Northern Rangsit Golf Club is the golf course with 18 holes located in the northern of Don Muang International Airport about 35 km. to Saraburi. The area of the course is generally flat and the course layout is mainly based on the combination of water hazards. Another element for the score making is a wind which attacks players sometimes during the game.
The course is very flat, but has four of the longest par five holes in the country, each playing over 550 yards from the back tees. From the white tees the course plays fairly short, but accuracy is required on account of the many water hazards. An unusual feature at this club is that it has two "play off'' holes.
Clubhouse facilities are good and the course is within easy reach of Bangkok.
Address 19/2 Moo 7 Phaholyothin Rd. KM 58 Tambol Wangnoi Amphur Wangnoi Ayutthaya 13170
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Northern Rangsit Golf Club In Thailand
FUTURE CITY is gateway of Bangkok
FUTURE CITY is situated on one of the best location of Bangkok, as the gateway of Bangkok to 56 provinces in the Central, Northern and North – Eastern part of Thailand.
FUTURE CITY - EAST is the place that Future Park Rangsit Shopping Mall, a mega mall, Homepro, Major Cineplex, Index Living Mall, German Country Place taken place.
FUTURE CITY - WEST is the place that Rangsit Fresh Market, Rangsit Apartment, Toyota Showroom, and Honda Showroom taken place.
4.5 Million people are in catchment area.
In 20 km. radius area :
79,257 new houses increased during 2003 - 2006.
22 educational institutes with 170,000 students.
30 government offices with 195,000 officers.
In the near future, 25 government offices with 60,000 officers will move in, and more than 300,000 people per day will be served in those government offices.
History of Muaythai
1. MUAYTHAI and the Thai people
Thais are classified in the Mongolian tribe. The distinguished physical features include small body with average height of 5' 3". They are usually strong, light-weighted, and agile. They have light brown complexion, black hair, little body hair and beard. The face is round with black eyes and plump cheek. Since Thailand is in the tropical zone close to the equator, most of the people live on the riverside and use boats as vehicles. The Thai people wear little light clothes and do not wear hat and shoes. They are able to use fist, foot, knee, and elbow efficiently. These bodily weapons are used as the self-defensive weapons to fight with the enemies to protect the country.
Muaythai is the cultural heritage descended from the ancestors for centuries. In the past, Thailand had numerous wars with its neighbors. Thai males had to practice Muaythai and other weapons to defend the country. Muaythai has been developed to have its own identity, with graceful but ferocious style. It was practiced for self-defense, health, and profession.
2. Muaythai in Sukhothai Period
Sukhothai Period dated back to 140 years ago from 1238 - 1408. From the stone inscription, it was obviously inscribed that Sukhothai made several wars with the neighboring countries. So soldiers had to be trained to fight with weapons like sword, lance, including bodily weapons at close quarters.
After the wars, young men in that era liked practicing Muaythai to strengthen their fighting skill and prepare themselves for military service. It was a tradition for a Thai young man to study Muaythai in a well-known boxing camp; for example, Samoh Khon Camp in Lopburi. Muaythai was also trained in the courtyard of a temple by monk. In the old days, the trainees were taught by fetching buckets of water, pounding paddy, cutting firewood, swimming, swinging on creepers and vines to gain physical strength and patience before starting practicing Muaythai skills. These skills included the punching of folded bathing loincloth hanging on a branch of tree, kicking banana trees, fighting and clinching with sparring partners. The practice would end with swimming to clean the body and relax the muscle before going to sleep. Muaythai masters did not teach only skills but ethics to their students as well.
In the Sukhothai Period, Muaythai was considered as a course taught to the king. It was described in the legend that King Si Inthrathit, the first king of the Sukhothai dynasty, with his far-sighted vision, dispatched his second son, King Ram Khamhaeng at the age of 13, to practice Muaythai in Samoh Khon Camp in Lopburi. He wished this son to be a brave king in the future. From 1275-1317, King Ram Khamhaeng composed a military fighting manual in which Muaythai was mentioned. King Li Thai, who was interested in all fields of studies and was famous as a great scholar, learned Muaythai in parallel with other weapons
3.MuayThai In Ayutthaya Period
In the Ayutthaya Period 417 years ago, from 1350-1767, Thailand was from time to time in wars with Burma and Cambodia. The young men of this period had to learn fighting skills with weapons and Muaythai, which was taught to either aristocrats and general public. Budhai Sawan Camp was very famous at that time. The camp taught the students to fight with rattan sword and bare hands, which was known as Muaythai. In this period, the temple was still the center of knowledge where general subjects and fighting skills were taught.
