Rivers and canals have traditionally been the lifeline of Thai people since ancient times. Today, they present a fun and exciting way of seeing Bangkok rather than usual traffic-congested, chaotic channels normally presented to tourists.
Rivers (mae nam) and canals (klongs) were the main pathways for trade and travel in most of the country for centuries. The Thai way of life is serene by the banks of the Chao Phrya, which is dotted with beautiful architecture and temples.
When Bangkok became the Kingdom’s Capital in 1782 (which marks the beginning of the Rattanakosin era), canals crosscut and converged at various points across the city. Thus, the main reason why early Western merchants and diplomats dubbed Bangkok the “Venice of the East.”
Early Bangkok residents lived life by the banks of the Chao Phraya River or close to it as Chao Phrya literally means ‘Great King.’ Today, many foreigners opt to stay in apartments and hotels on the river, because of its calming force and interesting views. Touring the waterways will give you a glimpse of the city’s glorious past, especially if you take a peak at the Royal Barge Museum – where you can imagine how wonderful a royal entourage of more than 70 barges down the river would look like.
While Bangkok may be fast-flying towards technological development, the genuine charm of the waterways seem to provide an unruffled source of temperance. Perhaps the nature of the river is best reflected by the famous Thai smile and hospitable disposition.
Many boat services along the Chao Phrya connect various ports in Bangkok with northern provinces as well. River cruises are ample, with some of the best offering sumptuous lunches – look out for some of the more traditional barges such as those operated by the Peninsula and Shangri-La. Canal tours are also widely available around the busy pier of Ta Chang.
Once you’re in a long-tail boat (kind of like a Thai style racing boat for passengers that is popular for touring) or a classic, gracefully moving barge, you will witness magnificent temples and other historic buildings of interest. You will see the Royal Thai Navy Dockyard, the Thai Maritime Navigation Company, the Old Customs House, Wat Prayunrawong temple, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), the Grand Palace, Wat Rakhang Kositaram, and the Royal Boat House.
If you have got more time, a visit to the river island of Koh Kret is also a good choice. A shuttle boat leaves Wat Sanam Nua temple, which is a brisk walk from the Pak Kret Pier and runs from 6 am to 9 pm. Basically, within the island, a community of traditional potters lives and peddle their wares for over a century. Descendants of Mon ancestry, their forefathers who arrived in Bangkok from Burma. Spending their lives perfecting the art of terracotta ceramics, tourists are very welcome to purchase their products.
However, try to stay off the river during the evening rush hour as the waterways remain a popular method of travel for much of the city’s population, a clever way to avoid the infamous Bangkok traffic.
Travel Thailand Guide - Enjoy a Unique Trip of Bangkok Via Its Waterways
Author: Worldstepper
Good travel that travel thailand !
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Travel Thailand Guide - Enjoy a Unique Trip of Bangkok Via Its Waterways
Thailand Travel 10 Tips
1. Koh Chang – Don’t stop at only Koh Chang because Koh Mak, Koh Kood and Islands surrounding Koh Chang also have more beautiful beaches and water.
2. Chiang Mai – Try to find hotels outside of the city such as on Hangdong – Samoeng and Samoeng – Sankamphaeng routes because there are better views and hotels along the mentioned route are less expensive than the hotel in the city with the same standard. The true nature of northern Thailand can also be experienced.
3. Phuket – Don’t pay too much attention to sea-view rooms because the limitation in space. The sea could not be seen directly from rooms in most hotels. The tourist should pay more attention to the standard of the hotel and the distance from the beach.
4. Koh Samui – If you have limited fund, the best way to travel to Koh Samui is by speed boat from Lomprayah Catamaran Company. Lomprayah offers less expensive service than taxi for hire and service provided by the hotel directly. Nevertheless, if you have no problem with fund, you should hire a taxi because this would create job for the locals.
5. Andaman Sea – Trang Sea is as beautiful and interesting as nearby provinces such as Krabi. The prominent tourist spots in Andaman Sea are Koh Libong, Koh Hai, etc.
6. Krabi – Although Railay beach in on the mainland, you still have to travel by boat from Ao Nang beach because it is surrounded by mountain and cannot get to by land transportation.
7. Pattaya – North Pattaya beach and Central Pattaya beach have many facilities but the true nature can be found at Koh Lan, which is 7.5 kilometer from Pattaya. You can get there in 45 minutes by regular boat and 15 minutes by speedboat.
