Nakhon Si Thammarat Beach and Wat Phra Mahathat temples

Nakhon Si Thammarat is a province in South Thailand while Nakhon Si Thammarat city is the capital of the province. The city is about 610 km (380 miles) south of Bangkok, on the east coast of the Malay Peninsula.

The province sits on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand and is bordered by Surat Thani to the north, Phattalung and Songkhla to the south and Krabi to the west.

Nakhon Si Thammarat is Thailand's fourth largest city, but lack of tourists although the city has a lot of tourist sites.


Nakhon Si Thammarat Tourism

Nakhon Si Thammarat is the land of predominant Buddhism during the Srivijaya Period, so many temples will be found in the city. Wat Phra Mahathat is the most famous temple of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Wat Phra Mahathat was originally an old monastery which is believed to have been constructed during the Srivijaya Period. The building has a 77-meter pagoda which houses Buddha relics brought from Sri Lanka over 1,700 years ago.

Do not forget to visit the Old City Wall which is 460 meters wide and 2,230 meters long. The wall was constructed during the Phraya Si Thamma Sokarat period and was renovated at least two times during the Ayutthaya Period.

A place that is revered by all Buddhist is located in Nakhon Si Thammarat town near the City Hall. This is the Ho Phra Buddha Sihing. The Buddha image enshrined in this temple is believed to have been constructed during the Sukhothai Period.

Besides, there are a lot of other important archaeological places such as Vihara Luang, Vihara Khien, Vihara Khot, Vihara Pho Lanka, museum, etc.

Predominantly mountainous with substantial forest areas including the outstanding Khao Luang National Park, Nakhon Si Thammarat also has a selection of beaches along its long, largely undeveloped coastline. There are loads of attractive coastal villages great for camping and as already mentioned, downtown Nakhon Si Thammarat is a good, and very local, place to spend a couple of days.

Nakhon Si Thammarat is different with another big cities in Thailand. You will find no sex tourism in the city.




Nakhon Si Thammarat Culture and Show

A distinctive aspect of cultural life in Nakhon Si Thammarat is the shadow puppets shows, called here Nang Thalung. The puppets are prepared with dried hides and shaped as the protagonists of Thai mythological or historical tales. This type of art is very popular in Southeast Asia and can be found in several variations.

A good place for experiencing the art is the Suchat Sapsin House at 10/18 Si Thammasok Road, Soi 3. The house includes a museum and offers performances as well.


Nakhon Si Thammarat Beach

Thailand is very famous for its exotic beach, let's say Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi. Visiti Nakhon Si Thammarat is not complete without visit the beach.

Being in southern Thailand, beaches are a compulsory part of any visit. Nakhon itself doesn’t have beaches (though there are a few nearby); yet it is worth a visit due to its cultural and religious importance. A way to overcome this problem is to make a stop along the way from – or to – Surat Thani at the town of Khanom. In such a way it is possible to enjoy a nearby beach without making lengthy detours to bad connected towns.

Located an hour north of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Khanom is a fishing village with attractive beaches, two caves, a road leading to the Dat Fa Mountain and a few waterfalls. Long-tailed boats allow exploring the Khanom River, where Irrawaddy dolphins can be seen in the early morning, especially during the rainy season. Nai Plao Beach features a few guesthouses and restaurants. The town is connected during the day with frequent minibuses to Nakhon and Surat.

Moreover, it is just twenty kilometers south of Don Sak, the ferry pier to Koh Samui.

Nakhon Si Thammarat Photos and tourist pictures :



Nakhon Si Thammarat downtown



"Nakhon Si Thammarat Street



Nakhon Si Thammarat City



Nakhon Si Thammarat Mosque



Taking a songthaew (10-15B within the downtown district) is the easiest way to travel around Nakhon Si Thammarat. The pickup trucks are scattered throughout town - just wave at one to get them to stop. The sights are very spread out along the main road that runs through the town called Rajdamneon Road, so it's
best to take them in order to visit them.



Wat Mahathat is the most important shrine in Southern Thailand due to the Buddha relics in it. The big complex is impressive and easily recognizable as a big religious center; it includes a museum which displays a rich collection of artifacts and statues.



Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum occupies the area of the old Wat Suan Luang Tawan Ok on Ratchadamnoen Road. Opened in 1974, it displays artifacts found in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Surat Thani, and Chumphon – the last three are provinces adjacent to Nakhon Si Thammarat - as well as local handicrafts


Watch Dolphin at Southern Thailand, Dolphins, in Hat Khanom Mu Koh Talay Tai National Park, Nakhon Si Thammarat video

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It is safe to visit Bangkok again after riots

Bangkok is on the international media highlight recently. Not because for its beautiful city and gorgoeus nightlife, but for a travel warning. Many countries had warned their people not to visit Bangkok. Bangkok is dangerous, a big riots happened after a protest from Red Shirt against the government. About ten thousands of Red Shirt protesters have gathered outside the army barracks in Bangkok where Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva is holed up, demanding his resignation.

Fortunately, the riots ended with peace on each other side. Yes, the violent protests in Bangkok ended on 21st May 2010. And now it is the time to build up this beautiful city. While the threat of further protests still remains, it appears that for the time being Bangkok has started to return to normal. It is worth remembering that in Southern Thailand in the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla there is still a threat of insurgency. Luckily this is away from most tourist areas but it is advisable to speak to your travel agent just to be careful.

If you still don't dare going to Bangkok, let's consider another places in Thailand such as Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Phuket, and so more. Thailand is not just one Bangkok.


Bangkok Tourism today. To Go Bangkok or not go ?

