Mu Ko Phi Phi (Phi Phi Islands)

Regarded by travelers from all walks of life as being among the most beautiful tropical islands of the world, Phi Phi Islands have become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand. In addition, the islands are famous as the location where the movie "The Beach" featuring Leonardo Di Caprio was shot. The islands, together with the nearby NoppharatThara Beach, a total area of 390 square kilometers, were recently established as a national park.

Phi Phi Islands are located just 40 kilometers away from both Krabi and Phuket. Thus, despite the fact that both Noppharat Thara Beach and Phi Phi administratively are a part of Krabi Province, most tourists think that Ko Phi Phi is part of Phuket Province.

The islands and the coastal hills are composed mainly of limestone and are an extension of the limestone mountain range in Phang-Nga Province. The main characteristics of these mountains and islands are their steep cliffs, large caves and dwarf trees growing out of the rock crevices, like those in Phang-Nga Bay.

Interesting Attractions of Mu Ko Phi Phi:

The island group is composed of two rocky, tree-covered islets Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le.

Ko Phi Phi Don - covers an area of 28 square kilometres. Outstanding attractions are the twin bays with curving white sandy beaches of Ao Ton Sai and Ao Lo Da Lam. Ko Phi Phi Pier, accommodation, and restaurants are situated at Ao Ton Sai. Visitors can walk from this bay uphill to the scenic spot where the visibility of the twin bays is generally excellent. Beside Ao Ton Sai, there are also other attractive beaches and bays around the island. A number of accommodation is available at Hat Laem Hin, Hat Yao, and Ao Lo Bakao. At the northern end of the island is Laem Tong, renowned for its underwater natural beauty with lodging available. A huddle of fisherman’s huts (15 – 20 families) is located here. Most of them have previously migrated from Ko Li Pe of Tarutao National Park, Satun province. A day trip by boat or snorkelling spectacular coral shallows around. Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Le is recommended.

Ko Phi Phi Le- Covering an area of only 6.6 square kilometres, this islet is surrounded by limestone mountains and sheer cliffs plunging hundreds of metres to the sea. The sea is 20 metres deep and the deepest point in the south of the island is around 34 metres. Ko Phi Phi Le offers superb scenic bays such as Ao Pi Le, Ao Maya, and Ao Lo Sa Ma. In the northeast of the island is a large cave called Tham Viking. The cave was renamed Tham Phaya Nak or Naga Serpent Cave by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej because of a stone resembling the mythical creature, which His Majesty saw when he paid a visit here in 1972. The cave is considered sacred to locals who come here to collect swallow nests. Inside the eastern and southern parts of the cave are ancient rock paintings of elephants and various types of boats, including a European sailboat, an Arabian sailboat, a sampan, a Chinese junk, a waterwheel sailing boat, and a steamboat. It is believed the paintings were the works of sea merchants or pirates because the study of west-to-east ship routes indicates that this area may have been a stopover for boats seeking shelter from storms, transferring cargo or making repairs.

Ao Maya and Ao Lo Sama - Phi Phi Islands scenic coves are favorite snorkeling places while the sea around the islands, especially the southern part, which are deep and full of coral formations are popular diving spots. With its emerald crystal sea, secluded beaches, mountain cliffs, colorful coral reefs and undersea life, Phi Phi is a paradise in the Andaman Sea. The best time to visit Phi Phi Islands is from November to April, when the sea is calm.

Ko Yung- An island to the north of Ko Phi Phi Don, has a stone beach on the east and small sandy beaches amid valleys. In addition, the island is teeming with diverse colorful coral reefs. Ko Phai, another island to the north of Ko Phi Phi Don and not far from Ko Yung, has spectacular beaches in the north and east of the island. The bank of coral reefs comprised mainly of antler corals stretches from the north to the south of the island.

Ko Mai Phai - Ko Mai Phai is north of Ko Phi Phi Don and not far from Ko Yung. Marvellous beaches are in the north and east of the island. The bank of coral reefs with staghorn corals, in particular, stretches from north to south of the island.

