tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41002961637667134332024-03-28T21:22:03.413+11:00Thai Travel TalesAn Amazing Thailand blog featuring travel tips and insider information about popular destinations and hidden treasures in Thailand. With contributions from award-winning travel writers and Friends of Thailand, this is a journey into the heart of our favourite travel destination. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-82665272065790662332023-01-10T16:54:00.004+11:002023-01-10T16:59:57.082+11:00Thailand maintains ‘fully-reopen’ entry rules<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiakkBmdIiqbBHbB-WVXF_77AD4w4uLjMPkK_s1qm_0LFmMsGrRRIezsUhf0W6B2J2dmmxLdcT7vr02pEujrYL4BJ2Krby6RhrDvIiozN3K3yTKFiwK-MhcpNrhFdiSW3EAyM6GDXvxCNnk7hDjMxoh5uAKSxXOt_Vt0u1JWcxw3D04-P7adP-jyHr0Bw/s600/unnamed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiakkBmdIiqbBHbB-WVXF_77AD4w4uLjMPkK_s1qm_0LFmMsGrRRIezsUhf0W6B2J2dmmxLdcT7vr02pEujrYL4BJ2Krby6RhrDvIiozN3K3yTKFiwK-MhcpNrhFdiSW3EAyM6GDXvxCNnk7hDjMxoh5uAKSxXOt_Vt0u1JWcxw3D04-P7adP-jyHr0Bw/w400-h225/unnamed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would like to clarify that Thailand continues to welcome all international tourists under the fully-reopen-to-tourism policy that was introduced on 1 October, 2022.<p></p><p>Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health, H.E. Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, said “International travellers arriving in Thailand are not required to show proof of vaccination.”<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p>In addition, foreign tourists are not required to show ATK or RT-PCR test results.</p><p>As part of the full reopening to tourism, Thailand is also offering a longer period of stay for visitors. Effective through 31 March 2023, the period of stay is extended to 45 days (from 30 days) for tourists from countries/territories entitled for visa exemption, and to 30 days (from 15 days) for those eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VOA).</p><p>However, while Thailand is welcoming all visitors, a visitor source market may require incoming visitors including their own nationals returning home to have a negative PCR result.</p><p>Thus, Thailand is aiming to correspond with rules of these countries – among them are China and India. Therefore, passengers from a country that has requirements for RT-PCR test must have health insurance covering treatment of COVID-19 in Thailand.</p><p>With the ‘Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters’ campaign, tourists the world over are invited to experience the kingdom’s myriad of wonderful existing and new tourism experiences, products and services.</p>rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-26182843420030740492023-01-04T16:56:00.001+11:002023-01-10T16:59:41.179+11:00Thailand’s long-distance trains to operate from new Bangkok rail hub<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp2bm_xRNGQLGGycLZty6ckW3OTCCKQ_Tkb_evjPVO1lzpcn7Aa8mQx9BKXxETUvKQdMelkL7aB7HyInJ4Fc4MTYqcJUmaigyFbSZ3M7yYBnC1cGwz0oe70WzLZyX8AEDGMxySGr6yvvrjGJkDPLJceKp1vYLzya-1GQ-Mydc8ahF9uzcssX9GhO07fw/s780/headlines1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="780" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp2bm_xRNGQLGGycLZty6ckW3OTCCKQ_Tkb_evjPVO1lzpcn7Aa8mQx9BKXxETUvKQdMelkL7aB7HyInJ4Fc4MTYqcJUmaigyFbSZ3M7yYBnC1cGwz0oe70WzLZyX8AEDGMxySGr6yvvrjGJkDPLJceKp1vYLzya-1GQ-Mydc8ahF9uzcssX9GhO07fw/w400-h241/headlines1.webp" width="400" /></a></div><br />The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has announced the relocation – effective from 19 January, 2023, of 52 long-distance, rapid, and express train services from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to the new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal.<span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p>From this date onwards, tourists will need to catch their trains to other destinations throughout Thailand from the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, while the inbound trains to Bangkok will also arrive here. This includes 14 train services to the North, 20 to the South, and 18 to the Northeast (Isan).</p><p>Thailand’s long-distance trains to operate from new Bangkok rail hub from 19 January 2023</p><p>The Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal is the new main train station of Thailand designed to be a major rail transportation hub. Located near the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, it is close to both the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway networks making for convenient travel around Bangkok, and to the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak).</p><p>Thailand’s long-distance trains to operate from new Bangkok rail hub from 19 January 2023</p><p>To mark the opening of the new station, the SRT will operate the KIHA air-conditioned diesel train for tourism on the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal-Ayutthaya Railway Station route.</p><p>The first long-distance train set to depart from the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal on 19 January is Train No. 171, a rapid overnight sleeper service from Bangkok to Su-ngai Kolok on the Thai-Malaysian border in Narathiwat province.</p><p>With the relocation of the 52 train services, trains bound for the North and Northeast will use the elevated railway from the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Don Mueang Station – the same as the Thani Ratthaya (Dark Red Line) suburban train service. As this means the trains will not be operating on the ground-level railway, they will no longer stop at the five stations of Nikhom Rotfai, Thung Song Hong, Bang Khen, Laksi, and Kan Kheha.</p><p>Trains bound for the South will use the elevated railway from the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Bang Bamru Station the same as the Nakhon Withi (Light Red Line) suburban train service.</p><p>Thailand’s long-distance trains to operate from new Bangkok rail hub from 19 January 2023</p><p>Ordinary trains, suburban trains, and special tourism routes – meanwhile – will continue to operate from Hua Lamphong Station as usual. After departing from Hua Lamphong, these will stop at Sam Sen and the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal and then use the elevated railway. The ordinary and suburban trains on the Southern routes will continue to use the ground-level railway.</p><p>At the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, outgoing trains bound for the North and Northeast will depart from platforms 1 and 2 and incoming trains will arrive on platforms 5 and 6. Outgoing trains bound for the South will depart from platforms 7 and 8, and incoming trains will arrive on platforms 11 and 12.</p><p>The SRT is allowing passengers holding tickets for rapid, express, and ordinary trains, and those holding monthly tickets, to use the Thani Ratthaya suburban train service to connect to the elevated Don Mueang Station free of charge for one year or as per the conditions stated on the tickets.</p><p></p><p>Long-distance train passengers getting on and off the ground stations that no longer operate, can also use their tickets to use the Thani Ratthaya suburban train service free of charge.</p>rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-33842428378417408582020-05-14T18:57:00.001+10:002020-05-14T18:57:40.639+10:00WIN: Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thai Airways International Celebrate 60th Anniversary<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">It’s a double celebration this year! Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thai Airways International are Celebrating 60th Anniversary.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://amazingthailand.com.au/thailandweek/competition" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="540" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkk0OwuPic3WSBa2kErZTFXmzbYyo-niZfoZwanzq8pl5TQnoLQz7Dmhq8azttqe8ZcVW2W2QwOGBxbmUfNadVb9aMVRJEyo1rg_s6qsJjggKBHNd8BihwEVFNeXwvnNPnLK1cUGPDJ3EA/s400/safe_image.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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We’d like to invite you to join our celebration and you can enter to ‘Win Thailand Holiday Now and travel later’<br />
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👉 WIN THAILAND HOLIDAY<br />
https://amazingthailand.com.au/thailandweek/competition<br />
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One good thing about being stuck at home is that getting out into the big wide world will seem so sweet. If escaping to Thailand is on your wish list, here's your chance to win a trip to tantalising Thailand, or win a stay at a luxury hotel in the mesmerising hotspots of Phuket, Samui, Krabi or Bangkok.<br />
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👉 14 PRIZES I TOTAL VALUE OF $17,000+<br />
<a href="https://amazingthailand.com.au/thailandweek/competition">https://amazingthailand.com.au/thailandweek/competition</a></div>rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-44299978881207142232019-08-17T20:57:00.003+10:002024-02-27T14:24:21.898+11:00THAI Unveils Suphannahong Royal Barge Aircraft Livery<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Mr. Sumeth Damrongchaitham, President of <a href="http://thaiairways.com/" target="_blank">Thai Airways International</a> Public Company Limited (THAI), presided over a sacred ceremony that was conducted by Phra Maha Raja Guru Bidhi Sri Visudhigun to bless the Suphannahong Royal Barge aircraft livery that commemorates the Royal Coronation Ceremony 2019. The ceremony was attended by THAI Management and staff at the THAI Technical Department, Don Mueang, on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br />
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Mr. Sumeth Damrongchaitham, THAI President, said that the Royal Coronation Ceremony 2019 was held on 4 May 2019, with celebrations to continue until 4 May 2020. THAI, as the national carrier under the Ministry of Transport, has organized activities to commemorate the Royal Coronation as an expression of loyalty and honor. THAI received permission to paint the Suphannahong Royal Barge aircraft livery on its Boeing 777-300 aircraft, royally bestowed the name “Lahan Sai.” The Royal Coronation Emblem will appear on THAI's aircraft throughout the Coronation Year.<br />
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The Suphannahong Royal Barge, originally called “Si Suphannahong” or “Chai Suphannahong Royal Barge,” has been the King's royal barge since the Ayutthaya era. The current Suphannahong Royal Barge was constructed by the royal command of King Rama V and was completed in the reign of King Rama VI. At the front or bow of the barge is a golden swan figurehead, the body or hull is the body of the swan etched in wood and decorated with gold leaf, mirrors, tassels, and engraved glass. The exterior of the barge was painted black, while the interior was painted red, with a throne in the middle of the barge for the monarch or royalty. The Royal Barge was 46.15 meters long, 3.17 meters wide, and 15 tons in weight. Furthermore, this Royal Barge will be used in the Royal Procession for travel along the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun Ratchavararam (Temple of Dawn) to present robes to Buddhist monks during this year's annual Royal Kathin Ceremony in October 2019.<br />
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In 1999, THAI first painted the Suphannahong Royal Barge aircraft livery on its Boeing 747-400 aircraft royally bestowed the name “Haripunchai” on the auspicious occasion of the Sixth Cycle Birthday of King Rama IX. Therefore, the sacred ceremony is being held to bless the Suphannahong Royal Barge aircraft livery that is painted on THAI's Boeing 777-300 aircraft that was royally bestowed the name “Lahan Sai,” which will appear on the aircraft from August 2019 to 31 December 2022. This livery differs from the previous one, as there is a rowing team with oars raised symbolic of birds in flight. A sticker (decal) has been used in place of aircraft paint spray for a more realistic appearance.<br />
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THAI's Boeing 777-300 aircraft, royally bestowed the name “Lahan Sai,” is equipped with a total of 364 seats, 34 seats in Royal Silk Class and 330 seats in Economy Class. This aircraft will be operated on roundtrip flights from Bangkok-Seoul, Taipei, Beijing, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Sapporo to promote Thai culture worldwide through the Suphannahong Royal Barge aircraft livery.<br />
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For more information, visit <a href="http://thaiairways.com/">thaiairways.com</a> or call 1300 651 960</div>
rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-60525294820596761862019-07-02T09:27:00.002+10:002024-02-27T14:25:18.989+11:00Thailand among top hosts for global travellers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Bangkok – Thailand along with Indonesia, Mexico, Taiwan and India are the top five countries where locals believe hospitality to be in their DNA, according to the research that <a href="https://booking.com/">Booking.com</a> conducted on 21,500 travellers from the 29 countries.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br />
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Thailand stood out from among the 29, with Thai poll respondents confident their country had the ‘host’ factor being recorded at 85 per cent.<br />
