Thailand allows 30-day extension of stay for visitors from 48 countries

In another positive move to boost the Thai travel and tourism industry, the Immigration Bureau has allowed citizens of 48 countries and Hong Kong SAR to get a 30-day extension of their stay in Thailand after the expiry of their normal period of stay.

The move is effective as of 29 August, 2014. It will apply to visitors holding travel documents of Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Poland, Qatar, Singapore, Slovak, Slovenia, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Vietnam.

Citizens of these countries and territory who normally get Visa Exemption as tourist for 30-day  stay permit, will get extension of stay for one time no longer than 30 days from the expired date.

The application process will cost 1,900 Baht per person. No further extensions will be allowed. If the application is denied, visitors will have to leave the kingdom within seven days after the expiry of the normal period.

Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thawatchai Arunyik said, “Allowing visitors to stay on beyond their normal period will be a boost for the increasing number of global travellers who have already covered much of the world and now want to focus on specific destinations. It will also be boost for those coming for niche-market activities; such as, voluntourism, health and wellness, or sports.”

The 48 countries and one territory generate about half of Thailand’s total visitor arrivals.

Credit: Tourism Authority of Thailand

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2014 launching its first Shopping Challenge

     The annual Amazing Thailand Grand Sale is set to kick off with its first “Shopping Challenge” aimed at spicing up the event and encouraging shopaholics to spend, spend, spend during the 3 months and a half-long shopping extravaganza from 15 June to 30 September, 2014.

     The event’s first-ever shopping competition is scheduled to take place on 18 June, 2014, in the heart and bustle of Bangkok’s most popular shopping districts – Ratchaprasong and Siam – and at the city’s most popular shopping malls – Siam Paragon, Central World and Gaysorn.

     Joining this fun competition are 15 teams, each comprising well known media figures and celebrities from 11 Asian countries – Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, India, Vietnam, Cambodia, Taiwan, China, Korea and Japan.  These teams will be assigned one of three shopping routes along the BTS Skytrain or five teams for each route.

     The teams will be given a shopping bag and the equivalent of 10,000 Baht with which they have to buy certain items at specified shops in the Gaysorn, Siam Paragon or CentralWorld shopping complexes within two hours (from 14:30 – 16:30 hrs.). At each outlet, theteams have to seek out their assigned shopping item, snap a picture that includes the “purchased” object and team members and post on instagram with #amazingtgs2014. The shopping action in real time will be put up on screens at the main stage in Siam Paragon.

     The winning team will be the one who finds all the items on their “shopping lists” in the shortest time. If it is too close to call, then the budget and money spent becomes the main factor. In a “photo finish” the team who spent the least will be declared the winner and be rewarded with a cash prize of 100,000 Baht.

     The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) believes this “Shopping Challenge” publicity stunt will help attract more international visitors to Thailand during this year’s grand shopping period as well as to encourage them to spend more in the country. 

     Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, TAT Governor said, “Now that the world knows that it’s ‘business as usual’ here in Thailand, they will be looking forward to coming back and taking advantage of the kingdom’s wonderful shopping. So we are opening our arms to tourists from all over the world to come here and lose themselves in a shopping paradise... More than 15,000 shopping malls, department stores, brand-name outlets, and restaurants in seven major tourist destinations: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai, Pattaya, Hua Hin and Ko Samui are offering irresistible special deals and bargains for tourists, making the next couple of months the best possible time to come to Thailand.”

* Visit www.thailandshoppingparadise.com for Shopping Tips ea. VAT refund process, and tips to avoid buying sub-standard products.

cr: TAT News Room

10 Romantic Restaurants to Celebrate Your Valentine's Day in Bangkok

Love should be celebrated every day and Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to show that special person in your life just how much you care. Many Bangkok hotels and restaurants are serving up romance this year; whether you are looking for a dinner under the stars or a night on the river. 

Here’s a list of some of the most romantic restaurants in Bangkok, from the most exclusive and pricey to the pocket-friendly and quaint.

1. Vertigo

It’s a view of Bangkok unlike any other, envoking an endless stream of cliches and superlatives from travel writers around the world. 

