Visit Bangkok Thailand

Bangkok Flood Update on 8th Dec, 2011

2011-12-08T18:24:00.000-08:00

All CBD and travel zones are not flood now. Only some of outskirt Bangkok still have low level flood that will completely dry within 2 weeks. Anyway, they are not affected to travelers to visit any main traveling destinations.

World's best golfers in Thailand Golf Championship 2011

2011-11-27T06:04:00.000-08:00

Amata Spring Country Club, Thailand’s premier golf club and one of the finest jewels in Asia, will host the newest championship in the region where the event will be broadcast live over four days on the Asian Tour’s global television platform which reaches 200 countries and over 850 million homes.

The Thailand Golf Championship will take up the prestigious position as the Tour’s season-ending tournament offering US$ 1 million prize purse and is listed as the flagship full field event on the Asian Tour’s schedule. To help mark the inaugural Thailand Golf Championship.

This year’s US Open champion Rory McIlroy, British Open winner Darren Clarke and world number two Lee Westwood have committed to meet the golf fans in Thailand at Amata Spring Golf and Country Club in Chonburi from December 15-18, 2011.

Source :
http://www.amataspring.co.th/web/worldClassTournamentDetail1.php?act=6&id=65
http://www.thaiticketmajor.com/sport/sport-detail-en.php?sid=1077

Bangkok Flood Update on 23rd Nov, 2011

2011-11-23T19:35:00.000-08:00

Flood situation is better.
The southern bus park moved back to the southern bus station.
Roads around Chatuchak weekend market are dry.
Every exits of BTS and MRT are normally open.

Bangkok Flood Update on 17th Nov, 2011

2011-11-17T18:58:00.000-08:00

Flood situation is better than it was last week. Many outskirt roads are recovered. All CBD zones and old city region are safe from flood.
The ways to airport and other part of Thailand are OK. All city trains are in normal situation.

Bangkok Flood Update on 11th Nov, 2011

2011-11-11T22:02:00.001-08:00

All CBD zones are safe from flood.
Water level at northern Bangkok gradually decreases.
Chatuchak Weekend Market still opens but many shops are closed.
Overall situations slightly turn to normal obviously.

Bangkok Flood Update on 6th Nov, 2011

2011-11-06T06:16:00.000-08:00

Roads around Chatuchak Weekend Market were flood already.
All BTS and MRT stations are OK but some gates are closed.
Accomodations in many popular travel destinations out of Bangkok such as Pattaya, Hua Hin, Cha-Am, Rayong are quite rare to find. You should book rooms in advance.

Bangkok Flood Update on 4th Nov, 2011

2011-11-04T07:09:00.000-07:00

Suwannabhume Airport is still OK.
All domestic flights are OK.
Motorway and Airport Rail Link to CBD are OK.
CBDs such as Sukhumvit, Silom, Sathorn, Pratunam, Patumwan and Khaosan are OK.
BTS and MRT are still running.
Train terminal is OK
Flood starts coming to Ratchadapisek and Chatuchak.
Bus Terminal to South of Thailand is flood. Avoid to get to Southern Thailand by buses. All Roads to South will also be flood within few days.
Bus Terminal to Northern Thailand will be flood next week.
Bus Terminal to Eastern is OK.
All main destinations in old city region such as Grand Palace, Wat Po, city museums are OK.
Avoid destinations on west side of Chaopraya River.
Chatuchak weekend market is still opened.
Electrical supply is OK.
Tap water supple quality is unbearable. Bottle water quiet hard to buy.
Banking service and ATM are still OK.

Mother's Day Dinner Package

2011-08-03T01:19:00.000-07:00

The Mother’s Day in Thailand is on August 12^th. To celebrate the special occasion for all the mothers in Thailand this year, Siam Winery's Hua Hin Hills Vineyard is offering a Mother's Day dinner package on August 12.

The breathtaking scenery surrounding the vineyard is perfect for photo opportunities, or diners can enjoy a short elephant-back tour of the vineyard before dinner.

The package includes a special Thai set dinner paired with a selection of the vineyard's award-winning wines from Monsoon Valley, an array of desserts served in a buffet style, plus light entertainment provided by a live jazz band.

The Mother's Day dinner package includes round trip transfer service from downtown Hua Hin (Hua Hin Wine Cellar at Market Village) to the vineyard. Hua Hin Hills Vineyard also offers guests a chance to showcase their creativity and their own painted wine label to take home as a gift and a reminder of your memorable moments at the vineyard.

