Enjoy Vacation - Visiting Thailand Tourist Places

Thailand, nestled in the heartland of Southeast Asia, is among the few countries where the ancient coexists with the modern in peaceful harmony. It's a country that caters to vastly diverse sets of tourists, leaving each one with equally unforgettable memories. For the avid shopper, there are the bright shopping malls of Bangkok, for the intrepid trekker there are the mountain ranges of Mae Hong Son and for the lazy sun-soakers there are the pristine beaches of Phuket and Samui.

The Cities
The Thai capital, the starting point for a large number of tourists in Thailand, offers several fascinating destinations for wide-eyed tourists. Among any 'must visit' list for tourists in Bangkok, will be 'The Grand Palace'. The palace was home to the many Kings of Siam and for many years, it also doubled as the nerve centre of Thai administration. In the complex of buildings you will find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew. Considered to be among the most sacred temples of Thailand, it houses the central and most revered object of Thai culture- the Emerald Buddha.

Another city of great cultural significance is Chiang Mai, capital of the Chiang Mai province. The city is lined by many ancient and awe-inspiring Buddhist temples. A temple on top of Doi Suthep, a hill on the north-western part of the city, offers tourists a breathtaking view over the city on a clear day.

Tourists looking for remains of old Thailand will be delighted to visit Chiang Rai, where the 'Golden triangle', the triangle made by the borders of Burma, Laos and Thailand, is found. Yet unspoiled by the glut of tourists visiting Thailand, a quiet boat ride on the Mae Khong River might let you discover something new and extraordinary, each time.

The Islands
Phuket, Thailand's largest island, one of the most frequented places by tourists, may have lost some of its exotic charm by the steady influx of tourists; but to the willing traveler, the destination still offers many delightful sights. Its vast span of white beaches boasts many premier, international beach resorts. And to no ones surprise, the beaches also offer its tourists several sun and surf activities. Other than the beaches, a tourist will find several visual delights such as the one-of-a-kind landscapes of Phang Nga Bay.

Koh Samui is another island with popularity comparable with Phuket. It was only in the late 1970's that the first tourists arrived on Koh Samui. But even today, Koh Samui has retained its charm and offers its tourists white pearlescent beaches, coral reefs, exotic lagoons, picturesque water falls and a lot more.

The destinations may be many, but what a tourist in Thailand will take home is a piece of eternity, a memory of amazing, amazing Thailand.

Sukhumvit Soi 22

Sukhumvit Soi 22 is one among many Sois that run off the famous Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok, Thailand. It is between Benjasiri Park and Soi 20. Soi 22 is well known and frequented by foreigners. One of the reasons is that it has one of the great Bangkok landmark hotels; Queen Park Hotel. This is a massive building with two towers which were built years apart. The lobby of the hotel is gigantic and trimmed with Thai timber and design. There are massive chandeliers in the lobby. Nine floors up there is a gym and a large swimming pool which gives has a great view of Sukhumvit and Bangkok. This building represents everything that a fine hotel should be, and it is worth going there, even if just to have coffee.

Deeper into the Soi (further away from BTS Skytrain and Sukhumvit Road) is the Park Avenue Hotel which has a middle-to-upper price range. Out front there are an Italian and an Indian Restaurant on each side of the large car park.

Admiral Suites is deeper into the Soi on the same side of the road as Park Avenue. It has well-appointed studio, one bedroom, and other suites which are available on daily rate or longer period if that is required.

At the front of the Admiral Suites complex is the Green Parrot Cafe which is a favourite with tourists in the Soi because it has internet wifi. At most times of the day there will be people in the Green Parrot with their notebooks and netbooks tapping away at their keyboards.

About 30 metres deeper into the Soi is the New Cowboy Bar and Restaurant which was set up, apparently, by the same American Cowboy who set up Soi Cowboy (a fmaous sub-Soi between Soi 23 and Soi Asoke). It is full of memorabilia collected over many years and appeals particularly to visitors from the USA. The food is excellent too.

Much closer to Sukhumvit Road are two famous bar areas called Washington Square and Queen Plaza. Both have well-known Thai bars which have been operating for many years in some cases. Washington Square has the famous Bourbon Street which puts on big feasts for both Christmas Day and for America's Thanksgiving celebrations. The bars in these two places offer all that you might be looking for.

There is an internet cafe which charges 60 baht per hour to foreigners and girls that work in bars at the entrance to Washington Square. However, in a small sub-Soi not far away the rate is only 20 baht per hour, but this tends to be frequented only by Thais.

Washington Square itself is a vast tar-sealed area between Benjasiri Park and Soi 22. It has clusters of buildings on its periphery as well as a large building in its centre which has bars. On its Sukhumvit Road side a very large bar. Cutting through Washington Square is a faster way to get to The Emporium shopping complexes.

One of the famous bars on Soi 22 is the Titanium Club which has an Ice Room where you can have a Vodka or two in very cold temperatures. It is a popular venue for the young and trendy and always seems to have something going on.

All down the half of Soi 22 closest to Sukhumvit Road are massage places, such as May Massage which has the enormous feet over the entrance. People can go for any type of massage they want. The massages are really good and reasonably cheap but it is a good idea to leave a tip as well. Sometimes the massage places have big windows where you can see the interior of the massage facility and the people getting massages in big reclining chairs.

Sukhumvit Soi 22 really has something for everyone whether they are looking for a restaurant, accommodation, massage, or a bar. If you are in Bangkok or in Sukhumvit, Soi 22 it is worth a visit and remember it is quite a long way from Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy so it is much more family friendly than the lower numbered Sois.

Europe Train Travel Tips

If you want to really see Europe, train travel is by far the best choice. There is no better way to see a place than a leisurely train ride where you can see everything, from the countryside to the mountains to the dazzling lights of European cities.

Furthermore, Europe is made for train travel. Trains conveniently link every city from Athens to Helsinki (and everything in between).

There are many ways to organize a European railroad trip. There are Eurail passes that cover the entire continent, as well as more limited ones if you only want to visit certain parts of Europe. Which you should choose depends, of course, on your schedule, preferences and budget.

There is no "best time" to visit Europe, as there are advantages to going in every season. Summer is most convenient for many people, though it will be crowded and more expensive. Winter is great if you like sports like skiing. Fall and Spring offer both moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. But there are unlimited activities throughout the year in Europe.

If you plan a train trip to Europe, the most challenging thing is choosing the right train ticket or pass, as there are many choices. If you only get to visit Europe rarely, or if this is a once in a lifetime trip, you should see as much as you possibly can.

The great thing about Europe is that you have many countries close together with distinct language and cultures (even if most of them use the same currency now).

If you are traveling to Europe from another continent, you may want to fly into London and take the Eurostar to Paris. England and other parts of the UK are not part of the same train system as continental Europe, so your Eurail passes will not be honored there. Still, a trip to Europe is not complete without seeing London.

You can visit Eastern Europe as well as Western, though you will have to get a separate train pass for some of these countries. There is one pass that allows you to go to Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland and the Czech Republic.

If you get a train pass in Europe, make sure that any train you board will honor it. Not all trains do, and if you find yourself on a train that does not accept your pass you will have to pay for an extra ticket.

When visiting Europe, train travel is the way to see the most scenery, meet the most people and absorb as much as possible of the continent's myriad of natural and cultural sites.

Thailand Travel - The Ideal Time to Visit Thai

Thailand attracts millions of travelers every year. No other country can ever replace the diversity and rich culture and tradition of Thailand. It is a beautiful country and is well known for its hospitality, breathtaking natural beauty and a lot more.

