Chong Samae San Village and Nongnooch Tropical Garden. In Sattahip Chonburi

Chong Samae San 

is a tiny fishing village along the Sattahip-Tha Rua Phanit Sattahip route, turning left just before one reaches the Sattahip commercial pier. There is a small beach with crystal clear waters. Accommodation is available. Chong Samaesan is another ideal place for diving and fishing. Several islands dot the area, such as Ko Samaesan, Ko Raet, Ko Chuang, and Ko Chan which all come under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy. Daytime sightseeing is permitted but overnight lodging is prohibited.

Nongnooch Tropical Garden

is a tourist attraction amidst natural surroundings. Nongnooch Village orchids and gardens with flowering plants, mangoes, orchids, and other types of flora. Thai style teak wood houses are available for rent. There is also a zoo and Thai Cultural Center showcasing the art of Thai performing art, martial arts, folk sports and performances by elephants. Performances are held triple daily at 10.15 a.m., 3 p.m. and 3.5 kilometers before reaching the destination.

Additional information may be obtained from the office in Pattaya City on Central Pattaya Road, Tel: (038) 429321, 422958 or Bangkok Office, Tel: 252-1768

 

Pattaya City

Bang Saray in Sattahip Of Chonburi

Bang Saray

Bang Saray is a fishing village about 16 kilometers away from Pattaya City, turning left off Sukhumvit Highway at kilometer 165 for about 2 kilometers. A deep-water bay lies on the southern part of Bang Saray, and ideal place for fishing especially for Pakarang fish. Towards the north, is a park with a beautiful beach ideal for swimming. Boats may be rented for fishing or diving for coral viewing. Bang Saray offers a number of excellent restaurants. It has become a popular place for relaxation and for renting boats for excursions around the vicinity.

 

Wat Yan Sangwararam Sattahip Chonburi.

Wat Yan Sangwararam

Amphoe Sattahip

Wat Yan Sangwararam

is a Royal Temple, 15 kilometers south of Pattaya City, Thailand,  turning left from Sukhumvit Highway at kilometer 160. The temple was dedicated to Somdej Phra Yanasangworn, the present Supreme Patriarch in 1976 and was later graciously admitted under the patronage of His Majesty the King. The temple ground comprises a mondop (religious building with rectangular roof) which enshrine a replica of the Buddha's footprints, a large Pagoda where the relics of the Lord Buddha and those of the Lord Buddha's disciple are enshrined. There are international pavilions representing several countries that dot the grounds, such as Switzerland. There is also the Vihan Sian, a grand and exquisite showcase of Chinese architecture.

Sam Muk Hill In Ang Sila Chonburi.

Sam Muk Hill

  Also known as 'monkey hill' this precipice overlooking the sea is located at the north end of Bang Saen beach on the way to Ang Sila village. A shrine, Chao Mae Khao Sam Muk, is believed to commemorate an 18th century Chinese girl who threw herself from the cliff after her parents refused to give their permission for her to marry her lover. The girl is now considered a goddess. Another legend says the hill was once a 'lover's leap' where a couple killed themselves after vowing their eternal love. Still another folk tale says that the shrine honors the memory of a fisherman's wife who waited atop the hill for her husband who was lost at sea.

Many Thai-Chinese people like to visit the shrine to fly kites to honor the magical spirit said to dwell at the site, and to pray for good fortune and prosperity.

On Sam Muk hill there are beautiful cactus gardens and, as the nickname 'monkey hill' implies, the area is inhabited by a large number of wild monkeys.

 

Bang Saen Beach หาดบางแสน

Bang Saen Beach

หาดบางแสน

For decades Had Bang Saen has been the favorite weekend getaway resort for Thai people.

Located 85 km south of Bangkok, just an hour drive from the Suvarnabhum airport, it is easy accessible and unlike any other destination in Thailaad.

You will not find hordes of tourists in this charming village, instead, during the weekends and holidays, you will find this sleepy village transforming into a social Hotspot for Thai nationals. Farmers from the north-east sharing the same beach with Bangkok high-rollers, drinking whiskey, making music, practice dancing and, even, swimming in the Gulf of Thailand.

Here, in this slow-paced environment, where even today a foreigner is something 'odd' , you can let go of your western rush and just relax, or ease out in one of the ever changing restaurants in Bangsaen During the night you can find several restaurants are open on beachroad between soi 1 and soi 2.

Please visit the Kaowemai Beergarden just 30 meters right off the Leamthong shopping centre, for a relaxed drink or deliciuos food. (Best Tom Yam Kung in Bangsaen!) 

3.5 stars out of 5

In 2006 Bangsaen earned a 3.5 stars qualifiction by the Thai tourist Authorithy. Not bad when you consider that once in a while the beach can be polluted. The floating fishfactories sometimes produce a lot of waist. Fortunately most is stopped by the great net around the beacharea.
Otherwise, you will not encounter any problems in Bangsaen, most common problem will be the language, as Bangsaen is not used to catering to foreigners, only a few people speak english. But how hard is it to say you are hungry in signs? It's easy and fun!

Amazing fishes

Every year, somewhere in november, no exact date can be given, millions of fish crab and anything that swims, comes down to the beach at Bangsaen. As the saltlevels has decreased due to the rains, the fish come for some frsh water!

Just dive in and get yourself kilo after kilo of fresh crab and fish, with your hands! You will see local restaurantowners getting their dishes for free, everybody is haunting for the fishes!
Please be aware of the small Stigray ! They are small but still dangerous for children, have fun but take care!

Bang Saen A dramatic lovestory decides faith of the village. บางแสน ชลบุรี

Bang Saen A dramatic lovestory decides faith of the village.

