Selecting a Great Hotel in Phuket

If you are tired of the hustling city life and are badly in need of a breather, then a hotel in Phuket might be the ideal thing for you. In the south of Thailand, Phuket is the largest and the most beautiful island in the country.

Phuket has all the ingredients to attract tourists from around the globe. The white sandy beaches in Phuket are immaculately clean, and the sea water is crystal clear. It has the facilities for water sports of almost any kind, making it a perfect choice for lovers of adventure.

To make sure that tourists have a comfortable stay, hotels in Phuket offer a blend of luxury and comfort and have the capacity to meet all possible needs of international visitors. The nightlife in Phuket is a must have experience. The best time to visit the island is during the months of December to mid April, when the weather is most dulcet.

The range of accommodation in Phuket is diverse. Hotels in Phuket come in many different varieties, starting from small apartments, lodges and mid-range hotels, Phuket has an abundant supply of five star hotels and beach resorts also, which means all kinds are tourists, from businessmen to casual travellers, are welcomed to the mesmerizing island.

For casual travellers or low-budget tourists, the most suitable hotel in Phuket is perhaps the Safari Beach Hotel, along with the Karon Living Room Hotel and Siam Hotel. These hotels offer fairly low prices, yet they will provide standard services and facilities and make sure you stay in comfort. Any hotel in Phuket will have its own restaurant and the food is usually very good in most of them. Travel information (package tours, tickets, etc) is also readily available in any hotel in Phuket.

For a luxurious stay with top notch facilities, the Sheraton Grande Laguna, The Residence, Aayara Kamala Resort and Spa, and the Kathathani Phuket Beach Resort are some of the renowned five-star hotels in Phuket. The amiable hotel staff will touch you with their warmth of Asian courtesy, and a touch of elegance is evident everywhere, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere. Any five star hotel in Phuket will usually be equipped with high speed internet and top notch technological facilities so that you can do your business while relaxing.

Get more info and the scoop on booking a hotel in Phuket at these links. Don't book a Phuket hotel without researching it thoroughly.

Traveling in Bangkok: What to Do and Where to Go On Your Bangkok Vacation

Overview

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a wonderful blend of rich Siam heritage and modernity. The city feels enormous, and both its crowdedness and its intricate system of bus, train, and metro routes add to that effect. Bangkok's commercial district, Sukhumvit, and the city's center, Siam Square, are filled with malls, department stores, restaurants, and high-rise buildings. South of Sukhumvit is Silom, a financial district by day and, by night, a popular place for drinking and clubbing. North of Silom is Rattanakosin. Bordering the Chao Phraya River, Rattanakosin is the home of the Grand Palace, Wat Po, Khao San Road, and the National Museum. West of the river is Thonburi, a fantastic destination for its intricate systems of canals and displays of historic buildings. North of Thonburi is Phahonyothin, the location of the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Sightseeing Attractions

If you only take the time on your Bangkok vacation for one sightseeing experience, you'll want to venture to the Grand Palace, the home of the country's largest and most alluring temple, Wat Phra Kaeo. The National Museum is another worthwhile experience, showcasing a wide range of Thai and Buddhist art and sculpture and a display of royal funeral chariots. To experience a bit of Thai culture, check out the alms giving ceremony at Wat Benjamabophit. It is there that saffron-robed monks line up before the marble temple to receive the ritual offerings of food, drink, and sundries.

Nightlife

Of all of the Asia's cities, Bangkok may be the best as far as shopping is concerned. Of course, there are the typical malls of Sukhumvit; however, Bangkok is also a fantastic place to purchase an original Thai souvenir. The Chatuchak Weekend Market in Phahonyothin is enormous, offering six thousand stalls and a mystifying array of fabrics, woks, jewelry, food, animals, ceramics, and more. The Chinatown street markets are another great area for shopping for odd gifts and also home to the world's largest solid-gold Buddha. Sukhumvit and Khao San roads are great places for dining, offering both Thai and international dish choices. For a night on the town, check out Silom and experience the stretch of go-go bars at Patpong.

Relaxation Attractions

Take a day to tour the city on one of Thonburi's canal boats. Some tours will even take you down the river, offering a brief glimpse of the city's five temples. Bangkok is also crawling with spas, from the luxury spas found in every five star hotel to the independent spas scattered around the city to the corner massage shops found in the city's center and around Chinatown.

Jessica Elliott is a freelance writer for Directory of Hotels.com � Hip Cool Hotelsa>. For travel to this region, she recommends staying at any one of these fine boutique hotels in Bangkok.

Thailand Has More to Offer Than You Think

It is hard to imagine anyone getting bored in Thailand; there is just no excuse for it. No matter what type of holiday you prefer you will find something in this land that was once called Siam. Most holiday makers make their way south to the island. If the idea of lounging around on tropical beaches is exactly what you expect from a holiday then this is where you will want to go. Thailand attracts many visitors, but it is still possible to find some stunning isolated beaches. On most of the islands you will also find accommodation to suit every budget.

