The Best Bangkok Hotels Close to Nightlife Hotspots - Where to Stay

The Best Bangkok Hotels Close to Nightlife Hotspots - Where to Stay

It is no big secret that Bangkok has one of the wildest nightlife scenes in the whole of South East Asia. Travelers and tourist alike ,men and woman, young and old, come from all over the world to dance, drink and party the night away. With ultra modern clubs filled with beautiful people and bass thumping tune blasting on high; people flock in droves to take part in Bangkok's famous international club scene.

If this is your first time visiting Bangkok and you are looking for a hotel, then the best thing to do is get stay in place that is close to the most famous nightlife hot spots.

There are several distinct areas where Bangkok's nightlife is concentrated in. As a first time visitor to Bangkok it is best to stay within the commercial areas.

So the best thing to do as a first timer to Bangkok Thailand is to stay in hotels in the vicinity of the Nana Entertainment Plaza (NEP). Now NEP is a three story complex containing a cluster of watering holes and bars with pool tables. You will also find a bunch of go-go bars on all three floors. Sex for sale is available here so this place is certainly not a place to take young kids to. There are many hotels around that area with brand names such as the Marriott and the Landmark.

Now NEP is a little bit off of a major street called Sukhumvit and there are a lot of hotels along this area. One hotel that I really recommend is the Majestic Grande Hotel. This hotel is relatively new with all the modern comforts you can ask for. The service is excellent and the front staff do speak english. This hotel is only a short three minute walk to NEP.

Another popular nightlife area is called Patpong which is located in the Silom district. Patpong consists of several streets or what the Thais call sois. In these sois tourist can find go-go bars and clubs with live bands. Sex for sale is obvious here even when you see local Thai people with families walking around.

Patpong is an okay place to travel visit even if you have kids who are mature. Because Patpong also has a night market where you will find families wandering around, getting a glance of bikini clad woman dancing on stages. Patpong night market has a lot of counterfeit goods for sale. Almost any cheap fake brand name hand bags, watches and clothes are available here for purchase. I don't suggest buying the watches but so whatever makes you happy. Do bargain hard with a smile as the vendors expect you to.

So to truly experience the full effect of Patpong you should stay in hotels along Silom and Surawong. Two hotels that I can recommend are the Tawana Ramada and the Montien Hotel Bangkok. These two hotels are within a short walking distance to Patpong.

So if you want to come to Bangkok Thailand to experience the nightlife scene, I really do suggest that you stay within the commercial areas at first. Bangkok is a relatively safe city compared to other cities in South East Asia as well as Western cities. But scams by local Thais do exist so be careful. Also the language barrier is an issue, so have hotel staff write down your destination in Thai. By staying in hotels near the nightlife district you can maximize your pleasure and enjoyment of the best nightlife that the city Bangkok has to offer.

Edwin M. Clark

To learn more information about where to stay in Bangkok for vacation check out Bangkok's Top 10 Nightlife Hotels

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_M_Clark

The Best Bangkok Hotels Close to Nightlife Hotspots - Where to Stay
By Edwin M Clark

Best Bangkok Hotels Near Red Light District

Best Bangkok Hotels Near Red Light District

Bangkok's infamous nightlife scenes are famous all over the world and they attract millions of visitors each year from all over the world. There's just so much to see and do that it keeps visitors coming back for more. If you're a first timer to Bangkok, the task of finding ideal hotel accommodations near Bangkok's red light districts is a daunting task especially since you don't know where to start. Don't worry, you'll find your answer here in this article.

There are three distinct red light districts in Bangkok. The first one is called Patpong. Patpong is most well known for the ping pong sex shows that go on above the go-go bars that line the streets of Patpong 1 and 2. Patpong 1 is the most crowded because that is where you can find the Night Market filled to the brim with counterfeit Rolex and even brand name jeans. You can also find both kinds of massage parlors here. What I mean by both kinds is one offers traditional massages by trained staff and the other... well let's just say that they're trained to massage their customers all over for a little extra. Even though the sex and sleaze that surrounds Patpong is obvious you still see many families on vacation shopping at the night market while gawking at bikini clad dancers.

Here are the names of just a few hotels right in the heart of Patpong:

• Bally's Suite Silom Hotel
• Silom Serene Boutique Hotel
• Siam Heritage Boutique Hotel
• Montien Hotel

The last two red light districts are located in Soi Cowboy and Nana. Both are relatively close to each other. Soi (street) Cowboy is basically a street in Bangkok, and this street is full of many popular go go bars such as Long Gun and Rawhide. Soi Cowboy is the smallest out of the three and Nana is the biggest red light district in Bangkok. The focus of nightlife in Nana is centered around Nana Entertainment Plaza which is a 4 story building full of go go bars enclosing an open bar area filled with hundreds of freelance prostitutes. These two areas are visited mostly by men so you won't see much families wandering around.

Most men who stay around Nana and Soi Cowboy most often book hotels that do not require a joiner fee. Many hotels in Bangkok require a guest to pay an extra fee for bringing back a companion to their rooms. You may have heard of other terms such as guest or girl friendly hotels. No joiner fees could be as little as 500THB up to 1500THB. So as you can this is the main reason why men rather book hotels with no joiner fees.

Here are the names of a few hotels near Soi Cowboy and Nana:

• Majestic Suites Hotel
• Ambassador Hotel
• Royal Asia Lodge Hotel
• Oasis Inn Hotel

For further information on hotels located in the red light district of Patpong please visit Bangkok Hotel Patpong for a full review.

You can also check out Bangkok Nightlife Hotels for a Top 10 list of popular hotels in Bangkok near all of the nightlife hot spots mentioned in this article.

Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who travels to Southeast Asia, specifically to Thailand for over 8 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business ventures and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_M_Clark

Best Bangkok Hotels Near Red Light District
By Edwin M Clark

Bangkok Hotel Guide in Silom District - Where to Stay

Bangkok Hotel Guide in Silom District - Where to Stay

Bangkok is the biggest city in the Kingdom of Thailand. It is also one of the most sought after destination to travel to and explore in South East Asia. Since tourism is one of the major draws in Thailand's economic growth, there is no wonder that hotels are abundant throughout this enchanting city. There are many districts in Bangkok with hotels and this article will inform you specifically about the available accommodations in the district of Silom.

The district of Silom is a mix of dense commercial and residential areas combined with one of the most infamous nightlife spots called Patpong. In Patpong you will find several streets full of bars, pubs, clubs and of course the go go bars that defines Patpong as a major red light hotspot.

And in the middle of all the infamous sleaze and booze you will find the famous Patpong night market smack dab right in the middle of the streets. Here in this night market you can bargain for counterfeit goods such as The raucous, seedy nightlife of Patpong is the major reason why so many tourist flock to the district of Silom. So it is no surprise that Silom is dotted with high class fancy hotels to the more budget friendly establishments. And since the Thai currency (Baht) is favorable for most Western countries, the hotel rates are very affordable and reasonable.

But still if you want to save even more money, the best thing to do is to travel during the slow season, which is typically from April to October. During these times you will find discounted prices from the usual hotel rack rates.

The best places to stay in Silom if you want to be extremely close to the action of Patpong and its night market is on the roads of Silom and Surawong. Both of these roads are major streets and run parallel to each other. If you have a problem finding Patpong then just follow the crowd of western tourist. Believe me you will see a lot head to Patpong for a night of debauchery.

But Silom has more to offer then the seedy under belly of Patpong's entertainment. There are a lot of great local Thai restaurants and international pubs with delicious pub fare. One thing for sure is you should check out Suan Lum Night Bazaar. Inside you will find a night market with Thai souvenirs and goods that are lower than Patpong's night market. But you should still bargain hard. And make sure you don't miss out on the huge outdoor food court with a live bands and a beer garden.

Edwin M. Clark

For great information on hotels and where to, take a look at Bangkok Hotels In Silom.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_M_Clark

Bangkok Hotel Guide in Silom District - Where to Stay
By Edwin M Clark

Patpong Go Go Bars in Bangkok - A Tour of Bangkok's Oldest Red Light District

Patpong Go Go Bars in Bangkok - A Tour of Bangkok's Oldest Red Light District

Thailand's red light districts are famous all over the world for the flashy neon lights and exotic bar girls. One of the most famous and well known red light district is called Patpong located in the capital city of Bangkok.

Patpong first appeared on the map as a major red light destination during the Vietnam War. It was visited mainly by US soldiers for rest and recreation. Back then the scene was more seedy and raunchy. Today Patpong is nothing but a shadow of its former self as millions of tourist from all over the world have replaced the soldiers that once occupied the bar stools. In 2004 Patpong was designated as an official entertainment zone by the Thai government thereby cementing Patpong as a must see destination.

Patpong is a fairly medium sized red light district located on two streets running parallel to each other called Patpong 1 and Patpong 2.

The most popular is Patpong 1 which has the best go go bars bearing the names King's Castle and Queen's Castle. Both of these establishments are basically run by the same management and have a reputation for honest business practices. There are plenty of other go go bars in Patpong located throughout, many of them have been around for many years.