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Booking.com described Thailand as “the perfect destination for travellers seeking to experience a warm welcome and immerse themselves in the local culture”.<br />
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This follows on from an October-November 2018 survey in which the travel e-commerce company – one of the world’s largest – discovered that nearly a quarter of global travellers planned to stay in different types of accommodation in 2019 and that Thailand was well placed to capitalise on this trend.<br />
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“In 2019, travellers are looking for new experiences and unique accommodation like a Thai traditional house, boat or tree house. Meanwhile, they’re looking to live like a local by staying at alternative accommodation types; such as villas, holiday homes and apartments”.</div>
rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-31948197056745079472018-10-31T09:39:00.000+11:002018-10-31T09:39:04.333+11:00Samui goes green to protect island ecosystem<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /><br />The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is working together with local stakeholders and tourists on <a href="https://www.tatnews.org/2018/10/samui-offers-other-than-the-beach-holiday-experience/">Ko Samui</a> to eliminate the use of single-use plastics and encourage all to reduce waste, reuse and recycle to help protect the island’s ecosystem.<br /><br />Local Thai authorities on Ko Samui are proactively campaigning for recycling and waste management. It is urging residents and business operators to separate their waste for recycling to reduce the amount of garbage produce on the island.<br /><br />Waste reduction thinking is quickly gaining traction amongst environmentally concerned Thai businesses and globetrotters on Ko Samui.<br /><br /><img height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhj5byROKwa8k2hJ1vE_OZlGbdEuhWOl4T3M-tI4Qmx9WBfVqNEGFdfJRaVG2y4ySmBgGdMJXOAolQsRznNQjgZwe-gJnfsRY3ePiq1VYqxQoPGeycpv6Vr8eTnBv0P1Eg5LUTCQed3N8ti_GsjNNapIlXLSmsdl8_rJuHf_-oGFrW0GpVtcQ9UVOjnC3vfgX-jW-tWnmDZSjRGWtLq=s0-d-e1-ft" width="640" /><br /><br />With some of the most stunning landscapes in Thailand, it is no wonder that visitors to Ko Samui continue to increase at an astonishing pace. With this influx comes a need to find a balance between the competitive, high-level service and environmental impact. Fortunately, as attention has turned to exploring ways to preserve Ko Samui’s delicate ecosystem, travellers can give back to the local Thai community by creating less waste and leaving a minimal holiday footprint.<br /><br />Local stores and shops on the island are campaigning against single-use plastics. Hotels and resorts, as well as tourism-related businesses on Ko Samui, are also helping to lead the way on responsible waste management by following the three ‘R’ principle: reduction, reuse and recycle. Luxury resorts on Ko Samui were among the first to use the plant-based straw revolution that is sweeping across Thailand and make their tourism operations more sustainable.<br /><br /></div>
rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-73279399832230835972018-09-08T16:43:00.001+10:002018-09-08T16:43:22.993+10:00TAT continues King Bhumibols wisdom toward sustainable development<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />Bangkok – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) continues to follow the royal wisdom of the late King Bhumibol and bring His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn’s idea to disseminate and further implement royal projects with the development of major tourism routes in five regions.<br /><br />Following the royal wisdom on sustainable development will encourage local people to use local experience to generate more income an develop their communities, thus this will build tourism sustainability in long term.<br /><br />TAT also invites Thai people to join its online activity to vote for favourable tourism routes. Winners will receive the prize to join tourism routes, which follow the royal wisdom.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjfUstOdlzq2aNWKO6K9RgBKEbYluWOD43CQaaOioouc50ttwsHRjeVnfGQ9e4l6_iV6rC24EzIRoT2uLRJLwDUIubaa57vs_T7EjGjUh9dd_9vltYPdwNIST3wSje5e7R2pY2pStiMMO-PO8VjinAbH2WrZAIXl4e11_4Me-G4ef2CKgoBWwChCDHs1P5txldILdaX5gcjGuPOKFLlRdkmhtYl3wtf=s0-d-e1-ft" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tung Prong Thong mangrove field located at Paknam Prasae, Rayong</td></tr>
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<br />Under this tourism project, five pilot tourism routes in five regions are designed to follow the royal wisdom and link with royal projects in each province. Backed by the story related to the royal projects, the five tourism destinations and tourism routes will be more interesting and there are many types of tourism destinations from OTOP villages, arts and craft centres, to trade centres.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhjA6Bd52a1KI_0El5pKK5i1X-UGAH7Tr488yhyphenhyphenXfBtZQQ_wytlkDWeQMw1-fYK0RjQimSpDwhy6h-ipCbTBH64IJ8Mc3mOTgv1FAzwRguJi8d_uGCwG3Kwd7HsWCsc_qAhzixKDPmYsZ9TH5qJ6w8aHHL6x_1MjbygkmV1lGwSakRCnc-34pqeIbGxobvpYn3-xH07jqwfyrvdpZlslHsSaK5g10Mc1pYnaUB6=s0-d-e1-ft" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ban Rai Gong Khing Community in Chiang Mai</td></tr>
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Meanwhile, TAT has launched various marketing activities to promote the “tourism route development to follow the royal wisdom” project via online channel under the “Travel to Follow the Royal Wisdom” activity. It opened for general people to vote for their favourite tourism routes from five short videos via <a href="http://www.tourismthailand.org/kingwisdom%20during%206-31">www.tourismthailand.org/kingwisdom during 6-31</a> August, 2018. Winners will be announced on 7 September 2018, and they will receive the tour packages to follow the royal wisdom.<br /><div>
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rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-46773770158263581312018-08-31T16:44:00.002+10:002024-02-27T14:32:02.446+11:00Thailand ranks top in Travel Weekly UK Best Destinations in The World survey <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />Bangkok – Travel Weekly UK has unveiled the results of its ‘Best Destinations in The World’ survey and Thailand has made it into the top 10 of four important categories.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="267" src="http://www.tatpr.org/webdatas/images/The%2DGrand%2DPalace%2DBangkok.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Grand Palace, Bangkok</td></tr>
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Travel Weekly polled a cross-section of experienced agents, including independents, online travel agents and others to compile a comprehensive shortlist of 20 destinations in each category. Readers were then allowed to vote for their top destinations in each sector of the survey with over 500 agents participating over the course of four weeks.<br /><br />Best for Spa & Wellness (1st Place)<br /><br />The survey asked if there was any better place to pamper yourself? The answer to that was of course no. Thailand is an ascending global leader in the booming spa and wellness sector. Holistic wellness, Ayurveda, and acupressure is all part of Thailand’s current spa culture. While classic Thai massage continues to hold sway, there are heaps of spa packages and wellness retreats to make them affordable for most budgets.<br /><br />See more at <a href="https://www.tatnews.org/thailand-ranks-top-in-travel-weekly-uk-best-destinations-in-the-world-survey/">TAT Newsroom</a></div>
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rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-73064947083588803632017-06-29T04:03:00.000+10:002017-06-29T04:03:53.405+10:00Tourism Authority of Thailand upgrades mobile apps for tourists<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently upgraded its Amazing Thailand and Tourism Thailand mobile apps to ensure accurate and timely travel information at the fingertips of local and international tourists.<br />
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Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said, “New innovations have been incorporated into the Amazing Thailand and Tourism Thailand, two of our four existing mobile apps, which give travellers instant facts and data on general tourist information or more niche services. This is part of our drive to improve the visitor experience whether they’re here for sightseeing, shopping, dining or health. We aim to constantly adapt to the way modern travellers seek services online and meet their expectations.”<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaztL1jKz5jsOT44n1OKL5kI9P720Yt8Yx5aBQOD4FY_-Ol-IgN3DqQVsSBlf6Iah1ETjmRKVziF0_TpbKaVxUA4JaRucKCETt_CZ0VX4d4dK-DHc_5L5kzgngu96o-YR7EwB44HPc1K6i/s1600/thai+app.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="935" data-original-width="660" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaztL1jKz5jsOT44n1OKL5kI9P720Yt8Yx5aBQOD4FY_-Ol-IgN3DqQVsSBlf6Iah1ETjmRKVziF0_TpbKaVxUA4JaRucKCETt_CZ0VX4d4dK-DHc_5L5kzgngu96o-YR7EwB44HPc1K6i/s400/thai+app.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tourism Authority of Thailand upgrades mobile apps for tourists</td></tr>
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The English-language Amazing Thailand mobile app is aimed at helping international tourists find data on attractions, tours, dining and accommodation. Meanwhile, the Tourism Thailand mobile app offers a similar range of services to local travellers with Thai language listings about events and attractions.<br />
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Both the Amazing Thailand and Tourism Thailand mobile apps are now boasting new features including maps, GPS and 360 VR images of destinations to enable users to easily find attractions and gain preliminary impressions of places of interest. Information can also be shared via e-mail and other social media platforms and e-mail.<br />
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In addition, the Amazing Thailand mobile app also enable users to ‘speak Thai’ via an English-to-Thai translation dictionary, which can be voiced operated allowing tourists to find words they need to communicate with Thai people, shop owners and food sellers.<br />
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TAT also has two other apps for specific groups of travellers. The Muslim Friendly Destination mobile app lists Muslim friendly venues and includes features; such as, a Qibla compass and prayer times. Meanwhile, the Women’s Journey Thailand keeps female travellers up to date with all the latest offers and promotions in dining, sport, health and beauty.</div>
rodeimehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114562768626186868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-22346026994050935232015-03-18T22:31:00.000+11:002018-10-31T09:41:34.372+11:00GranMonte Wine: The Aussie Connection<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />When Adelaide University student Nikki Lohitnavy returned to her native Thailand after graduation, she received a surprise gift from her parents - her own winery! The first (and only) Thai national to receive a Bachelor degree in Oenology (with Honours in Viticulture) in Australia, Nikki is now head winemaker at the family-run vineyard GranMonte, located in the beautiful Asoke Valley in the foothills of Khao Yai National Park. <br /><br />"When I returned from Australia, I found all these steel tanks waiting outside. I then had to set up the wine-making facility from scratch. There are some things they just don't teach you at university!" she jokes.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnEUw4Bncunn_nvTrraKQyq-PA_ivJx14VyZ9qXDYLLB0Psmwn386KEdCKUCktRkito-DSmYZrdVpQIoNDPWlbETfMviRAGnB7niElwPn3uLkJFl7CNH-FHx_GIVx0A1yhdIygCOi11Ho/s1600/DSC_0415.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnEUw4Bncunn_nvTrraKQyq-PA_ivJx14VyZ9qXDYLLB0Psmwn386KEdCKUCktRkito-DSmYZrdVpQIoNDPWlbETfMviRAGnB7niElwPn3uLkJFl7CNH-FHx_GIVx0A1yhdIygCOi11Ho/s640/DSC_0415.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikki Lohitnavy, Thailand's first female winemaker </td></tr>
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<br />Fast forward six years, and Nikki is arguably Thailand's most respected winemaker, consulting for international vineyards as well as leading Thailand's charge to produce world-standard wines. She is also the only female winemaker in the country, and a great inspiration for other ambitious young women.<br /><br />Nikki has inherited her passion for wine from her father Visooth, who first purchased the 16-hectare former cornfield in 1999. At the time, there were several small vineyards in the Khao Yai area, a Royal Project established decades earlier having already recognised the area's potential as a wine-growing region. <br /> <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPK4XvL8iBM3Vjt6DmAvUgxCK1WcsWzgyVMUTwCqr6c0F3BIARtvdx6fWnc9vcul8S3VRH8_TlcHu5ms3Z6lVNWdaapyaaM5BqEpyzSHDgmTJkMoZLBfy5xQrsthgkuauIh6yM6_uWIZ3y/s1600/DSC_0405.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPK4XvL8iBM3Vjt6DmAvUgxCK1WcsWzgyVMUTwCqr6c0F3BIARtvdx6fWnc9vcul8S3VRH8_TlcHu5ms3Z6lVNWdaapyaaM5BqEpyzSHDgmTJkMoZLBfy5xQrsthgkuauIh6yM6_uWIZ3y/s1600/DSC_0405.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The GranMonte vines, just after harvest </td></tr>