King Naresuan the Great (1590-1604)
He picked up a group of young men to teach Muaythai. They were trained to be brave, confident, and skillful in using all weapons efficiently. They were recruited to be soldiers in a special task force set up by King Naresuan to be the Guerilla squad. This squad played an important role in proclaiming independence from Burma in 1584.
King Narai the Great (1604-1690)
Under the reign of King Narai, the country was peaceful and prosperous. He was greatly interested in promoting and encouraging sports, especially Muaythai that was so popular among the public that it became a profession in this period. There emerged considerable boxing camps. The fight was generally made on ground with a rope encircled in a square. Cotton yarn made hardened by dipping into starch or tar would be wrapped around the fist. The boxers wore headband and armbands during the fight. The arrangement of bout was mainly based on the will of both fighters regardless of the weight and age. The rules and regulation at that time was so simple; both boxers had to fight until any of them yielded. Muaythai was usually arranged in festivals and the bet was inevitable.
King Saeu or King Tiger (1697-1709)
King Tiger was very fond of Muaythai. Once he went in disguise to Had Kruad District with 4 pages, he got into the boxing ring to fight with 3 skillful boxers whom he defeated. He also trained his own sons to acquire skills in Muaythai, swords, and wrestling.
In early Ayutthaya Period, the ruling kings set up a royal boxing unit. This unit was responsible for selecting young men who were good at fighting with Muaythai to box in front of the king. The best fighter would be appointed a royal guard to protect the king while he was in the palace or went to other places. This guard would be responsible for training the king's children and soldiers.
Late Ayutthaya Period
After Ayutthaya fell to Burma for the second time in 1767, there emerged 2 renown boxers as follows:
1. Mr. Khanom Tom was taken as a hostage in Burma. In 1774, the Burmese king arranged a festival to commemorate the great chedi in Rangkung. In this festival, he wished to have a skillful Thai boxer to fight in his presence on March 17, 1774. Mr. Khanom Tom could defeat 10 Burmese boxers without a break. This bout was regarded as the first dissemination of Muaythai abroad. Mr. Khanom Tom was therefore considered the father of Muaythai and March 17 the Muaythai day.
2. Phraya Pichai Dabhak (1741-1782) or Joi was born in Pichai of Utraradit Province. He had profound knowledge in Muaythai. He started learning Muaythai from Master Thieng and used Muaythai to earn his living to the age of 16 when he began learning sword and Chinese martial art. With his distinguished skill, he was selected by Phraya Tak to serve the country as a soldier and became the Governor of Pichai during the reign of King Taksin. When Pichai was attacked by Burmese troop, he fought violently until his both swords were broken.
4. Muaythai during Thonburi Era
During the Thonburi Era from 1767-1781, the country was under the restoration after proclaiming independence. The practice of Muaythai in this period was actually intended for military purpose.
There were numerous good boxers. The boxing competitions were often arranged between boxers from 2 different regions or masters. The rule and regulation have not prescribed yet. The bout would stop when a boxer surrendered. The ring was simply made on the ground of a temple. The boxers themselves still used wrapped cotton yarn and wore headband and armbands
5. Muaythai during Rattanakosin Era
During 86 years of the early Rattanakosin Era from King Rama I to King Rama IV (1782-1868), Muaythai was still regarded as national sport. The competition was usually held in festivals. Rules and regulations were initially defined. The boxers were required to fight in rounds, each of which lasted until a bored coconut shell sink to the bottom of a container. Each bout had no specific number of rounds. The boxers would fight until one of them yielded.
King Rama I (1782-1809)
King Rama I had practiced Muaythai since childhood. He was interested in going out to view Muaythai competitions. In 1788, two French merchants who traveled to different parts of the world by a ship to trade with the local people arrived in Bangkok. They were good boxers and bet on boxing everywhere they went. In Bangkok, they wanted to bet on a fight with Thai boxer. King Rama I heard of the news and asked his brother who was in charge of the royal boxing unit to arrange a boxing match between the French and a Thai boxer. A temporary ring was constructed on the courtyard behind Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). The ring was made in square of 20 m. long, encircled with a rope around 4 poles at each corner. In front of the ring was a royal pavilion. The fight started and continued until a fighter would surrender.
The French boxer was bigger and when the fight began, he tried to get approach and clinch with the Thai boxer. Muan Phlan, the Thai boxer, tried to defend by delivering thrust kicks, punches and stepping aside. Time lapsed and the Westerner was in disadvantage. The brother of the French boxer couldn't stand and helped his younger brother by blocking the way of Muan Phlan. Such action provoked the anger of the crowd and drove the situation into the mutiny in the ring. Many Westerners were injured. King Rama I sent a nursing team to take care of them. When they recovered, they left Thailand for good.