How to Get to Ko Phi Phi

It is accessible from both Krabi and Phuket. From Krabi, take the Song Thaeo service (12 baht) from the provincial town of Krabi to Pak Khlong Chilat Pier. From there, ferries depart for Ko Phi Phi twice daily at 10.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. On return, the ferries leave Ko Phi Phi at 9.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. The 2-hour trip costs 350 baht per person. For further details, contact Phi Phi family Co., Ltd., Tel. 0 7561 2463. Chao Ko Co., Ltd., Tel. 0 7563 1823. Andaman Wave Master Co., Ltd., offers a ferry service from Pak Khlong Chilat Pier twice daily at 10.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. (200 baht). For further details, contact A D V Co., Ltd., on Khao San Road, Tel. 0 2281 1463 - 5 or Andaman Wave Master Co., Ltd., Tel. 0 7563 0471.

Alternatively, a one-day trip on a speedboat is available at Ao Nang. Departure time is 9.00 a.m. On return, it reaches Ao Nang at 5.00 p.m. Contact Ao Nang Travel and Tour Co., Ltd. for more information, Tel. 0 7563 7152 - 3. The trip costs 1,200 baht per person with lunch included.

Remarks: Boat fares are subject to change without notice.Admission to Phi Phi Islands and other attractions in the Hat Noppharat Thara - Mu ko Phi Phi National Park : Adult 400 baht, Child 200 baht

Visitors travelling from Phuket can contact tour operators in Phuket’s provincial city for a one-day trip to Ko Phi Phi (boat fares are subject to change without notice, please contact tour operators directly for more details.)

On arrival to Ao Ton Sai in Ko Phi Phi Don, trips to the surrounding islands can be made in a long-tail boat. source: www.tourismthailand.org

Thailand - Central & East Coast

There are 26 provinces that make up Central and Eastern Thailand, and Bangkok is one of them. Geographically, this is Thailand's heartland, extending from Lop Buri in the north and covering the rice bowl of the Central Plains around the Chao Phraya River. Further south, the area embraces the east and west coasts of the upper Gulf of Thailand.

This is Thailand's most fertile farming area, a wide-ranging landscape of paddy fields, orchards and plantations. More than 1,000 years ago Thai settlers moved down from the north, gradually replacing Mon and Khmer influences and establishing communities at Lop CENTRAL & EAST COAST Buri then at Sukhothai, before founding a kingdom that lasted 417 years with Ayutthaya as its capital. When the Burmese destroyed Ayutthaya in 1767, the capital moved to Bangkok.

The Central region has a dramatic history, and its heritage of ancient temples, battlefields and ruins and two capitals, Ayutthaya and Bangkok, are a continuing fascination for visitors. The east and west sea coasts at the region's southern end also draw huge numbers of visitors every year. Bangkok residents spend long weekends enjoying the relaxing seaside atmosphere, while holiday-makers from around the world to discover the delights of the tropical beach life.

On the eastern side, 400 kilometres of coastline extend from Chon Buri to Rayong with some of the finest beaches in Asia. Pattaya, with an enormous range of resorts, hotels and guesthouses, is its centre. If you are seeking a more relaxing experience, travel further down the coast to Rayong or Ko Samet, and the lovely islands of Ko Chang National Park near the Cambodian border.

On the west coast, the resorts of Cha-am and Hua Hin attract international travellers who prefer their more sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere.

Far from the sea in the northwest of the region is Kanchanaburi, whose forested mountains, waterfalls and caves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries on the border with Myanmar provide some of Thailand's most enthralling scenery.

The 26 provinces of Central and East Coast are Ang Thong, Bangkok, Chachoengsao, Chai Nat, Chanthaburi, Chon Buri, Kanchanaburi, Lop Buri, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Phetchaburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Prachin Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ratchaburi, Rayong, Sa Kaeo, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Saraburi, Sing Buri, Suphan Buri and Trat.

THE NORTH

The North is the birthplace of the earliest Thai civilisation and has many sites of archaeological and cultural interest. Northern people are famous for their courtesy and hospitality, and the region is also noted for its variety of cultural traditions. Many tourists from the surrounding provinces converge on Chiang Mai for the annual Songkran Festival, and to Sukhothai for Loi Krathong.

The North falls into two distinct areas, the plains of the lower north from Nakhon Sawan to Sukhothai, and the mountainous upper north leading to borders of Myanmar and Laos. The mountain ranges along the borders are breathtaking, with waterfalls and fast-flowing rivers ideal for rafting. They are also the home of many ethnic hill people.The region has three seasons, hot from March to May, wet from June to November and cool from December to February. High up in the mountains, though, "cool" may often mean extremely cold.