Once upon a time, sometime in the 18 th century, there was a small village near the sea where the villagers earned their living by fishing.  One very rich family that lived in this village had a son named Saen.  One day, Saen went out to fly his kite.  Suddenly, the string broke and the kite flew away.  Saen followed the kite until he came to a garden.  He entered the garden and found a very beautiful girl.  When the girl saw Saen, she was very frightened.  Saen asked for forgiveness for entering her garden.  After talking to the girl, he learned that her name was Muk and she was the daughter of the owner of the garden.  When they grew up, Saen and Muk fell in love with each other and one day Saen gave Muk a ring.  He promised her that nothing could separate them but death.
But  ………
... Saen’s father did not want Saen to marry Muk because Muk was very poor.  So, he chose a rich girl for Saen and arranged the wedding day.  Muk was so sad when she heard the story.  She said that she would kill herself if Saen married the girl.  When the wedding day came, Muk was one of the guests and when she poured the holy water on Saen’s hands, she took off the ring and, saying goodbye, she ran out of the house.  Saen got up quickly and followed, calling out to Muk to come back.  When Saen found her, Muk was standing on the edge of the cliff.  She turned slowly towards Saen, put her hands together to “wai” him to show her respect and love, and then jumped down into the sea below.  Without thinking, Saen followed his lover and they were joined together in death.  Saen’s father asked the villagers to call the beach Bangsaen and the cliff Sam Muk Hill.  And they still have these names to this day.

Koh Loy Sri Racha is on Thesaban Road. (Chonburi Province)

Sri Racha is a district in Chonburi Province, east of Bangkok.
Koh Loy Sri Racha is on Thesaban Road, north of Sri Racha
market. It is a tiny island close to Sri Racha Beach, linked
to the land by a bridge. On the island is a public park and
a Sea Turtle Garden, on lush grounds covering an area of
3  rai. On the Southern side is a small hill with a temple on it.
The temple has combination of Thai and Chinese styles.

The island is a superb place for relaxation and offers good
view of Sri Racha beach. There is also a pier from which one
can board a boat to Koh Sichang (another island nearby).

Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya

Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya
429 Moo 9, Pattaya Beach Road
Cholburi 20150, Thailand
Tel: +66 38 428755-9
Fax: +66 38 421673

Overlooking the eastern shores of the Gulf of Thailand, Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya is a jewel in the heart of the city with its internationally famed image, bringing a unique style and first class entertainment to town.

Located 147 kilometres southeast of Bangkok or about two-hour drive, Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya is Thailand's premier beach resort in Pattaya. About 50 kilometres from the Utapao Airport or 45 minutes drive, Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya is only 8 minutes walk along the beachfront away from the heart of Pattaya's entertainment and shopping area.

This Rock 'n' Roll sanctuary is a haven of 320 themed guest rooms and luxury suites that are designed and decorated in a hip and vibrant style, each room featuring an oversized bed head of a famous Rock 'n' Roll personality for a relaxing accommodation in Pattaya.

With six restaurants and bars for your wine and dine in Pattaya to choose from, you will be spoilt for choice with the various outlets serving traditional Thai-Chinese, Japanese, Californian and Italian cuisines. The double-storey drum-shaped Hard Rock Cafe is the place to see and be seen as the party rages on every night with its resident band.

The hotel's Hall of Fame is a popular venue for banquets and meetings in Pattaya. It is the only venue in Thailand where meetings, conferences, and parties for 10 to 350 persons are uniquely fun, dynamic, and energized with Hard Rock Hotel's edgy "Rock"-inspired spirit.

The Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya is also famous for its weekly Beach Foam-X Party that takes place at its own 2,000 sqare meter free-form pool with its man-made sandy beach. The Beach Club also houses a contemporary tropical spa and a gym.

Come to Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya and feel like a star! It is all about the experience.
 
Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya
429 Moo 9, Pattaya Beach Road
Cholburi 20150, Thailand
Tel: +66 38 428755-9
Fax: +66 38 421673

Songkran Festival Of all the feasts and festivals in Thailand,

Songkran Festival

Songkran Festival Of all the feasts and festivals in Thailand, which are many, the Songkran Festival is the most striking, for it is widely observed not only in this country but also in Burma, Cambodia and the Lao State. It begins on the 13th April and ends on the 15th April, but occasionally in certain years on the 16th April.

The most obvious celebration of Songkran is the throwing of water. People roam the streets with containers of water or water guns, or post themselves at the side of roads with a garden hose and drench each other and passersby. This, however, was not always the main activity of this festival. Songkran was traditionally a time to visit and pay respects to elders, including family members, friends and neighbors.

Besides the throwing of water, people celebrating Songkran may also go to a wat (Buddhist monastery) to pray and give food to monks.They may also cleanse Buddha images.from household shrines as well as Buddha images at monasteries by gently pouring water mixed with a Thai fragrance (น้ำอบไทย) over them. It is believed that doing this will bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year. In many cities, such as Chiang Mai, the Buddha images from all of the city's important monasteries are paraded through the streets so that people can toss water at them, ritually 'bathing' the images, as they pass by on ornately decorated floats. In northern Thailand, people may carry handfuls of sand to their neighborhood monastery in order to recompense the dirt that they have carried away on their feet during the rest of the year.

The sand is then sculpted into stupa-shaped piles and decorated with colorful flags.Some people make New Year resolutions - to refrain from bad behavior, or to do good things. Songkran is a time for cleaning and renewal. Besides washing household Buddha images, many Thais also take this opportunity to give their home a thorough cleaning.

The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by gently pouring a small amount of lustral water on other people’s hands or over a shoulder as a sign of respect. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles.

Nowadays, the emphasis is on fun and water-throwing rather than on the festival's spiritual and religious aspects, which sometimes prompts complaints from traditionalists. In recent years there have been calls to moderate the festival to lessen the many alcohol-related road accidents as well as injuries attributed to extreme behavior such as water being thrown in the faces of traveling motorcyclists.

