Royal Ploughing Ceremony

Royal Ploughing Ceremony

Date(s): May 2008
Venue: Sanam Luang, Bangkok

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is actually two ceremonies in one. The first, the Phra Ratchaphithi Phuetcha Mongkhon is a Buddhist ceremony to bless the plants. The second, the Charot Phra Nangkhan Kan is a brahmin ceremony to bless the plants. The ceremonies are carried out each year to bring good fortune to all plants, and to boost morale. This tradition was adopted during the reign of Rama IV. As noted in Rama V's book on the royal ceremonies of the twelves months, Phra Ratchaphithi Sipsong Duean. "Charot Phra Nangkhan used to only invoke brahmin rituals and in no way made use of buddhist rituals. However, Rama IV introduced the rites of the buddhist monks into the conduct of all royal ceremonies, of which the Charot I Phra Nangkhan is one. However, he set aside the buddhist ritual as a separate ceremony called Phuetcha Mongkhon".
It is believed that the Phra Ratchaphithi Charot Phra Nangkhan Raek Na Khwan, commonly known as the Raek Na Khwan Ceremony, dates back to before the days of Sukhothai, although there is no citable source to confirm this. The ceremony is referred to in the Nang Nopphamat Book, which dates from the Sukhothai period. During the Ayutthaya period, the ceremony was of great importance as it was recorded in the laws of the land as a compulsory royal ceremony that must be conducted in the 6th month. On the first day of ploughing, the king bestows his sword and sceptre to the Phraya Raek Na Khwan as though conferring his powers; at the same time he takes a step back and does not most a tropical grant audiences, taking a reduced load. In the Rattanakosin period, the Phra Ratchaphithi Phuetcha Mongkhon ceremony was conducted by monks on the grounds of Sanam Luang. The brahmin Phra Ratchaphithi Charot Phra Nangkhan Raek Na Khwan was conducted at Thung Som Poi, outside the Royal Palace. Both were conducted on the same day and at the same time. The Phra Ratchaphithi Charot Phra Nangkhan Raek Na Khwan was temporarily suspended between 1936 and 1959, during the transition from a government system of absolute monarchy to that of a constitutional monarchy. The practice of the Phra Ratchaphithi Phuetcha Mongkhon continued to be conducted throughout this time. In 1960, Rama IX brought the two ceremonies together as they had been in ancient times.

More detail: http://www.tat.or.th/festival

Tags: Rama, Bangkok

The Illuminated Boat Procession

Date : 9 – 15 Octorber 2008
Venue : Mekong River, Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom

This festival was originally aimed at payings respect to the Lord Buddha. Then the competition of the illuminated boat processions was organised to add colour to the event. An invitation is delivered to the public and private sectors, including temples,to participate in the competition. The illuminated boats lined up in the middle of the Mekong River create an impressive scene for viewers.

Contact :

TAT Northeastern Office : Region 4, Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 3490-1

Nakhon Phanom Provincial Administration Office, Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 1287, 66 (0) 4251 1574 http://www.tourismthailand.org/

Tags: Nakhon Phanom , Mekong River, Buddha, Illuminated Boat, Boat, Festival

Buffalo Racing

You could be forgiven for thinking that a domesticated buffalo is not built for sprinting, but in Chonburi town, the gateway to resorts along the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, farmers have managed to tweak a turn of speed from these working animals that is nothing short of amazing.

The annual Buffalo races, 13 October, are a hotly contested series of sprints across on an open space in front of the town’s municipal offices.Tourists and the town’s residents turn out for these amazing races that have been featured in the past on CNN and the BBC as a must-see event.
The races are taken very seriously by the owners of the buffaloes. Prizes for the first nose past the finishing line guarantee owners go to considerable lengths to ensure their buffaloes are in tip-top condition. Clouds of dust rise as these hefty animals pound down the short course at an alarming speed, reminiscent of a stampede. The crowd roars in support of the favourites and the atmosphere is as an enthralling as watching thoroughbred race horses.Admittedly, mites slower than a race horse, but the buffaloes are no slouches when it comes to making a short dash for glory.

Although this day of fun and competition would succeed with just the buffaloes as the celebrities, there are other activities to make it a worthwhile outing for families.A fair with food stalls and handicrafts appeals to visitors who love authentic Thai food, snacks and sweets. Then there are the rides for children, concerts of folk music and, of course, a beauty contest where the prize is the honour of being declared Miss Buffalo. Not exactly the most adhering of titles for an aspiring beauty queen, but it does not seem to deter contestants from seeking the limelight of the catwalk.Here is a festival that provides photo opportunities to capture an unusual adaptation of the 100-metre dash. Well worth seeing, is always the conclusion of those who make the effort to travel to Chonburi.

If the more traditional version of four-legged races is more appealing then the venue should be the Horse Show, 23 October at the Sanctuary of Truth, also in Chonburi province, on the outskirts of Pattaya The show is organised to commemorate the reign of King Rama V, the Great, on a day set aside as a national holiday to honour a ruler who initiated many of the developments that ultimately encouraged the economic and social transformation of the nation.
by www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event

Tags: Racing, Thailand, CNN, BBC, festival, amazing, Buffalo

Bang Fai Phaya Nak (Naga Fireball)

This extraordinary miracle always occurs at the beginning of the full moon night in the eleventh lunar month (End of Buddhist Lent). It can be seen along the Mekong River in the districts of Mueang, Phon Phisai, Pak Khat, Bung Kan, Tha Bo, Si Chiang Mai and Sangkhom. Bang Fai Phaya Nak is a term used for red and pinkish fire balls, which according to belief, belong to Phaya Nak or the great serpent of the underwater world. On the day marking the End of Buddhist Lent, a great number of people come to witness this phenomenon.

