Tag archives for Thailand
Traveling fills you up with excitement. However, when you travel, you need to spend some time to think the food items that you should carry. You need food which will nourish, revitalize, strengthen, and also tastes good. Make sure that you are not underprepared. Even if you travel just for a day, make sure that you have a good experience. Here is a list of top five food items that you should carry when you are backpacking.
1. Tuna and Crackers
You can carry a one small can of tuna. However, make sure that this has a pull top. This way you will not require a can opener to open it. In case the thought of dry tuna makes you cringe, you can carry a packet of mayonnaise along with it. These are available at the local fast food restaurants. Carrying these packets is much more convenient. If you have to make it tasty, you can consider making a tuna salad to put on bagel or pita bread. Tuna offers pure protein. The crackers or the bread will provide you with the required carbohydrates.
2. Peanut Butter
If you carry peanut butter on your travels you will have several options. You need to repack it in a squeeze tube. These are available almost every departmental store. As a matter of fact, you will be able to simply suck it out of the tube. Moreover, you will be able to apply it on your bagel or crackers. People tend to prefer lathering peanut butter on the bagel or crackers and sprinkling plump raisins over it. It offers nutritional benefits like protein and a good amount of fat.
3. Candy Bars
In case you are planning to travel in a moderate climate, you can consider carrying candy bars. However, these are not good for hotter conditions. If you visit a store, you will find out that are various kinds of candy bars. You can simply choose the one that you like. The candy bars include a lot of simple carbohydrates. Thus, it is great for quick energy fix. These candy bars have great flavors which everybody loves.
4. Fresh Fruit
There is nothing more satisfying that good apple, pear, or orange. You should carry fruits that will roll around the backpack. There are bananas, peaches, and plums. However, these are not much desirable when you sit down to eat. You need to keep in mind that fruits are too heavy to carry. They are rich in natural carbohydrate. Thus, you can carry the fruit that you like.
5. Chocolates and Nuts
Nuts and snacks should be packed in abundant quantity since it is a rich source of essential nutrients. These are vitamins, proteins, and minerals. Other than taking care of your hunger pangs, these food items will provider you energy various activities during your travel. If you carry chocolates, you will be able to munch on them anytime you feel like. Chocolates are light on the stomach and will keep you energized. In small quantities, dark chocolates also offer many other benefits.
Make sure that you do not carry any kind of junk food. Canned foods should be avoided at all cost. These do not do any good to the body.
Thailand is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in world if you are talking about beaches and religious temples. It boasts of pristine beaches and awe-inspiring temples and temple ruins.
There are many tourists coming in and out of the kingdom of Thailand, but there are expatriates, too — those that have decided to leave the borders of their homeland to teach English. That means travelling to Thailand is nothing to be afraid of. If you are only a few hours away from your flight, and if you do not have a list of things you want to do in Thailand, there are 15 things recommended to do while travelling around this beautiful country.
- Go on beach hopping.
Patong Beach, Railay Beach, Maya Bay, Hua Hin Beach, Kata Beach, Lamai Beach, Sairee Beach, and the list goes on and on. It is a home to beautiful beaches and you have to try, at least, three of them and be relaxed and amazed. Their beaches are unlike no other.
- Visit the Grand Palace.
Your Thailand visit wouldn’t be complete without setting your two feet on the Grand Palace. It is the home of the Thai king, the whole administrative staff of the government, and the Royal court. It boasts of beautiful architectural design from one dynasty to the other.
- Pay Khao San Road a visit.
If you are looking for a place to buy cheap souvenirs to bring back home or simply want to experience shopping like a local without breaking the bank, Khao San Road is a must-go-to place for you. Khao San is famously called the “center of the backpacking universe”.
- Eat street food.
If you have ever been eating their world famous Pad Thai in restaurants from where you are living, you will be amazed how a pad thai tastes like when it is cooked by a local right in the streets of Thailand. Aside from pad thai, there are other street food must-try.