You may not feel comfortable with the weather in this region between July and November. The prefect period to visit Thailand is between February to March. This is the ideal period to visit all the beautiful beaches and islands of this region. It is always good to prepare for your Thailand Travel plan well in advance.

The prizes of the tickets during peak months of January and July are generally expensive. Therefore, it is better to book the tickets in advance to avoid unnecessary expenses. Once you have decided to spend your vacation in Thailand, make sure to visit the islands and coastal regions in this place and explore the hidden treasures that awaits you. You will never feel bored in exploring the places of Thailand.

This place is blessed with scenic beauty and the islands are the most breathtaking attraction of Thailand. Another aspect that makes Thailand, the most popular vacation spot is the Thai people. People out there are sanctified with a character that none other in the west can posses. These people remain good-natured and quiet amongst the turmoil, thereby creating a serenity that attracts a lot of visitors every year.

Whatever sort of place you wish to visit, there is still plenty to explore in this scenic landscape. Thailand is sure to give your family the best travel experience ever!

Helpful Tips to Follow When Planning a Trip by Air Or Car

Americans have enjoyed taking vacations and heading out on traveling experiences for a very long time. Traveling for the typical American, however, has changed over the years when family trips used to be taken by train or car is now done with air travel. Most kids have some kind of memory, however, of a family road trip in one form or another, whether it was going camping or just loading up the car to head over to Grandma's house for a visit. Whatever type of trip you are planning; there are many items that can make the experience less stressful and can be made to go smoothly. This article will offer tips on products such as telescoping hand carts or luggage with telescoping handles to save yourself the chore of having to carry your bags everywhere and other ideas which will ease the hardship of traveling.

Most people over pack when they travel and the best recommendation is to limit what you bring, especially if you are going to a location where laundry facilities are available. The airlines have also put a limit on the number of bags that can be checked in as well as the size and weight of those bags. Many airlines charge a fee for every checked piece of luggage which can greatly increase the cost of your travel experience. There are many wonderful lightweight suitcase solutions which are available now on the market that will fit in the overhead compartment and also have wheels so having your bags with you at all times will not be difficult.

In the past, the majority of luggage came in large rectangular shaped hardcover suitcases. These suitcases were not only bulky but they were extremely heavy to get from one destination to another as well. Now, newer luggage is being made of lighter materials and typically all of them have wheels and handles to pull them rather than having to carry it making it so much easier to transport. If you do not want to buy new luggage but can not carry them, think of getting a luggage rack which folds up easily and you can put your bags on it to pull around.

When traveling by car, packing efficiently is also a high priority, especially if you have children with you. If you plan on taking more than one day to get to your destination, think about packing a separate overnight bag to bring into the hotel with you. That way you do not have to unload and load up all of the bags from the car which takes a lot of extra time. Put together games, toys and activities for children to do while traveling as well as plenty of drinks and snacks too to avoid having to stop too frequently. Some parents of toddlers also bring along a potty seat to provide their frequent potty goers a place to go without having to always find a restroom.

Just remember, pack lightly, be organized and your trip will be great and have less stressful for you and the family.

Kite Surfing Holidays to Thailand

Kite Surfing is a relatively new sport that is seeing the numbers of people getting interested in it rocketing. At the end of 1999 it was estimated that only 1,000 people actually participated in this extreme sport. By 2005 however there were 100,000 kite surfers around the globe.

Although founded in Hawaii and France Kite Surfers like wave surfers travel the world looking for better and more exciting places to surf with their kite. Thailand has been a favourite destination for yachtsmen and windsurfers for many years due to its prevailing winds at certain times of the year.

With average wind strengths of 15-20 knots during the northerly monsoon and 12-14 knots in the southerly monsoon Thailand is not a super windy place but it is a super place to have a holiday in. For many hard core kite surfers these 'light' winds would not be enough for them to travel to Thailand but for a family looking for a holiday to Thailand to enjoy some water activities then its ideal.

These light winds are ideal for gentle kite surfing so has been ideal for the beginners who can learn to control the kites in a more gentle breeze. This has lead to an explosion of Kite Surfing Schools in Thailand.

Unlike other water activities, like scuba diving, kite surfing sees a lot of Thai people getting involved in the sport. Many of the instructors that teach you kite surfing will be Thai nationals and the companies who rent you the gear will be owned by Thai people; this adds to your holiday and lets you get closer to the wonderful people of this country.

Best Places to Kite Surf in Thailand

You will find kite surfing Schools in all the major holiday destinations such as Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Phuket, Pattaya and Chumphon but it is the schools around Pattaya and Hua Hin that have the best beaches to teach from. This doesn't mean that the other places don't have wonderful white sand beaches fringe with tropical palm trees. What it means is that these locations have the best winds just off shore and the beaches here are not as busy in some locations.

Best Time To Holiday in Thailand for Kite Surfing

Koh Samui is best between November and the end of February, perfect for the beginner and intermediate.

Pattay and the surround coast is best between September and March again, perfect for the beginner and intermediate.

Hua Hin is a little more complicated; between November and January the north easterly monsoons provides the strongest winds in the morning. Between February and mid May its best to plan your kite surfing for the afternoons.

Phuket island has it easy when it comes to kite surfing seasons. From November to March the Northeasterly winds provide a gently breeze, then from March to October the wind is blowing from the West increases slightly.

Chumpon sees the best winds during the north easterly monsoons during November to January but like Hua Hin the winds remain strong enough in the afternoons from February to mid May.

From this you can easily see that a holiday to Thailand at any time of the year can be combined with kite surfing. Obviously any holiday between May and October will no doubt save you some money as this is the 'Green' season, but you do risk less than perfect weather during this time.

Thailand Travel

It's fun to travel through Thailand as it is a fascinating and exotic place to discover. This country is the most prevalent tourist destination in South East Asia, and for a good reason. There is so much to do, and even more to see. If you are planning a vacation to this area, don't be surprised if you end up extending your stay and find it hard to leave. The prices are great and the scenery is breathtaking.

No matter if you want to vacation at the beach on Phuket island, visit temples such as the Wat Chaiwatthanaram, or hike in the forests, you will have your pick of locations. Adventure options include exploring the mountainous jungle terrain on foot or by elephant back. You also have the option to go on a 4-wheel drive safaris or go mountain biking. See exotic plants and local animals in their amazing natural habitat at the Khao Sok National Park.

If you plan to enjoy the island's beaches on your stay there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Go diving, sailing, windsurfing, sea canoeing, swimming, or snorkeling. The Tarutao National Park ecevt offers snorkeling tours! There are instructors available for those who are new at these sports and tour guides who can help you make the most of your beach time. Take a tour on a glass bottom boat to see corals and local fish that you can't see anywhere else.

For the golfer in the family there is over 100 gold courses to choose from. The fees are reasonable and many are located near major tourist destinations. Send the family off to explore while you hit the green. The Panya Park Golf Course in Nongchok, Bangkok charges $42 per weekday plus a $6 caddy fee.

Those that come for the food will not be disappointed. The local Thai cuisine is recognized as some of the world's healthiest. There is lots of exotic local produce, fresh-caught fish, and seafood cooked to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. Enjoy your food fried in the wok, or have it grilled for a dish that is healthy yet stuffed with flavor.

Thailand is a mesmerizing and one of a kind. The area offers so much it's hard to decide what to do first. As an added bonus, the people are super friendly and vacation budgets can go farther than in many other countries.

Real Estate Property Investment Series: Focus Thailand 2007

There is no denying the appeal of Thailand - from a travel and tourism perspective, from a retiree perspective and theoretically from a property investor's perspective. The country is under priced, it is stunningly beautiful, it has increasing numbers of visitors annually and slowly but surely it is building up an international retiree community...however, a great deal of the nation's investment appeal has been taken away from the market for a number of reasons.

