Loi Krathong Festival

Loi Krathong Festival

Loi Krathong is aromantic festival in which couples g0 to the riverside under a full moon as myriad lights blink on the water, to launcha krathong and wish forbeauty in life on the night of the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. A krathong is  smtvessel made from a folded banana leaf attached to sliceofbanana Stalk or bread loaf. Loi apply eans to drift, either on earMaleer-in the air. To Lel Kra ong is therefore to release a krathong decorated with lowers, candles and joss Sticks, with  the addition of small coins, to let your troubles loa away, leaving you with only the god thi5 in life.

Thanks the river

The purpose of the ritual is to acknowledge the river as the source of all natural abundance.  It is also a remembrance of Lord Buddha who found the way to Enlightenment.  The full-moon night of the twelfth lunar month, usually in the month of November.  Foi Krathong is as much a favorite of young men and wonnen as Valentine's Day, since they will stay out late at night in the romantic atmosphere of candlelight and the full moon.

Where to go for Loi Krathong? 

Visitors can celebrateLoi Krathong Festival nationwide in such places as:

Sukhothai seven This seven-hundred-year-old city is where the Loi Krathong tradition is thought to have originated. Sukhothai Historical Park hosts one of the biggest festivals in the country, with shows and performances retracing the glorious past of the former capital.  can participate in this unique night of romance and remembrance of things past.

Bangkok: 

All along both banks of the Chao Phraya River, which runs through the great City of Angels, people of all ages come to  launch their own krathong Amidst a constant letting off of firecrackers and processions of boats festooned with colored lights. An illuminated boat procession along the Chao Phraya River and the lit-up buildings and historical sites on both sides of the river make Loi Krathong in Bangkok a  Loi Krathong is celebrated widely in Bangkok with various kinds of entertainment, and it is organized at many locations. The popular places for Loi Krathong in Bangkok include .

Nakharaphirom 

Park on the Maharat Road (Near the Grand Palace), Santichaiprakan Park on Phra.  Athit Road, at the foot of the Rama IX Bridge, Benchasiri Park on Sukhumvit Road, and Benchakitti Park on Ratchada Phisek Road. A romantic dinner by the river with a  spectacular view of the fireworks and illuminated toating krathongs under the moonlight is a must that night,

Chiang Mai 

This important tourist town of the North Covers itself with lights during this month of cool weather.  People gather along the Ping River to float krathongs, but the special addition here is the thousands of paper lanterns set adrift in the sky-an impressive, unforgettable sight.  Northerners believe that releasing paper lanterns is a way of dedicating merit to the departed and worshiping the holy pagoda in Heaven.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 

The Bangsai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip is held at the Bangsai Royal Folk Arts and Craft s Center.  This festival features traditional Loi Krathong activities amidst the magnificent ruins of the once glorious capital city of Thailand.  Beauty contests, processions of beauty queens, krathong contests, and cultural performances are the highlights of this festival.

Samut Songkhram 

Loi Krathong Kap Kluai Mueang Mae Klong is a unique Loi Krathong tradition where the locals make krathong out of a layer of banana leaf sheath instead of banana leaves. The krathong is decorated with flowers and a resin-dipped and Sun-dried incense  Sticks, and floated down the Mae Khlong estuary. The resin makes the incense sticks burn slowly, showing beautiful lines of glittering lights on the river at night.

Tak: 

This tranquil town by the Ping River celebrates the wonderful moment with their own unique and elegant way.  Local people create a krathong;  this outstanding one is not made from banana leaf, but coconut sheel, filled with wax and wick, and floated in a line that is referred to Loi Krathong Sai, The atmosphere of joining this event not only represents the celebration, but also the unity of  the community, this creative masterpiece as well as local Thai wisdom, which will give you a memorable night.

Tips for Loi Krathong 

Use a krathong made of natural materials in order to preserve the environment If you intend to have dinner by the river, make reservations in advance.  Since Loi Krathong has much to do with candles, fireworks, rivers and crowded areas, you should proceed with good care.  Loi Krathong Night willaivespecialmoon-drenched meaning to time spent in the company of whoevercounts most in your life.

(Printed in Thailand by Promotional Material Production Division, Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution. Www. Tourismthailand.org E / MAR 2019 The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.)

In the distant past, it was said, 'Bang Chang is the outer orchard and Bangkok is the inner orchard'.

