How Small Businesses Make Cheap International Calls

When you run a business you depend on cheap international calls to help save on your phone costs. Larger companies are able to work out a deal with their traditional phone provider. The phone companies are more eager to work out deals with big companies because they know that they'll lose a lot of money by refusing to negotiate long distance calling rates. But smaller businesses that still need to conduct international business are stuck paying higher international call rates because they don't have the negotiation power of a large company. But there are ways that small business can take advantage of cheaper call rates. It's just a matter of using the technique that saves you money and provides the most efficient service.

Cheap Calling Services

Small businesses can take advantage of calling cards or discount calling services. This works well for small businesses who conduct most of their business locally but need to call internationally and those who travel around to conduct business. Calling cards can be purchased for each employee who travels for the company. These cards allow the employee to place discounted international calls from cell phones or landlines without having to subscribe to a service. These cards can be used from hotel rooms or on a cell phone in a plane. And by only purchasing cards for those who travel, you don't have to put out expenses for employees who stay grounded at the company.

A discount calling service is another option that can be used for travellers and those who stay at the company to conduct business. By subscribing to the service using your outgoing phone line numbers, you get a reduced rate every time you make an international call. The service gives you a unique local access number that your employees dial before making calls. In order for your travelling employees to use this service, they will get a specialised number that can be used to make cheap international calls no matter where they are in the world.

Voice Over Internet Protocol

One of the easiest ways to escape high phone charges is to use a free voice over Internet protocol to make PC to PC calls. As long as you and your international clients use the same calling program, you can call each other's computers for free. And if you have a web camera you can even conduct business using videoconferencing without having to pay high fees. This works great for small businesses who don't travel and have few international clients. By using one of the mentioned services, you can make cheap international calls without appearing cheap to your clients.

Phuket - Web Guide to Travel to Phuket Thailand

Phuket is Thailand's largest island, and is approximately the size of Singapore. Phuket nestles in balmy Andaman Sea waters on Thailand's Indian Ocean coast-line 867 kilometers south of Bangkok.

Phuket is an island connected by bridges to southern Thailand's Andaman Sea coast, in the Indian Ocean, lying between 7' 45 " and 8' 15" north latitude, and from 98' 15" to 98' 40" west longitude on the map. Thailand's largest island, Phuket is surrounded by 32 smaller islands that form part of the same administration, with a total area of 570 square kilometers. Measured at its widest point, Phuket is 21.3 kilometers; at its longest, 48.7 kilometers. It is bounded thus:

About 70 percent of Phuket is mountainous; a western range runs from north to south from which smaller branches derive. The highest peak is Mai Tao Sip Song, or Twelve Canes, at 529 meters, which lies within the boundaries of Tambon Patong, Kathu District (no roads go there yet). The remaining 30 percent of the island, mainly in the center and south, is formed by low plains. Streams include the Klong Bang Yai, Klong Ta Jin, Klong Ta Rua, and Klong Bang Rohng, none of which is large.

History of Phuket

Phuket Island has a long recorded history, and remanins dating back to A.D.1025 indicate that the island's present day name derives in meaning from the Tamil manikram, or crystal mountain. For most of history, however, it was known as Junk Ceylon, which, with variations, is the name found on old maps. The name is thought to have its roots in Ptolemy's Geographia, written by the Alexadrian geographer in the Third Century A.D. He mentioned that in making a trip from Suwannapum to the Malay Peninsula it was necessary to pass the cape of Jang Si Lang.

Phuket was a way station on the route between India and China where seafarers stopped to shelter. The island appears to have been part of the Shivite empire (called in Thai the Tam Porn Ling) that established itself on the Malay Peninsula during the first Millenium A.D. Later, as Muang Takua-Talang, it was part of the Srivichai and Siri Tahm empires. Governed as the eleventh in a constellation of twelve cities, Phuket's emblem, by which it was known to others in those largely pre-literate times, was the dog.

During the Sukothai Period Phuket was associated with Takua Pah in what is now Phang-nga Province, another area with vast tin reserves. The Dutch established a trading post during the Ayuthaya Period in the 16th Cent. The island's northern and central regions then were governed by the Thais, and the southern and western parts were given over to the tin trade, a concession in the hands of foreigners.

After Ayuthaya was sacked by the Burmese in 1767 there was a short interregnum in Thailand, ended by King Taksin, who drove out the Burmese and re-unified the country. The Burmese, however, were anxious to return to the offensive. They outfitted a fleet to raid the southern provinces, and carry off the populations to slavery in Burma. This led to Phuket's most memorable historic event. A passing sea captain, Francis Light, sent word that the Burmese were en route to attack. Forces in Phuket were assembled led by the two heroines, Kunying Jan, wife of Phuket's recently deceased governor, and her sister Mook. After a month's siege the Burmese were forced to depart on 13 March, 1785. Kunying Jan and her sister were credited with the successful defense.

In recognition King Rama I bestowed upon Kunying Jan the honorific Thao Thep Kasatri, a title of nobility usually reserved for royalty, by which she is known today. Her sister became Thao Sri Suntorn.

During the Nineteenth Century Chinese immigrants arrived in such numbers to work the tin mines that the ethnic character of the island's interior became predominantly Chinese, while the coastal settlements remained populated chiefly by Muslim fishermen.

In Rama V's reign, Phuket became the administration center of a group of tin mining provinces called Monton Phuket, and in 1933 with the change in government from absolute monarchy to a parliamentary system, the island was established as a province by itself.

Boundaries

On the North Is the Pak Prah Strait, spanned by two bridges running side-by-side, the older Sarasin Bridge, and the newer Thao Thep Krasatri Bridge.
On the South Is the Andaman Sea.
On the East Is Ao Phang-nga Bay (In the Jurisdiction mainly of Phang-nga Province).
On the West Is the Andaman Sea.

Climate

Phuket's weather conditions are dominated by monsoon winds that blow year round. It is therefore always and humid. There are two distinct seasons, rainy and dry. The rainy season begins in May and lasts till October, during which the monsoon blows from the southwest. The dry season is from November through April, when the monsoon comes from the northeast. Highest average temperatures, at 33.4 degrees Celsius, prevail during March. Lowest averages occur in January, when nightly lows dip to 22 degrees Celsius.

Transportation

By Car

Take Route 4 from Bangkok south. Along the way pass the provinces of Nakorn Pathom, Ratchburi, Petchburi, Prajuab-Kirikan, and at Chumporn go right to Ranong, From Ranong, go south through Kraburi and Kah-Perr districts to Phang-nga Province. In Phang-nga the road passes through Kuraburi, Takua Pa, and Takua Tung districts before reaching the town of Kok Kloy, just beyond which is the Tao Thep Krasatri Bridge and Phuket. Distance is 867 kilometers.

Both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses leave the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok daily. For details call the individual bus companies: Borisat Kohn Sohng Jumkat Phuket Transport Co, Ltd., in Bangkok tel. (02) 4351200, or in Phuket (076) 211480

By Air

Details about flights to and from Phuket International Airport can be obtained from Thai Airway, in Bangkok Tel. (02) 2800070,2800080, or in Phuket (076) 211195, 212499, 212946 or from travel agents around the world. There are also many regular and chartered flights from other airlines.

By Sea

The Deep Sea Port (Port of Phuket) at Phuket is visited by both cargo and cruise ship from Thailand and from abroad. Contact your travel agent for information about the may different ships that stop at Phuket.

More detail

http://www.gosouththai.com/phuket/e-index.asp

Thai Culture - An Overview (Part 8)

There are dozens upon dozens of books that take an in depth look at Thai history and culture. I am not going to try to emulate them here. What I am going to do is tell you what you need to know to make a comfortable transition. This is part 8 and the final article in a series on Thai culture.

Cultural Oddities
The Feet - Always take off your shoes when entering someone's home. Never use your feet to point or do something your hands can do such as closing a door. Never rest your feet on a table or on a car dashboard. In relation to this, if someone is lying down, never step over them. Walk around them. Note, as with most things in life, when you are among very close friends, these rules of politeness can go out the window. Observe your friends and when unsure, border on the side of caution. Never point your feet at a Buddha image or at a Monk.

The Head - Never touch someone on the head. The only exception is a small child or a significant other with whom you are very close.

Blowing Your Nose - It's extremely rude to blow your nose in public. The Thais will excuse themselves to the privacy of the bathroom for this or sniffle until they can reach such a place.

Picking Your Nose - Contrary to what logic might dictate, while blowing one's nose is considered very rude and disgusting, it's perfectly acceptable to pick it. No matter how many times I see it, I can never quite accept a beautiful young girl with her finger up her nose.