The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs.

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Songkran History In Thailand. สงกรานต์ ตำนานนางสงกรานต์

Songkran History

นางสงกรานต์ คำพยากรณ์...คติในตำนาน

ใกล้ เข้ามาแล้วสำหรับสงกรานต์ เทศกาลที่มีสีสันความหมายลึกซึ้งซึ่งไม่เพียงแค่ความสนุกสนานเล่นสาดน้ำ เปียกปอน ประเพณีสงกรานต์วันขึ้นปีใหม่ของไทยยังเป็นช่วงเวลาสำคัญของการกลับมาอยู่ ร่วมกันของครอบครัว การทำบุญสร้างกุศล เยี่ยมเยือนญาติผู้ใหญ่ ฯลฯ

จาก ประเพณีสงกรานต์ที่มีความหมาย ตลอดสัปดาห์วาไรตี้ตามติดนำสาระสำคัญของประเพณี สีสันบรรยากาศเทศกาลสงกรานต์ วันผู้สูงอายุ วันครอบครัว ตลอดจนสถานที่พักผ่อนท่องเที่ยวรวมทั้งการกล่าวขานถึงนางสงกรานต์ คำพยากรณ์ มาบอกเล่า

สมัยก่อนที่ยังไม่มีปฏิทิน การจะรู้ว่าวันสงกรานต์ซึ่งถือว่าเป็นวันขึ้นปีใหม่หรือวันเปลี่ยนปีนักษัตร ใหม่ตรงกับวันใดกล่าวกันว่าต้องรอโหรคำนวณ จากนั้นราชการจะออกประกาศ สงกรานต์แจ้งให้ทราบกันซึ่งในประกาศสงกรานต์นอกจากจะทราบถึงวันเวลาเปลี่ยน ศักราชใหม่ วันมงคล อวมงคล ยังมีเกณฑ์น้ำฝนของแต่ละปีแจ้งไว้ ฯลฯ ซึ่งมีประโยชน์ต่อการดำเนินชีวิตของประชาชนที่ประกอบอาชีพกสิกรรมส่วนใหญ่

นอก จากนี้อีกสิ่งที่เป็นที่สนใจคือ นางสงกรานต์ คำพยากรณ์ อย่างถ้านางสงกรานต์นั่งนกยูงจะทราบได้ว่า วันมหาสงกรานต์ปีนั้นตรงกับวันเสาร์และเวลาเปลี่ยนศักราชใหม่ จะอยู่ในช่วงเที่ยงถึงค่ำ เป็นต้นและเพื่อเพิ่มความรู้ความเข้าใจ จากส่วนหนึ่งในหนังสือนางสงกรานต์คือใคร เรื่องราวมโหธรเทวี นางสงกรานต์ปีกุน ฯลฯ ที่สำนักงานคณะกรรมการวัฒน ธรรมแห่งชาติ กระทรวงวัฒนธรรม เผยแพร่ไว้ กล่าวว่า นางสงกรานต์ เป็นคติความเชื่ออยู่ในตำนานสงกรานต์ เล่าถึงความเป็นมาของประเพณีดังกล่าว โดยสมมุติผ่านนางสงกรานต์ทั้งเจ็ดเทียบกับแต่ละวันในสัปดาห์

ตาม ตำนานเล่าว่า "ท้าวกบิลพรหมแพ้ตอบปริศนาแก่ธรรมบาลกุมาร จึงต้องตัดเศียรออกบูชาธรรมบาลกุมารตามสัญญา แต่เนื่องจากพระเศียรของพระองค์ตกไปอยู่ที่ใดก็จะ เป็นอันตรายไม่ว่าจะเป็นบนอากาศ บนดินหรือในน้ำ ธิดาทั้งเจ็ดจึงต้องนำพานมารองรับและนำไปประดิษฐานไว้ในถ้ำคันธชุลี เขาไกรลาส ครั้นถึงกำหนด 365 วัน ซึ่งโลกสมมุติว่าเป็นปีหนึ่งเวียนมาถึงวันมหาสงกรานต์ เทพธิดาทั้งเจ็ดจะทรงพาหนะของตน ผลัดกันมาเชิญพระเศียรของบิดาออกแห่ โดยที่เทพธิดาทั้งเจ็ดปรากฏในวันมหาสงกรานต์เป็นประจำ จึงได้ชื่อว่า นางสงกรานต์ ส่วนท้าวกบิลพรหม โดยนัยคือ พระอาทิตย์ เพราะกบิล หมายถึง สีแดง"

นางสงกรานต์จะมีนาม อาหาร อาวุธ และสัตว์ที่เป็นพาหนะต่างกัน

วัน อาทิตย์ นาม นางทุงษะ ทัดดอกทับทิม เครื่อง ประดับปัทมราค หรือปัทมราช (พลอยสีแดง) ภักษาหารมะเดื่อ หัตถ์ขวาถือจักร หัตถ์ซ้ายถือสังข์ มีครุฑเป็นพาหนะ

วันจันทร์ นาม นางโคราคะ ทัดดอกปีบ เครื่องประดับมุกดา (ไข่มุก) ภักษาหารน้ำมัน หัตถ์ขวาถือพระขรรค์ หัตถ์ซ้ายถือ ไม้เท้า มีเสือเป็นพาหนะ

วันอังคาร นาม นางรากษส ทัดดอกบัวหลวง เครื่องประดับโมรา ภักษาหารโลหิต หัตถ์ขวาถือตรีศูล หัตถ์ซ้ายถือธนู มีสุกรเป็นพาหนะ

วัน พุธ นาม นางมณฑา ทัดดอกจำปา เครื่องประดับไพฑูรย์ ภักษาหารนมเนย หัตถ์ขวาถือเหล็กแหลม หัตถ์ซ้ายถือไม้เท้า มีคัสพะ (ลา) เป็นพาหนะ