8. Hua Hin – Hua Hin is a popular beach that is close to Bangkok but that does not mean that it is the most beautiful. Not far from Hua Hin, Pranburi beach is much quieter and more suitable for relaxation but the transportation may not be as convenience as at Hua Hin.
9. Koh Samet – You should contact travel agency or the hotel in order to find out which pier to get on the boat. Some hotels provide their own service. Don’t trust strangers because you might end up higher price.
10. Bangkok – Jatujak market has products from all over the country e.g. cloths, decoration, house hold items, souvenir, food, pet, etc,
Good travel that travel thailand !
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Thailand Vacation Series - Phuket Attractions
Phuket more place of Thailand Vacation,Phuket is the Pearl of Andaman
Located approximately 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.
Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of the southern part of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, the province covers an area of approximately 543 square kilometers (excluding small islets). It is estimated that Phuket Province covers an area of approximately 590 square kilometers if its 39 other small islands are included. The islands total length, from north to south, is estimated at 48.7 kilometers and approximately 21.3 kilometers wide.
Phuket borders on Phang-nga Province to the north. The other 3 sides are encircled by the Andaman Sea the place where many of the best diving sites are located. The island is connected to Phang-nga Province by Sarasin Bridge and Thep Krasattri Bridge.
Staying on the island is easy, as there are only two seasons in a year - the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season of phuket is between September and October as they are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average temperatures ranges between 23?C and 33?C.
Phuket's topology is exceptional with 70 percent of its area covered with mountains which stretch from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains located in the central and eastern parts of the island. The island does not have any major rivers except for a total of 9 brooks and creeks.
Phuket is divided into 3 administrative counties namely Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Thalang and Amphoe Kathu.
Phuket has a lot more to offer its visitors other than its natural heritage sea, sand, sky, beach, forest, and world renowned diving sites. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell delighting travelers to the city, while Phuket-style hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition, accommodations ranging from world-class resorts to tropical-style bungalows have warmly catered to the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there is a lot more to sample than just Phuket's famous lobster. Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly unique destination.
Thailand Vacation Series - Phuket Attractions
by kai
Good travel that travel thailand !
Friday, July 11, 2008
Thailand Vacation Series - Pattaya Attractions
Thailand Vacation of Pattaya Attractions.
Chon Buri The Nearest Seaside Retreat
Chonburi, Bangkok's nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometers from Bangkok. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local colors, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. This is a popular resort among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly schedules as Chon Buri has something for everyone. In addition, Chon Buri is the center of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.
Pattaya - A Travelers Paradise
Pattaya is nestled along a picturesque bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. From a fishing village in the 1960's, Pattaya has emerged as the favorite Southeast Asian vacation center. A fascinating escape where tourists, holiday makers and vacationers from around the world unfold an incomparable array of possibilities to unwind during an exotic holiday beach vacation.
Unlike other beach resorts, where natural surroundings are used as magnets to attract tourists, Pattaya makes an all-out attempt to provide the best of everything. Here, everything means everything a tourist can imagine while on holiday: recreation, entertainment, sports, sightseeing and fun. To put it simply, Pattaya is a paradise for everyone, as it has a variety of attractions suitable for all types of visitors. This is the place where you can fill your day, from dusk to dawn, with endless activities, or you may choose to do nothing at all and relax.
The Past
Pattaya's name was originated from the march of Phraya Tak (later known as King Taksin the Great) and his followers from Ayutthaya to Chanthaburi just before the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the Burmese invaders in 1767.
When Phraya Tak's army arrived in the vicinity of what is Pattaya today, he encountered the troops of Nai Klom who tried to intercept him. When the two leaders met face to face, Nai Klom was awed by Phraya Tak's dignified manner and his army's strict discipline, thereby surrendering without a fight. The place where the two armies confronted each other was later called Thap Phraya, which means the Army of the Phraya. This was later changed to Phatthaya, which happens to mean the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the beginning of the rainy season. Today the spelling of the name has been simplified to Pattaya.
For centuries, Pattaya was a small fishing village almost cut off from the outside world. But a big change occurred on 29 April 1961 when the first group of about 100 American servicemen who would join the Vietnam War arrived in Pattaya for relaxation. Soon, sleepy Pattaya became Thailand's premier and most successful beach resort, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of pleasure-seeking visitors. A full range of accommodations from super deluxe hotels to bungalows and mini-pocket guesthouses replaced fishermens huts along the beach. Fishing vessels were adapted to become tourist boats and swimmers and sunbathers from various parts of the world frequented the quiet powdery golden beaches. Places of nighttime entertainment have also sprung up and are popular among international tourists.