Many tourist had canceled their flight trip to Bangkok or Thailand cities. Some are reroute to another destination inside South East Asia such as Malaysia and Indonesia. Some are choose to refund their ticket. It is reasonable for tourist to avoid Bangkok, even today Bangkok has began to recover from the bloody riots protest.

The Australian government had issued its highest travel warning, Bangkok had a night-time curfew and thousands of people had cancelled their flights.

Now, actually in Bangkok, he curfew had just lifted and the Red Shirt anti-government protesters gone home. Thailand had begun a new campaign to woo back tourists after losing up to $US2.2 billion in tourism revenue during the crisis, which had begun in March and had left nearly 90 people dead.

Many tourist now had arrived at the tourist centre of Khoa San Road district and noticed the area was moderately busy. Every few minutes you can saw a backpacker walking around. So not everyone had cancelled their flights. But some hostel, which was considered to be popular, was only about 20 per cent occupied.

"It got busy from today," said Rao, one of the hostel workers. "But some hotels have only one guest."

Some of them had postponed their visit to Bangkok and had gone to other parts of the country until the curfew lifted.

"Last time I came here it was 24-hour party, party, party," said a Norwegian girl of the street where bars are open until late and street vendors spruik everything from "ping-pong" shows to pirated DVDs, to fake drivers' licences to women's clothing.

"At least it's not dead like it was last night," said a friendly Israeli backpacker.



Let's Visit Bangkok. It is safe

Many airlines now are tend to give a big discount for a direct flight to Bangkok. Let's say the low fare airlines, Airasia, give a free seat to Bangkok. Many hotels and travel service are doing the same thing. Bangkok is not that bad actually, there are still many things to see. So let's visit Bangkok again.




Bangkok Bus Hijacked


Bangkok Days after riot


Bangkok Red Shirts Protest Riots. 52 killed, over 400 injured in Bangkok riots


Bangkok Red Shirts Protest Riots



Red Shirts march to Lumpini Park & Silom Road, 6 April 2010

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Songkran Water Festival Phuket 2010

Visiting Thailand is a never ending journey. There a lot of attractions to visit, delicious foods to eat, thai girls and massage to enjoy, abundant nightlife show to watch and their unique Thai Festival to attend.

One of most anticipated festival in Thailand is The Songkran Festival. The Songkran festival s celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. Of all the feasts and festivals in Thailand, which are many, the Songkran Festival is the most striking, for it is widely observed not only in this country but also in Burma, Cambodia and the Lao State.

The most obvious celebration of Songkran is the throwing of water. People roam the streets with containers of water or water guns, or post themselves at the side of roads with a garden hose and drench each other and passersby. This, however, was not always the main activity of this festival. Songkran was traditionally a time to visit and pay respects to elders, including family members, friends and neighbors.

Besides the throwing of water, people celebrating Songkran may also go to a wat (Buddhist monastery) to pray and give food to monks. They may also cleanse Buddha images from household shrines as well as Buddha images at monasteries by gently pouring water mixed with a Thai fragrance (Thai: น้ำอบไทย) over them. It is believed that doing this will bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year. In many cities, such as Chiang Mai, the Buddha images from all of the city's important monasteries are paraded through the streets so that people can toss water at them, ritually 'bathing' the images, as they pass by on ornately decorated floats. In northern Thailand, people may carry handfuls of sand to their neighborhood monastery in order to recompense the dirt that they have carried away on their feet during the rest of the year. The sand is then sculpted into stupa-shaped piles and decorated with colorful flags.



Songkran festival Phuket 2010

Famous across Thailand in the hot April weather, this riot of fun is equally enjoyed and avoided by foreigners since it involves a week long soaking. Full scale water fights break out in selected areas of the island and it’s impossible to travel anywhere without roadside kids drenching bikers and cars in buckers of water. It all originated from a gentler tradition of lightly watering neighbours to beckon the rainy season and is a time for Thais to gather with their families. Central Patong and Phuket city are the best places to be, along with the main beach areas, arm yourself with water pistols on sale, a sense of humour and waterproof bags for your valuables. Unique to Phuket is the Turtle Release at selected beaches, a merit making exercise. Phuket Songkran 2010 dates: April 13th to 15th.


Songkran Festival in Bangkok

In Bangkok, the Songkran Grand Celebration will be held between 10 and 15 April around the Rattanakosin Island district, sometimes called “Old Bangkok.”

The main celebrations, in the capital, focus on bathing rites of replicas of revered Buddha images originating from various provinces in the North, South, East and central regions, interspersed with traditional food and dessert-making demonstrations and cultural performances. The opening ceremony will take place, 10 April, at Phra Chetupon Wimol Manklaram or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.

Although Tour Travel always focusing Songkran Festival in Phuket, actually another cities in Thailand also celebrating the festival. There are also important celebrations through the country at various tourist destinations:

• Old City Songkran Festival, Ayutthaya
• Songkran Festival, Chon Buri
• Amazing Songkran, Suphan Buri
• Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival, Samut Prakarn
• Songkran Festival, Chiang Mai
• Songkran Festival, Sukhothai
• Fantastic Northeast Songkran, Golden Shower Tree and ‘Kan’ Festival and Sticky Rice Road in Khon Kaen
• Grand Northeast Songkran Festival, Nong Khai
• Songkran Nakhon Phnom and Thai-Lao New Year Celebration
• Hat Yai Midnight Songkran, Songkhla
• Grand Songkran Festival and ‘Nang Dan’ Parade, Nakhon Si Thammarat
• Songkran on the Beach and Phuket Bike Week 2010




Songkran Festival in Chiangmai


Songkran Festival. Even a elephant also throwing the water


Chiang Mai Songkran Festival – Water Fight on Tuk Tuk


Songkran Festival in Wat Kungthapao. Most Thai people go back to their hometowns to meet their elders.