Naga Fireball Festival in Nong Khai

It remains a mystery that never ceases to puzzle both visitors and locals alike. Just what is the origin and nature of the fireballs that fly from the surface of the Mekong River high into the night sky for all to see?
Locals swear there is absolutely no doubt at all about the origin of the fireballs. Naga, the serpent reportedly dwelling in the murky currents of this mighty river, propels fireballs skyward, probably to remind villagers to treat this life-giving river with respect.
Of course, there are detractors, researchers who have spent years of study attempting to explain away the fireball phenomenon, all to no avail.

Some say it is an elaborate hoax, but the only way to find out is to travel to Nong Khai and check out river scene and the carnivals that villagers organise to celebrate the now famous legendary serpent.
Festivities run from 10 to 16 October, along the Mekong River bank, in Phon Pisai district in Nong Khai province. There are also corresponding celebrations on the Lao side of the river and no shortage of theories on whether Thailand’s neighbours, on the opposite bank, may know more than they are admitting on what causes the spectacle.

But there is no denying the fact that there is something almost mystical that causes the fireballs to erupt from the surface of the river, and villagers are taking no chances, hence the religious activities at various temples in the district to appease the Naga.
Visitors can participate in a traditional "Tak Bat Thevo" ceremony, or the early morning alms giving to monks. It involves offering sticky rice wrapped in coconut leaves, presented on the important final days of the three-month Buddhist Lent.
In the evenings, during the festival week, people gather at the river bank for the Naga procession and cultural performance that reflect the rural village traditions of the northeast region.

If all goes to plan the highlight of the trip will be the amazing sight of the Naga fireballs erupting into the sky, a phenomenon that is very likely to prompt some light hearted banter and arguments at riverside food stalls over glasses of ale or the local rice whisky on their origin.

The most convenient way to reach Nong Khai is to take one of the many daily flights offered from Bangkok to Udon Thani, either on the national airline Thai Airways International, or one of the low-cost airlines. The flight takes 50 minutes and from Udon Thani, mini buses offer a 40 minute transfer to Nong Khai. An alternative is to take the rail service that runs every evening from Bangkok to Nong Khai.

Contact :

TAT Udon Thani, Tel. : 66 (0) 4232 5406-7
Nong Khai Provincial Administration Office, Tel. : 66 (0) 4242 0323
Website : www.tourismthailand.org
E-mail : tatudon@tat.or.th

Tags: Naga Fireball, Mekong River, Buddhist, Bangkok

SI SA KET : General Information

Si Sa Ket is a quiet province on the Cambodia border with Khmer ruins scattered throughout the province.Most notable are the two ruined sanctuaries of Wat Sa Kamphaeng Yai and Noi,dating back to the 10 th century.

However, the most famous Khmer site is actually in Cambodia. Khao Phra Wihan was built over 10 centuries ago and is one of the most spectacular Angkor-period sites. Built as a Hindu temple, it begins in Thailand and rises to 600 metres with the main sanctuary in Cambodia.
After a long period of war, its wonderful craftsmanship,stairways and courts are now being restored. Thi walk to the summit is long and steep, but visitors are sure to be impressed by the size and complexity of its design.

Si Sa Ket has an area of 8,840 square kilometres, comprising the following districts: Muang Si Sa Ket, Kanthararom, Kantharalak, Khun Han, Phrai Bung, Khukhan, Prang Ku, Uthumphon Phisai, Rasi Salai, Yang Chum Noi, Huai Thap Than, Non Khun, Si Rattana, Wang Hin, Bueng Bun, Nam Kliang, Phu Sing, Benchalak, Muang Chan, Pho Si Suwan and Sila Lat.

link from http://www.tourismthailand.org/destination-guide/sisaket-33-1-1.html

Tags: Si Sa Ket, province, Cambodia, Thailand

Khao Phanom Rung Festival

Date(s): 5 - 7 April 2008
Venue: Phanom Rung Historical Park, Buri Ram

Traditionally, the locals would go up to the Phanom Rung Temple for alms giving and to worship the imprint of Buddha's foot on the 15th night of the waxing moon in the fifth month.

The Phanom Rung Temple is a large temple on top of a mountain (Phanom translates to Mountain, and Rung translates to vast, therefore Phanom Rung C translates to large mountain). It is a religious site built in the Saivite Brahmin style set on top a mountain, 360 meters above sea level. According to records, the temple was built by Hiranya, who dedicated it to his sadhu father, Narenthrathit, in the reign of Suryajvarman II. The structure's construction is dated between 1078 and 1178 C.E. in the same period as the Phimai and Phanom Wan Temples of 1080-1106 C.E., in Nakhon Ratchasima.

When the Khmer Empire was centred at Yasotharapura, there existed a city called Mahitharapura that had established relationships with it. Each city had its own ruling dynasties which were related to each other; Athittayawong in Yasotharapura and Chantharawong in Mahitharapura. While Suryajavaman killed his uncle in battle, the latter's wife, Phupatinatharlakshmi Devi and son, Narenthrathit, were spared. Narenthrathit was said to be a handsome man, well-liked by the female sex, skilled in archery, being able to shoot an arrow on target without looking, and brave enough to hunt down an elephant, cut its head off, throw it into the river, turning it into a sea of blood. For his own safety, he renounced the world and became a sadhu (holy man), building Phanom Rung.

