CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION: OBJECTIVES OF THAILAND TOURISM:

1. To analyze the tourism pattern in Thailand 2. To explore its attractions which include the natural beauty of rainforests, islands and beaches as well as the cultural heritage and way of life of the Thai people 3. To explore the way of life of people. 4. To learn and explore Thai culture.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
1. SAMPLING METHODOLOGY:
1.1. 1.2. 1.3. Sampling size 28 respondents Sampling area- Bangkok , Phuket , Pattaya Sampling technique- random sampling technique

2. RESEARCH DESIGN:
1.1 .Visited the tourists across Delhi and various cities of Thailand & gathered information required as per the questionnaire. 2.2. The research design is probability research design and is descriptive research.

2. DATA COLLECTION:
3.1. Primary data has been used by me in the form of Questionnaire & Observation, which are the two basic methods of collecting primary data, which suffices all research objectives. 3.2. Secondary data sources like catalogue of the country &various internet sites such as thaitourism.com & google.com have been used.

The Questionnaire about the Tourists Lives in THAILAND

General Information
Name of the tourist:___________ Nationality:____________ Length of stay in Hong BANGKOK:_____ days/months Is this your first-time visit to THAILAND? yes no

Favourite Places to Visit in THAILAND Have you visited the following places? If yes, please rate your degree of satisfaction with them. strongly satisfied satisfied dissatisfied never visited The Peak 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. BUDDHA TEMPLE Stanley Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront Repulse Bay Lamma Island Ocean Park Ocean Terminal

8. Before you visit a place, what factor(s) will you consider? Rate the factors according to their degree of importance. 5 is the factor you will most consider and 1 is the factor you will least consider. transport convenience money (whether there is entrance fee) cleanliness (whether it is polluted or not) attractiveness of the place familys preference other factors you may consider:___________________________________

Shopping Habits
9. Do you like shopping? yes no (please jump to the next section) 10. Do you think the goods sold in BANGKOK are cheap? yes no 11. Do you think the salesmen in BANGKOK are friendly and helpful? yes no 12. Do you think shopping In Bangkok is convenient? yes no 13. Before you make a purchase, what factor(s) will you consider? Rate the factors according to their degree of importance. 4 is the factor you will most consider and 1 is the factor you will least consider. attitude of the salesperson(s) money/cost personal preference for the product(s) friends or relatives advice other factors you may consider:___________________________________ 14. Before you visit a shopping place, what factor(s) will you consider? Rate the factors according to their degree of importance. 5 is the factor you will most consider and 1 is the factor you will least consider. transport convenience cleanliness (whether it is shopping malls or flea market stalls) attractiveness of the place (whether there are support facilities at the place) familys preference other factors you may consider:___________________________________

Feelings about Local People 15. Do you think the local Bangkok people are friendly and helpful? yes no 16. How will you describe the English standard of local people? excellent good acceptable poor no opinion 17. Do you have any unforgettable encounter(s) with local thai people? If yes, please briefly describe it/them_________________________________________________

Nature
Thailand is a country with abundant natural resources, including a wide variety of flora and fauna, and distinct ecological zones. There are over 100 Thailand national parks, including more than 20 marine parks, and each park features unique attractions, outstanding facilities, and opportunities to see animals in Thailand. Those interested in trekking, mountain biking, photography, birding, camping, scuba diving, or getting up close to exotic animals in Thailand have many options to choose from. A visit to a Thailand beach or one of the many Thailand islands is an opportunity for visitors to relax, experience exotic marine life, or even learn to scuba dive. However, across Thailand, whether at a beach, island, or Thailand National Park visitors will discover unique flora and fauna and distinct ecological zones, from the temperate forests of the northern mountains and the plains of central Thailand to the savannahs of the northeast and the mangrove forests of the southern coasts. Animals in Thailand include not only elephants and monkeys but also bears and whale sharks, the worlds largest fish.

Beaches and Islands

Visiting a Thailand beach or island is the preferred holiday for hundreds of thousands of visitors to Thailand every year. Thailand is blessed with natural beauty and its islands are amongst the most scenic and beautiful in the world. Likewise, each Thai beach, such as Karon Beach in Phuket, Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui, or picturesque Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi, is simply stunning, and many feature powdery sand, crystal clear water, and postcard-perfect scenery. Each Thai beach and island has its own character and identity and therefore draws a specific type of visitor. Each coastal area contains a slice of heaven suitable for a different style of traveler: The west coast of Thailand, along the Andaman Sea, features beaches that appeals to every type of traveler, including the activity-filled resort island of Phuket; the popular backpacker beaches of Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Krabi; the family friendly, laid back, and pristine coast of Khao Lak (the launching point for trips to the spectacular Similan Islands); and the remote, undeveloped islands of the far south. Along the Gulf coast, the resort island of Koh Samui lies nearby the natural splendor of Koh Phangan and the scuba diving paradise of Koh Tao. Closer to Bangkok are the popular resort town of Hua Hin, a favorite among Thais, and its quieter neighbor Cha Am. Finally, to the east of Thailand, the northern Gulf features Bangkok weekend getaway Koh Samet, and the up-andcoming resort island of Koh Chang, which has both upscale resorts and budget beach bungalows. Certain Thai beaches and islands, like Koh Tarutao National Park, offer limited accommodation and facilities and draw more adventurous travelers who are looking for a more back to basics holiday experience. Others, such as Kamala Beach in Phuket, offer world class facilities (accommodation, restaurants, nightlife, etc) to entice visitors with bigger budgets who require

creature comforts. It is important to note that this diversity exists not only between the islands, but between different beaches as well. Whereas one Thai beach might offer raucous entertainment, another a few kilometers away on the same island might only draw those looking for a quiet holiday. Phuket, Thailands largest island, is a perfect example of this contrast. Phuket is certainly the most developed Thai island, having been the first Thai beach resort destination. Located on the Andaman coast, Phuket contains numerous beaches, including the activity filled Patong beach, with its exciting nightlife, and the more family friendly Karon and Kata beaches. Across the island are luxurious five-star resorts and a wealth of Thai spas that serve to pamper visitors on any budget. In addition to a lush, tropical interior that features a variety of exotic wildlife, Phuket is an ideal location for day trips to nearby islands, such as Koh Phi Phi, a favorite destination for scuba divers, and Phang Nga bay, where visitors can snorkel, kayak, and visit iconic James Bond Island (Koh Tapu). Phuket is easily accessible via its international airport that connects domestically with Bangkok, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai. Koh Samui is the prime island attraction in the Gulf of Thailand. The most popular beach, Chaweng, features accommodation from five-star luxury resorts to affordable beach bungalows, and dining includes fine dining on international cuisine and casual beachside seafood barbeques. Samui is both family friendly and budget oriented with a host of activities, some of Thailands finest spas, and is conveniently located nearby some of Thailands finest diving off neighboring Koh Tao. Samui International Airport connects domestically to Bangkok, Krabi, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. Krabi is a province on the mainland Andaman coast, near Phuket. In addition to popular beachside resort areas, such as Railey Beach, Krabi includes a number of spectacular islands, such as the Phi Phi Islands and Koh Lanta, off of which some of Thailands most popular scuba diving sites are found.