In the distant past, it was said, 'Bang Chang is the outer orchard and Bangkok is the inner orchard'. Known as Bang Chang, the old orchard community from Damnoen Saduak Canal to the Bang Khonthi­Amphawa area in Samut Songkhram province is famous for coconut sugar production. Bang Chang boasts many canals linking with numerous channels. Since this area is full of water, it is suitable for growing various kinds of fruit, especially coconuts.
The distinctive coconut variety in this area has been selected from general coconuts that produce a large amount of fresh sugar palm nectar, or nam tan sot, regularly. The larger spadix a coconut has, the greater amount of sugar it gives. Major varieties grown here include Sai Bua, Thale Ba, and Suricha.The process of making coconut sugar begins with the orchard grower places a bamboo pole on a coconut tree for him to climb up to select spadices suitable for tapping. A suitable spadix must not be too tough to be cut off. After the suitable spadix is selected, its tip is cut open about 3-4 inches wide with a sharp knife. Then a string is tied to bend down the spadix, which will droop for seven days. The tip of the spadix is sliced daily to allow the sap to flow out continuously. In the seventh day, the sap fully flows out, and the knife is used to cut off the cover of the spadix. Next the spadix is tied with a string, and a cylindrical container is used to hold the sweet nectar dripping from the cuts. Small pieces of the payom bark are added into the con­tainer as a natural way to prevent the nectar from turning sour or being spoiled.
The sap is usually collected twice a day, one in the morning, at about 5:00 a.m., and the other one in the after­noon, at about 5:00 p.m. Spadices produce more sap in the morning than in the afternoon because of longer hours in the drooping position during nighttime. The grower brings with him a vacant container to replace the filled one each time he climbs up the tree.After the nectar from the coconut tree is collected, it is-filtered through a thin white piece of cloth, which keeps out pieces of wood, coconut flowers, insects, and dust, and through a sieve, called krachon in Thai. Then the lightly fluid is poured into a wok over an earthen stove. It is boiled for about one hour after when it becomes concen­trated syrup in dark yellow. Later, the work is placed on a bamboo basket andthe sugar is whipped to a smooth texture with a wooden stick. The brown coconut sugar is then dropped in small lumps, or spooned onto shallow round molds and left to set and harden. About seven bucks of fresh sugar palm nectar can be made into one buck, or 30 kilograms, of dried sugar.
Today Bang Chang coconut sugar is regarded as a product that makes a name for Samut Songkhram. When compared with coconut sugar in other areas, Bang Chang coconut sugar is more aromatic and even sweeter. So it is popularly used as an ingredient for numerous kinds of Thai food and dessert.

The Art Library

Libraries in Bangkok - The Art Library at the Center for Art and Cultural Bangkok (BACC)Strategically located in the heart of downtown Bangkok, Mah Boon Krong address (MBK) Shopping Center, the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is a new installation in the middle of the city for contemporary art. The BACC is designed to create a meeting place for artists to open a new basis for cultural dialogue, networking and creating new cultural resources, both public and private.
Located in the basement (L floor) of the center, the Art Library is truly a hidden gem in this cosmopolitan city. The library has become a favorite meeting place of intellectuals in the city offers books on art and literature as well as free high speed Internet. The service is available to all library members. There is also a corner where both children, where children and parents can interact and a reference section.
To become a site of cultural exchange in terms of content, curatorial and cultural management, giving Bangkok a base of operations in the international art scene, the Bangkok Art and Cultural Center (BACC) proposes to add 5,000 new books per Next year collection of the library and reading areas to create more pleasant for everyone to sit and enjoy a good book.
Next to the library is easy, if you live, work or study in Bangkok, all you have to do is come to the library with your passport (local can produce your ID card). Registration fee is 50THB (USD 1.65) and the members are renewed every year (10 THB - U.S. $ 0.33)). You can borrow 2 items per week. (With the exception of reference, the real work of art and English books). Overdue charge: 1 Baht / day / item.
The BACC is under the supervision of the Bangkok Art and Cultural Center Foundation, established by the city of Bangkok.
Opening hours:10 am - 6 p.mClose on Monday
Getting There:The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is easily accessible from the National Stadium BTS station and connected by a walkway.

Street Food in Bangkok

Street Food in Bangkok

The delicious culinary adventures in Bangkok

Street food is a part of Thai way of life for decades, for not only it is convenient, but it is also inexpensive and most certainly, delicious. There is no shortage of street food vendors in Bangkok, where the mouthwatering-smelling option is endless, ranging from grilled pork skewers to fresh seafood cooked on the spot.

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, especially when it comes to serving food, as one can find culinary treasures on the street at no matter what time it is. Take an edible tour through Bangkok’s most vibrant roadside food scenes and discover for yourself why Bangkok is one of the best places in the world for street food!

hinatown

A heaven for those who enjoy eating, Yaowarat Road or Thailand’s Chinatown is rated on the top of Bangkok street food list. One visit is never enough to enjoy the variety of sumptuous food and snacks on offer at the countless stalls that dotted along both sides of the road.

Famous for: Seafood, congee, fish maw soup, Chinese dumplings, Bami Kiao Mu Daeng (egg noodles with barbecued pork and wonton), Kuai Chap Noodle (rice noodle soup with pork entrails and roasted pork), Rat Na Noodle (stir-fried noodles with gravy sauce), and Cheng Sim I (shaved ice with assorted dried fruits and gelatinous sweets)

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: All day but street food stalls get lively in the evening until late at night.
• How to get there: Take MRT Subway to Hua Lamphong Station and then get a taxi or tuk tuk to Yaowarat Road.

ilom

A major business district of Bangkok that transforms into an entertainment venue as night falls, Silom offers an array of street food treasures. Apart from on both sides of Silom Road itself, the mouthwatering aroma of food cooking at the roadside stalls fills the air specially at Soi Lalai Sap (Silom Soi 5), Soi Convent, and Soi Sala Daeng.

Famous for: Bami Kiao Mu Daeng (egg noodles with barbecued pork and wonton), Khao Mu Daeng (rice with barbecued pork), Khao Man Kai (rice with steamed chicken), Khao Kha Mu (rice with stewed pork knuckles), Yentafo Noodle (pink noodle soup with fish ball and morning glory), Kai Yang (grilled chicken), Somtam, and Kluai Khaek (deep-fried banana)

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: Everyday from 8.00 a.m. to late at night.
• How to get there: Taxi, tuk tuk, or bus, but the most convenient way is to take BTS Skytrain to Sala Daeng Station or MRT Subway to Silom Station.