King Rama II (1809-1824)
At his early childhood, he practiced Muaythai from Wat Bang Hwa Yai (Rakhang Khositaram Temple). The master who taught Muaythai to him is Phra Wanarat (Thong Yu), who was once a general. At the age of 16, he moved into the old palace and learned more Muaythai skills from his father's royal guard. He commanded the construction of boxing stadium at the courtyard behind his palace and the Thai-boxing style, which was previously called "Ram Mut Ram Muay," was changed to Muaythai since then.
King Rama III (1824-1851)
He studied Muaythai from a royal guard. In this period, the people in provincial area liked learning Muaythai and sword altogether. Therefore, Thaow Suranaree or Lady Mo, the wife of Korat Governor, could lead the people to defeat the invading troop of King Anuwong, a Loatian king.
King Rama IV (1851-1868)
While he was a little prince, he dressed in boxing attire and played sword show in the festival held to commemorate the ordination hall of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. In this period, Thailand had been influenced by the Western civilization. However, Muaythai was still the national sport.
King Rama V (1868-1910)
He practiced Muaythai from the royal boxing camp taught by Master Luang Phol Yothanuyok. He was very fond of Muaythai and liked viewing Muaythai competitions held in front of the royal pavilion. He asked the governors in different provinces to dispatch skillful boxers to compete in the competitions. The best boxers would be recruited as his royal guards under the royal boxing unit.
He was greatly aware of the value of Muaythai as the national sport. He therefore commanded all provinces hold Muaythai competitions so as to promote the sport. He also provided royal boxing masters to different provinces to teach the skills to the public, hold and control the boxing competitions held in the royal ceremonies, royal hair cutting ceremony, cremation, royal guest reception. In the cremation of Krom Khun Marupong Siripat, the winning boxers from the provincial area were granted a rank called "Muan". Those boxers included
1. Muan Muay Mee Chue or Mr. Plong Chamnongthong from Chaiya, who was famous for his distinguished style of throwing the opponent to the ground.
2. Muan Muay Maen Mut or Mr. Kling from Lopburi, who was smart in using attacking and defending techniques including excellent straight punches.
3. Muan Changud Cherng Chok or Mr. Daeng Thaiprasert from Korat (Nakorn Rajsima), who had a famous cast punch, called "buffalo-casting punch".
Picture: Boxing competition held in front of the royal pavilion in the cremation of Krom Khun Marupong Siripat.
In 1887, King Rama V commanded the establishment of the Ministry of Education and Muaythai was taught as a subject in the Physical Education School and Royal Military Academy.
This period was known as the Golden Age of Muaythai.
King Rama VI (1910-1925)
From 1914-1918, Thailand sent a military troop to join the Allied in the First World War in Marseilles, France. The troop was led by General Thephasadin. He was greatly interested in Muaythai so he held a Muaythai competition to show the sport to the Allied soldiers and the people there. This competition was the first time Muaythai was held in Europe.
In 1921, after the first World War, Suan Kuhlab Stadium was constructed on the ground of Suan Kuhlab School. It was the first permanent boxing stadium where the boxing programs were regularly arranged. In the initial stage, the viewers had to sit or stand around the square ring of 26 m. long. The viewers were not allowed to get into the ring line made on ground. The boxer wore headband, armbands, shorts and groin guard. The referee in the ring was in the Thai-style attire.
The most interesting bout was between Muan Muay Maen Mut, a skillful boxer in the reign of King Rama V, aged 50, and Mr. Phong Prabsabot, a young man, aged 22 from Korat. For Phong, this bout meant the revenge for his father, who was once defeated by Muan Muay Maen Mut just in 2 minutes. Muan Muay Maen Mut was this time knocked to he ground by Phong's powerful cast punch. The cheering crowd was excited with Phong's victory and turned the ring into chaos. This event caused trouble to the staff who took care of the order. So after the competition, a ring was constructed on an elevated platform, 4 feet higher from the ground. The ring floor was covered with mat and the ring was encircled by a rope of 1 inch. There was an entrance for boxers and reference at a corner. The referee was dressed like a scout. There were 11 rounds of 3 minutes and the time of each round was kept by 2 watches. The gong was used to give signal for fighting. The fighters had to take a break when ordered by the referee. They were not allowed to bite or hit after the referee broke the fight. If a boxer fell to the ring floor, the other had to wait at a corner.
Picture: Boxing competitions held in Suan Kuhlab Stadium
The public were interested in viewing the competition and asked for following programs. King Rama VI commanded Phraya Nonthisensurenthorapakdi, the chief of scout unit, to hold competitions with a view to raising money for purchasing guns. The officers based in provinces were requested to dispatch local boxers to compete in this stadium. Most of the boxers who came from upcountry would stay at the club of the scout unit in Suan Dusit. After comparing the weight and set the matches, the correspondence would take a picture of the rivals of each match to print in newspaper. This was the first time that Muaythai was printed for public attention.