Another reason why Patpong 1 is more popular is because every evening at 6pm the street is closed off to vehicle traffic and an army of street vendors setup the night market. Patpong's Night Market has been a main attraction for thousands of tourist other than men seeking the company of a Thai bar girl. The night market is filled with knock off merchandise such as Gucci handbags to bootleg CD music and latest movies. There is also a higher concentration of live bands covering current popular music and they do draw a large crowd of tourist. There is just much more to do in Patpong 1 for a larger mix of tourist overall.

Patpong 2 on the other hand is like the neglected sister. It doesn't have the same bright lights and noise as Patpong 1 and you won't find the same crowd of tourist wandering there. Patpong 2 has more of an open air bar atmosphere where single men can sit and relax with Thai hostesses ready to keep them company in peace. The most well known go go bar on this street is Club Electric Blue A-Go-Go, which is run by a group of westerners.

All the go go bars in Patpong have a reputation to keep up and since the area has been designated as a entertainment zone by the Thai government safety is a big issue. Which means the establishments here are less likely inclined to cheat you and as for health it is mandatory for ladies working in clubs to test for sexually transmitted diseases.

Patpong of course has much more to see and do such as their traditional and non-traditional massage parlors. There is also popular gay scene with some very interesting clubs to check out. There's even a street for Japanese only customers which is also an interesting stroll through even if you're not Japanese.

If you're planning on visiting any of Bangkok's red light districts but don't want that dirty feeling after-wards, it's best to visit Patpong. The area has been so thoroughly commercialized with international shops and restaurants that you may not even feel like you've entered a red light district.

For more information about Patpong go go bars visit Patpong Red Light District Guide. There you can find maps and other helpful tips to begin exploring Patpong.

James P. Hunt is an avid traveler and writer for an underground blog with information about Bangkok, Thailand.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_P._Hunt

Patpong Go Go Bars in Bangkok - A Tour of Bangkok's Oldest Red Light District
By James P. Hunt

Silom Nightlife - A Patpong Ping Pong Show is Not All There is to This Part of Bangkok

Silom Nightlife - A Patpong Ping Pong Show is Not All There is to This Part of Bangkok

When most people who have never been to the country think of Thailand, they probably most likely think of Thai massage or Patpong ping pong shows. Ali G's movie even had the Thai ambassador, ahem, "performing" this show in the UN. While some Thais may find it insulting to be mostly known for this, some would find it funny.

You may be surprised to find out most Thais in Bangkok have never seen the infamous ping pong show and that probably more foreign tourists and residents have viewed this spectacle. Those who live in Bangkok will tell you there is more to Silom nightlife and even Patpong itself than this supremely bizarre oddity.

Silom Road lies a block from the Suan Lum Night Bazaar, the Lumpini boxing stadium, and the main part of the road begins right across from Lumpini Park. Patpong is a soi (small road or alley) just off the right of Silom if you are coming from Lumpini Park. Yes, Patpong has many go go bars and the like, but it also has become a family tourist destination because of its night market.

Many of the bars there will be open until early in the morning and the night market is no different. A stroll through this market packed to the brim (indeed, it spills well out onto Silom) with stalls. There is also much indoor shopping in with a Central shopping center and other smaller or equal size indoor (and air-conditioned) shopping buildings on both sides of Silom Road.

Other features of the Silom nightlife are the old Hindu temple further down the road opposite Narai Hotel, where you can start the night by observing the activities of the devotees and caretakers of the temple at sunset. Once that's finished, you can eat some food on the street at one of many delicious stops, or have some coffee in one of the many coffee shops.

There are bars with out dancing girls as well, such as the extremely popular O'Reilly's Irish Pub right next to the BTS (elevated train) station. And if you want to be close to the action you can stay in one of the many cheap Silom hotels or a luxury once, such as the prestigious Dusit Thani Hotel.

While Patpong ping pong shows have become synonymous with the most famous Bangkok red light district, you can see there is so much more to the Silom nightlife. Too much to cover in one article, in fact, but at least you have a taste of the true reality.

Jeremiah Iverson is a world traveler and has made it his passion to find cheap accommodation for any budget. Search http://asianahotels.net/ to compare over 30 hotel booking sites in order to get the best price for cheap Silom hotels or luxury Silom hotels, you will find them all. Is 900,000 hotel deals enough for you?

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Silom Nightlife - A Patpong Ping Pong Show is Not All There is to This Part of Bangkok
By Jeremiah Iverson

Patpong Bangkok Hotels - Where to Stay and When to Go

Patpong Bangkok Hotels - Where to Stay and When to Go

Patpong is located near the commercial hub district of Silom. Though only consisting of one main street Patpong is filled to the rafters with go-go bars, English pubs and small dance clubs. And in between these seedy establishments filled with scantily clad women gyrating their hips to techno beats on stages is the famous outdoor Patpong Night Market situated right on the street that is closed off to traffic starting at 5pm.

There is an ongoing joke that in Patpong's Night Market you can find fakes and knock offs of Rolex, Coach leather goods, brand name clothes and woman. Yes even some of the woman there are fake and in Bangkok they are considered the minority third gender called simply Lady-boys.

To experience the best of Patpongs nightlife offerings it is best to stay in a hotel near or around the area of Soi Patpong. Now Patpong as I mentioned above is just a small street. It is sandwiched between Silom and Surawong which are major thoroughfares on the map so you can't miss it.

Patpong is also close to Soi Thaniya or Japan Town (Another nightlife scene you should not miss.) that are lined with female hostesses attracting Japanese clientele. These areas are also where the best hotels are located in. Hotels such as the Montien, Silom Serene, Baan Heritage and the Tawana Ramada. Staying near these hotels is a good idea because they are very close to two of Bangkok's fastest mode of mass transportation, the BTS Skytrain and the MRT underground train system.

Traveling onthe BTS and MRT is a great way to avoid Bangkok's ridiculously congested traffic nightmare and cheap. It will take you to the major commercial shopping centers such as Siam Paragon and the Emporium as well as other nightlife hot-spots such as Nana Entertainment Complex and Soi Cowboy. Best of all, the MRT and BTS are ice cold air conditioned and believe me you'll appreciate it.

As far as when to go I would suggest between the months of October to early April which are the cooler months thus the high season. The rates for hotels are higher but rather still affordable because of the advantages of the Western currency exchange rate. You will also get a better deal in terms of room quality for the rate that you pay at a Western hotel. I notice the rates that I pay at a motel or hotel in the United States, I can book a 4 or 5 star hotel in Bangkok with free international buffet breakfast that includes an omelet station. I'm not kidding.

The difference in hotel room quality and service is between night and day. But of course the same rule still applies here as well as anywhere else. The more you pay the better the qualities in room and service you get. So don't expect to pay $20 US dollars a night for a hotel with an Olympic sized pool and a decent gym. Though you still might get a pretty decent free breakfast.

No matter which hotel you choose I suggest you check out the reviews first. Many hotel reservation companies have customers who give updated information and reviews about the hotels they've recently stayed in. Don't rely on the hotel reviews that you see on guidebooks because the information will be outdated at the time of print. Bangkok hotels go through frequent renovations so an updated review can give you an advanced warning. My last final advice is relax and enjoy your trip to Thailand.

Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who travels and sometimes lives in South East Asia specifically Thailand for over 8 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business venturers and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.

For more information on the hotels mentioned in this article that are located near the nightlife of Patpong visit Bangkok Hotel Reviews - Silom and Patpong Nightlife Areas

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_M_Clark

Patpong Bangkok Hotels - Where to Stay and When to Go
By Edwin M Clark

Best Guest Friendly Hotels in Patpong Bangkok 2009

Best Guest Friendly Hotels in Patpong Bangkok 2009

Ask any traveler to Bangkok where they've visited and 9 out of 10 times you'll hear the words Patpong red light district. It's not just a commercial sex district as most would believe. Hundreds of stalls hawking t-shirts and dubious luxury handbags line the streets of Patpong side by side across from the nefarious business of go go bars and sex clubs.

You haven't visited Bangkok at all if you haven't been to Patpong. That's what anyone who has been to Bangkok will tell you.

Patpong's red light district is an ideal location to stay in for vacation. It has a mixed variety of hotel accomodations that is right for any budget. From first class honeymoon suites for the newlyweds to basic no frills hostels for backpackers. But the most popular of all hotels types in Bangkok are ones that are deemed guest friendly. These hotels don't charge extra fees for inviting guests back to their rooms.

Guest friendly hotels in Bangkok are economical for the budget traveler but not all hotels have such a policy. Non guest friendly hotels charge a joiner fee and it's non negotiable and must be paid. Normally the fee is around THB 500 per night extra but depending on the hotel's policy it can go as high as THB 2000.