Firstly the government does not want short term speculation in any of its investment markets and this includes the property market. As a result there are very strict restrictions in place preventing an investor from owning land in Thailand for example or from owning over 49% of any particular development. There are of course ways around this restriction such as the use of a well structured Thailand special purpose company (or SPV) but for smaller or one time only investors the fact that you have to enter into legal contracts over and above those to buy property limits and reduces the appeal of Thailand property as an investment commodity. Furthermore, the knowledge that you're investing in a country where the government is not too happy for investors to derive a good income or strong profits makes investors wary of commitment in case policies change in the future and make it harder for them to take their investment gains out of the country.

Secondly the Thai economy, just like many in Asia, is currently directly affected by the Chinese manipulation of their currency - and in a bid to remain competitive Thailand has recently had to exact incredibly strict controls on inward investment to prevent their currency from rising. This has of course helped Thai exporters - as was the desire of the government - but it has not helped the appeal of Thailand as a good location in which to invest. While the property industry is not affected by the new measures it has sent a shockwave through the international investment community who are concerned about what could happen next.

So - why are we even discussing property investment in Thailand I hear you ask!

Well, because there is just SO much appeal in Thailand.

Firstly, as previously stated there is demand for property in Thailand from many sectors and this demand is actually increasing. On the one hand there is residential demand in the main employment centres in terms of rental and resale property, there is massive tourism demand for accommodation across the nation and this is increasing annually, there is even huge commercial demand for property and because in recent history the levels of investment in Thailand have been relatively low there is actually an undersupply in many quarters representing instant investment appeal.

Add to this the fact that the real estate industry in Thailand is now actively taking it upon itself to promote the delights and opportunities available in Thailand and lobby the government for amendments to rules affecting investors and you could quite possibly have reached a perfect time to enter the market in Thailand with very carefully researched purchases that you are willing to hold for the long term.

There are definite and definable risks and rewards for a property investor in Thailand. It's just up to the individual to decide which outweighs the other and make their decisions accordingly. Ultimately there is much to be gained from property in Thailand over the long term but investors should be aware that this is not a market for short term focus nor is it a market for amateurs.

How to Avoid International Roaming Charges

If you travel frequently for business, you may find yourself in another country trying to place a cheap Pakistan call on your cell phone. But if you don't have a stellar mobile phone plan that allows you to travel the world and talk to anyone at anytime for one low price, then you may be in for a surprise when you get home and open your bill. The main reason for the high bill is that when you travel you are reliant upon other phone networks to place your call. Since you aren't in your homeland these companies know they have no chance of having you a regular customer, so there's no need to keep the roaming charges low.

But what if you could place mobile calls from anywhere in the world and pay a low rate? With a prepaid calling card or enrollment in a cheap calling service, you can. These third party services compete with your traditional phone carrier to help you save money on international phone calls. By purchasing a card or enrolling in a program, you can travel all over the world and not return home to a high phone bill.

How These Services Work

A prepaid phone card is simple to use. You purchase the card and add money to it. When you're out travelling, simply dial the number on the card, insert your personal identification number, and make your call. The card connects you at a discounted rate and debits your phone card.

If you want to make a cheap Pakistan call using an online program, you simply enroll in the service through the company's website and then add money to your account. Unlike a prepaid calling card, you won't need to carry anything with you in order to access the discounted rates. The program will give you a local access number to dial, prompt you to enter a PIN, and then you will dial your destination number. The company will then debit your online account.

Precautions to Take When Utilising a Discount Rate Program

As with any service, there are certain things to be aware of when travelling and using a discount phone call program. With the prepaid calling cards you have to make sure you don't misplace the card. Without it, you won't be able to access your account or make discounted calls. There can also be surcharges tacked on to the use of the card, which will increase your overall phone bill.

With an online service you need to have some form of online access in case you need to add money to your account. Some services will allow you to do this over the phone, so check with the service you choose before travelling. Finally, when you make a cheap Pakistan call using a discount program, be aware of any typical charges your mobile phone carrier will still charge for use of the phone.

For The Love Of Travel

I absolutely love to travel. In fact, I would have to say it is an addiction for me. I will have to blame this on my father who told me once that when I had money, the two things that I should spend it on was buying land and traveling. My father passed in 2001, and left me some money. I bought a beautiful ranch here in the high desert of New Mexico, and I traveled around the world.

I spent five weeks in Mali, West Africa, studying African drumming and dancing, buying piles of colorful fabric, sleeping in the dirt in small villages, dancing in the Mango groves and playing music with the locals and visiting the sacred Dogon territory. I had the incredible experience of a journey to Timbuktu, then forty miles out into the Sahara desert where I attended the great Festival in the Desert concert for four days. I slept in a goatskin tent shared with women from Norway, mingled and drank gunpowder tea with the tribal Tuareg, rode camels across the shifting sands with my head wrapped in a turquoise turban and rocked out to music from around the world at night.

I spent a month in Thailand at the healing Tao Gardens outside Chang Mai where I immersed myself in deep healing therapies that required a sacrifice of my caffeine and wine addictions. I was wrapped in banana leaves, and baked in the sun, rejuvenated in oxygen tanks, detoxed in infrared saunas, buried under warm stones and smothered in fragrant oil while being rolled and kneaded like bread dough. When I wasn't attending to my healing schedule, I was lost in the mystery of Buddhist temples, riding elephants in the jungle, savoring yet another amazing Thai meal or having a blissful shopping experience in the bountiful markets where I stocked up on everything silk.

I have spent a lot of time in Mexico, and every winter I go there. Sometimes I go back to the same places, sometimes I try a new place. The villages I love most are Todos Santos in the Baja, and Zihuatanejo, Sayulita and San Pancho on the mainland coasts. Mexico often gets a bad rap, but it is truly a wonderful culture in which to immerse yourself. I am not a resort girl unless I am vacationing for a short time. If money and time will allow, I like to spend at least three weeks somewhere because it usually takes me ten days to unwind and drop down. I usually rent a house in a small village by the ocean in Mexico so I can really participate in the local way of life, and get my daily ocean fix which is much needed when you come from the high desert. The Mexican people are deeply committed to family, and warm and open to strangers. My desire to converse with them fuels my continuous studies to learn Spanish. Every winter I am brought back to life by the warm sun and healing waters of Mexico, and by the big hearts and simple life of the Mexican people. I return home full and saturated from too much Tequila and Damiana, fresh papayas and just caught shrimp and fish. I fill my home with all the hand-crafted treasures found in magnificent markets that will remind me of my love for Mexico until we meet again.

Travel is one of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves and to others. It expands our minds and hearts, and feeds our souls with rich new experiences and perspectives. Best of all, it reminds us of what a beautiful planet we all share.

Stay tuned...I will have stories to share. In the meantime, perhaps our paths will cross hiking in the Andes mountains or sipping wine overlooking the Mediterranean.

Thailand Travel - Features and Famous Attractions

Over the last two decades, Thailand has been one of the most preferred travel destinations that grab the attention of many of tourists every year. Nearly millions of tourists visit Muang Thai every year in order to get a different travel experience.

The key aspect that makes Thailand Travel a favorite destination is its diversity. Though there is no snow in this region, different types of landscape in this place have loads to offer to its visitors. It is famous for its mountainous regions with swirling fogs and beautiful climate.

The plains and hills of Eastern Thailand offer fruitful land ripe for agriculture and tropical forest, which makes Thailand Travel a popular vacation destination. This country is renowned for its rich heritage and diversity.