But it really doesn't get much more romantic than this open-air rooftop venue, set on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree Hotel on Sathorn Road.

Perfect for a one-on-one rendezvous under the gorgeous night sky, woo your significant other into the bedroom with their impressive menu of steaks and grilled seafood coupled with a glass or two of premium champagne.

We'd even go so far as to say this place was designed for marriage proposals. If your date is the cheesy sort to go for that kind of thing, of course. 

Banyan Tree, 21/100 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok. Tel: +66 (0)2 679 1200

2. Rang Mahal 

For one night, you and your date get to be Moghul prince and princesses at the luxe Rang Mahal, a gourmet Indian restaurant set on top of the Rembrandt hotel.

Rang Mahal is 100 percent grand, from the fine cuisine and swanky ambience to the entertainment. Nibble away on traditional Moghulite curries and dishes hot off the tandoor in an exotic Indian setting as a live band croons the night away.

Rembrandt Hotel, Sukhumvit Soi 18, BTS: Asok. Tel +66 (0)2 261 7100.

3. Al Majlis  

This Moroccan inspired tearoom and restaurant has both an indoor and outdoor area.

For a quiet and romantic experience grab a spot in Al Majlis' cozy garden, subtly lit with lanterns and filled with comfy seating.

Order yourself a warm cup of Moroccan mint tea, a couple appetizers and a sheesha for some serious relaxation time.

Ekamai Soi 12. Look for a green “Praduu Spa Club” sign and turn into the alley. Al Majlis is located at the end of the alley. Tel: +66 (0)2 392 2345

4. The Nest 

This chic rooftop restaurant and bar is perfect for a snuggle and cuddle session.

Pick one of The Nest's cocoon-shaped beds and forget the world around you as you pick through dishes of Thai and Western food and indulge in more than one fish bowl martini whilst the house DJ keeps you humming to soft jazzy and bossanova beats. (And we all know what jazzy and bosanova beats do for a lady's libido.) 

33/33 Sukhumvit Soi 11. Tel: +66 (0) 26 54 6935

5. Spring n Summer

Two words: Chocolate fix. When it comes to Valentine's Day, there is no denying the power of the cocoa and at Spring n Summer they don't mess around.

Reserve yourselves two giant bean bags out in the lawn and enjoy a night of fusion fare and funky drinks.

But leave room for the delicious "Cup C" dessert -- a bowl of perfectly baked chocolate topped with vanilla ice cream. 

199 Soi Promsri 2, Sukhumvit Road 39. Tel: +66 (0) 23 92 2747

6. The Deck

Dining with a view of the city is pleasant but dining with the gorgeous Temple of Dawn as your backdrop takes things to a whole new level.

Head to riverside restaurant The Deck at sunset, at Arun Residence, and toast the occasion with an aperitif.

Dinner wise, go for their Italian fare before making your way up to the Amorosa bar for a breezy end to the night.

36-38 Soi Pratoo Nok Yoong, Maharat Road. Tel: +66 (0) 22 21 9158

7. The Lake House

There is no need for a three-hour road trip to escape the big bad city when you have a quiet little haven right smack in the middle of it.

This wine bar and restaurant is an old traditional Thai house turned exotic eatery, set in a tropical forest-like garden surrounding a large pond.

For the best experience, make sure you grab one of The Lake House's outdoor gazebos right by the lake and spend the night nibbling on their great selection of wines and tapas.

18 Soi Phrom Mitr, Sukhumvit Soi 39. Tel: +66 (0)2 662 6349

8. Blue Velvet

Nice is overrated. It’s time to get a little naughty at Thong Lor’s Blue Velvet.

Set in an atmosphere that would befit the Count himself, the interiors are medieval and the drinks potent. The menu is semi-funky fusion with a bit of Western, Thai and Japanese fare to choose from.

But at this place, you’re going to want to pay more attention to the drinks list anyway. Try the Bloody Mary to kick start a wild night. 