The match that broke the record of selling tickets was between Mr. Young Hanthalae and Mr. Ji Chang (How Jong Kun), a Chinese boxer. The match ended with the loss of the latter who was hit on the face and kicked down to the floor. He lied still and let the referee count to 10.
King Rama VII (1925-1934)
From 1923-1929, Lt. Gen. Phraya Thephasadin built a boxing stadium called "Lak Muang Tha Chang Stadium" at the now national theatre. The ring was encircled by big ropes, each of which was stretched from pole to pole with no space left for entrance. The ropes were stretched in such a fashion to prevent the boxers from falling down onto the ground outside the ring.
In 1929, the government issued an instruction requiring the boxers to wear gloves during the fight. This instruction was issued because there was a case in which Mr. Pae Liangprasert, a boxer from Uttraradit, hit Mr. Jia Khaekhamen with his fists wrapped with cotton yarn to death.
On November 9, 1929, Muaythai competition was first held in the amusement park of Suan Lumpini together with other entertainment. Skillful boxers nationwide were selected to fight in the competition, which have been regularly held on Saturday. The ring was constructed to meet the international standard. The ring was encircled by 3 ropes. The floor was covered with canvass. There were red and blue corners. There were 2 judges giving the scores and 1 referee in the ring. The bell was used to give the signal of the start and the end of each round. On December 30, 1929, a New Year competition was arranged. The major match was between Samarn Dilokwilas and Dej Phoopinyo whereas the other match was Air Mange VS Sudan Niwasawat. In this competition, the iron groin guard was introduced and used for the first time by Air Muangdee.
King Rama VIII (1934-1946)
1935-1941: There was a well-known millionaire who constructed a boxing stadium called Suan Chao Set Stadium. The stadium was operated by the army and the revenue earned from selling tickets was used to support the army affairs for years. The stadium was closed when the second World War broke out and the Japanese troop invaded Thailand on December 8, 1941.
1942-1944: The second World War nearly came to an end. However, there were still patrol planes flying day and night. Muaythai contests were held in theatres during daytime since the public still wanted to view.
On December 23, 1945, Rajdamnoen Stadium was formally opened with Mr. Pramote Peungsunthorn as the chief, Phraya Chindarak as the ring management director, and Master Chit Ampholsin as Promoter. The boxing program was held regularly on Sundays from 16.00-17.00 h. The rules and regulations applied in this stadium were adopted from the department of Physical Education (1937). There were 5 rounds of 3 minutes with two-minute break. In the initial stage, the boxer was weighed in stone like horse. Two years later, the scale was changed into kilogram and into pond in 1948. The category of boxers was classified by weight, ranging from Flyweight (not exceeding 112 lbs.), Bantamweight (not exceeding 118 lbs.), etc. In 1951, the construction of permanent roof of Rajdamneon Stadium was started.
On September 3, 1953, Pol. Col. Pichai Kulawanich, assistant chief of Rajdamnoen Stadium issued a regulation for the boxer to wear shorts in the color corresponding to his own corner and for the seconds to wear proper clothes.
On December 8, 1953, Lumpini Stadium was formally opened with Erb Saengrit as the chief and Khet Sriyaphai as the manager.
In 1955, Rajdamnoen Stadium Co., Ltd. published the rules and regulations of professional Muaythai for the first time. They were based on those prepared by the Department of Physical Education.
In 1959, Mr. Nokuji, a Japanese businessman, took a team of Japanese boxers to fight with Muaythai boxers. He took the pictures from the competition, studied the game and changed the name of the game to Kick Boxing.
Mr. Kaito Kenkuji, a master of Japanese martial art, was very impressed after viewing Muaythai at Rajdamnoen Stadium. He put Muaythai as a course taught in primary school of Japan.
In 1960, Rajdamnoen Stadium Co., Ltd. added more rules, requiring the boxers to be 18 - 38 years old.
In 1961, Rajdamnoen Stadium held a Championship in which the champion would be given the royal trophy.
The list of champions is as follows:
November 13, 1961: Namsak Yontrakij
May 8, 1963: Dejrit Itthi-Anuchit
February 25, 1965: Sompong Charoenmuang
December 14, 1969: Chalermsak Ploenchit
November 6, 1971: Sornnakrob Kiatwayupak
January 17, 1979: Phadetsuk Phitsanurachan
On October 29, 1964, Chalerm Chiewsakul,
the Chairman of Rajdamnoen Stadium Co., Ltd. issued additional rules concerning the contention for championship, defending, and ranking of boxers of Rajdamnoen Stadium for the first time.
