Thailand Travel and Hotels Review

Thai-Lao cooperation to push Chiangsaen-Suwan Khom Kham as a joint Word Heritage Site

2009-10-22T09:28:54+02:00

Thailand and Laos are joining forces to push Chiangsaen – Suwan Khom Kham as a world heritage site and preparing for cultural cooperation to strengthen relations between the two counties. Mr. Teera Slakphetch, Minister of Culture revealed outcome of the meeting on cultural cooperation with Mr. Munkaew Orlamun , Minister of Publication and Culture of Lao PDR during his official visit to Laos on 15-17 October 2009. Thailand and Laos agreed on the directions of cultural cooperation in 3 major aspects, namely to carry on the cooperation of cultural knowledge in all aspects, to drive Chiangsaen in Thailand and Suwan Khom Kham in Laos as a joint World Heritage Site and to elevate the ritual called Sueb Chata Maenamkong, a ceremony for longevity held along the Mekong as the national ceremony of both countries. Both countries agreed to such cooperation and would make it as a national policy afterward. Mr. Munkaew Orlamun said the Ministry of Publication and Culture of Lao PDR was ready to push the issues especially to promote Chiangsaen and Suwan Khom Kham as a joint World Heritage Site. Chiang Saen is an ancient district in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand’s Northernmost city, established as a royal city by King Mengrai of Lanna Kingdom as a precursor of Chiang Mai. it was originally called Wiang Hiran Nakhon Ngoen Yang and served as the capital before King Mengrai established Chiang Rai in 1262.

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Ecotourism dominates Koh Yao Noi island

2009-09-15T18:50:51+02:00

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With the increasing number of tourists flock to resorts on the Andaman Sea coast thus the living of local residents, villagers in Koh Yao Noi have combined efforts to protect their land by offering ecotourism. Let more be found in this report from Thai News Agency.

Located between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi is an example of an island is successfully preserved from the invasion of tourists and modern resorts that environmental and lifestyle change in the local cause.

Founded in 1996, Koh Yao Noi Ecotourism Club brought together villagers on the island who wanted to protect their homeland by adopting ecotourism as a selling point.

The club started, as claimed, the first home stay program in Thailand. Spending time with their host, visitors have the opportunity to see and practice a number of villager's daily activities.

Founded in 1996, Koh Yao Noi Ecotourism Club brought together villagers on the island who wanted to protect their homeland by adopting ecotourism as a selling point.

The club started, as claimed, the first home stay program in Thailand. Spending time with their host, visitors have the opportunity to see and practice a number of villager's daily activities.

The choice of activities includes sea fishing, visiting rubber plantation, rice farming with buffaloes and batik production. As Islam is practiced by most villagers, visitors are also participating in classes and religious practices.

Sakon Mukda, villager, home stay host said: "Visitors will participate in daily activities, such as fish in the sea, and working in aquaculture. They can also swim, snorkel and admire sea marine ornamental fish and coral."

Promchote Traivate, Director, State Center for Tourism, Sport and Recreation of Phuket said: "Villagers create the program, which the fisherman lifestyle Thai way of life combined. All this only in Koh Yao Noi."

However, visitors should follow some rules of the community. They do not need foam food boxes and plastic bags into the sea. Sexy dresses and alcohol are not allowed, villagers believe, it can lead to crimes.

With the united efforts of the villagers, Koh Yao Noi in 2002 was awarded the World Legacy Award for Destination Stewardship from National Geographic Traveler magazine for the eco-friendly home stay programs.

Despite an increasing number of tourists, villagers do not benefit from them. They insist on continuing their efforts ecotourism, because the environment and their precious way of saying life savings to come to personal wealth.

Source: Swing Out Thailand

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UNESCO recognition sought for historic Wat Pho inscriptions

2009-09-15T18:44:50+02:00

Thailand will propose that the historical inscriptions and hermit statues teaching traditional Thai yoga at Wat Pra Chetupon Wimolmangalaram be included in the UNESCO Memory of the World (MOW) Program in 2009.

At a meeting Monday at the temple in Bangkok, Prof. Maenmas Chavalit, president of the Thai National Committee on the MOW program, said the knowledge inscribed on the walls and those enshrined in ancient yoga postures at Wat Chetupon - more known as Wat Pho - had a universal value.

"Not only is valuable to the Thai people", Khunying Maenmas said, "but art collections are credited with preserving and sharing with others."

The inscriptions engraved in gold leaf, silver and marble, gather wisdom, from the Buddhist precepts and literary works, a traditional medical treatises, besides being a record that shows the positions used by hermits. It is believed that health benefits for treating muscle and joint pain.

Wat Pho was once considered as the first university in the country, and was built by King Rama I (1782-1809).

The Committee will begin a rigorous selection process to ensure that Wat Pho is resisting an analysis of UNESCO as World Heritage Sites to be included in the Memory of the World. Khunying Maenmas said the appointment will be finalized in June.