For any traveler wishing to explore the wonders of nature, a Thailand National Park is an outstanding destination. There are many forest parks if you long to explore the tropical rainforest or travel deep into the wild jungle to see some of the exotic animals in Thailand. If you prefer scuba diving, snorkeling, or sea kayaking there are a number of national marine parks in the south and east of Thailand that are simply stunning. In fact, Thailand has over 100 national parks, including more than 20 marine parks; each park in Thailand contains unique flora and fauna as well as basic amenities, including some bungalows with electricity and grounds for camping (even if you dont bring your own tent.) Most of these

parks are easily accessible and admission fees are relatively modest, though booking ahead is often recommended as some parks are very popular with National Parks Thai visitors, particular over long holiday weekends. Eco-oriented activities at a national park in Thailand range from trekking, kayaking, nature photography, camping and snorkeling to spotting exotic birds and other animals in Thailand unlike those found elsewhere in the world. However, simply relaxing and enjoying the pristine beauty of unspoiled Thai nature may be the most rewarding experience of all. A few of Thailands more popular national parks are: Khao Yai National Park is perhaps the most popular Thai park as it is just 200 km from Bangkok and the bucolic surrounding area features a variety of accommodation options, a variety of activities, and diverse wildlife that includes wild tigers, elephants, bears, and exotic birds, such as the giant hornbill. Doi Inthanon National Park in Northern Thailand features Thailands highest peak and contains waterfalls and forests containing numerous species of orchid. The area is also inhabited by indigenous hill tribe villagers. Sam Roi Yot National Park is a favorite for bird watchers as the coastal region of the park features marshes that are home to a variety of waterfowl and other marine life. Erawan National Park, located in Kanchanaburi Province in western Thailand, features a renowned seven tiered waterfall and a tropical forest that contains numerous wildlife species. Marine parks include Koh Samet (conveniently located near Bangkok), Ang Thong Marine National Park (a favorite kayaking and snorkeling day-trip from Koh Samui), Tarutao Marine Park (the most remote and unspoiled of Thailands southern islands), and Ao Phang Nga National Park (a popular day-trip from Phuket that features unique limestone islands such as James Bond Island from the film The Man with the Golden Gun).

Weather
The Thailand climate is controlled by tropical monsoons and the weather in Thailand is generally hot and humid across most of the country throughout most of the year. While Thailands seasons are generally divided into the hot season, cool season, and rainy season, in reality its relatively hot most of the year. The weather in central, northern, and northeastern Thailand (the landlocked provinces) is determined by three seasons, whereas the southern, coastal regions of Thailand feature only two, making the weather in Thailand quite easy to understand and plan a trip around.

In Thailands inland provinces the seasons are clearly defined: Between November and May the weather is mostly dry and the cool season and hot season occur from November to February and March to May respectively. The other inland season, the rainy season, lasts from May to November and is dominated by the southwest monsoon, during which time rainfall in most of Thailand is at its heaviest. The southern, coastal region of Thailand really has only two seasons rainy season and dry season. Fortunately, for those planning a beach holiday, Thailands two coasts have slightly different rainy seasons, allowing visitors to find sunny beaches nearly year round. Cool Season (November - February) The weather in Thailand around the central, northern, and northeastern regions is mostly cool and dry between November and February, consequently these are the most popular months to visit Thailand. Considering its location in the tropics however, the Thailand climate is quite warm most of the year and genuinely cool weather really only occurs in the northern mountains, while areas like Bangkok and Ayutthaya receive perhaps only two or three weeks of cool weather in late December or early January. The southern region of Thailand really has only two seasons rainy and dry, not technically experiencing cool weather, per se, but featuring glorious sunshine without unbearable heat, beginning in late November and continuing onto April or May.

Hot Season (March - June) The weather in Thailand classified as the hot season lasts from March to June when higher relative temperatures and occasional rain are the norm. Around the inland areas, including Bangkok and Ayutthaya, this often means punishing heat and high humidity. The temperatures in the hot season begin climbing in February and by April the unrelenting heat makes many residents eager for the upcoming rains, which begin sporadically falling around mid-April. This is traditionally the least popular season for travelers to visit, although the weather in Thailand is still quite nice along Thailands coasts.

Rainy Season (July - October) The rainy season lasts from July to October and is dominated by the southwest monsoon, during which time rainfall in most of Thailand is at its heaviest. However, like the cool season, the name rainy season is slightly misleading. While it certainly does rain during this season its more likely to consist of flash-flood afternoon downpours than a continual drizzle for days. If you can bear the heat and humidity, the weather in Thailand is typically sunny throughout the rainy season, but when the rain comes, its fast and its furious.

Fortunately for beach lovers, Thailands two coasts have slightly different rainy seasons, allowing visitors to find sunny beaches nearly year round. On the Andaman or west coast, where Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands lie, the southwest monsoon brings heavy storms from April to October, while on the Gulf of Thailand or east coast, where Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao lie, the most rain falls between September and December. While the monsoon on the west coast brings a fairly steady season of continual rain that forces businesses outside the major tourist destinations to shut their doors for the season, the east coast storms are more similar to the norths, generally sunny days with occasionally heavy downpours. Overall, the southern parts of Thailand, particularly the Andaman Coast, get the most rain: around 2,400 millimeters every year, compared with the central and northern regions of Thailand, both of which get around 1,400 millimeters.

Language
While the official Thai language is widely spoken throughout Thailand, many Thais also speak and understand English, though more so in Bangkok and the major tourist areas. As visitors to Thailand also include many Europeans and other Asians, Thai people's language skills often also include these other languages to varying degrees. The Thai language itself is challenging to master, but Thai people are happy to help foreigners learn a few words to help them get around. However, English is typically the common currency for cross-cultural conversation as Thailand hosts visitors from around the world. With so many visitors, the Thailand communications system has many features that make it very accessible to foreigners. In regards to telephone use, it is possible to get a Thai SIM card at most international airports and both rental mobile phones and SIM cards are readily available in destinations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Workers in post offices generally speak some English, and there are internet cafes throughout Thailand that feature Skype headsets specifically to cater to visitors wishing to communicate with friends and family back home. The Thailand communications system is both modern and convenient for visitors to use.

Thai Language While the Thai language is the official language of Thailand, one could say English is its unofficial second language. As tourist and business visitors from around the world have traveled to Thailand, English naturally has become the common linguistic currency even while many of those visitors learned how to speak Thai. Consequently, population centers that host many

foreigners, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the islands have many people who can speak both Thai and English quite well. That said, visitors may experience difficulty picking up the Thai language as it is considerably different from many foreign languages. The Thai language features five tones: high, mid, low, rising, and falling, each of which changes the meaning of particular words. Visitors unfamiliar with tonal languages often have difficulty pronouncing even the most basic terms when learning to speak Thai, but with some practice visitors find that Thai people enjoy helping them with their pronunciation of the Thai language. Written Thai is based on an alphabet adopted from the Khmers of Cambodia and is said to have become standardized during the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng during the Sukhothai period. The Thai alphabet consists of 44 consonants, 18 vowels, and 4 diphthong (tonal) notations. Learning to read Thai can be more complicated than learning to speak it as the pronunciation of written words does not follow a straightforward progression of letters and written Thai does not place spaces in between words. Fortunately, road signs are written in both Thai and English, and many tourist areas provide maps, menus, and other literature in both Thai and various other foreign languages. One problem that does occur for foreigners trying to pronounce Thai words correctly is caused by the transliteration of Thai words into Romanized characters. An obvious example would be the island of Phuket, pronounced poo-ket rather than foo-ket as it would be pronounced in English. Furthermore, there is no official standard for the transliteration of words and thus many Thai words are spelled differently on different maps or street signs (i.e. Even the BTS Skytrain features both Chitlom and Chidlom stations). In addition, while most Thais speak and understand the central Thai dialect, there are various regional dialects, including those of Southern Thailand and Northeastern Thailand, the latter of which is essentially just the Lao language (as most of the population is of Lao descent). In northern Thailand, which had been the independent kingdoms of Lan Na and Chiang Mai from 1259-1939, a distinctive form of Thai is still spoken by the local inhabitants, all of whom can also speak central Thai. All variants of Thai use the same alphabet.

