# A TRIP TO THAILAND
Beautiful coral reefs, turquoise water at 30 ° C, fine sand, coconut trees ... Thailand, despite the disaster that has affected 26 December 2004, remains a real paradise.
Siam, the former name of Thailand, is a popular tourist destination in the heart of Southeast Asia, ideal for a first trip to Asia. Country almost as large as France, it is bordered by Myanmar (Burma) and Laos to the north, Cambodia to the east and Malaysia to the south. Its landscape is diverse: mountains, sea, fringed with coconut palms, plains or beaches. Its tropical climate allows the country to have an annual temperature of 28 ° C!
For your stay, plan wide, at least three weeks, as the country has many other resources to offer than beaches: lush jungle, nature reserves, Buddhist temples, trekking around Chiang Mai, gastronomic exploration or visit the Bangkok hallucinating.
Get caught up in the historical remains of the ancient buried cities like Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.
Immerse yourself in a spiritual culture of Buddhism. Relax on the most lavish of the globe as Laem Sala beach or in the park Phra Ao Nang.
This is the perfect trip: a couple or with friends, a flight booked well in advance, a good guide and a small budget for spending. Very cheap destination, you will be touched by the hospitality of the local population, very cheerful nature and calm imperturbable.
Thailand cinema
Paradisiacal landscapes of the country have fired the imagination of filmmakers. The movie The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio and Virginie Ledoyen was mainly shot on the beaches of Phuket, Phi Phi Leh in Thai national parks.
Good Morning Vietnam, Robin Williams or Journey to the End of Hell, with Robert De Niro, which are classic Vietnam is often found in Thailand!
Weather / When to go
What is the best time to visit Thailand? What is it there now? All weather and climate information.
Passport / Visa / Formalities
For stays less than 30 days, you must be in possession of a valid passport at least three months after your entry into Thailand.
For stays longer than 30 days, you are required to carry a valid passport should be 6 months before departure and a visa. The visa will be issued in advance.
Price of a visa on average 30 euros (valid for 3 months)
Tourist visas can extend his 60-day journey by making application to the Bureau of Immigration in Bangkok. Expect to pay about 40 euros.
Good to know: You will need to pay an airport tax of 500 baht to leave the country.
transport
by plane
Obviously, the quickest to Thailand, starting from Paris transport is by air. Allow 12 hours to reach the capital only direct flight on Air France or Thai Airways companies. The ticket price can vary from 500 euros (if you book 6 months in advance) to 1,000 euros in the summer.
Due to fierce competition among airlines, flights to Thailand are the cheapest in the Asian market. The Bangkok International Airport is the hub for air traffic for scheduled flights.
But you can reach other towns directly starting from France: Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui and Sukhothai. Airports in the last two cities belong to Bangkok Airways.
Travel within Thailand
Bangkok can be reached by plane, the large cities of the country by many airlines that offer very competitive prices for Air Asia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Orient Thai, Phuket Air, etc.
Thailand has excellent networks of rail, bus and boat to the islands. You can also rent a car for a reasonable price to visit more distant sites. In cities, use public transport: tuk-tuk or taxis.
by train
This is the best public transportation to get around the country. It takes a little longer than the bus, but you can travel at night. The seats are spacious and large windows allow you to enjoy the scenery. There are 3 classes.
Inquire at stations if you want to use this transit priority: Thailand Rai Pass is unlimited access to the rail network for 20 days for about 1500 baht.
Thailand's rail network serves the three main regions: the North, Northeast and South (the network is connected to the network Malaysian and Singapore). There are branch lines to reach Kanchanaburi province, central, and south Pattaya, near the Malaysian border.
Hualampong Station Bangkok
National railway company of Thai iron
Tel: (0) 22 22 01 75 (0) 22 20 44 44
Mail: info@railway.co.th
by bus
The state bus Transport Company or Baw Khaw, are very reliable. They serve all regions of the country. Air-conditioned and comfortable, their standing varies by price and speed. You will find BKS shops in every city to make your reservations.
Approximately 1 baht per kilometer for buses best equipped.