วันพฤหัสบดี นาม นางกิริณี ทัดดอกมณฑา เครื่องประดับมรกต ภักษาหารถั่วงา หัตถ์ขวาถือขอช้าง หัตถ์ซ้ายถือปืน มีช้างเป็นพาหนะ

วัน ศุกร์ นาม นางกิมิทา ทัดดอกจงกลนี เครื่องประดับบุษราคัม ภักษาหารกล้วยน้ำว้า หัตถ์ขวาถือพระขรรค์ หัตถ์ซ้ายถือพิณ มีกระบือเป็นพาหนะ

วันเสาร์ นาม นางมโหธร ทัดดอกสามหาว (ผักตบ) เครื่องประดับนิลรัตน์ ภักษาหารเนื้อทราย หัตถ์ขวาถือจักร หัตถ์ซ้ายถือตรีศูล มีนกยูงเป็นพาหนะ


อิริยาบถที่นางสงกรานต์ขี่ พาหนะมาจะเป็นการบอกถึงช่วงเวลาพระอาทิตย์เคลื่อนสู่ราศีเมษเวลาใดของวันมหา สงกรานต์หรือวันขึ้นปีใหม่ซึ่งมีด้วยกัน 4 ท่า

ยืนบนพาหนะ หมายถึง พระอาทิตย์ยกสู่ราศีเมษในระหว่างเวลารุ่งเช้าจนถึงเที่ยง

นั่งบนพาหนะ หมายถึงช่วงเที่ยงจนถึงค่ำ

นอนลืมตาบนพาหนะ หมายถึงช่วงค่ำไปจนถึงเที่ยงคืน

นอนหลับตาบนพาหนะ หมายถึงเที่ยงคืนไปจนถึงรุ่งเช้า

ซึ่ง ความเชื่อเกี่ยวกับอิริยาบถของนางสงกรานต์นั้น กล่าวกันว่า ถ้ายืนมาจะเกิดความเดือดร้อน เจ็บไข้ ถ้านั่งมา จะเกิดความเจ็บไข้ ผู้คนล้มตายและเกิดเหตุเภทภัยต่าง ๆ นอนลืมตา ประชาชนจะอยู่เย็นเป็นสุข และถ้านอนหลับตา พระมหากษัตริย์จะเจริญรุ่งเรือง เป็นต้น


ส่วนคำ ว่า สงกรานต์ มาจากภาษาสันสกฤต แปลว่า ก้าวขึ้นหรือเคลื่อนย้าย หมายถึง การเคลื่อนย้ายของพระอาทิตย์จากราศีหนึ่งสู่อีกราศีหนึ่ง ซึ่งเกิดขึ้นเป็นประจำทุกเดือน แต่เมื่อใดก็ตามที่พระอาทิตย์เคลื่อนจากราศีมีนสู่ราศีเมษ โบราณถือว่าเป็นการเคลื่อนย้ายครั้งสำคัญ เรียกว่า มหาสงกรานต์ เพราะถือว่าเป็นการเคลื่อนเข้าสู่วันปีใหม่อันเป็นการนับตามคติเดิม ซึ่งมักจะตกอยู่ในราววันที่ 13 14 15 เมษายน ซึ่งแต่ละวันจะมีชื่อเรียกต่างกัน

อย่าง วันที่ 13 เมษายน จะเรียกว่า วันมหาสงกรานต์

วันที่ 14 เรียกว่า วันเนา วันที่พระอาทิตย์เริ่มอยู่เข้าที่เข้าทางในราศีเมษ

ส่วนใน วันที่ 15 เรียกว่า วันเถลิงศก เป็นวันเปลี่ยนจุลศักราชใหม่ ซึ่งทั้งสามวันนี้ กำหนดเรียกแบบตายตัวเพื่อให้ง่ายต่อการจดจำ
จากคำพยากรณ์ ตำนานนางสงกรานต์ คติความเชื่อที่กล่าวขานกันมานั้นมีคุณค่าเสมือนเป็นการเตือนสติ ให้ดำรงตนด้วยความไม่ประมาท ได้รู้ระวังป้องกันแก้ไข

Jomtien Beach. In Pattaya

Jomtien Beach

Jomtien Beach
This 6-kilometres long, largely straight beach, some 4 kilometers south of Pattaya, is the most notable of several beaches south of the resort. The beach is popular with windsurfers and water sports enthusiasts, largely because the area enjoys brisk and fresh breezes sweeping inland from the Thai Gulf, and because the seas are less congested with boats than is Pattaya Bay. Jomtien is also a major residential area with beachside hotels, bungalow complexes, condominiums and restaurants.

Wong Phrachan Beach is on the northern side of Pattaya Bay. The 1 kilometer beach shares the same entrance as the Central Wong Amat Hotel. A quiet spot, the beach is ideal for swimming and relaxation.
Khao Pattaya (Khao Phra Bat) A small hill with an asphalt road leading to the top. From its peak, one has a panoramic view of Pattaya City and Pattaya Bay. Currently, Khao Pattaya has been developed and is now the site of the Naval Sor Tor Ror radio station. A sacred Buddha image is also enshrined on the hilltop.
Suan Chaloemphrakiat (Fitness Park) is at foot of Pattaya hill on Phratani'uk Road. This small park, covering a large area, was dedicated to commemorate His Majesty the King's sixtieth birthday on December 5, 1988. The gardens of the park boast a wide variety of flowering plants. There are also multipurpose grounds and winding trails for walking or jogging and standard exercise facilities. On any given day, a large number of people will relax, jog, exercise or simple enjoy the scenery of Pattaya in this park.