Thonglor soi 5, Sukhumvit 55. Tel +66 (0)2 392 1769

9. Aldo's 

Minimalist and sleek, Aldo's is The Ascott Sathorn's underrated outdoor Mediterranean Bistro and Wine Bar. For the health conscious, its Mediterranean menu is among Bangkok's best, featuring a heavy helping of fresh salads and seafood.

But for those who feel Valentine's Day shouldn't be about weight watching, they carry a heartier selection of meat-based dishes and scrumptious desserts like the melting chocolate cake.

Make sure you call in advance to reserve one of the private gazebos by their gorgeously lit pool. 

7/F, The Ascott Sathorn Bangkok, 187 South Sathorn Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 676 6982

10. Artur Restaurant

Located at the Ground Floor of Bliston Suwan Park View, Artur Restaurant reflects its owner and manager lifelong dedication to and passion for excellence. Elegant, gourmet steakhouse cuisine emphasis on fine dining, serving prime steaks imported from USA, Australia and Japan, foie gras, fresh seafood including oysters from France and Dover sole. You can try here original Artur’s Caesar Salad recipe well known in Bangkok since 1992. The Cote de Boeuf (Prime Rib) is the must. Spectacular Martinis, one of the most extensive wine list in town (289 references) and a friendly, attractive and well trained staff as well as very reasonable pricing complete the offer. Open Daily for lunch & dinner. 

Ground Floor of Bliston Suwan Park View, No.9 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road, Tel: 02-658 6288 or mobile: 08-9000-1288. 

cr: www.bangkok.com, http://travel.cnn.com/

Bangkok's Hotels Valentine Deals

Baan K - Be My Valentine Promotion

Special offer just for this February! Enjoy our Suite 50sqm + breakfast for only 2,222.-/night. Free Honeymoon Setup, Early C/I, Late C/O and Up to 30% Discount on spa package.

* Book and stay 1 – 28 Feb 2014 (direct booking only)

Email: frontoffice.bk@blistonresidence.com Tel: +66 2633 9911

Bliston - Be My Valentine Package 8,888 THB Net

Our newly renovated Platinum Suites (72 sqm) are set with a romantic mood, perfect for the season of love. Stay for 2 nights inclusive of breakfast and complimentary a bottle of Italian Rose wine & a box of premium chocolate. Receive an exclusive offer at Spa @ Tonson, Buy 1 Get 1 Free for all Spa Packages to enjoy our special treat with a loved one.

* Book and stay 1 – 28 Feb 2014 (direct booking only)

Email: reservation@blistonresidence.com Tel: +66 2658 7979

Q&As: Thailand Political Developments, Jan 2014 (from TAT HQ)

Q: There have been news reports of a “Bangkok Shutdown” plan by anti-government demonstrators in January, should tourists cancel their trips planned during this month and the next?

There is no reason at all for tourists to cancel their trips to Bangkok in January. The anti-government demonstrators are targeting at mounting pressure on the government, and have promised not to disrupt the public’s daily life and infrastructure.

All city buses and vans, water-transport, BTS skytrain, MRT subway, Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link and the two Bangkok’s airports (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang) are open and operating as per normal.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is closely monitoring the situation, and would like to inform tourists and the tourism industry that all concerned public and private agencies will exercise utmost efforts to ensure tourist’s convenience should the mass demonstrations occur. 

Q: Is there any chance that Suvarnabhumi Airport will be closed by the demonstrators as occurred in late 2008?

At this time, both international airports in Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang) and all other international and domestic airports throughout Thailand are open and operating as per normal.

The main anti-government demonstrator group has promised they will not disrupt public infrastructure, including the city buses and vans, water-transport, BTS skytrain, MRT subway, Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link and the two Bangkok’s airports (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang).

All concerned public and private agencies are closely monitoring the situation, and will be working to ensure that tourists are not affected by the planned mass demonstrations on 13 January 2014 should it occurs.

Q: Will airlines be cancelling or reducing flights to Bangkok? If so, which airlines?

According to Suvarnabhumi Airport, airlines currently operating through the airport have yet to cancel or reduce flights for the immediate and future periods. All fights are operating as per normal.