There are also private bus companies whose prices vary widely. Not recommended for long distances.
Hitchhiking
This transport is not recommended for foreign visitors: you will have little success, local do not stop often and the trip can be risky especially in the most remote corners.
Tip if you want to experiment: the thumbs-up to Western does you no good to hail cars, we must reach out, open palm and shake up and down.
Public transport in cities
In Bangkok but mainly in big cities, you can choose from the underground, the motorcycle taxi, tuk-tuk (haggle the price before getting in) the sawngthaew, so trucks equipped minibus, the Sky train and taxi.
car
The Highway Code is simple in Thailand and suddenly, very dangerous: drive on the left and let go always the larger vehicle in front of you. Signage is almost non-existent and the variety of means of transport (cart, wagon rides, tuk-tuks, motorcycle, bicycle, etc.) will make you doubly careful driving. The speed limit is 50 km / h in towns and 80 km / h to 100km / h on highways.
You can rent a car in cities, hotels or travel agencies. Avoid more expensive international agencies. Check your insurance policy in case of accident. A deposit is required.
You need an international driving license.
Useful information
Thai Airways International
Tour Opus 12-77 Esplanade Charles de Gaulle
92914 La Défense Cedex
Reservations: 01 55 68 80 70 - Fax 01 40 90 71 65
Don Mueang International Airport - Bangkok
25 km from Bangkok
222 Moo 10 Vibhavadi Rangsit Road,
Don Mueang
Airports
The country is served from north to south through international or local flights.
There are several international airports in Thailand: Suvarnabhumi International Airport and international airports in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai serving the north.
Airports Sukhothai, Phuket, Koh Samui, Bangkok Don Muang welcome domestic flights.
stations ferrovières
The rail network serves mainly the big cities. During the monsoon, some train lines are cut. Similarly, landslides can damage roads.
The name of the station in Bangkok Station Hua Lumpong.
taxis
We find it easily. Not necessarily fast, they run on LPG.
Advantage: they are really cheap.
Local transportation
Health / Safety / Vaccines
health
Both cities have a large health system performance and well equipped, especially in remote rural areas are still traditional healing techniques.
Be sure to subscribe to a good insurance policy that will cover your medical expenses in case of need and refund possible repatriation if necessary.
Verify that risk sports such as diving and rock climbing are not excluded from the contract.
If you follow a specific treatment, take medications with you, and that goes with the order. If you buy drugs on site, check the expiration date and the presence of the record.
The avian flu is present in the territory since 2003, mainly in the provinces of the north, northeast and center. Cases have been reported in early 2007; do not eat poultry, meat or raw eggs and avoid contact with poultry and birds.
Avoid risky behavior in sexual relationships in the territory. AIDS is still a lot of havoc in the population.
vaccines
Before leaving, make a update your vaccinations (at least 6 weeks before departure). Malaria is still present in Thailand. There is no need for the vaccine if you stay in Bangkok but made an anti-malaria treatment to stay in the border areas of the country. Vaccination against rabies is recommended for backpackers staying in remote corners of the country. It is transmitted by the bite of many stray dogs but also by monkeys and squirrels.
First aid kit
Key drugs easily found in most of the country but better take Commodities: mosquito repellent (dengue occurs during the rainy season), disinfectant, bandages, paracetamol, analgesic tablets to purify water , sunscreen, anti-diarrheal, antihistamine (for colds and allergies).
medical Services
In general, doctors speak English. Allow 300-400 baht (7-9 euros) for a consultation. Pharmacies prescribe drugs from international laboratories. Look closely the expiration date and make sure the traffic of fake drugs. Hospitals are well equipped and specialized in tropical diseases. A list of locations is available in the TAT (local tourist offices).
security
There are no particular safety condition in the country. Do not spread your property especially in the markets. Always keep with you your ID and your personal belongings. If you are at the hotel, put away your valuables in a safe.
