Wan Loy Krathong or Loy Krathong day
LOI KRATHONG - 'FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS'
As the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in mid-November) lights up the night sky, throughout the Thai kingdom, hundreds of thousands of ornately-decorated krathong or traditional banana leaf floats are set adrift in rivers and waterways in a spell-binding ritual called Loi Krathong - the 'festival of lights". This is one of the Kingdom's oldest and best-preserved traditions.
The Loi Krathong tradition we know of today has evolved from the royal rituals of the early Rattanakosin period in which several types of lanterns were set afloat in the Chao Phraya River and its waterways. The practice was subsequently adopted and adapted by common folk.
Krathong floats are made from basic materials easily found around the village and reflect the simplicity of life beyond the palace walls. They typically take the shape of lotus in full bloom, swans, chedis (stupas), and Mount Meru from Buddhist mythology. However krathong floats in the shape of lotus blossoms are most popular. 
The Origins of Loi Krathong
There are various fascinating accounts about the origins of Loi Krathong. It is not known as to when the tradition first began but authorities speculate that it is of Indian origin and based on the "Deepavalee" ritual which is also accompanied by floating lights in an act of worship of the Brahmin gods - Brahma, Siva and Vishnu, or an act of remission to the Indian Ganga or Ganges. According to another school of thought, the ritual is said to be based on ancient Buddhist tales and is undertaken to pay respect to the sacred footprint of the Lord Buddha on the bank of the mythical Nammadhammahantee river.
However, given the river-based culture that formed the foundation of the traditional Thai way of life, Loi Krathong evolved into a ritual in which offerings are made to Mae Khongkha – Mother of Waters, the Thai equivalent of the Hindu goddess of water, in an expression of gratitude for providing life-sustaining water throughout the year. It is also believed that the offering are made in an act of appeasement to beg her forgiveness for Man's carelessness in polluting the pristine water that nourishes all life. Over time the tradition spread throughout the country.
Some believe that by setting the krathong adrift, one symbolically casts away one's grief, misery and ill-fortunes to the extent that there are bizarre tales of the superstitious placing tufts of hair or clipped finger-nail into the krathong in the hope of ridding themselves of a spell of bad luck or misfortune. Coins are also placed in the krathong as offerings.
For the romantic at heart and young couples, Loi Krathong is the time to make wishes for happiness together and success in love.
At dusk, as the full moon begins to rise, the krathong is decorated with fresh flowers and the candles and incense sticks are placed in the krathong. The float is then taken to a waterway where the candle and incense sticks are lit and the krathong set adrift. The floats are carried downstream by the gentle current, candlelight flickering in the wind.
The lighting of fireworks is undertaken in the same spirit as when lighting candles in an act of worship so fireworks displays are very much an integral element of the secular and religious rituals performed.
Soon after, attention turns to celebration. The evening's festivities consist of impressive firework displays, folk entertainment, stage dramas, song and dance. Scenes as described in ancient Thai literary accounts are still very much in existence today.
Loi Krathong customs and traditions reflect local beliefs and cultural evolution. Interesting regional variations can be seen. In Tak province, the banana-leaf floats are replaced by coconut shells which are threaded together and launched simultaneously so they appear as long chains of hundreds of glittering lights on the Ping River, hence the origin of its name, Loi Krathong Sai.
In the Northern Thai provinces that were once part of the ancient Lanna Thai kingdom, the Yi-peng Northern Lantern Festival is still being celebrated. Tubular lanterns, resembling hot air balloons, are lit and released into the night sky as an offering the Lord Buddha. As hundreds of illuminated lanterns drift into infinity, this conjures the same sense of wistful closure as the krathong float downstream. 
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Loy Krathong Festival
Six Senses Hideaway Yao Noi
Phang Nga Bay is famed for its natural beauty and its formation of limestones jutting out of the shallow water - small island mountains in the sea. They impress with their sheer size, the changing colours and the ubiqitous caves, some are right on the doorstep of Evason Hideaway at Yao Noi.
Phangnga Bay covers an area of 400 square kilometres and was declared Ao Phang Nga National Park in 1981. While most of the park is covered by the Andaman Sea, mangrove forests grow around the margins and 42 large and small islands dot the milky green waters.
Evason Hideaway & Six Senses Spa at Yao Noi focusses on the reality of the destination with attention to details and commitment to the environment. Accommodations present an uncompromised standard of luxury and provide generous personal space with elegantly designed modern architecture.
Evason Koh Yao Noi adopted local construction techniques, using natural, environmentally friendly materials. Roofs are thatched by sugar palm leaves, while external and interior walls are wood paneled.
Evason Hideaway Ko Yao Noi villas have open-style bathrooms that create an atmosphere of space and light boasting magnificent views of the bay and the surrounding forest. Each villa has its own infinity-edge pool with sundeck, creating the illusion of infinity between pool and the waters of Phang Nga Bay. This gives a real feeling of seclusion.
At Evason Hideaway and Spa on Koh Yao Noi, each villa is attended by a butler, anticipating every whim. This service is designed to create a new and unique concept for in-house guests.
The Evason Hideaway Yao Noi will reflect the warmth and welcome of a home on a plantation estate. The Main House accommodates all dinning and entertaining alternatives.
The Living Room and Terrace offers tempting buffets at breakfast and dinner and showcases an open cold-kitchen and patisserie, into which guests are invited to wander in and help themselves. Being close to the beach and constructed from traditional material with a timber flooring, this all-day dining choice offers alfresco or undercover seating.
Evason Ko Yaonoi's Dining Room features contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. The dining area is on the lower level, with private dining pavilions set up in the mangroves around, while the chef's table with the cooking station is on the top level. A natural water meanders through this area.
Koh Yao Noi Hotels Phang Nga
Koh Yao Noi Island, like a jewel necklace, is ideally situated in the Bay of Phang Nga with untamed scenery and many natural wonders. Located on the eastern coast of Phuket, Koh Yao Noi is a beautiful and enchanting tropical island that serves a great escape from the hustle-bustle of the city life. Surrounded by rain forests, tropical reefs, and sandy beaches and mangroves, Koh Yao Noi offers peaceful place to live.
Some activities available on the island include agricultural demonstrations (rubber and fishing), kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and swimming. Koh Yao Noi hotels in Phang Nga offer eco-friendly accommodation options. The extensive online database of AsiaRooms provides good information on Koh Yao Noi hotels, as well as other hotels of this region. Make your online reservations with AsiaRooms and get best hotels deal at special discounts now.
Ko Yao Island Resort on Ko Yao Noi
We stayed at the Ko Yao Island Resort and absolutely loved our experience. The rooms were big, the bed was comfy and clean...the bathroom/shower was an outdoor villa...and it came with a big fridge for holding our cocktails and fruit for the day. The food was inexpensive and good...and the thing we were most impressed with here...was the service. The manager, Gavin... and his staff gave us one-on-one attention...and would ask what we were hungry for that evening...and would came back from market with something new and yummy.