The history of Loy Krathong in Thailand

The history of Loy Krathong
  is rather obscure. Some believe that Krathong was first created by Tao Sri Chulalak or Nang Noppamas in Sukothai.
 Others overlook its origin and instead focus on the purposes of the ritual: to pay respect to the Goddess of the Water showing their gratitude on their plentiful use of water and ask for forgiveness in the ensuing pollution. Floating the beautiful Krathong away, which is the key activity in Loy Krathong, also refers to flying away misfortune and bad things in the past and asking for good luck in the future. Although it is not a national holiday, many activities other than floating Krathong, are conducted during this festival. Examples of these activities are contests activities are contests involving Krathong-making and Noppamas beauty pageants, local games and performances and fireworks.

Loy Krathong,Loy Krathong in Pattaya,ลอยกระทงพัทยา,นางนพมาศ,หาดพัทยา

Loy Krathong Festival

In November some may wonder what is going on in Thailand when one sees travel magazine ads and posters at hotels showing Thai girls dressed in traditional Thai clothing with beautiful floating objects. This simply indicates that Loy Krathong is on its way. In Thai "Loy" means to float and "Krathong" means a circular floating object with decoration of banana leaves, flowers, a candle and incense sticks. All these are related to Loy Krathong, an event which does not occur on the same date every year; instead it is based on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, which usually falls in November. In 2010 Loy Krathong Day will be celebrated on November 21. People look forward to going out and launching Krathongs together to predict their romance future by the direction the Krathongs float. However, this season is also good for strengthening relationship in the family.
The floating of a Krathong is signifies floating away ill fortune as well as expressing apologies to Khongkha or Ganga, the River Goddess. Some believe that the ritual is meant to worship the Buddha's footprint on the bank of the Narmada River, while others say that it is to pay respects to Phra Uppakhut, one of the Lord Buddha's great disciples. The Loy Krathong Festival is celebrated nationwide in Thailand, especially where there are rivers, canals or sources of water, with different unique characteristics.

Chonburi Buffalo Races.

Chonburi Buffalo Races

During the time of the full moon in the lunar month, usually 11 days the first weekend in October, farmers from all over the province be an idiot. To their Chonburi City festival that dates back centuries costumed dancers move to the music of the song among Thai flags and banners. General joyousness prevails as local beauties vie for title of "Miss Farm Maiden" the judge also awarded prizes for the best decorated buffalo.

The races themselves are preceded by a parade of colorful buffalo-drawn carts through the central part of the provincial capital. Then the contestants are led to the stadium while farmhands run along side and throw buckets of water on them to keep them cool. The buffalo are fed a mixture of beer and eggs to enhance their performance, and the riders probably consume one of the ingredients to gather their courage for the bareback ride of the rampaging beasts. Crowds whoop and roar and dive for cover as the numerous rounds narrow down the field to four finalists. Finally in the late afternoon the winning buffalo is festooned with garlands and prizes are awarded to the rider.

Pattaya Eastern Seaboard

Pattaya

  Located 140km south-east of Bangkok, on the Eastern Seaboard of the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya is popular with both residents of Bangkok and international tourists. Over one million people visit this beach resort every year to sample the sun, sand, sports facilities and many fine attractions. After dark Pattaya really comes alive and the city takes on a party atmosphere which lasts until the early hours.

Getting There

From Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) there is a bus service run by Thai International. Tickets can be purchased in the arrivals hall. Two limousine services also offer transport to and from the International airport, at a cost of 1500 Bahtone way. Transfer times from the airport vary from 2 - 2½ hours depending on traffic conditions.
From Ekami Bus Terminal in Bangkok air-conditioned buses run every 20 minutes to Pattaya, and are clearly labelled in English. A taxi ride from a central Bangkok hotel to Ekami will cost 100 - 150 Baht.
Orient Thai Airlines have flights from Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Phuket to U-Tapao airport, which is a 45 minute taxi ride from Pattaya.
Bangkok Airways have a service from Koh Samui to U-Tapao.

Getting around

Around Pattaya mini bus cruise the main bay area for a set fare. Just jump on, call out your destination and pay as you alight. For longer trips to say Jomtien beach you will have to bargain for the fare.

Bus Service 

They will begin servicing 3 main roads with 5 routes;
Route 1: (Yellow) From Kratinglai 3-way intersection to Wat Intanararam to Jomtien Beach via Thappraya Road, Pratamnak Road, Dolphin Roundabout, Naklua market, Banglamung district office and to the Kratinglai 3-way intersection (6 buses).
Route 2: (Green) North Pattaya bus station, North Pattaya Road, along Sukhumvit Road to Jomtien Beach, Thappraya Road, Pattaya Third Road and along North Pattaya bus station (5 buses).
Route 3:(Red) From Soi Potisan (Naklua) along Sukhumvit Road, South Pattaya Road, Chaiyamongkhol Temple, along Pattaya Second Road and Pattaya Naklua Road to Soi Potisan (7 buses).
The bus service is scheduled to run from 6 a.m. to midnight daily with adjustments to be made according to demands.
Proposed ticket prices are: One way - 30 Bahtfor the entire length of route; One day ticket - 90 Baht; Three day ticket - 180 Baht; Monthly ticket - 900 Baht. City administrators have suggested that Pattaya residents be eligible for a discount of 50 percent of the monthly ticket purchase, bringing the price down to 450 Baht, as well as provide a student monthly ticket for 350 Bahtas part of the New Year gift.

Car Rental

There are several car and motorcycle rental services in Pattaya. The larger firms offer full insurance, but many only have third party cover. You may find yourself having to pay for any damage or mechanical problems with the vehicle. Read the terms of the contract carefully before renting a vehicle, and don't forget your international driving permit.