The first success of the committee was the inclusion of King Ramkhamhaeng the first inclusion in the MOW program in October 2003.

It is currently in the process of applying for the 102 years of abolition of slavery ancient document approved by King Rama V for inclusion in the UNESCO program.

Preeda Tangtrongchit, director of Wat Pho Thai Traditional Medical and Massage School, said he fully supported the commission plan. He added that UNESCO's recognition of the 200-year-old inscriptions would most famous traditional Thai massage.

The term "Ruesi Datton" (hermit postures), was previously used in Japan as the name of a magazine. It was also the name of a workshop led by a traditional Thai massage operator in the United States, he said, noting he was concerned that the term is misused and misappropriated by foreigners.

Mr. Preeda said he is prepared to sue those who use the term as it would reflect badly on the traditional Thai massage. He said the Wat Pho massage school has over 100,000 Thai and foreign students a year.

UNESCO launched the Memory of the World in the 1990s to guard against collective amnesia, asks the preservation of valuable records and library collections worldwide ensure wide dissemination.

Source: Swing Out Thailand

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Phuket Tourist Association to hold ‘Andaman Travel Festival’

2009-09-15T18:37:54+02:00

The Phuket Tourist Association is organizing the 'Festival of the Andaman trip' to the end of November to help promote tourism in the three provinces of the Andaman Sea region, including Phuket, Phan-Nga and Krabi.

Phuket Tourist Association president Somboon Chirayus indicated that the event is in collaboration Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thai Airways International Plc (THAI) and the Province of Phuket (FAO) and tourism associations. Said that the event will be held at the Festival department store in the central province of Phuket.

Mr. Somboon noted that the event would present exhibitions and shows of hospitality and tourism packages by entrepreneurs in the three provinces. It is expected that there would be at least 200 foreign tour operators who attend the event.

The President said that the duration of the event will begin during the high season of tourism in the Andaman. He estimated that the number of tourists could be increased, adding that the occupation would be about 60-70% this year, which was still below the same period last year of 80-90%.

Source: Swing Out Thailand

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Hawaii The timeless beauty

2008-10-11T21:37:19+02:00

There are only few islands on earth which could perfectly satisfy all passions of travelers like a windsurfer who long for high wave, an adventurer who love trekking or just an individual who want to relax in a hip hotel or sunbathe on the beach.

Hawaii The timeless beauty

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A behind-the-scenes tour of a coffee roasting mill Pakse offers a bittersweet experience

2008-09-02T18:43:10+02:00

Confusing ... there's no other word for the place. Just off Highway 13, eight kilometres from Pakse in southern Lao, stands a low-rise building that's a coffee-roasting mill by day and a disco by night. Following the tour guide towards its concealed entrance, I'm trying to fathom what they serve here to keep the young boppers awake and shaking their thing all night. Double espresso or Beer Lao?

"Coffee roasting is treated as a family secret here," says Udone Philomhuck, our Lao guide, before hurrying us through to the back of the building. "The roasters have invented techniques to give unique tastes to their speciality varieties - adding the local hooch, for example."

We're on a tour behind the scenes to see how one of Laos' celebrated exports is made. Those lured to southern Laos by the thought of weaving through the Mekong River's myriad small islands or fighting up the steep path to the Khmer ruins at Wat Phou shouldn't overlook the fact that Pakse is the "capital" of Lao coffee.

But, mention "Lao" and "coffee bean" in the same sentence, and you'll seldom get a nod of recognition from a local. The beans that go to make the rich brew are more famous outside the country of its birth.

Introduced by the French at the beginning of the 20th century, Lao Arabica has managed to flourish through four wars and is now finding favour in France and America. The Arabica beans from the Boloven Plateau - at 1,100 metres, perfect coffee-growing country - are recognised as among the finest in the world by CIRAD, the respected coffee research institute in France.

But ironically enough, it's actually very hard to find a cup of Arabica espresso in Laos - let alone a well-trained barista. Here, in a place where people love to take their coffee with condensed milk, the Robusta is king.

"For the local market, Robusta always rules," says the owner of the coffee roaster-cum-dance hall, giving us a glimpse into his secret recipe for Robusta beans.

The roasting mill is a dense fug of smoke and heat, a real sweathouse beneath the roof of corrugated tin. One hooded figure is busy at the roasting box that's spinning fast over a huge wood fire. Another man, with his T-shirt soaked and head half wrapped, tends the soot-black boiler. Braving the choking white smoke, I poke my head over the bucket-shaped boiler and discover a sticky, dark liquid bubbling at the bottom. The roaster casts his eye over it one last time before pouring the mixture out on to a long, beaten-up tray.

