guns, try shooting real bullets at Pattaya Shooting Range.
Go-Karting can be great fun too; both 400- and 700-metre tracks are available at Mini Siam and Pattaya Go-Cart Speedway. As for profession drivers, a 1,090-metre-track is available.
4. Vimantaitalay Submarine
Dive into the deep blue and explore the ocean floor up close and personal in this exciting submarine adventure. Guests are ferried out to the 'Yellow Submarine' in the azure blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand where their adventure begins. Upon submersion, you will have a chance to explore exotic coral reefs that feature an amazing selection of underwater species, some 25-meters below the sea. Skilled divers display a wide variety of amazing creatures, including puffer fish, sea urchins and if you are lucky, you just might see a rare sea turtle. The experience is dazzling and suitable for children and adults alike, be sure to book your place one day in
5. Koh Lan and nearby Islands
The best city escape from Pattaya is just 45 minutes ride away on a ferry. Koh Lan (Coral Island) is located just offshore of South Pattaya and a little paradise! Beaches are clean, and the water is always so clear. Enjoy all kind of activities like those you find on Jomtien and, in addition, view coral through glass-bottom boats or snorkeling. Some resorts and bungalows are offered at Hard Nuan. Boat trips can be arranged to visit nearby islands such as Koh Phai and Koh Sak. Ferries leave daily from Pattaya South Pier. One-way fare costs 30 baht per person. From Nar Baan Pier you can take a motorbike taxi to your desired beach (20 - 50 baht).
6. Under Water World
Experience up close and personal the enchanting creatures of the briny blue at this intriguing attraction. A compilation of pools and aquariums recreate actual marine habitats found around Thailand, including coral reefs and massive predators from the deep. Tour through shipwrecks and view unique marine life such as enormous rays, razor toothed sharks, and spiny crabs.
Underwater World also offers an assortment of interesting activities, including underwater weddings, shark diving, coral reef snorkeling, and educational tours. This is the perfect venue for children and families that want to learn more about this fascinating environment.
7. Indoor pursuits
Indoor bowling is very popular with both locals and tourists with several alleys to choose from around the city, the one above Tops Supermarket on the corner of 2nd Road and Central Pattaya Road is a favorite with both locals and tourists. Snooker halls in Pattaya are everywhere, as are pool and billiard bars.
There are also a pistol shooting gallery, clay shooting range and archery range. Theatres, cinema, festivals and live music for all tastes are listed in the local community magazines and newspapers.
8. Metaphysical and new age pursuits
In Pattaya other activities include the many relaxing spas and beauty treatments, yoga classes, courses on cooking, Thai language schools, massage, meditation, tai chi and the opportunity to visit the wonderful tropical gardens in the area. Details of all these are in the regular local English newspapers and magazines.
Getting yourself pampered is easy in Pattaya. There are numerous spas and places for exotic beauty treatments, including facials, body scrubs, body wraps, water treatments and more . Some of the most posh and beautiful spas are located in major hotels.
9. Water Sports

Lakeland Water Ski: Just 5 km. from Pattaya City, this enormous fresh water lake is used for cable ski, a sport that is growing fast in popularity. (Location: Kilometer 150.5 on Sukhumvit Highway)
Bamrung Sailing and Para-motor Centre: A variety of exciting aquatic and other exciting sports are offered here (complete with short instruction courses), including windsurfing, sailing, Para-motoring and paragliding. Certificates are issued on completion of courses and restaurant facilities are also available. Canoes, catamarans and kayaks are available for rent too. (Location: Kilometer 150 on Sukhumvit Highway)
10. Tattoos
Many people get a tattoo while in Pattaya. This is a big step and hard to reverse, but there is no denying tattoos are currently very popular. If you are going to get one, there are several excellent artists in Pattaya. Be sure you check to see needles are sterilized properly. A less drastic step is a temporary henna tattoo from one of the vendors wandering the beach.
You may take 1 day trip away from Pattaya to taste more Thai experiences. There are many destinations around like Koh Samet (Strongly Recommend), Chantaburi, Ayuthaya, River Kwai, Floating Market and also Bangkok.

Tips For Travel

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When traveling out of the United States, it is important to be aware of some differences in that foreign country from culture in the United States. It is also important to be aware of some things about a foreign culture before traveling so as to lessen the culture shock that may occur. For example, in Brazil, it is important to keep any grocery or store bought items in paper sacks and any personal bags close to you for security. For this article, the tips will be focused on travel to Brazil. The tips listed include what to expect in the country and how to prepare for the vacation or business trip to the country:

1. The most important thing to know about Brazil is that it is very hot. No matter what time of year you go, it will always be very humid because it is considered a tropical climate since it is near the equator. Pack clothes accordingly and be ready to change if you get too hot walking around at night or during the day in the hot sun.

2. The second thing people usually want to know about is crime. Of course, in the big cities there will probably be pick-pickets, so it is important for people to keep their wallets out of their pockets and either in a money belt (clipped around the waist and under the clothes) or in a money pouch worn under the clothes, but around the neck. Also, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and do not go anywhere where there seem to be only a few people. Teenagers and young adults who are dependent on drugs get good money from drug dealers for stealing from tourists, so it is really best to stay on the main roads or near people, especially at night.