Watch Songkran Festival 2007 @ Phuket Thailand video here

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Nakhon Ratchasima Korat Festival and Nightlife

Nakhon Ratchasima (นครราชสีมา - usually referred to simply as Korat or Khorat) is the provincial capital of Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Nakhon Ratchasima is a city (thesaban nakhon) in the north-east (Isan) of Thailand and gateway to Isan.

The province is located on the western end of the Khorat Plateau, separated from the Chao Phraya river valley by the Phetchabun and Dong Phaya Yen mountain ranges. Two national parks are in the province - the Khao Yai in the west and the Thab Lan in the south. The area around Korat was an important center already in the times of the Khmer empire in the 11th century, as can be seen by the temple ruins in the Phimai historical park.

Nakhon Ratchasima Named from the city of various Khmer ruins and the famous statue of Khun Ying Mo. The city is situated on a plateau, about 260 kilometres northeast of Bangkok. The city itself serves as the Gateway to the Northeastern Region.


Nakhon Tourism

Some of the main attractions in Khorat are Khmer ruins. Scattered around the province, these products of ancient wisdom shines through time. One of the Thailand’s finest Khmer ruins can be seen here next to Mon and Lao sites. In addition, Khorat has an abundance of natural attractions in its forests, hills, wildlife and waterfalls that are easily accessible in locations such as Khao Yai National Park .

Apart from the famous statue of Khun Ying Mo or Thao Suranari , Khorat is most well known for silk weaving (in Pak Thong Chai) and a variety of top-notch quality handicrafts such as clay pottery products of Dan Kwian .

Some of Tourist attractions in Nakhon Ratchasima are listed here :

1. Wat Phra Narai Maharat image of Narayana made of sand stone

2. Wat Sala Loi Chapel shape of Chinese Junk. Wat Sala Loi is located on the bank of Lam Takhong River, about 400 meters off the Northeast of the town. The main chapel, which received many awards from various architectural associations as a modern leading design of religious monument, is constructed in the shape of a Chinese Junk.

3. Maha Weerwong National Museum. Maha Weerawong National Museum opposite to the City Hall, exhibits various arts objects and artifacts donated to Somdet Maha Weerawong, e.g. sand stone Buddha images of Khmer and Ayutthaya period, Bronze Buddha images, different sizes ceramics and wood carvings from ancient monasteries.

4. Prasat Hin Phanom Wan Stupa built of sandstone. Prasat Hin Phimai is the largest sandstone sanctuary in Thailand almost situated in the center of Phimai Ancient city which carries a rectangular shape of 665 meters wide and 1,030 meters long.

5. Khao Yai National Park Thailand first national park. The Park comprises various mountains, two important rivers of Lam Takhong and Nakhon Nayok, with many rare species of fauna and flora and over 20 waterfalls. Camping sites in the park are available.

6. Phimai Historical Park Opens daily from 7:30 and costs 100 baht for foreigners. Parts of the park are older than Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Includes Khmer buildings, sculptures leading to the shrine, restaurant, and gift shop.

7. Dan Kwain Nakhon Ratchasima's main ceramics centre. Famous for its rough texture and rust-like colour pottery.

8. Lam Takhong Dam surrounded by shady trees. The Dam is located 62 kilometers before reaching the town on Highway No. 2. The construction had started in 1964 and finished 4 years later. The lake - like reservoir can contain up to 300 million cubic meters of water and irrigates 238,000 rais of paddy field.

9. Sai NgamLocated on the bank of the Moon River. Includes some of the largest banyan trees.

10. Prasat Nang Ram originally meant to be a nursing place during the 12th century in Khmer style.

11. Khao Chan Ngam Cave famous for pre-historic color paintings.

12. Archaeological Site At Ban Prasat Ancient bronze age artifacts in burial site that dates back 3000 years.

13. Muang Sema Buddhist Temple

14. Wat Ban Rai famous monastery of a well known monk, Luang Pho Khun Porisutho.


Nakhon Ratchasima Festivals and Events :

1. Thao Suranari Commamoration.
The annual event is held from March 23 to April 2 to commemorate the victory of Thao Suranari, the heroine who saved Nakhon Ratchasima from in evaders in the Reign of King Rama III. Cultural displays, exhibitions and fireworks are the highlight.


2. Phimai Boat Races
These popular races take place on the Moon River near the old Khmer city of Phimai during the second week of November. Besides the regatta there will be competitions of boats decorated to resemble the famous Royal Barges, entertainments, and stalls selling local products.

3. Phimai Festival
This colorful event is held at the same time as the Phimai boat Races in Phimai historical Park. Among the important activities are; the light and sound presentation; Buddhist, historical and cultural exhibitions.


Nakhon Ratchasima Nightlife
Nightlife in Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat) may be not as crowded as Bangkok or Pattaya, but still nice and varied. We can see many bars with Thai live bands and discos playing Thai dance chart hits. Other foreigners are not a common sight in those Thai discos, but are normally welcome.

Like another Big Cities in Thailand, Nightlife in Nakhon Ratchasima can not be seperated with Massage Parlors and Thai Girl. For those who want to see a crowded market, try Korat Night Bazar. Korat Night Bazaar, heavily frequented by the Thais in the late evening, is located close to the city center on Manat Road, which is between Chomphon and Mahatthai roads. It is open everyday from 6 to 10 p.m.

For tourist want to try Thai Massage, a lot of Khorat Massage Parlors can fe found. There are no beer gardens as known from Bangkok but Khorat has several fishbowl massage parlors ("Mandarin", "New Palace"), some of them offering "extra services". For example, the "Chaopraya Hotel" on Jomsurung has room service for THB 700.

