Showing posts with label travel bangkok. Show all posts
Showing posts with label travel bangkok. Show all posts

2014-11-25

Bliston Arranged Annual Party to Celebrate ‘Loi Krathong Festival’ in AEC Theme

Bliston Suwan Park View arranged their annual party to celebrate the beautiful ‘Loi Krathong Festival’ on Friday 31 October 2014.


 The Bliston Loi Krathong Party has been organizing every year since 2008, the main propose is to thank you its own in-house guests as well as corporate customers. The second purpose is to create collaboration of staff between each department.

About a month before the event date, all departments were gathered to brainstorm for the theme of the event. It has to be something new, creative, yet fun. For the past years, we had arranged this event in Traditional Thai, Retro, and Looktung themes. This year, we went extra mile and looked ahead to welcome the AEC - that will officially start in late 2015.




On the event date, all staff and our guests were showing up in gorgeous traditional costumes of the AEC nations. The night started by the beautiful Salsa dance show from Dance Synergy Studio (located on the 5fl. of our residence) followed by AEC Fashion Show from our staff.









 During waiting for the lucky draw and the Loi Krathong activity to be held, some of the guests enjoyed delicacy Thai foods ea. Chicken Rice, Fish Maw Soup, Grill Squid, Golden Fried Fish Balls and Change Beer. While some enjoyed challenging themselves by fun games at our game booths.




Later that night, our GM. Mr. Kijja Laowsuwan announced numerous of lucky draw prizes, sponsored by Bliston and our partners ea. Artur Restaurant, Dance Synergy Studio, Na GaYa, Co Van Kassel Tour, Siam Ocean World and Madame Tussauds Thailand. After that the staff leaded all the guests to join Loi Krathong activity together at our pool that has been beautifully decorated by a big Krathong and AEC flags. The nigh was covered by smiles, laugh, and joy.

Until we meet again!

Bliston Society Team

2014-08-13

Tourist visa fee waiver for Chinese and Chinese Taipei visitors


Effective 9 August, 2014, holders of Chinese and Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) passports will be exempt from paying visa fees when visiting Thailand purely for the purpose of tourism between 9 August – 8 November 2014.

The short-term waiver has been passed by the National Council of Peace and Order (NCPO) as part of a package of measures to rapidly revive Thai tourism in the second half of 2014. The move has now passed all the stages of regulatory approval through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior and been published in Royal Gazette.

The exemption will apply only to visitors coming to Thailand for tourism, and submitting their tourist visa applications at Thai diplomatic missions or via the visa-on-arrival desks at the international checkpoints. Only a Tourist Visa is applicable to this measure; visitors who apply for other categories of visa; such as, Transit Visa or Non-Immigrant Visa still have to pay for the visa fee as normal.



Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thawatchai Arunyik said, “Thailand and China have very close relations and have much in common in terms of food, cultural and ethnic relationships with many Thai prominent businessmen and political families having roots in China.  Chinese visitors were selected for the exemption as part of the commemorative activities marking the 40th  Anniversary of Thailand – China Diplomatic Relations. Moreover, this measure is also to help the Thai private sector and the many small and medium sized enterprises to recover.”


From both mainland China and Chinese Taipei, Thailand is considered a short-haul and value-for-money destination with good airline connections and an excellent range of accommodation and tour products for people of all age groups. The kingdom is well-known for its long-standing tradition of friendliness and hospitality.  Bangkok also has a very large and bustling Chinatown area where Chinese visitors can regularly be seen shopping for herbal medicines, jewellery and gold. Many of them also go to make offerings at the numerous Chinese temples.



cr: Tourism Authority of Thailand
cr pictures: ibtimes, echinacities, lohwendy blogspot

2014-01-07

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

2013-03-15

Celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Bangkok, Why not?


Saint Patrick's Day or the Feast of Saint Patrick (Irish: Lá Fhéile Pádraig, "the Day of the Festival of Patrick") is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated on 17 March. It is named after Saint Patrick, the most commonly recognised of the patron saints of Ireland.

The day generally involves public parades and festivals, céilithe, and wearing of green attire or shamrocks. Christians also attend church services and the Lenten restrictions on eating and drinking alcohol are lifted for the day.

Where Can I Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day in Bangkok?