The Present
Pattaya currently integrates the delights of a 1st class beach resort, city-like dining, shopping and night entertainment facilities with more than 300 assorted hotels, thousands of shops, restaurants and bars. In addition, there are an array of sports and recreational activities including beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, go-kart, gyms for working out, weight lifting and Thai-boxing gear. Pattaya offers a broad range of things to do. During the day, one may enjoy riding elephants or driving humble automatic mini-bikes, monstrous motorcycles, or even monster multicolored convertible Jeeps. Others go for shooting firearms, scuba diving and surfing, deep-sea fishing, speed boats, scooters, water-skiing, parasailing, or aerial sports such as gliding ultra-lights and flying motor-propelled gliders. On the other hand, at night, there are restaurants, bars, theaters, cabaret shows, night clubs, bowling halls, billiard & snooker clubs, discos, sauna & massage parlors, not to cite its absolutely incredible shopping which is available non-stop both day-and-night.
Pattaya Facts
This exotic beach resort welcomes approximately 5 million visitors a year. The friendly and hospitable Thai nature boosts its promotion, frequently bringing back the repeat visitors and constantly increasing the number of newcomers.
Pattaya city is located on the eastern coast of the country at latitude 13 N and longitude 101 E in the area of Chon Buri province. It is 147 kilometers from Bangkok and lies parallel to Sukhumvit Road on its east and the coastline on its west. Pattaya occupies an area of 208.1 sq. km. that is divided into 53.44 sq. kilometers of land and 154.66 sq. kilometers of islands and sea. Its coastline is 15 kilometers long.
Pattaya has a plain on the coast with some high mountains to the south. The area on the east slopes down towards the sea on the west.
Thailand Vacation Series - Pattaya Attractions
by kai
Good travel that travel thailand !
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Thailand Vacation Series - Samui
Ko Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 84 kilometers east of Surat Thani Province, or approximately 700 kilometers south of Bangkok. Known as the Coconut Island, Ko Samui is one of the most famous and popular attractions of Thailand. With an area of 247 square kilometers, Ko Samui is the third largest island of Thailand after Phuket and Ko Chang (of Trat Province). The topography of the island is that of a plain with a mountain range in the middle and 7 important streams. In addition, there is a 50-kilometer paved road that encircles the island. Moreover, the area of the island stretches to a group of 48 surrounding islets.
Despite the fast pace of development, Ko Samui has been able to maintain its charm its classical image of a tropical beach resort fringed by coconut trees. Travelers to the island can enjoy a mixed blessing of vibrant day and nightlife along side with tranquility which can easily be found across different parts of Ko Samui as the archipelago is a peaceful home for fishermen and a natural den for seagulls and other rare birds.
Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai are Ko Samuis most beautiful and most popular beaches. Both have a huge selection of accommodations suitable for every budget. Please note that room rates increase during the high season, from December to July, when Samui sparkles. The nightlife of each beach is different: Hat Chaweng is better for couples, women and families, while single men are drawn to the beer bar culture of Hat Lamai. These resorts, as well as Na Thon (Samui's main town), have communications, exchange and car/motorcycle hire facilities. Other beaches include Hat Choeng Mon, Hat Mae Nam in the north and Hat Na Thon, the island's major seafront settlement where shops, restaurants and tour agencies are concentrated.
Apart from its many lovely beaches and tranquil bays, Ko Samui is also noted for its high quality coconuts that grow densely everywhere. The best time to visit Ko Samui is from February to April when the sea is calm. The Southern dialect and the standard Thai language are spoken while English is widely understood in tourist areas.
From Surat Thani to Ko Samui
1.Express boat
1.1 An express ferry boat of Songserm Travel departs from Tha Thong Pier in Surat Thani at 8.00 a.m. and arrives at Na Thon Pier in Samui at 10.30 a.m. every day. For the return trip, the boat leaves Na Thon Pier at 2.00 p.m. and reaches Tha Thong at 4.30 p.m.
1.2 Express boats of Seatran Express operate three times a day between Ban Don and Ko Samui. Departure times are 7.00 a.m., 12.30 p.m. and 2.30 p.m. The trip takes two hours.
