Phang-Nga is a primarily agricultural province in the south of Thailand. The chief cash crop is rubber, and rubber plantations cover a considerable area, especially noticeable along the roads. Aside from that, however, large areas are also given to food crops. Considerable amounts of rice, vegetables and fruits are produced in Phang-Nga. Phang-Nga province has an area of 4,170 sq. kms., a large part of which is forest.

** updated website at http://phangnga.sawadee.com/
see also:  http://phuket.sawadee.com/khaolak/

Boundary
  » North: borders Ranong Province and Surat Thani Province.
 » South: borders Phuket Province and the Andaman Sea.
 » East: borders Surat Thani Province and Krabi Province.
 » West: borders the Andaman Sea.

From Phang-Nga city to nearby provinces
 » Ranong         226 kms.
 » Surat Thani   196 kms.
 » Krabi              86 kms.
 » Phuket           87 kms.

By Road
From Bangkok, take Route 4, passing Prachuab Khirikan, Chumpon, and Ranong. Total distance is 788 kms. and travel time to Phang-Nga Town is approximately 12 hours.  
From Phuket, use route 402, pass the parallel spans of Sarasin and Thao Thep Krasatri Bridges.  You are now in Phang-Nga province. To go on to the provincial capital, go north to the town of Koke Kloy. Turn right (at Bangkok Bank), and follow Route 4 to Phang-Nga Town. You will pass Takua Thung along the way and cover a distance of 87 kms. Travel time is about 90 minutes

By Air & Non-Air
leave the Southern Bus Terminal Tel. (02) 435 1195.
nst.sawadee.com

The Emblem of Chaiyaphum

Introduction

Chaiyaphum  Province is located almost at the center of Thailand in the northeastern region. lts size  ranks  third  in  the  region and eighth in the country. The province has a total area of 12,778.3 square km. or 7,986,429 Rai. lt is 342 km. From Bangkok.      Approximately  50% of Chaiyaphum is mountains and forests. The rest is a plateau.  Chaiyaphum  is  divided  into 2 parts by the mountain range that runs through  the  center  of  the  province  form  east  to  west which comprises Phu Yuak,  Phu  E  Thao,  Phu  Lankha,  Phu  Phang  Hoei  and  connects with Phu Phraya  Fo  which  is part of the Petchabun Mountain Range. The range goes through  Amphoe  Thep Sathit, Amphoe Nong Bua Daeng and Amphoe Khon San.   The   main  rivers  are  Chi  River  which  originates  in  a  thick  jungle  in Amphoe Nong Bua Daeng and Phrom River which comes from a thick jungle in Amphoe Khon San. They are important rivers of the Northeast Borders North South East West Petchabun and Khon Kaen Province. Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Khon Kaen and Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Petchabun and Lop Buri Province. From Chaiyaphum city of nearby Provinces      -   Khon Kaen 150 kms.      -   Lopburi 243 kms.      -   Nakhon Ratchasima 119 kms.      -   Petchabun 259 kms From Chaiyaphum city to its districts      -   Narong 58 kms.      -   Ban Khawao 13 kms.      -   Ban Thaen 80 kms.      -   Chaturat 40 kms.      -   Kaeng Khro 45 kms.      -   Kaset Sombun 90 kms.      -   Khon San 125 kms.      -   Khon Sawan 38 kms.      -   Nong Bue Daeng 53 kms.      -   Nong Bua Raheo 33 kms.      -   Phakdi Chumphon 85 kms.      -   Phu Khiao 80 kms.      -   Thep Sathit 105 kms.      -   Noen Sa - Nga 30 kms.      -   Sab Yai Subdistrict 50 kms.   History      Chaiyaphum  is an  old  city dating back to the time when the Khmer Empire was the pinnacle of its power. The city was a lesser city of the empire. Some of the sites from those That Kut Chok. When  Ayutthaya  was  the  capital,  Chaiyaphum  appeared  on  a map  during  the  reign  of  King  Narai  the  Great  as  a  city under the administration    of   Nakhon   Ratchasima.   However,   people   later moved out to find new homes and left the city deserted. Chaiyaphum then reappeared during the time of king Rama ll. in the Rattanakosin Era.   In   1817.   Lae,   a   nobleman   in   Chao   Anuwong’s  (  Lord  of Vientiane)  court.  took  his  family  and  friends  across  the Makhong River to settle at Ban Nong Nam Khun ( Nong E Chan) which is in the area  of  Amphoe  Sung  Noen  in  Nakhon Ratchasima now. in 1819, when  too many people has migrated there, Lae moved everyone to a  new  location at Non Nam Om, Ban Chi Long . All through that time, Lae  continued  to  provide  offerings  to  Chao  Anuwong  to show his loyalty. At first it was rice but was later given gold when it was dug up at  Khao  Phraya  Fo.  as  a result, Lae was promoted to Khun Phakdi Chumphon.  Lae  moved his settlement once again in 1822 because of  drought  to  Nong  Pla  thao  and  Nong  Lot,  which combined was called    Ban    Luang,    and    turned    to    display    loyalty    Nakhon Ratchasima   Province   and   provided   offerings   to   King  Rama lll instead,  and  proclaimed  the  city  free from Chao Anuwong forever. King  Rama lll  rewarded  Khun  Phakdi  Chumphon  by  making  Ban Luang   Chaiyaphum   City   and   promoting   him   to  Phraya  Phakdi Chumphon and made him the city’s first lord.      Chao   Anuwong  organized  a  rebellion  against  King  Rama  lll  and  formed  troops  to  attack Bangkok.   He  lied  to  cities  along  his  route  that  he  was  rounding  up  military  support  to  help Bangkok  fight  the  British.  Nakhon  Ratchasima  was  subsequently overtaken in 1826. When the secret  was  out  that  Chao  Anuwong  and  his  troops  were  rebels, he gathered all the people of Nakhon  Ratchasima  to  take  them  back to Vientiane. While at Thung Samrit, the captives under the   leadership  of  Khunying  Mo,  the  wife  of  Nakhon  Ratchasima’s  lord,  fought  back  with  the support   of   Phiraya   Phakdi   Chumpon   and   lords  of  nearby  cities  until  they  defeated  Chao Anuwong. Nonetheless, A remnant of Chao Anuwongs forces retreated from Nakhon Ratchasima and   captured   Chaiyaphum.   After   failing  to  persuade  Phraya  Phakdi  Chumphon  to  join  the rebellion,  the  invaders killed him under a big tamarind tree at Nong Pla thao. A shrine built by the city’s citizens is a tribute to this man is 3 km. from the provincial hall. The shrine is in the shape of a Thai pavilion and has a statue of Phraya Phakdi Chumphon which is highly revered. How to get there Bangkok to Chaiyaphum By Train      From  Bangkok  Railway  Station  (Hua  Lamphong),  there  are  express  and  rapid  Bangkok - Nong  Khai  trains  running  daily.  Visitors  can  get off at Bua Yai Station and take a bus for 51 km. More  to  Chaiyaphum.  For  details,  please  call  the  Train  Serv ice  Section  at  tel.  2237010 and 2337020 By Car      From  Bangkok,  take  Highway  No.1 (Phahonyothin Road), turn right at Saraburi onto Highway No.2  (Mittraphap  Road)  past  Amphoe  Pak  Chong.  Then  take a left onto Highway No.201 past Amphoe  Si  Kheo,  Amphoe  Dan  Khun  Thot  and into Chaiyahum at Amphoe Chaturat straight to Amphoe Muang. The total distance is 332 kms.      From Nakhon Ratchasima, take Highway No.2 (Mittraphap Road) past Tambon Cho Ho. Then turn  left  onto  Highway  No.205 past Amphoe Non Thai to the interesection at Tambon Nong Bua Khok   in   Amphoe   Chaturat.   Then  turn  right  onto  Highway  No.201  to  Chaiyaphum.  The  total distance  is  119 kms.  The  Transport  Co.  operates  a daily Bangkok - Chaiyaphum bus Service. For more information, call tel. 2710101-5 (regular bus) and 2794484-7 (air - conditioned bus).   www.333tourthai.com