Sukhumvit

Sukhumvit is one of the longest roads in Bangkok with many adjoining ‘sois’ (small streets). Scattered along both sides of the road and in the sois are carts, stalls, and vendors cooking aromatic and scrumptious food. The most prominent sois for street food are Soi Sukhumvit 55 (Thong Lo), Soi Sukhumvit 63 (Ekkamai), and Soi Sukhumvit 38 (directly opposite to Soi Sukhumvit 55).

Famous for: Bami Kiao Mu Daeng (egg noodles with barbecued pork and wonton),  Khao Mu Daeng (rice with barbecued pork), congee, pork satay, Pad Thai, Hoi Thot (oyster omelette), and mango with sticky rice

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: Evening until late at night.
• How to get there: Taxi, tuk tuk, or bus, but the most convenient way is to take BTS Skytrain along the Sukhumvit line.

Khao San / Soi Ram Buttri

A world-famous place that is usually the first to welcome first-time tourists to Thailand, Khao San Road offers a selection of street food where visitors can get an introductory taste of Thai as well as enjoy a diversity of delish items. A few minutes walk from Khao San Road is Soi Ram Buttri, a street full of vendors selling appetising meals and snacks.

Famous for:  Pad Thai, spring rolls, fried rice, Khao Khai Chiao (Thai-styled omelette with rice), Khao Kraphrao Kai (rice topped with stir-fried chicken with basil leaves and chili), BBQ skewers, mango with sticky rice, and coconut ice-cream

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: All day but street food stalls get lively in the evening until late at night.
• How to get there: Taxi, tuk tuk, bus, or take a boat to Phra Athit Pier.

Phra Nakhon

Phra Nakhon district is the historical centre of Bangkok that includes Rattanakosin Island and is famous for a wide range of delectable street food. The most famous areas in Phra Nakhon for street food are the Three Junctions on Atsadang Road (Phraeng Phuthon, Phraeng Nara, and Phraeng Sanphasat) and the area around the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.

Famous for:  Grilled pork ball, Kai Yang (grilled chicken), Khao Man Kai (rice with steamed chicken), Rat Na noodle, Yentafo Noodle (pink noodle soup with fish ball and morning glory) Kuai Chap Noodle (rice noodle soup with pork entrails and roasted pork), grilled squid, fresh milk with toasted bread, and traditional Thai desserts; such as sweet sticky rice and khanom bueang (crispy crepe)

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: All day but street food stalls get lively in the evening until late at night.
• How to get there: Taxi, tuk tuk, bus, or take a boat to Tha Chang or Tha Tian Pier.

Ratchaprasong – Pathumwan

Ratchaprasong Intersection is the main business and shopping district with countless roadside food vendors lining up in front of the entertainment complexes and department stores. Located nearby is Pathumwan or Siam, as referred to by the locals, which comprises several department stores, boutique shops, as well as carts and vendors offering an alluring option of street food.

Famous for:  Kai Thot (deep fried chicken), Khao Niao Mu Thot (deep fried pork with sticky rice), rice and curry, deep-fried meatballs, Kai Yang (grilled chicken), Somtam, grilled snakehead fish, Saikrok I-san (grilled northeastern-style sausage), and Chim Chum (northeastern-style hot pot)

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: All day but street food stalls get lively in the evening until late at night.
• How to get there: Taxi, tuk tuk, or bus, but the most convenient way is to take BTS Skytrain Siam Station and walk along the skywalk bridge to the Ratchaprasong Intersection.

Pratunam

Pratunam is Thailand’s largest open-air clothing market that consists of many walking lanes.

Not only can visitors find all the latest fashion trends, but also there is an incredible range of street vendors offering tasty food to satisfy all kinds of palates.

Famous for:  Khao Man Kai (rice with steamed chicken), Mu Ping (grilled pork skewers), spring

rolls, Khao Mu Thot (rice and deep-fried pork), Khao Kraphrao Kai (rice topped with stir-fried chicken with basil leaves and chili), rice and curry, noodle, Kai Yang (grilled chicken), Somtam, and

Lap Mu (spicy minced pork salad)

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: All day but street food stalls get lively in the evening until late at night.
• How to get there: Taxi, bus, tuk tuk, or take BTS Skytrain to Ratchathewi Station.

Wang Lang Market – Tha Phrachan

On the Thonburi side of Chao Phraya River is Wang Lang Market, a bustling open-air market that is famous for fashionable clothing, secondhand products, and most certainly, mouthwatering street food. Across the Chao Phraya River on the Bangkok side is Tha Prachan, an area full of lively university students and delicious street food stalls.

Famous for:  Mu Thot (deep-fried pork), Kai Yang (grilled chicken), somtam, southern-style dishes with rice, Po Pia Sot (fresh spring rolls), Pad Thai, Hoi Thot (oyster omelette), Roti and Mataba (roti stuffed with savoury fillings), Khanom Thang Taek (Thai-styled waffle), and crispy toast

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: During the daytime.
• How to get there: Take the boat to Tha Chang Wang Lang Pier and take a ferry across to Tha Prachan Pier.

Huai Khwang Night Market

A night market that is fairly popular amongst the locals, Huai Khwang Night Market is always crowded with shoppers looking for trendy clothes and accessories. The most interesting facet, however, is the food section that is full of delightful street eats.

Famous for: Seafood, Khao Mu Daeng (rice with barbecued pork), chicken feet in spicy soup, Khanom Chin Namya (rice vermicelli with curry), Khao Na Pet (roasted duck on rice), Khao Man Kai (rice with steamed chicken), Kai Yang (grilled chicken), Somtam, and fresh fruits

Venue Box:

• Best time to visit: From around 5 pm. until late at night.
• How to get there: Taxi, bus, tuk tuk, or take MRT to Huai Khwang Station.