The construction took into account astrological aspects, and was built so that the Sun's ray would beam through all fifteen doors of the temple in a straight line, with small intersections, on the 15th day of the waxing moon in the 5th month.

As time passed, Phupatinatharlaksami Devi, missing her son and grandson, left Yasotharapura for Phanom Rung with Chariya, her Lady-in-waiting, and entourage in attendance. She constructed statues of celestial bearers in all 10 directions in worship of all the gods in the universe. She also gave 10 cows and 100 goats to the sadhu Narenthrathit.

The main attraction of this festival is the fact that it is the only day when one can observe a single shaft of light going through all fifteen doors of the structure. There is the re-enactment of Phupatinatharlakshmi Devi Procession including Chariya, the lady in waiting, and entourage, together with the 10 bearer animals-swan, elephant, cow, rhinoceros, ,lion, peacock, naga, horse, raksot, and buffalo. Up to 1,000 people, in ancient Khmer costumes, would normally take part in the procession. Additionally, there is also the Great Temple of the Gods Phanom Rung light and sound show, and local fare.

For more information, please contact the Chaloem Phra Kiat District Tel: on the 1,5th 66 (0) 4462 8119.
More detail: http://www.tat.or.th/festival

Tags: Festival, Buri+Ram, Temple, elephant, God, Phanom Rung

National Park : Ubon Ratchathani

Attractions in Amphoe Khong Chiam (Highway 2222)

Kaeng Tana National Park can be reached by two ways. One is by Highway 2222. Along this route you get a beautiful sight of Kaeng Tana because more rocks can be seen on this side. The other way is the route to the National Park Office along Highway 217 (Phibun-Chong Mek route) and then turn left to Highway 2173 for another 13 kilometers. The total area of Kaeng Tana National Park is 50,000 rai. It was proclaimed a national park on 13 July 1982.

Attractions in the park include:

Kaeng Tana is the biggest cataract in the middle of the Mun River. The cataract itself is a big stone platform lying across the Mun River, causing the water which flows through Kaeng Tana to take the form of beautiful waterfalls.

Don Tana is a sand bar of 450 meters in width and 700 meters in length that emerges and splits the Mun River into two branches. To the north, lies a sandy beach, which is an ideal place for recreation. Generally viewed covering the whole area is dry evergreen forest. There are big trees providing shade, and growing naturally among them are some teak trees. Now, visitor can reach Don Tana by walking across a suspension bridge.

Kaeng Khanwhe is a cataract which is approximately 1 kilometer long and 300 meters wide. there is a sandy beach which has large and small stones scattered sink holes and jagged rocks prevail. The large amount c water in December running fiercely against the rocks creates a picturesque scene.

Tat Ton Waterfall is on Highway 2173, which is about 6 kilometer off Highway 217. This beautiful waterfall is created from Tat Ton Brook flowing past a stone platform and plunging onto the pain forming a basil large enough to swim in. The water is cool and clear. The area is surrounded by forest and flowering shrubs.
There is accommodation for tourists at the park, and prior reservation is needed by contacting Tel. 5790529,5794842.

Heo Sin Chai Cave is on Highway 2222, about 7 kilometers before reaching Amphoe Khong Chiam, turn left for about 2 kilometers. It is on the same route as Kaeng Tana. The cave is a Buddhist center with a beautiful reclining Buddha image. This center is famous for its strict discipline. It is hill around the temple with many big rocks, trees, and beautiful flowers. Besides there is also a waterfall cascading down the cliff to the area in front of the reclining Buddha image making the place very cool and beautiful.

Wat Tham Khu Ha Sawan is on Highway 222 about 6 kilometer before reaching Khong Chiam District. The temple was built in 1978 by Luang Pu Kam Khaning Chula Mani. It was his residence and place o meditation while he was still alive. Despite the fact that he passed away many years ago, his body remains in perfect condition, so his disciples keep it in glass coffin to worship it. There are scenic spots for tourists to admire the beauty of the Mae Khong River and the Laotian border.

The Bi-coloured River or the Mun River's alluvium is the place where two rivers join: the Brown Mae Khong and the Blue Mun River. It is located in Khong Chiam District about 84 kilometers from Ubon Ratchathan city center.

Pakmun Dam is constructed from stone reinforced with clay soi across the Mun River at Ban Huawhe in Amphoe Khong Chiam. With a width of 17 meters and a length of 300 meters, the dam facilitates agriculture and generates electricity. It is located approximately 75 kilometers from town, or about 6 kilometers far from the area where the Mekong River meets the Mun River. It is possible to travel along the top of the dam wall as a short cut from Amphoe Khong Chiam to Amphoe Sirinthon without driving back to Amphoe Phibun Mangsahan. In addition, cruising along the beautiful Mun River is possible from the end of the dam to the so-called bicoloured river, where the Mun River joins with the Mekong River.