]]> http://www.siam11.com/travel/tourthai/chaiyaphum.html/feed http://www.siam11.com/travel/tourthai/maha-sarakham.html http://www.siam11.com/travel/tourthai/maha-sarakham.html#comments Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:05:32 +0000 malai http://www.siam11.com/travel/?p=1130

  Maha   Sarakham   is   situated   in  the  heart  of  Northeast  Thailand having  peaceful  atmosphere  and being the center of education in the northeast  so  the  name  ”Taksila  of  Isan”  (Taksila  was  a city where educaton of all branches were centered in the ancient India) is given to it. Maha Sarakham is 470 kilometers, along highways, from Bangkok. It occupies  an  area  of  5,291.68  square kilometers being a rolling plain without  mountain  or hill with the Chi River flows through. The majority of the area is rice field.
     The   principal   occupations  of  Maha  Sarakham  people  are  cultivation  and  animal  raising. Outstanding  home  industry  of  Maha  Sarakham  is  sericulture  and  silk fabric production. Maha Sarakham hand woven silk and cotton mainly have original patterns and are very beautiful.

         www.333tourthai.com

Introduction

Lampang   or   Khelang   Nakorn   of the  past  has  the  horse  carriage  as  its  symbol  having monasteries  buil t in  Burmese  and  Lanna  Thai  style  architectures  and  its famous place, well know all over the world, is the Thai Elephant Conservation Center. Occupying   an  area  of  12,533  square  kilometers,  Lampang  is administratively  divided into 13 Amphoes (Districts) Muang, Thoen, Mae  Phrik,  Ko  Kha,  Ngao,  Chae Hom, Wang Nua, Mae Tha, Sop Prap,  Serm Ngam, Hang Chat, Mae Mo and Muang Pan. Lampang Is  located  some  599 Kms., from Bangkok, accessible by Highway No.1    Passing    through    Ayutthaya,    Lopburi,    Nakhon    Sawan, Kamphaeng  Phet,  Tak,  taking  a  total  time  span  of  7  hours  and some   100   kms.,   from   Chiang   Mai  by  Highway  No. 11  through Lamphun, taking about 1.30 hours. How to get there By Bus      Regular  buses  leave  the  Northern Bus Terminal, Phaholyothin Road.  Further  information,  please contact Tel. (02)2279-4484-7 for air  conditioned  buses  and  Tel.  (02) 271-0101-5  for  non     aircon- ditioned buses. For private air conditioned bus     companies,  please  contact  Thavorn  Farm  Tel.  (02) 271-3011. Lampang  bus station Tel.(054)277-410 There are also regular and air   conditioned   buses   daily   leaving   Chiang   Mai  Arcade  Bus Station Tel. (053)242-664 By Train      Six daily trains connect Lampang with Bangkok and Chiang Mai. For   more   information,   please   contact   Tel.   (02)  223-7010      or Lampang Railway Station Tel. (054)217-024 or Chiang Mai Railway Station Tel. (053)242-094. By Plane      Thai  Airways  International  Ltd., (Domestics) operates one flight daily  to  Lampang  from  Bangkok. Tel. (02) 280-0070 or your travel agent  for  reservations.  Thai  Airways  International  Ltd., Lampang Office Tel. (054)217-078, Lampang Airport Tel. (054) 226-258   www.333tourthai.com

                                                       Travel to the Phi Phi Islands
Koh Phi Phi can be reached by boat either from Krabi or Phuket. In downtown Krabi tourists can take a boat at Chaofa pier. The boat leaves for Koh Phi Phi daily. Boat tickets are available at the pier or from travel agents in the town. It takes about 2 hours and a half for the journey. Regular boats from Ao Nang to Koh Phi Phi are also available during high season.

