Koh Samet

Ko Samet (Thai: เกาะเสม็ด) [1], is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand off the coastline of the Thai province of Rayong, approximately 220 km southeast of Bangkok. Ko Samet is located in the Phe (Thai: เพ) District of the Amphoe Mueang Rayong (Thai: เมืองระยอง, the capital district, or Amphoe Mueang), of Rayong province.
The island derives its name from the cajeput tree found throughout the island, as the Thai language word for cajeput is samet (the cajeput tree is formally known in Thai ต้นเสม็ดขาว). In the past, this island has also been referred to by its colloquial name, Ko Kaew Phitsadan (Thai: เกาะแก้วพิศดาร), or the "Magic Crystal Island".
Contents[hide]
1 Slogan
2 The Island
2.1 Samet
2.2 Geography and Climate
2.2.1 Administration
2.2.2 Boundary
2.3 History
3 Transportation
4 Tourism
4.1 Sights
4.2 Activities
4.3 Shopping
4.4 Nightlife
5 Local Culture
5.1 Life-style
5.2 Events / Festivals
5.3 Learn
5.4 Local Food
6 Medical Health Care
7 Retirement
8 Media/Contact
9 See also
10 Notes and References
11 External links
//

[edit] Slogan
As based upon the Rayong province, holds the same slogan –
Best of tropical fruits, industrial estates, finest fish sauce, the charming Ko Samet and the most famous poet “Sunthon Phu”.

[edit] The Island
Popular with foreign tourists and as a weekend getaway for residents of nearby Bangkok, most of the island (excluding the Na Dan area) belongs to the Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park. In 1981, the Royal Forest Department declared the archipelago of Samet, along with nine other small islands, the headland of Khao Laem Ya, and 11 kilometer Mae Rampeung Beach to be a National Park, and is thus Ko Samet is under the protection of the National Parks Division of the Thai Government.

[edit] Samet
Travel to and from Ko Samet is typically via the small local port at Ban Phe (Thai: บ้านเพ) on the coast. Travelers from Bangkok frequently travel by bus, with departures to Ban Phe from Bangkok's Eastern Bus terminal, the Ekamai bus station, and travel time from Bangkok to Ban Phe of approximately 3-1/2 hours. Owing to the island's close proximity to the coast, just 7 km offshore, boats travel casually from Ban Phe to Ko Samet in approximately 30 minutes.

[edit] Geography and Climate
Located just 200km from the capital in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Samet is approximately 13.1 km2 in size, and shaped somewhat like a letter "t". Along the length of the "t" (north-south) the island measures approximately 7 km, and measures 4 km across the "t" (west-east). Forest remains blanket up to 80% of the total area.
Closest to the Rayong coast, lies the small island port village of Na Dan, commonly known as Ko Samet Village, with its popular nearby beach Hat Sai Gaew (Thai: หาดทรายแก้ว), the longest beach on Ko Samet. Most of Ko Samet's beaches lie along the eastern shore of the island. Other beaches on the island include: Ao Phai, Ao Wai, Ao Kui Na Nai, Ao Cho, Ao Kui Na Nok, Ao Vong Duern, Cape Khut, Ao Toei, and Ao Korang at the southern tip, and Ao Prao on the western shore of the island. Just off the souther tip of the island are three small rock-islands, Ko Jan (Moon Island; Thai: เกาะจันทร์ ), Ko San Chalam (Shark Fin Island), and Hin Khao (White Rock; Thai: เกาะหินขาว ).
Ko Samet is one of the driest archipelagoes in Thailand. Ko Samet gets significantly less rainfall than Rayong Province, even though it is only a few kilometres offshore. The island's "rainy season" extends only from May to July, but even during this season it has less rain that other islands in Thailand. The island despite being arid, consists of lush forested hills, covered with evergreen and deciduous forest and cajeput trees grow abundantly. Owing to the lack of rain, Ko Samet still ships in potable water to the island.

[edit] Administration
Ko Samet is under the administration of Pe Sub-district, Muang District, Rayong Province.

[edit] Boundary
Koh Samet is 6.5km south of mainland Rayong province and is surrounded by the Gulf of Thailand.

[edit] History
It is believed that once upon a time, Ko Samet was the home of pirates and that until this very day there is still lost treasure buried somewhere on the island.
The classical Thai Poet, Sunthorn Phu (1786-1855), set part of his epic work, Phra Aphai Mani (sometimes transliterated as Pra Apaimanee), on the shores of the island. [2] Statues of the title character, Prince Aphai Mani and the siren/mermaid which guided him to Ko Samet can be found on the Hat Sai Gaew beach.
Coordinates: 12°34′4″N, 101°27′17″E
Even though Bangkokians had known about the beauty of Ko Samet for decades before, the Thai government put this island off limits and restricted overnight stay there; that was until 1981. In that year, on 1 October, the Forestry Department of Thailand declared Koh Samet and its surrounding to be a national park.

[edit] Transportation
Roads
There are 2 main routes on Ko Samet.
Northern route connects Hat Sai Kaew to Ao Klang and Ao Noi Na.
Central route consists of 4 smaller roads. The first road links Sai Kaew beach to Ao Phai and Ao Phutsa. The second road connects the center of island to Ao Wong Dueon. The third road connects the first road to Ao Thap Thim and Ao Nuan. The forth road connects the first road to Ao Phrao.
Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicle)
The public passenger pick-up vehicles are the most popular mode of public transportation in all the town districts.
Boat
Koh Samet has 5 piers: Ao Klang, Ao Phrao, Ao Wong Duen, Ao Thian and Ao Wai. Ao Klang Pier is the port to mainland. The rest are piers for diving and excursions.

[edit] Tourism
As Ko Samet is so near Bangkok, the island is ideal for those in the capital wanting to chill-out with their families for a couple of days, without having to go through all that rigmarole of having to travel down south. Ko Samet has developed steadily over the past decade or so, but it hasn’t been the victim of over zealous construction which has hit the likes of Ko Samui or even Ko Chang. The island is typified for its splendid beaches and white silky sand, surrounded by tropical coral reefs and crystal clear sea. Tourists can also enjoy a plethora of delicious cuisine and fine nightlife.

[edit] Sights
Most beaches are on the eastern side of the island. The beaches hide in small bays and stretch some 200 metres. From the north, there are Hat Sai Kaeo, Hat Hin Khrong, Hat Khlong Phai, Ao Phutsa, Ao Thapthim, Ao Naun, Ao Cho, Ao Thian, Ao Wai, Ao Kio Na Yok and Ao Karang. The only beach on the western side is Ao Phrao. One of the famous beaches is Ao Wong Duean in the middle of the eastern side. This beach stretches in the shape of an almost complete circle. Both Ao Wong Duean and Hat Sai Kaeo have very fine white sand.
Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach) One of the most beautiful and most popular beaches on Koh Samet, Hat Sai Kaew is 1 kilometer long and 25 – 30 meters wide. The name speaks for itself, Hat Sai Kaew, which literally means Crystal Sand Beach, is a nice beach filled with activities. From dusk to dawn, it is the place for sunbathing, swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing, riding on a banana boat or even partying at night.
Ao Noi Na Ao Noi Na, which is located near Hat Sai Kaew, has a different ambience to Hat Sai Kaew. It is quieter and therefore more suitable for those looking to relax on the white, sandy beach.
Ao Pai Located close to Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Pai is therefore quite crowded. For visitors interested in sunbathing, this is the good place as swimming is not recommended as there is whirlpool on the sea. It is designated by a red flag.
Ao Phutsa Ao Put Sa is a small bay on Koh Samet which draws repeat visitors intent on relaxing. Suitable for those who are tired of crowded beaches and nightlife activities, Ao Put Sa offers a quiet natural retreat.
Ao Thapthim Ao Tub Tim, which is set in a peaceful atmosphere, is located near Ao Put Sa and is well known for its white sand and clear water. Ao Tub Tim has a small, cozy resort, which provides nice services in a well decorated compound.
Ao Wong Deuan Ao Wong Deuan is the second largest beach on the island (the first being Hat Sai Kaew). Ao Wong Deuan attracts tourist groups during both the high and low seasons due to its beach and good accommodation. On top of this, seafood restaurants with nice views are also available.
Ao Wai Ao Wai is located within a short walking distance of Candlelight Beach. Shaded by coconut trees, the beach is quite and scenic.
Ao Kiu Nok This bay is decent for those planning to keep their distance from the busy, crowded beaches and nightlife. From Aow Kiew Nok, visitors can actually walk to Aow Kiew Nai is the ideal spot on the island to see the sun rise and sun set.
Ao Karang This is the best place on the island to experience the traditional lifestyle of the residents of Koh Samet, is at Ao Karang, where there also are a number of seafood restaurants providing seafood dishes.
Ao Phrao Ao Prow is one of the quietest beaches of Ko Samet. Located quite far away from the nightlife of Ko Samet; Ao Prow is preferred by travelers who quietly enjoy the sea, swimming and sand.