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<br />Of course, producing grapes in the tropics requires adaptation of traditional growing methods; but through experimentation, consultation and the use of a microclimate monitoring system, Visooth soon learnt what varieties would flourish during tropical storms, monsoons and searing summer heat. <br /><br />Things really took off, however, after Nikki returned to Thailand with internships at Browns Brothers and Wolf Blass wineries under her belt. The vineyard now has the capacity to produce 120,000 bottles a year, which it should meet within two or three years.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5vHqO2-FqkmQk5bldpW6uGaOG0BkkHmDW33Ju4Gs0UTZa6KpU1ofd1fxEJnDSC1ukTQbIPzKB-265Xi2pqeLj7HKM0BsxqMFy5ID0mMm_12NSYtJiYNNvVMJ2UezS6_2f3F_5kiOUtfWT/s1600/DSC_0399.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5vHqO2-FqkmQk5bldpW6uGaOG0BkkHmDW33Ju4Gs0UTZa6KpU1ofd1fxEJnDSC1ukTQbIPzKB-265Xi2pqeLj7HKM0BsxqMFy5ID0mMm_12NSYtJiYNNvVMJ2UezS6_2f3F_5kiOUtfWT/s1600/DSC_0399.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GranMonte vineyard </td></tr>
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<br />And trust me, GranMonte makes a fine drop, from its rich, award-winning Syrah, to its light and fruity rose made from Syrah grapes, named after Nikki's mother, Sakura. The wines have won over 100 awards in the past four years, and are the most decorated wines of Thailand.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb18DzLpMB8OPzOag90UW6D6Ce9drYVnUpTl0o7awRcuQdsmt_2y0vAxoLXEe0ITfUUZ9uDq0iRfZ0rgLtOnh7ZA16cGTcBkGEQ-YYxbgmpmVORVDDUZaH9NBQOfGXlMylp8C1vYLE8qqd/s1600/DSC_0422.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb18DzLpMB8OPzOag90UW6D6Ce9drYVnUpTl0o7awRcuQdsmt_2y0vAxoLXEe0ITfUUZ9uDq0iRfZ0rgLtOnh7ZA16cGTcBkGEQ-YYxbgmpmVORVDDUZaH9NBQOfGXlMylp8C1vYLE8qqd/s640/DSC_0422.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the many awards that GranMonte has won</td></tr>
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<br />As Khao Yai has become more popular as a weekend escape from Bangkok, so the winery has flourished into a full-blown tourist operation, with a stylish cellar door and tasting room, a charming restaurant serving delicious European-style food and a guest house offering seven rooms. Sixty thousand visitors pass through the cellar doors annually, with around 10,000 of those joining a winery tour.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBcola9-5IRHyAG7ZXxvbOyGqJ4yBDphoXz-ktfOkFCCvSE6PeGfoEPs_JLZT_RPouwFo9TxcVZXqQV4-AUR71jxpicpx_a5EuWKaUuMXreUJyx5eeu0gVj0gPJ0pC_cV4gjZsSrmcRH3/s1600/IMG_0791.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBcola9-5IRHyAG7ZXxvbOyGqJ4yBDphoXz-ktfOkFCCvSE6PeGfoEPs_JLZT_RPouwFo9TxcVZXqQV4-AUR71jxpicpx_a5EuWKaUuMXreUJyx5eeu0gVj0gPJ0pC_cV4gjZsSrmcRH3/s1600/IMG_0791.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linguine with prawns,<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> basil and olives in white wine from </span>VinCotta<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> Restaurant </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi923zIgMR52QqylmOg3EMXDHaHvjqr7wr7J19wvrAuzCSizDvoo0JsWfdeSVOPg4fqL8BeDC8g1dF6QTlTsUIf8mAAA9g-J1C2mehrRKJmk8WZ-t5CjJLFNldKqJ62iFTd_rCHAFbODiUR/s1600/DSC_0417.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi923zIgMR52QqylmOg3EMXDHaHvjqr7wr7J19wvrAuzCSizDvoo0JsWfdeSVOPg4fqL8BeDC8g1dF6QTlTsUIf8mAAA9g-J1C2mehrRKJmk8WZ-t5CjJLFNldKqJ62iFTd_rCHAFbODiUR/s1600/DSC_0417.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GranMonte cellar door </td></tr>
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Tours are held three times a day, and include wine tasting at a cost 270 baht per adult.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.granmonte.com/">www.granmonte.com</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-85660386385550345782015-03-10T10:52:00.001+11:002017-06-29T04:16:59.053+10:00Paddling with a Legend: John Gray's Sea Canoe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
"Sometimes I think I'm responsible for what Phuket has become," John Gray sighs as we stare out at limestone cliffs looming on the horizon. "It was so quiet and beautiful when I started here in the '80s. That's the problem with being successful."<br />
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With his full white beard and hulking physique, 70-year-old John Gray cuts an imposing figure, the sort of man who makes an impact wherever he goes. Affectionately known as Ling Yai (meaning 'Big Monkey' - not 'ugly monkey' as I mistakenly thought!) by his Thai crew, Gray is indeed a legend, a name synonymous with the island of Phuket. His sea kayaking tours through the 'hongs' of Phang Nga Bay are one of the most popular day trips out of Phuket - a classic Thai experience that, in my mind, should be on every traveller's bucketlist.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc3MYv8VCQwxn8wvZAInrp6rC6vb5bAi-C-eUMWCZx-56BFasNzfKG5fxAL9lb7zSwSu9iq8zLJaGuKVlRy10PbsHA9xqOT-wNJ8Q8_r6RDOTr0zqGKeXnl903amleP1JtHSk_LKxBCGzR/s1600/IMG_0455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc3MYv8VCQwxn8wvZAInrp6rC6vb5bAi-C-eUMWCZx-56BFasNzfKG5fxAL9lb7zSwSu9iq8zLJaGuKVlRy10PbsHA9xqOT-wNJ8Q8_r6RDOTr0zqGKeXnl903amleP1JtHSk_LKxBCGzR/s1600/IMG_0455.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myself and John Gray on board his tour boat</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.johngray-seacanoe.com/" target="_blank">John Gray's Sea Canoe tours</a> have been part of the Phuket experience since 2001, when this Californian-born adventurer decided to expand his successful Hawaiian sea kayaking business into South East Asia. "I started the business on just 700 baht," he recalls. From the start, the focus was on the environment, with Gray keen to share his love of nature, science and low-impact exploration. He was the first to delve the caves and hongs of Phang Nga Bay, discovering hidden openings into the magical and surreal world inside the limestone karst islands; but, of course, many since have followed in his wake.<br />
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"Did you know there's no such thing as a sea canoe?" Gray asks me. "They are kayaks, of course. I just registered the same 'sea canoe' to throw off imitators. It didn't really work!" he laughs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMyAv2UXebi-9OtBm3IT8cv91EydzZrs12vTJ9VLuUKOWfJykoPrIetEIcF2_MI72BoQbRBeWGe_O9cFyYBnH7Y7-FUrkaxQly_kYgNjTDVJXRXCFlEso7lYIwW1YElNZEfwhPJrh_t_l/s1600/IMG_0478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMyAv2UXebi-9OtBm3IT8cv91EydzZrs12vTJ9VLuUKOWfJykoPrIetEIcF2_MI72BoQbRBeWGe_O9cFyYBnH7Y7-FUrkaxQly_kYgNjTDVJXRXCFlEso7lYIwW1YElNZEfwhPJrh_t_l/s1600/IMG_0478.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The yellow kayaks used by John Gray</td></tr>
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Today there are several other operators offering "sea canoe" trips from Phuket; Gray is the only one, however, using the distinctive yellow SOTAR kayaks, safe and untippable rafts which can be easily manoeuvered through tight cave openings. Gray's tours are also recognised for their safety, use of local guides and for the quality of food - which is indeed excellent.<br />
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Gray himself tries to join at least three or four trips a week, with his clients always keen to hear his stories, ranging from riding huge waves in Hawaii, to kayaking in a typhoon, to hand-rearing a sea eagle that one day flew away to freedom - a tale that leaves the big man fighting back tears. But on the days he can't personally join the tours, his guests can rest assured that his all-Thai team are doing a great job, being personally trained by Gray in safety, environmental practices and eco-tourism.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1NZg-tqJo7ChDuTpaNsnParLIIlt2nTntfekf1FFYcUWWUzEUHSaAL-4aQiHH_gwJGwNDM_zyKcpSIkL3mJHj7QdeKxu6gWKYBpDwC2GqKaVRqnMHTzm94nddrrmz4ZwAhcb4_16jqxX/s1600/IMG_0510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1NZg-tqJo7ChDuTpaNsnParLIIlt2nTntfekf1FFYcUWWUzEUHSaAL-4aQiHH_gwJGwNDM_zyKcpSIkL3mJHj7QdeKxu6gWKYBpDwC2GqKaVRqnMHTzm94nddrrmz4ZwAhcb4_16jqxX/s1600/IMG_0510.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Gray explaining the geography of the 'hong'</td></tr>
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The day of our tour is a landmark occasion for Gray - it's the first time he's paddled his own kayak in five years, with arthritis, a knee injury and a blood clot to the brain as recently as last year rendering him less-than-fit. <br />
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It's also one of the first times his company has hosted a baby under the age of one - my granddaughter Ellie.<br />
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I must admit to some nerves before our tour: tiny lifejackets don't seem to exist in Thailand, with the smallest being suitable for three-year-olds; while the Hong by Starlight tour is a long day for a baby, setting out from our hotel at 11.30am and not returning until 9pm.<br />
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After lengthy consultation with Gray, however, I was assured Ellie would be safe. We could bring along her pram for her to nap in on board the mothership, while Gray promised to allocated a dedicated staff member to her care and attention. So while her parents Jo and Nic paddled off on the first kayak excursion, I stayed on board with guide Toy, watching Ellie snooze in her pram during her afternoon nap.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOo94kaxtoIoM3DtgV505xCVE-O0aNlY-a2_Ll_Ywut1aG-_VOHdwRX8cdr5ig_BIljAuPfc4oadrbWQC6HfdTYycR-3R7leqVM3U-0NmTOpZ5w3YaDWV2PHSbpPskq8v4VzrMt8q9FBBi/s1600/IMG_0444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOo94kaxtoIoM3DtgV505xCVE-O0aNlY-a2_Ll_Ywut1aG-_VOHdwRX8cdr5ig_BIljAuPfc4oadrbWQC6HfdTYycR-3R7leqVM3U-0NmTOpZ5w3YaDWV2PHSbpPskq8v4VzrMt8q9FBBi/s1600/IMG_0444.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie with Toy</td></tr>
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</span> On the second kayak outing, however, Nic decided that holding Ellie would be quite safe; and indeed it was wonderful to watch her bouncing in his arms with excitement, leaning over to touch the water and fascinated with the sounds and sights inside the hong. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzZn2ltl7Mpwml090pJLTssjzJO92H8kBHk1O7AoyyqfQrplPoR2xusV0DWecRLY41ucHeRc_KWjA_tpYM5SeCFu5fm5OzhPh03LYldZr9mHosq-vcQEouVyq9e0EAwsXm9_jU4g51ccw/s1600/IMG_0518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzZn2ltl7Mpwml090pJLTssjzJO92H8kBHk1O7AoyyqfQrplPoR2xusV0DWecRLY41ucHeRc_KWjA_tpYM5SeCFu5fm5OzhPh03LYldZr9mHosq-vcQEouVyq9e0EAwsXm9_jU4g51ccw/s1600/IMG_0518.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie enjoying the kayak experience</td></tr>
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"Who knows, maybe she'll grow up with a great love of caves and the water," Gray reflects afterwards. "Hopefully, subliminally, she'll retain a memory of this. Wouldn't that be incredible?"<br />
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I have to agree...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QXzJuQttdDDVo6bA9BiA6NjW-kq-muGl8xl82QvhUX3GA2GTDdhQgxWeC1AijO8kvUdwV0OMLK4nUUSnDA-j4dBwQI2ZbefHb-31X3Dbe7Q3T5wf3UWRUVpQ3J5ADIqCaYZfjP2WEUvl/s1600/IMG_0527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QXzJuQttdDDVo6bA9BiA6NjW-kq-muGl8xl82QvhUX3GA2GTDdhQgxWeC1AijO8kvUdwV0OMLK4nUUSnDA-j4dBwQI2ZbefHb-31X3Dbe7Q3T5wf3UWRUVpQ3J5ADIqCaYZfjP2WEUvl/s1600/IMG_0527.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy baby! Pics: Julie Miller</td></tr>