● Mu Koh Phi Phi
An archipelago of six islands consists of Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Le as the major islands. The superb scenery of the islands includes high hills with jutting cliffs surrounded by marvelous beaches and emerald sea, hiding underneath a bank of coral reefs and colorful marine life. Places to visit of Mu Koh Phi Phi include

 Koh Phi Phi Don
covers a total area of 28 square kilometers : 8 kilometers in length and 3.5 at its broadest point. At the north end is Cape Laem Thong, where there is a Chao Ley, or sea gipsy village. These sea gypsies emigrated from Koh Lipeh in Tarutao National Park, near the border with Malaysia. Diving at Laem Thong is excellent, as it is also at Hua Rah Ket to the extreme south. There are long beaches with rocks scattered about. Two curving bays are especially beautiful : Ton Sai and Loh Dalam. This is also where accommodations and tourist services are found. Unfortunately this area has become a party place with lots of bars playing music until the early morning hours. For a quieter vacation it is advised  to go to the other beaches which only can be reached by longtail boat or a jungle walk over the hills.

 Koh Phi Phi Le
is 6.6 square kilometers in total area : 3 kilometers in length and 1 at its broadest point. The island is entirely limestone and steep cliffs rising from the sea very nearly ring it. Surrounding waters average about 20 meters in depth, reaching 34 meters at the deepest point off the island’s southern tip. Phi Phi Ley has several beautiful bays : Pileh, Maya and Loh Samah ; Ao Pileh is very nearly enclosed by the limestone walls of the island’s cliffs, so that the water appears almost to be an island sea. On Phi Phi Ley’s northeast is the famous Viking Cave; this was renamed by H.M.Rama IX when he visited it in 1972, Tam Pya Nak, from the shape of a particular boulder, which resembles in shape the head of the great serpent of Buddhist legend, the Naga.
It is a place much revered by the local people who come there to collect the swift’s nests used to make Bird’s Nest Soup, a Chinese delicacy. On the eastern and southern walls of the cave are colored drawings dating from historic times. There are pictures of elephants and also of various boats : European, Arab and Chinese sailing ships ; baroques, motorboats, and steamships. It is theorized that these pirates who paused in their travels from west to east, sheltering in the cave to escape the monsoon winds, transfer cargo, or make repairs. Travel to the Phi Phi Islands Tour operators in both Phuket and Krabi provide transport and tour packages to this popular destination. Regular boat service is available form Jao Fah pier in Krabi.

● Koh Phai
lies also to the north of Phi Phi Don, not far from Koh Yung. Sandy beaches are on the north and east sides of the island. Broad coral reefs stretch away into the south.

● Koh Yung
lies to the north of Phi Phi Don. There is a rocky beach on the east side, and a smaller strand of sand in a fold of the hill. Many beautiful and various corals are found there.

www.333tourthai.com

Pattaya is located along a picturesque bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. From a fishing village in the 1960’s, Pattaya has emerged as the favorite Southeast Asian vacation center and the choise of a range of homes & Villas and Pattaya Vacation Rentals is impressive.

Pattaya currently integrates the delights of a 1st class beach resort, city-like dining, shopping and night entertainment facilities with more than 300 assorted hotels, thousands of shops, restaurants and bars. In addition, there are an array of sports and recreational activities including beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, go-kart, gyms for working out, weight lifting and Thai-boxing gear.

Pattaya offers a broad range of things to do. During the day, one may enjoy riding elephants or driving humble automatic mini-bikes, monstrous motorcycles, or even monster multicolored convertible Jeeps. Others go for shooting firearms, scuba diving and surfing, deep-sea fishing, speed boats, scooters, water-skiing, parasailing, or aerial sports such as gliding ultra-lights and flying motor-propelled gliders.

The Pattaya-Night-Life gives you the feeling to be in a metropole.
Around hundreds of Pattaya Hotels you find restaurants, bars, theaters, cabaret shows, night clubs, bowling halls, billiard & snooker clubs, exotic erotic shows, discos, sauna & massage parlors, not to cite its absolutely incredible shopping which is available non-stop both day-and-night.
Pattaya offers a enormous package of accomodations from really cheap till a wealthy luxury of 5-star hotels

Jom Tien beach is just 2 miles to the south of Pattaya-Beach and they make together an impressive beach bay combination of almost 20 kilometers

www.siam11.com

Phuket beaches are similar, mostly with soft sand, clear warm water and enclosed in pretty bays, so pages are organised by accommodation available, e.g. best big budget, best isolated…Each section has one large picture followed by three small ones.

Phuket is the largest of Thailand’s islands and the country’s most popular sand and sea destination, though much of it is tourism of the package kind.
Access is easy via the international airport, and roads are excellent. Recent development has spoiled a lot of the sights and tranquility of the island, but brought reliable power and water supplies, comfortable hotels, cold beer and good varied food to the beaches - and isolationists can still find secluded spots.
Phuket town/port has no beaches or significant night life, but good local craft shops and a lively market. It’s a useful transit point for inter-island ferries to places such as Phi Phi Don, Ko Lanta or Krabi.
The beaches worth lying on are all on Phuket’s [pron. Pooket] west coast, with the busiest and being Patong in the centre.
Bugbog researched and photographed all 11 beaches during December. This is the start of the best season in Thailand but weather was often unusually cloudy, very hot [over 30C] and all the island’s west shores had 1m - 2m waves, making sea lazing hazardous for adults and dangerous for small children. These kind of waves are not uncommon at this time of year. Unfortunately the waves tend to rise suddenly for a short distance, so they’re not wonderful for surfer dudes, but rideable.
Phuket is not a cheap island by Thai standards. Backpackers on a tight budget or travellers seeking a quieter life would fare better on other islands such as Ko Lanta or Ko Samet.

Phuket (Thai: ภูเก็ต, formerly known as Tha-Laang or Talang) is one of the southern provinces (changwat) of Thailand. Neighbouring provinces are (from north clockwise) Phang Nga and Krabi, but as Phuket is an island there are no land boundaries. The island is served by Phuket International Airport, located in the north of the island.

The name Phuket (of which the ph sound is an aspirated p) is apparently derived from the word bukit in Malay which means mountain or hill, as this is what the island appears like from a distance.