Yes - The Thais don't like to disappoint. And although it defies Western logic, if you ask for something and the real answer is no, you will often be told yes. Be aware of this. If you suspect the answer may be no, but are told yes right away, don't assume it means yes. Double and triple check and offer a way out such as 'If no, mai pen rai, really'. In this way, the Thai will not lose face by telling you no if the answer is indeed no.

Volume - The volume at which many Americans speak never ceases to amaze me. Even when the person I am speaking with is 2 feet away, they project their voice as if they are on stage on Broadway. In the US this may be considered a show of strength and confidence or maybe everyone is just hard of hearing. I honestly don't know. What I do know is that speaking at this volume in Thailand will result in making the person you are speaking with feel extremely uncomfortable, not to mention embarrassing yourself. Here again can be found another contradiction in Thai culture, for volume from all other things does not seem to bother anyone. Dogs bark constantly. Music is played by outdoor karaoke bars at ear shattering volumes. Trucks drive around cities with giant speakers, broadcasting news of the latest motorcycles or laundry detergent. And no one seems to mind. But raise your voice when you speak and you will bother all of those within earshot.

Eye contact - Don't look a superior directly in the eye. While this is considered a sign of respect and trustworthiness in the West, in Thailand, as with a tiger, this is a sign of a challenge and disrespect. If you find yourself speaking with someone of obvious superior status, look slightly down or past them, but not directly in the eyes.

Misc. - If you must walk between two people or walk in front of someone who is watching TV or some other event, always bend over slightly. This is a show of respect. Failing to do so is quite rude.

If someone is sitting, never stand over them and speak. This makes you look arrogant and belittles the person sitting. In schools across the country, when a student comes into a room to speak with a teacher who is sitting at a desk, the student kneels down to the level of the teacher. It is a simple show of respect.

4 Common TV Repair Concerns

Regardless of whether you have an RCA, Phillips, GE, Toshiba or Sony television, chances are that ultimately you are going to need to repair or replace your set-after all, nothing last forever. In addition, because manufacturers are now making items such as DVD players, microwaves, televisions and other electronics as quickly and as inexpensively as possible, oftentimes these items don't last near as long as we, the consumer would like. Consequently, it becomes necessary for us to replace or repair these household items anywhere from every 3 to 5 years.

Whether it's the HDTV in the conference room in your Bristol, Pennsylvania office or the schoolroom DVD player and television set in your child's Levittown elementary school, items such as televisions, stereos and other electronics are a part of life. However, for many, it seems that the question of to replace or repair one of these items comes up far too often. If you are contemplating the best recourse, then before you toss out your current television, take a few minutes to check the following:

Check to see if there is dust in the television. You can use a vacuum cleaner hose and run it over the venting on the back/top of the set. Once you have removed any dust, keep the set as dust-free as possible. In addition, if there is any items set on top of the set, remove them.


Is your television picture snowy? This perhaps one of the most frustrating things to deal with-as both a viewer or as a repairman. This is often caused by the television screen being magnetized and the de-magnetizer in the television isn't working. Begin by removing any items that may be magnetic-stereo speakers, electric motors-away from the television set. Then buy a de-magnetizing (or de-gaussing) coil at any electronics store. Using the coil, start in the upper corner of the television set and working in small circles, travel across the entire screen. When you reach the bottom of the screen, your television set should be fully de-magnetized and the picture restored.


If you have cable, then your TV is likely connected by via coaxial cable and copper cables to the cable provider. Occasionally, the cable can become loose-which is why fiddling with them can produce a better picture, for a time. To correct this problem, you may need to replace the fitting, which is the metal part of the cable that connects to the television or you may need to replace the actual cable. These items are also available at any electronics store. If you do this, it is vital that you turn off the television set before you begin!


If you are still using an antenna, and you are getting a fuzzy picture, it may be time to replace the antenna. These are still available at the electronics stores, just be sure to purchase the type of antenna designed specifically for your television set. Install according to directions, being sure to turn off the power supply first!

Using Thailand As Your Travel Hub in Southeast Asia

Sooner or later, you have to visit Southeast Asia if you enjoy seeing the world. There are simply too many unique landmarks and fascinating cultural aspect to not do so. When you go, you may find getting about a bit difficult, so focus on Thailand as your hub.

Asia is a fascinating area that has to be seen to be believed. From the spires of Angkor Wat to the lightening shows off the coast of Sihanoukville in Cambodia, there is something for everyone. To top the area off as a top destination, a currency problem in the late 1990s has resulted in Southeast Asia being a very cheap trip. Yes, even with the dollar being beaten up.

There is only one hang up when it comes to traveling in this area. Simply put, it is difficult to get from here to there. The quality, size and frequency of the transportation systems in the countries varies fairly dramatically. Consider the contrast between two countries sharing a long border - Thailand and Cambodia.

Thailand has its act together. There is plenty of bus, tram and train service in the bustling city of Bangkok. You can also take overnight trains from the city to most destinations in the country. If you have a few bucks to spare, you can usually fly from the city to larger destination in the country, such as Chang Mai, for $40 to $80. When you are ready to head to another country in the region, international flights out of Bangkok are also plentiful and cheap.

Cambodia is in sharp contrast to Thailand. For the most part, the use of the term "roads" is debatable. Things are rough. Much of the northern area of the country is very difficult to access. In fact, one of the more popular ways to get around the country when possible is by ferry. It is highly recommended that you use this mode of transportation when heading to Angkor Wat or your kidneys and back will be an absolute mess. Flying around Cambodia domestically is nearly impossible and international flights are infrequent and really expensive.

Lest you think I am unfairly criticizing Cambodia, it should be noted there is a distinct reason for the infrastructure problems in the country. The Khmer Rouge, of course. This group led by Pol Pot tried to revert the country to an agricultural society. Besides killing nearly a third of the population, the infrastructure took a beating.

This contrast may seem extreme, but it can be found in other countries. Laos is wonderful, but very rural. Indonesia is cheaper than even Cambodia and Thailand, but travel within the country can be physically tough. The contrast go on and on.

Should you travel to Southeast Asia, you are going to need a place to make your base. Thailand is an excellent choice based on my trips to the region. It is very inexpensive, yet the infrastructure is excellent. It simply makes a great place to launch any exploration of the region.

Thailand Holidays - Why It's a Great Destination For All

I have been a frequent visitor to Thailand for a number of years, and have seen it attracts all walks of life from every part of the globe! One thing I notice, they all leave the exact same - hooked on Thailand! Thailand might be considered a third world country by some, but to many of us paradise does not come much closer.

Thailand is a large country with many different provinces and regions, many differ to each other and this is one of the many reasons Thailand is the perfect escape destination for everyone. Whether you are young, old, single married or have a large family - there will always be something for you to do in Thailand, and the best part will be it shouldn't cost too much depending where you are from.

A popular tourist destination in Thailand is Phuket, Phuket is known as "The Pearl Of Thailand" due to its beauty and popularity, Phuket boasts a number of world famous beach's that are flocked to by thousands each year. Patong Beach is one of the most famous, not because the beach its self is so beautiful but because of the exciting nightlife that sits just behind each and every night!

Whether you are 18 or 68 you will always find a good time in Patong's Bangla Rd, with hundreds of bars, pool halls, go go shows and much more you will find exactly what you are after! Girls in this area are known to seek out tourist's, knowing that they will be rewarded for a good night with something in return! Prostitution is illegal in Thailand, but it does seem they turn a blind eye to it in the main tourist regions such as Pattayya, Bangkok and Phuket.

Resorts and Hotels and very cheap through out Thailand, for as little as $20 a night in Phuket and even lower and the further out districts you can get real bargains! Spend as much as $100 a night and you will be amazed at the standard you are presented with! - Currently many airlines and travel agencies are offering great specials to Thailand - these are something you should consider taking advantage of as it does not look like they will be ending any time soon!

Phuket has a number of fun and exciting day time activates as well! Phuket has a number of place's that cater of all forms of water rides including Jet Ski, Rafting and much more! You can visit Phuket Zoo and see some of Thailand's indigenous animals and get photos with many of them! There are a number of shooting range's and bike tracks where you can rent motor bikes for a trip with the boys!

Phuket is not the only popular region in Thailand, Bangkok and Pattayya are 2 other very popular areas! From Bangkok you can drive only a short distance out reach some of Thailand's most amazing rain forest, be taken on guided tours and see some of the most amazing sites you could ever imagine! The shopping in Bangkok is unbelievable, clothes', water, bags, games, dvd's! Anything you could imagine is for sale in Bangkok, and for an amazingly cheap price!