Patpong has the fewest amounts of these hotels in the area which is why they are very popular with many frequent travelers familiar with Patpong. Here are the names of such popular hotels:

• Montien Hotel
• Rose Hotel
• Tawana Hotel
• Swiss Lodge
• Bally's Suites Silom

All of those hotels are in prime locations and just a few minutes walk to the go go bars, beer bars, pubs and clubs in Patpong. Don't miss out on Patpong's Night Market found right in the middle of Patpong 1. You can't miss it as it's right besides the go go bars. Patpong Night Market has loads of Thai souvenirs, local artworks and of course suspiciously cheap Rolex watches for sale.

If you want to venture outside of Patpong, it wouldn't be a problem at all as there are two train systems nearby for quick and easy transport to other commercial and entertainment zones in Bangkok.

For a more comprehensive review and list of guest friendly hotels please visit Patpong Guest Friendly Hotels for more information.

James P. Hunt is an avid traveler and writer for an underground blog with information about Bangkok, Thailand. He is also a contributor to http://www.bangkokguestfriendlyhotels.com, the definitive online resource for hotels in Bangkok.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_P._Hunt

Best Guest Friendly Hotels in Patpong Bangkok 2009
By James P. Hunt

Patpong Red Light District in Bangkok - Travel Tips For Newbies

Patpong Red Light District in Bangkok - Travel Tips For Newbies

Las Vegas takes the title for Sin City. But Bangkok wins hands down for the title of Sin Capital. With its multitude of red light districts, Patpong is the only one that is not exclusive to men seeking the pleasures of the flesh. You can see foreign tourist with their children mingling amongst the densely packed Patpong Night Market buying counterfeit goods that operate a stones throw away from go-go bars with bikini-clad-woman shuffling their feet, swinging their hips along to the newest hip hop beats. Their sensual moves luring the gawking male customers inside like bait to a fish.

Patpong is located between two major thoroughfares, Silom and Surawongse roads, not too far from the bustling business district. Though there are foreign visitors who come to Patpong's Night Market to shop for the latest knock offs of international luxury goods at a bargain, most of these visitors are shopping for a bargain in the flesh trade. Technically prostitution is illegal. Bangkok's government has proclaimed a crack down on the sex industry and made an effort to clean up the streets. However nothing has changed and the proclamation has withered and subsided.

Go Go bars such as King's Entertainment Groups located on Soi Patpong are widely popular with Western Tourist but is gaining in popularity with the Eastern tourist such as the Japanese. Soi Patpong is the epicenter of this red light district's namesake. This is exactly where you can find Patpong's Night Market right in the middle of the street open from 5pm to 2pm. The stalls are lined in two columns where you can find fakes of all kinds such as Coach, Rolex, Tiffany and high fashion clothes. You can also find some great local souvenirs but these are usually priced higher. So bargain hard.

All the go go bars, clubs and watering holes open at 7pm and close on the dot at 1pm or else they face the wraith of a police official demanding bribe to avoid a ticket. The beers are all decently priced if you compare it to prices back in your home country. They do not have a large variety of beers inside but that's not what most men go inside for.

All the go go bars are usually filled with drunk and eager Johns by 9pm, packed in like sweaty sardines with constant streams of ladies leading their customers to the short time hotels that are a block away and up some stairs. Most of the bars and clubs in Patpong cater to male clientele, but there are some that cater to men who prefer Bangkok's third gender referred to as "Lady-Boys" or katoey in Thai. Most lady-boys can pass for a real woman so if this is what you want or don't want make sure you ask.

The gay scene is surely not overlooked in Patpong. The rules and laws of supply and demand applies especially in Thailand where thousands of open and closet gays flock to Silom 2 and 4, the center of gay nightlife. These streets are a block away from Soi Patpong and is the largest street that is chock full of gay bars and go go establishments. For some reasons gay establishments are allowed to close later then the establishments that cater to straight men.

Patpong is definitely one of the most visited places in Bangkok. It's strange mixture of sex and counterfeit goods make strange bed fellows that still attract people from all over the world. The sights, sounds and lights burn an unerasable memory that you have to experience in order to believe. If you are thinking about visiting Patpong in Bangkok I suggest you go for it. Don't be intimidated. Just go with the flow.

Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who travels to South East Asia, specifically to Thailand for over 8 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business venturers and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.

For more information on the hotels mentioned in this article that are located near the nightlife of Patpong visit Bangkok Hotel Reviews - Silom and Patpong Nightlife Areas

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_M_Clark

Patpong Red Light District in Bangkok - Travel Tips For Newbies
By Edwin M Clark

Patpong Go Go Bars in Bangkok - A Tour of Bangkok's Oldest Red Light District

Patpong Go Go Bars in Bangkok - A Tour of Bangkok's Oldest Red Light District

Thailand's red light districts are famous all over the world for the flashy neon lights and exotic bar girls. One of the most famous and well known red light district is called Patpong located in the capital city of Bangkok.

Patpong first appeared on the map as a major red light destination during the Vietnam War. It was visited mainly by US soldiers for rest and recreation. Back then the scene was more seedy and raunchy. Today Patpong is nothing but a shadow of its former self as millions of tourist from all over the world have replaced the soldiers that once occupied the bar stools. In 2004 Patpong was designated as an official entertainment zone by the Thai government thereby cementing Patpong as a must see destination.

Patpong is a fairly medium sized red light district located on two streets running parallel to each other called Patpong 1 and Patpong 2.

The most popular is Patpong 1 which has the best go go bars bearing the names King's Castle and Queen's Castle. Both of these establishments are basically run by the same management and have a reputation for honest business practices. There are plenty of other go go bars in Patpong located throughout, many of them have been around for many years.

Another reason why Patpong 1 is more popular is because every evening at 6pm the street is closed off to vehicle traffic and an army of street vendors setup the night market. Patpong's Night Market has been a main attraction for thousands of tourist other than men seeking the company of a Thai bar girl. The night market is filled with knock off merchandise such as Gucci handbags to bootleg CD music and latest movies. There is also a higher concentration of live bands covering current popular music and they do draw a large crowd of tourist. There is just much more to do in Patpong 1 for a larger mix of tourist overall.

Patpong 2 on the other hand is like the neglected sister. It doesn't have the same bright lights and noise as Patpong 1 and you won't find the same crowd of tourist wandering there. Patpong 2 has more of an open air bar atmosphere where single men can sit and relax with Thai hostesses ready to keep them company in peace. The most well known go go bar on this street is Club Electric Blue A-Go-Go, which is run by a group of westerners.

All the go go bars in Patpong have a reputation to keep up and since the area has been designated as a entertainment zone by the Thai government safety is a big issue. Which means the establishments here are less likely inclined to cheat you and as for health it is mandatory for ladies working in clubs to test for sexually transmitted diseases.

Patpong of course has much more to see and do such as their traditional and non-traditional massage parlors. There is also popular gay scene with some very interesting clubs to check out. There's even a street for Japanese only customers which is also an interesting stroll through even if you're not Japanese.

If you're planning on visiting any of Bangkok's red light districts but don't want that dirty feeling after-wards, it's best to visit Patpong. The area has been so thoroughly commercialized with international shops and restaurants that you may not even feel like you've entered a red light district.

For more information about Patpong go go bars visit Patpong Red Light District Guide. There you can find maps and other helpful tips to begin exploring Patpong.

James P. Hunt is an avid traveler and writer for an underground blog with information about Bangkok, Thailand.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_P._Hunt

Patpong Go Go Bars in Bangkok - A Tour of Bangkok's Oldest Red Light District
By James P. Hunt

Patpong Bangkok - Red Light District Guide

Patpong Bangkok - Red Light District Guide

Patpong in Bangkok, not to be confused with Patong in Phuket, has one of the wildest night life scenes in Southeast Asia. Patpong was the starting point of sin and debauchery during the days of the Vietnam war when soldiers from the US came to Thailand for rest and recreation. Forty years later the hordes of boot wearing soldiers have been replaced by the sandals of backpackers, single males, honeymooners and families from all over the world.

Yes, you heard correctly, I mentioned families. There are three major red light districts in Bangkok, Patpong being one of them of course. As raunchy and seedy as Patpong can be, it has a whole different atmosphere then Nana and Soi Cowboy, the other two red light districts.

Patpong's Night Market is the sole reason why Patpong has the most mixture of tourist, not only children and teens accompanied by parents, but females out on the town to party. You'll never find them in the other two red light districts.

Even though Patpong's Night Market has played a pivotal role in making the area seem more tourist friendly, there is still the seedy underbelly of sex and cheap booze for sale. Patpong runs on two lanes parallel to each other, conveniently named Patpong 1 and Patpong 2.

Patpong 1 is definitely more popular, mainly because of the Night Market which opens at 6pm and closes at 1am when the go go bars shut down as well. Walking down Patpong 1 is like taking a trip through a kaleidoscope, bursting with color. Neon lights with naked women adorn the entrance above the many go go bars and below are the army of touts employed to promise you a great time once you step through their doors. And it's always a funny sight to see curious onlookers ogling at the go go dancers on stage.

