ThailandTourlism.Blogspot.Com

Tha Base Onnuch

2010-09-21T01:46:00.001-07:00

wyne 3d mapping

2010-08-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

wayne

2010-08-24T08:35:00.000-07:00

Centara Chaan Talay Resort & Villa Trad

2010-01-31T08:25:00.000-08:00

Centara Chaan Talay Resort & Villa Trad is an excellent choice of yours if you are looking to cast away from people as it is located to the quite beach yet beautiful of Trad. The hotel offers you spacious guestroom with international standard facilities and services.Guests can spend most of their time at pool, spa, Steam and water sports. This supreme accommodation offers well-selected hotel amenities to suite all purposes of traveling.

Thailand - Culture Smart!: the essential guide to customs & culture

2010-01-30T21:53:00.000-08:00

Get special price on Thailand - Culture Smart!: the essential guide to customs & culture. This your complete guide for doing thing right in Thailand. Lean customs, culture and etiquette before you go.

Buy Thailand - Culture Smart!: the essential guide to customs & culture from Amazon.com with special offer

The Rough Guide to Thailand's Beaches & Islands (Rough Guide Travel Guides) (Paperback)

2010-01-28T08:07:00.000-08:00

Get special price on The Rough Guide to Thailand's Beaches & Islands (Rough Guide Travel Guides) (Paperback)
"The Rough Guide to Thailand's Beaches & Islands" is the perfect companion for island-hopping through Thailand's spectacular coastal regions. Whether you wish to kayak through the limestone karsts of Ao Phang Nga, explore the dive sites around Ko Tao, party on Phuket or relax on one of Ko Samui's idyllic beaches, this guide will lead you straight to the region's best attractions. The guide features a colour section on Thailand Underwater, including the best of the country's amazing diving and snorkelling sites, as well as detailed coverage of Bangkok, Thailand's fascinating capital.

Click here to Buy The Rough Guide to Thailand's Beaches & Islands from Amazon.com at special price

Special Offers for Villa Asoke

2009-11-02T02:08:00.000-08:00

Villa Asoke by TCC Capital Land offers special promotion called ´One day, one price on high floors´ which will only be valid on October 31 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC). The Offers includes one price per sqm for units on the 33rd to 42nd Floors.

The Address Sathorn

2009-11-01T19:56:00.000-08:00

The Address Sathorn is one of the latest project in The Address series launched by Asian Property (PLC). The project is located 400 meters approximately from BTS Chong Nonsi and within a walking distance to BTS Surasak. The project boasts a lush front garden and infinite edge pool. Units are fully furnished.

Schwinn Thrasher Adult Micro Bicycle Helmet (Adult)

2009-11-01T05:04:00.000-08:00

Schwinn Thrasher Adult Micro Bicycle Helmet (Adult)

Looking for a biccycle helmet? Try Schwinn Thrasher Adult Micro Bicycle Helmet.It has a dial at the back of the helmet to make it fit your head comfortably and exactly.The straps are soft and gender. They don't scratch your face. Moisture-wicking pads also keep you dry along riding. It has 21 flow vents to keep you cool. List price:$24.99 but special price available at Amazon.com

A Guide To Buying Property in Thailand

2009-10-29T21:16:00.000-07:00

So you have fallen in love with Thailand? Like so many others before you, and the thousands that will follow? For whatever reason, you have chosen to own a property in Thailand? This could be for the long term prospect of making this wonderful country your permanent home, or as a potential investment, and/or for the pleasure of having a luxury holiday home in the sun. Whatever the reason, there are certain things you need to consider before jumping head-first into a purchase.

Naturally, what seems like a great idea at the time can often change after a full investigation of the pro’s and cons? There is certainly no reason not to consider such a purchase, but like any property deal back in Europe or the USA, it is advisable to carry out due diligence beforehand. Find out the facts before you sign anything, and be sure you have covered everything before you proceed.

Thailand is a wonderful country with some beautiful beaches, an amazing climate and a very laid back approach to life. All very appealing to the foreigner just off the plane from their stressful lifestyles back in Europe or the USA? But before you sign on the dotted line of a contract, please ensure all the necessary due diligence has been carried out, as it would have been back home.

Always seek professional legal advice and get a qualified registered lawyer

The first and probably most important decision you will make is to talk to a Thai registered, qualified lawyer who is respected and/or has been highly recommended. This is incredibly important as until you have some in depth knowledge of Thailand and the Thai real estate market, you will need professional and honest advice. A good, trustworthy Thai lawyer can assist you in so many ways, save you money and provide many answers to the numerous questions you undoubtedly will have? They can also help you avoid any unnecessary pitfalls created by your lack of understanding of the market, and will guide you through any language barriers.

Always remember when appointing a Thai lawyer, you are basically hiring his/her professional services in order to help protect you from any unforeseen pitfalls, guide you on Thai real estate law, help with any lack of understanding and/or protect you from any unscrupulous individuals that may be looking to take advantage of you. Lawyers are worth every baht they charge if they are honest, qualified and licensed. Hire a good one and they are an invaluable source of information and expertise.

A Good Law Firm will:

* Check the current owners have the correct title to the property
* Check for any charges and liabilities still owed on the property
* Check your contract and advise you on the obligations/responsibilities of all parties
* Guide you through the payment/funds transfer
* Ensure that the property is registered appropriately and in the correct name
* Provide valuable and essential legal information
* Advise on visa regulations and your options
* Safe guard you against unscrupulous persons wishing to take advantage

Ownership Laws for Foreign Buyers – Ask a Registered Thai Lawyer to Help

Currently the laws in Thailand only allow certain types of property to be purchased and owned on a freehold, and you need to know what they are. A Condominium is the first type that comes to mind and a very good option. But even with a condominium one needs to check the unit to be bought falls into the correct legal category. Check the laws governing this, and make sure you carry out all the right actions that create a smooth and hassle free purchase. As already mentioned, a licensed Thai lawyer will do all this for you, and they are worth very baht they charge! It is only the foolish who buys a 15 million baht property and then objects to pay a lawyer 50,000- 100,000 to deal with the transaction. A Thai lawyer is there to protect you and your hard earned money. Don’t be foolish, and always make sure you seek good legal advice. It can also be foolish, to go the cheap route and use any of the numerous unqualified legal advisers who offer ridiculously cheap legal assistance. Many, you often see in the back of tourist magazines, newspapers and occupying numerous street shops. Once again, be careful, take your time and be sensible. There are some excellent lawyers out there and you just need to find them.

As a foreign investor, there are also ways to lease property in Thailand for up to 30 years! Many are happy to choose this option as a freehold property can be owned by a foreign investor on leased land. And even then, there are ways to extend a 30 year lease, but not necessarily with a complete guarantee. Once again, check with a qualified, registered lawyer.

Buying on one of Thailand’s fabulous developments

There are numerous fabulous developments throughout Thailand and one should take their time looking. Decide on the location such as beach area, city, country side, and take the time to look at the various projects in that location. There are many locations to consider depending on where you wish to live. The main areas and popular choices are: Bangkok, Pattaya, Koh Chang, Rayong, Hua Hin, Cha Am, Chiang Mai, Ko Samui, Phuket, and Krabi. Each area has its advantages and disadvantages, and there are a wide variety of developments to choose from.

Make sure you deal with a reputable developer, one that can help you as much as possible. Ask your Thai lawyer to check any contracts and title deeds they may provide, and always seek legal advice before signing or paying for any property. If the developer is reputable and serious, they will fully understand the need for your lawyer to be involved and in fact should welcome it, as it shows they are open and honest with nothing to hide. A reputable developer should also be happy to provide all information as regards the building of the property you are purchasing, and any information regarding title deeds, ownership, communal areas, guarantees and whatever pertains to the successful purchase.

Building your own Home in Thailand – Exceptional Value for Money!

Building your own home is a fantastic option and probably the one that allows you to take full advantage of Thailand’s very reasonable prices. It allows you to get the most for your money. But once again, this can be problematic if you do not consult a professional, registered construction company. There are many unqualified builders out there, as in the West, and many are carrying out construction with no previous experience whatsoever. Some do it as a hobby, others foolishly do it as they think it’s an easy way to make money; and some even do it because they think it’s an easy thing to do. But as we know from Europe or USA the reason we have qualifications, the reasons we have regulations on construction, is because it is, a very complex task. If you wish your house to be built to a standard acceptable to international standards, then make sure you get a registered company to do it for you that can provide examples of their work as well as testimonials and references.

Make sure you use a Company with Construction Experience

Remember standards in Thailand vary widely and don’t be one of the many victims who end up with a home whose electrics are not earthed; windows have gaps around them, doors that do not fit, and structures that have no guarantees. Be sensible and careful. Ask the right questions and make sure the company you choose has a good reputation and is registered as a construction company, not as an individual or via their wife’s name. There is little come back if it is built under a person rather than a company, and any serious builder will have a registered company set up. But even then, make sure you ask the right questions, and make sure they have many years experience in construction.

1. If something sounds too go to be true; then it probably is?

A Registered Construction Company will:

* Assist and advise you on the prices, styles, types of property
* Provide recommendations, references or testimonials from satisfied clients
* Provide a synopsis of their experience within the construction industry
* Assist you with architectural plans and consult with you on them
* Make sure your plans are signed by both a qualified architect and structural engineer. Very important if you insure your property later on, as many insurance companies will contest any payouts for damage or problems, if the property construction was not carried out by professional people and/or was not designed by a qualified architect and checked/signed off by a structural engineer. So make sure it is.

·Make sure the architect provides you with a complete set of detailed plans and will provide copies for all government offices that require them

* Provide a professionally written legal contract, outlining both parties’ responsibilities and safeguarding both parties’ against disagreement or conflict. It should list all the particulars of the agreement and any additions, changes or alterations to the detailed plans. If specific materials or finish have been agreed, this should also be listed clearly with in it.
* Obtain official permission for your property to be built and provide the government with an documentation they require
* Provide a clear and concise construction payment schedule
* Offer stage payment options
* Provide full invoices for each construction stage
* Be available to answer questions and give advise throughout the construction process
* Provide guarantees

Find the Right Company and Build that Dream Home for a lot Less than you think!

Find the right construction company and you can build a quality luxury 4 bedroom house with pool for 7-10 million baht, a 3 bedroom bungalow for 3 million baht and an exclusive millionaire’s home for 25 million baht. The choice is yours to make on how much you wish to spend. However once again you need to check with a registered lawyer as regards the law and make sure you are able to do what you want to. Many foreigners who are married to Thai nationals choose this option to build and have a contract drawn out by their lawyer, between them and their wife. It satisfies their desire to live in their own home, safeguards them as much as possible and maximizes the money they have to spend. Once again seek good legal advice and there is no reason why you should have problems. The major plus point of building your own home and using a professional construction to do so, is you get so much more for your money than if you bought on a development and can customize the property to your own needs, preferences and budget.

Check all Your Options and Consider Everything Carefully

If you are married to a Thai national then there are other ways to purchase and complete your property ownership. As is the case if you are investing large sums of money into Thailand. There are so many aspects to consider and it is actually not so different to any country in the world. England and America have rules governing such activity albeit they have learnt fairly quickly that is far, far more beneficial to free up such laws, as foreign investment greatly benefits the economy. However this is still early days for Thailand and it will take time for the change to take place. But ultimately, you can buy property here and thousands do. As long as you know the laws, understand your position and are happy to buy on that basis, then you could be the proud owner of a luxury property that cost five times less than a similar property back home!

Check the Visa Regulations and any Taxes or Transfer Fees

Another aspect you need to consider, is how long you wish to stay in Thailand and what the visa regulations are in relation to your country of origin? There are various types of visas available and once again you should seek the advice of a registered Thai lawyer. It wouldn’t be a good idea to buy a beautiful property only to find out that you can only stay in Thailand for one month at a time right? So this needs careful consideration, and preparation.

Make sure you fully understand the taxes and transfer fees you may have to pay on final transfer of ownership. This is important and once again a good lawyer can help you with all of this.

Quick Purchase Guide

The Initial Purchase Agreement

The initial purchase agreement will detail price, terms and conditions, settlement date etc. and in most cases a 5-10% deposit will be required to secure the property. This deposit is refundable should the sale not go through, as long as it is not your fault.

Reservation Fee

When buying a new condominium, an initial reservation deposit of is required and this amount is deducted at a later stage from the total price. Once an agreement is signed, usually 10 to 15 days after the reservation, the buyer is required to pay 5% - 10% of the total price. Depending on the terms of the contract, the balance then could be due in installments or as a lump sum at the time the title is transferred

Fees

As a general rule, for residential sales you can expect the total fees and taxes to work out to be approximately 2% to 3% of the property market value.

There is a stamp fee of 0.5%, a transfer fee of 2%, a business tax of 3.3 % (levied against a vendor who has been in registered possession of the property less than 5 years), and income tax (similar to capital gains tax) at a variable rate.

Property Taxes

There are 2 different types of tax levied on property in Thailand:

1. Land Tax

This is an annual tax levied on land ownership. The amount is often so small that in practice the body charged to collect it rarely bothers to do so. When they do collect it, it is usually after several years when the amount has accumulated.

2. Structures Usage Tax

This only applies to commercially used properties. The rate is 12.5% on the actual or assessed gross rental value of the property. However, this notional value is well below the commercial market rental value.

If the property is purchased through a company, you need to consider that corporate tax is higher than personal tax, and the cost of setting up the company must be considered as part of the initial investment.

Capital Gains Tax

There is no capital gains tax in Thailand and income tax (usually between 1.0 - 3.0%) on property is the comparable replacement.

Finance

Mortgages in Thailand are still difficult to arrange. However, recently a new branch of the Bangkok Bank has opened in Singapore, which has opened up borrowing possibilities for property investment in Thailand, financing as much as 70% over 10 years for property purchase. You should expect to get no more than 50% in finance, with the exception to some well-known developments where finance of nearer 70% is available.

HSBC and UOB has a presence in Thailand and can offer loans of between 1,500,000 and 35,000,000 Thai Baht. Typically they will lend up to 80% of the purchase price and interest rates can be fixed for up to three years.

To buy a condo or another property with a loan, many purchasers get a mortgage in their home country and then transfer the money to a Thai bank account, while using a lawyer to oversee the logistics of the process.

But please check the current situation and speak with banks direct.

Please note: Laws and regulations do change and can vary, so please make sure you check with a qualified lawyer. The above information is only to offer an insight into the property world and not as an accurate guide. We are not legal experts and nor profess to be so. Always clarify everything with a lawyer and get an up to date perspective on your situation and any laws regulating what you wish to do in Thailand. The above article was written at a specific time and maybe regulations, taxes and laws have changed since this was created. We waiver any liability, legally or otherwise in its detailed accuracy and can not be held accountable in any way.

Thailand is an amazing place to live and a there are some wonderful real estate and investment opportunities. If you take care and be sensible, then you too can be the proud owner of an amazing new property at half the price it would cost in the west.

By Peter Evans

Forbes Le Brock is a professional and extremely helpful real estate agency specializing in general real estate and investment property throughout Thailand; and although they are not qualified legal advisors, they aim to provide as much accurate and up to date information in relation to property purchase, as possible. Any information they provide is by no means meant as a definitive guide, it’s just their way of providing a value added service. Please, always ensure you seek advice from a professionally qualified and registered Thai lawyer, and attain current information at the time of your purchase, or in interest of a purchase. If you are looking for unbiased investment advice or wish you to purchase a property in Thailand please contact: peter@forbeslebrock.com www.forbeslebrock.com or Skype: peterflb

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/a-guide-to-buying-property-in-thailand-1293004.html

The Address Asoke

2009-10-28T20:51:00.000-07:00

The Address Asoke is the latest project by Asian Property (PLC). The project is located just opposite to Makkasan Terminal of Airport Rail Link and 150 metres away from MRT Phetchaburi station. The Address Asoke boasts an infinity-edged outsized swimming pool, the rooftop hot spa and mini theater. Start at 7.2 MB from 2 fully furnished bedroomed units.

Topeak Modula Cage Waterbottle Cage

2009-10-28T02:46:00.000-07:00

Topeak Modula Cage Waterbottle Cage

Looking for water bottle cage that fits for all type of water bottle sizes? Topeak Modula Cage Waterbottle Cageis the perfect choice of yours. This bottle cage gives you a little screw on the bottom allowing you to fit a wide range of drink sizes. Installation can be done in just 30 seconds with the turn of a center screw. Order Topeak Modula Cage Waterbottle Cage NOW. List Price: $9.95 but click here for special price at Amazon.com.

Thailand Mountain Bike Routes - Bangkok to Three pagodas Pass

Lanta Place , Package 5 Days / 4 Nights , Rawi Warin Resort and Spa

2009-10-26T20:10:00.000-07:00

Lanta Place

Package 5 Days / 4 Nights

(15 Feb 09 – 31 Oct 09) (1 Nov 09 – 19 Dec 09,11 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10)

Deluxe Room 14, 200 27,100

Pond Room 16,200 30,800

Sea View Villa 21,900 36,600

Sunset Pool Villa 54,900 75,900

Lanta Inclusions

Daily breakfast at the Golden Pond Restaurant
Round trip transfers from Krabi International Airport
One Thai Set Lunch at resort’s restaurant
One Western Set Dinner at resort's restaurant
Rawi Warin signature welcome drink upon arrival
Complimentary seasonal fresh fruits in room upon arrival
Complimentary usage of library
Complimentary usage of the resort's movie theatre
Complimentary usage of the resort's audio music room
Complimentary usage of the resort's kids room
Complimentary usage of tennis court, gym and mountain bikes
Complimentary usage of non motorized water sports equipment & sport complex

Telephone : +66 (0) 7560 7400
Facsimile.. : +66 (0) 7560-7488
Email : reservations@rawiwarin.com
Bankok Sales & Marketing Office
Telephone : +66 (0) 2664 3490
Facsimile.. : +66 (0) 2664 3495
Email : sales@rawiwarin.com

Ban Nub Kluen by Sansiri

2009-10-26T03:20:00.000-07:00

Property of the month: Ban Nub Kluen by Sansiri

Sansiri PLC has just launched a brand-new condo situated just 15 minutes away from the city of Huahin. The project comprises of 180 units allowing you to spoil yourself in the area of Huahin beach. You can choose from 1 bedroom (58.00 - 63.00 sq.m ) unit to 3 bedrooms unit (161.00 - 280.00 sq.m). The projects boast 2 swimming pools and kid's pool, garden, 24-hour security by guard Service, CCTV. Price starts from 3.3 million baht. More infor , please visit

http://www.sansiri.com/th/project/baan_nubkluen/

Ownership of a house in Thailand

2009-10-25T21:19:00.000-07:00

Ownership of a house in Thailand

Thailand Law Online: A building in Thailand as distinct from its land can be owned and transferred separate from its land. Buildings in Thailand, apart from condominiums, do not have any form of title deed document. As an individual immovable property it can be transferred separate from its land. This must be in writing and registered by the competent authority (i.e. the Thai Land Department).
Beware that the 'house book' or blue or yellow book (a Ta.Bian.Baan or Tabien Bahn) is an administrative document issued by by the local Administraive Office, not the Land Department, therefore this book is certainly not a proof of ownership.
When a foreigner buys a property in Thailand the land part can be sold under a leasehold agreement (as foreigners can't own the land) and the house can be sold separate from the land. This means that a land lease agreement is offered and a sale and purchase agreement for the house is drawn up, both specifying the terms of the lease and the terms of teh sale.
Both the land lease and house transfer must be registered at the Land Department.
When buying in a development 'off the plan' instead of a sale agreement for the house or construction agreement can be offered, however the building permit must be in the foreigner's name.
Often a lease for 'land and house' is offered, but this the least beneficial structure for foreigners and not the recommended long term structure for possession of the property (i.e. this is legally the weakest structure). To improve someone's interest in the immovable property a 'right of superficies' (the registered right to own a building upon someone else's land) improves the leaseholder's position on expiration or termination of the lease. Rights of ownership of a building upon someone else's land relates directly to the rights to use or possess someone else's land. You could lose your rights under a land lease agreement, but your rights under the right of superficies could remain enforceable.
The transfer procedure for an existing house in Thailand is as follows:
1. The parties must present themselves at the local land office to announce the sale. This is part of the official process and separate from the private sale and purchase agreement between the parties
If a party can't attend the land office (e.g. the foreigner is abroad) a proxy can be appointed. In this case the official land office power of attorney form (document Tor-Dor 21) is required
3. Documents required: Tor-Dor 21 (if applicable), building permit or previous land office sale agreement, Ta bian Baan, ID's of the parties (passport or ID-card)
4. The land office will issue 4 copies of the notification of the sale of a structure ( public notice), to be put up at the Or Bor Tor, the District Office, the Kamnan Office and at the building itself for a 30-day announcement (to see if anyone wishes to contest ownership)
5. After the 30 days public notice period the parties must present themselves again to sign the official land office sale agreement which effectively transfers ownership.
Proof of ownership of the house can be either the official land office sale agreement, as signed at the land office, or the construction permit in the owner's name.

By tiwi

Robert M. Spelde Partner and author for www.thailandlawonline.com Contact:info@thailandlawonline.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/law-articles/ownership-of-a-house-in-thailand-861965.html

Top 5 Interesting Destinations For Scuba Diving in Thailand

2009-10-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

Top 5 Interesting Destinations For Scuba Diving in Thailand

Thailand is a place where not only the beautiful landscapes are found, but also a ideal place for water sports activities. The country having beautiful seascapes is visited mostly by surfers and scuba divers. There are five places in Thailand where visitors consider the great places to do scuba diving. Listed are the top five destinations for scuba diving in Thailand:

1. Andaman Sea - the perfect scuba diving place in Thailand. Andaman Sea is located at the southeast part of the Bay of Bengal. This place is the first choice for scuba divers here in Thailand. The sea is rich with beautiful underwater gardens and a vast collection of coral reefs. Divers may dive to the sea after a trip to the wonderful Andaman beach. There are also scuba diving lessons offered for beginners and scuba diving centers where one can get anything they need for scuba diving.

2. Hin Mouang - also called the "Purple Rock". Here, divers can take a look of Hin Mouang's very own "pelagic fish". The place also features large underwater areas great for scuba divers. There are even unusual sea creatures that can be seen here. Here, divers can enjoy seeing the colorful variety of strange fish breeds, coral reef gardens, and plant-like animals under the sea.

3. Surin Islands - located at 14 km east of the Mu Koh Surin marine park. Surin Islands is a place for sighting whale sharks. Divers can also find large schools of pelagic fish. The underwater view if the sea makes it perfect for photographer divers. The place also offers experienced guides to help divers with the strong currents of the Surin Island waters. The total depth of the area is about 30m below, where one can view the beautiful seawater gardens below its surface.

4. Similan Islands - is a one day trip from Kaoh Lak. Here, one can find fine turquoise waters with a large population of colorful fish. The perfect time to dive here is in the morning, or what divers called "Breakfast bend", because this is the time when lots of underwater species can be seen. During the morning, one can find the sea leopard sharks, scorpion fish, trigger fish, barracudas, and many other fish types. The corals are also in excellent condition. The best time of the year to Scuba dive in Similan islands is from March to April months of the year.

5. Koh Tao - this place is not very common for foreign scuba divers, but it is a perfect place for this activity. The underwater beauty of Koh Tao is still untouched so divers can see its natural beauty. there are huge varieties of fishes and unusual underwater species seen here. the corals are also in their best.

Pinky Mcbanon

Ms. Pinky is a mom of 3 school children. She is a Systems Engineer, a Technology Researcher and an Independent Medical Billing and Coding Consultant. She and her family is well-traveled all over the world! Her blogs and websites focuses on stay-at-home moms, dads and students who wants to work at home, build homebased business http://www.mommyisworkingathome.com. Visit her Interesting Site on Asian Travels and Destinations. Discover Asia's Culture and Great Food! at http://www.goingplacesinasia.com

Thailand Mountain Bike Routes - Bangkok to Three pagodas Pass

2009-10-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

Bangkok to Kanchanaburi and onto Three Pagodas Pass

This is a five day route through Kanchanaburi, the most beautiful province in Central Thailand, famous for the Bridge over the River Kwai and the cliff clinging Death Railway among other beautiful natural attractions.

There are two ways of getting to Kanchanaburi province from Bangkok, the first being the easiest and that is by train from Thonburi train station just across the river from Khaosan Road. The second being a 130km hell ride following the major highway out of Bangkok towards Kanchanaburi. A 130km or 80 miles ride in most countries is a piece of cake but in Thailand with the heat and careless drivers who often use the hard shoulder to undertake it can be a bit much for one day.

Directions to Thonburi Train Station

Coming from Khaosan Road cross over the Chao Phraya River on the Pinklao Bridge then turn left at the first major intersection on to Arun Amarin Road then cross over the river again on the Arun Amarin Bridge. Take your first turn off left (still actually on the bridge) then follow the road left u-turning under the bridge and the train station is on the right.

Putting your Bikes on the Train

The train fare from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi is 100 Baht and another 100 Baht for your bike. Your bike can be put in the guard carriage but if there is no guard carriage your bike gets a seat of its own! On one occasion we had to put our bikes through an open window with the help of the guards because there was no guard carriage and the bikes were too long to get through the doors.

Kanchanaburi Town

There are plenty of Hotels and Guest Houses not to mention Short -Time motels in Kanchanaburi so you will always find somewhere to stay even on a bank holiday but the best accommodation is down by the river. There are a number of tourist attractions in the town such as the Prisoner of War Cemetery, the Jeath Museum, the Tiger Temple and of course the Bridge over the River Kwai so if you do travel there by train there are plenty of places to visit to fill up your day. Kanchanaburi also has its fair share of good restaurants and bars, one of our favorites is the No Name Bar on River Kwai Road that has great western food and is a good place to catch the sport on T.V.

