Thailand Vistor Center

Top Thailand Destinations

www.thailandvisitorcenter.com — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0000

BANGKOK is the capital of Thailand, and despite its growth and status it has remained true to its cultural and spiritual roots as the city’s many Buddhist temples can attest to. But because it is the country’s capital, expect to also see skyscrapers that glimmer in the sky and colorful cultural street markets nestled very near cosmopolitan shopping malls. Thanks to the Skytrain, getting around the city is easier than ever.PHUKET‘s west coast has often been considered the “tourism side” of the island, but with the advancement of time the entire area can be considered a tourists Mecca. Of course, most of the well-known beaches (like Patong and Karon Beaches) are located on the west side. There is one swimmable east coast beach in the south of Phuket (Laem Ka) and it is well-known for its deep hued water on a sunny afternoon.KOH SAMUI is the country’s third largest island in the Gulf of Thailand where it is surrounded by 60 other smaller islands. Having a population of about 50,000, Samui can be both a busy place in certain parts, but also a quiet, secluded respite as well. Opposite of Phuket, Samui’s major beaches are on its east coast with the island’s main port Nathon, on its west coast, facing nearby mainland and Surat Thani.KRABI PROVINCE is the place to go if you want to escape crowds with many backpackers using the provincial town’s guesthouses as base camps along their discovery. If you’re into something more substantial than a guesthouse, rest assured that Krabi also offers upper-end resort and spa accommodation in secluded settings (some five star) and everything else in between! The pearls of Krabi are its many stunning and deserted beaches that line its coastline.PHI PHI is located about halfway between Phuket and Krabi ans is described as being “at once seductive, vibrant and fascinating with its colorful scenery and prolific nightlife.” Enjoy more than ten individual beach locations with many offering shoals of colorful tropical fish that are sure to delight even the most seasoned snorkeler.

Thailand Equals Diversity

www.thailandvisitorcenter.com — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0000

With a population estimate exceeding 62 million that includes 75 ethnic groups and various peoples such as hill tribes and inhabitants of the northern mountain areas, you bet Thailand is a demographically diverse country. Thai is the national language, but seven Austronesian languages are spoken (all belonging to the Malayic Malayo-Polynesian group of languages) and there are 19 Tibeto-Burman speaking groups as well as various migrant communities that speak Korean, Japanese, Tamil, and Urdu. The country is often portrayed as one of cultural homogeny, but there are those ethnic groups previously mentioned as well as the Thai-Lao and Lanna Tai who (combined) account for about 40 percent of the population. A lot of this diversity can be attributed to the early migration (as early as the fifth or sixth century) of peoples from northern Vietnam and southern Yunnan into areas along the Mekong River. The Tai in northern Thailand came into contact with the Mon who then converted them to Theravada Buddhism. The founder of the kingdom of Ayutthaya promoted this practice and compiled a legal code based on its sources. In the 20th century the Central Thai culture emerged as the dominant national culture and the term “Thai Identity” was coined in the late 1950′s. A National Culture Commission was formed in 1979 to coordinate efforts to defend the “Thai Identity” and have been linked to national security and communist insurgency involving members of various ethnic minorities which is sure to be expected from a country with a population of its size. There continues to be a level of discrimination against the hill tribes (which are widely viewed as being involved in narcotics trafficking); however, the Tribal Assembly of Thailand has lobbied the government for greater transparency in decisions affecting those tribes, especially in regard to the granting of citizenship and land issues.

Some Manners and Customs When Visiting Thailand

www.thailandvisitorcenter.com — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 13:24:24 +0000

You know the adage “when in Rome,” right? Well it definitely applies if you’re visiting Thailand, as well.Just as you would expect a visitor to your city to show respect for local customs you, too, should show respect for where you are visiting.Following are a few travel tips to keep you under the radar as a tourist and help you assimilate so you can enjoy the full Thai experience:

Never raise your voice whether it be from anger or from joviality a normal tone (volume) should be practiced at all times
Try to avoid saying anything negative or commenting on what should be done “differently”
Never show any form of disrespect for or to a Buddha image you can take pictures, but never lay hands on them
Speaking of touching, never touch anyone (including children) on the head since customs believe that the highest part of the body deserves the utmost respect
Never point fingers if you need to gesture to identify something or someone, do so with the nod or pointing of your head
Never show any form of affection in public and this includes holding hands while holding hands in larger cities is becoming more commonly accepted, it is still something that might make you stand out as disrespectful
Do not touch anyone of the opposite sex, regardless of how innocent it may seem as Americans we tend to communicate through casual touch, but this is not something tolerated in Thailand
Wai (the gesture of putting your hands together in front of you in a prayer-like position) should always be done in an appropriate fashion since it is a sign of respect toward people who are older or in superior positions in general, after the younger or subordinate wais, the superior returns the wai.

The bottom line is really quite simple watch what is occurring around you and mimic that behavior whenever possible, keeping in mind that although you may see something being done once (like kissing in public) it doesn’t automatically mean it’s appropriate for you to do so. Follow the rule of the masses and you’ll be fine.