Tips to enjoy roadside food stalls

Bring enough cash, as most of the street vendors do not accept credit cards.

Beware of pickpockets, as roadside food stalls are often crowded.

• Avoid raw seafood, such as oysters, and pre-cooked food that has been sitting in pots all day.
• Some street vendors display the sign “Clean Food Good Taste” which means they have been certified by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).

(Printed in Thailand by Promotional Material Production Division, Marketing Services Department,Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.www.tourismthailand.org E/APR 2019The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.)

Sunday Market (Walking Street) - Chiang Mai

The Sunday market (or at street level) is a large market located right in the center of the old part of the walled city of Chiang Mai. Beginning at the Tha Phae Gate at one end of Sunday market extends for approximately one kilometer down the entire length of Ratchadamnoen Road. You can go to the market every Sunday from 16:00 to midnight. Ratchadamnoen Road is always closed to traffic, while the Sunday market is open. This allows buyers to browse the goods on display, negotiate with sellers for a good price and roam freely everywhere without looking over his shoulder for a past motorcycle compress. In the Sunday market is large number of tourists and Thai local all together having a good time looking for bargains. The Sunday market is growing bigger every year and now has begun to spread down many of the side streets off the main road and the large open around the same area Tha Phae Gate. Unlike the night bazaar which is full of imitation designer brands, the Sunday market is a showcase of art and crafts of the peoples of northern Thailand. Many vendors of positions manufacture and sell their own products and the quality of craftsmanship is excellent. The products are made from a wide variety of materials such as silk, paper, cloth, wood, metal, glass, ceramic, etc. Artisanal products shown are perfect as gifts or to decorate beautiful and useful home items. You can also find many sellers of shoes, jewelery, souvenirs and clothing (Thai boxer shorts silk for $ 2). There are a number of restaurants, cafes and bars in the market area where you can opt out of the crowd and sit and enjoy a meal or a drink and watch the ebb and flow of buyers. The Sunday market really comes alive at night, when all the street entertainers, musicians, puppeteers, Thai dancers and bands begin to perform; and all the light colored lights. If you get sore feet wandering around, you can have a foot massage for 60THB ($ 2) for 30 minutes. You can not miss during your visit to the Sunday market are two great temples. On the main street it is Wat Phan Tao and in a side street the most impressive is Wat Chedi Luang. Get there before dark to see them in good light. The whole place has a very festive character that makes the Sunday market a must see to do on any visit to Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Surat Thani

There ar several stunning islands placed in Surat Thani province That One ought to ne'er miss! I visited four of those islands on January this year - Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao. merely i like all. the simplest thanks to See These superb islands is to book associate degree island hopping tour-through the native tour operators. once lunch, merely sit back and relax and luxuriate in the spectacular views (Koh Tao, Kingdom of {thailand|Siam|Asian country|Asian nation}) Koh Tao (Turtle Island) is one in all the foremost widespread diving destinations in Thailand placed at the Central seacoast of Southern Thailand and a very important parcel of land for marine turtle turtles and inexperienced turtles. The island of Koh Tao could be a diver's paradise and plenty of return here to be told diving or escape the hustle and bustle of the traveler crowd and need over the total Moon Party on Koh Phangan.


 We had Our lunch at the island of Koh Tao aftering visiting the spectacular Koh Nang Yuan. once we arrive, the beach WAS packed with sunbathers. White sand and crystal clear blue water create this an ideal place guests wherever will watch the water, soak within the sun or swim and it's a positively a good place to satisfy Some stunning folks. The island is wealthy marine life iin (Koh Tao, Thialand) Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan supply additional then thirty dive sites for you to explore the attractive array of marine life. skin diving isn't my cup of tea however i actually enjoyed the exquisite scenery and also the bright coloured coral feeding fishes surround Maine. it had been a pretty day. obtaining There: it'll take you regarding one.5hr-2hr to achieve Koh Tao Koh Samui by powerboat from the ocean counting on season and Conditions. sometimes tour operators begin the trip to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Island at 8:30 a.m. and ends around 4pm, comprehensive of soppy drinks, lightweight snacks, fruit, lunch and skin diving instrumentality.

The House of shadow puppetry

The House of shadow puppetry in Nakhon Si Thammarat


If ever there was a chance for a trip to the province of Nakhon Si Thammarat, should not be a surprise that they should pay a visit to the House Shadow Puppet Subsin Suchart. It is situated at 18.10 If Thammasok 3 Road. Suchart Subsin uncle is a master of shadow puppets and puppet maker most able of the province. He inherited the culture of puppet making and control, and has been recognized both nationally and internationally. In addition, maintaining Thai culture in his art through the use of Thai musical instruments in their performances. He also received the Thailand Tourism Award in 1996 for his house puppet Excellence in the category of Cultural and Historical Site. Suchart Shadow Puppets Subsin House is also a source of income, production and sale of shadow puppets, which shows how to make puppets, and an area to display the tools and collections of international shadow puppets.