The Royal Barge Procession 2011 in Bangkok

2011-08-01T07:45:00.000-07:00

Royal Thai Navy will be organizing a Royal Barge Procession on 22 October 2011 to commemorate the auspicious occasion of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 84th birthday anniversary.

The event is to mark the visit of His Majesty the King and members of the royal family to a royal temple to present offerings of saffron robes to the monks.

The Royal Thai Navy will conduct a total of eight rehearsals between August 26 through to October 7. Two full dress rehearsals are currently scheduled for October 13 and 18, prior to the actual Royal Kathin Barge Procession on October 22.

The water-borne royal procession on October 22 will consist of a flotilla of 52 traditional-style barges arranged in five columns, based on a battle formation from ancient times. This is made up of four major royal barges namely, Suphannahong, Narai Song Suban, Anantanagaraj, and Anekchatbhuchong, eight barges with animal figureheads, and 40 smaller ceremonial barges. A total of 2,098 navy officers from various units within the Royal Thai Navy will serve as oarsmen.

The royal barges of

Thailand

are the last of their kind in the world. The last time that a royal barge procession was organized was on 12 June 2006 for the diamond jubilee celebrations to mark the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Accession to the Throne.

BOI Fair : Thailand technology and innovation expo

2011-07-31T07:23:00.000-07:00

The event will also highlight the achievements of the Thai industry the areas of technology and innovation, which will greatly improve your efficiency and competitiveness in the future and lead to new organic production. It will also be the occasion for members of the business community to meet, do business, and network.

Equally important, CI Fair 2011 will increase confidence in Thailand economy, while improving the country's image. Will be widely exposure to the commitment of industry in Thailand to serve the society and the preservation of natural environment.

BOI Fair will be held on 10 – 25 November 2011 at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok.

Bangkok, the world's best city 2011 by Travel+Leisure

2011-07-20T00:22:00.000-07:00

Travel&Leisure Magazine, which caters to the luxury travel market, has released its 2011 "World's Best" list, with Bangkok voted by readers as the top city in the world, followed by Florence and Rome.

Bangkok was previously voted the "World's Best City" by the magazine's readers in 2010, over Chiang Mai and Florence.

Rounding out the top 10 on the "World's Best City" list, after Bangkok Florence and Rome, are New York City, Istanbul, Cape Town, Siem Reap (Cambodia), Sydney, Barcelona (Spain) and Paris.

The votes were based on: 1. Places for sightseeing, their beauty and greenery; 2. Arts and culture; 3. Food; 4. Shopping areas; 5. People's friendliness; 6. Value for money spent.

Bangkok will be honored at an awards ceremony that is scheduled for July 14th. The ceremony will be hosted by Travel + Leisure Editor-in-Chief Nancy Novogrod and VP/Publisher Jean-Paul Kryillos at the Mr. C Beverly Hills hotel in Los Angeles.

Thailand’s hotels did well too, with the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi in Chiang Mai (rank 7), Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (rank 23), The Peninsula Bangkok (rank 40) Four Season in Chiang Mai (rank 49), while Thai Airways was voted the world’s ninth best international airline.

Thailand with top traveling destination award winning

2011-07-10T20:35:00.000-07:00

For 16 years, the world's leading travel magazine Travel + Leisure has searched and explored the cities, hotels, resorts spa and other tourist services around the world and to finalize a definitive list, as voted by its readers.

Browse through the list of finalists for the World's Best Awards this year of 2011 shows that Thailand has situated at good results, with Bangkok voted world's favorite city and several Thai-based properties listed in the top 10 in many categories.

At the top of the list of favorite cities, Bangkok has accumulated a score of 90.49, followed by Florence, Rome, New York and Istanbul.

The elegant design of Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi in Chiang Mai seventh in the "best hotel" list and was the only hotel in Southeast Asia to be among the top ten, while its sister property in Bangkok, the Mandarin Oriental, finished eighth in the "best hotel spa" category.

Temple Fair at Wat Rai Khing

2011-06-27T07:51:00.000-07:00

Wat Rai Khing Festival is held annually from 13 days of the crescent moon for the fourth day of the waning moon in the fifth lunar month. Many local goods sold in units of various government and farmers. The fair also includes competitions fruit and many kinds of entertainment at night.

