Today, there are but groups of crumbling ruins and rows of headless Buddhas where once an empire thrived. The temple compounds are still awe-inspiring even in disrepair and a visit here is memorable and a good beginning for those drawn to the relics of history.
The architecture of Ayutthaya is a fascinating mix of Khmer (ancient Cambodian style) and early Sukhothai style. Some cactus-shaped obelisks, called prangs, denote Khmer influence and look something like the famous towers of Angkor Wat. The more pointed stupas are ascribed to the Sukhothai influence. For new arrivals who had limited their visit to Bangkok, similarities may be noted with the riverside Wat Arun, an 18th-century structure that was built in the so-called Ayutthaya style, a melding of Sukhothai Buddhist influences and Hindu-inspired Khmer motifs.
Ayutthaya is administratively divided into 16 districts: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ban Phraek, Bang Ban, Bang Pahan, Bang Pa-in, Amphoe Bang Sai, Bang Sai, Lat Bua Luang, Maha Rat, Nakhon Luang, Phachi, Phak-Hai, Sena, Tha Rua, Uthai and Wang Noi.
Read more!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
The Present of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
The Past of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
The Kingdom of Ayutthaya was built and developed in leaps and bounds. The ruins in Ayutthaya that survived the test of time embody both the glorious and ignominious stories of the Kingdom.
This ancient capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, founded in 1350 by King U-Thong, had thirty three kings of different dynasties and reached its peak in the middle of the18th century. A magnificent city with three palaces and over 400 magnificent temples on an island threaded by canals Ayutthaya was truly an impressive city that attracted both Europeans and Asians. After a 15-month siege the Kingdom of Ayutthaya was conquered and completely destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. When King Taksin the Great finally liberated the Kingdom, a new dynasty was established and the capital was moved to Thonburi.
The seal of Ayutthaya depicts a conch on a pedestal tray placed in a small castle under a Mun tree. According to legend, King U-Thong, founder of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, discovered a beautiful conch buried in the ground being prepared for the establishment of the seat of his Kingdom. Consequently, he had a tiny castle built to house the shell. Hence, the provincial seal.
Read more!
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
The Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya or Ayutthaya in short, is one of Thailand's historical and majestic highlights. Serving as the Thai capital for 417 years (1350 1767: Kingdom of Ayutthaya), it was once glorified as one of the biggest cities in Southeast Asia. During the 17th century, most foreign visitors to Ayutthaya, traders or diplomats alike, claimed Ayutthaya to be the most illustrious and glittering city that they had ever visited. The map of Ayutthaya published in 1691 by Simon de la Loubere in Du Royaume De Siam is proof of such recognition.
The Kingdom of Ayutthaya reached its apex in terms of sovereignty, military might, wealth, culture, and international commerce in the 16th century when the Kingdoms territory was extended far beyond present-day Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. Ayutthaya even had diplomatic relations with Louis XIV of France and was courted by Dutch, Portuguese, English, Chinese and Japanese merchants.
Visitors can explore and appreciate Thai history in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, which is situated only 86 kilometers north of Bangkok. Visitors to Ayutthaya can marvel at its grandeur reflected through numerous magnificent structures and ruins concentrated in and around the city island surrounded by Maenam Chao Phraya, Maenam Pa Sak and Maenam Lopburi.
More importantly,Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, an extensive historical site in the heart of Ayutthaya city, has been included in UNESCO's World Heritage list since 13 December, 1991.
Read more!
Bangkok Transport
Taxi
Metered taxis are available in Bangkok. Make sure the driver turns on the meter, especially if you are starting from the airport. Designated taxi-meters charge 35 baht for the first 3 kilometers and approximately 5 baht for every kilometer thereafter.
Passengers must pay tolls in the case of using an expressway. If taxis do not have meters, fares must be agreed upon before starting. The amount will vary depending on the distance, traffic, weather (if it is raining the fare will rise) and the negotiating skills of the hirer.
TUK TUK
A long-time favourite for visitors,the three-wheeled vehicle is a unique way of travelling around Bangkok and some provincial cities. Settle the fare before proceeding. It should cost less than the price of a comparable journey by metered taxi.
BTS
Bangkok Mass Transit System or BTS is a sky train network that covers Bangkok downtown, interesting places and many shopping centers The fare ranges from 10 to 40 bahts. BTS also provides free-of-charge bus service to transit passengers from and to the train station in nearby areas.
BTS is now in the process of expanding its route to cover wider area. It is now the fastest and most convenient transportation in Bangkok. fares in Bangkok are between 50-200 baht.
BUS
Bangkok has an extensive public bus service with routes serving every part of the city. There are both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned vehicles, which provide an extremely cheap way of getting around town.
River Taxi
Taxis that are even more unusual, though equally convenient, are the river taxis that ply the Chao Phraya river. Some are just cross river ferries, but others serve the many landing stages on both banks and cover a route that goes up as far as the northern suburb of Nonthaburi. Fares range between 5 and 15 baht.
Read more!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Bangkok Travel Guides
Bangkok is the Orient's most cosmopolitan city and has attractions to stimulate even the most jaded travellers. Created as the Thai capital in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty, Bangkok is a national treasure house and Thailand's spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre.
