Saturday, July 09, 2005

Thailand

Nearly didn't make it to Thailand becasue of some issue with my ticket but luckily did; flew with Thai Airways (splendid service - highly recommended).

The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. It's divided into four natural regions : the mountains and forests of the North; the vast rice fields of the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands of the Northeast plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the peninsula South.


Koh Samui
Koh Samui in Surat Thani, the largest province in the south, is the 3rd largest island along the coast. Koh Samui is beach paradise central, one of the party islands. It has long been the locale of choice for paradise-seeking voyagers from around the world. Its turquoise waters and sun-bleached, sandy bays are lined with multiple bungalows and resorts, a plethora of restaurants, and thumping nightlife. There are many beach activities to do such as Jet skiing (exciting) and millions of places to get a relaxing massage on the beach.

Koh Pha -ngan
Another party island in Surat Thani. This Island is famous for it's full moon and half moon parties! - wild and completely crazy! I stayed at the Orchid Resort in Kai tai, a fantastic family run business right on the beach! Pha-ngan has many restaurants and cafes where one can hang out eating great cheap food, watching movies and meeting backpackers/travellers. Bottle beach an amazing tranquil island is a boat ride away from Pha-ngan. All 'types' of massages are available in Pha-ngan.

Koa Tao
Renowned for its excellent coral reefs, great for snorkelling and diving! The dazzling 250-square-kilometer Ang Thong Marine National Park ('The Beach' was filmed here), where a stunning archipelago awaits to greet visitors with their charming palm-fringed beaches, crystal clear water and colourful coral reefs.

Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital city and centre of political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities. It is also the seat of Thailand's revered Royal Family, with His Majesty the King recognised as Head of State, Head of the Armed Forces, Upholder of the Buddhist religion and Upholder of all religions (basically everything!). Stayed in a fantastic hotel called Park Avenue @ 22 Hotel on Soi 22 off Sukhumvit Rd - great customer service! Sukhumvit is great for shopping! The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temples of great beauty (saw quite a few) and fascination, magnificent palaces, classical dance extravaganzas, numerous shopping centres and traditional ways of life, especially along the "Venice of the East" timeless canals and the Chao Phraya River of the "River of Kings" winding through the city. Also visited the 'floating Market' (with great bargains) by a speed canoe.


Thailand is a beautiful country, it's cheap, everyone speaks English and the people are extremely friendly!

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