Thailand Communications Network The Thailand Communications network is both easy and convenient for foreigners to utilize. Thailand features numerous public telephones, mobile phones are easy for visitors to procure, internet cafes and wireless internet services are widespread, and there is a post office in every major town in the Kingdom. From telephones to the internet, the Thailand communications network allows visitors to stay in touch with comfort and ease.

Telephone (Thailand Phones)

The telephone system in Thailand is both modern and widespread, with reliable pay phones found throughout the kingdom and Thailand cell phone reception covering all but the most remote Thai islands. Furthermore, purchasing a second-hand Thai phone and a SIM card is both cheap and easy, and internet cafes in most urban areas and all tourist areas have Skype installed on their public computers. If you are using a Thai phone to call home or call Thailand from overseas, both are quite easy. Thailands international country code for calling Thailand from overseas is +66, and the code for placing a call to another country from a Thai phone is 001 followed by the country code of the nation you are dialing, (though other long distances providers allow you to dial 007, 008, or 009 rather than 001, but at different, typically higher rates). International operator assistance is available by dialing 110. When calling Thailand from overseas or calling a Thai phone from within Thailand there is a slight difference. Phone numbers within Thailand begin with an area/city code or a cell phone prefix that is not always used when calling from overseas; For example, the city code for Bangkok is (0)2, the city code for Chiang Mai is (0)53, and the prefix for cell phones is (0)8. When dialing from a Thai phone, one includes the 0, while those calling Thailand from overseas should not include the 0. Consequently, an overseas call to Bangkok would be +66-2, whereas a call from within Thailand would begin 02. Emergency numbers are often three or four digit numbers, including Tourist Police, which is 1155. Public Telephones Coin operated pay phones are available throughout the country and cost around 1 baht per minute for local calls. Card phones, which operate with either prepaid phone cards or, less frequently, credit cards are also widely available, particularly in large urban and tourist areas; Card phones have variable rates, but can cost up to 18 baht (.50 USD) per minute. Prepaid phone cards, which are generally available in 300 baht denominations (just under 10 USD), are available at convenience stores such as 7-11 and phones accepting these cards are painted yellow and are usually not far from the local 7-11 store.Public telephones that charge by the minute for local and overseas calls are also available at general post offices throughout the kingdom. Thai Cell Phones The Thailand cell phone coverage is widespread, with reception available in all areas except at the most remote islands and isolated mountainous regions. Many overseas cell phones will work in Thailand, provided they are GSM compatible, as Thailand features both GSM 900 and 1800 networks. While it may be convenient to have friends and family call Thailand to reach you on your home cell phone number, receiving and sending calls is likely to be quite expensive. If your cell phone has a slot to insert a SIM card, such cards are available for a few dollars, either at

the airport or in IT markets throughout the country. These SIM cards are funded by prepaid phone cards that are available at nearly all convenience stores in the country. If your phone doesnt have a slot for a SIM card, a Thailand cell phone can be picked up at the airport for a reasonable rate or an inexpensive new or second hand cell phone can be easily obtained at locations such as MBK shopping mall in Bangkok.

TRAVELLING MODES
Airlines Flying is the most convenient mode of transportation for traveling to Thailand, as visitors can fly to Thailand on non-stop routes from many corners of the globe on both international and Thai airlines. Furthermore, Thailands central location makes Thailand an ideal hub for exploring the rest of Asia. In addition to the primary international airport located in Bangkok, visitors from abroad can fly to Thailand on international flights destined for Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, and even Udon Thani and Hat Yai. Domestic flights are also easy and convenient, cutting down on journey times and often costing less than travel by car or rail. Charter flights to Thailand from Europe or Asia may arrange to land in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, or Hua Hin. As the major hub for air travel in and around Asia, a number of low cost airlines now serve Thailand for both domestic and international routes, and now flying to Thailand is both convenient Bus & Coach It is possible to travel by bus from most of Thailands neighbors From Malaysia, one can cross north by bus to Thailand at various border checkpoints in Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces, although most busses will head to the hub of bus travel into, out of, and around southern Thailand, Hat Yai. Busses from Laos originate in Vientiane and cross the Mekong River to the Thai border town of Nong Khai, where they continue for a two hour ride to Udon Thani, from which visitors can arrange other busses or air travel to other parts of Thailand. The primary route an a Cambodian bus to Thailand is at the border at the towns of PoipetAranyaprathet. This is the border for those leaving Siem Reap or Battambang via land, though they must cross the border on foot and arrange onward travel from Aranyaprathet to other Thai destinations from the bus station on the Thailand side of the border.

Travel by bus from Myanmar to Thailand is not practical or convenient for visitors. and inexpensive. Train At present, the primary border crossing for visitors taking trains to Thailand is located near the Malaysian border town of Butterworth. Travelers from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur can travel by train to Thailand, but not without stopping to change trains. The journey from Singapore can last up to 48 hours as two changes of trains are required and there are numerous stops along the way to Bangkok. First class sleeper cars can make a train trip to Thailand more enjoyable, though for a price; one can travel the Eastern & Oriental Express, a throw-back, colonial style luxury train that services Bangkok and Butterworth, Malaysia weekly. From Laos, there is new service between Laos and Thailand as of 2009, a 3.5 km railway that runs from the Vientiane-Nong Khai Friendship Bridge to Vientianes Thanalaeng train station. Train service is available in Thailand once visitors cross from Cambodia, but not yet from within Cambodia. After crossing into Thailand from either Laos or Cambodia, both Nong Khai (from Vientiane) and Aranyaprathet (from Poipet) have train stations for domestic travel. Plans are in the works to upgrade the Cambodian railway so that travel is possible from China, through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, and finally onto Singapore.

Airlines that fly to Thailand Flights to Thailand are provided by approximately 70 airlines that have licenses from the Thai government and abide by international standards, including Aeroflot, Air France, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Lufthansa, United Airlines, Swiss Air, and many others. Thai Airways, the Thai national air carrier, provides the most comprehensive global air service to and from Thailand and is one of the most esteemed airlines in the world.

Airlines that travel to Thailand depart from all around the world, including USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Sweden, France, Italy, UAE, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Japan, China, Australia, and New Zealand. Flights to Thailand include both direct and transit flights.

International airports in Thailand are situated in different areas of the kingdom. Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok serves as the landing port for numerous international flights. Some chartered and regional flights may land at one of the other international airports within Thailand, including Chiang Mai International Airport, Phuket International Airport, and Hat Yai International Airport.