2. Ferry Boats of Seatran
Seatran Ferry, which can accommodate 60 cars and 400 passengers, operates several trips per day between Don Sak (Surat Thani) and Ko Samui, from 5.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. The trip takes about 1.30 hours.
3. Night ferry
A slow night ferry leaves Ban Don Pier nightly at 11 p.m. and reaches Na Thon Pier at Samui around 5 a.m. (6 hours). For the return trip, the boat leaves Na Thon Pier at 9.00 p.m. and arrives at Ban Don Pier at 4.00 a.m. (7 hours).
Getting to nearby Islands from Samui
1. Ko Pha-ngan
1.1 Na Thon Pier (Ko Samui) -- Thong Sala Pier (Ko Pha-ngan)
Songserm Travel Co. operates ferry boats and express boats between Na Thon Pier on Ko Samui and Thong Sala Pier on Ko Pha-ngan, four times a day. The trip takes about 45 minutes for express boats, and one hour for ordinary ferry boats.
1.2 Bo Phut (Ko Samui) -- Hat Rin (Ko Pha-ngan)
There is a ferry boat leaving Bo Phut for Ko Pha-ngan twice daily at 9.30 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. The return trips depart Hat Rin on Ko Pha-ngan at 10.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m.
2. Ang Thong Islands
Visitors can hire a boat on Ko Samui to Ang Thong. The charge depends on the boat size and number of passengers. The trip takes 1.30 hours. It is also possible to join a full-day excursion organized by tour operators in Ko Samui.
3. Ko Tao
Boat services for Ko Tao are available at Na Thon Pier of Ko Samui.
Ko Samui - Animal Farms and Shows
Phang Ka Snake Farm
at Tambon Taling Ngam, has daily shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 250 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-3247.
Samui Buffalo Village
At Tambon Na Mueang, has daily shows at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., 350 baht per person, Tel: 0-7741-8680.
Butterfly Garden and Honey Farm
In the south of the island, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 120 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-4020-21.
Monkey Training Center
At Tambon Bo Phut, has daily shows at 10.30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., 150 baht per person, Tel: 0-7724 -5140.
Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo
At Ao Laem Set, opens daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., 250 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-4017-8.
Crocodile Farm
Near Na Mueang Waterfall, daily shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 250 baht per person.
Buffalo fighting
This is an exciting bout that attracts a huge crowd, both local residents and tourists. Held monthly, it serves as a traditional festival on the island.
Monkey & Elephant Shows
At the show, it is actually possible to see how monkeys collect coconuts and present their other exceptional abilities. In addition, visitors will be impressed by the intelligence and loveliness of elephants that can perform many lovely tricks, or even play football.
On Ko Samui, the coconut island, the monkey is considered man's best friend. Local people have used monkeys to climb up and pick the ripe coconuts for centuries. At present, monkeys are not just good at picking coconuts, they are also good at entertaining.
Snake show
A stunning show that is not suitable for a people with heart diseases. The show offers a thrilling experience especially when the poisonous reptiles are skillfully caught by a handler with bare hands. Shows feature snakes indigenous to Ko Samui as well as centipedes, scorpion and cock fighting shows.
Samui Crocodile Farm
Siam crocodiles, Caimans, Saltwater crocodiles, snakes, lizards, monkeys and many others are gathered here for entertainment.
Samui Aquarium
Located at Laem Set Bay, the Aquarium features a wide variety of tropical fish and marine fauna.
Samui Go Kart
Looking for fast-paced action? Visit this site in Bophut, on the ring road opposite the Samui Euphoria Resort, and enjoy circling the track at over 100 kilometers. Call 077 425097 for more information.
Samui Golf & Country Club
Ko Samui offers an absolutely overwhelming experience for golfers. This par 72 course was jointly designed by Edward Theile and Pirapon Namartra. The challenge is its relentless, tumbling diversity and its degree of difficulty. The par-3s range from 155 to 214 yards, highlighted by the shortest (the audacious 6th, with a vertical drop and waterfall). The 10 par-4s are whimsical and attenuated and querulous and lengthy. The par-5s start at 458 and end at the signature 17th with 622 yards of downhill travel. The fairways are tilted and the greens are uniformly gyroscopic.