Accommodation

Pattaya has more than 340 hotels with a total of 23,000 rooms, and the visitor can choose from 5 star luxury to a simple room with fan.
Royal Garden Resort
This "family-friendly" resort hotel is in the very heart of exciting Pattaya, yet the same time one is surrounded by peaceful tropical gardens and lily ponds. The 300 superbly-appointed guest rooms and suites all command fine balcony views of Pattaya Bay, and the largest hotel swimming pool in the city.
218 Beach Road
Pattaya, Chonburi
Tel:(6638) 428126-7 Fax: (6638) 429926
Email: royalgardenrpty@minornet.com
Summer Place Hotel
Economy class hotel 500 meters from beaches, banks, restaurants, bars, shopping center, and entertainment complex. Special rates for Amazing Thailand years
379 Soi Sukrudi, Central Road
Pattaya City, Chonburi 20260
Tel:66 38 428659, 426924 Fax: 66 38 428139
Email: summer@loxinfo.co.th
Siam Bayshore Resort
Siam Bayshore resort is nestled on the quiet southern tip of Pattaya Bay, yet just a short walk from the centre of town.
One of Pattaya's original and most distinctive resorts, Siam Bayshore Resort comprises 12 four-storey wings connected by covered walkways, secluded amidst 20 acres of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens.
Pattaya Beach
Pattaya City, Chonburi 20260
Tel: 66 38 428678-81 Fax: 66 38 428730
Email: siambayshore@siamhotels.com
Siam Bayview Hotel
Saim Bayview Hotel is located right in the middle of the beach front promenade and only a short walk from Pattaya's centre. A contemporary hotel with a friendly atmosphere, the Siam Bayview is an excellent place for relaxing vactions, or meetings and seminars where business and pleasure can be combined.
Beach Road
Pattaya City, Chonburi 20260
Tel: 66 38 423871-7 Fax: 66 38 423879
Email: siambayview@siamhotels.com
Jomtien Plaza Condo
406/1 Jomtien, Soi 1. Jomtien Beach Road
Jomtien, Pattaya
chonburi
Tel: 66-38-233-297~8

Food and Drink

There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from with cuisine from almost every continent, and Western visitors seeking their favourite fast food will not be disappointed.
Patrick's Belgian Restaurant
Belgian Restaurant(Aircon) with all Belgian specialities,European and also the Real Thai kitchen plus outdoor eating area(terrace)
216/51-52,Moo10,off 2nd Rd,Opp.Mike Shopping Mall
Pattaya
Tel: 038/720 300 Fax: 038/720 300(after 11pm)
Email: tedpole_98@yahoo.com

Beaches

Pattaya bay has its own beach which has become much cleaner over the past year. Most visitors prefer the nearby Jomtien beach which is a short bus ride from the centre of Pattaya. Wind surfing, para-sailing, water scooters, and swimming are some of the more energetic activities on offer, or you may prefer a relaxing massage. Food and drink can be ordered from nearby vendors.

Entertainment

There are several cinemas complexes showing the latest movies, and many caberat shows to keep you entertained. Classical Thai dancing is a feature at some restaurants.

Night Life

Pattaya has no shortage of night life and you will find many bars and discos which stay open until the early hours. South Pattaya has a mixture of open air bars, Go Go bars, restaurants and shops. It is closed to traffic from 7pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and is a good place to start if you are in the mood for a little bar hopping.

Shopping

There are several shopping malls in the centre of Pattaya, plus two super centres which sell everything from instant noodles to TV sets. Beach Road and south Pattaya has many shops where you can buy clothing, jewellery, leather goods, paintings, bronze ware and a host of other things. Don't be afraid to bargain at these shops it's all part of the fun. Every Sunday there is an excellent market at Naklua, just north of Pattaya city.
Sunny Online - Fashion Shopping
179/108, Moo 5, Nakula Rd, Pattaya, 20260. Tel 038-370457 Fax : 038-370434.
sunny@sunnyonline.com

Miscellaneous

Noi & Sister's Beauty Salon
Full Salon Services for both Men and Women. Offers Manicure, Pedicure and facial services. Referal services for massage are available.
437/135 Soi Yossak (6)
Pattaya Beach
Tel: 01-305-5944 Fax:
papi@ats0.attnet.or.jp
K T Internet Cafe
437/13 Soi Yotsak (Soi 6) Seabeach Rd
Pattaya 20260
Tel: +66 38 423 286 Fax: +66 38 423 286
SUNNY ONLINE - Internet Cafe
380, Moo 9, Soi 2, Pattaya, 20260. Tel +66 38 900033, Fax: +66 38 900033.
sunny@sunnyonline.com
SUNNY ONLINE - Travel Agency
380, Moo 9, Soi 2, Pattaya, 20260. Tel +66 38 900033, Fax: +66 38 900033.
sunny@sunnyonline.com

Kids Stuff

If the kids get bored with the hotel pool you should have no trouble finding something to keep them occupied. The shopping plaza in central Pattaya has several attractions which children should enjoy, then there is a water park near Jomtien beach, go-karting, paintball, and......

Sight Seeing

Boats leave every morning for day trips to one of the coral islands, or you can take a short ride down the coast to Ban Pha and hop on the ferry to Koh Samet. Sattahip and Rayong are within easy reach.
In the opposite direction is the towns of Sri Racha, with Ang Sila and Bang Saen a little further up the coast. Most hotels will be able to arrange day trips.

Sports

Many larger hotels have tennis courts and fitness centres. You could try a spot of sea fishing, or spend a day at a fishing park. Scuba diving offers a chance to the visit the fish at home, and tuition by qualified instructors is available if required.
Shooting, bowling, snooker, darts , squash, badminton, bungee jumping, karting and golf are some of the other sports available.