Kanchanaburi to Sai Yok

Day two starts with a beautiful sweeping road out of Kanchanaburi heading towards Sai Yok. The road itself is very enjoyable and there are a number of places to stop and eat along the way. As you get out into the country scenic rocky hills (or mountains as the locals like to call them) rise up on either side of the road but as the 60km road to Sai Yok remains relatively flat compared to the scenery around, it is a very fun and enjoyable ride. The accommodation at Sai Yok is cheap and Sai Yok Noi waterfall is a great place to have fun and cool off, but if you’re not having fun by now this is where the railway stops so you can always head back on the train.

Sai Yok to Thong Pha Phum District

The third leg of the journey starts to get a bit more challenging and is a nice acclimatizer for what’s to come there are a few steep ascents to climb out nothing too punishing. And the breathtaking scenery takes your mind off the effort you’re putting in and makes the ride all the more enjoyable. It is a 100km journey to Thong Pha Phum from Sai Yok but there is plenty to see and do along the way and visiting Hellfire Pass, Sai Yok Yai Waterfall and the natural hot springs at Hin Dat break up this long day very nicely. Once you reach Thong Pha Phum you can find cheap accommodation very easily.

Thong Pha Phum is a very pleasant town but being the busy city slickers that we are we’ve never stayed too long before moving onto the fourth leg of the journey. But there are plenty of mountains around for the more adventurous mountain biker to get his teeth into some serious mountain biking with plenty of walked in jungle trails to find a good line on.

Thong Pha Phum to Sangkhla Buri

The fourth day is a killer and definitely separates the mice from the men. Make sure you start off with plenty of water and fill up everywhere as the hills hit you immediately leaving Thong Pha Phum town and continue ruthlessly until you arrive at Sangkhlaburi. Zig zagging won’t help you on these ascents but the breathtaking scenery takes your mind off the tough climbs endured along the way and as you arrive at Sangkhlaburi pride kicks in as you are filled with the amazing feeling of overcoming what was the toughest part of this route.

Sangkhla Buri to Three Pagodas Pass

After what you’ve just endured it is an easy and enjoyable ride to the finish line at 3 Pagodas pass. Just 20km away from Sangkhla Buri 3 Pagodas pass is named after three miniature Pagodas, it marks the rugged Thai-Burmese border and has a thriving border market. Visitors are allowed to enter the neighboring Burmese Settlement but this crossing will not renew your Thai visa. After spending as much time as needed it’s best to head back to Sangkhla Buri to freshen up and get yourself some nice Thai food.

Note

In the hottest part of the year this route can be torture especially in April and May. It is a tough ride for intermediate riders but can be easily tolerated by most in the cooler months of November to January.

Mountain Bike Tours Thailand is a free information website, with all the information you need about Mountain Biking in Thailand.

By Mark Alexander

Mark Smith is the Senior SEO and area manager of IT and Web Design Thailand. Bangkok SEO services, search engine optimization and web design training consultants.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/outdoor-sports-articles/thailand-mountain-bike-routes-bangkok-to-three-pagodas-pass-1196566.html

Ong-Bak - The Thai Warrior (2003)

2009-10-18T06:40:00.002-07:00

Ong-Bak - The Thai Warrior (2003)

List Price: $14.98 Click Here to get Special Offer for Ong-Bak - The Thai Warrior

No computer graphic can ever surpass what a real human body can do--and what the body can do is on spectacular display in Ong-Bak, a Thai action movie starring the lithe and flexible Tony Jaa. When the head is stolen from a holy statue in Jaa's rural village, he goes to Bangkok to get it back. Of course, it just so happens that the thief is connected to a bar where criminal big shots gamble over bare-knuckle brawls, and Jaa is--despite his virtuous efforts--drawn into the game. But that's only the beginning; a chase through the city streets rivals the ingenious acrobatics of Jackie Chan, with Jaa leaping between panes of glass, over a bicycle in motion, and through a wreath of barbed wire. Jaa's fighting prowess has been compared to Bruce Lee, Jet Li, and just about every other martial arts master, but he has an equal degree of charisma as well. He won't win acting awards, but his engaging presence carries the movie. One word of warning: The numerous fights will make you wince as much as gape in astonishment. Ong-Bak follows the action-flick tradition that the hero needs to be as battered as possible before he ultimately triumphs, and the battering is intense. --Bret Fetzer

When the head of his village's sacred Buddha statue is stolen, simple country boy Ting (Tony Jaa) is sent to Bangkok to retrieve it. Raised by a monk who has trained him in Muay Thai, Ting has vowed to never use his lethal martial arts skills. But once he arrives in the big city, Ting is forced to fight. It's non-stop action as Ting infiltrates Bangkok's seedy underworld and takes on a series of lowlifes and criminals in his quest to obtain the sacred head.

List Price: $14.98 Click Here to get Special Offer for Ong-Bak - The Thai Warrior

Thai-English English-Thai Dictionary for Non-Thai Speakers, Revised Edition (Dictionary) (Paperback)

2009-10-18T06:32:00.000-07:00

Thai-English English-Thai Dictionary for Non-Thai Speakers, Revised Edition (Dictionary) (Paperback)

List Price: $15.00 Click Here for Special Price of Thai-English English-Thai Dictionary for Non-Thai Speakers, Revised Edition (Dictionary)

This practical dictionary is designed to help English speakers communicate in Thai. It is equally useful for those who can read the Thai alphabet and those who can't. Most Thai-English dictionaries either use Thai script exclusively for the Thai entries (making them difficult for westerners to use) or use only phonetic transliteration (making it impossible to look up a word in Thai script). This dictionary solves these problems by dividing the entries into three sections: Section One [English-Phonetic-Thai], Section Two [Phonetic-Thai-English] and Section Three [Thai-Phonetic-English]. The transliteration system is the same as that used in Paiboon Publishing's other books. You will find most of the vocabulary you are likely to need in everyday life, including basic medical, cultural, political and scientific terms.

Here are some of the features:

 Consistent and accurate phonetic transcription of Thai sounds for those unable to read the Thai alphabet
 A comprehensive guide to pronunciation
 Thai script for those who read Thai
 All entries organized in three easy to use sections
 Thai alphabet guide showing different styles of Thai script to help you read shop signs and newspaper headlines

It's the ONE Dictionary You Can Really Use!

List Price: $15.00 Click Here for Special Price of Thai-English English-Thai Dictionary for Non-Thai Speakers, Revised Edition (Dictionary)

NIKE Golf Unitized Mako Putter

2009-10-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

NIKE Golf Unitized Mako Putter

List Price: $299.95
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The NIKE Golf Unitized Mako Putter features a mid-mallet style head with new seamless construction and provides unparalleled feedback. Putting is all about feel and accuracy, and the NIKE's Unitized Putter series provides maximum feedback and response. No bonds or joints to interrupt your feel ... just take dead aim!

* Single, unitized construction provides maximum feedback and response.
* Increased feel enables superb distance accuracy.
* Putterhead is laser-welded directly to the shaft and provides a superbly clean look at setup.
* Mid-mallet style putterhead provides additional stability at impact for a truer, straighter roll.
* Constructed from CNC precision-milled 303 stainless steel.

List Price: $299.95
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Q2, 2009 - starting of the bubble burst.

2009-09-29T20:14:00.001-07:00

CBRE Thailand has released the latest Bangkok Residential Sales Market View for Q2 2009. In the analysis, I can summarize that the significant change in Q2 of 2009 is that majority of property buying comes from Thais (80%) not foreigners as the last year. Thai people buy property as an alternative option for investment and they strongly believe that prices are not going to fall.

CBRE also sees that the real buyers are not speculators but end users and buy-to-rent investors. The company also says that the prices of the high end sector are not rising in the near future.

From my view, we can see, in the near future, the rental price will be decreased significantly due to oversupply of property in prime locations of Bangkok and decreasing of foreigners. There are thousand of units to be completed in a few years but foreigners are moving away from Thailand due to worldwide economic slump. So we can see the price war in the rental market soon. The bubble is nearly burst.

Stone (Granite) Mortar and Pestle

2009-09-21T20:25:00.000-07:00

Stone (Granite) Mortar and Pestle

Made in Thailand of carved granite, this durable high quality product is an important tool for Thai cooking as well as around the world. Won't chip or crack. Each mortar is cut from a solid granite rock and carefully carved by hand. Hefty 12 lb weight, this product has remarkable visual appeal and is the finest mortar and pestle on the market. We use the finest raw material available. Mentioned as the best mortar and pestle in America by The Wall Street Journal (Feb 16, 2007).

* Made in Thailand of the finest raw material
* Handmade from a single block of granite, 3 sizes available
* Indestructible, will not chip or crack no matter how hard you pound
* Received top endorsement from celebrity chef David Rosengarten
* Beautiful appearance, a work of art to show off in your kitchen

Click below for purchasing information and special offer from Amazon.com.

Stone (Granite) Mortar and Pestle

Vatch's Thai Street Food (Paperback)

2009-09-21T20:19:00.000-07:00

Vatch's Thai Street Food (Paperback)

Product Description
Food stalls are an essential part of Thai life and can be found on nearly every city street, bustling market or railway platform across the country. Most Thai's eat at open air specialist food stalls at least once a day, simply because they provide the freshest, most authentic and tasty Thai cooking there is. This book introduces key street dishes from across Thailand that are simple and easy to prepare at home. Recipes originate from every area of this beautiful country, providing a balanced mix of meat, seafood, vegetarian and sweet dishes. In addition the `before you begin' section, introducing ingredients and cooking techniques, provides all you need to take up your wok with confidence.

Review
Over 100 easily mastered and autentic one-dish meals from the market stalls, food-carts and noodle-boats of Thailand from the premier Thai restaurateur, chef and author. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Vatch's Thai Street Food

Thai for Beginners (Paperback) by Benjawan Poomsan Becker

2009-09-21T20:13:00.000-07:00

Thai for Beginners (Paperback)
by Benjawan Poomsan Becker

Product Description
An easy to use Thai language textbook designed for either self-study or classroom use. Teaches all four language skills speaking, listening (when used in conjunction with the cassette tapes), reading and writing . Offers clear, easy, step-by-step instruction, building on what has beenpreviously learned. Used by many Thai temples in America. Recommended books to be studied along with Thai for Beginners are Thai for Travelers (a practical Thai phrase book) and Speak like a Thai series by the same author.

About the Author
Benjawan Poomsan Becker was born in Bangkok and spent her childhood in Yasothon, a small province in Northeast Thailand. Her family is ethnic Laotian, so she grew up speaking both Thai and Lao. She graduated from Khon Kaen University in Thailand in 1990, with a B.A. in English. Benjawan gained extensive experience teaching Thai to foreigners while studying for her M.A. in Japan with the Japan-Thailand Trade Association and Berlitz Language School, and in the US with Thai temples, Stanford University and private students. She now resides in Berkeley, California where she continues to write and publish books on the Thai and Lao languages. Her books include "Thai for Beginners", "Thai for Intermediate Learners", "Thai for Advanced Readers", "Thai-English/English-Thai Dictionary for Non-Thai Speakers", "Improving Your Thai Pronunciation", "Practical Thai Conversation DVD Series", the popular "Speak Like a Thai Series" and many other titles on the Thai language.

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Thai for Beginners

The Address Chidlom Studio for RENT

2009-09-10T23:42:00.000-07:00

Compact unit in Bangkok CBD location where short walking distance to BTS Chidlom station and Central Chidlom. Brand new. Size 38.5 Sq. m. 27000 baht/month. Click Here for contact details.

Schwinn Pillow Top Cruiser Bicycle Seat

2009-08-21T03:22:00.000-07:00

Schwinn Pillow Top Cruiser Bicycle Seat

Schwinn Pillow Top Cruiser Bicycle Seat is super comfortable, firm and cushy. Perfect for long riding.

List Price: $19.99
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iBert Safe-T Front Mounted Child Bicycle Seat

2009-08-21T03:20:00.001-07:00

iBert Safe-T Front Mounted Child Bicycle Seat

The iBert safe-T-seat was designed with quality and safety first. The safe-T-seat places the child up front, safely between the parent's protective arms. This evenly distributes weight over the bike giving a stable, safe ride. Kids enjoy the close interaction and the unobstructed view of the fun ahead. Mounted conveniently on the handlebar stem; the high, forward position allows you to pedal in comfort without banging your knees on the seat.

* Front-mounted child bicycle seat for added safety and comfort
* Puts your child directly in front of you for easy and safe interaction
* Fully adjustable 3-point safety harness; pivoting lap bar that locks into place
* Patented tool-free Stinger mount attaches to handlebar stem in minutes
* Solid leg wells provide 180 degrees of protection; 38-pound weight capacity

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iBert Safe-T Front Mounted Child Bicycle Seat

Thailand's Islands & Beaches (Regional Guide) (Paperback)

2009-08-16T05:52:00.000-07:00

Thailand's Islands & Beaches (Regional Guide) (Paperback)

Discover Thailand's Islands and Beaches

Surrender to the serenity of a hammock on Ko Pha-Ngan
Discover Ko Phi-Phi's underwater world of shipwrecks, psychedelic cora and bus-sized whale sharks
Meditate in a cave temple filled with Buddha images and bats
Take time out from paradise in buzzing Bangkok, where world-class dining and shopping await

In This Guide

Four authors, 200 days on the road, one karaoke bar too many
New color Activities chapter: climb, snorkel or kayak through Thailand's coastal playground
Bamboo hut or opulent villa? Independent, authoritative reviews of every sleeping option
Visit lonelyplanet.com for up-to-the-minute reviews, updates and traveler insights

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Thailand's Islands & Beaches (Regional Guide)

Complete Thai Cooking (Paperback) by Hamlyn

2009-08-16T05:39:00.000-07:00

Complete Thai Cooking (Paperback)
by Hamlyn

Authentic Thai cuisine has a rich, centuries-old tradition, and this authoritative handbook celebrates its many variations, with deft ideas for using many spices, sauces, flavorings, and styles. More than 100 recipes, most taking 15 minutes or less to prepare and cook, provide even gourmet cooks with a new range of delicious choices. The recipes start with snacks and starters, then introduce a host of multicourse meals featuring soups and salads, seafood, meat, and poultry main courses, as well as a range of vegetable side dishes and desserts. Even the names of the recipes are intriguing: Green Mango Salad, Son-in-Law Eggs, Jungle Curry Beef, Thai Fried Pie. Large full-color photos suggest mouth-watering presentations for all occasions.

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Complete Thai Cooking

Thai Food (Hardcover) by David Thompson

2009-08-16T05:23:00.000-07:00

Thai Food (Hardcover)
by David Thompson

"Thai cooking is a paradox," writes Australian restaurateur David Thompson in his comprehensive and thus aptly named Thai Food. "It uses robustly flavored ingredients--garlic, shrimp paste, chilies, lemongrass--and yet when they are melded during cooking they arrive at a sophisticated and often subtle elegance." Pursuing this transformation in depth, his book presents hundreds of recipes that celebrate the Thai meal while exploring its historical and cultural context. Readers will delight in the wide selection of authentic dishes like Duck and Spring Onion Soup, Grilled Beef Salad, and Green Chicken Curry with Baby Corn, and relish Thompson's vast appreciation of his subject. Though the recipes are straightforward and workable once ingredients are assembled and techniques understood, those new to Thai cooking may want a less rigorous introduction to the subject. However, anyone with an appetite to explore it on Thompson's terms will benefit immensely.

Beginning with an exploration of Thailand's history and culture, the book then presents an extended section on rice, the centerpiece of the Thai meal. The "cookbook" follows, with a systematic introduction to the Thai kitchen, ingredients, and equipment. The chapter "Food Outside the Meal" is devoted to Thai snacks and vendor food, such as Stir-Fried Crisp Fish with Holy Basil. Noodle dishes include an exemplary pad thai, and sweet dishes like Grilled Bananas with Coconut Cream and Turmeric are also offered.

Readers should know that the recipes, published primarily for an Australian audience, give ingredients in a mix of metric and American measurements and/or with nonmetric equivalents, and that nomenclature is also sometimes foreign ("minced" for "ground" meat, for example). With photos throughout, the book sets a standard for Thai cookbooks to come while helping many cooks achieve the true, richly exotic cuisine. --Arthur Boehm

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Thai Food

Quick & Easy Thai: 70 Everyday Recipes (Paperback)

2009-08-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

Quick & Easy Thai: 70 Everyday Recipes (Paperback)

Now busy home cooks can bring the fantastic flavors of Thai cuisine into the kitchen with a simple trip to the grocery store. Nancie McDermott, experienced cook, teacher, and author of the best-selling cookbook Real Thai, presents this collection of 70 delicious recipes that focus on easy-to-find ingredients and quick cooking methods to whip up traditional Thai. With recipes like Crying Tiger Grilled Beef, Grilled Shrimp and Scallops with Lemongrass, Sticky Rice with Mangoes, and Thai Iced Tea, along with McDermott's highly practical array of shortcuts, substitutions, and timesaving techniques, anyone can prepare home-cooked authentic Thai meals -- as often as they like.

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Quick & Easy Thai: 70 Everyday Recipes

Rawi Warin Resort & Spa - Lanta Dream, Krabi Package 4 Days / 3 Nights

2009-05-06T00:27:00.001-07:00

Tucked into the foothills of the Koh Lanta Yai and overlooking the crystal waters of Klong Tob Bay. The resort is sheer five-star luxury in an idyllic setting

As a central visual feature, Rawi warin has the main swimming pool right on the beachfront, with an infinity design that blends the edge of the pool with the blue ocean. Over half the resort is perched on the hillside, where stand-alone villas slope up a hill and the view gets more and more breathtaking every foot you ascend.

With over 10,000 trees and flowers planted in the landscaped gardens, our guests are likely to spend much time foraging through the resort grounds itself.

Lanta Dream

Package 4 Days / 3 Nights (15 Feb 09 – 31 Oct 09)

Deluxe Room 9,900 Baht

Pond Room 11,400 Baht

Sea View Villa 21,900 Baht

Sunset Pool Villa 54,900 Baht

Extra Person 1,700 Baht

Lanta Inclusions
Daily breakfast at the Golden Pond Restaurant
Round trip transfers from Krabi International Airport
Rawi Warin signature welcome drink upon arrival
Complimentary seasonal fresh fruits in room upon arrival
Complimentary usage of library
Complimentary usage of the resort's movie theatre
Complimentary usage of the resort's audio music room
Complimentary usage of the resort's kids room
Complimentary usage of tennis court, gym and mountain bikes
Complimentary usage of non motorized water sports equipment & sport complex

Lanta Terms
Package is subject to a minimum stay of three consecutive nights
Rates are net inclusive of all applicable government taxes and service charge
Rates are quoted in Thai Baht per room per package
Extra person rate is net per person per day, subject to minimum stay
Reservations can be made within seven days prior to arrival
Unused services are non refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash
This offer is not valid in conjunction with any other special offer

Resort address :
Rawi Warin Resort & Spa
139 Moo.8,Koh Lanta Island, Krabi 81150, Thailand,
Tel: +66 (0) 7560 7400-498 (98 lines), Fax:+66 (0) 7560-7499

Bangkok Sales Office address :
Rawi Warin Resort - Sales Office.
Q House Asoke, Unit 1412, 14 FL. 66 Sukumvit 21, North Klongtoey,Wattana t, Bangkok 10700, Thailand,
Tel: +66 (0) 2 664-3490-4 (5 lines), Fax: +66 (0) 2664-3495
International call please omit "0" after "66"

Mon-Fri : 9:00 - 17:00 (Local Time) , Sat : 9:00 - 12:00 (Local Time)

reservations@rawiwarin.com for any booking requests ( Bangkok Office )
resv@rawiwarin.com you will meet our reservation officer ( Resort Office )
sales@rawiwarin.com for travel agents information ( BKK Office )

http://www.rawiwarin.com/index.html

Property of the month - The Address Chidlom

2009-04-27T02:50:00.000-07:00

Property of the month - The Address Chidlom

The Address Chidlom is Bangkok’s finest landmark building and will fill the final prestigious piece on the heart of Chidlom. Surrounded by five-star neighborhood like Central Chidlom and Park Nai Lert Hotel you will enjoy the ultimate luxury living. Located at Soi Somkid, The Address Chidlom’s location is extremely convenient with direct access to Chidlom BTS station

The Address Chidlom offers a choice of studio to three-bedroom luxury condominiums provides a full range of magnificent facilities including luxury outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and sauna that ensure the superb lifestyle. Priced from 115,000 baht per sq.m.

Property Rental in Phuket by Allan Mossop

2009-04-20T03:05:00.000-07:00

Phuket is experiencing a very positive response to the private home / apartment rental market. This accommodation segment has only really come to the fore since 2000 when a few intrepid developers realised the potential of Phuket in the international housing market. Phuket has long been a popular tourist attraction and with the recent improvements in the islands' infrastructure, many regular visitors have decided to purchase homes here.

Similarly, many regular visitors who are familiar with the island find that the facilities offered by the traditional hotels or resorts to be somewhat "cloistered" which can often lead to a feeling that as a visitor, you are not able to experience the local culture to the full. With the current upswing in development in many areas of the island, Phuket is becoming known as a destination where you can take advantage of renting a privately owned home.

There are a number of considerations that need to be taken into account before considering your rental returns.

Owner requirements

When considering the options available to you for rental returns, it is most important that you consider what the motivations for your purchase are. If you would like to occupy the home over the Christmas / New Year holiday period, the rental prospects of the home will decrease significantly. This time of year is by far the most lucrative period for holiday rentals, which yield the best returns.

If you are purchasing the home as an investment property with the view to owning the property for a few years whilst trying to minimise the expenses and eventually sell the home for a profit, the returns under these circumstances can be extremely attractive.

Owners who are willing to maintain a level of flexibility in their occupation will do well when trying to minimise the expenses associated with a holiday home. Should you wish to use your home, you may do so as long as the necessary notice periods are respected. Should the home be available and you would like to visit at short notice, this is, also possible.

Setting up your home for rentals

There are a number of important considerations when setting up your home for rental purposes. Keep in mind that you will be opening the home to total strangers and careful thought should be given before costly purchases are made. Please refer to the sample inventory and handy PIPS tips.

For a complete version of the property rental in Phuket, please stay tuned.

About the Author

Allan Mossop, with a background in International hotels, has been Managing Director of Phuket Island Property Services since 2001. Being at the forefront of the property management, rental and furnishings markets, he has advised many of the Islands Owners to maximise their investment properties potential.

Thai Property and Real Estate: Issues Under Thailand Law by Benjamin Hart

2009-04-20T03:02:00.000-07:00

Buying Thai Property can be an expensive and difficult proposition. Due to legal restrictions placed upon foreigners, Thai Property purchase could be illegal and cause a loss of investment if the transaction does not properly comport with Thai law. This piece is designed as a summary of steps that should be taken before making a property purchase in the Kingdom of Thailand.

Due Diligence in Thailand

Due Diligence should be conducted before purchasing any type of Thai property. As an example, in Thailand a Bangkok attorney would be hired to assure that the Thai real estate is titled to the party asserting that they will sell. Also, a proper due diligence search should be done in order to ascertain whether or not a Thai mortgage is on the property and what needs to be done in order to ensure that the Thai property passes to the new buyer unencumbered by this mortgage. A due diligence search would also look to see what type of Chanote (or Thai property Title) the owner of the Thai property has. Generally, where a lower form of Thai Title is being held it might be in the interests of the prospective buyer to ascertain whether this Thai Title can be upgraded.

A Special Note about Due Diligence on Thai Condos

For Thai condominiums, it should be noted that a due diligence search will also seek to ascertain if the Thai Condo in question comports to the standards of the Thai condominium act and if so, is the buyer purchasing a Thai freehold title. Those purchasing a condominium in Thailand are only allowed to take title freehold if non-Thai ownership is less than 49% of the total number of units in the condominium complex. A due diligence search can ascertain if a Thai condo building is in compliance with the rules and regulations.

Lawyer Accompaniment to the Thai Land office at the Time of the Property Transaction

It is also recommended to have a Thai lawyer accompany a prospective property purchaser to the local land office to make sure that the transaction is properly executed and the property is transferred in accordance with the parties' agreement. In Thailand, this phase can be especially important for the foreigner due to the fact that Thai is often not the native language of the prospective purchaser and therefore a lawyer can assure that all of the proper formalities are met.

No part of this writing should be used in lieu of advice from a duly licensed legal professional in your jurisdiction.

About the Author

For more information about Property and Real Estate matters in Thailand please see: http://www.integrity-legal.com/real-estate-thailand/real-estate-overview.html

It's an arbitrage opportunity for Bangkok Property

2009-03-16T03:45:00.000-07:00

Political crisis and economic turmoil in Thailand leads to a fall in the property prices. This makes real estate investment in Bangkok an attractive proposition. Our advice is to buy property counters at the moment and enjoy great returns over the next few years.

You may opt to buy property to draw a monthly paycheck. Rents are increasing up by as much as 15% year on year basis. Because relatively inexpensive housing, many multinational corporations have selected Bangkok as their overseas homes.

You may invest in Bangkok condos for vacation rental purpose. Each year, there are 15 million tourists around visit Bangkok. Vacation rental are popular among frequent travelers, families travelling to Bangkok and for those searching for a base before relocating to Bangkok for good.

It's a selling opportunity for Bangkok Property

2009-03-16T03:44:00.000-07:00

Thailand's property market has faced a slowdown in the past few months. However, the result is not as negative as it might seem. Because the property market in Bangkok is much more affordable than other Asian cities such as Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo. This brings a lot of international businessmen and expatriates to the city looking for high quality property.

The property that is attractive to the middle and upper-middle income buyers are typically one and two bedrooms units ranging in size between 45 square meters to 80 square meters. For the high-end market, the ultrahigh net worth individuals are looking for two and three bedrooms from 90 square meters to 190 square meters in the Sathorn, Silom and Sukhumvit areas.

