Top 10 Travel Tips - These Are Travel Lover's Top 10 Travel Tips To Ensure a Great Vacation

Top 10 Travel Tips - These Are Travel Lover's Top 10 Travel Tips To Ensure a Great Vacation
By : Joe Collinsworth

Traveling is such an enjoyable experience that we wish we could do it all the time. Unfortunately most of us only get a couple weeks a year (if we’re lucky) to take our vacations.

In order to ensure that those trips are the very best and everything we expect (unlike the many travel movies where there are nightmares around every corner), we want to provide our top 10 travel tips so your vacations are very memorable – in a good way of course.

Discount Florida Vacations Top 10 Travel Tips (these are in no particular order):

1. Plan early and book when a good deal fits your budget or smells right. There are more and more travel companies popping up everyday. Why? Because as the baby boomer generation gets older and once they boot their children out of the house, they are traveling more and more. Good deals are easy to find and there are many reputable companies that offer great rates and fares.

2. Know about your destination and the best times to travel. Remember when Chevy Chase takes the whole family cross country only to find out their favorite fun park is closed? Don’t let that happen to you. Know what is going on and when the best times to travel are. For example, most people know that March and April tend to be spring break times. Well, if you take your little ones to Panama City Florida during these months, chances are you are going to run into wild, college kids. Bummer for your children and you.

3. Take care of things at home. Making sure the family pet or the house is taken care of is important. You don’t want to come home to a disaster after you’ve had a wonderful vacation.

4. Budget wisely. Even if you don’t have a budget it is smart to take care of your money. Make sure that if the worst happened you still have funds to fall back on. If you are on a budget be smart and enjoy doing things on vacation that aren’t going to have you taking out a 2nd mortgage just to pay for everything.


5. Don’t forget your important documents. There is nothing more frustrating than forgetting something when you are hundreds or thousands of miles from home.

6. Plan things to do ahead of time. Again, get to know your area of choice to determine how
close you are to various activities and restaurants. There is nothing like landing a great deal on a hotel only to find out it is miles from anything or in a location that is not suitable for a great vacation. For example, a hotel that is so far away from the beach you need to catch a plane just to get there. Also, you want to make sure that everyone traveling with you will have fun! Again, in Vegas Vacation when the kids are too young to gamble, they have to come up with creative ways to have a good time (hence Nick Popagorgio).

7. Sign up for online newsletters and keep your ear to the ground about your destination of choice.

8. Read the fine print. This can really bite you in the behind on certain things like rentals and such.

9. Utilize a checklist and make sure everything is in order before and during the trip. From booking to packing to check in to relaxation, don’t forget anything.

10. Have fun and enjoy yourself. No matter what type of vacation you are going on, the goal is to not want to come back.

Those are our top 10 travel tips and we live by them each time we take a vacation. Hope you will too because we know your trip will be much more pleasurable.

Discount Florida Vacations is the ultimate vacation experience. Come enjoy Florida before you ever leave with tips, deals, fun, sun, stories, reviews, and more. If you think our top 10 travel tips were good, you are in for a real treat at [http://www.discount-florida-vacations.com]www.discount-florida-vacations.com.

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Travel For Free, Get Paid To Travel And Even Get Paid When Others Travel

Travel For Free, Get Paid To Travel And Even Get Paid When Others Travel
By : Bill Young

Fall and Winter vacation time is coming fast! Did you know that you can travel for free and even get paid to have fun in the sun?

This is a unique opportunity! The travel industry is exploding as Baby Boomers retire in droves and head to the cruise ships, Caribbean resorts and European Spas in record numbers.

Learn how to put groups of friends, family, club members, etc together to travel to exotic places around the world, getting your tickets free while earning commission on your friend's tickets! You can even have your own private labeled travel website that will pay you handsomely every time someone books their travel on it, even if you are asleep, at home with the kids or even on vacation.

Read on to learn how you can cash in on this bonanza for very little money.We said you could even travel for free. How can that be? You can be invited by the owners of Luxurious Resorts, Spas, Cruise Ships around the world to stay at their facilities as their free guests!

These are called FAM(iliarization) trips. Owners are counting on travel professionals to brag about their luxurious vacations at fabulous resorts to your friends and family when they get back home. Word of mouth advertising, the best. A couple of examples: In November, 2006, one of my friends spent a week in Jamaica, Free! She stayed at top, beach front hotels as a guest of the Jamaica Tourist Board, with everything included, meals, transfers, excursions, etc. Special airfare price of $199 RT New York!Or, how about a 3 night stay in the Virgin Islands, courtesy of the USVI Tourist Board in September?

There is a cooking tour of Tuscany, Italy, coming up in September. 5 nights, all inclusive in a 600 year old farmhouse on 1,000 acre vineyard, all inclusive, including cooking lessons and wine tasting, $599!On April 18th, 2007, you could have boarded the QM2 in NY, for a 7 day, luxurious Transatlantic trip from New York to Merry Olde England for only $499!How would you like to be upgraded to 1st Class for free when you fly, business or pleasure?. Staying at a hotel? How about a suite for the price of a regular room? Or how about renting a Jeep and getting a Hummer for the same price?This is not some fantasy, these perks and more are offered every day to owners of travel agencies.


Now, you can be the CEO of one or an entire Network of Expedia-like, Internet Travel Agencies that will stream massive, passive income into your bank account 24/7 while you sleep. Earn $500 per month, or $500 per day, it is up to you!

American Express sells Internet Travel franchises for $10,000 each with a liquid reserve of $100,000 required.. Magic Johnson sells them for $5,000 each. One company, YTB Travel, can get you started in your own home based, Internet Travel Agency right now for less than $500. They are the fastest growing of the new breed of Internet Travel Agencies and are actively recruiting new, home based agents as well as looking for marketing people to sell them.

Good Luck!

Copyright 2007 Bill Young. Bill is a Personal Financial Consultant and owner of a travel business consisting of 10’s of networked travel websites, which generate a growing passive income each month. He maintains a site where you can check out those FAM trips he mentioned in his article: http://301url.com/clx He can also show you how to get money to start and promote your home based business every month from the government , once you start your new business through the generous tax breaks available to every home based business. Sign up for Bill's free course, How to Solve Your Money Problems at http://HowtoSolveYourMoneyProblems.Com or Call Bill directly for a free consultation: 877-291-3642

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Travel to Krabi and Phi Phi Islands - Amazing Thailand Attractions

Travel to Krabi and Phi Phi Islands - Amazing Thailand Attractions
By : Siripong T

Krabi is a province of Thailand located in the southern area and has fantastic beaches along the shore plus many wonderful islands. You just can't imagine how beautiful they are. Phi Phi Islands is one of the very famous spots in Krabi that travelers can't miss.