We tried chicken legs and foods we have never eaten before...and along with their excellent wine selection...we were in heaven. You can rent mopeds to travel around the little island for cheap...and there are amazing hikes, markets and beaches. It's absolute escape from reality... We went the week after the tsunami...and there was not a lot of damage on the island. There are really only 2 main resorts, and probably 8 smaller resorts on this island. You won't see alot of tourists...and it is not commercialised at all. There was only 1 7-11...which we were happy to see after a hot day b/c it had a/c and cold drinks in the fridge. If you want a relaxed, laid back holiday...away from lots of people and big city life...this is a great escape.
Ko Yao Island Resort on Ko Yao Noi: Escape from the Real World
By lesaandbill
Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai Islands
Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai
Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are a pair of large islands in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, equidistant to Phuket and the Krabi mainland. While the pace of development is accelerating on Koh Yao Noi in particular, the islands remain a quiet refuge that feels far removed from the crowds of Phuket.
In 2002, Koh Yao Noi gained worldwide attention after receiving the World Legacy Award for Destination Stewardship from Conservation International and National Geographic Traveler magazine for the eco-friendly homestay programs offered by its local residents.
Other activities available on the island include agricultural demonstrations (rubber and fishing), kayaking, hiking, snorkelling and swimming.
Note that the islanders are keen to preserve their traditional ways, so it's important to respect the local culture by dressing modestly and refraining from drinking alcohol outside of the restaurants/resorts catering to visitors.
Getting to Koh Yao
Long-tail boat ferries make daily trips to Yao Noi from Bang Rong Pier on the east coast of Phuket. From the airport, a taxi will take you to the pier in 25 minutes. To get to the pier, take route 4027 east from the Heroines' Monument, then turn right at the sign for Bang Rong (or Bangrong) and follow along for a few kilometers.
The fare is 50 Baht for the one-hour journey, with daily departures from Phuket at 9.30 am, 12 noon and 5 pm. The boat will make a short stop on Koh Yao Yai, then cross to Koh Yao Noi, only 8 minutes away. Long-tail boats can also be hired at Ao Po pier for charter to Koh Yao.
Staying over
Many visitors will include few nights on Koh Yao in a south Thailand discovery trip, on their way from Phuket to Krabi (or reverse). There are about half a dozen bungalows and resorts on Yao Noi, a "homestay" program, plus a luxury resort is now being built. Click here to see The Paradise Koh Yao or Koyao Island Resort . Yao Yai has a few bungalows for rent.
Neither of the islands have banking facilities, but Internet service, restaurants and some shops can be found on Yao Noi, including a brand new 7-Eleven with a very powerful air-con, a good chance to cool down and get some sugary drinks and ice creams. So if you plan to stay over, remember to withdraw some cash money before you go, even though there are few opportunities to spend it!
What to Do in Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi does not have any particular landmark or stunning view point, nevertheless, while driving around, you will discover a place that has changed very little in 20 years, aside from a few more motorbikes and the new 7-Eleven. A drive around its quiet roads reveals a place of true peace and simplicity for the traveller.
Wooden houses all along the roads, buffalos taking mud baths in the rice paddies, the cool, shaded roads passing through the many rubber plantations and the beauty of the mangrove with its trees standing in the middle of the sea are just a few of the natural charms of this simple island. The laid-back feeling of the island is contagious, time slows down and nothing seems to pressure the inhabitants who spend a lot of time chatting in small groups, lounging in the afternoon under salas or in hammocks.
Amphoe Ko Yao
Amphoe Ko Yao (Thai: เกาะยาว) is a district (Amphoe) in the province Phang Nga in the south of Thailand.
History
The minor district (King Amphoe) Ko Yao was established in 1903 as a subordinate of Mueang Phang Nga district. On January 1 1988 it was upgraded to a full district
Geography
The district covers several islands of the Ko Yao archipelago within the Phang Nga Bay, near the island of Phuket. The two main islands are named Ko Yao Yai and Ko Yao Noi (big long island and small long island).
The northern tips of the islands are part of the Ao Pang Nga National Park.
Administration
The district is subdivided into 3 subdistricts (tambon), which are further subdivided into 18 villages (muban). Ko Yao itself has township (thesaban tambon) status, which covers parts of tambon Ko Yao Noi. There are further 3 Tambon administrative organization (TAO).
No. Name Thai name Villages Inh.
1. Ko Yao Noi เกาะยาวน้อย 7 4,644
2. Ko Yao Yai เกาะยาวใหญ่ 4 2,551
3. Phru Nai พรุใน 7 5,549
Koh Samui - Asia's Hottest Property Market
On the opposite coast sits Phuket, which over the last 15-20 years has experienced massive growth and is now a millionaires playground. It was originally visited by backpackers, who as we all know always find the best beaches. Well, now is the turn of Koh Samui, which is seeing the visits of Backpackers slowing down, who instead pass through on their way to the "Angthong National Marine Park', which was the setting of the movie 'The Beach'. In their place is a flock of overseas investors looking to buy or build their own luxury getaway and at the same time a great investment property. Prices have been going up at a very healthy rate and don't show any signs of slowing down soon.
There are several different ways to get into the Koh Samui real estate market, ranging from buying your own little holiday villa up to collecting a large parcel of land of which to build your own development, or even securing your own island for a tropical Eden.
Whichever way you decide to go Samui Network Realty can help you every step of the way, our contact details are on each of the link pages.
Services available:
- Land sales and acquisitions
- Luxury villa sales
- apartment sales
- private island sales
- project development
- full network of real estate agents on Koh samui
Koh Samui - Asia's Hottest Property Market
By Nick Thatcher
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Phuket's Secret Beaches
Phuket's beaches are world-renowned and tourists flock from across the globe to visit the famous beaches at Patong, Karon, and Kata. So much so that many people complain these beaches have lost their charm. They say Phuket can no longer claim to be an idyllic tropical island getaway. The beaches are too crowded. Sun loungers line the entire length of the beaches, sometimes in rows three or four deep. Jet skis, banana boats and parasail boats plough through the water while vendors ply their wares up and down the beach. They say Phuket is finished as an island getaway destination and only caters to the party crowd.
These people have not spent enough time exploring Phuket. There are more than 40 beaches around Phuket Island and there is something to suit all tastes. If you want a beach with good holiday facilities but not too crowded then Nai Harn, Kamala, Surin, Bang Tao and Nai Yang all have good hotels and restaurants yet do not draw big crowds. If you really want to get away from the crowds then Nai Thon and Mai Khao beaches in the north of the island are usually very quiet.
Still all these beaches are well known in Phuket and firmly in the tourist travel guides. In this article, we will look at some beaches that still remain undiscovered to most tourists. We will not even include Laem Sing or Yanui in this list. They are both charming beaches but they have become well known and usually have plenty of visitors. Some of the following beaches are not even known to many of Phuket's residents. These are Phuket's secret beaches. (If you want more details about how to find these beaches see our Phuket Beach Guide below.)
Banana Beach
This beautiful beach is in the northern half of Phuket between Bang Tao Beach and Nai Thon Beach. It is a lovely two-hundred meter strip of sand, studded with rocks in the middle and ringed with trees. It is a good swimming beach and there is some great snorkeling. There is no accommodation and just a single beach restaurant with a handful of sun loungers at the southern end.
There are usually only a handful of visitors at this beach. The majority of them arrive by longtail boat from other beaches but in fact, you can see the beach from the coast road above and there is a trail down.