Buy an Apartment in Bangkok with no Regrets by Johan Hedin

2009-02-09T06:27:00.000-08:00

Buy an Apartment in Bangkok with no Regrets

When picking out the right apartment there are a few things that you should keep in mind. The location is a prime decider. You can buy a Condo in any part of the city and get a great view, but with an apartment you need to be more discerning. The view may not be as panoramic, but choose one that is at least pleasant enough for you to look at everyday that you will live there. Even if you are just going to use it as an investment you will need to make sure that the location is right. How else do you expect to rent it out and make some money for you? If you are going to live there, even if it is only for a short part of the year, you need to ensure that the location is conducive to your needs as well.

Is there a shopping complex that will cater to daily needs close by? You don't want to waste extra petrol every time you want to pick up a loaf of bread. Are there schools nearby? This one is particularly important if you have small children whom you will have to drop off to school each day. Is there adequate parking for the building residents? Are you going to be located close to the railway station or the airport? Do you need to be situated close to the airport or railway station? How do you intend to move about in the city? Driving is an option but will you be using your own car that will need to be parked in the building complex or will you be using a taxi that will go away after you have finished with it for the day? There are a lot of factors that you need to consider and we have not even begun to examine the building's features as yet.

The foundation of the structure must be sound and as you are no architect there is no way that you can verify the claims made by a building sales agent. What you can do is check up on the builders. Each apartment building is constructed by a different building and construction company. Some companies enjoy a better reputation in the local markets than others. Perhaps they are known to use better quality building material or have better designers? Maybe the locals trust the brand umbrella under which the construction company falls? The owners are known to be morally upright and full of integrity in their business dealings. There are many factors that you can consider. Just don't ignore the crack in the wall if you happen to notice one!

These are matters that you should be able to trust your real estate agent with and know that he or she will not rest till they get you the best possible deal for your money. If you can hand over the requirements and leave it to them to come up with relevant choices based on that list, it will simplify your investment process to a great extent.

About the Author

Johan Hedin is author of this article on Thailand real estate for sale . Find more information about Bangkok Real Estate Agent here.

Source:http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=1356471

Bangkok Rental Market Thrives by Nicci Barnes

2009-02-09T06:25:00.000-08:00

Thailand Property Report by Dawn Ferguson - With housing allowances in the range of Bt70,000 to Bt100,000 a month, Bangkok's high-paid expatriates have money to burn - and they want homes with all the Western-amenities they're accustomed too.

For condominium and apartment owners, this segment of the market is a potential gold mine, particularly given most of these expects are here on a short-term basis. The statistics certainly are promising, but as competition grows, it's not an easy market to enter.

CB Richard Ellis Thailand executive director James Pitchon told Property Report Thailand that demand for high-end rentals increased in 2006 and the number of expatriates in Bangkok with work permits grew to 67,412 in 2006, a 12.5% increase year on year according to statistics by the Alien Occupational Control division of the Department of Employment. The largest segment of this market is Japanese - 22% - as the so-called "land of the rising sun" is the largest foreign direct investor in Thailand.

Pitchon noted that the rental market is in actuality even higher, as those numbers exclude diplomats and agencies such as the United Nations. They also exclude foreigners without work permits, but Pitchon says they consider most of these to be part of the retiree market, who traditionally buy their units.

"The good news is that demand increased. Last year there was only a limited amount of new supply in apartments, and there were only about 330 units completed last year. But the number of condominium units grew by over 4,000 units. That will continue to be the case in the next two to three years," he said, but added this figure excluded serviced apartments, which are considered a very different product - somewhere in between a hotel and an apartment. Many now have a hotel license, so they're operating on a more short-term basis.

"From a supply point of view, the big question is, how many of these apartments are expat quality, and how many owners of these new condominiums will want to lease them out?" asks Pitchon. "Recently a new supply has appeared in the downtown area, and there's been a greater focus on small sized units, many of them aimed at the Thai market, so not all the new condo supply will be of a standard that appeals to expats, but there are a lot of condo units."

Pitchon says the proportion of owner occupation and units purchased by people on a buy-to-lease basis varies from building to building: "Of the developments that are just coming up to completion, the number that will be available for rent ranges between 30-50% at the moment. So, although demand has risen, there will be quite a lot of condominium supply coming on."

This means that competition is going to be tight in the coming year. Generally, expats given the choice would prefer a single ownership apartment, says Pitchon, because the owner is able to service all their requirements whereas in a condo the owner might not even be in Thailand. And in many cases the owner has not put in place a local manager to look after his apartment. So the challenge for condominium owners who have bought to lease out is how to manage their units because tenants will have questions.

"So if the air conditioner breaks down, who's going to fix it? It will not be the staff looking after the common areas of the condominium, because their responsibility is not private property. So owners must think about how they will manage and maintain the units."

This includes implementing pest control contracts, regular A/C maintenance contracts, and, most importantly, there has to be a clear understanding between the owner and the tenant of who's responsible for doing what.

The most popular area for expats is still Sukhumvit, followed by Central Lumpini and the Sathorn area. There are two satellites, one being around the International School of Bangkok and there is also a smaller cluster around Bangkok Pattana School. As for the up-and-coming riverside, currently there is limited demand from expatriate tenants, generally because of access issues. A small segment of expats are heading to other areas, such as Thonglor. "Again you've got access to the skytrain but in a slightly lower density environment," said Pitchon.

The expat rental market is driven generally by housing allowances granted to employees and employees generally spend all of their allowances, but not put their own money in. "The biggest change in the market has been that Japanese with families now receive higher allowances than they did previously," says Pitchon. "Some will give Bt70,000 or Bt75,000 for a three-bedroom apartment. The Japanese tend to be at the lower end of the market but they are a significant level of demand.

"What's happened is that much of the existing stock is over 10 years old. We've seen very few apartments built since the financial crisis over the last 10 years, more condominiums, and what has been happening is that new supply, with smaller units, is actually getting higher rents because it looks better. Modern design."

As for housing rentals, Pitchon says the market is small because there a limited supply of homes in central areas, including in the Sukhumvit area. "Sansiri on 67 had rented well, but there is a limited market for people with over Bt100,000 a month to spend," he said. "There are few companies that pay that kind of housing allowance."

As for two-tiered pricing for Thais and Foreigners, there really isn't a Thai rental market. Given that Thais have the freedom to buy and sell what they choose, unlike foreigners, those with high salaries and incomes just won't go out and rent 75,000 a month apartments. So there is no Thai market above Bt15,000 a month.

"The rental market is efficient in terms of transparent pricing, information on products and a regular turnover," said Pitchon. "So if a building doesn't maintain its standards, then new expats will not move in."

About the Author

If you enjoyed this article, please go to www.NicciAndLee.com for more wealth creation strategies and techniques. Learn from those who have been there and done it at http://www.NicciAndLee.com

Source:http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=1353625

Relocating To Thailand? Tips On Choosing A Real Estate Agent. by Maddy Barber

2009-01-30T20:32:00.000-08:00

Relocating to Bangkok, and about to begin your home search? The process can be a fun and exciting one if you first understand how the property rentals market works and what to consider when appointing your real estate agent. Let's start with the positive, that is - Bangkok is a renter's market. How so?

1) The agency commission is paid by the landlord. Aren't we off to a good start already?

2) There are hundreds of real estate agencies to choose from in Bangkok alone and the number is growing by the day.

3) Real estate agents offer their services for free, so you can engage as many agents as you want!

4) As an expat, you pay the same rental rates as a Thai national. In fact, majority of landlords prefer an expat tenant and go the extra mile (sometimes) to get you to sign on the dotted line.

Now that you know all that, here's what you wouldn't normally know unless you are an agent here in Bangkok!

In Thailand, anyone can be an agent! There isn't an association, with any authority at least, that overlooks the activities of agents in Thailand. Walk into a bar and tell someone, anyone that you are looking for an apartment, and chances are there'll be a "freelance agent" somewhere in the midst to help you out. I think that is fine as long as you are not asked to pay anything since landlords pay the commission here. However, you may be subjected to inferior choices since these are not professional who have established relations with apartment buildings and home owners. That said, I do occasionally hear of some lucky fellow who found a great deal through a friend's friend who happened to be a "part time agent.If you do not know already, anything is possible in the Land of Smiles!

Here's how I see it. A property agent's job is similar to that of a match maker's. He/She needs to match you to the "right" property, and preferably within 8 selected options. I don't know about you, but I do not believe in seeing every property available in order to make a decision. 6 - 8 well selected choices seen within a day or two, is much more gratifying than spending days stuck in the infamous Bangkok jams trying to hit the 25th property-viewed mark. Fact is, people don't usually have an array of favorites to choose from (since not all the best ones will be available at one time) and I don't think there is a "perfect" apartment or house when it comes to renting. You'd be lucky to have 2 top choices to choose from, but most of us usually settle for the place that feels most like home in a foreign country.

The other thing you should know before you line up a dozen agents for your showing is that all agencies have access to the same apartment buildings. Condo and house listings may vary from agency to agency but landlords often contact more than one agency to promote their property so nothing is exclusive to an agency here. Or should I say, rarely. Just surf around and you'll find similar properties listed on multiple agency websites. Thus, arrange your viewing with one agency at a time. That way, if you feel that your appointed agent does not understand your needs, switch agency but tell them what you have already seen with your previous agent. It is only fair that only one agent represents you for each property. Bangkok is a small town, and many agencies practice co-broking to provide as many choices for their clients as possible, so your name will get around, especially if you've been agency shopping.

Another thing I've encountered is that some companies have what they call a "preferred agent" which they strongly encourage their expatriate executives to use. More often than not, these are agencies with relations in the HR department who may understand what HR wants but not necessarily what you want! What you and I call "Western standard" can be a totally different concept to some of them, so be sure to explain your requirements and needs to your appointed agent as thoroughly as possible to avoid wasting your time. You have the right to choose whichever agency that best understands your needs. You'd usually find that agents not appointed by your company tend to try a lot harder than these "preferred agents" because they don't think you are obliged to use them. They work very hard to make sure you choose them over your company's preferred agent!

There are many real estate agencies that are run by foreigners catering to foreigners, whom most expats prefer to go to. It makes ALL the difference when your agent has a very good idea of your taste and preferences; and know exactly what you mean when you say "bright and spacious" versus an agent who just does not get it no matter how much time you spend explaining. Remember that you do have to bridge cultural gaps here which means different standards and expectations!"

All apartments and agencies have pretty standard contracts. Should you decide on an apartment, they will provide their own contract, whilst the agency will prepare the contract for private owners i.e. condos and houses. International companies often ask for the addition of a Diplomatic clause, and sometimes another to say that the deposit belongs to them, should they be the ones paying your security deposit. All of which may be added to the lease, and it's your agent that needs to sort this out between your company and the apartment/landlord. Be discerning of "advise" that pushes you towards using a particular agent because they supposedly comply with company policies. It's just a matter of working out what each party requires in the lease agreement, which I believe is the same all around the world and any experienced agent should be able to do that.

Thailand is a great place to live and Bangkok, in particular has many superb housing choices for expats that are reasonably priced compared to neighboring countries i.e. Singapore and Hong Kong. Choose an agent who takes the time to understand your needs and house hunting becomes a fun and exciting experience! You can always contact me via www.BangkokFinder.com should you have any questions and I'll do my best to answer them within a day.

About the Author

Maddy Barber assists hundreds of expats relocating to Bangkok every year, and her Bangkok finder website features hundreds of property listings that are updated daily. http://www.bangkokfinder.com

Article Source:http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=908673

Thailand is seeing serious growth in property sales. by George Sell

2009-01-30T20:28:00.000-08:00

Thailand's recent tourism push is reaping dividends and it is on schedule for ten per cent annual growth in international visitors. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, there were 13.82 million visitors in 2006; 14.8 million visited in 2007 and 15.5 million are targeted this year.

According to Liam Bailey of David Stanley Redfern: â€œThe Thai economy got off to a scintillating start in 2008, with first quarter growth up six per cent on the same period last year, and up 5.7% on the last quarter of 2007. After two years of political turmoil culminating in a coup last year, it seems the new government is finally settling in, and has made economic growth its top priority. The main thrust of its efforts is centred on generating internal and regional investment, with global investment currently slowing.â€

This economic growth is reflected in the rude health of the property market. The stratospheric capital growth of the early years of this century" in the region of 25 per cent per year" is a thing of the past, but a regular five to ten per cent a year is expected for the next few years.

Much of the interest from overseas property buyers is centred on two distinct and very different areas: Chiang Mai in the north" the highlands" and the islands of the south, where buyer activity is at its highest in Phuket, followed by the emerging markets of Koh Chang and Koh Samui.

Chiang Mai is Thailandâ€™s second city" in atmosphere and character it is very much the slower-paced, laid-back cousin to the frenetic capital Bangkok. But this is no sleepy backwater. Famous for its superb food, varied nightlife, temperate climate and incredible mountain scenery, Chiang Mai is a fascinating mix of history and modernity. It was founded in 1296 and is home to more than 300 temples, including some of the most beautiful in the Buddhist world. It has an excellent infrastructure, a spate of newly opened five-star hotels, golf clubs, international schools and investment from numerous multinational companies. Outside the city and into the countryside, visitors find themselves in a world of adventure, with jungle safaris, whitewater rafting, elephant rides and visits to hill tribes all on offer.

The property market in Chiang Mai offers similar variety, and, according to Todd Jones of Elephant Real Estate, it is currently a buyerâ€™s market, with domestic market activity falling: â€œThe local real estate market has experienced an overall slowdown in response to numerous political and economic pressures. The number of transactions registered at the Chiang Mai Land Office declined from 15,000 in 2005 to 10,000 in 2006 and 9,800 last year, but in the middle and upper tiers, where around 20 projects are under way, sales remained strong. Major developers are moving forward with numerous residential projects in and around Chiang Mai.â€

Around 80 per cent of the regionâ€™s property sells for under Â£32,000, while overseas property buyers are most active in what Jones describes as the mid-tier market, with prices from Â£90,000 to Â£180,000. The market goes all the way up to custom homes on huge plots that can cost as much as Â£1 million.

A significant recent development is the provision of freehold residences attached to the regionâ€™s five-star hotels. Most of the top resorts offer this option, with the best known being those at the Four Seasons Chiang Mai which are strictly for those with very deep pockets.

A more typical property would be a newly built, three-bedroom, three-bathroom house with swimming pool, carport and guest apartment for around Â£130,000 or a two-bedroom two-bathroom apartment with an area of 110 square metres for Â£50,000.

Heading to the islands, you find yourself in a true tropical paradise. Phuket is one of Asiaâ€™s most popular beach destinations thanks to its combination of stunning beaches, great diving, high-octane nightlife and great food.

It is also increasingly popular with overseas property buyers. Agent CBRE estimates that there are now more than 2,000 foreign owners on the island: â€œVirtually all of these property buyers have seen their investment increase in value. Capital appreciation over the past four years has varied from 15 to 20 per cent per annum, although some properties have seen the value of their asset rise by as much as 50 or 100 per cent between the launch of a project and the transfer of title.â€

As well as capital growth, Phuket is popular with property buyers looking for rental income. The island is a popular holiday destination and has its own international airport, which hosted more than eight million passengers in 2004 and 2005. CBRE says that a well-managed property should produce between six and 12 per cent gross returns annually based on 100 nightsâ€™ occupancy.

Development on the island is spreading fairly quickly. From the west coast, where the property boom started between Nai Thon and Kata Noi and where new plots are scarce or very expensive, developers have moved to the formerly overlooked south and east coasts. Inland properties overlooking golf courses are also becoming popular.

Prices on Phuket are among the highest in the country. As a rough guide, CBRE says you can expect to pay up to Â£240,000 for a â€˜low-endâ€™ villa and Â£160,000 for a â€˜low-end apartment; up to Â£500,000 for a middle market villa and Â£300,000 for a middle market apartment; and if itâ€™s the very top of the market youâ€™re after, expect to pay upwards of Â£750,000 for a villa and Â£500,000 for a luxury apartment.

Recent research from Knight Frank reveals an average price per square metre on Phuket of Â£1,800, while prices went up 11 per cent in 2007. Rental properties achieved an average return of 6.8 per cent.

As prices of property for sale in Phuket continue to rise, property buyers are looking to other, less developed islands, where they can get more for their money.

David Stanley Redfern (DSR) describes Koh Samui as a semi-mature market. The island has more five- and six-star resorts than any other in the world, according to the company and prices of property for sale in Koh Samui went up by as much as 50 per cent during in 2006 and 2007. DSR is selling two-bedroom villas for Â£100,000 in the islandâ€™s Maenam Hills area. Other islands that are attracting attention include Koh Chang" the second largest Thai island after Phuket" and Koh Phangan.

About the Author

George Sell for Homes Overseas - Property for sale in Thailand, guide to buying property in Thailand, property investment advice and international property news. International property experts since 1965.

Source:http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=1067624

Looking for Luxury Koh Samui Hotels and Resorts for Holiday? by Ken Webb

2009-01-30T20:23:00.000-08:00

The choice of luxury hotels you have to choose from in Koh Samui is ever increasing, with building taking place at an extremely fast pace. The paradise Thai island of Samui that is located in the South China Sea, or the Gulf of Siam as its known locally, is classed by many as one of the most beautiful beach resort islands they have ever stayed at - thanks to the many new 4 and 5 start hotels that can now be found in the various towns scattered around the islands coast.

Chaweng Beach Resorts
Chaweng being the busiest town on the island is also home to most of the luxury resort hotels in Koh Samui. Villa Lawana is one of the more recent additions to the island and is a villa resort style hotel. This is the most expensive hotel to stay at in the Chaweng Beach area of Koh Samui with prices starting at 10,000 baht (roughly $300) per night. This is closely followed by The Library Hotel , The Briza Beach Resort & Spa and Muang Samui Spa Resort, which vary in price from around 6000 baht (roughly $170) to 9500 baht ($280). In essence Chaweng has the largest choice of luxury hotels for the holiday maker to the island.

Lamai Beach Hotels and Resorts
Lamai beach is second busiest area in Samui and is home to a few 4 star luxury hotels, namely; Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa which is priced pretty fairly at just 6850 baht (roughly $195) per night, Silavadee Pool Spa Resort who's prices.

Bophut Beach Hotels and Resorts
Bophut has a fantastic beach that doesn't get as crowded as those at Chaweng and Lamai and also offers a few 4 star hotels. Bophut Resort & Spa is the most expensive hotel in this area and will cost you from 7800 baht ($) per night. This is closely followed by Anantara Resort & Spa Koh Samui, whos prices start at 7100 baht ($) per night. After these two prices drop considerably down to 3500 baht per night.

Cheong Mon Beach Hotels and Resorts
Choeng Mon beach is what most people class as the area with most class on the island. It is home to a gorgeous white sandy beach and home to one of the islands most expensive hotels, Karma Samui. Prices at Karma Samui Hotel start at 20,000 ($570) per night. After this you will find Sala Samui, which although still a very nice resort hotel costs only 6500 baht ($185) per night.

We hope that this provides you with enough information on luxury hotel and resort accommodation that is now available on the island to make an informed decision when booking your holiday or vacation to Thailand.

About the Author

Ken Webb is part of the KohSamuiRentals.com team, a website that offers Koh Samui hotels and resorts, as well as Samui Villas and Apartments for holiday makers to Thailand.

Source:http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=1236242

It's an arbitrage opportunity for Bangkok Property

2009-01-26T20:33:00.001-08:00

It's a selling opportunity for Bangkok Property

2009-01-26T20:32:00.000-08:00

A Simple and Easy Guide to Renting a Service Apartment in Bangkok, Thailand

2009-01-14T02:15:00.000-08:00

What are the best areas of Bangkok to rent? What facilities and services can I expect from a Bangkok serviced apartment? What are the best and worst serviced apartments in Bangkok? Read on to learn the answers to these questions and much more in my simple and easy guide to renting a serviced apartment in Bangkok for expats and travelers.

Bangkok is the Center of Southeast Asia

As the commercial center of Thailand and the hub of business and leisure travel within Southeast Asia, Bangkok has exceptional hotels of all kinds catering to the business elite and casual traveler.

Recently, a new kind of accommodation has gained favor with business executives on short stays in Bangkok--the luxury serviced apartment. With increased commercial expansion over the past several years, serviced apartments are quickly becoming the favorite choice of living style for their affordable luxury.

What is a Serviced Apartment?

The serviced part of the equation usually refers to the daily or twice weekly cleaning of your room, the furniture, kitchen amenities and so on that normal apartments do not include. Some service apartments also function as hotels, and these are called Aparthotels.

What's So Special About Bangkok Serviced Apartments?

Real estate and relocation agents believe Bangkok has the most number of sophisticated apartments the world has to offer. There are not just one or two luxurious apartments, but close to 50. This is because skilled labor is cheap in thailand, and the city itself is a major business hub for the southeast asia region.

Renting a serviced apartment in bangkok can be a daunting task for several reasons--the primary one being there are so many 'fine print' and extra costs involved when signing a weekly, monthly or yearly contract.

I have been living in Bangkok for a few years now, and have gone through several serviced apartments, learning on the way which 'services' are included and what to expect from your stay in Bangkok.

Bangkok's City Plan

The Bangkok Jungle has several meanings, one of them being that the city was never built with a city plan or urban design in mind. The city is a sprawling landscape, a montage of residential and commercial buildings juxtaposing one another. It is home to 10 to 15 million people, depending on who is arriving from the rural country and abroad. The people as well, from poor to affluent, live side by side.

The city itself is lopsided; if you look down any major road in bangkok, you will see that both sides of the road arent balanced, building heights are different, and there is an overall lack of symmetry. This is what makes Bangkok unique and charming. And what makes it a jungle.

The Best Areas To Live In Bangkok

Bangkok contains inexpensive to exclusive apartments, but the best ones are found in the following regions of Bangkok:

* Sukhumvit, the main road or artery of Bangkok

* Asok, one of the most exclusive and expensive areas to live

* Thong Lo, the chic and fashionable street,

* Sathorn, the business district of Bangkok

* Silom, another business and red light district

* Ploenchit, business district

* Chit Lom, business district

The areas listed above are all within easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, trains, skytrains, and expressways. If you choose to live in one of these areas, you will experience life in the center of Bangkok's thriving business and shopping centres while indulging in an ultra private serviced apartment in Bangkok. I personally recommend Asok and Chit Lom, as they are the classiest areas of Bangkok, but if you are looking to be close to the night markets Silom is perfect, and Sukhumvit is always a colorful experience.

Facilities and Services of Typical Bangkok Serviced Apartments

These vary between the different types of apartments and condos, but a standard of excellence has been establlished from the increasing competition among serviced apartments. Facilities and services are upgraded regularly to keep up with rival residences. However, before investing in a serviced apartment, be sure to check if these services and facilities are available.

5 Services That Should Be Included Free of Charge:

* Room Cleaning

* Water/Utilities

* Internet Usage

* 24 Hour Security

* Room Service/Errand Boy

4 Facilities That Should Be Included

* Restaurant

* Gym

* Pool

* Convenience Store

The Loopholes: Length of Stay, Deposits and Electricity

If you are staying for a month or year, the serviced apartment may charge you for electricity. Make sure that you negotiate this price to 6.5 Baht/Unit. A lot of times the apartment owners will charge 8 Baht/Unit for more profit. They only pay 3 or 4 Baht/Unit.

Be careful when signing leases; most require a 2 month deposit, and if you move out before your contract is finished you forfeit this deposit.

Make sure the serviced apartment has a laundry service, either in house or out of house. Most serviced apartments have coin operated laundry rooms as well as pick up services. More deluxe suites will have washing machine in the room. Note that most places do not have dryers.

How much Should I Pay?

This is a difficult question to answer, but the more facilities a serviced apartment has, the more it will cost. If a serviced apartment has a pool, gym and also functions as a 24 hour hotel, then the monthly price will be above 30,000 Baht.

Location also has a large part to do with cost of a bangkok serviced apartment. If you are staying in an area not close to skytrain or subway access, your price will be much lower. Conversely, staying in the business districts of Silom or trendy spots like Ekkamai or Thonglor will raise your monthly rent.

Which Serviced Apartment Should I Choose?

The serviced apartment market in Bangkok is lead by three groups, The President Group, The Ascott Group, and Centre Point. Most of them offer first class accomodation and have a decent system of serving their customers. However, there are numerous independent serviced apartments to choose from.

The 2 Worst Serviced Apartments in Bangkok

* Ascott Bangkok Sathorn

There have been several articles written in trade journals about the decline in service at the once famous and most prestigious serviced apartment in Bangkok. Once known for attention to customer relations, their lack of it is now glaringly obvious to everyone who stays there. This place is an example of a chain serviced apartment becoming too much like a corporation with no human touch of service.

* Lebua

Rumor is their staff is very untrustworthy. Read the trade journals and 'google' the residence for reviews.

Top 2 Most Luxurious Bangkok Serviced Apartments

* Siri Sathorn Apartments

Siri Sathorn is a five-star luxury `boutique` property which epitomises private and elegant living in a residential setting. It is a concept of the perfect home which appeals to international traveller. This place caters to Japanese clientelle but of course is open to everyone.

* Fraser Place Urbana Langusan

They have an exclusive 45-metre driveway leading from the main road to the serviced residence for great privacy. They also have some of the best services and customer relations I have ever experienced, pampered is the only word that comes to mind

Best Value Bangkok Serviced Apartments

* Silom Convent Garden

Newly built in November 2006, this chic serviced apartment is located in the Silom-Sathorn area but has some of the cheapest rates for this business and night market district. For 36,000 Baht/$1000 a month you can have a 38 square meter, 1 bedroom, fully furnished luxurious apartment complete with full kitchen, washer machine, flat screen tv, and rain shower. The only drawback is the place doesn't have a pool or gym, but thats the reason the price is so low and why its one of the best values in Bangkok.