[edit] Activities
Snorkeling / Diving
The Ko Samet area is a popular for divers and snorkelers due its close proximity to Bangkok and abundance of clear water, colorful coral and diversity of marine life such as: turtles, tiger sharks and manta rays. Two of the most favoured locations for diving around Ko Samet are Ko Talu and Ko Kud. Tourists can take a tour around the island and go snorkeling off the rocky uninhabited western side, or around the reefs at the southern tip. Scuba diving excursions can be arranged at Vong Duang.
Volleyball / Frisbee
Tourists enjoy playing volleyball and Frisbee on the beach.
Fishing
Night fishing trips for squid are usually arranged.
Boat Trips
These are arranged to take tourists (either by slow boat or speedboat) around the island to snorkeling and diving spots.
Windsurfing
With its rocky coastline and offshore winds, north of Hat Sai Kaew is a good location for windsurfing.
Massage On the beach there are countless masseurs offering their massage service. Of the beach on the main roads are massage shops.

[edit] Shopping
Ko Samet doesn't have much in the way of shopping beyond basic beach accessories (sarongs, T-shirts, etc). But, there are high quality crystal products and reed products. Good quality crystals are usually sold at the Lotus Crystal Factory.

[edit] Nightlife
There are bar-beers at virtually every beach, nearly all of them on Hat Sai Kaew have hostesses. Besides bars there isn’t much else but restaurants selling alcohol.

[edit] Local Culture
Story has it that Thailand’s most famous poet, the Sunthorn Phu, set his classic Phra Aphai Manee on Ko Samet. The story revolves around a giantess who captured the revered Phra Aprai Manee and held him there. Subsequently, he was able to escape and married a delightful mermaid and lived happily ever after. There is a statue of him at Hat Sai Kaew.

[edit] Life-style
Thai Buddhism is a large part of the people’s lives on Ko Samet and so there are some temples scattered around. Most of the folk on Ko Samet however, are not originally from the island, but moved there to make a decent living through tourism.

[edit] Events / Festivals
Rayong Fruit Festival (งานเทศกาลผลไม้และของดีเมืองระยอง) In May of each year, Rayong's fruit reaches its peak season. The venue for celebration is always changed between Mueang and Klaeng districts. Tourists can enjoy floats decorated with fruits, fruit contests, beauty contests, as well as fruit and seafood fair.
Sunthon Phu Day (งานวันสุนทรภู่) Organised on June 26 of each year at Sunthon Phu Monument, Klaeng district, to honour him. There are also exhibitions and plays from his poetry.
Changing the robe for Phra Chedi Klang Nam (งานห่มผ้าพระเจดีย์กลางน้ำ) The annual traditional event is held during the full moon night of the 12th lunar month, or in November. The robe blanketing around the pagoda in the middle of the Rayong River, in Mueang district, will be changed. Meanwhile, the people celebrate the event along with the Loi Krathong Festival by boat racing and many kinds of local entertainment.
Thot Pha Pa Klang Nam (Waterborne Robe Offering Ceremony) (งานทอดผ้าป่ากลางน้ำ) During the Loi Krathong Festival of each year, or on the full moon night of November, people living near the mouth of the Prasae River prepare a monk's robe at the pier. After completing the ceremony on the boat, a monk comes to get it. Normally, the robe offering ceremony is held at the temple. This special tradition has been inherited for over a century.

[edit] Learn
Thai Boxing (Muay Thai)
Muay Thai, being a famous traditional boxing is open to everyone who prefers to learn. The main Thai Boxing teaching center on Ko Samet is at ‘Naga’.
Fire Spinning
There are courses on learning the art of fire-spinning. The small school is located in Ladan Village.

[edit] Local Food
Popular local food in Ko Samet includes fried durian and fruits which also includes rambutan and mangosteen. The province is also well-known for its seafood products such as: shrimp paste, fish sauce, dried shrimp, squid, octopus and other dried seafood.

[edit] Medical Health Care
On Koh Samet, there is one hospital near Sai Kaew beach, but for anything serious it’s better to return to Bangkok. For nothing too severe there are plenty of clinics and pharmacies in the main areas.

[edit] Retirement
More and more foreigners are living on Ko Samet, many of them retirees. A favourite spot for them are on the beaches. There are some other retirees though, who reside in quieter locations away from the tourist scene.

[edit] Media/Contact
Nationwide television, cable TVs, local cable TV channels are available in Ko Samet . International newspapers and magazines are available at the tourist spots.
Landline telephones, satellite phones, all mobile phone systems, high-speed internet (ADSL), post offices and parcel services are available in province.

Koh Chang

Ko Chang (Thai: เกาะช้าง), also Koh Chang is the second largest island of Thailand (largest island in the Ko Chang Marine Park archipelago), located on the Thai east coast 310 km away from Bangkok near the border to Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand. The name means Elephant Island. Ko Chang was named for the elephant shape of its headland, although elephants are not indigenous to the island. At present, there are 8 villages in total. It is a mountainous island and Khao Salak Phet is the highest peak of all at 744 metres. Visitors are also met with several waterfalls, splendid reefs and rainforests. The island has an area of approximately 429 square kilometers. Ko Chang was previously an unsettled island but it is now important as a harbour for ships to escape from the monsoon, and dietary or fresh water resources, especially at Ao Salak Phet or Ao Salat which is well known to pirates, Hai Lam Chinese and Vietnamese.
The island is part of the Mu Ko Chang Marine National Park. During World War II, when Thailand was occupied by the Japanese, Ko Chang was the scene of a naval battle between the reluctant Royal Thai Navy and a Vichy France squadron, in which the Thais were decisively beaten.
Until the mid-1980s the infrastructure on the island was undeveloped, but tourism has increased significantly since then. Around the year 2000, malaria was eradicated, the area became a national park (and began charging entry fees). The island now receives 655,000 visitors annually, about two thirds of them Thai. Ko Chang is one of the few places with virgin forest, but the mad rush to cash in on tourism has had a heavy toll on its virgin forests. Land prices have skyrocketed, there are also beautiful if not high end resorts now popping up all over the island.
Contents[hide]
1 Slogan
2 History
3 Geography
4 Administration
5 Boundary
6 Climate
7 Transportation
8 Tourism
8.1 Sights
8.2 Activities
8.3 Local Product
8.4 Nightlife & Drink
9 Local Culture
9.1 Lifestyle
9.2 Events & Festivals
9.3 Local Food
9.4 Learn
10 Medical Health Care
11 Retirement
12 Media/Contact
13 References
14 External links
//

[edit] Slogan
With no less than 50 offshore isles, it also boasts the finest red gems, sweet Rakam fruits, indigenous dogs, the historic Ko Chang Naval engagement, the eastern-most province.

[edit] History
Prior to World War II, Ko Chang was little known by anyone. During this period, the few families there made a living growing coconuts and fruit on the mainland. In January 1941, during the Japanese occupation, the Thai Navy fought the French in a battle in the waters to the south-east of Ko Chang. It was the French who were the victors after the Thai naval ship was sunk.
Nothing else happened to Ko Chang until the first backpacker foreigners started arriving on the back of local fishing boats in the mid-1970s. In 1982, Ko Chang along with surrounding area became part of the protected Mu Chang Marine. Only very recently, in less than ten years, Ko Chang has turned itself into a major tourist destination, both for foreigners and local Thais.
This sudden tourism boom however, has been thwart with controversy concerning land encroachment etc.

[edit] Geography
Koh Chang. The topography contains high mountains and complex stone cliffs.
The island is about 30 km long and almost 14 km wide, totaling 217 km². The national marine park covers of 650 km² of which 70 % is offshore. The interior of the island is mountainous, covered by tropical rain forest. The highest elevation measuring 743m is Khao Salak Phet. There are plenty of sandy beaches on the island, dotted with hotels and resorts.
The west coast settlements of Hat Sai Khao, Hat Kai Mook and Hat Ta Nam attract most of the tourists. The village of Laem Bang Bao on the south coast is also a favored destination. There is a single road linking the west coast. The remaining roads on the west coast have a high gradient, while the topography of the east coast prohibits roads. Most buildings are wooden stilt houses. The island is mostly reached by a ferry departing from Laem Ngop near Trat.

Hat Klong Prao beach

[edit] Administration
The island forms a district (Amphoe) in the province of Trat. It was formed on April 30 1994, when it was split off from Laem Ngop district, at first being a minor district (King Amphoe)[1].
Following a decision of the Thai government on May 15 2007, all of the 81 minor districts were to be upgraded to full districts[2]. With the publishing in the Royal Gazette on August 24 the upgrade became official [3].
The district is subdivided into two subdistricts (tambon), which are further subdivided into 9 villages (muban). There are no municipal (thesaban) areas, and 2 Tambon administrative organizations (TAO).
Nr.
Name
Thai name
Villages
Inh.