Khorat freelancers and Thai girls are spreading anywhere in the city. Freelancers hang out in front of the Japanese restaurant around the corner of the "Chaopraya". Their going rate is around THB 700.



Some of Nakhon Ratchasima Pub, Bars, and Nightlife Restaurants here :

Pub & Restaurant

Bule Saloon (บูเล่ ซาลูน) 264 Yommarat Road, Amphoe Maung, Tel: 0 4425 6538, (open: 06.00 p.m. - 01.00 a.m.)
Tawan Dang Sad sang deun (ตะวันแดงสาดแสงเดือน( มหาซน) ณ โคราช 88/9 Suebsiri Road (Tel. 0442611594
Tawan See Thong (ตะวันสีทอง) Chainarong Road five junction Tel. 0 44257257
Korat Ban- eng (โคราชบ้านเอง) 309 Sabpasit Road Tel. 0 44265988
Dok Mai Kafair (ดอกไม้กาแฟ) Mahatthai Road Tel. 0 44241307
Happy Land (แฮปปี้แลนด์) Mahatthai Road
Nam Jun (น้ำจัณฑ์) Suebsiri Road
The Party House (เดอะ ปาร์ตี้ เฮ้าส์) Suranaree Road, (open: 07.00 p.m. - 02.00 a.m.)

Food & Music Entertainment

K.R. (เค.อาร์) Asdang Road, Amphoe Muang, (open: 07.00 p.m. - 03.00 a.m.)
Pailin Square (ไพลิน สแควร์) Suebsiri Road, Amphoe Muang, (10.00 p.m. - 02.00 a.m.)


Photos of Nakhon Ratchasima here :


Lam Takhong Dam. Located on the edge of Friendship Highway (Mittraphap Road), forming a large reservoir with a capacity of 310 cubic meters of water, capable of helping a total of 238,000 rai of agricultural land, surrounded by and atmosphere of shady trees and beautiful views of nature, good to visit for recreation.



Night Bazaar Korat: Night Walking Street. The most popular place at night in Korat downtown, walking around, do some shopping, looking for something delicious for dinner. Good atmosphere there and it is a place you can see life of locals at night.



Phimai Festival. This colorful event is held at the same time as the Phimai boat Races in Phimai historical Park. Among the important activities are; the light and sound presentation; Buddhist, historical and cultural exhibitions.



Wat Sala Loi Is located on the bank of Lam Takhong River about 500 meters off the side-road to Northeast of the town. The main chapel, which received many awards from various architectural associations as a modern leading design of religious monument, is constructed in the shape of Chinese Junk.



Speed Disco and Ginza Plaza: Nightlife in Korat. Used to be called Speed disco, before that Scorpion..guess it have change name again now... Ginza is more of a massage parlour, beside another newly Disco. Both Disco are popular among local (anyway Korat is lack of tourists) where live bands with dancers perform. Pay 100B for a entry.. get into small chats with the local school girls, there may be chance some of the clubbers are also tourists from other province:)



Thao Suranari or Khun Ying Mo. Statue Of Khun Ying Mo. Apart from the famous statue of Khun Ying Mo or Thao Suranari , Khorat is most well known for silk weaving (in Pak Thong Chai) and a variety of top-notch quality handicrafts such as clay pottery products of Dan Kwian .



Dusit Princess Korat Hotel is located on Suranarai Road near Korat city centre. One of the most important cities of north-eastern Thailand, Korat has much to offer the visitor: from the ruins of the Nang Ram Sanctuary and Muang Sema Historical Site to the shopping at the Korat Night Bazaar. The Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course at Khao Yai is also not far from the Dusit Princess Korat is only 45 minutes' flight from Bangkok.



Nakhon Ratchasima, generally known as " Khorat ", is Thailand’s largest province situated on sprawling northeast plateau. Located approximately 260 kilometers northeast of Bangkok, the city itself serves as the gateway to the lower northeastern region.


The Phimai Historical Park Dotted about Thailand’s great northeastern plateau are numerous temples of varying sizes; most of these structures are believed to be about a thousand years old.



Watch Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima) in Thailand Video. The night view of Korat in Thailand. Around Statue of Tao Suranaree. Sanook sanook!

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Ayutthaya Ancient Historic City Nightlife

Ayutthaya city is the capital city of Ayutthaya province in Thailand. The city is about 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Bangkok, and had served as for Thailand capital for 417 years before Athe city was destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767.

Ayutthaya is an ancient city found by King U-Thong or Ramathibodi in 1350. Now such ruins from Ayutthaya indicate that Ayutthaya was one of Indo - China's most prosperous cities. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya a Historical Park, a vast stretch of historical site in the heart of Ayutthaya city, has been included in UNESCO's list of world heritage since 13 December ,1991.

Ayutthaya was originally known as "Ayothaya" which refers to the capital of King Rama (see Ramayana). Ayutthaya was named after the city of Ayodhya in India, the birthplace of Rama in the Ramayana (Thai, Ramakien).

Among Thai cities, Ayutthaya's English name is probably the least standardized - it is also known as Ayotaya, Ayothaya, Ayudhya, Ayutaya, Ayuthaya and Ayuttaya.


