Thailand Travel Guide

by Direct Line Travel Insurance

With its beautiful beaches, tropical islands, ancient temples, and wild jungle, Thailand is one of the world's most popular backpacking destinations. It is also close to other popular travel spots in South East Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos. Recent development in Thailand means there are a number of new upmarket resorts and spas offering excellent food, luxury accommodation and relaxing spa treatments. With all this on offer, it's no wonder some tourists stay much longer than they intended.

Beaches and Islands Alex Garland's film adaptation of his novel The Beach in 1996 helped put Thailand on the tourist map. Travellers and holidaymakers are attracted to the clear, sunny days, white sand beaches, cool turquoise waters, and palm trees lining the shoreline.

There are islands in abundance in Thailand, all just a boat trip away. The islands of Phuket, Phi Phi and Koh Hae (Coral Island) are situated in the Andaman Sea. Not far away is the coastal province of Krabi renown for its stunning coastline and limestone cliffs. Here you will find the relatively untouched islands of Khao Lak and Phang Nak.

Thailand is a diver's dream. Head to the Similan Islands for some amazing coral and tropical fish. If you're looking for more action on your travels head to the Gulf of Thailand. The islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui offer sun, spas and plenty of parties. The nearby island of Koh Tao is a fantastic spot to do some diving. Not to be outdone, the east coast of Thailand offers a number of popular spots for backpackers including Pattaya, Koh Samet and Koh Chang.

Temples and Trekking Thailand boasts over 31, 200 Buddhist temples (wats). Some are used for religious ceremonies and festivals and some are home to Buddhist monks. Not all temples are created equal in Thailand. The highest grade temples are called Royal Temples. There are 200 Royal Temples in Thailand including Wat Suthat and Wat Phra Chetuphon in Bangkok, Wat Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom Province, and in Sarburo Province, Wat Phra Buddhabat.

Some of the temples in Chiang Mai are over 700 years old. Wat Phrathat Dou Suthep sits high on a mountain with spectacular views overlooking the city. Other temples to visit are Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man, the colourful Burmese-style Wat Saen Fang and the forests and labyrinth at Wat Umong. Chiang Mai is also a trekkers paradise with two massive national parks, elephant centres, ancient hill tribes and plenty of mountains, wildlife and natural wonders.

Rest and Rejuvenation After you've trekked through the jungle, absorbed the magic of the temples, and tasted the nightlife Thai style, unwind with a spa treatment and massage. Thailand is famous for its spas and massages. If you're travelling on a budget there are basic treatments or if you're going for all out luxury, check out a luxurious spa resort. There are destination spas that are dedicated to spa treatments like Chiva-Som in Hua Hin. Spa programmes include relaxation, slimming, detox or focus on increasing energy levels. A number of hotels double as spa resorts. These include The Oriental in Bangkok, The Amanpuri Resort in Phuket, The Oasis Resort and Samui Dharma Healing Centre in Koh Samet, The Central Wong Amat Beach Resort in Pattaya, and The Regent Resort (Lanna Spa) in Chiang Mai.

If you're looking for a health retreat that specialises in medical programmes, there are a number of day spas that offer beauty treatments and massage centres offering traditional Thai reflexology and Swedish-style massage. The Wat Pho temple in Bangkok, the main school for massage and traditional medicine in Thailand, is famous for its massage and medical treatments.

Favourite haunts Diving heaven For a magical view of Thailand's underwater paradise, take a diving course at one of Thailand's diving centres. You can learn to dive on Koh Tao, Phi Phi, Phuket or Koh Samui. If you're rather take a dive cruise, head out to the nine granite Similan Islands in the Andaman Sea, 65km offshore from Phang Nga Province. These islands were declared a National Park in 1982. You will see beautiful coral gardens, sloping reef banks, massive boulders, vast numbers of tropical fish and even some of the more exotic sea creatures like turtles and leopard sharks.

If you're planning to dive in Thailand, remember to let your travel insurance company know before you go.

Rural retreat Head inland and discover the beauty of Thailand's jungles. Some of the best treks start in Chiang Mai and take you through lush jungle to visit indigenous hill tribes and wildlife sanctuaries.

Take a trip to the Doi Inthanon National Park and see the Vachiratarn Waterfalls, spend the night in an authentic Karen village (home to a Karen hill tribe), trek through the jungle on an elephant, and raft down a river on a bamboo raft. If you are planning to river raft while in Thailand, make sure you let your travel insurance company know before you go.