1.
Ko Chang
เกาะช้าง
4
3010
2.
Ko Chang Tai
เกาะช้างใต้
5
2346
Koh Chang Island consists of the following villages:
Salakpetch
Salakkork
Jekbare
Baan Danmai
Klong Son
Klong Praw
Klong Nonsri

[edit] Boundary
Ko Chang is surrounded by 51 islands. To the east of the area lies Cambodia and to the west, the Thai province of Chanthaburi.

[edit] Climate
Ko Chang has three seasons, they are:
Cool season (Nov-Feb)
Hot season (March-May)
Rainy season ( June-Oct
Due to its location and being an island, Ko Chang does get more than its fair share of rain, 4,000 mm. per year.

[edit] Transportation
Air
Ko Chang has no airport. The nearest airport is in Amphoe Muang Trat on the mainland. Koh Chang Air Taxi however, does offer scenic seaplane service.
Roads
There are only two main roads on Ko Chang, one on the east coast and one on the west coast. Both roads start at Ao Sapparot in the north near the ferry piers. The two main roads run the entirety of the coastlines. There are also shorter roads which branch out to Ploytalay Resort and Keereephet, Klong Neung and Klong Phu Waterfalls.
Ferry Boat
At Laem Ngob in Trat Town opposite Ko Chang there are 3 piers offering ferry service to Ko Chang.
Located at Ao Thammachat, the ferries depart daily at Ao Sapraros pier.
Located at Center Point Pier, ferries are hourly to Dan Kao Pier.
Laem Ngob Pier has less frequent ferries.
Motorbike
These can be either hired or taxied out. The island is full of both motorbike rental places and motorbike-taxi drivers.
Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicle)
These run up and down the two main roads and can either be used as public transport or privately hired.
Long-tail Boat
Tourists enjoy hiring long-tail boats to take them to nearby islands.

[edit] Tourism
The recent success of Ko Chang as a serious tourist destination has been quite phenomenal. But it remains a lot more peaceful and less developed than islands like Samui and Phuket. It's some 5 hours from Bangkok by bus and there's no airport on the island yet so it should remain more tranquil than Samui or Phuket. Ko Chang too is one of Thailand most beautiful islands with some white sandy beaches, some half deserted. Some of the beaches are rocky in parts though so it doesn't have ideal swimming beaches like Phuket. The island is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including a good selection of birds, snakes, deer and a number of elephants. The island and its vicinity are great places for snorkeling, diving and jungle hiking.
Some critics however, worry that the Ko Chang tourism boom won’t survive as they believe that ‘gross over-development will only, over time, frighten off tourists to one of the other more unspoilt islands nearby. Investors though, claim that what they are now doing in Ko Chang is nothing on the scale of the likes of Samui. With the development of Ko Kong in Cambodia as a casino resort, it makes Ko Chang even more of an ideal place for a stop-over between the two islands.
This so called tourism boom is relative to a small base. Tourist numbers are a lot less than Samui or Phuket and approx 2/3 of the visitors are Thai.

[edit] Sights
Main article: [[Mu Ko Chang Marine National ParkMu Ko Chang Marine National Park]]
In 1982 the island together with 51 more surrounding small islands was protected as the Mu Ko Chang Marine National Park. About 85% of the island is part of the national park, mostly the rain forest in the interior of the island. Nearby coral reefs are also contained within the National Park. Notable animals in the park include the stump-tailed Macaque, the small Indian Civet, the Javan Mongoose, and 61 resident bird species. The Koh Chang Wart Frog (Limnonectes kohchangae) was originally thought to be an endemic species, but has now been found on the mainland as well.
For any accommodation at [Koh Chang].
Klong Plu (น้ำตกคลองพลู) - the most popular, and the only one on the west side of the island. Namtok Khlong Phlu is a large and most breathtaking waterfall on Ko Chang with water cascading down 3 tiers of the cliff to a basin, with an entrance located 3 km. from Ao Khlong Phrao.
Klong Nonsi - on the east side of the island
Klong Nueng - said to be the most breathtaking
Khiri Petch - medium sized, about 3 kilometers from Salak Petch village
Kongoi - 5 waterfalls near Bangbao
The Thanmayom - near Thanmayom pier
Ban Salak Phet (บ้านสลักเพชร) the largest and oldest community on Ko Chang located in the southern part. The villagers’ main occupation is coastal fishery in an advantageous area sheltered from winds and storms by islands and mountains. There is an old temple in front of the village known as Wat Salak Phet built in the reign of King Rama V on his royal visit to the island. Ao Salak Phet is the largest bay on the island.
Bang Bao Fishery Village at Bang Bao Beach(หมู่บ้านประมงบางเบ้า) a village of houses on stilts built into the sea with bridges connecting them together. The villagers still live a simple way of life earning their living from coastal fishery. In the vicinity there is an abundance of cuttlefish and corals.
Ao Bai Lan (อ่าวใบลาน) located next to Hat Kai Bae and accessible by a pathway across the mountain has a scenic view of mountains along the way.
Hat Kai Bae (หาดไก่แบ้) a sloping and long stretch of beach connecting with Hat Khlong Phrao, suitable for swimming.
Hat Khlong Phrao- Laem Chaiyachet (หาดคลองพร้าว-แหลมไชยเชษฐ์) a long stretch of sloping beach connecting with Hat Kai Bae where swimming is possible. The northernmost end of Ao Khlong Phrao connects with Laem Chaiyachet with a scenic rocky cape but swimming is not possible. Laem Chaichet nestling between White Sand and Klong Prao beaches is a popular place to see the sunset and admire Klong Prao’s natural surroundings. Activities to do here include: snorkeling, kayaking and fishing.
White Sand Beach is one of the island’s longest beaches that attracts a lot of visitors. At the back or the beach are orchards of coconut trees and forests.

[edit] Activities
Hiking
Hiking on Ko Chang is popular due to the natural pristine surroundings including waterfalls, especially the routes Klong Son to Kai Bae and Kai Bae to Bang Bao.
Elephant Trekking
Elephant Trekking is possible at the Ban Kwan Chang Elephant Camp at Klong Son, it is supported by the Asian Elephant Foundation to provide a natural environment for elephants and their mahouts.
Canoeing
Canoeing through the mangrove forests is most popular.
Diving & Snorkeling
The area may not have the best diving site in Thailand but it is still worth it. There are quite a lot of courses around of various different skills. For e.g.: Hin Kuak Maa, Hin Luk Bath, Hin Rap South, Hin Run Tek, Ship Wreck.
Spa
Ko Chang has plenty of spas comprising of various forms of massage, aromatherapy, herbal scrub, and reflexology. Spa service is found at many of the top resorts and hotels.

[edit] Local Product
Besides its seafood, Trat province is also renowned for its tropical fruits during the months of April to July, they include: rambutan, durian and pineapples.
Located in Nam Chieo district is a cottage industry which produces ‘ngop’ (traditional Thai farming hat).

[edit] Nightlife & Drink
Koh Chang nightlife and bar scene is constantly developing, there are a number of nice bars and restaurants to enjoy at. Other than that Ko Chang is not, unlike some of the islands down south, famed for its nightlife.

[edit] Local Culture
Thai Buddhism is a large part of the people’s lives on Ko Chang and so there are few temples scattered around the island.

[edit] Lifestyle
Many of the island’s villagers still, until this day, adhere to the traditional Siamese way of life. Visitors are able to soak up the ambience of traditional rural coastal life at a variety of locations.
Baan Bang Bao or Bang Bao Fishery Village is unique in that every dwelling was built in the sea. There are small bridges connecting each one. Some of the abodes have been transformed into guesthouses and seafood restaurants.
Baan Khlong Son or Khlong Son Village has rubber plantations, orchards and traditional fishery. For tourists there are fishing tours, squid fishing or snorkling to view schools of fishes on Koh Mapring and Koh Chang Noi nearby.
Baan Dan Kao or Dan Kao Village has indigenous folk of Koh Chang Noi who rear the fish in floating baskets especially “Yamsawat Fish” or Blue Spotted Sea Bass which are popular among the locals who prefer to eat live fish.
Baan Dan Mai(Dan Mai Village) and Baan Khlong Non Si (Khlong Non Si Village) have orchards, coconut plantations and traditional fishery. The lychee trees grown here are the traditional breed called “Silaman 200 years”. This breed of lychee tree has the large size and it is believed to be found on Koh Chang Noi only. Baan Salak Petch or Salak Petch villagers mainly work about coastal fishery. Most houses were built in the sea like those in Bang Bao Village but it is a bigger community. Every house is connected with the wood bridge. Baan Rong Than or Rong Than Village is an area which used to be the sites, owned by most villagers, for charcoal making from mangrove wood.
Baan Jek Bae or Jek Bae villagers work about traditional fishery, rubber plantation and coconut plantation.