How to get Ayutthaya

By Car
Alternative I: Take Highway No. 1 (Phahonyothin Road.) then take Highway No. 32 to Ayutthaya.
Alternative II: Take Highway No. 304 (Chaeng Watthana Road.) or take Highway No. 302 (Ngamwongwan Road.); turn righ to Highway No. 306 (Tiwanon Road.), then take Highway No. 3111 (Pathum Thani - Samkhok - Sena) and turn right at Amphoe Sena to Highway No. 3263.
Alternative III: Take Highway No. 306 (Bangkok - Nonthaburi - Pathum Thani Road.) then take Highway No. 347

By Bus
Ordinary buses run between the Bangkoks Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) and Ayutthaya's main terminal on Naresuan Rd. every 20 minutes between 5 a.m. and 7 p.m. The fare is 30 bahts and the trip takes around 2hours. Air-conditioned buses operate the same route every 20 minutes from 5.40 a.m. to 7.20 p.m. (every 15 minutes between 7a.m. and 5p.m.) at the rate of 47 bahts, the trip takes 1.5 hours when traffic to north of Bangkok is light, otherwise it will take two hours. Time Table

By Train
Trains to Ayutthaya leave Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station approximately every hour between 4.20 a.m. and 10 p.m. The 3rd class fare is 15 bahts for the 1.5 hour trip. Train schedules are available from the information booth at Hua Lamphong Station. Alternatively, call 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020, or 1690. Time Table

By Boat
There are no scheduled or chartered boat services between Bangkok and Ayutthaya. However, several companies in Bangkok operate luxury cruises to Bang Pa-In with side trips by bus to Ayutthaya for approximately 1,500 bahts to 1,800 bahts per person, including a sumptuous luncheon. Longer two days trips in converted rice barges start at 4,800 baht. For further information please contact the following companies:



Ayutthaya Tourism

As a major city in the past, Ayutthaya had ever being the world's largest city at the time. But, in 1767 the city was completely burned during the war. Now many ancient ruins and art works can be seen in a city as the tourist sightseeing.

The major sites are the Buddhist temples, Buddha Statues, Buddha Wat, and the ruined building.

There were three palaces in Ayutthaya: Grand Palace, Chantharakasem Palace or the Front Palace, and Wang Lang or the Rear Palace. In addition, there were many other palaces and buildings for royal visits located outside the city area of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, such as Bang Pa-In Palace at Amphoe Bang Pa-in and Nakhon Luang Building at Amphoe Nakhon Luang. out 30 Baht.

In addition to the ruins listed here, the inner city is also home to two or three museums worth a visit.

1. Wat Phra Si Sanphet
The three bell-shaped chedis of Wat Phra Si Sanphet have practically become a symbol of Ayutthaya. The temple stands almost in the center of the main area of the old capital.

2. Wat Phra Ram
Just across the street from Wat Phra Si Sanphet is the towering prang of Wat Phra Ram, an excellent example of a Khmer style temple from the begining of the Ayutthaya period.

3. Wat Ratburana
Closer to the current city center, Wat Ratburana was built in 1424 to hold the ashes of the king's two older brothers, who killed each other fighting over the throne.

4. Wat Mahathat
The temple was built in the early days of Ayutthaya in the late 14th century by King Borommaracha I. The story goes that the king had a revelation, and relics of the Buddha then suddenly appeared. The temple was built to house the relics.

5. Wat Phra Si Sanphet.
The temple was built in an original style within the compound of the Royal Palace, and goes back to the very first period of the establishment of the city The three Chedi at this Wat are some of the more complete remains in Ayutthaya and were the Royal Tombs for King Bormmatrailokanat and his sons

6. Wat Ratchaburana.
The temple was established in the 15th century and was built to house the ashes of the brothers of King Borommaracha II. In 1957 archaeologists uncovered a host of Buddha images and stone tablets in the temple crypts, during restoration. Also discovered were mural paintings which showed a strong Chinese influence .



Ayutthaya Nightlife
Nightlife in Ayuttthaya is pretty quite. There's not a great deal to do at night in Ayutthaya apart from having a drink in a couple of bars along Farang Street. The Jazz Bar has a little something else by featuring the talents of the Chaikawiphan Jazz Band who play drums, guitar, double bass and various percussion instruments (and sing) on the pavement outside the bar.

Bars in Ayutthaya consist mostly of those attached to specific hotels, and even those aren't open very late in the evening. The main traveller area lies in Soi Torgorsor between Naresuan Road and Pamaphrao Road. This lies west of the Chao Phrom Markets. This area contains a number of bars for you to check out that open slightly later than most of the other places in Ayutthaya. Some bars even contain projection screens perfect for watching the latest sports game.

But there's one area that becomes magical at night. And that is the 'Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park'. If you're a photographic buff, this is a good time to take some great photos!



Photos of Ayutthaya, ruined sites, Buddha Statue and temples here :


Ayutthaya full name Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is an ancient capital and modern city in the Central Plains of Thailand, 85 km to the north of Bangkok.


Nightmarket at Ayutthaya. The night market sells all sorts of cuisines and means that you dont have to use the small restaurant attached to the bungalows which have "farang" style menus.


Jazz Bar: Chaikawiphan Jazz Band


Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park: Catch The "Light Show"


The three stately Chedi of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, a royal temple built in 1491 that honors three 15th-century kings.



Viharn Phra Mongkolbophit


Head of a Buddha statue that a tree’s roots grew around in Wat Mahathat


Wat Phra Ram


Wat Phra Si Sanphet


Wat Ratchaburana


Watch Temples of Ayutthaya video here

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Airasia Launches flight Medan-Phuket

Good news for low budget travelers and for Phuket lovers especially in Indonesia. Now Airasia Airlines, as the World’s Best Low Cost Airline is delighted to launch its two newest routes, Jakarta and Medan direct to Phuket, daily, in addition to its popular Jakarta–Bangkok and Bali-Bangkok routes.

These new routes will be operated from its newly opened hub, Phuket International Airport in Thailand. This is a great deal. Now every travellers from Jakarta and Medan is easier to visit Phuket.