Patpong 2 is less crowded and the tourist who frequent here are single males who hang out at the various open bar areas where women are lined up to keep them company.

There are other miscellaneous parts of Patpong such as Soi Thaniya, which as an area catering to Japanese clientele. And hidden away on Patpong Soi 4 is a dead end street called Boy's Town where gay men from all over the world go to party.

Patpong is definitely a sight that can't be missed in Bangkok. Even though it's considered a red light district, when you're there you just don't feel it at all. It's totally commercialized, there's a McDonald's on the corner of Patpong 1, a Starbucks right across and a couple of 4 star hotels in the area. Patpong is definitely a place where you can go without feeling dirty, yet able to if you're looking for it.

To check out more information about Patpong check out Bangkok Patpong Red Light District Guide. You can find a helpful map as well as tips and information on getting around Patpong.

James P. Hunt is an avid traveler and writer for an underground blog with information about Bangkok, Thailand.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_P._Hunt

Patpong Bangkok - Red Light District Guide
By James P. Hunt

10 Fun Things to Do in Chiang Mai in Thailand By Orson Johnson

10 Fun Things to Do in Chiang Mai in Thailand
By Orson Johnson

Chiang Mai in Thailand is a wonderful location visit, be it for the beaches, the delicious foods or to enjoy the local culture. Below we look at ten interesting things to do in Chiang Mai.

1. Visit the walled city - This is a beautiful ancient place that is home to about thirty temples which boast Burmese, Sri Lankan and Lanna Thai influences. Here you can see beautiful carvings, intricately built staircases and golden pagodas.

2. Visit Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep - This is a splendid temple situated on a hillside. It has an intriguing history: The temple site was chosen by an elephant, which was allowed to roam at will. When it reached a particular site, the elephant trumpeted loudly, circled around several times and finally knelt down - an auspicious sign.

3. Take a trip to Maesa Elephant Camp - This is an elephant camp located on the hillside. Here you will be treated to a fascinating elephant show and even have the option to go on elephant rides.

4. Take a stroll around Bhuping Palace - This is a royal winter palace located on a hill. It has wide beautiful gardens and splendid architecture. It is open to the public whenever the royal family is not in residence. You will have to pay a small fee and abide by the dress code.

5. Interact with the animals at Chiangmai Zoo - The zoo is home to more than five thousands animals. These animals are housed in a cheerful open environment which gives you the illusion of actually being in a forest. Definitely a place the kids will enjoy.

6. Relax and go for a Thai Massage - If you want to relax, a Thai massage will definitely help you out in that department. Some massage parlours may be sleazy and dubious, so pay a little more for the legitimate ones that will have clean environment with relaxing music and scents in the background.

7. See Muay Thai fights at Kawila Boxing Stadium - Muay Thai is Thai boxing, and is the national sport of Thailand. The fights feature young amateurs, seasoned fighters as well as matches pitting local boxers against foreign ones.

8. Head for the Royal Floral Exposition - This is an exhibition which features more tens of thousands of species of orchid plants, and will be sure to interest even those who are not orchid lovers.

9. Shop at the Night Bazaar - This is a night market which goes on for miles and miles on Chiang Khlan Road. It is a must for shopping fanatics, who will be delighted with the low prices.

10. Head to Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center - This is a modern multimedia centre which will educate you on the different aspects of Chiang Mai's history and culture.

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Chiang Mai accommodation and World vacation Rentals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Orson_Johnson

Discover the Beauty of Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand By Pinky Mcbanon

Discover the Beauty of Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand
By Pinky Mcbanon

This National park is located in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. The park covers the highest mountain in Thailand which is the Doi Inthanon, as well as several other mountains. Visitors are advised to rent a car when touring around the park which will make it easy for everyone to explore the entire park.

The Doi Mountain is mostly a granite batholiths interfering the southern extension of the Shan Hills array and forming the division between the Nam Mae Ping River to the east and the Nam Mae Chaem River at its west. The lower altitude in the eastern parts of the park consists of limestone formations and contains several numbers of caves.

Plant life in the park differs with the occurrence of the conifers and pine tress in this chilly environment. There is also a "good luck shrine", just recently opened by the King near the peak. The Mae Klang waterfall is also found here which one of Thailand's finest spectacles, which has an enormous beauty and elegance.

The waterfall is a relaxing place for picnics and lunch. This waterfall is the much loved attraction in Doi Inthanon. The village of Chom Tong is found at the foot of the mountain considered as the favorite of many nature lovers.

The park is a delight for bird watchers as more than 383 species of different birds are been reportedly being seen in this region. Because of its nature-friendly atmosphere, no wonder this amazing park is a favored habitat of many animals.

The various sub mixture of forest formations at high elevations are a unique attraction of the park. Dominant species are found, the ones belonging to the temperate climate families rather than tropical. The top area supports the single red rhododendron in Thailand.

It blooms from December until February of each year. There is also the two white-blossomed species rich on Doi Inthanon which are limited to only a few other sites.

There are also guest houses within the park, where visitors can stay and rest after a day of strolling around the wonderful park. There are also a Visitor Centers where visitors can always ask for information whenever they find trouble getting around the park.

Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the most remarkable places in Thailand. Its vast beauty is truly a one of a kind spectacle every visitor coming from all over the world would love.

Ms. Pinky is a mom of 3 school children. She is a Systems Engineer, a Technology Researcher and an Independent Medical Billing and Coding Consultant. She and her family is well-traveled all over the world!

Her blogs and websites focuses on stay-at-home moms, dads and students who wants to work at home, build homebased business http://www.mommyisworkingathome.com

Visit her Interesting Site on Asian Travels and Destinations. Discover Asia's Culture and Great Food! at http://www.goingplacesinasia.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pinky_Mcbanon

Buyer's Market in Chiang Mai By Tai Boonlert

Buyer's Market in Chiang Mai
By Tai Boonlert

If you're thinking about living somewhere in Asia, this is one happy possibility. When I sing the praises of Chiang Mai, Thailand to my friends and family back home, I find that what it all boils down to is that Chiang Mai is a fine place to visit, but a great place to live.

Visiting for a few days is a fine addition to anyone's travel agenda. There are hill tribe villages and elephant camps, and in the old city proper one finds temples and wats around every corner. There's a Sunday "impromptu" walking market which is one of the most beautiful and culturally authentic events this city has to offer.

Visiting for a few weeks is also an option to consider. Once you've traveled all the way here, if you can, you should stay. Chiang Mai attracts both new-agey types who come here to study massage, yoga, tai chi, or reiki healing, and on the flip side, Chiang Mai also attracts more macho adventuring types who rent big Kawasaki Ninjas or Harleys and torque their way around hare-pin turns in the mountain country that stretches from Chiang Mai to Burma.

It also counts it's fair share of "regular" types who are here just for Thai cooking classes, or to shop for carved teak furniture or silk cushions.

For the rest, the people who decide to call Chiang Mai home for a month, a year, or until death do they depart, the reasons to do so are plentiful. It's a bite-sized Asian city, but brimming with a steady surplus of truly affordable niceties.

It has better weather due to it's mountainous location, plus Chiang Mai is plunk in the middle of most Asian destinations, like Laos, Vietnam and China to the north, and KL, Singapore and Bali to the south, making it an ideal base for extended Asian travel. It is safe, scams and rip-offs are far and few between, people are friendly and tolerant, and in general it is a relaxed, easy-going place. It's a college town too, so the Thai youth culture here also adds a lot of life.

Go through the alternatives - Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Saigon, Jakarta, Seoul - and you have important city capitals that are fairly uniform experiences of unplanned concrete urban sprawl, stress, pollution and traffic jams.

Chiang Mai is no Shangri-La, but in comparison it is a small miracle - a nice, cozy, manageable city, yet one that still manages to thrive with competing restaurants, guesthouses, eateries, cafes, boutiques, massage places, internet cafes, bars, etc.

This is probably the underlying reason it is a top destination for long-term travelers, retirees and expats who want to stay in Asia and recognize the great value Chiang Mai offers. It's a buyer's market. Too many cafes means plenty of good cafes all doing their best to be the best. Too many guesthouses and apartments means no one will have trouble finding a place in their budget. And then of course there is the food.

Provided you are up for eating more than pizza or steak, you can eat fantastic meals for just a dollar or two. And Chiang Mai is exploding with options, far, far more than there really should be. Many people who live here eat out every day twice a day, and boredom is not a problem.

So, here's another not-so-secret secret about relocating to the "Land of Smiles" - you can stay here on a tourist visa, for years. And years. And it's not a problem. You simply have to go to a Thai embassy outside of Thailand, apply for a 2-month tourist visa, enter Thailand, and then extend it for another month after that to remain three months in-country.

Then, repeat. You can travel by overnight bus to Laos to do it, or fly to Malaysia, China, Seoul, Australia, etc. and do it there. There are also student visas, retirement visas, work visas, and marriage visas to be had. It's just not that hard or complicated to remain here, and Thailand tacitly wants you to stay as well - it's a well-accepted though unspoken part of their current economic well-being.