Only a hour out of Bangkok is Pattayya, another known party zone for the young and old! With hundreds of bars, thousands of girls and some of the most popular clubs in Thailand, you can be sure to need a few recovery days after a week here! Known also for the beach's and shopping, it's a perfect destination for young and old!

A Visit to Malaysia - Thailand Border Area

My thoughts recalled my visit to Southeast Asia some time back on the invitation of then Sri Lankan High Commissioner for Malaysia, Mrs. Rosy Senanayake. I wanted to crossover by land the Malaysia-Thailand border, though many friends advised me it was too risky. Muslim insurgency in southern Thailand is a major problem in Southeast Asia.

Though I had the visa to travel to Thailand from Malaysia, I stopped my journey from Kuala Lumpur at the Butterworth station and visited the Penang Island of Malaysia, the one-time British colonial capital of Malaysia. I thought of the risk at that time as the turmoil was very high in crossing the Malaysia- Thailand border. I had to study more ground realities and situations before I stepped into the border.

While I was waiting for the Kuala Lumpur Express at the Butterworth station, there was a Malay young lady waiting for the same train at the next table. My casual chat with her had given me a chance to weigh the ground realities better than I assumed. She was from the neighboring Keda state of Malaysia bordering Thailand's Muslim province.

When I spoke to her about the political unrest of Thailand's southern Muslim areas, she came out with sorrowful stories. She told, "The Muslim province in southern Thailand was annexed by Thailand in 1902 as a buffer against British Malaya" and she further went on, "the Islamic Sultanate of Pattani is considered by some to be the cradle of Islam in Southeast Asia".
She told about the history of the origin of the Muslim insurgency in Thailand. She said with a smile that the southern Thailand Muslims are only a reflection of Malaysia's rural Muslims.

I little understood her worries and as she had visited these areas, she was not only well informed about the problems but emotionally attached to those areas and problems too. She came out in a disappointing voice that the Thailand government's oppressive policies had not been beneficial to the Muslims. She pointed out, "the southern provinces of Thailand where the Muslims are located are some of the country's poorest and undeveloped provinces to date".

She continued, "The reason for this is the corrupt officials pilfered funds earmarked for development. The mis administration of the government combined with the high- handedness of the army personnel aggravated the alienation that was already prevalent. The daily life in the urban areas was affected by common banding and lawlessness making it difficult for the authorities to differentiate activities from that of the separatists or militants".

After a brief interval I asked her what their needs were if the situation was prolonged without any solution. She thought for a moment and came out with the fact that southern Thailand remains relatively poor, alienated, and misunderstood by Bangkok's government and military officials.
The Muslim way of life is based on survival and they are not benefiting from the development of large industries in their provinces.

She also pointed out importantly that in fact, as these industries continue to expand, the Pattani are being pushed farther and farther out of their markets. Agriculturists were needed to teach the small-scale land owners how to get the most out of their land. She further went on to say that the Muslims do not object to the government or its representatives but they do object to the oppressive and exploitative nature of these entities' presence.

She enumerated some of the flawed policies of the government such as, the village fund programme and legalization of lotteries in the area which are against the tenets of Islam.

Thai Bar Girl Top 10 Commandments

Thailand is a country that many men will travel to in search of some quality time with a beautiful girl, what a lot of westerners fail to realise is that these girls are doing their job and as with all jobs they have rules they try to follow. Bar Girls have the 10 Commandments, these are rules they follow to help each other, obtain more money from customers and just to simply make life a little bit easier for them all. The commandments have been around for a very long time, and have simply been re-written over the years. This is my take on it.

Bar Girl Commandments

1) When looking for potential customers on a Friday or Saturday night, it is very important to ensure you pick your customer correctly. Thailand is full of Western English teachers who do not earn a lot of money, so would not be willing to part with a lot of money. It is best to try and find a farang wearing smart clothes, with dress shoes. Western English Teachers in Thailand generally wear suits and sneakers to work - they are not generally paid a lot of money in Thailand so they will usually be unwilling to party with a lot of money.

2) When you are with a customer, you need to forget or not worry if he is over weight, very ugly or smells very bad, even if the farang can tell you are not comfortable with him you must always tell me that he is handsome and that he makes you happy. It is important to remember that once he has paid the bar, the rest is easy.

3) When a customer leave's Thailand, that is not the end of your work with them. It is crucial to get your customers e-mail address's and keep in contact with them while they are back in their home country, this will make it easier for you to get the customer again when he returns to Thailand. Having customer's e-mail address's also means that you can request money from the farang while they are at home. Most farang have soft hearts, and are happy to part with some of there money if they believe it will be helping someone. A good way to ask for money is to say you have a sick buffalo, failing that your mother/father been sick or been pregnant is the best way to ask for money.

4) Farangs are very soft, and tears from the eyes make them even softer! It is important to be able to cry on queue, this will give you a much better chance at getting more money or presents from the Farang. Thai Girls need to be pro at producing crocodile tears.

5) If you get a customer for longer then 2 nights, you need to request he take you shopping. Gold is a excellent item to look at getting, it will make the customer happy to see you wear it while you are in Thailand and once he leaves you will be able to pawn that item for more money. Should the farang intend to return to Thailand, it is smart to make sure you do not pawn all his items.

6) If you are working, and there are local expats in the bar it is important to ensure you speak in your local dialect. Many farangs can now speak Thai which can make work harder for us, it is important that our local and regional dialects remain just for Thai people.

7) When your customer is leaving Thailand, go to the airport with him. Most times a farang will have thousands of baht left over from there trip that they did not use, most times the farang will be happy to give it to you as he has no use for this money in his home country. When you are saying good bye, remember to cry and get his e-mail address as you will be able to convince him to return to Thailand in the future.

8) It can be better to get Asian customers, they understand our love to gamble and that we have many brothers and sisters at home who need to eat, they will generally pay you more then a farang will (Japanese are known to pay very well)

9) When leaving your customers hotel, ask for Taxi Money! It does not matter if you live next door, this will help you obtain another 200-300 baht very easily. He the farang complains about paying your taxi fare, remember the crying on queue as this will be your ticket for more money. Explain you live very far away and it is dangerous to walk.

10) If you are not making money in your chosen town, it may be time to move to another town. Phuket, Pattaya and Bangkok are the best choices to find farangs with money.

7 Surprisingly Inexpensive Foreign Fertility Clinics For IVF and Egg Donation

One of the secrets of finding inexpensive IVF and egg donation is to travel abroad to get infertility treatments. Foreign fertility clinics and physicians often provide high-quality medical care with top-notch pregnancy success rates that rival or exceed US fertility clinics. While a US fertility clinic may charge upwards of $10,000 for an IVF cycle, a fertility clinic in Italy may only $3,000. If price is a concern for you, it's worth your time to find an infertility clinic abroad.

1. Centre for Assisted Fertilisation, Naples and Rome, Italy
Services offered: ovulation cycle monitoring, semen evaluation, hormone therapy, ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (artificial insemination), IVF, GIFT and ZIFT, sperm retrieval, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), cryopreservation, assisted hatching

2. Clinica EUGIN, Barcelona Spain
Services offered: IVF, IVF with donor eggs, IVF with donor eggs and donor sperm, ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (artificial insemination), IVF, GIFT and ZIFT, sperm retrieval, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

3. Reprofit International, Zlin, Czech Republic
Services offered: IVF, oocyte donation, IVF with donor eggs, ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (artificial insemination), IVF, GIFT and ZIFT, sperm retrieval, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

4. The Fertility Center at Bumrungrad Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
Services offered: Hormone therapy, ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (artificial insemination), IVF, GIFT and ZIFT, sperm retrieval, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

5. Crete Fertility Center, Crete, Greece
Services offered: cryopreservation, semen analysis, ovulation induction, intruterine insemination (IUI), IVF, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), sex selection, egg donation, gestational surrogacy

6.Make Well Fertility Clinic, Mumbai, India
Services offered: cryopreservation, semen analysis, ovulation induction, intruterine insemination (IUI), IVF, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

7. Barbados Fertility Center
Services offered: ovulation induction, intra-uterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), assisted hatching, blastocyst transfer, testicular/epididymal sperm aspiration, pre-implantation genetic screening (PGD), donor egg program, donor sperm program, embryo freezing

How to Choose a Foreign Fertility Clinic

To choose a foreign fertility clinic, you'll need to do your homework. Keep a list of each clinic along with their success rates for medical procedures and the qualifications of their doctors and lab directors. Hospitals and clinics which are JCI-accredited are also a safe bet since their facilities have met stringent international guidelines for health care.