- Ride a tuk tuk.
It is called by many names in many parts of the world, but it is famously called tuk tuk in Thailand. It is a vehicle used for transportation that is very Southeast asian is look and feel.
- Visit the King Cobra Village.
Be amazed at how entertaining these trained snakes are. It is quite scary at first glance, but the snakes there are bred in captivity to perform for tourists.
- Buy from the floating market.
You’ve seen this in photos and there is definitely no way that you should miss this. Hop into the boat and make your way into their canal and shop like how you would in your local market. It’s all so affordable, and there are people who are willing to cook for you after buying from the market.
- Go white in Wat Rong Khun.
It is privately own Buddhist temple commonly known to tourists as the White Temple. It is breathtakingly white and beautiful, and you can’t find a lot of white temples around the world.
- Learn Muay Thai.
There are Muay Thai camps in Thailand that you can be part of. It is quite an experience as nothing feels more authentic than learning this art from where it was originated.
- Go on a jungle trek.
Discover Thailand’s wildlife. Go on a trek and experience the other natural beauty they offer aside from the beaches. It’s an adventure worth trying.
- Eat insects.
Not everyone would give this a try, but for a full Thailand experience, pick a stick of insects and give it a chew. You will be amazed how tasty they are. It is easy to find one because it is mostly sold in the streets like a typical street food.
- Buy Harem pants.
Be a local. Buy Harem pants. It’s like a jogger pants for Thai people. Best part of it is how refreshing it feels when wearing it.
- Visit Ayutthaya.
Once a royal city, now it boasts of beautiful temple ruins. Ayutthaya is a World Heritage Site. That alone tells you that this place is a must to visit. It gives you an experience not only your eyes would be thankful but, as well as your soul.
- Go to Wat Arun.
Famously called as the Temple of the Dawn. It is a Buddhist Temple. If you’re lucky enough to visit it early in the morning, you will see the first light of the morning reflecting in the temple and it looks magnificent.
- Build a community.
Thai people are one of the most hospitable people in the world. It is not so hard to find a new friend in this country. If you want to make your Thailand experience a memorable one, it is best shared with people. Build a community – big or small. It makes you feel that Thailand is your new home.
There are a couple of hundred things you can do in Thailand. If you are going to work as one of the growing numbers of ESL teachers in the country, there is definitely no need to worry. You have a community willing to take you around and help you make your Thailand experience worth it. If you are just going around for a tour, it’s impossible that you will not enjoy every second of it. That’s how beautiful this country is.
Bangkok is one of the most visited, preferred and singled out tourist destinations amid travelers around the world. Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand. Bangkok used to receive more visitors than any other city in the world due to its diverse attractions. If you are in Bangkok, it will not take long time to realize why more and more tourists are interested to visit this charming city. The city is packed with both old-world charisma and modern attractions. It is a beautiful city that can is alive with noisy, crowded, bright, exhilarating, and funny. Here are top 5 attractions in the city that let the visitors to experience Bangkok completely:
- Temples
Visitors can experience the splendor of Bangkok by visiting the temples of the city. The temples in the city help the tourists to understand the religion, culture, traditions, beliefs, customs as well as architecture of the city. You can witness many temples right through the city including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (the most iconic temple of Bangkok), Wat Saket, Wat Traimit, Loha Prasat, Wat Mahatat, Wat Suthat, Wat Benjamabhopit (Wat Benja), Wat Prayoon, etc.
- The Grand Palace
One of the most effective ways to explore or experience the beauty of Bangkok is visiting The Grand Palace. The visitors are always enthralled by the opulence of the architecture and the exquisiteness of these sites. Grand Palace is certainly the city’s most famous landmark. It was built in 1782 and it reveals the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people. At present, the complex is the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.
