Fuel price hike affects Thai aviation

The stupendous hike in fuel prices, has adversely affected Thailand’s tourism. The country which was known for its low cost airline operations has been facing deep trouble due to the weakening demand forces that have led to the recent grounding of the domestic low cost operator airline “One Two Go”

Since their launch in 2003, all the three budget airlines of Thailand, namely Thai Air Asia, Nok Air and One Two Go, had been seeing great heights due to a gradual increase in the no. of passengers from a mere 4 million to a whooping 12 million! But succumbing to the present financial woes, they have decided to reduce operations. One Two Go airlines has already parked some of its boeing MD series aircrafts to survive in the present economic crisis.

Even Nok Air has suspended its only international flight from Bangkok to Hanoi in Vietnam following a major reduction in the frequency of domestic services. The carrier which has nine 737-400’s and one ATR 72, has recently wet leased a 737 to Mynmar Airways for its operation from Yangon to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

Apparently, the fuel hikes are not really affecting giant airlines of Thailand, such as Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways as most of their income lies with international traffic. But if such “loose” situations prevail for long, even the best airlines will have to look in for cost cutting measures.

Doi Angkhang - The Agro tourism hotspot

Doi Angkhang in the Chiang Mai district is fast attracting thousands of tourists from across the world thanks to its magnetic climate and as a much promoted agro tourism destination. Located on the Thai-Burma border, 160 kms north of Chiang Mai city in Fang District it is indeed one of the coldest places in Thailand.

The ever-present influence of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX, can be sensed at the Royal Agricultural Station, which has brought better quality of life to the ethnic people there by improving the greenery, and encouraging afforestation and agricultural affluence. Restoring forests to denuded hills has fetched five fast-growing species suitable to the Angkhang climate — Taiwan acacia, Griffith’s ash, Camphor tree, Fragrant maple, and Paulonia.

If you love colorful flowers and fruits and get to visit this natural beauty, do not hesitate to visit the Bonsai Garden. It is an award winning Bonsai and rock garden. The scented garden and the Temperate flower house are also worth a visit. The military base that provides security to Doi Angkhang is also a popular scenic spot. The soldiers are friendly, welcoming visitors and providing insights into the tough life of being a Thai soldier on border patrol.

Doi Angkhang has succeeded as an agricultural cum tourist spot thanks to its unique marketing strategy. The Royal Project guarantees to buy all the flowers, fruits and vegetables thus, ensuring high standards of life and improved conditions of living to one and all.

Thai Court strikes Thaksin again!

After his removal in a 2006 military coup, Thailand’s deposed Prime Minister and founder of the Thai Rak Thai Party, Thaksin Shinawatra had been blamed of allegedly arranging soft loans to Myanmar to secretly benefit his family’s telecoms business. Now apparently an army-appointed graft panel had accused Thaksin of ordering a state bank in 2004 to increase the size of a loan to the military-ruled former Burma to buy telecoms equipment from Shin Satellite company, then owned by his family. Though the erroneous deal had caused the bank a severe loss of approximately 670 million baht ($20 million), Thaksin had denied any such “rampant corrupt” dealings!

In the latest announcement that came a few days back, Thailand’s Supreme Court has agreed to hear the fourth case against Thaksin. Three others have been looming since 2003. The first hearing is set for September 16th, in which a major decision might come as a relief to the Thaksin Protestors who have been demanding justice for quite some time. The court’s decision is considered the latest blow to Thaksin’s bid to clear his name after a string of accusations from other parties.

Thaksin had been residing in, southeast of England, ever since his deployment in 2006. He returned to Thailand earlier this year after his political allies in the People’s Power Party set up a six-party coalition government. Now all his hopes lie with the judge ruling the court in his verdict, which seems exceedingly difficult.

Ko Kred - The artificial island in Bangkok

Just a few miles out of northern Bangkok, and you have just about reached Ko Kred Island, the artificial island constructed almost 300 years ago along the Chao Phraya River. This “treasure” of Bangkok is just a 10 kilometer square island with no cars but occasional bikes and bicycles…….a sheer delight for the people dwelling in big cities so strangled by the motor vehicles!

Once you have reached Ko Kred via small ferries or the Chaophraya River Express Boat, you step back into a Thailand of 50 years ago. As you wander around the island you will pass orchards and other farms. The typical looking villagers will make you forget the fashionable crowd of Bangkok or Pattaya!