Thailand Travel Tips and Customs

After living in Bangkok for over a year I have learned many things about the Thai People that I wanted to share with other foreigners living or vacationing here should know. The first thing you have to accept is that eastern culture is different. The people in the east are less emotional and more polite and while they know westerners are different, they often are uncomfortable when we stray from their norms. The things I found to be important are listed below in order of importance:

Be Polite - Thai people hold being polite above all else. Their very language has politeness built into it. If you follow what is considered "common courtesy" you will be fine.

Thai King - The Thai People Love their King, King Rama IX. Never show any type of disrespect to him or the Royal family. The Thai people have a deep traditional reverence for the Royal Family, and the visitor should also show respect for the King and the Queen, and the Royal Children. When attending a public events where a member of the Royal Family is present, the best guide on how to behave is to watch the crowd and do as it does.

Safety - Stealth crimes, such as pick pocketing, are the most common problem so it's worth keeping a close eye on your belongings at all times and being aware of the people around you. Unprovoked violence against tourists are very rare, but it pays to exercise common sense.

National Religion - Buddhism is Thailand's national Religion with nearly 95% of Thailand's population being Buddhist. All Buddha images are considered sacred and there are laws against removing these images for anything other that personal worship.

Buddhist Monks - Buddhist Monks are recognized quickly by their shaved heads, bear feet and bright orange robes. It is forbidden for women to touch Buddhist Monks, this includes a woman handing something to a Monk, The items should be first given to a man, who hands the item to the monk. Also, western men should never attempt to shake hands with a monk.

Buddhist Temple - Wearing shoes around a temple is acceptable but they should be removed when entering their church (the area where the Buddha image is kept).

Be Quiet - Loud people are considered impolite. Speak softly and do not laugh loudly. Of course there are the common places such as bars, celebrations and parks that being loud is appropriate and expected.

Greetings - Greetings in Thailand can be quite formal in appearance to the western eye. The basic gesture is to put hands together, fingers up, with a slight bow of the head. The words "saw dee (krup)" (or "kaw" for women) are spoken during fm bow. It is more complicated for Thai people, with three levels based on age and position but westerners attempting this greeting are not expected to understand. (levels: 1. Monk, thumbs touching forehead durin bow; 2. Same age or older, thumbs touching lips; and 3. Younger person, thumbs touching chin.)

Food - Food in Thailand is customarily HOT, spicy HOT. Most westerners can not handle the amount of chili spice that Thai people enjoy. For the westerner visiting foreigner, the best tip i can give them is how to ask to make the food less spicy. There are two phrases to be used based on you preference: 1) "mai ped" - not spicy and 2) "ped nit noi" - a little bit spicy. The food is awesome in Thailand and this tip should help you enjoy it even more. In the near future I will be publishing a description of my favorite foods. Stay tuned.

Street Food - There is an old Thai saying "a little bit of dirt makes the food a little bit more delicious (rough translation). For westerners, buying food on the street can impact your health with the possible contraction of various gastro digestive problems. While most street food vendors are clean, this only by local standards. I live by "rule of thumb" which has served well living in Bangkok. This rule is simple but you need to stick to it. It is "only eat from the street what is cooked in front of you". This ensures that the food is fully cooked one more time before you eat it. Unfortunately, this eliminates a lot of food served on the street but better safe than sorry for week.

Body Odor - Thai people almost never smell badly and they find it offensive if others do.

Crowds - if you go to areas in Thailand during Thai holidays and celebrations, be prepared to encounter many people. To Western experience the volume of these areas can be incredible. Be prepared to be pushed and shoved and be aware that they mean no harm. There sence of personal space is quite different than westerners.

Watch where you walk - The sidewalks in Bangkok are uneven and full of obstacles, pay attention. Oh, also, the streets have many stray dogs; the dogs are not aggressive but do leave landmines on the sidewalks.

Taxi Drivers - Most taxi drivers are fine. Generally, it is always better to use the metered taxis. Tuktuks are always more expensive and with Bangkok traffic you could be breathing in a lot of smog on the way. If you are going a significant distance negotiate... Also, the Taxis marked "We love farang, we speak English", well most of them do not. They do have a radio that has a person that knows a little English.

Movie Theater - After the advertising and right before the movie a tribute to the Thai King Comes on and everyone stands in respect.

Driving in Thailand - If you are a brave one and decide that you want drive yourself around Thailand, don't be too worried, it really isn't that bad. There are just several things to understand. Drivers use the left side instead of the right, like in the US, and the roads tend to be narrower than in the US. So driving next to a bus or a truck can be a little intimidating.

Toilets - Eastern toilets can be quite intimidating to the western traveler as well. Be aware that eastern toilets are little more than holes in the ground surrounded by ceramic and involve water, not paper, for cleaning. To be honest, I still have not gotten used this type of facility to its full extent. Also, there are often women in the men's room, stationed there for cleaning. It can be quite unnerving when you first experience this but they are not there for any more than cleaning.

Following these tips will allow you to have better understanding of the Thai people and more fun in your stay in Bangkok, allowing the locals to be more comfortable with you and give you a better understanding of how things function in Thailand.

Activities in Phuket

While Phuket may have at one time been the backpackers' destination of choice, the island has evolved to become a fun-filled tourist destination with all the trimmings, making it a viable contender for Southeast Asia's best holiday spot. Families, couples, groups of friends and solo travelers will all find various activities in Phuket to keep them entertained during their time on the island.

While Phuket certainly doesn't have the beaches and waves of Bali, there is an active surfing community on the island who make it out to the waves at every possible opportunity. What's even better is that the best time to go surfing in Phuket is during low season when there are less people around and the beaches aren't crowded.

Surfing is one of the Phuket's fastest growing activities and there are several beaches vying for your attention if you want to hang 10 in Phuket. The locals will tell you that best beach for surfing in Phuket is Kata Beach. The waves can get pretty high and there are boards and tuition available at the beach.

There are other beaches also worth checking out if you want to try this fun Phuket activity for yourself. Kata Noi Beach is another hotspot, and some people swear by the likes of Kalim Beach and Laem Singh Beach. If you have a little time on your hands, you should definitely explore all of Phuket's beaches and check the surf out.

Phuket is an established diving destination. It's regarded as one of the world's 10 best places to go diving. Visibility can peak at 45 meters and the water surface temperature is usually a warm 28ºC or thereabouts.

For diving around the coast of Phuket, Shark Point is usually a good place to start. Shark Point is aptly named because divers often report sightings of leopard sharks. Nearby is the King Cruiser wreck, which is the site of where an 85-meter catamaran ferry sank. Exploring the wreckage is one of the most exciting Phuket activities you can experience. Just north of Shark Point is Anemone Reef - a huge rock covered in sea anemones.

If you prefer to get your kicks on dry land, fear not, because there are lots of Phuket activities that don't require you to get wet. Phuket has bungee jumping, go-karting, shooting ranges, bowling, cinemas, Nature trails and lots more.

If you do a bit of research before you travel to the island, the number of Phuket activities on offer means that you should never find yourself bored or homesick.

Technology Partnerships Boost Nascent Wind Power Industry

By working with local universities and overseas component suppliers, manufacturers aim to produce more affordable turbines that are 15 to 20 percent more efficient in generating electricity.

The wind power industry in China is blowing up a storm.

From just six wind turbine manufacturers in 2004, the China Wind Power Association estimates the country is now home to more than 70 companies. This represents at least 17 times growth in just six years.

Output is multiplying swiftly as well. Statistics from China Wind Power Material Equipment Network show 124 percent year-on-year growth in 2009 production to 10,129 wind turbines generating a total of 13,803.2MW.

This, in turn, is promoting development in the auxiliary industries such as blades, converters, pitch control systems and inverters.

To make a mark in the export sector, China's wind turbine manufacturers are now investing in technology, certification and aftersales service upgrades. The majority of companies only started catering to overseas markets during the past two or three years. In 2009, only four suppliers shipped out wind turbines internationally. These are Sinovel, Goldwind, Shanghai Electric and Changzhou New United. Sinovel exported 10 units to India. Goldwind sent three wind turbines to the US, while Shanghai Electric shipped two to Thailand. Changzhou New United manufactured one each for Thailand and the US.

At present, most locally made wind turbines cannot handle speeds that are too slow or too fast. The Chinese Wind Energy Association said a 1.5MW generator typically requires wind speed of at least 3 meters per second to start and 12.5 meters per second to generate electricity. But at 25 meters per second, the turbines need to stop working because the electricity generated would be too much for the transformers to handle.