Use Chiang Mai as a base to explore the temples in the area and if you fancy becoming an expert in Thai massage, take a course at one of the local massage schools.

Hustle and bustle City life in Thailand is colourful, noisy and busy. Bangkok is one of those cities you either love or hate. Pollution is a problem but if you can handle the smog, you'll find a treasure trove of markets, temples, river tours, hotels, nightlife, restaurants, bars and street stalls offering mouthwatering Thai cuisine.

Shop by day at the Chatuchak Weekend Market or if you're a night owl, shop at the Suan Lum Night Bazaar. The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a major tourist attraction with lots of Thai bargains and stunning river views.

If you're look for an adventure at night, try Sukhumvit, Khao San Road, Silom, Ratchadapisek, Siam and Chidlom, where there's something for every taste and style.

Travelling by Plane The only direct flights from the UK to Thailand fly into Bangkok. Thai Airways, BA, Eva Airways and Qantas Airways offer direct flights from London Heathrow to Bangkok. Once you've landed in Bangkok, you can catch a connecting flight to Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Phi Phi or Phuket. If flying is not adventurous enough for you, you can choose to travel by train, boat or bus to a wide range of Thai destinations.

The new Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok may also see flights from other destinations in the UK in the future. For more information visit www.flightmapping.com/Asia/Thailand

Thailand travel information For more information and holiday ideas visit www.tourismthailand.org and www.tourismthailand.co.uk.

Guidebooks are a another useful source of ideas, suggestions and travel tips:
• The Rough Guide to Thailand
• Thailand's Beaches and Islands
• Lonely Planet's Thailand and Thailand's Islands and Beaches Country

Travel insurance for Thailand Watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers in Thailand. Make sure you keep your money and valuables in a safe place at all times. Keep a close eye on your credit card as tourists can be targets for card fraud. Female travellers should take extra care, especially if they are travelling alone and under the influence of alcohol.

The possession, distribution and/or manufacture of drugs carry severe penalties including the death penalty in some cases so don't risk it.

If you're planning to partake in activities like diving, sailing or jungle trekking, make sure you have adequate travel insurance before you leave. It's a good idea to ensure your travel insurance covers you for all the activities you are planning to do, theft, medical emergencies, cancellation and curtailment. Most travel insurance companies offer quick and easy travel insurance quotes online. For a travel insurance quote and more information about the types of travel insurance available from Direct Line, visit http://www.directline.com/travel/welcome.htm

Chiang Khong

Chiang Khong is a small, peaceful district on the bank of the Mekong River opposite Huaixai, Lao PDR. It is about 115 kilometers from the provincial seat, or approximately 55 kilometers to the east of Chiang Saen on Highway No. 1129. Chiang Khong is noted as the place where Pla Buk, giant catfish, is cultivated. The Chiang Khong Fishery Station is able to inseminate and breed Pla Buk, the largest fresh water fish in the world and fingerlings bred here have been released in several rivers. It should be noted that the fishing season is from mid-January to May.

Sightseeing trips by boat are available to view the scenery and life styles along the Mekong River. An additional attraction is a visit to Ban Hat Bai, a Thai Lu community noted for making beautiful local fabrics. To cross over to Huaixai town in Lao PDR, contact the immigration office or tour agencies at Chiang Khong.

By Tourism Authority of Thailand

Doi Luang Chiang Dao

Doi Luang Chiang Dao is a limestone mountain in the Chiang Dao Wildlife Reserve area, Amphoe Chiang Dao. This cone-shaped mountain is 2,195 metres from sea level, which makes it the third highest mountain in Thailand after Doi Inthanon and Doi Pha Hom Pok. Narrow plains on top of the mountain overlook spectacular views that include a sea of fog on the Amphoe Chiang Dao side, Doi Sam Phi Nong, the Chiang Dao mountain range, and the far end of Doi Inthanon. The peak is cool and windy. It is full of rare highland flowers, birds, and butterflies. Visiting Doi Chiang Dao needs an approval letter from the Director of Wildlife Reserve Division, Royal Forest Department. Travel must be arranged at least 2 weeks in advance. Contact tel. 0 2561 2947 for more information.

How to get there: The peak is accessible on foot. At Chiang Dao cave, guides, porters, and chartered transfers to the starting point of the trail are available. Rented local truck costs around 900 baht and, a porter is 300 baht per person. There are no tourist facilities on Chiang Dao Mountain. Visitors must bring their own sleeping bags, food, and water.