Useful information
Emergency Numbers
Police for tourists: November 55
Firefighters: 199
Hospital: 02 252 81 11
"Site of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Health in Thailand"
"Site of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Security in Thailand"
political conditions
The country's history has always been the least eventful monarchy 17 military coups since 1942 and 16 constitutions since 1932! She is now a constitutional monarchy. King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) reign: the head of state. But it is the prime minister who governs the country. He was appointed by the king. Influential military always have an important place in the life of the government.
vaccine Recommendations
Make sure you are up to date with your immunizations (diphtheria-tetanus-polio).
Some are strongly advised: hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies and Japanese encephalitis for long stays rural.
currency
The currency is the baht is divided into 100 satang. The coins are divided into 1.5 and 10 baht and 25 satang and 50 For tickets, cuts are 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 baht. 1 euro is equivalent to 44 7 baht.
exchange
Banks offer the best exchange rate. You can change your Euros on the spot to avoid having too much money on you. Exchange offices are flourishing in all the sights of the country. Major international hotels also offer money changing, but the rate is less interesting.
For the more remote locations of cities, allow small change for your purchases and for tips.
There is no limited amount of money to import in Thailand. But all visitors must have on him, to return to the territory, 250 euros for a tourist and double for a family. To return, you can not take more than 50,000 baht.
payment
You will need to use mainly cash. Only major hotels, shops and restaurants in major cities accept credit card (Visa and MasterCard). It may be that institutions take a commission of 3 to 5%.
Cost of living
Life is cheap in Thailand. The standard of living is very low especially in rural areas. You can live with a tight 11 euros without extravagant budget activity between food, accommodation and transport. With 30 euros you can indulge yourself in the capital and enjoy delicious food. Keep some money to go diving or hiking in the many parks.
The currency of Thailand is the baht.
1 EUR = 49 baht.
Tipping
Tipping is not common practice in Thailand except in certain restaurants. The reason: an increase of 10% is already counted for the service.
average prices
Stay (excluding travel / R): 350 € to 1200 €
Showing 1 and 2 star: 2 € to 10 €
3 star hotels: 8 € to 30 €
4 star hotels or more: 40 € to 60 €
Cheap restaurants: € 2 on average
Traditional restaurants: 2 € to 6 €
Restaurants Large tables: 6 € to 50 €
highlights
Sites not to be missed
In Bangkok, the Wat Phra Kaeo, "temple of the Emerald Buddha"
In the north (Unesco World Heritage); National Park Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai; the (not very far from Ayutthaya) Sukhothai Historical Park, National Park Khao Yai
In the south, the National Marine Park Ang Thong near Koh Samui
Events worth a special journey
February-March: Festival of Flowers Chiang Mai (north)
November: Surin Elephant Round
November: Festival of Lights in Bangkok
weaknesses
Risks of tidal waves and earthquakes.
tips
do
Lazing on a hidden beach of Thailand.
Andaman Coast, Ko Muk island contains a range uncommon. Named "Pearl Island" and is accessed through a cave, Tham Morakot, a length of 80 m. Only accessible by boat at low tide, this little excursion will take you to a beautiful white sand beach where the vegetation, which falls like a waterfall, is reflected on water.
See a plant dance
The province of Chiang Mai is renowned for its horticulture. The nursery Udorn Sunshine produces natural fragrances based on orchids.
You have to see it to believe it but one of the varieties stirs its leaves when you sing softly that when playing a musical instrument. Visit the nursery to the cool season when flowering is the most beautiful. You can buy the "Miss Udorn Sunshine", an orchid species in enchanting fragrance.
Visit a center to protect Thai elephants
Thai elephant conservation center is located in Lampang province in the north. Its activities are multiple: Demonstrating knowledge of elephants (concert, painting, swimming, etc.), forest walks on the backs of pachyderms, exhibits about the history of the animal, and medical care and treatment to sick elephants from across the country.
Take a ride to the floating market of Damnoen Saduak
Damnoen Saduak is located a few hundred kilometers southwest of Bangkok. Buses often connect the two cities (count 65 baht). You can rent a boat and venture out on the canals. Products sold are quite expensive but you can haggle. Take the opportunity to visit the residential canals.