The scattered population of the Ko Kred island thrives on pottery. The rich clay soil provides an ideal medium for the red terracotta earthenware pots and water containers. After making exquisite pots for years as a means of living, the potters have now turned their attention to the tourists who visit the island and are ready to pay generously for their unique creations!

On your way to this small yet stunning island, try the following:

* Joe Louis Theater
* Big tree temple
* Wat Poramai Yikawas or Wat Mon

But if you are not willing to hit any of these places, just take a stroll down the by lanes and enjoy the setting sun. Another option is cruising around the island to see the peaceful life of the locals. For the more adventurous ones, a bicycle ride at a reasonable cost would be most appropriate!

Thailand & Cambodia agree to move back troops

There has been a lot of dispute and talks between Thailand and Cambodia over Preah Vihear temple, on the Cambodian-Thai- border in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, about 245 kilometers (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh. It all started when Thai troops first deployed at Keo Sikha Kiri Svara pagoda earlier this month. Soon after, Cambodian moved troops into the area and the two sides engaged in a tense armed confrontation on July 17 when Cambodian monks sought to celebrate Buddhist lent in the pagoda.

The Cambodians eventually pulled back from the standoff and the two sides have since have managed to keep a lid on tensions.

The dispute over 1.8 square miles of land near Preah Vihear temple escalated earlier this month when UNESCO approved Cambodia’s application to have the complex named a World Heritage Site.

Now, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to “adjust” military deployment around the Preah Vihear Temple in a bid to ease military tension in the area. Cambodia and Thailand agreed Monday to pull back 1,200 troops stationed near a historic temple, but failed to end the long-running border dispute that has stirred up nationalist anger on both sides.

Foreign ministers from the two Southeast Asian neighbors agreed to hold further meetings on how to demarcate a slice of land near the 11th century Preah Vihear temple, but no date was set for the next meeting.

About 800 Cambodian troops and another 400 from Thailand stationed inside and around a pagoda near the temple complex will be pulled back.

“We cannot solve all problems at one meeting. We need to take gradual steps,” Cambodian Foreign Minister Hor Namhong. “The immediate task is to avoid clashes through the redeployment of troops.”

Thai Foreign Minister Tej Bunnag agreed “the meeting would help reduce tension at the border.”

Emerging after a marathon talk, Cambodia’s Foreign Minister Hor Nam Hong said they agreed that both sides should exercise utmost restraint and seek futher peaceful solution to solve the problem. Both sides also support de-mining and land demacration in the area.

The first meeting in Thailand’s Sa Kaew which was chaired by Thai Supreme Commander Gen Boonsang Niempradit and Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Gen Tea Banh ended without solution.

Gays compete at the Pride festival

Heard of the Dragoncastle’s Sexy Swimsuit Contest, the dinner cruise party, the Karaoke contest or the Miss Jumbo contest? Well it all happens at the infamous pride show in Thailand’s vibrant capital, Bangkok. It is Bangkok’s annual celebration of gay and lesbian identity which has grown to encompass a broad range of activities including art, film, sport, the Pride in the Park party and a parade. There are also several sporting events (volleyball, bike rides, badminton, and bowling), drag acts and plenty of parties in the Silom Soi district.

The show which began on a much smaller scale back in 2001, has by the year gained a lot of popularity. People from all over the country, flock to Bangkok to witness this week long extravaganza which usually takes place in November. Some of the more famous events at the venue are

* Pride Night Kick Off Party
* Pride Dinner Cruise
* White Nights Party
* Karaoke Contest
* Isaan Party
* Swimsuit contest

These are usually sponsored by famous night clubs, cafes and clothing companies, sport groups or fitness centers. The contests are usually followed by awards and trophies for the winners. Come here to witness some of the funkiest night parties with gay men dressed in the most bizarre fashion…something you wont get to behold elsewhere!

Caring for your little one in Thailand

Last year my sister planned a holiday trip to Thailand and she was in a major dilemma what to do with my 2 year-old nephew. Finally, she took him along. Though the kid enjoyed Siam Ocean World and Safari Park there, he fell sick due to change in weather and water and was a big problem to be tagged along while shopping and day tours.

So, if you are taking your little one to Thailand, holidaying with your toddlers on the labyrinth streets of Bangkok or in a maze like Animal Park in Phuket may turn out to be nightmare. You can follow these tips to make it easy for your kid and yourself.

