Hua Hin Perfect Place To Relax in Thailand

Do you like relaxing holidays, or maybe your like activities? As long as you like it sunny and warm, Hua Hin, Thailand is a great place to visit.

About 100 years ago Thai people started to visit Hua Hin for the purpose of holidays and recovery. The king of Thailand built himself a nice holiday home on a great beach front property there, and the place became well known to Thai people as a place for relaxation and holidays. Hua Hin is located less than 3 hours by car from Bangkok, so it is very easy to get there.

The small city has almost 10 kilometres of white sand beach with activities like horse riding and kiteboarding. Some people claim that it is one of the best places in the world for kiting.

Hua Hin is very quiet and peaceful, probably because o the king. His majesty has now moved to the city and stays there most of his time.

The nightlife is very restricted and it is not even close to places like Bangkok or Pattaya. The nightlife is mostly located in one small narrow street in the city, but the places is crowded with nice restaurants everywhere. Many of the restaurants offers great western food, but most of them serve thai food only. Everybody who visits Thailand should try out thai food, but a great advice would be to stay away from the most spicy dishes.

For the person who enjoys relaxing holidays at the beach, the place is perfect. The beaches are not too crowded with people and that makes it a great place to relax. For the ones who need a relaxing oil massage there are lots of possibilities at the beach, and in almost every street in the area.

Hua Hin also offers a lot of great adventures and things to see.

The train station in the city is a great view with it's traditional buildings. The king's property is also open for tourists and it's a must see for everyone visiting.

Elephant shows and riding in the jungle is something mostly every place in Thailand offers, and this place is no exception. At Kao Thakiap viewpoint you can view Hua Hin beach, the temple and also walk with all the wild monkeys that live there, just be aware that they steal whatever they can.

Hua Hin has like all other places in Thailand a lot of temples, but when you visit, remember to follow the guidelines to enter them.

For all the golf playing travelers the place is paradise. It is surrounded by lots great golf courses. Just search Hua Hin golf on the internet to check it out.

No matter what the purpose of your holiday is, as long as you like the sun and heat, Hua Hin got something for you.

Get the Best of Koh Samui

Koh Samui Thailand is gradually becoming the dream vacation spot for many tourists. In a short period, this paradise island has risen from obscurity to become one of the leading tourist destinations in the world.

Located 80 kilometers offshore from Surat Thani, this island is the third largest island in Thailand after Phuket and Koh Chang. It can be reached only by a ferry or by air. Taking a flight from Bangkok or Singapore you will be in the island in just under 10 minutes. If you love the waters more, then a ferry ride from Tha Thong will take you two hours before you reach the paradise island, where you will be welcomed by gently swaying palm trees.

Once on the 15 kilometer long island, you can choose form a wide array of hotels and resorts for your accommodation. You can choose to stay on resorts along the Bophut Beach, Chaweng Beach, Choeng Mon Beach, Lamai Beach, Lipa Noi, Maenam Beach or Big Buddha Beach. Villages along the Bophut beach have managed to preserve Samui's traditional aspects. The limited traffic along this beach gives a relaxed feeling. The shops along the beach offer a huge variety of romantic dining options. Chaweng beach on the other hand is the longest beach on Samui. You can easily find accommodation along this beach. It is well packed with hotels and resorts as well as some budget bungalows. It also has the highest concentration of shops and restaurants and is popular for its exciting nightlife.

If you are the kind that prefers some quiet and relaxing holiday, then Choeng Mon Beach is the place for you. The beach is peaceful and unspoiled featuring wide sandy beaches with ecstatic rock formations and an undeveloped island facing it. This beach is only 10 minutes drive to the excitement filled chaweng beach.

Wait till you get a view of the Lamai beach. It is the second largest and most beautiful beach on the island with excellent waters for swimming. Lamai beach also has some exciting nightlife. Most weddings on Koh Samui are held in Lipa Noi located on the west coast. It has shallow waters and gently sloping beach, which is good if you are on vacation with your kids. This beach used to have only one hotel but there are now several new ones to easily fit your budget. The numerous beaches on Koh Samui will definitely make your vacation worthwhile.

Trekking In Northern Thailand

Fitness Levels For Trekking In Thailand

For short hikes of one to two days in Thailand, a reasonable level of physical fitness is required. This means that they are suitable for almost anyone. For hikes longer than two days, an adventurous nature and good physical fitness is needed. During your Thailand trek, you'll be walking through the wilderness with a rucksack (meaning there will be lots of sweating and in the rainy season, or if you are unlucky enough to catch a cloudburst, getting wet). The sanitary facilities during this part of your Thailand trip will be primitive to say the least - on the hike, behind the 'bushes' or in this case bamboo trees - and the primitive overnight accommodation while visiting the mountain people (on a wooden floor with a sleeping mat) are not everyone's cup of tea! It may not be the most comfortable experience of your life, but it will definitely help to make your Thailand trip something to really remember.