If you are still undecided whether to have a stay in Bangkok on your next trip, it was just recently announced that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) plans to make Bangkok a "paradise" city. The article from the Bangkok Post states the BMA will establish a fund to address trash, pollution and traffic problems. Now is the time to take your next vacation or business trip to Bangkok, as life couldn't get any better in the City of Angels!

By Rex Freiberger

This article is brought to you by Silom Convent Garden, the exclusive 44 room serviced apartments that offers tastefully decorated Studio, one, and two bedroom apartments for lease in a charming, peaceful, and private living environment boasting all the latest facilities and appliances.. Book Today and Save 10% at one of the best Serviced Apartment in Bangkok.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-simple-and-easy-guide-to-renting-a-service-apartment-in-bangkok-thailand-199658.html

Condo Ownership Right Raised by Thai Government - Purchase Time

2009-01-13T01:22:00.000-08:00

There are a few things you need to be aware of before buying a condominium in Thailand. The Thai government has recently modified the rules governing the purchase and selling of condominiums. Earlier, foreigners were allowed to own only up to 40% stake in any condo building. This was recently raised to 49% and, as a result of this, more condo units are now available on the market.

This first step in buying a condo should be appointing an experienced and ethical agent to take you around and show you the condos available for purchase. Once you have found a unit, consider how old the building is. Normally, a building over 20 years old may be too risky to invest in. Old buildings may not be properly maintained. Sometimes, old buildings could be scheduled for demolishing in the near future. Examine the documents carefully to find out the age and health of the building. Ask the present owner of the condo what his future plans for the building are.

Sometimes, buying a slightly older building can be beneficial in certain ways. The owner will have a proven track record of maintaining the building properly. You can easily check this with existing tenants. Examine the building carefully to see how well it has been maintained.

It is advisable that you collect as much information as possible before you commit yourself. Consider how much you will be required to pay for the maintenance contract annually. This is usually calculated in terms of the plinth area you purchase.

Also consider if the condo management has set up a sinking fund. Sinking funds often require a one time payment made upon transferring ownership. It usually ensures that the building will be well maintained in future. Some condos require a sinking fund payment annually. Sometimes the sinking fund is paid 'on demand'. Before purchasing, ensure that you understand the sinking fund payment policy well and how much it will cost you.

Also find out if the management has set up an annual insurance premium, and if so, what the amount of premium is. It is also important to know how long the present management team has been looking after the building.

In most cases, the owner pays the transfer fees in full. It is not uncommon that some owners insist you to share the costs 50/50. Ascertain who pays the transfer fees and calculate how much it will cost you if you are required to pay. You can ask your lawyer to prepare a full schedule of the payment of transfer fees, including any income taxes outstanding on the property.

The present rate of transfer fee is 2% of the purchase price in Bangkok and Pattaya. You have to pay a property business tax of 3.3%, and a stamp duty of 0.5%. These rates are, however, subject to change. So ensure that you check them before committing yourself to pay any transfer fees.

You may bring in purchasing funds from overseas to the country. The Thai government has fixed a minimum amount of $US 10, 000 to be brought from overseas. You may not bring all the money into the country until after you have decided upon the property you wish to buy. It is advisable that you bring in enough to pay a minimum deposit of 20% or 30%.

When buying a condo in Thailand, also understand the difference between buying leasehold and buying freehold. Your lawyer will be able to tell you the difference. If you buy leasehold, you will never own the property. Buying freehold gives you full ownership rights on the condo.

In case you will not permanently reside in Thailand after you have purchased the unit and you plan to rent it out, it is advisable that you appoint an agent to manage the unit for you. It is important that you enter into a clearly written contract with the agent. The contract should spell out the conditions of management, including the agent's commission, his responsibilities, and the amount he will spend on advertising.

It is highly advisable that you take your lawyer also to the bank when you bring in money from outside to buy a property. It is imperative that you get a T.T.3 form. This form states that the money you brought from outside is used to buy the property. You will have to show the T.T.3 form to the bank at the time of exporting the funds back to your country.

By Gregory S

Gregory S. is an independent author providing assessment and comments on leading International Property Consultants in Thailand, especially CB Richard Ellis.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/condo-ownership-right-raised-by-thai-government-purchase-time-396385.html

Underwater World Pattaya

2009-01-12T19:52:00.000-08:00

Underwater World Pattaya

There are more than 200 different species of marine life ranging from angelfish to hawksbill turtles. Underwater world is separated into four zones where visitors can walk through a tunnel that spans 180 degrees. If you dare, try diving with sharks and stingrays, Underwater World can organized you a service.

Underwater World Pattaya is located at 206/2 Moo5 Naklua, 12 Naklua Road, banglamung. Entrance fees are from 600 Baht

Moving to Thailand? Here's Where Your Home Search Starts

2009-01-05T21:45:00.000-08:00

Relocating to Bangkok, and about to begin your home search? The process can be a fun and exciting one if you first understand how the property rentals market works and what to consider when appointing your real estate agent. Let's start with the positive, that is - Bangkok is a renter's market. How so?

1) The agency commission is paid by the landlord. Aren't we off to a good start already?

2)There are plenty of real estate agencies to pick from and majority of these can be found on the internet.

3) Since the Landlords pay the commission, you pay absolutely nothing to the real estate agency assisting you, and there are no obligations whatsoever!

4) As an expat, you pay the same rental rates as a Thai national. In fact, majority of landlords prefer an expat tenant and go the extra mile (sometimes) to get you to sign on the dotted line.

Now that you know all that, here's what you wouldn't normally know unless you are an agent here in Bangkok!

In Thailand, anyone can be an agent! There isn't an association, with any authority at least, that overlooks the activities of agents in Thailand. Walk into a bar and tell someone, anyone that you are looking for an apartment, and chances are there'll be a "freelance agent" somewhere in the midst to help you out. I think that is fine as long as you are not asked to pay anything since landlords pay the commission here. However, you may be subjected to inferior choices since these are not professional who have established relations with apartment buildings and home owners. That said, I do occasionally hear of some lucky fellow who found a great deal through a friend's friend who happened to be a "part time agent." You'll realize in time that anything is possible in Thailand!

Here's how I see it. A real estate agent's job is pretty much like a match maker's. He/She needs to match you to the "right" property, and preferably within 8 selected options. Seeing too many properties can actually overwhelm and confuse you. 6 - 8 well selected choices seen within a day or two, is much more gratifying than spending days stuck in the infamous Bangkok jams trying to hit the 25th property-viewed mark. Fact is, people don't usually have an array of favorites to choose from (since not all the best ones will be available at one time) and I don't think there is a "perfect" apartment or house when it comes to renting. You'd be lucky to have 2 top choices to choose from, but most of us usually settle for the place that feels most like home in a foreign country.

The other thing you should know before you line up a dozen agents for your showing is that all agencies have access to the same apartment buildings. Condo and house listings may vary from agency to agency but landlords often contact more than one agency to promote their property so nothing is exclusive to an agency here. Or should I say, rarely. Just surf around and you'll find similar properties listed on multiple agency websites. Thus, arrange your viewing with one agency at a time. That way, if you feel that your appointed agent does not understand your needs, switch agency but tell them what you have already seen with your previous agent. It is only fair that only one agent represents you for each property. Bangkok is a small town, and many agencies practice co-broking to provide as many choices for their clients as possible, so your name will get around, especially if you've been agency shopping.

Another thing I've encountered is that some companies have what they call a "preferred agent" which they strongly encourage their expatriate executives to use. More often than not, these are agencies with relations in the HR department who may understand what HR wants but not necessarily what you want! What you and I call "Western standard" can be a totally different concept to some of them, so be sure to explain your requirements and needs to your appointed agent as thoroughly as possible to avoid wasting your time. You have the right to choose whichever agency that best understands your needs. You'll find that the agents not appointed by your company often have a better variety of properties to show you than the "preferred" agent simply because they try a lot harder. They work very hard to make sure you choose them over your company's preferred agent!

There are many real estate agencies that are run by foreigners catering to foreigners, whom most expats prefer to go to. It makes ALL the difference when your agent has a very good idea of your taste and preferences; and know exactly what you mean when you say "bright and spacious" versus an agent who just does not get it no matter how much time you spend explaining. Remember that you do have to bridge cultural gaps here which means different standards and expectations!"

All apartments and agencies have pretty standard contracts. Should you decide on an apartment, they will provide their own contract, whilst the agency will prepare the contract for private owners i.e. condos and houses. Multinational companies usually require a diplomatic clause, and if your company is paying your deposit, then they would also require an additional clause that states that this deposit will be returned to the company at the end of the lease term. All of which may be added to the lease, and it's your agent that needs to sort this out between your company and the apartment/landlord. Be discerning of "advise" that pushes you towards using a particular agent because they supposedly comply with company policies. It's just a matter of working out the contract details since there is usually some slight changes/additions, like those mentioned above. Any experienced agent will be able to do that.

Thailand is a great place to live and Bangkok, in particular has many superb housing choices for expats that are reasonably priced compared to neighboring countries i.e. Singapore and Hong Kong. Appoint an agent who makes an effort to understand your needs and house hunting becomes a lot more enjoyable! Feel free to drop me an email should you have queries.

By Maddy Barber

Maddy Barber

Maddy Barber runs Bangkok Home Finder - A real estate agency specialising in Bangkok home rentals. If you are relocating to Bangkok, be sure to visit the Bangkok Finder blog for invaluable information and tips on living and working in Thailand.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/moving-to-thailand-heres-where-your-home-search-starts-404315.html
Article Tags: Bangkok

Bangkok condos

2009-01-05T21:40:00.000-08:00

Bangkok condos

With Bangkok condos, you are sure of a great place to enjoy your stay in Bangkok; in fact, it can be called a home away form home. There are many Bangkok condos for you to choose from as there are many developers trying to get the best deal in the marketplace. Most of the latest Bangkok condos are catered to the middle and upper class range, and is a great investment for the discriminating buyer.

There are many complexes offering extra amenities like swimming pool and shopping mall to make your Bangkok condo investment more fruitful. Different complexes have different sized Bangkok condos; it is up to you to choose the right condo with the right number of bedrooms for you and your family.

Rent the Bangkok condo to help pay for buying the condo

Foreigners today buys Bangkok condos as it not only provides them a place to stay when in Bangkok, but is also a great investment choice for them as it is not possible for foreigners to buy land, and thus houses, in Bangkok.

And when you don’t use your Bangkok condo, there are many real estate firms that will rent out the condo for you. This rent will be a great way for you to pay for the Bangkok condo while providing someone else with a place to stay while in Bangkok.

Moreover, if you don’t have plans of investing in a Bangkok condo, you can always stay in a condo, instead of a hotel room, during your visit to Bangkok.

Compare rates and features before buying your condo

With condos found in so many varieties, it is better for you to compare the rates and features of various Bangkok condos before making the final decision for the right condo. This can be done via the internet where there are many sites selling and renting out Bangkok condos.

If you have plans of investing in Bangkok condos, this is the right time to do so as the real estate of Bangkok is booming and growing today. And with real estate rates increasing each year, your investment will be worth much more tomorrow, than what you have paid for the Bangkok condo today.

By Ken Edwards

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Bangkok Condo, be sure to log onto this Bangkok Condos & Apartment site for updated listings, invaluable information and advise or go to this Bangkok Apartment Rental site for condos for rent.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/bangkok-condos-689023.html

Ekkamon Mansion

2008-12-23T19:51:00.001-08:00

Ekkamon Mansion offer daily and monthly room rental. Equipped with airconditioning, cable TV, refregerator, kingsize bed, closet and balcony, electric shower inside bathroom in Soi PHang Nga 2 (behind Metropole Hotel). Close to shopping center like Phuket Square, Phuket Expo, Bus terminal to other provinces. Tel : +6676 230074, 66818929191

Buddy Samui Boutique Hotel

2008-12-23T19:28:00.000-08:00

Reward yourself and Stay with us at Buddy Samui Boutique Hotel

Newly Opening !

Buddy Samui Boutique Hotel (Buddy Lamai Beach), the luxurious boutique style hotel is conveniently situated on Lamai Beach, Koh Samui, a region known for its spectacular natural beauty along the south of Thailand where are most visited by foreign tourists.

The Buddy Samui Boutique Hotel is conveniently situated on the prized location within the famous "Lamai Beach", approximately a fifty minutes flight South of Bangkok and twenty five minutes transportation from Samui Airport.

The hotel designed brand new Buddy Boutique Hotel, commanding a charming beach front location of Lamai Beach, Koh Samui. Our Hotel management ensures that your stay will be memorable and enjoyable whether it is family vacation or a romantic tropical gateway.

The hotel features over 133 rooms and essential services under 6 colonial styles with wooden decorated and architectures in an open combines sumptuous comfort facilities with wondrous traditional boutique style.

Awaiting guests to our luxurious accommodation, all spacious rooms with private balconies offering panoramic sea views and set within beach front easily access to the white sand Lamai Beach.

Buddy Samui has plenty of parking and easy accessible by public and just across the street. Buddy Samui Boutique Hotel is formally opened in 2008.

Buddy Samui Boutique Hotel desiring the luxurious and comfort hotel provides well-appointed guest rooms, delightfully welcome to a range of dining and entertainment such as "Chom Lay Restaurant" the perfect venue to relax and taste our menu, serving a variety of Thai, International Cuisine and the selection of Fresh Seafood combines the gentle breeze on the beach.

As well as our born and raise with predator instinct "Shark Bar" with its spacious sea front wooden deck and a large scale second swimming pool.

From the moment arrival to the hotel, you are comfortably inspired to our "Shopping Plaza", one of the largest and the most spectacular on Lamai Beach provides functionalities to comfort you throughout staying with us.

Our fitness centre offers a relaxed environment to work out and relax yourself with all fitness equipment and our supportive staff await to assist.

Special Offer for our guests
** Free use Hotel Fitness Center **
** Free Hotel Shuttle Bus to Chaweng Beach **

Buddy Samui Boutique Hotel
173/41 Robkoh Road, Maret, Koh Samui Suratthani 84310 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 77 458 560 upto 5 Fax: +66 (0) 77 458 555
Website: http://www.buddysamui.com
E-mail: booking@buddysamui.com

Pizza In Pattaya?

2008-12-21T23:59:00.000-08:00

Pizza In Pattaya?

By: Lawrence Westfall

Can you really get pizza in Pattaya, Thailand? Absolutely. Is it any good? Superb! Does this sound strange to you? It shouldn’t. Some of the finest chefs in the world have made their homes in Thailand and have set up shop cooking some of the finest cuisine in the world.

I love Thai food and eat my share of rice and noodles with all the other spicy goodies that go along with them, but I also like to sample food from around the world. Pattaya is the perfect place to do this.

You can go to Don Joe’s on Walking Street for an excellent pizza, The Sportsman Club for a superb �oeFull English” breakfast, or to the Big Horn restaurant for a 1 Kilogram steak.

If you have a craving for American food, it is readily available at Bob’s BBQ and also at the New Orleans Café �" ribs that will make your mouth water all the way home.

German, Swiss and Belgian foods are readily available too. It seems like there is another fine restaurant every 10 feet in Pattaya. Mexican food can be had at the Tequila Reef and also at the Blue Parrot. You would never know that you are in Thailand with all the fine choices at these great restaurants.

And, if it is seafood that you crave, just walk along Beach Road or Walking Street and you will find quite a few restaurants with seafood on ice or swimming around waiting for you to make your catch. King’s Seafood is one of the better restaurants with excellent tiger prawns and a beautiful view of the Gulf of Siam.

So, don’t go to Thailand if you are planning on losing any weight. Go there to have a great vacation and a fine sampling of some of the culinary arts of Asia.

Article Source:http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Pizza-In-Pattaya-/98015

About the Author:
Larry Westfall is the owner of - Pattaya-Crazy �" Newbies Guide to Pattaya

Getting To Pattaya The Right Way

2008-12-17T02:51:00.001-08:00

You can travel to Pattaya by car, bus, van, or even fly. Yes, I am not kidding you can fly to Pattaya.

Car: 147 km. from Bangkok, you can drive to Pattaya in less than two hours by heading southeast through Sukhumvit Road (yeah, same same with The Emporium located). Taking Bangna Trat Highway and then cross the Bang Pakong River to Choburi by pass to get to Sukhumvit Highway. Alternatively, you can catch a taxi to Pattaya at a cost of 1000 Baths to 1500 Baths (depends on your negotiation skill).

Bus: Depart from Ekamai Bus Terminal every 20-40 minutes. Just buy a ticket (128 Baths) for the next departure The journey spends two to two and a half hour. Getting to Ekamai Bus Terminal is easy, just take BTS and get off at Ekamai Station.

Van: Take vans from the Khao San area and expect the journey to take two hours (400 Bahts)

Train: If you have mush time, the train is a good option. Take a single daily first class from Hualampong Train Station at 6.50 am which arrives in Pattaya at 10.18 am. Take subway and get off at Hualampong Station.

Fyl: There is no flights from Bangkok to Pattaya but if you are in Phuket or Koh Samui take flights operated by Bangkok Aiways from Phuket and Koh Samui to O-Tapao airport whici is 30 km south of Pattaya. Please visit www.bangkokair.com for more info.

Living in Bangkok Condominiums

2008-12-17T02:29:00.000-08:00

Living in Bangkok Condominiums

By: Wantanee Khamkongkaew

Located in central part of the country along the low flat plain of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is the largest as well as the capital city of Thailand. The cultural, educational, and political center of Thailand, Bangkok is one of the top tourist destinations in southeastern Asia, with a range of fabulous attractions such as Chitralada, Royal Grand Palace, Erawan Shrine, the temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho, the Bangkok National Museum, and the Bangkok University Art Gallery.

Apart from being a popular vacation spot, Bangkok is considered the backbone of the country's economy. For instance, the Stock Exchange of Thailand is located in Bangkok. Further, a large number of commercial banks and financial institutions have been headquartered in the city. Further, the cost of living in condominium is exceptionally low.

Above all, when compared to other Asian cities, Bangkok is a safe place to live in. Perhaps for these reasons, people prefer to live in Bangkok. Living in Bangkok is not only a great way for tourists to discover the great attractions of the place but also an excellent choice for those who want to settle here permanently, since it is strategically located center to almost all prominent Asian countries.

Like any other Asian cities, Bangkok provides a range of accommodation options to choose from, such as, budget villas and bungalows, single detached homes, and luxury apartments and flats coupled with a host of peerless amenities and facilities. Along these accommodation options, condominiums are also considered a great choice to live in Bangkok. But, this type of accommodation is quite different from other accommodation types.

A specialty of condominiums is that they possess dual nature, ie, a condo owner has full control over his unit. But, the owner is required to share the cost and expenses incurred for the common facilities of the property, like passageways and lobbies. In the case of condominiums, the owners are required to follow the rules and regulations formulated by condominium association. Nowadays, condominium units found here matches with the design and style of those units in some of the hi-fi Asian cities like Singapore and Hong Kong.

Depending upon the budget, lifestyle, tastes and requirements of the people, a multitude of condo units are now available in Bangkok. Some of the most popular forms of condominiums available in the city are apartment, townhouses, and single detached homes. No matter it is of any type, a condo unit in Bangkok mostly comes with comfortable bedrooms with adjustable beds, expansive living rooms, fully equipped kitchen with superb dining area, and sophisticated bath area with uninterrupted water supply.

In luxury type condominium units, facilities such as parking areas, fitness room coupled with gym facilities, laundry, Jacuzzi, separated male and female saunas, pools, and meeting rooms are included. Additionally, many of the condominium properties come attached with areas exclusively for children like kids pool and playground. Mostly, luxury condo units are located in such posh areas of the city as Sukhumvit, Sathora, and the Central Lumpini areas.

Living in a Bangkok condominium offers a host of benefits. One of the major advantages is that it is affordable. You can become a part of the unique community by living in a condominium in Bangkok. Low maintenance is another prime benefit of Bangkok condominiums. Advantages also include safety, as there are a lot of people around, there may not be chances for theft and robbery.

Above all, condominium life allows you to utilize a range of facilities such as pool, library, and elevators. Apart from these, condominiums are considered a long term investment. Understanding the importance as well as the benefits of Bangkok condominiums, many foreigners now invest in condo units. Further, a condominium is the only type of asset that can be legally owned by a foreigner in the country. Even a special law has been formulated for purchase of condominiums, known as the Condominium Act of Thailand (1999.)

With a myriad of real estate consultants, realtors and property builders in the scenario, buying or renting a condo unit in Bangkok is no longer a tedious process. In addition, since many of them have them have their own websites with details regarding the nature of the property, expected price or rent, amenities available and pictures of the condominium, buying or leasing a condo unit has now become quite convenient.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Living-in-Bangkok-Condominiums/230374

About the Author:
Wantanee K. is an independent author evaluating and commenting on leading International Property Consultants in Thailand, especially CB Richard Ellis.

Getting Around Chiangmai

2008-12-17T00:18:00.000-08:00

Getting Around Chiangmai

Sam-Lor (Pedaled Tricycle)

Sam-Lor is suitable for short distances. Taking Sam-Lor costs 20 Baths – 30 Baths per person for a short ride. The fare may go as high as 40Baths – 50 Baths for longer trips.

Tuk-Tuk (A motorized Sam-Lor)

Wan to go faster than Sam-Lor? Try traveling in Chiangmai by taking Tuk-Tuk. Prices are not standard so you need a good negotiation skill.

Song-Taew (Red Pick-Up Cab)

Song-Taew is the most common transportation method in Chiangmai. They are covered pick up trucks where passengers sit on back benches (look for the red one). It is recommended to ask the driver where it is going before boarding. It costs 15 Bahts per person if there are other passengers. If not, tell the driver where you are heading to and let prove how good your negotiation is.

Koi Restaurant

2008-12-07T20:36:00.001-08:00

Koi Restaurant

Following its sisters in LA and NY, Koi Restaurant has brought BKK’s its international Japanese dining experience. The restaurant has everything for a smashing night out. Enjoy fine Japanese cuisine like eel and avocado rolls or indulge yourself with its signature dish – steamed Chilean Sea Bass with ginger, shitake and a touch of spice. If you like tempura, try Creamy Rock shrimp tempura.

If you are not concerned with dietary, finish your memorable dining experience with a mouthwatering desert like Molten Chocolate cake. The restaurant is located at Sukhumvit soi 20. Take BTS to Asoke station and walk to the soi around 10 minutes.

Captain Hook Resort, Koh Kood

2008-12-07T20:31:00.000-08:00

Captain Hook resort is located on Klong Yai Kee Beach , Koh Kood. Koh Kood is the farthest island from the coast of Trat. The resort is decorated with natural materials. You can choose to stay in an Air-Con Bungalow or a VIP Sea view Bungalow which is more luxurious.

Each room is prepared to offer you a timeless romantic holiday by the sea. What I really like the resort is that a bathroom has been complemented by a real garden section with an open roof where you can talking a bath in a tropical.

There is an international restaurant serving up a big selection of delicacies and drinks to stimulate your taste buds.

Some of activities you can enjoy during your vacation at the resort are taking a kayak journey out into the sea, hiking to Klong Yai Kee Waterfall, diving and a private beach is only meters away.

Currently the resort is offering special packages for 3 Days 2 Nights at a cost of 6,800 baht per person for an Air-Con Bungalow or 8,800 for a VIP Sea view Bungalow

Luxurious and comfortable, the resort is the perfect place to getaway and enjoys the sea. The resort is beautifully landscaped and the location is very quite and private (perfect for chill out). The resort offers me the highest standard of privacy, comfort and within the grounds there is a secret hideaway beach. Captain hook Resort is a place where you can have the most memorable moments.

Condo Life@ Sukhumvit 65 for sale

2008-12-03T02:09:00.000-08:00

For sale 2,330,000
1 Bedroom , 1 Bathroom
30 sq.m, Swimming pool , Garden Security
Closed to BTS: Phrakanong Stattion (5 minutes)
Fully Furnished.Ready to move-in next year. The building is located on to main

Please contact shinboon@gmail.com

Why Buy a Condo in Hua Hin?

2008-12-02T19:52:00.000-08:00

Based on my own experience of living and operating an Real Estate Agency in Hua Hin for nearly 5 years; and having built my own house and many others for our clients, if I had to do it all over again, I would most likely recommend my clients to buy a condo over a house. Why you may ask?

For one, over 90% of projects I've heard about encounter some sort of building issues somewhere along the line i.e. low building standards, untrained contractors, delay in work and therefore late delivery of finished product, lack of guarantee on construction quality, and many more.

But before I present my obviously biased opinion, let's look at the Pros and Cons of buying a house vs condo.

House:

Pros:
- Larger Living space
- Private Garden
- Pets allowed
- Easier to do Renovations

Cons:
- More remote location
- Can feel less spacious
- Difficulties in transportation
- Slower Re-sale

Condominium:

Pros:
- Likely to be more centrally located
- Can be more spacious even with smaller total area
- Better Security
- Easier Re-sale

Cons:
- No private land or garden
- No private car port
- Possibly noisier
- Actual living space smaller
- No pets
- Restrictions in Renovations

The main obstacle for many foreign buyers is the language barrier. When you buy a house you are really on your own unless you have a Thai wife or girlfriend who can do some translation for you and even then it can be a hurdle to be understood. Most condo buildings have office staff who speak adequate English and help attend to tenants, home owners and guests.

If you are planning to buy a house and only live in Thailand part of the year, you will need to find a property management company to take care of your garden, pool, pay bills, cleaning and possibly to rent it out. This is a higher cost vs maintaining a condo.

If you want a quick return in investment, I'd say that condominiums are a better option since they rent easier due to better location, facilities, security and in-house maintenance.

Lastly and most importantly, the main reason why I advise foreigners to buy a freehold condo in Hua Hin is simply because, a foreigner cannot own land legally. Basically, you can only lease the land on which your house is built for 30 years with an option to renew the lease for another 30 years. I don't know about you but when I spend a couple of million baht on a property, I want it to be mine for a much longer time than 60 years!