Suchart Subsin uncle was born on July 2, 1938 in Sa Kaew village, house number 138 Moo 3, Sa Kaew sub-district., Tha Sala district, Nakhon Si Thammarat province. He finished grade 10 Wat Sa Kaew school and had learned to make shadow puppets for Mr. Nookao Thong, who was a shadow puppet maker working in the province. He continued to learn until he was able to create, design and make shadow theater-style patterns of ancient and contemporary. Moreover, Mr. Suchart Subsin also acquired the ability to write poetry and screenplays shadow puppet play. In the house of Mr. Suchart Subsin is that there are demonstrations of how to make puppets and puppet plays representations of shade for those interested. It is an important site in the province of Nakhon Si Thammarat, and there are both Thai and foreign tourists who come to visit and see demonstrations. The shadow play Suchart resulting from the use of high quality skin, so that the puppets are considered high level. Its quality also becomes a valuable export product.


In the house of Mr. Suchart Subsin, home of the famous shadow puppet maker of Nakhon Si Thammarat city, there is a powerful smell of cow skin, and the echo of shadow puppet-making tools for all day. This is the spell that keeps the place full of life, and makes it an inspiration which earned him the gratitude of His Majesty the King after a performance in 1984 to keep alive the ancient folk art in these modern times.
Interesting things in the House Shadow Puppet Suchart


1. Shadow puppet museum house
It's a big 2-storey building together with the shadow puppet shows inside. There are many characters, including angels, giants, governors, the principal actors, actresses, comedians and female ghosts. In addition, there are shadow plays that come from all over the world, inside and outside Thailand, as puppets of central and northeast (Pramote Uthai) Thailand, India, Indochina, Turkey and Indonesia (Wayang Kulit). Some old shadow puppets from different eras, as old as World War I to World War II, through such famous characters as Theng Nui, Kaew, Samoh, Sai Nui, Lang Kwan Muang, and more. There are also displays of musical instruments have been used in plays of shadow puppets.


2. Souvenir shop
Inside the house shadow puppet, there are many beautiful and delicate patterns of shadow puppets for sale you can buy souvenirs or gifts.


3. The shadow puppet making demonstration
Mr. Suchart Subsin addition, there are also family members who help make shadow puppets and can drill many beautiful colors in the skins of puppets. Viewing this show is not only impressive, but if you like a tourist, you can buy the dolls.


4. The shadow puppet plays
The room is a small stage, outdoor building that can hold about 30 people. Subsin Suchart and his age, has spent his retirement years, continues to perform the plays shadow puppet by having your child play musical instruments, along with their stories. The stories do differ on many issues, from politics to drugs, and each story has its own set of gags to entertain the audience. The audience group determines the work that will, depending on whether children or adults, or if the audience is particularly interested in seeing a performance in particular. Again, there are many beautiful puppets available for sale as souvenirs or gifts.



Source: http://nakhonsi.hroyy.com

Krabi

This coastal province covers an area of 4,709 square kilometers and is located 814 kilometres south of Bangkok. Krabi's major attractions are located largely along its extensive coastline, which contains several well-known beaches and bays, and numerous offshore tropical islands.



History of Krabi


From archaeological discoveries, it is believed that Krabi was one of the oldest communities in Thailand dating from the prehistoric period. It is also believed that Krabi was once the town of Ban Thai Samo, one of 12 royal cities that used a monkey as the town symbol. Krabi was a dependency town of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Kingdom. Another legend indicates that the town may have taken its name after the meaning of Krabi, which means sword. This may have stemmed from a legend that says an ancient sword was unearthed prior to the city's founding. Later, the sword became a symbol of Krabi.



Geography of Krabi


Krabi's mountainous physical geography is broken by highlands and plains on the mainland; the provincial administration also covers more than 130 large and small islands in the Andaman Sea.


Natural forest cover is chiefly mangrove and Cassia trees. Krabi's sandy clay soil conditions are perfect for a variety of agricultural produces, including: rubber trees, palms, oranges, coconuts, and coffee. The Krabi River flows 5 kilometres through the town and falls into the Andaman Sea at Tambon Pak Nam.



Krabi is administratively divided into 8 Amphoes (districts): Amphoe Muang, Khao Phanom, Khlong Thom, Plai Phraya, Ko Lanta, Ao Luek, Lam Thap, and Nuea Khlong.

MBK shopping centerOpening hours: Mon- Sun 10 am – 10 pm

General Information Telephone : +66(0)2 620-9000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +66(0)2 620-9000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Opening hours: Mon- Sun 10 am – 10 pm

Sky Train : National Stadium Station (W1)

Address : 444 , Phayathai Road , Wangmai, Patumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand

Credit Cards : All major cards are accepted

Official Website : mbk-center.co.th

Email : marketing@mbk-center.co.th




MBK Center has 8 floors. The floors are loosely divided as follows:

1st – 3rd Floor Clothing, , Shoes, Accessories, Cosmetic, Leather items, Optical, Jewelries, Paintings, Photo studios, Beauty Salons, Fast-food outlets, etc.


4th Floor Mobile phones and accessories, Communication equipments, Walkman, CD and MP3 players, Electronics , etc.


5th Floor International Food Court, Restaurants, Furniture
6th Floor Thai Handicraft shops, Food center


7th – 8th Floor Entertainment floor containing of 8 movie theatres, 28 bowling lanes, Karaoke options, Game zone, Food and drinks.


History


Built in 1985 by Chokchai Bulakul, the name of the mall was originally Mahboonkrong Center . It is the combined names of "Mah" and "Boonkhrong", father and mother of Chokchai, respectively. Mahboonkrong ran into financial difficulty in its early years and was sold to the Dusit Thani Group. The name of the mall is now shortened to MBK Center and managed by MBK Plc. The busts of Chokchai's parents are still displayed on the ground floor of MBK Center facing the front doors.