Before that its old name was Thalang, derived from the old Malay “Telong” which means “Cape”. The northern district of the province, which was the location of the old capital, still uses this name.

The most significant event in the history of Phuket was the attack by the Burmese in 1785. Captain Francis Light, a British East India Company captain passing by the island, sent word to the local administration that he had observed Burmese forces preparing to attack. Khunying Jan, the wife of the recently deceased governor, and her sister Mook then assembled what forces they could. After a month-long siege, the Burmese were forced to retreat March 13, 1785. The two women became local heroines, receiving the honorary titles Thao Thep Kasatri and Thao Sri Sunthon from King Rama I. During the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), Phuket became the administrative center of the tin-producing southern provinces. In 1933 Monthon Phuket was dissolved and Phuket became a province by itself. Old names of the island include Ko Thalang.

Phuket is the biggest island in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea off southern Thailand. The island is mostly mountainous with a mountain range in the west of the island from the north to the south. The mountains of Phuket form the southern end of the Phuket mountain range, which ranges for 440 km from the Kra Isthmus. The highest elevation of the island is Mai Thao Sip Song (Twelve Canes), at 529 m above sea level.
70% of the island is covered by forest. The western coast has several sandy beaches, while on the east coast beaches are more often muddy. Near the southernmost point is Laem Promthep (Brahma’s Cape), which is a popular sunset viewing point.

In the mountainous north of the island is the Khao Phra Thaeo Non-hunting Area, protecting more than 20 km² of rainforest. The three highest peaks of this reserve are the Khao Prathiu (384 m), Khao Bang Pae (388 m) and Khao Phara (422 m). The Sirinat National Park on the northwestern coast was established in 1981 and protects an area of 90 km² (68 km² marine area), including the Nai Yang beach where sea turtles lay their eggs.
One of the most popular tourist areas on Phuket is Patong Beach on the central western coast, perhaps owing to the easy access to its wide and long beach. Most of Phuket’s nightlife and its cheap shopping is located in Patong, and the area has become increasingly developed. Patong means “the forest filled with banana leaves” in Thai.

Other popular beaches are located south of Patong. In a counterclockwise direction these include Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, and around the southern tip of the island, Nai Harn Beach and Bang Tao Beach. These areas are generally much less developed than Patong, and sought out by individuals, families and other groups with a preference for more relaxed and less crowded environs than Patong.

There are several coral islands to the south of Phuket, the Similan Islands lie to the north west, and Phi Phi Islands to the south east. All the islands are suitable for diving.

Pattaya offers a broad range of things to do. During the day, one may enjoy riding elephants or driving humble automatic mini-bikes, monstrous motorcycles, or even monster multicolored convertible Jeeps. Others go for shooting firearms, scuba diving and surfing, deep-sea fishing, speed boats, scooters, water-skiing, parasailing, or aerial sports such as gliding ultra-lights and flying motor-propelled gliders.

The Pattaya-Night-Life gives you the feeling to be in a metropole.
Around hundreds of Pattaya Hotels you find restaurants, bars, theaters, cabaret shows, night clubs, bowling halls, billiard & snooker clubs, exotic erotic shows, discos, sauna & massage parlors, not to cite its absolutely incredible shopping which is available non-stop both day-and-night.
Pattaya offers a enormous package of accomodations from really cheap till a wealthy luxury of 5-star hotels

Jom Tien beach is just 2 miles to the south of Pattaya-Beach and they make together an impressive beach bay combination of almost 20 kilometers.

Last week I have a more time to went to everwhere that I need to go ,because I have a long holiday after final examination.I have two big program in my holiday First I went to DreamWorld with my friends it’s wonderful amusement park in thailand.I like there because DreamWorld has a SnowTown it’s very excited I never see snow before. At first time when I come in SnowtownI think it’s very cold……..so cold. I can’t imagine Thailand in snow like europe country it will so strange.

Hotels / Guest Houses:

The best way to find clean cheap hotels in Pattaya is to stay of the beaten path. Anything on Beach road will be both expensive and dirty, the same goes for 2nd road. Amazingly enough, in Pattaya, a more expensive hotel doesn’t necessarily guarantee you a higher quality room. The right hotels have nice rooms for the same price. You can expect to pay about 500 baht per night for a nice room. Hot water, daily change of sheets, safe, and 24 hours security are included. The deposit is usually about 1000 baht. Cheaper rooms can be had for 250 baht with no air conditioning, I would not recommend these hotels unless you are a budget traveler, they are usually decrepit with no windows.
If money isn’t a big issue you can also stay in posh western hotels They will cost you over 1000 baht per night but will be of world class standard.

Condos:

Condos are basically studio apartments. They are furnished and cost on average about 12 000-16 000 baht per month. Electricity and water are not included but you can expect to pay an extra 1000 - 2000 baht per month extra. Condos are fully furnished and include cable TV.

Cell phones:

If you plan to stay here for more than 2 weeks, getting a cell phone is recommended (unless you are traveling with your family), you will meet many new friends in Pattaya and cell phones can help you get in touch with them. A used cell phone will cost you about 1000 baht, a good one as high as 15 000 baht. In Thailand electronics carry the same price tag as in the West since the products are imported from Japan.

Motorcycle rentals:

Pattaya has numerous motorcycle rental outfits. You can rent anything from a 125 cc moped to a 1300 cc sport bike. The cost is 150 baht per day for the 125 and 500-1000 baht per day for the big sport bikes. Insurance is sometimes included but not always…you have to ask individual shops about it. You don’t need an international driver’s license although it is recommended.

Food:

Thai food is very cheap but also very spicy although not all of it. Price varies from 10 - 50 baht with an average of 20 baht a meal. The best way to order is to go to a restaurant that has pictures on the menu. Western fair meals will run you about 150 baht on average, there are plenty of them in Pattaya. Tap water is unsafe to drink but bottled water can be bought at only 5 baht a bottle.

Health:

No vaccination is required but Hepatitis A shots are recommended since the sanitation in small establishments isn’t always the best. You should purchase some extra insurance just in case something happens, although a hospital visit is only 30 baht for Thai people, it could be very expensive for foreigners.