Pha Taem National Park covers a total area of 140 square kilometers in Khong Chiam, Amphoe Si Muang Mai, and Amphoe Pho Sai. It was announced officially as a national park on 31 December, 1991. Plateaus and hills dominate the park's landscape. There are sheer cliffs which are a result from earthquakes. Most trees are of the deciduous dipterocarp forest. Irregular shaped sandstone is found scattered in the area. Beautiful flowering plants grow among the rocky ground. Traveling can be made from Amphoe Khong Chiam along Highway No. 2134, followed by Highway No. 2112, and then turning right for another 5 kilometers, the total distance is 18 kilometers.

Places of interest within the park are:

Sao Chaliang
is on Highway 2112, about 11 kilometers from the office on the route to Pha Taem. Sao Chaliang is a natural formation of rocks sitting one upon another forming a mushroom-like shape. Fossils of sea shells, pebbles, and sand grains can be seen in big stone slabs believe that about a million years ago this area must have been a sea bed.

Pha Taem and Pha Mon
are on Highway 2112 about 98 kilometers from Ubon Ratchathani, about 3 kilometers further from Sao Chaliang in Tambon Nong Phua Noi. Pha Taem and Pha Mon are two steep cliffs overlooking the Mekong river with a clear view of Laos on the other side. On the cliffs' surface, there are prehistoric paintings dating back to 3,000-4,000 years ago reflecting the ancient way of life of the people who once lived in the area, such as Buk fishing (Buk is a species of large scaleless fish found in the Mekong river), and rice farming. Figures of people, animals, hands, and geometric designs were also depicted.

Tham Mut
is in Ban Sa Som on Highway 2112, turning left and continuing for about 15 kilometers to Ban Thung Na Muang. This is a cave some 4 meters wide and 6 meters high. Inside there are many carved Buddha images, indicating that it used to be a place for religious ceremonies.

Soi Sawan Waterfall
on Highway 2112, is 30 kilometers from Khong Chiam District. It is a big waterfall cascading from two sides of steep cliffs about 20 meters high. It resembles a necklace. The water is plentiful all year round. The area is surrounded with trees and various kinds of flowers.

Thung Na Muang Waterfall
is on Highway 2112 about 12 kilometers from Soi Sawan Waterfall. It is a beautiful medium - sized fall and is near the road. The water cascades down the rocks; the highest level is about 25 meters. The area is full of blossoming plants.

Saengchan Waterfall (Ru Waterfall)
is only 1 kilometer from Thung Na Muang Waterfall on Highway 2112. It is a very beautiful waterfall with a special characteristic of its own that is the water will fall down through a rock pipe looking like the full moon shining onto the world. Around the area, large and small rocks are scattered together with many kinds of trees. Below is a cave very suitable for camping.

by http://isan.sawadee.com

Tags: Ubon Ratchathani, National Park, Mun River, tourists, hong Chiam, beautiful, flower, Buddha, Mae Khong, Waterfall

Thai Boxing

You might have heard about it, or even seen it on TV�the furious punches, crushing elbow strikes, lethal kicks, powerful grappling and artful feints. But nothing compares to seeing them executed to loud cheers and heart-racing tune of an accompanying wind-and-percussion ensemble. Welcome to the exciting world of Muay Thai, a martial art like no others, and a proud heritage of a nation
The history of Muay Thai is interwoven with the history of the Thai people. A gentle, peace-loving people, for centuries Thais had to defend themselves and their land from aggressive powers. They developed a form of close, hand-to-hand combat best suited for the kind of rough-terrain battle they were fighting. Over time it became a rite of passage for Thai men to take up training in this martial art. King Naresuan the Great (1555-1605), one of the country�s most celebrated warrior-heroes, is believed to have been an excellent boxer himself, and it was he who made Muay Thai a required part of military training. Another milestone in the history of Muay Thai was the triumph of Nai Khanom Tom over 10 Burmese boxers in 1774. Taken captive after the Thai capital fell in 1767, Nai Khanom Tom was picked to fight before the Burmese king. After defeating ten of them in a row, he was freed and returned home a hero.

In the old days, Muay Thai was a dangerous sport, with no safety gear of any kind for the fighters, and only lengths of cords to wrap around the fists in place of gloves. Over the years rules have been written along the line of international boxing regulations. In recent years the sport has attracted a wide following outside of the country, and training facilities have been set up in countries as far as the U.S. and the former Soviet states. In 1995 the World Muay Thai Council was set up by cabinet resolution in 1995 to promote this national heritage at national and international levels. At a conference held that same year, 78 member countries voted for the establishment of a training school where all elements of Muay Thai would be taught. The Muay Thai Institute was founded in 1997 and is now the only training school accredited by the Ministry of Education.

An International Passion
Muay Thai, along with soccer, is certainly the most passionately followed sport in the country. Television networks broadcast fights five days a week, and the fight results at major stadiums are reported in all major newspapers. International boxing is also very popular, and the country has produced dozens of world champions, but they all started out as Muay Thai fighters. So it is not surprising that a boy as young as seven or eight would start training to become one�and many do, at stables across the country. Most provincial capitals have a boxing ring, but the ultimate dream of young boxers is to fight at Lumpini or Ratchadamnoen, the biggest and most famous stadiums in the country. Lumpini and Ratchadamnoen alternate, so there is a fight program every night. Tickets on an average evening are 500, 1,000 and 1,500 Baht, but on big nights prices of ringside seats may go up to 2,000 Baht. Ratchadamnoen�s Sunday Special rates are good bargains, with ringside tickets going for 500 Baht each. Fights usually begins around 6:30 p.m., with preliminary bouts featuring younger, less experienced boxers, and build up towards the main event, usually around nine o�clock.
Muay Thai is fought in five three-minute rounds with two-minute breaks in between. The fight is preceded by a wai khru dance, in which each contestant pays homage to his teachers. Besides the symbolic meaning, the dance is a good warm-up exercise. You will notice that each boxer wears a headband and armbands. The headband, called mongkhol, is believed to bestow luck to the wearer since it has been blessed by a monk or the boxer�s own teacher. Since Buddhism and the teacher play important roles in the life of Thais, the headband is both a lucky charm and a spiritual object. It will be removed after the wai khru dance, and only by the boxer�s trainer. The armbands, meanwhile, are believed to offer protection and are only removed when the fight has ended.