Thailand Medical Fair : Mid Sep 2011

2011-06-25T22:24:00.000-07:00

Thailand

is well positioned to become the medical center in Southeast Asia, with more than 400 hospitals that offer the most advanced treatments worldwide by skilled medical personnel. The country has the largest hospital in Southeast Asia and the first to receive ISO 9001 certification and the first hospital in Asia to be awarded the prestigious Joint Commission International Accreditation (JCIA).

MEDICAL FAIR THAILAND Exhibition is recognized as the most important resource and business platform for international and regional providers of medical and health sectors. The exhibition will be held on 14th - 16th September 2011 at Queen Sirikit Convention Center and serve as a focal point for healthcare providers, medical supplies, industry professionals, government agencies, hospital administrators, doctors, nurses and other health supplies for the latest innovations in healthcare.

The exhibition will allow vital access for companies trying to penetrate the markets of Southeast Asia. The total population of Southeast Asia, which is over 540 million people, changing demographics, increased life expectancy and an aging population will have a huge impact on the need for better health care. Furthermore, the increase of foreign patients, particularly in Thailand

, many health institutions are in need of new equipment, devices, solutions and best technologies to meet the medical and health needs.

Medical Fair Thailand is pleased to bring together the best in the business of hospital, diagnostic, pharmaceutical equipment, medical and rehabilitation services and supplies to

Thailand

and South East Asian neighbors. MEDICAL FAIR THAILAND will also serve as a platform for medical providers, industry professionals, government agencies, hospital administrators, doctors, nurses and other health professionals.

5000 professional visitors and buyers from the region is expected to visit the exhibition of 3 days. Join us to bring global technologies and medical care to one of the world's most dynamic regions.

White water rafting near Bangkok

2011-06-23T06:44:00.000-07:00

With the arrival of the rainy season, Kaeng Hin Phoeng (Rapid Fire Stones) in Prachin Buri, 2 hours from Bangkok, is once again open for rafting. River-runners can get the adrenaline rushes as they navigate through Kaeng Hua Ngoo (Rapid Cobra) and Kaeng Sue (Rapid Tiger Cub). During the season, the weekend will find plenty of other recreational activities, booths selling local products, and various competitions.

Spanish cuisine delight

2011-06-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

The award-winning Spanish restaurant, Tapas Y Vino will host the "Undurraga wine dinner." tomorrow, June 23.

With a price of 1,500 baht, the course of six wine-pairing menu of dishes cooked by Spanish chef, Victor Burgos, will be accompanied by excellent Chilean wines like as Pinot Noir Reserve Aliwen, Aliwen Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon / Undurraga Carmenes and sparkling wines.

Among the delights are Spanish pickled quail marinated in sherry vinegar and mesclun, white truffle oil-flavored cream of rice with scallops star anise Mi-cuit salmon, black rings of squid, crispy skin and sauce saffron; leg slowly roasted lamb with grilled asparagus and foie gras emulsion and traditional Spanish chocolate roll dessert.

Boathouses in Uthai Thani, give a glimpse of old Bangkok

2011-06-21T00:56:00.000-07:00

During World War II, the Thai government's interest in Westernization, was opposed to the widespread practice of life on the boathouse that once characterized the river bound, central plains and Bangkok, rimmed by the river Chaophraya.

When Thailand came under the force of dictationship government, the prime minister ordered all Thais to stop living in the river boats because it was uncivilized. So now only Uthai Thani and Ayutthaya have houseboats, but all out in Bangkok.

Uthai Thani, 192 kilometers north of Bangkok, located on the river which flows into the Sakaekrang Chaophraya once had about 300 registered houseboats.

There are now fewer than 200 houseboats on the left. The younger generation especially to Bangkok for work and are not interested in living on houseboats more so when the old die sometimes, floating home is abandoned.

Uthai Thani houseboats are much like their land-based neighbors. They have registration papers, postal address, electricity and, more recently, portable toilets that the city was emptied once a week.

Many people still prefer to use the old toilets because they are more convenient. The traditional boat toilet is a hole in the ground, which provides direct access to the river below.

Uthai Thani, never one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, only began to attract visitors as a decade ago sought new Thai and foreign tourist attractions map.

Thai tourists come to visit the temples, but foreigners come to take a river boat ride and watch the boats home.

In addition to regular hotel rooms, Payamai Resort also has two genuine river houseboats that have been renovated and arranged, less the original baths.

2 new floating markets at Hua Hin

2011-06-19T19:12:00.000-07:00

Hua Hin has never lacked places of tourist interest. Soon there will be not one but two new floating markets in this destination retreat.