Because of this limitation, suppliers focusing on large-capacity wind turbines are working with local universities in developing new technologies that can help improve stability and performance. The Shandong Changxing Group is cooperating with the Shaanxi University of Science and Technology to produce high-speed synchronous generators with a brushless excitation system. Unlike the traditionally incorporated doubly-fed asynchronous generators and permanent magnet direct-drive systems, the newer technology can convert electricity even in extreme wind conditions. Shandong Changxing is said to be the first in China to use such advanced systems, which can generate 15 to 20 percent more electricity than wind turbines adopting other technologies.

New United Group Co. Ltd works not only with the Shenyang Industrial University to develop 1.5MV wind turbines, but also with Germany's Euros, UK's GH and France's Alstom to produce key components such as blades, controllers and converters. Using information shared from this technology partnership, the company initiates another round of R&D to develop parts in-house.

Some component suppliers, on the other hand, were set up by technology institutes themselves. Beijing Corona Science & Technology Co. Ltd was set up by the Chinese Academy of Science's Institute of Electrical Engineering. With the institute's focus on high-tech R&D, Beijing Corona is able to offer converters, pitch control systems and inverters for both wind and solar-powered products.

Wind turbines made more affordable

Advancements in technology coupled with China's relatively low labor costs are pushing down prices of wind turbines. Guangzhou Hongying Energy Co. Ltd, which exports kW-rated capacity wind turbines to North America, said small China-made units are 100 to 200 percent less expensive than overseas variants, while larger models are priced 20 percent lower.

From about 6 million yuan ($885,000) per megawatt at the start of 2009, quotes fell to below 5 million yuan ($737,000) in H1 2010. Global prices are falling, but not fast enough to meet China's low rates. From a high of 1.22 million euros ($1.6 million) per megawatt in 2009, prices are projected to fall to about 1.04 million euros ($1.4 million) by 2011.

The swift decline in quotes for China-made wind turbines is attributed in part to the way some small manufacturers offer really low prices, often at the expense of quality.

But larger, more research-oriented companies are less inclined to reduce quotes to finalize a transaction. Among these is Shandong Changxing, which believes engaging in price competition at such an early stage is not a move in the right direction.

Other improvements

Apart from investing in technology, companies such as New United are bringing in professional testing equipment to ensure the quality of its turbines. The company now has blade, 3MW land drag and 3.8MW land grid-connection testing platforms in addition to an EMC laboratory.

Apart from these, New United carries out various tests on turbine performance under different weather conditions, including low temperatures and high air salinity. The units are subjected to a shipping simulation assessment to evaluate how well the sealed film packaging holds up against sea travel. Burn-in tests are carried out as well.

Likewise, Shandong Changxing carries out land inspection to check resistance to moisture and corrosion, and evaluate suitability for sea and land use.

By improving the technology, manufacturers also aim to speed up turnaround in acquiring export certification such as being able to carry the CE mark or be UL-listed. Since the industry is still in its nascent stage, certification is usually per component and not for the entire turbine. Depending on the part and type of turbine, the process can take three to more than five months.

The lengthy turnaround sometimes causes problems in meeting delivery schedules. Companies would often have to negotiate lead times with buyers. In fact, a few manufacturers said they are unable to ship out some of the orders placed last year because the export certification is still not ready.

Presently, China-made wind turbines are exported to the US, the EU and Southeast Asia.

Aftersales service is being enhanced as well. Apart from sending engineers to guide buyers during on-site installations, suppliers are providing bilingual technical blueprints with metric and imperial measurements, and operating and maintenance manuals.

Original Excursions For Travelers in Thailand

Thailand has received the attention of the media and has been on the top of headlines in international newspapers for nearly two months in 2010, with the red shirts' protest to demand resignation of the prime minister and parliament dissolution. The protest having ended, the country is safe again to visit. The following six highly recommended original excursions are worth joining:

Enjoying an eco-adventure cruise on the Chao Phraya river, on board of a traditional barge in teak from Bangkok to Ayuthaya is a good idea for those who do not want to go too far away from the capital and eat delicious Thai meals on board. Stops along the way enable travelers to go on bicycle trips and learn about the villagers' way of life.

Going elephant riding and bamboo rafting in the animal sanctuary of the national park of Umphang is a very enjoyable experience and the favorite excursion of many tourists wanting to be close to nature. A lot of activities amid greenery are possible like trekking in an amazing environment and the long elephant ride in the jungle is a kind of adventure just as the descent of the river on bamboo raft.

Scuba diving in the deep waters of Turtle Island situated in the Gulf of Siam, at the north of Samui Island is another option for scuba divers who want to enjoy wonderful sea floor with very colorful fish and corals. Snorkeling is also a nice possibility for those who haven't taken a scuba diving course and other activities are possible like the tour of the island in a dugout with a stop at Ko Nang Yuan, an island with 3 beach arms shaped like a star and the sea on all sides.

Participating in an eco adventure tour around the lake of Khao Laem in Kantchanaburi, at a few hours from the capital, is a nice way to experience nature and spend a night in floating houses. The tour can be done by bicycle, motorcycle or mini-van before taking a boat on the lake. Tourists can also experience rural tours in the countryside on board a farm-cart made of wood pulled by bulls and trek to discover the fauna and the rare birds that live in the tropical vegetation.

The discovery of Pai and its Lahu, Lisu and Karen minorities in the North of Thailand by motocross is an adventure that bikers won't want to miss with stops in villages of ethnic tribes, and discovery of the nature still well preserved in this region of Thailand. Pai is a very popular destination in the North and there is a four hours drive in curves to reach the place from Chiang Mai.

Enjoying a popular mountain-bike route over four days from the hills of Chiang Dao to the Mae Kok river is another top adventure trip for sport men. Biking enable visitors to see more of the villagers' life while passing wonderful settings and there are a lot of valleys and landscapes to discover.

These 6 travel ideas are examples of the unforgettable tours that can be enjoyed in the country. Thailand has a lot to offer to visitors who want more than the traditional visit of temples, sun bathing at the beach or the crowded visit of the floating market.

Choosing Your Luxury Travel Package to an Exotic Destination

There are many luxury travel packages to exotic destinations around the world. For lovers of the very best in life packages such as these are the ideal solution when looking for your vacation. If you want to enjoy one of the very best vacations of your life then you may wish to bear the following in mind.

When choosing your luxury destination you may wish to be careful. While there are numerous resorts out there some are more popular than others and may be crowded. If you want relaxation you need to look around for a resort that is exotic yet secluded and there are many of them if you take the time to look.

Some destinations more than others are classed as luxury resorts, Gstaad and Monaco for instance both offer luxury vacations, yet offer very different things. However if you take a look at a map of the world you may find that there are many resorts that may not be as well known, that offer just as much luxury.

When looking to book your vacation you may wish to consider what the resort offers. For instance if you love sitting on the beach by the sea then of course you have to find a beach side resort. If your ideal holiday is winter sports then you typically need to look for resorts offering the sports and activities that you love.

There are different standards of luxury so be careful when choosing a resort for your vacation. Some resorts typically offer a much better level of service than others. If you want to take a vacation that caters to your every need then choose a hotel that is well known for its service such as the Gstaad Palace Hotel or the Grand Hotel Park if taking a vacation in Gstaad. Alternatively if your ideal vacation is sunny Monaco then consider booking into the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel or the Hotel de Paris. All of these hotels are well known for their exceptional luxury and are among the very best in the world.

When booking your ideal luxury holiday and there are days out included you may wish to check that you are able to tailor the vacation to your needs. For instance there may be an excursion to the Glacier if taking your holiday in such as Gstaad or you may be expected to take a trip to one of the gardens in Monaco. However you may not want to be tied in to going to such places and wish to do your own thing, so check you are able to do so.

Popular Holiday Islands in Thailand

Thailand is one of the leading travel destinations in the world and is home to many beautiful tropical islands. Some of these isles you might have heard of and some you will most likely never have heard of. This Thailand related travel article will list and review some of the most beautiful holiday islands in Siam.

Phuket

Phuket is the most popular island and is along with Pattaya and Bangkok the most popular tourist destinations of the country. There are many beautiful beaches on this isle which include Patong, Karon, Kata, Kamala, Surin and Nai Harn. If you enjoy the nightlife then perhaps either Phuket or Samui should be your choice for your next vacation.

Koh Samui

Samui is ranked among the top 5 vacation destinations in the country and has been known for a very long time as a backpacker heaven. Samui has however been under development a great deal during the last decade and visitors can now choose from a wide range of luxurious hotels and resorts. The beaches on this island rank among the finest of Thailand. Chaweng beach is the most popular beach resort area of Samui.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is still relatively unknown to the general public however it is one of the fastest growing travel destinations of Siam. If you would like to visit Koh Chang then you should take the ferry boat from Rayong as there is no airport on this Thai isle

Koh Samet

Although Samet is not a very large island, it is one of the most romantic of all the Thai islands. Many travelers are like to visit Samet as it is located not too far from Pattaya. A lot of day trips are also organized to this wonderful isle.