- Khao San Road
Another great means for the visitors to explore and experience Bangkok is walking through Khao San Road. Khao San Road is a short and just 410 meter long. It is Bangkok’s backpacker hub and you should visit the site in order to experience the actual local life of Bangkok. Khao San Road is packed out, noisy and filled with a lot of fun. At Khao San Road, every tourist can find numerous budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, internet cafes, travel agents, bookshops, market stalls, swanky bars and clubs, restaurants, massage parlors, tattoo shops, etc. The region is globally famous as a hub of dancing, partying, the traditional Thai New Year (Songkran festival) of 13–15 April and water splashing.
- Chinatown
Bangkok’s Chinatown presents a spectacular experience to the travelers. Chinatown is in one of the oldest spots of Bangkok. Yaowarat Road in Samphanthawong district is the center of Bangkok’s Chinatown. Chinatown’s Sam Pheng Market is an old business hub. Current Chinatown now includes a huge area around Yaowarat and Charoen Krung Road. Well-known for its markets and many gold shops, Chinatown is alive with the local population, many busy, more or less hectic market areas consisted of a chain of roads, alleys and small streets. As a result of the blend of Chinese and Thai cultures, Bangkok’s Chinatown is unique and charming.
- Parks, Beaches and Museums
Parks, Beaches and Museums in Bankok help the tourists to experience the diversity of Bangkok. There are in fact several parks situated around the city and it provides the visitors to the Bangkok with pure air and many outdoor activities in green, landscaped places. Some of the famous parks in Bangkok include Benjakitti Park, Benjasiri Park, Chatuchak Park, Lumpini Park, Queen Sirikit Park, Rama IX Park, Romaneenart Park, Rot Fai Park, Sanam Luang Park (The Royal Field), Santichaiprakarn Park, Santiphap Park, etc.
There are many beaches to choose from in Thailand, and many of them are near to Bangkok. Here are a few beaches that are closer to Bangkok, such as, Hua Hin, Koh Samet, Ko Lipe, Pattaya, Pranburi, Cha-Am, etc.
You can find a number of Museums in Bangkok and it can offer you a premier and complete look into Thai culture. Here are some of the museums in Bangkok that display the most transcendent, and strangest, collections of remnants such as the Bangkok National Museum, Museum of Siam, MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), Bangkokian Museum, Vimanmek Mansion Museum, Jim Thompson House, Erawan Museum, Bangkok Doll Museum, Bang Khun Thien Museum, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, Bangkok Corrections Museum, Bangkok Folk Museum, etc.
The post is by Susan Taylor, a freelance writer and she retired from position as a professor in order to continue freelance writing career. She currently working for a professional thesis writing service online and it lets her to aid students around the world with solving their academic paper writing troubles.
Thailand tourism is not only known for its exotic beaches, wonderful marketplaces and great food, but if you are an adventure buff then you can hit the coasts of Thailand for an exciting adventurous treat that is surely going to get your pulses racing.
Rock climbing- Railay is the place in the Krabi province in Thailand where you can go for rock climbing. Most people go to Railay for this adventure sport as it is one of the most amazing things to do in Thailand. There are several routes that fit the needs of all kinds of rock climbers, from beginners to the thorough professional rock climbers. You can also opt for learning the beginner course or the seasoned professional course. You can buy your own gear or get it on rent.
The Railay Bay is really very beautiful featuring limestone cliffs that jut out of water and surround the horseshoe beaches.
Elephant trekking – There is this picturesque National Park situated in the southern part of Thailand. This National Park is known as Khao Sok and there is a good deal of elephants here that are a big hit among the crowds of people that throng here for an amazing experience of elephant trekking. An extraordinary addition to our list of things to do in Thailand, elephant trekking should not be missed at any cost.
The elephants at Khao Sok are pretty healthy and sitting on top of these fairly large creatures is a big thrill in itself. The feel that you get while the elephants take you down the steep hills and over the rough terrains is simply unmatchable. You shudder at the thought of tumbling down from your high perch but these intelligent giants manage to hold you safely all throughout.