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<i>Further information: <a href="http://www.johngray-seacanoe.com/">www.johngray-seacanoe.com</a></i></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-1715775508885332712015-02-23T12:20:00.003+11:002015-04-17T10:20:17.468+10:00XANA Beach Club: Where Family is Cool<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sexy, cool, sophisticated, chilled, place-to-be-seen: these are words synonymous with Phuket's Beach Club scene. "Family" and "babies" are not.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But having a child doesn't automatically exclude you from the beautiful people. In fact, at XANA, Phuket's most stylish beach club, kids are as welcome as adults at the Sunday Fun Brunch, with special activities for small folk.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And as we recently discovered, it's also the perfect place to recover from jetlag.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There's only four hour's difference between Sydney and Thailand, but that's enough to mess with your body clock and leave you dozing at inconvenient times during the first few days of your holiday. And if you're only 11-months-old like my granddaughter Ellie ... well, forget trying to stick to regular sleep patterns!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So when we were offered passes to XANA Beach Club for our first full day in Phuket, we snapped them up, with the notion of chilling by a beachfront pool very tempting indeed.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coco Jamboo at XANA Beach Club</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Sunday Fun Brunch is a recent addition to XANA's impressive lineup of entertainment (which includes sets by leading international DJs, including Ministry of Sound alumni, Paul Oakenfold, Paul Harris and the Black-Eyed Peas' apl.de.ap.) Featuring the dulcet tones of Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Coco Jamboo, the brunch kicks off at 11.30am, with a fabulous array of food cooked up fresh at live stations. There's fresh seafood, sushi, several huge woks sizzling with noodles, a salad bar, tandoori station, pasta - you name it. The dessert station is equally delectable, with a cotton candy machine for the kids (big and little). Diners can choose a "free flow" drink deal or order by the glass, while children under the age of 6 dine for free.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The noodle station at the Sunday Fun Brunch</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie enjoying her lunch</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dessert station</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After lunch, we retreat poolside to a double day bed under a red umbrella, big enough for all four of us. After a dip in the infinity pool, Ellie snoozes in her pram while the adults drink at the swim-up bar, walk along the beach or join the baby in slumber. It's truly blissful, so ridiculously relaxing with the gentle sea breeze, perfect sunshine and the sound of the waves lapping the shore. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jo, Nic and Ellie in XANA's pool</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relaxing poolside</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Meanwhile, children are entertained in a tent at the far end of the property (well away from the adults) with face painting, hair braiding and sand sculpture. At 3pm, Nam Chok, Angsara Resort's resident baby elephant, pays a visit, much to the wide-eyed astonishment of our own little Ellie, who doesn't quite know what to make of this huge beast! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope this beautiful little person retains the memory of meeting her namesake, feeling its rough skin and experiencing that incredible sensation of a long trunk gently stroking her arm.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPgCOukCMiKY7pMetkCX_BOACbNFsU3f_0KtmwMBDDCuewSgXlib5z_QFgdCPcy6-K2PAH00mUb29_b6WxcwFKnYQCwfn1er0ZL3cuoQM_Vv82YB-lsxUeYMdd1mFVcmcsHWUpP9kLpew/s1600/946845_10152568451401689_5761773462254820212_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPgCOukCMiKY7pMetkCX_BOACbNFsU3f_0KtmwMBDDCuewSgXlib5z_QFgdCPcy6-K2PAH00mUb29_b6WxcwFKnYQCwfn1er0ZL3cuoQM_Vv82YB-lsxUeYMdd1mFVcmcsHWUpP9kLpew/s1600/946845_10152568451401689_5761773462254820212_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie meets Nam Chok</td></tr>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">XANA'S Sunday Fun Brunch is held every Sunday from 11:30am – 3:30pm.<br />
Price: THB 1,450++ for brunch<br />
THB 2,250++ including free flow of house wine, sparkling wine, beer, & signature cocktails<br />
Kids below 6 dine free with 50% savings from 6-12 years.<br />
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Make reservations at info@xanabeachclub.com or call 076 324 101.<br />
<a href="http://www.xanabeachclub.com/">www.xanabeachclub.com</a></span></i><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-50599939442634773772015-02-09T16:03:00.002+11:002017-06-29T04:35:16.011+10:00Sunwing Kamala: Where Babies Rule<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />As I discovered this week, travelling with a baby is a huge undertaking. Packing light is near-impossible, you have to compromise your itinerary to negotiate sleeps and feed times, and some activities just aren't practical when you have a small one in tow. <br /><br /> Even accommodation choices needs to be carefully considered. I don't mind roughing it if I'm travelling solo - but I shudder to think how I would have coped with some of my more rustic beds if I was concerned for the comfort of a child.<br /><br /> On our first "inter-generational" family holiday, my daughter, son-in-law, grand-daughter and myself stayed at <a href="http://www.sunwingkamala.com/">Sunwing Kamala Beach</a>. This large, beachfront resort is not just your standard family resort - its main focus is young kids, specifically babies. As well as spacious two-bedroom family suites, it also features 30 Happy Baby Studios which come with everything you could possibly need for your little one - a cot, high chair, Bumbo, play mat, change mat, baby bath and potty. There are clean tiled floors for baby to crawl on, kitchen facilities for heating up bottles and washing dishes, and a fenced play area with a locking gate to prevent wayward toddlers from stumbling into the pool area. There are even thoughtful touches such as protectors on the edge of the coffee table to save baby from bumping her chin.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie enjoying her Bumbo</td></tr>
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</span> Best of all was the use of a pram - and not just a cheap, fold-up stroller either, but a proper pram with shade-cover, adjustable seating, seatbelts and brakes. The pram is yours for the duration of your stay and can be taken off the premises during family outings.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie, Jo and Nic with a Happy Baby Studio pram</td></tr>
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<br /> Sunwing's Happy Baby Studios easily accommodate a couple and bubs; adding granny was a bit of a squeeze, but the lounge doubles as a comfy single bed if you don't mind living in clutter.<br /><br /> While there is an active kids' club at the resort, it's more suitable for older children who enjoy time away from their parents. The resort mascots Lollo and Bernie (oddly enough a giraffe and bear ... not exactly Thai, though the children trailing along behind them didn't seem to care!) make twice-daily appearances. The playroom seemed adequately equipped (if slightly soul-less), while outside there is a sandpit area as well as seven (yes, count them!) pools, four of which have water slides. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie looks a little unimpressed with the resort mascot</td></tr>
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<br /> On check-in, families are given a sheet listing children's (and adults) activities. Unfortunately, none of these reflected Thai culture whatsoever - it would have been nice to see activities such as Thai dance, martial arts or even cooking on the agenda. Even their evening program seemed more about pandering to the largely Scandinavian clientele, with an Abba tribute show and some thankfully brief caterwauling resembling bad Scandi rock ... best avoided.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids' entertainment at Sunwing Kamala</td></tr>
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</span> The Thai staff at the resort, however, were simply delightful, and treated our 11-month-old like a princess. She had cuddles galore, and was greeted daily with cries of "Ellie! Ellie!" The ladies in the massage sala were particularly smitten, taking Ellie off our hands while Jo and I indulged in some much appreciated relaxation.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Massage staffer looking after Ellie. Pics: Julie Miller</td></tr>
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<br /> Other ticks for this resort include an expansive breakfast buffet and its family-friendly beachside restaurant Fino, which provides complimentary main meals for under 12s.<br /><br /> While we seemed to be the only Aussies staying at Sunwing Kamala during our visit (which fell outside of school holidays), this resort should certainly be on the radar for Australians travelling to Phuket with small children.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.sunwingkamala.com/">www.sunwingkamala.com</a><br /><br /> *NB - the writer travelled as a guest of Sunwing Kamala.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-44369470372308990822015-01-26T15:21:00.001+11:002015-01-26T15:56:49.243+11:00Travelling with Baby to Thailand<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The countdown is on to my first family holiday in Thailand with my 10-month-old granddaughter! This will also be Ellie's first plane flight, baby daddy Nic's first overseas trip as an adult, and my daughter Jo's last week of freedom before returning to work after a year's maternity leave.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOi1vZbD3vZ9DqGu9q-Oq5SvQ26bffNPTOmjv_FP3gENtq973yVlxjmyS6-bQ_TFIHJwDF1h1rkT5jIHMLET4qqvgmK6Q1wF8wSM5BdeSw3QXq5_9K_pi_bdKP40c_z16FbS0mG1x8sghY/s1600/IMG_0153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOi1vZbD3vZ9DqGu9q-Oq5SvQ26bffNPTOmjv_FP3gENtq973yVlxjmyS6-bQ_TFIHJwDF1h1rkT5jIHMLET4qqvgmK6Q1wF8wSM5BdeSw3QXq5_9K_pi_bdKP40c_z16FbS0mG1x8sghY/s1600/IMG_0153.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can't wait to spend time in Thailand with this little poppet!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Needless to say, it's a big deal, requiring a lot more forethought and planning than a holiday travelling alone or as a couple.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We'll be spending a week at <a href="http://www.sunwingkamala.com/">Sunwing Resort</a> in Kamala Beach, Phuket - a dedicated family resort, which offers special baby packages for young families. I'll be reporting further on that in the coming weeks: but first, we need to get there!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The second I'd booked cheap flights on Jetstar I regretted it - by the time you add checked baggage fees, and any extras such as meals and entertainment for the flight, it doesn't turn out cheap at all! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We are of course not looking forward to a nine hour flight with a cheeky monkey, one that hates sitting still and is quite vocal when she's restrained! Beware, fellow passengers - we'll be THOSE people, the ones with the annoying baby! But trust me, we're hoping she'll be quiet and happy too for the entire flight too - we don't want to deal with a crying child any more than our fellow passengers.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJqE_uF4hu0NwHs0DNrHp8tN2-Uq5CaBuXE417Sm5qTdiWYaAr0oRv5Z8gW-SHkp643YteDKJ8TjEP_FpuTJUElJSS0ecvoKDmxVp2afZAaOCVW_U274DN7oYlV7vPk0mLnsydq3sSJp_/s1600/IMG_0259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJqE_uF4hu0NwHs0DNrHp8tN2-Uq5CaBuXE417Sm5qTdiWYaAr0oRv5Z8gW-SHkp643YteDKJ8TjEP_FpuTJUElJSS0ecvoKDmxVp2afZAaOCVW_U274DN7oYlV7vPk0mLnsydq3sSJp_/s1600/IMG_0259.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie practising to sit in a big plane seat!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For parents travelling with young babies, here are a few considerations and tips:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Jetstar has changed its carry-on baggage limit to 7kg, as of 28 October 2104. Fortunately, we booked prior to that date so have 10kg each (everyone except the baby, of course, who has no luggage allowance at all!). Between the three adults, we'll need to carry all the essentials for nine hours with baby - disposable nappies, creams, formula, snacks and distractions. Plus our own toiletries, change of clothes and food!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Passengers travelling with babies are exempt from the 100ml restriction for liquids. Here is what the Australian Government site states: "Passengers travelling with an infant or toddler are permitted to carry a reasonable quantity of liquid, aerosol or gel (LAGs) products for the infant or toddler onboard for the duration of the flight and any delays that might occur. The security screening officer has the final say about what a ‘reasonable quantity’ is.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Baby products may include, but are not limited to:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">baby milk, including breast milk;</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">sterilised water;</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">juice;</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">baby food in liquid, gel or paste form; and</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">disposable wipes.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Products such as baby milk powder that are not liquids, aerosols or gels can be taken onboard."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Since our resort provides a pram (as well as bedding items, high chair etc) for the baby, we will not be travelling with our own. Parents are permitted to take their prams as far as the plane, but then must pack it away in the hold. On Jetstar, baby items such as strollers, porta cots and bedding, infant car seats and portable high chairs can be checked in, free of excess baggage charges and regardless of fare. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- One of us will be wearing the Baby Bjorn carrier, this should be exempt from luggage as it's technically an item of clothing! However, this cannot be used during the flight, so will need to be placed in the overhead locker.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- The airline provides baby seat belts for children travelling on your lap, which connects to your seatbelt and must be used when the seatbelt sign is on.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Tiny babies can be carried on-board in a car seat, but you must inform the airline prior to check-in if you are planning to travel with one.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- I've loaded up the laptop with 30 episodes of Peppa Pig, a last-resort distraction!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wish us luck! I'll keep you posted...</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-8033025977350990252015-01-09T09:20:00.003+11:002015-01-09T09:23:34.240+11:00Get Festive: Events in Thailand, 2015<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another year, another excuse to travel to Thailand! I'm looking forward to spending more time in my favourite destination in 2015, with my first trip coming up at the end of this month - bring it on! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Of course, it doesn't take much for Thais to slip into party mode - they'll celebrate everything from the full moon, to no moon, to the dawning of the day. But if you want to tailor your travels around a major event, here's a rundown of what's on in Thailand in the coming months:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Feb 6-8: Chiang Mai Flower Festival<br />