If you are in Bangkok on Saint Patrick's Day, even if you are not an Irish - the most popular way to celebrate is to head to one of the Irish pubs and just enjoy the feast together with the Irish, Thais, expats and travelers from around the world!

There is a good number of Irish pubs in Bangkok, and we've put together a list of what we consider to be the most famous Irish pubs in Bangkok. 

O’Reillys Irish Pub (Silom Road)

O'Reilly's is one of the first Irish pubs in Bangkok and is located on Silom road right at the foot of the steps leading up to Saladaeng BTS skytrain station so getting there is really simple.

O'Reilly's is one of those pubs that has a constant atmosphere as it is in a good location for tourists and business people alike and you will find a mix of westerners and Thais.


O’Reillys Irish Pub
62/1-4 Silom Road Bangrak, Bangkok
Tel. 02-632-7515 to19

Molly Malone's Irish Pub (Soi Convent)

Molly Malone's Irish pub in Bangkok used to be known as The Irish Exchange but underwent a make over and a change of ownership and re-emerged as Molley Malone's.

There is seating upstairs and downstairs and there is the usual Guinness and Kilkenny on draught as well as a number of other draught and bottled beers.

Getting to Molly Malone's should be easy enough as it is very close to Saladaeng BTS skytrain station and not a far walk from Silom's MRT subway station.


Molly Malone's Irish Pub
1/5-6 Soi Convent Silom,
Bangrak Bangkok 10500
Tel. 02 266 7160-1

The Dubliner Irish Pub (Sukhumvit Road)

The Dubliner Irish Pub in Bangkok is located on Sukhumvit road, around soi 22 close to Washington Square. The nearest Skytrain or Underground station is Asoke / Sukhumvit

The decor of The Dubliner is similar to all the other Irish themed bars in Bangkok - mainly wooden - but we like the layout of The Dubliner because it's more pub like and less clinical than some of the others.

If your other half likes shopping, send them to The Emporium just down the road and you can sit back with a drink and wait for them to come back.


The Dubliner Irish Pub
21 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, Bangkok, Thailand 10110
Tel. 02-204-1841

Flann O'Brien's Irish Pub (Asiatique The Riverfront)

Flann O'Brien's is quite new compare to other Irish pubs in Bangkok, but as it is located in the newest landmark of Bangkok, Asiatique The Riverfront – there are a lot of things to do in the area.

The theme of the Flann O'Brien's Irish Pub and the Asiatique is retro style, you will feel like going back in time and sitting in the old harbor of Bangkok.


Flann O'Brien's Irish Pub
Asiatique The Riverfront
Tel. 02 108 4005

Robin Hood Bar (Sukhumvit Road)

Robin Hood Irish Pub in Bangkok is opposite The Emporium Department store. To get to Robin Hood, just get off at Phrom Phong BTS Syktrain station and exit gate 5 and Robin Hood will be right there.


Robin Hood Bar
597-597/1-3 P.B Building, Sukhumvit 33/1, Sukhumvit Road
Klongtan Nua, Wattana Bangkok 10110
Tel: +66 2 662 3390

Have a Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

cr: Wikipedia, thebangkokshoppingguide.com

2013-03-08

Plan your trip now to catch Songkran in Bangkok!

‘Songkran Festival’ is the most famous water festival celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year occasion from 13 to 15 April each year.



Activities on Songkran including bathing Buddha images, making merit, offering food to monks, making Sand-Pagodas, releasing birds & fish, bathing the elders and respected ones on New Year’s Day, and joining the water fight by splashing water at one another.

If you'd like to join Songkran in Thailand, you had better plan your trip now as all the hotels will be soon fully booked during the festivity period. 

At our hotels, we are inviting our guests to celebrate the Thai Traditional New Year “Songkran Water Festival” during 13 -15 Apr’13 - experience the Thai way by join bathing Buddha images and making merit at lobby area to bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year and all year through. After that, all the guests can head to play water with the Bangkokian and travelers from around the world and they can just get as wet as they like because we've already prepared Sonkran Kit for them!