Weather:

Perfect, perfect and perfect. Pretty much always sunny, when it does rain it’s only for about an hour or so. You won’t need to bring your umbrella! The temperature varies from about 25-25 degrees on average. You never get cold in Pattaya.

Things to do:

High speed go Karts 500 baht / 10 minutes
Jet skiing 600 baht / 30 minutes
Tiger Zoo 400 baht
Chinese museum 70 baht
Pattaya Park waterslides 100 baht
Movies 100 baht

Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 35km northeast of Surat Thani town (9°N, 100°E). The island measures some 21 kilometres at its widest point, and 25 kilometres at its longest. There is a 51-kilometre ring and largely coastal road encircles the island.

It is surrounded by about sixty other islands, most of which comprise the Ang Thong National Marine Park, but also include other tourist destinations Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan.

The island is roughly circular in shape, and is about 15km across. The central part of the island is an (almost) uninhabitable mountain jungle (peak Khao Pom, 635m) and the various lowland areas are connected together by a single road, that covers the circumference of the island.

The old capital is Nathon, on the southwest coast of the island, and remains the major port for fishing and inter-island transportation. Nathon is the seat of the regional government, and the true commercial hub of the Samui locals. It has a charming pace, and is almost small enough to walk everywhere. The old Chinese shop houses along the middle street whisper of an exotic history.

Each of Samui’s primary beaches is now also nominally considered as a small town, due to the number of hotels, restaurants and bars that have sprung up in recent years.

Bangkok ( Krung Thep: The City of Angels)
Established in 1782 a Thailand’s capital. The official full name of the city is probably the longest in the world:

Bangkok offers an abundance of sites and attractions for tourists and located in the center of the country, is also an excellent stepping-off point for visiting other parts of Thailand. Although the measured pace of old Siam is now a thing of the past, the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage still survives.

Article  Souce :  thaitourguide.com

Article  Souce :  thaitourguide.com

Given that Phuket is an island, it’s amazing how few properties are located on the beach. There are many properties that are “just a five minute walk to the beach” or “a quick drive to the beach” but ours are literally on-the-beach. Our luxury homes are nestled between coconut palms in Phuket’s stunning and exclusive Cape Panwa - a very secluded and luxurious development that was completed in Summer 2007. We have 4 stylish beach homes for you to choose.

Two of our homes have 4-bedrooms and two have 3-bedrooms. These can sleep a maximum of 9 and 7 adults respectively. All bedrooms are en-suite, furnishings are modern and stylish and, life is generally very easy.

Each of our homes is perfectly designed for al-fresco living; beautifully appointed and cooled by gentle sea breezes. The views over Panwa’s tropical bay are particularly breathtaking and can be admired from every room of every home.

Article  Source : 24.org

Koh Samui, the island of the coconut trees, is the third largest Thai island and only Phuket and Koh Chang are bigger. Sheltered in the Gulf of Siam Koh Samui’s clear blue sea, the island and its long sandy beaches remained unaffected by the Indian Ocean Tsunami which struck Thailand’s Andaman Coast in December 2004. The island is about 247 square km’s and it is located 700 km south of Bangkok.

Article Source : archipelsamui.com

Thailand’s beloved national sport Muay Thai, is taken very seriously throughout the country and Koh Samui is no exception! Although Thai boxing is regarded as the worlds most dangerous martial art it is surprisingly graceful to watch. Chaweng stadium near the Reggae Pub is the biggest on Samui and hosts all the major fights on the island.

Fights are usually held twice a week on Monday and Friday nights but during peak season an additional Sunday night fight is often held. Fights start at 9pm and the evening normally lasts around three hours, with as many as ten smaller bouts before the main fight. If you only want to catch the main event then drop in for an hour around 10/10.30pm.

The atmosphere in Chaweng Stadium is excellent with a live commentator and traditional Thai music - although some find the noise a bit overpowering! Both Thai and foreign fighters compete in the ring, most are professionals, all are pretty entertaining. Chaweng Stadium charges an entry fee and you can chose between a ringside table or a seat in the surrounding stands. Soi Reggae, Chaweng Beach. For more information telephone: 07 741-350

Chaweng has two Thai boxing stadiums, which hold regular Muay Thai bouts, some of which feature foreign as well as Thai fighters. To see this dynamic martial art in action you can visit the Chaweng Stadium: 077413504 for info and free transfer, or the newer Phatchabuncha Stadium near Laem Din market. The fights are well advertised in the days before, both with flyers and mobile trucks patrolling the island with loudspeaker announcements.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Why not explore Samui’s beautiful scenery from a different angle? Instead of watching the Samui scenery whiz by from the back of a motorbike, slow down and really enjoy the view on horseback. Ride on Ranch offers several different guided tours around Samui’s beaches and jungles. The European standard horses are calm and well trained and all equipment is provided. For package deals and more information, telephone: 09 972-424-1. Route 4169, near Tesco Lotus, Chaweng.

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These provide a fun day of culinary tuition, and The Samui Institute of Culinary Arts (SITCA) has a choice of classes including intensive weeklong courses for the more serious student. In the classes you learn how to prepare some classic Thai dishes such as green curry, and Tom Yam, and also find out about Thai ingredients and regional cooking techniques. SITCA also provides recipes to take-away, sells spices and has literature on-site. They will even e-mail you with monthly recipes to try back home. SITCA is located on Soi Colibri, opposite Central resort in southern Chaweng: 077413172.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Ladyboy Cabarets might not be everyones cup of tea but for the fans among you, Chaweng Beach has plenty to choose from!

Thailand’s Katoeys or the third sex are world famous, partly because there are so many of them and also because they are so feminine.