A match is decided by a knockout or by points. Three judges decide who carries the round and the one who wins the most rounds, win the fight. The referee plays a very important role, since boxers� safety depends on his decision.

To one side of the ring is the band section, comprising a Javanese clarinet, drums and cymbals. They accompany the fight from the homage dance to the conclusion. The tempo goes up as the action inside the ring intensifies. The musicians are mostly old-timers who have seen just about anything, yet their music always makes the heart race faster. It is said that the tune is a siren song that the true Muay Thai devotee can never resist.

On fight nights at major stadiums, especially at Lumpini and Ratchadamnoen, tourists fill up a sizable portion of the seats, and the number is growing. Most opt to sit at ringside, to see the action up close. On nights of major events, usually advertised days in advance, it can be hard to get tickets. You might want to book through your hotels or travel agents.

by www.sawadee.com/thailand/muaythai

Tags: Thai Boxing, Muay Thai, fight, hotels, travel, Thai

Naga Fireball Festival in Nong Khai,

Naga Fireball Festival in Nong Khai, 10 to 16 October

It remains a mystery that never ceases to puzzle both visitors and locals alike. Just what is the origin and nature of the fireballs that fly from the surface of the Mekong River high into the night sky for all to see?

Locals swear there is absolutely no doubt at all about the origin of the fireballs. Naga, the serpent reportedly dwelling in the murky currents of this mighty river, propels fireballs skyward, probably to remind villagers to treat this life-giving river with respect.
Of course, there are detractors, researchers who have spent years of study attempting to explain away the fireball phenomenon, all to no avail.

Some say it is an elaborate hoax, but the only way to find out is to travel to Nong Khai and check out river scene and the carnivals that villagers organise to celebrate the now famous legendary serpent.

Festivities run from 10 to 16 October, along the Mekong River bank, in Phon Pisai district in Nong Khai province. There are also corresponding celebrations on the Lao side of the river and no shortage of theories on whether Thailand’s neighbours, on the opposite bank, may know more than they are admitting on what causes the spectacle.

But there is no denying the fact that there is something almost mystical that causes the fireballs to erupt from the surface of the river, and villagers are taking no chances, hence the religious activities at various temples in the district to appease the Naga.
Visitors can participate in a traditional “Tak Bat Thevo” ceremony, or the early morning alms giving to monks. It involves offering sticky rice wrapped in coconut leaves, presented on the important final days of the three-month Buddhist Lent.

In the evenings, during the festival week, people gather at the river bank for the Naga procession and cultural performance that reflect the rural village traditions of the northeast region.

If all goes to plan the highlight of the trip will be the amazing sight of the Naga fireballs erupting into the sky, a phenomenon that is very likely to prompt some light hearted banter and arguments at riverside food stalls over glasses of ale or the local rice whisky on their origin.

The most convenient way to reach Nong Khai is to take one of the many daily flights offered from Bangkok to Udon Thani, either on the national airline Thai Airways International, or one of the low-cost airlines. The flight takes 50 minutes and from Udon Thani, mini buses offer a 40 minute transfer to Nong Khai. An alternative is to take the rail service that runs every evening from Bangkok to Nong Khai.

by www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event

Tags: Fireball, Festival, Nong Khai, Mekong River, Buddhist, food, Bangkok

Food and Hotel Thailand 2008

Date : 17 - 20 September 2008
Venue : The Royal Paragon Halls, Exhibition & Convention Center
5 ^th Floor Siam Paragon, Bangkok, Thailand


Food & Hotel Thailand 2008, incorporation IFHS and Retail Thailand 2008, will once again be held at the Royal Paragon Halls in the heart of Bangkok to follow on from its record breaking success in 2007 when it attracted a total of 19,369 trade visitors from 56 countries.

Food & Hotel Thailand remains the number one event in Asia for the hospitality industry’s premium market supply of international food, beverage, equipment and technology.

More infomation :
Bangkok Exhibition Services Ltd (BES), Tel. (+66) 02 615 1255 Fax. (+66) 02 615 2991-3
www.foodhotelthailand.com

Tags: Food, Hotel, Thailand, 2008, Siam, Bangkok, Asia, international, Royal Paragon

Bullock Wagon Race

Two Thai men riding on the bullock wagons use of bamboo sticks to force their bulls to sprint faster during a race in Petchaburi province, central Thailand Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006. Thai farmers at this province celebrate the end of the harvest season with various kind of folk competitions including bullock wagon race, wrestling with the bulls and climbing the palm trees. (AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

By Richard Barrow

from thai-blogs.com

Tags: Wagon Race, Thai, Petchaburi, province, bullock, Thailand

Ubon Ratchathani province

Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand. Providing you with current information about Ubon, Isaan and Thailand. Reviews of resturants,nightlife,transportation and general information about UbonRatchathani and Thailand