Pansea Beach
Right at the northern end of Bang Tao Beach is beautiful and peaceful Pansea Beach. There are two up-market resorts here yet the location retains its refreshing tranquility. Just offshore is Kala Island (or Kata Island depending who you believe) which shelters the shallow bay from waves so it is always calm. The waters are too shallow for swimming and when the tide is out you can walk to the island. It is a great beach for paddling and ideal for children to play. There are no refreshments here so it is a good idea to bring a picnic.
Pon Beach
This secluded little beach is in the headland north of Patong. The locals know it as Nai Yair Beach. It is amazing how few people find this beach considering it is located so close to the hordes at Patong. There is nothing here but a couple of rural shacks and a few grazing cows. It is a sandy beach but not good for swimming due to the rocky seabed. There is some good snorkeling.
There are usually a couple of locals renting sun loungers and selling refreshments. They can also provide you with a small barbecue to cook your own. There may be a small charge for crossing the private land to reach the beach.
Paradise Beach
In the headland south of Patong, there are two beautiful beaches that remain relatively unspoiled. They are not as undiscovered as the other beaches we mention on this list but still a break from the heaving masses at Patong. The first is Paradise Beach. Right at the tip of the headland, you can reach it by road (track) or boat.
It is a beautiful beach with overhanging trees. There is no accommodation but there is a restaurant and there are plenty of sun loungers. The beach is not the best for bathing due to the rocky seabed close to shore but there is some excellent snorkeling. There are usually plenty of people around but still it is surprising how many people in Patong do not know this beach is here.
Freedom Beach
You can only reach this stunning beach by boat. It is in the headland south of Patong all the way around and back towards the Karon Beach side. Still it is well worth the boat ride with fantastic bathing and snorkeling.
There are a couple of restaurants and plenty of sun loungers under the trees. The locals take great care of the beach and it is always pristine. Plenty of people do make this a day trip from Patong but the beach is never crowded and again it is surprising how many people in Patong do not know this beach is here.
Nui Beach
This beach is most known for how difficult it is to reach by land. Located between Kata and Nai Harn, the only way to reach it by land is down a two-kilometer dirt track that is almost impossible to traverse in a car. You can just about do it on a motorbike but it is better to walk or let one of the locals take you down on their ATV for a small fee.
It is also known as the most expensive beach in Phuket because you have to cross private land to reach it and they charge 250 baht for the privilege. This fee does get you a sun lounger and drink. When you do arrive, it is a beautiful secluded spot with good swimming and snorkeling. There is a rustic restaurant overlooking the beach but no accommodation. It is never crowded.
Ao Sane Beach
This beach is in the headland at the north end of Nai Harn Beach. You need to go through Le Meridian Phuket Yacht Club's car park to reach it but they do not stop you. There is a restaurant here and some budget bungalows by the beach. There are usually a few people around but it is never busy.
It is actually a series of three small beaches split by little rocky headlands. None of them is good for swimming due to rocks and corals close to shore. There is some excellent snorkeling.
Laemka Beach
This little beach is at the southern end of Phuket between Rawai and Friendship Beach. It is not signposted and a little difficult to find but a beautiful spot. The Evason Resort and a small bungalow resort are nearby but still the beach remains quiet. It is one of the few southern beaches where you can have a swim and there are nice views out to the southern islands.
Ao Yon Beach
Nestled deep into Cape Panwa is Ao Yon Beach. This is the best beach on the southern side of Phuket. Although it is well developed with residential property, there are no hotels or restaurants by this beach. It is home to Phuket Yacht Club and there are always plenty of boats moored in the bay. It is a beautiful stretch of sand and a good bathing beach. It is usually very quiet and a real getaway.
Phuket's Secret Beaches
By James Spellman
The author has lived in Phuket, Thailand for seven years. If you want to learn more about the beautiful island of Phuket then visit Phuket Travel Guide and Articles where you will find more articles and visitor information.
Patong And Karon Beach, The Hearts Of Phuket
Thailand, Siam, The land of smiles, situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, with a highly inspiring culture and something for everyone has made it a very appreciated tourist attraction for decades. From Bangkok with its rich heritage of ancient architecture merged with today's traffic jams and skyscrapers to the green paradise-like tropical islands in the south and the rolling hills and fertile valleys of the north, Thailand will be the most exciting and magical adventure which you'll never forget.
Located 862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand's largest island, which is often dubbed as the pearl of the Andaman, or the pearl of the south. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South's wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.
Patong Beach is the most developed, most vibrant, most visited beach of Phuket that never fails to impress visitors. Located approximately 15 kilometers from the city, the beach has a wide range of accommodations and shopping arcades, and provides magnificent leisure activities and energetic night-time entertainment. It is a picture perfect postcard view of a 3-kilometer long white sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, lazing, and enjoying challenging water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing snorkeling, sailing, and parasailing. On the hills behind Patong you will find Phuket villa rentals which rank amongst the best in the world. The rich and famous from all of the world come here to enjoy the stunning beaches and sample the vibrant nightlight which Patong is famous for.
Also popular is Karon beach, located south of Patong Beach, Hat Karon is a curving beach that lies beautifully in the sun with small sand dunes, casuarinas and palm trees. The crescent bay is the beach's signature that drawing travelers attention. From May to October, the beach may be affected by serious undertows, as the bay open. Watch out for those warning flags before going swimming or surfing at the southern end of the beach.
During the high season, the beach is ideal for relaxation, swimming or sunbathing. A wide range of accommodations, from top-end to budget and mid-range, are available. Other facilities such as nightclubs, restaurants and other evening entertainment are located along the beachfront road. Again, luxury Phuket villas are dotted along this beautiful stretch of coast, offering great accessibility to Phukets attractions.
Thailand constantly is winning awards for its tourism infrastructure, recently The Swedish travel publication, Travel News, recently presented the annual Grand Travel Award - the equivalent of the travel and tourism industry's 'Oscars' - for the fifteenth consecutive year.
Thailand ranked first in the "World's Best Tourist Country" category, making this the fifth consecutive year that Thailand has won the Swedish Grand Travel Award. The other top ten travel destinations deemed to be popular with Swedish travelers include South Africa, the United States, Italy, China, Greece, Denmark, Spain, France and Croatia. Other awards include Asia's very own award-winning luxury travel and lifestyle magazine, DestinAsian, awarding Bangkok with 'Best Leisure DestinAsian City' and The Oriental Bangkok won the DestinAsian 'Best Hotel, Bangkok' award.
From Bangkok, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to luxury villas for rent. Stunning locations are within hours of the capitol making weekend breaks very popular these days, High flying professionals can fly in from Hong Kong and be relaxing beside their private pool a their Thailand villa in no time, and enjoying the Thai pace of life.
Patong And Karon Beach, The Hearts Of Phuket
By Dan Wallace
Visit Phuket ,Place interestest
Phuket is certainly one of the most beautiful places you can spend your holiday season at. With its amazing beaches and resorts that are located near to them, Phuket immediately is one of the places that people consider touring. Aside from its refreshing sands and clear blue waters, Phuket has other things to offer. Visitors may not always want to be in their hotels or at the beach; they need other entertainment as well. Phuket has a great deal for visitors to explore when they are not at the beach or in their rooms. There are many amazing sites that this place has to offer such as the brilliant waterfalls and museums too. Things like the waterfalls reinforce the beauty that Phuket is blessed with while the museums tell us about the rich heritage that Phuket has.