By Maddy Barber

If you are thinking of buying, selling or renting Hua Hin property, be sure to log onto this Hua Hin real estate agency site for updated listings, invaluable information and advise.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/why-buy-a-condo-in-hua-hin-415389.html

la a natu - Bed & Bakery

2008-12-02T19:48:00.001-08:00

Not far from the heart of Hua Hin, la anu tu is located at Khao ka Loke, Pranburi where you can spoil yourself for a getwasy. With 10 exclusive accommodation inspired by Thai-Lao architecture and local artworks blend with visionary contemporary design, the hotel is categorized into Tropical Village, Tropical Cottage and Loft Suite.

Tropical Villages & Cottages
This spacious end Tropical Villages & Cottages are constructed natural furnishings and equipped with essential amenities. Inspired by the Lao-song thatch-roofed house style and fisherman's house the cottages offer you natural comfy living.

Loft Suites
These spectacular duplex suites with luxurious natural décor are structured with separate living room, two bathrooms and your private Jacuzzi. This seaside cottage offers you a spectacular full panoramic sea view.

SERVICES & FACILITIES

Enjoy your vacation with a 'Chocolate Pool' – a roof-top swimming pool overlooking sea and rice-fields or arrange you a small private at the resort. Last but not least and you should not miss is the resort‘s homemade Bakery. Try the resort’s signature bakery like Carrot Cake Ma-Toom (Bale) Cake Banana Nut Bread and Young Coconut Mousse Cake with afternoon tea.

Top 10 Things to Do and See in Krabi Thailand

2008-12-01T22:45:00.000-08:00

With so many activities that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy, Krabi has framed itself as a laid-back resort
destination where the emphasis falls on comfort and relaxation instead of on high-energy parties. The natural landscape is accentuated by limestone outcroppings known as karsts that pop up all over the countryside. With abundant plant life and beautiful coral reefs, there's plenty to explore while you're staying here.

Exploring the archipelago
One of the most remarkable ways to experience the limestone rock formations and spectacular beaches is to take a daytrip from one island to another. Many tour guides offer organised daytrips to the highlights of the archipelago, which are worth it and a chance to break away from the crowds of the mainland resort. For the more independent explorer, sea kayaks can be rented for trips out to some of the nearest small islands. A boat day trip to Phi Phi is a must too!

Than Bok Khoranie National Park
If you have a tent and would like a place to set up camp, consider heading out to Than Bok Khorani National Park, a secluded place with no concrete accommodation but an abundance of plant species culminating in a very picturesque pond surrounded by gardenias and apocynaceae. The park also boasts several limestone caves and some lovely mangrove forests. Many visit on a day trip from Phuket.

Rock climbing
Many rock climbing outfitters in Krabi also give lessons at various skill levels to help you improve your rock climbing abilities. The limestone cliffs and unique stone formations have helped Krabi carve out a global reputation among rock climbing circles. Ton Sai is the first stop for most climbers, as it’s the most frequented climbed spot in the area. Other climbing outings to more secluded areas are easily arranged with the help of climbing outfitters.

Koh Lanta Marine National Park
The sea gypsies, or Chai Leh, still live and work on the island of Koh Lanta—now a marine national park. For centuries they have practiced their own form of spirit worship and spoken their own distinct language. This island also has the region's standard fare of beautiful beaches, unique rock formations and stunning coral reefs for exploration. Some of the rainforest on this island is virtually untouched and remains protected. Visitors can rent bungalows and stay a while. It’s also connected to Phi Phi island by ferry.

Shell Fossil Cemetery
Thirty five million years ago, the site of Ban Laem Pho Cape was an enormous freshwater swamp that hosted millions of small snails. The remains of these creatures formed a fossilised composite that has grown almost 16 inches thick. This huge slab has become one of Krabi's most popular attractions and can be reached via a 10-mile drive from the town of Krabi.

Krabi nightlife
Ao Nang Beach resort area is the primary tourist hub of Krabi, with Krabi Town itself not offering a whole lot to out-of-towners except for a glimpse of everyday life for the locals. While not quite as exciting as Phuket, in the resort area you'll find bars and restaurants whose doors remain open past midnight, though you'll be hard-pressed to find any exhilarating parties or discotheques. Instead, this is a more family-oriented holiday spot with some nice restaurants and a relaxed, quiet atmosphere.

Scuba diving
The official diving season in Krabi is from November to Mach, though the conditions are hospitable all year round and divers are here at every time of the year. Snorkelling is also a great way to get a view of the coral reefs. Diving companies on the mainland can get you certified as a diver and will also arrange diving trips out to all of the best reefs in the surrounding area. The diving at Phi Phi is especially good.

Biking
Bikes can be rented in the Ao Nang resort area, and a cycling loop that heads out of town guides cyclist through the limestone rock formations that dot the landscape. The road curves through old villages and groves of coconut trees, and riders can stretch this spectacular route into as much as 15 or 20 miles of biking.

Railay Beach
Railay Beach may be the region's most unique coastal area, with its crescent shaped coastline that's cut off from the mainland by huge outcroppings of rock. Only accessible by boat, you can charter a vessel to drop you off for a daytrip to Phra Nang, a sacred enshrined cave, or for an overnight stay in one of the resorts that lay claim to these peaceful beaches. Even the beaches at Phuket don’t even compete!

Daytrip to Wat Tham Seua
Wat Tham Seua is the largest temple in Krabi, and its name means Tiger Cave Temple. It's literally tucked into the limestone cliffs of Ao Luk Thanu mountain range, and the Buddhist monks that live and worship here do so in the caves themselves. The highlight of this temple is 'Buddha's footprint', located at the summit of a 1,272-step climb, a point that affords wonderful views of the countryside spreading in every direction.

Author: Andy Burrows

About the Author:

Andy Burrows is a web writer and frequent visitor to Thailand, for more on Krabi online he suggests;
Everything you need to known about Krabi
Gallery of pictures on Krabi

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/top-10-things-to-do-and-see-in-krabi-thailand-121502.html

Singapore V Bangkok

2008-11-26T23:28:00.000-08:00

Singapore has seen an unprecendented boom in property prices within the last 18 months and whilst there are those amongst you who will not see an obvious comparison between the Lion City and The City of Angels; there are nevertheless, some things that do deserve comparison. Bangkok's concentration of sought after condiminium developments has until recently largely been centred around Sukhumvit and Ploenchit but despite concerns over transport the Chao Phraya river has now become an area of high interest. Likewise one of the most expensive condiminium projects undertaken in Singapore has been at the mouth of the river.

It is obvious to me why buyers should be looking to these locations. Not necessarily the people who want or need to be in the centre of everything and close to their workplace but the wider circle of buyers, those who wish to own a property in a Capital city as a stopover or those who do not need to be at the business centre of the city. The life of a river is ever moving, particularly in Bangkok where the river is still very much a working river and a hive of activity that never appears dull. Why therefore should a prospective condominium buyer not want to have as his window this great living canvas?

I can recall when London first opened up the great River Thames to residential development and the huge Victorian warehouses were first converted into apartments, and where the riverside did not suit warehouse conversion; modern tower blocks rose in their place. Many thought that the old dockside areas would never be seen as desirable places to live and again there were concerns about transport, however, now multi-million dollar penthouses are common place. This scenario has been repeated all over the world from Chicago to Cologne to CapeTown.

So why compare Bangkok to Singapore?
Because in the price of real estate there is no comparison. Current per square metre selling prices of similar type developments run at about four times the price in Singapore. Yet Singapore is still seen as an attractive proposition to the real estate investor Take a look at a copy of the Straits Times in particular the Sunday edition and see how many real estate agents there are. Now compare two similar ground breaking projects; One Shenton in Singapore and The River in Bangkok. One Shenton had a very successful launch and is being built to a very high specification employing all of the latest technology and positioned overlooking the Straits. The River is a fabulous twintower project designed by Hans Brouwer and being developed by Raimon Land located directly on the river, as the name suggests, next to The Peninsular and opposite The Shangri-La and Oriental Hotels. Both projects have stunning views yet prices of The River start at about 115,000 baht per square metre, a fraction of the prices now being asked for similar apartments at One Shenton. Little wonder The River's launch has been one of the most successful in Bangkok's history. It is also worthy of note that much of the interest in The River has come from overseas.Perhaps, at last, the investors are realising that in terms of capital growth Bangkok's riverside offers much greater potential. There are of course those investors that still see Thailand as a potential risk. Once their doubts are put aside, just watch the prices, like the towers, go sky high!

Author: David Wade Author Ranking Blue

About the Author:

A professional property valuer and surveyor, has over 25 years experience in real estate in the UK and Europe.
Phuket Property

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/singapore-v-bangkok-581804.html

Buy a Property in Bangkok the Recommended Way

2008-11-24T02:32:00.000-08:00

Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the whole world and more and more people who visit it are willing to buy a property in Bangkok.

Foreigners who are interested in Bangkok real estate investing must be familiar with property laws in Thailand, if they do not want to have an unpleasant surprise. Anyone can buy a unit in a condominium, but foreigners cannot own free land and houses. According to a Thai rule, foreigners can buy only a certain percentage from the total area of the condominium, in a proportion that does not exceed 49% of all the units in the condominium. A local real estate agent can tell you if you fulfill the necessary conditions in order to buy a unit of a condominium or rent a property in Bangkok.

You can make a good idea about the local market if you resort to an experienced local agent, who knows his or her business. Thus, you will not have to worry about any failure of your Bangkok real estate investing, since such an investment
will bring you the expected long-term profit. The commercial real estates have exploded these last years and Bangkok real estate investing can turn out to be tricky, if you do not have a well-thought plan. Anyone can rent a property in Bangkok, but the success of the investment does not offer a guarantee as long as a team of experts has not advised you.

Bangkok real estate investing is not only about buying or renting the desired property in Bangkok. Apart from the money that you will spend on renting or buying, there will also be other operating expenses. The maintenance fee of the property you buy or rent faces charging by the month. The owners will decide the amount of money to pay. Furthermore, if you own a property in Bangkok, you will have to pay a property tax that varies according to the estimated value of the property.

Finding a licensed Bangkok property Real Estate Agent is not an easy task, because, just like in other cities, there are always many unauthorized agents who are looking forward to trick you into buying their inadequately constructed properties. Before you buy a property in Bangkok, it is very important to verify that the agency has a license and that they come with good recommendations. Remember that the success of your Bangkok real estate investing lies in his /her hands and you should not shy away from asking for recommendations.

In addition, it is also recommended to consult with a local attorney about possible pitfalls as well as other miscellaneous laws that are applicable to foreigners. For those foreigners wanting to buy a property in Bangkok, it is also pertinent to check out the new areas that are developing quickly. For instance, the train transportations (BTS) is quickly being developed and cause the real estate to increase quite rapidly in areas that were not popular before. Bangkok is a place that is worth investing in, but do not expect any short-term profitable results. In the end, the money you have spent on the property will pay off – you only need to start with a long-term goal.

Author: Amelie Mag

About the Author:

We can provide you with the best alternatives when it comes to Bangkok real estate investing. Solicit the skill of a professional Buy a Property in Bangkok and you will find the worth of your investment.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/buy-a-property-in-bangkok-the-recommended-way-256881.html

Expats in Bangkok and Their Living Requirements

2008-11-24T02:26:00.000-08:00

Bangkok, known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon in Thai, is the capital as well as the cultural and commercial center of Thailand. Bangkok is situated on the Chao Phraya River Delta, about 40 km from the Gulf of Thailand, in the central region of the country. With a population of about seven million people, Bangkok is the city where the majority of expatriates in Thailand are based.

In other words, about 25% of the city's population is expatriates. Many of them are working, while some are retired or tourists on a long term vacation. Majority of the expats in Bangkok are westerners including Americans, British, and Germans. Most of them primarily work in foreign-owned and managed companies. A good number of Japanese expats can also be seen here, of which many of them work in Japanese legal firms in the city.

Expats living and working in Bangkok also include a lot number of people from other Asian destinations, such as, China, Indonesia, Korea, and Philippines. Many of them work as teachers and some in export sections in order to communicate with foreign customers. In short, it is no wonder that why Bangkok is regarded as the most diverse of all the Asian cities.

One of the prime reasons why many foreigners prefer to relocate and stay here for a long period is due to its affordable cost of living. Housing and daily consumer items plus food items are relatively cheap in Bangkok. However, cost of living in the city depends on your income. For a corporate executive working in the city with a salary of more than 150,000 baht per month or teacher with salary of about 35,000 baht per month can comfortably live here.

Middle class community with 10,000-20,000 baht a month can also live well here. For instance, an apartment studio coupled with facilities including furniture, phone, cable, and hot water are available for rent for 5,000-7,500 per month. Likewise, two-storied townhouses can be availed for rent for just 5000 baht a month. But, the rent of an apartment or a single detached with high-end facilities may go up to 10,000-20,000 baht per month. It may be even higher if you are well-heeled enough to choose a top-end condominium or serviced apartment with a rent between 25,000-100,000 baht.

Since many foreigners consider Bangkok as a destination to spend their retirement life, majority of expats are now showing interest in investing in Bangkok's property market. However, there are certain restrictions for foreigners who are interest in investing in property market. A foreigner can own a land or house in Thailand through a registered Thai company, provided he owns more than 39% of company's share.

Likewise, an expat can own land or house in the country through his Thai spouse. In other cases, an expat can lease land for 30 years, with a choice to extend it for another 30 years, of which the first 30 years are guaranteed since they are registered with the Land Department. However, there are fewer restrictions for owning a condominium in Thailand. In other words, condominium is the only type of asset that can be legally owned by a foreigner in the country.

When comes to food, everything from traditional Thai and seafood cuisines to exquisite Chinese and French cuisines are available. Eating or buying food from hawker stalls or a food court in the shopping centers is exceptionally cheap. There are also options for those who want to dine sumptuous dishes within luxurious comforts, in the form of international fast food restaurants or top-class eateries located within most sophisticated hotels. But, it may be expensive. Then also the bill would be lower when compared to similar restaurants in America or Europe.

The prices of other food stuffs are also relatively cheap. For instance, a can of coke is just 14 Baht. A loaf of bread can be bought for 25 Baht and a bottle of milk for 10 baht. Similarly many westerners' items including cornflakes, Tescos, pasta, jams, cheese, and bacon are available at big supermarkets and that too at local prices.

Of the expats in Bangkok, majority of them live in the city's Central Business District (CBD), the Silom sub-district, or on or close to the Sukhumvit-Phloenchit Rd. Some of the expats also live in the suburbs of Bangkok where economical housing options are available. Almost, every western country has an embassy in the city, including the Australian Chamber and the American Chamber.

Likewise, many organizations and business firms are here to provide visa services. In order to ensure high standard of treatment, many world-class hospital function here such as Bangkok General Hospital and Bamrungrad. Above all, a plenty of organizations operate here for the expats living in Bangkok, such as, the European Young Professionals Society and Hash House Harriers.

Author: Wantanee Khamkongkaew

About the Author:

Wantanee K. is an independent author evaluating and commenting on leading International Property Consultants in Thailand, especially CB Richard Ellis.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/expats-in-bangkok-and-their-living-requirements-368996.html

Mu Koh Poda

2008-11-20T23:29:00.001-08:00

Situated south of Ao Nang, 8 kilometres offshore, Mu Ko Poda is fringed by clear waters, and offers white sandy beaches, as well as, pristine coral reefs. This is why it is a year-round attraction and an excellent place for fishing because it is not affected so much by the monsoon. Mu Ko Poda can be reached within 25 minutes by boat from Ao Nang. Many noteworthy islands like Ko Thap, Ko Mo, Ko Hua Khwan, and Ko Kai are situated nearby. A beautiful sandy beach, connecting these islands, is visible at low tide.

Source:http://www.tourismthailand.org/attraction/krabi-81-5383-1.html

Oriental Hotel Bangkok Thailand

2008-11-20T23:23:00.000-08:00

Before we begin, know that our goal is to give you as much useful information as we can fit on our page.

Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok is a part of the sophisticated official Oriental lodge group. The hotel is one of the splendid and sophisticated five star hotels of the city. The lodge skin in the Institutional saver 2004 World's Best lodges slope for its tasteful accommodations and tailored military. The masss and facilities provided by the hotel are praiseworthy and of a very high worth. The fifteen storey hotel looks amazing from a detach.

setting of Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok is said to be a very picturesque one. The hotel stands beside Chao Phraya brook and witnesses the most lively city life of Bangkok. The hotel is in close proximity to a number of main attractions which contain the majestic Palace, The Wat Pho Temple, the Patpong night sell and the Siam shopping field. It is also very close to the ruins of Ayutthaya. The custom region of Bangkok deceit just next to the hotel. The international airport is a few miles away whilst the skytrain stations and the bus and taxi station are a few yards away from the hotel. hence this exotic accommodation is superior by both custom and leisure tourists.

extent Facilities at Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok is regarded to be one of the best in the city. The hotel has a aggregate of 396 stabbingly furnished guestquarters. The quarters are equipped with hi tech gadgets like the television, IDD telephones, minuscule bar refrigerator, work oppose with internet connection, CD player with a tiny CD store, in-area nontoxic, air conditioning and hairdryer. The area overhaul is operational twenty four hours and you can also purpose the secret butler overhaul.

The options of Dining at Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok are mixed. The hotel has eight restaurants and a bar to entertain the guests. Le Normandie is the signature restaurant of the specializing in French food and seafood. noble Jim serves brilliant sushi and sashimi dishes. Sala Rim Naam serves Thai food whilst The tableware House specializes in Cantonese delicacies. Ciao is a conventional Italian buffet and Verandah lets you bouquet the Asian and western cuisines. The cause's recline serves sandwiches, cakes and Tea. The rattan bar is one of the incident and legendary bars of Bangkok.

business and Conference at Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok is a accepted business at the hotel. The issue nucleus and gathering quarters are roomy and fine. They can accommodate a gigantic congregation of people together. They are equipped with all kinds of hi tech gadgets like the LCD projector and the internet connection with a part screen.

As we take a closer look, keep in mind all of the useful and important information that we have learned so far.

The options of Dining at Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok are mixed. The hotel has eight restaurants and a bar to entertain the guests. Le Normandie is the signature restaurant of the specializing in French food and seafood. noble Jim serves brilliant sushi and sashimi dishes. Sala Rim Naam serves Thai food whilst The tableware House specializes in Cantonese delicacies. Ciao is a conventional Italian buffet and Verandah lets you bouquet the Asian and western cuisines. The cause's recline serves sandwiches, cakes and Tea. The rattan bar is one of the incident and legendary bars of Bangkok.

selling and Conference at Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok is a accepted event at the hotel. The contract crux and summit quarters are drudgery and complete. They can accommodate a vast congregation of people together. They are equipped with all kinds of hi tech gadgets like the LCD projector and the internet connection with a distinct examine.

The facilities of condition and Recreation at Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok are amazing. The spa of the hotel is said to be one of the most stunning in the world. There is also a vigor crux, a swimming puddle and a beauty store.

Other services and military at Oriental lodge Bangkok in Bangkok are central and diverse. The hotel has a currency replace defy, a tour defy, habitual laundry and dry cleaning military, babysitting military, 24 hour checkup flair, and disabled facilities.

If you thoroughly examine each part that we have discussed, you will see a common thread of which to explore.

Author: Maypopup

About the Author:

Maypopup M. is the Webmaster of Bangkok Thailand Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Bangkok Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2bangkok.com/

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/oriental-hotel-bangkok-thailand-288476.html

Condo one special price from 45,000 baht/sq.m

2008-11-20T22:11:00.000-08:00

Just got email from my friend who works at Sansiri

Condo One By Sansiri offers special promotion 22- 23 Nov

Lad Prao 15 - 50,000 Baht/Sq.m
Lad Prao 18 - 45,000 Baht/Sq.M.
Lad Prao Station – 56,000 Baht/sq.m
Sukhumvit 67 – 57,000 Baht/sq.m
Sathorn – 53,000 Baht/sq.m
Sathorn – Narathivart - 54,000 Baht/sq.m

If you are interested in Condo One by Sansiri please contact them by sending email to contact@plus.co.th

Rent a House in Bangkok

2008-11-18T23:02:00.000-08:00

When I first moved to Bangkok, I rented an apartment like most newcomers to Bangkok do, but as I became more familiar with my new home town, I decided to be a little more adventurous and rented a house. Having lived in houses over the past five years now, I’ve found that renting a house in Bangkok not only offers more space and privacy, often it is also much better value compared to apartment living. More often than not, it is also a cheaper option (per square metre) compared to renting an apartment or condo, which are getting smaller in size these days! If you enjoy wide open spaces, appreciate some green in your life - a garden perhaps, have pets, a large family or simply want to maximize your budget, consider renting a house instead.

Another advantage in renting a house is, apartments tend to put a high surcharge on your electricity and water bills. Many apartments have a minimum charge of 1000 bht for water alone. That is a significant amount considering my water bill never cost me over 500 bht living in a house with a family of 5, and we do A LOT of washing! Electricity can be anything between 5 – 7 baht per unit compared to the actual 3.75 baht charged by the MEA. Living in a house can save you up to half your utility bills compared to living in an apartment, and believe me it is A LOT of difference!

Thailand is cheap!

As you may already know, Thailand (more accurately, “Bangkok”) is not the cheap haven many foreigners once thought it to be, especially when it comes to housing. Property prices and rental have gone up considerably and that’s the way it goes everywhere around the world. The very same 2 bedroom unit I rented 5 years ago (in Silom) has gone up by 30% in rental and hardly any refurbishment has been done to it since! “That’s ridiculous” you say and believe it or not, I agree! But hey, I don’t make the prices and if you think agents benefit from that higher commission, that’s only true when clients actually think these houses are worth the price and that isn’t always the case.

Renting a house in Sukhumvit, Silom or Sathorn.

If you are looking to rent a house in the the Sukhumvit, Silom or Sathorn area, then the very minimum rental you are looking at is 30,000 bht for a BASIC 3 bedroom house. Even then, they are few and far between in that range, and more often than not are above 15 years old, with dark parquet flooring and lots of wooden built-ins which many people find dark and depressing.

Most people prefer something a little brighter and contemporary. That would mean newer houses between 1 – 5 years old and these start around 45,000 bht. Depending on the location, size, décor, facilities etc. these can go up to anything from 150,000 – 250,000 baht per month. For that price, please do not accept anything less than a spectacular, resort-like villa with a private pool!

No, but seriously, you do get what you pay for so be realistic when it comes to expectations and budget. If you want something new and modern but lack the budget, then move further away from the city centre. Which also means further away from the BTS line. Unfortunately, we cannot have it all and something’s gotta give.

Generally, if you go further towards the end of the BTS line and beyond i.e. Mo Chit, Phayathai, Phrakanong, On Nut, Bangna, Srinakarin, Rangsit etc. prices drop significantly and you get much better deals which are sometimes worth the extra time commuting.

Is it possible to find a house for 15,000 bht?

Not many agencies deal with houses below 25,000 bht. Just search the various property website in Thailand and you will see that the minimum range for houses are 25,000 - 30,000 bht, where the search usually returns 0 - 5 results. Several reasons for that:

1) There are a lot less decent and rentable houses at < 25,000 bht than there are at say, 50,000 bht.

2) If there is, it is usually way out of town, far from any BTS/MRT station.

3) Most people want to live in town, close to the city centre, CBD or near a BTS/MRT station.

4) Apart from location, houses below 25,000 bht are usually older (thus old fashioned) and not very well-maintained, which makes it very hard to rent.

5) If a house is nice and decent with an asking rent of 25,000 bht or less, some agents mark it up!

Thus, it’s hard to find nice, decent houses at 25,000 bht or less…

Regardless, there are plenty of cheap houses as low as 12,000 bht for rent, but remember, and I stress again - you get what you pay for! And most 12,000 bht houses I’ve seen are usually in serious need of repair and maintenance, and the really nice ones are located way out in whoop whoop district.

I don’t care as long as rent is cheap. Where do I look?

Again, you won’t find any agents to help you there and finding that perfect yet cheap and nice house is undoubtedly the hardest step. It usually takes months of driving around moo baan after moo baan, which would mean having your own transport and knowing your way around.

The word “Moo Baan” translates to “village” in Thai, but the term “housing estate” would be far more accurate. These usually have a guard posted at the entrance and are situated all over Bangkok. These houses usually offer much better value than stand alone houses, and are a good place for the house hunter to start his/her search. Try areas like On Nut between Sukhumvit 77 – 103, Bangna, Rangsit, Ramintra, Phayathai, Mo chit etc.

Concerns and other issues

1) Security
Honestly, I know of many farangs, including myself who have lived in single houses and existed peacefully without any disturbances or trouble for years. I also do not know anyone who has been burgled personally because they were living in a house. Do you?
If you are considering renting a house and security is a main concern, rent a house in popular areas like Sukhumvit, Silom and Sathorn where there are many nearby apartments and condos with security. That way, you can benefit from the dense security in the neighbourhood.
Another option would be to opt for houses or townhouse within a “moo baan.” There are plenty around and majority of them have tight 24 hour security. Common sense would also tell me to explore the neighbourhood a little and have a chat with shopkeepers and a neighbour who might be willing to share some information with you. I’m sure you’ll have no problems getting a friendly neighbour to spill the beans on the house, its previous tenants and probably things you don’t need to know about your landlord. Welcome to Thailand!

2) Air conditioners
Check to see how many rooms have air-conditioning; and how old the air-conditioners are. If you are looking at an older house, chances are it will have those big, old blocks that rumble every time you turn them on. These old air-conditioners consume a lot more energy than a new one, and would greatly increase your electricity bills. It is also unlikely that the landlord will install new air-conditioners for you unless they are completely dead (even then they will always try to revive the monster before even considering replacing it), so make sure that they are serviced and cleaned before you move in or if you got a good deal on the rent, invest in some new airconditioners!