Phuket, is the biggest island in Thailand, is long knowed for its exotic beach : Patong Beach. Now visiting Patong beach is not an expensive dream anymore.

Airasia give the Special fares start from THB 1,499 one-way for Jakarta-Phuket (249.000 in Indonesia Rupiah) and THB 999 one-way for Medan-Phuket (99.000 in Indonesia Rupiah), for travel from 3 December 2009-30 April 2010.

Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital, is a fast-growing tourist and commercial center, while Medan is the commercial center of Western Indonesia. With a history going back to 1590, Medan is one of the original Straits Settlements, giving it the same kind of Chinese cultural influence as is seen in Melaka, Singapore, Penang and Phuket.


Special notes to book with Airasia flight to Phuket :

- Booking Period: 4 Nov 2009 – 9 Nov 2009,  25 Nov 2009 - 27 Nov 2009
- Travel Period: 3 Dec 2009 – 30 Apr 2010
- Travel Notes: Advance booking required, fares not available during embargo period


An exotic beach in Phuket



Thai Airasia Airbus A320

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Sungai Kolok Thai Malaysia Border Nightlife

Sungai Kolok (Sword River) is the border between Thailand and Malaysia, located in Narathiwat, southern province of Thailand. The town on the Malaysian side of the border is Rantau Panjang which is in the state of Kelantan.

Sungai Kolok (Sungai Golok) is famous for Malaysian for its cheap shopping and nightlife. Many indutries worker from Malaysia always visit and enjoy Sungai Kolok, especially the bars and local girls such as at Sumtime Bar.

But recently Sungai Kolok difficult to get more visitors. Sungai Kolok has suffered a series of bombings, arson attacks and killings as a result of the ongoing trouble in Thailand's far south and while none of these attacks have specifically targeted westerners. Since the Muslim riot in 2004, there are at least 4000 peoples died in South Narathiwat Province, Yala, Pattani and some places in Songkhla.

How to access Sungai Kolok :

Direct air-conditioned buses to and from Bangkok are the best bet for getting to Sungai Kolok. The border is also served by rail although there is no crossing. Malaysia's Kuala Lumpur International Airport is the closest major airport to Sungai Kolok, a 10-hour bus journey away.


Sungai Kolok Attractions :

1. Pa Phru To Daeng:
this large peat swamp near Sungai Kolok is better than it sounds, with some stunning scenery and waterfalls.

2. Sungai Kolok transportation hub:
the main attraction for most visitors who are just passing through, featuring a train station and buses and minibuses to destinations all over southern Thailand and Bangkok.

3. The usual stop after Sungai Kolok is either Hat Yai, or Rantau Panjang in Kelantan (the northernmost province of east coast of Peninsular Malaysia). You can also head to Pattani to expore Thailand's southern Muslim provinces.


Sungai Kolok Photos :


Sungai Kolok, border between Thailand and Malaysia.



Hala Bala National Park at Sungai Kolok



Awaiting Train Station at Sungai Kolok



Sungai Kolok Shopping at Nightlife. Sales of Narathiwat's famous dishes, a local food contest, batik painting , shows and a tourism exhibition will be featured.



Sungai Kolok is famous for its nightlife bars and local Thai Girls


Watch Sungai Kolok Downtown and hotel video here

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Bangkok Gays Bars Silom Soi 2

Thailand is a heaven for Gays (Bisexual), as the country is one of the most tolerant in cultures. You may find a lot of gays or lesbians through the capital city, Bangkok.

Thailand has a thriving gay and lesbian bar scene, which attracts tourists from all over the world. Many cities are providing the gays area, such as Hatyai, Pattaya, Phuket. In Bangkok, the gay bars are concentrated along Silom Soi 2 and Soi 4, with Soi 2 being considered 'more gay'. Slightly seedier bars can be found off Surawong Road, along Soi Anuman Rachathon and Soi Tawan. Other bars can be found sprinkled along Sukhumvit, especially Soi 23, and Tanao Road in the Banglumpoo area. All of these bars cater to males only.

The Most famous Gays district in Bangkok, no doubt is Silom Soi 2. Silem Boy 2 is a short lane off Silom crammed with bars and restaurants that caters exclusively to the gay community. Soi 2 is widely considered to be 'more gay' than nearby Soi 4. The bars get hot and sweaty on Friday and Saturday nights and it's hard to move, let alone dance to the trendy underground sounds. Men wandering into these bars at the weekend can expect to be groped from all quarters.

Silom has the most to see, with three Soi’s offering some great gay venues. Silom Soi 2, featuring the famous DJ Station and other pubs, is very popular with the Thai community, making that Soi the most popular Soi on Silom. A two minute walk from there is Silom Soi 2/1, where @Richard’s Pub & Restaurant (Thai & western food) and G.O.D nightclub (after hours dancing) is located. About 4 minutes from there is Silom Soi 4, with Sphinx Restaurant, Balcony Pub, and Telephone Pub; all of them have good food.

In between Silom and Sathorn Road, there are several massage shops to stop in at to have a great massage and relax. On Soi Sala Daeng, you can have a great dinner at Fab Cuisine and next door is a new gay guest house, Baan Sala Daeng. For some fine dining check out Coyote Restaurant and Eat Me Restaurant on Soi Convent. Down a-ways on Naratiwat is the OmYim Lodge for a nice, reasonably-priced guesthouse.

And a trip to gay and lesbian Bangkok would not be complete without an encounter with a “ladyboy” (Katoey in Thai). The majority of ladyboys are “she-males” who are unable to pay for a full sex change operation, and so are exploiting their comfort with being with either men or women. They often do not comply to the generally subservient nature of Thai women, and can be fairly feisty, but they are also renowned for taking good care of their health.