Isaan's second largest province (after Nakhon Ratchasima), Ubon Ratchathani is bordered to the south by Cambodia and to the east by Laos, making it part of the so-called Emerald Triangle -- the forested (and well-mined) meeting point of Thailand, Cambodia and Laos. Ubon (as it is commonly known) is home to an eclectic mix of ethnicities, including Khmer, Laotians, Vietnamese and Thais who above all else have created an excellent food scene -- foodies will enjoy Ubon.Ever since the Chong Mek/Vang Tao border crossing with Laos opened, there has been a steadily increasing trickle of tourists and independent travellers passing through Ubon. Before this border with southern Laos opened, Ubon Ratchathani was best known amongst those looking to practice their meditation with a few very well regarded forest wats in the province. Today, despite the fact that the province has a lot to offer independent travellers, the vast majority see Ubon Ratchathani as nothing more than an overnight stop en route to southern Laos.

Aside from the provincial capital, a range of national parks, including the impressive Pha taem National Park stretch across the province and there is an ample supply of pleasant riverside option to lose a day or two. Best explored at leisure on a hired motorcycle, most of the main attractions can also be reached by public transport.Although the paddy scenery by road can be monotonously flat -- lush green when irrigated and straw yellow when not -- hills to the east leading to the Mekong and to the south, where the watershed forms the border with Cambodia, makes for some spectacular views

Although Si Saket is closer, it is possible to visit the spectacular Khmer ruins of Prasat Khao Phra Viharn from Ubon Ratchathani.
Every July, Ubon Ratchathani hosts the Candle Festival -- a parade of huge, finely-carved candles. While the candle festival is most popular with Thais it is still well worth a peek if you're in the area

Article Source: http://www.travelfish.org/

Tags: Ubon, Thailand, National Park, food, Festival, Isaan

On the Beach in Cha-am

At the weekend, I found myself down in Phetchaburi Province for a funeral. To be precise, I was at the beach resort of Cha-am, which is about 40km south of Phetchaburi town and 25 km north of Hua Hin. It is a popular beach destination for people from Bangkok. I guess it takes about 3 hours to drive here. It is further than Bangsaen (1 hour) and Pattaya (2.5 hours), but I believe the beach and sea here is cleaner. Though, like they say, it isn’t really much to write home about.

Like any Thai beach there are plenty of activities. Swimming with all your clothes on is what Thai people like to do most. Or should I say jumping up and down as the waves hit the beach. Banana Boat rides are also extremely popular. You can see two of them in the photograph above. They are basically inflatable banana-like boats that are pulled along by a jet ski. It can get pretty rough at times and you will bounce up and down a lot. They will also turn sharp corners on purpose so that you will all fall off! Inner tubes are also available for hire as you can see in this picture. One other sporting activity I find a little annoying are the renting of jet skis. These motorized water boats are really dangerous especially if being driven by a novice. There were no zones marked for this activity and people were zooming up and down on these jet skis only a few metres away from swimmers. If someone got hit here and dies then it wouldn’t be the first time this had happened in Thailand.


I think the best thing about Thai beaches is the food service. Cha-am is what I call a traditional Thai beach in that in mainly caters for Thai tourists. The top of the beach is a forest of umbrellas, deckchairs and low tables. Find yourself a vacant deckchair to sit on. Make sure it is in the shade. It is unheard off to move it into the sun. So don’t as everyone will think you are mad. Shortly, someone will come along with a menu. Sometimes the food is cooked at the top of the beach but often it is being cooked in a restaurant on the other side of the road. This is great service. Just order what you want and they will then bring you your food. You could easily stay here all day doing this and people do! You see the picture above, if you don’t like the look of food on the menu then wait a few minutes and someone will come along with a basket. Your feet feeling sore? Don’t worry, for a modest fee, someone will come along to give you a foot massage!

By Richard Barrow

Tags: Beach, Cha am, Bangkok, Hua Hin, Swimming, Thai beach, Thailand, massage

Short visit to Khao Yai

I notice there isn't much written on Khao Yai National Park in here yet (or not that I could find). We, my family and I, just had a two day visit to there during Songkran and thought it was very nice. I would recommend anyone living in the area to visit.

Our access to Khao Yai National Park was through the Northern gate. As far as I know there are 2 gates that you can enter, one in the South and one in the North. All the accommodation within the park was full so we stayed in a Guest House just a few km from the gate, called Bann Kroo. Rooms in Bann Kroo cost us 300B per night and were small and simple but nice and exactly what we wanted. I thought it was a nice place and the owners were good people and I would recommend it for a simple, no fuss place to stay. There are many places to stay outside the park as well as accommodation within the park. However, within the park, the accommodation is often booked out on weekends and public holidays, so it is best to book in advance or be prepared to not stay in the park if you are there on a weekend / holiday.

Khao Yai is Thailand's oldest National Park and one of the largest. It is not far from Bangkok and contains tigers, elephants, deer, monkeys, gibbons, bears, leopards, buffalo, crocodiles and much more.

Entry to the park cost 200B for me, 50B for the car, 20B each for Kanchana and her Mum and 10B for each of the kids. We drove the car through the park, looking for animals and stopping at a couple of lookouts. It was pretty nice scenery but nothing too exciting at first with the exception of reasonably fresh looking elephant poo on the road.