</b>February is a gorgeous time of year in Chiang Mai, with glorious weather and a riot of floral colour, celebrated annually in Thailand's biggest flower show. The festival includes a parade with floats made of flowers, beauty contests (of course!) and activities at the Ratchaphruek Flower Gardens.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOZDblEOJ-pMSSmS-UTkWDcJ7Qi4Quuzz8EZgpZIpihxDbV9MvytO4MFgOlpwOX7r_czOMuyJwjLnjgSkp-TSGZdDTIc9Vw7fW2HnMzSI7BMcnawivP2MgLALLcjtgFlPABfwQXgV1JDy/s1600/DSC_0973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOZDblEOJ-pMSSmS-UTkWDcJ7Qi4Quuzz8EZgpZIpihxDbV9MvytO4MFgOlpwOX7r_czOMuyJwjLnjgSkp-TSGZdDTIc9Vw7fW2HnMzSI7BMcnawivP2MgLALLcjtgFlPABfwQXgV1JDy/s1600/DSC_0973.jpg" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic: Julie Miller</td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mar 13: National Elephant Day</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is a day when the focus is on Thailand's beloved pachyderms, with feasts and parades to celebrate the contribution they have made to Thailand's history and culture. Elephant parks and sanctuaries around the country hold Buddhist rituals where the elephants are bathed and blessed, followed by a fruity feast which the elephants devour with relish. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZjHBx4ouYaIaZawULtH2fV3tj8CS0rUlCye4dA1U38NS49_hM0UEyw5H29RHiOZoojmiJjoVQxusN4FA6RTOzLCi3UqFyOqpakxAFt_MyltkKyvMcwcg1rtX0x2G_1LQmsgZVl7mmmxO/s1600/P2100242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZjHBx4ouYaIaZawULtH2fV3tj8CS0rUlCye4dA1U38NS49_hM0UEyw5H29RHiOZoojmiJjoVQxusN4FA6RTOzLCi3UqFyOqpakxAFt_MyltkKyvMcwcg1rtX0x2G_1LQmsgZVl7mmmxO/s1600/P2100242.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic: Julie Miller</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>April 13-15: Songkran<br />
</b>The most famous Thai festival is one big water fight, celebrating Thai New Year and the coming of the wet season. Expect a lot of noise, fireworks and of course, water - there's no way you won't get wet! </span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">May 8-10: Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival, Yasothon</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This ancient local festival in Isaan is dedicated to the god of rain, who is appeased by colourful fireworks sent up to the heavens in his honour. Any excuse to make noise, really! </span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">June 7: Phuket International Marathon</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Why anyone would want to run in the steamy heat of June amazes me, but every year, around 4000 runners compete in the 42km marathon, 21km half-marathon or 10k fun run at Laguna complex on Bang Bao Bay. It's actually a great community event and fund raiser for the Developing Sustainable Schools program.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic: Julie Miller</td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">June 26-28: Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival, Dan Sai province</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of Thailand's most bizarre festivals, this celebration of demons and ghosts is held in the north-eastern region of Loei near the Laos border. Before the parade, men smother themselves in mud along the riverbank then don scary masks.</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oct 12-21: Phuket Vegetarian Festival</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During the nine-day event, participants stick to a strict vegetarian diet which is believed to spiritually cleanse the soul of devotees. The festival is said to bring good luck to participants and the wider community.</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oct 26-27: Naga Fireball Festival, Nong Khai</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once a year, a restless underwater serpent that lives in the Mekong River throws up mysterious fireballs to the amazement of onlookers gathered on the river banks. </span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nov 24-26: Loi Krathong</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The most beautiful of all festivals, this celebration of light is celebrated throughout Thailand, but is most spectacular in Chiang Mai where it coincides with Yee Peng, marked by release of thousands of <i>khom loi</i> lanterns into the night sky.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic: Julie Miller</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-26722999316093058112014-12-22T08:07:00.001+11:002014-12-22T08:07:14.700+11:00Christmas in Thailand<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The holiday spirit is alive and well in Thailand this festive season. Here are three good reason to celebrate Christmas in the Land of Smiles.<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">CHRISTMAS LIGHTS</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thais don't need much encouragement to celebrate an occasion or throw a party, with the trapping of Christmas - the lights, the decorations and the shopping - all embraced wholeheartedly by this Buddhist nation. Bangkok in particular is adorned as brightly and as festively as any Western city, with trees, snowmen and Santa sleighs galore. Western hotels and shopping malls are the main perpetrators, though small shops, marketplaces and even tuk-tuks are clad in tinsel and lights to spread the Christmas joy. Hotels such as The Peninsula and Four Seasons have beautiful displays, but for a one-stop gawk, head to the mega-malls around Siam Square which are smothered in decorations, including Bangkok's biggest Christmas tree outside CentralWorld. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYC23g_gWLp7OLHyHV1I6ZbaJb0-hV0V48JBqlQBSskrZ3MlIiGjRV-QuJQkOPuBF2z9ehDhP77GwkE4qiT_RHKYpoAy2O8uKulb4uqMSoWvjLjpBguVw5Q1pj_GZamXXFOvMnytQDeCQK/s1600/F1C8A4500DE44FCBBD232268BA4B4F7D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYC23g_gWLp7OLHyHV1I6ZbaJb0-hV0V48JBqlQBSskrZ3MlIiGjRV-QuJQkOPuBF2z9ehDhP77GwkE4qiT_RHKYpoAy2O8uKulb4uqMSoWvjLjpBguVw5Q1pj_GZamXXFOvMnytQDeCQK/s1600/F1C8A4500DE44FCBBD232268BA4B4F7D.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic: Bangkok Post</td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">NORTHERN WINTER</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While you're unlikely to get a 'white Christmas' in Thailand, the temperature in the north of Thailand does drop considerably in December - so much so that locals complain constantly about the cold and rug up in sweaters and balaclavas. For those of us from less tropical climes, the temperature is just perfect - warm during the day, but a chilly but comfortable 11-15 degrees Celsius at night (jackets required, if not winter woollies!) For visitors who want to celebrate Christmas, most Chiang Mai hotels offer traditional Christmas dinners, and you'll always find an ex-pat willing to toast the festive season with a Chang or two!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN80yVpH55LZm9N26B7bvtLU7GwfYS7SD3zzDUO3yCNpaenv0s8jXlno16rcv81vH1MQivgqOU5rhVdWOQxnaFvGMt9jU1hdcTCrKSXdDMSTGcxfBNScek-kplDXRDf2ORjOLYCnGcCJzD/s1600/ChristmasElephantsThailand3Thaizer3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN80yVpH55LZm9N26B7bvtLU7GwfYS7SD3zzDUO3yCNpaenv0s8jXlno16rcv81vH1MQivgqOU5rhVdWOQxnaFvGMt9jU1hdcTCrKSXdDMSTGcxfBNScek-kplDXRDf2ORjOLYCnGcCJzD/s1600/ChristmasElephantsThailand3Thaizer3.jpg" height="400" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas elephant outside of Le Meridien, Chiang Mai</td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">GET AWAY FROM IT ALL</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Personally, I look for any excuse to get away from the madness of the season ... so why not do it on a remote Thai island? Forget turkey dinners and eggnog - give me a pad thai and coconut cocktail any day, served at a beach restaurant overlooking a tranquil emerald sea. December and January is peak season in the Andaman region - the weather couldn't be more perfect, with cool breezes, low humidity and moderate temperatures, while the mood around Phuket is buoyant and relaxed. Make sure you stick around for New Year's Eve, celebrated in true Thai style with the obligatory fireworks as well as the traditional releasing of lanterns into the starlit sky.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Years, Thai-style</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-72760970065921851592014-12-14T17:48:00.000+11:002014-12-15T08:39:30.955+11:00A Cooking Class for Reluctant Cooks<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Regular contributor Kristie Kellahan loves to eat. Cooking, not so much. But seems she might be a convert...</span></i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cooking classes are one of the most popular activities participated in by visitors to Thailand. I get that, I really do. The thing is, while I certainly enjoy eating Thai food, I don’t really enjoy cooking it (or any other cuisine). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So when a friend signed me up for the acclaimed <b>Spice Spoons</b> cooking school at <b>Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa</b>, the first thing I asked Chef Somchai was for his tips for people who don’t like to cook.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Go hungry for a while and have nothing in the fridge and soon you will see the beauty of cooking,” he said and roared with laughter.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Spice Spoons offers a fresh market tour followed by a three-hour cooking class for 4500baht per person (minimum 2 people). Participants choose the dishes they would like to learn, from a range of appetiser, main, soup and dessert choices. The team at Spice Spoons does all the hard work, chopping and prepping the ingredients and setting them all out in little bowls by the gas stove stations.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chef Somchai was my teacher. Born in Chiang Mai, he lived in Bangkok for 22 years and has now happily returned to his home city. His favourite dish is Gang Kae, a spicy curry of vegetables and pork or chicken. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFflz4CG42fu685LKsFxDgKdE4ZXSyPGHDN4h0fPLNwznY4FxrwzguXko4wV9un4nOjBNOK0bVEw2ApI18zWqePeA7fZ3lA9JRpEVOXnO0fk0RvpzZ7YMbCYKkjQMS5X2HW1QbiiH4cA8S/s1600/chef+somchai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFflz4CG42fu685LKsFxDgKdE4ZXSyPGHDN4h0fPLNwznY4FxrwzguXko4wV9un4nOjBNOK0bVEw2ApI18zWqePeA7fZ3lA9JRpEVOXnO0fk0RvpzZ7YMbCYKkjQMS5X2HW1QbiiH4cA8S/s1600/chef+somchai.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef Somchai. Pic: Kristie Kellahan</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chef is showing me how to prepare Tom Yum Goong (spicy prawn soup), Green Curry Chicken, Pad Thai and Mango with Sticky Rice.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He promises the Tom Yum Goong won’t be too spicy, to suit my Western palate. “Just one chilli,” he grins as he slices the hot red chilli into the milky soup.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Busy people who are pressed for time might be able to cheat and buy a pre-prepared curry sauce for the Green Curry Chicken, though Chef says it won’t taste as good as making your own. The secret to good curry is taking your time and making sure all the right ingredients are included in the paste. “Curry cannot hurry,” he says.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Thai people love green curry chicken with steamed rice,” he says. “It’s smooth and smells good and if you use chicken breast the meat is always tender.”</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgsliMyoT25viuK9yc8GQ7Bfb6a-Y36oy-48Ey_2xbt8TBIMwDSY8dD1RHrkqd926bGTBs_IuZtNsKtdK7kSXHm6O7xjGcpv7kDf29QIu0GOf5zXmSVYV_TnMkdtLLezA9q5j1ziYreIC/s1600/green+curry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgsliMyoT25viuK9yc8GQ7Bfb6a-Y36oy-48Ey_2xbt8TBIMwDSY8dD1RHrkqd926bGTBs_IuZtNsKtdK7kSXHm6O7xjGcpv7kDf29QIu0GOf5zXmSVYV_TnMkdtLLezA9q5j1ziYreIC/s1600/green+curry.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Chicken Curry. Pic: Kristie Kellahan</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the Pad Thai, the all-star favourite of visitors to Thailand, Chef Somchai enlists the help of Chef Thian. “The secret to the best Pad Thai is the quality of the noodles,” he says. Chef Thian fires up a wok and starts cooking up noodles, tamarind sauce, fish sauce, dried shrimp and a rainbow of herbs and vegetables before adding four gigantic river prawns.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Even a cook who is all thumbs (um, me) could make the final dish, Mango with Sticky Rice. Simply slice a ripe mango and serve with coconut cream and sticky rice that has been prepared with coconut milk and white sugar. “Never put the rice in the fridge or it will turn hard,” says Chef Somchai.