Here is some of Thailand Bangkok Gays Bars and Pubs :

@Richard's
60/17 Silom Rd
Phone: (0) 81907-5560
Website: www.richards-bangkok.com
Email: info@richards-bangkok.com
» member discounts
Located in the small sub-soi between Thania and Soi 2, next to Freeman, where the Mix used to be, now (Jan 2006) owned by the eponymous ex-Telephone owner Richard and associates. Friendly, relaxed atmosphere, 70's music at a volume you can talk over, good food and drinks at reasonable prices. An interesting alternative to the Soi 4 bars.

Balcony
86-88 Silom Soi 4
Phone: (0) 2235 - 5891
Website: http://www.balconypub.com
Email: info@balconypub.com
» member discounts
An open-fronted (but air-conditioned) bar with popular terrace. Lots of seating around the bar, plus tables inside and outside to watch the passing parade. Friendly relaxed atmosphere with the cheapest food and drinks in the soi. Lots of fun things always going on - is the "fun" pub on the soi. Upstairs has a mini-karaoke and small Internet cafe. Open from 6:00 till 02:00 daily, with Happy Hour from 6:00 till 8:00 every day, and a mystery late happy hour as well.

Balls, the sports bar
Duangthawee Plaza, Soi Pratoochai, Surawong Road
Phone: (0) 2637 - 0078
Website: www.moana.co.th/balls
Located at the Rama 4 Rd end of the soi, open-air beer bar from the owners of Dick's Cafe just down the soi. Features big-screen TV (51") for watching the latest sports shows, well priced drinks and food is avaiable from the Dick's menu, and of course the friendly service you would expect from this group! Happy hours from 5:00 PM till 7:00 PM weekdays, open from 5:00 PM weekdays, 1:00 PM weekends.

BAS Living Room
Silom Soi 4
Phone: (0) 2632 - 6982
Website: http://www.bas-4.com/main.html
New (Feb 2009) small intimate bar located opposite Sphinx. Friendly service, relxing atmosphere, drinks, cocktails, snacks, Wi-Fi, magazines, open from 6:00 PM till 2:00 AM

Club 4
114/10 Silom Soi 4
Phone: (0) 2632 - 8013
Small bar, located just next to Telephone, where Den used to be, has terrace and inside bar, usually fairly quiet, mixed trendy crowd.

Club Cafe
Silom Soi 2
Phone: (0) 86978 - 5221
Downstairst next to DJ Station, upmarket club/cafe similar to Expresso, somewhere to relax away form the intensity of DJ and some of the other bars in the soi - including Expresso late most busy nites!

Dick's Cafe Bangkok
Duangthawee Plaza, 894/7-8 Soi Pratoochai, Suriwong Rd
Phone: (0) 2637 - 0078
Website: http://www.dickscafe.com/bangkok/
Email: dickscafe@dickscafe.com
Popular stylish, classy bar in the heart of the Suriwong and Patpong scene, a very relaxing and pleasant place for lunch or a drink or something to eat before or after hitting the surrounding go-go bars! Open from midday till 1:00 AM.

Expresso
Silom Soi 2
Upmarket coffeeshop/bar located opposite DJ Station, popular place to unwind between dances. Open till late. Won the Metro award for best gay bar in 2001.

Happen
8/14 Silom Soi 2
Funky, high tech bar with dance music and karaoke, relaxed fun place for a drink before (or as a break while) hitting the disco. Friendly staff, open from 8:00 PM till late, usually busy after 11:00 particularly weekends.

JJ Park
Silom Soi 2
Phone: (0) 2233 - 3247
Bar with live music, both Thai and western and other entertainment - gets a lot of the disco crowd because it is in Soi 2, and is usually crowded late on the weekends.

Lounge 4
Silom Soi 4
Located just the other side of the Tiger Terrace from its sister venue Club 4 and attracting a similar crowd. Also has tables on the terrace opposite.

Maxis Bar & Restaurant
38/1-2 Duangthawee Plaza, Soi Pratoochai, Suriwong Rd
Phone: (0) 2266 - 4225 Fax: (0) 2266 - 4226
Website: http://www.maxisbar.com/
Email: MaxisBar@gmail.com
New (April 2008) bar and restaurant located right in the middle of the go-go bars off Suriwong Rd. Has outdoor terrace, downstairs bar and upstairs dining room. Open 10:00 AM till 2:00 PM.

Sphinx Restaurant and Pub
100 Silom Soi 4
Phone: (0) 2234 - 7249
Website: www.sphinxpub.com/
Email: info@sphinxpub.com
» member discounts
Upmarket bar and thai restaurant with Egyptian theme decor, great atmosphere, excellent Thai and western food, good range of wines, beers and spirits. Open from 6:00 PM till 2:00 AM every day. A comfortable, relaxing place for a drink at the bar or a meal. Lots of regular patrons, and usually gets a good crowd late on the weekends. Service always good from the friendly staff - the best place to eat and in the soi!

Telephone Pub, Restaurant & Karaoke
Silom Soi 4
Phone: (0) 2234 - 3279
Website: www.telephonepub.com
» member discounts
Probably the oldest and most famous gay bar and restaurant in Bangkok, with extensive Thai and western menu. Open from 8:00 till 02:00 every day. Always popular with locals, expats and visitors - the cruisiest bar in town, but learn to spot the frelancers! Now (June 2007) has a new karaoke lounge on the 3rd floor.