Beautiful beaches and islands in this region are sure to attract many people round the year. It is a Buddhist country, full of tradition and ritual. People out there live a traditional way of life and thus present a charming insight into the progress of this country.

Thailand is well known for its nightlife, which is a major tourist attraction. Thailand's restaurants and outstanding bars offer irresistible package with the best cuisine ever. Another reason that makes Thailand Travel, a popular destination is its accessibility.

Though this region is rich in tradition and culture, its infrastructure is considered to be the most contemporary aspect in this region. Transportation, banking, and telecommunications facilities in this country helps many tourists to visit even remote regions very easily.

This accessibility draw the attention of diverse group of visitors to this place of wonder. Plan for Thailand Travel well in advance and get a memorable experience.

How to Travel Around the World Cheaply

Vacations are a privilege that some people will never experience and although the economic situation in the United States (and the rest of the world really) is pretty bad, there are still people who think they can't take a vacation that actually can. Obviously there are those out there unaffected by the crisis and they continue to live in a construction home while they are building a home in the middle of an upscale neighborhood. For the rest of us, vacationing means careful planning and sometimes cutting back. However, if done correctly, vacationing can be a fun and relatively cheap experience that does not require a giant headache over small details.

The first thing to do when planning a vacation is realize how much money you have to spend and subsequently the places that you can actually go. This may be disheartening to some people because they will not be able to take that dream vacation they have always wanted, but it is practical and true. Figure out how much money you can afford to spend on a vacation and then budget accordingly. There are some places that you will not be able to go at first because you will not have the money saved to get there and that is a simple fact that you will have to face on your own.

Luckily, a lot of the costs that you think you will have can be cut down substantially. For example, hotels are generally a gigantic part of your budget but there are certain ways to cut down or even totally cut out the cost of hotels but doing some research. Comparing prices of hotels is obviously a very smart move because you will get the best deal but there are even websites out there that offer free places to stay as a sort of traveling community. These sites are generally legitimate and people offer spare bedrooms and couches for people to crash on.

Likewise, traveling itself is usually pretty expensive so figure out the most cost effective way to get to a place. If driving is going to cost the least amount then that is probably what you want to do and if flying costs less, you should go in that direction, and so on. Find the least expensive way to travel and take advantage of it, especially when there are deals and coupons to be had on various traveling websites and magazines. Sometimes there are even deals when you book hotels and flights at the same time so perhaps you can combine those two costs and get something cheaper because of it.

In the end, traveling can be as expensive or inexpensive as you make it and by doing some careful research and giving up a few of the luxuries you may be used to, you can save yourself a lot of money. Vacations, big and small, are for everyone to enjoy and if you live within your budget, you can have a great time with your friends and family.

Travel Thailand Agrotourism

Agrotourism is another mode of sightseeing to please an enrich our spirit. The knowledge gained from such a trip can be applied to enhanced person career or way of living. More importantly, it is a return to and to comprehend traditional agrarian wisdom, wish has long been our national pride and way of life, philosophical entity founded by our ancestor. The tourist will have a chance to experience the culture, traditional and daily activity customarily performed in an agrarian community recently touched by modern technology. From the highlands of the north to the shorelines in the south and from the high plateau of the northeast down to the central plain of rice farming and the islets along the east-coast, The visitors will enjoy a wide variety of breathtaking scenery.

Moreover, Agrotourism is a localy managed by community people. the trip is usually impressive once the tourists learn to appreciate there being part of the production and management process. The earning from Agrotourism can create the much-needed cash flow in the communities. That can help solved the unemployment problem and promote domestic tourism. Come take pride in the fertility of the land and help make agrotourism sustainable and productive activity.

The North

The Northern highland of Thailand were once known as glorious Lanna Regain. This mountainous area contains headwater source of many important rivers, the nation's lifelines, which nourich all ethnic group on the high mountains and in the plants. In several province such as Chain Rai, Chaing Mai, and Nan, are situated research centers for temperate vegetation amidst the magnificent seas of fog and misty hills. In the river basins, people grow rice and vegetables. The north is also famous for some tasty fruit such as lychees in Chaing Rai, longans in Chaing Mai, golden orange in Nan, and langsat in Uttaradit. In addition to its agricaltural produce, The north is also rich in artistic, architecctural and handcraft heritage, which has been passed on to new generations for hundreds of years. The cultural riches are evident everywhere: in house, temple, handicraft, household items and even in the simple and peaceful daily routine that people perform.

Route 1 - Enjoy The Land Of Tea, Sea Of Fog And Beautiful Flowers...Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is Thailand's northernmost province. It is almost completely covered with timber resources on high mountain. Many headwaters sources originate here. Amidst the white seas of fog and cold weather are located the agricultural Experimentation Station on Doi Wawi, the highland Agricultural Promotion Center on Doi Hua Mae Kham, and Agricultural Promotion Center on Doi Pha Mon. To reach these places, the terrain is rough and only passable by a 4-wheel pick-up truck, but the trip is self-rewarding. It passes through golden field of wild sunflowers and pink wild cherry blossoms. The valleys are dotted with greenhouses of temperate vegetation and small tea-producing plant as Chiang Rai is the nation's biggest tea producer. The agrarian communities here are in perfect harmony with the hill tribe lifestyles. And that is part of the charm of these highlands.

American Immigration - What Will Be the Impact of Increased Processing Fees?

The following article analyzes the rising costs of US Immigration petitions and applications and how these increased fees may impact those who wish to bring a foreign loved one to the United States of America.

Recently enacted rules by the American State Department have resulted in increased fees for those applying for K-1 and K-3 visas, and their derivative counterparts, abroad. In the recent past, the application fee for K category visas was $131 per applicant. Under the recently promulgated rules, K visa applicants must pay 350 USD when applying for a K1, K2, K3, or K4 visa at a Consulate abroad. The apparent reason for the fee increase is due to the fact that the State Department seems to feel that more resources are necessary to effectively process certain non-immigrant visa applications. Many are of the opinion that increased fees will also be used to assist in the Department of State's ongoing efforts to uncover fraud in the American Immigration process.

Even though the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security (the agency which has jurisdiction over the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service commonly referred to by the acronym USCIS) are two separate government agencies they both usually have a role in the American Immigration process. For instance, in K-1 fiance visa cases, USCIS is tasked with the adjudication of the initial K1 visa petition. After USCIS approval, the K-1 visa petition is sent to the National Visa Center (under the jurisdiction of the American State Department) where the case is forwarded to the Embassy or Consulate with proper jurisdiction. After the arrival of the K1 case file at an American Consulate overseas, the proposed beneficiary of the K-1 visa must submit a K-1 visa application and be subjected to a K-1 visa interview. Should the application receive approval, the K-1 visa holder must then travel to the United States within 180 days and request admission at the Customs and Border Protection Service (USCBP, also under the jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security) at an American port of entry.

Upon arrival in the United States and after marriage to the petitioner, the K-1 visa holder will have Ninety (90) days in which to apply for adjustment of status to lawful permanent residence.

The K1 visa process is complicated and rather time consuming. There are some who hope that an increase in petition and application fees will result in a faster and more efficient process. However, each American Immigration case is different and it is difficult to foresee all possibilities in each and every Immigration petition and/or application.

Is Thailand Safe to Visit?

As a longtime resident of Thailand I have a certain insight into whether or not Thailand is safe for visitors or those wishing to stay longer term.

There are usually multiple instances of unsafe activities going on in the country at any chosen time. I will review the major areas where foreigners need to take extra precautions to stay safe during their stay.