In many areas I could hear gibbons calling. I found a place where I could hear gibbons; there was room to stop the car and there was a track heading into the jungle. I headed into the jungle by myself to see if I could catch a glimpse of the gibbons. Kanchana (my fiance) and the kids were still quite unsure of walking in the jungle at this stage and wouldn’t come with me. After a 5 – 10 minute walk, keeping my eyes out for tigers and snakes, of which I saw none, I found the gibbons. I could only see one although there was at least three that I could hear. Interestingly I also noticed a nest, similar to an orangutan nest, which obviously belonged to the gibbons. I hadn’t previously realised they made nests. I watched them for a while and took some poor quality photos and then headed back to the car.

During the rest of our drive we also saw deer. We then walked a little around the Park HQ an saw a small cream coloured squirrel and a giant squirrel and heard more gibbons. Oh, also saw a few small lizards.

We also had a chat to one of the park rangers which was interesting. Khao Yai National Park is attached to some other National Parks and wilderness areas, making up a fairly large area of jungle. The ranger we were speaking to worked in an area that made up about a fifth of this jungle. Over the past 4 years he has had various cameras permanently set up in his area and in that time (4 years), they have taken 4 pictures of a tiger. I couldn’t understand enough to be sure, but I think this was the same tiger each time. Hmmm, the chances of tigers surviving in the Khao Yai area seem very poor. Judging by this, there may only be 4 or 5 tigers in the Khao Yai jungle, if that many. There are still poachers coming into the park to hunt for tigers and other animals as well as to take timber and other jungle products (Is this largely for the Chinese market???). There is a considerable effort to stop this, but it has not yet been totally stopped. Just another one or two tigers killed by poachers would be enough to guarantee the extinction of tigers in this region. The ranger said about 180 elephants lived in Khao Yai National Park.

In the evening we went back to the park to do a night safari drive which cost 430B for 5 people and included a truck, driver and spotter with spot light. We had paid for this during the day and so we didn't have to pay to come back into the park. We saw a lot more deer and a civet. No elephants, which was a disappointment for Kanchana, who loves elephants.

The next morning we drove home via lunch at a waterfall somewhere near Saraburi.

Khao Yai was good and we already plan to go back.

by thai-blogs.com

Tags: visit, Khao Yai, National Park, Songkran, family, Guest House, Thailand, elephant

The View From A Thai Village

My name is Bill and I live in Brisbane, Australia. During my first trip to Thailand in 1977 I met my future wife Mali who comes from the village of Ban phutsa in North-East Thailand. We married in 1978 and have one child, our daughter Natalie who was born in 1983.

From our home base in Australia we try to visit Thailand at least once a year to hook up with family and friends and for a few short weeks kick back and re-connect with the culture of Thailand. Over the years I have visited most parts of the Kingdom and during this time have also seen and done most of the things tourists normally tend to do in Thailand.

But in the main the place that I am constantly drawn to when we visit Thailand is the village of Ban phutsa. Only natural I suppose inasmuch as this is where Mali was born and raised and where many of her family still lives. Its more than that however. For instance after visiting the village on and off for the past twenty four years I have grown close to many of the people in the village and feel that in a sense I have grown up with them. Some of these people were kids and teenagers when I first visited and many of them now are parents themselves.

I have always had an ambition to build a website on Thailand but have been thwarted over time by personal laziness, writers block, lack of note taking/diaries and ultimately what the focus of a website would be. It hit me during our last journey that perhaps the focus could be Ban phutsa itself. At first this idea seemed absurdly narrow - a bit like writing about a snowflake in a snow storm. But in the end I decided to chance my arm and plough on finally being convinced by the view that much of everything that I have learnt about grassroots Thailand can be sourced back to Ban phutsa.

In deciding to build this website, I needed to face an obvious fact- which is of course is that I'm not an expatriate living permanently in the village. I holiday there once a year and I suppose could be accused of not appreciating the full picture. My only real defence is that I believe the views expressed in these web pages to be honest ones or at the very least how I feel now and at times in the past (In the final analysis this truly is a personal website). Although I have accentuated the positives about Ban phutsa, I hope at the same time that I have avoided the trap of simple romanticism.

And finally I would have to admit that many people may find this website to be about as interesting as "whaleshit" but I hope that at the very least I strike a chord with some ( especially with Isaan tragics like myself).

Anyway If you are interested or just simply curious, please click on the truck below and drive into Ban phutsa.

by Bill Grimson - 30.01.2006

www.isanvillage.com

Tags: Thai, Village, Thai Village, Isaan, Brisbane, Australia, North-East, Thailand, Kingdom

Isaan’s Chiang Khan

The town of Chiang Khan is I believe part of that mythical entity “The real Thailand”. Located in the Isaan province of Loei it can be found in a valley leading onto the Mekong River about 50 kilometres from the provincial capital which is also called Loei. Arriving at the outskirts of Chiang Khan is revealed a busy rural but on first impression unremarkable town. However once you have navigated the roads and the Sois that lead to the river you reach a long narrow river front road lined with a combination of teak timber and brick shop fronts and houses.
Once you have checked into one of the many guesthouses that line the street, its time to kick back on the guesthouse balcony and see what makes Chiang Khan special. The Mekong is much narrower here than further down river towards Nong Khai and gives a much clearer view into Laos. Wooden riverboats flying Lao and Thai flags putter up the river and in the dry season you can look up and down the river on both the Thai and Lao sides and see the market gardens that have been set up on the fertile riverbanks. The only sign of frenetic activity are the passenger speedboats screaming down the river, clocking awesome speeds. All and all just a good spot to sit back relax and enjoy a few beers.About 4 kilometres down stream from Chiang Khan are the Kaeng Khut Khu rapids. At the rapids are a leafy park and a market. Stretching along the river opposite the market is a long thatched roof dining area. Sitting on raised bamboo platforms you can order delicious Isaan food including the local areas specialty – Kung Ten (dancing prawns). These are fresh still alive river prawns which are eaten or swallowed whole with a special sauce. Kaeng Khut Khu is a great place to while away a few hours eating, drinking and just taking in the scene.

