Popular Place : Si Satchanalai Historical Park

Si Satchanalai Historical Park

Si Satchanalai Historical Park is located on the bank of the Yom River. It is open daily between 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m. Admission is 40 baht.
The ancient town, formerly called Muang Chaliang, was named Si Satchanalai during the reign of Phra Ruang when a new administrative centre was established to replace Chaliang. Ruins of 134 monuments have been discovered within the park:
Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Temple also called Phra Borommathat Muang Chaliang Temple or Phra Prang Temple, is situated 3 kilometres to the south of ancient Si Satchanalais wall. An immense laterite prang on a square base marks the centre of the temple. A steep staircase in front of the huge prang leads to a room where a reliquary is enshrined.
Khao Phanom Phloeng Temple is a hilltop temple within the old town of Si Satchanalai. A laterite chedi in the centre, a large viharn or image hall in front, and a small sanctuary behind all lie in ruins. Some laterite pillars and a damaged Buddhas' image constructed of laterite slabs and coated with mortar are seen.
Khao Suwan Khiri Temple is also a hilltop temple situated 200 metres away from Phanom Phloeng Hill. A huge bell-shaped chedi on a 5-tiered base marks the centre of the temple. Ruins of a viharn and chedi, and fragments of huge stucco figures lie scattered on the ground. The similarity between some figures here and those at Wat Chang Lom in the old town of Sukhothai leads to the belief that it was King Ramkhamhaeng the Great of the Sukhothai Kingdom who had this temple constructed.
Chang Lom Temple is an important monument within the old town of Si Satchanalai. A huge bell-shaped chedi supported by 39 elephants, with 4 of them at 4 cardinal points elaborately decorated, marks the centre of the temple. Above the chedis base, there are niches enshrining images of the Buddha subduing Mara.
Chedi Chet Thaeo Temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Sukhothai Province. Chedis of different artistic styles and influence were built within the area of this temple. Mural paintings, seriously damaged, are still to be seen in some chedis.
Suan Kaeo Utthayan Yai Temple is located near Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo with only a dirt road in between. A large image hall lies in remains within this temple. The monastery is also called Wat Kao Hong or the 9 roomed temple.
Nang Phaya Temple is famous for its delicate stucco reliefs on the remains of the northwestern wall of the 7 roomed viharn or image hall. The pillars of this viharn are decorated with unglazed ceramic designs. The central laterite chedi is surrounded by lampposts and accessible by a set of narrow stairs.
Suan Kaeo Utthayan Noi Temple is the only temple within the old town of Si Satchanalai with a brick building in front. The ruins of this temple consist of a whole laterite image hall with a laterite roof.

U-Tour Thailand : Wat Rong Khon / Chiang Rai

Wat Rong Khun,

Wat Rong Khun is also known as the White Temple. Whereas most temples visited by tourists have a history going back many centuries, this magnificent place of worship was built only recently.

It is the realization of a dream for Thailands noted artist, Mr Chalermchai Kositpipat, who designed and is supervising the construction of this beautiful white temple and its many statues of figures based on religious beliefs.

The construction started in 1998 and is expected to be completed in 2008. In addition, there is a gallery nearby exhibiting his paintings. To get there from the city of Chiang Rai, drive north along Asia Highway.

U-Tour Thailand : Doi Mae Salong/ Chiang Rai

Doi Mae Salong,

Doi Mae Salong is the site of Santi Khiri village, a community settled by the former Chinese 93rd Division who moved from Myanmar to reside on Thai territory in 1961. The village became well known for its enchanting scenery and tranquil atmosphere.

Today it is a major tourist attraction with its small-town ambience, delicious native Chinese dishes, small hotels and guesthouses catering to visitors and tea, coffee and fruit tree plantations. The scenery is especially picturesque in December and January when sakuras are in full bloom. Scattered with many hill tribe villages, Doi Mae Salong is ideal for trekking.

To reach Doi Mae Salong, take the Chiang Rai-Mae Chan route for 29 kilometers, then turn left and proceed for another 41 kilometers (passing a hot spring). The return trip can be taken on routes nos. 1234 and 1130 which wind through Yao and Akha hill tribe villages. From Doi Mae Salong a road leads to Tha Thon, the starting point for the Kok River cruise, a distance of 45 kilometers. There are hotels and guesthouses to accommodate tourists and a paved road leading to the village.

U-Tour Thailand : Mae Sai / Chiang Rai

Mae Sai, Mae Sai which is about 62 kilometers from the provincial seat on Highway No. 110 is Thailand's northern-most district. Mae Sai borders on Myanmar's Tha Khi Lek marked by the Mae Sai River with a bridge spanning both sides. Foreign visitors are allowed to cross over to Tha Khi Lek market by presenting their passports and paying a fee at the Mae Sai immigration checkpoint. In addition, there are tour services to Chiang Tung in Myanmar, which is approximately 160 kilometers north by road.