To facilitate air passengers should the massive demonstrations on 13 January occur, all concerned tourism-related public and private agencies are discussing ways to minimise the impact from the possible gridlock traffic.

Solutions have included organising air passengers in small groups for a check in at Airport Rail Link station in Makkasan, before taking the 15-minute express train to the airport to board the flight.

Q: Is there a possibility that the situation will turn violent as there had been a few clashes between protesters and the police in the past weeks? Will the military get involved to put an end to the situation?

While we cannot really comment on these questions, we can say that the demonstrations have been normal to peaceful, and have not affected tourist attractions and activities, most of the time.

We cannot comment on the military’s move either. However, we have been informed that during this week, starting tonight, there will be massive movements of troops (a total of 20 battalions) and heavy artillery and armaments into Bangkok in preparation for grand military parades to celebrate the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day on 18 January.

Also during this week, about eight battalions of troops will be rehearsed for the parades. The final rehearsal, involving 20 battalions and full military vehicles, tanks and artillery showcases, will be held on 10 January.

Q: If tourists already plan to visit Bangkok in January, is it safe and convenient to travel to Bangkok at this time due to the demonstrations? Will tourist attractions and activities be closed during the planned Bangkok Shutdown?

For tourists visiting the kingdom, it should be stressed that tourists have not been targeted in the ongoing political demonstrations.

However, tourists are advised to be vigilant and avoid areas where crowds may gather.

All tourist attractions and activities are open and operating as per normal.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Bangkok and getting around in the city while the demonstrations take place?

Tourists can travel to Bangkok, and getting out and about in the city. Tourist attractions and activities in the Thai capital are open and operating as per normal. However, tourists are advised to be vigilant and avoid areas where crowds may gather.

Mass transit networks in Bangkok, including BMTA bus and van, BTS skytrain, MRT subway, Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link and city buses, as well as water-transport and taxi are operating as usual. 

Q: Where in Bangkok can tourists visit while the demonstration takes place?

All tourist attractions in Bangkok, such as, the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha on Na Phra Lan Road, Siam Paragon and CentralWorld Shopping Complexes on Rama I Road, parks, temples, historical sites and theme parks are open and operating as per normal.

Q: Is it safe for tourists to go to the demonstration areas for observation and taking photographs?

Tourists are advised to use common sense and avoid areas where the demonstration is taking place or where crowds may gather. This is because there may be traffic disruptions or delays, thus causing inconvenience.

Bangkok offers a wealth of tourist attractions and activities, and tourists can better enjoy their holiday times by not getting caught in traffic disruptions or delays, which may occur, near the demonstration sites or where crowds may gather.

For more information on tourist attractions and activities in Bangkok, call the Tourism Authority of Thailand Contact Centre 1672.

Tourists can keep up-to-date with the tourism situation in Thailand through Application Line: Amazing Thailand.

For live videos of various attractions in Thailand, tourists can visit download the Thai Live Cam mobile application available now in iOS and Android. See more at: HYPERLINK "http://livecam.tourismthailand.org/" http://livecam.tourismthailand.org/

Other useful contact numbers:
Tourism Authority of Thailand Call Centre 1672
Thai Traffic Police Call Centre 1197
Thai Tourist Police Call Centre 1155
Bangkok Tourism Division Call Centre +66 (0) 2225 7612-4
Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (city bus service) Call Centre 1348
State Railway of Thailand Call Centre 1690
Transport Co., Ltd., (inter-provincial bus service) Call Centre 1490
Airports of Thailand Call Centre 1722
Thai Airways International (THAI) Call Centre +66 (0) 2356 1111
Bangkok Airways Reservation Centre 1771
Nok Air Call Centre 1318
Thai AirAsia Call Centre +66 (0) 2515 9999

Q: In the case of any unfortunate events, such as, tourists are affected while travelling in Thailand, what assistance can tourists expect to receive from the Thai Government?

Thai authorities as well as the private sector are ready to provide assistance to tourists in the case of inconveniences. Tourists can seek assistance through the Hot Line numbers provided above.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is also providing an insurance policy for tourists visiting Thailand during 1 October, 2013 to 30 April, 2014. The policy covers liability of up to US$10,000 per person.