Cave kayaking – Well, sea kayaking is quite common but cave kayaking is one amazing Thailand that you cannot experience easily at any other location of the world. Also known as inland kayaking, as you kayak on the river waters making way through the mangrove forests. You go through the lush greenery and the moment you enter the caves give you an adventurous feel, a mysterious feel of being one among nature. It is a complete thrill to paddle under the stalactites and the limestone cliffs. It is a real heavenly feeling when you reach a lovely lagoon encircled by high cliffs.
Bridge walking on the Kawai River – Call it thrill but for some it is more of fear, the fear of taking one wrong move and tumbling down straight into the river. After all, the bridge on the Kawai River does not comprise of wires or cages and you need to just walk on the planks. Bridge walking on the Kawai River is a must-do for most of the adventure freaks that visit the country seeking solace and thrill at the same time.
Travel in a Tuk Tuk – Your visit to Bangkok is not complete unless you take a Tuk Tuk ride. This is sure shot things to do as it is the local mode of transport that is not only cheap and easy to go around but is great fun as well. These are 3-wheeled motorbikes that are found abundantly in Bangkok.
So, Thailand Tourism really has a lot to offer you and fun, adventure and thrill is surely going to be a part of your trip to this epitome of a holiday destination. This guest post was by Stephenleuis, a Travel enthusiast and has written on Thailand Tourism.
Thailand is one of the most famous and visited holiday destinations, the beaches, the hills, the islands, the forests, you name it all, Thailand has it all! Probably you would discern Thailand as the country where Bangkok is located, Bangkok is synonymous with this country which ofcourse forms the ultimate shopping destinations for retailers and individuals as well, and it is officially one of the most embarked upon cities in this country.
Indulge in an exotic experience
Pattaya and Bangkok forms the major chunk of tourism in Thailand as these cities are most favourite indulgences, however there are other as famous and visited destinations. What attracts multitude to this country is cheap shopping, great food, aesthetic locations, amazing nightlife, exquisite indulgences and recreational activities, it is sure one superlative package plus it is the celebrated Thai massages that makes the country popular all the more.
Our top five holiday destination in Thailand
- Bangkok: If you want the best of street and cheap shopping with mouth-watering cuisines and amazing nocturnal experiences (nightclubs), do not miss out on the capital city of Thailand, it is our number one!
- Phuket: Lying towards the southern part of the country, it is Thailand’s largest island, if you want to indulge in spas, beaches and recreational activities such as diving and underwater adventures this is the place to be. Some of the most popular hotels in Thailand are situated in Phuket.
- Pattaya: It offers one of the superlative beach resorts and is a great destination where you can hang out with friends and family
- Ayutthaya: Towards North of the country, the lost Siamese kingdom lying in ruins is now a major tourist attraction and home to quite a few Thailand hotels.
- Koh Tao: This beautiful island is most celebrated for scuba diving and the beautiful underwater adventure, relaxing and pleasurable, those who love water and marine life should not give this place a miss.
Thailand houses great hotels and resorts
Thailand is home to beautiful resorts and accommodations so you don’t need to worry about lodging as there are a huge variety of options available such five star or seven star hotels beach resorts and villas which would be on the higher end range, also available are cottages or reasonable Thailand hotels which although would be comforting, won’t burn a hole in your pocket, like I said there is something for someone always and few of such resorts and hotels would offer the spa treatment for which Thailand is most celebrated. To get lucrative deals check the net for the best or reasonable hotels, pick up top three and then after much consideration and analysis choose your best suited option. The resorts, villas and five star hotels would start from 5,500 INR per night but there are cheaper hotels and accommodations available too.
Thai tourism forms a major chunk of the country’s economy and is one of the most visited destinations on global level, but in present times where finding itself amidst tremendous competitions from the nearby countries cum tourist destinations it has tried to maintain its novelty and golden status by incorporating attractions like medical spas and golf holidays, although not legal, sex tourism is a formidable part of tourism.