The Thai nation had its origins in the North, in city states that were gradually incorporated into the Lanna kingdom centred on Chiang Mai. Sukhothai became the first capital of Thailand, but the influence of the Lanna states of Laos and Myanmar can be clearly seen in the architecture and cuisine of the North.

The nomadic hill people of the region pursued their own course, moving back and forth across frontiers. There are six main tribal groups, Karen, Hmong, Lahu, Mien, Akha and Lisu, each with its own unique customs and clothing. Today, they are settled in villages on the mountainsides, a great attraction for travellers.

Most overseas visitors make for Chiang Mai, the northern capital, as a base for visiting ethnic tribes, soft adventure activities and shopping. Further north still, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son are centres for rafting, trekking and tours of tribal villages. To the south, the Historical Park at Sukhothai is an essential destination for all those wishing to discover more about the history and culture of Thailand.

The 17 provinces that comprise the North are Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Lampang, Lamphun, Mae Hong Son, Nakhon Sawan, Nan, Phayao, Phetchabun, Phichit, Uthai Thani, Phitsanulok, Phrae, Sukhothai, and Uttaradit.

THE NORTHEAST

The Northeast of Thailand, a vast plateau covering nearly one third of the country, is usually known as Isan. It extends northwards to the Mekong River which divides Thailand from Laos, and to the south and it ends at the Dong Rek mountain range along the border with Cambodia.

It is known to be an arid region with soil of poor quality, but for tourism, Isan is one of the country's most intriguing destinations with many Stone Age and Bronze Age dwellings and artifacts, and several significant temples that are a legacy of the great Khmer empire.

The sandstone shrines are popular tourist attractions, particularly the superbly restored sites at the historical parks of Phimai in Nakhon Ratchasima and Phanom Rung in Buri Ram. The great temple complex at Khao Phra Viharn in Si Sa Ket on the border with Cambodian is now accessible to visitors after a long period of isolation.

The Bronze Age settlements at Ban Chiang in the province of Udon Thani provide fascinating evidence of the work of the local potters some 5,000 years ago. The red and white pottery with characteristic "fingerprint" designs are thought to be the first earthenware vessels known to man.

Two of Thailand's best-loved national parks, Khao Yai, Phu Kradung and Phu Rua in Loei, are in Isan. Other major attractions include the villages in Khorat and Khon Kaen where the beautiful local silk is woven by hand.

Isan is a comparatively poor region whose main income is from agriculture, and many of the younger people in the villages migrate to the city. But Isan folk have a distinctive character and dialect and a vigorous culture, with their old traditions still reflected in the many festivals unique to the region.

With its strategic position bordering Laos and Cambodia, Isan has in recent years risen to become a useful starting point for adventurous journeys to destinations along the mighty Mekong River. There have been important developments in infrastructure to accommodate what is expected to be a boom in tourism.

Travel in the region has been improved by domestic airlines with regular flights to regional airports; and it is no longer impossible to find luxury accommodation, especially in large provinces of Khon Kaen, Udon Thani Nakhon, Ratchasima and Ubon Ratchathani.

The Northeast consists of 19 provinces: Amnat Charoen, Buri Ram, Chaiyaphum, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Loei, Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nong Bua Lamphu, Nong Khai, Roi Et, Sakon Nakhon, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani and Yasothon.

THE SOUTH

This region extends southward along a narrow peninsula lying between the Andaman Sea its west side and the South China Sea on the east. It is a rich land in terms of the abundance of its natural resources, the fertility of its soil, the diversity of its people and its commercial viability.

The South is made up of 14 provinces from Chumphon in the north down to the Malaysian border 1,200 kilometres from Bangkok. It has a long coastline on either side with sandy beaches and offshore islands on both, and a rugged central hinterland of mountains and forests.

The east coast on the Gulf of Thailand always seems to be more relaxed, with long, wide bays and calm seas; the Andaman Sea coast tends to be more rugged and exhilarating, with its strange limestone rock formations and cliffs.

The occurrence of two seasonal monsoons means that the climate differs from the rest of Thailand. The southwest monsoon sweeps the west coast and the Andaman Sea from May to October, while the northeast monsoon moves across the Gulf of Thailand form November to February. The peninsula forms a barrier so that rain rarely falls on both coastlines simultaneously.

The area was once part of the Buddhist Srivijaya Empire but later came under the rule of Ayutthaya and then Bangkok. Chinese and Malaysian influences have played a large part in the cultural makeup of the region; the further south, the stronger the Malaysian influence, with a dialect akin to Malay, a predominance of Muslim communities and mosques. Rice fields give way to rubber plantations, and Chinese tin mining operations become evidence.