Descending the mountain is possible on the trail near Ban Tham, which is located near Chiang Dao cave. The trail is rather steep; nevertheless, it could shorten the walking distance upon descending. It is quite difficult to climb up.

By Tourism Authority of Thailand

Chiang Mai National Museum

Located on the Chiang Mai-Lampang Super Highway near Wat Chet Yot, the museum has been designated by the Fine Arts Department as a regional center for education and preservation of the art and culture of Chiang Mai and upper northern Thailand the Lanna Kingdom. Their Majesties the King and Queen graciously presided over the opening of the museum on 6 February 1973. The museum was built according to traditional northern architecture, with a Lanna Thai rooftop. Interesting exhibitions include:

Topic 1: The natural and cultural background of the Lan Na Kingdom including the geology, ecology, geography and prehistoric settlement of the north.

Topic 2: The history of the Lan Na Kingdom from the establishment of Chiang Mai city to its peak and decline under Burmese control from 1558 to 1769.

Topic 3: The city of Chiang Mai under the Kingdom of Siam, from the time Chiang Mai regained its freedom from Burma, to the reestablishment of Chiang Mai city in 1782.

Topic 4: Trade and economy of the Lan Na Kingdom from 1782 to 1939.

Topic 5: The modern way of life and social development: agriculture and industry, banking, international relations, education and public health.

Topic 6: The development of the Lan Na Art Style, and the history of art in Thailand from the Dvaravati period to the present day.

Not far away from the Chiang Mai National Museum is the Tribal Museum, which displays information on the history and culture of each hill tribe as well as their traditional handicrafts. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. (closed on National Holidays) Contact tel. 053 221328 for more information. Admission fee is 30 baht.

by Tourism Authority of Thailand

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Locals would say, You havent really gone to Chiang Mai unless youve been to Wat Phratat Doi Suthep. Truly, the place is the most important and famous Chiang Mai landmark. Built in 1383, this mountaintop temple has a chedi (pagoda) that houses holy Buddha relics. The gold-plated chedi lies in the middle of a square marble-tiled courtyard. The four corners of the chedi are adorned with parasols which represent royal regalia. The temples courtyard is lined by a cloister, which contains images and murals depicting Buddhas life. There are also two viharns situated in the middle of the east and west sides of the cloister.

This temple is 15 kilometers from town and is 3,520 feet above sea level. It is the perfect place to get a birds eye view of the city. The temple can be reached via a steep Naga staircase comprised of 290 steps or railcars. The temple is open daily from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

To get there, drive along Huay Kaew Road up the mountain. Alternatively, there are song thaew services available at the foot of the mountain. It costs 30 baht/head to go up to Doi Suthep and approximately 50 baht/head to go further to Doi Pui and Phu Phing Palace. Note that these are one-way fares. (This is the added text)

Doi Suthep - Doi Pui National Park

Covering an area of 262 sq. km., this luxuriant park is home to more than 300 bird species and nearly 2,000 species of ferns and flowering plants. Some hiking trails in the park pass Hmong villages while others lead to a few small waterfalls where local people come to picnicking on weekends. Accommodations are available near the park headquarters. To get there, take Highway No. 1004, its only 16 kilometers drive northwest of Chiang Mai town. The Park has interesting attractions, which include:

Namtok Huai Kaew

This waterfall is located near the Chiang Mai Zoo and is a pleasant place for relaxation and picnics.

Doi Pui Tribal Village

This village is a Hmong village situated on an asphalt road approximately 3 kilometers from Phu Phing Palace and approximately one hour from Chiang Mai. The village presents the typical lifestyle of the Hmong as well as a scenic view of Doi Inthanon.

Phu Phing Palace (Royal Winter Palace)

The palace is located further up the mountain and approximately 6 kilometers from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The royal winter palace was built in 1962. Its landscaped gardens are decorated with plenty of colorful, exotic flowers. It is open every day from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. except when the Royal family is in residence which is usually from mid December to early February.

by Tourism Authority of Thailand

Doi Tung : Switzerland in Thailand

Many People Have Called Doi Tung "Switzerland in Thailand" (correct pronunciation is "Doi Dtoong"). This description seems apt when viewing the crisp line of mountains of Chiang Rai in the cool winter season, or when the mist and clouds of the rainy season roll in above the verdant forest against a background of an ever-changing sky.