Backpackers like to stay on islands like Koh Pan Ngan or Koh Lanta, because here you will find the cheapest accommodation. Koh Pan Ngan is the scene of the Full Moon Party and if dancing the night away is your idea of heaven then this will be the island to visit. If you have a bit more money to spend then you might like to visit Koh Samui or Phuket. Here you will find some real high class hotels, but you can also find reasonable deals as well. All of these places will have wonderful beaches where you will be able to work on your tan.

If you want to have the best possible night life in Thailand then goes to Pattaya; this is not called sin city for no reason. First timers to this part of Thailand can be quite shocked by full-throttle hedonism that exists in a place like this, but Pattaya is also increasingly becoming a place for family holidays as well. Some of the best resorts and hotels can be found in this area, and you will also get the best in western dining; there is no reason to ever get homesick in this city. Pattaya is the sort of place that you will either love or hate; many visitors love this part of Thailand so much that they would never consider going anywhere else.

If you would like more of an adventure holiday then you should head up north the Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. This is a great area for trekking and visiting the local hill tribes. If you love bookstores then you will love Chiang Mai. This is also a great city for doing courses like massage, Thai cooking, Thai language, or even yoga. This northern part of the country differs a lot from the south and tends to attract a different crowd. If you wish to travel up to the mountains then a real treat will be Pai; this has become a real backpacker's hangout.

Many visitors use Thailand as a base while they explore other parts of the region such as; Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, or Burma/Myanmar. It is the most modern country in the area and it offers a level of luxury that is just not possible in these other countries. Many visitors do a circular tour of South East Asia that starts and finishes in Thailand; this can be a great way of doing it but you will need at least few months if you want to see even some of what is on offer.

Ryan Fyfe is the owner of http://www.my-thailand.info/ - an information resource for all things related to Thailand including articles, news, movies and more.

Family Fun at a Phuket Resort Hotel

Formerly known as Thalang or Tha-Laang, the beautiful island of Phuket lies on the west coast of the Andaman Sea. With an area of 571 sq meters, Phuket is full of natural spectacles. And tourists always enjoy their stay in any up-market Phuket resort hotel. Every Phuket hotel is notable for ardent hospitality and countless amenities.

If you are searching for a good Phuket hotel that ensures a fun filled family stay, then you can choose from Ramanda Beach Resort, Holiday Inn Phuket Resort and Movenpick Resort & Spa, amongst the others.

Located in Karon Beach, Movenpick Resort and Spa is a big hotel consisting of 138 villas, with a total of 192 deluxe ocean rooms and garden view rooms equipped with world class facilities. There are four swimming pools in total along with exotic spa facilities.

Tennis courts, pool and billiard tables and gaming rooms are there for the lovers of sports. This resort also has an exclusive Play Zone for the kids equipped with gaming consoles like PlayStation, restricted internet access, DVDs, sports and craft utilities, and a nice small reading room.

Holiday Inn Resort is the Phuket resort hotel that is located at the centre of Patong beach. This resort has 266 rooms in total, and most of their rooms are designed to accommodate family tourists. They have rooms which can accommodate parents with two children less than 11 years of age. The facilities include a kid suite equipped with TV, DVDs, gaming consoles, a pirate themed kid's zone etc.

Like any luxurious hotel, Holiday Inn has big swimming pools, Jacuzzis, and a free form pool, located at the Busakorn wing and main wing. And you will find all sorts of delicious Thai cuisine, Italian dishes and various international delicacies at world class restaurants in the resort.

In Karon beach you will find Ramada Resort. Built around a theme of a Mexican Hacienda, this Phuket resort hotel has opened recently. A total of 120 suites and rooms are categorized in deluxe room, duplex adventure suite, junior suite, two bedroom adventure suite, two bedroom family suite, and standard rooms. There are theme rooms like Outer Space, Castle, or Underwater suites also.

Other amenities offered by the resort include Siam Adventure Club, Kidz Club, Tour Desk, along with standard facilities like baggage handling, babysitting, dry cleaning, facilities for the handicapped and so on.

Find out more about getting the right Phuket resort hotel with these links to info about hotels and resorts in Phuket, Thailand.

Top 10 Day Spas in Los Angeles

We know how important it is for you to visit day spa regularly to shed that stress. Stress leads to number of ailments including heart diseases and psychological disorders. Indulging once in a while in some luxurious day spa can boost your health to a great degree without doubt. However, searching for the right spa may be difficult. No one likes to have a spa that doesn't have special health treatments or a relaxing atmosphere. People today are ready to spend money but they want the value for every penny spent.

This is the reason why we have prepared the list of top 10 day spas for the luxury-minded and classy people of Los Angeles. We know how choosy they are when it comes to relaxing their mind and body. After all, they want to have that extra energy to carry on loads of work after they are back from spas and they want their day spas to be thoroughly equipped with things that will guarantee a great day at spa. The list has been painstakingly prepared to include the most popular spas of Los Angeles at the top of the list. The number in front of the name of the spa indicates the number of people who have stored the name of that particular spa in their digital address books. This gives you idea about the spa's popularity.