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All dishes prepared, we were left with the best task of all: tasting the delicious Thai fare. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>For details and to book, see chiang-mai.anantara.com</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-11711801265267247262014-11-24T09:47:00.000+11:002014-11-24T09:48:15.204+11:00High Time for Tea: Chiang Mai<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tea anyone? International woman of leisure and style Kristie Kellahan knows all the best places to have tea in Chiang Mai.</span></i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Taking a few hours out to enjoy a delicious high tea in swanky surrounds is one of my favourite afternoon activities, especially when I’m on holiday in South East Asia. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thailand, although proudly never colonised, has taken to this colonial tradition with flair. It does involve eating tasty treats after all, and that is a tradition most Thais can happily support.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the lovely northern city Chiang Mai, some of the best high teas are found at 5-star hotels. These are my top picks:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa</b>:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Old world charm meets modern luxury at Anantara, formerly known as the Chedi Chiang Mai. Once upon a time this sprawling riverside estate was the home of the British consul and it’s not difficult to imagine yourself back in a more elegant era as you sit on the terrace and sip artisanal tea. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Afternoon tea is available every day by appointment and the options suit most tastes and budgets. A three-tiered stand of savoury bites (pie, quiche, roll, sandwich), warm scones with jam and cream, and sweet treats (macarons, tarts, cake, crème brulee) is served with tea or coffee of choice for 750 baht per person. For an additional charge, add a glass of wine or sparkling. Order just one tier of treats with tea or coffee for 450 baht per person.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To book, call +66 53 253 333</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFGjVcoSslu0cgKhe_STwa9qQksBYdxtqSWdIOWf_K116L0c4tFPXKOurmcWFea6cjBdrjfDIoUy324zSmhHd41q6uUDg0i_Zt4z-m5HhqHtlX4uTnrWJesiSY7KE5hhdCkK6XC2gZzTq/s1600/highteaAnantara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFGjVcoSslu0cgKhe_STwa9qQksBYdxtqSWdIOWf_K116L0c4tFPXKOurmcWFea6cjBdrjfDIoUy324zSmhHd41q6uUDg0i_Zt4z-m5HhqHtlX4uTnrWJesiSY7KE5hhdCkK6XC2gZzTq/s1600/highteaAnantara.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anantara Chiang Mai high tea</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai</b>:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This magical resort on the outskirts of town resembles a Thai fairytale castle. Really, it has to be seen to be believed. Turrets, towers and sweeping staircases fit for princesses. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The resort’s cake shop has gained fame throughout Thailand for its whimsical sweet creations and perfect macarons of every flavour description (think mango and sticky rice, durian, chilli and more). Each afternoon, a Victorian-style tea salon is open from 2-6pm, serving tiered stands of perfect morsels. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For those who enjoy the temptations of a buffet spread, Kasalong Sweet Spree can’t be missed. Set up in the Kasalong Cake Shop each Saturday and Sunday afternoon, the buffet heaves under the weight of scrumptious satay, savoury quiches, fluffy scones, dainty sandwiches, macarons of every hue and a king’s ransom of bite-sized cakes, tarts and biscuits. At 425baht plus tax (approximately 500 baht total), this afternoon tea spread comes with tea and coffee.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To book, call +66 53 888 888</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRQtoSQNERLCBE6S87yZBPbUBRnHnR1v6-zAA1urlOVb9ZxqnsR9oy_MpnM8kkc0Qvp0YZXfI-YqxBImLp-bKf_DSLM6-DQi1Ia5PXA0sImdhdUlnJWktwlWHONzOp0AyTw3NWWRdgqAz/s1600/buffetDharaDhevi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRQtoSQNERLCBE6S87yZBPbUBRnHnR1v6-zAA1urlOVb9ZxqnsR9oy_MpnM8kkc0Qvp0YZXfI-YqxBImLp-bKf_DSLM6-DQi1Ia5PXA0sImdhdUlnJWktwlWHONzOp0AyTw3NWWRdgqAz/s1600/buffetDharaDhevi.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dhara Dhevi high tea</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>137 Pillars House</b>:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A beautiful boutique hotel in the Wat Ket area, 137 Pillars House has found its way onto stylish must-visit lists around the world since opening two years ago. Classic Afternoon Tea is served here from 2.30pm-5pm in the graceful gardens or the heritage homestead overlooking the pool. A three-tiered stand offers elegant tastes of local and international goodies. The menu changes regularly and might include rich chocolate cake, mango mousse, raisin scones and shrimp roll. The price per person is 600 baht plus VAT and service charge, or 1100 baht per couple. Indulge further by adding a glass of Prosecco (900baht++ per person), or a bottle of Champagne (4,999baht++ for 2 people).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To book, call +66 5324 7788</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous setting for tea at 137 Pillars House</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-73689547021868368902014-11-18T08:01:00.002+11:002014-11-18T08:03:39.994+11:00Islands Less Trampled<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Regular contributor John Borthwick goes island hopping through a treasure trove of lesser-known Thai islands.</span></i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Forget the mega-mosh islands like Phuket and their party-land cousins such as Khos Phi Phi, Phangan and Tao. Thailand still has shores aplenty where tattoos, bucket booze and jet skis don’t define your time. Consider a few of these koh:</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai</span></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The fantastic limestone isles of Phang Nga Bay jut from the sea like sleeping dragons. Amid these zoomorphic snoozers you’ll find the twins of Koh Yao Noi ("Little Long Island") and Koh Yao Yai ("Big Long Island"). They sit east of Phuket and west of Krabi (and a world apart from both), still run mostly on slow-boat time and boast few beer bars and day spas. Neither island is a Robinson Crusoe wilderness — in fact there are good resorts on both, such Koh Yao Yai Village — but the beaches aren't jammed with hawkers and hire chairs. Your resort’s lawn mower might be a buffalo and the nightlife a cricket's chirp. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Getting there: One hour by ferry from Bang Rong pier, northeast Phuket.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXzoBvlJmHrdlHJ9hEC2S4vQKd5l-vgCNvlCh_316gYd9-BpEp7-wSGdNY_hsDXNjvfGxRmyV7xPbMSeCeuzumnzEjgLWK0JmTKQQf4vP4eigqDCjHy1CptR0ta5swva73RohyphenhyphengMoy73c/s1600/Old+Thai+canoe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXzoBvlJmHrdlHJ9hEC2S4vQKd5l-vgCNvlCh_316gYd9-BpEp7-wSGdNY_hsDXNjvfGxRmyV7xPbMSeCeuzumnzEjgLWK0JmTKQQf4vP4eigqDCjHy1CptR0ta5swva73RohyphenhyphengMoy73c/s1600/Old+Thai+canoe.jpg" height="260" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Thai Canoe</td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mu Koh Ang Thong</span></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Travellers used to escape to Koh Samui. Then they escaped from it to Koh Phangan. With the proliferation of beach parties, roads and resorts, some are escaping from there, too. To its northwest are the 42 islands of Koh Ang Thong National Park. With excellent scuba diving, snorkelling and kayaking, they are good for a very long day-trip by speedboat or a more leisurely live-aboard boat excursion. Expect both crowds and seclusion, depending on which island and what time of day.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snorkelling at Koh Ang Thong</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">K<b>oh Tarutao and Koh Lipe</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Tarutao/Adang-Rawi archipelagos are as far south as you go on the west coast of Thailand before hitting Malaysia. Here, the towering rock formations and crystal waters of Koh Tarutao National Marine Park, a 51-island group around 30 km from the mainland, are still off the radar for large tour groups and day-trippers. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Following a bizarre history of prison camps and piracy during the 1930s and ‘40s, the Koh Tarutao archipelago became in 1974 a National Park. The only accommodation is at the park facilities — you’ll need to reserve a room or campsite in advance (www.dnp.go.th). Meanwhile, nearby Koh Lipe — not part of the park — has many resorts ranging from dive lodges to luxury bungalows. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The reward for getting to Koh Tarutao is the pure simplicity and isolation of it all; then throw in jungle, sea eagles, monkeys and empty beaches. If you need aircon, WiFi, ATM and 7-11, then Koh Lipe is the place. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Getting there: By speedboat or ferry from Pak Bara to Tarutao. Then speedboat to Lipe. National Park entrance fee for foreigners, 400 baht; accommodation reservations are strongly recommended. National Park islands are closed April—November. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Koh Laoliang.</b> While you’re down this way, consider Koh Laoliang, a small island in Koh Petra Marine Park, 20 km off the Trang coast. Remote, peaceful, good for climbing and camping.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koh Adang in the Adang-Rawi archipelago</td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mu Koh Similan and Mu Koh Surin </span></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Divers rave about these two Andaman Sea clusters, both national marine parks, well northwest of Phuket. The waters around the nine Similan Islands offer dramatic swim-through reefs, superb corals, a huge variety of tropical fish and stunning visibility. Morays, mantas, lionfish, giant grouper and leopard sharks are on the visual menu. Further north, the densely forested Surin Islands are home to several sea gypsy communities, but their real drawcard is underwater, even for snorkelers. At nearby Richelieu Rock divers frequently see whale sharks, rays and hammerheads. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Accommodation is limited mostly to tents, on the Similan island of Koh Miang and at the Surin park headquarters. Avoid Thai holidays. Advance booking recommended, through www.dnp.go.th. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Getting there: Speedboats depart from Khao Lak for the Similan Islands and from Khuraburi for Koh Surin. The crossing takes about one hour. The islands are open from November to May.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Koh Phra Thong</b>. If you’re in the area consider Koh Phra Thong about 10 km southwest the mainland port of Khuraburi. In the middle in a group of three islands, Phra Thong is flat, has long empty beaches fringed by palms and no crowds.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mu Koh Similan</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koh Surin</td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Koh Kood</span></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Koh Chang in the Gulf of Thailand has been rapidly and unsympathetically developed down its west coast. Its beaches are still fine for a seafood-eating, happy hour/happy ending sort of holiday but if you want somewhere more pristine head to Koh Kood in the same eastern archipelago, not far from Cambodia. Spacious Koh Kood has good resorts like Cham’s House at Haad Takien beach and Six Senses Soneva Kiri (about as upmarket as you can go without needing oxygen), but also plenty of space and jungle. There’s great diving and lots to do for visitors who don’t want to do too much. The sands haven’t been hived off to beach umbrella bosses and transport to taxi extortionists — problems that turn some beach “paradises” to purgatories. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Getting there: one hour by fast ferry from Trat. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haad Takien beach, Koh Kood</td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Koh Phayam</span></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Little Koh Phayam (pronounced “pie-am”) floats just south of Burma’s last outrider islands. No cars or real roads, few bars, no spas and no karaoke yowls — well, not yet. There are many small resorts, like the very friendly Bamboo Bungalows, and a handful of more upmarket ones. You get around on motorbikes on narrow paths. Come late afternoon, Phayam gets truly gorgeous. The cicadas crank up and the lightshow begins. Above the ghost islands of Burma the thunderclouds stack, twitching with lightning. Paradise “unimproved.”</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Getting there: one hour by speedboat from Rayong.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koh Phayam</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-7504222866140079912014-10-21T13:18:00.001+11:002014-10-21T13:18:37.336+11:00Eles on Parade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kristie Kellahan examines the phenomenon of Elephant Parade, the most colourful way of bringing attention to the plight of the Asian Elephant.