Evenings In The Thai Mountain Villages

Apart from the daily physical demands of your activities, an essential part of trekking in Thailand is being a part of the village atmosphere in the morning and evening. In the evening, you can relax and take in village life from beside an open fire, a real highlight of any Thailand trip. Your guide will prepare your evening meal made from locally produced ingredients. You might even be able to have a chat with the locals using your guide as an interpreter. Your guide not only knows the region like the back of his hand, he also knows the local languages of the different mountain peoples and can tell you all about their culture.

While you're trekking in Northern Thailand, you'll sleep in a wooden hut on the outskirts of the village. There will be no electricity or running water, and your bed will be made up of a plastic mat on a bamboo floor raised off the ground by stilts. This is Thailand travel at its most basic and most brilliant.

What to take with you on your Thailand trek?

A few items are important to have with you (besides adventurer's blood) while you're travelling in Thailand;

• rucksack (day sack)

• cotton sleeping bag (blankets are available locally)

• sleeping mat, mosquito net, and sometimes a sleeping bag

• short- and long-sleeved shirts

• shorts an d long trousers

• poncho or waterproof jacket and trousers, backpack cover

• water bottle (can be borrowed on location)

• torch - whether you're travelling in Thailand or anywhere else, a torch is indispensable.

• insect repellent - essential throughout your Thailand trip

• hat or cap

• sun block cream

• enough camera film rolls or spare SD card

• if necessary travel sickness tablets for a somewhat rough ride in a pickup truck

• earplugs (think about the excited pigs when they get their food first thing in the morning, or your snoring travel companions)

• sandals/flip flops

• toilet paper

Remember that you whatever you take while you're travelling in Thailand, you're going to have to carry on your back. You can leave the bulk of your luggage in your hotel in Chiang Mai, and remember to lock your valuables away in the safe. Good quality, well broken-in shoes, with a good tread, are an absolute must during your Thailand trek. Toilet paper and other day-to-day essentials are not always available for purchase en route.

What not to take on your Thailand trekking trip

• expensive jewellery

• nice but vulnerable clothing (gets a bit dirty on top of an elephant)

For local people, every foreigner that they come across is rich. If you really want to give something to the local people, you're better off making a donation towards the village school. You can talk to your guide about arranging this during your Thailand trip.

The seasons

The best period to travel to northern Thailand is from November to February. The weather at this time is nice and relatively cool with little or no rain. The next best period for travelling in northern Thailand is June or July, the beginning of the rainy season, when the unpaved roads are not yet turned into a mud bath. The next best period is between March and May - no rain, dry and hot, because there's less foliage it's not so green. Whenever you choose to travel in Thailand, you're bound to have a great time.

hailand's National Parks

Thailand is a tropical wonderland of jungles, waterfalls, mountains, beaches and islands. There are a few spectacular National Parks to visit during your Thailand trip, so don't miss out on the ones below.

Erawan National Park

The stunning seven-tiered Erawan Falls are located near to both the River Kwai and Kanchanaburi, making them a logical stop if you're exploring this area. The Falls are very fairytale, with sparking pools set against a chalk background. The park is popular with locals on the weekends, and this is probably the best time to visit, giving you a really interesting insight into local life.

Khao Yai National Park

This is Thailand's oldest rainforest, only 4 hours from Bangkok. It's probably the best place to spot wildlife in Thailand. During your stay, you might see wild elephants, tigers, bears, porcupines, gibbons, snakes and parrots. One great option is a sunset visit to the eerie bat caves, when thousands upon thousands of bats fly up into the dusk. You can also take a dip in the waterfall that Leonardo DiCaprio dived into during a scene in 'The Beach'.

Khao Sok National Park

This beautiful area is a perfect stop if you're travelling from Bangkok down to the Thai islands. Again, expect enchanting rainforests and clear lakes. If you like, you can even stay in a floating lakehouse with your own personal rubber ring and canoe. You can trek through the jungle, past bamboo groves and giant trees, with monkeys swinging through the vines above.

Pha Ngan Bay National Park

This is a true paradise, with tiny tropical islands floating in vast azure seas. You'll find amazing underwater coral, so it's perfect for both snorkelling and diving. For a real castaway sensation, stay on Ko Yao Yai, a peaceful island with only a handful of rustic beach bungalows.