Let's see the top 10 day spas of Los Angeles-

1. Thibiant Beverly Hills Day Spa
(310) 278-7565 8358 W Sunset Blvd - Los Angeles, CA 90069
Category: Day Spas
thibiantspa.com (605)

2. Kinara Spa
(310) 657-9188 8619 Santa Monica Blvd - West Hollywood, CA 90069
Category: Day Spas (585)

3. Allen Edwards Salon Brentwood ...
(310) 394-2878 449 Canyon Vista Dr - Los Angeles, CA 90065
Category: Day Spas (243)

4. Aroma Wilshire Center
(213) 387-2111 3680 Wilshire Blvd - Los Angeles, CA 90010
Category: Day Spas (125)

5. The Argyle Salon & Spa
(310) 623-9000 8358 W Sunset Blvd - Los Angeles, CA 90069
Category: Day Spas ; Spas Beauty Day & Health (71)

6. Rescue Hand & Foot Spa
(323) 822-1887 8001 Santa Monica Blvd - West Hollywood, CA 90046
Category: Day Spas ; Hot Tubs & Spas Dealers ; Spas Beauty Day & Health (49)

7. Bella & Nella Beauty Salon
(818) 291-0781 413 E Glenoaks Blvd - Glendale, CA 91207
Category: Day Spas (42)

8. le Petite Retreat
(323) 466-1028 331 N Larchmont Blvd - Los Angeles, CA 90004
Category: Day Spas (39)

9. Pho Siam Thai Spa ...
(323) 953-9144 1525 Pizarro St - Los Angeles, CA 90026
Category: Day Spas (32)

10. The Spa At Palazzo
(323) 934-2100 220 W 3rd St - Los Angeles, CA 90036
Category: Day Spas ; Spas Beauty Day & Health (29)

Indulgence in luxury is not bad as far as you are dutiful in your work. After all, why to earn the hefty sums if nothing is spent for ourselves? Just find the right day spa with the help of this list and spend a quiet day there away from the hustle bustle of the city and stress at work. No doubt, it will rejuvenate your senses!

Zander Smith

day spas Los Angeles

Los Angeles day spas

Nairobi Kenya Restaurants - Chinese, Japanese & Thai Restaurants Kenya

Nairobi has plenty of Chinese restaurants but they aren't a cheap option. Almost all offer 'large' (good for two people) and 'small' portions (enough for one). Food is generally excellent, but all these places add 16% VAT to the bill, so prices can soon mount up.

Chinese & Thai Nairobi Restaurants

Panda Chinese Restaurant
Fedha towers, Kaunda St; mains kshs380-1480)

A spacious very classy Asian restaurant hidden away on Kaunda St. The staffs are attentive to the point of overzealousness, especially when its quiet and the food is the best Chinese chow I have seen in Nairobi. Lovers of Muzak will also be at their element here.

Hong Kong Restaurant
(College House, Koinange St; Mains Kshs 300-600)

A bright red restaurant with good food and not too much clichéd décor. It's the cheapest proper Chinese in town and is accordingly popular.

Bangkok Chinese restaurant
(Rank Xerox House, Parklands Rd, Westlands; Mains Kshs290-890)

The Bangkok has been in business for a number of years but was clearly named by someone with no grasp of geography, as there's virtually nothing Thai on the menu at all. If the disappointment gets too much you can always crack open a bottle of Moet (Kshs 8990)

Tanager Bar & Restaurant
(Rehema House, Kaunda St. mains Kshs 280-350)

A cheap and simple Chinese African eatery right in the city centre.

China Jiangsu Restaurant
(Westlands Rd mains Kshs 200-600)

A stylish rooftop restaurant above Soin arcade shopping centre. Prices are very reasonable considering the classy balcony setting, and the food's not to be sniffed at either.

Siam Thai
(Unga House, Muthithi Rd, Westlands, mains Kshs 250-680)

This attractive restaurant has an extensive menu of actual Thai food and a very good reputation. Unga House can be reached from either Woodvale grove or Muthithi Rd.

Japanese Nairobi Kenya Restaurants

Restaurant Akasaka
(Standard St, mains Kshs 450-800)

A wonderful Japanese restaurant next to the six eighty Hotel. It's always a little quiet, but this fits the stylish Japanese décor and the food is very authentic. There's even a tatami room (reserve in advance) where you can eat at traditional low tables. Akasaka runs the full gamut of Japanese cuisine including udon noodles, sushi sets, tempura, teriyaki, and sukiyaki as well as great miso soup. Good value set lunches is also available.

Furasato Japanese Restaurant
(Karuna Rd, Westlands; set meals Kshs 700-1500)

Behind the sarit centre, this is a very stylish place with seductive set Japanese meals including sushi, teppanyaki and tempura. The sushi and sashimi are delicious. Reservations are recommended.

There are many other Asian restaurants in Nairobi including some in leafy suburbs that may cost even twice as much as the ones included here. Depending on your taste you can enquire of the Chinese and Japanese restaurants in such areas.

Remember here that at this level of class, what your bill not only includes the food mass but also the dining ambience-something you are unlikely to take home in your tummy though.

All in all you are most likely going to find a restaurant, if not two that suits your tastes and pocket size. There is simply no lack in Asian restaurants here.

Robert is a travel expert in Kenya east Africa and tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. Make a free enquiry on best Kenya Japanese & Chinese restaurants and other Nairobi eating places here. http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/?refferer=ezinearticles

The Magic of the Traditional Thai House

Imagine reclining on hammock swinging in the breeze of a Siamese late afternoon. As you sip your sundowner, the sun dips orange and magnificent, gleaming on the teak terrace of your house. You feel like you're in heaven. With the warmth of the wood and the charm of the soaring roofs, gables and eaves, the Thai style house is a feast for the eyes and the soul.