</span></i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dutch national Mike Spits is on a mission to save the Asian elephant, and he’s doing it one brightly painted pachyderm at a time.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Spits and his father, Marc, launched <b>Elephant Parade</b> eight years ago to bring attention to and raise much-needed funds for elephant conservation. The project works like this: life-size fibreglass baby elephants are painted and decorated, exhibited around the world, then sold to the highest bidder. The funds go to The Asian Elephant Foundation, which distributes the money to various organisations dedicated to saving Asian elephants from extinction. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little girl meets Rainbow Fish by Noppawan Nuansiri. Pic: Elephant Parade</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Artists and celebrities are clamouring to be involved, with elephant statues already painted by famous faces including Katy Perry, Liz Hurley, Diane von Furstenberg and Formula One driver Felipe Massa. Thai and international artists have also taken part, adding their own personal stamp to the cleanskin sculptures. Swedish artist Jens Klelund went a step beyond the extraordinary: he sculpted a solid marble elephant from a block of Carrara marble. It weighed in at 2,300 kilograms!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artist Chris Chun with Kiku. Pic: Elephant Parade</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Navratna by Michael-Birch Pic: Elephant Parade</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once painted, the eles go on tour around the world, displayed so far in nine countries including the US, Hong Kong, Singapore and Belgium. Open-air art installations of the brightly painted elephants attract thousands of onlookers. The colourful statues can fetch a hefty price: the most expensive auctioned was by Jack Vettriano, selling for 155,000GBP at the Elephant Parade London auction.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Spits says he and his father first became concerned about the plight of Asian elephants during a holiday in Chiang Mai. They met baby Mosha, who had lost her leg after stepping on a landmine. With help from the foundation, Mosha received a prosthetic leg and continued support over the years.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mosha, the inspiration behind Elephant Parade. Pic: Julie Miller</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chiang Mai is still central to the Elephant Parade story. The first flagship Elephant Parade House is there, with life-size statues on display and merchandise for sale. Visitors have the opportunity to paint their own mini replica elephant and learn more about the cause. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMzF_4lyPDtpptO1ZWc2Fi73lLHSGB6sZ3ldCswdkDcC8DNKPfMlC7JjdgrsDUKp9J1y3TVgm0fNnwLCG1Hpvu5rpT3l0qc2e05ZA-bBvaF0n7oUommDN7MWPfoZ-kfjNsACmhbK654dA/s1600/10614293_714474981964408_3357643340402942060_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMzF_4lyPDtpptO1ZWc2Fi73lLHSGB6sZ3ldCswdkDcC8DNKPfMlC7JjdgrsDUKp9J1y3TVgm0fNnwLCG1Hpvu5rpT3l0qc2e05ZA-bBvaF0n7oUommDN7MWPfoZ-kfjNsACmhbK654dA/s1600/10614293_714474981964408_3357643340402942060_n.jpg" height="400" width="367" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A basketful of mini-Kikus. Pic: Chris Chun</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A day trip to the <b>Friends of the Asian Elephant Hospital</b> is also recommended, where it is possible to meet Mosha as well as other elephants who have been rescued from often appalling conditions, rehabilitated and loved back to wellbeing by dedicated Thai caretakers. For animal lovers from around the world, it is guaranteed to be an experience that will stick long after returning home.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Elephant Parade House</b> is located at:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Colour Factory One</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">145-156 Charoenrajd Rd</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chiang Mai</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For more information, visit elephantparade.com</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-37961174961114212972014-10-07T10:56:00.000+11:002014-10-07T10:56:10.922+11:00Beach Bliss in Thailand<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last weekend, I had my first Aussie beach break in ages, hanging out with friends at a Central Coast beachhouse. The company was great, the weather perfect and the location was beautiful, but I couldn't help but miss Thailand's sublime beaches and wish I was on one of them instead.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's why I prefer Thailand's beaches:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg457sGwIFj45y-kEU8RU119gB_MJ605aaTMNvPm1M8Wq477QTa6n9-Khj9RGq44wMHeoOsc7cxqWIrujCnxEAIaXkGxoLcOuGNmZL3rlV5-ECJu-CzjtNVCtKQjWQwzsMGipukjUJaSo6p/s1600/DSC_0348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg457sGwIFj45y-kEU8RU119gB_MJ605aaTMNvPm1M8Wq477QTa6n9-Khj9RGq44wMHeoOsc7cxqWIrujCnxEAIaXkGxoLcOuGNmZL3rlV5-ECJu-CzjtNVCtKQjWQwzsMGipukjUJaSo6p/s1600/DSC_0348.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can't do this at an Aussie beach!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Warm water:</b> Oh, for water as warm as a bathtub, that you can walk straight into instead of inching your way in, screaming and cursing as the icy tendrils send electric currents through your system! In Thailand, the water is refreshing without the shock factor. My sort of swimming.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hideous, isn't it??</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Shady shores:</b> Much as I love the direct sun, I can't stay out in it for that long. Last weekend I had to head back to the house to escape the fury of the sun. In Thailand you can find a shady palm tree on the fringe of the beach and set up camp under there. No need to leave when the going gets hot.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJ_ZWAiXopea2tpM59EKaTL3JsCRIvbnIQvgJH8SGY2uwsFs-Lb99uqtNXxx1u__7YDRGm6hNO2lBEVPoRXgItSEcS0OAg_RvSMhWvIi5XoysUaAN0rZAI2VXjE85uxvjBjxnKxuTRVuG/s1600/IMG_0553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJ_ZWAiXopea2tpM59EKaTL3JsCRIvbnIQvgJH8SGY2uwsFs-Lb99uqtNXxx1u__7YDRGm6hNO2lBEVPoRXgItSEcS0OAg_RvSMhWvIi5XoysUaAN0rZAI2VXjE85uxvjBjxnKxuTRVuG/s1600/IMG_0553.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Park yourself in the sun or the shade!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Beach bars:</b> Still feeling the heat? Then escape to the shade of a beach bar, which will inevitably just be a few steps away, if not on the sand itself. Crack open a Chang or sip on a fresh pineapple juice to the soothing accompaniment of Bob Marley, 24/7 - heaven on earth! And you don't have to lose the view by being indoors.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drinks with a view</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Beach restaurants:</b> Ditto. Hungry? Just a few steps away from the water's edge - or even in the water itself (see pic below!) will be a great Thai restaurant, serving up all your favourite dishes as well as great seafood. What more could you ask for?</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Thailand, the food comes to you!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Great shopping:</b> In Thailand, canny shop vendors set up shop just behind the beach, so if you feel like a stroll, there's always something to look at or buy.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Massage:</b> Bored? Sore? In need of even more relaxation? Then have a beach massage under a thatched sala, ironing out all those chinks under the strong fingers and elbows of a Thai masseuse. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Day beds:</b> This is a contentious issue ... most Aussies prefer beaches sans daybeds, particularly row upon row of resort-issue beds and umbrellas. But sometimes it's nice to lie back without sand blowing all over you, and have a friendly waiter bring you a freshly squeezed fruit juice.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Crowds, or lack thereof:</b> It's all about choosing your beach wisely. Yes, some Thai beaches are horrendously overcrowded. So are some Aussie beaches. Do your homework and seek out a beach where the package tourist don't go. They do exist. And you won't be disappointed, I promise!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What crowds??</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-26629858097569791962014-09-24T23:17:00.000+10:002014-09-24T23:17:31.216+10:00Living the Dream #6: Carl Prince<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Who:</b> Carl Prince, 47</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Where:</b> Bangkok</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOIndEepCexTbjePl8ItAMCgFYvVZn0W6nysnIEC7iQKBZfcy0tRIg64g6ua8o8yYgs7POW092Ly-F3qvyl5QsumUFBlghG6qxVpISQqJE_5nW6LbWT8FqonwHIGt1oxw9O-l6U6uFCqi/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOIndEepCexTbjePl8ItAMCgFYvVZn0W6nysnIEC7iQKBZfcy0tRIg64g6ua8o8yYgs7POW092Ly-F3qvyl5QsumUFBlghG6qxVpISQqJE_5nW6LbWT8FqonwHIGt1oxw9O-l6U6uFCqi/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Why: </b>"I moved to Thailand after the death of my mother three years ago," Carl says. "I learned life could be cut short, and that 'working' should be secondary to 'living'. I felt I needed to do something bold to refresh my soul. I gave notice, told my friends and family, sold everything I owned, cashed out, and was gone in five months. I moved to Thailand with everything I owned in three suitcases."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Life before Thailand:</b> Carl was living a fabulous life in New York City: in his words, "a dream job, awesome friends, expensive shoes, holidays in the Greek Islands -- and a lot of stress". </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I needed pills to put me to sleep at night and coffee to keep me awake during the day," he says. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>The life he has created in Thailand: </b>Carl traveled and studied the Thai language for the first three years. He has recently begun working as a creative director for Bigz Entertainment – a production company that, among other things, makes television sitcoms (think <i>Saved by the Bell</i> meets <i>Sesame Street</i>) that assist with English language teaching and learning in Bangkok’s public schools.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Biggest culture shock:</b>Every day is a culture shock, according to Carl, which is why he chose Thailand in the first place. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Westerners try to understand Thais by comparing cultures and customs and this leads to frustration and disappointment," he says. "One must 'suspend' preconceptions and expectations and then relax and go with the flow. The easiest example: no one is in a hurry here and people are often late without warning. If you understand that it’s not a lack of consideration but an acceptable norm, you’ll be ok." </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Biggest challenge:</b> "Learning to speak Thai."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Biggest reward:</b> "When someone understands what I am trying to say."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Top Bangkok restaurants:</b> "I keep it simple and I prefer 'real' Thai restaurants – out doors -- with lively customers, beer towers and buckets of ice, a live band, and muted (or not) football games on the big screen TVs," Carl says. "If they don’t speak English there, you’ve found one."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Best Bangkok spas for massage and pampering: </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I’ve only had one Thai massage I didn’t like and that was at a place for tourists (I paid four times what I would pay at a store front massage shop on Silom Road)," Carl says. "I do splurge (that is, pay Western prices) for manis and pedis. I go to Nail & Spa at Q-House Lumphini. They have the facilities and equipment that promote proper hygiene." </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>How he spends his downtime: </b>"I love exploring the Thai neighbourhoods and side <i>sois</i> scattered throughout Bangkok," Carl says. One of my favorites is Ban Kai, sandwiched between Sukhumvit and Rama 4 on what is, ironically, some of the most expensive real estate in Bangkok. It’s the real deal – it feels more like you’re walking through an upcountry village than a cosmopolitan capital."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>His favourite Thai expression: </b>Carl nominates a Thai word, rather than an expression: พี่ (in English, pronounced something like “pee”). "Thais are very formal with people they don’t know – especially foreigners – and tend to use titles when addressing you," Carl explains. "Typically, it is Khun Carl, which is like Mr Carl. But when a Thai person begins to call me Pee Carl (literally, older brother Carl) I know I have passed “the test” and secured a special place in their heart."</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-55685801618697276582014-09-13T10:18:00.000+10:002014-09-17T12:22:05.373+10:00Hidden Treasures in Chiang Mai<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some of the most rewarding experiences when you're on the road are the ones you literally stumble across.