The coastline attracts most tourists, though Samui island in the Gulf of Thailand is growing in popularity as a laid-back holiday spot with first class diving opportunities nearby on Tao and Pha-ngan islands.

The Andaman Sea coast offers more sophisticated choices in the island province of Phuket, Thailand's premier holiday resort. However, the fascinating rock formations and offshore islands at Phang-nga, Krabi and Trang are extremely popular for the diving and sailing opportunities they offer.

The mountains, rivers and forests in the national parks in the interior of the peninsula are also gaining popularity with eco-tourists, as can be seen with the growing numbers of safari expeditions on foot, by elephant and in canoes.

The South of Thailand consists of 14 provinces: Chumphon, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Pattani, Phang-nga, Phatthalung, Phuket, Ranong, Satun, Songkhla, Surat Thani, Trang and Yala. source: www.tourismthailand.org

Koh Chang Great Destination

Wat Buppharam or Wat Plai Khlong It is the province’s oldest temple built around the reign of King Prasat Thong (1648 A.D.). Lately, a temple museum was established and the temple’s landscape has been well tidied, so it has become a local religious centre.

Wat Yotha Nimit , also known as Wat Bot , is the only royal temple in Trat. The temple was once used as a place to hold the oath of allegiance ceremony. There is an old ordination hall of Ayutthayan art serving as a Wihan called Wihan Yotha Nimit for storing many antiques.

City Pillar Shrine It is different from other city pillar shrines because of its form as a Chinese pavilion. Every year on the sixth night of the waxing moon period of the sixth lunar month, there is a celebration called, Phli Mueang Day or known among the Chinese as Xia Gong Sae Yit which means the birthday of the City Pillar God.

Wat Phai Lom It used to be a resident of Trat’s Father of Education-Than Chaokhun Phra Wimonmethachan Worayannurak. The temple also houses a Buddhist garden for public meditation and Chedi museum of three much revered monks of Trat.

Residang Kampot a former residence now used as the Office of Probation, Department of Corrections, still in its original architectural style.

Laem Sok was used as the residence of Kromluang Chomphonkhetudomsak, the father of Thai Royal Navel Army. Fishermen villages are found nrae the area.

Wat Khiri Wihan The temple features fine architecture with a blend of modern art. Principal buildings inside the temple’s precincts include a large Phra Ubosot or ordination hall, Phra Chedi, reception pavilion for HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, monk’s residence, preaching hall, and Chinese pavilion enshrining Phra Phuttha Udom Sombun, Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, and Phra Sangkatchai.

Laem Klat A white sandy beach sticking out into the sea with not too deep water ideal for swimming.

Wat Saphan Hin Although it is unknown when the temple was built, it is assumed to be more than a hundred years old. There is an old Buddhist ordination hall in the water, approximately 1 km. from the temple.

Hat Sai Ngam an approximately 200-metre long white sandy beach running parallel to a grove of pine trees.

Hat Sai Ngoen a not-so-wide beach with a pine forest more ideal for relaxing or fishing than swimming.

Hat Muk Kaeo and Hat Sai Kaeo have a peaceful atmosphere for recreation. Hat Muk Kaeo is a white sandy beach, which lies along from Hat Sai Ngoen to Hat Sai Kaeo, with the shade of pine and coconut trees all along the beach.

Ratchakarun Thai Red Cross Association’s Khao Lan Center Her Majesty the Queen ordered to establish to help Cambodian refugees. However, the center was closed in 1986 since all the refugees returned to their homeland.

Hat Banchuen, formerly called Hat Maro This beach has delicate sand grain and clear sea water where it is possible to swim.

Thailand’s Narrowest Area located at Mu 2 Ban Khot Sai, Tambon Hat Lek, on the Trat- Khlong Yai route between Km. 81-82. The area is only 450 metres wide.

Ban Hat Lek Border Market is a village on the Thai-Cambodian border. When fighting in Cambodia was over in 1986, it used to serve as an intermediate marketplace for grain trading between farmers in Cambodia and traders in Ko Kong.

Namtok Salatdai is situated 7 kilometres from Km. 25 of Highway No. 3157 (Saen Tung-Bo Rai).

Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park has an area of approximately 65,525 rai (104,840 square kilometres). Interesting places is Namtok Khlong Kaeo.