Though one of the world's most romantic dwellings, the Thai style house actually developed as a practical response to Thailand's monsoon climate. Thailand is hot, sunny and humid for most of the year. And the monsoon rains sweep in in May and ravage the country until November. So any building needs to be able to resist both relentless sunshine and lashing monsoon storms.

The first thing that strikes you about the traditional Thai house is its sense of space and airiness. It is perched a man's height off the ground and is formed of rooms arranged around broad terraces. Then there's the wonderful warm glow of the teak wood that feels so good under your bare feet. Both design and choice of materials are not only pleasing to your eye but also highly functional.

The house is elevated to avoid being touched by the floods during the rainy season. In addition, the space under the house once provided housing for the animals needed for farm work. And not least, the elevation provided protection from the wild animals that once roamed the area.

But the true splendor of the house comes from its construction material. In the past much of Siam was forested so wood was plentiful. Especially prized for house construction was the fabulous golden teak. Golden brown in hue, this teak is easily worked and is rich in natural oils which make it weatherproof. It is also resistant to termite attacks and has low heat conductivity. Due to deforestation, this timber is now very expensive.

The general structure of the Thai style house is of a broad open deck or terrace area. This platform area may account for 40 per cent of the total area of the house. This arrangement allows the flow of cooling breezes and provides a space for relaxing and eating. People also sleep here during the hot summer nights. Around the perimeter are the living rooms and bedrooms. The deck is on a lower level than the dwelling rooms to allow water to drain away. The long deep eaves give protection from the sun and the rain. The rooms have shutters which can be swiftly opened to let in breezes and just as swiftly closed to keep out the rain.

Another striking feature of the Thai house is the ornate roof. Often the designs are based on some traditional motif. For example, the curving ends of the bargeboards represent nagas or celestial serpents. The decorative elements of the traditional Thai house have practical as well as symbolic significance. The steep roofs allow rain to drain off easily and holds air to provide insulation against heat.

In the past, Thai houses were traditionally built along waterways for transport and water supply. A perfect site was amid lush groves of fruit trees and coconut palms which proffered shade. The Thais also built these houses without nails. They were essentially prefab and could be disassembled and moved anywhere. The famous Jim Thompson house in was in fact brought from upcountry and assembled in Bangkok.

To learn more about the Thai house and other wonders of Thai culture, please visit http://hubpages.com/hub/Bangkok-Insiders-Guide

Your Guide to Searching For a Hotel in Bangkok

Mention "Bangkok" and images of its countless temples, modern shopping malls, diverse culinary offerings and pulsating nightlife will come to mind. These offerings and more are the main reasons why Bangkok is such a popular haven for tourists and business travelers looking for a uniquely enjoyable yet affordable experience. However, to be truly able to appreciate this wonderful city and all that it has to offer, you would first have to select a hotel that would be your base during your stay.

A good hotel that conforms to your expectations of great value, high service standards, accessible location or attractive amenities, goes a long way in making your stay in Bangkok a memorable one. You would be pleasantly surprised to discover that many hotels located throughout the city have these attributes and more. Hence, we would be pleased to assist in your search for your ideal hotel in Bangkok by providing the following useful information.

In Bangkok, it is generally easy to find hotels in different price ranges that offer great value in the form of modern amenities, friendly service and convenient locations for a relatively low price. This is because of the attractive exchange rates between your home currency and the Thai Baht, which makes hotel accommodation more affordable without compromising on the quality. For example, you would pay as much for a 2-star hotel in the West as a 3- or 4-star hotel in this city, making it a good deal for all travelers.

Whether you are looking for cheap hostels to stay the night, a comfortable budget hotel with swimming pool or a luxury hotel with top-notch business facilities, you can find them easily in Bangkok's main districts. Particularly, if you are on a budget and do not mind smaller rooms, there are many budget hotels that can be found at or near the city centre, eliminating the need for you to travel to the outskirts to search for them, as is the case for many other cities. Saving money on your hotels is a wise move as it frees up your expenditure for other activities such as shopping, dining and exploration of this exciting city. What's more, if you travel to Bangkok during the low season months of March to November, you can enjoy lower room rates offer by these hotels. Let us explore which districts in Bangkok you can consider for your specific hotel needs and budget.

If money is not an issue during your stay in Bangkok, why not consider a deluxe 5-star hotel in the wealthy Sukhumvit district for the ultimate pampering experience? Here, you get to not only enjoy the comforts that accompany your luxurious stay but can also indulge in a large variety of fine international cuisine served by the numerous restaurants in this area, and partake in a vibrant clubbing scene which attracts an international clientele. To cater to the influx of high-spending visitors, it is thus no surprise that famous international hotel chains and boutique hotels are commonly found here. Sukhumvit also has the welcome benefit of being in the middle of Bangkok which makes it easy for you to access other parts of the city. A similar option would be the Silom district, the corporate and financial center of Bangkok which is also home to the most highly-rated 5-star hotels in the city, as well as a concentration of top-end restaurants and trendy bars.