When going sightseeing or shopping with kids in tow, it is always a good idea to collar your kids with a name tag, the name of your hotel and flight number lest you lose the little kids and have a tough time looking for you baby! Better still go on an organized tour, especially if you’re short on time and want to see several things. All transport, admission fees and a knowledgeable guide are normally taken care of. It just makes life a lot easier.

Bangkok is a fantastic place to visit with kids. They’ll love the colors, excitement, all the interesting sights and smells. But one thing should be taken care of; discourage your kids to feed the pitiful-looking ’soi’ (street) dogs. They might get over charged up and hurt your child out of sheer hunger!

Now, if you are planning not to take your child on the day tour with you, there are many hotels that offer babysitting service. One great option is kiDO, a fun daycare center where you can drop your darling off for a day of creative play and learning. There are two locations: Lumpini in Sathorn and at CentralWorld. This will ensure you a tension free trip.

Try the bird’s nest soup at the Viking caves!

One of the most famous places to do a little Phi Phi Island sightseeing is on the island of Phi Phi Lei. Here is the famous Viking Caves, a 3.2 square kilometers place where the extremely expensive swallow-nests were once collected. Contradictory to its name, there have never been Vikings, but the cave has numerous paintings of vessels, resembling Viking longboats and that’s where this attraction draws its name from.

The Viking Cave has tour boats queuing up through the height of the day to pay an entrance fee, though they have started to levy the entrance fee for the caves (much to the relief of the tourists). There are many interesting points inside the cave. Stay at the landing point where the clarity of the water in this area is very good. You could have clarity to great depths. At the entrance there is the precious swift’s nests, used to make Bird’s Nest Soup, a Chinese delicacy for which the Chinese aficionados will pay handsomely.

You may also notice ropes and bits of bamboo scaffolding on the cliffs outside. These are used by local villagers to climb metres up into the dark recesses of the cave to retrieve these nests, occasionally falling to their death in the process!

Viking cave may be temporarily closed at bird-nest harvesting season. In fact, the best season to visit the Vikings is from February to April. A bids’ nest company has the concession for the cave, and they must be asked if you want to visit the cave. You can rent a longtail-boat for a reasonable price or join a one-day or half-day tour to Phi Phi Lae island which stops at “Viking Cave”.

Is Siam Ocean World’s price hike worth it?

Even when Siam Ocean World started with 450 baht price tag, it was quite on a higher side considering the fact that the standard was not up to the world class aquariums of America, Australia and even Singapore. But what was commendable was the fact that they were charging the same for Thai people and foreign tourists. But, not any longer friends!

The prices now have more than doubled for children and has considerably increased for adults. Now, Siam Ocean World is charging a staggering 850 baht for adults and 650 baht for children. To add to the horror is that they have opted for the cheap measure of double pricing from foreign tourists. So, they have gone to use the rarely used Thai numerals to display the prices.

Thai people have this impression that all foreigners are rich. They say that if they can afford to fly to Thailand then they must have lots of money. But, what they fail to realize is that many of these people saved up for years for this once in a lifetime holiday abroad and then the airfare drains most of their money leaving them with very little for their holidays.

One of the excuses given for this double price policy is that foreigners are used to paying this kind of price in their own country, but what Thailand seems to forget is the main reason why people choose this country for their holiday destination above other exotic places of the west. The reason is that Thailand is cheap. You can have a meal on the street for not much more than $1. You can buy the latest Hollywood movies for $2 and fake brand names for $5.

It is high time that Thailand tourism wakes up and opens its eyes to the truth that tourism thrives not only on a beautiful culture and a beautiful land, but also on truth and honesty coupled with hospitality and facilities. The increase in price of Siam Ocean world is just an example to the double and high price policy of Thailand. What say Pals??

‘Plant for the Planet, Plant for the Future’ in Thailand

Thailand’s ‘Plant for the Planet, Plant for the Future’ campaign was launched on July 19 at the opening ceremony of the Sirindhorn International Environment Park (SIEP). Nearly 300,000 tree species, including beech and mangrove as well as lowland, wetland and highland forest species are expected to be planted in the new 288-hectare park. The park also features a Regional Centre for Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development and a wind power generation system.

The campaign which aims to preserve forests for future generations and promote public awareness of the importance of trees is being held under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme’s Billion Tree Campaign, which began in January 2007.