Safaris to Kenya

Obsessions with Africa are quite a common thing to have, whether you have lived there as a child and moved away, visited on holiday or vacation, or saw a film set there, such as Out Of Africa. Many people in these situations do anything they can to visit or return to the magical continent, one of the most common places being Kenya.

There are many reasons why tourists flock to Kenya, the first that springs to mind is for its amazing wildlife that flourishes within its National Parks. There are hundreds of species of bird, mammal and ungulate that you will not find anywhere else in the world. Many Kenya wildlife reserves are also home to the African 'Big Five', consisting of the black rhino, leopard, elephant, Masai lion and cape buffalo. There is also so much more to this country than the wildlife alone, there are great volcanic mountains, huge lakes and magnificent landscape scenery that goes on for longer than the eye can see, such as the Great Rift Valley.

However, I am going to focus this article on the wildlife and scenery of Kenya's many National Parks and Game Reserves, starting with Amboseli.

Amboseli National Park is very unique in the fact it is a great destination both wildlife and scenery. This is because it not only has many different types of animals, including the 'Big Five', but also is located on the side of Mount Kilimanjaro, which creates such a huge presence as it towers over the park.

Masai Mara National Reserve, along with the Serengeti and outskirts of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is the home to the 'Great Wildebeest Migration'. This event is known as one of the natural wonders of the world and sees over one million wildebeest and various other ungulate making their annual clockwise journey around the Serengeti heading towards the Masai Mara in search of fresh pastures to graze upon. Many Masai Mara lodges are situated perfectly to witness the migration and watch as they make their way over the Mara river, with hungry crocodile on the lookout for struggling specimens and lions looking to pick off any young calf that can't keep up with the herd.

Lake Nakuru National Parkis another example of the beauty of scenery and wildlife coming together to make the complete package. This can be witnessed, especially on the lake, where over a million greater and less varieties of flamingo gather to feast on the algae that lines its banks. This effect is said to leave people thinking they have seen a 'Sea of Pink'.

Superstitions About Trees In Thailand

Thais have strong beliefs and superstitions about trees and plants. They believe that certain trees should not be grown within the premises of the house as they bring bad luck and there are other trees that should be grown for good luck.

Soak tree is one such tree that the Thai believe brings bad luck. It is a tall tree with short branches, which bears red fruits. Once the fruits ripen, they turn purple in color. The fruits of this tree are extremely bitter in taste and not meant for eating. In Thai language Soak means sorrow and therefore, Thai people believe that having a Soak tree growing in the house brings bad luck and it considered to be extremely unlucky.

The flowers from the Rak tree are used to make garlands. These garlands are used to adorn prisoners and criminals who are going to be executed. Because of its use, the Thai believe that Rak trees are unlucky and should not be grown or found around a dwelling.

Sala and Rakam are two trees with sharp thorns. Usually it is seen that thorny trees are not grown at homes in Thailand. As these two trees are thorny, they are considered to be unlucky trees. But these trees have high market value. So many Thai gardeners grow these trees for their commercial value.

Tau Rang is a type of palm tree which bears poisonous fruits. In Thai, Tau Rang means deserted. Given the nature of its meaning, Thais give a wide berth to this palm tree believing it to a harbinger of ill luck.

Nang Yaem is a shrub found in Thailand. Given a chance, the Thais will not have much to do with this shrub. This shrub has extremely long roots which can run to few meters. The roots have a tendency of sprouting new shrubs. The Thai avoid this shrub because of its roots as they can damage the house and strangle other plants in the vicinity.

Thailand Hotels - Setting Standards

Thailand is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world. With its breath-taking natural beauty, ancient temples, mouth-watering cuisine and comfortable accommodation options, Thailand has truly become a traveler's paradise. The kingdom of Thailand has lovely hotels and resorts to provide visitors world-class hospitality. The Thailand hotels are successfully catering to the needs of even the most discerning traveler. They are creating standards for themselves. The Thailand accommodation options are well known for their warm hospitality and friendly services.

One of the world-class hotels in Thailand is the Nirvana Place Hotel. The hotel is situated between Jomtien and Pattaya, overlooking the clear azure waters of the Gulf of Siam. This 5-star Nirvana Place Hotel has cozy rooms, with a wide array of facilities and services. Travelers can choose from the decorated one and two bedroom luxury boutique suites to stay in style and elegance. The dining and recreational facilities in this hotel are satisfying.

Anantara Resort & Spa Golden Triangle, located in Chiang Rai is one of the finest accommodation options in Thailand. This resort offers privacy, luxury, comfort and tranquility to all its guests. The rooms are elegantly decorated and come with a wide range of in-room amenities. This Anantara Resort & Spa Golden Triangle is a perfect hillside retreat, away from regular hustle-bustle of city life.

In Bangkok, tourists will get the Amari Boulevard Hotel to reside in. This luxury hotel of Thailand is set on the Sukhumvit Road area, which is one of the city's most lovely destinations. The hotel is comfortable, convenient and is well-known for its personalized services and friendly behavior. The Amari Boulevard Hotel features varied and modern amenities to make you feel comfortable and nice.

Among the famous Thailand hotels, one can stay in Best Western Ban Ao Nang Resort. The resort is located in Krabi in southern Thailand. The location of this Best Western Ban Ao Nang Resort is simply great, with Ao Nang Bay and beach within a walking distance. This resort offers convenience to leisure and business travelers alike.

The Serene Hill Boutique Health Resort and Spa is situated in Koh Samui, one of the popular tourist destinations in Thailand. With its central location, the resort is within easy reach from major tourist attractions and business centers in Koh Samui. The resort is known for its tranquil settings and cordial services.

There are also many budget hotels for the budget-conscious travelers. One of the nice budget hotels in Thailand is the Club Coconut Resort Hotel in Phuket. Club Coconut Resort Hotel offers peaceful accommodation coupled with word-class hospitality and friendly services.

Another good budget hotel is Anyavee Railay Resort Hotel, located in Krabi. The resort is located at a short distance from the famous Railay East beach in Krabi. The property offers peace and tranquility and user-friendly services. Travelers can easily reach this hotel from the Krabi airport.

Backpacking in Thailand - What You Can Get Out of It

Take a look at any list of the top travel destinations in the world, and you'll see Thailand right on top (or at least, close to it) - and for good reason. Whether you're a seasoned traveler, or a newbie to backpacking, Thailand has something good in store for you.

1. Smiles.

Over the years, Thailand has aptly earned the moniker: the Land of Smiles. The people of Thailand are known to be among the nicest, friendliest, and most helpful folks on Earth, and you're sure to be greeted with warm smiles and friendly banter wherever you go. If you're new to backpacking, Thailand is definitely the place to go because you can rely on help from the locals anytime, with a smile.

2. Sun.

Without a doubt, Thailand has among the most ideal climates in the world; hence, why visitors from the colder regions of the west visit the country in droves. Thailand enjoys sunshine all year round, even throughout the so-called rainy season. So do pack the right stuff while backpacking - Thailand gives you the opportunity to show some skin!

3. Sand and Sea.

For most people, beaches are a must in backpacking. Thailand is probably best known for its numerous fantastic white sand beaches and virtually untouched aquatic wildlife, so it's a match made in heaven!

Of course, the 'different strokes for different folks' adage apply. The many beaches of Thailand each has their own distinct personalities that cater to the varied preferences of their discerning visitors. For example, scuba divers and snorkelers looking to enjoy an unspoiled water world frequent Koh Tao and the Similan Islands. Ravers can't get enough of the full moon parties of Koh Phangan, or the regular beach parties at neighboring Koh Samui. The nature-tripper will have much to gush about in Krabi's Phi Phi Islands and Trat's Koh Chang. The pleasure-seeker will never want to leave Patong or Pattaya Beach. And if you just want to spend the day baking under the sun, well, take your pick and go visit one - or all!

4. Sex.

Possibly the main reason why most travelers (men, to be entirely accurate) frequent Thailand is the country's famous sex industry. In Bangkok alone, a farang (Western) man - and in some cases, woman - can indulge in forbidden pleasures by simply visiting areas like Patpong, Nana, and the infamous Soi Cowboy. Such pleasures can also be found in the go-go and coyote bars that litter Pattaya's famous Walking Street and Phuket's Patong Beach. Tastes ranging from the conventional to the slightly askew to the downright sleazy are sure to be satisfied in any of the sex areas that can be found in most of the country's tourist haunts. Whether you're into skinny, bowlegged chicks, or the more voluptuous pre and post-op trannies, Thailand has it all.