As for places to stay in this city, again, it's a buyer's market. There are upscale condos you can buy or rent (owners are often out-of-town for part of the year), fully furnished suburban houses in gated communities, service apartments with cable TV, internet, laundry service and all types of amenities, cheap-o student apartments, down-low guesthouses where the owner cooks a dinner for guests every night, and of course a full spectrum of hotels and resorts. FYI - if you want to splurge and stay in high style at a resort/hotel for more than a week, be sure and see if they offer a monthly rate as it may be a better bargain than even ten days of paying day-by-day.

For the casual low-budget visitor, here is a little nitty-gritty. You can buy excellent clothes very cheaply here, the pharmacies are just like the ones where you come from (so no, you don't need to bring four months' worth of deodorant and shampoo), you don't need to get any special vaccines, and to get around, you can rent a small motorcycle (like the ubiquitous Honda Dream) for about $US 5 a day, or a bicycle for God knows how cheaply.

You can even save a little money on a dentist trip at home and get your teeth done here - it's on average half the price of the U.S.

So, if you want to live abroad, for a week, a month, or the rest of your life, consider Chiang Mai. Just bring some money, some good rugged flip-flops, and your camera. It's really that simple.

Hi.

I am Tai from Thaiapartments.net. Please don't forget to visit our website. We made it easy! Just put in your search criteria, or use the map, and away you go to finding a great place to stay in Chiang Mai in no time. Zero commissions or fees - this is a free, up-to-date and easy-to-use site.

http://www.chiangmai.thaiapartments.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tai_Boonlert

A Beautiful, Amazing Must See Place in Thailand, Chiangmai By Stephan Suttikarn

A Beautiful, Amazing Must See Place in Thailand, Chiangmai
By Stephan Suttikarn

Among the many places in Thailand Chiangmai comes well recommended, and for very good reasons. Travelers point to the many amazing sights and things to do in this laidback city situated in the Himalayan foothills.

For visitors exploring Thailand, Chiangmai never ceases to amaze. Small wonder luxury hotels (like Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai) near this destination are frequented by travelers who want to be near where the popular sights and activities are.

With Buddhist temples and other historic sites to the majestic mountains, the handicrafts, the shopping finds, people, the food and bustling night life, Chiangmai offers no dull moment for the curious and adventuresome traveler.

While in Thailand, Chiangmai is the kind of place that will strike you as serene because most of the people are not rushing about as they do in other key cities around the world. It may as well be referred to as a pastoral paradise, the kind you are likely to read about in books. Imagine getting all cozy in a nice, well-appointed villa that looks out to hushed paddy-fields and lush hills and mountains beyond them. It's a perfect place to commune with nature and feel close to God.

Actually, for people who visit Northern Thailand, Chiangmai offers respite as a spiritual haven. Pilgrims visit one of the most revered temples of the Thais - the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. It is actually an awe-inspiring 14th century Buddhist architectural showcase. The temple was erected in 1386 by King Keuna the Great.

Legend has it that the temple's site was chosen when an elephant carrying half of a holy relic ascended the mountains after several days and circled the temple spot before kneeling down and dying. A visit to Thailand Chiangmai particularly, will not be complete without seeing the sacred temple.

There are other lovely temples in Chiangmai. You can explore the oldest to the noblest ones, including the Wat Suan Dok, which holds the ashes of Chiang Mai's former Royal Family members.

In another chapel lies one of Thailand's largest icons in metal - a 500-year old bronze Buddha. You may also want to visit the temple compound where the divine Lai Kham chapel, with its remarkable murals and woodcarvings, is situated,

For a dose of history, there is another must-see while exploring Thailand Chiang Mai National Museum will fascinate you no end with its collection of Lanna Thai artworks, ancient, war weaponry, and antique Buddha images.

Shopaholics are also bound to have a heyday at Thailand's night bazaars. For those who would rather watch artisans at work in the villages, a number of cottage industries and handicrafts ranging from parasols, silk weaving, jewelry, woodcarving, silverware, and lacquerware, to name a few, may suit you fine.

Are you raring for an anthropological adventure? Try a river cruise that travels down The Chang pier. This is where elephants used to haul logs from the river in the old days. The pier derived its name from the king's elephants, which used to bathe on that site.

You will see some of Thailand's firsts - first bridge, first post office, and other interesting sites and get a whiff of the including lifestyles of the locals who dwelled on opposite sides of the river, plus some historic spots along the riverbanks. All these you can enjoy at a leisurely pace. Check out online travel resources for Thailand and you are bound to have a fantastic experience you will be able to delightfully recount to your family and friends.

http://www.theluxuryhotelsthailand.com/category/northern-hotels/chiang-mai-hotels-northern-hotels/ - thailand chiangmai.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephan_Suttikarn

Chiang Mai Deals - 10 Ways to Eat Cheaper in Thailand's Cultural Center By James Druman

Chiang Mai Deals - 10 Ways to Eat Cheaper in Thailand's Cultural Center
By James Druman

Known for rock-bottom eating expenses, most visitors to Thailand nevertheless overspend on food, but in Chiang Mai, deals are just around every corner. The more adventurous traveler who seeks a more authentic Thai experience or wants to make his/her travel money go even further can find cheaper, and often tastier, alternatives if they know what to look for. Many other long-term visitors are baffled when I tell them of my favorite venues, where I get a huge plate of yellow rice with fried chicken, a cup of fish soup, half of a sliced cucumber, and ice water for 50 baht (1.43 USD). And that is on one of the most Westernized islands in Thailand!

In Chiang Mai, it gets even better. There is no reason why you cannot eat a full meal for 30 baht (86 cents) in this town, but I have also managed to hunt down places where you can eat a full meal with ice water included for 10 baht (10 cents) or get noodle soup for 3 baht (9 cents)!

After living here for eight and a half months, I have come up with these ten tips:

1: Take a Hike--
Forgo the motorbike or tuk tuk your first day or two in a new location. Skip the taxis and walk. This slows you down and gives you a feel for the place like no motorized transport ever can. The cheap eateries are often barely noticeable, as they are often in people's homes, and signs which whizzed by on the bike are attention grabbers at a walking pace. Whoah--noodle soup for 20 baht! Know your surroundings, and you will know how to best take advantage of them.

2. Avoid the Tourist Traps--
This should go without saying, but most people are too tempted by the wide array of options in the main tourist junctions to bother venturing beyond the action. Even in chaotic Bangkok, all one has to do is walk one block either direction from Khao San Road to find delicious meals for around 30 baht and walk away full (free water or iced tea included). Did you come to Thailand to eat Thai food or hamburgers and pasta?

3. Don't Judge a Book by...
Yawn. That age old adage once again...If you have heard it once...Ahem. Anyhow, it rings true yet again. In Thailand, the extra dollar or two in pricier restaurants is usually a reflection of increased decor rather than increased quality. In fact, the vice versa is sometimes a better rule of thumb. When you pay more, you are paying for ambience. That's is great if this is what you want, but if you are looking for better food at lower prices, look for establishments with the bare necessities. Plastic furniture that doesn't match. An absence of music. An antique television set blaring Thai soap operas. Hokey thrown-together decor. Many of these places are just extensions of the Thai entrepreneur's home, and dining there will give you a much closer look at Thai culture.

4. You Just Can't Beat the Streets--
The entire world over you will find open-air street food, and it is usually the best value in any given area. This is particularly true in Southeast Asia. Sometimes you will find the usual collection of plastic furniture out front and full service, but often you will just get a small, disposable dish or be expected to eat out of a plastic bag. If it is close enough to finger food, I tell them to save the plastic and eat it out of my hands, but of course it depends on if I'm eating a piece of barbecued chicken or chicken curry.

5. Forage at the Food Markets--
Chiang Mai's cheapest venues offer an amazing culinary adventure, and the markets are a revelation to anyone who has never had the pleasure. Pick your way through the various stalls, sampling new dishes, or hit the collection of cheap roadside eateries which often accompany traditional markets. My favorite part about the markets is they stay open until the early hours of the morning, so if I am on my way back from the disco I can stop and fill up. I'll tell you what--it's a lot better than pulling through the late-night Burger King drive-throughs in America...The best Chiang Mai deals are found in the marketplaces.

6. Compare Prices--
Do not be shy about walking in to a restaurant, browsing the menu, and then leaving. Thais appreciate competition. If you feel guilty, simply smile and say, "Pop kan mai (see you again)." Do this on your walking tours to get a grasp of the local prices and to see what your options are.