Ban Nam Chiao It is noted for Ngop Nam Chiao, a native hat to ward off the sun. The hat is woven with local palm leafs from plants grown in mangrove area. It is still widely used today as it is light and comfortable.

Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial at Laem Ngop, commemorates the Franco-Thai naval engagement on January 17-21, 1941. There are also the Statue of Prince Chumphon, father of the Thai navy, and a warship-shaped museum displaying old equipment and armament of the fleet with exhibits on the Ko Chang naval battle.

Ko Pui an islet not too far from the shore that makes an ideal attraction for relaxation in shady surroundings. It is conveniently accessible in all seasons and home to coconut groves, herbs and Dinso Phong (white clay body-powder) mentioned at the time of King Rama V’s visit to Trat.

Ao Tan Khu is a bay with fine sandy beach popular with local people during holidays.

Mu Ko Chang located in the middle of the sea and, thus, having an averagely pleasant climate ideal for vacation. Ko Chang is influenced by monsoons from both the northeast and southwest winds, which bar boat access to the island during May-October.

Mu Ko Chang National Park, with an area of 650 square kilometres, covers more than 52 islands. The most famous is Ko Chang. In addition, there are other islands with remaining wonderful nature.

Ko Chang previously an unsettled island, is now important as a harbour for ships to escape from the monsoon, and dietary or fresh water resources. Ko Chang is the second largest island of the country. The topography contains high mountains and complex stone cliffs.

Ko Chang Naval Battle Site The Trat waters near Ao Salak Phet and Ao Salak Khok also added another page in the Thai history of fighting for the country’s sovereignty. 17 January has become a memorial day for the heroic fighting, of which a service is held annually at Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial in Amphoe Laem Ngop.

Ko Ngam was the first point of confrontation in the Franco-Siamese War in which the French army sent aircraft on a reconnaissance and bombing of the island, whereas Ko Wai is the point where French patrol aircraft crashed after being fired by HTMS Songkhla and HTMS Chon Buri.

Ko Mai Si is a small private island where there is beautiful nature, sandy beaches and clear water -home to diversified marine life and ideal for diving. Various plant species grow wild on the island, which used to be a confrontation site between the Lamotte Piquet and HTMS Thon Buri that was in commission at Ko Lim.

Ao Khlong Son: A bay in the northernmost west of the island where Ban Khlong Son Community is located, with a beautiful coral reef.

Namtok Khlong Nonsi: A small waterfall to the northeast of the island accessible by a 3-km. pathway from Ban Dan Mai or about 4 km. from the national park’s headquarters.

Namtok Than Mayom a medium 4-tiered waterfall located some 500 metres through a garden behind the national park’s headquarters, with the 3rd tier being the most beautiful.

Namtok Khlong Phlu: A large and most breathtaking waterfall on Ko Chang with water cascading down 3 tiers of the cliff to a basin, with an entrance located 3 km. from Ao Khlong Phrao.

Hat Sai Yao located near Ao Salak Phet to the south of the island with a long stretch of sandy beach.

Monkey Training Centre located at Hat Sai Khao, the centre provides training as well as shows of monkey’s abilities, especially in collecting coconuts.

Ban Salak Phet a large and the oldest community on Ko Chang located in the southern part. The villagers’ main occupation is coastal fishery in an advantageous area sheltered from winds and storms by islands and mountains. There is an old temple in front of the village known as Wat Salak Phet.

Namtok Khiri Phet a single-storeyed waterfall located 3 km. from Ban Salak Phet Community through a rubber plantation.

Namtok Khlong Nueng a small waterfall near Namtok Khiri Phet - Ban Rong Than, located some 2 km. deeper inside the island from the Salak Phet Community with another 480-metre walk. The waterfall cascades down from a narrow gorge for 120 metres.

Bang Bao Fishery Village a village of houses on stilts built into the sea with bridges connecting them together. Most of the villagers are descendants of the Salak Phet villagers. The area is an ideal berthing area for fishing boats, with mountains and islands providing a good shelter from wind and storms in the monsoon season.

Ban Rong Than a small community located near Salak Phet in the southern part of the island. It is a scenic viewpoint where the mist-covered peak of Khao Salak Phet in the north and Ko Maphrao Nai and mountains near Laem Yai in the east are visible.

Ao Bai Lan located next to Hat Kai Bae.

Hat Kai Bae a sloping and long stretch of beach connecting with Hat Khlong Phrao.