[edit] Events & Festivals
The Koh Chang Yutthanavi Day
The Ko Chang Yutthanavi Day is organized in late January at the Ko Chang Yutthanavi Memorial on Laem Ngop. The event commemorates the Royal Thai Navy’s fight against the French on January 17, 1941. There is an exhibition by the Royal Thai Navy and merit-making and tribute rites are performed

[edit] Local Food
Similar to the rest of Thailand, including the prices. There are many restaurants at the beach open both daytime and evening. Ko Chang’s restaurants specialize in seafood while offering their customers splendid views. The island also produces its own variety of fruity wines which include: mangosteen, pineapple and grape.

[edit] Learn
Besides diving, Thai cooking courses on Ko Chang are where wanna-be Thai cuisine chefs can learn to cook up all their favourite dishes such as tom yum kung, sweet green curry and chicken with cashew nuts.

[edit] Medical Health Care
Ko Chang now has two main medical centers, the Bangkok Koh Chang Hospital and Koh Chang Hospital. There are plenty of clinics also scattered around the island.

[edit] Retirement
More and more foreigners are living on Ko Chang, many of them retirees. A favourite spot for them are on the beaches. There are some other retirees though, who reside in quieter locations away from the tourist scene.

[edit] Media/Contact
Nationwide Television, Satellite TV, cable TV and local TV (Koh Chang Television) channels are available on Koh Chang (http://www.kohchangtv.com/). International newspapers and magazines are also available in a couple bookstores at White Sand Beach, Lonely beach and Ao Khlong Phrao.
Landline telephone, satellite telephone system, mobile phones and internet connection are available on Koh Chang. And, there is a Post Office on the island.

Pattaya

Pattaya (Thai: พัทยา, RTGS: Phatthaya) is a city in Thailand, located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand (12°55′39″N, 100°52′31″ECoordinates: 12°55′39″N, 100°52′31″E), about 165 km southeast of Bangkok located within but not part of Amphoe Bang Lamung in the province of Chon Buri.
An internationally well-known seaside resort, Pattaya is a vibrant city night and day. Its population is a colourful potpourri of mixed nationalities from near and far. A vast range of tourism-related activities await visitors, from relaxing on the beach, actively taking part in land and sea-based sports to visiting the scores of attractions in and around Pattaya.
Meaning the 'south-west monsoon wind" and correctly pronounced "Putt-tuh-YAH" not "Patt-EYE-uh", it ranks as one of the most successful beach resorts in the world, with some 5.4 million visitors arriving in 2005. Increasing numbers of tourists come from the former Soviet Union and East Asia.
The city of Pattaya is a self governing special municipal area which covers the whole tambon Nong Prue and Na Kluea and parts of Huai Yai and Nong Pla Lai. It is located in the heavily industrial Eastern Seaboard zone, along with Si Racha, Laem Chabang, and Chon Buri. However, it remains mostly a tourist city, with very light industry.
Pattaya is second only to Bangkok in high rise buildings, as many condos for foreign residents are built, and has a modest skyline. The city's economy benefits from its relative proximity to Bangkok.
Pattaya is also the center of the Pattaya-Chonburi Metropolitan Area, the conurbation in Chonburi Province.
History

Beach

Pattaya along the beach
Pattaya was simply a small fishing village until it was discovered as a beach resort by Bangkok residents in the 1960s. Soon thereafter, servicemen from all over Southeast Asia, including the United States Air Force base at U-Tapao in neighbouring Rayong province began using the area for "rest and recreation" (R&R), causing a huge boom in prostitution. When the Americans left following the end of the Vietnam War, the city fell into a crisis. However, modern mass tourism, particularly single men looking for companionship, brought a new lease of life to Pattaya.
The rapid growth of tourism brought about many negative consequences, such as pollution and petty crime. In 1976, the Pattaya City Act was passed by the Thai legislature, making Pattaya a self-administrating municipality governed by a Council-manager government. However, many argue that this administration system has drawbacks (for example, the mayor may disagree with the city manager). Critics have recommended abolishing the system.
In recent years the city has pushed hard to clean up its image, and family-focused entertainment is increasingly available; however, the core sex-industry has ensured that Pattaya retains its position as one of the world's most renowned party destinations. In 2005, more than 35,000 hotel rooms were available in Pattaya and it has seen a large increase in family tourism in recent years, thanks to efforts to present a more wholesome image. Despite these efforts, Pattaya's sex industry is the city's raison d'être. Pattaya is an especially popular vacation destination for families from Russia, Eastern Europe and Scandinavia. Pattaya also has a large international expatriate population, especially British and Russian residents.

Demographics
The city had 104,318 registered inhabitants in 2007. But that figure excludes the large number of Thais who work in Pattaya (many come and go for tourism-related work) but remain registered in their hometowns, and many long-term expatriate visitors. Including non-registered residents, the population numbers around 300,000 at any given time. Other estimates put the figure as high as 500,000.[1]

Geography
Pattaya, located off the Gulf of Thailand, is approximately 145 km south of the city of Bangkok.
"Greater Pattaya" occupies most of the coastline of Banglamung (one of the eleven districts that comprise Chonburi Province). It is divided into a larger northern section which spans the areas to the east of Naklua Beach (the most northern beach) and Pattaya Beach (the main beach) plus the Buddha Hill headland (immediately south of Pattaya Beach), and a smaller southern section covering the area to the east of Jomtien Beach (which lies directly south of Buddha Hill) including Dongtan Beach. Jomtien's beaches are much broader and generally in better shape, and the atmosphere locally is more sedate and family-oriented, than at Pattaya Beach.

Administration
Pattaya city has been administered under a special autonomous system since 1978. It has a status comparable to a municipality and is separately administered by the mayor of Pattaya city who is responsible for making policies, organizing public services and supervising all employees of Pattaya city administration.

Climate
Pattaya enjoys a tropical wet and dry climate, which is divided into the following seasons: warm and dry (November to February), hot and humid (March to May), and hot and rainy (June to October). The most comfortable time of year coincides with the peak tourist season, which is over the Christmas and New Year period.

Pattaya Beach is situated alongside the city centre, close to shopping, hotels and bars. The over-abundance of jet-skis and speedboats has contributed to the pollution of the water along the beach, as has the practice of dumping sewage in the ocean. The section of beach from Central Road (Pattaya Klang) south to the harbor is adjacent to the core of Pattaya's abundant nightlife area, and hence is less family-oriented than the North Pattaya, Na Klua and Jomtien beaches.
Most sections of the beach are covered by rented deckchairs run by local beverage vendors during daylight hours.
During nighttime a few deckchairs remain operated and drinks can be ordered at the south end (near Walking Street) of the beach.

Jomtien Beach
Jomtien Beach (Thai: หาดจอมเทียน) is divided from the main part of Pattaya by Pratumnak Hill, just south of the city. In contrast to Pattaya Beach, Jomtien is a popular spot for family vacationers and water sports enthusiasts. Jomtien is essentially a residential area with beachside hotels, bungalow complexes, condominiums and restaurants. A wide array of watersport activities can be found, including jet skis, parasailing and small sail boat (Hobie Cat) rental. Dongtan Beach, just past the Avalon Beach Resort in Jomtien, is known as the gay beach, and is busy every day of the year. It is very popular location for vendors of all types to solicit their services or goods.
Jomtien's most visible landmark is the 56-story Pattaya Park tower, part of the Pattaya Park entertainment complex which also features a water park, roller coaster, monorail and children's activities. This may soon be overshadowed by the proposed 91-floor Ocean One Tower ("O1") Tower[3]. With an overall height of 367 meters, it would be the tallest building in Thailand and one of the tallest residential buildings in the world[4]. The Jomtien district is already home to one of the largest resorts in Asia, the 4000+ room Ambassador City Jomtien.
Jomtien beach can be reached by songthaew taxi. There is a direct route or a switch Songthaew at the 2nd road intersection near Walking Street. Songthaew fares from within Pattaya to Jomtien will be 20 baht for foreigner person while Thai people only need to pay 10 baht for the same ride. A motorbike taxi will take people there for 60 baht.
Islands

Ko Lan beach. White sands and clear water

Ko Lan
Ko Lan (Thai: เกาะล้าน), or Coral Island, is a small island situated 7.5 km west of Pattaya. Ko Lan is accessible by speedboat and ferry. The ferry departs hourly, and is a 45-minute ride costing just 20 baht each way. Speedboats are more expensive, but can reach the island in less than 15 minutes. Ko Lan has several beaches, which are known for their cleanliness, relaxing atmosphere, soft white sand, and crystal-clear water. This place is also known to for its exotic fish.

Island groups
Off Pattaya there are two small island groups, the "Near Islands" (Ko Sak, Ko Krok) located close to the northern shores of Pattaya, very near Ko Lan, and the "Far Islands" (Ko Rin, Ko Man Wichai, Ko Hua Chang, and Ko Badan), located offshore directly west of Pattaya. These islands, especially the "Far Islands", are the primary scuba diving destinations in and around Pattaya.