About the weather in Krabi province, there are only two seasons in this region, which is different from other parts of Thailand. The summer season lasts from January to April, and the rainy season lasts from May to December. The temperature is between 16.9 and 37.3 degree Celsius throughout the year.

You can get to Krabi by car or by plane. If you drive there from Bangkok, you go along the highway number 4 through many provinces. The overall distance is approximately 946 kilometers. If you go to Krabi from Phuket, you can use highway number 402 connected to highway number 4 through Pangnga province and Krabi province. The total distance is approximately 185 kilometers. Also, the public transportation companies provide air-conditioned buses for people everyday from Bangkok and Phuket. If you decide to go there by plane from Bangkok airport, it takes about 1 hour and a half to Krabi province.

Diving at Krabi Sea is a very exciting activity that you can't miss. Scuba diving is very popular there. Many diving service companies provide the travelers boat services from Phuket and Phi Phi Don Island. Some famous diving spots are around Phi Phi Islands and King Cruiser shipwreck. Around Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le Islands, there are many diving spots such as Nui beach, Maya beach, and sea caves. You may rent a small boat called Rue Hang Yao from Phi Phi Don Island to these spots. Bidah Islands and Ha Islands (Ha means five) are also popular diving spots.


Phi Phi Islands is one of the famous islands in Thailand located in Krabi province. The word "Phi Phi" comes from a tree named "Pi-a-pee." In 1983, the government of Thailand announced that Phi Phi Islands became a member of Nopparatthara - Phi Phi Islands national park. This park includes six islands which are Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Le, Bidah Nok, Bidah Nai, Yung and Phai Islands. The distance between Krabi beach and Phi Phi Islands is approximately 42 kilometers.

Lanta Islands is one of the most amazing spots in Krabi. It is located in the far south of the province. In the past, villagers called this islands "Poo-Lao-Sa-Tak" which means the islands with long beaches. Some famous islands are Lanta Yai Islands, Ngai Island, Rok Nai Island and Rok Nok Island. There are a lot of resorts and hotels on the islands. You can go to Lanta Islands from Krabi beach or Phi Phi Islands.

Ao Nang is a place that has wonderful scenario with beautiful beaches such as Rai Le Beach, Tam Pra Nang Beach and Nam Mao Beach. These three beaches cannot be reached by car because they are surrounded by mountains. You can go there by boat from Ao Nang.

You can read more about Krabi at my web blog; http://travel-krabi.blogspot.com

The author owns a webblog about traveling in Thailand, listed below

Chiang Mai - http://travel-chiangmai-thailand.blogspot.com

Samui and Pa-ngan Islands - http://samui-pangan.blogspot.com

Please visit!

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Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

The Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya or Ayutthaya in short, is one of Thailand's historical and majestic highlights. Serving as the Thai capital for 417 years (1350 1767: Kingdom of Ayutthaya), it was once glorified as one of the biggest cities in Southeast Asia. During the 17th century, most foreign visitors to Ayutthaya, traders or diplomats alike, claimed Ayutthaya to be the most illustrious and glittering city that they had ever visited. The map of Ayutthaya published in 1691 by Simon de la Loubere in Du Royaume De Siam is proof of such recognition.

The Kingdom of Ayutthaya reached its apex in terms of sovereignty, military might, wealth, culture, and international commerce in the 16th century when the Kingdoms territory was extended far beyond present-day Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. Ayutthaya even had diplomatic relations with Louis XIV of France and was courted by Dutch, Portuguese, English, Chinese and Japanese merchants.

Visitors can explore and appreciate Thai history in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, which is situated only 86 kilometers north of Bangkok. Visitors to Ayutthaya can marvel at its grandeur reflected through numerous magnificent structures and ruins concentrated in and around the city island surrounded by Maenam Chao Phraya, Maenam Pa Sak and Maenam Lopburi.

More importantly,Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, an extensive historical site in the heart of Ayutthaya city, has been included in UNESCO's World Heritage list since 13 December, 1991.

The Past

The Kingdom of Ayutthaya was built and developed in leaps and bounds. The ruins in Ayutthaya that survived the test of time embody both the glorious and ignominious stories of the Kingdom.

This ancient capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, founded in 1350 by King U-Thong, had thirty three kings of different dynasties and reached its peak in the middle of the18th century. A magnificent city with three palaces and over 400 magnificent temples on an island threaded by canals Ayutthaya was truly an impressive city that attracted both Europeans and Asians. After a 15-month siege the Kingdom of Ayutthaya was conquered and completely destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. When King Taksin the Great finally liberated the Kingdom, a new dynasty was established and the capital was moved to Thonburi.

The seal of Ayutthaya depicts a conch on a pedestal tray placed in a small castle under a Mun tree. According to legend, King U-Thong, founder of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, discovered a beautiful conch buried in the ground being prepared for the establishment of the seat of his Kingdom. Consequently, he had a tiny castle built to house the shell. Hence, the provincial seal.

The Present

Today, there are but groups of crumbling ruins and rows of headless Buddhas where once an empire thrived. The temple compounds are still awe-inspiring even in disrepair and a visit here is memorable and a good beginning for those drawn to the relics of history.

The architecture of Ayutthaya is a fascinating mix of Khmer (ancient Cambodian style) and early Sukhothai style. Some cactus-shaped obelisks, called prangs, denote Khmer influence and look something like the famous towers of Angkor Wat. The more pointed stupas are ascribed to the Sukhothai influence. For new arrivals who had limited their visit to Bangkok, similarities may be noted with the riverside Wat Arun, an 18th-century structure that was built in the so-called Ayutthaya style, a melding of Sukhothai Buddhist influences and Hindu-inspired Khmer motifs.

Ayutthaya is administratively divided into 16 districts: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ban Phraek, Bang Ban, Bang Pahan, Bang Pa-in, Amphoe Bang Sai, Bang Sai, Lat Bua Luang, Maha Rat, Nakhon Luang, Phachi, Phak-Hai, Sena, Tha Rua, Uthai and Wang Noi.

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Thailand Travel Insurance

Thailand Travel Insurance
By : T. Bull

You've booked your flight, made reservations at the hotel, got someone to bring in the mail and watch the dogs, what about the travel insurance? I know what you're thinking, "I'm only going for two weeks", "I'll be fine I'm in great shape", "other people get sick on vacation, not me", but what if you're wrong?

Thailand is known for being a bargain for westerners. Cheap clothes, food, hotels, entertainment, even the hospitals and clinics are cheap compared to the west and with some of the best doctors in the world. Contrary to what some people may believe Thailand has excellent health care. Even though Thailand is cheaper than the west in almost every category if you wind up in the hospital for a week or two it's still going to cost you and it will be more than you bargained for.

If you need some stitches or you pick up a bad case of pink eye then a clinic can patch you up easily and the cost will be minimal...around 700 Baht - 1200 Baht ($20-$30) and thats including all the medicine you'll need to take for whatever length of time. But if you have seriously problems and are admitted to a hospital then the bills start to rack up. Hospital room, medicine, diagnostics, and so on. Then you could be looking at 30,000 baht and up...you do the math.

