Thursday 30 December 2010

Journey To Chiang Mai, Thailand - The Culture Capital Of The Land Of Smiles

Chiang Mai with its ancient traditions, customs and rich culture has become one of the hottest and happening tourist destinations in Thailand. Budgethotelsinchiangmai.com with their excellent discounts on a range of hotels in Chiang Mai is a great opportunity for visitors to discover city. Chiang Mai or sometimes written as Chiengmai by the locals offers visitors a variety of tourist activities for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience.

Chiang Mai is host to several Thai festivals all year round, and this is the best way for one to acquaint themselves on Thai customs, understand their traditions and enjoy the warmth of their hospitality. Loi Kratong or known as Yi Peng takes place on the full moon night on the 12th Month of the Thai lunar calendar. Decorated containers made of banana leaf with a candle lit inside are set afloat on the rivers to thank the Goddess of Water. Sky lanterns or also known as Khom-Fai are thrown into the air to ward off troubles and bad spirits. The Chiang Mai Flower festival which is held in the first week of February is an ideal time to visit Chiang Mai. Floats are decorated with flowers and set on the waterways, cultural dance performance and beauty contests are also held during this period as a part of the 3-day long festivities which would charm visitors staying in hotels in Chiang Mai.

Discover the Highest Mountain in Thailand

Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand and Doi in Thai means mountain. This 2565-meter tall mountain is part of the Himalayan mountain range with very scenic waterfalls, jagged cliffs and home to Nature parks. Do not forget to take warm clothing along with you as the temperature in certain parts drop below 10 C even during mid-day. Just before the summit is the Twin Chedi, and it is one of the must-see places for those who scale these mountains.

Chiang Mai also has several museums and visit to one of these would give visitors an insight into this great city’s historical past. Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center and Chiang Mai National Museum are the best places to see the cultural facets, historical artifacts and documents which are exhibited in these museums. The Tribal Museum highlights the history, culture and lifestyle of the local tribes who live in the mountains. Chiang Mai has a vibrant night life and most of the good entertainment spots are found around the Chiang Mai Land Road and Chang Klan Road, south of the night bazaar. Budgethotelsinchiangmai.com with their range of comfortable hotels and great discounts are ideal for travelers to embark on a voyage to the cultural capital of Thailand.

Tag : Thailand,Thailand travel,Chiang Mai,Hotel Thailand,Advanture Thailand

Friday 24 December 2010

Krabi, Thailand: A Popular Holiday Destination

Krabi is a beautiful town on the southern coast of Thailand evolving across the Andaman Sea. Krabi is one of the most famous holiday and tourist destinations of Thailand. Krabi is known as the country’s oldest continued settlement. Its history has its roots deeply buried with Thailand heritage and culture. Krabi is popularly known for its undisturbed and untouched islands.

Krabi is lined with beautiful beaches and several national parks. The Hat Noparat Thara is a scenic beach with its pristine waters washing along the white sands and covered with spectacular seashells. Ban Thong Agricultural Station is a pilot farm that breeds various varieties of rubber, tea and other plants. The cliffs near the Railway Beach are world renowned for the best rock climbing. Krabi’s islands with its breathtaking simplicity makes you lose track of time and disappear into a world of enchanting calm and peace.

Offering a Stunning Vacation

Phi Phi Islands, a part of the archipelago, are famous among the backpackers the world over as a travel paradise. The Viking Cave, the Maya Bay and the Bamboo Islands are some of the famous tourist attractions here. Ao Nang is a bay that stretches to the foot of a limestone range with its white powdery beaches. The bay features various facilities for the tourists like diving boats, sightseeing in canoe boats and various exciting activities. The various sightseeing places here include The Hat Rai Le and isles like Ko Poda and Ko Thap. If you are looking forward to experience the lifestyles of the local people, you can always wander through the streets and markets and venture into the lovely villages. It also includes some mangrove canals flowing right into the caves of Khao Khanab Nam and can be reached by boat.

Commuting within the town can be made easier using the local trishaws or tuk-tuks and taxis. Krabi is a foodie’s paradise and is known for its numerous eateries. The night markets in Krabi offer delicious seafood at very low prices and local vendors dish out great local native food. Krabi specializes in seafood including lobsters, crabs and various fish varieties. The nightlife of Krabi is quite happening with various Karaoke bars, resto bars, live music joints and pubs. Shopping in Krabi is accomplished best at the local beaches. With the vendors selling everything right from beach materials to snacks and beers, you get it all here, under one roof. Excitehotels.com offers exciting deals and various packages on hotels in Krabi to make your stay unforgettable in this serene island of Thailand.