Bangkok, Thailand's major gateway, casts an irresistible spell of enchantment. To the Thais it is Krung Thep, "City of Angels", and you'll find it truly a magic place, one that captivates the imagination.
More than anywhere else in the country, Bangkok expresses Thailand's uncanny ability to blend the old with the new. This lends a thrilling sense of discovery to one's sightseeing and adds an element of surprise when exploring what is the Orient's most fabled city.
Bangkok embraces modern development and presents an initial picture of thrusting office towers; of world-class hotels offering deluxe comforts; of glittering shopping plazas packed with treasures of the East such as silks and gemstones; of restaurants serving Thailand's acclaimed spicy specialities and virtually every other national cuisine worthy of the name; of neon-lit entertainment spots where the fare ranges from classical dance to laser disco.
Thailand's "City of Angels" is, indeed, a magic place where possibilities are limited only by the imagination. You'll marvel at past glories, delight in present opportunities and love every minute of it.
No other city in Asia rivals Bangkok for thrilling night life, and evening entertainment is both plentiful and inexpensive.
Most famous are the neon-lit bar districts which are both more fun and much safer than their counterparts in other cities around the world. However, there is much more to Bangkok by night than just the glitter of pubs and bars.
Especially popular are the cultural shows staged by various Thai restaurants. Here you'll find the perfect introduction to Thailand's highly stylized classical dance, accompanied by music played on traditional instruments.
Also not to be missed is Muai Thai, a style of boxing unique to Thailand in which combatants use elbows, knees and bare feet as well as gloved fists. A martial art before it was a sport, Muai Thai has a long tradition and is still surrounded by much ritual.The fights are commonly fierce and furious, though the best boxers display remarkable skills, as well as great fitness, and a good contest is decided by application of technique rather than brute force. Often as entertaining as the action in the ring is the reaction of the spectators who yell and shout encouragement to the boxers as the excitement mounts.
For either pre dinner aperitifs or late evening drinks, Bangkok boasts many sophisticated bars and cocktail lounges, some of the best being located in the top hotels. Here you can relax in pleasant surroundings and enjoy live musical entertainment by the best local and regional entertainers.
If it's action that you are looking for, Bangkok abounds with discos. Some are small an intimate others are enormous and crowded, but all spin the latest dance music using the most modern sound systems, laser lights, videos and all the other hi-tech equipment that makes today's disco less of a place an more of an event.
The inveterate shopper may spend a happy evening strolling the streets in main entertainment areas browsing around the ranks of kerbside stalls which offer host of good buys. Alternatively, if you are tired after a busy day sightseeing, you can go to the cinema or relax in your hotel room and watch video.
Whatever your preferences, you'll discover Bangkok makes sure there's never a dull moment.
Read more!
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Pattaya Travel Guides
Pattaya lies 147km southeast of Bangkok on the northeast coast of the Gulf of Thailand. In 1950 there was little here other than a small fishing village. It was unspoiled and unsophisticated yet in 40 short years it has become a city in its own right.
More than 30 offshore islands stretch around Pattaya within a radius of some 48km, from around Si Racha in the north to Sattahip in the south. A few islands are off-limits as they are under the control of the Royal Thai Navy. Most others have fascinating dive sites. The waters are rich in various coral species and tropical fish.
Today, Pattaya is one of Thailand’s premier beach resorts and annually attracts thousands of pleasure-seeking tourists from all over the world. Despite the wide range of excellent facilities for tourists with legitimate interests, Pattaya in particular has, like Thailand in general, an image problem, caused by the so-called sex industry.
Reports in the international media have long overemphasized the sex-related negative sides of the city and these reports, fueled by the local media haven’t helped the situation. Prostitution is practiced and perverts coming to Pattaya has made sensational international coverage, enticing people to come with the sole purpose of bedding pre-teenagers of either sex.
True, there has been a problem, but things are improving here as well as other known ‘sex trade’ areas in Thailand. It is regularly raided by both the Thai and international police. The future for Pattaya is looking bright being encouraged and although the industry still exists, and already there are major changes to the area. Wholesome, family entertainment is on.
Not that Pattaya lacks in attractions. It has good beaches, though the actual Pattaya beach is not the cleanest anymore, others are pristine and the water crystal clear. Beach related activities are extensive and you are sure to find something to suit you.
Pattaya at nightBesonders Pattaya is located within easy reach from the Bangkok as well as Don Muang International Airport. It has an excellent accommodation infrastructure, which are of international standard and restaurants and entertainment for all tastes. Because of its good accessibility from Bangkok, Pattaya remains one of Thailand’s most important and popular dive centers.
Thailand has a tropical climate with three seasons: Hot (March-May), Rainy (June-October) and Cool (November-February). It is hot all year round, there is little difference between the hottest and coolest months, and average temperatures are around 27° c.
The months with the most rain are July, August and September. Pattaya’s coastal location means more breezes than say Bangkok and the rain tends to come in short and heavy bursts rather than prolonged over days, but no matter when you come, you'll have a good time. Lightweight casual clothing is recommended.