If you are on a more modest budget, a less expensive option is to go for budget hotels, and there is no better place in Bangkok to search for them than at Khaosan Road. This area is a haven for budget tourists and backpackers alike, with a satisfactory selection of cheap accommodation from basic dormitory-style guesthouses to 3-star hotels. Even the amenities in the area are catered specifically to the budget-conscious crowd, with plenty of affordable dining and entertainment options which create a relaxed atmosphere. Budget hotels can be found virtually everywhere in Bangkok, including the more upscale districts, but you can also try searching at Yaowarat Road, which is the centre of Bangkok's Chinatown and is home to a numerous vendors selling a wide variety of goods at wholesale prices. If you are visiting Bangkok primarily to shop, we suggest that you can also consider staying in Siam Square, which places you in the vicinity of Bangkok's prime shopping district.

You may wonder how to get around Bangkok from your hotels, especially if your hotel is located in a less accessible location. You can consider the following modes of transport that are available in the city - taxi, Tuk Tuk, Sky Train (BTS), Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), river transport and buses. However, our recommendation would be to walk or take a taxi to the nearest BTS or MRT rail station to get around by train as the trains are not only quick, clean and affordable, they also allow you to escape the heat and congested roads that Bangkok is known for. Furthermore, the rail stations are located near some of the major tourist attractions in Bangkok.

Looking for an online hotel booking portal that allows you to search and book your hotel in Bangkok with ease? You need look no further, as Chan Brothers Hotel Portal allows you to select from a large database of hotels in Bangkok and worldwide and book them all at competitive rates, including special promotion deals for selected Asia hotels. In addition, with instant confirmation of your booking a certainty, you will find your booking experience hassle- and worry-free.

10 Great Things to Do in Pattaya - Who Says Pattaya is Only For Sex Tourism?

Want to try something new? Pattaya is a great place for the adventurous traveler to explore. Get close to nature with an elephant ride at the elephant village, or spend time at the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden. Inexpensive water sports include windsurfing, sailing, water-skiing, parasailing, game fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving.

On land, visitors can choose from tennis, go-carting, motorbike racing, squash, badminton, bowling, jogging and bungee jumping or jumping off the highest seaside rooftop tower at Pattaya Park! The avid golfer can play a round at one of the world-class golf courses. Of course nothing beats swimming in the ocean or tanning on the beach.

1. Pattaya Water Park

This large resort and hotel complex is located in Jomtien, and features a tall, 240-meter tower with three revolving restaurants on different floors. There are three options available for visitors to choose how they would like to get back on the ground: Sky Shutter, Speed Shutter, or Tower Jump - determined by how much of an adrenalin rush you prefer.

At Funny Land Amusement Park, there is a roller coaster, or you can choose an even faster mode of transport in the Tower Shot. A monorail also runs through the resort. Massive water slides, Jacuzzi, whirlpools and a large pool for children provide heaps of fun, minutes from the beach.

2. Pattaya Elephant Village

Experience rural Thai life at this inspiring village and learn about the ways of old while reveling in the presence of exotic fauna. Take a scenic ride on a specially trained elephant and observe the slow pace of country life not found in the bustling city of Pattaya.

Watch as silkworms are harvested for their precious threads, check out old style Thai cooking rituals, trek through the jungle, and if you're lucky visit with a rambunctious tame Gibbon. This is a necessary experience for nature lovers and those who seek a change of pace from the hectic pace of city.

3. Fun Stuff

For a more elevated experience CMT Flying Club offers ultra-light flights and light airplane cruises over the Pattaya countryside. Weekends 8-6pm. Note: Ultra-light flights are dependent on wind conditions so try to reserve in advance.

If you prefer to watch combat, you can check out Muay Thai Boxing where the Beach Road meets the Walking Street. You will see why Muay Thai is considered the king of Martial Arts.

The perfect place for those with an adventurous spirit, try paint ball with a group of friends at Jomtien Paintball World. A hundred balls and face paint for 500 baht, and you're ready to cause havoc! Looking for something more exciting? Make your way to the hi-tech version of paintball at Ripley's Laser Trek.

If you like guns, try shooting real bullets at Pattaya Shooting Range.

Go-Karting can be great fun too; both 400- and 700-metre tracks are available at Mini Siam and Pattaya Go-Cart Speedway. As for profession drivers, a 1,090-metre-track is available.

4. Vimantaitalay Submarine

Dive into the deep blue and explore the ocean floor up close and personal in this exciting submarine adventure. Guests are ferried out to the 'Yellow Submarine' in the azure blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand where their adventure begins. Upon submersion, you will have a chance to explore exotic coral reefs that feature an amazing selection of underwater species, some 25-meters below the sea. Skilled divers display a wide variety of amazing creatures, including puffer fish, sea urchins and if you are lucky, you just might see a rare sea turtle. The experience is dazzling and suitable for children and adults alike, be sure to book your place one day in

5. Koh Lan and nearby Islands

The best city escape from Pattaya is just 45 minutes ride away on a ferry. Koh Lan (Coral Island) is located just offshore of South Pattaya and a little paradise! Beaches are clean, and the water is always so clear. Enjoy all kind of activities like those you find on Jomtien and, in addition, view coral through glass-bottom boats or snorkeling. Some resorts and bungalows are offered at Hard Nuan. Boat trips can be arranged to visit nearby islands such as Koh Phai and Koh Sak. Ferries leave daily from Pattaya South Pier. One-way fare costs 30 baht per person. From Nar Baan Pier you can take a motorbike taxi to your desired beach (20 - 50 baht).