MBK Center has an average of 115,000 customers / day, including 35,000 tourists from around the world. It's considered to be the most visited mall in the country.



The mall was renovated in 2003-2004 and has become one of the most recognizable buildings in Bangkok .

BTS station

lunch crowds at siam BTS station,the interchange station for the train next to MBK shopping center

Koh Tao

There Are Many beautiful islands Located in Surat Thani province That One Should never miss! I visited four of These islands on January this year - Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao. Simply I love them all. The Easiest Way to See These amazing islands is to book an island hopping tour-through the local tour operators. After lunch, Simply sit back and relax and enjoy the spectacular views (Koh Tao, Thailand) Koh Tao (Turtle Island) is one of the MOST popular diving destinations in Thailand Located at the Central Gulf Coast of Southern Thailand and an important breeding ground for Hawksbill turtles and green turtles. The island of Koh Tao is a diver's paradise and Many come here to learn diving or escape the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowd and want more Than the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan.
We had Our lunch at the island of Koh Tao aftering visiting the spectacular Koh Nang Yuan. When we arrive, the beach WAS jam-packed with sunbathers. White sand and crystal clear blue water make this a perfect place visitors WHERE CAN watch the water, soak in the sun or swim and it is a definitely a great place to Meet Some beautiful people. The island is rich marine life iin (Koh Tao, Thialand) Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan offer More then 30 dive sites for you to explore the beautiful array of marine life. Snorkeling is not my cup of tea But I really enjoyed the exquisite scenery and the brightly colored coral feeding fishes surround me. It Was a beautiful day. Getting There: It will take you about 1.5hr-2hr to Reach Koh Tao Koh Samui by speedboat from the sea Depending on season and Conditions. Usually tour operators start the trip to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Island at 8:30 a.m. and ends around 4pm, inclusive of soft drinks, light snacks, fruit, lunch and snorkeling equipment.

Phuket

Phuket is the kind of place that is breathtaking in the summer and yet attractive in the rainy season.

Driving around the island of rain can be fun and exciting, so I got together with some friends and went alone. The first route began in the Sarasin bridge of a legend of true love took place. While driving over the bridge if you make a wish for love and hold your breath until the end, is said to come true.

Follow the road along Mai Khao Beach, became the breeding ground of leather-back turtles, a pride and joy of Phuketians. You will also find some five-star hotels throughout the area.

Leaving the beach and turn on the road, we Baan Koh Aen and could not make a stop. At the end of the road, a marina was presented to us so that we realized this is where luxury yachts are anchored. No wonder that Phuket was voted "Best of Asia's Maritime Capital." There are ports in the excursion boats take visitors around the green islands and hotels, while relaxing with a cup of coffee in hand, admiring the stunning views beyond.

Back to km 10. on the road, turn the direction of the airport directly to Nai Yang Beach and National Park Sirinart reached. Upon entering we were greeted with rows of pine trees and white sand beach where turtles back leather lay their eggs. It is a good place to take a dip in the ocean or go snorkeling and admire beautiful corals.

After that, we went to Naiton Beach. This area is quieter than other beaches, making it the ideal place for a private tour for two. The wind and the waves here are pretty strong so I got wet without having to go in the water.

Following the road meanders along the beach and up and down the mountain, we see the panoramic ocean views and lush rubber plantations. Reaching Layan Beach arrived at La Laguna, an old mine that had been renovated into a hotel with golf course. It would be good to go a round or two if we had the time. Instead, we went for a great lunch at one of several restaurants in the area.

Full-stomachs and ready to rock, we headed to the beach of Surin. This area is full of stalls selling local chicken Somtam steakhouse that is loved by Thais and foreigners.

The landscape around Kamala Beach is magnificent, both along the beach and cliffs. Passing through we Kalim Patong Beach, the center of tourist paradise. We loved the shopping, nightlife and the sights and sounds that go on all day. You should find the time to come to club hopping one of those days.

Next on the list is Karon beach, the longest of Phuket. Visitors can find their own place away from everyone here. In Kata Beach you can find groups of young surfers riding and moving in and out of the waves.

As the day progressed, we went to Laem Promthep and waited patiently to witness the most beautiful sunset. Lasted only seconds, but it was quite memorable. Before leaving, we retreaded down and took some photos as a souvenir of this beautiful day.

Taking a drive around the island of Phuket with her friends was a day well spent. All I found, beaches, people, attractions, restaurants consists of a fun-filled day that will live in memory of all the coming years.

Green papaya salad

Green papaya salad is the most popular dish in Thailand. Northeastern is a food that is eaten with sticky rice and other dishes from the northeast and Laab, meat salad and bamboo shoot salad.

The two most popular types of green papaya salad or dried shrimp or crab are salty. green papaya salad with dried shrimp and peanuts is called som tum thai. The green papaya salad with salted crab is called som tum pbooh. Most ingredients are the same.

Ingredients

2 cups shredded fresh green papaya, use a Pro-Cut peeler or knife Thai Miracle.

3 roma tomatoes, medium, or use a little more if you can find cherry tomatoes

A handful of fresh green beans cut into 1 inch pieces

2 tablespoons dried shrimp

4-6 fresh Thai chiles, stems removed

3-4 cloves garlic

2 tablespoons fish sauce

2 tablespoons palm sugar

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons juice from pickled mud fish (optional)

Instructions

Peel fresh green papaya, rinse out milk-white, dry, and then destroy all papaya. Sprinkle with a little salt then rinse and drain. Keep 2 cups shredded papaya out, and put the rest in a sealed container for later use. Cut the tomatoes into thin slices. In a clay mortar and pestle Lao-style, thick book fresh chiles (whole) and garlic. Add green beans and tomato slices, and pound it lightly (not over-crush). Add the dried shrimp, fish sauce, palm sugar and lime juice. Add these items spoon by spoon, and taste as you go. To add the peanuts, add now and lightly pound (optional). If you want to add pickled mud fish (Pla ra), add two tablespoons of juice (optional). Add the shredded papaya and pound together until well blended. Serve in a dish with fresh cabbage and green beans on the side. Enjoy!