Useful information
Udorn Sunshine Nursery
127 Udoren - NongSamrong
Udon Thani
Tel: 04224 2475
Open daily from 7am to 18:30
Admission: 40 baht.
Thai elephant conservation center
Hang Chat district
Tel: 0 5422 8035
Demonstrations daily at 10 am and 11 am on Fridays and Saturdays from June to September at 13:30.
Admission: 50 baht.
Don'ts
Not to be disrespectful to indigenous few rules apply:
It is kinder to meet the greetings of the people.
In society, the men sit cross-legged and ladies legs folded under themselves. You should know that the feet are the least noble part of the body. So you have to hide them. Even sitting on a bench, do not cross your legs for not pointing up.
In temples, Remove your shoes, cover your shoulders and legs and do step over anyone.
Even between friends, Thais are not very tactile, avoid touching their hands, shoulders, even children.
Lifestyle
Electricity
As in France, the current is AC 220V.
Plugs are generally two-pin round or flat.
local time
When it is noon in Paris, it is 17h or 18h in Bangkok as summer time or winter. There are seven hours ahead of Greenwich.
schedule
The offices are open from 8.30am to 12pm and from 13h to 16h30. Department stores open at 10am and close at 19h or 22h for small retailers. The restaurants are open all day, meal times are not fixed. Various banks and offices are closed on holidays.
Facilities
The climate is hot and humid, expect cotton clothing. To prevent mosquito bites at night, wear long pants and a long sleeve top. Allow a little warm clothing for mountain regions: the evening can be very cool.
Premises standards
The electricity is 220 volts across the country.
However, it is necessary to get an adapter (the jacks are not the same as in France).
ID card
General
Capital: Bangkok
Area: 514,000 square kilometers
Border countries: Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar
Official Language: Thai
Currency: Baht (1 euro = about 44 baht)
Religion: 95% Buddhist
State: Constitutional monarchy with a strong military power.
Administration: 77 provinces
demography
Population 64.8 million
Density: 127.2 hab. / km ²
Peoples and ethnic groups: Thais (75%), Chinese (11%), Malay (3%) and Môn, Vietnamese and various hill tribes.
Economy
GDP per year per capita: 6100 EUR
Main resources: rice, textile, gems, tourism.
Culture / Traditions
Although never colonized by a Western country, Thailand leaves a permanent door open to other cultures. There are many Chinese symbols, Lao Malay or in the local culture. Gradually, the country opened to Western culture but always adapted to its way of life.
Thais have a way of taking life on the positive side of things. The sanuk means pleasure or joy: Work or a ridiculous fall has its share of sanuk. Hence the designation of Thailand as the "Land of Smiles". It's a lifestyle.
Music is very important. It accompanies dances and also serves as the theater. Thais love sports, especially Thai boxing. Although violent because using every part of the body to defend itself, competitions attract thousands of people.
How to behave in society?
Monarchy and religion are the favorite themes of Thais. Above all, do disparage any of the two subjects. It is recommended to stand for the royal anthem when in company. It is broadcast daily at 8 am and 18h. All activities are stopped.
Avoid putting uncomfortable your audience by addressing ethical or political issues negatively. Try to remain calm even in embarrassing situations because any form of aggression or simply raising your voice is considered impolite.
Relationships between people are governed by an order of importance according to age, wealth and its role in society. The náwy Phuu (person with little experience: children, students, employees, etc.) must respect and obey the YAI Phuu (experienced person), which in return gives them support to develop them.
In temples
Wear protective clothing and remove your shoes before entering the sanctuary. Buddhas are sacred, avoid indoor shots. Your feet should not point to the Buddha when you sit down, this is the part most impure body. Leave a small contribution coming out, it will be used for upkeep of the temple.
Population / Language
The country has 64 million people including 6 million Chinese. Malays make up 3.5% of the population.