Bangkok, the Capital of Thailand, is ground zero for political movements. The country has not seen stability politically in a very long time. Some would say it was never stable in modern times. Currently there are red shirt groups and yellow shirt groups that are in opposition. The military sometimes gets involved and stages military coups - and there is always fighting - sometimes lethal as groups confront each other, and attempt to change the power structure that exists. This is a constant struggle and matters little who happens to be in power at the moment, there is always unrest in Bangkok.

The problems are compounded when police and military are called on to preserve order in the streets... sometimes the hand is heavy and they end up killing protestors. This does not help the situation and it can escalate from there.

As a visitor to Thailand you would not want to be spending your vacation or any time at all in Bangkok when there are bombs going off and military and/or police in the streets to control the demonstrations. It is just a very bad idea. It is not safe and you will not have a good time. If all you are coming to Thailand for is to spend time in Bangkok, choose a time when there is peace in the country or at least a small risk of violence letting loose.

Another area that is often times not safe - and currently it is not, is the deep south. Muslim separatists in the southern Thailand provinces have waged a violent campaign against both Thai Buddhist and Thai Muslim believers that have not joined their radical organization. There have been approximately 3,000 deaths in the south over the past few years, though no foreigners are known to have been killed yet. Thailand tourism officials do not recommend that foreigners visit these southernmost provinces and you would be wise to limit your travels to the other provinces.

Natural disasters like the devastating tsunami of 2004 have the potential to re-occur any time, though the chances are apparently not high that a similar even will recur in Thailand anytime soon.

Pattaya, Patong Beach, Patpong, and other tourist filled areas can be bad news at night. There are robberies and assaults that occur nightly, but if you are not one of the ones bar-fining girls or ladyboys for a night of fun in your room you will probably be OK. There are a number of things you should know about Thai culture - which goes well beyond this article. In my last paragraph of this article I will give you another resource that will help you immensely.

Is Pattaya safe? Sometimes. Is Patong Beach safe? More often than Pattaya, yes. Is Patpong safe? Not so safe in general, no I would not consider it safe.

Your mileage may vary during your trip if you plan on availing yourself of the adult carnival of fun in Thailand. You may well find yourself beat up and in the hospital or you might have a perfectly safe time, despite indulging in outrageous nighttime activities. It is hard for me to give a blanket statement about whether Thailand is safe for all people because all people are different.

The last time anyone ventured a guess there were approximately 100,000 foreigners living in Thailand as long-term expats here for more than vacation. During a typical year when there is not much political fighting in Bangkok there are over 12 million foreign tourists per year enjoying the country. Very few of them have a problem with their physical safety while they are here. Most of them take some precautions. Many of them are frequent visitors.

Visiting or staying in Thailand can be dangerous or it can be relatively safe and enjoyable. Probably the biggest factor in the equation is you. If you are the type that looks for trouble or does not try hard to avoid trouble you might find it in Thailand. If you do not have any experience in the country you will probably be doing yourself a substantial favor by researching more about Thai culture and the experiences of foreigners in the country.

A Brief Description of Thailand Food and Thailand Culture

Thailand food
It is beyond any doubt that food is a part of any gathering, thus, becoming the part of social occasions or itself the reason to celebrate. Normally, as per the western culture, a normal meal in any restaurant consists of starter, main course and then dessert. But in Thailand, the custom is a bit different with regard to Thailand food, as there is no single dish for a single person. As a general, all present in a gathering share the same dish together. So, it's better to have many guests together around the table than to enjoy with one or two as eating alone is considered a bad luck in the country.

One of the good things about Thai food is that they never dispose away the leftover food, as they consider it inauspicious and an enraging act to a female deity, 'God of rice'. Generally there are four seasonings in Thailand food- sweet, sour, salty and spicy. The food is satisfied only if it contains all the four tastes. Thai dinner mostly include meat, fish, noodles, vegetables and soup followed by desserts including fresh fruits and colorful rice cakes. Besides meals, there are snackers consisting of chicken or beef satay, spring rolls, salads, raw vegetable with spicy dips and sweets.

Thailand culture
Thailand culture is highly influenced by Buddhism in addition to some influence of Hinduism and other Southeast Asian neighbor. Thai art is the main item included in Thai Culture. Buddha image is the main constituent in different period having distinctive styles. At present, there is a fusion of traditional art with modern techniques. India has also laid much influence on Thailand literature. It includes the most notable work, Ramakien, the version of Indian epic, Ramayana. The poetry of Sunthorn Phu is also quite famous in Thailand.

Spoken drama is not given any importance in Thailand, but instead there is Thai dance, divided into three categories- Lakhon, Likay and Khon. A form of shadow pay, Nang Drama, is popular among southern Thailand. Folk music and classical music both are have their significance in addition to pop music.

Apart from it, one of the common customs included in Thailand is Wai, a common gesture that is similar to Indian Namaste. The hospitable and generous people of Thailand pay a lot of respect and homage to their elders, as it is the core of their faith and spiritual belief. Seeking blessings from the elders is considered important mark of respect.

Lady-boys in Phuket, Thailand

If you come to Phuket, your itinerary will surely include the famous side shows by those Katoey's or lady-boys. Be ready for a rich sensory experience and a time of enjoyment as they go all out to please the weary customers and patrons or tourists. It is not just about making a living, it is about a way of life. It is not a sleazy existence but a means of maintaining a lifestyle as a lady-boy they would not be able to in their own native village. They wear very revealing dresses showing their ample silicone emphasized breasts while they sing and dance in their performances. Their perfect measurements and their beauty makes them the envy of many real women.

The men and the women watch transfixed as they go about their routines. In Malaysia, they are known as Maknyah's or the derogatory term 'pondan' or 'she-males' in the West.

It is sometimes difficult to discern who is real or who isn't. Some of them are indeed beautiful. I believe God in his immense mercy is giving them a chance to live a life they should have been given since birth. They are obviously more ladies than men. Transsexuals or trans-gender are those who think they are a woman born in a man's body, while a transvestite is a man who likes to dress up like a woman.

In Thailand, being a lady-boy is less derogatory for example than in the west. They are accepted by society as the third sex and are not openly discriminated against. Many Thais have a slight stature, sport smaller bodies like a woman and quite hairless. Boobs are easier to fix but a sex change operation is more complicated, and expensive. My heart really goes out for them as they undergo it to reach their quest of being a real woman. Injection of female Hormones are also part of the routine they have to undergo.

One of the country's most famous lady-boys is Nong Toom, who went from champion Thai kick boxer to being a transsexual. A movie, Saitree Lex, was made about the true story of a lady-boy volleyball team known as the 'Iron Ladies' won the national championships in 1996 against the odds.

Preparing For Thailand

Majority of people in Thailand speak the Thai language. If you are planning to visit Thailand, then learning some of the local dialects and phrases will be useful. Apart from sightseeing, there is also fun in interacting with the locals. The Thai are well known for their hospitality and their happiness doubles if they see a foreigner or a traveler trying to speak their language. Many Thais cannot speak English. Therefore learning their language would definitely be an added advantage for you.

You will not only learn a new language but will also gain a rich insight into the culture and heritage of Thailand. You also have the advantage of moving around easily in Thailand if you are equipped with the Thai language.

When you speak the language, you should end the sentence with 'Krab' if you are male and 'Kha' if you are female. Thai language has a musical lilt to it, ranging from high, medium to low pitch tones. Stressing on a word or stretching the word longer may even change the meaning of the word and the sentence. If you hear the Thai speaking, then you will have a better idea of how to speak this lovely sweet language.

To mention a few Thai phrases, 'Sa-wat dee' means Hello and Goodbye, Khorb koon means Thank you, Gee bath? means How much?, Arai means What, Sai means Left, Kwaa means Right, Gai mai? means Is it far?, Tum mai means Why? and Chai/Mai chai means Yes/No.