If you are interest to join us, please check out this promotions:

Bliston Suwan Park View, Chidlom



Blissful Songkran Festive Promotion

One Bedroom Superior Suite (65 sqm) > THB 2,900.- Room only
One Bedroom Executive Suite (70 sqm) > THB 3,099.- Room only

- Available from: Now - 30 Apr 2013
- Complimentary in room High Speed internet
- Welcome Fruit Hamper
- Free access to swimming pool facilities and Heath Club
- American buffet breakfast voucher can be purchased when check-in at special price only 99 THB net / voucher / person
- All bookings during 13-15 Apr’13 will receive Songkran kit including water guns and waterproof bag to bring along with you to the water battle. *subject to availability
- Join bathing Buddha images at the lobby area during 13-15 Apr’13, to bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year and all year through 

Terms and Conditions
- Rates above are inclusive of serviced Charge and Government Tax
- Promotion rates require minimum 2 consecutive nights stay
- Promotion rates are subjected to change without notice
- Promotion rates will apply for the extend night(s) within the period of Now - 30 Apr 2013 only *subject to room availability
- Extra bed charge at 900 THB net / night including 1 ABF voucher

For reservation please contact Reservation Department at reservation@blistonresidence.com     

Baan K Residence by Bliston, Silom / Sathorn



Baan K Songkran Splash!!!

Book your stay at least 14 days in advance to enjoy a special 25% discount! One Bedroom Suite, Rate start from 2,300.- ฿ including breakfast, internet, free shuttle service* 
For reservation please contact ‘frontoffice.bk@blistonresidence.com

Get free Songkran kit & hop on Baan K Tuk Tuk to the most famous Songkran festivity area on Silom / Sathorn. Let's get WET this Songkran!

2013-02-20

15 Edutainment Places in Bangkok for Family Travelers


Need some ideas for family activities during your holiday in Bangkok? Yes, holiday is about to relax and have fun – but it also a great opportunity for your kids to learn the world from their own experiences.

There are a lot of things to do here in Bangkok, and we’ve listed 15 Edutainment Places in Bangkok that everyone in the family can enjoy!


1. Dusit Zoo

Dusit Zoo, or 'Khao Din', is a fully-function animal park with facilities such as an animal hospital, zoo museum and educational centre, sightseeing train, activities ground and canteen. It houses some 1,600 domestic and international animals, including albino barking deer and white Bengal tigers.

Covering a total area of 188,800sqm, Dusit Zoo was Thailand's very first zoo and has been around for more than 60 years. It sits in the midst of Bangkok’s administrative centre, surrounded by important landmarks such as The Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, Parliament and Chitralada Palace.

Opening Hours: 08:00 - 18:00
Location: Intersection of Rama V, Ratchavitee and U-Thong Nai Roads (entrance on all three sides)
Price Range: Kids 50 baht, adults 100 baht


2. Children Museum


Located near JJ Weekend Market, outside is a fun playground, which challenges anyone to conquer the labyrinth of the Pyramid Net - or how about walking across a wonky bridge or swinging down a spiral ladder? Or you can have a seat and get creative with paints or pen and paper - plot out the next great invention. Visit the fascinating Robot Zoo, a concept that explains an animal's functions by means of a mechanistic comparison. Imagine, no, experience, what it is like to hang like a bat, or discover how echolocation really works. How about having sticky feet like a bee? Try it by wearing some Velcro slippers. If all this tires you out, go and find a cosy and quiet corner in the reading zone surrounded by a make-believe garden. Or head to the canteen for a bite or thirst-quenching cold drink.

Opening Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 (Tuesday to Friday), 10:00 - 18:00 (Saturday to Sunday)
Location: Chatuchak Park


3. Bike Ride at Rod Fai Park

Rod Fai Park (Railway Park) is located in Chatuchak area in Bangkok, next to Chaktuchak park. Rodfai Park has an area of 148 acre, which used to be golf course of Railway club. The park is open everyday, however, some parts are close on Monday for maintainance. In the car park area there are bicycle rental services which bicycle can be rented from 20 Baht for all day long.