Q: Do people cancel their accommodation because of the demonstrations? If so: how many?

We understand from our industry friends both hoteliers and tour operators that there have been some cancellations for the immediate period.

The cancellation is expected to be minimal as Thailand is in a high tourist season and, as per the reason stated above, the demonstrations have not affected most tourist attractions and destinations in Bangkok and other parts of the country.

*****************************************************************

cr: Thailandfans Forum

Suvarnabhumi Named 5th Best Airport in Asia's Largest Cities

Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok was ranked fifth in a list of Asia’s best airports, according to an Agoda.com customer survey released recently.

Travellers were asked to rate 15 airports in Asia – Bangkok, Beijing, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, New Delhi, Phnom Penh, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo, Vientiane and Yangon. The rating, on a scale of 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent), was based on more than 11,000 respondents.

Suvarnabhumi won a score of 3.79, trailing Singapore’s Changi International Airport (4.37), Hong Kong International Airport (4.13), Seoul Incheon International Airport (4.01) and Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (4).

In fifth spot, Suvarnabhumi Airport handled 48 million passengers in 2012 after opening in 2006. As one of the most centrally located airports in Asia, it is a major transit and cargo hub and, interestingly, has the tallest control tower of any airport in the world.

Changi Airport came in first. Known for its hyper-efficiency and consistent investments in improvements and upgrades, it features in the top three of nearly every airport ranking in the world. Last year, Changi handled 51 million passengers. 

Second spot with a rating of 4.13 went to Hong Kong International Airport, which, similar to Changi, usually places very high on any ranking thanks to its convenient transit links and high-technology design on a huge chunk of reclaimed land in the South China Sea. Last year Hong Kong Airport handled 56 million passengers.

Rounding out the top three is Seoul's Incheon International Airport, which handled 39 million passengers last year. Interestingly, the airport holds a record that is now unbreakable - it was named the Best Airport Worldwide by the Airports Council International for a record seven years (2005-2011), and the award was discontinued after its final win. 

Top 10 Airport Rankings in Asia's Largest Cities 

1. Changi International Airport 4.37
2. Hong Kong International Airport 4.13
3. Seoul Incheon International Airport 4.01
4. Indira Gandhi International Airport 4.00
5. Suvarnabhumi Airport 3.79
6. Narita International Airport 3.69
7. Kuala Lumpur International Airport 3.56
8. Beijing Capital International Airport 3.48
9. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport 3.38
10. Phnom Penh International Airport 3.14

cr: www.nationmultimedia.com

Images of Suvarnabhumi Airport:

Have you visited any of these airports and what do you think? :)

5 Unique Travel Experiences in Bangkok...

Traveling in Bangkok city is not just about temples, palaces, and shopping malls. There are many more fun and exciting activities to do here in the City of Angel. Why not give it a try the next time you are in Bangkok?

Discover the secret “Lung of Bangkok”

Bang Kra Chao, an oasis in Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan is known for its green scenery. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, just opposite the Klong Toey business district, Bang Kra Chao is a world apart from chaotic Bangkok. The change in air and scenery from Klong Toey is immediate and astounding, and catches one by surprise. No high-rises, no cars and no pollution!


Bang Kra Chao, one of the best places for cyclists and known to foreign travelers, is virtually unknown among Thais. For Thai tourists, the Bang Nam Pueng Floating Market in Bang Nam Pueng, is more popular because of the various local fruits and vegetables on sale.


However, the 17 year-old, 200-rai Si Nakhon Keun Kan Park, locally known as Suan Klang Central Park, remains an unmissable destination. It has been affectionately called the city’s lung and has a reputation as the last green belt in this concrete metropolis.

Fishing a 100kg Siamese Carp in Bangkok, Why not?