The official language is Thai. Several ethnic groups live together. Chinese and Malay are spoken by a minority of people. English is practiced on the sights. French is taught and spoken mainly by high society.
religion
Buddhism meets 95% of the population. The Thai people are very enthusiastic: religion is highly instrumental in daily life. 4% are Muslim. The rest of the population is divided between Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity and Hinduism.
useful Words
There are four dialects in Thailand belong to the Thai-Kadai family: Thai central, northern Thai, Thai northeastern and southern Thai.
The main difficulty in learning the Siamese is the pronunciation. There are 44 consonants that have 21 different sounds and 15 vowels that they have 48 different sounds ??
Tones determine the direction of the next word that the tone will be neutral, up, down, up or down. A real headache!
The Thai language has neither conjugation or declension or article. It not there an official spelling phonetic translation of Siamese. You will find there several different scripts for the same city or monument but the sound remains the same. Often Thai rajoutent khrap (for a man) and kha (for a woman) at the end of sentences. It is a salutation.
Read Before You Go
Romans
The Bridge on the River Kwai, Pierre Boule published in 1987 by Editions Presses Pocket
We know more the eponymous film based on the novel by Pierre Boule, written in 1952. romannous plunges in full Thai jungle during the Second World War to the Burmese border. The Japanese employ thousands of British prisoners to carry a railway linking the two countries. A British commander made an agreement with the Japanese to help build a bridge over the River Kwai. But British intelligence planning to blow up the building.
Fine Books
At the heart of Buddhism, Traleg Kyabgon published in 2004 by Editions Kunchab.
For those who want to go further in the understanding of Buddhism or practice, this book is a good introduction. As questions about Islam and himself, the author invites the reader to better understand the true Buddha fundamental concepts.
The art of Southeast Asia, Marijke-J Klokke published in 1997 by Editions Citadels & Mazenod.
A must read to understand the art of this part of the world, very different from Western culture. Bangkok city alone accounts nearly 500 temples. Knowing the artistic history of the country will learn as much about the cultural, political and economic kingdom of Siam.
various
The book of Thai cuisine, David Thompson published in 2004 by Editions du Rouergue ?? 2004
Thai cuisine is one of the best in the world. It's a real treat of flavors, scents and spices. The author offers 400 recipes in collaboration with chefs from the royal palaces of the country.
WHAT TO SEE IN THAILAND
Where to go?
various
Festival of Lights
In November, we celebrate the Festival of Lights (Loy Krathong) across the country during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. It was at Sukhothai, ancient capital, the tradition was born. It is usually celebrated in the historic city park. On the agenda: a beautiful light show!
But it is in the capital that the festival lasts the longest (about 4 days): the banks of the Chao Praya River are covered with lights, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Nature / National Parks / Zoo / Reserves
The Marine National Park Mu Ko Angthong north of the island. It includes forty islands that are actually green rocks outgoing water. Lake emerald, coral reef, the opportunity to make a very nice boat ride in an unforgettable landscape.
cultural Heritage
Thai minorities
Austro-Asian minorities are the most significant minorities of Thailand after the Asian minority. It is one she Khmer, the Mon, the Kui. There are also Malay and Vietnamese.
To fully experience the culture of the minorities, you should meet the people who made history. Khmer villages are mostly near the Cambodian border.
Cultural Heritage / Urban Culture / monuments
Sala Kaeo Ku
Nong Khai is a sort of sister city of Vientiane. Located across the Mekong River, the city is still not known. Yet it is worth a look, especially for its fleet of strange statues, while Thai Buddha Garden, designed by the same monk in the late 70s, not far from the city. Buddhist and Hindu statues of demons and deities inhabit the park (also called Wat Khaek), creating a strange atmosphere ...
To reach this city, just take a bridge that connects Nong Khai to the Lao side. The bridge, which has been around for just over 10 years, was built to seal the friendship between Laos and Thailand. In the city, you can choose to stay in a number of guesthouses.
historic sites
Bridge on the River Kwai
On the route Bangkok-Singapore the Eastern & Oriental Express, is a stop at the bridge over the River Kwai.