Open hours : 04.30-21.00
Admission Fee : Free
Activities : Playground, Bike Ride, Butterfly watching

4. Safari World


Visit the natural safari park, come face to face with thousands of rare and endangered species roaming freely in their natural habitat. Spreading over an area of about 300 acres, Safari World Park is divided in to four sections, namely, Safari Park, Bird Park, Games Corner and Macaw Island. A journey through the Safari World will no doubt turn out in to one of the most memorable events of your life. Witness the picturesque African settings with intimate encounters with Dolphins, Orang Utans, Seals, Birds and other such animals and birds at the adventurous Safari World, one of the most popular Bangkok Tourist Attractions.

Open hours: Mon – Fri, 9.00-17.30 / Weekend and Public Holidays, 9.00- 18.00

5. Dream World

 The park has been divided into several zones with specific groups of rides such as Dream World Plaza, Dream Gardens, Fantasy Land, and Adventure Land.
The interior of this park is filled with over 40 imported thrill rides and family attractions. However, the park's main attractions is Asia's first hanging coaster located in the middle part of Adventure land, and a model of the Grand Canyon as part of a river rafting attraction.

 Opens at 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, weekdays and public holidays is 10:00 am - 7:00 pm.

6. National Science Museum


Located at Khlong 5, Pathum Thani, The Science Museum is considered as a display venue for exhibitions and scientific activities to communicate with and provide knowledge to visitors to better understand science and technology, as well as, to apply them in daily life for the sustainable development of the country.

Operating day: Tuesday - Sunday
Operating time: 09.30 - 16.00

7. Rangsit Science Center for Education
Located at Khlong 6, Pathum Thani, The Rangsit Science Centre for Education is an Educational Establishment Direct Administration of the Office of the Non-Formal and Informal Education, Ministry of Education.  It provides learning opportunities in the areas of science, technology and environment to the public and students in both formal and non-formal education systems.  There are many types of learning activities that the audience freely choose to participate upon their own interests.

Operating time: every Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.
Closed on Monday and public holidays

8. Science Center for Education 
Since the Science Centre for Education is engaged in non-formal and in-formal education, the centre is also involved with lifelong learning, serving the people of Thailand. Taking a holistic approach to learning, the Centre focuses on Science, Technology, Natural Science, Environmental Science and Astronomy.
Website: www.sciplanet.org/ewt_news.php?nid=132&filename=index_eng

9. Siam Water Park


Siam Park opened 36 years ago in November 1975. The park is set in 120 acres and is considered to be the largest theme and water park in Southeast Asia. The idea for the water park was to create an oasis from the hustle and bustle of the city, as although Thailand has lots of beaches there are none in Bangkok. The wave pool is now the largest in the world as certicified by Guinness World Records and stretches an impressive 13,600 sq m and is the only man made beach in the city. The theme park originally started off with only a few rides, but over the years the owner has expanded and it now has over 30 different rides.

Working hours: Water Park time is 10:00 AM - 17:00 PM everyday
Amusement Park operating hour is 11:00 AM - 18:00 PM everyday

10. Crocodiles and Elephant Farm


Located to the west of Bangkok in Nakhon Pathom province. For less than an hour driveSamphran Elephant Ground & Zoo is a popular sightseeing destination for both adults and children alike.
It highlights exciting events such as The Elephant Theme Show and The Crocodile Wrestling Show. In the Elephant show complete with Surround sound system. The elephants are the stars of the show where they dance, race, play football and games, “Yutha Hathi”, a great royal battle scene, is even performed with the actors riding on the elephants. As for the wrestling show, the crocodile and the master crocodile catcher perform breathtaking stunts to their audience’s delight.

Entrance fee including all shows: Adult 600 baht, child below 130 cms. 350 baht.Open daily from 08.30 - 17.30 hrs.

11. Siam Ocean World at Siam Paragon


Two storeys underneath the glitzy Siam Paragon shopping mall, an aquatic wonderland the size of three Olympic swimming pools awaits your discovery at the Siam Ocean World. This underground aquarium, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, will dazzle you with innovative world-class exhibits and over 30,000 curious looking creatures from various depths and aquatic regions across the globe.

Opening Hours: 10:00 - 21:00 daily
Location: Basement floor, Siam Paragon, Siam

12.Snake Farm at Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute

Forget everything you might have seen in any so-called 'Snake Farm' in tourist regions of Thailand. If you are even just a bit curious about the world of reptiles the Bangkok Snake Farm at the Red Cross Institute is a real revelation. It's informative as much as fascinating and can even help fight some of the unjustified fear of these animals you may have.