Ko Chang National Park

Ko Chang is located off the coast of south east Thailand, so it's great for travellers heading for Cambodia or returning to Bangkok after a Cambodia trip. Much of the island is a mountain wilderness of waterfalls and dense tropical forests which has been relatively untouched by tourists. You can trek through the jungle on elephant back or on foot, and forest canopy tours are also available. Of course, Ko Chang also has beautiful palm-fringed beaches surrounded by colourful coral, so if you're not feeling active you can simply swing in a hammock with a good book.

Thailand Vacation Packages - Have Fun in the Sun

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Enjoying a vacation is one of the most delightful experiences that one can undergo. There are people who work incessantly, maybe even doing a couple of jobs to make ends meet. This is especially exacerbated by the fact that the world is going through a severe recession which leads to enormous economic pressure on people. This is why people find the prospect of a vacation so very alluring. As then, one can take a break from the hectic life, take rest and get rejuvenated while spending some time with the family. And if vacation means going for a break to the lovely country of Thailand, as part of Thailand Vacation Packages, the joy is indeed immeasurable. There are fewer spots in the whole world that are widely hailed as exotic vacation spots as Thailand.

There are so many exciting locations and splendid amusements that Thailand has to offer that it will tickle the senses and leave one satiated and supremely satisfied. For one, there is the wonderful capital city of Bangkok that has all the sights and sounds of a modern city that also has its roots extended to the ancient Thai tradition. It is also the seat of power, where one can get glimpses of the royal family with all its glorious pomp and splendor. There are also quite a few pagodas, which represent the glory and the grandeur of the Buddhist religion, and try to get peace and solitude among the monks in these monasteries. Thailand Vacation Packages are quite incomplete without a visit to Bangkok, which is also fabled for its many amusements and entertainment avenues as well as nightspots that adorn its streets and city spaces.

Thailand is also well known for its 400 kilometers of pristine, beautiful beaches with Pattaya being at its very center. The Pattaya circuit has many quality resorts, beaches and seaside getaway opportunities that are sought so widely after, by discerning tourists and visitors. One can spend so many days and idyllic evenings beside the beach, soaking up the sun and savoring the inimitable cuisine that typifies Thailand. Thailand Vacation Packages also include visits to see the elephants that play an important role in Thai temple and daily life, not to mention the polo sport that is a visual treat for observers. These are some of the unique aspects of Thai culture and life.

If you want an ideal getaway and enjoy the better things in life, Thailand Vacation Packages may be just what you need.

Etiquette While Traveling in the Kingdom

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Thailand vacations can be exotic, beautiful, sunny, unique and very rewarding. To get the most out of your vacation, learn about the customs and traditions that are expected of visitors and tourists to Thailand. With these tips can help you become one of their beloved guests. Reading through this list will help you understand the proper ways to conduct yourself in frequent situations. This will help you show respect for the people and their country. These basic principles will also keep you from unintentionally offending your gracious hosts.

Thailand Vacations Can Be More Than Just a Party

Thailand can be a truly unique and rewarding cultural experience. And it can be a great party. With relatively cheap prices, warm weather and friendly people, some places in Thailand has become overwhelmed with partygoers. Our recommendation is to have fun, party some, but consider what you will be missing if that is all you do. Also consider that this is the ancient home of your hosts.

Greeting people in Thailand with the Wai

One very important custom that is used in Thailand is the Wai. This is the accepted way of greeting others throughout the country. The Wai is performed by placing your palms together and letting your fingers point upward (in a prayer position). When you do this you also bend your head at the neck, to show respect to the people that you are meeting. Thai natives will appreciate your using the Wai while visiting with them because it is their tradition and accepted way of greeting another person. Every person in Thailand is familiar with this type of greeting, and will immediately respond in kind to this gentle and polite gesture. They will also be happy and flattered that you are showing honor by using the Wai while in their country.

Graeng Jai ... The Polite Thai Art of Refusal

Graeng Jai is a somewhat difficult concept to understand, as there is no good word or phrase in English. One you think you have it translated, Graeng Jai comes up in different forms. Some attempts at translation are, "don't want to impose on others", "over-polite", "don't want to say what you are really thinking", and "fear of disrespecting authority," "high respect for authority, elders or parents." While frustrating at times, it has a very important role in the culture.

Throughout Thailand whenever you are invited to join someone for dinner at their baan (house), turning down the offer is a gesture of graeng jai. To do this signifies is that you are being considerate, and not rude. To refuse the gesture means that you are trying not to cause anyone any extra bother or inconvenience. This term is actually used quite commonly for any occasion where refusal of different invitations is seen as being respectful of others. It is an old Thai tradition and a means of saving face. While offering to share meals or money with another person is standard, there may not be anything much to share. When the person refuses there is no embarrassment to anyone on either side. If the person really wants to share something with you and it is not an imposition, the request will be emphatically repeated, at which time you can accept with a clear conscience and good manners.