Located within walking distance of each other, Hua Hin Sam Phan Nam Floating Market and floating market Hua Hin is located in Soi Hua Hin 112, a short distance from the train station in the city.

The daily floating market will be released on July 15 Siamese with a traditional theme recalling the days of King Rama V and King Rama VI. The project will add a second phase in the next six months with a section of the market of new construction in the style of classical Greek architecture. This section provides products national and international brand name.

The theme is a concept of encounter between East and West, adding that in addition to 200 outlets for the souvenir shops and 40 boats that offer hot meals, will also be performances four times a day and a service Train to be implemented within the floating market as well as a reproduction of the famous train station in Hua Hin.

Program also is conducted outdoor activities like skiing cable service, goes to the water and paddle boat service to take tourists around the market.

Hua Hin Floating Market, on the other hand, is smaller in size, located on a plot of land before its rival's location when you drive to Soi Hua Hin 112.

An initiative of local investors, the market is the ambience of the old Hua Hin colonial style buildings and will feature over 130 shops and 30 wooden boats that sell hot meals, snacks and drinks. There will also be local performances three times a day, including an elephant show in Hua Hin Safari.

Hua Hin Building Floating Market is scheduled to be completed next month and is open to the public in August.

Free 4 languages volunteers guide at National Museum

2011-06-07T18:29:00.000-07:00

The non-profit agency is introducing additional day to enable the working community and weekend visitors to Bangkok to benefit from the treasures of the Natonal Museum. Recently NMV guides provided free tours of the museum in four languages, English, French, German and Japanese, every Wednesday and Thursday.

Although its regular tours start at 9:30am, Saturday tours will begin at 10am, providing ample time for visitors to arrive at the National Museum.

Just turn up at the box office with family and friends; the entrance fee is 200 baht but its guided tours are free of charge and are given by a passionate group of expats who simply love what they do.

Thai Food Cooking School

2011-02-06T18:11:00.000-08:00

The Thai cooking-class business has been a rising star, with increasing demand from tourists who love spicy Thai dishes and want to learn how to cook them for families and friends, and for foreign chefs who wanted to offer Thai food on their menus.

On average about a thousand foreigners a year attend the classes at the Thai Cooking School at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok alone. The majority of the students are from Europe although over the past couple of years it has seen an increasing number of tourists from China and Japan. The latter always attend classes in a family pack.

Perennially popular dishes include pad thai and tom yam koong as well as nam prik (chilli paste) is also gaining favour unlike in the past when foreigners felt the dish was too spicy and had a pungent smell of shrimp paste.

The Royal Barge Procession on this year

2011-01-11T17:38:00.000-08:00

The royal barge procession will be held on the end of this year. The 52 traditional royal barges have been started renovating by the Royal Thai Navy for a royal barge procession in October. The procession will be organized to mark the royal kathin ceremony at the end of Buddhist Lent in October and to celebrate the 84th birthday of His Majesty the King on December 5.
A total of 2,500 navy personnel will serve as oarsmen in one of the country's greatest spectacles.

The budget is about 7 million USD to renovate a fleet of 52 traditional barges and to repair traditional-style costumes and make new ones for the 2,500 oarsmen. The new set of poems for the traditional boat chant during the procession had been composed especially to celebrate the King's 84th birthday.

Of the 52 traditional barges, four are major royal barges - Suphannahongse, Anantanagaraj, Narai Songsuban HM King Rama IX and Anekchatbhuchongse. The last royal barge procession was held on Nov 5, 2007 when His Royal Highness Crown Prince, who represented His Majesty the King, boarded the Suphannahongse royal barge for the royal kathin ceremony at Wat Aroon, or the Temple of Dawn.

Multimedia Show for HM King's 84th Birthday Anniversary

2010-12-08T19:34:00.000-08:00

The Bureau of the Royal Household is planning to put on show a multimedia extravaganza from 17 December 2010 to 28 February 2011 within the Grand Palace compound in Bangkok for the year 2011 which is considered a significant year for Thailand, as it marks the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King’s 84th birthday anniversary.

It will take place every day from 19.00 to 20.20 hr during the period, except on Mondays and between 27 December 2010 and 3 January 2011.

Tickets are 500 baht for all seats and will be available from December 6 onwards at the Public Relations Room in the Grand Palace. Each show can accommodate 2,000 people. Proceeds will be presented to His Majesty the King for charity purposes.