Samui Nightlife
Its never ending. Koh Samui offers spectacular evening entertainment for all ages. This includes traditional beach bars (popular with families), western-style pubs, which feature music, videos and satellite television, and free to enter nightclubs, which are more active after midnight and usually continue through the pre-dawn hours. Bars, cabarets shows and discos are mainly located in Chaweng and Lamai. Green Mango, Raggae Pub, Full Circle and Bauhaus are the main discotheques, some open until sunrise.
The most vibrant nightlife activities can be found around the beaches of Chaweng and Lamai. Resorts also provide magnificent entertainment such as dinner cabarets, where professional singers and dancers display their talents in stylish surroundings.
Samui Paintball
A non-water based activity worth trying, Samui paintball offers a unique opportunity to take a shot at families and friends without having to go to jail.
Scuba Diving
There are many scuba diving schools located around Ko Samui, offering a wide range of dive facilities. There are also tours available for snorkeling, fishing and excursions. The area of Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Pha-ngan and Angthong Marine National Park are very famous dive places.
Spa experience at Samui
Samui now boasts many excellent, world-class spas set in a truly Samui ambience. From aromatic floral baths, steaming and body masque with Thai herbs, to face and body massage, reflexology, and other well-being therapy, Samui has everything that caters to your needs rejuvenating, pampering and relaxing in utmost luxury and comfort.
Good travel that travel thailand !
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Muay Thai the Unbeatable Martial Art
Muay thai is the form of martial art which began its journey from the Kingdom of Thailand more than 2000 years ago. Now it is popularly known as 'thai boxing' all over the world. Muaythai is the art of fighting without the use of any weapon.
Thai boxing can be differentiated from the general form of boxing, as it includes the use of hands, elbow, feet and the knee. It's not only an art of fighting; it is also a form of science, with discipline, knowledge and respect.
Thai boxing is an art which needs to be practiced with proper training. It not only keeps you body in good form and proper shape; it improves your blood circulation and builds up your nervous system. Regular practice enhances the flexibility of the body, which means better use of the bones, muscles, and the tendons in bending and moving the body.
It is very important to be brave in order to practice the Art of Muaythai. One must accept the danger and pain involved in this form of fighting, bravely without any fear. Practicing Muay thai is not only getting physical training but also includes the learning of moral values and disciplines in life. It teaches to be modest, to be confident, to always speak the truth and avoid committing sins in life.
In this form of martial art it is trained to be aware of the weak and the fatal points of the opponent's body. A fighter can easily defeat the other in less time if he has good knowledge of his weak positions.
One of the unique features in Thai boxing is the music, which is known as the "Sarama". It is played before and during the combat session. This Sarama music or the wind music is played before the fight with a ceremony, which the fighter performs to pay his respect and gratitude towards those who insisted and helped him to become a boxer. He thinks of his teacher who trained him with all his knowledge and efforts and of his parents who gave him life. This music helps the boxer to raise his spirits and confidence and make him ready for the real physical combat. You can find more information about music at Muay Thai Fighting Website.
Muay thai has given born to many great fighters who are now known all over the world. Samart Payakaroon is one of the best among legendry muay thai heroes; he held the title of "Baby Face Tiger". He accomplished both Muay thai and World Super Bantamweight championship in his carrier. One of the most promising muay thai boxer is Buakaw Por Pramuk. He won the title of K-1 Max World Champion two times till now. First in 2004 at the age of 22 and he reclaimed this title again in 2006. The K-1 Grand Prix is a famous competition which is held in Japan to determine the single best standup fighter in the world. In Atlanta Olympics 1996, Somrak Khamsing is the first Thai boxer who won a gold medal in feather weight class. He is well known, from then for his swiftness and his reflexes. Another Muay thai hero in K-1 world competition Kaoklai Kaennorsing once held the title of K-1 grand prix championship in 2004. He is talented at quick maneuver and effective hit. He was called the giant killer after he beat tougher competitor by his technique.
Muay Thai the Unbeatable Martial Art.
by : Jirasak Phuriphanvichai
Good travel that travel thailand !
Monday, July 7, 2008
Thai Long Drum: the Refinement of Thai Musical Instruments
Long drum can be made out of the whole hardwood trunk. It has merely one head. The widest part of the drum is at the head. The upper part narrows down to the thinner neck and to the open end. Another piece of wood is placed at the end so as to make a wide edge. Long drum has an average drumhead of 20 cm in diameter as well as a body of 75 cm in length.