CHAPTER 2 PEOPLE IN THAIAND:

People

Throughout her long history, Thailand has absorbed immigrants. Many were skilled as writers, painters, sculptors, dancers, musicians, and architects. These immigrants helped to enrich Thailand's indigenous culture. Minorities of Thailand include the Chinese, Thai Malays, and the Laotian. Anything between 9% - 15% of Thailand's population is thought to be Sino-Thai (depending on how Chinese is defined). In the early 19th and 20th Century, Chinese immigrants came and settled down here. They married Thai women, took Thai names, most of them adopted Buddhism (although they were not required to renounce their ancestor worship) and learnt Thai. As elsewhere in the region, these Chinese immigrants proved to be remarkably adept at money making and today control a disproportionate slice of businesses. The Thai Malays are found mostly in the southern region. They speak Malay rather than Thai and the majority are Muslims instead of Buddhists. The Laotian of the northeastern region, though constituting nearly one-third of the nation's population, are the least visible. Known better as the "Isan", they are often regarded by the central Thais as being equivalent to "country bumpkins". Today, the people of Thailand share a rich ethic diversity - mainly of Mon, Khmer, Tai, Chinese, Malay, Laotian, and Indian stock - with the result that there is no typically Thai physiognomy or physique. There are petite Thais, statuesque Thai, round faced Thais, dark-skinned Thais, and light-skinned Thais. About 80% of all Thais are connected in some way with agriculture, which (in varying degrees) influences and is influenced by the religious ceremonies and festivals that help make Thailand such a distinctive country. The Thai people are the main ethnic group of Thailand and are part of the larger Tai ethnolinguistic peoples found in Thailand and adjacent countries in Southeast Asia as well as southern China. Their language is the Thai language, which is classified as part of the Kradai

family of languages, and the majority of Thai are followers of Theravada Buddhism. The term Thai people may also refer to the population of Thailand in general, and not only to ethnic Thais.

FAMOUS CITIES IN THAILAND

1. BANGKOK:

As the political, economic, cultural, culinary, and spiritual capital of Thailand, Bangkok features both old-world charm and modern convenience, at times served up in an apparently chaotic manner, but always with a gracious smile.

Invariably, every Thailand holiday includes a visit to the kingdoms capital city, Bangkok, or Krung Thep, the city of angels as it is known to its inhabitants. Many tourists who travel to Bangkok are immediately overwhelmed by the sheer size of the city and the vast number of attractions Bangkok has to offer. Indeed there are a wide variety of Bangkok sightseeing

opportunities spanning more than two centuries of rapid development following the citys founding in 1782 by King Rama I, the first king of the present Chakri dynasty; since that auspicious date, Bangkok has swelled to a cosmopolitan, 21st century city of more than ten million inhabitants. While the immensity of the city and the chaos of its bustling streets can be intimidating at first, those who spend some time in Bangkok are quickly enamored by the variety of attractions Bangkok contains, from exotic temples, which epitomize Thailands strong Buddhist history, to modern shopping malls, which have make shopping an integral part of any Bangkok holiday. As the kingdoms political, economic, cultural, culinary, and spiritual capital, Bangkok features attractions guaranteed to please visitors either simply passing through the city or spending their entire Thailand holiday in Bangkok. Nearly every Bangkok holiday includes a visit to Thailands Grand Palace, arguably the premier Bangkok sightseeing attraction. Situated in the heart of Bangkoks Rattakosin district, the gleaming spires of the Grand Palace are conveniently located nearby Bangkoks most spectacular temples, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Keaw), the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), and Wat Po, which features an enormous reclining Buddha and was home of the first Thai massage school in the kingdom. These iconic destinations are top attractions to all visitors who travel to Bangkok looking to appreciate Thailands unique cultural traditions. In fact, there are more than 400 functioning Buddhist temples throughout the city and its not uncommon when you travel in Bangkok to spot saffron robed monks collecting morning alms or traveling throughout out the city, including along the Chao Phraya, the River of Kings, which passes alongside Rattakosin and the Temple of the Dawn. The winding Chao Phraya is connected by numerous canals from which Bangkok has earned its nickname the Venice of the East; when you travel around Bangkok, a cruise on the Chao Phraya, a visit to a floating market, or an exploration of the cities back alley canals (klongs) are themselves unique Bangkok attractions. Other historical and cultural Bangkok sightseeing must sees include the National Museum, Vimanmek Mansion, and Suan Pakkad Palace, all of which either house fine art or are national treasures in their own right. Beyond Bangkoks historical district, there are plenty of other attractions that make a Bangkok holiday both enjoyable and memorable. While modern downtown districts along Silom and Sukhumvit Roads were once nightmares of oppressive heat and unbearable traffic, a modern and convenient electric rail system, including an elevated sky-train and underground subway have made travel in Bangkok both easy and enjoyable. Connecting hotels directly to modern shopping malls and traditional markets, such as the Suan Lum Night Bazaar and Chatuchak (JJ) weekend market, the MRT and BTS electric rail systems have literally elevated Bangkok shopping to world class status. Of course, no Thailand holiday is complete without experiencing Thailands vibrant nightlife, during which time you may even witness the occasional elephant wandering the Bangkok streets! Whether, the purpose of your Thailand holiday is to immerse yourself in Thailands unique

culture or simply to splurge in Bangkok shopping malls, when you travel to Bangkok you are guaranteed a fascinating experience of both old world charm and modern convenience and luxury. Over the last few decades, Bangkok, Thailands capital city, has changed into a modern, exciting, and sophisticated city. Bangkok offers visitors not only the modern amenities they would expect from other cosmopolitan cities, but also a unique treasure trove of cultural attractions. Thailand, in the heart of Southeast Asia, was never colonized and thus kept its unique culture and heritage intact. Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience a fascinating glimpse of Thailands gentle culture amidst the bustle of a great and dynamic metropolis. Amazingly, this great city has had astounding success in combining the ancient and modern worlds. For tourists, Bangkok has a feast of attractions to offer. The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temples of great beauty, magnificent palaces, classical dance performances, numerous shopping centers, and a still functioning traditional way of life, especially along the canals and the Chao Phraya River, the "River of Kings", which winds through the city; Bangkok truly is the "Venice of the East".

tourist attractions. Remember, there is no such thing as a free ride. generally use the meter while parked taxis typically ask for higher fixed fares or will take you for the proverbial ride. During the monsoon season months of June through September rains come quickly and heavily, particularly in the afternoon. Adequate footwear and an umbrella are advisable.

PLACES TO VISIT IN BANGKOK :

1. Wat Pho :

Wat Pho ( ), or Wat Phra Chetuphon ( ) as it is generally known to the Thais, is mainly famous for the huge Reclining Buddha statue it houses. At 20 acres large, it is the largest Wat in Bangkok, and is technically the oldest too, as it was built around 200 years before Bangkok became Thailand's capital. However, today the Wat today bears virtually no resemblance to that originally constructed, as it was almost entirely rebuilt by Rama I when the capital was moved to Bangkok. It holds the dual honors of having both Thailand's largest reclining Buddha image and the most number of Buddha images in Thailand.