The show will feature each period of the Rattanakosin era, when the kings of the Royal House of Chakri were able to preserve national sovereignty and contribute to the Kingdom in many respects. In particular, the present monarch, the ninth king of the Royal House of Chakri, has worked tirelessly for the happiness of the Thai people.

Loy Kratong Festival

2010-11-17T19:30:00.000-08:00

This year the Loy Kratong festival is on Sunday 21th Nov, 2010. This is the day that Thai people release flower floats bearing candles and incense sticks into rivers and canals. The floats are a humble offering to the goddess of river to pay her their respects and seek forgiveness.

In Bangkok and other big cities and hotels, it always appears that Loy Krathong is pretty much a tourist oriented festival. In provinces and less touristy areas of Bangkok however Loy Krathong is a solemn family oriented festival and a great opportunity for prayers.

Here is a brief account of how the festival will be celebrated in various parts of Thailand:

Bangkok
Starting tomorrow, decorative lights will grace major landmarks on the Chao Phraya River, when also on view will be a parade of colorfully illuminated boats plying the river.
On Nov 21 several riverside hotels and restaurants will be offering dining cruises and diners on board can use the opportunity to release flower floats into the river.
At Phra Sumen Fort Park near Khao San Road there will be booths selling choice food and drinks.

Chiang Mai
In Thailand's northern capital flower floats play second fiddle to flying lanterns. The festival here goes by the name "Yi Peng" in which local light lanterns and release then into sky at night. Revellers will be releasing some 10,000 lanterns on the night.
Also planned are cultural performances by the banks of the Ping River where on sale will be flower floats, which visitors can buy and release them into the river.

Sukhothai
The northern province, regarded the birth place of the festival, celebrates the occasion over three days and as many nights _ Nov 19-21_ at Sukhothai Historical Park. The highlight is a light and sound presentation at 7.30pm and, for this weekend, another show has been added, at 9.30pm, to go with cultural performances.

Ayutthaya
The Royal Arts and Crafts Centre at Bang Sai in Ayutthaya will be doing it the traditional way, with people dressed in period costume performing musical hits from yesteryear, along with a contest of flower floats in which the entries would be vying for the King's Cup.

Shopping Places in Bangkok

2010-11-09T23:31:00.000-08:00

Besides the great cultural destinations as well as the exotic and delicious cuisines, shopping in Bangkok is often rated as the most fascinated amusement and unforgettable experience.

I will guide you to only the best places that meet your shopping desires, whether you are looking for luxurious brands or local products. All you have to do is ENJOY! on these Bangkok shopping zones.

Rajchaprasong Zone

Pathumwan Zone

Sukhumvit Zone

Silom Zone

Jatujak Zone

Ratchada Zone

Old City Zone

Golf courses in Bangkok

2010-11-08T01:25:00.000-08:00

Bangkok offers world-class golf courses, superb conditions and magnificent views under dazzling sunlight. Designed by world-renowned golf courses designers or veteran progolfers.

Bangkok and its nearby provinces’s golf courses give a sense of new adventure and are exiting and challenging for players of all skills. Many golf courses also offers special golf packages or one tailor-made on any requirements. All are the best with convenient locations within an hour’s drive from the city center.

List of golf courses in Bangkok and its outskirts.

General Tips
Every golf courses in Thailand has lockers and showering facilities so make sure you bring along clothes to change. Many first-time visitors will find themselves soaked with sweat after 18 holes.

Wear light-colored clothing to deflect the sun, bring sun block – the best available and definitely a cap or umbrella.

Thailand Pavilion : Exhibition Hall 3

2010-11-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

The last exhibition in Thailand Pavilion hall features a magnificent theatre of 300 seats, with the theme of “Happiness Through Harmony”. The last section in the pavilion provided visitors a chance to see the defining aspects of being Thai via 4D presentation. Spraying water and jasmin aroma were usded in presentation to fulfill all senses of touch.

Despite the veneer of technological sophistication and the international way of living that we have adopted, deep down in the soul of every Thai, we still value a life of simplicity that follows the idea of “sufficiency” in all things we do; for we believe it is the only true path that will lead to lasting happiness.

See 3D movie in Thailand Pavilion Hall 3. (3D eyeglasses are needed now)

Click following online to visit Thailand Pavilion tour,
Thailand Pavilion : Overall
Thailand Pavilion Plan
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 1
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 2

Thailand Pavilion : Exhibition Hall 2

2010-11-02T19:31:00.000-07:00

The second hall of Thailand Pavilion called "Harmony of Different Tones" depicts the long-standing interaction between Thailand and China.