Who would have thought? That right here in Bangkok, Bung Sam Ran Lake Fishing sits one of the world’s most prolific freshwater fishing venues. Lurking beneath the murky depths are the world’s largest freshwater species – the Mekong giant catfish, the giant Siamese carp & the arapaima all of which grow in excess of 100kg (220lb) at Bungsamran. In June 2007 the world's biggest carp ever caught on rod & line was landed estimated to weigh 120kg (264lb). Bangkok is The City of Angels for tourists, but for fisherman it is The City of Giants!

This fishing venue’s whereabouts seems to be Bangkok’s best kept secret, mostly only known by Thai locals. Bangkok is undoubtedly a huge maze of roads, streets & canals networking amongst the diversity of modern offices, wooden houses, ancient temples, markets, street vendors, Thai communities and so much more. Yet this 20 acre lake converted from a swamp 18 years ago, now full of amazing natural beauty and serenity, somehow doesn’t seem out of place.

Certainly the reaction from every single fisherman & non-fisherman alike is firstly skepticism that a lake so peaceful could exist in Bangkok – and even more surprised that the fishing in Bangkok at Bungsamran produces so many enormous fish. The tranquil & idyllic setting of Bungsamran is situated in the suburban outskirts of Bangkok only 40 minutes from the fast moving city centre. Bungsamran boasts numerous IGFA world records, making it one of the best still water venues in the world.

Cr: http://www.fishthailand.co.uk

Play “Escape Hunt” in Bangkok

For many years online “escape games” have been a popular genre for gaming enthusiasts. These games soon became real-life rooms and the wave of popularity swept across the US and Europe to a point where there are now escape game rooms everywhere from San Francisco to London, Hong Kong to Barcelona.  Such is the rising popularity of this entertainment concept that the game centre in London is ranked as number 1 from over 900 Things To Do in London on TripAdvisor with award winning success.

Escape Hunt takes this idea to a new and unique level integrating the concept of escape game rooms with the exciting adventure theme of detectives solving a murder mystery.  As Bangkok and South East Asia’s first escape game, Escape Hunt is a unique and versatile attraction.  Aimed to appeal to Western and Asian minds, young and old, tourists and locals, teams of between 2 and 5 people need to escape from a themed room with the help of a dedicated “game master” who watches from outside over CCTV and assists as required.

Playing the part of Shylock or Charlotte Barnes and their team of detectives, the group will be transported back 100 years to early 20th century Bangkok. Facing their most challenging murder mystery, the only way to escape from the room is to find all the clues and solve all the puzzles before the clock stops after 60 minutes.  There are 4 different rooms split into Chinese and English story lines but all share the same opulent Bangkok setting on the Chao Phraya River, ghosts and mystery.  All games last a total of 1 hour and 45 minutes including the briefing and de-briefing and can be run in English, Thai, Japanese or Chinese using state-of-the-art IT system and multi-lingual staff.

Cr: http://escapehunt.com

Cr: http://www.richardbarrow.com

Learn to fly a Boeing 737 in Bangkok

Bangkok's new flight simulator lets wannabe pilots feel what it's like to take off and land one of the world's most popular passenger aircraft.

Ever wondered why being a commercial airline pilot is one of the most stressful jobs in the world? Try landing a Boeing 737-800 on a simulator at Bangkok’s new Flight Experience Center. Guest "pilots" can feel with 85 percent accuracy what it’s like to takeoff, fly and land the famed passenger aircraft. The realism is chilling, thrilling and mildly unnerving.

Don't worry about forgetting anything; the flight instructor is right next to you in the co-pilot seat. To really get into character, turn on the mic and bust out some pilot lingo: "Cabin crew, please be seated for takeoff." 

Flight Experience packages start from 4,350 baht (US$140) for a 30-minute "Scenic Experience." For serious fliers there's the 9,350 baht, 90-minute "Ultimate Experience," which includes a flight in and out of your airport of choice, followed by a more challenging city-to-city section. 

Cr: http://www.flightexperiencethailand.com/packages

Cr: http://travel.cnn.com

Fun-tas-tic Way to Explore the City

Bangkok is one of the unique beautiful cities. Now you can discover Bangkok and beyond in the way that you’ve never seen before by gliding on Segway Personal Transporter (PT) - the world’s first electrical self-balancing personal transporter.