Whereas travel insurance won't be much help for the minor ailments it will certainly be worth the cost if something major comes up. On average for a two week trip most travel insurance will cost you $20-$30 which isn't much in the grand scheme of things. That amount will usually cover major medical, flights to your home country if it's decided thats the best place for you, and most even have an added bonus that if you're hospitalized for a week or longer they will have a family member flown to you.

Travel insurance can also cover trip cancellations, lost luggage, and a change in travel plans depending on what options you choose. You may not have a great vacation if you get sick but if you have to pay for it out of pocket as well then it's sure to be a memorable trip and not for the right reasons.

I'm writing this because I came down with acute tonsillitis on my first trip to Thailand. Luckily a few trips to the clinic got me back into shape but it could have been bad and I wouldn't have been covered as I didn't even think about insurance.

The flight to Thailand is a long one if you live in the states (17 hours non stop from JFK International) Which will have you nice and dehydrated if you don't drink a lot of water. The temperature in Thailand is HOT which can and will dehydrate you further if you don't take care. Foreign food, foreign microbes, burning the candle at both ends, endless sight seeing, and a host of other things can and will come back to haunt you if you don't take care. Even if you do take care to prevent sickness there is always the unexpected and in Thailand that could be anything from an over amorous elephant, a motorcycle taxi running you over and a host of other things just waiting for you around the next corner.


You may have great insurance in your home country but in most cases they won't cover you overseas.

Find a good travel insurance and buy it for your trip no matter where you're going or for how long!

Born and raised in Baltimore Maryland I finally set out to discover the world in 2006. South East Asia has always been a beacon for me and Thailand its crowned jewel.

I write about my experiences in Thailand as well as the cultural aspects of being a foreigner in a foreign land. I blog daily about Thailand at: http://thailandlandofsmiles.com

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Pattaya - enjoying the city’s bar and restaurant scene

Pattaya - enjoying the city’s bar and restaurant scene
By: Andy Burrows

While in many of Thailand’s less commercially developed holiday centres visitors are happy to eat at the same places as the locals, Pattaya attracts holidaymakers who are often less ambitious and in search of some traces of familiarity where food and drink are concerned.

Fortunately, Pattaya has a wealth of venues that are tourist friendly including those owned by Thais keen to cash in on the steady influx of annual visitors and those owned by expats hoping to attract other expats and grab something of the tourist trade also.

Most hotels offer breakfast as part of the price of a room for the night and while they generally have facilities for providing lunch and dinner, many visitors are out and about during the daytime and will need to find somewhere on their travels that can satisfy their food needs.

There are plenty of venues open for lunch and visitors can choose from either Thai or western food. In the latter category, eateries that stand out include the Queen Victoria Inn on soi 6 with its fine selection of typically English fare and Pat’s restaurant on soi 3 offering similar grub. Between them, customers can expect to find fish and chips, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, shepherd's pie and ploughman's lunch up for grabs.

For fast food, Subway has a branch of its famous sandwich chain situated on Pattaya Klang road and offers its typical selection of Americanised fare, while the City Grill restaurant on Walking street covers all the usual bread and meat combinations such as hot dogs and hamburgers. For food of a similar ilk with that little bit extra, Bob's BBQ & Grill is sure to please with its ribs, burgers and steaks.

Dinner time sees a greater selection of eateries, with many restaurants restricting themselves to evening trade only. Thai food vendors begin to line the streets once the sun has set, dishing up cheap yet authentic Thai cuisine from their mobile food carts. It’s possible to eat for less than 50 baht at these places, although the roadside setting won’t win any awards for being romantic or serene.

To enjoy Thai food in a restaurant setting yet at a reasonable price, try Somsak on soi 1 or Baan Thai on Central road where traditional fare with an haute cuisine edge can be enjoyed at higher prices than the former. Dinner with entertainment can be found at Adam & Eve’s at Sabai Jai Village and PIC Kitchen on soi 5.

When it’s got to be something familiar or something that is not spicy, then its time to try one of Pattaya’s many international restaurants. Establishments in this category include those serving the cuisines of England, France, Belgium, Germany and Japan. For spicy food of a different nature, there are also Indian and Mexican eateries.

Italian food is popular in Pattaya, as anywhere else in the world, and Duilio's on Central road and Little Italy situated on the opposite side from Royal Garden Plaza are the among the best places to enjoy a plate of pasta or a pizza. For something from France, check out Au Bon Coin on soi 5 and Mon Ami Pierrot on Walking street; both delivering high quality, authentic French cuisine. Belgian food is best enjoyed at either Klein Vlaanderen on the Pattaya 2nd or Patrick's Belgian at the Diana Arcade.

Go Japanese at either Yamato on soi Yamato or at either of the city’s Daidomon branches (Big C and Royal Garden Plaza), with the former being the best option in terms of authenticity. For nan bread, samosas and milky curries, head to Sher E Punjab on Beach road or Ali Baba on Central road, while tacos and chili are sure to be found on the menus of Mexican establishments Blue Parrot on soi 2 and Tequila Reef on soi 7.

After dinner, a cool alcoholic beverage is appealing and Pattaya has plenty of drinking venues on offer. Unfortunately, the main drinking zone, situated around Walking street, has a reputation as a haven for sex tourists and the kind of establishments that cater to them. If this is not your scene, there are still bars in the same area where visitors can drink and socialise without this kind of distraction.

Falling into the aforementioned category are venues such as the Bamboo Bar and Kilkenny’s Irish pub on Walking street; Hard Rock Café, Hopf Brew House and Rosie O'Grady's on Beach road; and Shenanigans and the Queen Victoria Inn in the Pattaya 2nd road area.

Of course, there are some visitors who will want to avoid any chance of wandering into seedy areas and for them the safety of hotel bars is perhaps the best option. The big hotels all have their own bars, many of them attractively furnished and offering quality wines and spirits as opposed to locally brewed beverages.

The Sheraton in Pattaya Hill, All Seasons on Pattaya 2nd road, Marriot on Beach road and Royal Orchid Resort in North Pattaya are just some of the establishments with bar facilities. Customers need not be guests of the hotel to drink at these bars. It’s also worth considering that these hotels all have excellent in-house restaurants which are open to guests and non-guests alike. The standard of food is exceptionally high and both Thai and international cuisine are available. Non-residents should consider booking ahead, especially in high season.

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Phuket Town

Phuket Town is the provincial capital of Phuket Province.

Understand

Phuket Town (เมืองภูเก็ต Mueang Phuket) is the largest town in Phuket Province. It has a population of 63,000 and is the economic hub of the island. For the most part just an ordinary, scruffy provincial Thai town, it's hardly a major tourist attraction, but the Chinatown area is worth a quick look and there are some great Thai-style shopping opportunities too. Overall, accommodation and food in the town is cheaper than near the beaches, and can provide a refreshing change of pace.