6. Under Water World

Experience up close and personal the enchanting creatures of the briny blue at this intriguing attraction. A compilation of pools and aquariums recreate actual marine habitats found around Thailand, including coral reefs and massive predators from the deep. Tour through shipwrecks and view unique marine life such as enormous rays, razor toothed sharks, and spiny crabs.

Underwater World also offers an assortment of interesting activities, including underwater weddings, shark diving, coral reef snorkeling, and educational tours. This is the perfect venue for children and families that want to learn more about this fascinating environment.

7. Indoor pursuits

Indoor bowling is very popular with both locals and tourists with several alleys to choose from around the city, the one above Tops Supermarket on the corner of 2nd Road and Central Pattaya Road is a favorite with both locals and tourists. Snooker halls in Pattaya are everywhere, as are pool and billiard bars.

There are also a pistol shooting gallery, clay shooting range and archery range. Theatres, cinema, festivals and live music for all tastes are listed in the local community magazines and newspapers.

8. Metaphysical and new age pursuits

In Pattaya other activities include the many relaxing spas and beauty treatments, yoga classes, courses on cooking, Thai language schools, massage, meditation, tai chi and the opportunity to visit the wonderful tropical gardens in the area. Details of all these are in the regular local English newspapers and magazines.

Getting yourself pampered is easy in Pattaya. There are numerous spas and places for exotic beauty treatments, including facials, body scrubs, body wraps, water treatments and more . Some of the most posh and beautiful spas are located in major hotels.

9. Water Sports

• Lakeland Water Ski: Just 5 km. from Pattaya City, this enormous fresh water lake is used for cable ski, a sport that is growing fast in popularity. (Location: Kilometer 150.5 on Sukhumvit Highway)


• Bamrung Sailing and Para-motor Centre: A variety of exciting aquatic and other exciting sports are offered here (complete with short instruction courses), including windsurfing, sailing, Para-motoring and paragliding. Certificates are issued on completion of courses and restaurant facilities are also available. Canoes, catamarans and kayaks are available for rent too. (Location: Kilometer 150 on Sukhumvit Highway)

10. Tattoos

Many people get a tattoo while in Pattaya. This is a big step and hard to reverse, but there is no denying tattoos are currently very popular. If you are going to get one, there are several excellent artists in Pattaya. Be sure you check to see needles are sterilized properly. A less drastic step is a temporary henna tattoo from one of the vendors wandering the beach.

You may take 1 day trip away from Pattaya to taste more Thai experiences. There are many destinations around like Koh Samet (Strongly Recommend), Chantaburi, Ayuthaya, River Kwai, Floating Market and also Bangkok.

Find more detail and contact information of Pattaya activities at Pattaya Beach Hotel.net
Beach Lover PattayaBeachHotel.net

Save Money on Your Family Holiday to Tenerife

One of the best ways of saving money to Tenerife is to save on flight sending's. The month's of July-August happen to be the holiday season and expensive. If you can have a travel span of a month or two, you can and wait longer and have flight prices reduced by half or 50%. Another way of saving money is by keeping track of new offers and discounts by hotels. As hotel prices are mostly fixed, you have to keep an eye on the offers and discounts that may flash every other month or two. The websites on which you can track these offers are: kayak.co.uk, laterooms.com, and lastminute.com. Tripadvisor.co.uk is another interesting website for hotel reviews. Buying travel insurance is another way of saving money for spending on loss, accidents, mishaps or thefts. A cheap cover can save money at the same time providing maximum protection and loss during travel.

The green bananas guide is a guide and discount card for shopping, restaurants, and bars in Tenerife. The Tenerife Sunshine S.L. is an excursion company which offers some extraordinary deals on travelling excursions on the island. You are advised to buy currency from recognized vendors such as the Post office, Marks and Spencer and Travelex. They are cheaper than other exchanges and offer fixed rates. Thomas Cook is also an exchange to look out for travelling money or traveler's cheques. You must try avoiding the bank and the airport exchange's as they tend to have higher charges and offer poor conversion rates. Prepaid cards which allow loading money for travelling are also a good option compared to cash. Try using debit or credit cards for shopping and other purchases as bulk bookings receive a discount percentage from banks and visa merchants. When taking cabs from and to the airport in Tenerife remember to book in advance with local operators and agencies. This are more guaranteed to deliver good service at low prices than hiring the ones plying on the road.

Websites such as Holidayextras.co.uk and Parking4less.co.uk offer services for booking cabs and shuttles from and to the airport in advance. As car rentals take up a big cost of holidaying booking in advance is the best and most affordable option. Websites such as opodo.co.uk, travelsupermarket.com or kayak.co.uk help book in advance. They are tied up with car hire companies for the same. Self catering is available in Tenerife and you can start with a package from pound 250 a week.