This natural beauty has been enhanced through the effort and perseverance of the people of Doi Tung in reviving their once deteriorated forests. The now lush forests are their legacy to pass on to their descendants. It is through their work that they accomplished the gracious commands in the memory of Her Royal Highness, the Princess Mother, through the Doi Tung Development Project under Royal Initiative, that has returned the mountains to their natural environment. The Princess Mother has passed away, but her inspiration has lived on through the dedication of the loyal staff of the Doi Tung Development Project.

Visitors to Doi Tung can experience for themselves the natural beauty of the hills, and appreciate the efforts of the people of Doi Tung. They can see how people and forests can live together, while the people preserve the forests, the forests support the livelihood of the people.
"The Villa on Doi Tung"

The Royal Villa was built at Doi Tung for Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother to stay while she carried out her environmental and development work. On deciding to live there, Her Royal Highness told her private secretary, "If there were no Doi Tung Development Project, I will not have a house here". The Doi Tung Royal Villa is thus a symbol of Her Royal Highness' constant efforts to improve the lives and well-being of her subjects.
The Doi Tung Royal Villa

The Doi Tung Royal Villa was the first residence of Her Royal Highness Princess Srinakarindra, the Princess Mother, built under her supervision, Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana, gave the architects a concept of simplicity and multi-functionality for the Royal Villa.

Construction started on December 23, 1987 with a traditional northern Thai ceremony (Called "Pork Sao Huen") of erecting the main house pillar.
Handicrafts and Cottage Industries

The Doi Tung Development Project recognized that improving the quality of life and raising the income of the people of Doi Tung would not be possible through agriculture alone. A variety of activities have been promoted under the Project by establishing both a Cottage Industry Center and an Outlet to help residents develop their skills.

Younger villagers are trained in handmade carpet manufacturing. These carpets are sold entirely on the international market.

Women already skilled in weaving and in clothes making are given additional training to enhance their traditional skills. The goods they produce incorporate traditional elements, with improved quality and color, as well as new designs appropriate for domestic and international markets.

Sa Paper is made from the bark of mulberry trees planted in the forest. This handmade paper is used for wrapping and other decorative purposes, including paper flowers and photo frames.

A center has been established to process and roast the Arabica coffee beans, and these arabica coffee blends available for sale under the Golden Triangle brand name.
Mae Fah Luang Arboretum at Chang Mub
Doi Chang Mub at 1,509 meters above sea level is the highest mountain in the Doi Tung Development Project area. Forming part of the Thai-Myanmar border, the highest point of Doi Chang Mub lies just inside Thai territory. Before the project started, this site was barren of trees, and covered with one of the largest opium fields in Thai territory.

H.R.H. the Princess Mother had a wish to see this once denuded mountain reforested, with part of it made into an arboretum. Fifteen large old trees that were moved from near Mae Chan town along the Chiang Rai Mae Sai highway from the center-piece of this arboretum. These trees were doomed to be cut down when the highway was expanded from two to four lanes, but at Her Royal Highness' suggestion the root balls and trunks were moved to Doi Chang Mub in an effort to save these ancient, massive trees.
The Mae Fah Luang Garden

The Mae Fah Garden filled with decorative and flowering plants covers 25 rai (hectares) is located on the hillside just below the Royal Villa. The Garden, opened since 1992, was created with the support of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Throughout the year, flowers adorn this hillside, making the Mae Fah Luang Garden one of the brightest and most colorful sites in Thailand. At the center of the garden stands a statue of children climbing, made by one of the country's leading sculptresses, Museum Yip-in-soi. Entitled "Continuity", the statue is evocative of the continuous effort of Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother to improve the lives of the people of Thailand.

The Pacific-Asia Tourist Association (PATA) gave Thailand the PATA Gold Award in 1993 for the Mae Fah Luang Garden, in recognition of the development of this new tourist destination.

New additions to the Mae Fah Luang Garden include a rock garden, a water garden, a plant garden, and an ornamental plants garden.
Baan Ton Nam 31

Doi Tung Tourism & Service Center recently introduced the 45 newly furnished guestrooms accommodation, "Ton Nam 31" nestled on a mountain 1,000 meters above sea level. Every room has a spectacular scenic verandah, overlooking meadows and hilltribe villages. Each room has ensuite bathroom with hot/cold shower, air conditioning, satellite TV and a mini bar. After a long day of touring, you can relax at the "Club 31" after sunset.

Moreover, visitors can taste the traditional northern style food prepared from freshly picked organic vegetables and fruits served in every restaurant outlet.