The UNEP Executive Director said the campaign now has the support of two Royal personalities- Thai Princess HRH Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Dr. Sumet Tantivejkul, Chairman of the SIEP Foundation, said: “The Tree Planting Campaign in Thailand aims to promote the restoration of the natural ecology of the country through forestation, thus moving towards creating an environmentally friendly society where people harmoniously co-exist with nature, and the SIEP is honoured to be involved in this.”

The Plant for the Planet, Plant for the Future campaign in Thailand is jointly organized by the Sirindhorn International Environmental Park Foundation under the patronage of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the Japan-based Foundation for Global Peace and Environment (FGPE), the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment-Department of Environmental Quality Promotion and UNEP.

Come to the ‘Land of the King’ at Ratchaburi

With over 30 tourist attractions including temples, museums, handicraft centres and national sceneries, the Ratchaburi province in central Thailand, literally means “Land of the king”. Situated only 80 km west of the Thai capital, this top rated tourist destination has lots of places to visit and the most popular tourist attraction is Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the splendid Rose Garden. Tourist can experience the authentic Thai culture by visiting these attractions.

There are other not so famous places as well, that make this traditional province, a must visit spot. These are:

1. Bo Khloung Hot Stream: Located five kilometers beyond Amphoe Suan Phung, the stream is full of mineral water, with its temperature ranging between 50-68 degree Celsius. Many people come to here as believe that it can be used for skin treatment.
2. Kaew Chan Waterfall or “Nine-Level waterfall” is one kilometer from Bo Khlung hot stream. Here the water cascades from the ninth level and down the central valley of the steep cliff and is exceptionally scenic to behold.
3. Khao Wang: it is a 45 metre high hill, located two kilometers west of the town. Originally called “Khao Sattanat”, a palace was built on the hill top which today is a commendable tourist attraction. Tourist can get to the hill by cable cars and see cherish the beauty of Ratchaburi.
4. Bueng Krachap: if you are missing jet-skiing and canoeing, here is some news for you. Bueng Krachap is the large fresh water swamp used as a fish breeding farm.
5. Bat Cave at Khao Chong Phran: a giant flock of more than a million bats, is what the Bat cave is all about. These creatures fly out together of the cave and form a large black and long line across the sky. Tourists are really captivated by this spectacle.

While visiting Ratchaburi, you can try out some of these souvenirs to carry back home.:

1. Dragon Jar and Ceramic Ware
2. Brassware
3. Topiary and Bonsai
4. Pha Khao Ma or Loincloth
5. Karen Shoulder Bag

And yes…don’t forget to bargain the price as the salesmen usually charge a lot unnecessarily from foreign tourists.

Thailand & UAE - Strengthening bonds

There is no denying the fact that Thailand thrives on tourism, but this time we are talking about foreigners visiting Thailand not for holiday fun but for getting themselves treated for various ailments. Yes, in recent years Thailand has expanded dramatically as a medical tourism destination for patients from the middle east. Over 60,000 patients a year come to Thailand from the United Arab Emirates alone. Apart from making them hail, healthy and hearty, Thailand gifts the visitors from UAE with a new found interest in Thai food, hospitality and medical care. The UAE is already a major destination for Thai workers, with more than 12,000 Thai workers supporting the building boom in that country.

Taking this relationship between two nations to a higher level, now Thailand and the UAE have signed an agreement to facilitate more trade between the two countries, giving Thais working in the UAE more benefits. This will accelerate the expansion of Thai medical centers into the UAE - Bumrungrad already has a branch center in Dubai and is in talks to take over management of another facility in Abu Dhabi. Bangkok General Hospital is looking to setting up operations in 2008.

Thai medical care is famous in the region and the new trade agreement between the two countries promises to further enhance its presence.

Phuket Fantasea is all about myths, mysteries & magic

It is named as the ‘Fantasea’ show and truly enough, inspired by Thailand’s rich and exotic heritage, Phuket FantaSea is a real fantansy depicting the charm and beauty of Thailand. Technology and special effects make the show extra-ordinary in a stunning 140-acre theme complex, packed with a multitude of activities and entertainment like games, handicrafts and shopping. The 4,000-seat restaurant offers a grand buffet of Thai and international cuisine. The breath-taking Las Vegas-style theatrical show unfolds Thailand’s Myths, Mysteries and Magic in a wondrous extravaganza certain to delight everyone.

The Palace of the Elephants is a grand 3000 seat state of-the-art theater that houses this show with the one in which illusion reaches its heights when an elephant flies and disappears before your eyes!