After spending a few days in Chiang Khan I always better in myself. Why I don't always know. Perhaps it’s the quiet, the friendliness of the townspeople, the fogs that roll down the river in the winter or perhaps just the little things such as the "klunk" echo that you hear bouncing across the river when something is dropped in the guesthouse or the shouted conversations out to the people on riverboats. All I know is that when I finally do leave each time, I have an underlying desire to return.

In future blogs I would like to expand further on other parts of that magic part of Thailand – The Mekong region. In the meantime if you are interested I have posted photographs of Chiang Khan and other parts of the Mekong on my website. Just click on the following link.

http://www.isanvillage.com/mekongregiongallery.htm

Bill

Tags: Isaan, Chiang Khan, Loei, province, Mekong, River, Thailand, Thai, Laos, magic

A Magic Day At Khao Phra Vihaan

Some of the great attractions for visitors to South East Asia are the Angkor period Khmer monuments that can be found stretching from Angkor Wat in Cambodia to the various monuments that can be found in North-East Thailand. The principal monuments in Isaan are Prasad Hin Phimai, Phanom Rung Hill and Khao Phra Vihaan.

Prasad Hin Phimai and Phanom Rung are probably the most well known of the three principal Khmer monuments in Isaan with the subject of this blog – Khao Phra Vihaan not as well known due to its relative isolation.

Khao Phra Vihaan can be found in the Isaan province of Sisaket and sits atop a ridge on the Dangrek mountain range, which forms part of the border with Thailand and Cambodia. Although geographically in Isaan, the monument itself is actually on Cambodian soil. This came about after a World Court decision in 1962 that recognised Cambodian sovereignty over the monument – a continuing sore point between Thailand and Cambodia.

In the past 30 years Khao Phra Vihaan became a backdrop to the catastrophes that have befallen Cambodia during those times. Occupied by the Khmer Rouge, fought over by Cambodian factions and seeded with land mines – the monument became more military outpost than a place of historical importance.

My wife Mali and I first attempted to visit Khao Phra Vihaan in 1997 and got to within 1000 metres of the monument. We were turned back by a small contingent of Thai soldiers who advised that Khmer Rouge Guerillas had reoccupied the monument. Between 1997 and 2003 we attempted to visit several times but luck of the draw had it that the monument was closed due to either strife in Cambodia or nitpicking between Thai and Cambodian bureaucrats.

In November 2003 we tried again, were successful and the following is what happened the day of our trip. After arriving in Sisaket province we drove to the top of the Dangrek range to the Thai/Cambodia border. The border abounded with uniformed officials and police who just shrugged us past the first checkpoint. The next gauntlet was purchasing two entrance tickets (one Thai and the other Cambodian)

We then moved through a small Cambodian market that sold everything from handicrafts to “Alain Delon” cigarettes. It even had a few gold stores with much of the merchandise sourced from pawn shops at Cambodian Casinos which of course are heavily frequented by Thai gamblers. At the market a young Cambodian girl latched herself to our party, refused to accept no and we ended up engaging her as a guide for the day.

Entering through a steel gate we commenced to ascend the first staircase, which was relatively difficult due to the sharp slope and the unevenness and disrepair of the stonework. The weather was cool with misty rain at times which only added to the atmosphere.

We soon came across some of the modern realities and history of Khao Phra Vihaan – landmines. There were roped off areas with skull and cross bone warning signs. Parties of Cambodian mine clearers were hard at work. As we slowly ascended the monument the atmosphere of the place increasingly captivated us. At the middle of the monument we found a small Buddhist Shrine which had a resident Mae Chee (Buddhist Nun). Mali stopped to light incense and offer prayers.

hroughout the tumble down nature of the Monuments impressive stone reliefs were further evidence of Khao Phra Vihaan’s experience with modern times – two concrete lined bomb shelters constructed by the Khmer Rouge and an old artillery piece. We also came across several amputee Cambodian vendors selling flower garlands and soft drinks.

When we reached the end of the complex we were presented with a magnificent view right across North-West Cambodia. Through the scuddy clouds you could see a still green terrain, dirt roads and the sheer drop down the mountain range into Cambodia.

It had been a magic visit. Not many visitors (though I believe it gets very crowded on weekends/Public holidays but I suppose what else is news) unlike Angkor Wat which we visited in 2004. But best of all it had atmosphere and for a few hours at least we held it in our embrace.

Of course Khao Phra Vihaan has now been discovered, but I hope that Thailand and Cambodia work out their differences and ensure that this very special place be preserved forever.

Bill

by Bill Grimson

Tags: Magic, Prasad Hin Phimai, Phanom Rung Hill, Khao Phra Vihaan, monument, North East, Thailand, South East Asia, Thai, Cambodian