For further information, contact the Tourism & Service Center, Tel. 053-767015-7 ext. 308, 309, Bangkok Office, Tel. 02-2542225-6, or E-mail : tourism@doitung.org.
Restaurants

If your group would like to reserve a table at any of the Doi Tung Restaurants in the Doi Tung Development Project, Mae Fah Luang, Chiang Rai, please book in advance at Tel. 053-767015-7, ext. 248, 250 or Fax. 053-767077.

By : Doi Tung

Phu Kradueng National Park

This is the ultimate destination for many Thai trekkers. The goal is to hike up to the summit and conquer the distance of 1,325 meters above sea level. At the top of Phu Kradueng is a wide plain of about 60 square kilometers. There is a cold-climate pine forest and a grass field full of wild flowers and orchids that bloom in different seasons. In addition, there are several lovely waterfalls and an observation point that is provides spectacular views during sunrise and sunset.

To get there, take Bangkok-Loei bus and get off at Pha Nok Khao, the boundary between Khon Kaen and Loei. From there, take a mini-bus to the park office at the foot of the mountain and walk up Phu Kradueng for 6 kilometers. The park is open during October to May and closed during the rainy season to rejuvenate the flora and fauna. Park attractions include: Pha Nok Aen, the cliff that offers a breathtaking view of the crimson sunrise, Pha Lom Sak, a sandstone ledge jutting into space providing a fine view of the hills and valleys and Pha Yiap Mek, where cottony clouds suggest a misty world of shadow figures.

The park is open to visitors from 7.00 a.m. until 2.00 p.m. daily and is closed for forest regeneration during 1 June – 30 September every year.

Facilities & accommodations:

Phu Kradueng National Park provides accommodations and has stores selling food and drinks. Call the Park at 042 871333 or 02 561 4292 – 4 (Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plants in Bangkok) for more information and reservations.

Namtok Tat Hong

The waterfall, which is 40 meters high, is located in Phu Kradueng National Park and was opened as part of an adventure trail “Trace the route of Seri Thai, tour the jungle of Tat Tong”. The trail was once used by the Seri Thai Freedom Movement to travel from Loei to Phetchabun during WWII and to allow Field Marshal P. Pibulsongkram to escape Japanese forces. Along the trail are other interesting spots such as Tat Huai Wua, Hat Sai Khao, Kaeng Hin Tang, Phu Hang (pre-historic color drawings), Phu Lat Mueang viewpoint and Wang Phong Yiam rafting point.

by Tourism Authority of Thailand

Model Warship Craft Center

Mr. Manoj Musikkabutra, a graduate from Poh Chang Art College, began making model war?ships after being impressed by some examples in Vienna while on a visit to Austria.

At first, he made only models of foreign vessels, but at the Navy museum in Samut Prakan he was able to sketch a number of Thai warships, and made models based on his sketches. Today, he has more than 20 models in his collection.

The materials used are all local, the hulls made of teak cast-offs obtained from factories. The first step in building a model ship is making the frame, then thin wood planking is pasted onto the frame to make the hull. Some of the models, like the Royal barges, have carving on the hull which call for very fine craftsmanship; however, the most difficult model to make was "HMS Victory", the British flagship commanded by Lord Nelson a the battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Mr. Manoj first exhibited his models at th Montien Riverside Hotel in 1996, and he continue to hold annual shows. He also gives training interested people who pass a selection process His models are not for sale in shops or exported because, he says, "the work would then become business or industry, which is not what I intended."

Government House

Originally called Norasingh Residence King Rama VI commissioned this as a residence for General Chao Phraya Ram Rakop. Later, the government bought it and obtained the right of ownership from the general's heir. Since then it ha been the Government House and the venue where official guests of the government are entertained.

Thaikoofah Mansion: Formerly named Kraisorn Mansion, this two-storey building combines the Italian Renaissance style with Gothic pointe arches in the exterior walls. There are frescoes o the main ceilings. The building contains an No Room for receiving foreign dignitaries. To its right are the Purple reception room, and the Dome room where official guests may be accommodated

Nareesmosom Mansion: formerly called Pr Kan Building, this is the administrative office 0 the Government House.

Santimaitree Mansion: This is made up o two buildings which surround an open area wit a fountain in the centre. The front building was built when F.M. Plaek Pibulsongkram was prim minister, the rear building in the time of F.M. Sari Thanarat. Both buildings are used for reception and seminars.