U-Tour Thailand : Phu Chee Fa / Chiang Rai

Phu Chee Fa :Phu Chee Fa is approximately 25 kilometers to the south of Doi Pha Tang in Thoeng District. The cool climate produces colorful flowering shrubs and the large meadow on the top provides breathtaking views of Laos.

In addition, spectacular scenery can be seen from the sheer cliff of Phu Chee Fa, especially the sea of mist at sunrise. Visitors can stay overnight at Ban Rom Fa Thong and Ban Rom Fa Thai.

U-Tour Thailand : Hall of Opium, Golden Triangle Park / Chiang Rai

Hall of Opium, Hall of Opium, Golden Triangle Park The Hall of Opium at the Golden Triangle Park houses several sections to be explored and various exhibitions to be contemplated. For example, the 5,600 square-meter Hall of Opium presents An Invitation to the Mysterious World of Opium from Darkness to Light, the history of opium as of 5,000 years ago from its natural properties to its uses. It traces opium's global journey through trade routes in the age of imperialism, culminating in the Opium Wars-an event that disgraced both winners and losers that led to the fall of the Manchu Dynasty. It also features Siamese wisdom in confronting the West and the eventual control of opium problems.
Other exhibits are presented in a manner that encourages visitors learn how drugs become a part of everyday life and understand the impact of opium on society in terms of crime, conflict and illegal drugs. Additionally, the Hall of Opium presents efforts to curb drugs through actual case studies that offer alternatives and opportunities in fighting against the temptation of drugs.
The Hall of Opium also displays paraphernalia associated with opium smoking and trading, along with many photographs, films, and videos about opium and other illegal drugs from countries around the world.
The Hall of Opium is situated in Chiang Saen District, opposite the Anatara Golden Triangle Resort and Spa: Tel: 0 5378 4444 Fax: 0 5365 2133, E-mail: hallofopium@doitung.org,
Website: www.goldentrianglepark.com

U-Tour Thailand : Wat Phrathat Chae Haeng / Nan

Welcome to my trip!!! U-Tour in the north of thailand on 23-28 Nov,2008.

Wat Phrathat Chae Haeng : Nan

Wat Phrathat Chae Haeng is a sacred place of worship, situated on a mound on the eastern side of the Nan River, at the former centre of the Nan town after moving from Pua town.

Wat Phra Borommathat Chae Haeng was constructed during the rule of Chao Phraya Kanmueang (the Feudal Lord of Nan during 1326 – 1359) as an enshrining venue of 7 Buddha relics, silver and golden votive tablets presented by King Maha Thammaracha Lithai on the occasion that Chao Phraya Kanmueang assisted in the construction of Wat Luang Aphai (Wat Pa Mamuang in Sukhothai Province at present) in 1354.

It features a chedi in a bell shape. The pattern of Phrathat Chae Haeng is assumed to have been influenced by the chedi of Phrathat Hariphunchai. It is plated with Thong Changko or Thong Dok Buap – a combination of brass and copper. The staircase up to the Phrathat is in a Naga shape, while the gable above the entrance gate to the wihan is the stucco relief depicting intertwined Nagas, the unique characteristic of Nan fine art.

Phra Borommathat Chae Haeng represents the Year of the Rabbit. Lanna people believe that travelling to pay respect to the Phrathat of their Year of Birth or “Chu That” would reap them great results. Tourists can visit the temple everyday from 6.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.
To get there: Wat Phrathat Chae Haeng is located in Muang Tuet sub-district, King Amphoe Phu Phiang. From the centre of Mueang district, cross the Nan River Bridge and go along the Nan – Mae Charim route or on Highway No. 1168 for 3 kilometres. Contact the temple at Tel. 0 5475 1846.

U-Tour Thailand : Wat Prathat Chang Kham Worawihan / Nan

Welcome to my trip!!! U-Tour in the north of thailand on 23-28 Nov,2008.

Wat Prathat Chang Kham Worawihan : Nan

Wat Chang Kham's main features are the sculpted upper halves of elephants adorning around the Chedi, a Sukhothai influence.

Here have been found stones with ancient Thai scripts relating the alliance between the kings of Nan and Sukhothai when Nan was still and independent state. An ancient golden Buddha is enshrined in the Vihan.