Opening Hours: 08:30 to 16:30 pm on weekdays - 08:30 to noon on weekends and holidays
Location: Thai Red Cross Institute, at the intersection of Rama IV and Henry Dunant roads
Tel: 0 (2) 252 0161 

13. Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple, and Sanam Luang Royal Plaza
This is the most famous place that is a must for all tourists. It is a large compound located near Sanam Luang in the very heart of Bangkok. The Grand Palace consists of several buildings with different styles of architecture. Wat Phra Kaeo is renowned as the most beautiful and important Buddhist temple in Thailand. It houses Phra Kaeo Morakot (the Emerald Buddha), the most highly revered Buddha image carved from a single block of fine jade.

Opening Hours: Daily, 08.30 - 15.30 hrs.



14. TK Park (Thailand Knowledge Park) at Central World
TK Park will contribute to the creation of a learning society by cultivating a positive attitude towards the reading habit, creative thinking, and lifelong pursuit of knowledge among children and youth.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 20.00 hrs. Tuesday – Sunday (Closed on Mondays)

15. 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.
A huge bronze ‘ribbon’ coiling and looping in the front garden is the first clue of things to come inside... In 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.


Opening Hours: 10.00 - 18.00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Location: Phra Nakorn District, Rattanakosin Island, south of Wat Pho
Website: www.museumsiam.org

2012-08-22

Things To Know Before Traveling to Thailand


Vacationing in Thailand offers a unique and wonderful experience. Spectacular beaches, awe-inspiring ancient ruins and palatial accommodations make it so that over 60% of Thailand’s visitors are there for their second or more time. Below are a few tips and facts that will help you be well prepared to fully enjoy your experience.

Entry Requirements: If you plan on staying less than 30 days you’ll only need a valid passport (with an expiration no further than 6 months away) and proof of a return ticket. No visa will be required.

Currency: The Baht is Thailand’s currency denomination and it comes in both paper and coin forms. The exchange rate varies, but a rough approximation puts 30 baht worth an equivalent amount to a US dollar. Major credit cards and debit cards are accepted in most restaurants and shopping centers.



Climate: Thailand has a tropical climate and the best time to visit is from November to April during what is known as the high season. May through October coincides with the rainy season, however, Thailand spans a large latitudinal swath and while the northern parts are experiencing monsoons, the southern areas surrounding the Gulf of Thailand are bright, sunny and warm. From March to April the climate is warm and dry with average temperatures in the mid-80s.


What to pack: Due to its tropical climate, Thailand can get somewhat humid so it is recommended that you pack light, airy clothing. Loose cottons and linens are ideal. If you are visiting the northern areas during wintertime, it is advised that you pack a light sweater or jacket.

While visiting temples proper attire is required. This includes covered shoulders for everyone and skirts that extend below the knees for women. Shorts are not allowed so be sure you plan ahead if you intend to enter any Buddhist temples. And remember, it’s considered polite to remove your shoes before you enter!

Language: Thai is the official language of Thailand, but English is widely spoken. Signs are generally in both Thai and English.



Electricity: Thailand’s electric outlets are 220 volts AC. If you will require power, you are advised to bring an adapter kit to allow you access to electricity. Some hotels will have adapters available for a deposit.

Water: Tap water is not safe to drink. It is strongly advised to stick to bottled water. Most hotels offer complimentary bottled water in the rooms on a daily basis. This extends to ice. Be cautious of using ice, however most restaurants serve ice made from government inspected ice factories.

Phone: The international dialing code for Thailand is 66. To make international calls from Thailand, first dial 001, then the country code, followed by the area and phone number. SIM cards are available from local Thai network providers to allow local call/texting.

Royal Family: The King is revered and respected in Thailand and visitors are expected to uphold the same considerations. Speaking disrespectfully or gesturing inappropriately to the Royal Family is punishable under Thai law.

Additional Courtesy: The Buddha is a deity and respect is a priority. Women are not allowed to touch Buddhist monks. However Buddhist teachings influence much of Thai society, so Thai’s usually tend to be relaxed and non-confrontational. Any conflicts can often be resolved with a smile.



cr: www.thailandfastdeals.com
images from google