Ton Sai Water fall:
This waterfall, located East of Talang is known to pour out great amounts of water during the rainy season. Along with this water, the scenic beauty, composed of trees and pools, creates one of Phuket’s fantastic landscapes. Near to this amazing beauty is the park headquarters accompanied by a small restaurant. Eating out here is a nice experience because you can get a clear view of the waterfall and its surrounding areas. Since it rains in July and the months after that, July onwards is perhaps the best time to see the waterfall in full swing.
Bang Pae Water fall:
This water fall, located at Talang, is also called the site of the Gibbon Fund. The reason why this is called the site of the Gibbon Fund is because of the efforts that authorities have made in order to return gibbons to their habitat, Bang Pae. This waterfall provides an ideal place for gibbons to survive naturally, as it has plenty of foliage and shady areas.
Khao Rang:
This is an ideal hill, located in Phuket town, which provides locals and tourists with a nice view of the Phuket Town, the southern island, and part of the offshore islands. Around this amazing area, there are also quite a few restaurants. These provide you with brilliant views of the city. In addition to this, nearby there is a health park, and an ideal landscape of grass for picnickers. Around this area, there is also a bronze statue of Phraya Ratsada Nupradit. This statue is of the Governor of Phuket at the time of King Rama 5th’s reign.
Phuket Aquarium:
This Aquarium, located at Panwa Cape, is another place well worth visiting. In total, this aquarium has more than a hundred different species of fish. Most of these are from the waters near Phuket.
Phuket Port:
This is another interesting place to see at Phuket because it reveals how busy Phuket’s port is and how many people use it for trade and travel. If you want to see a variety of fishing vessels and other commercial boats you should be at the port at around 6.30 pm.
Thalang National Museum:
At Talang in Phuket this is an important place to visit because it reveals the history of this wonderful place. As an example, some of the items on display tell one about the well known Battle of Thalang that featured two important heroines. Like many other places open to tourists, this museum is open from around 8.30 in the morning till about 4.00 pm
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Prachuap Khiri Khan
The provincial capital is a fishing port with a superb location beside beautiful curving bays and amongst steep mountain outcrops. About 100 kilometres to the north of Prachuap Khiri Khan is Hua Hin, Thailands first beach resort which is renowned for golf and spa. Between Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan are Pran Buri with many boutique resorts and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park with soaring peaks, numerous caves and exotic bird life.
Hua Hin
281 kilometers south of Bangkok, Hua Hin, which literally means stone head in Thai, is the oldest beach resort of the country and is still very popular. Clean white sand, crystal clear water and a tranquil atmosphere has continued to attract tourists in search of peaceful and relaxing holidays.
The town was originally known as Ban Samoe Rieng, or Ban Laem Hin (Stony Point Village). The construction of a railway station in the city as part of the Southern Railroad in the reign of King Rama VI resulted in making Hua Hin stand out from many quite fishing villages. In addition, the construction of a Summer Palace of King Rama VII totally transformed the village into a high-society resort town for royalty. Even today, the Royal Family continues to reside at the Palace for part of the year.
Hua Hins consequence came with the opening of the Railway Hotel (known today as the Sofitel Central Hotel), an elegant Victorian-style resort hotel, and also the countrys first standard golf course. A cluster of royal and high-society residences gradually became more visible resulting in the transformation of the whole village into the first seaside resort of the country, where visitors could enjoy swimming, fishing, and golfing in the countrys first standard golf course.
Today, Hua Hin is a well-established beach destination with word-class facilities coupled with a true sense of Thai hospitality. Despite its expansive growth and development as a luxurious destination, the splendor of Hua Hin remains intact. Remaining content in itself, Thailands oldest seaside resort has never sought international recognition. It has continued to provide a peaceful and relaxed sanctuary in a picturesque environment that comes with a true sense of historical identity.
General Information
281 kilometers south of Bangkok, Hua Hin, which literally means “stone head” in Thai, is the oldest beach resort of the country and is still very popular. Clean white sand, crystal clear water and a tranquil atmosphere has continued to attract tourists in search of peaceful and relaxing holidays.
The town was originally known as Ban Samoe Rieng, or Ban Laem Hin (Stony Point Village). The construction of a railway station in the city as part of the Southern Railroad in the reign of King Rama VI resulted in making Hua Hin stand out from many quite fishing villages. In addition, the construction of a Summer Palace of King Rama VII totally transformed the village into a high-society resort town for royalty. Even today, the Royal Family continues to reside at the Palace for part of the year.
Hua Hin’s consequence came with the opening of the Railway Hotel (known today as the Sofitel Central Hotel), an elegant Victorian-style resort hotel, and also the country’s first standard golf course. A cluster of royal and high-society residences gradually became more visible resulting in the transformation of the whole village into the first seaside resort of the country, where visitors could enjoy swimming, fishing, and golfing in the country’s first standard golf course.
Today, Hua Hin is a well-established beach destination with word-class facilities coupled with a true sense of Thai hospitality. Despite its expansive growth and development as a luxurious destination, the splendor of Hua Hin remains intact. Remaining content in itself, Thailand’s oldest seaside resort has never sought international recognition. It has continued to provide a peaceful and relaxed sanctuary in a picturesque environment that comes with a true sense of historical identity.
How to get there
By car
Drive along Highway No. 35 (Thon Buri-Pak Tho) passing Samut Sakhon and Samut Songkhram Provinces and then take Highway No. 4 to Hua Hin Total distance is 123 kilometers. Alternatively, it is possible to travel via Nakhon Pathom and Ratchaburi Provinces.
By Air
Bangkok Airways operates flights from Bangkok to Hua Hin four times a week, and also from Hua Hin to Ko Samui. In addition, daily flights to Phuket are available. Call 032 522305 for more details.
By Bus
Buses from Bangkoks Southern Bus Terminal cost 110 bahts for 1st class (air-conditioned), 85 bahts for 2nd class (air-conditioned) and 61 bahts (ordinary). The trip takes about 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Various agencies on Khao San Road in Bangkok operate minivans to Hua Hin for 150 bahts per person. The bus leaves for Bangkok from a station next to Siripetchkasem Hotel. In addition, there are air-conditioned buses leaving for Chumpon Province (125 bahts, 4 hours), Surat Thani Province (210 bahts, 7hours), Phuket Province (305 bahts, 10 hours) and Krabi Province (280 bahts, 9 hours)
By Train
The trip takes about 3-3/4 hours from Bangkok; 1st class fare is 202 bahts (rapid and express only), 2nd class is 102 bahts (rapid and express only) and 3rd class is 44 bahts. Call 1690 for more details.
Getting Around
Local buses/songthaews from Hua Hin to the Hat (beach) of Khao Takiap, Khao Tam and Suan Son cost 7-10 bahts / person. These buses run from around 6 a.m. until 5.50 p.m.
Buses to Pranburi are 10 bahts and leave from the same area of Chomsin Road.