This guest post was by Stephenleuis, a Travel enthusiast and has written on Tourism in Thailand. Hope this information will help you to plan your trip to Thailand.
Thailand Tourism promises a memorable stay to all its tourists and delivers it in style. There are a large number of things to do in Thailand and one may fall short of time no matter how well he plans his vacation due to the innumerable options available to him. Here is a list of some of the things one has to do while in Thailand:
- Eating: If you are in Thailand then you are in for a treat. With a score of restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world, Thailand is a paradise for food lovers. The Thai cuisine is well known and appreciated throughout the world due to its exotic flavours and unique preparation. There are restaurants to fulfil everyone’s appetite and to suit everyone’s style. From a quiet little place to eat and relax to a place with loud music and cheerful people. You can find cheap to moderate to high end restaurants serving delicious food with a smile. Eating will definitely be one of your favourite things to do in Thailand.
- Sightseeing: Thailand is a country with a very rich cultural heritage and a glorious past. There are a number of places to visit which are of great significance to the country. Wat Phra Kaew, Doi Suthep-poi National park, Dusit Palace Park, Sanam Luang, Khao Yai National Park are some of the places that you can’t afford to miss while in Thailand.
- Shopping: Thailand proves to be heaven for shopaholics by offering a large number of spots for lightening their wallets. There is something for everyone and you can go from a market of small stalls to high end malls dealing in luxury brands to let yourself loose and shop till you drop. Some of the top shopping spots are MBK Centre, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Damnoen Saduak Floating market, Siam Paragon and many more. Shopping is one of the things to do in Thailand which you will love to do.
- Beaches: The beaches in Thailand are known throughout for their breath taking beauty, white sand, perfect scenery, clear waters, limestone cliffs and exotic flora and fauna. When you are in Thailand you will feel like just laying back on a recliner on one of these beaches and sipping your favourite cocktail or maybe taking a good massage. For the adventurous souls there are a number of activities such as diving, rock climbing, snorkelling etc. Some of the best beaches of Thailand are Railay beach, James Bond beach, Freedom beach, Koh Chang beach etc. These beaches are all gems of Thailand Tourism.
- Partying: If you are a party animal then this is one of the best things in Thailand for you. Thailand’s night-life is one of the best in the world and its late night beach parties are unmatched by anywhere else in the world. With a large number of pubs, clubs and discotheques to choose from you can party according to your own style and to your kind of music.
This guest post is by Chandralekha, a Travel enthusiast, currently working with ixigo, an online India Travel Guide helps you to plan your trip. This time she has written on Thailand Tourism. Hope this information will help you to plan your trip to Thailand.
Thailand has emerged as one of the leading holiday destinations in the world with thousands of travelers visiting each year. The beautiful islands dotted with palm-fringed beaches, the air of spiritualism in Chiang Mai and the vibrancy of its capital city Bangkok have enchanted travelers’ world over. Whether it is for business or pleasure, a growing number of discerning and sophisticated travelers are frequent visitors to Thailand. Catering to this discerning segment, are the hotels in Thailand that offer a suite of superlative services and facilities along with the familiar and popular Thai hospitality. Be it Bangkok, Phuket, Koi Samui, Krabi or Phang Nga, these high-end luxury hotels offers the best to its guests.
Hotels offering Comprehensive Services and Amenities
In order to accommodate the growing number of tourists, Thailand tourism has made arrangement of many hotels in almost each and every corner of Thailand. Each hotel in Thailand is a sheer master piece to watch and experience. From the location to the themes and the amenities each aspect of every hotel is very different from the other. There are beach side hotel and the beach side villas, there are forest hotels and villas and even the themed hotels. In fact, the vacationers have a galore to choose where to stay during their Thailand vacation. Thailand tourism, in order to promote tourism, along with building the 5 star resorts and hotels, have advised the building of budget and economic hotels.