Of course, this is probably not the whole point of your backpacking. Thailand, however, has a way of luring unsuspecting travelers into its raw sexual energy, and this has become the downfall of many a hapless farang who end up with empty wallets (all thanks to seemingly angelic bargirls who need 'rescuing'), or worse, a plethora of undesirable diseases due to general carelessness. Know that by indulging in Thailand's most famous industry, you are treading in dangerous waters, so do tread carefully.

5. Shopping.

Without a doubt, Thailand offers excellent shopping, definitely one of the best in the world. Bangkok itself plays host to numerous shopping districts where one can get anything from designer labels to cheap knock-offs. Those with heftier wallets frequent the Ratchaprasong area and its upscale malls with their numerous designer boutiques. The more budget-conscious, however, can be found haggling their way through nearby Pratunam, the Lumphini Night Market, the Chatuchak Weekend Market, and Bo Bae, Asia's wholesale mecca.

Most of the time, shopping is practically unheard of while backpacking. Thailand, however, sells everything from clothes and accessories to the latest gadgets at incredibly cheap prices. Haggle like there's no tomorrow, why don't you? That's part of the fun!

Indeed, there's much to learn in backpacking. Thailand is an excellent teacher. No wonder newbies flock to the country by the thousands, and the veterans just keep on coming.

Chiang Mai, Thailand Travel - Make Your Experience Unforgettable

You'd think that a trip to the Old City of Thailand is boring, but it might surprise you to know that it isn't. A trip to Chiang Mai in Thailand can be truly fun, educational and unforgettable. You don't get to see many places in Thailand where you can find old chedis and temples, but such still exist in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai has become one of the most loved travel destinations in Thailand with its beautiful architecture, delectable cuisine, pristine mountains and waterfalls, and many things besides. Yes, an authentic Chiang Mai Thailand travel is bound to be filled with so much fun and many surprises. Even though you can probably tour the entire city in one day, you will forever relieve the experience in your heart.

What's to do in City? There are so many things you can do in this beautiful city! If you are bringing your kids with you, take them to Mae Sa and let them enjoy a ride aboard elephants or watch a football game played by elephants at the Elephant Camp, while you go look at the orchid nurseries.

Take a city tour of the Old City and ogle at the beautiful temples around, or why not have an original Thai massage in one of Chiang Mai's spas and massage parlors? Thailand is known for these and you can find so many parlors and spas in every street corner.

The Wat Phratat Doi Suthep, a temple complex existing for centuries, is also a must visit. You have to take a 300-stair climb to see the chedi and the golden spire, and from there you can see the view of the city down below. While at the Suthep Moutain take time to visit the Zoo which houses over 6,000 animals, including two pandas on a loan from China.

Do you love shopping? Even if you don't you would wish to bring home some souvenirs with you, wouldn't you? These you can find at the Night Bazaar. There's an exciting array of gift items that you can buy at the Night Bazaar. You'll find almost everything, from silk to handicrafts to even designer items, there.

Why not go to the Doi Inthanon National Park, too? Located at the south, the Doi Inthanon National Park is the tallest mountain in Thailand. Standing grandly and 8,415, the Doi Inthanon Nationa Park is very relaxing --- a perfect stop at the end of a long day.

Whichever travel destination you are going to, it is always wise to plan ahead. Book your flight and hotel accommodation early, and research on the place you wish to go to. Planning ahead helps you organize your itinerary better, thus saving you a lot of time. Planning ahead also ensures that you will stay just within your budget.

So be a wise traveler, whether you are going to Chiang Mai, Thailand, or elsewhere. Before packing your things, know your travel destination by heart.

I Love Italian Travel - Umbria Carnevale Season

The city of Sant'Eraclio, Umbria is located some 25 miles (40 kilometers) southeast of the regional capital, Perugia. Its Carnevale was originated back in 1542 by the Olivetani friars of Mormonzone, who lived in a nearby convent that has long been abandoned. These forward-looking friars felt that the local populace deserved their own merry-making on the streets to balance the local gentry's exclusive palace parties. Good for them! Originally Sant'Eraclio Carnevale meant parades of oxen-drawn carts festooned with branches and flowers, and the people dancing and singing to the music of flutes and trumpets played by men and women in the traveling carts. But during the Seventeenth Century the Church decried this Carnevale as sinful and banned it. I am under the impression that the local gentry's exclusive palace parties were not banned. About a century later Carnevale was allowed to resume, but in this region only in Sant'Eraclio. Carnivale continued here without interruption until the Second World War.

The Masquerade was held on Shrove Tuesday but due to post-war security measures forbidding the wearing of masks in public it didn't last too long. Todays' allegorical floats are made from papier mache and the street parade is accompanied by the sound of dancing and singing, as in centuries past. And the local gentry, as everyone else, still has parties, but perhaps not in the palaces.

Carnevale dei Bambini! (Childrens' Carnival). That's how the hilltop village of Acquasparta in southern Umbria describes its annual event. The floats and masks evoke cartoons and kids' films, and there are free rides on trains, carriages, merry-go-rounds and a double-decker bus. It's a beautiful carnival and local food specialties are a major attraction. Unfortunately, we can't say the same about the late Renaissance Palazzo Cesi, now belonging to the University of Perugia, which is undergoing slow renovations. Note to the local gentry, how about opening up your pocketbooks and the Palazzo?

Spoleto, a city of some 40 thousand, about 40 miles (60 kilometers) southeast of Perugia has been holding a Carnevale for more than 180 years although they did manage to miss five years in the 1980s. It's pretty standard fare with allegorical floats, masked paraders and musicians, and a procession from the historic city center to Piazza Garibaldi, named for the hero of Italian Unification. You may prefer the Guardea Carnevale in that town of 2 thousand located about 35 miles (60 kilometers) south of Perugia. It has a reputation for excellence and there are several nighttime events. Other Umbrian localities sporting Carnevale events include San Sisto (with a nighttime parade), Ponterio (they call it Carnevalandia), and Todi.

Backpacking in Thailand - The Best Gear to Travel With

What is the best gear to travel with if you're planning to backpack through Thailand (or travel on a budget)? Well, it depends of course on where you're heading. If you go north, then pack for cool nights and mountain climbing. If you head south, then prepare for magnificent ocean adventures.

Firstly, if your plans include Chiang Mai or north then keep in mind it gets kind of chilly and you'll need warm gear and the right kit (ie. strong walk boots) for doing some trekking or exploring. However if you're going to hit the oceans on your Thai journey, then let's look at what you'll need.

OK, first up, the ever trusty waterproof 'sea' bag. These colorful little creatures will save your bacon in more ways than one, especially if you're a water baby and you love to be immersed in the sea all day. With your essential belongings safely enclosed in one of these you can explore ANY remote beach and still pull out a camera to capture the fun. An essential piece of ocean travel kit.

Next up is the go-anywhere sea sandals. You know the type - they embrace your feet and let you walk on sharp rocks and swim without worrying about what's down there. Then wear them down the street to get your Pad Thai. A good quality pair of these will last you forever and are essential for a good and safe Thailand adventure.

You'll need a quality jacket too, for the odd storm that steals in out of nowhere. Heaps of choices available, so get something that's lightweight and strong that'll cope with the wear and tear of being stuffed in your backpack and used frequently. It's Thailand, so it won't need to be too warm. In fact, the more breathable, the better.

Well, that's it in a nutshell. There's other gear that'll you want to bring but having those three pieces of kit will keep a smile on your face as you backpack through Thailand and have the adventure of your life!

Thailand - A Cheap Travel Destination That Delivers

Fuel prices are up and the economy is down this year. That makes getting the most bang out of your travel buck important. Thailand represents a fascinating and excellent travel destination that is also an incredible deal.

Known as the land of smiles, Thailand is one of those truly unique Southeast Asian countries that boogle the mind. From the warm beaches of the southern coast to the mountain palace of the King in Chang Mai in the north, there is a lot to see and do. Best of all, you can do it all for one of the lowest travel costs in the world.

In the late 1990s, the Asian economies were absolutely crushed over a one year period. Part and parcel to this disaster was the loss of currency value. Much like the dollar is falling now, the Thai "Baht" suffered. Instead of a down period, however, it fell like a rock dropped from a plane and hasn't really come back.