Get in

Buses and songthaews connect Phuket Town to major beaches around the island, and start from Thanon Ranong at the Ranong market. The most popular service is the one to Patong Beach (20 baht, 45 minutes) which leaves every 30 minutes between 07:00 and 18:00. Fares to other beaches range from 15 to 30 baht. If you miss the last bus back a taxi will cost you at least 200 baht, easily more depending on your bargaining skills.
Phuket International Airport is 30 km to the north of Phuket Town, about 30 minutes by taxi (500 baht) or 45 minutes by shared minibus (100 baht).

Get around

Phuket Town is just a little too big to be covered comfortably on foot. There's little organised public transport as such, but motorbikes and four wheel tuk-tuks whizz about looking for fares.

See

Phuket Town's low-key attractions are mostly related to its colourful Chinese history and heritage, found in the Chinatown area on the north-western side of the city around Thanon Thalang.
-Jui Tui and Put Jaw Temples, corner of Thanon Ranong and Soi Phuthon (just west of the Ranong bus terminus). Put Jaw is the oldest Chinese Taoist temple in Phuket, first built over 200 years ago and dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy (Kwun Im), while the adjacent and connected Jui Tui is its larger, more modern annex. If you have a question that is puzzling you, ask it and throw the two red mango-shaped pieces in front of the altar in the air: if they land the same side up the answer is "no", while if they land on different sides the answer is "yes". Free entry but donations welcome.
-Sino-Portuguese Mansions, Thanon Krabi. Built by tin and rubber magnates in the late 19th century, these remain impressively huge even today.
-Wat Mongkol Nimit, Thanon Dibuk. A classical Thai-style temple with a soaring roof and lots of colourful glass tiling.
-Phuket Culture Museum, at Rajabhat University. It's free and very informative. Phuket's history is told in pictures and still scenes.

Do

Go shopping!

Buy

Shopping seems to be the main reason for visitors to come to Phuket Town. In addition to local markets and a slew of malls and departments stores, Chinatown's Thanon Thalang offers a large selection of boutiques and galleries retailing traditional handicrafts as well as antiques from the region. Phuket Night Bazaar is a large area, where you can get local stuff (though you might find the same things much cheaper at the Big C supermarket!).

Markets

-Ranong Market, Thanon Ranong, is the largest local market. A warren of stalls selling anything and everything, it can be a hot, sweaty and chaotic but an interesting experience if you've not been to one before.

Shopping malls


-Central Festival, Thanon Chaloem Phra Kiat - Phuket's branch of the Thai department store chain, also selling anything and everything but now in air-con comfort and a zero added to the price tag. It's still probably cheaper than the street markets at the beaches.
-SuperCheap claims to be the biggest and cheapest mall in Phuket, a cross between a Metro Market, Walmart, a Bazaar, and a normal local market for nearly everything from groceries to motorbike and car supplies and electronics. The best time to visit is in the evening. Take a small dinner in the nearby Thai restaurant (all you can eat for 69 baht - but when you leave something on the plate it costs 100 baht!) and afterwards join the Thai people at the market. SuperCheap is situated on the road to the airport, about 5 kms out of Phuket Town centre, just behind the Esso site. Open until midnight.

Eat


-Siam Bakery, 13 Thanon Yaowaraj (north of the Ranong traffic circle). French-run bakery offering pastries and drinks (~50 baht) in pleasant air-con surroundings.
-All You Can Eat, at Super Cheap, but you have to empty your plate -- otherwise it costs double. That's not a joke, but very useful in keeping guests eating things they really like to eat and not wasting food. If you order water with ice, the ice costs extra!
-Ruam Jai Restaurant, 215 Th Ranong, tel. 076-222821. Open: 6.00 - 16.00. A local run restaurant with friendly staff serving delicious all-vegetarian food. The prices are very reasonable, for example a plate of white/brown rice choosable with two or more dishes from the buffet of about 15 different courses is around 25-35b. Try also locally made fresh juices, 10b each. Popular among locals; it can be crowded around mealtimes. One of 3 vegetarian restaurants in very close proximity near the local bus terminal.
-Weekend market - numerous stalls sell a variety of meats, vegetables, noodles, fruits and sweets that can fill a stomach for a handful of baht.

Drink


-China House, 43 Thanon Yaowaraj. Chinese tea and other drinks in an impeccably tastefully restored shophouse that doubles as an art gallery. On the expensive side though, with drinks 50-100 baht.
-Coffee Max, on the roundabout where Thanon Ranong meets Thanon Yaowarat. Small, friendly coffee shop offering hot and cold coffee and tea drinks and a selection of pastries and cakes. Free wi-fi for customers.
-Michael's Bar, 12 Takua-Pa Road. Owned by a British expat, a friendly, low-key place to grab a few drinks at a reasonable price. Has wi-fi or a solitary PC for customer use, free for the first 20 minutes.
-Smile Cafe Newly opened cafe near the junction of Thanon Montri and Thanon Phang-Nga, run by a friendly young Thai couple who make a great ice-blended coffee or green tea.

Sleep

Budget

-Ban Nai Inn, 22/98 Luang Poh Cham Rd, Soi 1 A. Muang, Phuket 83000. Tel 076-214907-9, Fax 076-232276. Small guesthouse located directly behind the long distance bus terminal (walk past the motorbike taxi drivers). Rooms are basic but cheap, and include tv, refrigerator, A/C, separate shower and wardrobe with lockable drawer. Little English is spoken, suggesting that this is a destination more popular with Thai tourists.
-On On Hotel - 19 Th Phang-Nga, tel. 0 7621 1154; Old and a bit musty Sino-Portugese building with rich atmosphere, located almost in the center of the town. A small travel agency, laundry and cafe downstairs. Few scenes from the movie The Beach (2000) was shot here; check out room 38 for familiar views. Providing probably one of the cheapest accommodation of the island. Rooms from 180b to 400b. The cheapest rooms have shared bathrooms.
-Phuket Backpacker - Tel: +66-7625-6680. New (2005) establishment for western travellers, with sociable common room and kitchen facilities. It is located in the heart of Phuket town, next to the local food market on Ranong Road. Its central location allows easy trips -- via buses and taxis -- to Phuket's surrounding beaches and sights. There is also abundant shopping and dining in the area. Fan cooled rooms at the back are popular with cockroaches and mosquitos, so be prepared to share or fight for your space (and bring your own lock for the door). Free wi-fi, but the range does not extend to the outlying rooms.
-Phuket Cyberinn Hotel - Tel: +66-76220 100. Phuketcyberinn on Bangkok Rd. is located in the heart of Phuket Town. A 3-storey hotel is surrounded by many shops, street bazzars and wonderful old buildings. Easy to reach many spectacle beaches aound Phuket. It is just 30 minutes away from Phuket international airport.