In the distant past, Thai people unquestionably knew how to invent the musical instruments themselves or to imitate the prototypes of other and then acclimatize them to their own exploitation. When they still resided in their original country in southern China, it appears, in accordance with the chronicles of time, that the Thai were a people who were always fond of music and singing and that the Thai had a high musical knack. It can be evident that the very foremost Thai musical instruments were given names in relation to the sound the made. Subsequently, the Thai discovered more sophisticated methods of creating musical instruments.
The account of Thai musical practice is interlinked with numerous regional influences. The Thai musical instruments are handcrafted by skillful craftsmen living in various parts of the country. The musical tradition of Thailand has been kept alive through centuries. The country has an intriguing range of drums due to a rich history of classical and folk music, diverse population and prime location in the heart of Southeast Asia where it brought in impression from the neighboring countries. One of the most frequently utilized drums in Thailand is Thai Long Drum of “Klong Yao” which can disclose the refinement of Thai musical instruments.
Drums are regarded as caliber products based on years of experience and the complexity involved in every step of production. Locally available pinewood is the principal raw material for the body of the drum owing to the flexible texture that makes carving simple. Nevertheless, different types of drums require different kinds of hides. Buffalo hide is ideal for a variety of drums as it is thicker than cowhide ensuring a lasting quality for intense handlings. Ropes and nails are used to clasp the leather to the drum. Devised for specific purposes, drums come in assorted shapes and sizes from timpani to long drums, one-sided drums or dance drums.
Long drum is a Thai drum relatively alike to the African djembe in its playing style. However, the neck of the drum is long and slender with a trumpet-like base. Long drum is characterized by its tremendous length. It is most prevalent in Thailand, Africa and Native American tradition. Long drum can be made out of the whole hardwood trunk. It has merely one head. The widest part of the drum is at the head. The upper part narrows down to the thinner neck and to the open end. Another piece of wood is placed at the end so as to make a wide edge. Long drum has an average drumhead of 20 cm in diameter as well as a body of 75 cm in length.
The body of the drum is conventionally adorned with a piece of cloth and tied up around the upper part of the body. Another circle of cloth hangs down slackly from the rim of the head. A long strip is also fastened to the head and then united to the narrow part of the drum so that it can be slung from the shoulders. The drum is played chiefly with the hands but some adept players are able to play with their elbows, knees and even their heels! The original from of long drum is believed to come from Burma which was adapted by Thai soldiers at the onset of the Bangkok period when the Thai and the Burmese were engaged in their last war.
Thai Long Drum: the Refinement of Thai Musical Instruments
by : Peter
Good travel that travel thailand !
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Basic Muay Thai Techniques
The Martial art of Muay Thai has its own unique techniques. It consists of the use of nine weapons. The head, fists, elbow, knee and feet are collectively known as Na-wa arwud. But today the use of head is no longer allowed in the Muay Thai fights. In Muay Thai small amount of grappling is used (The Clinch) for both defending and attacking purpose. Muay Thai techniques are divided into two groups: Mae Mai or Major techniques and Luk mai or Minor techniques. All techniques in Muay Thai use the entire body movement, rotating the hip partially or fully with every punch, kick and block. This is the reason which sets Muay Thai apart from other forms of martial art.
Punching Techniques: ( Chok)
Straight punch = Mud Dhrong
Hook = Mud Wjang San
Swing = Mud Wjang Yao
Spinning Back fist = Mud Wjang Glab
Upper Cut = Mud Seub
Cobra Punch = Kra-Dod Chok
Over Head Punch = Mud Khouk
The judges in Muay Thai fights scores less to the fighters for the punching techniques as they are generally less effective and powerful than kicks or knee strikes. Body punching is also used less in Muay Thai as it exposes the fighters head to the strikes of knee or elbow from the opponent.
Elbow Techniques: (Dhee Sork)
Elbow Slash = Sork Dhee
Horizontal Elbow = Sork Dhad
Upper Cut Elbow = Sork Ngad
Forward elbow Thrust = Sork Poonk
Reverse Horizontal elbow = Sork wjang Glab
Spinning Elbow = Sork Glab
Elbow Chop = Sork Sap
Double Elbow Chop = Sork Glab Koo
Mid Air Elbow Strike = Gra-Dode Sork
The elbow is used in seven ways in Muay Thai, horizontally, diagonal upwards, diagonal downwards, uppercut, downward, backward spinning and flying. The elbow is also used from the sides as a finishing move or to cut the opponents' eyebrow so that he bleeds. Bleeding blocks the vision and also affects the fighter's performance.