Put simply, this currency issue has made Thailand a cheap, cheap place. Your biggest expense will be the flight. It can run $650 round trip at a minimum. It should also be noted that the flight is very long if you are coming from North America. A flight from Los Angeles can easily take 24 hours or more.

Once in Thailand, the good news is you'll be getting a lot for your dollar. Yes, even now. You can always go nuts in any location, but I'll assume you are going to be reasonable. A good, fresh meal will set you back $2 to $5 and be a lot less if you avoid the touristy areas.

There is one meal item that is expensive - beer. You can expect to pay $2 to $3 per bottle. It isn't outrageous, but it seems like it after you are conditioned to the cheap food.

Getting around is also incredibly cheap. Trains are popular, but also packed. One of the secrets of Thailand is the domestic airline industry. Simply put, it is excellent and cheap. I've splurged on flights from Bangkok to Chang Mai in the north of the country and spend a whopping $38 for a one way ticket. Traveling on trains is great, but you also lose a lot of time. Cheap domestic flights are a good way to avoid this.

Thailand is definitely a great destination for those that want to maximize their experience on a minimum of expense. There are the usual high priced tourist areas, but even a small effort to avoid them can result in a trip that is cheaper than you could ever imagine.

Understanding the Good Side of Outsourcing Services

With the present globalization that is taking place in all areas of economy and technology, more and more pursuits like outsourcing has developed and became popular in many developing countries like the Philippines and India. In simple definition, outsourcing services pertain to getting other people to work on assigned tasks for faster completion of all assignments. The bottom line is to delegate some portions of work to individuals or firms that are not permanently connected to the party providing the work. Assigned works are delivered within the specified deadline. In return, the firm or person offering the work should provide the payment for the work accomplished. It is also the decision of the outsourcing company if continuous flow of work will be outsourced or the connection be terminated after the accomplishment of a particular task.

If you would observe, more and more individuals now desire to work from home. These are the types of individuals that outsourcing is tailor made for. By replicating themselves a couple of times in order to increase the work output, the outsourcing company is making the completion of their tasks quicker and yes, a lot cheaper. In addition to faster work completion, there are still other benefits of outsourcing that has been greatly defined by many who uses outsourcing services.

Benefits of Using Outsourcing Services

1. Cost-Saving
Most companies based in more prosperous countries including Australia, Europe, United States of America, and even Japan outsource their work to less progressive countries like the Philippines, Thailand, China and India because the cost charged by freelancers or firms in these countries are extremely lower compared to native workers in their place. The money that they will save can be used in other expenses of the business, which is one cost-effective strategy for the business.

2. Reduces the overall workload for the business
Outsourcing some of the tasks allows more time to complete other chores for the business. Through outsourcing services, the company can concentrate on other fundamental assignments, which makes the completion quicker and more efficiently done. As a result, the whole workload of the business is reduced, which are all directed to faster completion of all company goals when it comes to work.

3. Enables getting expert services
It is common knowledge that there are instances when a particular talent needed to undertake a chore is not sufficient in the locality. One solution to resolve this problem is by outsourcing these talents from other countries, where there are plenty of homegrown talents that can do the job for your company. Another reason why some companies outsource from other nations is because of the high cost of fees set by the government for some talents or services.

The internet is one important tool used by many outsourcing individuals and companies in looking for talents and freelancers who are interested with outsourced tasks and services.

4. Speedy delivery of completed tasks
Since the freelancer or company signed up a contract or agreed on a particular arrangement with the outsourcing company or client, most of the tasks are scheduled with a deadline to meet. The worker makes sure that all tasks are delivered on time or ahead of time so as to get the trust of the outsourcing company.

Even though there are several advantages of outsourcing services, still there are also some disadvantages that may crop up along the way. For example, poor communication between the two parties is likely to cause poor work performance. In spite of this, the benefits of outsourcing services still make imperceptible the slight downsides that might transpire. Overall, it still brings good gains for both the freelancer and the outsourcing company.

Thailand - The Land of Smiles - Northern Thailand

You will no doubt have heard this said of Thailand and it is; by and large true, I say this with tongue in cheek because the Thais are a genuinely friendly people but you have to bear in mind their circumstances. Whilst they are a hard working race they get no help from their government. If they have not got, or cannot find work, then they do not eat. It follows therefore that if they get their hands on a foreign traveler with money they are gonna smile and make sure they do everything possible to keep them happy, while at the same time helping themselves to some of that money.

Most of my time is spent in northern Thailand, which is considered to be the cultural region. Should you be going to travel in Thailand please enjoy all it has to offer and believe me that is an awful amount but temper it with consideration for the local population. The King is the most respected individual in the kingdom and is loved by his subjects. Make derogatory remarks about any member of the royal family at your peril.

The second most important institution is the Monkhood of the Buddhist faith, 90%+ of the population follows Buddhism. Full of beautiful and ancient temples lavished with much adornment by the community it serves. There are more than 7000 Buddhist temples in Thailand. The wealth of the church in Thailand is probably greater than the monarchy. Every Thai individual will make "merit" by giving to the church at any opportunity. The theory being that they will get it back in the next world.

The Thais are devout Buddhists in the main with Muslims making up 10% of the population mainly in the Deep South and Christians and other religions making up the remainder. It must be born in mind that Thai style Buddhism is a mish mash of true Buddhism and paganism, which has filtered down from the days of the Lanna kingdom. Most Thais have their own spirit house in the garden for the spirits of the ancestors to reside in and offerings will be made to keep the spirits happy.

The temple is the hub of village and community life. Local government whilst centred in the Ampher House (town hall) gets its message across in the local temple. This is the same when election time comes around, it all centers on the temple.

Every family expects their sons to join the monkhood in their teens and consider it a great honour for the family. Great ceremony is placed on the son joining the church followed inevitably by a great party to which everyone is invited. The Thai way is to have a party for any reason however slight and I for one can see no problem with that.

Weddings are another great opportunity for a party. The day starts with members of the family going to the temple and collecting the community owned tables and chairs in their trucks and setting them up in the grounds of the brides family home. The previous evening the fatted pig would have been killed and cut into mouth sized portions and cooked in the largest Wok you have ever seen some five feet in diameter. It is monitored throughout the night to ensure it gets stirred occasionally, in between the rounds of rice whisky drinking.

The night before is rather like a disco with a group on stage and everybody dancing. The men dance together and not with the ladies. It is most disconcerting to have a Thai male come up to you and ask you to dance. I find it very difficult to say no without causing offence and so I end up dancing with them. They seem to be happy and the ladies accept it.

Ask anyone who has visited Thailand if they would return and I know they will say YES! emphatically!

Thailand Famous Tourist Attractions

Thailand has become one of the most well known and popular sites for holiday makers around the world. It is just because of its charming nature, and many tourist attractions offered to holiday makers. Lots of tourist sites can be found throughout the country and each of them has got uniqueness for itself which also provides tourists with interesting knowledge about Thai culture.

In Thailand, there are a great number of Buddhist temples that tourists can visit to learn about the national religion of Thailand. For Bangkok, it is the capital city of the country where there are many important temples situated around the city. One of the most important temples is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where a Buddhist image made from a large Emerald is kept. All important issues about Royal family and country will be held within this temple. The temple of Dawn is also in Bangkok on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, where one can see a very beautiful ancient architectural art within the temple. There are many more temples throughout the country, which each of them has an amazing story and background.

For people interested in watching live sport, Bangkok is the home to the two largest Thai Boxing stadiums, or Muay Thai stadiums. Muay Thai has become a popular sport around the world and the best fighters in the world appear in Lumpini and Rajadamneorn stadiums. The stadiums hold weekly matches which most of famous and best fighters will be appeared in these two stadiums. There are many boxing schools teaching Muay Thai to interested people.

Another popular activity of tourist is water activities. Thailand is so well known for the home of many beautiful beaches throughout the country, where tourists can go swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, or sun bathing on nice white sandy beaches. At the same time, tourists can enjoy buying things from local venders who sell delicious fruit, local foods, and souvenirs on the beach. Samui, Phuket, Pattaya and Hua Hin are some of great tourist destinations for having beautiful beaches and relax atmosphere that tourists are looking for.

Moreover, Thailand is also a great place for nightlife. Most entertainment venues are closed very late. Some of them may be opened until dawn for parties. There are lots of famous DJs and high-quality musicians, and other entertainers that perform in the numerous nightclubs in the most popular tour sites throughout the country.

Thailand has got so many things to offer to tourists or holiday makers. It has become one of popular tourist destinations which are waiting for tourists to visit and discover the beauty of the country and its uniqueness. Thus, don't forget to visit Thailand "The Land of Smile" for the next time you are planning a vacation!