By using the Segway PT to visit Bangkok, you are not only having fun, but also helping protect our monuments and buildings caused by pollution, since it's not only safe and easy to use, but also electrical.

Having Segway PT in Bangkok is perfect way of bringing together the marvelous culture of Thailand with the fascinating experience of traveling using one of the most impressive developments in transportation technology. With the Segway PT you can see twice as much in half the time. The Segway PT intuitively and automatically balances the way humans do - moving forward and backwards, responding to movements in your body's position. Gliding a Segway PT is as easy as walking and more fun as if you were sitting on the magic carpet.

Cr: http://www.segwaytourthailand.com/

Find Your Ideal Expat Home in Bangkok

You’ve landed your dream job, now all you need to is track down the perfect home. But don’t worry, finding the right condo, apartment or house in the capital is a fairly simple process...

Moving to Bangkok to take up a new job is a challenging experience and one of the most important tasks is to find somewhere to live. This is a reasonably straightforward process with a wide range of choices that match a range of budgets, but it is important to understand the range of options.

The first decision is going to be where to live. This will be determined by where you are going to work, if you have children and where they go to school, and your need for access to public transport, especially the BTS skytrain.

The most popular expatriate residential area is Sukhumvit Road between sois 1 and 63 (odd-numbered sois on the north side and sois 2 to 42 on the south side). This is followed by the Lumpini area between Ratchadamri and Soi Ruam Rudi, and the streets off Sathon Road north of the Narathiwat Ratchanakarin intersection.

There are a few suburban locations favoured by some expatriate families because of proximity to schools. These include Nitchada Thani next to the International school of Bangkok (ISB), and some developments near Bangkok Patana school on Soi La Salle in the eastern part of Bangkok.

Most expatriates coming to Bangkok will choose to rent rather than purchase. There is a wide choice of accommodation types for rent including serviced and unserviced apartments, condominiums, single detached houses and townhouses.

Serviced Apartments are single-ownership buildings that provide units for rent that are fully furnished and equipped with all the appliances, cutlery, crockery, linen and amenities one would need. Effectively you can move in with just your toothbrush. Most serviced apartments provide a regular cleaning service, so it feels like living in a hotel except you have more space and a kitchen. The most common unit types are studios and one-bedroom apartments with a range of sizes.

Tenants can rent serviced apartments on a monthly basis or for longer periods. These are ideal for expatriates on short-term assignments or for singles or couples who want the convenience of everything being provided and the service. The rents per square metre are higher than for other types of rental accommodation with a range of between 700 and 1,200 baht per square metre per month.

Apartments are single-ownership multi-unit buildings and condominiums are multi-ownership multi-unit buildings where units have been bought by individual owners. Physically there is little difference between apartments and condominiums. Generally, both are offered on a furnished basis with major appliances but without linen, cutlery, crockery and so on. Most condominiums and apartments have facilities such as swimming pools.

The main difference is in the way these buildings are managed. In an apartment building, one company owns all of the units and is responsible for maintenance and repairs inside the unit and the common areas. In a condominium, the property managers of the building are only responsible for the management of the common areas and the individual owner is responsible for maintenance and repairs inside the unit.

The length of a residential lease is generally one year with the tenant paying a deposit the equivalent to three months’ rent and paying rent monthly in advance. Tenants are responsible for paying utilities such as electricity, water, telephone, internet and cable TV, except for serviced apartments where generally they are included in the cost.

Contracts are generally short and straightforward. However, it is important that anything agreed orally between the landlord and the tenant should be included in writing in the agreement to avoid any future misunderstandings.

It is also important to have a proper handover where any existing defects are listed and agreed upon in writing by the landlord and tenant. This way, when it comes to handing the unit back at the end of the lease, there is no confusion about who was responsible for any damage, which could result in deductions from the deposit.