The Dining Capital of Asia

admin — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 17:02:35 +0000

From curbside food stands to exquisite fine dining restaurants, Thailand offers a wide variety of food that is as rich and diverse as its culture. Famous for its balance and harmony, Thai dishes incorporate the five fundamental tasteshot, sweet, sour, salty, and bitterinto one dining experience. The unique taste, however, is not the only quality that sets Thai cuisine apart from traditional American grub. Thais traditionally eat their meals in informal circles. They serve individual plates of rice and share a variety of community dishes at once.Because Thais use such an assortment of flavors and tastes created by fresh ingredients and herbs, it is helpful if you can distinguish the different types of Thai cuisine. Thais break their varieties of food into six basic groups: snacks (such as stuffed dumplings, Satay, and spring rolls which are eaten alone), chili dips (usually either a main dish or a side dish), salads (also called yam, usually meat, seafood, vegetable, or fruit salads that taste sour, sweet, and salty), curries (the heart of Thai cuisinemade from fresh herbs and spices then cooked in coconut cream before adding meat and vegetables), soups (ranging from hot and spice to mild and clearTom Yum King and Tom Kha Kai are the most popular), and desserts (not as sweet as what you’re used to, usually sticky rice with fruit dumplings).Another way to differentiate different Thai delicacies is by region. Most of these dishes have absorbed Eastern and Western influence but still maintain their own unique characteristics. Central Thailand is home to diversified dishes of foreign influences. Favorites of this region include green and Phanang curry, Tom Yam hot and sour soup, and Phat Thai noodles. Northern Thailand’s cool climate offers a variety of vegetables and herbs that simmer nicely into local favorites such as Khao Soi egg noodles curry, Hang Le pork curry, and Sai-Ua spicy pork sausage. The flavors of Northern Thailand picked up some Myanmar, Laos, and Yunnan influences. Northeastern Thailand enjoys highly seasoned Laos inspired dishes including Som Tam green papaya salad, Lap spicy minced meat salad, and barbequed chicken. Lastly, Southern Thailand is well known for its distinct fragrant aromas and flavors. Favorite dishes, such as Satay skewered barbequed meat with spicy peanut sauce and Mussaman curry have a little help from Malaysian and Indian influences.Whether you choose to save your ‘Baht’ (Thailand’s currency) by picking up local cuisine form a street vendor or drop some Bahts in a fancy Bangkok restaurant, the exotic mixture of flavors and textures offered by Thai cuisine made Bangkok the dining capital of Asia for a reason.

Thailand Travel Safety

admin — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 19:09:41 +0000

Anytime you are planning to leave the country, you should visit the State Department’s website for any travel alerts or warnings. This is also a great place to read up on any political or safety issues in the area. Thailand has experienced recent political strife between the existing government and the Red Shirts opposition. After a considerable amount of violence in the past few months, there has been a recent calm since the end of May. The most frequent demonstrations and violence occur in southern Thailand, and the State Department advises against non-emergency travel to these areas. Border disputes between Thailand and Cambodia make traveling along the border area ill-advised. It is also extremely important to register with the U.S. Embassy before traveling to Thailand. Registration can be done online and will provide you with valuable security information and updates on the area. In the event of an emergency occurring while in Thailand, being registered with the embassy is immensely helpful. There are two embassies in this country, one in Bangkok and one in Chiang Mai.Crime in Thailand is another issue to be aware of while on a trip. According to the State Department, crime rates in the capital, Bangkok, are lower than in many areas of the U.S., but pick-pocketing and robbery remain an issue. Scams and con artists are also prevalent in the area and caution should be taken before accepting any offer for a tour or taxi ride. Gem scams are also quite common, so be wary of purchasing such products from independent vendors.Wherever you go, it is imperative that you remain aware of your surroundings and carefully guard any personal items. No one wants their exotic vacation ruined by crime or theft. Though the State Department encourages the exercise of caution while in this area, there are no official travel warnings or alerts.

Explore the Thai Coast

admin — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 18:57:51 +0000

There’s more to Thailand than just its vibrant cities. This country boasts over 1,500 miles of beautiful coastline. If all you want is a relaxing vacation on the beach, the constant sunshine and pristine waters make the beaches of Thailand your perfect getaway. But, if you crave adventure and wish to explore this unknown land, there are many activities for people of all interests. As you plan your trip to the coast, first decide which body of water you want to visit. The Gulf of Thailand is to the south east and is also bordered by Vietnam and Cambodia. It is an extension of the South China Sea and is known for its coral reefs and diving resorts. A number of islands in the gulf such as Ko Samet, Ko Samui and Koh Tao are popular destinations for tourists seeking a bit of underwater exploration. To the west of Thailand is the Andaman Sea, which is part of the Indian Ocean. Phuket, the largest island of Thailand, has become a favorite among tourists in the area. There are over ten major beaches on this island and each one is unique and offers something different. Quiet beaches such as Kamala or Bang Thao are great if you’re after a calm getaway, while Patong and Kata Yai see much more daily activity and offer vibrant nightlife scenes.Depending on how daring you truly are, Thailand beaches offer everything from rock climbing and bouldering to snorkeling, sailing and yachting. Areas designated for snorkeling are found at almost any Thailand beach, but if you’re interested in one of the more unique adventures its best to research beaches offering these attractions. The best rock climbing can be found on Rai Le Beach, while bouldering is better in Ko Tao, and for boating adventures, Phuket is a popular destination.