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Located next to the Reggae Pub on Chaweng Lake, Samui Bungy Jump sells itself as “50 meters of adrenaline pumping, knee shaking, cold sweating, gut wrenching action. Thrill-seekers jump from a crane and there is also a hair-raising “Reverse Bungy” option as well as a more relaxing BBQ, full bar, swimming pool and Jacuzzi onsite, there is plenty on offer for the fainter hearted too: 077414252.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Article  Source : kosamui.com

If it is really pouring with rain, or you just fancy a western retail therapy mall-trawl, you can head for the Tesco-Lotus Superstore and shopping mall on the ring road in north Chaweng.

There you will find a cinema showing at least one English language film, a bowling alley, a food court, a great kids activity area with bouncy castle, ball-pit and arcade, and of course the supermarket itself.  (read more about Shopping in Chaweng)

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Article  Source : kosamui.com

If you feel like working out, then two of Chaweng’s smarter resorts have well-equipped, air-conditioned gyms where you can get day-membership. At the Centara Samui Beach Resort a pass costs 275 Baht, while at the other end of the beach the Chaweng Regent also has a good gym and for 400b per day. You can also use the two great pools, and steam and sauna. The Imperial Hotel in Chaweng Noi, on the ring road toward Lamai, has a Tennis court for hire.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Up market Brazilian churrasqueria barbecue restaurant serving a wide selection of meat fresh from the skewer. The food, which is served by endlessly circling passadors, is pretty good, but it’s the entertainment that most people come for. 

A genuine Brazillian samba band and dancers entertain diners and drinkers every evening.   The attached cocktail bar is well worth a visit in itself and for the chance of joining one of the scantily clad samba girls on the dancefloor. Central Chaweng, Tel. 077 231 560. Open 5pm - 2am.

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Japanese home cooking of the highest standard. Instead of the usual faux Oriental decor associated with Japanese restaurants overseas, Yamato is simply and unpretentiously furnished. The savings on the interior designer’s bill are passed on in the food which starts at around 100 baht for appetizers. As well as ultra fresh sushi and sashimi, Yamato serves other treats such as Nikujyaga (Japanese beef stew) and Okono Miyaki (a kind of Japanese pizza).  There’s a good range of sake too. South Chaweng, Tel. 077 413 879. Open 12pm-11pm.

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Long established and ever popular bakery cum restaurant in central Chaweng.  The extensive menu covers all your dining needs from breakfast through to post-club snacking. The freshly baked bread and Thai food is high quality and reasonably priced and there’s also a decent range of a la carte specialities on the menu. Also shows movies nightly. Two branches in central Chaweng. Open 7am-1am daily.

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Moules Marinier (mussels in garlic and wine sauce), Gammon in Mustard Sauce and Steak au Poivre in Brandy also feature on the extensive menu alongside a decent Thai selection. Wellington’s does also sell pies, incidentally, but they are home-made on the premises and are in a different league to the usual in terms of quality. Central Chaweng, Behind Full Circle. Open 10am ’til late.

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Serves exceptionally well-made Italian classics. The antipasto includes Cozze al Vino Bianco (mussels in white wine sauce), Carpaccio Bellavista (thin sliced raw beef fillet with parmesan, olive oil and lemon) and Salmone affumicato (Norwegian smoked salmon).

Like all the best Italian cuisine, they’re simple, fresh and delicious dishes. The homemade pasta, such as Ravioli al Pomodoro e Basilico (ravioli filled with ricotta cheese and spinach in tomato sauce) and Tagliatelle al Nero de sepia (black squid noodles with calamari, olive oil, cherry tomato and garlic) literally melts in the mouth. Soi Starbucks, Central Chaweng, Tel. 077 231-229. Open 12.00pm - late.

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Located opposite Burger King in Central Chaweng, Toto’s serves a wide range of Italian classics. The excellent anti-pasti includes Costini al Prosciuto Crudo (toasted bread with Palma ham), Crostini mozzarella e acciughu (toasted bread with mozzarella and anchovy) and a deliciously fresh Insalate de Mare (seafood salad). Main courses comprise a wide range of home made pasta.

The Thai tinged Penne alla Amatriciana (penne with a spicy bacon and onion sauce) and Napolini favourite Spaghetti alla Puttanesca (spaghetti with black olives, capers and anchovies) both get high marks, but the restaurant really shines with its light and delicately textured gnocchi which, accompanied by one of Toto’s sauces, rates as one of the best on the island.

But for the breadth of choice on offer alone, Toto’s is hard to beat on pizza. With 46 different kinds on the menu, each with a light and crispy base, you can pretty much guarantee there’s something for everyone. All the classics from calzone to margarita are present and correct, as are a few less common (but equally good) offerings, such as the Bianca (tuna, mozzarella, sweetcorn and tomato). Central Chaweng, Near Green Mango. Open 12pm - 12am.

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One of Samui’s longer established Italian restaurants, The Osteria takes up the top floor of a two story building in South Chaweng. The restaurant serves traditional fare such as Brushetta, Carpaccio, Penne al Arrabbiata, Gnocchi al Gorgonzolla and a wide selection of pizzas and some decent specials, available on a weekly basis, like Osso Bucco and Rabbit Stew.

The newer Pickles, a South African themed bar, takes up the ground floor. As well as serving Osteria’s menu, it also has a popular nightly barbecue, which often features a whole spit roasted pig. Both venues have an impressive selection of Belgian beers. South Chaweng.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Run by Central Samui Beach Resort, The Deli has easily the best selection of fresh bread in downtown Chaweng. Rye, Cornpepper, Malt, Milano and Panini, amongst other varieties, all arrive warm from the resort’s ovens. Sandwiches are the main order of the day, with a range of quality fillings on offer from salami, Paris ham, liver sausage, roast lamb and beef, meatloaf, as wells a fine selection of cheeses. There are also delicious croissants and Danishes and damn fine coffee on offer. The outside terrace is a very pleasant spot to watch the world go by as well. Central Shopping Arcade, Central Chaweng. Open 7am - 10pm.