In 1965, Rajdamnoen Stadium Co., Ltd. revised the rules and regulations of professional Muaythai and called "Rajdamnoen Professional Muaythai Rules and Regulations 1965".
In December, 1984, the top ten boxers were ranked as follows:
1. Phol Phrapradaeng
2. Suk Phrasarthinphimai
3. Chuchai Phrakhanchai
4. Prayuth Udomsak
5. Adul Srisothorn
6. Apidej Sithiran
7. Wichannoi Pornthawee
8. Put Lohlek
9. Phudphadnoi Worawuth
10. Deiselnoi Ch. Thanasukarn
Amateur Muaythai
At present, Muaythai is popular, not only at the professional level but at the amateur level as well. In 1971, Sawaeng Siripile of Srinakarinwiroj University (Physical Education) gave a comment that Muaythai should be generally competed at the amateur level and accepted in the Olympic Games. The amateur Muaythai should set its focus on the wit and style of applying Mauythai techniques to make scores. He therefore prepared Amateur Mauythai Rules and Regulations and held a campus competition among physical education colleges. From then on, amateur Muaythai has gained more popularity.
In 1973, the first competition among physical education colleges nationwide was held.
In 1984, Amateur Muaythai Association of Thailand was established by Mr. Boonyuen Suwanthada and his team.
In 1985, the competition was first held among the students under the Department of Physical Education. Yuttana Wongbandue and Chan Paiboon introduced the application of protective guards to prevent the competitors from being injured. These guards were still used in the Amateur Muaythai Championship at all levels.
In 1992, Muaythai was first included as a game in the 25th national sport held in Khonkhaen.
In 1993, International Federation of Muaythai Amateur was set up.
In 1994, Amateur Muaythai Association of Thailand held the first International Training Program for Muaythai instructors and a meeting among the judges and referees from all over the country was arranged by Yuttana Wongbandue with a view to updating the amateur Muaythai rules and regulations to meet the international standard. The revised rules and regulations were translated into English by Professor Phansri Wichakornkul.
In 1995, International Federation of Muaythai Amateur held the first Amateur Muaythai Championship in Bangkok. The scoring system was computerized. The Amateur Muaythai was accepted as the demonstrative sport in the 23rd SEAGAMES held in Chiangmai.
In 1996, Federation of Amateur Muaythai of Asia was established.
From 1996-1998, Gen. Chetta Thanajaro, Chairman of the World Muaythai Council and Lt. Gen. Vorayudh Mesommonta, Chairman of the Amateur Muaythai Association of Thailand have given serious attention and provided full support to amateur Muaythai with a goal to encourage it as a world sport accepted in SEAGAMES, Asian Games, and Olympic Games in the future. Amateur Muaythai was finally approved by the Olympic Council of Asia to be a demonstrative sport in the 13th Bangkok Asian Games, to be held in Bangkok from December 6-20, 1998.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Editorial: Orthopaedic trauma following tsunami: Experience from Phang Nga, Thailand
On the morning of 26 December 2004, a tsunami hit the western coast of southern Thailand, including the provinces of Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Chumporn, Trang, and Ranong. Six to 8 huge waves measuring 5 to 7 metres high destroyed almost everything along the beach and inundated areas more than 300 metres from the seashore. Victims were injured by debris carried by the waves, including stones, trees branches, as well as concrete, broken glass, and metal from buildings destroyed by the surging water. Most of the victims sustained lower-limb injuries because of being submerged in the water, and most of the survivors had minimal to moderate injuries to the body and extremities. Causes of death included drowning, being entrapped inside collapsing buildings, and being thrown under cars.
Takuapa Hospital of Phang Nga province, a general hospital with 180 beds, located 3 km from the coast, was severely affected. During the first 24 hours of the disaster, more than 1000 patients presented to the emergency room; however, only 10 physicians were available: 5 general practitioners, 2 orthopaedists, 2 paediatricians, and one surgeon. While the hospital was capable of accommodating a mass casualty of only 50 to 60 patients, more than 500 patients were admitted to the hospital within 3 hours. All available staff were called to the emergency room to help resuscitate and identify patients requiring surgical debridement. Some severely injured patients were transferred to a nearby provincial hospital. Because telephone services were not available for several hours, the call for help was passed directly from the ambulance drivers to the medical staff of the provincial hospital, who then dispatched several ambulance and medical personnel to assist.
During the first day after the tsunami, more than 1000 patients were admitted to Takuapa Hospital, half of them requiring hospitalisation; however, because there were only 4 operating theatres, most patients were unable to be operated on within the golden period. Almost all wounds were treated late and gradually became infected. Most of the 60 severely injured patients were transferred to provincial hospitals and many injured tourists were transferred to hospitals in Bangkok. Almost 200 patients who required emergency surgical intervention were treated at Takuapa Hospital. The next morning, organisations in Bangkok such as Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital dispatched more physicians to assist in the rescue efforts.