The highly impressive gold plated reclining Buddha is 46 meters long and 15 meters high, and is designed to illustrate the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The feet and the eyes are engraved with mother-of-pearl decoration, and the feet also show the 108 auspicious characteristics of the true Buddha. The large grounds of Wat Pho contain more than 1000 Buddha images in total, most from the ruins of the former capitals Ayuthaya and Sukhothai. The grounds are split in two by Chetuphon road. The northern section is generally the only one most people go to, and it includes a large bot (temple hall), enclosed by 394 bronze Buddha images. Outside the bot, there are 152 marble slabs depicting the second half of the epic Ramakian story. Also near here are four chedis, constructed to honor the first three Chakri kings (two for King Rama III). There are also a massive 91 others Chedis of varying sizes arounds the grounds, along with chapels, rock gardens, an array of different types of statues, inscriptions, belltowers and resident fortune tellers. The library is nearby too, decorated impressively with figures and pagodas made of porcelain, in much the same way as Wat Arun across the river. The much less visited southern section has less of interest, but makes a good place to find a monk to chat to for a while. Most would welcome the chance to practice their English on visitors. Massage - Wat Pho is also famous as Thailand's first university, and is center for traditional Thai masage - the rich, famous and powerful have all been known to come here. Inscribed on stone in the walls of Wat Pho are all that was known about Thai massage dating from the reign of King Rama III (most previous texts were lost when the Burmese destroyed Ayuthaya) To get a traditional massage here costs 150B for 30 mins, 250B for an hour and herbal massages are available at 350B an hour. If you want to experience traditional Thai massage, this is probably the best place available and is highly recommended, though be aware that it's not exactly a gentle experience. A foot reflexology massage is also available at 250B for 45 minutes. It is also possible to take courses to learn traditional Thai massage. These are for 30 hours and cost 4,500B. Courses can be spread over either 10 or 15 days. The massage center is situated at the back of the Wat, the opposite side from the entrance. To get a massage, simply turn up here and wait in line until a masseur is available - perhaps 10 or 20 minutes in the quieter periods in the early morning and late afternoon. Contact them on (+662) 221 2974 or (+662) 225 4771 if you need any more information about it.

Details The entrance to Wat Pho is on Chetuphon road. Entrance is 20B. It's open every day, opening hours are from 08.00am to 5.00pm, with a break from 12.00pm to 1.00pm. Guides can be hired at the entrance for 150B for one person, 200B for two, 300B for three, but they're not really needed. On Sundays, you can see students being taught traditional Thai dance and music. Don't listen to anyone on the street as you try to enter telling you it's closed for a 'Buddhist holiday', 'cleaning' etc, or asking if you want to see the 'Lucky Buddha' instead - it's all part of a sophisticated gem scam. Aircon buses 6, 8 and 12 all stop close to Wat Pho, and the Tha Tien express boat pier is very near. Ordinary buses that go near Wat Pho are ordinary buses 1, 25, 44, 47, 62 and 91 which stop on Maharat road. 44, 47 and 91 all stop on Thaiwang road, on the north side of Wat Pho, south of Wat Phra Kaew. It's also just a short river crossing away from Wat Arun. It's within walking distance of Wat Phra Kaew / Grand Palace, and (if you're feeling energetic) the National Museum too.

Shopping Malls in Bangkok Bangkok Shopping Centres

Bangkok's modern, multi-storey shopping malls are a shopaholic's paradise... From the legendary Mah Boon Krong (MBK), to the sophisticated Emporium, trendy Siam Discovery or unashamedly upscale Siam Paragon, Bangkok's accommodate every taste, pocket and style. The latest addition to the city's 'mallscape' is the newly and fabulously revamped CentralWorld, officially the largest mall in Southeast Asia. These malls are where you'll find the city's finest fashion stores, global brands, book shops, speciality stores, accessories stands and all kinds of luxury designer lifestyle goods. Not only are you spoiled for choice; it's all super easy to navigate. Modern and air-conditioned, they're also a pleasant alternative to the bustling hot markets, and most complexes are easily accessible via the city's modern and efficient Skytrain (BTS) system. Just don't forget to sport comfortable shoes.

Siam Paragon Shopping Centre

Bangkok Shopping Centre

From a sporty yellow Ferrari to a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes straight from the set of Sex and the City, Siam Paragon is a shopping mall without rival in Southeast Asia when it comes to luxury goods. This shopping and entertainment complex is an upmarket, five-storey colossus with 500,000 square metres of retail space. The gleaming, modern mall opened in December 2005 at a cost of 15 billion baht (US$ 375 million), and is home to more than 250 famed international and local luxury brands. Let's take a closer look... Shopping Tip: For 5% discount on most purchases, you can apply for a Tourist Discount Card at the information desk on the ground level.

CentralWorld Shopping Complex

Bangkok Shopping Centre

This mega-shopping complex offers one of the most exciting shopping experiences in Bangkok. Occupying some 550,000 square metres of retail space and a total area size of 830,000 square metres that is 30% larger than any other shopping centre in central Bangkok CentralWorld is now officially the largest lifestyle shopping complex in Southeast Asia. It has everything from brand name clothing boutiques, funky fashion, high-tech gadgets, bookshops and designer furniture to imported groceries, a lineup of banks, beauty salons, gourmet eateries and even an ice-skating rink. With so many tantalising options to explore, you could easily spend half a day here without realising it.

Read more: CentralWorld Shopping Complex

Where to Shop at Night in Bangkok

The great thing about shopping in Bangkok is that most malls and department stores stay open until at least 21:00 - and some even as late as 22:00. So there's plenty of time to make the most of the city's attractions during the day, and fit in a bit of retail therapy either before or after dinner. Many markets offer great after dark shopping opportunities too - and incredible bargains in the moonlight. The most popular after dark markets is undoubtedly the Patpong Night Market.

Read more: Bangkok Shopping Night Markets - Where to Shop at Night in Bangkok http://www.bangkok.com/shopping-shopping-after-dark.htm#ixzz1ag4nZ7Jd

After recently cleaning up its act, Patpong's become one of the 'must' night shopping destinations for avid shoppers. Found in the built-up area known as Silom, the place is always busy and chaotic with all the commotion from the GO-GO bars nearby and lots of foreign tourists. This market in Bangkok's notorious nightlife district is often the first and easiest stop for many tourists just arriving to Bangkok, whilst lodging at one of several mid-to-upper-end hotels in Silom. Be warned though, the quality and prices of most items sold are about as real and trustworthy as the girls shaking their wares in go-go bars flanking the area. Both market and go-go bars seem to

complement each other well, but remember not to be fooled by first impressions, and to bargain hard.

Read more: Patpong Night Market http://www.bangkok.com/shopping-market/patpong-nightmarket.htm#ixzz1ag4thkSn Dining in Bangkok

If there ever was such a thing as a food heaven, Bangkok is it. The city offers extraordinary culinary experiences, and it needn't cost you a fortune. Street food is delicious, cheap and everywhere! A step up on the culinary ladder, informal eateries with Thai and Asian food and food courts are great places to eat well for very little ideal also to sample traditional Thai cuisine. The smorgasbord in Bangkok also includes cuisine and delicacies from all the corners of the globe, at a variety of restaurants that range from hole-in-wall places to top-end establishments. A romantic dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya is a big highlight, combining tantalising Thai food to tease your taste buds with star attractions on the river banks, beautifully illuminated at night. ou will find eating places almost anywhere in Bangkok; outside shopping malls, inside markets, along the pavement or anywhere a cart and a few fold-up tables and chairs can be placed. Don't miss out on these places as they offer cheap and tasty food you won't find in normal tourist restaurants. If you're concerned about hygiene, take a look for yourself. The basic rule of thumb applies; if the food looks fresh, the oil in the pan isn't dark sludgy brown and the food is thoroughly cooked in front of you, it's generally safe to eat. Go at lunch time, when food is freshest. Stir-frying, grilling and soup made from boiling water offer safe cooking methods. Avoid eating anything raw as this may have been washed in contaminated water and avoid crushed ice which might have come from a dubious source. Follow these basic rules and go for it! Read more: Bangkok Eating Experiences http://www.bangkok.com/restaurant-diningexperiences/#ixzz1ag6R8O83

Birds Nest and Shark Fin Soup Two of the most luxurious foods in the world are widely available in Bangkok. With dubious health benefits and extravagant price tags, both Birds Nest Soup and the controversial Shark Fin Soup are lovingly lapped up at Thai-Chinese wedding banquets. We went to find out why these dishes are so sought after; to discover what the fuss and flavour is all about.