7. Be Adventurous--
Try new things, even if they scare you. You might be surprised. Many foods which seem alien to Westerners will be cheap because tourists avoid them. Also, reconsider your notion of cleanliness. In your home country clean may mean pretty, but, to Thais, clean is simply clean. If a lot of people are eating there, you can rest assured the food is likely safe. Don't blame me if you get Bangkok belly--it is going to happen to you whether you follow my advice or not. Stomach problems in Thailand are an initiation every Westerner experiences, but it is far more often the result of bacteria or spices your body is not used to rather than sanitation issues. Don't worry. :-)

8. When in Rome...
Ah! Not another cliché...Go where the locals go! This is probably the most important, and most often overlooked, guideline to eating cheaply. Many of the local Thais are living on less 10,000 baht or less a month, and even those with more money naturally seek out the best food at the lowest prices. If I want to find a new place to eat with delicious and sanitary food, I just drive around and look for a small crowd of Thai people eating outside, but it is even better if you have a Thai friend from Chiang Mai to show you around.

9. Speak Thai--
In Thailand, there is almost always a Thai price and a "farang" price. No matter how long you stay, this will apply to you as well--you will never "become" Thai in any sense. However, open up to people and try to speak their language and you may often receive a discounted price or larger portions, especially if you're a regular customer. One time at the Chiang Mai Aquarium, I received a major discount off the stated entrance fee after attempting broken Thai. "Raakha thourai (how much)?" I repeated, thinking I had misunderstood. "Speak Thai--get Thai price," the young girl said with a smile.

10. Manipulate the Menu--
Do you really have to eat meat with EVERY dish? I opted for a pad thai with vegetable instead of with chicken one time, and it was topped with an omelette so big it covered the entire dish to compensate (not exactly vegetarian, afterall lol). It ended up being one of the best pad thais I've ever had. Do they offer special dishes served on rice for individuals (always a fantastic bargain)? Sometimes, there is no apparent price motive between different dishes, and the reasoning is a mystery. If you are on a budget, choose wisely. Let's face it-everything on the menu is delicious!

And one more, just for good measure...

11: Eat with the Thais--
Though you should never purposely take advantage of this, Thais are some of the most generous people in the world. Stumble upon a Thai party and you will be ushered into a chair to be force-fed Thai whiskey and delicious food, even if you have no reason to be there. Say you are full and you're plate will be repeatedly refilled. If this happens to you, DO NOT offer to pay. It would be an insult, although, if you accompany less well-off Thais to a restaurant you are expected to pay. One night, while waiting to catch the morning boat across the river to Laos, I crashed a Teacher's Cub karaoke party and ended up buddying up with the school director. We got wasted, sang "Stand by Me" for the crowd, and he invited me to come stay with his family for an extended period. If you really get in well with Thais you may have the pleasure to attend a delicious Thai home BBQ. Bring a bottle or two of beer. If you are settling in for the long-term, you may even end up throwing a few of these at your place. Not to worry--there are plenty of places to purchase heaps of cheap meat and vegetables.

In Chiang Mai, deals are not hard to come by, no matter what kind of bargain you are looking for. Even if you prefer fine dining, classy clubs, and luxury hotels, you will surely find a value that far exceeds the money you spend.

Chok dee khrab!

James Druman is a writer, entrepreneur, and world traveler currently living in Chiang Mai, the enchanting northern mountain destination known as Thailand's cultural center. To learn more about living and traveling in this fascinating city, visit http://www.thechiangmaiholiday.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Druman

'Wat' to Do in Chiang Mai By Aaron James

'Wat' to Do in Chiang Mai
By Aaron James

Chiang Mai is Thailand's second city and lies 700km (440 miles) north of crowded Bangkok. In many ways Chiang Mai is a world away from the bustling cosmopolitan capital. Set in a fertile valley encircled by rolling green hills, teak forests and work elephants are more commonplace in Northern Thailand than five star hotels.

Travelers are drawn to this ancient Northen Capital for its beautiful countryside which lends itself to trekking holidays, its unique culture and dress, arts and handicrafts and its well-preserved temples, called 'Wats'.

Visit the Chiang Mai Wats
Within the square-moated old city of Chiang Mai there are 36 wats, and many more in the surrounding area. Each wat has its own history, buddhas and treasures and its own fabulous architecture. The temples typically have pagoda-style roofs, some gilded with gold leaf to gleam in the sun.

Other wats have many white-washed chedi, rounded forms which often contain ashes of the dead. Carvings and ornate decoration abounds. The buddhas come in all colors and sizes and were often carved from semi-precious stones such as emerald. Others are covered in gold. The saffron-robed monks still attend their duties and maintain their simple lifestyle within the wats today.

Shopping
While Bangkok is the place for air-conditioned shopping malls and night markets, shopping here is on a simpler level. Handicrafts are the big attraction. Embroidery, weaving and silver jewelry are made by the semi-nomadic tribespeople who live in the jungle-covered hills surrounding Chiang Mai. Other cottage industries which sustain these people include woodcarving, pottery, silk weaving, lacquerware and paper parasols which make great souvenir gifts.

Excursions from Chiang Mai
Hiking is popular in this beautiful area and there are some interesting places to explore. The imposing mountain of Doi Suthep is just 15 km (10 miles) west of Chiang Mai and is a popular trip. Wat Phrathat is perched close to the summit and can be reached by climbing 290 steps, but most are glad to use the funicular in the steamy heat! Erected in the 14th century, the gilded chedi, two sanctuaries and cloisters still remain.

It is hard not to be distracted from the lavish decoration by the magnificent panoramic views from this wonderful perspective. Just beyond Doi Suthep is the Phuping Palace, a royal residence whose gardens are open to the public from Friday through Sunday.

A couple of miles further on is the Hmaong hilltribe village, an authentic if somewhat commercialized community which is a great place to pick up handmade crafts.

Another pleasant excursion from Chiang Mai is to Lamphun, 26km(16 miles) south of the city. The road is lined with huge trees showing how dense the forest once was. The highlight of this town, which is on the site of Haripunchai, the first century capital of the Mon dynasty, is the Wat Phra That Haripunchai. Built in 1044AD, this compound has stunning architecture in its various buildings, dominated by a 50m (164ft) high chedi. There is also a small local museum.

The author is an Asia based frequent traveler and runs a number of travel and Thailand related websites including Thailand Hotel Reservations. A self-confessed hotel freak, he plans on staying in and reviewing as many Chiang Mai hotels as possible.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aaron_James

Elephant Trekking and Bamboo Rafting in Chiang Mai By Tim Fox

Elephant Trekking and Bamboo Rafting in Chiang Mai
By Tim Fox

I had always wanted to ride on an elephant, so after I had been relaxing for a couple of days after arriving in Chiang Mai I decided to pop to my hotels' booking desk to inquire about the trips available.

After spending some time looking through the many different combinations available I decided to go for an elephant trek, followed by a visit to a couple of hill tribes before finishing off with a trip down a river on a Bamboo raft.

At 8.30am the following morning, I walked to the hotel lobby to find my tour guide already waiting for me, so pleasantries exchanged I hopped into the van. I was the first pick up of the morning, and we picked up 4 more intrepid travellers form various hotels in Chiang Mai.

After about an hour of driving we arrived at the elephant camp, we spilled out of the people carrier, and crossed a small rope bridge to where our next transport was happily munching on palm leaves. After a brief introduction and talk from our guide, we were off.

Getting on the elephant was no problem, with a wooden platform at the height of the elephant we literally just stepped on to the animal.

The ride itself was maybe an hour through the mountainous jungle, we didn't seem to be following a path, just crashing through the vegetation. I'd always imagined an elephant ride to be a lot smoother for some reason, but it was more like a fair ground ride, although this may have had something to do with the steepness of the incline we were going up, or maybe the fact my animal was far too interested in eating anything it came across than follow the instructions its Mahout was barking out.

The worst moment was getting off the animal, the dutch couple on the elephant in front of me was the first to try to dismount, again onto a wooden platform, but as the lady stepped onto the platform, her elephant decided it was fed up standing there and move away, one of the tour guides tried to hold but to no avail and she fell maybe 10 feet to the forest floor, luckily she was OK, just a few bumps and scratches, how she didn't break anything I'll never know, maybe she was an acrobat in earlier life!

After this incident I was understandably relieved that my animal stayed where it should and I got onto the platform safely.

After saying good bye to the elephants, we were back in the people carrier, and we drove for 30 minutes to visit an Hmong village, an indigenous hill tribe, where the women were still weaving in the traditional way passed down through the generations for hundreds of years. It was also an opportunity for the local children to mob some unsuspecting tourists to see what money they could get out of us.

After spending some time in the village, I loved the massive pigs tethered under the houses, we walked through the jungle to a beautiful waterfall, where we were all able to take a dip and cool off. Our guide then hurried us along a jungle track through the most luscious green I have ever seen in my life, before we entered a White Karen village, and again were able to look around and see how these people lived. It was quite humbling to see the very basic way these people still lived, and I was struck at how happy and contented these people seemed compared to us in the west with all our mod cons.

The food they gave us for lunch was superb, just a very simple vegetable and rice dish with some omelette and glasses of ice cold water, meant we were able to relax in the shade and chat amongst ourselves.