Mid-range

- Metropole Phuket, 1 Soi Surin, Montri Road, ☎ +66 76 215-050, 214-020-9 (fax: +66 76 215-990), Large hotel, 5-10 minute walk from the main bus station and the market. May once have been an opulent choice, but it feels like a decision was made some decades ago to spend minimal effort on upkeep or cleaning of the hotel - at least the cheaper rooms and the "gym" are in desparate need of renovation! Wi-Fi 300 baht/day.

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Getting Around in Pattaya

By: lar

Once you have negotiated your taxi fare from Bangkok to Pattaya and have arrived in your hotel or resort, you will need to get around the city.

You have quite a few options. First, you can walk around most areas of Pattaya as the city is fairly compact. This serves a couple of purposes; it will give you some exercise and you will see things up close and personal.

The most common way for getting around Pattaya is the Baht bus. The Thai name is song thieaw (two axles) and they are all over Pattaya. Basically, they are a pick-up truck with some bench seating in back. They can hold about 12 people comfortably but I have seen as many as 20 in one Baht bus.

The fare is 5 Baht for a Thai and 10 for a Farang (foreigner). This will get you almost anywhere in the city. Keep in mind that this is using the Baht bus in the “normal” way. By that, I mean you just stand on the sidewalk and wave one over. The truck stops and you hop in the back. When you have reached your destination, you push the buzzer and he will pull over and stop. Pay your 10 Baht and keep moving. Always have exact change.

The other than normal way to hire a Baht bus is to negotiate a ride from point A to point B. This may be to go outside of Pattaya to do some sightseeing. You will have to use your best negotiation skills to get a decent price.

Another way to get around Pattaya especially if you are going off the beaten path is to hire a motorcycle taxi. A moto taxi can be found on almost every street corner. Most rides will be in the 20 to 40 Baht range and you will be placing your life in the hands of your driver. You will wear your flimsy plastic helmet and hold on for dead life. Moto taxis will use the sidewalk, drive the wrong way on one-way streets, and do whatever it takes to get you to where you are going in the shortest distance possible. Kiss he ground when you arrive.

You can also rent motorcycles, mopeds and ATVs all over Pattaya. Beware of scams involving you returning the bike back damaged. Check the bike with a fine tooth comb before you depart. Check prices at a few different places before you decide to rent. Remember, if you are from the USA, you will be driving on the other side of the road. Road signs, traffic lights and driving laws don’t apply unless you are a foreigner and a Thai cop needs an extra 200 Baht. Always wear a helmet and keep a good set of prayers handy.

For me, walking and using the Baht bus are all that is needed. I have been going to Pattaya for over 30 years and have never used the moto taxis. I usually walk to where I am going or take a Baht bus if it is hot or a little further than I want to walk. And, of course, I am a gentleman and always get a Baht bus if I have a lady with me.

The Baht buses circle Pattaya all day and night and it is not difficult to figure out the routes. The worst that can happen is you want to go straight and the Baht bus turns. Just get off, pay your 10 baht, and get on another. Mai pen rai – never mind.

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Getting To Pattaya In 23 Easy Steps

By: lar

Here is a step-by-step tip sheet on how to get to Pattaya.

1. Save your money all year for your vacation. Not counting airfare, budget for $150 US dollars per day.

2. Apply for and get your passport. Get a visa also if you are staying long term

3. Book your flight and hotel. You can do this online or with your favorite travel agent

4. Arrange for a ride to the airport. Get a buddy to take you or find a local airport taxi service.

5. Arrange for a taxi to pick you up in Bangkok. You can get recommendations from any Pattaya forum or bargain with the taxi mafia upon arrival.

6. Get to the airport three hours ahead of your flight. You don’t want to be late for your holiday and you never know how long the lines will be.

7. Check in and get your seat assignment and boarding pass. Ask nicely and you may be able to get an exit row seat.

8. Do your last minute shopping at the duty free shop. Booze, cigarettes, and perfume are tax free.

9. Get a bite to eat and hang out near your departure gate. Airline food sucks so it is better to eat before you go.

10. Surf the Internet and check email before you take off. Do whatever to kill time. Wireless access can usually be found near the first class lounges.

11. Board the plane and settle in for the long flight. Hopefully you got a decent seat.

12. Get your book, headphones, pen, snacks, gum and laptop ready. Get everything you will need before you take off so you don't have to dig through your carry-on.

13. Kill time at you layover airport with laptop and/or food. You can get another bite to eat or just walk around and stretch your legs. Hopefully the layover isn’t too long.

14. Board the final leg of your flight. Try to control your adrenaline and relax. You are almost there.

15. Get in a short nap. You want to be refreshed when you arrive. You will be struggling to adjust your body clock and will be fighting jet lag.

16. Land and deplane. Go to the bathroom before the plane lands. Once the door opens, do everything in your power to get out of the plane. Make a beeline to immigration.

17. Go directly to Immigration and get your passport stamped. Find the shortest line and have your passport and boarding pass stub ready.

18. Find your carousel and grab your luggage. Check the sign right after Immigration and get your bags.

19. Meet your driver. Fight the gauntlet and look for a sign with your name on it. If you haven’t booked in advance, the clipboard toting, taxi mafia will find you.

20. Sit back and pray you make it from Bangkok to Pattaya in one piece. Prepare yourself for controlled chaos on the roads and pray to Buddha that you arrive alive.

21. Arrive at your hotel and check in. Have your passport ready and fill out the little form and you are there.

22. Shower, change clothes and hit the streets. You can unpack later. It is time to go out and have some fun.

23. You are now in the Pattaya paradise. Enjoy yourself, be safe, and have a great holiday.

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Getting To Pattaya In 23 Easy Steps

By: lar

Here is a step-by-step tip sheet on how to get to Pattaya.

1. Save your money all year for your vacation. Not counting airfare, budget for $150 US dollars per day.

2. Apply for and get your passport. Get a visa also if you are staying long term

3. Book your flight and hotel. You can do this online or with your favorite travel agent

4. Arrange for a ride to the airport. Get a buddy to take you or find a local airport taxi service.

5. Arrange for a taxi to pick you up in Bangkok. You can get recommendations from any Pattaya forum or bargain with the taxi mafia upon arrival.

6. Get to the airport three hours ahead of your flight. You don’t want to be late for your holiday and you never know how long the lines will be.

7. Check in and get your seat assignment and boarding pass. Ask nicely and you may be able to get an exit row seat.

8. Do your last minute shopping at the duty free shop. Booze, cigarettes, and perfume are tax free.

9. Get a bite to eat and hang out near your departure gate. Airline food sucks so it is better to eat before you go.

10. Surf the Internet and check email before you take off. Do whatever to kill time. Wireless access can usually be found near the first class lounges.