Read more: Bangkok Eating Experiences http://www.bangkok.com/restaurant-diningexperiences/#ixzz1ag6noaMS Mooncakes & Dim Sum Asia is home to a number of dishes often deemed peculiar by the Western diner. Thailand's visitors are often encouraged to sample handfuls of fried grasshoppers in the tradition of Fear Factor, while those experimenting with Cantonese cuisine are served Phoenix talons, or deepfried chicken feet marinated in black bean sauce.

PHUKET :

For many, the main incentive to spend a holiday in Phuket is the incredibly wide reach of activities the island has to offer. Not only that, but with an encyclopaedia-long list of hotels and accommodation as well as startling scenery and seascapes, Phuket is a dream destination. The island's west coast has long been the 'tourism side' of the island, but nowadays the east coast and even some inland districts have been developed with new resorts springing up all the time. In spite of this, Phuket never feels crowded because of its size and pockets of tranquillity can easily be found.

For many, the first glimpse of Thailand through the taxi's windows on the ride from the airport to their accommodation is a cultural eye-opener. First-time visitors are fascinated by the sights, sounds and exotic smells of Phuket and can't get enough. Yet there is more to see as the island has beautiful Buddhist temples, stunning cabaret shows and magnificent sunsets as well as that most welcoming of sights the Thai smile. If there is one accessory that is essential when visiting Phuket it is a camera in order to capture as many images a possible of this fascinating and rewarding place.

Temples in Phuket Phuket Temples, Wats and Shrines

Phuket has long figured large in Thai history, from early times to tin mining to the present. Throughout the centuries Phuket has played host to many different nationalities. Foreign influences may come and go but Phuket's temples represent a touchstone, both religiously and culturally. Locals frequent them to maintain ties with their past as each of the island's temples has a story to tell about Phuket's history. For visitors to the island, to learn more about Buddhism and Taoism by visiting these places of worship is a positive, uplifting experience.

Read more: Temples in Phuket - Phuket Temples, Wats and Shrines http://www.phuket.com/island/temples.htm#ixzz1ag8NSlbO

Big Buddha Close up to the image itself it is very peaceful and the only noises you will hear are the tinkling of small bells and the yellow Buddhist flags in the compound flapping in the wind plus soft background dharma music. Known among Thais as the Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri Buddha in full, it is 25 meters across at the base. The whole body is layered with beautiful white Burmese marble that shines in the sun, making it a natural symbol of hope. The views, and the actual image itself are all breathtaking.

Read more: Phuket Big Buddha - Phuket Attractions - Chalong http://www.phuket.com/magazine/big-buddha-today.htm#ixzz1ag8apTAx

Phuket Must-See Attractions and Places

Be it far from us to tell you what to do in Phuket but there are some gems that you really should not miss out on seeing while on your visit here, and we don't mean the kind sold at the jewellers Phuket's great advantage is that there's always something to do on and off the island whether it's raining or shining. From the sublime to the seemingly profane, the range of activities and places to visit is remarkable for a destination of this size. Here are our Top Ten 'Must See' choices, built on popular vote. If you only get through half of these destinations you'll have had an unforgettable holiday. Go for it.

Read more: 10 Things to Do in Phuket - Phuket Must-See Attractions and Places http://www.phuket.com/island/10mustsee.htm#ixzz1ag9eZyQM James Bond Island This famous landmark, called Koh Ping-gan, first found its way onto the international map through its starring role in the James Bond movie 'The Man With the Golden Gun'. And this is where most tours seem to take all of the tourists - all at the same time. The entire area surrounding this island with its signature rocky pinnacle is indeed spectacular, but most of the tours bus visitors up the main highway for an hour on the same well-worn itinerary. An integral part of that tour is lunch at Koh Panyee, a nearby Muslim fishing village. See aslo James Bond Island Tours

Read more: Phang Nga Bay - Everything you Need to Know about Phang Nga Bay http://www.phuket.com/island/phangnga.htm#ixzz1ag9pojJx

James Bond Island This famous landmark, called Koh Ping-gan, first found its way onto the international map through its starring role in the James Bond movie 'The Man With the Golden Gun'. And this is where most tours seem to take all of the tourists - all at the same time. The entire area surrounding this island with its signature rocky pinnacle is indeed spectacular, but most of the tours bus visitors up the main highway for an hour on the same well-worn itinerary. An integral part of that tour is lunch at Koh Panyee, a nearby Muslim fishing village. See aslo James Bond Island Tours

Koh Panyee (Sea Gypsy Island) This is a remarkable village, the whole of it built out over water on stilts and with a giant rock monolith guarding its rear. At lunch time, many tourists on the James Bond Island tours are brought in to eat and shop for handicrafts. As soon as the tourists leave, the community closes up its restaurants and trinket shops and transforms itself from a tourist trap into a quiet community of fishermen.

Phang Nga Hotels Sri Lanka hotels and resorts at the best rates, from Five Stars resorts such as Aleenta Resort & Spa, to budget accommodation like Paradis Villa, you are sure to find the accommodation you are looking for.

Cruising Phang Nga Bay Phang Nga Bay is a great place for boating. The interesting limestone cliffs create a picturesque backdrop and there are many safe places to anchor. The fact that it's protected from both the Northeast and the Southwest monsoon seasons means that its waters remain calm year-round, which adds to the appeal of its scenic wonders and abundant wildlife. Read more about boat charters...

Rocky Cliffs Limestone is calcium carbonate, which is generally white. Over millions of years, the skeletons from a constant rain of marine organisms, plus the chemical precipitation of yet more calcium carbonate build thick layers of sediment. Eventually, the heat and pressure of their own weight turn these strata, hundreds of metres thick, to stone. A variety of geological forces have then fractured the limestone beds and pushed up the 40 steepsided islands that provide the exotic scenery for which this shallow bay is noted. Mineral oxides from various sources paint the vari-coloured streaks that characterise the cliffs of Phang Nga Bay.

Hongs: Rooms with a View And there are lost worlds awaiting discovery. It wasn't many years ago that aerial surveys first revealed the Hong, or "rooms", that lie inside some of Phang Nga's islands. These fabulous microcosms, hidden realms rich in unspoiled flora and fauna, are collapsed cave systems open to the sky and surrounded by towering limestone walls. Try sea-kayaking, where you paddle sturdy inflatable boats through caves into the mysterious hearts of islands such as Koh Panak and Koh Hong. (Read more about Sea canoeing in Phang Nga Bay)

Getting to Phang Nga Bay It's possible to see many of the bay's attractions in a single day. A launch from any point along the east coast of Phuket will take you immediately into Phang Nga Bay. There are also a number of launching sites on the Phang Nga province mainland, including the Ka Sohm Pier in Takua Thung district just south of Phang Nga Town. Most visit the area by booking a long-tail or speedboat day trip, joining a cruise or canoeing tour, or chartering a yacht. See all Phang Nga Bay Tours available...