You will then a cruise on the river where you can see the infamous bridge. Indeed the construction of this bridge, which cost the lives of many prisoners of war, is one of the dullest of WWII passages in Asia.
monuments
Find all the useful information on the most beautiful historic buildings in Thailand
"Monuments in Thailand
museums
Fares, schedules and practical information, here is the list of museums to visit in Thailand
"Museums in Thailand
Itineraries
Walk to town, walking route or nature walks ... The most beautiful tourist routes in Thailand
"Trails in Thailand
Unesco
Every year, UNESCO placed on its World Heritage List of the most beautiful wonders of the world. Find classified sites in Thailand
"Sites classified in Thailand
parks
Discover the most beautiful natural sites in Thailand
"National Parks in Thailand
Natural Curiosities
Surprising or outsized, discover the most unusual natural sites in Thailand
"Natural Curiosities in Thailand
WHAT TO DO IN THAILAND
restaurant
Thai cuisine is known around the world. The quality, variety, and the preparation of dishes will delight your stomachs. In addition, there is no time to eat in the land of Siam. Do not be surprised to see constantly Aboriginal table, they nibble four to five times a day. They love to eat!
These are the influences Chinese, Malay and Indian that give Thai food as much revenue and refinement.
dishes
The staple food is rice. Thailand is the world's largest exporter of rice. Everyone eats, eating even the word literally means "eat rice."
There are dozens of variety. Sticky rice, steamed, flavored or skipped that accompanies pork, shrimp, fish or beef. You'll struggle to choose between the soft pat khao khao tom mat and served in a banana leaf.
Noodles are another staple food. There are four kinds: for example, based kuaytiaw rice flour. They are eaten in broth with chicken or beef with cabbage and cilantro. The most popular with tourists Thai food is a tasty mix of fried noodles with shrimp, bean sprouts, tofu and egg.
There are still on the edge of the plate various accompaniments that complement the dish: peanuts, peppers, lemons, onions, etc.
The jiin khanom are dough cooked rice and accompany curries. The ba-mii, flour of wheat, similar to spaghetti. Finally, wun-sen are very clear starch based mung. They accompany mushrooms, crab, shrimp, pork, tofu and various vegetables.
Curries designate many liquid dishes: soups like kaeng jeut, spicy dishes such as kaeng phet. Curries are prepared in a pan with the cream of coconut and then we add to as the chosen ingredients.
There are different types of salads that are very significant at high temperatures. Seafood, vegetables, meat and noodles are used as ingredients. The yam is the spicy dishes.
Stir-fries and various fried foods were imported from China. Soups are divided into two categories: those with seafood, spicy tom yam well and kaeng jeut, softer soy, of wun sen, tofu, white radish and pork.
The fruits are particularly popular in Thailand: coconut, guava, watermelon, grapefruit, pineapple ??
The desserts are not part of a traditional meal. However, we consume sweets made from coconut, rice flour or tapioca and various sweets wrapped in banana leaves.
In the north, you rather eat with hands, chopsticks are only used for Chinese dishes. Otherwise, it's a spoon that you can enjoy these delicious dishes.
drinks
Coffee is very popular in Thailand. There is excellent. The thung kaafae sweet is served with milk. The Chaa, black tea has an orange color comes from the color of tamarind seeds. The Chaa yen is a sweet iced tea with milk. In every store you will find the famous Singha, the Thai beer to 6. Whiskey rice or sugar cane, the Mekong, 35 °, is also popular and more affordable than beer.
Where to find "food shops"?
The aahaan raan, local restaurants offer a wide variety of Thai dishes. The cook generally prepared before you the recipe of your choice. Of all sizes, these institutions are flourishing in every street. Markets are arranged tables near the stalls where you can taste some dishes simply by showing them the finger.
You will find the most luxurious restaurants in major cities with a map in English and a Western service. Prices range between 150 and 800 baht (3 euros to 18 euros) for a meal. For chic restaurants, a tax of 10% is required as well as a tip.
shopping
Shops are generally open daily from 8am to 21h. In the tourist areas, some shops close again later. You can shop in department stores between 10h and 22h.