3) Water Pressure
Now this is important. Always check that there is a water pump. Then check the water pressure on the upper floors to make sure the pump has enough power to deliver a decent jet of shower. I’ve learnt from experience that size does not necessarily mean power when it comes to a water pump, and sometimes a 2nd pump needs to be installed to ensure constant deliverance of water into the house.

4) Telephone lines
Again, from experience it is in your best interest to check the phone lines to make sure that 1) you have one and 2) it is working, because some areas (and this includes many areas in the Sukhumvit, Silom and Sathorn) do not have anymore available numbers and you will have to join a looong waiting list to apply for a new one. Also, older houses above 10 years old tend to be on the old, analog system which when faulty, cannot be replaced unless the whole area is re-cabled. No telephone lines = no internet. You don’t ever want to be caught in that situation!

5) Maintenance
Houses within a secured compound will have what they call “moo baan fee” or “community fee” which goes into the maintenance of the estate i.e. security, pool and garden maintenance etc. This is usually included in the asking rent. However, if you try negotiating on the rent, then more often than not, the landlord will exclude this from the rent and make you pay for it, so check to see what your rent includes when you are signing the contract. This ranges between 20 - 45 bht per square metre. Thus, the larger your house the more you pay! I currently pay 3,500 baht per month for my “moo baan fee” (I got a 5000 bht reduction in rent, so it works out) and we have 24 hour security, a well-maintained common garden and a superb pool that is regularly cleaned, so I am happy.

At Bangkok Finder, we specialize in properties for rent. Home rental is our only business and that gives us all the time in the world to help find you that perfect house within your budget when you move to Bangkok. Our website http://www.bangkokfinder.com features hundreds of houses and apartments for rent, and is updated daily with quality rental homes. Our negotiators have long established relationships with landlords, which means you will always pay the best rate when we negotiate for you.

Author: Maddy Barber

About the Author:

Maddy Barber is founder of a professional property rental agency specializing in houses for rent in Bangkok. She has helped hundreds of expats and locals alike find their dream homes and her website http://www.bangkokfinder.com is updated daily with hundreds of properties, including apartments and condos for rent. It also features a popular blog packed full of useful information for those new to Thailand. Her staff speaks English, Thai and Chinese.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-opportunities-articles/rent-a-house-in-bangkok-204562.html

TRAVEL INFORMATION : SHOPPING ADVICE

2008-11-17T19:18:00.000-08:00

Shopping Tips

Department stores and a number of shops in Bangkok have fixed prices, but at most of others bargaining is acceptable and expected; some department stores will even offer a discount on expensive items like jewellery and fine furniture. No fixed rules can be given on the process depending as it does on the bargainer’s skill and the shopkeeper’s mood, but the final price may be reduced as much as 30% to that first quoted. An important point to keep in mind is that Thais admire good manners and a sense of humour and tend to be put off by a loss of temper. Providing you have the time, a good general rule is to make a survey of several shops selling the sort of items you want before coming to a final decision.

The Jewel Fest Club

Jewellery and gemstones from Thailand are also a favourite item for many visitors to the kingdom. Their beauty, quality craftmanship and reasonable price have earned Thai precious and semi-precious stones a worldwide reputation. Yet occasionally, there have been visitors who complained about the action of few unethical jewellers who persuaded them to purchase jewellery at an unreasonable price.

Through the cooperation of the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Jewel Fest Club has been established, bringing about 100 leading jewellery manufacturers and wholesalers. The club’s aim to offer quality products at reasonable prices with a money-back guarantee if buyers are not completely satisfied with their purchases.

When you purchase an item of jewellery from a store that is clearly identified as a member of the Jewel Fest Club, your purchase will be duly recorded, and a certificate detailing your purchase will be issued. Not only does this certificate of authenticity clearly state the nature and price of your purchase, it also guarantees your refund should you wish to return the purchase. Contact The Jewel Fest Club at Tel: 0 2630 1390-7, Fax: 0 2630 1398-9, or visit website : www.jewelfest.com.

Packing and Shipping Services

Thanks to the ever-increasing number of tourists coming to Thailand, most shops are experienced at shipping abroad and will attend to all the documents such as insurance, customs and necessary permits. The Central Post Office also offers a parcel-wrapping service for those who want to make small shipments themselves. For larger items or bulk shipments, there are several Bangkok companies who specialise in such matters.

VAT Refund

Visitors entering the Kingdom on tourist visas are entitled to refunds of the 7% value-added tax (VAT) paid on goods purchased at shops and department stores displaying “VAT Refund for Tourists” signs. The refund may be claimed if the claimed amounts in all P.P.10’s have been totaled 5,000 baht or over. Tourist is eligible to receive P.P.10 form when the total purchase of 2,000 baht or over is made from the same store on the same date. Before checking in at the international airport (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Phuket, Utapao), tourist must show your purchases, completed P.P.10 form and tax invoices to the Customs Officer for inspection. Certain luxury goods must be shown to an excise official. Refunds may be in bank draft form or credited to a credit card. For more information, please contact the VAT Refund for Tourists Office, Tel: 0 2272 9388, 0 2272 8195-8 or www.rd.go.th/vrt/engindex.html

Procedure on VAT Refund for Tourists
At the store
1. Shop at stores displaying "VAT Refund for Tourists" sign.
2. Spend at least 2,000 baht per store per day.
3. Present your passport and ask for a P.P.10 form (VAT Refund Application Form) immediately on the purchase date.
4. The total value of purchases (per person) as combined from all P.P.10's shall be at least 5,000 baht before you are eligible to claim a VAT refund.
At the airport
5. Let the Custom Officers check the purchased goods before you check in and have them sign all P.P.10's on the departure date.
6. Bring all P.P.10's and original tax invoices to claim your VAT refund at the VAT Refund Office after the Immigration Checkpoint.
7. Jewelry, gold ornaments, watches, glasses and pens, of which the value is 10,000 baht or over, shall be re-inspected at the VAT Refund Office again.
8. The purchased goods are required to be taken out of the country within 60 days since the purchase date through the International Airports.

Where to shop in Bangkok

Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two major streets, but offers many areas throughout the city affording ample choice and easy access. The following is just a selection of some of the principal shopping districts.

Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong
Top department stores and luxury shopping malls are concentrated in the area, namely central, Sogo, Gaysorn Plaza, Isetan, Zen, Amarin Plaza, Peninsula Plaza, All of which together make the largest shopping promenade in Bangkok. Furthermore, the Central World Plaza and Narayana Phand Pavillion, host the official handicraft centre selling items from all parts of the country. Ratchaprasong intersection is the gateway to several shopping areas such as Ploenchit-Sukhumvit, Siam Square-Mah Boon Krong, Silom and Pratunam-Phetchaburi.
Silom-Surawong-Patpong
Silom Road is the main artery of Bangkok’s commercial heart and is paralleled by Surawong road, while Patpong runs crosswise between the two. In addition to housing dozens of specialist shops and boutiques representing all the major buys, this area also boasts many branches of well-known retailers and several shopping plazas. Street stalls also abound, most notably at Patpong’s famous night market
Silom-Mahesak-New road
Silom leads into New Road which parallel the Chao Phraya River, and notable shopping opportunities include gems and jewellery stores (Mahesak road is a gem trading centre), Oriental Plaza and River City shopping complex.
Sukhumvit
Like Silom, Sukhumvit is one of Bangkok’s main thoroughfares, and the long road is lined with shops, boutiques and modern shopping plazas ranging from Soi 3 (Nana Nua) up to Soi 63 (Ekamai). Most shops and restaurants are concentrated between Soi 3 and Soi 21 (Asoke) and along shortcuts between Asoke and Ekamai.
Chinatown
Centre on Yaowarat Road and Sampheng Lane, Bangkok’s Chinatown offers a profusion or gold shops as well as two nearby traditional shopping places, Ban Mo Jewellery Street and Phahurat ClothMarket.
Bang Lamphu
Situated close to the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bang Lamphu has a lively market where clothing is a popular buy.
Pratunam-Phetchaburi
A highlight in the distinct is Pratunam market, one of Bangkok’s biggest centres for ready-to-wear clothing.
Baiyoke Tower
Located next to Bangkok’s tallest hotel building, Baiyoke Tower is one of the city’s renowned garment centres.
Nailert Market
Situated close to Pratunum Market, Nai Lert Market is one of many shopping areas in Bangkok where you can buy just about everything from clothing to handicrafts.
Bo-Be Market
Situated close to Bangkok Railway Station, Bo-be is one of the city’s renowned ready-to-wear clothing centres, both wholesale and retail.
Bangkok International Airport
Centre for an extensive range of shops offering a full selection of Thailand’s top buys.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Located adjacent to Chatuchak Park, the weekend market, open on Saturday and Sunday, is a Bangkok landmark where you can buy just about everything from clothing to potted plants and everything in between—a paradise for browsers and bargain-hunters alike. Chatuchak Weekend Market also offers items of furniture and home decor. It is also where professional and amateur art-lovers and artists meet.

Source:http://www.tourismthailand.org/travel-information/travel-information-82-1.html

Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu

2008-11-17T19:14:00.000-08:00

Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu
Erected by the first governor of Mae Hong Son, this temple reflects the strong influence of the Burmese. The highlights of this attraction are the two lavishly decorated pagodas. Also, this hilltop temple affords an exceptional aerial view of the city and surrounding mountains and valleys.

Source:http://www.tourismthailand.org/attraction/maehongson-58-3740-1.html

How to get the best returns from your Bangkok Property.

2008-11-17T19:09:00.000-08:00

If you are investing in property and you want to sell or rent it out to get the best returns you should be aware of demand for properties in prime locations of Bangkok is still high particularly for units near mass-transit routes. Premium properties make good investments as many expatriates relocating to Thailand need residences within walking distance of the Skytrain or subway. So, where to find such buyers?

Try listing you premium property with premium agents whose majority of their clients are expat in Thailand and highly educated professional Thai. Agents who market properties on different quality channels to maximize the exposure of properties to premium buyers. Agents who have professional sales teams facilitate premium buyers to visit your property and also offer you concrete suggestions for improving the chances of a sale.

Dara Samui Beach Resort Spa Hotel Koh Samui Island

2008-11-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

We hope that you finish this article having learned at least a little bit of new information. If so, then we have done our job.

The Island of Koh Samui deception on the gulf of Thailand. It is renowned for its ssidey vegetation. The island with its beaches, bays, capes and brilliant beautiful beauty is a must reside for travelers. If you want to like your reside in Koh Samui you should reside the Chaweng Islands which is the highest island of Koh Samui. You will get good accommodation at the Dara Samui shore route and Spa lodge in Koh Samui Island.

Dara Samui shoreline choice and Spa lodge in Koh Samui Island is a paradise on earth. The hotel provides comfort and luxury to the guests who come here for whole relaxation of both tend and body. The setting of Dara Samui shoreline choice and Spa lodge in Koh Samui Island is very strategic. The hotel is sited very pivotally on the foremost beach of Thailand. This pivotal site enables the guests to not only tour curved the city of Koh Samui but also take part in lot of beach activities as well.

The convenient extent Facilities at Dara Samui shoreline choice and Spa lodge in Koh Samui Island present a relaxed and comfortable halt to the guests. There are three foremost window types at Dara Samui shoreline choice and Spa lodge in Koh Samui Island. You have the decision of choosing from advanced windows, Villas and sumptuous suites at the hotel.

The Dara Samui shore route and Spa lodge in Koh Samui Island is a five star hotel. The lodge military and navy at Dara Samui shore route and Spa lodge in Koh Samui comprise assorted activities for recreation. You can relax while receiving a rubdown at the Dara Samui Spa. You can like the tang therapy at the Spa along with other traditional practices worn for medicinal. anyway the hotel also has an exotic dining place for the guests. The restaurants assist Lanna sea food in open air.

The Dara Samui seaside choice and Spa lodge in Koh Samui follows the traditional practices of Thailand. This hotel is not only elegant in its architectural panache but also has International management panel of Thai, American and European nationalists to take control of the guests.

From what you have read so far, determine if this article has answered any of the questions that you had on this complicated subject.

The Dara Samui coast route and Spa lodge in Koh Samui Island is a five star hotel. The lodge navy and military at Dara Samui coast route and Spa lodge in Koh Samui comprise countless activities for recreation. You can relax while receiving a rubdown at the Dara Samui Spa. You can have the tang therapy at the Spa along with other traditional practices worn for curative. moreover the hotel also has an exotic dining freedom for the guests. The restaurants provide Lanna sea food in open air.

The Dara Samui coast route and Spa lodge in Koh Samui follows the traditional practices of Thailand. This hotel is not only elegant in its architectural fashion but also has International management bunch of Thai, American and European nationalists to take tending of the guests.

hence among the other lodges in Koh Samui Island in Thailand Dara Samui seaside choice and Spa lodge tenders a good profit for the money. Of all the lodges in Thailand, the lodges in Koh Samui tenders the best army to International guests.

If you have found our database of information on this subject useful, read some of our other topics as well.

Author: Maypopup

About the Author:

Maypopup M. is the Owner of Samui Hotel Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Koh Samui Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2samui.com/

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/dara-samui-beach-resort-spa-hotel-koh-samui-island-285353.html

Tips for Investing in Bangkok Real Estate

2008-11-16T19:13:00.000-08:00

Investing in real estate is something that promises you great returns on your investment. Of the many countries, Bangkok is considered to be one of the best places to make a real estate investment as real estate here is affordable. With different types of Bangkok condos, Bangkok apartments and Bangkok service apartments for you to choose from for your investment, you find making the right choice to be rather difficult.

Basically, foreigners are apprehensive to make investments in Bangkok as foreigners are not permitted to make investments in real estate in Bangkok. However Bangkok condos have grown increasingly popular in foreigners to Bangkok. The main reason for this popularity in Bangkok condos is that it is legal as a foreigner to buy Bangkok condos.

There are some benefits to buying Bangkok condos where the main benefit is that it can draw a monthly paycheck for you. This benefit is not only provided with your investment in Bangkok condos, but also for investments made in Bangkok apartments. Not only can you buy Bangkok condos and Bangkok apartments as an investment, you can also buy it for you to live in.

Whatever the reason may be for your buying Bangkok condos and Bangkok apartments, it is very important that you do sufficient research on it. It would be better if you enlisted the help of a lawyer for guidance on making your investment. With the help of the lawyer, you will be able to follow all legality issues related to making an investment in Bangkok.

Even if you are interested in building your own Bangkok condos complex, with the help of a lawyer, you will be able to find the best developer for the project. You can also find out more about a developer with the help of the lawyer to ensure that you get maximum satisfaction and profit with your Bangkok condos.

In addition to Bangkok condos and Bangkok apartments, the commercial expansion in Bangkok over the past few years has led to an increased popularity in Bangkok serviced apartments. These Bangkok services apartments are more popular amongst frequent travelers, business executives in Bangkok for a short stay, families making a trip to Bangkok and for those looking for a base before shifting to Bangkok for good.

Some of the Bangkok serviced apartments offer services similar to those available in top class hotels while others offer the comforts you expect from your home. You may find a fully equipped kitchen, individual lounge and dining room areas and other conveniences to create a home away from home experience when in Bangkok.

You can book Bangkok serviced apartments for a single night or for 12 months and this booking may be made on the same day, or perhaps months in advance. The greatest advantage of Bangkok serviced apartments over Bangkok condos and Bangkok apartments is that it offers the best of accommodation in its rooms and facilities. Of course, this comes at a price, which proves to be worth it over the course of time.

Author: Irfan Faruki

About the Author:

At Bangkok Condos & Apartments you will find Bangkok Condos, Bangkok
Apartments and Bangkok Serviced Apartments for rent and sale in and
around Bangkok

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/tips-for-investing-in-bangkok-real-estate-320170.html

Becasue I Like It

2008-11-13T19:13:00.001-08:00

If you are crazy about vintage watches like me and you are looking some reliable vintage watches stores in Bangkok. I recommend " Because I Like It" located at the third floor Siam Center. I got Omega Speed Master Moon Watch cal.861 circa 1971 from the shop at very good price and very good condition.

Look for the owner" Mr. Pete" (he is very very nice0 and you will get full of knowledge about watches and may be you get some new old stock watches produced from 1940-1970 like Rolex, Omega, Hauer, Breitling and Zenith. He specializes in second hand chrono, vintage chrono , Omega, Rolex. pockte and character watches. Getting there is easy just catch BTS and go to Siam Center, get off at Siam Station.

Getting The Most Of Your Phuket Second Home Purchase

2008-11-13T19:06:00.000-08:00

It's a well known fact; we just don't have the time we would like to spend at our second holiday home or apartment. So how do we get the most out of our Phuket holiday home purchase? Here are a few great tips and tricks to get the most out of your holiday home, apartment, condo or villa.

Visiting your Phuket real estate in shoulder season when the weather is still good but there aren't many tourists is a great way to get a few extra weeks of use out of your Phuket apartment or condo. Most likely, unless you found someone to rent the unit out all year round, the apartment will be vacant because of the under supply in high season and the oversupply in low season. This is a wonderful time to use your apartment while still keeping it available for high season rental. Months that are good shoulder are May and November.

Another great way to maximize your purchase is if you get a long term renter to let them stay all year round and rent an inexpensive bungalow if your visit is less than one month. Many people believe that they have to stay in their unit or their personal Phuket condo because it's theirs and that's the reason they bought it. Most project owners have a tough time getting a low season renter so if you get one let them rent your unit and see if the project owner will put you up in a similar unit while on your stay on the island. Never kick out a long term renter just because you want to stay a few weeks in your own personal unit.

Another great way to get time in your condo if to talk with the project owners to find out when the slowest times of the year are and try to plan your visits during the very slow periods. The reason for this is not only will things be cheaper like food but also thing like motorcycle or car rental will also be lower. Many airlines also discount flights during this time and there are many last minute specials for travel. Many people who do not live on the island full time don't realize that there are many low season discounts like on food, entrainment car rental and even some tours. Low season tourists like many Chinese and Indians are now visiting Phuket on low season group tours.

In summary, visiting Phuket during off season and leaving your Phuket rental profitable in high season will allow you more time in your Phuket apartment or home and save you money.

Author: Scott Riefler

About the Author:

Scott Riefler is an expert in dealing with Phuket Real Estate and finance related matters. He has written several informative articles on topics like mortgage, home refinancing, real estate loans and real estate insurance. He regularly contributes articles to web guides on real estate and home refinancing. You can sign up for my newsletter at: Phuket apartments

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/getting-the-most-of-your-phuket-second-home-purchase-519573.html

Foreign Ownership Rules for Condos in Bangkok

2008-11-13T18:59:00.000-08:00

Owning a condominium, or, condo unit, is regarded as the easiest as well as the most practical way for foreigners to acquire a property in Bangkok. In other words, condo is perhaps the biggest and most favored investment option for foreigners who prefer to stay in Bangkok.

Purchasing a condo in Bangkok is comparatively cheap in contrast to other Asian cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. When it costs billions of dollars for a typical condominium unit in cities like Hong Kong and Singapore, you can easily own a condominium complete with luxurious bedrooms and facilities such as swimming pool, for just around $700,000.

However, condominium investment in Bangkok is mostly based on the spot where it is located as well as the convenient transportation. For instance, condominium complexes located in such posh areas as central business district (CBD), BTS, and MRT stations are much sought after.

Since they can considerably cut down the transportation cost and can eliminate the chaos of traveling to and fro your work place, condos located close to Skytrain and subway routes are also of great demand. Likewise, condominium units near strategic shopping areas including Sathorn, Silom, Sukhumvit areas, and Rama III areas are also much preferred by the foreigners.

Depending upon the buyers' taste, budget, and choice of location, condominium units in Bangkok come in a myriad of options such as small studios, three-bedroom complexes, and penthouses. Majority of the condo property found in the city's areas like Sathorn and Sukhumvit, and vary in size between 55 to 60 sqm and 75 to 80 sqm. For investors seeking luxurious condominiums, then a myriad of high-end choices are available in the form of three-bedroom units, ranging in size between 100 sqm to 120 sqm and 140 sqm to 200 sqm.

When comes to prices, the cost of a condo unit in prime areas such as Silom and Sukhumvit are about Bt100, 000 per square meter. Investing in these strategic locations have high resale value, and can also fetch you good income in the form of rent. The prices are even higher for condominiums located in areas including Soi Langsuan and Wireless, Rajdamri or Sathorn roads, which is up to about Bt200, 000 per square meter. The demand for condominium is at its peak now in the capital city. Nowadays, many investors, both foreigners and locals, purchase condos in Bangkok pre-build.

According to certain records, foreign investors have been accounted for about 15% of all condo units bought and sold last year in Bangkok. Factors such as low rates on mortgages, excess liquidity in the financial and banking system and tremendous boom in stock market have led many foreigners to invest in condominiums in Bangkok.

Above all, the laws pertaining to owning a condominium is quite simple and liberal when compared to other Asian cities. In other words, a condominium or condo is the only type of property that can be legally purchased by a foreigner in Thailand. The only restriction for a foreigner to purchase a condo is that a foreigner can normally acquire up to, but not exceeding 49% of a condo property.

However, in order to qualify for condominium ownership or buy a condo unit in Thailand, it is mandatory for the foreigners to meet any of the five criteria put forward by the Condominium Act B.E 2535 (1992) such as:

- To possess a residence permit
- A foreigner with the permit to stay in Thailand according to the Investment Promotion Law
- Foreigner who is able to bring in the entire money for purchasing the condominium unit in the country in foreign currency
- Foreign juristic entity with BOI privileges in the country
- Foreign juristic person possessing some land right as per stated in the Land Code
In addition, there are certain requirements for purchasing a condominium in Thailand, such as, the foreigner must have a bank account in the country and a copy of the foreigners' passport showing an immigration stamp that he or she is in the country at the time of the purchase of a condominium.

Mostly, foreigners own a condominium unit in the city by bringing in 100% of funds for the purchase of condo unit in foreign currency. Further, it is necessary that funds that have been used for the purchase of condominium are correctly recorded on a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form, which is a bank account issued by the bank on receiving foreign currency into your bank account in the country. It is also important to state in the Foreign Exchange Transaction Form that the remittance has been solely made for the purchase of a condominium in Thailand.

A plethora of property builders and realtors are in the scenario to find you a condominium unit that goes with your requirements. Today, many of them have their own sites on the web, inclusive detailed description on property, digital photos of the property, detailed floor plan, and a location map. This in turn allows you to easily select a condominium according to your taste and pocket.

Author: Wantanee Khamkongkaew

About the Author:

Wantanee K. is an independent author evaluating and commenting on leading International Property Consultants in Thailand, especially CB Richard Ellis.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/foreign-ownership-rules-for-condos-in-bangkok-288567.html

Selected Properties of The Month: Life Condo

2008-11-12T23:29:00.000-08:00

Each month (if poosible) I will select properties for your consideration. This month I recommend Life Condominiums as the best value properties for either investment or residency.

Located within walking distance, less than 300 meters, to the mass transit lines, the condominiums offer you fully furnished units with sumptuous bedrooms, luxury living area and excellent bathrooms. Available from studios to 2 bedrooms, size starting from 30-62 sqm.

The projects are available to choose from huge range of Bangkok’s prime locations of Bangkok – Sukhumvit 65, Sathorn 10, Phaholyothin 18, Ratchada-Ladprao – and many more locations available which all of them are worth the prices compared with there locations. So I rate the projects as the best value property at the best locations and at reasonable prices for either investment or residency. If you are interetsed in Life Condo, please contact real estate agents near you.

What you should buy in Sukhothai

2008-11-12T19:17:00.000-08:00

Thung Luang Terra Cotta

Gold and Silver Ornaments Ancient-looking gold and silver products of Si Satchanalai district are entirely hand-made by distinguished skilled workers.

Sangkhalok Ceramics

Sangkhalok ceramics are best bought newly made since they are as beautiful as the original.

Hat Siao Fabric

Hat Siao is a village in Si Satchanalai disrict. It is famous for handwoven cloth. Hat Siao fabric comes with an embossed-end, done by people who are the descendants of Thai Phuan who migrated from Laos. The fabric is available in many shops in Si Satchanalai.

Fried Peanuts

Fried peanuts of Si Samrong district, also called 200-year fried peanuts are a tribute to a technique which has been inherited for many generations.

source:http://www.tourismthailand.org/local-product/sukhothai-64-304-1.html

Wat Phra That Doi Tung

2008-11-12T19:14:00.000-08:00

Wat Phra That Doi Tung

Wat Phra That Doi Tung is situated on top of Doi Tung Mountain, the highest mountain in Chiang Rai Province with an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters, about 50 kilometers south of Mae Sai town which is near the Myanmar border. The temple can be reached via a 40-kilometer mountain road which meanders along the mountainside. The journey is worthwhile as the panoramic views into Laos and Myanmar at the peak are spectacular.

Wat Phra That Doi Tung was constructed in the 10th century and was renovated by Chiang Rai's most famous ruler King Mengrai during the 13th century and by the famous Chiang Mai monk, Khru Ba Siwichai, at the turn of the 20th century.

The temple complex is comprised of twin Lanna style chedis, one of which is said to contain the left collarbone of the Lord Buddha. Throughout the year, the holy relic draws devout Buddhists from all over Thailand, Laos and Myanmar.

Source:http://www.tourismthailand.org/attraction/chiangrai-57-3802-1.html

Bangkok's urtra properties for ultra hight net worth individuals

2008-11-12T19:06:00.000-08:00

It seems that the global economic slump has brought many home buyers to a halt but the rich is getting richer and they are pushing exclusive property markets to even higher.

In North America, the regions most affected by the economic slowdown, the number of ultra-high net worth individuals was still on the rise by 4.2 percent whereas the number of European tycoons was growth by 3.4 percent.

The huge purchasing power of the world’s richest people is driving the prices of the Bangkok’s luxury properties. In Thailand, premium property prices are showing strong signs of a rocket increase. The Sukhothai Residences is renowned as the most expensive condominiums in Bangkok with the price of US$10,400/square meter.