Visitors to this hall can watch on 270 degree video walls as well as another highlight, the telling robot named Intrachit.

See video presentation of Thailand Pavilion Hall 2

Click following online to visit Thailand Pavilion tour,
Thailand Pavilion : Overall
Thailand Pavilion Plan
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 1
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 3

Thailand Pavilion : Exhibition Hall 1

2010-11-02T19:18:00.000-07:00

The first exhibition hall called “Journey of Harmony” takes visitors on a journey to experience the life and culture of Thailand via mixed of modern presentation technique such as water curtain and pray along with LED screens.

Click to see video in Thailand Pavilion Hall 1

Click following online to visit Thailand Pavilion tour,

Thailand Pavilion : Overall

Thailand Pavilion Plan

Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 2

Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 3

Thailand Pavilion Building

2010-11-02T18:56:00.000-07:00

Thailand Pavilion Building is divided into 3 big halls that have their own good video with modern presentation techniques. Those three exhibition halls called "Journey of Harmony", "Harnony of Different Tones" and "Happiness Through Harmony". They are designed to display every aspect of Thai life and culture.

Click following online to visit Thailand Pavilion tour,
Thailand Pavilion ; Overall
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 1
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 2
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 3

Thailand Pavilion in Expo

2010-11-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

For those one could not visit Shanghai Expo or missed a chance to visit Thailand Pavilion, this is a chance to visit Thailand Pavilion through your fingers. Thailand Pavilion is the place for people of all ages for fun and relaxation.

Guided by the concept of "Thai Perspectives", architects have inspired of interesting elements from the Thai lifestyle and the country's visually outstanding artistic and architectural expressions into its spatial arrangement and overall structure.

The result is well worth the effort. Without a doubt, even when viewed from the outside, the pavilion’s elegant form and finesse will do much to impart to the spectators the splendour of things Thai.

Click following online to visit Thailand Pavilion tour,
Thailand Pavilion Plan
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 1
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 2
Thailand Pavilion Exhibition Hall 3

Golden Mount, Bangkok

2010-10-30T22:56:00.000-07:00

The Golden Mount ranks as one of Bangkok's most outstanding icons. Located in Wat Saket, it was built in the reign of King Rama III and the construction was completed in the reign of King Rama V.

Standing at around 78 metres high, this man-made mount has a glittering golden pagoda on its summit in which Buddha relics are enshrined. From the top, visitors can also enjoy a panoramic view of the capital.

Tips
1. At noon, the platform at the top is very hot, visitors can wear shoes to there.
2. Open daily 08.30 - 17.30, admission fee is 10 Baht.

Location
Saket Temple located between Boripat rd. and Chakapatdipong rd.

How to get there
By bus : BTS to Siam station and take bus no.15 at the opposite side of Siam Paragon and get down at Wat Saket entrance gate at Chakapatdipong rd.
By boat : take a Seanseab Canal Boat to Phanfaleelat pier (end of route) then walk along Boripat rd. for 5 minutes.

Restaurants near the Golden Mount
- Princess Cafe : Royal Princess Hotel at Lanluang rd., recommended dishes ; Shrimp Pad Thai_283B, Steam Snapper with Butter_377B.
- The Empress Restaurant : Royal Princess Hotel at Lanluang rd., recommended dishes ; Crispy Shrimp with Cream Salad and Sesame Seeds_450B, Exotic Chinese Dish_600B.
- Nai Sow : Maitri Chit rd., recommended dishes ; Hot Plate Stir Fried Oyster_80B, Red Moon_50B, Pork Satay_100B.
- Burapha Restaurant : Mahadthai rd., recommended dish ; Stir Fried Scallop with Meat Gravy_140B, Stir Fried Sea Cucumber_1,600B.

Nearby destinations
- Metal Castle : opposite side of the canal
- Jetsadabodin Plaza : next to Metal Castle
- Rattanakosin Exhibition : next to Jetsadabodin Plaza
- Chalerm Krung Theatre : cross of Tripet rd. and Chareon Krung rd.

Jim Thompson Restaurant

2010-10-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

In the past, Thai food may have been regarded in the West as a budget meal on which people wouldn't spend more than 10 euros or $10 on. But now people would pay the same price as they do at a good French or Japanese restaurant to enjoy Thai dishes, perhaps with wine and champagne, on a special occasion. Thai restaurants are no longer seen as a place for cheap and good fast food but as gourmet dining destinations that offer a memorable experience.