Samlors may cost 40 bahts / trip in to town.
Motorcycles and bicycles can be rented from a couple of places on Damnoen Kasem Road near the Jed Pee Nong Hotel. Motorcycle rates are from 150 bahts to 200 bahts per day for 100cc and 250 bahts to 300 bahts for 125cc. Occasionally larger bikes - 400 to 750cc - are available for 500 bahts to 600 bahts a day. Bicycles are 30 bahts to 70 bahts per day.
At the fishing pier visitors can charter boats to Ko Singtoh for 800 bahts a day. On Hat Takiap it is possible to get cheaper fares for 700 bahts.
Local Products
Fabric
Batik cloth is an interesting souvenir that can easily be found in shops around the town. Souvenir shops can be found in the town of Hua Hin, mostly on Naret Damri Road, Decha Nuchit Road, Chomsin Road, Damnoen Kasem Road, and the nearby areas. Some best buys include the printed cotton and silk fabric called Khommaphat.
Chonburi Attractions
Khao Sam Muk
Khao Sam Muk is a low hillock situated between Ang Sila and Bang Saen along the road facing the seashore. A habitat of scores of wild monkeys, the hill-top affords a panoramic view of the Bang Saen beach. At the foot of the hill are Thai and Chinese shrines highly respected by visitors. Legend has it that the cliff-top was where two lovers jumped to their death because of parental objection.
Nong Mon Market
On Sukhumvit Road near the entrance road to Bang Saen is the widely popular Nong Mon Market .It offers a vast range of local products but mostly foodstuffs, both fresh and preserved. Among its well-known buys are different types of dried seafoods, Khao Lam or gluttonous rice baked in bamboo, Ho Mok or spicy steamed fish cakes, Hoi Cho or deep fried shrimp cakes, sweetened banana and taro chips, sweetened fruit preserves as well as rattan and bamboo basketware from Phanat Nikhom.
Phra Phutthasihing Shrine
Phra Phutthasihing Shrine Situated on Wachiraprakan Road about 500 metres from the city hall. The shrine houses a replica of the Phra Phutthasihing cast in pure silver. An extremely beautiful icon, it is highly revered by townpeople.
The Marine Scientific Institute of the Burapha University
The Marine Scientific Institute of the Burapha University Situated in the Burapha University at Bang Saen. It is a modern aquarium with realistic underwater environment. There is a marine science museum which is open daily, except Mondays, from 8.30 a.m. until 4.30 p.m. Admission fee is 20 baht for adults and 10 baht for children. For more information, call 0 3839 1671-3.
Ang Sila
Ang Sila This is a seaside fishing village, some 5 kilometres from town. Most villagers are skilled in making implements from granite. Items made are mainly mortar and pestle widely used in Thai households in the olden times and figurines of animals such as lion, elephant and horse as decorative items.
Near the market are two European-style building in the reign of King Rama IV served as a convalescence home and a retreat for the royal household and foreign high-ranking officials. The buildings are considered the country's very first seaside residence.
Wat Yai Inthraram
Located on Chetchamnong Road in town, Wat Yai Inthraram is an old temple built since the times of Ayutthaya with Ayutthaya-style architectural influence. This is evident from the Ubosot (ordination hall)and Vihan (image hall) with their distinctive Gunwale Curve base, are from the carved wooden door panels at the Mondop (square building with a pyramidal roof) over the Holy Footprints.
The Ubosot itself has been renovated during the reign of King Rama III using glass-ware to adorn the gables and windows. Within the Ubosot are murals covering the entire four walls which have been continuous restored over the years. In front of the temple stands a statue of King Taksin the Great. It is said that the king used to stop here on the way to set up his base in Chanthaburi during the Fall of Ayutthaya in 1767.
Alangkarn Theatre
Located on Km. 155, Sukhumvit Road, Chomthian, Pattaya. Alangkarn
provides fantastic entertainment by showing the unique concept of being “Thai” to foreigners. Instead of presenting a traditional Thai performance where easily found anywhere, a new concept was applied by using a modern style of dance combined with multi-dimension coloured laser, tighting and real surround sound system. The entire project includes Theatre, Cultural Rostrum and Restaurant.
Bang Saen
A well-known holiday beach, Bang Saen is only 14 kilometres from the provincial town. From Sukhumvit Road, take a right turn at Km. 104 and proceed on for another 3 kilometres to get there. Bang Saen is widely popular with Thai holiday-makers who happily romp along the long beach and partake in the tasty food available. Weekends are particularly crowded while it is relatively quiet during weekdays. Fronting the beach are hotels, bungalows, foodshops as well as recreational gears and bicycles for rent.
Getting There: Bus services are available from Bangkok’s Ekkamai Bus Terminal throughout the day. There are also local “Song Thaeo” transports serving Chon Buri town-Nong Mon Market-Bang Saen.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Charoen Thani Princess Hotel, Khon Kaen
The rooms and service offer a welcome return
The hotel offers 320 spacious guest rooms and suite, which are finely appointed and boast international standard amenities. The service is international in quality, efficient and reflects the cTheteous charm of the area.
The facilities help you unwind or engage
For your leisure moments, there is a fully equipped Fitness Club and swimming pool. For night time entertainment, there is the Internet Bar, Zolid Discotheque, Showtime Karaoke Hall, 147 Snooker Centre and Klangmuang Café.
For superior dining experience, enjoy authentic Chinese dishes couretesy of the Tycoon Chinese Restaurant or savThe sumptuous international cuisine at Graceland Coffee Shop. There are also full banqueting facilities plus a Business Centre to serve all your needs.
Amphoe Khanom
Khanom (Thai: ขนอม) is the northernmost district (Amphoe) of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, southern Thailand.
Geography
The district is located in the north of the province. To the west is Surat Thani Province, while to the north and east is the Gulf of Thailand. Neighboring districts are (from the south clockwise) Sichon of Nakhon Si Thammarat and Don Sak of Surat Thani.
Most of the coast line of district will be protected as part of the Hat Khanom - Mu Ko Thale Tai National Park, which is currently in process of creation. The coast of the district consists of a series of beaches nestled among the limestone and shale mountains of northern Nakhon Si Thammarat mountain range. Nai Plao Beach is the most popular of these beaches. Several caves are found in the hills, the most famous one is Khao Wang Thong cave. The major hills within the districts are Khao Luang (814 m), Khao Phlao and Khao Dat Fa (732 m) at the southeastern boundary to Sichon, and Khao Chai Son (535 m) adjacent Khanom town at the Khanom Bay, the mouth of Khlong Khanom.
The main road is Highway 401, which passes through the southwestern part of the district. Route 4014 connects the district center which that highway, while 4142 connects the center with Don Sak.
History
Back in 1365 a first town (mueang) named Tranom (ตระนอม) was established, which was a subordinate of Nakhon Si Thammarat. During the thesaphiban administrative reforms of the early 20th century it became a tambon within the Sichon district.[1] On March 1 1939 it was made a minor district (King Amphoe), consisting of the two tambon Khanom and Thong Nian.. The minor district was upgraded to a full district on December 11 1959.
The third tambon Khuan Thong was created on December 25 1963 with three muban from Thong Nian and two from Khanom.