Some photos and pictures of Bangkok Gays location at Silom Soi 2 and Silom Soi 4


Silom Soi 2, featuring the famous DJ Station and other pubs, is very popular with the Thai community, making that Soi the most popular Soi on Silom.



Pubs in Silom Soi 2, Bangkok, just a stone's throw from the Saladaeng BTS Station. All taxi drivers know this area.



Soi 4 also has many other non-gay music bars, but the mixed atmosphere is very friendly.



Thailand Gays is more accepted in the society.



The majority of ladyboys are “she-males” who are unable to pay for a full sex change operation, and so are exploiting their comfort with being with either men or women.


Watch Bangkok Gay Club at DJ Station Video here

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Hua Hin Beach Night Market Shopping

Hua Hin is a famous beach resort town in Thailand, and Thailand's oldest beach town resort, situated on the west coast of the Gulf of Thailand and only 200 kilometers from the capital, Bangkok.

While the beaches of Phuket and Samui were discovered only recently and have since undergone rapid and sometimes destructive development, Hua Hin has already been the favourite Thai resort for over 70 years.

Hua Hin is unlike most other beach resorts in Thailand. If you are looking for bright lights and frantic all night action you will be disappointed there. It is very much a family holiday resort area with good shopping and multi-national restaurants including, of course, the best Thai seafood the country has to offer. Idweal Thailand summer holiday beach destination.

The main beach area fronts the town itself where many fine resorts are found. Beaches to the north and south . The beaches at Khao Takiab (Chopsticks Hill) and Takiab Bay (Chopsticks Bay) are just to the south of the town centre.

Hua Hin beaches stretch along the coast both north and south. For out door fun and adventure you can enjoy watersports, Elephant rides, All terrain Vehicle rides, fishing and boat trips. Khao Takiab Bay is a popular beaches with clear clean water and gentle waves, beach loungers and beach umbrellas for shade. Palm trees and Casuarana trees line the long beach at Takiab Bay. These beach areas are also popular for jogging and beach cycling.

The area also offers the opportunity to visit the temples of Khao Takiab, feed the monkeys, climb to the viewpoint. The Khao Takiab area has many temples includes many built many years ago. Snorkeling is available a few hours south . The River Kwai is just 3 hours from Hua Hin . The National Park at Sam Roi Yot (Three Hundred Peaks) is just 30 minutes south of town.

Hua Hin Nightlife
Hua Hin's nightlife offers little in the way of comparison to the hedonistic areas of Phuket, Bangkok and Pattaya. Due to its status as a 'Royal Town' tourism authorities have been making a conscious effort to preserve the heritage of the city.

Hua Hin has one or two soi's dedicated to Bars. Go to the Hilton and walk away from sea. Again there are too many to mention but one or two worth a visit are Jungle Juice (Selakam Rd), Bernys Inn (near the Hilton) a popular Golfers bar, Adrenaline Bar in the Pavillion village Hua Hin offers, beers, wines and cocktails and a happy hour every day from 5pm to 7pm. Lastly a popular favourite with expats and Golfers is the Roadhole on Poolsuk Rd.

There are two night markets in Hua Hin. The main night market is on soi 72 and is open nightly. The second is close to the Grang hotel just south of Hua Hin and is open every evening except Mondays and Tuesdays. The latter has a more local feel.


Hua Hin Nite Life Bars
If you are looking for good night life, I am afraid that Hua Hin is not the place for you. The picture at right says it all, outdoor beer bars with lots of male tourists and very few girls. The girls that they do have are not that appealing, they do not compare to the girls in Bangkok or Pattaya, overall the bar scene here is fairly pathetic. All of the bars are located near the Soi Bintabat area, on a map it looks spread out, but the sois are really little more than lanes, so everything in town is within easy walking distance. All of the bars in this area are "outside" style beer bars that are open air and do not have any real air conditioning.


Hua Hin Beer Bars
While nowhere near as widespread as in say, Pattaya, a generous smattering of beer bars can be found in Hua Hin, mainly around main strip Soi Bintaban. Don’t expect to be wowed by these unadorned drinking holes – they’re typically little more than open front shop houses with a few bar stools, a pool table, and a small arsenal of cheap alcohol.

Very basic and bare. However, if you’re open-minded they can be a lot of fun – drink, play pool, watch sports, enjoy loud music (usually soft rock or Northeastern Isaan music) and exchange chitchat or – if you’re willing and able – flirtations with the small posse of female hostesses.

Some of Hua Hin beach and nightlife photos and pictures


Hua Hin is the oldest beach in Thailand, located approx. 190km south of Bangkok and 92 kilometres north of Prachuab Khiri Khan



Bangkok to Hua Hin view from the Thaksin Bridge



Road from Hua Hin to Prachuap Khiri Khan



Hua Hin’s famous cabaret show, Blue Angel. It’s a small-scale show that’s large on ladyboy drama, glam, elegance and beauty. Shows at 20:00 and 21:45 every night.



The nightlife scene in Hua Hin is tame compared to say, Pattaya, The majority of the tourists and visitors that come to Hua Hin are couples and families, therefore, the nightlife scene in Hua Hin is tame compared to say, Pattaya, Koh Samui or Patong, Phuket.



Hua Hin Dusit Thani Beach Resort



There are two night markets in Hua Hin. The main night market is on soi 72 and is open nightly. The second is close to the Grang hotel just south of Hua Hin and is open every evening except Mondays and Tuesdays. The latter has a more local feel.



Many restaurants, pubs, bars , different kind of places which different atmosphere to sit , enjoy music and drink, some are open area places which seem popular beside street. The name of the street are Nares Damri Rd, - Phunsuk Rd, - Dechanuchit Rd, - Some part of Phetkrasem Rd. ( Satukarn Square )

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