Excite hotels Adds Spice to Vacations with Hotels in Krabi

Tag : Thailand,Krabi Thailand,Hotel Thailand,Thailand spa

Wednesday 15 December 2010

AKHA HILLTRIBE LIGHT-AND-SOUND PERFORMANCE


AKHA HILLTRIBE LIGHT-AND-SOUND PERFORMANCE
Every 2nd Saturday from December 2010 – March 2011
December 11, 2010
January 8, February 12, and March 12, 2011
At the Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 on Doi Mae Salong Road, Pa Sang Sub-district, Mae Chan district, Chiang Rai province


First launched in 1999, the Akha Hilltribe Light-and-Sound performance presents insights into the culture and daily life of the Aka hill tribes, resident in hilltop villages in Mae Chan District.


The performance presented by the Aka hill tribe villagers at the Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 reflects efforts being undertaken by local Akha village groups to help preserve Akha culture and traditions and their indigenous way of life and to strengthen ties between the various Akha villages in the province. The presentation features authentic renderings of their culture and lifestyle. Indigenous handicrafts on also on display.


The performance is staged once a month during the peak travel season from December to March.


Chiang Rai, Thailand's northernmost province, has a distinctive cultural identity based on a glorious past. The province is blessed with a great diversity of natural and cultural treasures, including the world-famous Golden Triangle which covers an area where the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge.


The Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 is situated along Doi Mae Salong Road in the sub-district of Pa Sang in Mae Chan district of Chiang Rai province.


The light and sound show is presented in both Thai and English, and runs from 1730 to 1930. Tickets cost Bt150 per person and the show with dinner is priced at Bt300 per person.


Private performances in English can also be arranged upon request. The rate is 12,000 baht per show.


Contact information:
TAT Chiang Rai Office
Tel. 66 (0) 5374 4674-5, 66 (0) 5371 7433


Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12
Tel. 66 (0) 5391 4471


The Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 is situated along the road leading up to Mae Salong.


Tag : Thailand,Thailand travelChiang Rai Thailand,Hotel Thailand


http://www.tatnews.org/events/events/2010/dec/5157.asp


Friday 10 December 2010

Christmas in Sakon Nakhon, the Star of David Festival


December 24, 2010 - December 25, 2010



Celebrate Christmas's eve in the 100-year-old community of Catholic with the beautiful parade of the

Star of David and enjoy firework!

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Friday 3 December 2010

Thailand International Balloon Festival

December 2, 2010 - December 6, 2010


The balloon festival is a major activity in which everyone in the family can see and join. There are demonstrations of balloons lifting into the air in which visitors have the opportunity to travel in a balloon, buy local agricultural products, demonstrations of viticulture by Thai and foreign producers in which visitors can taste wine as well as have a barbecue. There are dancing performances, arts and crafts booths, food and beverage, souvenir shops, and various games and contests. This is a tourism event that is ongoing during the day and night.


Each balloon’s height is equal to a 7-storey building with various decorative designs. This spectacular event is definitely one that should not be missed, especially the light and sound with fireworks and musical presentatio.


Tag : thailand,thailand travel,hotel thailand,thailand spa


http://www.tourismthailand.org

Sunday 28 November 2010

The River Kwai Festival

November 26, 2010 - December 5, 2010
(15.00 - 23.00)

Kanchanaburi province, in collaboration with Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Metropolitan Bank, the State Railway of Thailand, is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the River Kwai Bridge Festival and the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Enjoy learning the historical records through the new perspective and format of presentation that focuses on happiness, joy and impressive splendors, while also immensely honoring those who lost their lives and the families they left behind during WWII. The history illustration, combined with the stunning shows of contemporary arts of different forms, will be impressively presented under “The War is over…This is a time to Celebrate” theme. What will be featured in the festival includes:

The Light & Sound Show
Based on the avoidable tragedy that happened to mankind 65 years ago, the presentation concept is thoughtfully developed under "The War is over...This is a time to Celebrate" theme and it will be spectacularly illustrated through multi-media presentations. The first of its kind in Thailand, this show will be splendidly accompanied by the music orchestra performance in the middle of the mighty River Kwai.
Those who are interested in this show can book tickets (priced at 200, 300 and 500 THB) at:
1) Kanchanaburi Provincial Office: Tel.034-512-399
2) Kanchanaburi Tourism Promotion Society: Tel. 034-518-656
3) R.S.P. Jumbo Travel Centre: Tel. 081-5868228, 034-514906


“Street Show” Space
The setting and decorations of the surrounding area in vicinity of the Bridge are designed to be perfectly in line with the event theme. This space, for exhibits and displays, will ensure ultimate joys and inspirations you can get from the stunning performances such as Pantomime show by talented Babymine, impressive beat box by Police Lieutenant Koravik Chandaen and other shows from Kanchanaburi province.