Foreign Buyers Guide: Property in Thailand

2008-11-11T19:17:00.001-08:00

Buying a condominium in Thailand
The easiest choice of foreigners to buy a property in Thailand is buying a condominium. The only restrictions applied to foreigners on buying a condominium are that the percentage of units sold to foreigner must not be over forty nine percent (49%) of total amounts of units in the condominium and the funds used to purchase the condominium have been remitted from abroad and recorded as such by any Thai Banks on a Tor Tor Sam which is an official bank document issued by the receiving bank upon the receipt of foreign currency into a bank account in Thailand

A foreigner must request a Tor Tor Sam from a bank when he or she is remitting funds to Thailand in order to purchase a condominium, and the Tor Tor Sam must specify that the remittance is solely for the purpose of purchasing a property

A certificate of ownership will be given to the owner of each condominium with statement stating that how many percentages of rights over the common areas of the building each owner poses

Owning a House and Land in Thailand
According to Thai law, any person can register any type of building in their own name; therefore a foreigner can own a building on the land and may register such ownership local district’s Land Office. Certainty of possession of land and house is assured by being the owner of the house. If arranged in this manner, then the house will be separate from the land, and will not be a component part under Civil Law.

It is clearly stated under Thai law that foreigner cannot own freehold land except the following conditions

- Become a Thai resident/citizen
- Receive an inheritance the total area including the land which has or has not been acquired must not over 1 Rai (1,600 sqm.) for a residential purpose
- Bringing the money not less than forty million Baht into Thailand for investment to the amount as prescribed in the Ministerial Regulation, which shall be not less than Baht forty million and the land which has been acquired must not over 1 Rai (1,600 sqm.) for a residential purpose
- Acquisition of land applying under other laws such as the Promotion of Investment Act, B.E. 2520 (1977), the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand Act, B.E. 2522 (1979), the Petroleum Act, B.E. 2514 (1971).
- A foreigners can have a 30 year lease with a prepaid option to renew for a further two times of 30 years each
- Usufruct Interest, which is limited to a 30 year maximum period with an option to renew, allows a foreigner temporary ownership rights to things on or arising from the land. Usufruct Interest expires upon the death of the holder and cannot be inherited but it cane be sold or transferred
- Any company with more than 40% foreign interest buys land will be investigated by the Central Land Office in Bangkok to assure that the company has not been established in an attempt to avoid the prohibition against foreign ownership of land.

Title Deeds in Thailand
In Thailand there are four types of Land Title that commonly used as evidences of land ownership, possessory rights an other interests in land;

a Chanote (Title Deed) which is a certificate for ownership of land. People having their name shown on the deeds have the legal right to the land, and can use them as evidence to confirm the right to government authorities;

Nor Sor Sam Kor (Confirmed Cerificate of Use)

This kind of certificate certifies that the person named on the certificate has the confirmed right to use the land, implying all requirements for the issuance of the title deed have been met and issuance of the deed is pending. They may be sold, leased, used as mortgage collateral and etc. The holder of this certificate cannot leave the land unattended for more than 12 years.

Nor Sor Sam (Cerificate of Use)

Similar to the Confirmed Certificate of Use except that not all of the formalities to certify the right to use have been performed. Before a transfer can be achieved, a notice of intent must be posted and then 30 days public notice is required before any change of status over the land can be registered.

Sor Kor Nung (Certificate of Possession)

This kind of certificate recognizes that a person is in possession of land but the Certificate does not imply that there are any rights associated with the possession. This kind of certificate is not transferable, but a person in possession may transfer physical possession and the new possessor may apply for a new Certificate of Possession.

Getting a Mortgage Loan
In Thailand, foreigners cannot mortgage properties. However, most of the financial institutions provide loans for property purchasing to Thais and Thai companies. Generally, a property developer arranges customers a financing package from a financial institution. In most property development projects, a down payment can be done in installments from 10 to 24 months. Then, the sale contract will be made and the balance amount is paid through the loan which is financed from a financial institution after the down payment has been paid. A buyer is required by the financial institution to mortgage the property with it as collateral against the loan.

Land Appraisals and Valuations
It is difficult to find the exact appraisal price for land because there are there different appraisals rates the government rate, the appraisal company's rate and the fair market value of the land

Things you should consider before renting, leasing or purchasing property
There are many infrastructure and other considerations you need to consider you when you are renting, leasing or purchasing property:

Location
Telephones
Water
Electricity
Security
Cable or Satellite TV connection
Pest Control
Hot water facilities
Air Conditioning
White Goods

Can my Thai wife own Land?
The recent Ministerial regulation gives the right to Thai national's married to foreigners to purchase land. However, the Thai spouse must be able to prove that the money used in the purchase of freehold land is legally solely theirs with no foreign claim to it.

Property Taxes in Thailand
In Thailand, there are no property taxes that are exactly equivalent to the property taxes in the western countries. However, the most comparable taxes on properties are the Land Tax and the Structures Usage Tax which is collected by the municipal office or district office, and applied to properties used for commercial purpose

What Taxes and Costs are Applicable to Purchasing a Property?
In Thailand, whenever a property in Thailand is bought and sold, there are four kinds of tax that need to be taken into account.

Land registration (transfer fee) of 2.0% of assessed value of the land.

Stamp Duty/Fee of 0.5% of the assessed value or the sale price - whichever is higher.

Specific Business Tax of 3.3% of the assessed value or the sale price - whichever is higher - this will be applied to all sales by companies and to any private sales that occur within 5 years of the date of purchase.

Income Tax which is calculated on a very complex formula according to the assessed value of the property, the length of time owned and the applicable personal income tax rate.

Source: Basic information you should know before buying a property in Thailand!
http://www.thailand-property-guide.com/articles/REM-63-Property-Laws.htm

IMMIGRATION

2008-11-11T19:08:00.001-08:00

Generally, a foreign citizen who wishes to enter the Kingdom of Thailand is required to obtain a visa from a Royal Thai Embassy or a Royal Thai Consulate-General. However, nationals of certain countries do not require a visa if they meet visa exemption requirements as follows:

they are nationals of countries which are exempted from visa requirements when entering Thailand for tourism purposes. Such nationals will be permitted to stay in the Kingdom for a period of not exceeding 30 days. For more information, please see Tourist Visa Exemption;
they are nationals of countries which hold bilateral agreements with Thailand on the exemption of visa requirements. For more information, please see List of Countries which have Concluded Agreements with Thailand on the Exemption of Visa Requirements .

Nationals of certain countries may apply for visa upon arrival in Thailand. Travellers with this type of visa are permitted to enter and stay in Thailand for a period of not exceeding 15 days. For more information, please see Visa on Arrival.
Travellers travellling from/through countries which have been declared Yellow Fever Infected Areas must acquire an International Health Certificate verifying the receiving of a Yellow Fever vaccination. For more information, please see List of Countries which are Declared Yellow Fever Infected Areas.
Nationals of certain countries are required to apply for a visa only at the Royal Thai Embassy or the Royal Thai Consulate-General in the applicant?s country of residence, or at the Royal Thai Embassy which has jurisdiction over his or her country of residence. Travellers are advised to enquire about authorised office for visa issuance at any Royal Thai Embassy or Royal Thai Consulate-General before departure. Contact details and locations of Royal Thai Embassies and Royal Thai Consulates-General are available at www.mfa.go.th/web/10.php.
To apply for a visa, a foreigner must possess a valid passport or travel document that is recognised by the Royal Thai Government and comply with the conditions set forth in the Immigration Act of Thailand B.E.2522 (1979) and its relevant regulations. In addition, the visa applicant must be outside of Thailand at the time of application. The applicant will be issued with a type of visa in accordance to his or her purpose of visit. For more information on types of visas and general requirements for each type of visa, please see Types of Visa and Issuance of Visa.
In general, applicants are required to apply for a visa in person. However, Royal Thai Embassies and Royal Thai Consulates-General in some countries and in some cases may also accept applications sent through representatives, authorised travel agencies or by post. Please enquire at the Royal Thai Embassy or Royal Thai Consulate-General where you intend to submit your application of acceptable ways of application.
Please note that the period of visa validity is different from the period of stay. Visa validity is the period during which a visa can be used to enter Thailand. In general, the validity of a visa is 3 months, but in some cases, visas may be issued to be valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years. The validity of a visa is granted with discretion by the Royal Thai Embassy or Royal Thai Consulate-General and is displayed on the visa sticker.
On the other hand, the period of stay is granted by an immigration officer upon arrival at the port of entry and in accordance with the type of visa. For example, the period of stay for a transit visa is not exceeding 30 days, for a tourist visa is not exceeding 60 days and for a non-immigrant visa is not exceeding 90 days from the arrival date. The period of stay granted by the immigration officer is displayed on the arrival stamp. Travellers who wish to stay longer than such period may apply for extension of stay at offices of the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok, located at Soi Suan Plu, South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120, Tel 02-2873101-10 or at an Immigration office located in the provinces. For information on application for extension of stay, see the Immigration Bureau website at www.immigration.go.th
Foreigners entering Thailand are not permitted to work, regardless of their types of visa, unless they are granted a work permit. Those who intend to work in Thailand must hold the correct type of visa to be eligible to apply for a work permit. Information on Work Permit applications could be obtained from the website of the Office of Foreign Workers Administration, Department of Employment, Ministry of Labour at www.doe.go.th/workpermit/index.html
Royal Thai Embassies and Royal Thai Consulates-General have the authority to issue visas to foreigners for travel to Thailand. The authority to permit entry and stay in Thailand, however, is with the immigration officers. In some cases, the immigration officer may not permit foreigner holding a valid visa entry into Thailand should the immigration officer find reason to believe that he or she falls into the category of aliens prohibited from entering Thailand under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979).
According to the Immigration Act of Thailand B.E. 2522 (1979), foreigners who fall into any of the following categories are prohibited to enter Thailand:

Having no genuine valid passport or document used in lieu of passport; or having a genuine valid passport or document used in lieu of passport without valid visa issuance by the Royal Thai Embassies, the Royal Thai Consulates-General or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with exception of those who meet visa exemption requirements. The terms and conditions of visa issuance and visa exemption are prescribed by the Ministerial Regulations.
Having no appropriate means of living following entry into the Kingdom.
Having entered the Kingdom to be employed as an unskilled or untrained labourer, or to work in violation of the Alien Work Permit Law.
Being mentally unstable or having any of the diseases stated in the Ministerial Regulations.
Having not yet been vaccinated against smallpox; or inoculated, or undergone any other medical treatment for protection against disease; and having refused to have such vaccinations administered by the Immigration Doctor.
Having been imprisoned by judgment of the Thai Court; or by lawful injunction or judgment of the Court of a foreign country, except for when the penalty is for a petty offence, or negligence, or is provided for as an exception by the Ministerial Regulations.
Having behaviour which could cause possible danger to the public; or having the likelihood of being a nuisance or constituting any violence to the peace, safety and security of the public or to the security of the nation; or being under warrant of arrest by competent officials of foreign governments.
Reason to believe that entry into Kingdom is for the purpose of being involved in prostitution, the trafficking of women or children, drug smuggling, or other types of smuggling which are against public morality.
Having no money or bond as prescribed by the Minister under Section 14 of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979).
Being a person prohibited by the Minister under Section 16 of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979).
Being deported by either the Government of Thailand or that of other foreign countries; or having been revoked the right of stay in the Kingdom or in foreign countries; or having been expelled from the Kingdom by competent officials at the expense of the Government of Thailand unless exemption is provided by the Minister on an individual basis.

Source: Minnistry of Foreign Affairs, King Dom of Thailand http://www.mfa.go.th/web/2482.php?id=2487

Relocating to Bangkok

2008-11-11T19:05:00.000-08:00

Passports

You have to assure your passports have at least six months validity before entering Thailand. Also, making multiple copies of your passports and keep them separate from the original is recommended

Visas & work permits

You must organize visas and work permits for yourself and your family. Click here to find more information about immigration

Immunizations

Advice recommendation from your doctor for current immunization/vaccination requirements if it is needed

Moving

It is recommended using the services of a reputable international moving company in your country

Temporary accommodation

Probably the most important of the decisions you will have to make when you arrive in a new country is where to stay. Fortunately, finding a place to stay in Bangkok is not a big problem.

Staying in Hotels is a good idea as temporary accommodation upon arrival. You can find a number of hotels in Bangkok ranging from back street guest house to the deluxe hotels like Hilton. Staying in serviced apartments is also an alternative to hotel until you have found your new home.

Long term accommodation

The types of accommodation available in Bangkok are variety ? Condominiums, Apartments, house ? you name it, and the areas expatriates live in are diverse. If you are relocating to Bangkok, try to stay close to the skytrain (BTS) or subway route (MRT); silom, sukhumvit or Chitlom, area are recommended.

Wora Bura Resort & Spa Hotels Hua Hin

2008-11-10T22:14:00.000-08:00

We hope that you finish this article having learned at least a little bit of new information. If so, then we have done our job.

The Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin is one of the best 5 Star lodges in Hua Hin in Thailand. The Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin is a city in itself. The architecture of the Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin is a wonderful fusion of Thailand and European architecture of the 19th century. The Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin is situated on the Gulf of Siam. The scene of Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin is on the coastside. The Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin deception on the Nonggare-Khao Takiap street.

The inside lodge army and military at Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin comprise the Wora Spa, swimming band, form base, recreational activities like mountain biking, sand volleysphere, trade base, kid's disco. The outside lodge army and military at Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin embrace golf-course arrangement, sea kayaking, snorkeling,sea canoe, Thai cooking lessons.

The Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin houses 77 guest quarters. In addition it offers suites and villas. The scope Facilities at Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin embrace air conditioning, brown and tea making army, Internet access, inarea cautious, minibar, hairdryer, bath or toweling robes, refrigerator, International IDD telephone.

The Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin houses a spa called the Wora Spa. The spa provides facilities like medicine quarters, sauna, heated whirlmerge or Jacuzzi, divide steam quarters for ladies and gents, beauty gathering and altering quarters. The Wora Bura choice and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin has many assembly quarters of different capacities and a fantastic globe scope.

The conference quarters are facilitated with sound systems, film, fax, screens, projectors, corner lighting. The Wora Bura option and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin is the best place to bill in on a holiday by the sea.

What an exciting way to begin this article, now let?s take a look at what else we can learn about this topic!

The Wora Bura remedy and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin houses a spa called the Wora Spa. The spa provides facilities like care quarters, sauna, heated whirlmerge or Jacuzzi, detached steam quarters for ladies and gents, beauty gathering and shifting quarters. The Wora Bura remedy and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin has many gathering quarters of different capacities and a complete globe extent.

The conference quarters are facilitated with sound systems, film, fax, screens, projectors, corner lighting. The Wora Bura option and Spa Hua Hin in Hua Hin is the best place to bill in on a holiday by the sea.

This article is meant to both inform and entertain those who read it. Hopefully, we have (will) accomplished both goals for you.

Author: Maypopup

About the Author:

Maypopup M. is the Webmaster of Hua Hin Hotel Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Hua Hin Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2huahin.com/

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/wora-bura-resort-spa-hotels-hua-hin-286610.html

Vogue Resort Spa Ao Nang Hotels Krabi Thailand

2008-11-10T22:08:00.000-08:00

Are you looking out for a luxury boutique hotel that would inspire you with its mannerable outlook, stimulating designs, authentic cookery things, rebreezying chairs and great amusement? If your answer is yes, then press your bags and stay the lovely resort of the mode remedy and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi. The lovely limitedes along with the lush arrangements make it the best and the most favorite among destination among the lodges in Krabi in Thailand.

The trend option and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi was previously identified as trend Pranang Bay option and Spa. The trend option and Spa Ao Nang in Krabi is a gorgeous resort situated on the crest amidst the spotless beauty of the makeup. The hotel is certainly accessible from the airport. The township is situated 17 kilometers from the hotel and the airport is 34 kilometers. The spot of trend option and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi is close to the beaches. The trend option and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi overlooks the grimy seashore of AO Nang that can be sighted from the extent of the hotel.

The mode remedy and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi is intended in a really Lanna manner which is really ensnaring. The hotel is skillfully crafted with lovely designs and is bordered with ardent attribute. reward the breezy air of the atmosphere as you elect to retreat in this magnificent hotel.

The span facilities at create option and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi are elegantly furnished and comprises of a exclusive loggia. revere the important military and military that are existing by the hotel.

The lodge tunes and army at create option and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi are customized to suffer the wishes of both the concern and the leisure travelers. The military contain dining and recreation. The restaurants supply the guests with a number of lip spanking dishes from the regional and international cookery. There is a swimming share and utter of art spa for the remoistment of the guests. Other military contain laundry and car military.

From here on out, we will give you tips on what can make this subject a little more helpful to you.

The extent facilities at devise remedy and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi are trendily furnished and comprises of a concealed gallery. treasure the pertinent navy and navy that are open by the hotel.

The lodge tunes and military at mode remedy and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi are customized to endure the requests of both the matter and the leisure travelers. The military contain dining and recreation. The restaurants achieve the guests with a number of lip smack dishes from the limited and international fare. There is a swimming puddle and pomp of art spa for the rebreezyment of the guests. Other military contain laundry and car military.

foster your dreams that would come real while staying in the create option and Spa lodge Ao Nang in Krabi that treats you with property tune and comfortable accommodation.

This article is meant to both inform and entertain those who read it. Hopefully, we have (will) accomplished both goals for you.

Author: Maypopup

About the Author:

Maypopup M. is the Webmaster of Krabi Hotel Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Krabi Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2krabi.com/

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/vogue-resort-spa-ao-nang-hotels-krabi-thailand-286978.html

Kuay Tiew Rua restaurant: Tasty 'boat noodles' a real steal

2008-11-10T21:35:00.000-08:00

If you haven't heard the term kuay tieu rua ('boat noodles') before, I recommend visiting a restaurant called Ting's Kuay Tiew Rua located on Dinso Road near Ratchadamnoen Avenue, just a short walk from Democracy Monument.

The reason the noodles got their name is because they were once sold along the kingdom's waterways by vendors who got around using small boats.

Run by a lady called Ting, Ting's Kuay Tiew Rua serves up a delicious blend of noodle soup, which includes a choice of pork balls, meat, or liver in a rich stock. Fresh basil leaves and condiments are provided at your table to adjust the flavor of the soup accordingly.

The chef here usually mixes in about half a spoon of dried chili while preparing each dish. If you prefer to avoid such a spicy end-product, ask your waiter or waitress to ask chef to omit the chili or reduce the amount used if you prefer.

It's not a bad idea to bolster your main noodle dish by ordering some side dishes of pak boong fai daeng ('fried morning glory') and khaep moo ('crispy pork skin'), which you can add to the soup if so desired.

Ting's mother is responsible for passing down this recipe – indeed, she used to sell the noodles herself from a boat located on a canal alongside Victory Monument. This area has been one of the most popular places over the last 30 years to enjoy this dish. While all the vendors were relocated to solid ground many years ago, many continue to set up their stalls on an original boat in order to keep the original theme alive.

Eating boat noodles can really be great fun. Just about anyone should be able to manage between three to five dishes in order to turn it into more of a meal. Ting says she has seen some youngsters manage to consume between 10-15 bowls during ambitious contests among their friends.

If you're in need of refreshment following your noodles, consider ordering up one of Ting's herbal juices, or even a Thai dessert featuring shaved ice and syrup. Many diners feel that ice desserts can provide an effective way of washing away a strong aftertaste.

Ting's Kuay Tiew Rua opens Monday through Saturday during 10 am-8 pm. A bowl of noodles, a side dish, and an iced dessert cost just 10 baht (US$0.28) each.

Ting also provides catering services for party functions and fairs.

Transport connections:

Bus: Air conditioned bus numbers 44, 60, 70, 183, 503 and 511 all pass Democracy Monument, which is just a short walk from Ting's Kuay Tiew Rua. Regular (non air- conditioned) bus numbers 2, 15 and 60 also pass the landmark. Just head towards Dinso Road and walk down the street for about 200 meters. You'll see the restaurant on your right-hand side.

Source:http://www.thaiasiatoday.com/go-eat-go-out/go-eat/kuay-tiew-rua-restaurant-tasty-boat-noodles-a-real-steal.html

How to Enjoy the Best of Chiang Mai in 1 Day’s Travel

2008-11-10T20:00:00.000-08:00

Chiang Mai city was founded as the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom. Today, it is the focal point for northern Thailand tourism. To enjoy and explore Chiang Mai, it is best to spend at least 3 days for your travel. That is the minimum to get that Chiang Mai experience. However, if you had only 1 day, here are some ideas for your travel itinerary to get the best of this city.

Start off in the early morning at about 8am and get your breakfast at the most famous traditional market in Chiang Mai: Warorot Market. Sit with the locals and watch them go about their daily business, shopping for groceries and others. To get here, you can take a red songtaew (pickup). Throughout the day, this will be your choice for a cheap and convenient transport around the city.

The second stop of your tour will be Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the temple on the hill from where you can get a fantastic view of Chiang Mai below. This is also accessible by songtaew. Wat Phra That is north Thailand’s holiest temple and should not be missed. Many locals and tourists come here and pray. Don’t forget your camera as this lovely temple offers many photography opportunities. The 290 Naga-flanked steps and the huge golden chedi are popular shots.

It should be around lunchtime now and if you’re hungry, there are some Thai restaurants at the carpark further down the road that you came up on. Or you can eat in the old city of Chiang Mai, which is your next stop. Make your way to Wat Phra Singh, a temple within the old city that is surround by a square moat.

This is one of the major temples in Chiang Mai and contains the Lai Kham chapel featuring exquisite woodcarvings and northern-style murals and a magnificent scriptural repository with striking bas-reliefs.

You’d have probably seen enough temples for today and it’s a good time to rest your feet. So head on to a massage shop or even a temple to have a good old traditional Thai massage or foot massage to recharge your batteries. The price is really affordable: 1 hour of massage can be enjoyed for 200 baht or less.

After your massage, you’ll probably be hungry. Take a songtaew to the nearby Ping River where the river banks are lined with many restaurants offering fine food by the river. The tourists’ favourites lie between Nawarat Bridge and Nakorn Ping Bridge. Enjoy your dinner and drinks here with live music.

And if you’re still game for some shopping, visit one of the icons of Chiang Mai: the Night Bazaar. Roadside carts selling all kinds of goods and souvenirs line both sides of the road. The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar building houses many of the province’s handicraft shops and is popular with tourists.

And this ends your day in Chiang Mai. There are much more Chiang Mai has to offer though and travellers often stay longer than they had planned. You may do so too if you’d been enchanted by this beautiful city.

Author: Jaxon Toh

About the Author:

Jaxon Toh loves to travel and share his experiences with others. Whether you are travelling to Chiang Mai for the first time or a repeat visitor, check out his website on Chiang Mai travel: http://GuideChiangmai.Com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/how-to-enjoy-the-best-of-chiang-mai-in-1-days-travel-403166.html

Unseen Picture Of Night Life Of Pattaya

2008-11-10T19:57:00.000-08:00

Although most of travel destinations in Thailand are about natural resources such as beaches, mountains, caves, historical sites etc. but for many of us who have visited Thailand for several times realised that there are more and more interesting things to see in this interesting country.

That is city life or night life. One of the most entertaining activities for both Thais and foreigners. When we talk about night life in Thailand, we usually think about Bangkok, Chiangmai and Phuket, which are major cities and these cities already gain global reputation. However, let's have a look at the east coast region of Thailand, there is a province called "Chonburi" where the location of Pattaya city.

Unlike any other city, Pattaya has number of tourists as equal as big major cities of Thailand. For example, Chiang Mai may have large number of tourists only in peak season or during winter season. But for city like Pattaya, travelers can visit throughout the year and that's why the number of tourists of Pattaya are as many as many of major city in Thailand.

Somebody has mentioned that night life in Pattaya is endless. You will find that the people in this city always active and do their job regardless the time. No matter in the daytime or at night, there will always be things for tourists to enjoy.

Bar and night clubs in Pattaya are very well attractive to visitors. Some kind of fantastic shows such as Tiffany shows and Thai boxing shows. Apart from that, you will gain experience of Thai and seafood cuisine in Pattaya.

This city located on the coast line, so it is naturally become very famous for seafood market. There are also several province in eastern region such as Rayong or in the south like Phuket where the capital of seafood market is there, but all people who visited Pattaya are really appreciated the taste and freshness of sea foods.

Also, as the city is considered as central hub for foreign tourists, great international food also available by many of hi-class restaurant. For some of you who want to enjoy night life in Pattaya with pleasure of Thai and international cuisine, you have just come to the right place!!

Pattaya is also the idea place for romantic couple who want to get great private atmosphere to enjoy most favourite time. Beautiful island where five stars resorts and hotels are located do you are able to enjoy your honeymoon private time. In case if you are family who want to join activities together, there are all kinds of indoor games and outdoor activities such as paintball game and rock climbing to try out.

In summary, Pattaya is not only the city for nigh life, but also including all kind of pleasure and activities that everyone can find the most suitable to your preference. No matter you are the person who only wants to get very relax moment privately on the beach or enjoying activities together with family or even you are the person who not much appreciate nature but shopping, it is also the place for you.

Author: [KengIsm]

About the Author:
http://www.pattayahotelbooking.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/unseen-picture-of-night-life-of-pattaya-294135.html

Chiang Mai Markets, Thailand - Handicraft Shopping Paradise

2008-11-10T19:55:00.000-08:00

Chiang Mai is shopping paradise for most travelers because of its unequaled abundance of handicrafts and quaint local goods sold at very affordable prices. Shopping venues are scattered around the city both at day and night; the range of products for sale is vast and many visitors to Chiang Mai include an extra empty bag to their shopping list in order to haul the bounty home. Each of several famous markets has gained recognition and nationwide popularity as the best overall place for buying quality hand-made products at very reasonable prices. As Chiang Mai is a well established tourist destination, finding accommodations and getting around the city are not something to worry about.