U-Tour Thailand : Doi Pha Tang / Chiang Rai

Welcome to my trip!!! U-Tour in the north of thailand on 23-28 Nov,2008

Doi Pha Tang : Chiang Rai

Doi Pha Tang : Chiang Rai, pupular place in the north of Thailand.

About 160 kilometres from the provincial town, is a viewing point on top of a high cliff over the Thai-Laotian border affording a delightful scene for the river and the sea of mist throughout the year.

During December-January, blooming Sakuras provide a picturesque scenery. It is home to the Chinese Haw, the Hmong and Yao minorities. The Haws are the remnants of the 93rd Chinese Division who moved in to settle on Doi Pha Tang. There are a lots of bungalows & tents serve tourists.

It 's called "Ma-Now-Wan" (มะนาวหวาน).

U-Tour Thailand : Wat Phra That Cho Hae / Phrae

Welcome to my trip!!! U-Tour in the north of thailand on 23-28 Nov,2008.

Wat Phra That Cho Hae.

Wat Phra That Cho Hae, this temple is about 8 kilometres to the east of town on Highway No. 1022. A major religious site of the province, it was built since the time of Sukhothai. The 33 metre-tall Chiang Saen-style Chedi houses a Holy Relic. It was built of bricks and covered with bright brass sheets. The name of the temple refers to fine silk woven in Sip Song Panna (in southern China) which was first used to wrap around the Chedi when the temple was first constructed. There is a fair celebrating the Chedi in March every year. , this temple is about 8 kilometres to the east of town on Highway No. 1022.

A major religious site of the province, it was built since the time of Sukhothai. The 33 metre-tall Chiang Saen-style Chedi houses a Holy Relic. It was built of bricks and covered with bright brass sheets. The name of the temple refers to fine silk woven in Sip Song Panna (in southern China) which was first used to wrap around the Chedi when the temple was first constructed. There is a fair celebrating the Chedi in March every year.

Why the Caribbean is the Perfect Honeymoon Destination

Why the Caribbean is the Perfect Honeymoon Destination
By : Fred Mallery

Are you in the process of planning a wedding? If so, there will come a point in time when you will need to make your honeymoon plans. When doing so, you will have an unlimited number of destinations to choose from. With that said, you should place a good percentage of your focus on the Caribbean. Why? Because the Caribbean is the perfect place to honeymoon.
As nice as it is to hear that the Caribbean is a great place to honeymoon, you may be looking for more information. After all, honeymoons are supposed to be perfect, so it is only natural for you to have a number of questions. As it was previously stated, you have an unlimited number of destinations to choose from. So, what is it that makes the Caribbean such as great choice? Continue reading on to find out.
Destinations
The destination choices that you have is just one reason why Caribbean honeymoons are popular. The Caribbean encompasses a number of different islands and locations. Almost all are the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a little bit of romance. Although you do have a number of different options, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Aruba, and the Dominican Republic are popular choices among honeymooners, just like yourself.
All-Inclusive Resorts
Perhaps, the greatest reason why your honeymoon should be a Caribbean honeymoon is because of all-inclusive resorts. They are easy to find in the Caribbean. All-inclusive resorts are nice, as the overall cost of your stay includes a number of your vacation expenses. Depending on the resort in question and the travel package offered, your overall cost may include your airline reservations, overnight accommodations, food, drinks, snacks, tips, and entertainment. Having most of your vacation expenses prepaid gives you the opportunity to enjoy your honeymoon to its fullest extent, with no worries.
Adult Resorts
While on your honeymoon, you want the mood set for romance. One of the best ways to do so is to stay at an adult resort. Adult resorts have age requirements, which often prohibit those under the age of fourteen from staying onsite. What does this mean? It means you are more likely to find peace, quietness, and privacy. The good news is that most Caribbean adult resorts also double as all-inclusive resorts.
Amazing Beaches
An important component of having a successful honeymoon is romance. What is more romantic that white sandy beaches? As nice as it may be to spend your honeymoon basking in the sun along the beach, you may also wish for fun and adventure. The good news is that the beach can give you that as well. There are an unlimited number of activities for you to choose from. Popular activities include swimming, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, waterskiing, kayaking, and windsurfing. If you book your vacation in the form of a super-inclusive travel package, many of these activities may be included in the cost of your stay.
Beautiful Weather
Gaining access to amazing beaches is a great plus for anyone on a honeymoon, but combine that with the weather and the mood will definitely be set for romance. The weather of the Caribbean is a dream come true for many. With beautiful tropical weather all year round, what more could you ask for? Even if you travel outside of the peak travel dates, the tropical weather will still be there to greet you.
Destination Weddings
If you are in the middle of planning your wedding, you may have other arrangements already set for your wedding ceremony. If not, you will want to consider having a Caribbean destination wedding. In fact, when you book your honeymoon at an all-inclusive resort, did you know that you may get a free wedding? Many resorts offer these weddings as long as you stay a set number of days, such as three, five, or seven.
If you like what a Caribbean honeymoon can give you, start examining all-inclusive travel packages today. You can do so with SuperClubs.com. When examining your options or making your travel arrangements, there are a number of points to remember. Beachfront resorts, those that are classified as adult resorts, and a honeymoon suite can help to make your honeymoon feel like a fairy tale.
Article Source : http://www.goarticles.com/