Most of the severely injured patients had open fractures of the long bones on either or both of the upper and lower limbs. Wounds were of specific characteristics: multiple; of small-to-medium size; along the head, face, and extremities; often on the posterior aspect of the head, back, buttocks; and legs. Almost 140 patients undergoing surgical intervention had infected wounds, most of which were severely contaminated and foul-smelling. Some wounds had only small opening tracts but contained large amounts of contaminants such as sand, soil, and sticks inside the cavity. During debridement, extensive fat necrosis was usually found above and below the fascia of the muscle, along with greyish, sand-like contamination. Most of the wounds had spread to more than 5 times their initial size (Fig. 1). The wounds were adequately debrided and sutured on the first day, but almost all were infected, required redebridement, and were left open for drainage. One third of the cases needed redebridement due to further tissue necrosis. One of the most severe and massive contaminations was found in a wound at the posteromedial aspect of the knee (Figs. 2a and 2b). Only 3 to 5 cases of open fractures of the distal humerus, hand, distal tibia, and femur were treated at Takuapa Hospital. The fractures were not securely fixed with any implants because of the serious contamination of the wounds.
According to Takuapa Hospital, as of 19 January, 5222 cases had presented to the emergency room; 2937 (56%) were admitted to hospital and the remaining were treated as out-patients. Most of the patients were adults: 36% were aged 40 to 60 years and 32% were aged 20 to 39 years. Foreign patients numbered 1087 (21%). Most wounds were to the lower (2545; 49%) and upper (1685; 32%) extremities, the rest being found on the buttocks, back, neck, head, and chest. More than 3000 victims were found dead. Takuapa Hospital recorded 115 dead, 105 (91%) were dead on arrival. Ten patients died of gram-negative septicemia, mostly caused by Klebsiella and Escherichia coli.
Several problems arose in the care of orthopaedic trauma patients after the tsunami. The available medical personnel, equipment, and surgical facilities were inadequate to deal with the huge number of patients, and failure of the communications system hindered the rescue efforts between hospitals. Almost all wounds and open fractures were treated late and became infected, being highly contaminated and of special characteristics. Infecting organisms were mostly gram-negative.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Chulalongkorn Day In Thailand
Chulalongkorn Day is also known as Piyamaharaj Day in Thailand and is celebrated every year on October 23 in the memory of one of Thailand’s most respected kings, King Chulalongkorn. Chulalongkorn established his throne after the death of his father King Mongkut at the tender age of 15. During his rule he took major decisions for the development of Thailand. The most important one amongst them was abolition of slavery in Thailand. He played a vital role in modernizing Thailand. He traveled all over the world and had good relations with the world’s most powerful countries like Britain, Russia, France. As a part of modernization, the King constructed railways, postal services.
During King Chulalongkorn’s reign there was no communication system and there were no proper transport facilities. Horses, oxcarts and elephants were the only means of transport. He played a major role in establishing the communication systems and improving the transportation system. During his trips abroad, he spent time learning about the western communications and transportation systems and upon his return to Thailand, he set about implementing them in his country. He reformed the rules of law, established a proper judicial system and introduced compulsory military system and improved the nation’s defense. He also encouraged ordinary Thai citizens to send their children abroad for higher studies.
The King Chulalongkorn reigned for forty two years and during his reign he transformed Thailand from a small traditional kingdom to a modern nation. He was considered as the only successful monarch all over the world. One will find his photograph nearly in every house in Thailand which shows that even today the people of Thailand love and respect him for taking their country onto the road of development and modernization.
Chulalongkorn Day In Thailand
By Pauline Go
Golf In Thailand
Almost everyone is aware of Thailand's beautiful beaches, but it would surprise many to know that recreational tourists come flocking to Thailand because of golf.
Golf has become very popular in Thailand and as a result many world-class golf courses have come up in the country. These golf courses are challenging with full range of services and are set against breathtaking backdrops. Most golf courses in Thailand offer their patrons fine dining, luxurious accommodation, carts, caddies and full equipped pro-shops with knowledgeable pros. The courses are also equipped with saunas and massage centers. Most golf courses in Thailand are located quite close to beach resorts, making it a win-win situation for tourists who can play off golf and then go to the beach and relax.
The climate is conducive to golfing right round the year. One can even go for a golfing holiday during the rainy season as it seldom rains for more than a couple of hours at a time. In winter, northern part of Thailand does get a bit chilly and it is advisable to pack a sweater for your golfing holiday to Thailand. Many golf courses have installed floodlights so that golf enthusiasts can still be on the green even after the sun sets.