5 Star Hotels in Thailand
There are umpteen numbers of 5 star hotels in Thailand that are known for their distinctive character, style and decor. Each of these hotels is perfect for those who choose to stay in them. Each hotel is equipped with the modern amenities and facilities. While some of the hotels are located in the heart of the city in Bangkok there are others located in remote and pristine locations surrounded by nature’s bounty
There are some hotels in Thailand,which are located near the beach while there are some, which have a private beach within their boundaries. Each hotel provides it guest with great satisfaction and no guest leaves Thailand without fond memories.
Some of the most common amenities which the hotels provide, whether five star or budgets, are include dedicated services like- security, great views from the window, doctor on call, Wi-Fi connectivity, television, air conditioned rooms and more. Various hotels have their own ways to make their guests feel comfortable; however, some of the services remain same and common. However, their level of dedication makes all the difference.
Great discounts during off season
While during peak season luxury hotels may be off limits for many due to budget constraints, the same is not the case off season. Most of the high-end luxury hotels offer attractive discounts to allure travelers from all over the world. The lean season is between July and October, when Thailand experiences heavy rainfall and therefore beach resorts offer great discounts too. The beach may be off limits, but the discounts make it worthwhile to visit Thailand even during this time of the year.
This guest post is by Chandralekha, is a Travel enthusiast, currently working with ixigo, an online India Travel Guide helps you to plan your trip. This time she has written on hotels in Thailand. Hope this information will help you to plan your trip to Thailand.
The modern version of Muay Thai we see today was first developed in the 1920s. As the years progressed, there were accounts of women getting into the combat sport and fighting in small competitions that were never fully organized. The rarity of women in the sport was not just because of gender oppression, but also attributed to the fact that the women during these times were just not into it.
During the time when Muay Thai was purely a means of attack and self-defense used in real life situations, the women of Khunying Mae-yamo, meaning ‘respected mother,’ fought alongside the men who used Muay Thai to fight off territorial invaders.
When the gender renaissance swept the world during the 60s and 70s, things began to favor the female demographic. Fights were set up in Rajadamnem participated by daughters of well-known gym owners, and even the government-owned Lumpinee Boxing Stadium ran a series of female fights. However, this female surge in the sport was just momentary.
The real reason why women were hindered in getting involved with Muay Thai is a mix of the nation’s deep religious and superstitious beliefs. Since Thailand is predominantly Buddhist, it is Muay Thai tradition for monk to bless fighters in a moving ceremony, with the monk walking over a fighter’s limbs. Women can’t engage in this ceremony since Buddhist monks are forbidden to be in physical contact with women. They believe that women represent desire, which must be suppressed to achieve nirvana—a belief that is not something to be taken lightly.
This religious belief was reinforced by an incident that happened at an event in Rajadamnem during the late 70s. A female television producer stepped into the ring to direct a shoot, after which every match of the night ended with the fighters seriously injured. Naturally, her presence in the ring was blamed, proving that women did not belong anywhere near the ring. An unofficial ban was imposed on female fights and they were not even allowed to so much as touch the fighting rings in gyms and stadiums.
Fortunately, the ban was temporary. Women in families that owned gyms continued to train in Muay Thai, and it didn’t take long for female bouts to eventually resume. If there was someone fighting worth placing a bet on, the men allowed the women to fight, but just not in Bangkok’s main stadiums or the larger ones upcountry. Female bouts were then scheduled last, so the beliefs the people adhere to won’t be affected, and they even had them go under the top rope when entering the ring, so they do not set themselves higher than the spirits.
As the years slowly passed, the women attending fights at larger stadiums grew in number. As the standard of female fights improved, the betting stakes increased and the interest exploded. And with help of the World Muay Thai Council, an organization run mostly by foreigners, there was more openness in promoting female fights, further boosting its popularity.
Today, both female and male fights in Thailand are on the same level, with five, three-minute rounds that allow elbows. However, the stakes involved are still greater in the men’s bouts. Regardless, the women in Muay Thai have come a long way since then, and it looks like there is no stopping them from soon dominating the sport.