Pattaya

Pattaya is a place where fun, excitement, and adventure come together at a tropical seaside hotspot with more than 35,000 hotel rooms at its many resorts. It boasts expansive beaches, a variety of dining choices, exciting water and land sports, surprising attractions, high-end shopping , and a thoroughly wild and famous nightlife. Indeed, Pattaya has it all. Located less than two hours (150 km) from Bangkok, this high-rise beach city is a top destination for many tourists. In recent years, more and more families, tour groups and leisure travellers have discovered Pattaya's attractions, from its extensive recreational facilities to offbeat museums and lush botanical gardens, providing a holiday destination second to none. Pattaya Beach Everything you need to know about Pattaya Beach

While most beaches rely simply on the beauty of their natural surroundings for their charm, Pattaya Beach 'a 4km crescent-shaped sandy bay'goes all out to give visitors everything their hearts desire. As abundant as sun, sand and sea along this bustling palm-fringed stretch, are superb hotels, value-for-money shopping malls and market stalls, a huge variety of restaurants, endless sports

and leisure activities, and, of course, the bars and discos that have earned it its raucous reputation. The result? Not only the perfect place to let the world pass by, but also one of the world's most energetic beach resorts, a happening place buzzing with modern-day energy, activity and options

Read more: Pattaya Beach - Everything you Need to Know about Pattaya Beach http://www.pattaya.bangkok.com/pattaya-beach/#ixzz1agBBum8C Pattaya Beach Overview A breakdown of Pattaya Beach

In terms of activity, the northern end is typically more sedate, while the central and southern parts are a little funkier and livelier, day or night. The southern part, the hub of Pattaya's nightlife, is the densely packed epicentre of all things brash, noisy and risque. Beach Road is lined with sand and sea to one side, and bars, restaurants, hotels and souvenir shops to the other. Inland, parallel Second Road is full of noodle bars, crowded beer bars, souvenir shops, hotels and guest houses. Over the past few years this area has undergone a major clean-up, with the water here now the clearest it's been in years. From here boats take visitors to offshore islands or on fishing or diving excursions, and a host of watersports are offered. The beautification process has been just as zealous onshore. While still the stage for a lot of wild nightlife, improving infrastructure, great transport facilities and a crackdown on crime have done wonders for the citys atmosphere.

Read more: Pattaya Beach Overview - A breakdown of Pattaya Beach http://www.pattaya.bangkok.com/pattaya-beach/thebeach.htm#ixzz1agBIA26A A Wealth of Watersports A daytime stroll along the charming palm-lined promenade that borders the golden sandy beach to one side and Beach Road to the other, reveals abundant activity. As children build sandcastles

at the feet of tiny waves, and locals enjoy shelter, snacks and socialising beneath umbrellas, thrill-seekers offshore partake in a host of available watersports. If you want to do the same, approach one of the many operators scattered along the beach (if they dont find you first!). For a flat but fair fee, you can board a slippery banana boat, try your hand at wind surfing or jet skiing, or join the paragliders swaying gently in the blue horizon the choice is yours! Diving expeditions and tours to one of several offshore coral islands in the area often depart from here.

Deck Chairs and Beach vendors Those feeling inactive need not fear. As easily as you can skid in jet skis across the water here, those looking to relax can hire a rubber ring and drift off, or enjoy the shade, comfort and views afforded by a deck chair and umbrella. The latter are ubiquitous all along the shore line. Hungry or feel like shopping? Unwilling to leave behind your seat? Never fear, as an endless procession of tenacious but amiable vendors march up and down Pattaya beach all day long, their sole aim to deliver all you desire. From the exotic to the mundane, this human conveyor belt ferries everything from ice creams, cold drinks and newspapers to jewelry, freshly roasted nuts and deep fried crabs. Should you want to pass, shaking your head normally does the trick. Failing that, buy some sunglasses and pretend you're asleep.

Thai Massage and Beyond A firm but ultimately satisfying Thai massage is also yours for the taking while on the beach. Get your feet and neck clicked, or that annoying back pain kneaded out while admiring the silhouette of far-off coral islands. For a fairly measly sum, your chosen masseuse will tend to you under your umbrella or nearby palm trees. Alternatively, taking a walk along the winding palm-fringed promenade is a pleasant pursuit anytime of day, but best done at sunset. If you get bored of the feel of glorious warm sand between your toes (and are a sucker for scorching tarmac) cross over to the pavement lined with endless hotels, shops, markets, beer bars and restaurants. Many of the bars here serve chilled beers at bargain prices well before midday, and are great spots to watch the many kinds of people

who patronize Pattaya. A walk up any of the sois adjoining Beach Road leads you to Second Road, away from pursuits involving sun, sand and sea. Thai Massage and Beyond A firm but ultimately satisfying Thai massage is also yours for the taking while on the beach. Get your feet and neck clicked, or that annoying back pain kneaded out while admiring the silhouette of far-off coral islands. For a fairly measly sum, your chosen masseuse will tend to you under your umbrella or nearby palm trees. Alternatively, taking a walk along the winding palm-fringed promenade is a pleasant pursuit anytime of day, but best done at sunset. If you get bored of the feel of glorious warm sand between your toes (and are a sucker for scorching tarmac) cross over to the pavement lined with endless hotels, shops, markets, beer bars and restaurants. Many of the bars here serve chilled beers at bargain prices well before midday, and are great spots to watch the many kinds of people who patronize Pattaya. A walk up any of the sois adjoining Beach Road leads you to Second Road, away from pursuits involving sun, sand and sea.

Pattaya Sports & Activities What to Do in Pattaya

Pattaya offers countless things to see and do, long lists of activities and attractions that promise to keep young and old alike entertained during their stay. The natural place to start is at the beach! Pattaya Beach is great for watersports, and nearby Jomtien Beach one of Thailand's best spots for windsurfing. Be ambitious! Learn to sail or parasail. Ride a boat, go snorkeling to offshore islands. Away from the beach, other active pursuits certain to ramp up adrenalin levels include gocarting, golf and water-parks. And - with attractions like elephant villages, panoramic viewpoints, orchid farms and quirky museums up its proverbial sleeve, as well as many lush spas - Pattaya is just as fun for those wishing to play the humble sightseer or get pampered. Explore

this comprehensive What to See and Do guide and you certainly wont go short for ideas to keep you busy.

CHAPTER 3 ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION:

ANALYSIS IN THAILAND TOURISM STRENGTHS:
1. 2. 3. 4. Festivals Friendly people Rich culture- which includes Buddhist temples, historical places etc Suvamabhumi culture capacity to handle45 million travelers each year and eventually 100 million, make Thailand a more preferable destination

WEAKNESSES:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Bad perception Insufficient transportation system Traffic jams The status of a developing country Instability in the country

OPPURTUNITIES:
Attractions like beaches , mountains, outdoor adventure oppurtunities, temples , shopping arcades, street food , street shopping etc

THREATS:
3. The world economic drop. 4. Other countries in south-east asia , Malaysia, combodia , Indonesia etc. where they have similar geography.

TARGET MARKET Both Domestic and International

Domestic- 18-25 years old (college students to first jobbers) International- 17-35 years (college students to working people) CHARACTERISTICS: 1. Middle class to upper middle class 2. Collectivism 3. Outgoing 4. Down-to-earth 5. Adventurous 6. Explorative 7. Nature lovers

CHAPTER 4 CONCLUSION ON THAILAND TOURISM

UP TO 70% OF TRAVELLERS WILL PAY A PREMIUM FOR TOURS AND HOTELS THAT SHOW CORPORATE AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY; TAT TO PRODUCE LOW EMISSION TOURISM MANUAL; HUMAN RESOURCE CRISIS EMERGING; HIS MAJESTY THE KING'S SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY CONCEPT SHOWS THE WAY TOURISM Responsible tourism a key goal for Thailand Corporate and social responsibility (CSR) is more than a fashion statement in Thailand's travel and tourism industry. Surveys conducted by the International Tourism Partnership and International Ecotourism Society reveal that 50-70% of travellers will pay a premium for tours and hotels that demonstrate CSR across the so-called triple bottom line: economic, social and environmental management. Chief executive officer of Bangkok-based travel and tourism consultancy The Winning Edge, Bert van Walbeek, said CSR is an area that more tourists are becoming aware of. GLOBAL WARMING Thailand aware of global warming issues Global warming has become a major concern for Thailand's travel trade, and both the public and private sectors are cooperating in helping to reduce it. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) governor, Phornsiri Manoharn, said the travel and tourism industry is a primary beneficiary of a clean and healthy environment. "Fresh air, unpolluted water, lush jungles, and a pristine natural landscape are very much in demand, especially as people seek to get away from their highstress, city-based lifestyles," she said.