“Art for living” Exhibition
The outdoor art exhibition on street features portrait sketching, painting exhibits and performing arts by contemporary Thai artists from all over the country from the 26th November – 5th December 2010.

For more information:
Kanchanaburi provincial Office Tel. 034-512-399, 034-515-208, 034-511-778
Or 081-702-6612 (Khun Som), 084-640-1114 (Khun Taai)

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Monday 22 November 2010

Blooming Bua Tong (Mexican Sunflower) Festival on Mae Oo Kaw


November 1, 2010 - December 13, 2010
(12.00 - 12.00)

Experience and feel the cool breeze of wintertime while appreciating the natural beauty of the Bua Tong flower field as well as enjoy camping.

http://www.tourismthailand.org/see-do/activities/search-result/destination/mae-hong-son/

Monday 15 November 2010

Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival 2010

Although the holiday of Loy Krathong is now celebrated throughout the kingdom, Loy Krathong originated in Sukhothai, the first Thai capital. While particularly popular with couples who head down to any nearby body of water to light the candles and incense on their floating Krathongs, visitors can best appreciate Loy Krathong by heading to the ancient capital of Sukhothai, where the holiday was first celebrated.

Highlights of the Sukhothai Loy Krathong celebration include displays of lighted candles and fireworks, folk dancing and a spectacular light & sound presentation.

At the Sukhothai Loy Krathong festival, visitors will be dazzled by the float procession of large krathong from 17 Northern provinces. The procession will consist of krathongs from government agencies, state enterprises, private sectors, and the general public. There are also a Krathong design contest, the Miss Noppamas Beauty Contest, and Sukhothai arts and culture performances.

By Bus

Air-conditioned buses depart from Bangkok's Mochit 2 Bus Terminal to Sukhothai daily between 9.45 a.m. and 10.20 p.m.,frequently during the morning. The journey takes 7 hours. Call 0 2936 2852-66 or visit www.transport.co.th for more information. Private bus companies which operate daily bus services to Sukhothai are such as Win Tour (Tel: 0 2936 3753 or 0 5561 1039), Phitsanulok Yan Yon (Tel: 0 2936 2924-5, 0 5525 8647) Sukhothai Bus Terminal (Tel: 0 5561 3296)

By Train

There are no trains going directly to Sukhothai. One may travel by train to Phitsanulok and then take a local bus to Sukhothai, about 59 kilometres away. Contact Bangkok Railway Station Tel. 1690, 02223 7010, 0 2223 7020 or visit www.railway.co.th for more information.

By Other

Bangkok Airways flies from Bangkok to Sukhothai daily for 1-hour journey. Sukhothai Airport is about 40 kilometres north of the town. For more information, call 0 2265 5678, 0 2265 5555 or 0 5564 7224-5 or visit www.bangkokair.com

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Saturday 6 November 2010

Loy Krathong

November 19, 2010 - November 21, 2010
(12.00 - 12.00)

Bangkok celebrates Loy Krathong with a “Colours of the River, Loy Krathong Festival” 19 to 21 November 2010 at Suan Luang Rama VIII Park, on the Thonburi side of town.

This is not-to-be-missed experience reflects the atmosphere of a traditional Loy Krathong festival dating back to the historical, golden era known as Rattanakosin.

Held on the full moon night in November the festival is essentially a family affair celebrated nationally in every province.

In Bangkok, celebrations focus on cultural performances, traditional markets, and illuminated boat parades along the Chao Phya River from the Krungthep Bridge to Krung Thon Bridge.

But travellers to six other tourist destinations will be equally impressed by the traditional renderings of a festival that focuses on giving thanks for the gifts of water and life.