The sanitary district (sukhaphiban) Khanom was established on December 28 1945, which was officially gazetteered on January 28 1957. On May 25 1999 it was converted to a township (thesaban tambon), as all the sanitary districts were upgraded to a municipality.
Wat Kradangnga is the oldest Buddhist temple of the district, dating back to the Ayutthaya era.
Education
There are two high schools - Khanom Phitthaya High School and Thong Nian Khana Phi Ban High School - and a campus of the Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Info About Khanom
Khanom is a little corner of true paradise located 25 km southeast of Don Sak .. where the car ferry departs for Koh Samui.
series of beaches nestled among the limestone and shale mountains of Northern Nakhon Si Thammarat province offer the lover of quiet beauty a great destination.
And beaches are not Khanom's sole attractions.
The primary attractions might be the area's simplicity. No go-go bars, no discos. And no touts, hawkers or hookers. You can ride a bicycle around Khanom and the locals will smile and wave.
The area has two beautiful caves, 5 waterfalls and borders the north end of Khao Luang National Park which is also a great destination.
And Khanom has sea golf...Yes ... sea golf. From April until July, low tides drain one entire bay for most of the day. Some of the locals decided the sandy bottom made a fine temporary golf course. There is even a tournament that has been held for the past several years.
Khanom is a friendly and thriving community which relies on a large fishing fleet, rubber and agriculture. Tourism is significant but is mostly Thai and not overdone.
PS Fishing Sport - Offshore sport fishing in the Marine National park can be charted from Khanom. Typical for 2 day - 1 night charter that can accommodate 6 - 8 anglers will cost Bt 13,000 to Bt 15,000. Contact Tammachat Muangrod - 075 528301 Mobile 081 0906988
Accommodations:
Note - asking prices at accommodations are usually inflated by the owners. Negotiate discounts of 20 - 40%
Khanom Golden Beach Hotel - a 4 star self contained resort just minutes from town. Deluxe rooms and suites starting at Bt 1,250. tel 075 326690 Fax 075 529225.
Supar Royal Beach Hotel and Bungalows - The 3 star hotel is across the road from the beach while the bungalows are on Naiplao Beach - Air con, hot water and cable TV. Rooms and bungalows from Bt 850 to Bt 2,500 (5 room bungalow). Tel 075 52852 Fax 075 528553
Tancoo Resort - Bungalows on Korklao Beach. Fan rooms - Bt 400, Air Con rooms Bt 500 to 800. They have a large land area and will allow camping (own tent) at Bt 50. Tel 075 528362, Mobile 09 9722125
Khanom Hill Resort - Newly build sea view bungalows starting from 1,950 Baht per night for 2 persons. For reservation you can call 0819 563 101.
Alongot Resort - 40 Air Con bungalows on Korklao Beach. Bt 700 to Bt 2,500. Tel 075 529119
Tipmontri Resort - 8 bungalows on Nai Pred Beach. Fan rooms - Bt 500, Air con Bt 700. Tel 075 528147
GB Resort - Bungalows on Nai Plao Beach. Fan rooms - Bt 400, Air con - Bt 700. Tel 075 529253
Nai Plao Bay Resort - Bungalows on Nai Plao Beach. Internet, TV lounge, on a quiet road. Fan rooms - Bt 300, Air Con with and without hot water - Bt 500 - 700. Tel 075 529422, Fax 075 529425
Getting There
Get to Surat Thani or Nakorn Si Thammarat by Air, Bus or Train. (Khanom is almost centered between the 2 cities) At the bus station, check for the shuttle bus to Khanom (Bt 60). The shuttle will drop you at the appropriate resort.
Khanom was formerly known as Muang Tranom.This town was founded in the reign of King U-thong, 800 years ago.It was a main center for navigation, sea-trade and Buddhist cultural arts.
The name of the town was later known as Panom, then Khao Nom and finally Khanom.
In the reign of King Rama the Fifth, Khanom became a village under the jurisdiction of Ta-sa-la District.
In 1959 it was upgraded to district level under the jurisdiction of Nakhon Si Thammarat province.
Visitors slowly getting discovered Khanom. It is still a sleepy fishing village with rubber and coconut as the main sources of revenue.
Native fishermen can still be seen around the area in their small colorful fishing boats. The local catch is served up in hotel and resort restaurants specializing in dozens of tempting choices.
Conveniently accessible, Khanom is 45 minutes from Nakhon Si Thammarat or Surat Thani by car.
The flights to Nakhon Si Thammarat and Surat Thani are serviced by regular flights from Bangkok International Airport and take just over an hour.
Khanom is located on the northeast coast-line of Nakhon Si Thammarat province, a short ferry crossing to Koh Samui Island.
Khanom is renowned for its un-spoilt natural beauty, with the white sandy beach of Nadan, lined with
picturesque coconut trees and lapped by clear blue water.
Phatthalung is an ancient city in southern Thailand.
Phatthalung is an ancient city in southern Thailand. It is a land of mountains. In town is Khao Ok Thalu, which is clearly visible from afar. Phatthalung is regarded as the birthplace of the shadow play and the Nora dance. From ancient times to the present, Phatthalung has been closely linked to Songkhla Province, particularly in terms of geography, history and migratory settlements through many ages. During the Srivijaya period (13th-14th Buddhist century), the Phatthalung community received Indian cultural influence in the way of Mahayana Buddhism. In the reign of King Ramathibodi I (U Thong) of Ayutthaya, Phatthalung became one of twelve royal cities. Later during the reign of King Rama I in the Rattanakosin period, the king had the Ministry of Defense oversee Phatthalung, upgraded it to secondary city status and moved it to the mouth of Pam River.
When there was an administration reform in the reign of King Rama V, Phatthalung prefecture came under Nakhon Si Thammarat prefecture until 1924, when King Rama VI relocated the city to Tambon Khuha Sawan where it has been ever since. Upon the abolition of the prefecture system in 1933, Phatthalung became a province outright.
Phatthalung city is situated on the west bank of Songkhla Lake, about 846 kilometres from Bangkok. It has an area of 3,424.473 square kilometres and is divided into 10 districts and 1 sub-district, as follows: Mueang Phatthalung, Khuan Khanun, Pak Phayun, Kong Ra, Tamot, Khao Chaison, Pa Bon, Bang Kaeo, Si Banphot, Pa Phayom, and the sub-district of Srinagarindra.
Boundary
North - Borders Chauat in Nakhon Si Thammarat and Ranot in Songkhla.
South - Borders Rattaphum and Khuan Niang in Songkhla and Khuan Kalong in Satun.
East - Borders Songkhla Lake, Ranot, Krasae Sin, Sathing Phra, and Singhanakhon in Songkhla.
West - Borders Nakhon Si Thammarat (Banthat) mountain range, Huai Yot, Mueang Trang, Na Yong, Yan Ta Khao, and Palian in Trang.