Bio: Marie Felipe is an online writer for more than 6 years now promoting the importance of being fit and healthy. She realized it is quite difficult to stay fit especially if you work online and just sits every day. Luckily with a help of a little diet and hours in a Muay Thai gym she stays fit.
Hi fellow travellers! I’m Ella West, and I guess I have one thing in common with you if you’ve chosen to read this post; I love to travel. I’ve visited a fair few places in my time, both pre and post children, so I thought I’d put together an article of tips on the little things that might be useful wherever you’re thinking of journeying to. I hope it’s useful!
1. Decent footwear
Make sure you have good quality footwear that you’ve worn in, because wherever you’re going, be it a short city break in Paris, or a month long trip travelling off the beaten track in China, the last thing you want is blisters and sores ruining the journey.
(Great Wall pic)
You need shoes that were made for walking to get the most out of places like this…
Ladies, I know we all love shoes, but I really do believe that sacrifices should be made in this area when it comes to foreign travel. Ditch the heels and go for comfortable, flat sandals for nights out. For a start, they weigh less and are much easier to pack in your luggage. Secondly, you can get really nice, dressy sandals anyway.
2. Mosquito Net (and repellent, and after-bite cream!)
This advice is maybe more relevant to some countries than others, but I would suggest you at least take a decent insect repellent, because those little buggers can be vicious and incessant!
(Mosquito net pic)
My princess bed, that doubles up as a fortress.
When I went backpacking in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia last year, I took with me a net that could be fixed above the bed to prevent any nasty little creatures from getting in, and it worked. The only tricky thing was finding something to fix it to, but you can be creative; use light fixtures, picture hooks, window fixtures, anything.
3. A Poncho
I know they look geeky, but a poncho can be really useful and make you that little bit more comfortable when the weather turns. In Florida, there’s normally a downpour for a very short time in the afternoon, and Disney charge about £20 for one with Mickey Mouse on! I’ve experienced rainy seasons in North, Central and South America, and Asia, and believe me, you do not want to be left in soaking wet clothes all day.
They weigh next to nothing – pack one just in case!
4. A sarong and wrap for holy places
In lots of churches and holy places across the world it is a necessity to ensure your legs and shoulders are covered. Be it the Grand Palace in Bangkok or St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, you don’t want to miss out on seeing something spectacular.
(La Pieta)
Don’t miss out on Michelangelo’s La Pieta in St, Peter’s Basilica, Rome
There are often street sellers hanging around to sell or hire ill-prepared tourists appropriate items of clothes, but save yourself some money and research the regulations before your visit.
5. A Side Bag and/or Money Belt
Wherever you go, be it a city in the UK or a rural village abroad, you have to be vigilant against theft. Theft happens everywhere unfortunately, but it can be absolutely devastating when it happens abroad and you’re helpless or vulnerable. Sometimes carrying a backpack or a rucksack is unavoidable, but I strongly urge you to invest in a small side bag for valuables – your money, passport, phone and camera. A side bag should fit nicely under your arm, therefore making it that little bit harder for someone to tamper with. Money belts are also incredibly useful, and can be worn quite easily underneath your t-shirt – a difficult place for opportunist thieves to aim for!
(pic of money belt)
My husband took a trip to Barcelona earlier this year, or I should say, he tried to take a trip to Barcelona. He was going for a weekend to help cheer up his friend whose girlfriend had recently ended their relationship, but when he got to passport control in Spain, he found his passport had been pick-pocketed.
Result: he had to spend 24 hours in an airport cell until he could be put on a return flight the next day.
The moral of the story: be vigilant with valuables at all time (or, don’t go on holiday without your wife!).
The island of Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand and one of the most popular holiday destinations in the land of smiles. It is famed for its incredible scenery, warm and placid ocean, friendly locals and variety of silky white beaches. Samui is especially popular with honeymoon couples given its romantic character and a hospitality industry capitalizing on this with private pool villas hidden away from public eye. ButIt is also a destination favored by scuba, families with young children and even single travelers in search of adventure.