Apartments are nicely furnished and you are advised on how to go about self-catering. Self catering helps in saving huge amounts on your hotel bills and also helps you avoid the long queues, the breakfast and lunch waits, the food running out and run out cutlery events. self-catering-tenerife.co.uk/index.php provides a self catering holiday package to die for. Based in Callao Salvaje, this people offer a 2 bedroom with capacity for 5 sleeping people, kitchen, living area, balcony, and pool. Booking is available online and on availability.

The Mett Bar in Tenerife is meant for fun and a friendly environment for holiday makers. It is located in the Starco centre, right in the midst of Playa de las Americas. It is fully air-conditioned and has DJ's playing music. You can save money by buying attractions tickets online.

Siam Park tickets, Loro Parque tickets, Aqualand Costa Adeje, Las Aguilas Jungle Park tickets, Arona and Rocks of Garcia Night Tour tickets, Dance Show at Pyramids of Arona tickets, medieval knight Show tickets, and others are available online. The online ticket vendors for these attractions are Ticketmaster, 365tickets, isango, attractiontix and Keith Prowse.

You can also download discount vouchers on food and drinks. These vouchers are available for Rags in Las Americas, Motown Diner in Fanabe, Catamaran excursions, Chippy Plaza in Las Americas, car hires and discounts on nail treatments. These vouchers are available online at http://www.lovetenerife.com/tenerife_discounts.html.

Tenerife is perfect for families with children as they are a popular holiday destination and also due to the modernization and development of businesses in recent years.

Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas are popular destinations.

Mount Teide is a dormant volcano and is placed at the heart of Tenerife. The Voodoo Lounge Bar is another attraction for a night out in Tenerife.

Booking a cheap holiday is not always easy - you need to know where to begin! At packyourbags we specialise in finding the very best cheap holidays from around the world, to suit any budget.

Ten S's of Thailand

Thailand has earned its unsurpassed admiration for the rich assortment of attractions but the ongoing development of the country's tourism industry indicates that there are still more waiting you to explore. From the abundance of settings and activities, the country is spotting novel destinations and promoting niche markets which afford special interests and requirements to travelers seeking memorable holidays. Our cover story will unveil to you remarkable things in this breathtaking country under the title "Ten S's of Thailand."

Smile
Thailand boasts an affluence of diversity with the legendary Thai smile which is amongst the authentic delights of unearthing Thailand. One of the key reasons why a plethora of tourists return to the country year after year is because Thai people are so friendly and ready to break a smile on every occasion, thereby leaving Thailand to be dubbed the "Land of Smiles". So as to serve this world-renowned slogan, the country has been developed into the cosmetic dentistry hub for beautification. Numerous aesthetic dental clinics are now blossoming drastically. They offer an innovative sort of dental services which has impressed the world.

Sabai
The word sabai means comfortable and at ease in Thai. Whilst here you can extremely feel sabai as the nation comes with a vast selection of luxury serviced apartments, hotels, resorts and other genres of accommodations to choose from with excellent value for money. Tourists can relax, laze and lounge or they can luxuriate in the comfort of facilities and amenities provided. Whether it is for your getaways, vacations or any important occasions, the accommodations of all kinds present a stay in style for every taste and budget. They feature heavenly locations, international standards, peerless services and unrivaled local hospitality.

Sanook
Journeying in Thailand has been quite eye-opening granting a true sense of fun or sanook in Thai. A land of tropical beaches, luxuriant mountains and amazing rivers, Thailand is beyond doubt an oasis in the hectic world. This lovely country is also blessed with natural wonders that make it an ideal base for ecotourism where visitors can have an experience with memories to last a lifetime. With this relaxing offer, visitors will enjoy an extraordinary chance to appreciate natural beauty and savor such exhilarating activities as nature study, bicycle tour, elephant safari, trekking, wildlife viewing and whitewater rafting, to mention just a few.

Spice
Thai food has a unique taste and flavor that makes the country the "Kitchen of the World". It is especially hot and spicy. Most of Thai food is prepared with indispensable ingredients including chili, garlic, lemongrass, fresh coriander leaf, limejuice, fish sauce and shrimp paste. Besides providing a sizzling and exotic aroma, Thai food that contains chiefly herbs and spices also exerts medicinal and curative properties. With their low-fat qualities, they help make Thai food one of the healthiest anywhere. One of the signature Thai dishes is the spicy shrimp soup tom yum goong. Those who have nibbled Thai food will long for it again and again.

Spa
This scenic country is conceived as the "Spa Capital of the World", where traditional therapy is ingeniously upheld as an alternative way to eliminate pains, toxins and harmful elements from the body. Spa has been a leading-edge therapeutic trend. Going hand in hand with tourism boom, it is presently flourishing in eminent tourist destinations. Spa confers a complete choice of treatments for a profound state of relaxation as well as physical and spiritual rejuvenation. These include general body scrubs, facial treatments, foot reflexology and traditional Thai massage, one of the world's oldest healing methods with substantial health benefits.