Kicking Techniques: (Dhe)
Straight Kick = Dhe Dhrong
Nutcracker Kick = Dhe Paa Maak
Round house Kick = Dhe Dhad
Diagonal Kick = Dhe Chivang
Half-spin, half knee kick = Dhe Krueng Kheng Krueng Kao
Spinning hill Kick = Dhe Glab Lang
Down Round house kick = Dhe Kod
Axe Hill Kick = Dhe Khouk
Jump kick = Gra-Dode Dhe
Step Up Kick = Yiep Dhe
The most common kick in Muay Thai are Foot Jab (Theep) and the Kick (Tae), upward in the shape of a triangle targeting the ribs and arms (Chieng). This angle kick in Muay Thai has been adopted by many other forms of martial arts as it is very effective. The round house kick is almost similar to the kicks used in karate or taekwondo. Many Muay Thai fighters also uses a counter rotation of his arms to enhance the power of his kick. A Muay Thai fighter is always taught to hit with his shin. Although the shin is very sensitive for an untrained person the shin is the strongest part of the leg than the foot as it contains fine bones and is much weaker.
Knee Techniques: (Dhe kao)
Straight Knee Strike = Kao Dhrong
Diagonal Knee Strike = Kao Chijang
Curving Knee Strike = Kao Kouwng
Horizontal Knee Strike = Kao Dhad
Knee Slap = Kao Dhob
Knee Bomb = Kao Youwn
Flying Knee Strike = Kao Loi
Step up Knee Strike = Kao Yiep
Other Knee Techniques: - Kao Dode: (Jumping Knee Strike) Jump on one leg and strike with that legs knee. - Kao Loi: (Flying Knee Strike) Take step(s), jump forward and off one leg and strike with that legs knee. - Kao Tone: (Straight Knee Strike) Thrusts it forward. Not upward unless the fighter is holding opponents head down in a clinch and intend to knee upward into the face. - Kao Noi: (Small knee Strike) Hitting the inside upper thigh (above the knee)of the opponent while clinching.
Foot Thrust Techniques: (Theep)
Straight Foot Thrust = Teep Dhrong
Sideways Foot Thrust = Teep Kang
Reverse Foot Thrust = Teep Glab Lang
Slapping Foot Thrust = Teep Dhob
Jumping Foot Thrust = Gra-Dode Teep
It is also known as 'Push Kicks' and is commonly used in Muay Thai. It is mainly used to attack opponents' attack, and get the opponent off balance.
Fighters in The Arm Clinch Position:
There is a difference in Muay Thai from the western Boxing. During the arm clinch position the fighters are separate in western boxing; however they are not in Muay Thai. There are several clinching techniques in Muay Thai including:
- Arm Clinch
- Side Clinch
- Low Clinch and
- Swan Neck.
Defensive techniques against attack:
It as categorized into six groups:
1. Blocking: Defenders hard block to stop a strike in its path, so preventing it reaching its target.
2. Redirection: Defenders soft parries to change the directions of a strike so that it misses its target.
3. Avoidance: Moving a body part swiftly out of the way or range of a strike, making the position of the opponent for a counter strike.
4. Evasion: Moving the body out of the way or range of a strike.
5. Disruption: Pre-aiming an attack.
6. Anticipation: Defender catching a strike or countering it before it strike.
Good travel that travel thailand !
Saturday, July 5, 2008
How to Express Pain in Thai
How To Express Pain In Thai
Learning how to express "pain" in
Thai can be quite useful when you
need to tell someone which part
of your body is in pain (i.e. to a
doctor when you're in the clinic
or hospital).
It can be quite handy too when you need
to create an excuse or reason to
explain that you have certain "pain"
(e.g. headache).
Well, there are basically two Thai words that
describe pain in Thai. The first one
is the Thai verb, poo-what which means
pain, ache, sore or hurt. and the second one
is the Thai verb Jep
which also means pain, sore or hurt.
Using poo-what to express pain
Let's learn how to use the poo-what
to express which part of your
body hurt or ache. By the way,
please remember to practice the writing
Thai script below on a piece of paper. :-)
Using poo-what is really
simple. Just put it right after a pronoun
and place the body part (noun) right
after the Thai verb poo-what.
Here are some simple examples on how
to use the Thai verb poo-what to
express pain:
Chan poo-what huaa.