Theisland’s extensive choice of beaches and locations where one could book a holiday often give rise to a question not so easily answered by the first time visitor and that is, which is the best beach and the best resort on that beach for me to stay. The best way to solve this problem is to first decide on a beach and location, because all have different characteristics and where you stay could be the difference between a good and really great island experience. Once you have this solved, deciding on a hotel becomes much easier. If you are thinking about visiting this island, I suggest contacting local businesses like www.hotelsphuket.travel who have all the knowledge and experience to assist you with detailed information about Koh Samui. In the meantime, let me give you a short run-down.
Chaweng
Chaweng is the island’s most popular beach and therefore also the most touristy. The beach is long and flat which makes it safe for swimming and it also offers some exiting water sport activities. The atmosphere is always uplifting and the area’s main road is lined with shops, markets restaurants and bars. Leading from the main road an alcove features a string of electrifying nightlife spots. If you wanted a vibrant atmosphere, Chaweng is it. But you could also find a piece of tranquility here if you stay at resorts like AkuraChura. It is a stylish place with a rustic design, very affordable and fronts its own private stretch of beach where you can relax unhindered away from noise. If you want to be a little further away from hard core activity, but still be in striking distance, a small southern section of the beach is called Chaweng Noi. It is slightly rocky, but much more tranquil. Bhundhari Resort Samui is popular in this area and offers awesome views.
Lamai
Lamai is Chaweng’s southern cousin. It is the second longest after Chaweng and my personal favourite. It is slightly less busy and during the day even a little sleepy, but still have an active nightlife, loads of really cool restaurants and bars and the beach is stunning offering enough recreational activity. At night flaming torches light the way along the beach and resorts and restaurants put out soft cushions on the sand surrounded by small lanterns which creates a charming atmosphere in which to enjoy a meal or a drink with friends. If you want good value for your money in Lamai, check out resorts like The Renaissance which offer beachfront pool villas and lots of personal space and privacy. If you want the best of both worlds the 5 star Banyan Tree Resort is located on a private beach right where Chaweng and Lamai meets. My favourite in Lamai is Le Meridien which is very private and romantic and also offers villas with private pools.
Choeng Mon
If you want cheap accommodation you are probably not going to find it in Choeng Mon. But even if your hotel is not located here you might want to spend a portion of your beach time on this pristine stretch of sand. It is very laid back, has super views, feature mostly luxury hotels and feels cozy and intimate. The area is quite exclusive so it does not have any nightlife apart from a number of really good restaurants and trendy bars. However, Chaweng is just a 10 minute drive away should you develop a need for action. As mention, cheap hotels do not really feature hereand some of the most popular are the Six Senses and Sala Resort and Spa.
TalingNgam
If you fancy a get away from it all island vacation, some solitude, privacy and romance, try out the western sunset side of the island on TalingNgam Beach. The views from here are glorious and the sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand spectacular. There is a reason this part of Samui is referred to as the virgin coast. You are not going to be drowned in large crowds or be bothered by noise, but rather be wrapped in tranquility and surrounded by pristine exotic nature. The area does not have nightlife and not many high-end restaurants to talk of, but the resorts in the area take care of all that with every conceivable amenity at your disposal. The most recommended places to stay here include Elements Boutique Resort, The Inter Continental and the aptly called Sunset Beach Resort.
In Conclusion
Samui has countless beaches, bays and quiet coves and discussing them all would require writing a book. There are still places like Hanuman Bay, conveniently located between Choeng Mon and Chaweng which feature the popular and romantic Akaryn Resort, Maenamh and Bophut Beach, but I will write you another story about them.
The post was by George, a travel consultant at a locally based hotel accommodation booking business. He regularly shares information and experience which will hopefully help visitors make informed decisions about their trip to Thailand.