Transportation
Pattaya is about 1½ hours, or 120 km by road from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Pattaya is also served through U-Tapao International Airport which is 45 minutes drive from the city. By road, it is served by Sukhumvit Road and Motorway 7 from Bangkok. Intercity transport is usually through one of two bus stations, one for Bangkok and one for other destinations.
Until recently the only transport within town were private or shared songthaews and taxi via motorbike. However, a public bus service has begun in 2006, and a metered taxi service began in late 2007.
Roads
By the Bangkok-Chon Buri-Pattaya Motorway (Highway No.7) The motorway is linked with Bangkok’s Outer Ring Road., (Highway No. 9) and there is also another entrance at Si Nakharin and Rama IX Junction.
By Bang Na-Trat Highway (Highway No. 34) From Bang Na, Bang Phli, across the Bang Pakong River to Chon Buri there is a Chon Buri’s bypass that meets Sukhumvit Road., (Highway No. 3, passing Bang Saen Beach, Bang Phra to Pattaya.
Pattaya roads
Pattaya 1 Road: this street runs parallel to the beach
Pattaya 2 Road: this street runs approximately 400 meters parallel to Pattaya 1 Road.
Pattaya 3 Road: this is Pattaya’s outer-ring road which connects North, South and Central Pattaya.
Thap Phraya Road: this street connects Pattaya 2 to Jomtien Road.
Thep Prasit Road: this street connects Sukhumvit to Jomtien Road.
Rail There is one train a day to Pattaya leaving from Hualumphong Station in Bangkok.
Air There is no public airport in Pattaya city. The nearest airport to Pattaya city is U-Tapao.
Bus Buses to Pattaya leave very frequently from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Morchid) and the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekhamai). There are buses from Pattaya which go to every nearby provincial town. There are also some buses available to major towns in the north-east.
Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicle) Popularly nick-named ‘Baht-buses’ in Pattaya, songthaews are the most popular mode of public transportation in Pattaya. Normally, the price is different for locals and foreigners (double the local price). Yet, however the cost is still comparatively low and foreigners are advised to avoid confrontation with the drivers.
Motorbike-taxi These are found mainly in the town areas and are used mainly for very short distances.

Economy

Tourism

The Wat Khao Phra Bat temple overlooking Pattaya Bay features a Buddha statue more than 18 meters tall.

Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
Once a sleepy fishing town, Pattaya first boomed as an R&R spot during the Vietnam War and got itself a bit of a bad image, but things have certainly improved since then and the city has been turning its location into a family-orientated destination. So besides only bars and pubs, there is plenty more to do and see these days. Currently, Pattaya is booming again: TAT claims 5,338,000 visitors for 2005 (up 6.5% from 2004), of which two-thirds were foreigners who came to enjoy the exciting sea-shore activities.
Other activities include golfing at the area's many golf courses, and there are 21 golf courses within 1 hour of Pattaya, go-cart racing, visiting the construction site of an elaborate private wooden temple known as Sanctuary of Truth, and different theme parks and zoos such as Mini Siam, and Elephant Village.
The national symbol of Thailand, these amazing animals have been part of Thai culture for centuries. Demonstrations of training methods and ancient ceremonial re-enactments plus entertaining performances and wild elephant round-ups daily between 2:30 and 4:00.
The private Sri Racha Tiger Zoo features several hundred tigers and thousands of alligators as well as some other animals. It has often been criticized for the animals' living conditions, and a worker was killed by tigers in 2004[5]. There was a major bird flu outbreak at the zoo later that year[6].
The Vimantaitalay tourist submarine takes customers underwater to see corals and marine life just a few kilometers offshore. There are many boat trips from an hour to all day trips available, mostly leaving from Bali Hai Pier, near Walking Street.
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden is located some 15 kilometers east of Pattaya. The 500-acre (2.0 km2) site has well maintained botanical gardens and an orchid nursery. Moreover the facility has lively cultural shows in a Thai village setting. In addition trained chimpanzees and elephants are seen at the garden.
Other attractions in Pattaya: The Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm, Elephant Village, Pattaya Park Beach Resort Water Park and Funny Land Amusement Park, Siriporn Orchid Farm, Underwater World Pattaya (world class aquarium), Thai Alangkarn Theater Pattaya(cultural show), Bottle Art Museum, Mini Siam, Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, and Walking Street.
Thai Alangkarn Theater Pattaya presents Thai performing arts in a panoramic concept. The entire project includes a prototype Hexa Stage Theater with 2,000 seats in tiers, Cultural Rostrum and a Restaurant with 1,000 seating capacity. Open daily except Wednesday, show time 18.00 hrs.
Underwater World (อันเดอร์วอเตอร์ เวิลด์) is an aquarium where there is a collection of marine species in the Gulf of Thailand. The tunnel is 105 metres long divided into 4 zones. The aquarium is home to a multitude of local marine life, including sharks and stingrays. Moreover, there is marine life feeding shows, both on the surface of the water and underwater in each zone.
Khao Phra Tam Nak or Khao Phra Bat (เขาพระตำหนัก หรือ เขาพระบาท) This small hill is located between South Pattaya and Chom Thian. It is a vantage point for a panoramic view of the whole city of Pattaya and its crescent bay. Locals and visitors come here to pay homage to Wat Khao Phra Bat atop the hill and the monument of Kromluang Chomphonkhetudomsak, who is resgared the “founding father of the modern Thai navy.” and Suan Chaloemphrakiat (สวนเฉลิมพระเกียรติ) Khao Phra Tam Nak Road., This is a fitness park at the foot of Khao Pattaya.
Sanctuary of Truth (ปราสาทสัจธรรม) This gigantic wooden structure is situated by the sea at Laem Ratchawet, North Pattaya. The sanctuary of Truth was first built in 1981. With exquisite architectural features, the building was conceived out of the vision that human civilisation has been achieved and nurtured by religious and philosophical truth.
Mini Siam (เมืองจำลองพัทยา) is located at Km. 143 on Sukhumbit Road., Highway No. 3, North Pattaya, Mini Siam is one of famous model villages in the world. It celebrates the heritages of Thailand with miniature replicas of the most famous monuments and historical sites including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Democracy Monument, Bridge over the River Kwai, Prasat Hin Phimai etc. Minature replicas of the Tower Bridge of London, Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty and Trevi Fountain are also displayed in the section called “mini world”.
Cabaret Shows (คาบาเร่ต์โชว์) There are two venues of transvestite cabarets (lady boys) in Pattaya.
Alcazar Cabaret (อัลคาซ่าร์ คาบาร์เร่ต์), Pattaya 2 Road
Tiffany Show (ทิฟฟานี่ โชว์), Pattaya 2 Road
Wat Yanasangwararam Woramahawihan (วัดญาณสังวรารามวรมหาวิหาร) covers an area of 366 rai. It was constructed in 1976 for Somdet Phra Yanasangwon, the present Supreme Patriarch and later was supported by His Majesty the King. Within the compound of the temple are the Mondop where a replica of the Buddha’s footprint is enshrined, a large Chedi containing the relics of the Lord Buddha, as well as, his enlightened followers, and Wihan Phra Yanaret.
Koh Larn is a little tropical island located about 7km off the coast of Pattaya Beach. The Island is around 4km long and 2km wide and is home to approximately one thousand residents. Most of the locals reside in the main village, Naban. There are six beaches on the island that has white sand and clear blue water. The terrain is mainly mountainous which is covered in most part with jungle.
Some tourists take daytrips to nearby Rayong for beautiful beaches, as well as Koh Samet island.

Activities
Sports
Bunjee Jump:
Jungle Bungee Jump (จังเกิ้ล บันจี้ จั๊ม) has arrived in Pattaya and is found near the fishing pond of the Jomtien Fishing Park.
Flying for entertainment: at major places such as
Pattaya Air Park (พัทยา แอร์ พาร์ค)
Chon Buri Flying Club (ชลบุรี ฟลายอิ้ง คลับ)
CMT Flying Club (ซีเอ็มที ฟลายอิ้ง คลับ)
Horse Riding:
Jo Jo Horse Club (โจโจ้ ฮอร์ส คลับ) is a training place for horse riding.
Horseshoe Point Club (ฮอร์สชู พอยท์ คลับ) is a place of horse riding training and accommodation. It covers an area of 300 rai. There are horse riding training fields for both indoor and outdoor, cross-country jumping and polo, which are up to an international standard.
Motor Sports: Car Racing Circuit
Pattaya Cart Speedway (พัทยาคาร์ท สปีดเวย์) is a cart racing circuit where there are separate lanes for professionals and amateurs.
Thailand International Motor Sport Complex (TIMC) (ศูนย์กีฬายานยนต์ TIMC)
Pira International Circuit (สนามแข่งรถพีระอินเตอร์เนชั่นแนลเซอร์กิต)
KR Go-cart Grand Prix (สนามแข่งรถเล็ก เค อาร์ โกคาร์ท กรังปรีซ์)
Fitness and sports:
Fairtex Sport Club and Hotel (แฟร์เท๊กซ์ สปอร์ต คลับ แอนด์ โฮเต็ล) is a sports complex comprising artificial cliff climbing, boxing, yoga, squash, tennis court, etc.
Spa Pattaya has an abundance of massage shops. The most common types of massage include Thai massage, foot massage, oil massage and reflexology massage.
Proper spas however, of a very high world-standard can be found at the city’s top resorts and hotels.
Diving The most popular destination in Pattaya for diving buffs is the Hardeep Wreck which was sunk by the allies in the Second World War. The wreck lies on its starboard side at a maximum depth of 26 meters. Other popular dive destinations near Pattaya include:
Ko Rin
Ko Lan
Ko Man Wichai
Ko Hu Chang
Ko Khrok
The Wreck of HTMS Khram
Ko Sak