Green fees in Thailand are well below international standards and playing golf is not an expensive affair. Golf courses may charge a paltry amount of 250 baht on weekdays with the amount increasing marginally at weekends. Phuket has the highest green fees in Thailand, which is still lower than what one would pay in golf courses in other parts of the world.
Golf In Thailand
By Pauline Go
Fruits From Thailand
It is said that Thailand is a real paradise for fruit lovers and one can find an incredible variety of fruits all over Thailand. Thailand is abundant in fruits and it serves as one of the most important revenue generators for the country. A great number of fruits can be easily found at the numerous fruit shops, supermarkets and market places. The fruits that are available here are much cheaper when compared to other countries. Sometimes fruit sellers end up offering tourists fruits to taste for free. This practice is more prevalent on beaches where the tourists spend most of their holidays.
Traditionally, the Thais finish a meal with fruits. Sweeter Thai desserts are kept for snacking in between meals. A Thai breakfast normally comprises of variety of fresh fruits and traditional sweets. Besides being delicious and healthy, eating fresh fruits after a Thai meal is sure way of putting off the burning sensation in the mouth after eating spicy Thai food.
In Thailand, fruits are generally sweet including those which are suppose to be sour. One of the best fruit producing places in Thailand is Phuket Island. It is noted for its pineapple. Pineapples grown here are famous throughout Thailand and are particularly sweet and crunchy. They are also a major export product. Fruits like Rambutan, Bananas, Papaya, Durian, Guava and Mangoes are also grown in Thailand. Recently, several temperate fruits like Apples, Strawberries and Peaches are being grown successfully in the mountain areas of Thailand. The farmers always concentrate on growing more fruits using new methods of cultivation. This ensures that Thailand never faces a shortage of fruits in any season of the year.
Fruits From Thailand
By Pauline
Thailand Golf Packages and Thailand Hotels Reservation
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Thailand Golf Packages and Thailand Hotels Reservation
By Andy Cheng
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Shanghai Inn in Bangkok Thailand.AT Yaowaraj Chinatown in thailand
Historic Chinatown has a new heartbeat - The new Shanghai Inn - in the heart of vibrant Yaowaraj Road recaptures the charm and of a bygone era. The Shanghai Inn is a lifestyle hotel uniquely distinguished by its intimacy, hospitality and exquisite modern style chinoise.
Experience our lavish accommodation and impeccable service and let the Shanghai Inn be your heaven in the old Chinatown. As a guest in residence, you will feel invigorated at the end of each day whether your stay is important business or to experience the unique sights and sound of Chinatown.
The Shanghai Inn provided full amenities to meet the needs of the most discerning business and leisure guests, delivered with personal charm and warmth, making each stay a unique experience. Each room features cable television, mini-bar, and tea-making facilities.
Shanghai Inn Hotel Bangkok Description
The Shanghai Inn Hotel Bangkok provides full amenities to meet the needs of the most discerning business and leisure guests, delivered with personal charm and warmth, making each stay a unique experience.
Location
The hotel is within close proximity by foot or the very inexpensive Bangkok taxis to many key historical sites, bustling high end shopping complexes and the fun and funky street malls as well as the famous Chaopraya River.
Rooms
Located in the heart of Bangkok's legendary Chinatown, the Shanghai Inn offers 55 guestrooms that are well appointed with modern amenities.
Restaurant
The Tohkai Japanese is a nice and simple restaurant decorated in Japanese-Chinese style, good for private meal. Tohkai serves both Japanese buffet and a la carte menu to its guests.
General
Experience the lavish accommodations and impeccable service, and let the Shanghai Inn be your haven in Bangkok. As a guest in residence, you will feel invigorated at the end of each day whether your stay is for important business or to experience the unique sights and sounds of Chinatown.
Shanghai Inn
479-481 Yaowaraj Road, Samphantawong
Bangkok 10100
Bangkok China Town Festival
Guide to Bangkok's China Town
Since China town is a very bustling area; parking space is scarce. The best way to reach there is by the public transport.
By Taxi
Take a taxi or a ‘tuk-tuk', a motorized tricycle, and get off at Trimit Road, east of Yaowarat Road, or Charoen Krung Road, parallel to Yaowarat Road at its north. Then walk towards your destinations in the China town.
By Bus
Take buses no. 1, 4, 7, 25, 35, 40, 53, 73 and 501.
By Boat
Get on the boat on the Chaophraya River and alight at Ratchawong Pier. Then walk up Ratchawong Road, passing Songwat Road and Sampeng Lane (Wanit 1 Road) to reach Yaowarat Road.