Respect Thai Customs

Thailand does have a long list of "must do" and "don't dare" actions. The Thai people are very gracious and hospitable so they won't get mad if you do not observe all of their traditional rules and customs, but it is a good idea for any traveler to be familiar with as many of these as possible. You would appreciate visitors to your own country showing the same respect for your own customs.

Inappropriate Dress In Thailand

Improper attire is one thing that Thai people frown upon. However, because of their graciousness and Graeng Jai, they may not say anything to you. So it is up to you to learn about it before you go and observe what others are doing. Some of the younger citizens are not as strict about dress codes, but the older people are. A general rule is to not bare shoulders or go shirtless in Thailand public places. On the beach, of course, it is no problem. But elsewhere, more traditional clothing is appreciated. Just remember to follow the "not too" reminders when it comes to your dress choices. Not too small, not too tight, not too skimpy and not too revealing.

Thailand's Spiritual Leanings...Buddhism

Buddhism is a very important part of Thailand life and culture and you should also respect their religious and spiritual beliefs while you visit. This belief and faith is shown in many ways. In Thai families when a son reaches the age of around 20 he will actually spend a short time as a monk. This is because it is believed that this action will send the mother and father to a heavenly destination when they die. Becoming a monk for any amount of time is one of the ways that these young men are able to demonstrate their faith in their spiritual beliefs. The temples are very holy structures to Buddhist believers.

Always show respect to any statue depicting Buddha, which means no climbing on them, no sitting beside them for a photo-op, and never put a Buddha figure on the floor.

Temple Traditions and Etiquette

In a temple setting rules and tradition are very strict. Your clothing must be acceptable in order to enter the temple. Modest dress choices are your best bet. There are usually sarongs available at all temples that can be worn by both men and women if your clothing is not accepted or is questionable.

Shoes come off before ever entering a temple. Some times you may see a man at temple wearing a tank tee and shorts, but this is taboo for a woman at the temple. Whether kneeling or sitting in a temple you must not let the soles of your feet face toward the altar. Women are not to touch or hand any objects to a monk at any time. If you need to return something to a monk you should place it on a nearby table where he can then retrieve it. Some monks have a more liberal viewpoint on this and have no problem with touching a woman's wrist to tie a string around it or a gentle touch on the shoulder. But always follow the monks lead.

Be respectful of The King and the Royal Family

In addition to respecting the Buddhist customs, travelers should understand the respect Thai's have for King Phumipon Adunyadet and the Thai Royal family. Remember to not make any disparaging or sarcastic comment about the king and his family. Not only would Thai's be deeply offended and outraged, it is illegal and carries consequences. This might seem outrageous to people who come from countries where they are free to criticize their leaders, however, it is not wise to challenge it (at least within Thailand). For the most part, this law is well-accepted and welcomed by Thais themselves, which suggests the enormous respect they have for their King. Their King and Queen have helped the country prosper and have been instrumental in converting opium production to organic farming, they have gracefully brought Thailand into the modern age while maintaining much of the old tradition, and are generally considered benevolent.

Basic Etiquette in Everyday Situations

If you are entering a Thai home please remember to remove your shoes first, this is their tradition. You may even be asked to do this in public restaurants, shops and stores. It's fun to do and you may want to continue this at your own home. Pointing with fingers and hands is considered rude behavior by Thai people. If you are sitting or kneeling across from others do not let the soles of your feet face them, as this is also considered rude and insulting. Never point at anything or any person with your foot when you are in Thailand. This is considered extremely rude because they consider the feet to be the lowest part of the body. To use them to indicate something is insulting to them. Refrain from touching someone else's head, even if it is only to remove a leaf or smooth their hair. Thais consider the head to be the highest and most respected part of the body. It is considered to be very rude for someone else to touch their head. Public displays of any affection are also extremely rude. Refraining from public shows of kisses or hugs is much appreciated.

Be Observant!

There are so many new sights, sounds and smells in Thailand. When arriving, you will probably be on sensory overload. But as you senses become more accustomed to your surroundings, observe what people are doing and how they are acting. As crazy as it sounds, try to fit in instead of stand out. Observe your body language, your voice volume levels, your group size, your presence. Then compare it with others around you - Thai and foreigners in your group. See if you can start to melt into the madness. Don't think of it as constricting - think of it as a gentle learning with Thailand as your teacher.