Bring Home More than Just Memories

admin — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 18:40:47 +0000

Your decision to visit Thailand probably wasn’t based on the shopping in the area; in fact, most people are unaware of the endless shopping attractions this country has to offer. The diversity of goods and styles of shopping available makes for a unique experience. If you’re just looking for a few small souvenirs to take home for friends and family, visit one of the many markets or bazaars, where you’ll find everything from handmade art and silk clothes to fresh meat and produce. The biggest and best-know market is the Chatuchak Weekend Market, held every Saturday and Sunday with 35 acres of merchant stalls. For delicious Thai food and products along with a unique shopping experience, visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market where vendors sell their goods from inside long narrow boats traveling along the canal. Another must-visit Bangkok shopping center is the Emporium. This upscale shopping center offers fine home dcor, an unbeatable fresh supermarket, and an upscale department store. If you want to return home with upscale apparel, browse through a range of designers such as Chanel, Dior and Fendi. This may be the pricier of the Thai shopping, but the retailers are usually willing to bargain. Besides, you’re on vacation, and how often are you in Thailand?Another unique shopping experience you must try while in Thailand is the night shopping. We’re very accustomed to stores closing after sunset, but here many markets don’t even get going until after dark. The Suan Lum Night Bazaar is good for more than just spending money. Once you’re all shopped out, you can enjoy local bands and have a drink in the beer garden. The Klong Thom Market is a popular weekend, night market, which has earned the nickname the Flashlight Market because of its late hours. The selling begins around 5p.m. Saturday evening and lasts through Sunday. An abundance of electronics and second-hand items can be found here.

Bangkok: The City of Angels

admin — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 18:34:03 +0000

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, the capital city should be at the top of your list. In addition to the rich culture and history of the area, the world renowned nightlife and cuisine in Bangkok could fill a trip in itself. This city offers a culture entirely different from anything you’ll find in the West. The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a must-see while in Thailand. Peddlers and farmers sell their products to customers and tourists standing on the side of the canal as they float along in small narrow boats.For a taste of Thai religion and history, visit the Grand Palace and the Wat Phra Kaew. The latter is also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and many Buddhist ceremonies take place within this structure. There is an extremely strict dress code inside the Wat Phra Kaew and no shoes may be worn. The nearby Grand Palace is the official residence of Thailand Kings. The impressive, ornate architecture of these structures is worth the trip out to see them. The National Museum and The National Gallery are also both worthwhile trips for those interested in art and culture.Though a less kosher topic, we can’t write about Bangkok without mentioning their famous red light district. A range of bars with varying degrees of promiscuity can be found along the streets of Bangkok. For a more wholesome evening out in the City of Angels, visit one of the many bars and pubs in the area. Chic upscale 87 is perfect for a fine drink and a dance. For something a bit more laid back and casual, try Molly Malones, the Thai version of an Irish pub.The few things mentioned above only begin to scratch the surface of all that Bangkok has to offer. Plan your trip carefully in advance in order to make the most of your time here.

A Cultural Experience like no other

admin — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 18:26:33 +0000

As soon as you step off the plane you will be overtaken by Thailand’s unique culture. Filled with Buddhist arts and temples, Thailand’s culture could take months to fully experience. If you’re like most tourists, you have one or two weeks at most to discover a culture that took centuries to establish. Fortunately for you, we’ve compiled a list of cultural hotspots that will provide you with a vast but in depth overview of Thailand’s rich history and current way of life.The Grand PalaceThailand’s number one tourist attraction, The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a timeless complex of Thai-style buildings from the 1700′s. Built by King Rama I, the ruler of the Thai monarchy in 1782, the architectural detail and magical splendor of the Grand Palace is awe inspiring. One of the many monumental buildings in the Grand Palace is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaeo). The centerpiece of the Wat Phra Kaeo is the most sacred Buddha statue of Thailand. Carved out of one piece of beautiful Jade stone, Thais from all over Thailand flock to the majestic Buddha to pray every day. Witnessing this ritual provides a true glimpse into Thai culture.Sukhothai and Ayutthaya Historical ParksAt Sukhothai (which means Dawn of Happiness), the first Siamese Kingdom and the birth of Thai language was developed in the middle of the 13^th century. This historic park isn’t your typical stroll through history. Instead, you can rent mountain bikes and cycle through the ruins of a classical Buddhist architecture and the remnants of Thai art. At the world heritage site of Ayutthaya Historical Park, you can cycle through what used to be the most glorious town and trading port in Asia.Floating MarketsWhile in Thailand, be sure to visit one of the many river canals that truly showcase the Thai way of life. Here, farmers bring produce to sell by boat and the colorful array of fresh fruits and vegetables prove to be a sight you’ll never forget. Recommended markets include Damnoen Saduak, Taling Chan, Amphawa, and Tha Kha.