11. Board the plane and settle in for the long flight. Hopefully you got a decent seat.

12. Get your book, headphones, pen, snacks, gum and laptop ready. Get everything you will need before you take off so you don't have to dig through your carry-on.

13. Kill time at you layover airport with laptop and/or food. You can get another bite to eat or just walk around and stretch your legs. Hopefully the layover isn’t too long.

14. Board the final leg of your flight. Try to control your adrenaline and relax. You are almost there.

15. Get in a short nap. You want to be refreshed when you arrive. You will be struggling to adjust your body clock and will be fighting jet lag.

16. Land and deplane. Go to the bathroom before the plane lands. Once the door opens, do everything in your power to get out of the plane. Make a beeline to immigration.

17. Go directly to Immigration and get your passport stamped. Find the shortest line and have your passport and boarding pass stub ready.

18. Find your carousel and grab your luggage. Check the sign right after Immigration and get your bags.

19. Meet your driver. Fight the gauntlet and look for a sign with your name on it. If you haven’t booked in advance, the clipboard toting, taxi mafia will find you.

20. Sit back and pray you make it from Bangkok to Pattaya in one piece. Prepare yourself for controlled chaos on the roads and pray to Buddha that you arrive alive.

21. Arrive at your hotel and check in. Have your passport ready and fill out the little form and you are there.

22. Shower, change clothes and hit the streets. You can unpack later. It is time to go out and have some fun.

23. You are now in the Pattaya paradise. Enjoy yourself, be safe, and have a great holiday.

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Phuket Honeymoon Spa Dedicated Relaxation

By: Maypopup M.

In this article, we will discuss why this subject is so important and how you can benefit from this information.

Have you ever wondered what right is up with phuket honeymoon spa? This informative state can give you an insight into everything you've ever required to know about phuket honeymoon spa.

The more authentic information about phuket honeymoon spa you know, the more prone people are to deem you a phuket honeymoon spa practiced. Read on for even more phuket honeymoon spa data that you can part.

ingoing the function vicinity of the variety-new royal Spa is a relaxing experience in itself. The interiors are daubed in yielding and organic lighting, and furnished with antique and contemporary pieces. The song is reserved at discrete readings. While sipping on gently-brewed herbal teas, you are guided through the wide menu of Body, thoughts and Soul treatments by professionally-skilled members of force.

Alligned with the obsolete origins of Thai press, intentions are mostly from the Sri Vijaya kingdom that spanned the vital and southern regions of Thailand between the 7th and 9th centuries. The mostly Hindu influences came from India. Life-mass sculptures of handsome figurines, recreated from this era, are set in niches along the corridor primary to secretive suites. A figurine farther each scope holds a lit candle when it is taken, assuring you broad privacy.

Each secretive suite is easy yet elegant. The stockade are sheltered in mellow, rose-coloured silk with light green accents, and the intention shape of the lotus. With over 300 plaza metres of dedicated treatment locale, the spa skin 4 of these enclosed and outside suites, each with a very open 60 plaza metres.

Going through the final part of this article, we will see just how important the subject can be to many people.

Alligned with the primeval origins of Thai knead, outlines are mostly from the Sri Vijaya kingdom that spanned the middle and southern regions of Thailand between the 7th and 9th centuries. The mostly Hindu influences came from India. Life-mass sculptures of charming figures, recreated from this era, are set in niches along the corridor important to secretive suites. A figure outer each extent holds a lit candle when it is engaged, assuring you finished privacy.

Each reserved suite is austere yet elegant. The parapet are roofed in yielding, rose-coloured silk with light green accents, and the create pattern of the lotus. With over 300 shape metres of dedicated treatment vicinity, the spa skin 4 of these internal and outside suites, each with a very open 60 shape metres.

A average stately Spa Suite includes: a secretive therapy preparation region (withdraw from the guest region), two lush storeroom-extents for guests, a shower and steam extent, a surplus extent, two interior treatment beds, a jacuzzi with a relaxing Thai-design couch, and a large outside suspended treatment bed. All venues have imposing views of the sand of Nai Harn Bay.

Two of the stately Spa Suites have sole skin: A wet-treatment marquee with a Zen backyard and mineral treatment beds, where you can indulge in a body clean, or any of the wet treatments, in full privacy. A lotus pool and buried jacuzzi finished these oases of relaxation.

After experiencing some of our dedicated treatment parcels - Honeymoon Experience, totality Relaxation, Away from it All, or A Day In The Kingdom of Siam - Body, thoughts & Soul will remain in your recall of Le royal Meridien Phuket liner guild royal Spa.

That's the hottest from the phuket honeymoon spa authorities. Once you're forward with these dreams, you'll be disposed to move to the next degree.

If you could take the main ideas from this article and put them into a list, you would a great overview of what we have learned.

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Dining In Pattaya Thailand

By: lar

In Pattaya you will be bombarded with smells and tastes from a wide variety of cuisines. Determining where you will dine for the day may be the biggest decision of the day.

I will list approximate prices in Thai Baht and the exchange rate as I write this is about 33 Baht to 1 US dollar.

Breakfast is cheap in Pattaya. You can get basic fare for about 50 to 80 baht which consists of bacon and eggs, toast, juice and coffee. A better deal is the hotel buffet. The Lek Hotel, Apex and Diana Inn on Second Road all have buffets for about 110 Baht. Lots of food but nothing really spectacular.

I prefer to have a big breakfast but one that also tastes good. My favorite is at the Sportsman on Soi 13. They have a full English breakfast for about 240 Baht. This is served on a platter and comes with bacon, sausage, eggs, toast, beans, bubble and squeak, and fried tomatoes. It is all you can do to finish it.

I usually don’t eat lunch after having the big breakfast but for those who get hungry mid-day, there are many, many places to get something to eat. Everything from fast food to street vendor dishes are all over the city. You won't be able to walk ten feet without someone selling something to eat.

If I am hungry at lunchtime, I usually go to the Royal Garden Shopping Center upstairs to the food court. There you buy a card similar to a credit card and put however much Baht on it as you want. I usually add about 200 Baht and if I have money left over, I can get it refunded.

Then you just walk around to the many vendors and see what you like. Most of the food is Thai and there is everything from soup, to rice dishes to noodles. Beverages and dessert are also available. Most of the meals are in the 30 – 40 Baht range.

For dinner, I usually stop at a street vendor and get some meat and rice. There is a group of street vendors, or an outside food court on Soi Buakhao just north of Soi LK Metro. The northernmost vendor is my favorite. He has boiled chicken, fried pork, and cooked red pork. All dishes come with rice and cost 25-30 Baht. A bottle of water is an additional 10 Baht.

If you get hungry while out on the town in Pattaya, you will be able to get food no matter what time it is. Stationary street vendors and vendors with motorized stalls are everywhere serving soup, bar-b-que, and rice and noodle dishes. You can even get a sampling of Northern Thailand snacks – grasshoppers, silkworms, ants, and beetles.