Read more!
Bangkok Shopping Guide
Shopping is one of Bangkok's major attractions. Favourite purchases include Thai silks and cottons, modern and traditional jewellery silverware, nielloware, pewterware, bronzeware, ceramics and any of the one thousand and one items produced by skilled Thai artisans.
Bangkok is one of the most competitively priced cities in Asia. Friendly bargaining in most stores and markets ensure favourable prices and service.
Suriwong, Silom Area
Numerous shops, and department stores sell jewellery, gemstones, antiques, ceramics, leather goods, men's and women's clothing, handicrafts, Thai silk and cottons, electrical and photographic goods.
Sukhumvit Road Area
Numerous shops, and department stores sell jewellery, gemstones, antiques, ceramics, leather goods, men's and women's clothing, handicrafts,Thai silk and cottons, electrical and photographic goods.
China Town
Bangkok’s China Town is an old business centre covering a large Charoen area around Yaowarat Road and Krung Road. There are many small streets and alleys full of shops selling all types of goods. The area is always lively and market stalls abound. It has been the main centre for trading by the Chinese since they were moved from their old site some 200 years ago.
Banglamphu
This riverine section of Bangkok is favoured by back-packers for its budget accommodation. The area offers various inexpensive items, especially ready-made clothing, handbags, men's and ladies' shoes, cosmetics and curios. Bargaining is recommended. The area called Kao Sarn Road is most well-known among foreigners as the hub of cheapest-rates guesthouses in town.
Chatuchak Weekend Markets
Chatuchak Weekend Market,located adjacent to Chatuchak Park, is where people buy and sell thousands of local products.The trade items may range from rare exotic things to essential popular ones like books, fresh fruits, flowers, pets, handicrafts, furniture, dress materials and many more.
Credit : atsiam.com
Read more!
Racha Kiri Resort and Spa
Racha Kiri Resort and Spa A Boutique Resort, one of our pride in the south. Situated on the most gorgeous peninsula of Nai-Plao Beach. Just 15 minutes from a ferry pier to Koh Samui.
Enjoy yourself with a true resort paradise, an unspoiled beauty of white sandy beaches.
Contact:
Racha Kiri Resort and Spa
99, Moo 8, Nai Plao Beach, Nai Plao-Thong Yea Road, Kha-Nom,Nakorn Srithammarat, 80210 Thailand Tel : 66-(0)-7552-7847 Fax : 66-(0)-7552-7833
Website : www.rachakiri.com
Bangkok Sales Office
252/199, 24th FloorMuangthai-Pathara Office Tower IIRatchadapisek Road, Huaykwang,Bangkok 10320Tel : 66-(0)-2693-3196Fax : 66-(0)-2693-3195
Read more!
Right on the river at The Shangri-La Bangkok
The Shangri-La offers world-class services and well-appointed rooms in the heart of Bangkok, says Vipasai Niyamabha
The Shangri-La is definitely one of the top five-star hotels in Bangkok. However, most people think of the hotel only when they have activities involving MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions). The hotel has had a strong presence in the MICE market over the last decade.
Recently, the hotel's management team decided that it wanted to make the 15-year-old Bangkok Wing a more attractive destination for guests other than MICE groups. This is a new market for luxury, for these guests prefer to be away from the Main Wing. Only 100 metres away, from the Main Wing, the Bangkok Wing is along the bank of the Chao Phya River.
There is a nicer and bigger swimming pool in the Bangkok Wing, which is exclusively reserved for guests of this wing. It also has a separate lobby lounge, Riverside Lounge, on the ground floor, and Chi Spa on its second floor.
The Bangkok Wing has 119 guestrooms and 10 suites, and each of them is equipped with a private balcony overlooking the river and Taksin Bridge. 
It is nice to have a balcony, and also the hotel was thoughtful enough to install soundproof windows to keep the peace in the room. This is a very important element to have, as when you open the door to the balcony, the noise from all those cars driving on the bridge is so loud. It is nicer to appreciate the view from inside the bedroom.
The good thing about five-star luxury hotels is that they are considerate when it comes to the details. It seems every amenity is in the right place. A bottle of drinking water and a glass are placed on the bedside table, a hairdryer is easily found in a drawer and a modem for a hi-speed Internet connection is on the desk.
The Shangri-La also offers a long pillow menu. And guests can get anything they want from a personal butler, from bath gel to a CD. Personalised service is indeed a hallmark for this well-established hotel, which boasts a well-trained staff and high-standard facilities. Even Bangkok's new generation of boutique hotels will find it difficult to compete with this grand old hotel.
At a glance
High point: This is a luxurious five-star hotel by the river and BTS Skytrain. It is hard to find a better location than the Shangri-La's Bangkok Wing.
Low pzoint: Due to its close proximity to the road and river, this is a noisy location. But at least the windows are soundproof.
Pay for it: Deluxe room in Bangkok Wing starts at $250 per night
Find it: Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok Wing, Soi Wat Suan Plu, New Road, Bang Rak 10500
Phone it: (02) 2367777
Website: www.shangri-la.com/bangkok
Read more!