Nightlife and entertainment places in Koh Samui - Chaweng Beach

If you like the nightlife in Patong Beach, Phuket, enjoy the beach of Chaweng. Chaweng Beach has something for everyone and is one of the most happening places in Koh Samui. Located on the east coast of Koh Samui Island, which attracts many young travelers. I was there in January. Not for clubs, just watching the street.

The area has a variety of hotels, bars, discos, clubs, restaurants and bars to suit all tastes and budgets. As the sun sets, it becomes a city of the party and the main road of Chaweng is one of the best places in Koh Samui for people watching and a great place to shop for beachwear.

Another interesting finding in the island: there are many drug stores and convenience stores 11.07 through the streets of Koh Samui, more than any other provinces in Thailand.

King Narai the Great Lopburi Thailand

Lopburi, the former Lavapura or washed, can be found in the central part of Thailand (2 hours drive from Bangkok) was very prosperous during the sixth to tenth centuries Dvaravati and was influenced by Khmer culture during the 10 to 12 centuries. This period in Thailand is known as the Lopburi period.

When Ayutthaya was established in 1350AD, Lopburi became the second capital city. King Narai the Great (1656-1688AD), 27 king of the Ayutthaya period, he ordered the French and Italian engineers building the Phra Narai Palace Ratchawang (Wang Narai), strong walls and Lopburi. King Narai Palace used to host government officials and real missions for recreation and a home game during the holidays.

The reign of King Narai the Great Fair is held in February each year to commemorate the good deeds of King Narai the Great of Lop Buri and the nation. This annual fair features popular dramas, other events, light shows and sound booths that offer local products, all surrounded by beautiful decorative lamps and locals often wear traditional clothes for the occasion.

Jesada Technik Museum

Jesada Technik Museum was founded by Mr.Jesada Deshsakulrith, Thai businessman who loves to have sightseeing of Automobile and Mechanics and have had a chance to visit several interesting museums of antique car in Europe & USA. This inspires him to start collecting antique and hard-to-find car in his collection. Starting from Messerschmitt KR-200 (Bubble Car: 1958) brought in from Switzerland. The more he collects, the more he studies. He found that automobile evolution substantially creates comfort, happiness to mankind. Each piece of collection implies conceptual philosophy telling spirit of designer and manufacturer which is valuable to next generation. Currently there are approximately 500 pieces of collection in the premise e.g. Airplane, Helicopter, Tank, Bus, Sedan, Bubble Car, Motorcycle, Tricycle and Bicycle from around the world. He has intention to educate Thai who love mechanics to have an opportunity to see the real object rather than only seeing from picture. The museum was then established at Ngewrai district, Nakornchaisri Ampur, Nakornprathom Province. The museum is open for free entrance.

The highlight of the Jesada Technik Museum is there is plenty of bubble car which cannot see anywhere easily. The children who come to visit can touch car in imagination of dream by themselves. Due to the museum is open freely for visitor to access inside a car which is really expensive and scarce. Mr.Jesada told his heartfelt feeling impressively that “Dream of children is much more valuable than what they are touching. Who knows in the future, these children will create things which are multiple larger than what I do.”

Austin 7 Chummy



Model : 7 chummy
Motor : austin
body : Steel
Years Built : Fall 1929
No. Cylinders : 4
Chassis : Steel Tube
Displacement : 747 cc
Suspension Front : Coil
No. Surviving : n/a
Horsepower : 10
Suspension Rear : Coil
Gearbox : 3 + rev
Steering : Worm
Starter : Dynastart
Brakes : Hydraulic
Electrics : 12 v
Interior : 4x Bench
Top Speed : 85 km/h

see more at http://www.jesadatechnikmuseum.com/product_detail.php?qid=3&v=1

Wat Pumin in the City of Nan

Located about 668 kilometres from Bangkok, Wat Pumin is one of the 50 Northern temples that I visited recently with Silpakorn University Bangkok. Besides Wat Nong Bua, Wat Pumin is a very unusual Nan’s temple in Thailand. In the middle of the temple, four majestic golden Buddha statues of Maravijaya with their backs against one another facing the four directions. The doors are delicately carved in splendid designs by Lanna craftsmen.

Wat Phumin was built in Lanna-style by King Jetabutbrahim, the ruler of Nan in 1596. The temple underwent a major restoration in 1867 and the mural paintings in the interior have become the valued treasures of the temple. It is believed that the wall murals were painted by Chinese artists during this time. Blue is one of the primary colours extensively used in the mural paintings. The wall paintings, in Thai Lu style are considered highly valuable and depict legends concerning the Lord Buddha as well as local legends and the local way of life, which include native attires, weaving and commerce with foreign countries.

Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat (Phitsanulok Province)

Chinnarat famous Phra Buddha at Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat (Phitsanulok Province)
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat in Phitsanulok, the front door? Northern Thailand? It is home to the famous Phra Buddha Chinnarat. The monastery is situated on the bank of Nan River near the bridge of Naresuan. The Buddhist temple is a 5 minute walk from the newly opened Heritage Yodia Boutique Hotel in Phitsanulok. It is commonly known by locals as "? Wat Yai?, Is the most important monastery of Phitsanulok.