Chiang Mai is recognized as one of the handicrafts centers of Asia because it has a very large system of street markets and local markets that are very easily accessible. The markets trace down many blocks along bustling streets and that sometimes seem to have no end. The limiting factor in how much market you will be able to cover may often depend on how far you want to go before your feet tire out. The products are available in a vast variety including a wide range of wood work, silk products, silver art and jewelry, clothing, ceramics, interior decor, antiques, Buddhist art, lacquer work, and the list goes on…

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is the most well known night market in Thailand, taking up about 10 square blocks centered on Chang Klan road in central Chiang Mai. It is easy to spend a whole night just strolling past hundreds of street-side stalls and indoor arcades. The Night Bazaar is a great place to shop for exotic and beautiful handcrafted goods created by local artisans and skilled crafts-persons from the surrounding villages. The quality is generally high and some very good values can by found, especially if you are skilled at bartering a good deal.

Chiang Mai Walking Street can be a very nice alternative to the more hectic Night Bazaar and prices are aimed more at the locals so prices are generally low; so much that often there is no room to negotiate a bargain. The Walking Street Market is open only on Sundays and is a definite must see because the atmosphere is very relaxed, the market street is quite beautiful and this is an excellent place to mingle with the wonderful Thai people and to find fantastic bargains. The entire Walking Street is about 1 kilometer long and runs the entire length of Ratchadamneurn Road beginning at Thapae Gate and ending at Wat Prasing. Apart from a wide range of hand-made products on offer, one can also enjoy many Thai food stalls, street performances of a traditional nature, and also some much need massage and foot massage.

More serious shoppers can go directly to the villages and factories that manufacture handicrafts and other products and offer for wholesale at San Kamphaeng. Borsang village, just before San Kamphaeng, also has many shops offering a range of handicrafts and is renowned for its unique Borsang umbrellas. Baan Tawai just south of Chiang Mai is home to a wide range of wood carving, wood décor, and other handicrafts.

Chiang Mai is also popular for the diverse ethnic arts that you can find many hill tribe shops across the city. One recommended hill tribe shop is the Hill Tribe Products Promotion Center on Suthep Road next to Suan Dok Temple. It was established by His Majesty the King to promote the products created by 6 different tribes in Chiang Mai including Akha, Karen, Yao, Hmong, Lisu, and Lahu. This is aimed at generating alternative income to replace a reliance on opium cultivation in the past. Shop here for unique ethnic goods and help the hill tribe people.

Those who are interested in modern shops of the much more commercial variety, there are two big shopping centers: Kad Suan Kaew Plaza and Central Airport Plaza. The latter is relatively new and less than 5 minutes from the Chiang Mai International Airport. Panthip Plaza on the same road as Night Bazaar is ideal for techy people who are looking for computers and electronic gadgets with many discounts and a wide range of technical product available at good prices.

Chiang Mai offers more than shopping venues. It is a friendly and beautiful city with rich history steeped in Thai Lanna culture. Hundreds of temples and historical sites are found everywhere across the city and it is very easy to head out of the city to some spectacular natural areas. When not shopping, a visitor can enjoy waterfalls, elephant shows, and trekking tours. Some may be attracted by the more adventurous activities such as white water rafting, bungee jumping and paintball battle. Whatever you could ask for in a trip, Chiang Mai can offer… plus a whole lot more.

For information about vacation planning or traveling in Chiang Mai, please visit www.chiangmai-vacations.com.

Author: Siwawut Chaiya

About the Author:

My name is Siwawut Chaiya and my nickname is Tom. I am a 23 year old writer from Chiang Mai Thailand. This is my second article on ArticleBase.com. You are free to copy my article but please attach my website: www.thailandtravelonline.com as a reference site. Thank you!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/chiang-mai-markets-thailand-handicraft-shopping-paradise-621097.html

TRANSPORTATION in Bangkok

2008-11-10T02:52:00.000-08:00

Subway - Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)

Running through 20 kilometers across metropolitan Bangkok, the MRT connects the northern train station of Bang Sue to the Hua Lamphong central railway station near the city center, while also going through the eastern part of Bangkok. Passengers can conveniently connect to the BTS system at BTS stations Mo Chit, Asok, and Sala Daeng

The subways run every 4-6 minutes and every 2-4 minutes during rush hour. Trains run everyday from 06:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The fare is based on the distance traveled.

Sky train - Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS)

Currently, there are 23 stations along 2 routes, the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line.The Sukhumvit line runs northwards and eastwards, terminating at Mo Chit and On Nut respectively; the Silom line plies Silom and Sathon, the Central Business District of Bangkok, terminating at the National Stadium and Saphan Taksin (Taksin Bridge). The lines interchange at Siam station.

Both lines cover majority of Bangkok CBD, commercial, residential and tourist areas. The trains run daily between 6:00 am and 12:00 midnight with frequent service throughout the day, increased during rush hours. The fare is based on the distance traveled.

Roads

Bangkok has a reasonable network of roads and highways throughout the city. Traffic in Thailand drives on the left side of the road and the wearing of seat belts is a must. A national driving license or International Driving Permit is required but visitors have been in Thailand for a period extending 3 months, would need to obtain a Thai driving license

The subways run every 4-6 minutes and every 2-4 minutes during rush hour. Trains run everyday from 06:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The fare is based on the distance traveled.

City Bus System

Operated by Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) is the main operator of public transit buses within Bangkok. The BMTA is in charged of providing bus service to people living and working in areas cover Bangkok Metropolis and its suburban areas in the adjacent provinces. The official service hours are 05.00-23.00 hrs, except 24-hr night-owl service on some routes. The BMTA allow passengers to board a bus and pay with cash or coupons. An average of 3.4 million people uses these services daily.

Nan

2008-11-10T02:43:00.001-08:00

A quiet and tranquil province, Nan nestles in a verdant valley in northern Thailand. About 668 kilometres from Bangkok, it covers an area of 11,472 square kilometres and is made up of the following districts: Mueang, Wiang Sa, Na Noi, Pua, Chiang Klang, Tha Wang Pha, Thung Chang, Mae Charim, Ban Luang, Na Mun, Santi Suk, Bo Kluea, Chaloem Phra Kiat, Song Khwae, and Phu Phiang.

The people of Nan descend from the Lan Changs (Laotians). Their forebears moved to settle around present-day Pua district which is rich in rock salt deposits, about 700 years ago at the time when Sukhothai was becoming the kingdom of the Thais. They subsequently moved south to the fertile Nan River basin which is much more extensive.

Nan's history is deeply involved with its neighbours, in particular Sukhothai which played an important role in both political and religious terms before Nan became a part of Lanna, Burma and Thailand in that order. Today Nan is still the home of numerous Thai Lue and other hilltribes who retain highly interesting customs and traditions.

Source:http://www.tourismthailand.org/destination-guide/nan-55-1-1.html

X2 Resort Kui Buri Hua Hin: Hotel review by Mo

2008-11-10T01:03:00.000-08:00

Kui Buri, where X2 Kui Buri is located, is a 45 minutes drive south of Huahin and a 3 hour drive south of Bangkok. The resort is located on a quiet coastal area on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand covering over 4 acres (12 Rai). The 19 Villas and 4 Bungalows each have their own terrace, garden and most with private pools. Most of them directly on the beachfront with uninterrupted sea views

You can enjoy variety of activities offered by the resort – swimming, Mountain biking, snorkeling, fishing, golf, trekking and meditation. Alternatively you may choose to spoil yourself at its spa located adjacent to the main pool villa.

Tours can be organized to suit specific needs of guests, but some of a few popular tours with guests are Prachuap Night Market, Huay Yang Waterfall and Sam Rod Yoi National Park feature rustic camping resorts, monkey villages, temples and impressive national forests.

Garden Villa was the room of choice for me at X2. The villa offers me Indoor and outdoor showers Single King Size bed, Plasma and TV DVD/CD/Mp3 player. High speed internet is also available. What I like is that the bed is positioned towards floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto the beach, and absolutely clean.

Hungry? Enjoy dining at the resort’s signature restaurant named 4K (Fork not Four- Kay) serves fusion cuisine and features an adjoining late night bar.

X2 KUI BURI
52 Moo 13, Ao Noi,
Muang, Prachuap Khiri Khan
77210 Thailand

VILLAS
Garden Villa
Pool Villa
Deluxe Pool Villa
Suite Pool Villa
Owners' Villa

FACILITIES
Dining
Spa Treatments & Facilities
Activities
Tours
Events

FOOD & DRINK
The beachfront 4K Restaurant serves fusion
cuisine and features a late night bar.

Please visit http://x2resorts.com/ for rates, packages and booking.

FULL MOON PARTY THAILAND: KOH PHANGAN BEACH PARTY

2008-11-09T05:24:00.001-08:00

Koh Phangan is a very special place, there are few places in this world where you can live out your desert island dreams of palm trees and white sand beaches, and still have a blinding night out at a rocking party every month. With the global notoriety that the Full Moon Party has gained as being one of the biggest and best beach bashes in the world, we get more than our fair share of hedonists gracing our shores. Each year the scene here grows with the ever-increasing number of party faithful that return, bringing their mates and spreading the vibe.

Haad Rin is home to the Full Moon Party and also houses about 3-5000 rather mad people; it is the island's nightlife capital and has Koh Phangan's biggest concentration of beach clubs that collectively put on the ultimate travellers get together. There are over 12 major sound systems running the length of Had Rin beach, catering for 8000 to 12,000 punters in low season, 15,000 to 20,000 in high season and up to 30,000 at New Year. Within this transient crowd of party animals some highly talented DJ's pass through, banging out their wares to the raging lunar explorers that have landed on planet party.

Accommodation on Koh Phangan is available at a wide range of levels, with something to suit virtually every taste. The island has modernised from the days when all the huts were made from bamboo and grass, and the only western food on the menu was banana pancake. Koh Phangan's growing popularity is bringing a wider range of tourists to its shores, with travellers rubbing backs with package tourists from Koh Samui.

To cater for this wider range of tastes, the resorts are modernising their rooms, increasing their facilities and offering a greater variety of dishes on their menus; all at cheaper Pha-ngan prices. The resorts have adapted to incorporate A/C, hot water and other things previous visitors dreamed about but couldn't have. Accommodation standards on the island have risen dramatically over the last couple of years and most of the old skool 80 to 150 Baht huts have been replaced with 250 to 450 Baht fan rooms; and A/C rooms can be found at most resorts for 800 Baht and up.

Koh Phangan still retains its chilled out vibe and rustic desert island living, and virtually all the accommodation in still in friendly, family run bungalow operations. The locals love the place even more than its guests, thus most of the modernisation has been done tastefully, blending in with the wonderful natural surroundings.

One of the great things about this island is the great variety of different places to stay, with beachfront bungalows, chalets in the rainforest, deserted beaches to camp on and luxury hilltop resorts, every taste is catered for. That counts for the vibe your looking for to; you can party yourself to pieces in Had Rin, watch coral grow from your hammock or you can stay at Than Sadet National Park and check out the giant monitor lizards. Due to the great geographical diversity that the island has to offer, each beach has its own individual characteristics and attributes, leading to a different vibe on every beach with each one having its own identity.

Source:http://www.fullmoon.phangan.info/index.cfm?action=fullmoon.home

Visit http://www.fullmoon.phangan.info/index.cfm?action=fullmoon.accommodation

for complete list of accomodation at phangan ( I recommend this site as a good source of Full Moon Party if you are joining Full Moon Party - have fun!!!)

Koh Pha-ngan

2008-11-09T05:18:00.001-08:00

Koh Pha-ngan

Another ideal destination for travelers who prefer less crowded, more private beaches set in a laid-back atmosphere. However, this is also a very hip place to be as the island hosts the world famous, and perhaps the biggest beach party on this planet the full moon party on Hat Rin.

Covering an area of 191 square kilometers, Ko Pha-ngan is located 20 kilometers directly north of Ko Samui, or approximately 100 kilometers from Surat. The best time to visit Ko Pha-ngan is from February to September. Interesting attractions include secluded and virgin beaches around the island, a hilltop temple called Wat Khao Tham which is ideal for meditation, Than Sadet Waterfall, and the Namtok Phaeng National Park. Renting a motorcycle to explore the island is recommended as there is a lot to see and do.

Boat Services to Ko Pha-ngan

From Ko Samui

There are approximately 10 daily transfers to Ko Pha-ngan. Boats depart between 7.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour, depending on weather conditions. Boats leave from Thong Sala Pier and Hat Rin on Ko Pha-ngan to Ko Samui Pier including Na Thon Pier, Mae Nam and the Big Buddha. The fare is approximately 115 baht to 250 baht / trip / person.

From Surat Thani

Surat Thani Pier operates a minimum of 6 daily departures to Ko Pha-ngan. Boats leave from 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. and arrive at Tha Sala Pier on Ko Pha-ngan. The fare ranges from 200 baht to 370 baht / trip / person.

From Ko Tao

Approximately 6 daily departures from Thong Sala Pier to Ko Tao are provided. They leave from 8.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. The fare ranges from 180 baht to 350 baht.

Getting around Ko Pha-ngan

Traveling around the island by rented motorcycle from bungalows is recommended. The cost is approximately 200 baht / day. For those who prefer truly Thai-style transportation, songthaew services are also available. The fare is 50 baht from Thong Sala Pier to any place on the island. Exceptions are on routes to Ban Khai (30 baht) and Ao Thong Nai Pan (80 baht). Car rental service is also available at approximately 1,000 baht / day.

Source:http://www.tourismthailand.org/attraction/suratthani-84-3914-1.html

Khaolak's Beaches

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Khaolak,the mountain is located 25 kilometres from Amphoe Takua Pa, on Route No. 4 (Thai Mueang - Takua Pa), taking a left turn between Kilometre markers 56 and 57. Before reaching Amphoe Thai Mueang, the mountain - Khao Lak - can be seen. On the mountain, there is the Chao Pho Khao Lak Shrine. Opposite Khao Lak lies a stony beach with rocks and boulders of all sizes strewn all over the beach.

Laem Pakarang,located on the Takua Pa - Khao Lak route. Driving from Takua Pa town on Phetkasem Road, the cape will be on the right, another 5 kilometres down the side road. It is a sandy beach piled with deer coral washed up on the beach by strong waves thus giving the beach its name. The beach is blessed with groves of pine, making it ideal for camping and relaxation.

Namtok Ton Chong Fa is located on the Takua Pa - Khao Lak route like Laem Pakarang. Driving from Takua Pa town, the waterfall will be on the left, a right turn and going for another 5 kilometres. The cascade runs all year round and the surroundings are blissfully calm and cool under the trees shade.

Hat Bang Sak, situated in Tambon Bang Muang on Phetkasem Road, on the Thai Mueang - Takua Pa section, between Km.76-77 and going down a side road for another hundred metres. The beach of Bang Sak has clean white sand and stretches along a grove of shady pines. Accommodation and restaurant are available on the beach.

Tha Nun Beach,From Highway No. 4, proceed towards Phuket using the Highway No. 402. Before you reach Phuket island, you will arrive at the Pak Phra straits, on both sides, you will see the beach. Every year, sea turtles would come to lay their eggs at this beach.

Source:http://www.khaolak.com/Attractions/Beaches.html

Where to stay on Khao San

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Khao San Road is an enormous warren of guesthouses and other businesses designed to support travellers. There are two ways of finding accommodation: 1. If you are feeling strong and brave, head straight down to Khao San and start looking around. Be warned though - high season is post September and the whole street can be full - I mean literally not a bed in sight. 2. If you want to avoid trudging your backpack from place to place practising your Pidgin English, or if you feel you need the security of knowing you have a place to go to, book a hotel in advance for your first day or couple of days. My advice?

For first timers to Bangkok, especially those who are a bit nervous (everyone is by the way!), book something up from home. It is quite common for parents to pay for their kids first couple of nights in a nice hotel so that they can get their bearings. Two nights in a nice hotel might only cost 50 pound, not a lot for your parent's piece of mind! Secure in the knowledge that you at least have a room for the night, your first mission should be to find alternative accommodation at the price you need. Why don't you ask someone to buy you your first few days in Bangkok as a present? It may only cost them about 30 pounds and will be an extremely useful present and an awesome start to your trip! Better than socks!

Starting your trip in style? One place you can book in advance is: Viengtai Hotel (click here for a booking form). This is a real hotel at real hotel prices. 164 rooms, all with private bathroom and air-conditioning. A single room costs 1,225 Baht (around US$27) a night, a double room 1,575-1,750 Baht ($US35-40) a night. For this you get 24-hour room service, a fully licensed bar, a swimming pool, and shops. (You will get a discount though if you book through www.khaosanroad.com - and please note: We made this booking arrangement AFTER this article was published. It's a good place to stay!).

Source:http://www.khaosanroad.com/firstfewdays.htm

Patpong Night Market

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After recently cleaning up its act, Patpong's become one of the 'must' night shopping destinations for avid shoppers. Found in the built-up area known as Silom, the place is always busy and chaotic with all the commotion from the GO-GO bars nearby and lots of foreign tourists. This market in Bangkok's notorious nightlife district is often the first and easiest stop for many tourists just arriving to Bangkok, whilst lodging at one of several mid-to-upper-end hotels in Silom.

Be warned though, the quality and prices of most items sold are about as real and trustworthy as the girls shaking their wares in go-go bars flanking the area. Both market and go-go bars seem to complement each other well, but remember not to be fooled by first impressions, and to bargain hard.

How to get there: Coming from BTS Siam station, depart at Sala Daeng station and exit down one of the right-hand stairs. Follow the increasing trail of vendors along the sidewalk, and after five minutes, you'll know you're there.
Items at market: Cheap 'brand-name' items, CD's, souvenirs, T-shirts, etc
Open: 18:00 - around 01:00 (every day)

Source:http://www.bangkok.com/shopping-market/patpong-night-market.html

Dos and Don'ts of Thailand

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Dos and Don'ts of Thailand

Getting Along in Thailand:

Thailand is justly celebrated for its tolerance and hospitality and the average tourist will have no difficulty in adjusting to the local customs. All the same, as when coming into any unfamiliar society, a visitor may find it helpful to be aware of certain do's and don'ts and thus avoid giving accidental offense. Basically, most of these are simply a matter of common sense and good manners - not really all that different from the way one would behave in one's own country - but a few are special enough to be pointed out.

The Monarchy:

The Thai peole have a deep traditional reverence for their Royal Family and a visitor should also be careful to show respect for the King, the Queen and the Royal Children. In a cinema for example, a portrait of the King is shown during the playing of the national anthem and the audience is expected to stand. When attending some public event at which a member of the Royal Family in present, the best guide as to how to behave is probably to watch the crowd and do what it does.

Religion:

When visiting a religious place

- Dress neatly. Don't go shirtless or in shorts, pants or other unsuitable attire. If you look at the Thais around you, you'll see the way they would prefer you to be dressed which, in fact is probably not very different from the way you'd dress in similar place back home.

- It's acceptable to wear shoes while walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel where the principal Buddha image is kept. Don't worry about dirt when you have to take them off; the floors of such places are usually clean.

- In a Muslim mosque, men should wear hats and women should be well-covered with slacks or a long skirt, a longsleeved blouse buttoned to the neck and a scarf over the hair. All should remove their shoes before entering the mosque and should not be present if there is a religious gathering.

- Buddhist priests are forbidden to touch or to be touched by a woman or to accept anything from the hand of one. If a woman has to give anything to a monk or novice, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it. Or in case of a woman who wants to present it with her hand, the monk or novice will spread out a piece of saffron robe or handkerchief in front of him and the woman will lay down the material on the robe which is being held at one end by the monk or novice.

- All Buddha images, large or small, ruined or not, are regarded as sacred objects. Hence, don't climb up on one to take a photograph or generally speaking, do anything that might show a lack of respect.

Social Customs:

The do's and don'ts of Thai social behavior are less clearly defined than those concerning the monarchy or relogion - especially in a city like Bangkok where Western customs are better known and more widely accepted. However, what is acceptable in Bangkok may be much less so in the countryside where the old ways are still strong. Here, there are a few things to keep in mind:

- Thais don't normally shake hands when they greet one another but instead press the palms together in a prayer-like gesture called a wai. Generally, a younger person wais an older, who returns it.

- It's considered rude to point your foot at a person, so try to avoid doing so when sitting opposite anyone and following the concept that the foot is a low limb, don't point your foot to show anything to anyone, but use your finger instead.

- Thais regard the heads as the highest part of the body, both literally and figuratively. As a result they don't approve of patting anyone there, even in a friendly gesture.

- Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon.

- Don't be surprised if you are addressed by your first name as for instance, Mr. Bob or Miss Mary - instead of by your surname. This is because Thais refer to one another in this manners, usually with the title "Khun" (Mr., Mrs. or Miss) in front.

Advice to Visitors:

1. Visitors are advised to use the Authorized Transportation Service for transfer from airport to town and other areas. Taxis are availble and an air-conditioned bus service costing 70 baht per person has been recently introduced.

2. Those who need help on accommodations, consult the Thai Hotel Association counter located next to the Transportation Service counter.

3. Beware of unauthorized persons who offer to take you around. Contact any reliable travel agents for a guide or Tourism Autherity of Thailand (TAT) counters for all tourist information.

4. Visitors are advised to use hotel taxi service at their hotel if they do not know their way around or can't speak local language.

5. Observe all normal precautions as regard to personal safety, as well as the safety of your belongings. Walking alone on quiet streets or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all your valuables - money, jewelry, airline tickets - are properly protected from loss.

6. Travel information is obtainable at Tourism Authority of Thailand counters located within the incoming passenger lounge Tel: 523 8973-3 and at the Main Office, 327 Bamrung Muang Rd. Tel. 226 0060 during working hours.

7. Visitors needing assistance relating to safety, security, unethical practices or other matters, please call Tourist Assistance Center immediately at these telephone number: 281 5051, 282 8129 or contact Tourist Police Tel: 652 1721-6 or 1699.

8. Penalties for drug offences are very severe in Thailand.

Shopping Advice:

A great variety of souvenirs made from local products are available at fair prices in Thailand. For those who have not got very much time and do not want to bother bargaining, certain items are available at fixed prices in several department store while a bargain can be made at small shops or with street vendors. Some of the preferred items include silk products, leather products, silverware, ceramics and wood products.

Jewellery and gemstones from Thailand are also a favourite item for many visitors to the kingdom. Their beauty, quality craftmanship and reasonable price have earned Thai precious and semi-precious stones a worldwide reputation. Yet occasionally, there have been visitors who complained about the action of few unethical jewellers who persuaded them to purchase jewellely at an unreasonable price.

Through the cooperation of the Thai Gem and Gewellery Trades Association (TGJTA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Jewel Fest Club has been established so that visitors to Thailand who purchase gems and jewellery in the Kingdom are protected.

It is listed that establishments displaying this Emblem of Standard be patronized.

When you purchase an item of jewellery from a store that is clearly identified as a member of the Jewel Fest Club, your purchase will be duly recorded, and a certificate datailing your purchase will be issued. Not only does this certificate of authenticity clearly state the nature and price of your purchase, it also guarantees a refund less 10% if you return the merchandise to the point of sale within 30 days. A refund less 20% is guaranteed if the items are reeturned after 30 days but within 45 days of purchase.

For information on a regular list of the Jewel Fest Club's members, visitors may look at www.tourismthailand.org or contact the Jewel Fest Club (Tel: 267-5233-7, 235-3039 Fax. 267-5238, 235-3040)

Information from: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

Khaolak Bhandari Resort & Spa (Khaolak, Takuapa,Thailand)

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Location on the beautiful beach in Khao Lak, just a short walk from the beach, an hour away from Phuket International Airport. Khaolak Bhandari is nestled within the short distance to touristis attractions, e.g. National Parks with rich rainforest and waterfalls, the perfect eco tourism; an elephant trekking and canoeing, the divers attractions at Similan Islands with pristine coral reefs and white sandy beaches, ranking in the top ten sites of the world, Surin Island, renowned Patong Nga Bay Marine National Park and Golf Courses.

Tel.: 66-7648-5751-4 Fax: 66-7648-5755
E-mail: info@khaolakbhandari.com
Website:www.khaolakbhandari.com

Koh Tao 'a magnet' for divers

2008-11-06T06:05:00.000-08:00

Koh Tao, a small island off Surat Thani near Koh Samui, covers an area of just 20 square kilometers, but it's widely accepted as being one of the best diving sites in the Gulf of Thailand.

The inviting clear waters around the island are almost turquoise in color, while coconut plantations still cover much of the landmass.

The easiest ways of getting around the island are by songthaew (a kind of pick-up truck with bench seats), or you can hire a mountain bike or a motorcycle if you're feeling a little more adventurous.

Kong Hin Khao and Kong Hin Khiao are popular places to visit on the island among divers since these overlaying rocks feature submarine alcoves, where lots of various species of fish and marine life can be seen. Examples of the extremely rare Black-Eared Shark have been spotted by the mouth of Ao Thian Nok ('Thian Nok Bay')

Adjacent to Koh Tao is Koh Nangyuan, a coral island featuring long, white sandy beaches, and another popular destination for snorkeling.

It's said that the best time to visit the island is during December through April. You could also visit during the rainy season (May to October), but obviously you would have to be prepared to face showers or rainstorms.

You can reach the island by boat from Koh Samui (350 baht [US$10]). Boats depart at 11 am and the trip to Koh Tao takes about two-and-a-half hours (via Koh Pha-ngan).

Speedboats leave Maenam Pier on Koh Samui bound for Koh Tao at 8 am – the fare is 550 baht. Contact Lomprayah (Tel: +66

7 742 7765) or Songserm Travel (Tel: +66
7 742 0157) for details.

Those who enjoy traveling at night might wish to consider a boat departing Surat Thani at 8 pm. It arrives on Koh Tao at 8 am, and the fare is 250 baht.

Source:http://www.thaiasiatoday.com/travel-gateway/weekend-guide/camping-on-koh-lao-liang.html