Phatthalung is an ancient city in southern Thailand. It is a land of mountains. In town is Khao Ok Thalu, which is clearly visible from afar. Phatthalung is regarded as the birthplace of the shadow play and the Nora dance. From ancient times to the present, Phatthalung has been closely linked to Songkhla Province, particularly in terms of geography, history and migratory settlements through many ages. During the Srivijaya period (13th-14th Buddhist century), the Phatthalung community received Indian cultural influence in the way of Mahayana Buddhism. In the reign of King Ramathibodi I (U Thong) of Ayutthaya, Phatthalung became one of twelve royal cities. Later during the reign of King Rama I in the Rattanakosin period, the king had the Ministry of Defense oversee Phatthalung, upgraded it to secondary city status and moved it to the mouth of Pam River.
When there was an administration reform in the reign of King Rama V, Phatthalung prefecture came under Nakhon Si Thammarat prefecture until 1924, when King Rama VI relocated the city to Tambon Khuha Sawan where it has been ever since. Upon the abolition of the prefecture system in 1933, Phatthalung became a province outright.
Phatthalung city is situated on the west bank of Songkhla Lake, about 846 kilometres from Bangkok. It has an area of 3,424.473 square kilometres and is divided into 10 districts and 1 sub-district, as follows: Mueang Phatthalung, Khuan Khanun, Pak Phayun, Kong Ra, Tamot, Khao Chaison, Pa Bon, Bang Kaeo, Si Banphot, Pa Phayom, and the sub-district of Srinagarindra.
General Information
Boundary
North – Borders Chauat in Nakhon Si Thammarat and Ranot in Songkhla.
South – Borders Rattaphum and Khuan Niang in Songkhla and Khuan Kalong in Satun.
East - Borders Songkhla Lake, Ranot, Krasae Sin, Sathing Phra, and Singhanakhon in Songkhla.
West - Borders Nakhon Si Thammarat (Banthat) mountain range, Huai Yot, Mueang Trang, Na Yong, Yan Ta Khao, and Palian in Trang.
How to get there
Car
From Bangkok, there are 3 ways. The first is via the Phetchakasem National Highway No. 4 to Chumphon (Phathom Phon junction) into Ranong, Phang-nga, Krabi, Trang, and Phatthalung. The total distance is 1,140 kilometres. The second route is to Chumphon and then onto Highway No. 41 (Asia) to Phatthalung, a total distance of around 846 kilometres. The third route is to Nakhon Si Thammarat via Chumphon and Surat Thani, then onto Highway No. 403 and Highway No. 41 to Phatthalung.
Bus
Transport Co. has daily Bangkok-Phatthalung services. For more information, please call 0 2435 1199, 0 2435 1200 or Phatthalung Bus Terminal, tel:0 7461 2070 or visit www.transport.co.th.
Rail
The southern line runs through Phatthalung town, Khuan Khanun, Khao Chaison, Pak Phayun, Pa Bon, and Bang Kaeo. Trains leave the Bangkok Railway Station (Hualamphong) daily at 12.25 p.m., 2.20 p.m., 2.45 p.m., 3.50 p.m. and 10.50 p.m. For more information, please call 1690, 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020, Phatthalung Railway Station tel: 0 7461 3106 or visit www.railway.co.th.
Air
Phatthalung does not have an airport but can be accessed via those in nearby provinces. Please call Thai Airways at 1566 (information) or tel: 0 2280 0060 (reservation), in Trang at tel: 0 7521 8066 or 0 7521 9923, in Nakhon Si Thammarat at tel: 0 7531 1158, 0 7534 2491 or 0 7534 3874, and in Hat Yai at tel: 0 7424 5851-2, 0 7424 3711, or 0 7423 3433.
Festivals
Phon Beating Festival
This is a famous festival of the province. This popular Buddhist tradition is held at the end of the Buddhist Lent when people have a Buddha image procession by land or water. Phatthalung normally has a land procession accompanied by drums to give the procession a good rhythm. When a procession from one temple passes another temple, the procession participants will challenge the temple people to come out and see who can beat drums to give the best rhythm. This tradition has evolved to become a grand festival of Phatthalung. It is held every October. Processions will go take Buddha images throughout Phatthalung city. The festival is held at Phatthalung Provincial Stadium and Saen Suk Lam Pam beach in Amphoe Mueang. Activities of the festival include drum competitions of temples in the province, dramatic arts, boat procession contest, folk plays, religious ceremonies, water sports on Lam Pam Lake such as boat races and water boxing, exhibitions, and arts and culture demonstrations of Phatthalung and nearby provinces like reed mat making and coconut shell products.
Thale Noi Bird Watching Festival
This festival was first held in 1998 as a special activity to mark the Amazing Thailand project and promote the most important tourist destination of Phatthalung. The festival consists of eco-tourism activities lasting 1 month (14 February-15 March) when there are plenty of birds and Thale Noi is at its most beautiful. The festival takes place in the Thale Noi Non-hunting area. Daily activities include boating on long-tailed boats to observe flora and fauna, local performances, agricultural produce for sale, demonstrations of native life, and an assortment of local products for sale.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Songkhla, one of Thailands important ports and coastal provinces
Songkhla, one of Thailands important ports and coastal provinces, is located 950 kilometers from Bangkok. Occupying an area of 7,393 square kilometers on the eastern side of the Malaysian Peninsula, the province is bordered by the States of Kedah (Sai Buri) and Perlis of Malaysia to the south and the Gulf of Thailand to the east. In addition, Songkhla borders on Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phatthalung Provinces to the north, Yala and Pattani Provinces to the south, and Satun and Phatthalung Provinces to the west.
An undeniably historic town endowed with ancient ruins, arts, and places of cultural importance, Songkhla, a melting pot of Thais, Chinese and Malays, charms visitors with its unique traditions, dialect, and folk entertainment. These characteristics are reflections of the provinces rich cultural heritage, which has been preserved and passed down from generations to generations.
Hat Yai, a district of Songkhla, is perhaps better known than the provincial capital itself. Hat Yai serves as a southern hub of communication, trading and transportation as well as a gateway to Malaysia and Singapore. In light of this, Hat Yai has gained importance as the driving force of economic growth in the southern region.
History of Songkhla
Songkhla, a medieval pirate stronghold, is a historic, albeit sleepy town with a thriving fishing community. Another Srivijaya outpost in Thailands southern region, Songkhla was initially named Sa-thing". Previously a port and a coastal trading post where Indian, Persian and Arabian merchants came to exchange their products, the place was named "Sing Lha" after the 2 lion-shape islands at the mouth of the citys lake. At present, these 2 islands are Koh Nu ( Rat Island) and Koh Maeo ( Cat Island). The old part of Songkhla is located at the present-day Amphoe Sathing Phra.
Todays Songkhla
Over the last few decades, Songkhla has been rapidly developed and is currently a unique attraction worth visiting. Blessed with natural resources such as fine beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and a tranquil lake, the province has an abundance of tourist attractions and an amazing range of seaside resort towns. Moreover, the old section of Songkhla still maintains its unique identity of ancient and historical flavors through local architecture and cuisine.
While Songkhla is noted as a fishing community set in a peaceful atmosphere, Hat Yai, on the other hand, serves as a transportation and communications hub of the south with links to various destinations in the neighboring provinces and Malaysia.
Despite being only 30 kilometers apart, Songkhla and Hat Yai have uniquely contrasting characteristics and are ideal places to visit.