Ko Chang Noi and Laem Chang Noi located in the north of Ko Chang and housing coral reefs between Laem Chang Noi and Ko Chang Noi.

Ko Man Nok-Ko Man Nai small islands opposite Hat Kai Bae with surrounding beaches at low tides and golden seaweeds in the nearby shallows.

Ko Khlum an island ideal for fishing with a peculiar scenery of rocky areas.

Ko Lao Ya a group of islands located to the south of Ko Chang comprising Ko Lao Ya Nai, Ko Lao Ya Klang and Ko Lao Ya Nok.

Ko Wai The bay to the north of the island houses coral reefs in a perfect condition whereas the western area of Ao Yai provides home to mostly hard corals and scaly giant clams.

Ko Phrao Nok or Ko Sai Khao located to the south facing Ao Salak Phet. The island has white sandy beaches and shady coconut grove.

Ko Ngam a twin island connected by a large sand bar located to the southeast of Ko Chang, with an inlet surrounded by the hilly topography where the sea is calm and scenic.

Ko Kut Thailand’s easternmost island in Trat waters, the province’s second largest island next to Ko Chang and the country’s fourth largest island. The topography is generally still in its natural condition, with mountains and ridges forming the headwater of many streams from which originate various waterfalls. The most renowned waterfall on Ko Kut is Namtok Wang Chao.

Ko Mak The topography is mostly coastal plain with a thicket of coconut groves and rubber plantations. Scenic bays and sandy beaches embracing crystal clear water are all around the island such as Ao Ta Nit, Ao Prong, Ao Phat and Ao Daeng

Ko Kradat It has a flat paper-like topography with Alocasia plants-‘Kradat’ in Thai-growing wild in abundance. The island has a long and white sandy beach with beautiful coral reefs.

Mu Ko Rayang a group of islands comprising Ko Rayang Nai and Ko Rayang Nok. Ko Rayang Nok is peaceful with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water.

Mu Ko Kra a group of islets to the west of Ko Mak, a swallow bird’s nest concession area and a diving spot with beautiful corals.

Mu Ko Rang a group of islets located approximately 6 km. to the west of Ko Mak. There is not sufficient plains area for human habitation on Ko Rang, which is surrounded by islands of various sizes.

Beaches in Pattaya

Pattaya has packed in attraction after attraction, offering the 5 million or so annual visitors far more action and adventure than any other Thai Resort. With first class hotels, superb dining, water sports, elephant riding, aerial sports, cabarets, fishing, shooting firearms, are just a few of the things Pattaya offers.

Natural Beach Hotel Pattaya

Pattaya Beach: A curving 4km beach on the gulf of Thailand, Pattaya is split into three main areas. South Pattaya is the hub of Pattaya's nightlife with all manner of shops, department sores, boutiques, beauty salons, supermarkets, nightclubs , genaral action and cheap rooms in pattaya thailand. As you progress northwards, along the three-lined promenade which is home to many of Pattaya's mid-range beachfront hotels.

Naklua Beach: Immediately north of Pattaya, is a much quieter beach with a fishing harbor; in fact, many of the locals still make a living from fishing. It doesn’t have as many restaurants or expensive resort hotels as its neighbor to the south, but neither does it have the rowdy nightlife.

Jomtien Beach : A round headland, about 2km south of Pattaya, Jomtien is quieter and less congested than its more famous neighbor but has an ever increasing range of good value accommodation, natural beach hotel pattaya and restaurants. More toned down than Pattaya, it's becoming very popular, especially for lovers of water sports - it's Thailand's premier windsurfing location.
source: www.tourismthailand.org

Holiday in Bangkok

The Hotel Bangkok

Bangkok one of Asia's best tourist destination, the first in the world in 2008. With deluxe hotels can be found in Bangkok, such as the Peninsula Bangkok & Oriental Hotel. A series of international chains hotel in Sukhumvit Road such as The Landmark, JW Marriott, Sheraton, Intercontinental and many bangkok luxury hotels. One of Bangkok's tallest hotels, the Banyan Tree on Sathon.

Large numbers of cheap bangkok hotels scattered throughout the city such as Yaowarat Road, most notably in the backpacker's paradise of Khao San Road. A variety of shopping experience from street markets to world class luxury malls such as Siam Paragon & Central World on Rama I. The Chutchuchak weekend market is also one of the largest shopping destinations in Bangkok.