Jim Thompson Restaurant's passion is to bring the best of Thai culture to the world. The menu is a good mix between authentic Thai food and classic western cuisine. It offers the two cuisines separately and never try to follow the fusion fashion.

The Jim Thompson House, the most famous Thailand's craft weaving industry, opened Thompson Bar & Restaurant in 2004. After years of honing their skills and enjoyed a good feedback in Bangkok, Jim Thompson's culinary and hospitality team was ready for the international challenge. In 2005, the company's first foreign restaurant, Mythai, opened in Kuala Lumpur. And three more dining outlets were opened in Tokyo, and another in Singapore.

Jim Thompson's Restaurants in Bangkok
- Thompson Bar & Restaurant : Jim Thompson House, Kasemsan Soi 2, Rama I rd., open daily 09.00 - 18.00
- Jim Thompson Cafe : Isetan department store, 1st Fl. Central World Plaza, Ratchadamri, open daily 10.00 - 21.00
- Saladaeng Cafe : Sala Daeng Soi 1, Silom rd., open daily 11.00 - 23.00
- Cafe 9 : Jim Thompson store, Surawong rd., open daily 09.00 - 21.00

Jim Thompson's Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur
- Mythai : Bukit Bintang, Starhill Gallery, Kuala Lumpur

Jim Thompson's Restaurant in Singapore
- Jim Thompson : Minden rd., Dempsey Hill Distric, Singapore

More details : http://www.jimthompsonrestaurant.com/
Photo by : Anusorn Sakseree

Dusit Palace, Bangkok

2010-10-26T06:10:00.000-07:00

Dusit Palace was the brainchild of King Rama V. Inspired by his European tour in 1897. King Rama V envisioned a new palace with a difference. It was actually a huge palace complex consisting of 13 royal residences three throne halls set in wide beautiful gardens. The present Dusit Palace is much smaller though since many buildings were transformed into government buildings. The present residence of the reigning king is Chitralada Royal Villa.

Vimanmek Mansion
The important throne hall of Dusit Palace is Vimanmek Mansion. Built in 1900, this is the world's largest golden teak mansion. With an L-shape, Vimanmek Mansion perfectly combines Western and Thai architectural styles. Today, Vimanmek Mansion serves as a museum and it displays a vast collection of historical and valuable artifacts from the reign of King Rama V.

Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall
The Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall was built in the fifth reign and finished in the reign of his successor. Made of white marble from Italy, this building is imbued with awesome grandeur. The imposing throne hall features Renaissance and Neo-classic elements. On its roof are seven domes. The interiors of all these domes are beautifully decorated with fresco paintings portraying the fist six kings of the Chakri Dynasty

Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall
Nearby is the Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall built in 1904 to receive high-ranking dignitaries; the hall has an exquisite display of traditional Thai arts and crafts, sponsored by the royal foundation under the patronage of HM Queen Sirikit. It is a single-story ornate building with beautifully carved floral motifs on panels adorning the gables and eaves.

Tips
1. The great exhibition, Arts of the Kingdom, is held at Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall. Don't miss it. Admission fee 150 Baht.
2. Vimanmek Mansion ; daily open 09.30 - 15.00. Admission fee 100 Baht.

Location
Dusit Palace located between the end of Ratchadamneon Nok avenue and Ratchwithi rd. The entrance of Vimanmek Mansion is at Ratchawithi rd. The entrance of Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall is at the end of Ratchadamneon Nok avenue.

How to get there
Take BTS to Victory Monument station then take air-condition bus no. 515. The Dusit Palace is next to Dusit Zoo.

Restaurants near Dusit Palace (with approximate price in Baht)
- TT Steak and Thai Food : Amnuai Songkram rd., recommended dishes ; Caesar Salad_190B, Fried Foie Gras with Port Wine_790B, T Bone Steak_790B
- Suan Kulap Terrace : Samsen rd., recommended dish ; Deep Fried Pork Knuckle_290B, Stir Fried Tofu Topped with Assorted Meat Gravy_90B, Steamed Snapper with Lime Sauce_220B
- Thai Charoen : Sri Ayutthaya rd., recommended dishes ; Roasted Duck_200B, Stir Fried Crispy Cat Fish with Chilli_200B, Braised Rib Soup with Bitter Gourd_35B
- Naem Nueang Orawan Inter : Ratchawithi rd., recommended dishes ; Vietnamese Pork Ball with Condiments in Noodle Wrap_50B, Vietnamese Crepe_50B, Fried Minced Shrimp Wrapped on Sugarcane Stick_60B

Nearby destinations
Dusit zoo : adjacent to Dusit Palace
Wat Benjamabopit : 15 minutes walk from Dusit Palace
Rattanakosin Exhibition : another end of Ratchadamneon Nok rd.
Mahakarn Fortress : another end of Ratchadamneon Nok rd.