Shopping

Royal Garden Plaza

In front of Royal Garden Plaza, Pattaya
In recent years, new shopping malls, outlet stores and jewelry stores have opened up, which has helped in increasing the length of stay of visitors to the city. Among the shopping malls are:
Central Festival, Pattaya Second Road – Indoor mall anchored by a BigC; also has a SF Cinema City branch.
Hypermarkets
Carrefour, Pattaya Central Road
BigC, Pattaya Central Road
Tesco Lotus, Pattaya North Road
Local Products
Local products in Pattaya consist of:
Chaeng Lon: This is a local delicacy where coconut is hand molded into small buns on a stick and charcoal-grilled.
Hoi Cho: This Chinese delicacy is Chon Buri's famous dish because a special kind of sea crabs is used as the main ingredient.
Khao Lam: This specialty is made with sticky rice, sugar and coconut cream cooked in specially-prepared bamboo rods.
Shopping Malls
The Village Shopping Centre, Sukhumvit Rd - Pattaya's newest shopping centre due to open in October.
Mike Department Store , Beach Road
Royal Garden Plaza, Beach Road – Three-story indoor mall with a Ripley's Believe It or Not! museum and an SF Multiplex cinema. Also has a Sizzler restaurant, Au Bon Pain, KFC, McDonald's, Auntie * Anne's Pretzels, ZEN Japanese restaurant, Swensen's, Haagen Daz, Pizza Company, Delice de France, and a large food court. The Marriott Hotel is adjacent.
The Avenue, Second Road (near Royal Garden) is in the midst of a soft opening with the following either open or their spaces being fitted out: a 22 lane Bowling Alley, Au Bon Pain, McDonalds,Thanachart Bank, 8 Major Cineplex theatres, Boots, McDonalds, California Wow! a major gym/fitness spa (open for subscriptions), Shenanigans, Iberry, Pizza Pizza, 20 Nails Spa, Starbucks, Kasikorn Bank, Bank of Ayudhaya, and a 24/7 Villa Market, which carries imported goods difficult to find in other supermarkets.
TukCom, Pattaya Tai (South) Road, boasts a large computer/IT complex offering reasonable prices.
An outlet mall is next to the Tesco Lotus selling discount clothing from many European and American brands.
At least one other new large mall is under construction between sois 9 and 10..
Pattaya has many large home improvement stores including Home Mart, HomeWorks, Home Pro, Kanyong and True Value.
The closest department store to Pattaya is Robinson's, located about 30 minutes away in Sri Racha.
There are several large nightly markets in different parts of town.
There are big Thai markets at soi bua kao each Tuesday and Friday.

Nightlife

A Korean dance performed by transsexual artists in Alkazar theater in Pattaya
Pattaya is renowned for its nightlife. The city has hundreds of beer bars, go go bars, and night clubs/discotheques. The most famous include Tonys, Marine Disco, X-Zyte, Lucifer, Hammer, Mixx. New clubs and bars are opening all the time. The world famous Walking Street is the center of Pattaya's nightlife.
Many bars, discos and nightclubs, as well as several large massage parlours, are venues for sex workers. Other massage parlors exist which provide traditional non-sexual Thai massages.
Since the "social order" crackdown of 2004, there are fewer sex shows (such as the ping pong shows). Depending on the enforcement climate, go go dancers may be seen fully nude, topless or in bikinis on different days or weeks. However, with the political crisis, there is little incentive to be strict about the former laws.
Muay Thai (Thai boxing) matches aimed at tourists can be seen at several open-air beer bar complexes.
Boyztown (Pattayaland Soi 1-3), Sunee Plaza, and the Jomtien Complex are famous for their many beer bars, cabarets and go-go clubs catering to a gay clientele. Pattaya has the second largest concentration of gay oriented establishments in Thailand with about 110 venues, after Bangkok with about 200 venues. Many bars specialize in specific types of hosts (slim, muscular, effeminate, etc.), while others have a broad range of men available. There is very little in the way of gay nightclubs or bars in the Western sense; the vast majority of places are no different than the venues that target heterosexuals, both feature sexual entertainment.
Pattaya is known for its cabaret revues featuring kathoeys (male-to-female transsexuals), with Alcazar and Tiffany's being the largest and most elaborate.
Another important, but understated aspect of Pattaya are the foreign restaurants. Often run by expatriates, most offer food at prices far below those found in Bangkok, Samui or Phuket.
Major Hotel operates gourmet restaurant, cocktail lounges, discotheques, nightclubs and supper clubs which offer excellent food, drinks, music and international entertainment. Such establishments are ideally suited to family entertainment.

Property
Property is big business in Pattaya, especially property development. Many new buildings have gone up in recent years, and some people think the market might be oversupplied.
Some buildings are put up with little respect for planning permission and a building was recently in dispute due to being too close to the shore line and too close to another condo block.
There is also a market in Villas but its growth is limited due to ownership restrictions on foreigners.
A casino is also being considered for Jomtien area.

Health Care
Large hospitals in the area include Bangkok Pattaya Hospital, Pattaya International Hospital, Banglamung Hospital, and Pattaya Memorial Hospital. Many foreign tourists have inexpensive dental and medical care in Pattaya, though Bangkok is far more popular for as a medical tourist destination.

Local Culture
There is lots of culture to see in Pattaya. For tourists there are Thai Dance shows, Thai art exhibitions, Thai boxing contests etc.

Life-style
Most of the officially registered Pattaya folk are of Thai-Chinese ancestry. However, due to the tourist industry many people from the north-east have come to work in Pattaya (north-east is the poorest region of Thailand). So, there is as much chance of hearing spoken Isan dialect (similar to Laotian) as you have Thai, especially in the shops and bars, etc.

Events & Festivals
Pattaya's Songkran Festival is different to the rest of Thailand, it runs on 18-19 April. Pattaya Carnival/Festival is held annually at Pattaya Pier and it is a colourful event which includes beauty pageants, musical performances, cultural shows, fireworks and water sports competition. Pattaya International Music Festival is held annually in the month of M arch. On different stages, there are a bandwagon of several styles of music performed by both Thai and international artists.

Creative Arts
Pattaya's Western creative arts are growing daily as the number of expat residents continues to climb. Art galleries are numerous and other arts oriented programs and organizations are starting to thrive. Among these is the highly successful community theater group entitled the Pattaya Players. The Pattaya Players are a troupe of amateur thespians recently established in January 2008. The organization was created to provide an artistically adventurous environment that attracts and excites diverse members of the Pattaya community by providing theatrical productions that entertain, inspire and inform. You can visit their website and find out more information at: www.pattayaplayers.org [1].

Learn
Pattaya affords the opportunity to learn of things such as:
Diving Diving centers in Pattaya arrange officially certified diving courses of all different types.
Horse Riding The Horse Sport Center 11km from the city offers people to learn the art of properly riding a horse.
Thai Language Scattered around the city are numerous language schools with Thai language lessons of offer – from beginners to advance.

Local Food
Chonburi has a lot of fresh seafood and dried fruits. As there are a lot of people from the north-east (Isarn) living and working in Pattaya, there is an abundance of north-eastern favourites such as Spicy Papaya Salad (Somtum) and Spicy Sour Chopped Pork Salad (Larb).

Expat Community

Restaurant catering to Russians in central Pattaya.
Due to the large number of foreign residents, a large number of expat retirees, Pattaya boasts several expat clubs which have regular monthly or weekly meetings.
Pattaya has its own masonic lodge, a rotary club, an international school, an English boarding school.