CR: Bangkok Post, 28 July 2013 by James Pitchon

☂ Bangkok: Come Rain Come Shine ☂

June – October is the rainy season in Thailand, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy your holiday in Bangkok during this time. In the sunshine days, as you know, Bangkok offers lot of outdoor activities for you to do ea. visiting Grand Palace, Temples, or Parks. When it comes to rain, there are also plenty of indoor options available in Bangkok. Here are some ideas…

☂ Explore the Young Museum in the Old City at Museum Siam ☂

While the Museum of Siam is set inside a very large neoclassical house, it is definitely not the usual display of historical artifacts and dusty mannequins you would expect to find in such an antique building.

From the reception area, wooden stairs, ceramic tiles and old-fashioned columns contrast with resolutely modern art and advanced technology. Everywhere you look, the two elements blend with great harmony as designers use every possible way to challenge the traditional expectations you might have of a museum.

Location: Phra Nakorn District, Rattanakosin Island, south of Wat Pho

Opening Hours: 10.00 - 18.00 (Tuesday to Sunday)

Website: www.museumsiam.org

☂ Learn More About Bangkok History by the Multi-Media Animation Technologies at Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall ☂

The buildings along the Ratcha Damnoen Avenue are parts of Bangkok's architectural landscape and history.  These blocks were built along with the construction of Ratcha Damnoen Avenue leading from the Dusit Royal Palace to the Grand Palace (began in 1899).

The renovation of the building and its interior decoration work began in 2008. On 9 March 2010, the exhibition was officially launched.  It invites the public to learn, appreciate and take pride in Thailand's artistic and cultural legacies of the Rattanakosin Era. The building has 4,800 square metres of floor space.  Advanced technologies - such as presentation devices, models, four-dimensional multi-media technique, multi-touch and multi-media animation technologies- are used in presenting the exhibitions about Rattanakosin City through interactive self-learning devices. The building also has a library, a souvenir shop and a coffee shop.

Location: 100 Ratcha Damnoen Klang Avenue, Bawonniwet Sub-District, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok 10200 

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday (Close on Mondays) 10.00 am - 19.00 pm.

Website: www.nitasrattanakosin.com/home

☂ Get a Dose of Culture at Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre ☂

“BACC visualizes itself as a centre of cultural diversity for a sustainable social development.”

The Art and Cultural Centre is the hub of Bangkok’s burgeoning art scene and offers the widest range of contemporary art, design, music, theatre and film in the city. Located only a few minutes walk National Stadium BTS it hosts a number of changing exhibitions from both Thai and International artists.

Location: BACC is located at Pathumwan Intersection, facing the MBK and Siam Discovery Centres.

Opening Hours: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (closed Mondays) (Office hours: 9.30 a.m. - 6.30 p.m.)

Website: www.bacc.or.th

☂ Go Underwater Without Getting Wet at Siam Ocean World ☂

In the basement of Siam Paragon shopping mall you will find the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia, with plenty of creatures to check out, from scary sharks to jumping jellyfish. Take a ride on the glass-bottomed boat or discover the plants and wildlife from the rainforest, including spiders and snakes. A trip to Siam Ocean World can be combined with a visit to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in nearby Siam Discovery Mall, and these two tickets can be bought together at the counter to offer great savings.

Location: Basement floor, Siam Paragon, Siam (Take Exit 5 from the BTS Siam Station, which provides direct access to Siam Paragon)

Opening Hours: 10:00 - 21:00 daily

Website: www.siamoceanworld.co.th

☂ Step Back in Time, Visit Old School Bangkok Cinema ☂

“Watch a movie? That’s not creative!” You may well be thinking, but Scala Cinema in Siam Square is a throwback to the golden days: It only has one screen but the ornate domed-ceiling, giant chandelier and art-deco decoration will delight visitors as much as the discount 100 baht ticket price. Thankfully, not everything has been frozen in time with all the latest audio and visual technology installed to show a mixture of the latest Hollywood releases as well as more art-house flicks from Thailand, Europe and beyond.

Ticket Fee: 100 Baht

Location: Scala Theatre, Siam Square Soi 1, Rama Rd.

Website: www.apexsiam-square.com/home.asp

Ref: www.bangkok.com, Pantip.com, Google