If you go shopping in Thailand, you can use some of the phrases such as, 'Ra ka thao rai?' meaning How much is this?, 'Paeng pai' meaning That is a little expensive, 'Lot noi dai mai' meaning Can you make it cheaper?, and Ja ma mai meaning ' I will come back later'.

These phrases will help you to find your way during traveling, interaction with shopkeepers and talking with the locals.

Places To Visit In Bangkok

Thailand is one of the most attractive places to visit in Southeast Asia. And why not? Endowed with sandy white beaches fringed by lush green vegetation, beautiful monasteries and temples, shiny and peaceful images of Buddha and the ever smiling natives, Thailand offers you the perfect gateway to luxurious and relaxing vacation. Aptly called the Land of Smiles, the people of Thailand are always generous and hospitable to the tourists.

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand is one of the most frequently visited places. However, if you are planning to visit Bangkok, the city of lights and the city of culture and tradition, you must make a list of the places that you plan to visit.

If you want to have a taste of the history of Thailand, then Grand Palace is one of the places that is worth a visit. It was the former residence of a royal family and consists several temples, houses, and government offices of the olden days.

Another interesting place to visit is the Erawan shrine. This was built during the year 1950 in the honor of Brahma and his elephant, Erawan. Various traditional dances are also held in the open air.

To feel the hustle-bustle of the shopping outlets, Thewet market is the perfect place to go. It is colorful and bustling with life and series of products like pottery, plants, flowers, and Thai cuisines.

To uplift your spiritual mood, you can visit the famous temples in Bangkok, Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Wat Pho. The former features intricate and delicate carvings and sculpting of Hindu deities on the walls while the latter is a 200 year old temple. Wat Pho is noted for the majestic gold plated reclining Buddha, which is 46 meters long and 15 meters high. It is also adorned with mother of pearl inlaid feet, which is three meters long.

Bangkok Nightlife Guide - Hot Spots Of Thailand

Over the last few decades, Thailand has emerged as one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. Millions of people from all over visit Thailand every year to enjoy its vibrant nightlife, which in turn has resulted in the growth of new clubs hotels and bars.

There are many striking and beautiful cities throughout Thailand. But if it is the nightlife that you are looking for, than look no further than Bangkok. Bangkok is not just another shopping destination. Bangkok is full of bars, nightclubs, pubs, and discos. Not only is the nightlife affordable, but they are good places to go and relax.

If you "love the nightlife and want to boogie all night" then you will see this article is the perfect guide to Bagkok's hot spots. The discos are all fashionably decorated and filled with exciting people having a great time. You can even show off your moves with the dancers.

You can also look forward to witnessing some sexy dance shows at the night clubs of Bangkok. You get all varieties of alcohol at the various clubs, bars and discotheques of Bangkok. Champagne, beer, tequila and vodka happen to be most famous drinks at the pubs of Bangkok. "Patpong "is one of the most popular areas in Bangkok for partying. Apart from "Patpong', "Nana Plaza" is another interesting place to visit.

One of the most popular music genres at the Bangkok clubs is hip-hop. Most dance clubs open around 9PM. If you want to have a really good time though, you should arrive a little later. Most of the clubs in Bangkok are pretty affordable, which is a very good thing and will enable you to visit more of them.

The Internet is replete with a lot of articles which would serve as "Bangkok nightlife guide". The words "Bangkok nightlife guide" would generate hundreds of results which would help you find some great places in Bangkok for partying. It's for sure that the "nightlife in Bangkok" will certainly impress you.

Treat the Kids on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is the perfect place for a family holiday. There are several fun activities for children of all ages on the island, including the fun JR Zone in Newport.

JR Zone

The JR Zone is a fun place to bring the family. They cater to all ages, offer a variety of activities, and have a yummy, healthy café. Perhaps the most fun is the JR's Club Vibe.

JR's Club Vibe

Burn off excess energy at this all-ages dance club on Friday nights. Intended for children to enjoy a "night out", JR's turns down the lights and plays fun party music to dance to. It feels like a club but is safe for children, and they love dancing together. There is also Karaoke and special guests some nights.

JR Laser Storm

The only indoor laser tag arena on the island. This action-packed game can be enjoyed nightly after 4 pm by guests over 7 years of age. There is a huge 3 level arena with smoke and other special effects. Play individually or as a team, but make sure to book a space because this is a popular activity.

Giant Maze

JR's has a huge, 3 level maze of tubes, slides, sky glides, ball bath, ladders, rope swings, and more. Kids will enjoy spending hours in the maze, burning up energy and allowing parents a little time to relax.

Toddler

JR's also has a fun, soft play area for children under 4 years of age. This fun 2 level play area is a great way for toddlers to learn to play together. The area is full of toys, bright colors, interactive games, and even a train to ride. Make sure to catch the mini disco and craft activities.

JR's Café

All this playing is sure to build up an appetite. Enjoy healthy meals prepared by chefs that limit sugar, fat, salt, and harmful additive intake. Healthy meals are available in vegetarian and gluten-free as well, so just ask if your child has special dietary needs. Demand for café food is so high, that they now cater. Plan a party here or have the chefs cater your next outing.

Thailand - The Land of Smiles and Cheap Travel

Thailand is known as the land of smiles, which is amazing considering the traffic jams in Bangkok. For budget travelers, Thailand simply can't beat on price alone.

Thailand

Thailand is an odd mix of contrasts. It can be extremely stressful while trying to get around in Bangkok and gloriously relaxing while laying on practically any of the beaches that populate the coast of the country. Regardless of the situation, the Thais have a habit and custom or smiling regardless of what you ask or how you ask it.

Beaches

The beaches of Thailand need no introduction. Used as the setting for hundreds of movies, they come in a variety of styles. The beaches of Phuket and Phi Phi fall along the lines of traditional beach resort areas like you might find in a place such as Cancun, Mexico or Tamarindo, Costa Rica. On the other end of the scale, you can find more rustic beach areas in places like the island of Ko Chang where you'll have a few beach bungalows, a couple of bars and one or two stores. If you're looking for a little of both styles, just ask around.

Da North

Infatuated with the beach life, many people fail to head up country when in Thailand. This is a mistake as the north is the host to such locations as the city of Chang Mai, the Summer Palace of the King of Thailand and interesting little villages. For the outdoor enthusiasts, rafting, hiking and mountain biking are very popular and widely available.

Prices

If you're on a budget, Thailand is a perfect travel destination. For some reason, flights to Thailand are particularly cheap with my recent flight on Korean Airlines running roughly $650 round trip. Once in country, your money will go a long, long way.

I think a note of caution is need at this point. Please beware. If you decide to take a trip to Thailand, you won't want to come back to your native country. You will, however, definitely come back to Thailand!

Backpacking in Thailand - How to Travel Super Cheaply

A great way to get amazing results from your backpacking or traveling-for-low-cost budget is by booking a ticket to Thailand and preparing to explore to your heart's content - cheaply of course. Don't think it can be done? Wait until you've read this article and you'll be ready to book your ticket and go!

Now most budget travelers or backpackers would know this anyway - but in case you don't, the simple fact is that when it comes to low cost travel, Thailand takes the cake, and allows you to eat it too. (By the way, Thailand's neighbors are even cheaper to travel through than Thailand!) So let's find out how to do it.

Firstly understand that you can basically catch trains, buses and vans (boats too, depending on where you're headed) to almost anywhere in Thailand. Pretty much wherever there's a road, there's transport. You'll also have a few choices about what style you want to travel in... You can go local style and pay the local fares, or you can go VIP and pay top dollar (for Thai standards).