Crime
Historically, Pattaya has had comparatively high levels of crime, sometimes attributed to organised crime in, and preying on, the sex industry as well as the easy availability of tourist cash in a country that had a per capita Gross National Income of US$7500 in 2005. In recent years, Pattaya has served as a hideaway for foreigners with connections to organized crime in their home countries, and dozens of Thais have been murdered in gang-related disputes.[7] The authorities also intermittently crack down on underage sex workers and their clients and a number of high profile arrests have been made in recent years.
Visitors are more likely to encounter petty crime, usually limited to pickpocketing and confidence tricks, particularly in and around major tourist areas such as Jomtien and Pattaya Beaches and on the "baht buses", than in other Thai tourist destinations. To help curb this problem, a special Tourist Police division has been established to aid foreign tourists (farang) who are victims of crime. Officially, foreigners are charged more than locals for most products.
Pattaya, along with the rest of Thailand, is also known for its abundance of pirated DVD movies, music CDs and software. Racketeering, Money laundering and also trade in bootleg tobacco & alcohol products are rife too.

Media/Contact
Pattaya has several foreign language newspapers; most come out weekly. The English newspapers include Pattaya Mail, Pattaya Today, Pattaya People. Additionally, there are French, Norwegian, German, Russian and Japanese publications. There are several English-language cable television programs with news and video reports from Pattaya. There are also several tourist magazines and nightlife, most of them coming out monthly.
Landline telephones, satellite phones, all mobile phone systems, high-speed internet (ADSL), post offices and parcel services are available in province.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai (Thai เชียงใหม่ (help·info)) is the second-biggest province (changwat) of Thailand, located in the north of the country. Neighboring provinces are (from northeast clockwise) Chiang Rai, Lampang, Lamphun, Tak, and Mae Hong Son. In the north it borders Shan State of Myanmar.
Geography
Chiang Mai province is about 700 kilometres from Bangkok and is situated on the Mae Ping River basin and is 300 metres above sea level. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, it covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometres. The district is covered by many mountains, chiefly stretching in the south-north direction. The river Ping, one of the major tributaries of the Chao Phraya River, originates in the Chiang Dao mountains. The highest mountain of Thailand, the 2,565 meter high Doi Inthanon, is located in the district. Several national parks are in the district: Doi Inthanon, Doi Suthep-Pui, Mae Ping, Sri Lanna, Huay Nam Dang, Mae Phang, Chiang Dao.
The mountainous terrain is mainly jungle, parts of which are within national parks which are still fertile and verdant with plentiful flora and fauna. There are many sites and locations where tourists prefer to visit to study the lifestyle of the tribal people who live on high hill

History

Pratat Doi Suthep, a temple in Chiang Mai
The city of Chiang Mai was capital of the Lanna kingdom after its founding in 1296. During the same period of time as the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. From then, Chiang Mai not only became the capital and cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom, it was also the centre of Buddhism in northern Thailand and King Meng Rai built innumerable temples.
In 1599 the kingdom lost its independence and became part of the Ayutthaya kingdom. This ending the dynasty founded by King Meng Rai which had lasted for 300 years. The occupiers Burma, had a powerful Burmese influence on the architecture which can still be seen today. It was only in the late 18th century that Burma was finally defeated with the leadership of King Taksin.
In 1932 the province Chiang Mai became the second level subdivision of Thailand when the administrative unit of Monthon Phayap, the remains of the Lanna kingdom, was dissolved.


Demographics

Tribe Girls
13.4% of the population on the province are members of the hill tribes, among them the Hmong, Yao, Lahu, Lisu, Akha and Karen.

Symbols
Image:Seal Chiang Mai.png
The seal of the province shows a white elephant in a glass pavilion. The white elephant is a royal symbol in Thailand, and it is depicted to remember the offering of a white elephant by King Rama II to the ruler of Chiang Mai. The pavilion symbolizes that Buddhism prospered in Chiang Mai, especially when in 1477 the teachings of Buddha, the Tripitaka, were reviewed.
The provincial flower and tree is the Flame of the Forest (Butea monosperma). The provincial slogan is In the shadow of Doi Suthep mount, blessed with rice customs and traditions, beautiful wild flowers, magnificent Nakhon Phing.

Administrative divisions

Chiang Mai is subdivided into 24 districts (Amphoe). The districts are further subdivided into 204 subdistricts (tambon) and 1915 villages (muban).
Mueang Chiang Mai
Chom Thong
Mae Chaem
Chiang Dao
Doi Saket
Mae Taeng
Mae Rim
Samoeng
Fang
Mae Ai
Phrao
San Pa Tong
San Kamphaeng
San Sai
Hang Dong
Hot
Doi Tao
Omkoi
Saraphi
Wiang Haeng
Chai Prakan
Mae Wang
Mae On
Doi Lo

[edit] Climate
From November to February during the cool season, Chiang Mai province experiences pleasantly mild sunny weather with temperatures in the city area on average ranging between 15 Celsius at night and around 28 Celsius in daytime. At higher elevations, temperatures can sometimes dip down to freezing point at night. It doesn’t snow, but sleet does occur at times.
During the hot season, lasting from March to May, temperatures especially in the city are high, going up into the high 30s.
The rainy season in the north is from June to October.

Transportation

Chiang Mai Train Station
Car Chiang Mai is on Highway 11 (super highway Rd.). Cars can be hired in the provincial capital.
Train Chiang Mai is the terminal station on the northern railway route.
Songthaew Songthaews (passenger pick-up vehicles) are a common mode of transport in both rural and urban areas.
Samlor Samlors (rickshaws) can be found in the main areas.
Tuk-tuk Tuk-tuks are popular with both locals and tourists for short distances.
Bus service Chiang Mai is easily accessible by a multitude of air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses from Bangkok and all other northern provincial capitals. For travel within the province itself there are older non air-conditioned buses.
Bicycle & Motorbike Both forms of transport can be hired in the provincial capital.
Air Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is one of the seven international airports under the responsibility of the Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT). As Chiang Mai International Airport is the major gateway to the scenic beauty and rich culture of northern Thailand, it plays an important role in promoting travel and tourism throughout the northern region. Today, 14 airlines service the airport and more than 2,000,000 passengers, 15,000 flights and 16,000 tons of cargo are handled at this airport.

Tourism
Chiang Mai province for years now has been the tourist hub of the north and one of Thailand’s most important tourist destinations. It is considered one of the most scenic provinces in the country due to its mountain ranges, valleys, flora and fauna. Unlike most of Thailand, the climate in the north and especially Chiang Mai is cool, fresh and misty.

Attractions
Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติดอยสุเทพ-ปุย) The park consists of forests and mountain ranges. Major mountains include Doi Suthep, Doi Buak Ha, and Doi Pui. This is a main source of tributaries and streams in Chiang Mai. Sacred places, religious attractions and historical sites are located in the park complex.
Walking Street Chiang Mai municipality has organized, since 2006, the Chiang Mai Walking Street at the Three Kings Monument Courtyard. It has turned into a thriving Sunday market for locally made handicraft products, all of which are displayed on the street.
Chiang Mai Zoo (สวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่) is located next to Huai Kaeo Arboretum. It is a large zoo, which occupies the lower forested slopes of Doi Suthep Mountain. The zoo contains more than 200 types of Asian and African mammals and birds.
Doi Inthanon National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติดอยอินทนนท์): standing at over 2,500 meters, Doi Inthanon is Thailand's highest mountain and one of the coolest peaks. Besides the actual mountain itself, there are a variety of other attractive locations such as Mae Ya, Wachirathan and Siriphum waterfalls and Bori Chinda Cave.
Pang Chang Mae Sa: The elephant shows are a demonstration of the elephants’ abilities in log-hauling. After the end of the performance, visitors are able to have a go at riding an elephant.
Wat Phra Sing (วัดพระสิงห์วรวิหาร), houses the revered Phra Phutthasihing Buddha image cast in Subduing Mara. The Buddha image is now enshrined in Viharn Lai Kham. The temple compound includes the lovely Viharn Lai Kham featuring exquisite woodcarvings and northern-style murals paintings, a magnificent scriptural repository with striking bas relief, and a circular stupa (in Lankan bell shape).
Mae Sa Waterfall (น้ำตกแม่สา) The famous 8-tiered waterfall in Amphoe Mae Rim occupies a natural setting among towering trees, covered with a lovely breeze all year round.
Night Bazaar: Every evening the center of the provincial city holds one of the provinces biggest markets, selling a huge variety of goods to tourists, both foreign and Thai. The market is 3 blocks long and is surrounded by restaurants, cafes and travel agents.