Bangkok offers a widely varied nightlife. The city is notorious for some concentrations of massage parlors, go-go bars and karaoke places, with Patpong, Soi Cowboy and Nana Plaza being the main areas catering to male tourists. There are Westernized clubs and cafes for the rich, and lower-cost bars and pubs that are very popular with the locals. The city's Phra Nakhon district is home to probably the most profound worldwide example of a "backpackers' ghetto", Khaosan Road. Sukhumvit Road boasts some of Asia's most crowded clubs along the 5 km (3 mi) section between Ekamai and Withayu.

Plan your holiday like a pro

Organising a luscious holiday can be almost as much fun as actually going on one. But we've all had nightmares about booking 'Club Paradise' only to arrive and find it's a caravan park in the middle of the desert. Arranging a trip can also be pretty stressful when there's not just your enjoyment riding on it, but that of your partner, friends or family. So the number one tip to ensure you plan the perfect holiday is to start early! Even if it's just a weekend away, leaving yourself some extra planning time can mean a better deal, a nicer room and a more organised you. Do that, as well as a few of our other tricks below, and you'll shoot to the top of the holiday planning class in no time.

How to… choose the right destination

"The key to finding the right holiday is understanding your body and what it needs to replenish," says Ricky Nowak, an executive trainer and consultant.

"Trips which provide anonymity, personal space, and time to rest and reflect are great for highly stressed people. Health spas, country retreats, cruises, resorts and places that combine gourmet food, entertainment, a relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity for lots of sleep are usually your best bet."

So to make sure you land somewhere that you're guaranteed to love, make a list of the answers to these questions:

• What do I enjoy doing?
• What do I want from this holiday?
• How long can I go for?
• Do I like cold or warm weather?
• Do I want to travel or stay in the one place?
• Am I going with a group or alone?
• What is my budget?

Now grab some brochures from your local travel agent, pick up a few guide books (make sure they're current) and use the Internet to do a bit of research. Keep your list handy and compare every suggestion back to it, so you can be sure that your holiday will meet your expectations. You may want to go and see a travel agent for their advice as well.

How to … organise your booking

• Sign up to airline and travel e-newsletters so you're the first to see good deals.
• Keep an eye out in newspaper, magazines and on TV for special holiday packages and prices.
• Before you book remember that off-peak times will be cheaper and also check out what the weather will be like at your destination. Sightseeing in sweltering heat is not fun, but travelling in winter will mean less daylight to see the sights.
• Reserve airline tickets and accommodation at least a month in advance and always ask people for their best price. Some hotels will knock a bit of the price if you book for a whole week or for a number of people.
• Pre-book an airport van or a bus to and from the airport. They're usually cheaper than taxis and you'll be guaranteed an easy ride.

How to … make special arrangements

• Get a map of the area you are planning to visit and mark down where you want to go.
• Email yourself a copy of all important information: airline numbers, credit card phone numbers, driving licence numbers and your itinerary in case you lose anything.
• Visit your GP for a check-up just to make sure you're not harbouring any latent bugs.
• Arrange any special dietary requirements with your airline or hotel several weeks in advance.
• Beat those homesick blues and stay in touch with loved ones the cheap way by setting up a free email account at www.hotmail.com.
• Travel insurance is a must whether you're travelling six minutes or six hours away. Travel agents can help you with this.
• Know thy camera. So you don't have to fiddle with thousands of buttons and miss the shot of your nearest and dearest catching a wave, read up on the ins and outs of your camera before you leave. Have a few practise goes as well.

How to … pack the right stuff

• Keep all tickets and important paperwork together in a safe place.
• Don't pack loads of clothes. You'll need the space for all the new things you buy.
• Write down the phone numbers and addresses of close family on a piece of paper and put it in your wallet. In the event of an emergency, people always look through this first.
• Remove old destination tags from bags to avoid confusion.
• Find out how much luggage you are able to take. Most domestic flights allow two large bags and one carry-on bag per person with each piece weighing no more than seven kilograms.
• Buy resealable food bags from the supermarket and use them to put toiletries. I'll save your clothes from any spillages.
• Pack a medical kit with all necessary tablets — headache, flu and stomach.
• If you're arriving at your destination late at night, pack your pyjamas on the top so you don't need to ransack your luggage to find them.
• Don't forget an umbrella or a waterproof jacket. You can never control the weather! Article written by Melissa Ironside, September 2006