As an example, a VIP 24 seater bus with air conditioning (think of it like a fridge on wheels) will cost you the top end of your traveling budget, but give you a very comfortable trip (albeit a cold one). Whereas you can also find a local bus or van doing a similar route and pay less than half the VIP price. You still get to where you're going though!

So, to do Thailand on a really cheap budget is more than possible. The trick is to catch the local buses and vans, and do what the local Thai people do. I've seen folks sit in low-cost seats all night to ride 12 hour train trips, rather than fork out the extra for a bunk bed to sleep in. 

Actually you'd be amazed at how cheaply you can travel Thailand for. For under US$10 you can do a picturesque 5 hour journey to a whole new part of Thailand. OK, so the bus might be full, and the driver a maniac, but you still get to where you're going, right? So, go book that ticket right away!

Money Number One in Thailand

If ever "money number one" was set in time as a national catch cry, it would have to be in Thailand where the phrase "money number one" is used countless times daily by many of the Thai people in dealing with the thousands of foreign tourists they regularly encounter.

Neil Hutchinson, an Aussie expat living in Pattaya has been instrumental in writing a series of books around the money number one catch cry, which have become extremely popular best sellers in recent years...

The first of the books actually entitled "Money Number One", was first penned some years ago and has been updated several times to suit the ever changing influx of emotionally and sexually starved hordes of single men who have made places like Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Sumui, Chiang Mai and of course Bangkok among others, a regular "watering hole" over the past 50 years or so.

While the Money Number One Books including his other titles such as "A Fool in Paradise", "The Fool is Back" and "A Fools Diary" are written somewhat tongue in cheek, they epitomize the humor in the sometimes ridiculous and other times tragic relationships which spring up between the local inhabitants and the dyed in the wool westerners who attempt to introduce western cultural ways and ethics into a society based on thousands of years of immense cultural difference where money number one has been a way of life long before the modern western man set foot in the beautiful country known as Thailand.

Mainly set in the seaside resort city of Pattaya situated on the eastern seaboard of The Gulf Of Siam in Southern Thailand, the stories contained within the Money Number One book series and their corresponding sequels and additions, vary in length and subject but are all for the most part based from true instances and events gathered over the years by Neil's own personal experiences and those of others either relayed to Neil or told in person in one of the many bars and haunts he frequents in order to carry out his somewhat clandestine research.

Dubbed by many as "The Single Man's Survival Guide to Pattaya" and "The Pattaya Bible" the Money Number One series are a recommended read by thousands of experienced Thailand visitors both male and female when advising potential new visitors about the who, what, where and whys of Thailand long before the bags are packed to go, and indeed long after they have been unpacked on their return home.

Although the Money Number One books are available in paper back from the shelves of many of Thailand's reputable book stores, they can sometimes be a little late to procure in order to learn the valuable lessons contained within them after arriving in Thailand and are now available for instant download in PDF format.

Fortune Hotel Sullivan Court

The Fortune Hotel Sullivan Court Rating is a well known 3 Star hotel in Ooty. The hotel is known for its conducive atmosphere and hospitality. The hotel is located in the heart of the city and is adjacent to the rose garden; various important places are in the close vicinity of the hotel. The hotel is at a distance of 100 kms from Coimbatore Airport and just 2 kms from Ooty Railway Station.

Description of the Hotel:

The name of Hotel Sullivan Court was kept in the name of John Sullivan, the legend who discovered the beautiful hill-station of Ooty, which is known for its mesmerizing beauty. The hotel is set at the height of 6500 feet in the Nilgiris Hill Range. Surrounded by lush green surroundings, the hotel is well known for its startling locations which tend to leave one awestruck. The hotel promises to its guests all luxuries so that they can have memorable and comfortable stay in the hotel. In combination with the beautiful surroundings The Sullivan Court offers the world class facilities to its visitors. Suites of the hotel offer a picturesque view of the rolling slopes, with separate living and bedroom areas.

Accommodation at Fortune Hotel Sullivan Court Ooty:
The Fortune Hotel Sullivan Court consists of 67 tastefully designed rooms. These rooms are further divided into Deluxe Rooms, Standard Rooms and Suites. Each of the room is well-equipped with all modern day facilities and is elegantly designed. The hotel provides world class facilities to its visitors and the rooms have various amenities like attached washroom, telephone connection, laundry services, tea and coffee maker, convention centre, travel desk service, 24 hour room service etc.

Other Services offered at Fortune Hotel Sullivan Court Ooty:
The highly trained and professional staff of the hotel looks after all the needs and requirements of its guests. The staff makes all the possible efforts that the visitors do not face any kind of inconvenience. The hotel also makes available doctor n call, Money Exchange Facility, Wake up facility, health club or Gymnasium, Internet Access.

There are lots of leisure activities provided by the hotel which can be enjoyed by the members of all age groups. Here one can go for Fishing, Boating and some adventure sports. There is also a playground for Children.

Restaurants:

Khyber - is an outdoor restaurant which serves delicious delicacies and Pavilion is 24-hour multi-cuisine restaurant.

Where to Backpack Within South East Asia

Thailand

Thailand is usually the best place to start for the first time independent traveler. It's very easy to get around and there are always lots of other backpackers about to chat and hang out with.

Thailand is a mixture of forests to the North for Trekking and some of the best beaches in the world in the south.

Bangkok is a buzzing city crisscrossed with canals & rivers. The sky line is one of high rises, shopping malls & international hotel chains but at the canal banks and side streets of the city the traditional side of Thai life is clearly visible. The business hub of the city is easily navigated using the skyrail & underground but the more touristy areas around the Koh San road are less well supplied & Tuk Tuks are the main mode of transport. Negotiate hard with your tuk tuk driver - a taxi will always be cheaper & has the advantage of air conditioning however be sure to agree that you're charged according to the metre as opposed to agreeing a fixed price. Taxis will only take you at an agreed price after 3pm as from this point on your in to rush hour and they are highly likely to spend hours with you stuck in traffic!

Your main point of call will be the Koh San road as this is where all the hostels and guesthouses are located. This is one long street where there is a market every night and lots of bars and restaurants to choose from even a McDonald's and Burger King for those who are want something more to home. For the best food though go to the street hawkers. You will get some of the best Pad Thai you will have ever eaten for around 20 Baht.

South Islands

Most people come to Thailand for the beaches and Diving. The main Islands in the south are:

Koh Tao

A backpacker Island where everyone comes to dive and mainly to learn how to dive. There are some great beaches here and also a good nightlife.

Koh Pan gan

This is the party island of Thailand and where the famous Full Moon party is held each month. This if you have not heard is one big crazy party on a beach which attracts at least 10,000 people each month to get as fucked up as possible. Get here a few days early during the peak months if you want to get accommodation though.

Koh Samui & Phuket

These islands are crammed full of package holiday tourists on their yearly holiday for 2 weeks in the sun. I would strongly suggest avoiding these two islands.

Koh Phi Phi

This island did get severely damaged by the Tsunami and having seen the before and after myself it truly is remarkable how quickly is has got back onto its feet. There is one main area/town where everybody stays but it's still big enough not for everyone to be on top of each other. The Beach is like a postcard or you can get a boat to the lagoon where the Leo Dicapro film 'The Beach' was filmed and chill there for the day.

Vietnam

Vietnam was ravaged by war but is now a great place to visit. I suggest starting your trip off in Hanoi and working your way down the country.

Hanoi

Hanoi is the capitol of Vietnam and is a great introduction into the Vietnamese way of life. The city is always bustling and careful when crossing those roads as those motorbikes don't stop.