The monastery was built in the reign of Phra Maha Racha Thamma I (Phra Lithai) in 1357 AD houses the Phra Buddha Chinnarat considered the most beautiful Buddha image in Thailand. This statue was cast in the attitude of subduing evil during the last period of Sukhothai in 1631. Later, the year of 1931, King Ekatosarot graciously bestowed some of their gold badges to be beaten in the gold plate and applied to the image with his own hand, creating the most beautiful Buddha image.

There are many other beautiful and remarkable things in the grounds of the monastery.? The mother-of-pearl inlaid wooden doors of Vihara are especially splendid, and were built by King Boromkot in 1756 as a dedication to Phra Buddha Chinnarat. Behind the Vihara, there is a large prang 36 meters high, which is a staircase leading to the niche containing the Buddha relics. In front of the prang, there is Phra Attar, and the 9 / 4 Vihara slope, is the newly renovated Buddha image.

Besides Chinnarat Phra Buddha image, there is also a replica of the Phra Buddha image Chinnarat found at the famous Wat Benchamampovit (Marble Temple) in Bangkok, and hopefully, I can make a comparison between these two images of Buddha in the near future.

Learning to read Thai

Learning to read Thai
Thai script is derived from Sanskrit, an ancient language from India. As English, Thai, is read phonetically from left to right. While the symbols used in the Thai script are very different from the English letters, words often spoken Thai as written, which makes reading easier for Thai language. Learning to read Thai can be done online, through study teams at home or in a school with a tutor.
1. Familiarize yourself with the sound of each letter in the Thai alphabet. The Thai alphabet has 44 consonants, 32 vowels, numbers, symbols and special marks. Visit a site like Learn Thai Podcast and click each letter to hear the correct pronunciation.
2. Visit a Web site, and learning in Thailand and click "Learn to Read Thai." This site offers 22 free classes online reading.
3. Start at Lesson 1 and proceed through the course at their own pace. For additional assistance and clarification, click "Learning from the tone" or "Reading Resources" on the homepage.
4. Visit a website such as the Rosetta Stone and the search for Thai teams. Rosetta Stone offers immersion programs, including audio CDs and a guide to help you learn and understand the language, alphabet and pronunciation.
5. Practice your reading skills of Thailand in the Learning Resource Centre Thai Thai. Here are the tests of understanding with Thai road signs, restaurant menus, popular and newspaper extracts. These examples will give you the opportunity to apply their reading skills to real life scenarios.
6. Proceed to the University of Minnesota's Center for Advanced Research on Language Acquisition (Carla) website. This site offers a complete list of schools offering less commonly taught languages.
7. Complete the quest to discover the local schools offer courses in Thai language. Browse by language school for courses that specialize in learning to read Thai and select the course that suits your needs.
8. Download a free alphabet chart Learn Thai online or buy one from your local language school and hold next to your study area. These letters will help you learn, internalize and repeat the Thai alphabet and pronunciations through visual aids.

Types of Buddha Statue Thailand

Types of Buddha Statue Thailand
There are many statues of Buddha in Thailand, shortly after it began to appear in the first and second centuries, styles of many developed countries. While there are rules that determine the position that the Buddha could be in the form and characteristics of the Buddha, Thai style in which the Buddha was still different.
Chiang Saen
Chiang Saen style, also known as the Lanna sty, developed between 1000 and 1800. This style, influenced by the art of Burma, Sri Lanka and India, usually depict the Buddha with big curls and a button of lotus. The torso of a Buddha Chiang Saen tends to be fat with a thin waist, the face is typically curved eyebrows, thin lips and a hooked nose.
Dvaravati
Dvaravati style Dvaravati arose in the kingdom of Thailand, which flourished between 600 and 1000. Buddha in this style tend to have heavy influence over India at the beginning but eventually began to take on aspects of Khmer art. Dvaravati Buddhas have bulging eyes, thick lips and flat nose. When standing, the Buddha Dvaravati has a long-range suit for pimples, while a seated Buddha Dvaravati has a short coat draped over his left shoulder.
U Thong
U Thong Buddha were found in central Thailand between 1100 and 1400. In this way, the Buddha is carved a small group from the forehead and the hairline and the head is covered with small curls. The face of Buddha is very square. As time passed, became more oval face and body became longer and thinner.
Sukhothai
The Sukhothai Buddha developed during the reign of the Kingdom of Sukhothai, which lasted from 1200 to 1400. Was greatly influenced by Sri Lanka. These Buddhas were distinguished by a flame on the top of the head of Buddha, which is covered with curls very well. Sukhothai Buddha has high, curved eyebrows and an expression of the lower face, smooth. Sukhothai Buddha's body has broad shoulders and a relatively small waist.
Lopburi
Art flourished in Lopburi, a provincial capital during the Khmer empire, from 1000 to 1100. Lopburi Buddha statues have a hair band and a smiling face is characterized by thick lips and prominent earlobes. These statues, often displayed on a base of lotus petals, are defended by large snakes.
Ayutthaya
The Ayutthaya period lasted from 1300 to 1700. In the artistic style of this realm, the Buddha had a square face with small sculpted lines above the eyes and upper lip. While the Buddha of this period began with a smiling face, the expression became stronger as the period progressed. Later in this period, representations of Buddha was adorned such as crowns and diadems.