Songkhla is administratively divided into 16 districts: Muang Songkhla, Ranot, Krasae Sin, Sathing Phra, Singhanakhon, Khuan Niang, Rattaphum, Bang Klam, Hat Yai, Na Mom, Chana, Thepha, Na Thawi, Saba Yoi, Sadao, and Khlong Hoi Khong.
General Information
Songkhla, one of Thailand’s important ports and coastal provinces, is located 950 kilometers from Bangkok. Occupying an area of 7,393 square kilometers on the eastern side of the Malaysian Peninsula, the province is bordered by the States of Kedah (Sai Buri) and Perlis of Malaysia to the south and the Gulf of Thailand to the east. In addition, Songkhla borders on Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phatthalung Provinces to the north, Yala and Pattani Provinces to the south, and Satun and Phatthalung Provinces to the west.
An undeniably historic town endowed with ancient ruins, arts, and places of cultural importance, Songkhla, a melting pot of Thais, Chinese and Malays, charms visitors with its unique traditions, dialect, and folk entertainment. These characteristics are reflections of the province’s rich cultural heritage, which has been preserved and passed down from generations to generations.
Hat Yai, a district of Songkhla, is perhaps better known than the provincial capital itself. Hat Yai serves as a southern hub of communication, trading and transportation as well as a gateway to Malaysia and Singapore. In light of this, Hat Yai has gained importance as the driving force of economic growth in the southern region.
History of Songkhla
Songkhla, a medieval pirate stronghold, is a historic, albeit sleepy town with a thriving fishing community. Another Srivijaya outpost in Thailand’s southern region, Songkhla was initially named “Sa-thing". Previously a port and a coastal trading post where Indian, Persian and Arabian merchants came to exchange their products, the place was named "Sing Lha" after the 2 lion-shape islands at the mouth of the citys lake. At present, these 2 islands are Koh Nu (Rat Island) and Koh Maeo (Cat Island). The old part of Songkhla is located at the present-day Amphoe Sathing Phra.
Today’s Songkhla
Over the last few decades, Songkhla has been rapidly developed and is currently a unique attraction worth visiting. Blessed with natural resources such as fine beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and a tranquil lake, the province has an abundance of tourist attractions and an amazing range of seaside resort towns. Moreover, the old section of Songkhla still maintains its unique identity of ancient and historical flavors through local architecture and cuisine.
While Songkhla is noted as a fishing community set in a peaceful atmosphere, Hat Yai, on the other hand, serves as a transportation and communications hub of the south with links to various destinations in the neighboring provinces and Malaysia.
Despite being only 30 kilometers apart, Songkhla and Hat Yai have uniquely contrasting characteristics and are ideal places to visit.
Songkhla is administratively divided into 16 districts: Mueang Songkhla, Ranot, Krasae Sin, Sathing Phra, Singhanakhon, Khuan Niang, Rattaphum, Bang Klam, Hat Yai, Na Mom, Chana, Thepha, Na Thawi, Saba Yoi, Sadao, and Khlong Hoi Khong.
How to get there
By Car
From Bangkok: take Highway 4 passing Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat,Trang and Phatthalung Provinces in order to reach Songkhla Province. The total distance is 950 kilometers.
By Bus
From Bangkok: There are daily buses from Bangkok to Songkhla and Hat Yai. The journey takes about 13 hours. For the current schedule and further information contact the Southern Bus Terminal at tel: 02 435 1199-200 or visit www.transport.co.th. For Hat Yai, call the Transport Co., Ltd. (Bo Kho So) at tel: 074 23 2789, 0 7423 2404, Piya Tour 0 7442 8972, Thai Doen Rot 0 7442 9525.
From Hat Yai
From Hat Yai Bus Terminal, there are buses to Bangkok and other provinces in the south. Buses depart from a small bus station located across the ferry station in the city. They include daily 2nd class buses that depart for Bangkok 4 times a day (437 bahts). There is also one VIP bus that runs directly to Bangkok departing at 4.45 p.m. with a fare of 870 bahts. In addition, first-class buses leave for Bangkok twice daily (562 bahts) in late afternoon and in the evening. In addition, there are also buses depart from the same terminal to Chumphon (245 bahts), Nakhon Si Thammarat (100 bahts) and Surat Thani (150 bahts).
Pho Thong Transportation Co., Ltd. (tel. 0 7431 1126) provides bus services from Songkhla to Hat Yai.
Minivans and share taxis normally leave from Ramwithi Road for Hat Yai at the rate of approximately 20-30 bahts/person.
Minivans depart from the southern part of Sisuda Road to Pattani and Yala at the rate of 70 bahts.
Ranot Transportation Co., Ltd. (tel. 0 7431 1523) operates buses from Songkhla to Nakhon Si Thammarat.
By Train
The State Railway of Thailand provides daily rapid and express train services from Bangkok to Hat Yai. The trains depart from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Railway Station at 12.25 p.m., 2.20 p.m., 2.45 p.m., 3.50 p.m. and 10.50 p.m. Travel time is about 17 hours. For further information call 1690, 0 2223 7020, 0 2223 7030 or Hat Yai Railway Station at 0 7424 3705, 0 7423 8005 or visit www.srt.motc.go.th.
By Air
Thai Airways International has several daily flights connecting Bangkok and Phuket with Hat Yai. For more information, contact their Bangkok office at tel. 1566, 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000, their Hat Yai office at tel. 0 7424 5851-2, or view their website at www.thaiairways.com.
Air Asia operates several daily flights on route Bangkok – Hat Yai. The flight time is 1.20 hours. Visit www.airasia.com to reserve your seat online, or simply call 02 5159999 for more information.
Orient Thai provides three daily flights connecting Bangkok and Hat Yai. The flight time is 1.25 hours. Call 1126 to make reservations or visit www.onetwo-go.com to make online reservations.
Nok Air operates three daily flights between Bangkok and Hat Yai. The flight time is 1.30 hours. Call 1318 for reservations or visit www.nokair.com to purchase an e-ticket.
Phuket Air offers a daily flight connecting Hat Yai and Phuket. The flight time is 1.25 hours. Call 02 679 8999 for reservations or visit www.phuketairlines.com for more information.
Getting around the city
Songthaews around the city would cost 10 bahts / trip. Motorcycle taxis around town cost between 10 bahts and 20 bahts (daytime). There are several guesthouses in town that provide bicycle and motorcycle rental services at the rate of approximately 100 bahts / day and 200 bahts / day respectively.
Festivals
Bull Fighting
Bull fighting is a traditionally popular sport among the people in the South. Unlike bull fighting in Spain where a matador fights with a bull, the bull fighting of the South features a bull fighting another bull. A pair of fighting bulls is led into the arena for each bout where spectators can cheer and place bets. During the fight, specially trained bulls lock horns until one decides to call it quits and runs away. Each bout normally takes between 15 to 30 minutes.
Dove Singing Contest
Cooing doves are popular among Southerners, particularly residents of the five Southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Satun and Songkhla. The most sought after birds are from breeding farms in Chana District, approximately 40 kilometers from Hat Yai District on Highway 408, where dove lovers from neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore flock to purchase the birds. Dove cooing competitions are held annually between January and July. Criteria used in judging the quality of doves sound is based on pitch, melody, volume, and continuity in its singing