The city center is located around Hoan Kiem lake, just of the lake is the old quarter which is the main area for budget hostels and guesthouses. Hanoi is a great place to just go out and wander. Each street has its own trade and each shop will only sell products to do with that trade so you end up having streets only selling shoes or kitchenware. It's weird to see but that's the way they do it.

If you get tired and hot whilst walking around you can always stop off for some Bia Hoi. You will see all around the city lots of people sitting on little plastic chairs on the street, this is where they sell the Bia Hoi. This is officially the cheapest draft beer in the world. A glass should set you back about 10p/20 Cents.

Ha Long bay

This is north of Hanoi and is available from all travel agencies in the city as either overnight trip. This is a must for anyone in the area as it is UNESCO heritage site and is for a good reason.

The bay has close to 2000 limestone islands with of caves to explore and a few lagoons to go kayaking in. When you go out to the bay you go out on a traditional junk ship where you will get your own room and dinner and breakfast served.

Hoi An

Hoi An is located on the coast and actually has a pretty decent beach. It is the also the place to come for tailor-made clothes. There are too many tailors to mention here with the main road pretty much consisting of them. You can get literally anything made here all you need to do is take a photo of the item you want and they will make it for you. A good quality suit will cost around $50-$100.

Nha Trang

Is a beach resort just over halfway down the country. This city is very developed with a good long beach stretching the entire length of it. There is not much to do culturally here but it's a good place to unwind after more than a few very long bus journeys to get this far. If you choose to just relax on the beach all day the only time you need to move from it is to go to the toilet as there are so many hawkers selling you pretty much anything you require from books, drinks to a BBQ of fresh fish. There is a big nightlife here with a couple of main place to go to. These are the Why Not Bar and the Sailing Club which is right on the beach but more expensive for it.

Ho Chi Min City (Saigon)

This is the Vietnam you see in the films. Streets packed out with so many bikes, fumes that make it hard to breathe and just general chaos. There a quite a few museums here to visit which are mainly to do with the war but are all worth a visit and even the strongest man will hold back tears at the photos of the suffering they endured.

From here you do a day trip to the Cu Chi tunnels where the North had a series of small tunnels which they used to fight the south. You can go down some of these tunnels but be warned that they are very small and it's best not to do it on a hangover like I did. Also here you can fire an array of automatic weapons and rifles which is not that cheap as you pay per bullet.

Cambodia

Cambodia has had quite a nasty past with its dictator Pol Pot but is recovering maybe not as fast as its neighbors' but it is getting there. Cambodia is surrounded by Vietnam, Thailand and Laos and has the Mekong go through the country into Laos.

Phnom Penh

Is a typical Asian Capitol city, will not loads to do but getting there is a great experience if you come from Vietnam. From Saigon you can get a boat which will take you 2 days to get here but you do see some real Vietnam and Cambodia on the way.

The two main places to see in and around Phnom Penh are the Killing Fields where around 200,000 people were executed during 1975-1979 when the Khmer Rouge reigned. You can see millions of bones and thousands of skulls that have been recovered from the pits.

Also go to S-21 which used to be a high school which was converted to a prison also during the Khmer Rouge where they imprisoned up to 20,000 people and repeatedly tortured and killed from this.

Two to three times a day they show a film which goes into detail of what went on in the prison with interviews from survivors and prison guards.

Sihanoukville

Is a beach resort about 3 to 4 hours bus ride away from Phnom Penh and has a decent enough beach which all long has hostels/guesthouses, restaurants and bars where you can chat with new found friends and enjoy a nice cold beer. You can dive here but I would not waste your money as the visibility is very poor and the reefs not having much sea life.

Siem Reap/Angkor Wat

Siem Reap is the city closest to the temples of Angkor Wat. The town itself does not have much to offer apart from a market in the center of town where you can get some new clothes and souvenirs. Every night most people head down to the aptly named Bar Street to meet and hang out with friends.

The temples of Angkor are quite spectacular and are very worth the visit. You get the choice of either a 1 day or 3 day pass. It is recommended to go for sunrise over Angkor Wat as this is quite amazing but can get very busy.

There is so many temples to see here most still in great condition. Although my favorite is the one which has been taken over by the jungle and most of it are ruins.

You can either hire a tuk tuk driver to take you around which is advised if you do the one day trip or just hire a bike and go around at you own pace.

Laos

Laos is landlocked and borders Burma, China, Vietnam, Thailand and Vietnam. Laos was involved in the Vietnam War mainly due to its proximity to the country and is one of the most under developed country in the region.

Vang Vieng

The town where you leave remembering nothing. This place is just one big drunken haze. You get a tractor inner tube and float down a river and stop off at bars on route and get free shots of lao lao whiskey and then drink buckets of more lao lao whiskey and coke until 6pm then when you think you have enough you go over to an island which is just bars (smile is the best) until middnight when the curfew kicks in. Love this place :D

Try the rope swings at each of the bars. The first bar has the biggest whatever other bars may claim.

Luang Prabang

Very beautiful town and is very quiet compared with Vang Vieng. The night market seems to run on forever with lots of goodies. Also if you go here you have to go bowling one evening after 11pm - you will see what I mean.

Travel With Toddlers Made Easy

You are all set for exploring fun and frolic at the travel destination that you have been longing for, but does the very thought of traveling with your toddler give you cold feet? Don't panic. If you plan properly, your little ones will only add to your experience of traveling and having a great time. It can be challenging, but not impossible to manage a toddler on vacation. Here are some of the tips to handle toddlers and have a stress free vacation:

Slow Down, You Move Too Fast

The first and foremost thing that you must realize is that you are wired totally different from your toddler. Their attention span, bladder, and patience are nowhere near you levels. A toddler will need to stretch, sleep, eat, go the potty, or get their diaper changed frequently. So don't hesitate to take breathers as much as possible during travel to give your toddler what they need. If you don't, they are GUARANTEED to get cranky and their tantrum is bound to spoil your mood and possibly your trip.

Try To Plan around Your Toddlers Schedule

It just makes a lot of sense if your travel plans revolve around your toddler's routine. If it's possible try driving or flying through the night when your little one will be asleep. Otherwise, organize your departure long before or after nap time. Make sure to try to feed them at their regular meal time and not just when it is convenient for you. Again, by planning ahead and keeping them rested and fed will avoid bouts of crankiness.

Stick to Your Toddler's Routine on Your Vacation

Try to follow your toddler's daily routine to make them feel as much at home as possible in an unfamiliar place. They may also feel at ease when you stick to your daily routine. For example, if you always read a book before going to bed, continue to do so when you are on your vacation. You can also make the hotel crib or bed comfortable for your toddler by getting warm blankets and stuffed animals for cuddling. Tip: Make sure that you bring along a childproofing kit and plug-in night light for the bathroom.

Stay Calm and Cool At the Airport and Your Toddler Will Too

If you are going to fly, it is best to familiarize toddlers with airplanes in advance by showing them pictures of an airplane and telling them interesting stories about it. Narrate to them in a fun way, facts about the beeping metal indicators and x-ray machines. When it is the time to pass through them, ask your spouse to lead the way, so that the toddler is convinced about the safety of the process. Have a sippy cup or bottle ready for them for take off and landing to help equalize pressure in their ears. Bring along some new and favorite toys (non-noisy!) for the flight to keep them busy.

To summarize, keep your toddler rested and well fed, stick to a routine as much as possible, bring along toys and things to do and a favorite blanket or teddy. If you are relaxed and having fun, your toddler will take their cue from you and enjoy themselves too. Family vacations with toddlers can be fun with just a little planning ahead.