Eating in Thailand is a way of life and you will find yourself eating 4 to 6 times per day. The meals are small in size and huge in taste. Some of the Thai dishes can be very spicy so be careful with the chili peppers.

And if you only eat pizza, burgers and fries, you can get those dishes all over the city too.

You can even find some of the best steaks and European cuisine in this former fishing village. Seafood is also abundant and you can get lobster or crabs for a small fraction of what you pay at homeI can guarantee that you will not go hungry when you are in Pattaya.

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What to see and do in Phuket, Thailand – top 10

By: Andy Burrows

Phuket's natural beauty, thriving international community and pristine beaches set it apart fro Thailand’s other resorts. Even after the tsunami of 2004, the communities consolidated efforts have succeeded in holding on to almost all of the former clout as a tourist hub. The tourist industry here is second to none, and visitors are always well catered for, no matter their preferences or background.

Adventure sports

Adventure sports are top-notch in Phuket, and due to the island's status as one of Asia's top tourist destinations, the offerings and equipment are first rate as well. The adrenaline sports of Phuket are all about getting a new perspective on things. Nothing affords this better than perching on the back of an elephant and traipsing through the jungle or taking a plunge under the care of Thailand's only licensed bungee jump operator. There's also a shooting range on the island and it's possible to join guided ATV tours headed to remote beaches and into the hills on the island's interior. Less jostling go-kart rides can be taken in most of the major towns.

Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre

The Gibbon Fund is found on the Royal Reserve on the same land as the Bang Pae Waterfall. This project takes domesticated gibbons and makes every effort to reintroduce them into the wild. To date, three families have been successfully grafted back into their natural environment, and lucky visitors can catch sight of these primates among the trees.

Water sports

The beaches at Phuket are world-renown for their clear and calm Andaman waters. Visitors arriving on the island have the opportunity to enjoy water-related sports and activity which are central to a stay in Phuket. Diving and snorkelling present a wonderful vantage point on the underwater environment. To take in the vistas directly above sea level, there are mooring areas all over the island with the possibilities of sailing lessons, dinner cruises, fishing expeditions and kayaking. Those who wish to raise themselves high above the water can gain a new perspective on the island while parasailing.

Island hopping

The Thai islands of the Andaman Sea are known around the world for their beauty and glamour. A couple of them have been featured in James Bond films, with another having appeared in the Hollywood film, The Beach. Boats can be chartered to every one of the islands in the archipelago, and some of them offer modern amenities and accommodation, while others remain remote and relatively untouched. Some of the most staggering views can be found around these more primitive islands and can be comfortably enjoyed from the boat, some of which are sleeper-equipped. Islands like Phi Phi have plenty of accommodation to offer guests.

Waterfalls

The three major waterfalls of Phuket are all worthy of their own daytrip. Ton Sai is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by palm trees. Kathu Waterfall is located farther inland and many visitors choose to stop here and enjoy a picnic or a swim in its cool pools. Bang Pae Waterfall sits on the land of the Gibbon Fund and visitors to this stretch of land can enjoy the scenic waterfall along with the added possibility of catching sight of a gibbon in its natural surroundings.

Eating out

What better reason to travel to Thailand than to enjoy the endless supply of Thai food? The abundance of fresh seafood only enhances this draw in Phuket, where the tourist scene rolls out a full menu of possibilities ranging from Thai favourites to international specialties. Quality dishes can be found at the food stalls and small restaurants as well as at the resorts and five-star hotels. The most authentic food is found away from the beaches.

Shopping

While Phuket's shopping scene is as exhaustive as the markets in Bangkok, there are still plenty of opportunities for bargain shoppers, antique hunters and more mainstream shoppers seeking souvenirs. Leather goods, ceramics, jewellery and clothing are in steady supply. It's even possible to get fitted by a tailor and have some clothes custom-made during your stay.

Thai kick boxing

Muay Thai is Thailand's contribution to the martial arts scene. This form of kick boxing has been developed and honed in Thailand for centuries, recognised today for its highly effective moves. Exhibitions take place in Phuket Town every Friday night. Meanwhile, those who wish to study Muay Thai will find training gyms located in Phuket as well as at Rawai and Chalong.

Temples

There are a few Buddhist temples, or wats, on the island. Most of them are easily accessed from the main roads, and local taxi drivers will readily know them all. Shoes should be removed and shoulders and knees covered before entering a Thai temple. Some of the well-reputed temples include Pra Nahng Sahng, Pra Tong, Put Jaw, Jui Tui and Sanjao Sam San. Wat Chalong is probably the most popular with tourists, with its many murals, unusual design and modern pagodas.

Promthep Cape

Promthep Cape has been widely photographed over the years, mostly for its spectacular scenery and beautiful sunsets. It's also worth a visit to take a look at the peculiar shrine which locals adorn with miniature elephants as a means of making merit. There's also a statue that was built in honour of the Thai prince who modernised the country's navigational methods and founded a maritime school in the 19th century.

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Going to Pattaya? You Must Be Crazy!

By: lar

What used to be a small, sleepy fishing village is now a tourist destination for millions of single men every year. Married men are also welcome but for some reason forget that they have a wife and family back home. Something about the attitude of the Thai women.

With the new International Airport, Suvarnabhumi, opening in late 2006, getting to Pattaya has never been easier. Most tourists forego Bangkok altogether and head straight for Pattaya regardless of arrival time. After all, it is only 90 minutes away. Why go to Bangkok for the night when you head straight to your final destination.

Located about 50 kilometers south of the old International Airport, Don Muang, Suvarnabhumi is an architectural marvel of steel and glass. The airport is absolutely huge and you will get your first taste of how big it is when you walk from your arrival gate to the Immigration officer to show your passport. It seems like it is miles away.

Fortunately there are numerous Immigration officers to get you through the passport control checkpoint and the luggage carousels are directly behind them. A big electronic board tells your where your luggage is and then you are out the door to a waiting taxi.

Taxi fees from Bangkok can range from 1200 to 4000 Baht so you have to use your best negotiation skills or book a ride online prior to departing. The many Bangkok and Pattaya forums can point you to reliable taxi drivers for a cheaper price than the taxi mafia at the airport. Highly recommend you book your ride ahead of time and your driver will meet you right outside of baggage claim.

Then you just sit back and enjoy the maniacal driving skills of your driver for the 90 minute ride. If you are coming from the USA, then you will be on the “wrong” side of the road the steering wheel will be on the other side of the vehicle. Get used to this and check about 8 times before crossing a road as a pedestrian.

It doesn’t matter what time that you arrive in Pattaya, there will always be something to do. Daytime gives you time for a nap or a walkabout to get the lay of the land. Night time arrival means you head straight out to the nightlife. Even arriving at 3 or 4 in the morning, you will still be able to find some night time activity to occupy your time.