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The Deck sprawls comfortably over three levels in its central Chaweng premises, at the top of Soi Green Mango. It’s generally busy morning, noon and night and serves decent quality Western and Thai food at very reasonable prices. It’s also one of the few places in town that sells decent souvlakis - pitta bread stuffed with generous helpings of meat, yoghurt and salad, which at only 70 Baht make a great value afternoon snack. Also, as it’s licensed as a restaurant, The Deck can circumvent Thailand’s draconian new drinking laws and stay open well beyond 2am - there’s no beer sold after that time, but they do a brisk trade in Irish Coffees. Central Chaweng. Open very early till very late.

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The food is served authentically spicy, but there is the option to have the heat toned down upon request. Those unfamiliar with Thai food should give one of the set menus a try - each one expertly balances a range of meat, fish and vegetable dishes to create a perfect meal. The Chaweng Beach menu, for example, features classics such as Tom Kha Gai (Chicken Soup with Coconut Milk and Galangal), Gai Phad Med Mamuang (Fried Chicken with Chilli and Cashew Nuts) and Plamuck Thord Krathiem Prik Thai (Fried Squid with Garlic and Pepper) alongside the Royal Thai Khathong Tong (Sauteed Pork, Shrimp and Sweet Corn stuffed crispy Shell) and Phad Nor Mai Farang Hed Hom (Sauted Asparagus and Shitake Mushrooms) and local favourite Choo Chee Goong (Dry Prawns in Red Curry).

Wash it all down with a bottle of crisp and refreshing Chateau de Loei Chenin Blanc - one of Thailand’s new generation of wines that are proving to be exceptionally quaffable. Central Samui Beach Resort Tel. 077 230 500. Open 6pm - 10.30pm

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The house speciality is Steak Flambe - a chef will arrive at your table complete with flambe cart and cook the meat to your liking in his very own pyrotechnical display. If you’re not a meat eater then the Crepe Suzette Flambe is an equally impressive show. Fair House Beach Resort & Hotel, Route 4169, Tel 077 422-255/6. Open 6pm - 10pm.

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Samui’s finest modern Italian cuisine is served in one of its chicest restaurants. Chef Marco Bosciani has honed his craft in some of the best hotels in Asia and the results show in dishes such as Tomato Gorgonzola, Mozzarella and Apple Pizza and Pan Fried Veal Loin with Red Wine Sauce, Crispy Parmesan and Broccoli Puree. For dessert the homemade Tiramisu is essential. The restaurant’s only been open a couple of months but it’s packed every night.Amari Palm Reef Resort - North Chaweng, Tel. 077 422 015. Open 11am - 3pm and 6pm - 12am.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Olivio’s boasts what’s quite possibly the most romantic dining venue in Chaweng - benefiting hugely from its location at the northern end of the beach, the restaurant looks out across the bay to the bright lights of downtown in the distance.

Given that there are few resorts or bars in the area, it’s also very, very, peaceful - especially if the tides in and lapping comfortingly a few feet from your table. The ambience is more than ably matched by the modern Italian cuisine served - the imaginative starters, which feature imported treats such as American giant scallops, Italian buffalo mozzarella and Norwegian salmon are especially highly recommended. At Baan Haad Ngam Boutique Resort, North Chaweng, Tel. 077 231 500.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Whether right on the beach or located along the bustling main tourist strip, Chaweng has dining options for every conceivable budget and palate.

Fresh exotic vegetables, meat, and locally caught seafood provide the basis for the deliciously spiced Thai dishes you can sample around Chaweng, and most places will tone down the chilli quota for uninitiated foreign taste bud upon request. In addition, there are some excellent International restaurants serving a wide variety of global cuisines, with Indian, Mexican, English, Japanese, Scandinavian, Italian and French all well represented.
 
Koh Samui as a whole is gaining a reputation as a foodies’ heaven, with a number of dining guides for visitors a ‘Culinary Circle’ and ‘Fine-Dining Association’ for ex-pat residents. As a result, Chaweng boasts an increasing number of high-end restaurants employing highly rated chefs from around the globe.

Many of the fine dining establishments in Chaweng Beach serve what is known as ‘fusion’ cuisine, essentially giving the chef free reign to employ techniques and ingredients from diverse global culinary traditions, in order to create beautifully presented dishes that blend the best of East and West.

The majority of Chaweng’s better restaurants are located on the main beach road, but the beach itself becomes a huge outdoor eatery after dark, when lots of the resort restaurants put tables and chairs out on the sand and serve fresh seafood laid out on ice-filled trestles for you to inspect and choose from. Most of these places have both Thai and international menus, and dining on the beach is supremely romantic.

To the Southern end of Chaweng beach road, the perennially popular Poppies serves fine European and Thai dishes in a beautiful open-air tropical garden, right on the beachfront. Fr reservations call 077422419.

Further north, opposite the Centara Beach Resort, Soi Colibri is home to three of the island’s top independent restaurants: Betelnut, which serves delicious, innovative California-Thai fusion cuisine:077413370, Jing, with top quality, wonderfully presented Cantonese cuisine, which is also open for lunch from 11.30-2.30 and dinner 6-12pm: 077413462 and Bellini, which serves contemporary Italian cuisine in a stylish surroundings that include and open air terrace. It’s open from 12-3pm for lunch and 6-11.30 for dinner and the bar closes at 1am. For reservations and a free pick-up service call: 077413831 or 0817370380.

Zico’s is a massive 150-seater restaurant that’s definitely worth a hungry visit. Prepare yourself with a mini-fast in order to make room to enjoy the ‘all-you-can-eat’ Brazilian BBQ with 15 varieties of meat and seafood grilled on revolving spits. The roving waiters come to your table and top you up as required. There is also an excellent self-serve salad bar and nightly entertainment with a DJ and Brazilian carnival dancers. Zico’s is open from 5pm-1am: 077231560.

Not far from Zico’s, in a side-street opposite Tradewinds Resort, Sushi 2 is the island’s original Japanese restaurant and uses authentic Japanese ingredients, expertly prepared.

At the end of the same street Pickles Barbequeand its sister restaurant Ocean Basket are also both ‘all-you-can-eat’ style restaurants that offer excellent value for both your money and your appetite.