Swing
Amongst the most mesmerizing attributes of golfing in Thailand is a multiplicity of locations and surroundings in which the courses are located, making the country the "Golf Capital of Asia". There are many championship standard courses in Bangkok and around the nation all fitted with top-notch facilities, terrific signature holes and perfect maintenance to keep them international standards, enabling you to enjoy your swing all year round. Every course has its well-trained caddies and it is compulsory to employ one caddie for your round. Most of the new courses have fine accommodations on site plus leisure activities for the family.

Silk
Silk from Thailand has been popular around the globe. It has accentuated the fabric's stoic elegance. Silk is a natural filament made from the salivary glands of silkworms, a type of moth that feeds on the mulberry plants. Since a single filament is too thin to use alone, several threads are mingled to create a thicker and more durable fiber. Thai silk is different in colors from light gold to very light green. Good caliber Thai silk is woven on handlooms. The warp and weft are not of the same color, making Thai silk so exceptional in terms of color tones and blends. Wherever you buy it from, Thai silk is always a lasting keepsake and treasure.

Safety
Dwelling in Thailand is utterly safe and sound. The quality of life of the Thai people and travelers is now escalating to a gratifying level. Through the decisive administration of the Thai government, travelers can relish their vacations in the country more safely and securely. Targeting to endorse Thailand as a world-class destination, the government has strong willpower to tackle with all detrimental problems that may affect the tourism industry and to proffer budget tour packages to all types of travelers. Therefore, travelers are reassured that whilst here they can immerse in their pleasure to the fullest yet feel protected and secure.

Shopping
The Land of Smiles is a shopping paradise where dedicated shoppers can buy a wide variety of high quality products and services with special discounts. A unique shopping opportunity awaits visitors to bargain and purchase handicrafts, textiles, gems, jewelry, antiques and more contemporary wares. Shopping in Thailand can be marveled from high-end shopping complexes and department stores to bustling markets and high streets. In Bangkok, the famous shopping streets are strategically situated along MBK-Siam Discovery Center to Ratchaprasong Intersection as well as along Sukhumvit Road to Emporium Shopping Arcade.

Sea, Sand & Sun
A sanctuary for sea, sand and sun lovers, Thailand prides itself on a number of the world's most beautiful beaches and islands with pristine white sands, crystal clear waters and spectacular coral reefs. There are various things along the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea to suit your preferences. Fabulous beaches and incomparable marine environments have enticed a multitude of holidaymakers from around the world. They can pamper in superb accommodations, beachside bars and restaurants as well as an endless option of recreational activities like Phuket yachting, Andaman Sea diving, sailing, sunbathing and much more.

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A Perfect Holiday in the Land Of Smiles - a Quick Guide to Vacation Planning in Thailand

So many things to see in such a little time! Many travelers to Thailand are often perplexed as to where to go. Travel agents show clients thick photo albums, long lists of Hotels and a longer list of Resorts, Spas and Beaches. It seems as if one can spend a year in Thailand and not see it all (which is probably not so far from the truth)!

This brief guide will assist you to effectively plan your vacation in Thailand. Unlike other guides, it does not describe region by region but rather focuses on the activities, interests and objectives sought by the traveler.

Cultures and History

Are you a history fan? Head to the inspiring ancient cities of Ayuhtaya or Sukhothai. Ayuthaya is larger but Sukhothai is generally considered to be more impressive. The Royal Palace and Famous Temples in Bangkok will demonstrate the best of Traditional Thai Architecture and Art with Buddhism as a main concept. Thailand is also a home to other exotic cultures - those are the colourful Hill Tribes in Mae Hong Sorn Province in North Thailand. The famous River Kwai Bridge has an adjoining war museum in Kanchanaburi.

Nature and Wildlife, Treks and Tours

Thailand has many untouched Natural areas with magnificent views. Most Treks are centered in North Thailand in the mountainous provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Jungle Treks, Elephant Riding, River Rafting and canoeing are just a few of the dozen of the available activities here. For awe inspiring waterfalls and head to Kanchanaburi, where you can visit the Tiger Monastery. Real wildlife lovers may explore Khao Yai Natural Reserve in North-East Thailand.

Shopping

Bargain hunter? You're in the right place. In Bangkok's markets almost everything can found. Go to Pratunam market for cheap clothes, shoes and bags, to Bo-bae for rock bottom prices, and to Jatujak, the massive Weekend Market, for, well, everything. A very pleasant shopping experience can also be enjoyed in Bangkok's modern Shopping Malls - take the skytrain to Siam station, where for giant shopping mall dominate the city center - MBK, Siam Center, Siam Discovery Center and biggest and latest of all - the spectacular Paragon. Visitors in Chiang Mai can find exquisite Thai crafts in the Sunday Market and the Night market.

Beaches

Thailand's beaches are, by far, the most popular destination. The selection is not so easy here as well. Those who come for a short period, or energetic nightlife lovers will head to Pattaya. Two quieter beaches not so far from the capital can be enjoyed in Ko Chang and Ko Samet islands. Phuket island is a main tourist attraction with long warm beaches and plenty of activities to be had. Ko Samui island has developed from a backbackers favorite to a five stars resorts island. For the best diving sites in Thailand, Ko Tao is the top choice. Party animal? Don't miss the famous Full Moon Party in Ko Phangan. Looking for a peaceful, quiet holiday and superb views? You can never be wrong with Krabi, Ko Lanta or Ko Phi Phi.

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