Best time to go there
During 4 important festivals: Chinese New Year Festival approximately on January or February; Nguan Chioew Festival held 14 days after the Chinese New Year Festival; Chinese Sart Festival on August; and Chinese Lunar Moon Festival usually held a month after the Chinese Sart Festival.
About Yaowarat
China town is situated in one of the oldest areas of Bangkok. Originally, it was gradually settled up by Chinese traders who came by junks to trade with Siam during the Sukhothai era. By the end of 1891, King Rama V had several more roads cut through the area, which are Songwat Road, Phatsai Road, Anuwong Road and Yaowarat Road. Therefore, China town does not consist only Yaowarat Road, but also cover some other roads: Charoen Krung Road, Songwat Road, Songsawat Road, Chakkrawat Road and the Wanit 1 area. However, Yaowarat Road is the center of the area. According to the Feng-Shui principle, the shape of Yaowarat Road is curvy like the dragon's curvy body, making it an ideal location for business. Many prospering businesses in Thailand originated and are still thriving in this age-old downtown. What visitors can find here vary from leading gold shops, textiles, garments, souvenirs, second-hand parts and equipment, electric goods, computer parts, antiques, imported musical instrument and definitely local delicacies. In this year of 2003, it will be the 111th anniversary of this legendary road.
Food around China Town
China town is the paradise of food lovers who quest for Chinese cuisine. Both sides of its main street are flanked with restaurants and food vendors throughout the day. Local delicacies include Dim Sum, Teachew-style steamed Chinese mullet, shark fin in red sauce and various single noodle and rice dishes such as stir-fried noodles, casserole pork in noodles soup, rice with boiled chicken, rice with crispy pork or duck toppings, rice with curry and etc. Other appetizers and sweets are stuffed sheet noodles, pork sate, dumplings, bird's nest soup, soybean milk, lotus root juice and toasted chestnuts (locally called Kaolat). Ask for map of food shops and restaurants around the area from the tourist center on Petchaburi Road on Monday to Friday and Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue everyday from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
Shopping around China Town
Gold Shops
There are more than 130 gold shops along Yaowarat Road. It is why it is called the ‘Golden Road'. Originally, there were four tycoon gold shops: Seng Heng Li, Hua Seng Heng, Tung Jin Aeng and Tung Toh Gung even though new gold shops are still burgeoning on both sides of the road. Most shops are members of the Gold Merchants Association. Gold products here are not only recognized of high standard and quality with the purity of 96.5% or approximately 23 karat gold, but also of hand-made beautiful intricacy.
Talat Kao (The Old Market)
Talat Kao has been the marketplace for China town for over a hundred years. It is the center of all kinds of specialties, ranging from fresh to preserved food. Chinese chefs from restaurants around Bangkok flock here each day to find the best ingredients. It can be said that it is the paradise for those who shop for fresh foods. Just right at the opposite is Talat Mai or Talat Krom Phu-tared (New Marketplace), selling the same kinds of food and products found in Talat Kao.
Wanit 1 (Sampeng)
The area is usually called Sampeng within which retailers and wholesalers of textile are located. Here is Bangkok's center of textile wholesalers that sell everything about clothing making such as buttons, zippers, laces, sewing equipment, gifts, souvenirs & stationery and children & teenager products.
Chiang Kong
Chiang Kong is located in the area of Tala Noi (Noi Market). It is the hub of spare parts of cars, machinery and cheap second-hand steel products.
Khlong Thom
It is where shoppers can find a variety of electronic products and components of sound equipment, computers, game players, calculators and watches. Most sellers are vendors who sell their items at a fairly cheap price. Bargaining can be done here.
Nakhon Kasem Area
The area is a cluster of antique shops and imported musical instrument shops. Also, other products include kitchenware such as coconut-grating machine, coconut milk squeezer, brass pans and water pumping machine.
These areas are usually packed with people and shoppers especially during weekends and holidays. However, many shops are close on Chinese festivals.
What to see around China Town
Chinese Shrines
There are numerous shrines in China town. Among them, there are four oldest shrines of the area:
1. Leng Buai Eie Shrine. It is the Teachew Chinese shrine that houses the big bell constructed in the 23rd year of the Seng Phi Dynasty and the bell donated by King Rama V.
2. Bunyasamakhom Shrine (Rong Je Trokkrai) was named by King Rama V.
3. Ah Mha Geng Shrine is dated back more than 150 years. Inside, it houses Goddess Thapthim who is highly revered by local people.
4. Wat Mangkon Kamalawat or Wat Leng Nei Yi is the first Mahayana Buddhist sect temple in Thailand. It was constructed during King Rama V by donation from the Chinese living in Sampheng area.