I (feminine) have headache.
Pom poo-what khaaen.
My arm hurts.
Pom poo-what dtaa
My eye hurts.
Notice the sentence structure in the 1st example.
Huaa actually means head. Literally translated
the sentence would mean "Me pain head" which
also means "My head hurts".
The 2nd and 3rd examples are quite simple.
I merely just changed the last word (body part) so that
you can understand how easy it is to express
pain using poo-what.
Simple, right? Okay, now it's your turn
to create a simple Thai sentence to express
that your nose hurt. You can use the
Thai word ja muuk which means nose.
Pom poo-what ja_muuk
My nose hurts.
Using Jep to express pain
Okay, now it's time to create longer
and more interesting Thai sentence to express
pain in Thai. Let's use the Thai verb jeb :
Pom jeb.
I'm hurt
Mai_pen_rai... niu kong pom jep nit nawwy thao_nan khrap.
Never mind... My fingers only hurt a little.
Khao dtohk jaak ban_dai lae khaa thuuk jep.
He fell from the roof and hurt his leg.
In the 2nd example, you will notice the famous
Thai phrase mai pen rai. In Thailand, you would often hear
Thai people saying "mai pen rai" which means
"It's okay, no problem. Don't worry, be happy. :-)
Niu means fingers and nit nawwy means a little.
Nit is actually a Thai adjective meaning tiny
or very small while naawy is just a word
that is used to soften the meaning
of a sentence. Thao nan means only.
In the 3rd example, dtohk means to fall and
jaak means from. Ban dai means roof in Thai.
Lae is a Thai conjunction which means "and".
Khaa means leg in Thai.
Thuu is actually a Thai verb or particle
that reflects passive voice. What does
that mean? Well, let's take a look
at the following example to get a better idea:
Mieow kong pom thuuk kha_mooy pai laeow.
My cat has been stolen.
Kha mooy means thief or burglar as a Thai noun
and "to steal, to pilfer or to buglarize" if it's a Thai verb.
Good travel that travel thailand !
Friday, July 4, 2008
International Walking Street-pattaya
There is no doubt Pattaya, just a ten minute ride from Jomtien is famous world over for its night life with many attractions to suit all tastes and pockets.
Thai restaurants, nightclubs and massage
International and Thai restaurants, humble street stalls, nightclubs, discotheques, beer and go-go bars are plentiful. Thai body and foot massage is a relaxing option to the hectic lifestyle from around 250 baht an hour it's not to be missed. Shopping Malls like Mikes Mall and The Royal Plaza along the beach road offer an amazing array of products from ice cream to designer clothing and bags at very sensible prices, open until 11pm as well as live markets giving you plentiful opportunity to empty your credit card accounts. First second and third roads are filled with shops and carts selling their wares of every description and amazing prices - be prepared to barter, its custom, light hearted and fun except for the fixed price shops of course.
Had enough shopping then take a stroll along the floodlit beaches of Pattaya or Jomtien and cool those feet off in the warm sea or take a cool shower and get ready for the night ahead.
Thailand evening and night activities
The evenings activities start at around 8pm, the heats turned up around 10pm, restaurants and bars are open earlier and Pattaya and Jomtien go on until dawn. The center of activity in Pattaya is undoubtedly "Walking Street" just a ten minute ride from Jomtien by baht bus or taxi, everyone who is in the area will visit the famous Walking Street for a trip or two - some hardly ever leave! Walking Street is a neon extravaganza with bars and restaurants, the seafood restaurants perched on stilts out into the bay. After 6.30pm Walking Street is pedestrianised but as the night goes on its very busy.
Pattaya entertainment
Pattaya provides more live entertainment than you could ever visit in a single trip, outside Walking Street you will find Hollywood disco on South Pattaya Road, lady boy shows (a must) at Tiffany's and Alcazar, entertaining and unbelievably brilliant. Pattayaland is a place to go for the gays with many western eateries in the area just a few hundred meters from Walking Street. The mall at the southern end of beach road includes, curiously, a Ripley's Believe it or Not, an entertainment center with roller-coaster simulator, cinema all of which are open till late.
Jomtien has many bars, restaurants and go go bars even English fish and chips so there is no need to visit Pattaya center as many facilities are available locally, however, a visit to Jomtien/Pattaya without a trip to walking street would be a hugely missed experience.
International Walking Street-pattaya
by greg34
Good travel that travel thailand !