Entertainment/Activities
The city of Chiang Mai has a wide variety of activities.
Elephant Show The show begins with elephants bathing to cool themselves then mahouts would place a log harness on their backs. Finally, elephants will demonstrate their forestry skills. Elephant riding and rafting are the most popular activities. Some of the Elephant training centers are:
Pang Chang Mae Taeng (ปางช้างแม่แตง)
Chiang Dao Elephant Training Centre (ศูนย์ฝึกช้างเชียงดาว)
Pang Chang Mae Sa (ปางช้างแม่สา)
Pang Chang Pong Yaeng (ปางช้างโป่งแยง)
Mountain Biking Mountain biking is done on several routes in Chiang Mai including around the old city moats.
Homestay at Ban Mae Kampong The village is situated in a mountainous area with jungle surroundings. Nearby attractions include waterfalls, a cotton weaving village and the Huai Hong Khrai Royal Agricultural Station.
Hilltribes Trekking Of particular interest to most are the six major hilltribes which inhabit the Northern Highlands. The largest group is Karen, followed by the Meo, Lahu, Yao, Akha and Lisu. They share animism beliefs and honour numerous forest and guardian spirits. Each tribe has distinctive ceremonial attire, courtship rituals, games, dances, agricultural customs, languages or dialects, aesthetic values and hygienic habits.
Bamboo Rafting-Whitewater Rafting Bamboo Rafting along the Mae Taeng River (ล่องแพลำน้ำแม่แตง) is very popular because the river zigzags along the valleys. The river tide is not too rough and the surroundings on both sides are admirable.
Cruising along the Ping River Maenam Ping is the main river in Chiang Mai. While cruising, people can witness the atmosphere of Chiang Mai, as well as the local lifestyle on both sides of the Ping River.
Artificial Rock Climbing Artificial Rock Climbing (ไต่หน้าผาจำลอง) can be practised at the Peak Rock Climbing Plaza.
Golf Courses Due to the pleasant natural surroundings and climate, Chiang Mai is popular for playing golf. There are many courses in the province.
Spa Spa treatment in Chiang Mai includes both traditional remedies and healing arts alongside modern techniques. This treatment, in terms of service available, has escalated over the past few years and there are now innumerable locations offering spa service – often including a Jacuzzi and steam bath.
Shopping Shopping in Chiang Mai is one of the most popular activities of the region. Besides the usual abundance of shopping malls and department stores, there is a huge variety of local markets. The Night Bazaar in downtown Chiang Mai is the most popular location for shopping.

Local Products
Chiang Mai is the center of handicrafts with a variety of antiques, silver jewellery, and embroidery, Thai silks and cottons, basketry, celadon, silverware, furniture, lacquerware, woodcarvings and parasols. Major Chiang Mai products include:
Cottons & Silks
Umbrellas/ Parasols - These are inextricably associated with Bo Sang where villagers have been engaged in their manufacture for at least 200 years. All materials, silks, cottons, Sa paper (manufactured from the bark of the mulberry tree) and bamboo are produced or found locally.
Silverware - Traditional skills and a guaranteed content of at least 92.5% pure silver invest bowls, receptacles and decorative items.
Lacquerware - This decorative are enhanced items made of wood, bamboo, metal, paper and baked clay, in the form of receptacles, ornaments and various souvenirs.
Furniture/ Woodcarving - Major woods and materials include teak, rosewood and rattan. Items may be unadorned or, especially with teak and rosewood, carved in traditional or modern designs. Woodcarving is a traditional northern Thai art featured in numerous temples. In recent years, woodcarving has increasingly embellished furniture, gracing screens, chairs, tables, beds, figurines, carved elephant indeed anything bearing a wooden surface large enough to be carved.
Hilltribe Products - These include silver ornaments, such as bracelets, necklace, pendants and pipes of intricate design, and embroidered items including tunics, jackets, bags, purses, caps and dress lengths.
Gold Plated Orchids & Butterflies - Orchids and butterflies are preserved and plated with 24-carat gold to create unusual gift items such as necklace pendants, hairpins and earrings.
Pottery - Chiang Mai is the major centre of Thailand’s pottery industry. Prized items include high-fired celadon which is produced in many forms, including dinner sets, lamp bases and decorative items.
Sa (Mulberry) Paper Products: Chiang Mai is also famous for its Sa paper products a handmade, multi-purpose natural fiber. Sa products that come in different, distinctive designs include cards, notebooks, stationery, boxes, bags, photo frames, lanterns, gift wrapping paper, etc.

Nightlife
For those who love nothing more than a decent night on the town, then Chiang Mai has one of the land’s funkiest nightlife. Types of nightlife available include:
Discos are popular with the younger trendier crowd.
Live music pubs/restaurants playing either Thai folk music and/or international pop classics.
Karaoke clubs can be found all around.
Barbecues are large open-air restaurants which play music and serve alcohol.
Bar Beers are popular with foreign male tourists.
Thai Pubs are not like Western ones, they are usually huge.
Western pubs serving draft beer.

Local Culture
The north of Thailand’s culture is Lanna in origin and the people are very proud of their northern roots. The region is home to distinctly different food, music, arts, way of life and even language. Chiang Mai is also a melting pot of hill tribes and their own unique cultures.

Traditional lifestyle of the hilltribes
Tai Yai, Burmese in origin, harvest rice, farm, raise cattle and trade. Their craftsmanship lies in weaving, pottery, wood carving and bronzeware.
Akha have the largest population of any hill tribe in the region. Originating from Tibet and Southern China, they dwell on high grounds around 1,200 meters above sea-level. Within their villages they build a Spirit Gateway to protect them from evil spirits.
Lahu are also from Southern China and live in high areas. They are known as hunters and planters.
Karen live in various areas of the region which have valleys and riverbanks.
Hmong from southern China are located on high land. They raise livestock and grow rice, corn, tobacco and cabbage. They are also known for their embroidery and silver.
Tai Lue live in dwellings of usually only a single room wooden house built on high poles. They are skilled in weaving.
Lisu from southern China and Tibet are renowned for their colorful dress and also build their dwellings on high poles. They harvest rice and corn and their men are skilled in hunting.
Yao reside along mountain sides and grow corn and other crops. They are skilled blacksmiths, silversmiths and embroiders.

Events and Festivals
Bo Sang Umbrella Festival (งานเทศกาลร่มบ่อสร้าง) is held in January at Bo Sang Handicraft Centre. The festival features paper products, paper parasols in particular, cultural shows, a parade showing traditional ways of life, and several contests.
Flower Festival (งานมหกรรมไม้ดอกไม้ประดับ) is held in February. The festival includes ornamental garden flower contests, floral floats parade in the morning and beauty pageants. The parade begins at Chiang Mai Railway Station and passes Nawarat Bridge and ends at Nong Buak Hat Park.
Songkran Festival (งานประเพณีสงกรานต์) is held annually from 13 to 15 April. The 13th of April is the Great Songkran day featuring the revered Phra Phutthasihing Buddha image parade around Chiang Mai town for bathing, sand pagoda forming, blessing of elders, and water splashing.
Doi Suthep Pilgrimage (งานประเพณีเดินขึ้นดอยสุเทพ) On the night of Visakha Bucha Day, worshippers gather to light candles and make the 7-kilometre pilgrimage up to the temple on Doi Suthep.
City Pillar Inthakin Festival (งานบูชาเสาอินทขิล) is held to invoke blessings of peace, happiness and prosperity for the city and its residents. Buddha images are paraded around the city. It is held at Wat Chedi Luang for 7 auspicious days and nights in the 7th lunar month.
Yi Peng Festival (งานประเพณียี่เป็ง) is held annually on Loi Krathong day (วันลอยกระทง). The festival features the release of lanterns into the sky to worship the gods. There are also fireworks, lantern contests, and beauty pageants.

Art
Chiang Mai province is known as one of the world’s top centers for the cottage industry. The area is popular for traditional handicrafts made by craftsmen using skills which have been down through countless generations. They include: silverware, lacquerware, celadon pottery, silk and cotton, hand-painted paper umbrellas and more.

Local Food
Nam Prik Ong is a type of chili paste which is made of minced pork and tomatoes. It is usally eaten with soft-boiled vegetables, pork crackling or deep-fried crunchy rice cakes.
Nam Prik Noom meaning in English Chili Paste Young Man, is another kind of paste that is extremely popular in the north and eaten also by Thais of all regions. It is often eaten with pork crackling.
Sai Ua is a local Chiang Mai sausage that is very aromatic and spicy and is usually eaten with sticky rice.
Kaeng meaning curries are not made of coconut milk in the north.
Kaeng Hang-Le is northern-style pork curry
Kaeng Om is a spicy curry consisting of intestines
Kaeng Khae is a spicy curry consisting of vegetables.
Khanom Chin Nam Ngiao is a traditional noodle dish with chicken of the North.
Khao Soi is another popular noodle dish which can be made from chicken, pork or beef. What makes it unique is that it contains coconut milk and it is garnished with garlic.

Learn
Visitors to Chiang Mai have the opportunity to learn a variety of different Thai-style activities. These activities include Muay Thai (Thai Boxing), Thai cooking, Thai massage and Vipassana Meditation.

Retirement
There are approximately 5,000 expatriates living in Chiang Mai making it one of the most popular destinations for retirement in Thailand. This is probably due to the cool climate, natural surroundings and lower cost of living.

Media/Contact
Nationwide Television, cable TV and local cable TV channels are available in Chiang Mai. Local and nationwide English newspapers and magazines are usually found in book stores.
Landline telephone system, high-speed internet (ADSL), all mobile phone systems, post offices, parcel services are available in Chiang Mai.