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was recently wandering through Chiang Mai, exploring the back sois within the walls of the ancient city. Amongst the beautiful Lanna temples, street markets and 7-11s, I came across <b><a href="http://www.artterracotta.com/">Ban Phor Liang Meun's Terracotta Art</a></b> - a secret garden that sells replica terracotta sculptures and bas reliefs. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This enormous gallery straddles two sides of the street, just off Phrapokklao Rd near the Chiang Mai Gate. One side has a slick showroom in an old teak house, as well as a showcase garden; but on the other side of the road is a rambling yard, filled with banyan tress, mossy, cracked pathways and crumbling terracotta statues, piled up in heaps and themselves gathering moss.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was like discovering an ancient Khmer ruin such as Ta Phrom, where nature is silently reclaiming civilisation; and while this is all replica material, it's been presented as if it were genuine artefacts from an ancient time.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are statues, panels and bricks featuring images of Buddha, graceful <i>apsara</i> dancers, Hindu deities, dragons and mythical creatures from folklore; some are broken beyond fixing, but the more damaged, cracked and headless, the more intriguing. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I later learned that the gallery is the brainchild of Mr. Suttiphong Maiwan, who first set up his earthernware production facility in Lumphun Province. He later added this location in Chiang Mai, expanding to over 60 acres of land in total.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As well as purchasing pieces from the gallery, visitors can also learn about the earthernware process and see production in action.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2TBsB2ytKUUc8dYvQiButEkhPaXMA-rmi7_5dga4OlqOxRApwq5xbvEOLcdZDXgGcvwY4geOY5CTKehyphenhyphenKtg0vDqpMtA6bXK_Uqi1mtbaQoTvLVrB90GGPha6FIhqNETjK8ySNpjhVoL1/s1600/IMG_5265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2TBsB2ytKUUc8dYvQiButEkhPaXMA-rmi7_5dga4OlqOxRApwq5xbvEOLcdZDXgGcvwY4geOY5CTKehyphenhyphenKtg0vDqpMtA6bXK_Uqi1mtbaQoTvLVrB90GGPha6FIhqNETjK8ySNpjhVoL1/s1600/IMG_5265.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Unfortunately, the minimum purchase for shipping overseas was one cubic metre, which was way beyond my budget and capabilities at the time. Instead, I had to settle for a beautiful, simple brick featuring a mythical horse - around one kilo of extra cabin baggage, but a gorgeous and precious purchase!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My final purchase!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>WHERE:</b> Ban Phor Liang Meun's Terracotta Art</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">36 Prasing Soi 2</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Phrapokklao Rd, near Chiang Mai Gate</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">http://www.artterracotta.com/</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-53774907670111716832014-09-09T09:23:00.003+10:002014-09-09T18:00:14.697+10:00To Ride or Not To Ride: Elephant Tourism in Thailand<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My article on elephants and tourism that was published in the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age on Saturday 6 September has been my most-shared story on social media ever. Clearly the issue of wild animals used in entertainment is a pertinent one, and something that all tourists should be aware of. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here is the link to the story as it ran in the SMH: <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/travel/activity/great-outdoors/asian-elephant-hospital-thailand-in-the-hearts-of-giants-20140903-3esmt.html">http://www.smh.com.au/travel/activity/great-outdoors/asian-elephant-hospital-thailand-in-the-hearts-of-giants-20140903-3esmt.html</a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I confess that I have ridden elephants in Thailand; but to tell you the truth, I find plodding around on one of those uncomfortable wooden saddles that trekking elephants wear really boring! Welfare issues aside, it's just not that much fun from a tourism perspective.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This elephant does not appear stressed or unhappy </td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Far more rewarding is watching elephants be elephants ... hoovering up food, being washed in a river, and interacting with each other in a herd situation. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feed time on the River Kwai</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is nothing more amusing than a baby elephant at play - the rambunctious toddlers are a laugh a minute.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby ele at ENP</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUm0bwfqgSVYojdCd7M9bRQYmk1rLN5HHHFoGMsP6o9Th0jU6nVTGRX4A7jzGcZJTK3qs6oSMcqiU8iSJAXhuQIFTMM1i5hPoMPgIEnxgxAYAr1TDL2VvQuBQEsL8z1hJIFWrIn1wNvJ3/s1600/P2100111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUm0bwfqgSVYojdCd7M9bRQYmk1rLN5HHHFoGMsP6o9Th0jU6nVTGRX4A7jzGcZJTK3qs6oSMcqiU8iSJAXhuQIFTMM1i5hPoMPgIEnxgxAYAr1TDL2VvQuBQEsL8z1hJIFWrIn1wNvJ3/s1600/P2100111.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seriously the cutest creatures in the world!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As my elephant guru John Roberts from </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://helpingelephants.org/">Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> states in my article, a blanket ban on elephant tourism is not the solution. We have a duty to ensure Thailand's captive elephants are well cared for, well fed, able to roam as free as possible and have interaction with other elephants. Elephants and their mahout owners still need to eat, and tourism still provides the best, least invasive solution for these animals.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A rewarding tourism experience at ENP</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-ta3z9WGYkMy9kEpdEMoKq94GOdZSjAEB9CJevqIEljmDHQCY-l4Y_zEjub8fTHi4PYfLucxvDVpmWgLYUYW9MBrOxsGmXkTLVrCDuJxmh2yFy4WZ0pWkfbb2bheOTZWtYEjVlHgGiq5/s1600/1934744_121320144877_8039247_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-ta3z9WGYkMy9kEpdEMoKq94GOdZSjAEB9CJevqIEljmDHQCY-l4Y_zEjub8fTHi4PYfLucxvDVpmWgLYUYW9MBrOxsGmXkTLVrCDuJxmh2yFy4WZ0pWkfbb2bheOTZWtYEjVlHgGiq5/s1600/1934744_121320144877_8039247_n.jpg" height="400" width="371" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best fun ever - washing the elephants at Anantara Golden Triangle</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>So what do we look for if we want to interact with elephants on our Thailand holiday? </b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are some guidelines from <a href="http://www.worldanimalprotection.org.au/">WAP</a>, who did the original study on elephants and ethical treatment for <a href="http://intrepidtravel.com/">Intrepid Travel</a>:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Freedom to move without restraint</b>. Are the animals free to move without restraint when not used for tourists? Can they interact with other animals on their own terms?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>No signs of abuse or distress in the animals.</b> Are the animals healthy and without wounds and not showing any behavioural problems? Do the animals seem calm but not apathetic?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Clean and natural husbandry conditions.</b> Are the animals housed in a natural environment? Is the area kept clean?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Fresh and varied food available.</b> Is fresh, unprocessed food available at all times? Can the animals forage natural food? Most animals also require free access to water at all times.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Don’t ride elephants or patronise shows where the elephants are clearly made to perform unnatural or human-like activities</b>. You can politely voice your concerns to the appropriate tourism authorities.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>If wanting to help elephants or experience them at close range, support a commendable venue or at least a venue that clearly priorities the elephant’s welfare</b>. </span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For more information about how to be an ‘animal-friendly tourist’, visit worldanimalprotection.org.au</span></i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy eles!</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4100296163766713433.post-90875136172987236812014-09-03T09:46:00.002+10:002014-12-02T19:19:40.772+11:00Train's Coming! Thailand's Market on the Railway Tracks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The 9.30am train is running late, which, for the vendors at the Mae Klong markets, means another 10 minutes or so of trading. They show no sign of preparation, or of making good use of the extra time - for them, it's business as usual.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping for fresh vegies at the Mae Klong Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGcYhptOWgCkpRqT2U15vYPhVs7iUSKT3bx0FT_5VpO9JQwENyaWX3rt1uJN3rslwrADOsAWDsnllm4SuLrVCP49ZodEp4GU0-A_CP_nUZvNZEZ2XtkDdI-1IP78NolLnoLpxigz9Er8Y/s1600/DSC_0471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGcYhptOWgCkpRqT2U15vYPhVs7iUSKT3bx0FT_5VpO9JQwENyaWX3rt1uJN3rslwrADOsAWDsnllm4SuLrVCP49ZodEp4GU0-A_CP_nUZvNZEZ2XtkDdI-1IP78NolLnoLpxigz9Er8Y/s1600/DSC_0471.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stalls are located right on the tracks</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Suddenly, however, there's a warning cry - the train is coming! Hurry!!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There's a brief moment of panic - what the??? NOW? ... but soon the well-oiled machine swings into action as boxes of seafood, fruit, kitchen utensils and plastic raincoats are pushed in, awnings are folded and goods moved back just a metre or so.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's coming - no time to waste!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's all perfect timing, of course. The two-car train, en route to the nearby station, chuffs past to the cheer of the crowd, passing within a whisker of the market stalls. Then, the second it passes, the action starts again as vendors re-set their stalls in the original position - right on top of the railway tracks.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here it is!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now that's a close shave!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's all a carefully choreographed drama - and entertainment of the simplest kind. But this four-times daily ritual - removing market stalls off the tracks as the train approaches, re-setting up business, then removing everything again as the train returns - is what makes this market both unique, and incredibly popular with tourists. What should be just another dull produce market has instead become an attraction in its own right, and brought much needed business to this area 80 kilometres southwest of Bangkok.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The climax of the show</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdbA5zuUc6-P2ArOAchRhZMHcI5GXz9go6DZf8vnWVlyq6-KkbaCZZXn02AkiKHOeSyUxPADjrDvBU-00a75Pl0iz72aEsc7AyoDyed51sEXPw3Kbl1TGkJVdkASVUJH6b_UEuYUcAqbK/s1600/DSC_0489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdbA5zuUc6-P2ArOAchRhZMHcI5GXz9go6DZf8vnWVlyq6-KkbaCZZXn02AkiKHOeSyUxPADjrDvBU-00a75Pl0iz72aEsc7AyoDyed51sEXPw3Kbl1TGkJVdkASVUJH6b_UEuYUcAqbK/s1600/DSC_0489.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Replacing the awnings after the train has passed</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And as with any show, the more drama the better. The last minute chaos is good for business in every aspect, giving visitors a real show and allowing trading to continue until the very last second.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mae Klong's railway market was born of necessity, to make the most of limited space. Stalls located right on the tracks pay the least rent to market administrators - and despite the inconvenience of having to move as the train approaches, it's these stalls that make the market unique. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Mae Klong Railway is the shortest line in Thailand, split into two sections - a 33km line from Bangkok to Samut Sakhon, then a further 31 kilometres to Mae Klong, with the two sections separated by the Tha Chin River. Passengers are ferried across the river by boat before joining the second train.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In Thai, the now famous Railway Market is called <i>Talad Rom Hoop,</i> meaning the 'Umbrella Pulldown Market'. In a country where produce markets are a dime a dozen, this is one of a kind, and a fun, very Thai spectacle.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><a href="http://www.intrepidtravel.com/">Intrepid Travel</a> visit Mae Klong market as part of their Real Food Adventure tours (www.intrepidtravel.com/thailand/real-food-adventure-thailand-71255).</i></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06523078612376705072noreply@blogger.com3