"What is it?" I ask, finally giving vent to my curiosity. I'm desperate to find out how this boiling tarmac-like stuff can possibly be of use to the roaster. "It's sugar and butter - it adds to the coffee's aroma," he replies.This is the source of the creamy, caramel aftertaste that's unique to Lao coffee, whether taken black or white. Many find it enticing - coffee connoisseurs, however - might disagree.

"Before the French colonists arrived with their Arabica and Robusta, there was a local variety of bean," says Udone, who confesses to preferring instant Nescafe to the local blends. "But back then, there was too little coffee to meet demand. To increase the quantity - if not the quality - roasted tamarind seeds were added, which gave a sour twist and a lingering smokiness."

Your average Lao actually drinks a good quantity of coffee each day, but probably not as you know it. Locals seem to value tastiness over subtle aromas. Drop by one of the small street-side coffee stalls, and you'll find out why.

Back in downtown Pakse after the trip to the roasting mill, I order a hot "cafe Lao". A teenager in a white long-sleeved shirt and traditional Lao sarong taps the boiler professionally, looking like she's fresh out of Lao barista school. She spoons the coffee into the homemade filter then pours in hot water, pausing to allow the black Robusta brew to drip into the glass of condensed milk below. I stir it up and take a sip - the hot summer's day gets a little hotter.

The best coffee, they say, is like fine wine. It has the power to transport the discerning drinker to its place of origin. But Lao coffee, too, has its own tale to tell.

"In January, the berries ripen," says Udone, "and the Boloven Plateau sees an influx of young pickers from all over Laos. It's a romantic place and a lot of them arrive with their sweethearts - January is always a busy month for weddings."

Just how fine can Lao coffee be? I'm no connoisseur so it's difficult to say, but the ordinary cup of Robusta gives a powerful caffeine kick that keeps me bouncing all day. And as I take in the bittersweet burnt flavours, I can almost catch the strains of a wedding song.

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Ocean Tower, Amari Orchid Resort & Tower

2008-07-03T06:17:40+02:00

Erase any old memory of Amari resort suites because Ocean Tower’s new Junior Suite is designed with modernity and vibrant colors, making the room elegant and spacious. Its highlight is this large and open bathing area which is separated from the bedroom by a remote-controlled curtain, so you can choose your private moments or taking shower and looking out at skyline at the same time. The place offers 297 suites of different sizes and styles, each with private balcony where guests can enjoy sea view. Your relaxing afternoon may comprise swimming before hitting the hip in-house bar and restaurants. Located on Pattaya North Beachside Road. Tel. 038-418-418 or visit amari.com.

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Dusit Princess Koh Chang

2008-05-19T20:39:30+02:00

Dreaming of a perfect vacation by the beach will no longer be just the dreams as 24-7 has just a place for you. Welcome to Thailand’s second-largest island, and one of the best places for clear sea water, Koh Chang. This island is home to several resorts and hotels, but none of those is as new and mint as the Dusit Princess Koh Chang, located on the Bai Lan bay.

Beautiful in its Contemporary Thai style, the Dusit Princess Koh Chang comes equipped with everything to make your stay most comfortable. Room selections come in Superior, Deluxe and Deluxe Pool Access where you can jump right into the pool from your very room. Ladies may also like to become a guest to the spa and fitness facility. The special pool makes you feel a part of the overall outdoor environment and as though you were swimming in the endlessly charming sea.

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Traveling during Songkran

2008-04-04T16:05:16+02:00

Khao Sarn Road : Urbanites’ Number 1 Water Fest
The festival is held at Khao Sarn Road every year, starting from a merit-making ceremony and a beautiful procession to the super fun water splashing that will kicks of around 11 a.m. with Thai and foreign revelers. The Songkran beauty pageant will be held at the Santi Chaiprakarn Park.

Chiang Mai : Happy New Year-Chiang Mai Style
This northern city is known for its most colorful Songkran festival, where Thai and foreign visitors flock the annual event that is held from April 12 to 15. Apart from the alms-giving custom to 99 Buddhist monks, the Phra Buddha Sihing Image procession, and the demonstration of local traditions, other must-do activities are to take part in the sand-carrying ceremony and to join the splashing fun along the city canal.

Pa Tong Beach : Songkran on the Beach
Those having admiration for the clear blue sky and sea should not miss the Songkran on the Beach festival, held at Phuket’s Pa Tong Beach on April 12-15. Similar traditional customs are held, including the mid-night songkran fun at Soi Bang La.

Khao Niew Road : Ultimate Songkran Festival in the Northeast
Anyone who wants to enjoy the water-splashing event accompanied with upbeat music, we recommend Khon Kaen’s Songkran festival, held on April 13-15 at the Kaen Nakorn laguna and Sri Chan Road, better known as Khao Niew or ‘sticky rice’ Road. The festivity begins with the flower procession, E-san cuisine contest, other Buddhist ceremonies and the Songkran party that is as lively as one at Bangkok’s Khao Sarn Road.

Source: 247freemag.com

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