After lunch we drove a short distance to the Bamboo rafting, I suppose in my mind I thought they would be like little boats, but it was basically some big thick bamboo poles lashed together and that was it, we were going to get wet!! With 3 people on each raft, we were spaced out evenly along the rafts length, we set off with our 'driver' standing at the front, using a long thin pole to push us in any given direction. It was a slow and very quiet drift down the river, occasionally shattered by groups of children on the banks diving in as we went passed. This was the highlight of my day, just drifting down the river, hearing the birdsong and insects.

It was great when I got a turn to stand up and use the pole to direct us, I felt like I was stepping back in time, although the 'poleman' on the raft behind thought it would be highly amusing to splash his pole right next to me as to try and scare me so I might fall in, but luckily I seemed to have my sea legs and was able to just laugh with him while retaining my balance.

After maybe 30 minutes we stopped and were given the opportunity to buy a photograph of us on the rafts, which I did.

We were then driven back and dropped off at our hotels, not before arranging to meet up for a beer and a laugh later that evening. A truly magical day.

Tim Fox has been visiting Thailand for 8 years. For more information please visit http://totalchiangmai.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Fox

9 Reasons to Live on Samui Island

9 Reasons to Live on Samui Island
By Johny K

Shopping

Samui can be a shopping paradise for tourists, but in the past it was less so for residents. However this has now changed. We now have Tesco Lotus and the smaller Tops supermarkets, which stock not only everything to meet your everyday requirements but an increasing number of imported products, things that you may miss from home. The recent opening of Homepro means that all your DIY needs are taken care of too.

Nightlife

Offering everything from chilled out beach bars to full on beach parties and quiet little drinking holes to thumping discotheques, Samui's nightlife has something for everyone. With the opening of Q-Bar of Bangkok fame, the island is now starting to attract more exclusive nightlife options. If you are not a night-owl then don't worry - if you want it it's there, and if you don't then it won't keep you awake at night.

Accessibility

It may be an island but Koh Samui remains within easy reach of the rest of Thailand and Asia with Bangkok Airways ever widening network. You can be in Bangkok in an hour, and connect to flights around the world. It is also only a short flight to both Singapore and Hong Kong, both equally important travel hubs. So while it still retains the feel of a true tropical island the rest of the world is not too far away.

Restaurants

The quality and range of restaurants on the island seems to be continually improving. You can now find everything from Thai food stalls and western fast food all the way up to the finest French cuisine, and everything in between. In fact it is now easier to list the types of food that you can't find here now than those that you can.

Climate

What better way to escape from the cold of Europe than to spend the winter months on Samui. With temperatures rarely dropping below the low 20's Celsius even during the coolest season the sun is almost always shining. Even the rain is warm!

Environment

Despite the teething problems that so often affect places which experience a huge increase in popularity, Samui still remains a beautiful island. The beaches, forests, waterfalls and mountains all contribute towards the feeling of living in a tropical paradise, and with proper planning this will remain for future generations to enjoy.

People

What would Thailand or indeed Samui be without the Thai people? It is after all one of the reasons that so many people return to this country. Their friendly smiles and generally easy going nature make them a pleasure to deal with (even if the 'mai pen rai' factor can become a little frustrating at times when you need something done quickly!)

Services

The island now has almost every service you may require. Your health needs are well taken care of with a number of International standard hospitals.

Investment Potential

It is estimated that the growth in property prices in the last five years is over 100%, and it is showing no sign of slowing in the foreseeable future.

If you are not planning to stay year round it is equally good news. The demand for rental property is high, with many return visitors preferring to stay in villa type accommodation rather than hotels or resorts. Therefore even as the value of your property is rising there is also the potential to realise more immediate returns on your investment.

Johny is currently living on Samui Thailand and is working on a number of travel websites. If you are looking for a great Samui hotel then do visit http://www.mysamuiholiday.com. Read more about Koh Samui in his Samui Guide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johny_K

Where to Eat on Koh Samui

Where to Eat on Koh Samui
By Johny K

When you first imagine Koh Samui you would be forgiven for thinking that a tropical island in Thailand would be somewhat limited in terms of the dining options on offer. Sure there will be some decent traditional Thai food and not much else, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Samui now boasts a multitude of top class restaurants featuring cuisine from across the globe as well as more than just "decent" Thai food. While the majority of restaurants tend to be in and around Chaweng Beach it would be a mistake not to make the effort to explore farther afield as there are some fantastic restaurants spread all across the island. The following are just a selection of what Samui has to offer, and you would be well advised to try at least one of them during your stay - you certainly won't regret it!

Time for Romance

On The Rocks at Sila Evason Hideaway

Dining on the Rocks, the signature restaurant of the Sila Evason Hideaway & Spa, boasts uninterrupted 270 degree views of the surrounding sea and outlying islands. With tables for two spread over no less than eight different areas, there are never more than a handful of tables in any one section. The most romantic spot however must be the single table which sits alone on its own private deck which is so popular with couples it is often booked days in advance. The menu is innovative and not only reflects a fusion of Asian and Western styles, but also offers some unusual contrasts which can best be described as "New Asian Cuisine" with a wine selection especially chosen to accompany every dish. Try the "Experiences" 10 course set dinner to get a real taste of what this restaurant it all about.

Tempting Thai

Chef Chom's at Tongsai Bay Cottages

This is one restaurant that can truly claim to offer "Royal Thai Cuisine", as Chef Chom herself comes from a family who used to cook in the palace of the late Princess Vibhavadee Rangsit. Equally delicious is the more home style Thai cooking, which features the award winning "Tongsai Thai Salad with Seafood".

The restaurant itself sits on a low hill and is extremely spacious and airy, with seating both inside and out, and naturally offers some great views of the bay below. Despite being somewhat off the beaten track at Choeng Mon Beach, it is well worth the effort to make the trip at least once during your stay.

Gourmet Dining

Betelnut

Betelnut has now been around long enough to be classed as a Samui institution, offering casual yet elegant dining in an intimate setting. Operations are overseen by experienced chef Jeffrey Lord, who's innovative, creative and spontaneous dishes are a unique fusion of Thai, Californian, European and Japanese styles. Although the menu is small, it offers a wide range of flavours and textures. For serious food lovers, Jeffrey can design special tasting menus with advance notice. Among the dishes on offer are Blackened Wahoo with Samui Salsa and the intriguingly named Buddha Jumped Over the Wall (if you want to know what it is you will just have to go and try it for yourself!)

Mouth-Watering Organic

Zazen Restaurant at Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa

This uniquely designed restaurant sits right on the waters edge between Maenam and Bophut. The menu could best be described as "Contemporary East to West cuisine", with a strong emphasis on the use of healthy organic ingredients wherever possible, something which surprisingly is not always easy to achieve on the island. There are a number of set menus on offer such as the "Asian Tropical Menu" featuring Oriental Cuisine from six different countries or the four course lobster menu for two, as well as an extensive a la carte menu. The wine cellar selection more than equals the food selection, boasting more than 75 different varieties of wine.

Johny is currently living on Samui Thailand and is working on a number of travel websites. If you are looking for a great Samui hotel then do visiting http://www.mysamuiholiday.com. Read more about Koh Samui in his Samui Guide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johny_K

Koh Samui - One of the Fasting Growing Tourist Destination

Koh Samui - One of the Fasting Growing Tourist Destination
By Suchi Thomson

What does Hollywood flicks "Platform", "The Beach", "Meet the Parents" and video game "Burnout 3" has common? A hint, can you remember the long beaches, enticing coral reefs, beautiful plantation of coconut trees and magnificent Buddhist status. Yes, you guessed it right it's Koh Samui, one of the fast growing tourist destinations of the world. Be it the honeymooners paradise in "Meet the Parents " , the channel that links to paradise for the protagonist in "The Beach" or those huge Buddha towers in the racing game "Burn out 3"-all of these are realities in Koh Samui and none of these facts has been exaggerated.

Koh Samui is Thailand's third largest island. Its journey to become a hot tourist destination was nothing more than an exception. In the early 1970s it was just an agricultural state. Growing economy and space crunch in bigger cities over the years led to people looking for holidaying in more serene environment of the nature, away from the chaos of the city life. Grand villas, fairway, hill side resorts, hotels and other holiday gateways make it one of the hottest tourist destinations of the world. Today there is a long queue for reservation in resorts of Koh Samui. Tourists from all over the world visit this place. With rocking nightlife and great shopping plazas, it has become a must visit place.

So before planning to holiday in Koh Samui you can go through all the information you need from the internet. Be it booking a hotel room or a flight ticket or a scheduling your visit to the world famous Buddha statues, everything is possible to with the help of internet. So without much wait take the first flight out to and enjoy nature at its fullest.

Suchi is a freelance writer for travel magazines and websites on the topics like favorite tourist destinations, Resorts, Koh Samui Luxury Villas etc.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suchi_Thomson

Do's And Don'ts In Koh Samui

Do's And Don'ts In Koh Samui
By Louise J Taylor

If you're planning a vacation to Koh Samui, make sure you're familiar with their specific cultural etiquette and body language gestures before venturing in, especially if you're from a Western country. Asian countries have far different customs and understanding of body languages and as visitors, it is your duty to adjust to this etiquette and customs.