Life is cheap in Thailand, including food and handicrafts.
stores
The city of Bangkok has many accessible directly Skytrain for some shopping centers. You can find all these great modern and spacious units. The best known are the Central Department Store and Siam Center. The Emporium offers a variety of boutiques.
There are also independent shops selling souvenirs of Thailand and Thai handicrafts (Silom Village Trade Center or Narayana Phand).
markets
For food, it is the many markets that are pacing up and down. Spices, fruits, fish, you can find anything. The most important is the Chatuchak Market. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and heat. An information center gives plans to find the desired stalls ??
Other markets, more specialized, thrive in the capital. Pat Khlong is the biggest flower market: a feast of scents and colors for a stroll among the roses and orchids.
Tourism markets are a vast tangle of counterfeit watches, clothes, handbags, CDs and DVDs. Choice, that of Th Sukhumvit, Th Khao San or Patpong night market. Warning: purchase and export of counterfeiting is illegal!
But more typical is to buy your food on the floating markets. The khlongs these small canals running through Bangkok, assist navigation with vendors selling without even get off their boat, their products. It also causes many river traffic.
Markets are available in all cities and even in small villages. Thais love to cook; their cuisine is refined, they prefer to cook fresh produce.
Useful information
Central Department Store
Th Ploenchit
Bangkok
Tel: 0 2233 6930
Skytrain stop: Chitlom
Siam Center
At the corner of Th Phra Ram I and Th Phayathai
Bangkok
SwitchingOff Skyrrain: National Stadium or Siam
Emporium
622 Th Sukhumvit - Soi 24 angle
Bangkok
Skytrain stop: Phrom Phong
Chatuchak Market (Talat Nat Jatujak)
Skytrain stop: Mo Chit
Metro stop: Chatuchak Park
Only Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 18pm.
Pat Khlong flower market
Th Th Chakkaphet and Atsadang
Open daily from 8am to 18pm.
Th Sukhumvit tourist market
Th Sukhumvit
Open daily.
What to report?
You will probably be amazed by the choice of Thai handicrafts. Bargains await you so take a small place for your memories in your luggage.
The craftsmanship is very diverse. Each region has its own specialty but it is north and east of Thailand you will find beautiful embroidery collections, clothing, baskets, jewelry, fabrics, parasols, paintings, etc. Sure, you can find them on the markets of big cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai.
Ceramics and pottery
The country of Thailand is also famous for its manufacture of ceramics including porcelain Bencharong five colors found in the center of the country.
Around Sukhothai and Si-Satchanalai near historic parks, are produced pale green celadon pottery small translucent. But it is in Lampang that you will have more choice and affordable.
Lacquers
The lacquer is available in multiple formats: dishes, artwork, decoration, etc. It comes from the resin of poison mixed with rice hull ash. Then, this mixture is applied on a support bamboo. Once dry, the paint is rubbed with ash of rice husks before applying a second coat. The number of layers will determine the quality of the paint. There remains only the paint and polish it. Each item is handmade and requires several hours. We must therefore also consider the lacquer you buy as a unique work of art.
Gems
Ruby, jade, sapphires, emeralds, zircons, spinels, as many gems that make you dream. For the experts, you will do business in Thailand leading exporter of stones and jewelry.
But if you're addicted, you may do so strongly you have. Buy only from reputable retailers who will provide you with a certificate of authenticity. TAT (local tourism) will give you the best addresses.
textile
Thai silk is very famous. You can find the cheapest in the north but more choice in Bangkok. Tailors can even buy sets for a reasonable price. In addition to clothing, you can buy small silk accessories very classes: tie, decorations, cushions, etc.
You can bargain only in small shops. But not too much lower the price, the Western tourist has a large purchasing power than local.
go out
Thais love to have fun. Big cities are full of bars and nightclubs.
In Bangkok, prefer Banglamphu neighborhood for a drink. Life is busy. On streets, the atmosphere changed. Neighborhoods and Siam Square are more upscale. This is an opportunity to see the Thai personalities there: models, policies, actors, etc.
Sukhumvit is very popular. You will indeed drink the cheapest beer in town. Other popular local drink: Thai whiskey rice or sugar cane. It is usually served with soda and ice.