The importance of ecotourism

By : SANDY COSSER

Ecotourism is increasing in popularity across the world, but has significant practical value in developing countries where the needs of impoverished communities may conflict directly with the need to capitalise on the growing tourism industry. In many cases developers move in and designate certain areas as tourism hotspots without giving much thought to the impact that this will have on local communities. These communities may depend on the area for food and shelter, but their concerns are buried beneath the potential for financial revenue.

Ecotourism is a move to counter this. It aims to create viable and sustainable tourism opportunities, and limit the impact that all related activities will have on the environment, while improving the lives of the local people living in the area. According to Ecotourism.org, the concept consists of a number of core principles, including:

• Minimising industrial impact on the environment
• Building environmental and cultural awareness
• Empowering local communities
• Raising awareness of the political, environmental and social issues of the country concerned, and
• Ensuring that the experience is positive for all parties, including visitors and hosts

The aim is to achieve sustainable and responsible tourism practices to the benefit of all and the detriment of none.
One of the most important factors in the success of any ecotourism venture is knowledge. Those proposing the project must gain intimate knowledge of the area, the fauna, the flora and the communities living there. They must understand how they impact on each other and how a change in one will affect the rest. They must understand the culture governing the people’s relationship with the environment, and how they view concepts such as territory, hunting, farming and gathering materials for personal use.

It’s vital to include the local communities in the project, not merely as grateful beneficiaries of charity, but as empowered and informed team members. Their input is to be valued, as chances are that they understand the area and complex ecosystems better than anyone else involved in the project.

The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable resource that protects both the people and the nature involved. Over 20 years ago, in 1987, the World Commission on Environment and Development stated that sustained development implied, “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” This sentiment is just as applicable now as it was then.

Equally important is that within in all this concern for sustainability and empowerment, we don’t forget the tourism aspect of ecotourism. In 2002, the Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism stated that responsible tourism should provide a more enjoyable experience for tourists through meaningful interaction with local people, and a greater understanding of cultural, social and environmental issues. It is the tourist-dollar (or Pound) that we are after, and to get it we have to ensure that what we offer is worthwhile. What’s important is that with a little planning and a little compassion, all of this can be achieved.
Source : http://www.amazines.com/Travel_and_Tourism

Bangkok voted world's best city in travel poll

Reporting by Miral Fahmy, editing by Belinda Goldsmith

SINGAPORE, July 10 (Reuters Life!) - Bangkok was voted the world's best city for 2008 and the Galapagos were picked as the best islands in an online poll by Travel + Leisure magazine, trumping last year's winners Florence, Italy and Bali, Indonesia.

Magazine readers also voted Singita Sabi Sand, at the Kruger National Park, South Africa, as the world's top hotel while Singapore Airlines grabbed the best airline award again.

It was the first time that Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, and the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador topped their respective categories, said Nancy Novogrod, editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure.

Last year, Bangkok was ranked number 3 and the Galapagos number 8. The 2007 winners of best city and best island -- Florence an Bali -- fell to number 5 and number 2 respectively.

"We're delighted to welcome so many new winners this year," she said in a statement. "Nature, and adventure, were clearly a draw in the selections.

"Last year's number one hotel, the Oberoi Udaivilas in India, fell to number 4 this year. Singita Sabi Sands was voted the number two hotel in 2007.

The results were complied from votes by magazine subscribers in an Internet poll which went live between January and March. Travel + Leisure will honour winners on July 24 in New York City.

The complete "World's Best Awards" is available on www.travelandleisure.com. Following are some highlights:
Best city - Bangkok, Thailand
Best hotel - Singita Sabi Sand, South Africa
Best island - Galapagos, Ecuador
Best cruise line (large ships) - Crystal Cruises
Best cruise line (small ships) - Silversea Cruises
Best international airline - Singapore Airlines
Best domestic airline - Virgin America
Best tour operator - Micato Safaris
Best car-rental agency - Hertz
Best hotel for $250 or less - Domaine des Hauts de Loire, France

Source : http://africa.reuters.com/wire/news/usnSP175234.html