It is also a good idea to book your hotel in advance so you have a room waiting for you – especially during high season. If you are not sure of the quality, book for one or two nights and then shop around upon arrival. You may or may not be able to get a deal just walking in. Or you can just book your entire trip online. It is up to you.

You will have plenty to do in Pattaya during the day and night. There are beaches, boat rides, and outer islands to visit, temples, go karts, bowling, and a whole lot more.

Night time is when Pattaya comes to life. At about 5 PM the beer bars start to come to life and later on at about 8 pm the go-go bars are lit up in neon. Bars abound and you can’t go 10 feet without finding a new one. Walking Street is the primary place to go if you want to see the go go girls. Other bars are all over Pattaya along with massage parlors and other forms of entertainment.

Pattaya is a great place for the single man to go to but be warned – once you go you will never be the same. You will come to understand the terms – Pattaya Blues and Pattaya Addiction. Chok Dee Khrap (Good Luck)

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Phuket A Haven for Investor

By: Wolfgang Jaegel

These days, visitors to Phuket cannot help but notice the number of premium property projects being marketed on the island. Developers on this tourist hotspot are going all out to woo buyers with projects running the gamut from luxury villas to upmarket resort condominiums with ultramodern facades and interior design.

Post-tsunami Phuket’s property market is enjoying a boom fuelled by rising demand from expatriates. Real-estate consultants say foreign investors from Singapore, Hong Kong, Europe and the Mediterranean from the bulk of buyers who are snapping up properties across the island.

Traditionally hot market Property on Phuket has always been sought after, owing to its status as a top resort destination in Southeast Asia. About the size of Singapore, the 570 sq km island attracts tourists and investors with its striking natural beauty, unique brand of Thai hospitality and cost of living that is lower than other markets in the region such as Hong Kong and Singapore.

“[Phuket] distinguishes itself by its unique blend of safety, unrivalled hospitality, and the degree of sophistication of its economy and property market. It is a fully serviced island with first-class facilities, very accessible from anywhere in the region, thanks to its international airport, and benefits from a fantastic natural environment,” notes David Simister, chairman of CB Richard Ellis Thailand.

Bouncing back post-tsunami It’s not just luxury villas that are being snapped op on Phuket. Consultants say the island is enjoying strong demand across the entire spectrum of properties available. Supply has also evolved to fit all budgets, from US$70,000 ($1 approx US$ 0.64) to above US$ 7 million.

Where are these investors coming from? Analysts say demand has historically been from cosmopolitan Hong Kong and Singaporean residents, as well as western expatriates living in the region. That profile, however is changing. “ We are now seeing an increasing number of high net worth individuals coming from areas such as China, and expect to see more and more buyers from Europe as Mediterranean resort prices continue to rise and people realise that Phuket can offer a very good value-for-money exotic lifestyle.” says Simister.

Choice investment properties Potential buyers on Phuket invariably look for ocean-view properties, which are highly sought-after because of limited supply. These fast-selling developments include Trisara, which consists of exclusive US$ 2.6 million to US$ 5.3 million ocean-view and ocean-front villas on 1,300 to 2,900 sq.m. land plots adjoining an eponymous six-star hotel. Another sought-after development is The Heights, with 200 to 415 sq.m. sea-view condominium units priced from US$ 400,000 to US$ 950,000. Both projects sold half the units released within months of launching.

While buyers previously looked to projects on the traditionally popular west coast of the island. Phuket’s south and east coast are steadily gaining prominence as an alternative, as a result of the exhaustion of prime land in the west coast. A high-end project with prices lower than that on the west coast is Supalai on Ao Por, which offers three-and four-bedroom villas with sea views for less than 20 million baht. Just 20 minutes from Phuket International Airport, the area is less crowed and located near amenities such as golf courses and marinas. Such properties represent much better value for money, with higher capital-appreciation prospects as the area develops.

While consultants say Phuket’s property rental market is still in its infancy and most investors buy for owner-occupation, properties can offer healthy yields depending on their type, location and furnishings. Simister of CB Richard Ellis estimates that yields for an actively managed property can range from 6% to 12% a year, based on 100 nights’ occupancy. He adds that rental returns usually reach their full potential once the property and development it is in are fully completed and have been in operation for high seasons.

Room for more growth CB Richard Ellis is more bullish. Simister says, “Far from being a bubble, the high level of real estate activity seen on the island is only the beginning. Phuket is in the early stages of a long-term growth curve. The market has only one way to go, which is up, in terms of volume of sales, and range and sophistication of properties and facilities offered.”

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Pattaya and Jomtien Beach - Thailand's Twin Fun Paradises

By David Lambeth

The Kingdom of Thailand draws more visitors than any other country in south East Asia, with its irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of ancient kingdoms. Pattaya and Jomtien Beach are considered by some as Thailand's twin fun paradises based on their beaches, diving, windsurfing, island trips, numerous golf courses, and world renowned nightlife. Pattaya, and especially Jomtien, have been growing at a fast rate. Proof of Pattaya and Jomtien's popularity is their forever-growing cosmopolitan flavor, with a large contingent of Expats from all over the world who have either settled and retired here, or invested in a holiday home. Many Expats could only have dreamt of buying a condo or house, looking over the ocean and waking up to the sea breezes, at a fraction of the cost that they would have paid in their home countries.

The growth in the residential market has been further boosted by a demand for property from Pattaya locals and other Thai buyers due to the closeness to Bangkok. As a result of the new airport and continued improvements in infrastructure, more property developers are also entering the market to launch a variety of developments, including residential, international chain hotels and retail projects. Based on the number of property developments currently underway, its a clear indicator that this trend is set to continue.

One of the main advantages of living in Pattaya Jomtien Beach, apart from the climate and low cost of living, is their world class infrastructure. Many world travelers we have talked to are impressed with the infrastructure when compared to the Philippines, Costa Rica, and other exotic travel destinations. Over the past 10 years, millions of Thai baht has been ploughed into improving Pattaya's infrastructure by resurfacing roads and improving the city's visual image. Roads and transportation are first class. The most common means of traveling around Pattaya and Jomtien Beach is the "baht bus". Seldom do you have to wait more than five minutes for the bus. The regular baht bus fare within Pattaya is 10 baht which amounts to about 35 cents American. There are two bus terminals where you can take an air conditioned bus to Bangkok or to one of the popular provinces. A large number of sports facilities have been built in and around Pattaya to cater to a wide range of sporting activities. All facilities are easy to reach. The telephone system is a modern PABX and internet cafes providing ADSL service (2 mbps) are common place. Health care is of a very high standard. There are three large international hospitals and one hospital that caters to the local Thais. Doctors are highly trained and speak English well. The hospitals also offer some interpreting services if your native language is not English

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