Grand Palace, Bangkok

2010-10-24T19:02:00.000-07:00

Modern it may be today, but Bangkok has never lost its charm as a culture destination for visitors. With its cultural heritage dating back to the establishment in 1782, Bangkok boasts a number of replendent palaces, magnificent throne halls, and eye-catching icons. Bangkok offers culturally enriching experiences as one of the world's most attractive destinations.

The Grand Palace
Visiting the Grand Palace is indeed a great way to become immersed in Thai culture. Built in the year Bangkok was founded, the splendid Grand Palace with its rich cultural heritage spans over 55 acres. With the Emerald Buddha Temple in the same compound, this dazzling complex is the absolute landmark of not just Bangkok but Thailand itself.

Enshrined in the temple is the Emerald Buddha, the country's most sacred image.

In the past, Thai kings resided here. But today, the palace is used for important ceremonies only.

While ornate wood carvings refined murals, and traditional Thai sculptures adorn all corners, some of its most interesting buildings are the Dusit Maha Prasart Throne Hall, Chakri Maha Prasart Throne Hall, Phra Maha Monthien, and glittering pagoda.

Tips
1. There are many scam artists outside, walk pass them and buy the ticket inside the Grand Palace. Admission fee is 350 Baht. Daily open between 8.30-15.30.
2. Hire guide for a good information of the palace and other things you want to know.
3. There are free tour at 10.00, 10.30, 13.30 and 14.00 in English. Just sign your name at the counter inside.
4. Personal audio guide is available for visitors in 8 languages; English French German Japanese Mandarin Russian Spanish and Thai. 200 Baht for 2 hours and passport or credit card require.

Location
The Grand Palace is surrounded by Na Phra Lan rd., Sanamchai rd. Taiwang rd. and Maharat rd. The main entrance is at Na Phra Lan rd.

How to get there
Option 1 : BTS to Siam station and take bus no.508 (Air conition bus) at the opposite side of Siam Paragon and get down at the end of line (Maharat rd.) then walk a few minutes to the main gate at Na phra Lan rd.
Option 2 : BTS to Taksin station and take Chaopraya Boat at central pier under BTS Taksin station and get down at Tha Chang Pier (N 09) that located at the end of Na Phra Lan rd. then walk a few minutes.
From where you stay :
- Khaosan : just 15 minutes walk or take a bus no. 32, 33, 44, 47, 70, 124
- Banglumpoo : take bus no.6, 53, 64 or take Chaopraya Boat at Tha Phra Arthit (N 13) and get down at Tha Chang (N 09)
- Sukhumvit, Silom, Sathorn, Ratchada,... and somewhere else in downtown can choose option 1 or 2

Restaurants near the Grand Palace (with approximate price in Baht)
- Cafeteria beside the Palace : within palace wall adjacent to Dusit Maha Prasart Throne Hall.
- Na Phra Lan : Phra Chan rd., recommended dishes ; Deep fried German Pork Knuckle_295B, Chinese Wooton_55B, Pork Spicy Salad_59B.
- Silk Bar and Restaurant : Khaosan rd., recommended dishes ; Silk Bar on fire_250B, Deep fried prawn with tamarind sauce_250B.
- Sunset Bar & Garden Restaurant : Khaosan rd., recommended dishes ; Deep fried snapper_300B, Roasted pork red curry_90B, Stir fried shrimp with garlic and Mexican sauce_250B.
- Cafe' de Moc : Ratchadamneon Klang rd. , recommended dishes ; Tom Yam Koong (Shrimps in spicy soup)_150B, Limed pork_130B, Deep fried chicken tendon_100B.

Nearby destinations
Wat Po : behind the Grand Palace(10 minutes walk)
Wat Aroon : Opposite side of the river(10 minutes walk and across the river by shuttle boat)
Museum of Siam : behind Wat Po(15 minutes walk)
National Museum : in front of the Grand Palace (10 minutes walk)