1. The Thai people adore and respect the royal family. Saying anything negative about them, even in jest, is frowned upon. Avoid talking about the royal family, if not in praise. Do not even attempt to say anything negative or you might get into big trouble with the locals.

2. Be mindful of your outfits. If you're going to be visiting a Buddhist temple or other areas where you have to show respect, make sure that you wear the appropriate attire. This means no sleeveless tops and short shorts.

3. In entering or leaving a building, check to see if other people take off their shoes or sandals first before getting inside. Some establishments require people to take off their foot wear before entering. Temples and private houses typically do not allow footwear.

4. The head is considered to be a sacred part of the body. Don't ever touch a local's head, even as an act of affection on children.

5. On the other hand, the feet are considered the lowest part of the body. Avoid pointing your feet on a person or a Buddhist monument. Especially when in front of a Buddha statue, make sure your feet are tucked between your legs when seated. Never ever place your feet on a table to rest. Also, avoid exposing the soles of your feet in plain view.

6. Always ask first before taking a picture of a monument or a statue. Some Buddhist statues are very sacred such that even taking their pictures is forbidden.

7. Give high regard for monks. If you're a woman, avoid physical contact with a monk as they are not allowed to touch a woman. If you want to offer a gift to a monk, pass it to a man or wrap it in cloth. In public vehicles, there are seats reserved exclusively for monks. Make sure to avoid sitting on those. If all seats are taken and a monk enters the vehicle, offer your seat.

8. It is considered rude and uncouth to shout, raise your voice, or express anger in Thailand, regardless of the situation. Never do it! No matter how apt you think it is, if you don't want to look like an uncultured swine.

9. Excessive public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially among elders. Although holding hands already seem acceptable in some areas, it is advised to just avoid displaying so much affection to avoid discomfort from the locals.

10. When eating or drinking out with locals, always make sure to have a clear agreement as to who pays. When locals invite a foreigner, they would usually pay and many would find it rude if the foreigner offers to pay or to go Dutch (American Share, in their lingo). The oldest or most superior member of the group is typically expected to foot the bill and offering to pay is the same as saying, "I am your superior".

To avoid awkward situations when you are invited for food or a drink, you can say something like, "No thanks, I can't afford it unless we have American share." This allows them to reveal whether they expect you to pay or they want to treat you.

I have listed a few websites that should help with your trip to Koh Samui:

- Koh Samui Hotels
- Flights to Koh Samui

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louise_J_Taylor

Koh Samui, Thailand - Opportunities in Real Estate Investment

Koh Samui, Thailand - Opportunities in Real Estate Investment
By John Smalls

Koh Samui, Thailand continues to yield interesting options for would be property investors. With the majority of Thailand real estate being purchased with cash, as bank finance being almost impossible to obtain, the underlying valuation of property and land is being maintained, although due to most investors being foreign investors with a portfolio of assets, there are now some nice prospects for those with investment capital who are ready to consider increasing their property portfolio.

For the medium term this Island and top 10 holiday destination continues to be a favorite investment centre for major branded hotels and spa resorts. Conrad Hotel and the recently opened Ibis are amongst several being built as this tropical Island continues to grow in popularity. There are also several luxury villa resorts being planned by major property companies, seeing a bright future in the luxury destination market. Popular destinations such as Chaweng, Cheong Mon and Bophut continue to attract vacationers from around the globe, despite the recent political troubles in Thailand.

The current world financial crisis in late 2008 has gives property buyers opportunities as several sellers are forced to reduce price to make a sale in these difficult conditions. There are several options available, both new off-plan and resale properties that now are providing buyers with significant cost advantages. The market now coming up to the high season is quite flat, with bargain properties appearing as sellers discount in order to stimulate interest.

We are seeing discounts by as much as 40% off some resale units where the owner is seeking to quickly release the cash in a property. One specific example of this is a four bedroom newly completed villa in Bang Makham, originally for sale for 25mThai Baht (715k US$), this has been discounted for quick sale at a little over 15m Thai Baht (429k US$).

Developers are realizing that to maintain and promote sales they must offer special discounted prices to offset the strong advances of the Thai Baht against a host of currencies (example: The GBP has fallen from 63 to 51 Thai Baht since September 2008, a drop of almost 20%). Developers and creative marketers are also promoting by adding in some creative financing plans, including sometimes extended payment terms over 3 years. Others are giving longer terms of up to 10 year private finance deals with down payments of 40% - 50% of the full purchase price.

Examples of one specific special promotions is new pricing being introduced by Samui Emerald Condominium at Plai Laem, Koh Samui, where they are actively promoting their first class product through sale of leasehold units, a 44sqm fully furnished unit can be bought for a little over 50,000 GBP (2,640,000 Thai Baht) at the time of writing this article. The foreign buyer in this case would need to set up a Thai company, in order to purchase one of these special units.

Take a look at Koh Samui, Thailand, whilst the market has some interesting opportunities available for the savy investor.

Samui Real Estate Locators Co., Ltd - Real Estate Agent and Property Finder. Koh Samui, Thailand

From our specially selected list of quality Koh samui Villas, search for you perfect Samui home in Thailand. Our goal is to find each and every client, dream Samui homes. Based in Bophut, we broker exclusive property and luxury homes for sale.

John Smalls
http://www.samui-real-estate-locators.com

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Some Reasons For Renting a Car While in Kho Samui Thailand

Some Reasons For Renting a Car While in Kho Samui Thailand
By Eamonn Turley

Koh Samui is a small Island, the many resorts are spread out over this valuable coast line. Samui town itself is the central evening attraction with a host of bars, nightclubs and restaurants. Given that your resort may be miles from the town center and that Samui offers many other attractions such as day spas or healing centers you really do need a hire car. Whilst your resort may have a first class restaurant Samui town offers a wide selection of seafood restaurants all of equal quality, the seafood is displayed on ice in the front of the restaurants to entice you in.

Tip Budget and Thai Rent A Car have depots at the open air tropical airport , both offer first class cars and good insurance cover. Cars can be rented direct from our resort but quality and age will be an issue.

Koh Samui at one time was very cheap and catered mainly to the backpacker that is no longer the case with 5 star hotels in abundance, however some resorts do still cater for the budget traveler. Samui is also popular for the healing or spa type holiday with many first class spa resorts situated along the coastline. They offer all forms of alternative medicine including colon cleansing . If you are on a traditional holiday it is still possible to go along and experience a day of spa treatments.

A rental car is not expensive to run as petrol is cheap in Thailand and parking is free. Do book your car hire in advance with a reputable company to avoid ending up possibly with a car with worn brake pads, no power steering and possibly no or limited insurance cover.

If you decide not to rent a car the you can avail of the local taxi service which comprise of open back pickups with 2 rows of seats ( no seat belts ). These can be flagged down just like a taxi and will bring you back to your resort, do agree a price upfront to save on any misunderstanding, a copy of hotel name card will also help.

Tip : Samui Island is full of local and tourist on motorbikes, do give them the right of way and a wide berth as most will not be wearing safety helmets and some may have been drinking.

Article was compiled by Eamonn Turley who writes for http://www.fastcarhire.co.uk specialized in car rental in Malaysia, Thailand and Australia.

If you are thinking of visiting Thailand for that once in a lifetime trip then http://www.fastcarhire.co.uk/thailand_car_hire.asp for more information on car rental options available

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eamonn_Turley

Koh Samui Hotel Reservation Made Easy

Koh Samui Hotel Reservation Made Easy
By Rob Noobert

There are lots ways to make a Koh Samui Hotel Reservation. If you are going to Koh Samui for the first time you will probably buy your complete holiday as a "package", this is what most people do and they normally regret it after the first couple of days. Why? Because it is very rare for Travel Agents or Holiday Sellers to actually check out the Hotels and Resorts they are sending you to, add to that the fact that the prices WILL be ridiculously high compared to what you will see displayed on arrival. I'm sure you're starting to get the picture.

So, what can you do to make Koh Samui Hotel Reservation a nice and easy experience? Well here are a couple of ways...

1. If you have the time and you arrive early enough in the day the absolute best way to ensure you are going to be happy with where you stay for the duration of your holiday is to have a look around the island to see what is available. There are many hotels, resorts and bungalows on Koh Samui and they all vary in price and quality. Only you know what you will be happy with and where, for this reason, I'd say, as long as you have the time, this is the way to go.

2. The other way is to do some research and then make your Koh Samui Hotel Reservation on the Internet. This is becoming common practice all over the World, you could actually book everything (flights, accommodation, transport and tours) on the internet and, within an hour, You WILL have Saved Money and Won't have to worry about anything once you get to Koh Samui apart from relaxing and enjoying yourself.

For a Reliable Koh Samui Hotel Reservation System and loads more information on Koh Samui you should visit The Koh Samui Visitor Guide Website Today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rob_Noobert