Koh Si Chang - SriRacha Chonburi

Koh Si Chang, or Sichang Island, has a special place in the history of the Chakri dynasty. Three former kings vacationed there. Its remaining link to royalty can be seen in the names around the island where almost everything is named after members of the royal family, and some high-ranking officers, of King Chulalongkorn, Rama V. Some of the roads, buildings, bridges, parks and temples are named after high-ranking officers who contributed to their construction. Other sites were named after precious stones.
King Mongkut, or Rama IV, admired the island for its fresh and clean air, which he believed contributed to the long lives of the people who lived there. But even though the King made periodic trips to the island in the mid-19th century, he slept on his ship and didn't build a permanent residence there.
The face of Sichang Island changed considerably during the reign of King Rama V as it became a busy port and one of the gateways to Siam. After Prince Vajiravudh (who would later take the throne as King Rama VI) stayed on the island for over eight months to recover from an illness, Sichang became the most popular place for convalescence for members of the royal family.
Chudadhuj Palace
Still, it was not until 1892 that the royal summer residences took on the formal status of a palace. When Prince Chudadhuj Daradilok was born to Queen Sri Bajarindra on July 5, 1892, at Chudadhuj Throne Hall on the island, and a traditional ceremony was held a month later to bless the new-born prince, and the Sichang summer palace was bestowed with the name Chudadhuj Palace.
The summer palace compound boasted four mansions, 14 halls and a pavilion surrounded by many ponds, brooks, cliffs and caves. The palace's architecture reflected the social and political climate of the time it was built. The Western influence is evident.
The pagoda-church of Assadang Nimit Temple for example. It's a true East-meets-West building with a traditional Thai pagoda built on top of the Western domed church. The floor was made of marble and the windows were decorated with stained glass, he added.
Regrettably, it was the rise of Western colonialism that forced the royal family to leave the island. The Franco-Siamese conflict regarding sovereignty over neighbouring Laos led to aggression by French gunships which blockaded the Chao Phraya River. The French also stationed their troops along the eastern coast of Siam, and Sichang Island was no longer considered safe for royal sojourns.
Though the Franco-Siamese treaty relinquishing land on the left bank of the Mekong River to the French was signed in 1893, the French did not pull out their troops until a decade later. The palace was left vacant and some mansions under construction in the compound were left unfinished.
In 1901, however, King Chulalongkorn realised that Munthat Rattanarot Mansion was still not finished, and he ordered the golden teakwood building to be dismantled and brought to Bangkok. By royal decree, the mansion was brought to Dusit Palace and rebuilt as the renowned Vimanmek Mansion.
The octagon stone base where the original mansion once stood can still be seen at the compound of the Chudhadhuj Palace on Sichang Island.
Wat Thamyaiprig
Wat Thamyaiprig started in 1970 a spartan, solitary abode at a limestone cave up the mountain on Si Chang Island. The temple grew as the abbot's fame as a meditation teacher attracted the religious-minded to enter a monastic life and learn meditation under his guidance. The temple now accommodates 23 monks and 22 nuns from various professional backgrounds.
"Some are experienced electricians, others are builders and carpenters," said Mae Chee Srisuda, who herself is a former teacher. "Our diverse skills have made it possible for our temple to be relatively self-sufficient."
Apart from a praying hall, meditation pavilions, and monks' living quarters, Wat Thamyaiprig also has large fruit and vegetable gardens to support its monks and nuns. It also boasts as many as 37 huge underground water tanks.
Si Chang is a rock island with no natural source of spring water. Therefore, they need huge water tanks to store the rain water for use all year round. Water tanks, for example, are built under every building in the temple. When it rains, the water will flow from the roof down the rain pipes to the tube which flows directly to the water tank underneath. When the top water tank is full, the water will flow over to a pipe which goes to the one below, until all water tanks are full. Then the excess water will be released to the sea.
The stored rain water is used for all water needs, from drinking to watering the vegetable gardens. But thanks to the temple's frugality, the temple is able to distribute excess water to villagers nearby.
The villagers need to pay about 90 to 100 Bahtfor one cubic metre of water in village stores, which is very expensive. However on water distribution days, the villagers bring their own containers to take the water from the temple for free, she said.
Water is not the only thing Wat Thamyaiprig offers the Si Chang inhabitants. The abundant vegetable gardens on the 19-rai temple generously yield all sorts of vegetables such as tomatoes, aubergines, lettuce, water mimosa, cow peas and pumpkins, among many things. The yield is more than the monks and nuns need, for they only have one meal a day. The surplus is given for free to the villagers.
Although monks and nuns at Wat Thamyaiprig must chip in their labour at the temple, the nun said they never consider it a life of hardship.

Getting There

Located off the coast of the fishing town of Sri Racha, Chonburi province, this island has many sites of historical value. Boats leave from the pier near Koh Loy, Sri Racha and take 45 minutes to reach the island.

Where to Stay

Accommodation on the island is limited, as is the water supply. There is no natural source of water on the island, so the inhabitants reply on rain water stored in large cisterns that were built when the island was developed about a century ago.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, 163 Sukhumvit Road (15 minutes east of town centre); tel. +66-38429321 . Beautiful gardens with waterfalls, elephant shows, "Cultural Extravaganza" performances 4 times a day, restaurants etc. - enough to fill an entire day. In Feb 2007 they had major construction ongoing. We did the whole place in 90 minutes. Disappointing. Yet another place in Pattaya that thinks it is acceptable to charge foreigners more than Thais .200 baht for locals, 400 baht for foreigners. This practice is illegal in Thailand but strangely nobody in authority is prepared to do something about it.
Saithip Butterfly Garden, 79/5 Moo 11 Bangpra-Khaokheow Road, Bangpra Sriracha; tel. +66-99365339. Open 08:00-17:00. Admission for foreigners: 100 baht/adult, 60 baht/child.

Koh Khrok And Koh Saak (Pattaya)

Ko Khrok (or Krok), 2 km east of Ko Laan, is an isolated rocky islet with a single 100 metre stretch of sandy beach to the east, where visitors can see coral reefs.