To maintain these major tourism assets, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, Suvit Yodmani has created the "Low Emission: Tourism Thai" project. "The objective is to persuade all involved stakeholders, both the public and private sectors, including hotels, travel agents, restaurants, the general public as well as tourists, to become more environmentally conscious," said Ms Phornsiri. She said that in line with this campaign, the ministry, the TAT and the private sector launched a tree planting programme on 29 September 2007 on the occasion of the World Tourism Day held two days earlier. The event took place in Sukhothai Historical Park and Si Satchanalai Historical Park and was also promoted in other parts of the country. To further drive Thailand's new global warming initiative, the TAT will produce a Low Emission: Tourism Thai manual to convince all stakeholders to participate in the project, promote eco-friendly tour programmes such as bicycle tours, encourage green hotels, persuade the general public and tourists to participate in reducing global warming. Ms Phornsiri added that Bangkok had made great strides in improving its environment, with efficient mass transit systems and more green areas and public parks. "These efforts are ongoing," Ms Phornsiri said. "We believe that all global efforts to address the issue of climatic change are timely and appropriate." HUMAN RESOURCES Is Thailand facing a human resources crunch? Human resources are creating the biggest crisis facing Thailand's travel trade, according to The Winning Edge chief executive officer, Bert van Walbeek.

He said there are simply not enough trained people. "Especially in the rural areas where they try to turn rice farmers into waiters. This will come up more and needs to be more thoroughly addressed," he said. Gary Marshall, chief executive officer of TMS Asia Pacific, a human resource recruitment and services firm, notes that Southeast Asia has a reputation within its culture of service delivery. "This culture of service delivery has been ingrained in the people of Thailand for many years," he said. "But as the economy continues to grow at a rapid pace, and more opportunities are presented to the locals from other industries, the tourism and hospitality industry can run the risk of a drop in standards from less people entering the workforce. " He added that the trade must continue to attract new generations by offering clear career paths. "A focus on up-skilling the existing workforce and offering training programmes that meet international demands is a must," Mr Marshall said. "Foreign talents that work in Thailand must also adopt the approach of developing local talent with clear succession planning within their organizations. " Former Tourism Authority of Thailand governor, Seree Wangpaichitr, (19941999) began stressing human resource development during his tenure, and continues to advocate the need for better training to help improve overall service quality and create a mentality of good ethics and high quality in doing business. To tackle the challenges that lie ahead, Pacific Asia Travel Association chief executive officer, Peter de Jong said: "Thailand should maintain its culture in the face of rampant development and attend to the maintenance and retention of human resources here in face of the competition of the region."

TAT SUSTAINABLE TOURISM POLICY Planning a sustainable future Thailand's sustainable tourism development plan aims to balance the triple bottom line: economy, environment and society, while mixing in His Majesty the King's "sufficiency economy" concept. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) governor, Phornsiri Manoharn, said: "The future of Thai tourism is being shaped actively by the sufficiency economy. "This concept will see us emphasise more on quality over quantity, and slowly move away from the numbers game, a policy that we feel will gain importance as ecological interests outstrip economic ones. It will become an important part of our tourism development strategy. " Integral to this is the promotion of the nine Royal Initiative Discovery projects which incorporate a learning experience into travel and leisure. "For the first time, visitors can experience the relevance of various development projects initiated by His Majesty. These projects cover areas such as agriculture, occupational training, education, traditions and culture," Ms Phornsiri said. When embarking on its sustainable tourism policy, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and TAT consulted with the Fiscal Policy Research Institute. This sustainable tourism development plan aims to achieve three main objectives: expand the market, increase the rate of repeat tourists, and enhance Thailand's reputation. Market expansion includes increasing the number of tourists in the existing market and penetrating new markets. This can be facilitated by exploring new products to meet the tourists' demand and implementing a destination management system and a proactive marketing strategy.

Increasing visitor's satisfaction through good experiences when travelling in Thailand tends to develop a positive attitude towards the country, which should lead to a higher repeat rate

CONCLUSION ABOUT THAI PEOPLE:

1. They always give you the warmest, friendliest smile if you smile first.

Thai people are often incredibly friendly, and many do smile at you on the street. But most of the times, they look at you, and if your eyes meet and you smile, THEN they smile back right away. If you dont smile, however, neither do they. My experience has often been that they smile bigger and brighter than you, when you smile first. 2. The street hustlers are not scamming you, they just try to make a living.

Scammer, hustler or just working? There are whole websites and forums out there that only talk about this topic, the scammers in Thailand.

Sure, there are some big scammers around here, but I wouldnt call the guys trying to sell you crappy suits, tuk tuk rides or ping pong shows scammers, theyre just trying to get by and make a living. And frankly, a truth that some people prefer to ignore, is that they can only live off of our greed. We want the cheap stuff, we want free free free, although we should know that nothing in this world is really free. When you sit down and watch them work the street, see them working for hours on end getting rejected, ignored and yelled at, they deserve some respect. How many people can handle getting turned down or treated as though they dont exist? If you just make sure to them that youre not interested in what they are offering, you can often have a nice conversation with them about other things. 3. They serve the man first, but give the woman the larger portion. First we thought this was just a random thing, but nearly every time we eat at a restaurant, they always serve me a huge portion, and Nathan a much smaller one and he always gets his food first. Its the same all over the country if anyone knows why this is, please let us know! 4. No matter how early you get up in the morning, most of them will already be awake and working.

Its true, Im an early bird, but no matter when I get up, it feels like the city has been awake for just slightly longer than me. People are already in their shops, at the market or on a moped. The young girls have their hair curled and the middle aged ladies have already put that same bright pink color lipstick on.

Its not that the city never sleeps, they just dont sleep in like we do in the West. 4. When it comes to transport, there is no such thing as full. They can always fit one more person in always. Even if some kids have to hang off the end of the bus, there is still space for more people. We had about 33 people in a mini-bus which in Europe would legally fit maybe 8 people CRAZY! 5. They have the most innocent sense of humor.

Ive found Thai people to be very innocent and gentle people. The men are often very feminine, something which is not just accepted but also incouraged. The teens dress in a pop rock punk style, but walk around with a teddy bear under their arm, or a furry baby hat on their heads. When they laugh its a sweet giggle rather than the manly macho laugh. What they laugh at is even more innocent. Ive never seen a whole bus full of people in all ages laugh so much at a filmed live show where a woman pulls a guys skirt off and he stands in his knee long underwear. And every time Nathan bumps his head into the umbrellas put up at the vegetable markets everyone around him breaks into a big laugh and tell all their friends who missed it about what just happened.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
www.amazingthailand.co.in www.wikipedia.org www.tourismthailand.org www.google.com