Just north of Chaweng’s one-way turning, Eat Sense boasts a well-designed beachfront location, and alongside its Thai/International menu serves ‘Spa Cuisine’ with a focus on freshly prepared dishes and juices, incorporating lots of goodies such as organic fruits and vegetables. It’s Open all day: 077414242.

Further north again, The Page is the signature restaurant at the chic new minimalist resort The Library, with a stunning beachfront setting, quirky decor and delicious Thai and International cuisine. Open from 7.30-12pm: 077422767-8.

In this southern area of the beach road, there is also a justifiably popular, no-frills Thai cafe known as Ninja Crepes, which is open 24 hours, and where the cheerfully busy staff serves great value, tasty Thai food.  If you hanker for some alternatively spiced curry after all the Thai food, try Noori India, which serves some delicious, authentic Indian dishes. Located in central Chaweng, and open from 11am-11.30pm: 077413315.

In the heart of Chaweng, Churrasco Steak House has a great international menu to complement its prime imported Australian beef. Open 3-12pm: 0862747662.

For a Latin twist there’s Gringos Cantina with yummy Tex-Mex fare, plus vegetarian food and kids options available: 077230500. While a little further north, the Red Snapper Bar and Grill, attached to the Chaweng Regent Resort is a classy, mid-range diner with a Mediterranean influenced menu and great salad bar. The bar area has live Latin music in the evenings: 077422008. 

Finally, as you head out of Chaweng proper towards the airport, right opposite the Amari Palm Reef Resort, Prego serves renowned Italian cuisine in a very smart locale: 077422015, while at the far northern end of the strip, the smart newKandaburi Resort has two super restaurants:  the Orchidea for Thai fine dining, andKandalini, which serves contemporary Mediterranean cuisine: 077428888.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Chaweng has a huge variety of restaurants. Dine literally on the beach, seated on cushions, or under a thatched roof, or in air-conditioned comfort.

From local Thai food to gourmet international your taste buds will be satisfied.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

There’s no room for pizza on the menu, but you won’t really care after trying dishes such as Canelloni Crepe al profumo di Mare (crepe filled with rock lobster, zucchini, parmesan cheese, cream sauce au gratin), Filetto d’Angnello con salsa al peperone verde (grilled marinated lamb tenderloin served with grilled polenta and jalapeno sauce) and Ossobucco di Vitello con gremolata (braised veal shank served with vegetables in port wine sauce).

There’s also a short, but impressive, tapas selection served in a separate wine bar area with classic well made cocktails. Soi Colibri, Next door to POD, Central Chaweng,  Tel. 077 413 830

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Article  Source : kosamui.com

Named after a disco in Lisbon that the proprietor Gillou once owned, Captain Kirk has built up a loyal following of return clientele since opening four years ago. Overlooking central Chaweng, the restaurant is a great spot for people watching and has its fair share of quirky design features, such as the African themed back bar, complete with wall murals, and the glass topped dining tables filled with pop memorabilia from Gillou’s travels. It’s also a great place for top notch Mediterranean and Thai food - the New Zealand Grilled Lamb Skewer with Mustard Sauce Old Fashioned is particularly highly recommended. Central Chaweng, Tel. 01 270 5376. Open 6pm - 12am.

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Swiss proprietor Andreas Muller spent many years working in the international hotel industry before deciding to settle in Samui in 1998 to establish the island’s finest Swiss kitchen and first German beer garden. Patrons can choose between a romantic candle-lit dinner in the upstairs Steak House or an easy-going buffet in the Beer and Grill Garden, which is perfect for the kids (the under 10s eat free). If you’re with a large group of mates, or just fancy a refreshing beer or two, there’s also the Farmer’s Tavern.

The food is veritable smorgasbord of Swiss, International and Thai cuisine. To start with there’s Moules gratinees Cafe de Paris, Saumon Fumee (Norwegian smoked salmon served with horseradish toast) Tzatzika (Greek cucumber salad with yoghurt and garlic) and Tapas. The Swiss includes classics like Kurbisuppe (pumpkin soup with bread croutons), Schweinsgeshnetzeltes auf Zurcher Art mit Rosti (sliced pork Zurich style with hash brown potatoes), Solothurner Suure Mocke (pickled beef served with mashed potato or dumplings) and, of course, Fondue and Chateaubriand.

If you fancy Italian, then there’s Carpaccio, Pork Milanese and eight different Spaghetti dishes. There’s Wienerschnitzel, Paprikaschnitzel and Rahmschnitzel amongst the impressive Super Schnitzel section. The steaks are amongst the finest on the island and are all are imported from Australia or the USA and come with a variety of side dishes and sauces.Central Chaweng, Tel: 077 422 593. Open 12pm - 12am.

Article  Source : kosamui.com

The latest addition to the Coco empire on Samui, Coco Blues Company successfully reinvigorates the unfashionable northern end of Chaweng’s beach road. The impressive three-story structure is packed with jazz and blues memorabilia and serves hearty Cajun and New Orleans fare in large portions. Their cocktail list is similarly Bourbon Street inspired and features classics such as the potent rum-based Hurricane. Resident band, The Stealers, impress with a nightly showcase of rollicking blues and rock standards. Coco Blues Company, North Chaweng Beach Road near Times Square. Open 10am - 2am

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As befitting a vast restaurant, The Drop In has an equally huge menu, which encompasses Thai, Italian and International cuisine. There are seven different kinds of Thai curry, nine different steaks and fifteen different pizzas. The seafood dishes are amongst the best in Chaweng and include classics such as Stir Fried Broccoli with Prawns and Cashewnuts, Lobster Thermidor and Charcoal Grilled Red Snapper with Olive Oil and Herbs.

The huge Surat Thani oysters served with lime sauce, crispy, shallots and garlic, are highly recommended. The wine list is also extensive and includes 44 different varieties from France, Italy, Australia, South Africa, Spain, Chile, Argentina and the USA. The house rose is palatable (and great value). There’s also a well-equipped play area for the kids - so the evening needn’t finish too early. Central Chaweng, Tel: 077 413 221. Open 12.00-11.30pm.

Article  Source : kosamui.com