Ko Saak (or Sak), less than 1 km north of Ko Laan, is a small horseshoe-shaped island with two interconnected beaches. The northern beach is popular for swimming and snorkeling, and the southern beach is a good place to see coral.

Ko Phai (Bamboo Island).

Ko Phai (Bamboo Island) and other islands in the Ko Phai group - Ko Klung Badan (or Krung Badan), Ko Luam (or Leom), Ko Man Wichai and Ko Rin (or Lin) - are preferred destinations for scuba divers, and are also popular for general relaxation, fishing, swimming and snorkeling day trips. This area is controlled by the Royal Thai Navy, and overnight stays are not permitted. For a return speedboat charter from one of the mainland beaches or Bali Hai Pier (approx. 23 km / 2 hours), expect to pay 2500-4000 baht; possibly less from Ko Laan.

Ko Laan (or Lan or Larn, or Coral Island).

Ko Laan (or Lan or Larn, or Coral Island) is 7.5 km west of Pattaya.
 It covers an area of 5.6 sq.km and has six popular beaches with a decidedly "touristic day-trip" flavour, offering banana boat rides, jet-skiing, parasailing, and the like. Also available from and around Ko Laan are various underwater activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, seabed walking and submarine rides; there are also numerous restaurants, some accommodation, and a shooting range. Regular ferries from Bali Hai Pier costs 20 baht and take 30-45 minutes
 - departure times: from Pattaya 07:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:30, 17:00, 18:30; from Ko Laan 06:30, 07:30, 09:30, 12:00, 14:00, 17:00, 18:00. Alternatively speedboats can be chartered just about anywhere along the main beaches, typically for 1500-2500 baht; or you can book a day trip via an agency
 - expect to pay 500-600 baht for minibus collection from your hotel around 09:00, ferry from Bali Hai Pier direct to one of the main beaches (taking about half an hour), lunch, soft drinks, return ferry around 16:00, and minibus back to your hotel.
Ko Saak (or Sak), less than 1 km north of Ko Laan, is a small horseshoe-shaped island with two interconnected beaches. The northern beach is popular for swimming and snorkeling, and the southern beach is a good place to see coral. เกาะล้าน เกาะร้าน เกาะร่าน เกาะล่าน พัทยา เกาะครก เกาะสาก

Jomtien ("Chom Thian", etc) Beach

Jomtien (หาดจอมเทียน)
  Jomtien ("Chom Thian", etc) Beach is a 10-15 minute (10 baht) songthaew ride south from the centre of Pattaya. Some 6 km long, it is especially popular with Thai families enjoying day outings. Places to eat and sleep line the opposite side of Jomtien Beach Road and the many sois that lead from it.

Dongtan Beach, (หาดดงตาล) at the northern end of Jomtien Bay, has a traffic-free promenade, and the area in front of the Avalon Beach Resort is popular with gay visitors.

Naklua Bay of Pattaya.

Naklua.
  Naklua Bay is immediately north of Pattaya Bay, with Rachvate Cape separating the two. Naklua Beach, to the far north, is the main strip, with the smaller Crescent Moon Beach and then Palm Beach further south. Beyond them is Wong Amat Beach which occupies the northern end of Pattaya Bay, but is accessed from Naklua. All are generally cleaner and more suitable for quiet relaxation than Pattaya Beach.

Pattaya In Thailand. พัทยา ชลบุรี ที่เที่ยวเมืองไทย

Pattaya In Thailand.

 Pattaya (พัทยา) is a popular resort on the North Gulf Coast of Eastern Thailand, 150 km south-east of Bangkok. Most famous for its go-go and beer bars, it's also one of Thailand's best locations for all manner of sports and activities. Some of the beaches are lacklustre (by Thailand's high standards) and rampant over-development has long since destroyed any natural charms it once had, but its plethora of hotels and guest houses and convenient location with quick and easy access from the capital make it a popular weekend getaway. Catering for over 5 million tourists yearly, Pattaya is also able to offer an excellent range of eating choices and a wide variety of things to do and see.

 Pattaya's name was originally "Thap Phraya", meaning Army of the Phraya - commemorating the surrender of Nai Klom's army to that of Phraya Tak (later King Taksin the Great), without a fight. Thap Phraya became Phatthaya (the name of the north-easterly wind at the beginning of the rainy season), and then Phatthaya (the true phonetic spelling).

 Since 1978, Pattaya has been administered under a special autonomous system with a status comparable to that of a municipality by the mayor of Pattaya City, who has overall responsibility for policies, public services, and supervision of all City Hall employees.

 Once a sleepy fishing town, Pattaya first boomed as an R&R spot during the Vietnam War and has been a sex tourism destination trying to improve its image ever since. Currently, Pattaya is booming again: TAT claims 5,338,000 visitors for 2005 (up 6.5% from 2004), of which two-thirds were foreigners, and the opening of the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (located to the east of Bangkok, alongside the expressway to Pattaya) has made visiting easier than ever.

 Pattaya is popular not only as a beach resort and for its entertainment, nightlife and shopping, but also for the broad selection of pastimes it caters for, from golf and horseback riding to bungee jumping, karting and shooting - not to mention a wide variety of watersports such as scuba diving, jet-skiing, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, and a whole lot more. Pattaya is also very popular as a conference, convention and seminar venue, and the grapevine hosts rumours of future developments of varying degrees of plausibility, such as a horse racing track, casinos, and a tram system.

 The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) Information Office is just outside the centre, exactly 1 km south of the junction of Second Road and South Pattaya Road - proceed along Pratamnak Road, continue straight up the hill, and where the road bears sharp right part way up, turn sharp left into the small side-soi. Worth a visit if you're in Pattaya for an extended period and want to browse for fresh ideas for new things to do/see. Open daily 08 :30-16:30, tel. +66-38428750 / 8990 / 7667 or use the TAT freephone number: dial 1672 or e-mail: tatchon@tat.or.th