Fantasy of A Kingdom encompasses magical illusions, 4 dimensional effects, aerial ballet, exotic songs and dances, acrobatics pyrotechnics, special effects, elephant circus & stunts into one unforgettable show.

Now, I told you all about the show missing the vital information. Coming to it, the show is held at Phuket in Thailand everyday (excluding Thursday) from 17:30 pm to 23:30 pm.

Experience the ultimate beach fun at Krabi

There is a place called Tambon Pak Nam in Thailand where the Krabi river opens to the great Andaman Sea. Quite a few other rivulets originating from the mountain ranges in the province , Kao Panom Benja ; the Klong Pakasai, Klong Krabi Yai and Klong Krabi Noy, also joins the sea at this area. Divided into eight districts : Amphoe Muang (Krabi Town), Khao Panom, Khlong Thom, Plai Phraya, Ko Lanta, Ao Luk, and Lam Thap and, Nhua Khlong, this is a paradise for tourists and nature lovers.

There are so many things you can do at this destination that it would be difficult for you to fit all of them in your schedule. Some places and activities which are a must in your schedule include:

HONG ISLAND This limestone island has a beach and is surrounded by coral reef. To get to the islands takes about one hour by boat from Ao Nang beach.

AO NANG BEACH Off this Beach, there are around 83 small islands of various size and shapes and a boat trip or a sightseeing tour can be arranged either through long-tail’ boat skippers or through an organised tour one of the hotels or tour agencies offer.

BEACH FUN Frisbee throwing (either on sand or in the water) or a game of football with the locals at the low tide beach area of Railey beach would not be a bad idea. There’s a permanent volleyball net too, where you can play for hours with other enthusiastic players.

CANOEING There are various establishments particularly on Ao Phra Nang and Railey beaches where you can hire canoes, either by hour or by day. A few charter companies in the area also offer canoeing expeditions along the coast or around the islands in the area.

SNORKELING, SCUBA DIVING and FISHING TRIPS are organized from most beaches, some offering canoeing in two-person kayaks, sailing and windsurfing. If some sport is not offered at your beach, you can easily take one of the regular long-tail boats to the next beach and probably find it there.

ROCK CLIMBING is a must at Krabi for the limestone cliffs in the area seem to have been created by nature for this very purpose. Where the palce sees avid climbers annually, there is also scope for inexperienced climbers who can opt for the climb to see the Princess Lagoon and the scintillating views across the karst landscape both inland and out to sea that lies next to Railey Beach. There are fixed ropes for assistance at the steeper points, but most of it is a forest hike. Access is at the south end of either Railey East or Phra Nang beach.

PHI PHI ISLANDS The superb scenery of these islands include beaches of silvery sand, emerald green sea, coral reefs and an abundance of colourful marine life.

Krabi province has a great public transport system with buses departing from Krabi Town to Aonang Beach, Noppharatara Beach and Aonammao Beach which is one route. Along the coast and to islands, ferries and water taxis operate. On land, open air buses, converted pick up trucks, motorcycle taxis, all relatively cheap (average 20 Baht for local trips in Ao Nang Beach) run very efficiently and regularly around Krabi town and the beach areas.

Win a fortune with Thai lottery

Has winning a lottery always haunted your thoughts? Well, your dreams can become reality with the Thai lottery! Yes apart from the many good things on offer, Thailand has from a long time offered good luck too, to many, with its unique lottery system.

People of Thailand are very fond of being a gambler themselves and in fact, lottery is taken very seriously in Thailand as it is the only kind of gambling allowed here. Only the traditional paper lottery tickets are still famous. In Thailand, you’ll have to get lottery tickets from agents, which receive these tickets from retailers. Each ticket has 2 parts, the top and the bottom part. It is not possible to buy just one part as they come in pairs.

Conventionally, lottery tickets are drawn twice a month, which are the first day of the month (the 1st) and the 16th. Every ticket costs 80 baht and if you win, your prize is simply doubled. Every ticket has 6 single digits, which you’re able to choose at the time of buying only.

The prize money for high value lottery tickets, is often very alluring. While the 1st prize money is 2 million baht, the Second prize is 100000 baht and the Third prize is 40000 baht.

There is a lot of fake lottery tickets circulating in the market too. They are different from the original in 3 characteristics.

-different color from the original
- different paper
- no watermark

Everyone should try out the Thai lottery. Though the prize money is often less than the European and American lotteries, the chances of winning are much more. However, always be aware of agents who try to trick you and be aware of all kinds of theft.