Places to be to celebrate Loy Krathong:

1. Sukhothai Loy Krathong and Candle Festival.

2. Loy Krathong Sai Festival, Tak, features 1,000 krathongs made from coconut shells that are floated on the River Ping near the bridge in Tak town. This festival also features a light-and-sound presentation displayed on a giant screen standing on a river raft. Other attractions include a beauty pageant and a bazaar of local handicrafts.

3. Yi Peng Festival, Chiang Mai combines two traditions -- Krathongs floated on the river and lanterns that are launched into the sky to worship Phrathat Chulamani. There are also street processions and cultural performances.

4. Loy Krathong Tam Pratheep Festival, Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Ayutthaya province.

5. Mae Klong Banana tree trunk Loy Krathong Festival, Amphawa district, Samut Songkhram province.

6. Southern Colourful Lanterns in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province.

Contact: Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: 0 2250 5500 ext. 3470-3, call centre 1672

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Saturday 5 June 2010

Phuket Film Festival

Phuket Film Festival
Date:
4 - 13 June, 2010

The 2nd edition of the Phuket Film Festival which runs June 4 – 13 on the beautiful resort island of Phuket, Thailand is pleased to announce its Opening Film will be the Asian premiere of Indian director Paresh Mokashi's debut film, Harishchchandrachi Factory. Director Mokashi will attend.

Opening Film
Asian premiere of Harishchchandrachi Factory

Harishchchandrachi Factory was India's entry to the 2010 Oscars in the Foreign Language Film category.

The quirky, light hearted film depicts the struggle of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema, while making Raja Harishchandra in 1913, India's first feature film.

The movie is one of several Indian movies the Phuket Film Festival will play as it turns the Spotlight on Indian Films which have recently reached international box-office acclaim.

"We're honouring India not only as their cinema industry turns 100 years old but because of the close relationship between Indian filmmakers and Thailand," said Scott Rosenberg, managing director of AMW International Co. Ltd. organizers of the Phuket Film Festival.

In November '09 Thailand was presented with the top filming locations award at the Locations World Exhibition and Conference held in Mumbai while Indian location shoots and film production in Thailand have increased from 31 in 2003 to 104 in 2009 (end of November) outpacing the traditional number one Japanese filmmakers.

Film Festival movies will be shown at the Coliseum Cineplex in Phuket Town while a "Meet the Directors" series will be held at an open air theatre just now under construction at Cape Yamu.

Closing Film on June 13, 2010
YUTHLERT SIPPAPAK'S FRIDAY KILLER TO HAVE WORLD PREMIERE AT PHUKET FILM FESTIVAL

The Phuket Film Festival will screen acclaimed Thai director Yuthlert Sippapak's Friday Killer as its closing film, Sunday, June 13 2010. This will be a World Premier for director Sippapak's first movie in The Killers Trilogy.

Director, writer, and producer Yuthlert Sippapak has received international recognition for his daring visual style and unconventional screenwriting. His film credits include Killer Tattoo (2001), February (2003), and Buppah Rahtree (2003) which is one of Thailand’s highest grossing films, popular for its eccentric storyline and blend of horror with comedy.

Friday Killer is the story of “Pae Uzi” (comedian Suthep Pho-ngam) aka “The Eagle of Chantaburi”, a professional hit-man who was just set free from prison. After his release, he learns for the first time he has a daughter “Dao” (Ploy Jindachote – actress played lead role with William Hurt and Cary Elwes in the supernatural thriller 'Shadows'). The tables are turned on Pae when his daughter tries to kill him because she thinks that he killed the only father that she knew.

Cast and crew are expected to attend the closing movie and reception that will follow.

The Killers Trilogy is produced by Sippapak's Mahagan Pictures with financing from Phranakorn Film who is also handling international sales and domestic distribution.

The Phuket Film Festival runs June 4 – 13 on the beautiful international tourist destination of Phuket, Thailand. Movies will screen at the Coliseum Cineplex in Phuket Town while a Meet the Directors series of movies will run at The Yamu at Cape Yamu.

Award winning Hollywood directors Gus Van Sant (Milk) and Darnell Martin (Cadillac Records) are some of the directors participating in the Meet the Directors series.

Major supporters of the Phuket Film Festival include the Thai Ministry of Culture, Vijitt Resort, TwoVillas, Phuket Beer, Siam Winery, the Phuket Gazette, Global i Care and others.

For additional information contact:
E-mail: info@phuketfilmfestival.asia
Web site: www.phuketfilmfestival.asia