You will find to Patpong go-go bars but beware of scammers. Similarly, you are not without that Thailand is known for its intense prostitution often abusing minors separated from their families. Be vigilant and do not guarantee in this degrading sex tourism.
There are many clubs which combines all nationalities. The music is also eclectic reviewing all music "of the moment".
Cinemas are very valuable when it's sweltering heat in the city. Air conditioning, the price varies between 100 and 500 baht. Before the movie, you'll get up to play the royal anthem. Many cinemas offer VO subtitles.
The traditional performances are the hallmark of Thailand. We all saw a picture these young beautiful women, made up and dressed to perfection, contorting their hands and body in a dance out of the ordinary.
The National Theatre of Bangkok's entertainment and live traditional music. Remember to book in advance.
To be aware of shows, concerts and various outputs not to be missed, take magazines Bangkok Metro, or Farang What's on in the supplement of the Post on Friday.
Useful information
National Theatre of Thailand
Th Chao FaBangkok
Tel: 0 2224 0171
Admission: between 20 and 200 baht depending on the show.
Sports
Thailand is a vast playground for athletes. Between hiking and diving, there are activities for everyone.
hiking
Discover the great natural parks such as Kaeng Krachan Doi, Khao Yai, Erawan Doi Suthep-Pui or. Tours are offered several days to reach the tops of high mountains but you can also hike on the day. Better inquire at the information desk parks before you embark on the adventure. In some remote areas, the presence of a guide is highly recommended.
Most parks has accommodation on site camping or bungalow. Feel free to take breaks in the very welcoming mountain villages.
The best season for hiking is from November to March: the warmer weather and the roads are not flooded.
Take good walking shoes, a mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, flashlight, water, protective clothes and warm for the night at least. In July and August, a raincoat is essential. Keep you on your identity papers.
diving
Unforgettable seabed rivaling beauty, a warm, clear water, and a huge selection of "spots" diving encourage you to bring a single fins and snorkel to discover the beauty of Thailand.
For scuba diving, be sure to check your hardware and prefer diving centers confirmed. Test the skill of your monitor will request your diving card.
Price level centers cheapest diving on the islands of Ko Tao and Ko Chang and more expensive in Phuket, Pattaya and Ko Phi Phi. For beginners, you can spend your first degree dive to 10,000 baht (220 euros) approximately.
The country has beautiful places to explore: the Ao Phang-Nga park and along the Andaman coast in particular.
climbing
Thai people are very fond of this discipline. Krabi province is endowed with sites such as Hat Rai Leh and Hat Ton Sai which have 700 channels to all levels. Sea Ao Phang-Nga National Park and Ko Phi Phi also have steep sides but with holds making up the rocky peaks and have a wonderful view.
In Chiang Mai is the largest climbing wall in Southeast Asia is: Peak Rock-climbing Plaza (website in English).
Water sports
With 2,700 km of coastline, Thailand offers a variety of water sports. You can try your hand at windsurfing in Ko Samet or Ko Samui with excellent weather conditions. In recent years, kayaking grows: the game allows the exploration of the islands close enough on the continent and especially the caves. You can also find jet skiing, sailing, water skiing, parasailing, and fishing on the high seas.
A two wheels
Cycling is the ideal means of locomotion in Thailand. Even though it's a bit dangerous in the cities, cycling is convenient for visiting the lost cities of the Central Plains and around Bangkok. City bikes and mountain bikes are for rent in major cities.
Hike / Trek
Hiking (mountain northwest), the opportunity to visit the village women Giraffe (which, however, remains a tourist area not very authentic ...)
To the east of Sukhothai, it is possible to hike in the park Ramkhamhaeng, on the mountain of Khao Luang, which rises to 1,200 meters. Historical relics scattered along the route in the hills, cliffs, waterfalls and amazing flora. A beautiful blend of culture and wilderness!
Water Sports / Diving
On the south coast, near the Similan Islands diving enthusiasts can see corals, whale sharks, leopard sharks, barracuda and grouper.