3. The language barrier in the big cities should not be too much of a problem. Most business people speak at least a little English, but when in doubt just point and most Brazilians will be eager to try to help you. It might be a good idea to know a few phrases in Brazilian Portuguese to show that you respect their language and that you are trying to speak in their native language. Doing this will get you much better service and usually a good reaction from people who are trying to help you.

4. As of now, the dollar is up on the Real by 2:1, so U.S. Dollars will take you a pretty long way in Brazil. It best to do any kind of money exchange at an actual bank, so you know they are credible. Also, people at a bank will usually be able to speak a little English and may be better able to help if you have any problems. Also, in Brazil, banks are usually the best place to get the best exchange rate, since they give very close to market value on the transaction.

Brazil is an excellent place for people to visit because it has the charm of both a tropical island feel (on the coast) as well as large city feel all in one. Following these tips and guidelines will help you make the most out of your trip to Brazil.

Thailand Travel - Four Tips on Thai Culture

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The way you present yourself while in Thailand is critical to how you will be viewed by Thai people, especially Thai Officials. There are Four Tips in presentation that the traveler to Thailand would do well to observe.
Many foreigners come from countries where the freedom to behave anyway they like is accepted. Any difficulties caused by the authorities are treated as intrusions, and responded to accordingly. Thai Government Officials have a much higher status than they do in countries like New Zealand, Australia, the USA, Canada, and the UK. It is important to understand this difference when dealing with them. Everyone, including the foreigners, benefit if foreigners show respect. The foreigner must understand that this is not an attack on their self esteem. It is not about freedom to express yourself or your rights, it is about giving face to people who are important within Thailand.
Often, foreigners' reference point for their behaviour is whether something similar would happen in their own countries. It is unwise to use this as a reference point in Thailand. It is a unique country with a highly developed culture of its own.
Here are Four Tips that will help you in Thailand:
Firstly, learn how to correctly wai Thai people. It is easy to learn the four basic wais. You will probably need only two of them. The wai is the joining of your palms together and the raising of your hands to different positions in front of your face. The fingers point up, with the thumbs closest to your head. When contacting Thai Officials it is best to wai by putting your fingers higher and close to your nose. You can also bend your head slightly. In Thailand, government officials have a high status, while businessmen have lower status unless they are very rich. Very highly placed government officials have a very, very high status, and you will probably not meet them. Your wai will usually be appreciated, and be to your benefit in doing what you have come to do. Also wai Thai Policemen in the same manner.
In restaurants, and with service people in Thailand the wai with the finger tips at the height of your chin is recommended. You wai could be higher, if you so chose. However, do not become 'wai-happy' which is wai-ing Thai people all the time. This will cause amusement than anything else. Wai-happiness is common when people come to Thailand for the first time.
Secondly, the clothes that you are wearing determine your rank or class in Thailand. A suit will mean that you are a professional, well off, and that you have status within your society, and in Thailand as well. If you wear a tee shirt, especially one with no sleeves, you will project a low status, and will generally be treated accordingly, unless perhaps, you speak Thai or you are at the beach. The tee shirt, sandals, and shorts look, popular with New Zealanders and Australians, classifies you as lower class or perhaps in a separate class as a foreigner.
I have a suit which I wear for any contact with Thai Officials. There is a big difference in the way I am treated by Thai people when I am wearing my suit. I have a friend, Malcolm, who has lived in Thailand, and is currently living in Australia. He will put on a tie and suit whenever he comes to, or leaves Thailand. He says it is important, and he is treated very well on flights, where he is sometimes upgraded.
Thirdly, do not get angry under any circumstances. Thai people are more relaxed and subscribe to the Buddhist Philosophy. Becoming angry will have no benefits for the foreigner. You will be considered a 'jai roon'; a person who can not control their emotions. Undeveloped emotionally. Thais value the quality of 'jai yen yen'; staying calm under pressure. There is a 'best way' if you become angry in Thailand. This is to relax your whole body and mind. Then smile sweetly, and calmly state your case if the person speaks English. Thai people has this 'jai yen yen' because in the Buddhist view of things, they believe that the problem they are confronted with, is probably not that important in the scheme of things... and they are probably right!
Fourthly, Thai people are very shy with foreigners if they don't speak English. This is especially the case outside Bangkok in places like Isaan. They will be interested in you because you are different but their shyness may prevent them from approaching you. It is very good to smile at people generally, and particularly if you see them everyday. An attempt to talk to them, even with only hand gestures is a good way to break the ice. If you smile, your smile will nearly always be returned. Thais are a truly warm people and they will eagerly help you to learn about their culture.
Thais have a great love of Sanuk, or fun. If you watch a few of the Thai Variety Shows on TV you will quickly appreciate the Thai love of humour and having fun. If you enter into the spirit of things in Thailand while observing these Four Tips discussed, you will have so much fun... you may never want to leave!